LONDON DESTINATION GUIDE
/LONDON IS KNOWN FOR:
The Royals, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, red telephone booths, and for being the greatest city in the world (in my opinion and many others)
LONDON:
London is without a doubt one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Europe. It’s, of course, the capital of the United Kingdom and one of the oldest and greatest cities in the world (its history spans two millennia). From the world’s fascination with the Royal family to the fandom surrounding the Beatles, it seems like a perpetual international spotlight shines on the historic city. London is a melting pot of cultures and each of its 32 boroughs gives off a uniquely distinct vibe that captures any type of traveler.
CHECK OUT MY TOP 3 FAVORITE NEIGHBORHOODS IN LONDON VIDEO
CLIMATE:
You probably already know that London has a reputation for unpredictable weather. Many Londoners joke that they could leave the house in a winter coat, need sunglasses in the afternoon and return home clutching their umbrella. But here’s the silver lining, London’s weather is never extreme.
In the summer temperatures peak in the upper 80s and on average the coldest it gets is 33 degrees in January. Snow is pretty rare but rain is not, so if you’re planning a trip, no matter what time of year, best to pack an umbrella.
HISTORY:
Oh boy, where to even begin. I should probably ask my dad to write this section because he’s the history buff in the family but I’ll try to summarize the city’s vast history succinctly.
Shocker, we can thank the Romans for putting London on the map in AD 43 when they gained control of much of Southeast Britain. The Romans established the spot just north of the marshy valley of the Thames - Londinium.
I’m gonna skip ahead a bit here…
We all are pretty familiar with the vibe of medieval London (torture chambers, the Tower of London and knights and stuff) but this was really the point in time (1066) when London established itself as a center of financial and military power.
Moving along… there were a bunch of kings (highly recommend binging Reign and the White Queen for some FABULOUS costumes and a fairly accurate timeline of the British royals) a few beheadings here and there, a couple of really nasty plagues and a great fire that burned up ⅚ of the city (brutal…).
To quickly wrap this up, throughout the centuries London continues to grow and establish itself as a formidable world power. It created the world’s first subterranean railway, survived two world wars and hosted the Olympics. And through all the ups and downs, the city continues to be one of the most desirable places to explore for travelers from around the world.
GETTING HERE:
Truly, from the states, London is one of the easiest cities to fly to. Most major US cities have direct flights including Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, Washington, Orlando, Las Vegas, Dallas, Nashville, among others.
London has six major airports: London City, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, and London Southend.
But I find that flying into Heathrow from the US is usually the easiest and most affordable option. It’s also the easiest airport to get into central London from. If you’re looking for the most affordable option, the Piccadilly Line on the Underground serves three tube stations (Heathrow Terminals 1, 2 and 3; Terminal 4; and Terminal 5 -- all in fare zone 6), and has trains running every few minutes during the day. It will take you around 45 minutes to get into zone 1.
LINGO: London is divided into 9 zones that start in its historic center. Many of the top tourist attractions are found in zones 1 or 2. For reference, Heathrow Airport is in zone 6.
Since Linda and I usually have a TON of luggage we usually just opt for a traditional black cab. Just be prepared for heavy traffic on the roads if you’re headed into the city around rush hour.
GETTING AROUND:
Like many large cities, you’ve got quite a few options when it comes to getting around.
Black Cabs
The black cabs in London are as iconic as the yellow cabs in NYC but at risk of sounding unpatriotic, I find the London cabbies to be on an entirely different level. Every London black cab driver must pass the legendary and extremely difficult Knowledge Test before they are allowed to pick up their first passenger. They study some 320 routes and 25,000 streets so that they eventually know them all by heart. CRAZY.
But, just like in the states, with the rise of Uber, cabbies are seeing a major decline in riders. So I always try to take a black cab once or twice during my visit. It really is a great experience. Plus every black cab is handicap accessible which I can totally get behind.
You shouldn’t have a problem hailing a cab, but if you do, you can use the black cab app TAXIAPP UK to hire a cab.
The Underground / Buses
When I lived in London I have to admit, I was super intimidated when it came to riding the tube. As a suburbanite from the midwest, public transport wasn’t something I was accustomed to. But after a few days, I came to realize how convenient, fast and affordable an option it was. I highly recommend anyone visiting London to consider making the tube your main method of transportation as it’s one of the most well designed public transport systems in Europe.
If you think you’ll be taking the tub for the duration of your trip, make sure to pick up an Oyster Card.
An interesting fact I learned from the blog Handluggage Only: “When using an Oyster Card, your journey has a maximum daily cap that you can spend in one day. This means that after doing 3 or 4 journeys, the rest of the day’s travel will be totally free around the whole of London.”
