Corporate trip to London: Practical tips and local insights

Home to the London Stock Exchange, leading banks and fintech giants, the city attracts decision-makers from all over the world. Every year, thousands of professionals arrive for high-profile events like London Tech Week, the World Travel Market and countless industry conferences.

What makes London special for business travellers is its mix of tradition and innovation. Here you can close a deal in a glass tower of Canary Wharf, network in a centuries-old club in Mayfair or brainstorm with startups in Shoreditch. Whatever your industry, the city gives you the right setting to grow.

Here’s what you need to know to plan your business trip to London and make every meeting count.

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Before you go

London may feel familiar thanks to pop culture and English textbooks, yet there are still a few things every traveller should learn before visiting. Knowing local rules, habits and practicalities can make a big difference to how smoothly your business trip runs — so we’ve gathered the essentials to help you feel prepared from day one.

Visa and entry requirements

Standard Visitor visa

For most business trips, you’ll need a Standard Visitor visa. It covers short-term activities like meetings, conferences, contract signings or training sessions. The visa costs £127 for six months. Longer-term versions for two, five or ten years are available, but they are more expensive and each stay is still limited to six months.

Applications usually take around three weeks and require a passport, an invitation or event programme, proof of funds, accommodation details and a return ticket. Keep in mind that this visa doesn’t allow you to work for a UK employer or run a business there.

Electronic Travel Authorisation

An alternative is the ETA — a digital permit for visits up to six months. It’s designed for travellers from visa-exempt countries and already mandatory for citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council states — the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman. It’s also gradually being rolled out for nationals of the United States, Canada and EU countries.

The ETA costs £10–16, is valid for two years or until your passport expires and allows multiple entries. In practice, approvals are often processed within minutes, though officially the process may take up to three working days. To apply, you need to download the UK ETA app, scan your passport and take a photo of your face, then answer basic questions.

Time zone and scheduling

London has literally set the clock for the modern world. Since Greenwich Mean Time was introduced in 1884, the city has been the reference point for time zones across the globe.

London operates on GMT (UTC+0) in winter and switches to British Summer Time (GMT+1) from late March to late October. Compared to major business hubs in winter, London is 5 hours ahead of New York, 8 hours ahead of Los Angeles, 3 hours behind Dubai and an hour behind Berlin.

When scheduling, note that most offices run 9am–6pm, while banks often start earlier. Use time-zone tools to find overlap and double-check daylight-saving time shifts.

Money and payments

London is one of the easiest places in the world to go cashless. Visa and Mastercard work almost everywhere — from hotels and restaurants to taxis and coffee shops. American Express is also accepted, though less often in smaller establishments. Mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely supported and often the fastest way to pay.

Still, it’s worth keeping some pounds on hand for tips, markets or pubs that don’t take cards. ATMs are widely available and accept international cards, usually with a daily withdrawal limit of around £300 and a small fee (£3–£5). Barclays, HSBC and Citibank branches tend to be the most convenient for visitors.

Currency exchange is best done at trusted providers such as Travelex (Heathrow and Selfridges), eurochange/NM Money (including Paddington) or Currency Online Group (Waterloo).

For public transport, get a Visitor Oyster card — a reusable travel card for city visitors, used to pay for the Underground, buses, trams and local trains. It makes fares cheaper and automatically caps your daily spend, making it the most flexible and cost-effective option for short business trips.

Internet and apps

London has excellent connectivity: 4G and 5G work almost everywhere — from airports and business districts to cafés and hotels. EE is the go-to choice for travellers who want reliable, high-speed internet, and prepaid SIMs or eSIMs are easy to buy on arrival.

To make your stay easier, download a few local apps.

• Citymapper is the most accurate tool for navigating London’s public transport. Tube Map and London Bus Live Countdown may also be useful.
• For getting around, Uber works the same way as in most cities. If you’d like London’s iconic black cabs, use Gett UK or TaxiApp UK — just note that these rides are usually more expensive.
• For exploring beyond work, Visit London gives an overview of attractions, while Fever is useful for finding tickets to events and entertainment.

Accommodation: rules and tips

London hotels generally follow the same standards as those in most major cities.

