“London: a metropolis that provides the world in a single place.” – Stephen Fry
It isn’t typically that I start a information with a quote, nevertheless it feels becoming for a metropolis so wealthy with life. Every thing you wish to do or see could be present in London. Historical past, nightlife, meals, tradition. Which additionally means it may be exhausting to know what precisely to do.
I grew up in London. My mother and father taught a research overseas and whereas they had been instructing courses, I typically walked the streets and realized as a lot as I might. Then I spent a 12 months in close by Oxford and ventured to London very often.
So, I current my record of should do’s together with a map.
This metropolis is EVER altering. However listed below are some belongings you can not miss.
High Issues to Do in London
Museums Value Visiting
London is full of superb museums, and the most effective half? A lot of them are free! I like to recommend choosing only one or two to keep away from burnout. Listed below are my favorites:
- Pure Historical past Museum – numerous animal specimens and pure history- additionally a stupendous constructing.
- Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) – A surprising mixture of artwork, trend, and design. Plus, there’s an ideal café inside.
- Nationwide Portrait Gallery – A should for historical past and artwork lovers.
- British Museum – Residence to world-famous artifacts just like the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
- Churchill Conflict Rooms – Fascinating underground bunker from WWII (this one isn’t free, however so value it!).
Iconic Landmarks & Historic Websites
- Westminster Abbey & St. Paul’s Cathedral – These two are essentially the most well-known church buildings in London, and each are completely breathtaking. They’re a bit expensive, so give your self time to discover correctly.
- Tower of London – Residence to the Crown Jewels. It’s one of many prime vacationer points of interest in London, so e-book upfront.
- Tower Bridge – To not be confused with London Bridge (which is way much less spectacular). Stroll throughout for implausible views.
- The Shard – This skyscraper presents among the finest panoramic views of town. When you don’t wish to pay for an remark deck ticket, seize a drink at one of many bars inside!
Theater in London: A Should-Do!
London’s theater scene is unbeatable, and tickets are less expensive than Broadway. Listed below are some nice choices:
- Basic favorites: Mamma Mia! (I’ve seen it no less than 20 instances!), The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, Depraved.
- Newer reveals: Again to the Future (superb particular results), The Satan Wears Prada (getting nice critiques), Imply Women, Mrs. Doubtfire (hilarious!).
- The place to purchase tickets: Examine Leicester Sq. cubicles for last-minute offers or e-book on-line at London Theatre Direct.
Earlier than your present, wander round Covent Backyard – it’s filled with cute outlets, road performers, and nice eating places.
Greatest Neighborhoods to Discover
- Notting Hill – One of many prettiest areas in London, with colourful homes, cute cafés, and the well-known Portobello Highway Market.
- Borough Market – A should for meals lovers. It’s one among London’s finest markets, full of unbelievable road meals and gourmand treats. (Enjoyable truth: Bridget Jones’s Diary and Harry Potter filmed scenes right here!).
- Seven Dials & Leadenhall Market – Nice for strolling, procuring, and having fun with lovely old-world structure.
- Regent’s Park – London has extra parks than another massive metropolis, and this one is my favourite (I’m biased – my mother and father taught right here!).
The place to Eat in London
London’s meals scene is among the finest on the earth. Listed below are my suggestions:
- Conventional British: Fish and chips, meat pies, and scones with cream and jam – you must strive them!
- Indian & Asian delicacies: London does this exceptionally nicely. Enjoyable truth: Rooster Tikka Masala is taken into account Britain’s nationwide dish.
- Fortnum & Mason – As a substitute of Harrods, I desire procuring (and consuming!) right here. Their restaurant is implausible.
Map of London
Day Journeys from London
If in case you have additional time, these are implausible day journeys from London:
- Oxford – Harry Potter vibes, the oldest English talking College and solely an hour away!
- The Cotswolds – Storybook villages with rolling hills. I’ve a full information right here.
- Windsor Fortress – About an hour away, this royal residence is gorgeous.
- Hampton Court docket Palace – Henry VIII’s favourite palace, full with a maze!
- Stonehenge & Tub – Go to the mysterious Stonehenge, then discover the elegant Georgian metropolis of Tub.
- Brighton – A enjoyable seaside city with quirky outlets and a well-known pier.
- Cambridge – Lovely college city with gorgeous structure and punting on the River Cam.
Remaining Ideas for London
- Public transport is your finest buddy – Get an Oyster Card or use contactless funds for the Tube and buses.
- Plan forward – Fashionable points of interest e-book up quick, so purchase tickets upfront.
- Don’t attempt to do all of it – London is HUGE. Choose just a few key spots every day and benefit from the expertise with out speeding.
It doesn’t matter what you select to do, London is a metropolis that by no means disappoints. Completely satisfied exploring!