Sometimes tube stations are deceptively closer than they appear. Check out this map with walking distances in between each stop to help you decide if you should wait for the train or go on foot.
Walk
London is STUNNING and unfortunately, if you’re spending all your time underground you often miss many of the beautiful sites going from one part of town to the other. So if you can and the weather permits, walk as often as possible. Try to stroll through one of London’s iconic parks. My favorites include Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and Regent’s Park.
The city even has a plan to make London the most walkable city in the world by 2024.
Check out a map of London’s Parks below to find the closest one to where you’re staying!
Rent a bike
Riding a bike around a city always sounds so romantic. But, I’m usually on a tight schedule and never allow myself enough time to truly get from point A to point B via bike. However, during my time living in London, I randomly decided to rent a bike for a day. It was magnificent.
I suggest using London's public bike-sharing service, Santander Cycles, because it’s available 24/7, 365 days a year. There are more than 750 docking stations and 11,500 bikes in circulation across London.
Just remember that you’ll be riding on the opposite side of the road.
Uber
While you can use Uber in London, it’s unclear for how much longer. The city did not extend the rideshare company’s license to operate in the city because of persistent safety concerns. To learn more read this.
SOME STUFF YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Language: English is the primary language spoken in London and the U.K., however, London is a melting pot of cultures from all across the world, so you will most certainly hear multiple other languages spoken around the city.
Currency: The currency in the U.K. is the pound sterling, also known as GBP but most people just say "the pound."
Plug: UK plugs have 3 rectangular prongs. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. If you’re traveling from anywhere outside the UK, you’ll need a converter. This is the one I ALWAYS travel with.
Museums are free: As a broke college kid living in London, this was probably the only way you were getting my butt into a museum and out of a pub… But it’s great to know that iconic museums like; the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the British Museum, the National Portrait Gallery and the Tate Modern are all free. Personally, the National Portrait Gallery and Natural History Museum are my favorites.
Tipping isn’t essential: All restaurants and bars will include a service charge (usually 12.5 percent) on the bill, so there's no need to leave extra cash. But I still like to leave a little something just to be extra nice (only if the service was stellar). You can also tip taxi drivers a few pounds if you appreciate their service, but a tip is not expected.
The food isn’t bad: Idk where this started but I’ve always heard that British food was terrible. That couldn’t be more wrong. London has some of the best restaurants in the world and I truly do love fish and chips and bangers and mash. Also, the national dish is Chicken tikka masala so make sure to have Indian food at least once while you’re in town.
Stand on the right at tube stations: You'll notices that the tube stations can be very busy but still maintain a sense of organization. When riding an escalator up or down make sure that if you want to stand, stand on the right. The left side is sort of like the passing lane, for others to rush by if they’re in a hurry.
Hog the whole escalator and feel the wrath of the quintessential passive-aggressive Londoner.
Crossing streets: just make sure to look left instead of right. But don’t worry, it’s written on the road in case you forget. LOL, you think I’m kidding. I’m not.
Don’t be too loud you annoying American (jk, kinda): British culture is fairly reserved (have you seen The Crown?!). When and if you’re using public transportation, especially on a bus or the Tube, try to keep your voice low and be polite. Oh and ALWAYS step to the side to let passengers out of the Tube before you try and get on.
SNAG MY LONDON TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
WHERE TO STAY IN LONDON:
Finding the perfect place to stay in London can be EXTREMELY overwhelming. The options are endless, there are 32 boroughs to choose from and the sticker shock on some of the nightly rates can be enough to give you a heart attack.
Here’s my general rule of thumb: If you’re visiting London for the first time, do yourself a favor and stay in central London. The top areas I would recommend would be Kensington, Covent Garden, Mayfair, and Marylebone. I also LOVE Camden Town (my old neighborhood), Shoreditch (more edgy and hipster vibes) and Chelsea (to get more of a local feel).
Now, full disclosure, I’m a little biased when it comes to my hotel preferences in London. A dear friend’s family owns The Red Carnation Collection of properties and we almost exclusively stay at one of their hotels while we’re in town.
Here are my favorites from the group:
HOTEL 41 (WESTMINSTER)
This is the hotel you stay at if you want to be waited on hand and foot. 41 is a private hideaway in the heart of London. The hotel has just 30 luxurious rooms and suites which makes your stay extremely intimate. You can expect exceptional levels of comfort, personal butler service, 24-hour room service and a staff who outnumber guests two to one.
