Discovering Londonas a celiac is easier than you imagine. Don’t worry, because the British capital is one of Europe’s most “gluten-free friendly” destinations. After exploring its streets and trying different places, we’ve prepared this guide, “London Gluten Free: Where to Eat Safely in the Main Tourist Areas,” designed so you can enjoy the city without sacrificing safety or flavor.
Is this your first time in the city? We recommend starting your trip with a free walking tour of London, a great way to discover the city’s main monuments and curiosities with expert guides. This will help you get your bearings easily and explore the most iconic spots before starting your gluten-free route.
We recommend reading our post about the best free tours and guided visits in London.
In this article, you’ll find our experiences at gluten-free restaurants that we’ve personally tried, must-visit bakeries, and key supermarkets, along with some recommendations for highly-rated spots in the celiac community.
Get good travel insurance for a worry-free stay. You can enjoy a 5% discount with us.
Everything is organized by London’s most important tourist areas, so you can plan your route and eat without fear, no matter where you are. Take note and travel with peace of mind!
Read also: What to See in London by Area: 30 Stops, Map, and Tips
Westminster and Victoria: History and Good Food
What to see in Westminster and Victoria
Westminster is London’s monumental epicenterand one of the city’s most emblematic areas. Here you can visit the majestic Westminster Abbey, where coronations and royal weddings are held, and the iconic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, a true symbol of the British capital.
Don’t miss the famous Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and enjoy a stroll through the manicured gardens of St. James’s Park, one of the city’s most beautiful royal parks. If you have time, we recommend discovering the impressive Tate Britain Gallery, ideal for art lovers.
Glutendtrotters Tip
Book your guided tour of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace to discover essential curiosities and hidden gems with a local guide.
Recommended Gluten-Free Restaurants in Westminster and Victoria
Zizzi – Victoria
Address: 15 Cardinal Walk, London SW1E 5JE, United Kingdom
This Italian chain has been a real discovery for us. It’s a safe bet if you’re looking for a varied menu with no surprises. At Zizzi Victoria, they offer gluten-free pizzas and pastas, prepared with great care to avoid cross-contamination. We tried the gluten-free pizza, and it was a complete success: thin crust, fresh ingredients, and authentic Italian flavor.
The atmosphere is modern and welcoming, and the staff is very well-trained regarding celiac disease, which provides a lot of peace of mind. It’s no surprise the place was packed: we had the best pasta of our trip here.
Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from Victoria station and very close to Buckingham Palace, in a lively shopping area. It’s the perfect option if you’re sightseeing in the city.
The Mayfair Chippy (Recommended)
Address: 14 N Audley St, London W1K 6WE, United Kingdom
We didn’t get to visit it, but it’s one of London’s most famous spots for gluten-free fish & chips. They offer specific batter for celiacs, and the place has excellent reviews in the gluten-free community. Perfect for those who want to experience authentic British fish & chips near Hyde Park or Oxford Street.
Central London: Soho, Covent Garden, Piccadilly, and Chinatown
What to see in Central London
Stroll through Piccadilly Circusand its famous illuminated signs, explore the streets of Chinatown to discover its shops and decorations, or enjoy the talent of street artists and the boutiques of Covent Garden Market.
If you’re passionate about art, visit the National Gallery to admire masterpieces by artists like Van Goghor Monet. Additionally, in Soho, you’ll find iconic West Endtheaters and the city’s best nightlife.
Glutendtrotters Tip
Book your ticket to the National Gallery or a West End musical and take the opportunity to do a guided tour of Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown to discover all their secrets.
Recommended Gluten-Free Restaurants in Soho and Covent Garden
Honest Burgers Soho
Address: 4a Meard St, London W1F 0EF, United Kingdom
In the very heart of London, Honest Burgers Soho is an ideal stop after exploring Oxford Street, bustling Soho, or before heading to a West End theater. All burgers on the menu can be ordered with a gluten-free bun, and they also offer gluten-free onion rings and gluten-free beer, which is quite rare and adds a lot of points.
Our experience was excellent: the meat was juicy, the bun was fluffy, and we had no trace of cross-contamination. If you feel like a change, we recommend trying the vegan burger—it’s delicious! The place isn’t very big but has two floors. The staff is friendly and helpful, making it an ideal choice whether you’re traveling with family or friends.
Indigo at One Aldwych Restaurant (Recommended)
Address: 1 Aldwych, London WC2B 4BZ, United Kingdom
Indigo at One Aldwych is an elegant restaurant in the heart of Covent Garden, perfect if you’re looking for a gluten-free restaurant in London for a special occasion. Its menu is 100% gluten-free and dairy-free, making it ideal for celiacs and people with other intolerances.
Although we didn’t try it personally, reviews and ratings from the gluten-free community highlight it as one of the best options in central London. We’ll definitely include it in our next visit to the city.
Notting Hill and Portobello: Color, Markets, and Tradition
What to see in Notting Hill and Portobello
Famous for its colorful houses and the iconic Portobello Market, this neighborhood is perfect for a different kind of morning. Browse the antique shops, take a photo at the famous Notting Hill Bookshop, or soak in the bohemian atmosphere in its cafes. If you love cinema, don’t miss the spots from the movie “Notting Hill.”
Glutendtrotters Tip
Take a free tour of Notting Hill and Portobello Road to discover all its curiosities and film locations.
Recommended Gluten-Free Restaurants in Notting Hill and Portobello
Hobson’s Fish & Chips
Address: 9 Porchester Rd, London W2 5DP, United Kingdom
Hobson’s is a classic spot to enjoy gluten-free fish and chips in Notting Hill. They offer this option daily and prepare it in a dedicated fryer, ensuring safety for celiacs. The place maintains a simple nautical decor and a traditional atmosphere, perfect for a quick meal before continuing to explore the neighborhood.
