London in books

Get inspired for your next trip by reading some emblematic books set in London. Discover authors that have shown light on this unique city through their stories.

London, with its rich tapestry of history and vibrant contemporary culture, presents an enchanting backdrop for many literary works and is an equally compelling destination for tourists. Walking through the streets of London is like traversing the pages of a vast, unfolding story, where every corner, building, and alley whispers tales from the past and present. From the Victorian elegance of Kensington to the bustling markets of Camden, the city is a treasure trove for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum offer glimpses into the city’s royal and cultural heritage, while the modern London Eye provides a panoramic view of the sprawling metropolis, a sight often described in contemporary literature.

The literary charm of London is not confined to its historical landmarks; it extends to its vibrant literary scene, which continues to inspire authors and captivate readers worldwide. The city’s bookshops, from the sprawling Waterstones in Piccadilly to the quaint independent stores in Notting Hill, are a haven for those seeking to delve deeper into London’s literary world. Annual events like the London Book Fair and the Southbank Centre Literature Festival celebrate the city’s ongoing love affair with the written word, bringing together authors, poets, and book lovers from around the globe. Literary tours, which take enthusiasts on a journey through the London of Charles Dickens, Virginia Woolf, or Sherlock Holmes, offer a unique perspective on the city, blending fiction with the vivid reality of its streets and buildings.

Moreover, London’s dynamic cultural scene, reflected in its diverse neighborhoods, echoes the multicultural narratives found in contemporary literature. Exploring areas like Brixton, with its rich Afro-Caribbean culture, or the curry houses and fabric shops of Brick Lane in the East End, reminiscent of Monica Ali’s “Brick Lane,” allows visitors to experience the city as a living, breathing character in these stories. This multicultural vibrancy adds depth to the literary exploration of London, making it not just a backdrop for stories but an active participant in them. The city’s parks, cafes, and pubs, often featured in novels, are perfect spots for visitors to relax with a book in hand, immersing themselves in the literary magic that London continues to weave.

Explore London in books

Here’s a list of 10 notable books set in London, England, along with a brief outline of each story:

“Oliver Twist” by Charles Dickens

Set in Victorian London, “Oliver Twist” is a gripping tale of a young orphan, Oliver, who endures a miserable existence in a workhouse and then is placed with an undertaker. He escapes to London where he meets the Artful Dodger, a member of a gang of juvenile pickpockets led by the elderly criminal, Fagin. It’s a vivid portrayal of London’s underworld and a moving study of the social injustices of that time.

“Mrs. Dalloway” by Virginia Woolf

This novel takes place in London, post-World War I, and is a remarkable portrayal of a day in the life of Clarissa Dalloway, a high-society woman. The story follows her as she prepares for a party she will host that evening and reflects on her past, the choices she has made, and the society she lives in. The narrative also skillfully interweaves the story of Septimus Warren Smith, a World War I veteran suffering from PTSD.

“Neverwhere” by Neil Gaiman

In “Neverwhere,” Neil Gaiman crafts a fantastical story set in a hidden, magical London. The protagonist, Richard Mayhew, a young businessman, finds his life irrevocably changed after helping a mysterious girl named Door. This act pulls him into “London Below,” a dark and eerie world beneath the city, filled with monsters, saints, and other fantastical beings.

“Bridget Jones’s Diary” by Helen Fielding

This modern novel, set in contemporary London, is a witty and humorous account of Bridget Jones, a single thirty-something woman who is struggling with her career, self-image, and the search for love. Told in diary format, it candidly explores Bridget’s life with all its embarrassments, triumphs, and romantic misadventures in the backdrop of urban London.

“White Teeth” by Zadie Smith

“White Teeth” is a vibrant and sprawling narrative that delves into the lives of two North London families over three generations. Exploring themes of cultural identity, the legacy of war, and the complexities of family and friendship, the novel is a panoramic view of contemporary London life, rich in humor and empathy.

“The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” by Arthur Conan Doyle

Set in the late 19th century London, this classic collection of detective stories introduces Sherlock Holmes, the iconic detective, and his loyal friend Dr. John Watson. The stories, rooted in the streets of London, showcase Holmes’ extraordinary intellect and Doyle’s intricate plotting.

“A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens

This timeless story unfolds in the heart of London and tells the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. It’s a moral tale that explores the themes of redemption and the spirit of Christmas within the Victorian-era city.

“Rivers of London” by Ben Aaronovitch

Blending crime and fantasy, “Rivers of London” introduces Peter Grant, a young police officer and apprentice wizard, as he solves crimes across the city that involve magical elements. The book offers a unique vision of London, mixing its rich history with magical elements.

“Bleak House” by Charles Dickens

A complex narrative that weaves together numerous characters and plots, “Bleak House” is set against the backdrop of a long-running legal case in the Court of Chancery in London. The novel uses a vast canvas to explore the British judiciary system and the plight of the poor, making London itself a central character.

“High Fidelity” by Nick Hornby

Set in the hip neighborhood of Islington in North London, “High Fidelity” is a witty and poignant story about love, loss, and music. It follows the life of Rob Fleming, a record store owner who, after a painful breakup, revisits his past relationships and tries to make sense of his life.

Each of these books offers a unique glimpse into different aspects of London, from its gritty streets to its posh neighborhoods, and from historical settings to contemporary life.

See our section Travel with books to get more inspirations.