THE MILESTONE HOTEL AND RESIDENCES (KENSINGTON)
If you’re looking for ultimate luxury, class, impeccable decor and attentive staff, there’s absolutely no comparison to the Milestone Hotel. The hotel is located within the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and overlooks Kensington Palace and Gardens. This is where my family stayed when they visited me before I moved back home. Every inch of this property is perfection and no detail is overlooked.
THE RUBENS AT THE PALACE (WESTMINSTER)
The Rubens at the Palace is opposite the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace and is moments from Victoria Station and some of London's best shops and restaurants. Whether you’re staying there or just stopping by, make sure to grab a drink or a snack the hotel’s Leopard Bar.
THE MONTAGUE ON THE GARDENS (BLOOMSBURY)
The historic Georgen home turned hotel combines the best of both worlds - convenient location and serene green space. Just steps from the British Museum, the hotel is known for its alfresco dining and wonderfully unique pop-ups.
Now, I understand not everyone wants/can ball out at these incredible boutique hotels so here are some other solid recommendations:
FOUR STAR PROPERTIES:
THREE STAR PROPERTIES:
WHERE TO EAT IN LONDON:
Oh man, get ready for a long list. Some of my favorite restaurants in the WORLD are in London and I’m kind of starting to salivate just thinking about them. To make this list easy to get through, I’ll split it up between types of cuisine, meal, and drinks. Plus I’ll add some other recs from friends that I trust but haven’t gotten to try for myself just yet.
BREAKFAST / BRUNCH
DUCK AND WAFFLE (LONDON CITY)
Looking to catch early morning views of London while sipping a mimosa? No better place than Duck and Waffle - the highest (40 floors up) 24 hour (seriously) restaurant in London. And might I recommend sampling their namesake - duck, and waffles?
FARM GIRL (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)
If you’re planning to visit the Portobello Road Market on Saturday (or just the area in general) see if you can snag a table at Farm Girl. They don’t take reservations but we got there just a little bit before they opened on a Saturday and walked right in. But when we left… there was a line to get in. Early bird gets the delicious avocado toast!
SEABIRD, THE HOXTON HOTEL (SOUTHWARK)
If you’re looking for the opposite of a traditional English breakfast GO HERE. This rooftop spot instantly transports you to the Mediterranean with an impressive raw bar and London’s longest oyster list (because why not?)
THE WOLSELEY (MAYFAIR)
An English institution and a great spot for a fancy version of the traditional English Breakfast. This is the place you want to go if you’re pretending you’re a Royal dining on diamonds and caviar...
OTHER RECCOS:
LUNCH / QUICK BITE
TEMPLE OF SEITAN (CAMDEN)
This is such a fun spot right along the Regent’s Canal in Camden Town. This is a great spot to stop for a quick Vegan bite as you stroll along the Canal. The area is super scenic and if you continue on you’ll funnel out to Kings Cross which is such a fun spot.
Get their mac and cheese and the temple burger. Trust me.
POPPIES FISH AND CHIPS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)
I do believe that you HAVE to try fish and chips at least one time while you’re in London. It’s a deliciously indulgent dish that will have you feeling full ALL day. For most Brits, fish and chips is mostly a takeaway (to-go) meal. But if you’re looking for a spot to sit down and enjoy a quick and casual bite - Poppies is your spot. They’ve got locations in Soho, Camden, and Spitalfields!
HUMBLE PIZZA (CHELSEA)
In keeping with the unintentional vegan theme (kinda), this all-pink pizza joint in Chelsea is very insta worthy and the pizza is super YUM.
OTHER RECCOS:
Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings - (great for lunch or bottomless mimosas on the weekend) The charming greenhouse vibes inside and bottomless mimosas will have you never wanting to leave
Spring -Dine in the super chic, neo-classical Somerset House?! Sign me up! Spring is every minimalist maven’s dream - bright and airy dining room, pastel hues, Italian marble, and dainty wall art. Oh, and all the menu items highlight the best of what’s in season.
DINNER
LA MIA MAMMA (CHELSEA)
I happened to stumble upon this restaurant the last time I was in London and I’m SO glad I did. The restaurant flys in different Italian “mammas” from various regions of Italy to take over the restaurant for a few months as they feature their different regional dishes. HOW COOL IS THAT?!
BEACH BLANKET BABYLON (NOTTING HILL & SHOREDITCH)
While I’ve been to and enjoyed both locations, the Beach Blanket Babylon location in Notting Hill is nothing short of extraordinary. The whole restaurant feels like a chic, adults version of a clubhouse. When you walk in you feel as if you’ve entered some aristocrats living room. But as you move through the restaurant you pass fireplaces that look like a lions mouth, artful mosaics, a seating area that looks like it’s straight out of a church and a super cozy space that gives off wine cellar vibes. Oh, and the food is yum too.
