Thinkers50 London Summit and Leaders50 Awards Gala 2026
Your guide to hotels, food, and things to do during the Thinkers50 London Summit & Awards Gala
We’re delighted to welcome you to London for the Thinkers50 London Summit & Leaders50 Awards Gala 2026, taking place on Monday 2 November at the historic Guildhall. As we celebrate 25 years of Thinkers50, we look forward to marking this special milestone together in the heart of the City.
This guide brings together our hotel recommendations, some handpicked restaurants and bars, and a selection of things to see and do from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. We’ve gathered local tips to help you make the most of your stay, whether you’re here for the event or planning to spend a little more time in London.
We look forward to celebrating with you in London.
The Thinkers50 Team
For the Thinkers50 London Summit & Leaders50 Awards Gala 2026
To help you make the most of your stay in London during the event, we’ve selected a number of hotels located close to the event venue: Guildhall. Each option has been carefully chosen for its quality, location, and convenience.
We recommend booking your accommodation directly with the hotel of your choice. Availability may vary, so we encourage you to book early.
10 Trinity Square, London EC3N 4AJ, United Kingdom
Walking distance to Guildhall: ~15 min / 1.3 km (approx.)
By car: ~7 minutes
80 Houndsditch, London EC3A 7AB, United Kingdom
Walking distance to Guildhall: ~8 min / ~650 m (approx.)
By car: ~4 min
60 Upper Thames St., London EC4V 3AD, United Kingdom
Walking distance to Guildhall: ~10 min / ~800 m (approx.)
By car: ~4 minutes
10 Godliman St, London EC4V 5AJ, United Kingdom
Walking distance to Guildhall: ~6 minutes (500 m)
19–20 Garlick Hill, London EC4V 2AU, United Kingdom
Walking distance to Guildhall: ~5 min / ~400 m (approx.)
5 Threadneedle St, London EC2R 8AY, United Kingdom
Walking distance to Guildhall: ~5 min / ~400 m (approx.)
24–30 W Smithfield, London EC1A 9HB, United Kingdom
Walking distance to Guildhall: ~7 minutes (550 m)
8–10 Paul St, London EC2A 4JH, United Kingdom
Walking distance to Guildhall: ~17 minutes (1.3 km)
86 Brick Lane, London E1 6RL, United Kingdom Walking distance to Guildhall: ~18 min / ~1.4 km (approx.)
Curated recommendations for Thinkers50 London Summit & Leaders50 Awards Gala guests
London is one of the world’s most exciting culinary cities. From historic pubs and creative cocktail bars to Michelin-starred restaurants and buzzing bistros, there’s something for every taste and every mood.
To help you navigate the endless choices, we’ve gathered 50 of our favourite places to wine, dine and relax. Many are within walking distance of Guildhall and the recommended hotels, with a few standouts further afield worth the trip.
Planning to dine out during your stay? We recommend checking opening hours in advance, as they may vary.
The Bull and Hide, Bishopsgate
Traditional pub charm with a modern twist.
Balfour at St Barts, Smithfield
Cosy spot serving modern British dishes and local wines.
The Ned, Bank
Ten bars and restaurants in a glamorous former bank – you’ll want to explore them all.
Williamson’s Tavern, St Paul’s
17th Century; once the home of the Lord Mayor of London.
The Mug House, London Bridge
Characterful wine bar and restaurant tucked away under London Bridge.
The Mudlark, London Bridge
Long-term favourite of city workers and traders from nearby Borough Market.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, Spitalfields
Find the hidden fridge door… and discover a secret basement bar.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
One of London’s oldest pubs, hidden down an alley – pure character.
The Wigmore, Portland Place
Elevated pub classics in a chic, retro setting.
Duke’s Bar, Mayfair
The birthplace of the classic James Bond martini – “shaken, not stirred”.
The Connaught Bar, Mayfair
Iconic cocktails served with 1920s glamour.
The Lamb & Flag, Covent Garden
A Dickens-era favourite – charming and full of stories.
Lady of The Grapes, Covent Garden
Organic wine bar with a French flair and a relaxed vibe.
The French House, Soho
Bohemian, historic, and full of London soul.
The Lyric, Soho
Quintessential London pub with Victorian features and friendly atmosphere.
Cahoots, Soho
A quirky 1940s-style bar set in an old train station.
Swift Soho, Old Compton St
Stylish spot for pre-dinner cocktails or post-show jazz.
Disrepute, Carnaby St
Velvet, vintage vibes and expertly crafted cocktails.
Tayēr + Elementary
Top cocktail bar / trendy but excellent
The Bloomsbury Club
Literary luxe and candlelit cocktails.
Library Bar, The Lanesborough
Classic and elegant – a timeless favourite.
