Dreamy weekend breaks to take in London this spring

London is a culture vulture’s dream, full of art to discover, whether it’s in mammoth state-funded institutions or quirky small galleries. Begin your artistic odyssey by strolling down Southbank, leafing through books at Southbank Centre’s outdoor book market, and marveling at the brutalist architecture of the freshly restored Hayward Gallery, which is hosting a major Louise Bourgeois retrospective this spring. Then cross Waterloo Bridge and dive into the city centre, where there’s a wealth of galleries to choose from. Opt for the National Gallery for priceless historical treasures, peer at perfectly rendered faces through history at the National Portrait Gallery, or marvel at the exceptional collection of Turners at Tate Britain. 

Where to stay: Hilton London Bankside is the perfect base for your creative adventures: it’s just three minutes walk from Tate Modern, London’s home of brave and bold new art. Another great option is Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo, which is right around the corner.

London’s food scene is buzzing: the only limit to the culinary adventures you can have in the capital is your appetite. Load your bags with treasures to take home at one of the city’s excellent food markets. Borough Market is a must-visit: it gets seriously busy, so head there in the morning for treats from Bread Ahead and Neal’s Yard Dairy. Then, take yourself off to some of the city’s newer foodie destinations. For lunch, it’s hard to beat Maltby Street Market, a tucked away hot food market next to railway arches which serves up an ever-revolving carousel of delights from around the world. And to finish, take in Brick Lane’s quirky street food stalls and shops, including Black Sugars’ rich and delectable hot chocolate and the plethora of excellent Indian restaurants serving rich, aromatic curries. 

Where to stay: Hart Shoreditch Hotel London, Curio Collection by Hilton is right around the corner from Brick Lane, and is also home to an excellent Eastern Mediterranean restaurant, Barboun. To stay closer to Borough Market, go for Hilton London Tower Bridge. Be sure to get a cocktail at TwoRubar before heading out for dinner. 

London’s theatre scene is in all-singing, all-dancing good health this spring, with a blossoming array of new and returning shows to enjoy. 'Cyrano de Bergerac' is perfect for a date night: James McAvoy is magnetic as an awkward would-be lothario, wooing his love in smart rhyming couplets. Or alternatively, you can’t go wrong with one of the West End’s hottest musicals. 'Moulin Rouge! The Musical’ will shower you with endlessly romantic spectacle, '& Juliet' is a smart 21st century update on a timeless love story, and 'Dear Evan Hansen' offers a nuanced storyline that’s perfect for chewing over with a friend afterwards. 

Where to stay: Whatever you opt for, lift the curtain on a spectacular night out by staying at The Waldorf Hilton, London, and enjoy a pre-theatre meal at the hotel’s restaurant Homage, with its old-world charm. Alternatively, go for Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo, located one block from the Old Vic Theatre. 

Discover London’s hidden playful side with a weekend of quirky, left-field activities scattered across the capital. Kick things off in the centre of London with Monopoly Lifesized', which is just what it sounds like: a gigantic version of the board game brought to life using actors who’ll immerse you in the high-stakes world of property speculation. If you’re a bit of a history buff, head downriver to Greenwich where you can discover the impressive Cutty Sark, a nineteenth century ship-turned-museum that’s full to the gunnels with naval charm. From here, you’re not far from the glittering lights of Canary Wharf. Watch the sunset in style from Skuna Hot Tub Boat: unbelievably, you’re allowed to steer your way through Canary Wharf’s waterways while lounging in a scandi-style bath, wearing just a swimming cossie. 

Where to stay: Make the most of the spectacular water views by staying at Hilton London Canary Wharf and DoubleTree by Hilton London Docklands Riverside.