• Credit card details are usually required at check-in, with a temporary hold placed for incidentals.
• Standard check-in starts around 3pm and check-out is by 11am–12pm. Early check-in or late check-out may be available for an extra fee.
• You’ll be asked to show a passport or ID at reception.

For longer stays in rented apartments, deposits are covered by the Tenancy Deposit Protection scheme. Landlords must register the deposit in an official scheme and return it within 10 days of check-out, minus any agreed deductions.

Business etiquette and local norms

Business culture in London is formal and polite. Handshakes are the standard greeting, and it’s best to use titles and surnames until invited to switch to first names. Punctuality is highly valued — arriving late without notice is considered disrespectful. Meetings often start with small talk on neutral topics before moving to business — just avoid personal questions. Communication is usually measured and indirect, so a polite phrase may actually signal disagreement.

In daily interactions, courtesy is essential. “Please”, “thank you” and “sorry” are used constantly — it’s better to say them once too often than not at all. As for tipping, restaurants usually include a 10–15% service charge; if not, adding around 10% is appreciated. In taxis, rounding up the fare is enough.

On public transport, Londoners value quiet and order. Queues are strictly observed, and on Underground escalators you stand on the right so others can pass on the left. Offering your seat to elderly people or parents with children is also expected.

How to get to London

International travel

Air connections

London is served by six airports:

• Heathrow (15 miles from central London),
• Gatwick (30 miles),
• Stansted (40 miles),
• Luton (35 miles),
• City (9 miles),
• Southend (40 miles).

Together they handle flights from every part of the world. Major carriers include:

• British Airways,
• Virgin Atlantic,
• Emirates,
• Qatar Airways,
• Singapore Airlines,
• Lufthansa,
• Air France,
• Turkish Airlines and many more.

From most European capitals you’ll find several direct flights a day. Heathrow and Gatwick also connect London with the US, Canada, the Middle East and Asia, making Heathrow one of the busiest global hubs with over 200 destinations.

Connecting flights

If there are no direct flights from your city, common stopovers include Frankfurt, Paris, Dubai, Doha and Istanbul. These hubs offer daily links to London and smooth onward connections.

Eurostar

Already in Europe? Eurostar trains via the Channel Tunnel can be faster than flying. From Paris (2h20), Brussels (2h) and Amsterdam (4h) you’ll arrive directly at London St Pancras International, skipping airport transfers and security queues.

When to book

Flights to London are most expensive in summer and over Christmas, with demand also spiking around major business events. Spring and autumn usually bring a better balance between price and comfort, while January, February and November are the cheapest months to travel.

For the best fares, book six to eight weeks ahead for European routes and two to four months ahead for long-haul or even earlier for peak dates.

From Heathrow Airport (LHR) to the city centre

By Underground

The Piccadilly line runs from all Heathrow terminals to central London every 5–10 minutes. The journey takes 40–60 minutes depending on your stop. A standard single ticket costs £7, but with an Oyster or contactless card you’ll pay £5.80. There’s also a Night Tube on the Piccadilly line serving Terminals 2, 3 and 5 on Friday and Saturday nights.  

For a faster but pricier option, the Elizabeth line reaches Paddington in just 28 minutes and continues through central stations like Bond Street and Liverpool Street. A single fare is £13.90.

By Heathrow Express train

Heathrow Express takes just 15 minutes to Paddington from Terminals 2 and 3, or about 21 minutes from Terminal 5. Tickets start from £10 if booked well in advance. Standard fares are around £25 and business class is £32.

By taxi or car transfer

A ride to central London takes 30–60 minutes depending on traffic. Standard minicabs cost about £50–£70, while black cabs can be £60–£110. Alternatively, you can pre-book a Tumodo car transfer with fixed pricing and vehicle choice, starting around £70.

From Gatwick Airport (LGW) to the city centre

By train

The fastest way is the Gatwick Express to London Victoria — non-stop in about 32 minutes. Tickets start from £21.50. Trains depart every 15 minutes from 5am until around 11:30pm. 
Southern and Thameslink services may be slightly slower (35–50 minutes) but cheaper, with routes to Victoria, London Bridge and other central stations. They run roughly between 5am and 11pm, with one or two trains per hour.