Balfour at Bow Wine Vaults
Relaxed bistro close to St Paul’s with excellent wine.
Browns Old Jewry
Smart brasserie serving British classics, near Guildhall.
The Ivy City Garden
A stylish setting tucked in Bishopsgate Gardens.
Crispin, Spitalfields
Bright, modern European plates with seasonal flair.
Bourne & Hollingsworth, Clerkenwell
Beautiful interiors and a garden-party feel.
Kitty Fisher’s, Mayfair
Tiny and romantic – perfect for a special dinner.
The Culpeper, Commercial Street
Pub and bistro with a sustainability focus on well-sourced ingredients.
Hawksmoor Guildhall
The ultimate London steakhouse – lunch or early dinner only on Sundays.
Origin City, Smithfield
Farm-to-table dining with sustainable, organic produce.
The Ivy Asia, St Paul’s
Dramatic, vibrant and delicious – with views of the cathedral.
Ibai, St Paul’s
Basque-influenced cuisine in a renovated former warehouse.
1 Lombard Street
Historic former banking hall with all-day dining, close to Guildhall.
Bubala, Spitalfields & Shoreditch
Middle Eastern vegetarian & vegan food that even carnivores love.
Duck & Waffle, Bishopsgate
Open 24/7 with jaw-dropping views from the 40th floor.
Fenchurch Restaurant, Sky Garden
Modern British-Caribbean cuisine with rooftop garden views.
Bob Bob Ricard, City
“Press for Champagne” – need we say more?
Kol, Marylebone
Modern Mexican, Michelin-starred and unforgettable.
St. John, Smithfield / Spitalfields
Legendary for nose-to-tail dining and bold British flavours.
Mildred’s, Soho & Covent Garden
Plant-based favourites since 1988 – hearty, creative, and vibrant.
Mountain, Soho
Wood-fired modern European cooking from Tomos Parry – bold, seasonal and highly sought-after.
Rovi, Fitzrovia
Ottolenghi-style veggie-focused dishes cooked over fire.
Sabor, Mayfair
Michelin-starred Spanish with serious style.
Myrtle, Chelsea
Modern European cuisine with a gentle Irish accent.
Darby’s, Battersea
Oyster bar meets NYC brasserie – a foodie favourite.
Fallow, St James’s
Sustainable dining, seasonal produce, striking flavours.
Spring, Somerset House
Artful, elegant, and perfect for a celebratory meal.
Dean Street Townhouse, Soho
Stylish comfort food and a top spot for people-watching.
Hoppers, Soho
Bold Sri Lankan and South Indian flavours – spicy and addictive.
Doppo, Soho
Tiny Italian gem with heart and handmade pasta.
Andrew Edmunds, Soho
A Soho institution serving seasonal modern European fare.
Early November in London marks the height of the autumn season, with museums, theatres and cultural venues in full swing across the city.
Whether you’re interested in world-famous landmarks, contemporary art, historic neighbourhoods or a stroll along the Thames, London offers something for every interest and every pace.
Below you’ll find a curated selection of ideas to help you make the most of your time in the city.
London’s world-class museums are a gift. Quite literally, as most have free general admission. Whether you’re into art, design, history or science, there’s something here to spark your curiosity:
The British Museum (Bloomsbury)
Explore over two million years of human history, culture and art — from the Rosetta Stone to ancient Egyptian mummies.
Tate Modern (Bankside)
Contemporary and modern art in a stunning former power station on the Thames.
Natural History Museum (South Kensington)
Dinosaurs, gems, and the wonders of the natural world in one of London’s most iconic buildings.
Science Museum (South Kensington)
Hands-on exhibits, interactive galleries, and fascinating stories of innovation and discovery.
Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) (South Kensington)
A treasure trove of fashion, art, design, and culture from around the world — beautifully curated.
Please check individual museum websites for current opening hours and temporary exhibitions.
Stand on the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory, where east meets west. A bucket-list photo moment.
Visit the National Maritime Museum and the elegant Queen’s House, both offering free entry, and learn about Britain’s seafaring legacy.
Step aboard the Cutty Sark, a beautifully restored Victorian tea clipper that once sailed the world’s oceans.
Browse Greenwich Market, a colourful mix of street food, arts, crafts, and vintage treasures.
Getting there is half the fun: hop on a river boat, take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), or enjoy the ride on the IFS Cloud Cable Car over the Thames.
For those seeking a moment of quiet, spiritual connection or simply a place to reflect, London offers a wide range of beautiful and welcoming places of worship across many faith traditions.
Southwark Cathedral
Historic Anglican cathedral where John Harvard was baptised in 1607.
Bloomsbury Central Baptist Church, Shaftesbury Avenue
A welcoming space in the heart of the West End.
