Where to go for the best brunches in London

When in London, it’s mandatory to do a tour of London through both sight and taste, as we explored with our Dine by Borough post, previously. There are so many places to be explored from the city’s top attractions down to the best street-side eateries to combine the two for a tasty, sightseeing adventure. As we’re lapping up the rest of the summer sun and making the most of the long days, we’re getting up earlier and starting our days on a high; happy with full bellies. This month we’re all about the brunches. For a unique tour of London, why not munch your way around the capital with the city’s best brunch spots. From West to East, Central to Soho, there are plenty of eateries to choose from. Here are some of our favourite brunches (to suit every budget!): Chiltern Firehouse: ££££ Chiltern Firehouse is the place to be at the moment. If you’re au fait with the British celebrity scene, there isn’t anyone who hasn’t been papped at the Chiltern Firehouse recently, or who isn’t on the waiting list to get in. A pre-booking-is-essential kind of place, it’s truly worth it though as at brunch time pretences are dropped and all you’re left with is excellent service. At the weekends you can enjoy a tasty brunch from 11am-3pm – great for the late risers – and should the sun be shining and there be a table, you might be able to eat in the quaint courtyard outside, too. Tuck into simple dishes given a Chiltern flair and you’ll be guaranteed one of the best brunches in town. 1 Chiltern St, W1U 7PA – Marylebone tube www.chilternfirehouse.com The Wolseley: £££ One of London’s most loved, and longest-standing, institutions, The Wolseley is a must-do on your tour of London. Even if it’s just to have a slice of toast and a pot of Earl Grey, sit back and enjoy your first meal of the day in one of London’s most traditional and upper class establishments. From 7am-11.30am on weekdays, opening an hour later on the weekend, it’s the best place to go to kick off your day of sightseeing bright and early. From freshly baked sweet pastries to continental dishes, book your place now for a breakfast to remember. 160 Piccadilly, W1J 9EB – Green Park tube www.thewolseley.com/breakfast The Riding House Café: £££ Tucked away behind the bustling high street, Oxford Circus, in the quieter streets of central London, this place is great for those after a spot of shopping. The Riding House Café is a hot spot for locals and those in-the-know, with breakfast kicking off at 7.30am on weekdays, served until midday, and 8.30am on the weekends, until 11.30am. If you're after more than that, you can also tuck into a brunch specific menu which runs until 3.30pm and 4pm respectively. It’s great for the healthy eaters, too, with a wide range of granolas and energising smoothies for an all-natural pick-me-up. 43-51 Great Titchfield St, W1W 7PQ – Oxford Circus tube www.ridinghousecafe.co.uk Muriel’s Kitchen: ££ Right in the heart of town, Muriel’s Kitchen is London’s answer to a hearty American-style brunch without the grease. Tuck into wedge-thick blueberry pancakes and maple syrup, or try an open sandwich with scrambled eggs, avocado and bacon. There’s a huge choice and something to suit everyone, especially those with a sweet tooth. With a variety of smoothies and milkshakes, too, think hearty American breakfasts with a Cath Kidston country-feel. Muriel’s is family friendly and a safe bet for the kids – no need to book either, brunch is served until 1pm Mon-Sat, or 2pm on Sundays. Soho - 36 - 38 Old Compton Street, W1D 4TT – Leicester Square tube South Kensington - 1-3 Pelham Street, SW7 2nd – South Kensington tube Leicester Square - 7-9 Leicester Square, WC2H 7NA – Leicester Square tube http://www.murielskitchen.co.uk/home Gail’s Artisan Bakery: ££ For those on-the-go Gail’s Bakery is the perfect answer. No need to book, there are a handful of Gail’s dotted around London from Goodge Street to Queen's Park so you’re more than likely to bump into one on your travels. Its artisan-ethos means most things are organic and freshly made that day; it’s basically London’s homemade step up from Starbucks. You can either sit down or take away and enjoy freshly brewed coffee, a variety of herbal teas and flavoured breads, muffins and a wide range of hot food, too. Most Londoners can locate their nearest within 5miles and it’s a great alternative for those who don’t want to splash too much cash. Barnes, Battersea, Belsize Park, Bloomsbury, Chiswick, Crouch End, Dulwich Village, Exmouth Market, Fulham Road, Hampstead, King’s Road, Notting Hill, Queen’s Park, Soho, South Kensington, St John’s Wood http://gailsbread.co.uk/