CLOS MAGGIORE (COVENT GARDEN)
This is hands down the most romantic restaurant I’ve EVER been to. Truly, a magical experience. The chef’s menu is inspired by the country inns of Provence and Tuscany and has a great variety of vegetarian, fish and meat dishes. But what really set’s this restaurant apart from the rest is the ethereal floral arrangement that drapes down from the ceiling and the warm and inviting fire that keeps things cozy.
THE IVY CHELSEA GARDEN (CHELSEA)
This restaurant has one of the coolest entrances EVER. Decorated with seasonal flowers and displays, The Ivy Chelsea Garden is definitely a place to go and be seen. The food hits all the marks and if the weather is nice enough, try to score a seat in their backyard garden area.
SUSHISAMBA (LONDON CITY & COVENT GARDEN)
Go for the atmosphere alone. Truly, both the Covent Garden and Heron Tower locations are spectacular. The food was great, a little overpriced (as one expects in London) but solid nonetheless.
NATIVE (SOUTHWARK)
I haven’t personally eaten here but the concept intrigued me. The restaurant is trying to work towards having zero waste. AKA using EVERY part of the animals or produce they cook with so that nothing is wasted. They’ve won tons of awards and won their very own Michelin star in 2019.
OTHER RECCOS:
CIRCOLO POPOLARE (INCREDIBLE INSIDE)
INDIAN CUISINE
INDIAN ACCENT (MAYFAIR)
I have not personally been to the London Location but I have to imagine the splendor and sensational flavors have been successfully carried over from their Delhi location. If you’re interested in trying out the flavors of Indian cuisine but also enjoy creative twists on classic dishes, Indian Accent is the spot. Their multi-course menus take your taste buds on a journey through the expansive flavors of India.
Haters will say it’s not real Indian food, but I say it’s the perfect introduction to a sometimes intimidating cuisine.
Check out my full review of my experience at their location in Delhi.
CINNAMON BAZAAR (COVENT GARDEN)
If you’re not looking for a full-blown tasting menu, then check out Cinnamon Bazaar. The atmosphere is electric but the menu can feel a bit overwhelming. I suggest sharing everything and trying a bunch of things. The most unique item on the menu is their Indian take on a traditional English Sheppard’s Pie. You kinda have to get it when you go!
DISHOOM (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)
You’ll find mixed opinions on this chain of restaurants in London but I stand firmly on the positive side. The group of restaurants pays homage to the old Irani cafes of Bombay. In the old cafes, you would see a vast mix of people - rich businessmen, taxi drivers, and couples. Dishoom brings that mix of people back to life with their restaurants. This would be a fantastic place to grab lunch in between sightseeing.
OTHER RECCOS:
COFFEE
JACOB THE ANGEL (NEAL’S YARD)
One of the cutest little coffee shops in London that’s located in one of my favorite parts of the city - Neal’s Yard. The story behind the shop’s name dates back to 1651, click here to learn more about this history of coffee and why we all have a dude named Jacob to thank. Their coffee is sustainably sourced and their menu is mouthwatering.
ATTENDANT (FITZROVIA)
If sipping coffee in a converted Victorian toilet is on your bucket list, then I can’t think of a better place to check that item off your list. Attendant is one of London’s top specialty coffee & brunch cafes (they have two other locations but the toilet is only in Fitzrovia). Built around 1890, the Attendant sat dormant for more than fifty years. But after being lovingly restored this historical treasure is now on your must-visit list!
OZONE (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)
A hipster haven but also one of the most established roasteries on the scene. Their beans supply many of London’s finest cafes.
MONMOUTH COFFEE COMPANY (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)
They’ve been making coffee long before artisan coffee was a thing...And the staff is crazy trained to know all the different tasting notes of their beans...So, coffee connoisseurs, this is your spot.
PUBS & PLACES TO GRAB A DRINK
OPIUM (CHINATOWN)
This is a 3 in 1 situation. AKA 3 bars spaced out over 3 floors, each with its own unique list of cocktails. If you’re looking for flashy and fun drinks and a one of a kind experience, I couldn’t recommend this spot enough. Make sure you book a reservation as it’s a pretty high demand spot!