By coach bus

National Express coaches connect Gatwick with Victoria Coach Station in about 1h40 under good traffic conditions and with minimal stops. Fares start from £6. Coaches usually have luggage space and sometimes Wi-Fi. Services run almost around the clock and operate one to three times per hour.

By taxi or car transfer

A taxi ride to central London takes 60–90 minutes depending on traffic. Standard fares are around £130–£160. Alternatively, you can pre-book a Tumodo car transfer with fixed pricing and vehicle choice, starting from around £85.

From London City Airport (LCY) to the city centre

By train

Docklands Light Railway (DLR) runs directly from the airport every 10 minutes. The journey takes around 20 minutes to Bank station or 15 minutes to Stratford, with fares starting from about £3. With one Underground change, you can reach central hubs such as Victoria, Holborn or Paddington in roughly 35 minutes, with fares also starting from around £3.

By taxi or car transfer

A taxi to central London takes around 30 minutes in light traffic. Fares are usually £45–£60, higher during rush hours or late at night. Alternatively, you can pre-book a Tumodo car transfer with fixed pricing and vehicle choice, starting from around £65.

Where to stay in London

London offers every kind of stay — from grand hotels in historic buildings to modern business-friendly options with all the essentials. Whatever your needs, you’ll find the perfect place to stay.

The Langham London

Location

For those who prefer to travel in luxury, The Langham London has been an icon of grand hospitality since 1865. Set at the top of Regent Street in the West End, it places business travellers right in the heart of the city. Oxford Street, Bond Street and Marylebone Village are just minutes away for shopping. Landmarks such as Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace and the British Museum are all within easy reach too. Its location ensures both cultural highlights and key business hubs are on your doorstep.

At the hotel

The Langham is an excellent choice for business travellers who value luxury and comfort. Guests benefit from extensive meeting and event spaces, including a historic ballroom, private boardrooms and exclusive dining rooms for corporate functions. The hotel features 16 refined venues, including the Grand Ballroom, which hosts up to 300 guests. A 24-hour business centre, fast Wi-Fi, concierge and support services, plus fully accessible facilities guarantee a seamless stay. When it’s time to unwind, there’s a spa, fitness centre and indoor pool. You’ll also find Michelin-starred restaurants and one of London’s most celebrated hotel bars — perfect for both client entertainment and informal networking.

The Langham offers 380 elegant rooms and suites, combining classic style with modern amenities.

Strand Palace Hotel

Location

Strand Palace is set in the very heart of London, on the historic Strand, just moments from Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square. Surrounded by theatres and cultural landmarks, it’s within walking distance of the London Eye, the British Museum and the Churchill War Rooms. This central location makes it an ideal base for meetings in the West End and for quick access to major business districts.

At the hotel

Fully renovated in 2019, Strand Palace combines contemporary design with traditional British charm. For business travellers, it offers a dedicated round-the-clock business centre with high-speed internet, printing and workstations. The hotel also has 16 flexible meeting and event spaces — from private rooms to conference halls accommodating up to 250 delegates. Concierge and currency-exchange services, luggage storage and a 24-hour front desk add to the convenience. For downtime, guests can enjoy the in-house restaurant, buffet breakfast and a cocktail bar praised for its drinks and service. A complimentary on-site gym is also available.

The hotel features 788 rooms, providing a wide range of options for both individual business stays and larger groups.

Club Quarters Hotel, Covent Garden Holborn

Location

Perfectly positioned between Covent Garden and Holborn, the hotel overlooks the quiet green space of Lincoln’s Inn Fields — offering both proximity to London's vibrant business core and a peaceful retreat to unwind. The Royal Opera House, the British Museum and De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms are all within a short walk, making it ideal for travellers attending meetings or events nearby.

At the hotel

Club Quarters Hotel is tailored for professionals who value comfort, functionality and a central location. It features a fully equipped business centre, meeting and conference rooms and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property. With six adaptable meeting spaces for up to 160 guests, the hotel is ideal for everything from private meetings to larger corporate events. A 24-hour reception, concierge, laundry and dry-cleaning services ensure a seamless stay. For downtime, there’s a restaurant, a stylish bar and a fitness centre overlooking the gardens. The hotel also offers complimentary tea and coffee for guests.

