“London: a metropolis that gives the world in a single place.” – Stephen Fry
It is not usually that I start a information with a quote, but it surely feels becoming for a metropolis so wealthy with life. The whole lot you need to do or see will 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 dad and mom taught a examine overseas and whereas they had been educating lessons, I usually walked the streets and discovered as a lot as I might. Then I spent a yr 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.
Prime Issues to Do in London
Museums Value Visiting
London is filled with superb museums, and one of the best half? A lot of them are free! I like to recommend selecting only one or two to keep away from burnout. Listed here are my favorites:
- Pure Historical past Museum – a number of animal specimens and pure history- additionally a lovely constructing.
- Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) – A shocking mixture of artwork, vogue, and design. Plus, there’s an excellent café inside.
- Nationwide Portrait Gallery – A should for historical past and artwork lovers.
- British Museum – Dwelling to world-famous artifacts just like the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
- Churchill Battle Rooms – Fascinating underground bunker from WWII (this one isn’t free, however so price 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 – Dwelling to the Crown Jewels. It’s one of many prime vacationer sights in London, so ebook prematurely.
- Tower Bridge – To not be confused with London Bridge (which is way much less spectacular). Stroll throughout for incredible views.
- The Shard – This skyscraper presents a number of the finest panoramic views of town. When you don’t need to pay for an statement 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 here are some nice choices:
- Traditional favorites: Mamma Mia! (I’ve seen it a minimum of 20 instances!), The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, Depraved.
- Newer exhibits: Again to the Future (superb particular results), The Satan Wears Prada (getting nice evaluations), Imply Ladies, Mrs. Doubtfire (hilarious!).
- The place to purchase tickets: Examine Leicester Sq. cubicles for last-minute offers or ebook on-line at London Theatre Direct.
Earlier than your present, wander round Covent Backyard – it’s stuffed with cute retailers, road performers, and nice eating places.
Finest 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 in all London’s finest markets, filled with unimaginable road meals and connoisseur treats. (Enjoyable reality: Bridget Jones’s Diary and Harry Potter filmed scenes right here!).
- Seven Dials & Leadenhall Market – Nice for strolling, buying, and having fun with stunning old-world structure.
- Regent’s Park – London has extra parks than some other huge metropolis, and this one is my favourite (I’m biased – my dad and mom taught right here!).
The place to Eat in London
London’s meals scene is among the finest on the earth. Listed here are my suggestions:
- Conventional British: Fish and chips, meat pies, and scones with cream and jam – it’s important to attempt them!
- Indian & Asian delicacies: London does this exceptionally nicely. Enjoyable reality: Hen Tikka Masala is taken into account Britain’s nationwide dish.
- Fortnum & Mason – As an alternative of Harrods, I want buying (and consuming!) right here. Their restaurant is incredible.
Map of London
Day Journeys from London
If in case you have additional time, these are incredible 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 Citadel – About an hour away, this royal residence is gorgeous.
- Hampton Courtroom Palace – Henry VIII’s favourite palace, full with a maze!
- Stonehenge & Bathtub – Go to the mysterious Stonehenge, then discover the elegant Georgian metropolis of Bathtub.
- Brighton – A enjoyable seaside city with quirky retailers 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 good friend – Get an Oyster Card or use contactless funds for the Tube and buses.
- Plan forward – Well-liked sights ebook up quick, so purchase tickets prematurely.
- Don’t attempt to do all of it – London is HUGE. Choose a number of key spots every day and benefit from the expertise with out dashing.
It doesn’t matter what you select to do, London is a metropolis that by no means disappoints. Glad exploring!