THE CHURCHILL ARMS (KENSINGTON)
Quite possibly one of the most instagrammed pubs in London. Go for the photo and stay for a pint. The Churchill Arms was built in 1750. In the 1800s, Winston Churchill's grandparents were regular visitors which eventually led to the naming of the pub after World War 2. When you head inside, you'll find lots of Churchill memorabilia hanging from the walls. PS their Pad Tai is AMAZING.
MR. FOGG’S HOUSE OF BOTANICALS (FITZROVIA)
If you LOVE a theme and kitschy decor than the entire Mr. Fogg’s collection of bars and restaurants is for you. My favorite of the group is Mr. Fogg’s House of Botanicals. The entire place smells fresh and floral and the cocktails are fun and inventive. I recommend going for happy hour (or even a bit earlier) during the week to feel like you have the place to yourself!
HUMBLE GRAPE (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)
Calling all lovers of organic and sustainable wines - you need to visit a humble grape location in London. Each location has its own selection of food, wine, and fun activities. OOOO and if you’re looking to do as the British do, make sure to visit on a Sunday for a proper roast.
EXTRA RECCOS:
NINETYEIGHT BAR (HACKNEY)
VERTIGO 42 (GREAT VIEWS OF LONDON)
DIRTY BONES SHOREDITCH (SHOREDITCH)
SEYMOUR'S PARLOUR AT THE ZETTER TOWNHOUSE (MARYLEBONE)
NIGHTJAR (SHOREDITCH)
THE GREEN ROOM AT CASA DO FRANGO (LONDON BRIDGE)
AFTERNOON TEA
If you’re looking for an afternoon tea that’s a little funkier and fun, there’s no better spot than Sketch. I’m sure by now you’re heard of their infamous bathrooms… And while yes, this place is crawling with influencers and vloggers, it’s still SUCH a fun spot to experience a British tradition with a twist.
This is where I had my first proper Afternoon Tea experience and let me just say, the Savoy is ALL sorts of chic. This is the spot I always recommend if you want an elegant Afternoon Tea experience. Plus the Savoy is one of the most iconic luxury hotels smack dab in the heart of London.
OTHER RECCOS:
CUTTER AND SQUIDGE (TEA FOR HARRY POTTER FANS)
SWEET TREATS
DARK SUGARS (BRICK LANE)
Nestled in the heart of Brick Lane, Dark Sugars is a mecca for the most decadent chocolate truffles you’ve ever had in your life. There are truffles of every shape size and flavor overflowing from their artful displays. The Cocoa house brings the culture of West Africa and the bumping sounds of Senegalese sabar to London’s Brick Lane.
THE KNOT CHURROS (KENSINGTON)
These churros are a work of art and totally worth it just for the photo. But even better, they’re actually so yummy! Side note, you can have afternoon tea here if you want to make a thing of it!
OTHER RECCOS:
GAIL’S BAKERY - This is a great spot for the baked goods snob. With fun flavor combos like chocolate sourdough and sweet corn pancakes, Gails is standing a step above the rest.
PEGGY PORSCHEN CAKES - The infamous pink cafe you’ve probably seen all over Instagram.
DOMINIQUE ANSEL BAKERY - If James Beard Award-winning Pastry Chef, Dominique Ansel, made it, you know it has to be good. He has shaken up the pastry world with innovation and creativity and was named the World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2017 by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards. BOOM.
BISCUITEERS - The company’s motto - why send flowers when you can send Biscuiteers? The shop creates beautifully iced biscuits in all different shapes and sizes and themes. They’re too cute to pass up.
WHAT TO DO IN LONDON
No matter if it’s your first time visiting this magical city or your 7th, there’s no shortage of new things to discover and do. From free world-class museums to edgy street art tours, the city caters to EVERY type of traveler. I recommend devoting 1 or 2 days on your first visit to hitting some of the main historical sights. Then, pick a few of the boroughs that call to you and explore! Here are some of my favorite things to do.
SEE THE MAIN SIGHTS
These are my must-see spots: Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Churchill War Rooms and the Tower Bridge!
You can pretty much knock out all of these in 1 or 2 days. The Churchill War Rooms are honestly one of the coolest historical sights in London. Check out this video to understand why. And a close second is the Tower of London (pst the Crown Jewels are on display here!)
HAVE A PINT:
You absolutely must visit at least one historic pub for a pint while you’re in town. There’s no shortage of them and some date back HUNDREDS of years. These were the spots where pirates did business and literary greats hung out. And while you won’t find many peg-legs or famous poets in these joints nowadays, you will for sure be greeted with a good beer and a cheerful crowd.
