“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, however it feels becoming for a metropolis so wealthy with life. All the pieces you need to do or see may 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 typically walked the streets and realized as a lot as I may. Then I spent a 12 months 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 here are some stuff you can not miss.
High Issues to Do in London
Museums Value Visiting
London is full of wonderful 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 – plenty of animal specimens and pure history- additionally an exquisite constructing.
- Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) – A surprising mixture of artwork, style, and design. Plus, there’s an incredible 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 Warfare 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 – Dwelling to the Crown Jewels. It’s one of many prime vacationer sights in London, so ebook upfront.
- Tower Bridge – To not be confused with London Bridge (which is far much less spectacular). Stroll throughout for improbable views.
- The Shard – This skyscraper provides among the greatest panoramic views of the town. For those who don’t need 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 here 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 reveals: Again to the Future (wonderful particular results), The Satan Wears Prada (getting nice evaluations), Imply Ladies, Mrs. Doubtfire (hilarious!).
- The place to purchase tickets: Test 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.
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 considered one of London’s greatest markets, full of unbelievable 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 every other huge 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 greatest on the planet. Listed here are my suggestions:
- Conventional British: Fish and chips, meat pies, and scones with cream and jam – you need to strive them!
- Indian & Asian delicacies: London does this exceptionally properly. 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 improbable.
Map of London
Day Journeys from London
When you have further time, these are improbable 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 retailers and a well-known pier.
- Cambridge – Stunning college city with gorgeous structure and punting on the River Cam.
Last Suggestions for London
- Public transport is your greatest good friend – Get an Oyster Card or use contactless funds for the Tube and buses.
- Plan forward – Standard sights ebook up quick, so purchase tickets upfront.
- Don’t attempt to do all of it – London is HUGE. Decide a number of 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. Joyful exploring!