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London Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 5, 2024

The iconic London Parliament building lit up at night in bustling London, England

London is one of the most popular cities in the world. It’s home to charming pubs, world-class (and often free) museums, tons of history, some of the best theater performances in the world, a diverse population, incredible food, and a wild nightlife.

I know it’s cliche to say there’s something for everyone but, in this sprawling metropolis, there really is!

I’ve been visiting London since 2008 and, with every subsequent visit, the city has grown on me. The more I go, the more awesome stuff I see, the more I fall in love with it. There’s always something new to do here and there’s an energetic vibe to the city.

Unfortunately, it’s also an expensive destination. A visit here can eat a hole in any budget if you aren’t careful.

Luckily, there are tons of free and cheap things to do in London . While budget travelers need to be frugal here, you can still visit London on a budget and have an amazing time.

This London travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this cosmopolitan capital!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on London

Top 5 Things to See and Do in London

View of the famous Tower Bridge spanning across the River Thames in London, England

1. Visit Big Ben and the House of Parliament

Although you can’t go up the tower, you can view this Gothic structure from the street and hear its chimes four times an hour. Big Ben is actually the name of the Great Bell of the Great Clock of Westminster which can be found inside Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, but is often used to refer to the clock and the tower as well. To learn about the UK government, take a tour of Parliament, founded in 1801, while you’re here (get there early or reserve tickets online) . Guided tours cost 29 GBP while self-guided multimedia tours are 22.50 GBP. The best view of the tower is from the opposite side of the river on the South Bank, near the London Eye.

2. See the Tower of London and Tower Bridge

Built in 1070, the Tower of London has expanded many times over the years. It was built as a double-leaf bascule bridge in the middle (both sides lift up) to maintain river access to the Pool of London docks while easing congestion on each side of the river. You can visit inside the tower and walk along the glass walkways. Weapons, armor, and coins were made here until 1810 and today you can view the famous crown jewels, walk the battlements, wander recreated medieval palace rooms, see the iconic Yeoman Warders (known as the Beefeaters as they were allowed to eat as much beef as they wanted from King Henry VII’s table), and spot the legendary black ravens that live in the tower. Skip-the-line tickets are 29.90 GBP.

3. Admire Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is only open to the public for 10 weeks during the summer, but you can join the crowds and watch the changing of the guard at 11am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday throughout the year (get there in good time to find a good place to stand). Admission to the palace isn’t cheap, with tickets costing 30 GBP online (33 GBP on the day), while exclusive guided tours are 90 GBP. Check the Royal Collection Trust website for details on other events happening throughout the year.

4. See Westminster Abbey

A working royal church, the Gothic Westminster Abbey was founded by Benedictine monks in 960 CE. More than 3,300 people are buried here including 17 monarchs and numerous royal funerals have been held here over the centuries. It’s the traditional coronation site for British monarchs and has been the setting for every coronation since 1066, as well as for many other royal occasions, including 16 weddings. Other famous British figures buried here include Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton, Aphra Behn, and Charles Dickens. Tickets cost 27 GBP , but you can visit for free if you go during a service. Just make sure to dress (and act) appropriately as it is a place of worship.

5. Hang out in Trafalgar Square

Stroll around and admire the fountains and the famous monuments, such as the four bronze lion statues and Nelson’s Column (which honors Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805). It is bordered on all sides by a number of museums, galleries, cultural spaces and historic buildings so there’s plenty to do as well. Trafalgar Square is also known to be a center of national democracy and protest so peaceful rallies and demonstrations are frequently held (usually at weekends). Even if there aren’t any official events, lots of people still hang out here so it makes for a good place to people-watch.

Other Things to See and Do in London

1. take a free walking tour.

London has tons of different walking tours on offer. From free tours to specialty tours to paid tours to literary tours to quirky tea tours, London has it all. Free London Walking Tours and New Europe Walking Tours are two of my favorite companies to go with when it comes to free tours. They’re the best way to see the sights and learn about the city on a budget. Just remember to tip at the end!

If you’re looking for more in-depth and specific tours, check out Take Walks. They offer affordable tours that go into a lot of detail. And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, Get Your Guide runs an awesome Harry Potter tour around the city for 15 GBP.

2. Go museum hopping

London has more museums than you could see in a single visit, and many of them are free. You can spend days visiting world-class museums like the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum, and many others — all without spending a penny. One of my favorites is the Natural History Museum, a beautiful Romanesque building that contains over 80 million items, including specimens collected by Charles Darwin. It also has an expansive collection of fossils, making it a fun and educational stop. The Victoria and Albert Museum (named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert) is another favorite of mine. It’s home to over 2,000 works of art covering over 3,000 years of human history.

3. Grab some food in Borough Market

Established in 1756, London’s Borough Market has something for every foodie. It’s home to some of the best British and international produce and dishes. Come here hungry and leave satisfied. It’s great for people-watching too. The market is open daily but the crowds are terrible on Saturdays so be sure to get there early.

4. Enjoy some theater

London is known for its famous theater scene. Attend a show while you’re here and see some of the incredible performances that make London famous. Tickets can be pretty cheap, and something is playing every night (check out TKTS for discounted tickets to shows in the West End). Otherwise, catch a Shakespeare show at The Globe in South London — tickets range from 5-62 GBP depending on the show and seat you choose.

5. Stroll along Brick Lane

Known for vintage clothing, cheap eats, and art, this East London street is a local favorite. Sunday is the best day to come, as this is when the outdoor street market takes place, though the restaurants and shops lining the street are open daily. Brick Lane has some of the best (and cheapest) food in London, especially when it comes to curry, as this is the hub of London’s Bangladeshi community. This street is also a great place to bring a camera, as its walls are basically a gallery for London’s best street artists, including Banksy, D*Face, and Ben Eine.

6. Ride the London Eye

The London Eye is a 152-meter (500-foot tall) Ferris wheel. While a little cheesy, it’s nevertheless one of the most popular attractions in London. It’s across the street from Parliament and provides excellent views of London and the city’s most iconic buildings, especially on a clear day. Tickets are 32.50 GBP , but if you want to play tourist and take in the view, it might be worth it. The ride lasts 30 minutes and tickets start at 32.50 GBP.

7. Visit the London Dungeon

The London Dungeon calls itself “the world’s most chillingly famous horror attraction.” It covers 2,000 years of London’s gruesome history and is a morbid but interesting museum. Although you can learn about popular torture methods in England, this place has turned into more of an “amusement park” type attraction. But if you like things like escape rooms and scary boat rides, it’s enjoyable. Tickets cost 29 GBP when you book online (32 GBP in person).

8. See St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s is a striking English Baroque cathedral with a world-famous dome. Architect Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, the iconic building dates from the 17th century. Inside, you can visit the crypt to see the resting places of famous figures including The Duke of Wellington, Christopher Wren, and Admiral Nelson, or just enjoy the cathedral’s glittering mosaics and elaborate stone carvings. If you don’t mind climbing some stairs, a highlight is to climb to the Stone Gallery or Golden Gallery for panoramic views over surrounding London. Admission costs from 18 GBP when you buy online , which is cheaper than the London Eye and offers similarly breathtaking views.

9. Explore Covent Garden

Covent Garden, a popular West End neighborhood, is a fun place to hang out for an afternoon. It’s home to lots of quirky stalls, busking musicians, an artsy market, and a selection of unusual pubs and coffee shops. Covent Garden is also within walking distance of all the big musical theater shows, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours before catching a performance. Make sure to visit Covent Garden Market, which has been open since the 1830s. It’s a good place to grab a bite to eat or shop at some of the artisan craft stalls. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 8am-6pm, with an outdoor farmer’s market on Saturdays between April and December.

10. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe

An integral part of England’s history, Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre, the venue for which the famous playwright wrote his plays. It’s a must-see for lovers of Shakespeare, with performances embracing near-perfect replicas of Elizabethan staging practices. You can even sit in front where the groundlings did, for shouting and heckling! The theater is open-roofed, so bundle up in the winter. Tickets cost 5-62 GBP depending on the production and the seat (you can stand just as they did in Elizabethan times). You can also take a guided tour for 17 GBP to learn more about the history of the theater (more specialized ones such as the Ghosts and Ghouls tour or the Pride tour cost 20 GBP).

11. Explore Camden Market

A long-time counter-culture haven, Camden Market is home to over 1,000 independent shops, stalls, cafes, restaurants, bars, buskers, and everything in between. It’s enormously popular and busiest on the weekends (it sees over 250,000 visitors each week). Camden Market is actually a series of six separate markets, so you can literally wander the labyrinth of alleyways for hours and not see it all.

12. See the Royal Observatory

Since its founding in the late 17th century, the Royal Observatory at Greenwich has played an important role in astronomy and navigation. The observatory is divided into two sections, with one half focusing on time while the other half is devoted to astronomy. In the Meridian Courtyard, you can stand on either side of the Prime Meridian, which separates the Earth’s eastern and western hemispheres. The Peter Harrison Planetarium is also housed here, where you can see a show for 10 GBP. The Royal Observatory itself costs 16 GBP .

13. Walk around the Strand

In the 12th century, rich noblemen built elegant homes and gardens along the shore (the strand) of the Thames, making it one of the most prestigious places to live (a fact that remains true to this day). Walk down this thoroughfare and be treated to a grand display of wealth and beauty. It was dubbed “the finest street in Europe” by Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in the 19th century. The Strand, which runs from Trafalgar Square to Temple Bar, is home to numerous shops, pubs, landmark buildings, and classic hotels.

14. Drink beer at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

This historic pub has been around since the great fire of 1666 (and there has been a pub at this location since 1538). It’s surprisingly large inside, and in the winter, fireplaces keep pub-goers warm. The wood paneling, atmospheric lack of natural lighting, and vaulted cellars make stepping inside feel like stepping back in time. Famous literary figures like Charles Dickens, R.L. Stevenson, Mark Twain, Oliver Goldsmith, and others used to frequent (and write about) this particular pub.

15. See the Churchill War Rooms

Located beneath the Treasury Building in the Whitehall area of Westminster, the Churchill War Rooms include the government’s command center during World War II and a museum about the life of Winston Churchill. The centerpiece of the whole place is an interactive table that enables visitors to access digitized material from the Churchill archives. If you are like me and a huge history nerd, this is one of the best attractions in the city. I highly, highly encourage you to visit. It’s worth the price! Admission is 29 GBP.

16. Relax in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens for some reprieve. Both parks, which are (conveniently for the visitor) right next to each other, are designated as Royal Parks of London. Hyde Park is the most famous park in London. Originally the private hunting grounds of Henry VII, it opened to the public in 1637 and is a great place to stroll, picnic, or catch one of the many events that are hosted here throughout the year. Kensington Gardens are home to the Serpentine Galleries as well as Kensington Palace. The park and the gardens cover almost 250 acres!

17. Take a Jack the Ripper tour

Jack the Ripper is one of London’s most infamous killers — and his true identity was never figured out. Every night, there are tons of people in the East End learning about Jack the Ripper on a ridiculous number of similar tours. The tour guides you through dark alleyways, stopping at historic locations connected with the infamous serial killer. Tickets cost 15 GBP .

For more information on other cities in England, check out these guides:

  • Bath Travel Guide
  • Brighton Travel Guide
  • Bristol Travel Guide
  • Cambridge Travel Guide
  • Liverpool Travel Guide
  • Manchester Travel Guide
  • Oxford Travel Guide

London Travel Costs

Street scene with people walking around under a sign for the Underground in London, England

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-8 beds costs 16-25 GBP per night while a bed in a dorm with 10-18 beds costs 13-16 GBP. A private room with a shared bathroom costs 50-90 GBP per night. If you want to stay closer to the center of the city expect to double these prices and expect prices to be at least 10 GBP higher in peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels offer free breakfast and self-catering facilities.

Budget hotel prices – A budget hotel room costs 70-100 GBP per night. Prices are higher in the center and in peak season. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and a coffee/tea maker.

There are lots of Airbnb options in London. A private room costs 45-60 GBP per night (80-100 GBP in the center), while an entire home/apartment starts around 90-150 GBP per night (more in high season).

Food – While British cuisine has evolved in leaps and bounds due to immigration (and colonialism), it’s still very much a meat and potatoes country. Fish and chips remain a popular staple for both lunch and dinner while roasted and stewed meats, sausages, meat pies, and the quintessential Yorkshire pudding are all common options as well. Curry (and other Indian dishes, such as tikka masala), are super popular too.

You can eat cheap in London if you stick to street eats and food vendors (plus many of the hostels have free breakfast). You can find fish and chips or a kebab for about 7 GBP each. Indian food can be purchased for between 8-10 GBP for lunch entrees. You can buy pizza for 8-12 GBP or burritos and sandwiches for 5-9 GBP. Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 13 GBP for a combo meal.

For a mid-range meal of traditional British cuisine at a pub or restaurant, expect to pay 14-16 GBP. A pint of beer can cost up to 6-8 GBP while a glass of wine costs around 7-10 GBP.

You can find tons of high-end dining in London, but be prepared to spend a lot. Expect to pay at least 30-35 GBP for a three-course menu with a drink in a mid-range restaurant and upwards of 70 GBP in a higher-range establishment.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 50-60 GBP. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, veggies, and some meat. The best places to buy cheap groceries are Lidl and Aldi, Sainsbury’s and Tesco are more mid-range, while Marks & Spencer and Waitrose are higher-end.

A great way to save money is to get the Taste Card. This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on tons of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have. You can only live on fish and chips for so long!

Backpacking London Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking London, expect to spend about 60 GBP per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, taking public transit, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free activities like parks, free walking tours, and museums. If you plan on drinking, add another 10 GBP to your daily budget.

A mid-range budget of 150 GBP per day covers staying in a private Airbnb room, eating out for most of your meals, having a drink or two, taking public transit and the occasional taxi, and doing some paid activities such as Tower Bridge or Westminster Abbey.

On a “luxury” budget of about 300 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever activities and tours you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

London Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world. But thanks to its free museums, cheap pubs, and numerous hostels, there are a lot of ways to cut your costs and save money here. Here are my top tips for saving money in London:

