‘24 Hours in…’ London: My Kinda Town (and Yours Too, Probably!)
Hey there, my travel companions! It's me again, ready to spill the beans on one of my favorite cities: London. You know, after all these years of flying around the world, London still holds a special place in my heart. It's just got that vibe… History, culture, amazing food, and a bit of quirky charm thrown in for good measure. Totally right down my alley!
I've been there countless times, and I still get excited every time I touch down at Heathrow. It's like visiting an old friend who always has a new story to tell. So, let's grab a pint (or a cuppa, whatever you fancy!), and I'll give you the lowdown on how to have a proper London experience, my way.
Morning: Ditch the Hotel Breakfast, Do This Instead
Okay, let's be honest, hotel breakfasts can be a bit "meh," right? So, let's skip the overpriced buffet and head straight to The Wolseley. This place is a London institution, and it's the perfect way to kick off your day in style. Think old-school glamour, friendly service, and seriously good food. I'm talking perfectly poached eggs, fluffy pancakes, and strong coffee that'll get you ready for a day of exploring.
Now, if you're after something a bit more low-key, The Dayrooms Cafe in Marylebone is a great shout. It's got that cozy, neighborhood vibe, and their avocado toast is a winner. Plus, the coffee is strong enough to keep you going all day (essential for a busy traveler like you!).
After breakfast, let's ditch the usual tourist traps and head to Sir John Soane's Museum. This place is a hidden gem, tucked away in a quiet corner of London. It's the former home of this architect dude, Soane, and it's packed with all sorts of weird and wonderful stuff. Think ancient statues, architectural models, and even a sarcophagus! It's a bit like stepping into a time capsule, and it's seriously fascinating.
And if you're into history, you've got to check out Dennis Severs' House in Spitalfields. It's like walking onto a movie set, but it's a real 18th-century house. They've recreated it down to the smallest detail, and it's like stepping back in time. You can almost imagine the family who lived there going about their daily lives.
Midday: Food, Glorious Food (and Some Street Art Too!)
Right, let's talk food. London's a foodie paradise, and you're spoiled for choice. If you're after something a bit different, head to Dishoom in Shoreditch. It's inspired by those old Iranian cafes in Bombay, and the food is out of this world. The atmosphere is buzzing, and the staff are super friendly. Their black daal is legendary, and the lamb chops are to die for.
Or, if you're a market lover like me, Borough Market is the place to be. It's been around for centuries, and it's still going strong. You'll find stalls selling everything from fresh produce and artisan cheeses to delicious street food. It's a great place to grab lunch and soak up the atmosphere.
And hey, if you're feeling adventurous, why not join a food tour? Eating London Tours and Secret Food Tours are both great options. You'll get to try loads of different dishes and learn about the city's food history from a local guide. *Tip - you can find food tours like this is cities all around the world. I went on a Secret Food Tour of Nashville, Tennessee once and it was full of delicious tastes from local places! Check out my link to Viator for tickets, tours and information about locations around the world. (Eric Knows Travel at Viator.com)
After lunch, let's wander through Shoreditch. This area is known for its street art, and it's like an open-air art gallery. You'll find murals, graffiti, and all sorts of cool installations. It's a great place to just wander around and see what you discover.
Afternoon: Tea & Treats, Thameside Style
Okay, let's talk afternoon tea. It's a classic London experience, and there are loads of places to do it. If you want something with a view, head to Aqua Shard. It's up on the 31st floor, and the views are amazing. The tea and cakes are pretty good too!
If you're after something more traditional, The Ritz and Claridge's are the places to go. They're super fancy, and the tea is served with all the bells and whistles.
After tea, let's head to the South Bank. This area is packed with things to see and do. The Tate Modern is a must-visit, even if you're not a big art fan. The building itself is impressive, and there are always interesting exhibitions on. Take a stroll along the Thames, cross the Millennium Bridge (it's got great views of St. Paul's Cathedral),
and check out Shakespeare's Globe. You can even see a play there if you fancy it.
And if you're into history, the HMS Belfast is worth a visit. It's a World War II warship that's been turned into a museum. It's pretty cool to explore the different decks and learn about its history.
Evening: Showtime! (and Maybe a Cocktail or Two)
London's West End is famous for its theaters, and there's always something good on. If you're into musicals, "Six" is a great option. It's about the six wives of Henry VIII, and it's super catchy. "Hamilton" is another popular choice, and it's definitely worth seeing if you can get tickets.
After the show, let's grab a drink. The Connaught Bar in Mayfairis a great choice if you're feeling fancy. They make some of the best cocktails in the world, and the atmosphere is super sophisticated.
If you're after something more laid-back, head to Soho. It's got loads of pubs, bars, and restaurants. Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club is a London institution, and it's a great place to catch some live music. And if you're not ready to call it a night, take a wander through Covent Garden. It's all lit up at night, and there's always a buzz about the place.
Where to Crash: My Hotel Recommendations
Okay, let's talk hotels. If budget is not an issue (definitely call me!), The Savoy is a classic choice. It's super luxurious, and the service is amazing. The Langham is another great option, with a more traditional feel.
The Corinthia London is a bit more modern, and it's got a fantastic spa. And The Rosewood London is super stylish, with a really welcoming atmosphere.
Beyond 24 Hours: Day Trips for the Adventurous
If you've got more time to spare, why not venture out of London for the day? There are loads of great places to visit within easy reach.
Bath: This city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's absolutely stunning. The Roman Baths are a must-see, and the architecture is just beautiful.
Oxford: If you're into history and academia, Oxford is the place for you. It's home to the famous university, and there are loads of historic colleges and buildings to explore.
The Cotswolds: This area is picture-perfect, with rolling hills, charming villages, and cozy pubs. It's the perfect place to escape the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Canterbury: This historic city is home to Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a beautiful building, and there's loads of history to discover in the city.
Windsor: If you want to see a real-life castle, head to Windsor. Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it's still home to the royal family.
Brighton: This seaside city is a bit quirky and a lot of fun. It's got a great pier, a weird and wonderful palace called the Royal Pavilion, and loads of independent shops and cafes.
And a Few More Ideas:
* Kew Gardens: If you're into plants and flowers, Kew Gardens is a must-visit. It's a huge botanical garden with all sorts of amazing plants from around the world.
* Hampton Court Palace: This is another impressive palace, with beautiful gardens and a fascinating history.
* Leeds Castle: This fairytale castle is surrounded by a moat and has stunning grounds.
* Stonehenge: This prehistoric monument is one of the most famous landmarks in the UK.
* Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter: If you're a Harry Potter fan, this is a dream come true. You can see the sets, costumes, and props from the films.
Tips for Day Tripping:
* Book your train tickets in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season.
* Pack light! You don't want to be lugging around a heavy suitcase all day.
* Check the train times before you go, so you don't miss your train back to London.
* Be open to exploring! You never know what you might discover.
About the Author:
Eric currently lives in Amsterdam with his husband, Nhad, and their cat Jesse. Eric is a flight attendant with a major US airline and has been in aviation for over 25 years. In addition, together with his husband, they have started a boutique travel agency, Eric Knows Travel, an independently owned and operated Fora Travel Agency. Eric and Nhad travel as often as possible, when Eric is not already traveling for work. They have also been hard at work negotiating the complicated world of Visas and Immigration. Let’s just say, besides your luggage, pack your patience! It is a “hurry up and wait” game. Contact them today and allow them to help you plan your next bespoke holiday!
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