By Shannon Gomes
“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.”
– Samuel Johnson, English writer and poet, 1791
London, a massive city like no other, offers an unparalleled array of experiences, from arts and history to food and music, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Steeped in centuries of tradition yet buzzing with contemporary energy, London is a city that never fails to captivate its visitors. With its vast offerings, a week spent exploring London would only scratch the surface, emphasizing the importance of careful planning, allowing for flexibility in your itinerary.
Despite its enormity, London is remarkably accessible, boasting an efficient public transportation system that makes navigating the city a breeze. Whether you prefer the tube, buses, or strolling on foot, getting around is a seamless experience. For those who thrive in bustling environments rich with culture and history, London’s vibrant atmosphere is sure to captivate. However, if crowds aren’t your cup of tea, consider venturing into the tranquil English countryside after a few days in the bustling city.
London’s dynamic landscape reflects its deep-rooted history and ongoing evolution, particularly in the wake of Brexit. Modernization is also apparent, with new high-rise developments and the transition to electric cabs. Dive into the thriving arts scene with a visit to one of the many top museums or catch a world-class performance at the West End theaters. Embrace the city’s multiculturalism through its diverse culinary landscape, where you can savor flavors from around the world in the countless restaurants and street food markets. And don’t forget to immerse yourself in the quintessential British experience with a proper afternoon tea or a leisurely stroll through one of the city’s lush parks. Whatever your interests may be, London promises an unforgettable journey filled with endless possibilities and a warm welcome that will make you feel right at home in this bustling urban playground.
How long should you spend in London?
At least 4-5 days, but ideally 7-10 days to truly experience the city. Again, even after 10 days you will have barely scratched the surface of this massive city so plan your itinerary wisely and be sure to build in some much-needed downtime.
Items not to forget to pack
An umbrella (of course!), good walking shoes, a warm wool coat for the Fall, Winter & Spring months and a light coat for the Summer months.
Getting to London
The best airport to fly in/out of is Heathrow International Airport. For shorter flights within the United Kingdom or Europe, Gatwick is a great option.
Airport tip: Heathrow is one of the strictest airports when it comes to liquids (all of your liquids must be able to fit in a plastic sandwich-size bag to carry on the flight), so recommend checking your bag for the journey home or limiting the amount of toiletries you bring on board.
Upon arrival at Heathrow, the best way to get into the city is either via the Heathrow Express Train, tube (Piccadilly line) or a cab. The tube is an incredibly easy, and affordable, way to get into the city especially if you arrive during rush hour (note: you now enter and exit all tube stations using Apple Pay or a swiping a credit card). Taking a cab from the airport is another easy option that will take you directly to your destination. I love the fact that all of the cabs in London are now electric and seat 6 people (seats facing both forwards and backwards) plus are now all cashless.
Accommodations
As you can imagine, London offers a ton of hotel options ranging from luxury to budget-friendly. Before deciding on a hotel, I recommend first determining what your travel preference is ā do you like being right in the middle of tourist attractions or do you prefer to explore the bustling city during the day and then come back to a quiet, neighborhood location? Are you traveling with a partner or friend(s)? Or with your family? If traveling with your family, instead of a hotel room(s), I recommend booking an Airbnb in a charming London neighborhood so you can truly ālive like a localā plus everyone will have their own space. Our family had a great experience staying at an Airbnb in the Hammersmith, just a 7 minute walk to the tube station and were able to easily get all around the entire city.
For hotel options, here are a few suggestions:
Luxury
The Savoy: Located in the heart of London, The Savoy is an iconic luxury hotel offering opulent rooms and suites with stunning views of the River Thames.
The Ritz London: Situated in Piccadilly, The Ritz London is renowned for its timeless elegance and impeccable hospitality.