  • Visit all the free museums – Most of the museums in London are free, including the Museum of London, the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum. The National Gallery and the Tate Modern are also free and are two of my favorites.
  • Buy an Oyster Card – This prepaid transit card saves you about 50% on each tube, bus and tram ride. If you plan on using the tube a lot, get this card! You can get a refund for the balance left on the card at the end of your trip. If you aren’t charged international transaction fees and have a contactless credit or debit card, you can also use this for travel and the system automatically caps your travel so you never pay more than you would have if you had bought a travel card. Just make sure to tap in and out and the beginning and end of each ride to make sure you’re charged the right fare.
  • People watch at the markets – Sunday is market day in London, with Camden Market, the Portobello Market, the Flower Market, being some of the more popular options. People watch, snap some photos, and enjoy local London life without spending a dime.
  • Watch the changing of the guards – Both the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace (4 times a week) and the changing of the horse guards (daily) at Whitehall take place at 11am (10am at Whitehall on Sundays). Take in true British flare with these interesting and free ceremonies.
  • Just walk and explore – London is a huge city and beautiful, historic buildings abound. I once walked for four hours and barely made a dent in the route I was going to take (hence the need to get the Oyster Card.) However, once you get out of the tourist area around the Thames, you get to see London the way the locals do. You can pick up free maps of showing walking routes around the capital from any of London’s tourist information shops.
  • Snag last-minute theater tickets – You can get last-minute tickets to the theater from the official booth in Leicester Square. Availability varies every day, so be sure to get there early. And if you don’t want to shell out a lot of money to see The Lion King or Les Misérables , check out smaller shows and comedy nights at theaters like Leicester Square Theater, where prices start at about 17 GBP.
  • Skip the cabs – Taxis are incredibly expensive in London and can destroy your budget. I stayed out past when the tube closed one night and the taxi to my hotel was 31 GBP! If you start taking taxis everywhere, you’ll end up spending hundreds of dollars per day, so keep this in mind.
  • Master the night bus – In London, the tube closes around 12:30am (the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines do run all night on Friday and Saturday nights). To avoid taking expensive taxis, make sure you get a map of the night bus routes so you can get back to your hotel/hostel on the cheap. These buses go all over the city and into the suburbs.
  • Take a free walking tour – London, like most big cities in Europe, has a wide array of free walking tours given throughout the city. For a historical view of the city, try New Europe , and for off-the-beaten-path tours, try Free Tours by Foot .
  • Get the Taste Card – This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on thousands of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have.
  • Get the London Pass – If you get the London Pass, you can enjoy access to over 80 London attractions, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. A one-day pass is 89 GBP, a two-day pass is 115 GBP, and a three-day pass is 135 GBP. You can get all the way up to a ten-day pass for 199 GBP although they often have deals on giving discounts to this. This pass makes for good savings if you’re planning on doing a ton of sightseeing! Other passes available include the London City Pass from Turbopass which includes an option to add transport costs, and the London Sightseeing Pass.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in London

While the city may be expensive, its popularity means there are lots of hostels here. I’ve stayed at dozens of hostels over the years. Here are some of my favorites:

  • Astor Hyde Park
  • St. Christopher’s
  • Clink261 Hostel
  • Generator London
  • Onefam Notting Hill

For more hostel suggestions be sure to check out my list of the best hostels in London.

How to Get Around London

People walking around on the waterfront of the River Thames with London's iconic skyscrapers in the background

Public transportation – London has excellent public transportation and is the cheapest way to get around. A one-way fare on the tube in Zone 1 costs 6.30 GBP, but getting a Visitor Oyster Card reduces tariffs to 2.50 GBP per ride. No matter how many trips you take per day, your Oyster Card caps your travel at 7.70 GBP for travel in Zones 1 and 2. This is applicable across all public transit, including buses and trams, saving you a ton of money.

The Visitor Oyster Card costs 5 GBP, and then you choose how much credit to add to your card. Remember that you can get back any remaining balance at the end of your trip.

The bus system in London also uses the Oyster Card and costs 1.65 GBP per ride. However, a day of unlimited bus- and tram-only travel costs a maximum of 4.95 GBP. Buses do not accept cash; you must use either an Oyster card, a Travelcard, or your own contactless payment card.

The tram system in London works the same way as the bus system, with rides costing the same.

Bicycle – London’s public bike-sharing program is Santander Cycles. With 750 docking stations and 11,500 bikes, they’re available all over the city. Renting a bike costs 1.65 GBP for up to half an hour and 1.65 GBP for each additional 30 minutes, though you can always dock a bike and take out another one to restart the free timer.

Keep in mind, however, that London isn’t a super bike-friendly city, especially if you’re used to biking with cars driving on the other side of the road!

Taxis – Taxis are readily available, with prices starting at 3.80 GBP and going up around 3 GBP per mile (the tariff is more expensive at night). Given how expensive they are, I wouldn’t take one unless absolutely necessary.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in London but it still costs an arm and a leg if you use it a lot. Stick to public transportation.

Car rental – Cars can be rented for 20-30 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. However, traffic is terrible in the city so I wouldn’t rent a car here unless you are heading out on some day trips. Remember that driving is on the left and that most cars have manual transmissions. There’s also a 15 GBP daily Congestion Charge for driving in the center (7am-6pm Mon-Fri and noon-6pm Sat/Sun/public holidays) and parking is expensive too. Drivers need to be 21 to rent a car as well.

When to Go to London

London doesn’t get too cold, but it’s notoriously foggy and rainy. Summer is peak tourism season, and temperatures are the warmest during this time — but rarely are they ever above 30°C (86°F ). London is bursting at the seams during the summer, but the city has a fun, lively atmosphere. People make the most of the warm weather and there are constantly tons of events and festivals happening.

Spring (late March-June) and autumn (September-October) are also fantastic times to visit, as temperatures are mild and the city isn’t as packed.

Winter lasts from December to February, and tourism crowds thin out dramatically during this time. Temperatures can dip below 5°C (41°F), and prices are slightly lower as well. Expect grey weather and be sure to dress warmly.

Since it is frequently rainy here, pack a light rain jacket or an umbrella no matter when you visit.

How to Stay Safe in London

London is a safe city and the risk of violent crime here is low. Scams and pick-pocketing can occur around high-traffic areas, especially around tourist attractions like London Tower and on crowded public transit. Pick-pockets tend to work in teams, so stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach at all times just to be safe.

Solo travelers, including solo female travelers, should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Although there are no super seedy neighborhoods in London, avoid wandering around late at night alone — especially if you’ve had a pint or two. As an extra precaution, only bring the money you need when you go to the bar. Leave the rest of your cards and cash in your accommodation.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you do experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Thanks to a few high-profile terrorist attacks and riots across Europe (including London), I frequently get emails inquiring whether or not Europe is safe to visit. The short answer: yes! I wrote a whole post about why Europe is safe to visit.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

London Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
  • Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
  • FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
  • Fat Tire Tours – For bike tours, use this company! They have fun, interactive tours led by expert local guides. You’ll get to see all the main sights without breaking the bank!
  • BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
  • Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of England.

London Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling England and continue planning your trip:

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in London

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

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London Travel Guide

Ah, London — home to world-class restaurants, an unparalleled music scene, fantastic hotels, and some seriously rich history. Plus, tea. Who could forget the tea? London is a beautiful city to visit, and with England's fantastic public transportation, it's a breeze to get from point A to point B. You could easily spend a week or more exploring all that each London neighborhood has to offer and still have things left over for your next visit.

With sites and cultural hubs like the National Portrait Gallery, Trafalgar Square, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Kensington Gardens, and all manner of food, drink, shopping, history, and culture, it's no wonder why the 'Big Smoke' is a top travel destination.

Greenwich Mean Time during the winter, British Summer Time during the rest of the year (starting at Daylight Saving Time).

Best Time to Go

England experiences relatively mild and somewhat rainy weather year-round, and when you should go depends on what you'd most like to experience. Spring, summer, and fall allow for taking in the parks and getting the most out of how walkable London is, while winter is beautiful and festive for those looking to get their fill of Christmas markets and traditional cheer.

Things to Know

London is filled with neighborhoods brimming with great things to do, and England's exceptional public transportation makes it simple and stress-free to travel between them.

Londoners, and English people in general, have a much different manner of interacting with one another than Americans do. While an American might think nothing of smiling at a stranger they pass on the sidewalk or asking about work in the first few minutes of a conversation, etiquette in London errs on the more private, respectful, and more distant. Don't mistake this for aloofness or consider those you meet unfriendly; it's just a difference in cultural norms. Instead, talk about things like movies, TV shows, books, your travels, and the like, instead of work or family.