With 167 contemporary rooms, it’s an excellent choice for business travellers seeking convenience and calm in the heart of London.

Travelodge London City Hotel

Location

The hotel is right next to Aldgate Underground station, making it convenient for reaching key business areas in the Сity. It’s also just a 10-minute walk to Spitalfields Market and Brick Lane, with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby for informal meetings. Major landmarks such as the Tower of London and Sky Garden are less than half a mile away, while Covent Garden and the London Eye are about two miles away.

At the hotel

Travelodge London City Hotel was recently refurbished and offers a modern, comfortable setting for business travellers. The Bar Café provides affordable meals and drinks throughout the day, and the lobby is a practical space to relax or meet after work. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and digital key access lets guests open rooms quickly and securely using their phones. For meetings, a convenient on-site room is available for hire. With its functional design and excellent location, it’s a smart choice for business trips on a budget.

The hotel has 395 rooms, each equipped with a modern TV and essential amenities.

Premier Inn London Blackfriars (Fleet Street) Hotel

Location

With St Paul’s Cathedral on one side and Tate Modern on the other, Premier Inn London Blackfriars is right in the middle of everything. The hotel is a short walk from Blackfriars station, the Thames and major attractions like the London Eye and Covent Garden. Its location also makes it ideal for business travellers, with offices and corporate headquarters just minutes away. 

At the hotel

Premier Inn London Blackfriars offers one of the best-value stays in central London. Designed for both comfort and convenience, it features free Wi-Fi, a business-friendly atmosphere and a 24-hour reception. For small informal meetings, the hotel provides three reservable tables in the on-site restaurant, each accommodating up to eight people. Guests can start the day with a generous breakfast buffet and end it at the on-site restaurant or bar. They can also benefit from luggage storage and easy access to taxis for business meetings around the city.

The hotel offers 258 rooms, each clean and quiet, with comfortable beds and everything needed for a restful and productive stay.

Walking route through London

If you have a couple of free hours between meetings, take a walk and see some of London’s most famous landmarks. It’s the best way to experience the city’s atmosphere — a perfect blend of history, culture and charm, all within walking distance.

Start your walk in Covent Garden, one of London’s most vibrant districts. The covered market and cobbled square are full of street performers, boutique shops and cafés perfect for a quick espresso. Step into Neal’s Yard, a colourful courtyard tucked away nearby — small, bright and full of local charm.

From there, stroll for about ten minutes to Trafalgar Square, the symbolic heart of the city. Admire Nelson’s Column and the fountains or take a short detour into the National Gallery — entry is free and even a quick visit can be inspiring.

Continue down Whitehall, where history and politics meet. You’ll pass Horse Guards Parade and get a glimpse of Downing Street, home to the British Prime Minister. The grand buildings along this avenue make it clear why Whitehall is often called the backbone of the British government.

A few more minutes’ walk brings you to Westminster, where London’s most recognisable landmarks rise before you — Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. It’s the perfect spot for a quick photo before crossing Westminster Bridge.

On the other side of the Thames, the South Bank opens up with panoramic views of the skyline. Here you’ll find the London Eye, the Southbank Centre and a lively riverside promenade filled with musicians, food stalls and after-work buzz. It’s the perfect place to unwind, grab a coffee or just take in the view before heading back to your next meeting.

Business-friendly lunch spots in London

London’s food scene is as diverse as the city itself — from refined Michelin-starred dining rooms to colourful kitchens full of spice and energy. Whatever your taste or budget, you’ll find the perfect spot for a productive lunch or relaxed catch-up with colleagues.

The places below are perfect for those moments when you want to impress — with both the food and the setting.

Ormer Mayfair

A place where you can experience modern British cuisine at its finest — elegant, seasonal and full of local character. The Michelin-starred restaurant, led by Executive Chef Sofian Msetfi, blends British and European influences in a calm, refined setting that’s perfect for business conversations.

If you’d like to try something rooted in traditional British flavours, go for the roast Yorkshire duck or the warm ham jelly with Bramley apple — both beautifully balanced and unmistakably local.