Mid-range
CitizenM Tower of London: Located near Tower Bridge, CitizenM Tower of London offers sleek and contemporary rooms equipped with high-tech amenities such as mood lighting and touchscreen tablets. With its central location and affordable rates, this hotel is perfect for travelers looking for modern comfort without breaking the bank.
The Hoxton, Holborn: This trendy boutique hotel in Holborn offers stylish yet affordable accommodations, with chic rooms featuring modern amenities and vibrant decor. Guests can enjoy a buzzing atmosphere, delicious dining options, and convenient access to nearby attractions such as Covent Garden and the British Museum.
Budget-friendly
Z Hotel Victoria: Situated in the lively Victoria neighborhood, Z Hotel Victoria offers compact yet well-designed rooms at budget-friendly prices. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, and a convenient location within walking distance of Buckingham Palace and the West End theaters.
Top Unique Experiences
While there are hundred of options for activities and places to visit while in London, here are four unique experiences I recommend:
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Brixton Food Tour: One of the best things we did while in London was attend Obiās African & Caribbean Food Tour in Brixton during the afternoon. I canāt recommend this tour enough, nor can I say enough wonderful things about our passionate guide Obi, who is a Brixton native. Follow Obi on Instagram here and DM him to book a tour while you are in town – trust me!
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Attend a Football Match: London is home to several professional football clubs, each with its own rich history and passionate fanbase. Here are the major football teams based in London that I recommend you try to see a game while you are in town, or tour the stadium in the off-season.
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Take a Guided Tour of Parliament: Taking a guided tour of the Parliament offers a fascinating and informative experience that allows visitors to explore one of the world’s most iconic political institutions up close and gain a deeper understanding of British history, democracy, and governance. Book your tour with a guide well in advance online here.
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See ABBA Voyage: A unique, groundbreaking concert experience featuring the iconic music of the Swedish pop group ABBA. The show combines cutting-edge technology with state-of-the-art visuals and live performances to create an immersive and unforgettable journey through ABBA’s greatest hits. You wonāt want to miss this dynamic show! You can book tickets here.
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Climb the Stairs to the top of St. Paulās Cathedral: Climbing the stairs to the top of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London offers a unique and rewarding experience . The cathedral’s iconic dome, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, provides breathtaking views of the city skyline and the River Thames. The journey to the top begins with a climb up the cathedral’s spiral staircase, which consists of over 500 steps. The staircase winds its way up the interior of the dome, offering glimpses of the cathedral’s stunning architecture and intricate mosaics along the way. Take breaks during your climb at the Whispering Gallery, Stone Gallery, and for those willing to tackle the final steps, the journey culminates at the Golden Gallery. From the Golden Gallery, visitors are rewarded with unparalleled views of the city stretching out in all directions, providing a truly unforgettable experience.
Top Museums to Visit
London is home to a wealth of world-class museums, each offering unique insights into history, art, culture, and science. Here are some of the top museums in the city:
British Museum: One of the world’s greatest museums, the British Museum houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from ancient and contemporary cultures around the globe. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Egyptian mummies.
Natural History Museum: Located in a stunning Victorian building in South Kensington, the Natural History Museum is a treasure trove of exhibits on the natural world. Visitors can marvel at dinosaur skeletons, gemstones, and interactive displays exploring biodiversity and evolution.
Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A): The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art, design, and performance, housing a vast collection spanning centuries and cultures. From fashion and textiles to ceramics and photography, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of human creativity and innovation.
Science Museum: Also located in South Kensington, the Science Museum is a family-friendly attraction that explores the wonders of science, technology, and engineering. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and immersive experiences that bring science to life.
Tate Modern: Britain’s national museum of modern and contemporary art, Tate Modern is housed in a former power station on the South Bank of the River Thames. The museum features an impressive collection of international modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.
The National Gallery: Situated in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is home to a rich collection of Western European paintings dating from the 13th to the 19th centuries. Visitors can admire masterpieces by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Rembrandt.