A fun and somewhat reassuring fact is that London has much better takeaway sandwiches than the U.S. If your day is too packed to have a sit-down lunch, a sandwich from a chain will be legitimately delicious. Most importantly, almost all British museums are free , meaning anyone can wander to their heart's content, no matter their budget.

How to Get Around

Getting around London is unbelievably easy thanks to the well-maintained and extensive Underground (also known as the Tube). Tickets for riding the Underground, unlike American transportation systems, which often pay per ride or per trip length, are paid in zones. Fare also varies based on the time of day and the method you use to pay. It's worth getting an Oyster card — the Underground's MetroCard or SmarTrip Card — to simplify your vacation.

There are 11 Underground lines servicing all nine zones. Maps of these zones are in every Tube station. Most of the popular sites in London are in Zone 1, which covers central London. The Tube runs daily from 5 am to midnight and with reduced hours on Sunday. Some late-night services are available on the weekend, but generally, you'll want to be prepared to take one of the easily-found London taxis or use a rideshare app if you're out and about after midnight.

Best Hotels

Address: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ, United Kingdom Phone:+44 20 7836 4343 Book Now

The only luxury hotel on the River Thames, The Savoy is a five-star experience known worldwide for its luxurious and beautiful accommodations. As the first hotel built for the purpose of being a luxe hotel in all of London, it has a rich and storied history; seeing its beautiful architecture and dramatic decor is worth doing even if you don't end up staying here.

The Connaught

Address: Carlos Place, Mayfair, London W1K 2AL, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7499 7070 Book Now

The Connaught has known a few names and owners over the course of its more than 200-year history, but its main throughline has always been luxury. Chef Hélène Darroze runs a restaurant with the distinction of two Michelin stars, and the bar was awarded Europe's Best in 2019. For a spectacular experience in the heart of London, The Connaught can't be beat.

Address: 27 Poultry, London EC2R 8AJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3828 2000 Book Now

Once an abandoned bank building, The Ned found new life in 2012 as a five-star luxury hotel. Outfitted in a style reminiscent of the 1920s and with ten restaurants under its roof, The Ned is an experience unto itself — much less a great retreat from your London adventure. In addition, The Ned features a spa with treatments from massages to vitamin IV drips. Trendier than other 5-star hotels but certainly with style, The Ned is a great choice for a young couple or friends traveling in style.

Chiltern Firehouse

Address: 1 Chiltern Street London W1U 7PA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7073 7676 Website

Originally a fire station, the Chiltern Firehouse is small and cozy. Each of the 26 rooms features at least one working fireplace and range from standard rooms to lofts and suites. The Chiltern Firehouse restaurant is a Michelin-starred eatery with seasonal offerings. A unique and domestic experience, the Chiltern Firehouse truly does feel like a home away from home.

Address: 15 Beeston Place, London SW1W 0JW, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7396 9000 Book Now

The Goring is a century-old, family-owned luxury hotel with 69 uniquely decorated rooms. Along the same road as Buckingham Palace, The Goring is the last word in having a truly royal stay. The Goring offers an excellent restaurant and bar and several packages that let you tailor your trip to exactly what makes you happiest.

11 Cadogan Gardens

Address: 11 Cadogan Gardens, London SW3 2RJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7730 7000 Book Now

Built in the late 19th century as four separate townhouses, 11 Cadogan Gardens has a resulting unique and eclectic interior of winding corridors and staircases. Located in upscale Chelsea, the hotel is within walking distance from Harrods, the Saatchi Gallery, Hyde Park, and many other can't-miss tourist spots.

Address: 252 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EN Phone: +44 20 7781 8888 Book Now

Near the British Museum and Covent Garden, the Rosewood is a centrally located luxury hotel boasting lush, classic decor. The five-star hotel has carefully renovated its Edwardian architecture, melding the historic and modern seamlessly. Enjoy contemporary afternoon tea modeled after the art of British sculptor Antony Gormley in the intimate Mirror Room, then step out into the bustling heart of London. During busy times there is a minimum stay required to book, so be sure to check early and often if you have your heart set on staying at the Rosewood.

The Lanesborough

Address: 2 Lanesborough Place SW 1, London, SW1X 7TA Phone: +44 20 7259 5599 Book Now

Once an elegant country house, The Lanesborough is now a five-star hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant, private spa and fitness club, cognac lounge, and award-winning afternoon tea service. With elegant and warm decor, The Lanesborough is an iconic and world-class option for travelers looking to stay somewhere in style.

Best Restaurants

Address: 593 High Road Leytonstone, Leytonstone, London E11 4PA Phone: +44 020 8281 4801 Website

Singburi is a gem of a Thai restaurant, beloved for its rotating menu of delicious and authentic curries, noodles, and seafood. Try something new here — don't stick to your usual takeout Pad Thai order (as delicious as Pad Thai is). A crispy omelette, like their delectable Kai Jeow (a crispy omelette with oysters), should do the trick.

Westerns Laundry

Address: 34 Drayton Park, Highbury East, London N5 1PB Phone: +44 020 7700 3700 Website

This beloved, sustainably-focused restaurant focuses on fresh seafood and small plates — and bread. So, so much bread, some of the best you'll ever eat. Stop in for a pastry or a sandwich, enjoy their small plates, or order a loaf of bread ahead of time to set yourself up with delicious breakfast for a week.

The Palomar

Address: 34 Rupert Street, Soho, London W1D 6DN, United Kingdom Phone: +44 020 7439 8777 Website

The Palomar is walking distance from Trafalgar Square and some of the most enjoyable museum-going in London, so chances are you'll have the opportunity to enjoy their modern-day Jerusalem menu in a beautiful, mosaic-scattered space. Try the octopus glazed with harissa oil or the Bayt al Maqdis Chicken just for the artichoke crisps.

Address: 51 Lamb's Conduit Street, Holborn, London WC1N 3NB, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7242 8963 Website

A seasonal wine bar with a classic British menu, this flashy restaurant puts the "British food is boring" rumor to rest. There's a wine for every dish, and more — their list is outstanding, and the bold and unique twists on classic British dishes make this a must-taste spot even for folks for which (gasp) wine isn't that exciting.

Address: Tea Building, 56 Shoreditch, High Street, Shoreditch, London E1 6JJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3011 5911 Website

Lunch is a la carte at Lyle's, meaning you have the opportunity to order and share a few dishes between yourself and your friends and get the best of all worlds. The dinner menu is set, offering a prix fixe three-course meal with a few options for your appetizer, entree, and dessert. The space is beautiful and minimalist — a calm, understated place to focus entirely on your incredible food.

Address: 39 Endell Street, West End, London WC2H 9BA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3422 0221 Website

A small, sustainable seafood restaurant in Covent Garden, Parsons has an unpretentious, always-fresh menu. Parsons has mastered the art of updating classic British flavors, like smoked eel, for the modern palette. Their fish pie is heavenly, and you'd be remiss not to enjoy a sticky toffee pudding if you've got room for it.

Black Axe Mangal

Address: 156 Canonbury Road, Highbury, London N1 2UP, United Kingdom Phone: No phone number, email only: [email protected] Website

What this Turkish restaurant lacks in size, it makes up for in personality — up to and including their occult buns (which are hot cross buns, but with pentacles on them). It's loud, but most importantly, it's fun: nothing about Black Axe Mangal takes itself too seriously, from the hard rock soundtrack to the delicious food. Edible glitter, tongue-in-cheek dish names, and an excellent beer list all make Black Axe a top spot for a good time.

Address: 40 Doric Way, Somers Town, London NW1 1LH, United Kingdom Phone: +44 020 4580 1282 Website

Roti King is in a basement — this is just something to know because otherwise, it might be a touch difficult to find. "Hidden gem" isn't a metaphor here: you're going to have some of the best Malaysian food you've had in some time, possibly ever. If you're having trouble finding the entrance, just look for the line; there's almost always at least a short one of people waiting for their chicken murtabak and char kuey teow.