HERE’S SOME OPTIONS:
THE MAYFLOWER PUB (ROTHERHITHE) - This pub dates back to 1550 and is one of the oldest pubs in the city. It’s also the place where the Mayflower ship began its journey to the good ole US of A! This is a great spot for a traditional pint (a beer) and some fish and chips!
THE GEORGE INN (SOUTHWARK) - If the weather permits, you have to sit outside. But also make sure to check out the old wonky building. It dates back to 1543 and originally was a medieval coaching inn.
THE LAMB & FLAG (Covent Garden) - Established in 1772, while it isn’t the oldest pub in town, it’s certainly one of the most beloved. And get this... in the 1800s, it functioned as a venue for bare-knuckle matches and was known as “The Bucket of Blood. YIKES. Now it’s just a great spot for a pint and an Instagram photo.
Shoreditch is easily one of my favorite boroughs in London. It’s gritty, full of history and hipsters. But what’s so cool about this part of town, the street art. This is where some of the world’s most famous street artists, think Banksy, come to showcase their work. Around these parts, everything from an old mattress on a street corner to golden broccoli statues is considered works of art. And while going on your own is cool, I find it best to go with a guide to get the full context of the work.
I can’t recommend Savio’s Shoreditch Street Art Tour enough. He’s goofy, fun and extremely knowledgeable. Plus the tours are with a max 6 people so it’s really intimate and laid back.
You can check out his other London tours HERE
AFTERNOON TEA
Fun little fact: Afternoon tea wasn’t always a thing. In fact, the trend started back in 1840 as a mere solution to a problem. What problem? Well much like many of us commoners, the Duchess of Bedford would get hangry a few hours before dinner (relatableeee). Her solution? Tea and snacks. I have a feeling we’d be friends. She then told her friends, who soon joined her in the ritual and it eventually evolved to what we know today - Afternoon Tea.
Another fun fact: Don’t get High Tea and Afternoon Tea confused. You might think the “High” makes the whole experience grader, you, of course, you stupid American, would be WRONG. High tea is actually the early evening meal the servants took once their mistresses were finished stuffing their faces with Afternoon Tea.
OKAY… history lesson over.
Here’s some of my fav spots for AFTERNOON TEA:
There truly isn’t anything more British than casually riding around in the 1960s refurbished double-decker bus, whilst sipping tea & champagne and snacking on scones. Add in getting to take in the most quintessential London sights and you’ve got a recipe for a perfect tour. This is what you can expect when you book Brigit’s Afternoon Tea bus tour. Linda and I LOVED the entire experience. It was SO cute and girly and we loved it.
This is where I had my first proper Afternoon Tea experience and let me just say, the Savoy is ALL sorts of chic. This is the spot I always recommend if you want an elegant Afternoon Tea experience. Plus the Savoy is one of the most iconic luxury hotels smack dab in the heart of London.
Now if you’re looking for an afternoon tea that’s a little funkier and fun, there’s no better spot than Sketch. I’m sure by now you’re heard of their infamous bathrooms… And while yes, this place is crawling with influencers and vloggers, it’s still SUCH a fun spot to experience a British tradition with a twist.
MAKE YOUR OWN CAFE / BAKERY / FLOWER INSTALL CRAWL
There’s this strange trend (that I’m all about) happening at many bakeries, businesses, and restaurants throughout London. Each one seems to be in a competition to see who can make the most insane display in front of their store.
I mean, in a world where in order to catch anyone’s attention you need to make them want to take a photo, it seems obvious why these shops are capitalizing on the INSTA worthy trend.
So I say go on your very own Bakery crawl (most of the places partaking are sweet shops) and snap a photo in each spot. Here’s a list of places to check out!
SHOPPING
You will find just about ANY international brand name shop you can think of in London. But personally, I don’t fly thousands of miles to buy the same things I could buy at home...So when I’m in London there are only a few places I shop. Harrods, Portobello Road, and the vintage stores in Shoreditch.
HARRODS
Walking through Harrods is an experience in itself. From its humble beginnings in 1849 selling fruits, vegetables and medicine, it’s grown to become the most famous department store in the world. I’m not exaggerating when I say you can find ANYTHING you need within the four walls of this store. Everything from Chanel handbags to paintings by Andy Warhol. DO NOT miss the food halls, the shoe floor, and my personal favorite - all the designer boutiques.
Fun Random fact: Back in the day Harrods used a cobra to guard a pair of sandals that were worth £62,000 because of all the diamonds and sapphires on them.
My other favorite shops include Ragyard on Portobello Road where the owners travel all over the world finding vintage pieces and give them a second chance adding their own flair.