The British Library: As the national library of the United Kingdom, the British Library is home to an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, maps, and other treasures. Highlights include the Magna Carta, the Gutenberg Bible, and the Beatles’ lyrics.
Imperial War Museum: The Imperial War Museum (IWM) in London is a world-renowned institution dedicated to exploring the impact of conflict on people’s lives. Located in Lambeth, the museum is housed in a historic building that was formerly the Bethlem Royal Hospital, also known as Bedlam. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a military buff, or simply curious about the impact of war on society, a visit to the Imperial War Museum is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Wallace Collection: Situated in a historic townhouse in Marylebone, the Wallace Collection is a hidden gem housing a world-class collection of European fine and decorative arts. Highlights include Old Master paintings, 18th-century French furniture, and an extensive array of decorative objects. The museum’s elegant galleries provide a tranquil setting for exploring its treasures.
Top Royal Places to Visit
London is steeped in royal history, and there are several iconic royal landmarks and attractions that visitors can explore. Here are some of the top royal places to visit in London (tip: visit the below websites to book your visit well in advance; bring printed copies of your tickets).
Buckingham Palace: As the official residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace is a must-visit royal landmark. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, explore the magnificent State Rooms during the summer months, and admire the palace’s iconic facade and gardens.
Tower of London: Dating back to the 11th century, the Tower of London is a historic fortress and former royal palace situated on the north bank of the River Thames. Visitors can explore the Tower’s medieval architecture, discover the Crown Jewels in the Jewel House, and learn about its fascinating history as a royal residence, prison, and treasury.
Kensington Palace: Located in Kensington Gardens, Kensington Palace has been a royal residence for over 300 years. Visitors can explore the palace’s opulent State Apartments, including the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, and learn about the lives of past royal residents, such as Queen Victoria and Princess Diana.
Westminster Abbey: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Westminster Abbey is one of London’s most iconic royal landmarks. The abbey has hosted numerous royal weddings, coronations, and funerals throughout history, and visitors can explore its stunning Gothic architecture, royal tombs, and beautiful stained glass windows.
Hampton Court Palace: Located in the borough of Richmond upon Thames, Hampton Court Palace is a magnificent Tudor palace that was once a royal residence of King Henry VIII. Visitors can explore the palace’s historic rooms, gardens, and maze, and learn about its rich royal history through interactive exhibits and costumed interpreters.
Best Places to See Live Performances
London is renowned for its vibrant performing arts scene, offering a plethora of venues where visitors can enjoy live performances ranging from theater and musicals to concerts and comedy shows. Here are some of the best spots in London to see live performances:
West End Theaters: The West End is London’s theater district and home to world-renowned venues such as the Royal Opera House, the London Palladium, and the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. In the West End, you can see blockbuster musicals, classic plays, and cutting-edge productions in these historic theaters.
Shakespeare’s Globe: Located on the South Bank of the River Thames, Shakespeare’s Globe is a faithful reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre, where many of William Shakespeare’s plays were first performed. Visitors can experience the magic of Shakespearean theater in an authentic Elizabethan setting, with performances held throughout the year.
Royal Albert Hall: One of London’s most iconic music venues, the Royal Albert Hall hosts a diverse array of concerts, classical recitals, and other performances. With its stunning circular auditorium and world-class acoustics, it’s a must-visit destination for music lovers.
Southbank Centre: Situated on the South Bank of the River Thames, the Southbank Centre is a cultural complex that hosts a wide range of performing arts events, including concerts, dance performances, and theater productions. Visitors can enjoy performances in venues such as the Royal Festival Hall, the Queen Elizabeth Hall, and the Purcell Room.
The O2 Arena: Located in Greenwich, the O2 Arena is one of the largest indoor arenas in the world and a popular venue for concerts and live entertainment. Visitors can catch performances by international artists and bands across a variety of genres, from pop and rock to hip-hop and electronic music.