Dishoom Shoreditch

Address: 7 Boundary Street, London, E2 7JE Phone: +44 020 7420 9324 Website

London restaurant recommendations wouldn't be complete without at least one Indian food recommendation, and to be fair, most places are going to be incredible. Dishoom is something special, though — its airy, Bombay-style decor, beautiful views from the veranda, and house recipes have earned it a dedicated following. As a reminder, chicken tikka masala is sweet in England, so if you want something savory, try a new dish — like gunpowder potatoes or the marsala prawns.

Things to Do

Tower of london & tower bridge.

Address: St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7403 3761 Website

The bridge most associated with London isn't actually the London Bridge, it's Tower Bridge — this is the bridge you almost certainly have in your mind's eye when imagining London. The Tower of London has an infamous reputation, but its history is even more interesting than most know. Tudor buffs will love tracing the steps of Queen Elizabeth I, and there are free tours given throughout the day.

St. Dunstan in the East

Address: St Dunstan's Hill, Billingsgate, London EC3R 5DD, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7374 4127 Website

Built in 1698, St. Dunstan in the East was once a church. It was firebombed during World War II, and the ruins were converted into a public park — certainly one of the most unique and beautiful. Though small, stepping into the park feels like stepping into another world. Bring a camera; you won't want to miss snapping shots of the ivy-covered ruins.

National Gallery

Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London WC2N 5DN, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7747 2885 Website

The National Gallery has one of the most incredible collections in the world, including pieces by Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, Rubens, Rembrandt, Cézanne, Monet, Van Gogh, and many, many more. Their 2,300-piece collection is frequently rotated, so be sure to see what sometimes-stored pieces are on display when you go.

St. James' Park

Address: London SW1A 2BJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 300 061 2350 Website

Not to be confused with the football (aka soccer) stadium in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, St. James' Park in London is one of its most famous, right alongside Buckingham Palace and perfect for a rest during a busy day of sightseeing. It is known for its waterfowl — ducks, specifically, but also a small flock of pelicans.

Address: Hyde Park has several entrances, convenient to the neighborhoods surrounding it. Phone: +44 300 061 2000 Website

Hyde Park is a massive 350 acres, nestled smack dab in the middle of London, and worth a day's focus all on its own. With events, historical monuments, walking tours, and gardens, it is a truly stunning and fun place to be. It's famous for its Speakers Corner, which has been a stage for free speech and debate since 1872.

Shakespeare's Globe Theater

Address: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7902 1400 Website

Shakespeare's Globe is a reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse for which Shakespeare wrote his plays, and his entire body of work is rotationally performed. The Globe's performances are heavily influenced by what is known historically as the experience of seeing them in Shakespeare's day, for an immersive experience impossible to find elsewhere.

Highgate Cemetery

Address: Swain's Ln, Highgate, London N6 6PJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 8340 1834 Website

Ghost-chasers and history buffs alike will love to walk around Highgate Cemetery, where 170,000 people are buried. It is also a nature reserve, and the entire grounds are lush, beautiful, and feel a bit out-of-time. Notable graves to pay your respects at include Douglas Adams, George Eliot, Karl Marx, Leslie Hutchinson, and many more.

Buckingham Palace

Address: Westminster, London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 303 123 7300 Website

In the heart of Westminster, Buckingham Palace is a beautiful and awesome (in the traditional sense of the word) piece of architecture and history. You can actually go inside the famed Buckingham Palace — tours of certain rooms in the palace are available.

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, South Bank, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7967 8021 Website

Also known as the Millennium Wheel, the London Eye is the best view of London — it was literally built to be exactly that, and its construction is known as an observation wheel, not a Ferris wheel. It's a touch expensive, but visited by millions of tourists for a reason: the view from the top is absolutely stunning.

St. Paul's Cathedral

Address: St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7246 8350 Website

One of the most recognizable sites in London, St. Paul's Cathedral dates from 1690 and still has most of its original stained glass. It's known for its extensive and stunning mosaics, soaring Gothic architecture, and large, beautiful Cathedral library.

Address: Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7219 4272 Website

Everyone's must-stop for a classic London Insta snap, the iconic clock is nearby to other points of interest and featured in most driving and walking tours. Tours of the tower itself are limited to UK residents.

British Museum

Address: Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7323 8299 Website

The British Museum differs from the National Gallery in that it is as much an anthropological museum as an art museum. Collections are organized by era and country of origin, and frequent exhibitions are curated around themes to explore human experiences across ages. Their total collection is estimated to be around 8 million pieces, with many taken out only for specific reasons, so it's worth seeing what special exhibitions are on display.

Westminster Abbey

Address: 20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7222 5152 Website

Even people for whom history is not necessarily a thrill, gothic Westminster Abbey is an overwhelming, stunning experience. Every coronation of an English monarch since 1066 has happened here, and the Abbey is the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth I, Elizabeth of York, Geoffrey Chaucer, The Unknown Warrior, and dozens of others. Westminster Abbey also pays homage to great poets, artists, and writers with a series of beautiful memorials.

Best Shopping

Covent garden.

Address: 14 James Street, London WC2E 8BU, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7420 5856 Website

Covent Garden is both a neighborhood and a famed market, first established in 1694. The center is the beautiful Piazza, where walking is made easier and more pleasant by the lack of cars. In addition to an array of unique shops, Covent Garden is home to the London Transport Museum, St. Paul's Cathedral, and several high-end restaurants.

Borough Market

Address: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7407 1002 Website

The motto of London markets is: if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Borough Market is large and primarily focused on food, and is one of the longest-running in the city. Officially established in the 19th century, there is one area that dates back to at least the 12th — so definitely buy yourself a sandwich and think how pleased your ancestors would be at your bounty.

Address: 107 Charing Cross Road, Soho, London WC2H 0DT, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7437 5660 Website

There are a few equally-convenient locations for the famed, enormous bookstore Foyles, but the flagship — and most impressive — store is in Soho, at Charing Cross. Even folks who wouldn't describe themselves as readers travel to visit Foyles for the sheer scale of it, including the gorgeous architecture and the vast collection of books.

Camden Market

Address: Camden Lock Place, London NW1 8AF, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3763 9900 Website

Camden Market was established in 1791 and has been charming London and travelers ever since. Near enough to Regent's Park and the London Zoo to walk, Camden Market is full of shops, cafes, nightlife, and live music.

Oxford Street

Address: From Tottenham Court Road to Marble Arch Website

Oxford Street is one of the busiest shopping areas in Europe, greeting about half a million visitors every day across its 300-plus shops. Whatever you're looking for, Oxford Street probably has it. Notable shops include Topshop, Dr. Martens, Flying Tiger, Muji, and Selfridges.

Regent Street

Address: From Piccadilly Circus to Park Crescent Website

Intersecting with Oxford Street is the equally impressive Regent Street, home to the flagship stores for Burberry, Kate Spade, Tory Burch, and more. Regent Street was built to be London's dedicated shopping street, a place for Londoners to get anything and everything they might need. There might be a few more now, but Regent Street is the original — and some might say the best.

Carnaby Street

Address: From Beak Street to Great Marlborough Street Website

The third in the shopping street trifecta is Carnaby Street. A few streets over from Regent Street, Carnaby is much shorter and largely fashion-focused, especially vintage shops specializing in threads from the '60s. Shorter doesn't mean less diverse, though — Carnaby Street is home to over 100 shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Seven Dials

Address: Center of St. Giles District Website

Seven Dials, sometimes considered part of Covent Garden, is truly unique: a circular road junction that has a slower, calmer pace than the rest of London. Seven Dials is named for the seven sundials at its center and is surrounded by about 90 shops and restaurants.