Baluchi

Indian cuisine has a special place in London’s heart, and Baluchi is one of the city’s most celebrated spots to experience it. Set in a historic building with a vaulted ceiling and rich blue décor, the restaurant pairs authentic Indian flavours with elegant British touches.

The menu by Executive Chef Santosh Shah brings together regional flavours from Goa to Bengal. Guests often highlight the lamb shank and butter chicken — dishes known for their depth of flavour and beautiful presentation. With warm service and an unforgettable setting, Baluchi turns every lunch into a cultural experience.

It’s the kind of place that will impress even your London-based business partner who knows the city inside out.

Where to relax after work

Evenings in London are full of energy — from lively rooftop bars and jazz clubs to traditional pubs, theatre shows and late-night food markets. Whatever your mood, the city offers something for everyone. We’ve picked a few authentic London experiences that will help you unwind and feel like a true Londoner.

West End Theatre

If you want to swap business meetings for a cultural evening, head to London’s famous West End — the heart of British theatre for over 350 years. The district is home to around forty theatres, including famous ones like the grand Theatre Royal Drury Lane and the legendary London Palladium.

You can choose world-class productions ranging from light-hearted musicals like Mamma Mia! to timeless classics such as Hamlet. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a busy day and see a side of London that locals love just as much as visitors.

Show times vary by theatre, and tickets are available online through various platforms including the official West End Theatre website.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

Probably London’s most famous pub, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is a true institution. Rebuilt in 1667 after the Great Fire of London, it’s one of the city’s few remaining 17th-century taverns — a maze of wooden rooms, low ceilings and the scent of centuries-old oak.

Over the years, it’s welcomed literary legends like Charles Dickens, Mark Twain and Dr Samuel Johnson, who once lived just around the corner. Today, it still serves traditional British fare — pies, roasts and Samuel Smith’s Yorkshire-brewed ales — in an unpretentious setting that feels frozen in time.

It’s the perfect place to unwind after work or impress colleagues with a taste of authentic London history. Table reservations are available.

What to bring back: gifts and souvenirs

It’s a nice tradition to bring back small gifts for your team after a business trip. In London, you’ll find everything from classic tea-time sets to contemporary design — here are ideas that feel local and thoughtful.

• Tea and biscuits. Nothing says “London” quite like a tin of tea with biscuits. For a classic choice, stop by Fortnum & Mason on Piccadilly or pick up local Twinings tea, available almost anywhere in London. Pair it with Cartwright & Butler biscuits or Harrods shortbread for a charming and delicious combination. For something special, Whittard of Chelsea offers London-themed tea sets that look just as good on a shelf as they taste in a cup.
• Local spirits. If your team appreciates a good drink, a bottle of London Dry Gin from Sipsmith or Beefeater makes a sophisticated souvenir. For something softer, pick up a bottle of elderflower liqueur — a local favourite that captures the freshness of the English countryside. Both can be found in major wine stores or at airports before departure.
• Books and design. London’s literary side is a perfect source of inspiration for colleagues who prefer quiet evenings to cocktails. Browse Hatchards or Stanfords near Covent Garden for beautifully bound books and city guides. If you’d rather give something visual, the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden sells posters, prints and other stylish souvenirs — small details that capture the spirit of London itself.
• Fashion and fragrance. For a more polished gesture, choose something from London’s heritage brands. Both Burberry and Barbour scarves are timeless and wearable, while classic British scents from Floris on Jermyn Street or Jo Malone on Regent Street add a touch of understated London elegance. All of these can be found in major department stores like Liberty, Selfridges or Fortnum & Mason.
• Quirky and local finds. Those looking for something more personal should explore London’s markets — Portobello Road, Camden Market or Borough Market. You’ll find everything from handmade ceramics and vintage postcards to Borough Market aprons and small-batch cheeses. Even a Paddington Bear toy or a Harry Potter trinket from King’s Cross makes a cheerful and instantly recognisable gift.

Whatever you choose, these souvenirs capture the city’s charm — a blend of tradition, creativity and character. Each gift tells its own story and makes a thoughtful way to share a bit of London with your team back home.