Comedy Clubs: London is home to numerous comedy clubs where visitors can enjoy stand-up comedy shows and improv performances. Popular venues include The Comedy Store, the Soho Theatre, and the Leicester Square Theatre.
Music Clubs: London is renowned for its vibrant music scene, offering a wide variety of clubs and venues catering to different tastes and genres. Top music clubs include Ronnie Scottās Jazz Club, Fabric Fabric, Ministry of Sound & The Roundhouse.
Best Parks
London is blessed with an abundance of beautiful parks and green spaces, offering residents and visitors alike a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re looking for outdoor recreation, scenic views, or simply a peaceful escape from city life, London’s parks provide the perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment. Here are some of the best parks in London:
Hyde Park: Covering 350 acres in central London, Hyde Park is one of the city’s largest and most famous parks. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Serpentine Lake, relax in the peaceful surroundings of the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, or take part in various recreational activities such as boating, horse riding, and tennis. Hyde Park also hosts numerous events and concerts throughout the year, including the annual British Summer Time music festival.
Regent’s Park: Located in the heart of London, Regent’s Park is known for its stunning formal gardens, wide-open spaces, and picturesque boating lake. Visitors can explore attractions such as the beautiful Queen Mary’s Gardens, the Open Air Theatre, and the London Zoo, which is situated within the park’s grounds. Regent’s Park is also home to the iconic Primrose Hill, offering panoramic views of the London skyline.
Richmond Park: Spanning over 2,500 acres in southwest London, Richmond Park is the largest Royal Park in London and a designated National Nature Reserve. Visitors can admire the park’s diverse wildlife, including herds of deer that roam freely across the open grasslands. Richmond Park also boasts scenic walking and cycling trails, as well as attractions such as Pembroke Lodge and the Isabella Plantation, known for its stunning azaleas and rhododendrons.
Greenwich Park: Situated on the banks of the River Thames in southeast London, Greenwich Park offers panoramic views of the city skyline and iconic landmarks such as the Royal Observatory and the Queen’s House. Visitors can explore the park’s historic features, including the Greenwich Meridian Line and the ancient Royal Naval College, or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings of the park’s gardens and meadows.
Hampstead Heath: Covering 790 acres of ancient woodland and heathland in north London, Hampstead Heath is a beloved local retreat offering sweeping views of the city below. Visitors can explore scenic walking trails, take a dip in the open-air swimming ponds, or enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s many grassy meadows. Hampstead Heath also features attractions such as Kenwood House, an elegant stately home with a renowned art collection.
Top Neighborhoods to Visit
London is comprised of 32 diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, history, and attractions. Here are the top neighborhoods I recommend visiting:
Kensington: Elegant and sophisticated, Kensington is a leafy residential neighborhood dotted with historic landmarks, beautiful parks, and upscale boutiques. Explore the magnificent Kensington Palace and its surrounding gardens, wander through the world-renowned collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum, or enjoy a leisurely afternoon picnic in Hyde Park.
Covent Garden: Known for its bustling atmosphere, Covent Garden is a cultural hub brimming with street performers, boutique shops, and lively restaurants. Visitors can explore the iconic Covent Garden Market, catch a show at one of the nearby theaters, or simply soak in the vibrant ambiance of this historic district.
Notting Hill: Famous for its colorful houses, eclectic markets, and charming streets, Notting Hill offers a delightful blend of bohemian flair and upscale elegance. Stroll along Portobello Road Market to browse antiques and vintage treasures, explore the tranquil green spaces of Holland Park, or indulge in gourmet cuisine at one of the area’s chic eateries.
Chelsea: Chelsea is known for its upscale ambiance, elegant streets, and affluent residents. It’s a neighborhood synonymous with luxury and sophistication, boasting chic boutiques, high-end restaurants, and beautiful garden squares. King’s Road, the main thoroughfare in Chelsea, is lined with designer shops, art galleries, and trendy cafes, making it a popular destination for shopping and leisurely strolls.