Neighborhoods to Know

Shoreditch : A trendy neighborhood chock full of vintage shops, cafes, art galleries, and clubs. The neighborhood skews young and boasts everything from artisan coffee shops and fine dining to chain restaurants. Wander around here for some of the best shopping in London.

Notting Hill : Yes, that Notting Hill. It's as charming as you imagine it to be. Famed for Portobello Road Market and the antiques and vintage stores that line it, Notting Hill is also home to high-end restaurants, the Ladbroke Square Garden, and some of the most charming and beautiful residential streets in London.

Covent Garden : Synonymous with the Covent Garden Market, this much-loved neighborhood is filled with odd little gems like tiny toy stores, bookstores, clothing boutiques, and more — plus an array of restaurants and eateries. Covent Garden is not a mall; it is, truly, a garden, and a lively and beautiful place to sit, have a coffee, and people-watch.

Camden : Also known as Camden Town, though no one really calls it that anymore. Home to Camden Market and the famed venue Electric Ballroom, it abuts The Regent with easy walking access to the London Zoo and a bit of a longer walk to Queen Mary's Rose Gardens.

Kings Cross : Not only a rail station but a neighborhood, too! Historic Kings Cross Station is a big draw, though, with a photo area for Platform 9 ¾ and a "Harry Potter" gift shop right nearby. Kings Cross was once heavily industrial but has been made over with gardens and small green sitting areas.

Soho : Lively, theater-dotted Soho in the West End is the place to go for nightlife of all stripes. Take in a show, go dancing, enjoy a late-night movie or dinner, or a few of the above. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in London, being an easy walk from Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery.

The West End : The West End is London's Broadway. But don't be fooled — it's not just international stagings of Broadway shows. The West End is a thriving theater scene with original work going up regularly.

On one hand, the weather in London does not tend to fluctuate between highs and lows, no matter the season. On the other, it rains in London — a lot. About nine to 10 days a month , on average. No matter when you go, pack some waterproof layers; odds are you'll be glad you brought them.

Spring: Spring in London, and England as a whole, is beautiful. London is a very green city, and spring brings the parks and gardens to blooming, fragrant life. Early spring can be a little chilly, but it might be worth going then to beat the tourist boom from late spring through summer.

Summer: Summer in England is mild and lovely, and London is no exception. Temperatures rarely climb above 75°F. For this reason, it is by far the most popular season for travel, and hotel and flight prices tend to reflect that — however, it's also inherently a bit more lively, with a lot going on.

Fall: Again, fall is temperate, with a little more rain than summer. If you want to beat the summer rush but still want warmer weather, you might want to wait until fall for your trip.

Winter: Winter can get cold, but not bitterly so; average temperatures rarely fall below 30°F. England is big on Christmas, and holiday markets and cheer abound. If you love the winter holidays, London might be a perfect choice for you — it's hard not to feel festive in the land of A Christmas Carol.

Apps to Download

London Tube Live : Up-to-date info on delays, updates, departure information, and routes. iOS | Android

The Pub Finder : Crowdsourced app for pubs and bars, including reviews and tips. iOS | Android

London Pass : Free interactive London guidebook. iOS | Android

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City of London

wiki travel london

  • 1.1 Tourist information centre
  • 2.1 From the airport
  • 2.2 By tube
  • 2.3 On foot
  • 2.4 By train
  • 2.5 By boat
  • 3 Get around
  • 4.1 Landmarks
  • 4.2 Churches, graveyards and open spaces
  • 4.3 Museums and galleries
  • 4.4 Other points of interest
  • 5.1 Bus tours
  • 7.2 Mid-range
  • 7.3 Splurge
  • 8.1.1 EC1 north east city
  • 8.1.2 EC2 north west city
  • 8.1.3 EC3 south west city
  • 8.1.4 EC4 south east city
  • 9.2 Mid-range
  • 9.3 Splurge
  • 11.1 Health

wiki travel london

The City of London , also known as the City , or the Square Mile (after its approximate size), is the area of London that originally lay within the ancient city walls. This independent part of Central London is known for its history and heritage, so is a must for anyone wishing to explore and understand London.

Understand [ edit ]

wiki travel london

Although greater London grew from this area, the official City of London itself has barely changed its borders in centuries and still follows the line of the old city walls to a great degree. The walls around the city, built by the Romans, have largely disappeared but several vestiges are still visible (notably outside the Museum of London; just near the Tower of London; and running part of the way down Noble Street) and various place names and streets hint at their prior existence. Locations such as Aldgate, Bishopsgate, Ludgate and Moorgate are the sites of old gates in the city walls.

wiki travel london

The City of London is not a London borough (laws applying to London must define the city as "all London boroughs and the City of London") and has an ancient and unusual local governance, with rights and privileges greater than those of anywhere else in the United Kingdom . The local authority is the City of London Corporation and the chief position is the Lord Mayor. Whilst the rest of London has the Metropolitan Police, the City of London has its own police force.

The City of London does not include Tower Bridge or the Tower of London (they are in the London borough of Tower Hamlets ), but Tower Bridge is owned and operated by the City Corporation. A number of bridges over the River Thames connect the City with Southwark and the two oldest of them, London Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge, are unusual in that the City of London's boundaries include the whole span of the bridge (the border otherwise runs along the middle of the Thames). Small statues of dragons (sometimes described as griffins), symbols of the City Corporation, mark the boundary of the City on several roads.

wiki travel london

The City is the world's leading centre of international finance. In British parlance, the City often refers to the financial sector, just as Americans might refer to Wall Street . This area contains 255 foreign banks, which is more than any other financial centre. It is also home to the Bank of England and houses other institutions such as Lloyd's and the London Stock Exchange. Every weekday approximately 300,000 workers come into the City to work in small and large business and financial institutions.

The City has a very small resident population of approximately 10,000 people. This means the City is very different on a weekend compared to a weekday.

Time your visit . The City is at its busiest during the week thanks to the large influx of workers. On the weekend the City is quieter with pockets of bustling activity – such as the areas around the Tower of London, Liverpool Street and St Paul’s, including the new shopping centre "One New Change" – and not all shops and restaurants are open. This means the weekend is a good time to visit if you want to walk at your own pace, admiring the architecture and character of the streets and buildings. You may also come across the filming of a TV advert, TV programme or even a film at this time.

Tourist information centre [ edit ]

  • 51.513029 -0.098893 1 City Information Centre , St. Paul's Churchyard, EC4M 8BX ( tube: St Paul's    CEN   ), ☏ +44 20 7332-1456 . F Sa 10AM-4PM, closed Su-Th .  

The City Information Centre is London's only official tourist information venue. It offers brochures, guides, tickets, maps and more for visitors to the City, and is staffed by a multilingual team. The City Corporation's 'Things to Do' pages also contain information for visitors, including lists of attractions, events, and walking tours.

Get in [ edit ]

wiki travel london

From the airport [ edit ]

  • Heathrow Airport is at the south-western end of the Piccadilly line. At Hammersmith station, you can change to the District line, which takes you to the City.
  • Gatwick Airport has a direct Thameslink service to Blackfriars. Alternatively there are Southern Rail services to London Victoria . Victoria station has District and Circle line connections to Monument station.
  • London City Airport is directly connected to Bank via the Docklands Light Railway (DLR).
  • London Stansted Airport is directly connected to London Liverpool Street station via the Stansted Express.

By tube [ edit ]

The City of London has many Tube stops and stations, all part of Zone 1.