Union Chapel, Islington
A unique blend of church and arts venue, known for its peaceful atmosphere.
Most Holy Trinity Dockhead
A Roman Catholic parish tucked behind St Saviour’s Dock, near Tower Bridge.
London Central Mosque, Regent’s Park
One of the most prominent mosques in the UK, open to visitors.
Hyde Park Chapel
A place of worship for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Radha-Krishna Temple, Soho
Vibrant Hindu temple known for its music, colour and inclusivity.
The London Buddhist Vihara, Chiswick
Peaceful centre for Buddhist teachings and meditation.
Bevis Marks Synagogue, City
Oldest synagogue in the UK
Need a breath of fresh air? Head to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew to enjoy peaceful walking paths, vibrant autumn foliage, and world-famous plant collections.
Don’t miss the Treetop Walkway for a unique view above the trees or explore one of the grand Victorian glasshouses.
Kew is easily accessible by Underground, taxi or river boat. Please check the official website for current opening hours.
London is home to some of the most vibrant and atmospheric markets in Europe. Perfect for browsing, tasting and soaking up local flavour. Whether you’re looking for flowers, vintage finds or street food, these markets are well worth a visit:
Columbia Road Flower Market (Bethnal Green)
A Sunday favourite – colourful, fragrant and full of charm. Ideal for plants, flowers and independent boutiques in the surrounding streets.
Borough Market (London Bridge)
London’s oldest and most iconic food market, offering artisan cheeses, fresh produce, gourmet street food and international specialities.
Maltby Street Market (Bermondsey)
A smaller but much-loved market under the railway arches. Perfect for handmade goods, craft drinks and a relaxed atmosphere.
Please check individual websites for current opening days and times.
Once a derelict industrial landmark, Battersea Power Station has been reborn as one of London’s most exciting new destinations. Set along the Thames in Southwest London, this iconic building now anchors a vibrant riverside neighbourhood filled with shops, restaurants, bars, cafés, event spaces, parks, and more.
Wander beneath its towering chimneys, enjoy riverside views, or explore the stylish boutiques inside the restored Turbine Halls. Looking for something different?
Take the Chimney Lift – a glass elevator that takes you 109 meters up inside one of the original chimneys for breathtaking 360° views over London. A must-do for architecture lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys a good view.
🎶 Pink Floyd fans may recognise the power station from the cover of the 1977 album Animals.
For a different perspective in London, take to the water! A Thames River cruise offers a relaxing (and scenic) way to explore the city. Gliding past landmarks like Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament.
Options include:
Thames River Boats – traditional sightseeing cruises
Uber Boat by Thames Clippers – fast and frequent river transport along the Thames
Thames River Cruises – longer, guided sightseeing experiences
Whether you’re travelling with family or simply in the mood for something light-hearted, London offers plenty of options beyond the boardroom.
Clip ‘n Climb Chelsea
Colourful indoor climbing walls – no experience required, equipment provided.
Junkyard Golf Club, Shoreditch
Crazy golf with neon lights and a playful atmosphere – well suited for groups.
The LEGO® Store, Leicester Square
Giant models, build zones, and exclusive sets – entertaining for visitors of all ages.
Hamleys, Regent Street
One of the world’s oldest and largest toy shops, spread across several lively floors.
Richmond Park
A vast Royal Park with free-roaming deer, woodland walks and sweeping views.
The London Eye
Panoramic views across the capital from one of London’s most recognisable landmarks.
London is a paradise for readers, with beautiful independent bookshops and historic libraries tucked across the city.
Daunt Books, Marylebone
A striking Edwardian bookshop with oak galleries and a strong focus on travel writing.
Brick Lane Bookshop
An independent favourite in East London – best combined with a stroll through Brick Lane.
Stanfords, Covent Garden
A destination for travel writing, maps and adventure inspiration.
Treasures of the British Library, St Pancras
A free exhibition featuring original manuscripts, letters and world-changing texts from across the centuries.
Please check individual websites for current opening hours.
While we’ve done our best to provide up-to-date information, please note that opening times, menus, and availability may change. We recommend checking individual websites before your visit.
Above all, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in London. Whether you’re here for discovery, inspiration, or simply a great meal.
Enjoy the city, and enjoy the Thinkers50 London Summit & Leaders50 Awards Gala 2026.
Warm regards,
The Thinkers50 Team
Thinkers50 Limited
The Studio
Highfield Lane
Wargrave RG10 8PZ
United Kingdom
Thinkers50 Limited
The Studio
Highfield Lane
Wargrave RG10 8PZ
United Kingdom
Thinkers50 Limited
The Studio
Highfield Lane
Wargrave RG10 8PZ
United Kingdom
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