Brixton: Brixton is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood located in the borough of Lambeth in South London. Once known primarily for its market and Caribbean community, Brixton has evolved into a dynamic cultural hub with a rich history and an eclectic mix of residents. One of the most iconic landmarks in Brixton is Brixton Market, a bustling and colorful market that dates back to the 1870s. Visitors can explore the market’s winding streets and alleys, which are lined with an array of stalls selling everything from fresh produce and international cuisine to vintage clothing and handmade crafts. Alongside its traditional market stalls and independent shops, Brixton boasts trendy cafes, cocktail bars, and artisanal bakeries, making it a popular destination for foodies. Brixton is also known for its vibrant arts and music scene. The area has produced numerous influential musicians and artists over the years, including David Bowie, who was born in Brixton.
I highly recommend doing the African & Caribbean Food Tour of Brixton with Obi of Gorgeous Tours UK. Follow Obi on Instagram and DM him directly to book. Please tell him Shannon Gomes sent you!
South Bank: Stretching along the southern bank of the River Thames, South Bank is home to some of London’s most iconic landmarks and cultural institutions. Take a leisurely stroll along the Thames Path to admire views of the London Eye, the Shard, and Tower Bridge, or visit world-class attractions such as the Tate Modern, the Southbank Centre, and the Globe Theatre.
Hammersmith: Hammersmith is a bustling and diverse neighborhood known for its cultural attractions, lively entertainment scene, and scenic riverfront. Situated along the northern bank of the River Thames, Hammersmith offers picturesque views of the river and easy access to riverside walks and recreational activities.
Shoreditch: Embracing the cutting edge of London’s arts and culture scene, Shoreditch is a dynamic neighborhood known for its street art, trendy bars, and creative vibe. Visitors can explore the vibrant street art murals of Brick Lane, browse independent boutiques and artisanal shops, or sample international cuisine at the bustling food markets.
Kid-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids to London? Awesome! London is a super kid-friendly city with a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for children of all ages. Here some top places to visit with kids:
Museums and Galleries: (Note: All of the below have dedicated children’s areas with hands-on exhibits and workshops)
Family-Friendly Attractions:
The London Dungeon (note: recommend for kids ages 10+)
Parks and Playgrounds:
Hyde Park
Regent’s Park
Hampstead Heath
Battersea Park
Theatres and Shows: London’s West End offers a wide variety of family-friendly shows and performances, including musicals, plays, and pantomimes. Harry Potter is a huge hit for all ages, along with current shows such as Matilda and Mrs. Doubtfire.
Ready to Shop āTil You Drop?
London boasts a diverse and vibrant shopping scene, offering everything from luxury boutiques and department stores to bustling markets and quirky independent shops. Here’s an overview of the shopping experiences you can enjoy in the city:
High-End Shopping: London is home to some of the world’s most prestigious shopping streets, including Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Bond Street. Here, you’ll find flagship stores for renowned fashion brands such as Burberry, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co., as well as iconic department stores like Selfridges and Liberty London.
Markets: London is renowned for its markets, where you can find a wide variety of goods, from vintage clothing and antiques to handmade crafts and artisanal food. Some of the most popular markets include Camden Market, Portobello Road Market, Borough Market, and Spitalfields Market.
Luxury Department Stores: In addition to flagship stores, London is home to several luxury department stores that offer a curated selection of designer fashion, beauty products, home goods, and gourmet food. In addition to Selfridges and Liberty London, other notable department stores include Harrods, Harvey Nichols, and Fortnum & Mason (a must-visit store, and perfect place to purchase gifts to bring home!).
Independent Boutiques: London’s neighborhoods are dotted with independent boutiques and designer shops, offering unique and eclectic fashion, accessories, and homeware. Areas such as Shoreditch, Notting Hill, and Marylebone are particularly known for their independent shopping scenes, where you can discover hidden gems and one-of-a-kind pieces.
