The 8 best Airbnbs in London from the trendy East-End to the swanky west

Do you need much more than this from your London Airbnb? Trust us, it’s a pretty special way to spend your time, out on the Thames with the centre of the capital buzzing about beside you. And don’t think of this as just some little boat bobbing about on the water, because it’s basically a proper house, with four beds (all cabins are above water) and some pretty serious kit inside; we’re talking vintage furniture (including a 1920's oak dining table designed for Churchill’s Chartwell House), Egyptian cotton on the beds, Sky Q, a Sonos system and authentic artwork from names you’ll probably recognise. Plus it comes with a bundle of history. It’s pretty cool, we have to say.

Rooms? Four bedrooms. Sleeps 10 guests. 
The mood? A classic vintage feel with spacious interiors.  
Location perks? Situated on the iconic Southbank, home of the National Theatre and BFI. 
Budget range? An economic stay in central London. Ideal for large groups. 
Time Out tip: Head over to the Tate Modern – it's just down the road.

If you're after class and sophistication, we've got you. This beautiful mews apartment in Kensington, London, is a feast for the eyes. Full of vintage and antique charm, but still super sleek and modern, you'll get the best of both worlds in this Airbnb. Surround yourself with books and gold furnishings, you'll be feeling like a royal in no time. The Airbnb caters for three adult guests in one king-sized bed and a sofa bed. There's a fully-equipped kitchen and bathroom with a gorgeous shower. So pretty, you won't want to leave. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps three. 
The mood? Vintage-lux. 
Location perks? Take your pick of charming local shops, cafes and restaurants on High Street Kensington. 
Budget range? Enjoy a cosy, lavish stay in one of London's swankiest boroughs. 

Hoping to see all the sights on your trip to London? Stay in this stunning loft in the heart of Covent Garden for central ease. Kitted out in high-end specs and luxury amenities, this London Airbnb is ideal for a group of friends or a family looking for a peaceful retreat from the city – while having direct access to it. Each of the three bedrooms features queen-size beds, and two have ensuite bathrooms, while the kitchen is fully equipped for you to cook up a storm in the comfort of your own home-away-from-home. If you're not up to playing chef, head out to Covent Garden Market to choose from one of the many food stalls, along with dozens of bakeries, designer boutiques and more to explore.

Rooms? Three bedroom. Sleeps six guests.  
The mood? State-of-the-art, cosy, modern cove. 
Location perks? The very best of London's West End on your doorstep.   
Budget range? A moderately-priced luxury stay for a group booking.

If you're into your brutalism (you know, funky window positioning, concrete and stuff) then this is the temporary home for you. Welcome to a Grade II-listed building, designed by famed British Architect Patrick Hodgkinson in the mid-sixties, building started in 1967 and finished in 1972. The building is known as the Brunswick Centre, this angular structure juts out over the streets of Bloomsbury on one side while overlooking its own collection of shops, restaurants and more on the other. Previously it was a row of Georgian-era terraces which had become a little run down. Anyway, if that hasn't stolen your heart – at this location (right next to Russell Square station) you're within walking distance of the British Museum, and the West End. All of the things! There's room for up to 11 people at this abode too, so it’s ideal for larger groups (or a lot of person space). 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps 11 guests. 
The mood? Modern and clean with skyline views of the city.  
Location perks? Excellent travel links to Oxford Circus, St Pancras and Eurostar via Tube and bus. 
Budget range? A budget-friendly short-stay for larger bookings.

London is home to some of the most luxe apartments and this one is no different. This luxury London loft Airbnb is close to Finsbury Park and several Tube lines. The space is bright and modern, with exposed brickwork adding an urban vibe. Make use of the high-speed Wi-Fi, two smart TVs, and huge arched windows showing lovely views of the neighbourhood. Get the best of British with this Airbnb, converted from a Victorian former school building. The loft caters to up to four guests in a double bed and two singles, ideal for families or friends.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests. 
The mood? Industrial, modern, and very very cosy.   
Location perks? 15-20 minutes to Soho, Oxford St and the city.  
Budget range? Enjoy a luxury couple's stay or an affordable stay for four. 
Time Out tip: While you're in the neighbourhood visit the award-winning Cricks Corner – a cracking little coffee shop nearby.

Get this one: not only is it in super swanky, uber fashionable Shoreditch, within a few metres of the area’s finest nightlife spots, but the flat itself is also exceptionally swish. Decked-out with mesmerising artworks and decorated with immaculate taste, this place captures everything that’s great about one of London’s most on-trend neighbourhoods. Sure, it’s a little pricey, but it is hella glamorous.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps three guests. 
The mood? Cosy cool-toned hipster's paradise.  
Location perks? A gold dust location – close to Spitalfields Market, Liverpool Street Station and Brick Lane. 
Budget range? Boujie price tag for the hippest part of town. 

Ah Chelsea, what could be any more regal? Well, actually, maybe this house. Which is on a *famous street* near the riverside in Chelsea, is everything you’d expect of a charming, genteel period property in London. It's beautiful and incredibly old-school London. The boutiques and restaurants of Kings Road are a short stroll away, while Battersea Park is just across the river. If you want to live that chandeliers and patterned wallpaper lifestyle, you'll not find a better place to stay. It runs parallel to the river, and notable residents (past and present) include: David Lloyd George, Bram Stoker, T S Elliot, Ian Fleming, George Best, Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood and Keith Richards. Woah. It sleeps up to six guests in six bedrooms, so maybe they all hung out together? Who knows?

Rooms? Six bedrooms. Six guests. 
The mood? Regency-style – practically dipped in gold. 
Location perks? Situated in a serene, leafy cul-de-sac with a spectacular view of the River Thames. 
Budget range? An opulent weekend stay for families or friends. 

To say this place is kitted out to the max is a bit of an understatement. Not only does this townhouse in the middle of London sleep up to 16 people across six floors and eight bedrooms, it’s also home to some arcade machines, a poker table, a jacuzzi, loads of boardgames, and a rooftop terrace. You may well end up not setting foot outside. (Ideal if there's a lockdown ever, to be fair). Though if you do decide to all get your boots on and wander outside, you'll find yourselves a street from Pall Mall, and a mere stroll from Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. Monopoly goals right there! 

Rooms? Eight rooms. Sleeps 16+ guests. 
The mood? Modern, bright interiors. 
Location perks? Centrally located for trotting around the shops, best fine dining, museums, parks, and more. 
Budget range? A budget-friendly stay for large groups.