On foot [ edit ]

The City's small and compact nature means travelling on foot is a great way to get around – most attractions are within a short walk of each other. Walking can also help you find many of the City's hidden gems as long as you deviate from the main roads and explore the many alleys and courtyards. The street pattern can be quite chaotic in some parts (being medieval and unplanned) and there are many fun shortcuts and routes that take you away from main roads. However, you can quite easily get lost and miss out interesting features if you're new to the City. Buy and bring a detailed map, or pick up a free one from the City Information Centre!

By train [ edit ]

All are also Tube stations except City Thameslink and Fenchurch Street.

  • 51.5116 -0.103 13 Blackfriars . (from Gatwick and Luton airports)  
  • c2c services to south Essex: Basildon , Southend-on-Sea , Tilbury and Shoeburyness.
  • c2c services to East London: East Ham, Barking and Upminster (though the TfL fare calculator suggests it's slightly cheaper to take the District line from Tower Hill for those destinations.)
  • Greater Anglia services to East England: Hertford , Norwich , Ipswich , Colchester , Chelmsford , Southend-on-Sea and Cambridge .
  • Elizabeth line offers a 6 tph service to Shenfield . As well as services to Heathrow Airport and Reading via London Paddington .
  • London Overground services to Chingford, Cheshunt and Enfield Town.

By boat [ edit ]

An increasingly popular way of travelling through London, by tourists and residents, is by boat on the Thames. The City has two piers from which regular services operate to and from:

Get around [ edit ]

Map

As with the rest of central London, the City is served by a dense network of underground lines and bus routes. The tube lines that run through the City are the Central, Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan and Northern Lines as well as the Docklands Light Railway. Bus route 15 has some of its route in the City. You can ride aboard a double-decker bus from the Tower of London, west to St Paul's Cathedral, and then down Ludgate Hill and Fleet Street towards the West End , where the route terminates at Trafalgar Square. This can be a very rewarding way to see the City, as the route passes a number of sites of interest. This service functions as a shorter version of the standard bus route 15 and the usual TfL fares are used on it.

However, since the City is only around a square mile in area, it is often quicker, easier and cheaper to walk. The Thames Path passes through the City, following the River Thames from the Temple in the west to the Tower of London in the east. A particularly unique way to get around the City is the City of London Pedway Scheme . In the years following the Blitz, several pedestrian walkways were routed around the City to help reduce the number of pedestrians making crossings at grade with cars (though often to the benefit of the car, rather than the pedestrian). While the scheme was ended in the 1980s, many of the Pedways remain and provide an interesting perspective on the City.

wiki travel london

See [ edit ]

The City sustained a great deal of damage from German bombing during the 'Blitz' of World War II, so there are far fewer older buildings than one might expect from so ancient a settlement. The Great Fire of London in 1666 also fairly comprehensively destroyed the City's medieval building stock. Nonetheless, many interesting older buildings remain, including the domed St. Paul's Cathedral (heroically saved by firefighters when it was bombed during the Second World War), 19th-century buildings at Leadenhall, Smithfield, and Spitalfields, the Gothic -style Guildhall, many monuments (including one built to remember the Great Fire of London), and the Temple Inns of Court. Remarkably, the City also retains its medieval street pattern, which you do not find so clearly preserved in other large British city centres. You will find many narrow streets, passages, alleys and courtyards between the main thoroughfares.

Landmarks [ edit ]

wiki travel london

  • 51.5143 -0.0889 1 Bank of England ( The Old Lady of Threadneedle Street ) ( tube: Bank    W&C     NOR     CEN   ). See also: Bank of England Museum .  

wiki travel london

Churches, graveyards and open spaces [ edit ]

wiki travel london

The City of London, considering its small size, has a huge number of churches in its area. Some, but by no means all, are listed below.

Museums and galleries [ edit ]

wiki travel london

Other points of interest [ edit ]

wiki travel london

Thanks to the City's association with banking and finance, the City offers some of the most fascinating modern architecture in London. A tour of London's financial institutions and markets is very worthwhile, even if you're not an investment banker. The bad news is that very few of the buildings are open to the public, although some do have "open weekends" at certain times of the year. The annual Open House Weekend – usually held on the third weekend in September, is when many of London's most famous buildings (including many of those in the City) are open for public tours.

  • 51.51836 -0.09293 30 Blitz Plaque , Fore St ( set in the wall of Roman House ). The first of tens of thousands of bombs to hit London in World War II fell here in 1940.  

wiki travel london

Do [ edit ]

  • Climb to the top of St Paul's Cathedral or The Monument to get excellent views over the financial heart of London.
  • Take the lift to the rooftop terrace at One New Change to have a view of St. Paul's Cathedral.
  • Barbican Architecture Tour ( starts at the Advance Ticket desk, Silk St entrance ). Tu 2PM; W 4PM; Th 7PM; Sa Su 2PM & 4PM . 90-minute tour of the beautifully ugly brutalist site. £10.50 .  
  • Digital Revolution , Barbican Centre , ☏ +44 20 7638-8891 . Th 11AM–11PM; F–W 11AM–8PM . An exhibition of digital art and creativity, including film, music and games, and the effect of technology on the arts. Runs until 14 September. £12.50 standard admission; £10.50 concessions; £8.50 students .  
  • The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier , Art Gallery ( Level three of the Barbican Centre ), ☏ +44 20 7638-8891 . Sa–W 10AM–6PM; Th–F 10AM–9PM . An exhibition devoted to the French couturier featuring over a hundred garments and costumes. Runs until 25 August. £14.50 standard admission; £12.50 concessions; £9 students .  

wiki travel london

  • London Walks . Consider going along on one of the many excellent guided tours of the City, often with an evocative theme for example ghosts or Jack the Ripper.  
  • Tower of London Ice Rink ( tube: Tower Hill    DIS     CIR   ). over the winter holiday .  
  • Walk the London Wall

Bus tours [ edit ]

  • London Night Tour , Departing from Coach stop 3, Bulleid Way ( tube: Victoria    DIS     CIR     VIC   ), ☏ +44 20 7630-2028 . £18 adult ticket .  
  • See London by Night , ☏ +44 20 7183-4744 , [email protected] . £15 adult ticket .  

Buy [ edit ]

wiki travel london

Although not known for the best shopping opportunities in London (these are securely held by the West End), the City nonetheless has an above average shopping offer, with plenty of high-street names and many smaller independent shops. Lunchtime hours can be very busy, as this is the time when workers shop in their thousands, so it's worth considering avoiding the crowds by visiting at a quieter time. Again, at weekends many outlets may be closed. A number of retail venues stand out:

wiki travel london

Places to buy food and any general household goods you may need:

  • 51.5205 -0.0975 5 Tesco Express , 131 Aldersgate St, EC1A 4JQ . Small, local branch of the supermarket  
  • 51.5153 -0.0971 6 Tesco Express , Unit 5, Cheapside, EC2V 6BJ . Small, local branch of the supermarket  
  • 51.5147 -0.0992 7 Sainsbury's Local , 10 Paternoster Square, EC4M 7DX . Small, local branch of the supermarket. In a pedestrian square near St. Paul's Cathedral.  

Eat [ edit ]

There are a great many bars, coffee houses, cafes, restaurants and pubs, mainly catering for City workers during the week (and therefore possibly closed at the weekend). Sit down restaurants in this district tend to be expensive and aimed towards business lunches. The vast number of take-away places though are reasonably priced. During the week (in good weather) you can find some outdoor eating areas in places, such as on Walbrook.

