The Ultimate Girls’ Weekend in London

If you’re planning a girls’ getaway in London, get ready for an unforgettable London weekend packed with Instagram-worthy spots, hidden gems, afternoon tea, quirky activities, and a little retail therapy.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to London or a regular, this itinerary will give you the perfect mix of fun, luxury, and budget-friendly finds.

So grab your besties, pack your cutest outfits, and let’s go!

The Ultimate Girls’ Weekend in London

Friday: Arrive & Kick Off in Style

Check-In: Where to Stay In London

Before diving into all the fun, you’ll need a fabulous place to stay. Here are three hotels for different budgets:

• Budget: Stylotel – Quirky, affordable, and centrally located for easy exploring.
• Mid-Range: The Henrietta Hotel – Chic and intimate, perfect for a girls’ weekend in London.
• Luxury: The Ned – An ultra-glam hotel with gorgeous interiors and a rooftop pool.

Friday Afternoon: Hidden Gems & Quirky Finds

Start your girls’ day in London with some off-the-beaten-path London magic. Check out one or a few of these unique spots:

• Neal’s Yard – A colorful, tucked-away courtyard with cute cafés and indie shops. Perfect for Instagram photos and close to Covent Garden.
• Daunt Books (Marylebone) – If your group loves beautiful bookstores, this Edwardian-style shop is a must-visit. It has just been crowned as one of the best bookshops in the world.
• God’s Own Junkyard – A neon wonderland that makes for the ultimate Insta backdrop. This is quite a way out of the center so you will need to make more time.
• Leighton House Museum – A stunning, hidden art-filled mansion with a dreamy Arabian-style interior.
• Little Venice – A picturesque canal area with charming waterside cafés and boat rides. If the weather is nice go here.

For more unique finds, check out this list of hidden gems in London.

Friday Evening: Dinner & Drinks with a View

Kick off the night with dinner at Sketch London, famous for its interior and Michelin-star dining.

If you’re after a cozy but stylish option, Dishoom offers delicious Indian food in a vintage-inspired setting.

Afterward, head to Aqua Shard for a cocktail with stunning views over the city.

This is a must for any girls’ getaway in London!

If you want something truly unique, try Cahoots, a 1940s-themed underground bar styled like a World War II bunker—complete with vintage decor and swing music.

Tip: You will need to book for some of these places in advance, so to avoid disappointment decide before and make reservations.

Saturday: The Ultimate Girls’ Day in London

Morning: Brunch & Shopping

Start your day with brunch at Granger & Co. in Notting Hill.

Think fluffy pancakes, avocado toast, and great coffee.

For a trendier, Instagrammable brunch, head to Elan Café, where the floral decor is as dreamy as the food.

Then, hit the shops! Whether you’re after designer pieces or vintage finds, London has it all:

• Oxford Street – High-street heaven (Zara, Topshop, H&M).
• Covent Garden – Boutiques, markets, and cute cafés.
• Camden Market – For unique, alternative fashion and accessories.
• Carnaby Street – A vibrant pedestrian street filled with trendy fashion brands and indie shops.
• Liberty London – An iconic department store housed in a stunning Tudor-style building, perfect for luxury shopping.
• Spitalfields Market – A mix of independent designers, vintage treasures, and handcrafted goods.

Here are some of the best markets in London if you need more inspiration.

Afternoon: Afternoon Tea Fit for a Queen

A girl’s getaway in London isn’t complete without afternoon tea. Here are three fabulous options:

• Classic: The Ritz – Timeless, luxurious, and oh-so-British.
• Trendy: Sketch London – Artsy, pink, and full of personality.
• Quirky: Mad Hatter’s Tea Party (Sanderson Hotel) – Alice in Wonderland-themed fun.
• Budget-Friendly: Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus. Enjoy tea and treats while riding a double-decker bus around London!

For even more things to do in London with the girls, consider a visit to this guide on unusual things to do.

Evening: Instagram-Worthy Night Out

For a fun night out, head to Tonight Josephine.

It is one of the most Instagrammable cocktail bars in London. Think pink neon signs, girl-power vibes, and delicious drinks.

If you’re in the mood for dancing, Ballie Ballerson (a bar with a giant ball pit!) is a must for a quirky night out.

For a chic yet lively night, The Box Soho is an exclusive club with cabaret-style performances that will keep you entertained.

Sunday: Relax & Explore Before You Go

Morning: Iconic London Sights

No trip to London is complete without seeing some classics! Spend your last morning ticking off a few must-see landmarks:

• Tower Bridge – One of London’s most iconic photo spots.
• Notting Hill’s Colorful Houses – A must for an Instagram-worthy stroll.
• The Sky Garden – A stunning free indoor garden with panoramic city views.
• Buckingham Palace – If you time it right, you can catch the Changing of the Guard.
• St. Dunstan-in-the-East – The ruins of an old church turned into a peaceful garden, perfect for a magical hidden gem experience.
• Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre – If visiting in summer, this outdoor theatre is a fantastic experience.

Here are some of the best tours in London.