Vintage and Retro: London is a paradise for vintage and retro enthusiasts, with a plethora of shops and markets selling vintage clothing, accessories, vinyl records, and collectibles. From Brick Lane Vintage Market to Beyond Retro and Rokit Vintage, there are endless opportunities to find unique treasures from the past.
Food, Glorious, Food!
London’s food scene is incredibly diverse, vibrant, and constantly evolving, offering a culinary adventure for food lovers of all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re seeking traditional British cuisine, international flavors, street food, or cutting-edge gastronomy, London has something to delight every palate. Here are my top recommendations, in no particular order:
Dishoom (Note: visit any of the 5 locations; be prepared to wait in line as they do not take reservations. Totally worth the wait!)
Ottenlenghi (any of the locations; I really enjoyed the Spitafields location for dinner)
Gold in Notting Hill (charming & hip restaurants on Portobello Road)
Chiltern Firehouse (book one month in advance)
Miznon (for casual lunch or dinner in Soho)
Gymkhana (book one month in advance; Indian food with high-end dining experience)
St. John (Smithfeld or Marylebone location; book in advance)
The Barbary (enjoy the counter seating while watching chefs cook your meal over an open-fire)
The Golden Hind (for the best fish & chips)
Bakeries Not to Miss
Top Food Markets to Visit
Borough Market (be sure to stand in line at Turnips to get the strawberries covered in milk chocolate!)
Fortum & Mason (make sure you visit every floor, from the basement level to the 4th floor where they teach cooking classes and have an incredible selection of cookbooks)
Best Spots for a Pint
London is home to numerous historic pubs that have been serving patrons for centuries, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Here are some top pubs I recommend visiting for a pint (or two!):
Prefer Wine?
Be sure not to miss Gordonās Wine Bar, Londonās oldest wine bar. Be sure to make reservations online in advance and enjoy the candlelit experience!
Best Spots for High Tea
London is renowned for its tradition of afternoon tea, and there are numerous places across the city where you can indulge in this quintessential British experience. Here are five top places to experience high tea in London (note: be sure to book reservations online in advance):
Day Trips Outside of London
Need a break from the non-stop action of the big city? London is surrounded by picturesque countryside, historic towns, and cultural attractions, making it an excellent base for day trips to more serene surroundings. Here are five top day trips from London:
Windsor Castle: Located just a short train ride from London, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and a residence of the British Royal Family. Visitors can explore the castle’s magnificent State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and the beautiful grounds of Windsor Great Park. (note: book a tour online in advance; recommend always booking the first tour of the day as the castle gets very crowded in the afternoon)
Oxford: Known as the “City of Dreaming Spires,” Oxford is renowned for its prestigious university and historic architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the university colleges, explore the Bodleian Library, and stroll through the charming streets and gardens of this medieval city.
Stonehenge and Bath: A day trip to Stonehenge and Bath offers the opportunity to visit two of England’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can marvel at the ancient stone circle of Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before exploring the Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, and picturesque streets of Bath.
Cambridge: Another historic university city, Cambridge is famous for its stunning colleges, scenic river, and punting culture. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the River Cam, explore the historic colleges including King’s College and Trinity College, and visit the iconic Mathematical Bridge.
Canterbury: Known for its magnificent cathedral and UNESCO-listed medieval city center, Canterbury is a charming destination steeped in history and culture. Visitors can explore the narrow streets lined with timber-framed buildings, visit the historic Canterbury Cathedral, and learn about the city’s rich literary heritage associated with Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales.”
Samuel Johnson’s quote, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life,” holds true. London and its surrounding countryside offer abundant opportunities to explore, taste, and experience both its rich history and its diverse, promising future.
Pace yourself with your itinerary and be sure to build in some time for rest (Londonās parks are a great spot), as you will be filled with great energy and inspiration during your visit to London. Enjoy, and always remember to āMind the Gap.ā