MARKETS
There are TONS of markets in London and they all offer quite a unique experience. I say pick 2-3 that interest you and make sure you check their hours before visiting!
PORTOBELLO ROAD - (NOTTING HILL / MAIN ANTIQUE MARKET OPEN EVERY SATURDAY)
Without a doubt, this is London’s most iconic antique market. Every Saturday Portobello Road is lined with antique merchants selling anything from dainty teacups to intricate 100-year-old compasses. This is also a FANTASTIC spot for Vintage Clothes Shopping.
My number 1 favorite is Ragyard, but you should also check out One of a Kind Archive
TIP: if you want to beat the busy crowds, head to the market during the week. The main antique market is on Saturday but all the brick and mortar stores are open Monday - Saturday.
The market is open from 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Monday - Saturday. I suggest starting your day with breakfast at Farm Girl Notting Hill (get there right when it opens to beat the line) then walking down to the market.
BOROUGH MARKET - (Southwark / Every Day but Sundays)
This market has been the center of the London food trade for 1,000 years, wait what?! This is the THE SPOT for foodies to wander, sample and drool (all at once) over the fresh cheeses, meats, and other goodies for sale.
You’ll find the market near the London Bridge and South Bank. Make sure to go hungry and give yourself enough time to wander around this top gourmet market.
Pro tip: It’s best to visit during the weekdays if you’re keen on avoiding crowds.
BRICK LANE (SHOREDITCH / OPEN SUNDAYS 10 A.M. - 5 P.M.)
Brick Lane is a section of Shoreditch and is pulsing with life, smells and culture. And while you can find bits and bobs of vintage treasures, I suggest coming hungry and sampling all the delicious international foods (Brick Lane is the mecca for Indian food in London) at the Sunday Upmarket
And once you’re finished there, make your way to the Brick Lane Vintage Market.
CAMDEN MARKET - (CAMDEN TOWN / OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK)
When I called London home, Camden Market was quite literally in my backyard. So I wandered through the stalls, ALL THE TIME. The market has been open since 1974 and is bursting with wacky, weird and INCREDIBLE goodies. From shops selling space themed clothing to gothic goodies and one of a kind finds, this market is really unlike any other. Plus it’s built into this twisty turny brick structure with lanes upon lanes of individual stalls.
Check out this video to see what I’m talking about.
Pro tip: the market is open every day 10 a.m. until late (literally that’s what the website says LOL)
OTHER MARKETS TO VISIT:
COLUMBIA ROAD FLOWER MARKET - GOOD FOR… FLOWERS AND PHOTOS (OPEN SUNDAYS 8 A.M. - 3 P.M.)
SPITALFIELDS MARKET - GREAT FOR GIFTS (OPEN EVERYDAY CHECK WEBSITE FOR TIMES)
MUSEUMS
You will hardly EVER hear me recommend museums, SNOOZE, but in London, you kinda have to take advantage because most of them are FREE and incredibly interesting. When I was living here I tried to visit all the major ones, here are my favorites:
What to see: the Rosetta Stone and other treasures from Ancient Egypt, Asia, and the Middle East
What to see: some of the more than 80 million natural specimens, good luck squeezing all of that into one trip...
What to see: some of the more than 2,300 paintings spanning the 13th to the 19th centuries. Don’t miss Van Gogh’s Sunflowers!
What to see: as one of the world’s largest art and design museums, inside you’ll find treasures in fashion, theatre, furniture, architecture.
TATE MODERN (personally I despise most modern art but still recommend for those who have less adverse reactions LOL)
What to see: check out works from the likes of Picasso, Dali, Warhol, and Rothko
Why go? - This is the exact underground lair, where Churchill spent endless hours plotting the Allied victory during the Second World War. It’s surreal to walk the same hallways and get a glimpse of what wartime London was like.
DAY TRIPS:
If you’ve got the time I HIGHLY recommend getting out of the London hustle and bustle and explore one of the MANY incredible sights outside the city. The good news, many are easy to get to by train and are usually only an hour or so away. YAY!
OXFORD
Just a short train ride from London (under an hour) and you’ll be in the land of Oscar Wilde, Stephen Hawking, J.R.R. Tolkien and Harry Potter (I’ll explain....). The area is full of history, cute antique shops, and great people watching.
Make sure to visit Christ Church and its great hall. Not only is this the exact spot where scenes from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone were filmed but this exact Great Hall was the inspiration behind J.K. Rowling’s Hogwarts great hall. Wander through the various colleges and if you get lost, pop into a book shop or cafe and there’s PLENTY of University students happy to point you in the right direction.