We tried the gluten-free menu, both hake and cod, and both were spot on: crispy batter, fresh fish, and delicious chips. Plus, the staff’s service was excellent, which topped off the experience.
Southwark and Southbank: Art, Culture, and Thames Views
What to see in Southwark and Southbank
This area is ideal for culture lovers. Here you’ll find the historic Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the modern Tate Modern, and impressive views from the London Eye. Stroll through Borough Market, one of the city’s most famous food markets, and cross the iconic Millennium Bridge towards St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Glutendtrotter Tip
Book your London Eye ticket to enjoy the best views of London, or let yourself be carried away by magic and sign up for a Harry Potter tour of London, where you’ll discover iconic locations from the saga, such as the legendary Borough Market or the famous Leadenhall Market.
Recommended Gluten-Free Restaurants in Southwark and Southbank
Honest Burgers Borough
Address: 5-7 Southwark St, London SE1 1RQ, United Kingdom
Honest Burgers is an essential chain for those seeking gluten-free burgers in London. You’ll find locations throughout the city, and at all of them, you can order your burger with a gluten-free bun and enjoy a completely safe experience: they take special care with cross-contamination.
The atmosphere is informal and lively, perfect for recharging before or after exploring the market. Plus, the quality-price ratio is excellent, making Honest Burgers an ideal option for celiacs in London.
Zizzi Bankside
Address: Mezzanine Level, Riverside Hs, Southwark Bridge Rd, London SE1 9HA, United Kingdom
Zizzi Bankside is another essential spot in the chain for those seeking gluten-free pizza in London, located right in Bankside, between Shakespeare’s Globe and the Tate Modern. This restaurant offers a very complete gluten-free menu, with options for pasta, pizzas, and desserts suitable for celiacs.
You’ll enjoy a delicious gluten-free pizza with river views and excellent service from the staff. It’s a perfect option if you want to eat well near the main museums and theaters in the area, combining flavor and comfort in a privileged setting.
Wicked Fish Spitalfields (Recommended)
Address: 2b Lamb St, London E1 6ED, United Kingdom
Although Spitalfields is a bit to the east, it’s an easily accessible area by metro from Southwark/Southbank. Wicked Fish is known for its gluten-free fish & chips, prepared with premium ingredients and great care. We didn’t try it personally, but it’s very popular among celiac travelers.
Mayfair and Surroundings: London Tradition and Style
What to see in Mayfair and surroundings
Mayfair is synonymous with London elegance. Wander its streets lined with luxury boutiques, relax in Green Park, or discover history at the Victoria and Albert Museum. You can also venture to the lively Soho neighborhood or the classic lounges of The Ritz London for a complete British experience.
Glutendtrotter Tip
Book an afternoon tea in London on a bus with an audio guide and experience this British tradition in a different way. If you prefer to discover the history of the neighborhood, sign up for a guided tour of Mayfair and immerse yourself in its aristocratic and elegant past.
Recommended Gluten-Free Restaurants in Mayfair and Surroundings:
The Mayflower Pub (Recommended)
Address: 117 Rotherhithe St, London SE16 4NF, United Kingdom
On the south bank of the Thamesand not far from Borough Market, this traditional pub is famous for its British dishes like the Sunday Roast and its unique atmosphere. They offer gluten-free options on the menu, and the historic riverside setting makes it very special for a different lunch or dinner. We couldn’t visit it on this trip, but it’s on our list for next time.
Gluten-Free Supermarkets and Bakeries in London
Where to buy gluten-free in London?
If you prefer to organize your own picnic, have breakfast at the hotel, or grab some snacks, London is full of celiac-friendly supermarkets and bakeries:
Libby’s
Address: 61a Ledbury Rd, London W11 2AA, United Kingdom
Located in Notting Hill, this bakery and patisserie is 100% gluten-free and the perfect place to enjoy sweets, artisan breads, sandwiches, and cakes without fear of cross-contamination. It’s ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack. We tried several products, and the quality is spectacular: tender buns, delicious cakes, and very attentive service.
Sainsbury’s
Sainsbury’s was our go-to supermarket during the trip. You’ll find this chain all over the city, with a very extensive gluten-free section: from breads and cookies to prepared meals and snacks to go.
Within Sainsbury’s, there are smaller, neighborhood-style stores, and larger ones where the variety of gluten-free products is even greater. We couldn’t resist the delicious cereals and cookies from Deliciously Ella, highly recommended!
It’s the perfect option if you need to do some quick shopping or prepare a picnic for your strolls around London.
Whole Foods Market
Sometimes, the best discoveries happen by chance: that’s how we found Whole Foods Market, very close to Piccadilly Circus. This supermarket is a true paradise for healthy and gluten-free products in London, with several central stores located throughout the city.
You’ll find everything from fresh produce and pastries to vegan alternatives and international snacks.
It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for variety and quality in gluten-free products, and you can even enjoy some delicious gluten-free bagels for breakfast.
Final Tips for Eating Gluten-Free in London
- Book in advance if you’re traveling during peak season, especially for very popular restaurants.
- Always carry a card in English explaining celiac disease (“I have coeliac disease, I must eat strictly gluten-free, can you confirm if this dish is safe?”).
- Consult apps like Find Me Gluten Free or the Coeliac UK website to discover more options and check recent reviews.
- Don’t hesitate to always ask about cross-contamination and preparation methods: most places in London are very familiar with it and usually respond professionally.
Have you been to any of these gluten-free restaurants in London?
We’d love to read about your experience in the comments or discover your favorite gluten-free spots in the city. Your recommendations are sure to help other celiac travelers planning their getaway.
Feel free to share and join the Glutendtrotters traveler community! Together, we make gluten-free travel easier and more fun.
