A Local's Guide to Charing Cross & Embankment, London
Staying at our Charing Cross - Embankment apartment (also known as Eleanor's Cross) puts you right at the historic centre of London — literally. The nearby Eleanor Cross monument marks the spot from which all distances to London have traditionally been measured. Here's how to make the most of the neighbourhood during your stay.
Getting Your Bearings
Charing Cross sits at the meeting point of the West End, Covent Garden, and the River Thames. Within a 10-minute walk you'll find Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, and the start of the South Bank — making this one of the most central bases you can choose in London.
Walk the River
Embankment station is just a few minutes from the apartment, and from there it's a beautiful walk along the Thames Path. Head east towards the Golden Jubilee Bridges for views over to the London Eye and the South Bank, or continue further to Blackfriars and the Millennium Bridge. In the evening, the riverside is beautifully lit and much quieter than the daytime crowds around Trafalgar Square.
Eat and Drink Nearby
- Covent Garden Market (8-minute walk) — a mix of independent stalls, cafés, and restaurants, with regular street performers in the piazza
- Villiers Street, right by Embankment station, has a good stretch of casual restaurants and pubs
- For a proper London pub experience, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street dates back to the 1600s and is a short walk away
Culture and Sights
- The National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery — both free to enter, and a 10-minute walk from the apartment
- Somerset House — regularly hosts exhibitions and has a lovely courtyard, especially nice in summer
- The Savoy Theatre and several other West End theatres are within easy walking distance if you want to catch a show
Getting Around
Charing Cross and Embankment stations both give you fast access across the city — Zone 1 connections mean you're rarely more than 20-25 minutes from most major London attractions. Black cabs are easy to find on the Strand, and it's a flat, pleasant walk to most Central London destinations if you'd rather explore on foot.
Good to Know
The apartment is on the third floor with views over the surrounding rooftops rather than the river directly, but the location more than makes up for it — you'll spend more time out exploring than looking out the window. Bring comfortable shoes; this part of London rewards walking.
Booking direct with us means no platform fees and direct contact with your host throughout your stay. [Book Eleanor's Cross now →]