STONEHENGE
Stonehenge is one of Britain's most iconic and mysterious sights. Legend has it that some Pagans carried these stones all the way from lord knows where and set them all up like this in a circle. I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say some crazy rituals when down at this spot.
Stonehenge is relatively close to the Cotswolds and a great place to visit on your way back to London from Bath.
BATH
It’s about 2 hours by train from London Paddington Station and it’s well worth the visit, if only for the day. A visit to the Roman Baths is essential (I mean it’s not called Bath for nothing…) then wander around the quaint city until your train back to London. Make sure you try a Bath Bun from Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House.
COTSWOLDS
Hands down the Cotswolds are one of the most picturesque spots to visit in ALL of England. The entire area looks like it’s been frozen in time and maintained its breathtaking charm. My favorite villages and sights include Castle Combe, Burford, Sudeley Castle, Bibury, Lacock, and Winchcombe.
You’ll need to rent a car for this trip, but speaking from experience, driving on the other side of the road isn’t as scary as it sounds.
Check out my tips for driving on the opposite side of the road here.
Didn’t think I’d forget my most favorite experience from my time living in London did you?! If you are a Harry Potter fan (I mean who isn’t…???) then the Warner Brothers Studio Tour absolutely needs to be on your must-visit list.
Inside “The Making of Harry Potter” you’ll find a treasure trove of many of the major props, costumes and complete movie sets from the Harry Potter movies. I DIE. Everything from iconic sets like the Great Hall and the Cupboard Under the Stairs to Harry’s Hogwarts acceptance letters - it’s all there for you to see! I truly felt like I was living out my childhood fantasies…
Pro tip: BOOK YOUR TICKETS WELL IN ADVANCE (like as soon as you book your flight and hotels). You will need to pick both a date and time to visit and many days book up quickly. So if this is top of your list, book early.
Use the Warner Bros Journey Tool to plan your trip via rail, car or shuttle. It will take you about an hour to get there but the cost is minimal.
CHECK OUT MY 3 FAVORITE BOROUGHS OF LONDON
THE BEST PLACES TO TAKE PHOTOS IN LONDON
NOTTING HILL
Churchill Arms
Portobello Road
Lancaster Road
St. Luke’s Mews
RED TELEPHONE BOOTHS ACROSS FROM THE LONDON EYE
(If you venture from Westminster Abbey towards the Thames and take a little jog towards the left, you’ll find two telephone booths with the London Eye perfectly placed in the background.) My photos are from the telephone booths near Big Ben (also a good spot!).
LOCATION: Parliament Square
PEGGY PORSCHEN CAKES (FLOWER INSTALL)
There’s always a seasonal display outside of both locations. Take your pick and snap away. And as a courtesy, make sure to buy a sweet treat inside (you won’t regret it!)
LOCATION 1: 116 Ebury St, Belgravia, London SW1W 9QQ, United Kingdom
LOCATION 2: 219 King's Rd, Chelsea, London SW3 5EJ, United Kingdom
I’m obsessed with the pink exterior of this shop. Head there early or at a random time of the day to get the patio to yourself. And support the cafe by snagging something sweet after you snap your photo!
LOCATION: 59 Connaught St, St George's Fields, London W2 2BB, United Kingdom
Sit on the ledge across the river from the London Eye and have your photographer center the eye behind your head. It’s corny but it works. Or head over and go for a, VERY SLOW, in the eye and enjoy panoramic views of the city!
LONDON EYE LOCATION: The Queen's Walk, Bishop's, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom
NEAL’S YARD
If you love colors and cool funky spots, you need to get your booty to this colorful corner of the city. Try to get here early as it gets a bit crowded later in the day. And if you’re in the mood, snag some coffee at Jacob the Angel when you’re done!
LOCATION: Neal’s Yard, London WC2H
If you’re looking for a 360 panoramic view of London, this is your spot. You’ll need to head up to the Shard’s Viewing Gallery, dine at one of the restaurants inside or stay at the Shangri La Hotel to snap this picture, but I’d argue that it’s worth it for the views.
Cost: Ticketed / stay or dine
Location: The View from The Shard, Railway Approach, London SE1 9SG
TOWER BRIDGE
Look for the girl and the dolphin statue and you’ll get the perfect angle of the infamous Tower Bridge.
Cost: Free
Location: Link on Google Maps
LONDON ESSENTIALS
IF YOU NEED HELP PLANNING YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE BE SURE TO CHECK OUT MY DESTINATION GUIDE PAGE, MY TRAVEL TIPS OR CONTACT SCORBY TRAVEL AND CRUISE.
Adventure awaits!
xx
