London has long been regarded as one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Whether you are after a slice of British history or want to be at the forefront of fashion, the capital has something to offer for visitors and locals alike. The city’s culture and history have attracted people from all over the globe, however until recently, London’s food scene has been given a wide berth. With a burgeoning influx of food trends and pop-up restaurants, the capital is definitely attracting foodie interest. However, for a weary tourist trying to do it all, forward planning is a must. We round up the many excellent restaurants within walking distance of must-see attractions.

Probably the most famous tourist attraction in London, Buckingham Palace always has crowds queuing up, hopeful for a glimpse of the Queen (or perhaps more realistically, a picture with the guards). Combine it with a stroll through Green Park and end up at the Goring Hotel in Beeston Place. The Goring’s restaurant offers a calm retreat from the bustle of London, complete with a taste of old fashioned Britishness - the afternoon teas are a speciality. The hotel itself played host to the Duchess of Cambridge the night before the royal wedding.

The Houses of Parliament are comprised of beautiful, historic buildings alongside the banks of the Thames; Big Ben chimes in the background. Walk alongside Westminster Abbey to the quiet of Great Smith Street which is home to The Cinnamon Club. A high-end Indian restaurant, located in what used to be the Westminster Library, the restaurant delivers contemporary flavours in a charmingly antiquated setting, decorated with many books.

Delve into British royal history at the Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels. Next door to the Tower, at St. Katherine’s Docks, is Tom’s Kitchen. The dinner menu provides plenty of choice, but they also offer breakfast for the crowd-evading early birds and a dedicated children’s menu. For people on the go, the deli also provides good quality takeaway food.

Unless you venture out into Soho, there are limited choices for a three-course meal on Oxford Street. Some would argue that it is wrong to shop on a full stomach, however if you are after an excuse to show off your new apparel, Lima, in the heart of Fitzrovia, is just a ten minute walk away. This Peruvian gem will see you dine in style, with beautifully constructed plates of colourful food.

Hectic madness is a fact of life in Piccadilly Circus - the name is rightly synonymous with large crowds - but there are great dining options for those wishing to avoid tourist chain fare. Head down Regent’s Street and take a right onto the discreet Swallow Street for Bentley’s Oyster Bar and Grill. Oysters have long been a British culinary tradition and the lively Oyster Bar on the ground floor in Bentley’s is a great place to begin a night in the West End. Alternatively Hix Soho, Mark Hix’s flagship restaurant on Brewer Street, offers a choice of filling meat and seafood plates, surrounded by modern art. Mark’s Bar, downstairs in the venue, is also a great place for a tipple.

Theatre aficionados are spoilt for choice in the dynamic Covent Garden. Tredwells on Upper St. Martin’s street is in close proximity to the majority of theatres; its website even includes a list of walking distances to the various venues and, of course, there’s a pre-theatre menu. Tredwell's offers a relaxed dining experience, with a choice of smaller dishes, salads and burgers or large steaks. It also has many options for people with specific dietary requirements.

Harrods is either a world famous shop or museum, depending on your budget. If you haven’t blown all your spending money, Outlaw’s at The Capital Hotel, just around the corner, has a great lunch menu deal with two courses for £22 or three for £27. The menu showcases premium quality seafood, changing regularly to allow for the freshest fish to be served at their best.

The vibrant Southbank, home to the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe, is one of London’s cultural hotspots. Walk along the river to the Royal Festival Hall to see concerts and performances from all over the world. This venue also contains Skylon restaurant and bar, a light and airy restaurant with stunning views of the South Bank through floor to ceiling windows. Skylon serves up elegant, modern British cuisine in a unique environment.

For tourists with a family, the vastness of London can be daunting. The area around Baker Street has several child-friendly attractions, including Madame Tussauds, the Planetarium and, of course, the Sherlock Holmes Museum. It can often be difficult to come across family-friendly restaurants that do not compromise on food quality, so Bistrot de Luxe on Baker Street is a rare find. Expect a charming welcome at this classically French bistro, as well as fantastic food.

For more ideas about where to eat in the capital, take a look at our Restaurants in London collection.