Lunch: A Cozy Farewell Meal During Your Girl’s Getaway In London

For a laid-back but delicious final meal, head to Dishoom for mouthwatering Indian food or The Ivy for classic British fare.

If you’re in the mood for a quick but delicious bite, Borough Market offers a variety of food stalls serving everything from artisan cheese to gourmet street food.

Extra Sunday Ideas: Relax Before You Go!

If your flight isn’t until later, make the most of your last day in London!

• Have a Chill Brunch Before Flying Home: Try The Wolseley for a glam farewell meal or Dishoom’s famous bacon naan.
• Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping: Pick up luxury teas from Fortnum & Mason, an iconic Harrods bag, or quirky books from Daunt Books.
• One Last Hidden Gem: If you want something unique, visit Sir John Soane’s Museum—a weird & wonderful collection of art & artifacts in a 19th-century home!

Mistakes to Avoid on Your Girls’ Getaway in London

Even the best-planned girls’ trip can hit a few bumps. Here’s how to avoid common travel mistakes!

Book Afternoon Tea and Meals in Advance. If you fancy a spot at Sketch or The Ritz you will need to book well in advance. Reservations fill up fast, so book ASAP!

Underestimating London’s Size. I always think people believe London is small but isn’t.

Getting from one side to the other can take hours.

If you are planning to visit Notting Hill, Camden Market, and Tower Bridge all in one afternoon it isn’t going to happen.

Group activities by area to save time.

Overpacking & Then Shopping Too Much. I mean it’s the curse of any female traveler, right?

London has amazing fashion, so leave space in your suitcase!

Relying on Uber Instead of the Tube – Taxis and Ubers in London are EXPENSIVE + SLOW.

The Tube is way faster & cheaper.

Most people travel by the Tube and it is safe, easy to understand, and gets you places quickly.

Failing that, walk! You might be surprised how close something is.

Here’s a fun alternative as well: Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Most Instagram-Worthy Spots in London (Perfect for Your Girls’ Getaway!)

You know your camera roll will be full so make sure to hit these picture-perfect spots.

I’ve included some above but here are others to keep in mind if you have time.

• Peggy Porschen Café – The ultimate pink, floral café moment.
• Leadenhall Market – A Harry Potter-worthy Victorian shopping arcade.
• Tower Bridge at Sunrise – Get there early for a stunning golden-hour shot.
• Sketch London – That pink tea room? ICONIC.
• St. Dunstan-in-the-East – A hidden ruin-turned-garden that looks straight out of a fairytale.

Essentials Packing List For Your Girls’ Getaway In London

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to London, here are some tips on how to pack lightly.

This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.

These RFID sleeves are another solution.

This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

My daughter gifted me this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for when exploring.

And the replacement carbon filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you as well.

This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great.

Not all beaches are created equally, and these quick dry slip-on Aqua shoes will be useful for pebbly beaches in Great Britain.

These men’s quick dry trunks are essential.

For women, this one-strap one-piece bathing suit is amazing.

Consider bringing along quick-dry super-absorbent microfiber towels.

This wet-dry bag with handles is a good option.

These unisex polarized sunglasses come in many lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable too.

If you are fond of aviator-style sunglasses these polarized aviators may interest you.

As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from your qualifying purchases.

Bonus Tips -Packing for London can be tricky.

London weather is very changeable and it is a challenge to know what to pack in whatever season you go.

I’ve got some more detailed articles on what to wear in each season which I will link below. However here are some tips to start you off.

Best Outfit Combos for Each Season:

• Spring: A light trench coat, comfy white sneakers, and layered dresses for unpredictable weather.
• Summer: Think floaty sundresses, a cute crossbody bag, and stylish sandals.
• Fall: A cozy knit sweater, ankle boots, and a fashionable scarf for those crisp city walks.
• Winter: A wool coat, thermal leggings, and warm boots. London can get chilly.

Packing Mistakes to Avoid:

• Bringing unsuitable shoes – London’s cobblestone streets will cause you lots of problems if you don’t have the right shoes. You have been warned!
• Forgetting an umbrella – London weather changes fast, always be prepared.
• Packing a big tote instead of a crossbody bag – Pickpocketing happens, so keep essentials close.

Here is some more inspiration for dressing in London. London outfits in summer, spring, fall and winter.

Final Tips for Your Girls’ Getaway in London

If you wondering when is the best time to visit London I would always opt for spring.

I mean any season is good but spring allows you to escape the crowds and enjoy outdoor activities.

If you can squeeze in an extra day to tag on a day trip from London I would recommend you do.

There are so many places within easy reach of the capital.

You and your friends might love a day trip to Brighton.

This seaside town is a short train ride away and offers a charming escape!

A girls’ getaway in London is all about making unforgettable memories and I hope this itinerary does this for you.

I’ve mixed indulging in delicious treats with exploring the best the city has to offer, which is just how I love to do it.

Whether you’re sipping tea in a fairytale setting or dancing the night away, London is the perfect playground for an amazing girls’ weekend in London!

Hope you enjoyed this, it was kind of a girl’s guide to London and I loved writing it.