“London: a metropolis that provides the world in a single place.” – Stephen Fry
It is not usually that I start a information with a quote, nevertheless it feels becoming for a metropolis so wealthy with life. All the pieces you wish to do or see might 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 examine overseas and whereas they had been instructing courses, I usually walked the streets and realized 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 checklist of should do’s together with a map.
This metropolis is EVER altering. However listed below are some belongings you can’t miss.
Prime Issues to Do in London
Museums Value Visiting
London is full of wonderful museums, and the most effective half? Lots 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 ravishing constructing.
- Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) – A surprising mixture of artwork, style, and design. Plus, there’s an amazing café inside.
- Nationwide Portrait Gallery – A should for historical past and artwork lovers.
- British Museum – House 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 value it!).
Iconic Landmarks & Historic Websites
- Westminster Abbey & St. Paul’s Cathedral – These two are probably 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 – House to the Crown Jewels. It’s one of many prime vacationer points of interest in London, so ebook prematurely.
- Tower Bridge – To not be confused with London Bridge (which is far much less spectacular). Stroll throughout for unbelievable views.
- The Shard – This skyscraper affords a number of the finest panoramic views of the town. In the event you don’t wish to pay for an commentary 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 a minimum of 20 occasions!), The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, Depraved.
- Newer exhibits: Again to the Future (wonderful particular results), The Satan Wears Prada (getting nice critiques), Imply Ladies, Mrs. Doubtfire (hilarious!).
- The place to purchase tickets: Verify 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 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 Street Market.
- Borough Market – A should for meals lovers. It’s one in every of London’s finest markets, full of unimaginable road meals and connoisseur treats. (Enjoyable truth: 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 every other 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 planet. Listed below are my suggestions:
- Conventional British: Fish and chips, meat pies, and scones with cream and jam – it’s a must to attempt 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 an alternative of Harrods, I desire buying (and consuming!) right here. Their restaurant is unbelievable.
Map of London
Day Journeys from London
If in case you have additional time, these are unbelievable 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 Court docket 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 outlets and a well-known pier.
- Cambridge – Lovely college city with gorgeous structure and punting on the River Cam.
Ultimate Suggestions for London
- Public transport is your finest buddy – Get an Oyster Card or use contactless funds for the Tube and buses.
- Plan forward – Standard points of interest ebook up quick, so purchase tickets prematurely.
- 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. Blissful exploring!