Budget [ edit ]

  • 51.511151 -0.07567 1 De Vine , 19 Vine St . ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.509642 -0.081238 2 Assenheims 56 , 19-21 Great Tower St . South American cuisine ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.511632 -0.075124 3 Lazio , 42-47 Minories . Italian cuisine ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.51448 -0.085068 4 Piada , 4 Adam's Ct, Old Broad St . Temporarily closed as of May 2022 ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.512043 -0.082449 5 Earls Sandwiches , 7 Cullum St . ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.519757 -0.084578 6 HOP Vietnamese , 2 Finsbury Avenue Square . M–F 11:30AM–3PM . Local chain with several branches in the City. £7–10 (Oct 2020) . ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.513241 -0.101473 7 Falafel House , 48 Carter Ln . ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.514987 -0.098571 8 Pilpel , 5 Queens Head Passage, Paternoster Row . A falafel restaurant. ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

  • 51.5188 -0.08017 9 Eataly London , 135 Bishopsgate, EC2M 3YD , ☏ +44 20 4538 0271 , [email protected] . M–F 7AM–11PM, Sa 9AM–11PM, Su 9AM–10PM . An Italian food hall and eatery opened in 2021 along the lines of the Turin original. It's east side of Liverpool St station. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.5176 -0.08 10 Polo Bar , 176 Bishopsgate, EC2M 4NQ ( tube: Liverpool Street    MET     CIR     H&C     CEN   ), ☏ +44 20 7283-4889 . 24H . An unpretentious cafe serving fried breakfasts and similar basic food 24 hr a day, and a great place for a late snack after you leave the Eat & Drink. Liverpool St is a safe area anyway but you cannot get safer than this for a late night meal, as at night you'll often see police from the nearby City of London police station. There are no toilets, however, so you need to use those at nearby Liverpool St Station. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.5146 -0.0929 12 Smiths of Smithfields , 67-77 Charterhouse Street, EC1M 6HJ ( tube: Farringdon    MET     CIR     H&C     ELI   ), ☏ +44 20 7251-7950 . M-F 7AM-4:45PM; Sa Su 9:30AM-4:45PM . Smiths of Smithfield is a Grade II listed four-floor restaurant serving great British food. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.5193 -0.1031 13 Comptoir Gascon , 63 Charterhouse St, EC1M 6HJ , ☏ +44 20 7608-0851 , [email protected] . Tu–Sa noon–2:30PM (bistro), 6:30PM–10PM (dinner) . Temporarily closed as of May 2022 . French restaurant and delicatessen.  
  • 51.5194 -0.1026 14 Smiths of Smithfield , 67-77 Charterhouse St, EC1M 6HJ , ☏ +44 20 7251-7950 . M–F noon–3PM 6PM–11PM; Sa 6PM–11PM . Grade II listed four-floor restaurant in Smithfield Market. Main meal from £16 .  
  • 51.5187 -0.093 15 Wood Street Bar and Restaurant , 53 Fore St, EC2Y 5EL , ☏ +44 20 7256-6990 . M–F 11AM–11:30PM; Sa closed; Su noon–5:30PM . Real ale, nice food and a relaxed atmosphere. £6–14 (£12.50 for cheese burger & chips) .  
  • 51.519 -0.1004 16 Apulia , 50 Long Lane, EC1A 9EJ , ☏ +44 20 7600-8107 . M–F noon–2:45PM 6PM–10:30PM; Sa 6PM–10:30PM . Italian restaurant. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.515 -0.1045 17 To A Tea , 14 Farringdon St, EC4A 4AB , ☏ +44 20 7248-3498 , [email protected] . M–F 7AM–7PM . Tearoom.  

Splurge [ edit ]

  • 51.518 -0.0793 18 Boisdale of Bishopsgate , Swedeland Court, 202 Bishopsgate, EC2M 4NR ( tube: Liverpool Street    MET     CIR     H&C     CEN   ), ☏ +44 20 7283-1763 , [email protected] . M-F . A rather grand Scottish restaurant which has jazz evenings and offers a cigar bar. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 51.516177 -0.080972 20 Duck and Waffle , Heron Tower, 110 Bishopgate, EC2N 4AY ( 2 min east of Liverpool St station ), ☏ +44 20 3640-7310 . Daily 24hr . All day dining on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower. Popular in the very late night for a bite after going out and waiting to watch the sunrise over the rest of London. Mains £20-50 .  
  • 51.51904 -0.08633 21 Angler , 3 South Place, EC2M 2AF ( on the rooftop of South Place Hotel ), ☏ +44 20 3215 1260 , [email protected] . W 6PM-9:30PM; Th F noon-2:30PM, 6PM-9:30PM; Sa noon-3PM, 6PM-9:30PM; Su noon-3PM . One Michelin-starred British seafood restaurant with views over the City. Tasting menu £100 / £170 with wine pairing. À la carte mains £24-£30 (April 2021) . ( updated May 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

If you're spending more than a few days in London, visiting the area at night (especially around 10PM-11PM) can provide a decidedly un-touristy atmosphere. You'll see part of London life that few people who do not live or work in the City experience, and if you have the confidence to introduce yourself you may even get into conversation with local workers out for a late drink – the area is enough off the tourist route that you will be something of a novelty. Thursday and Friday are naturally busier but at the same time a bit less friendly; earlier in the week is quieter and you have more chance of meeting locals just out for a drink.

Some pubs in the City are not open on Saturday or Sunday.

The City has some of the oldest traditional pubs in London, and a host of newer pubs and bars. This list is by no means exhaustive, but there are plenty of online guides available to search for somewhere specific to your tastes.

Pubs [ edit ]

Ec1 north east city [ edit ].

  • 51.51974 -0.10213 2 The Hope , 94 Cowcross St, London EC1M 6BH , ☏ +44 20 7253 8525 . 6AM-11PM . Grade II listed pub  
  • 51.5195 -0.0992 4 Old Red Cow , 71-72 Long Lane, EC1A 9EJ ( tube: Barbican    MET     CIR     H&C   ), ☏ +44 20 7726-2595 , [email protected] . M–Th noon–11PM; F–Sa noon-midnight; Su noon–10:30PM . Small pub that serves real ale and craft beer from both major and local breweries.  
  • 51.518 -0.0774 5 Eat & Drink , 11 Artillery Passage E1 7LJ ( tube: Liverpool Street    MET     CEN     CIR     H&C   ), ☏ +44 20 7377-8964 . M-F 'til 2AM . A small and fairly ordinary Chinese restaurant by day, this turns into a heaving karaoke bar in the evenings. One of the most reliable places near Liverpool St to get a drink after midnight! £3.40 small can lager .  

EC2 north west city [ edit ]

wiki travel london

  • 51.5181 -0.0798 6 Dirty Dick's , 202 Bishopsgate, EC2M 4NR ( tube: Liverpool Street    MET     CEN     CIR     H&C   ), ☏ +44 20 7283-5888 . M-Th 11AM-midnight, F Sa 11AM-1AM, Su 11AM-10:30PM . One of the better known pubs (although definitely no tourist trap) near Liverpool St, supposedly named after a Georgian dandy who let himself go on the death of his fiancée. £3.20 pint .  
  • 51.5169 -0.081 8 White Hart , 121 Bishopsgate, EC2M 3TL ( tube: Liverpool Street    MET     CEN     CIR     H&C   ). An unpretentious City pub, slightly cheaper than most. Unusually for the area, has a few tables outside where you can watch the world go by in summer or cower under a heat lamp while smoking in winter. £2.80 pint .  

EC3 south west city [ edit ]

wiki travel london

  • 51.50953 -0.08079 10 The Hung Drawn & Quartered , 26-27 Great Tower St, EC3R 5AQ ( tube: Tower Hill    CIR     DIS   ), ☏ +44 20 7626 6123 . noon-10PM . Fullers Pub ( updated Oct 2021 )
  • 51.5126 -0.0833 11 Lamb Tavern , 10-12 Leadenhall Market, EC3V 1LR ( tube: Bank    W&C     NOR     CEN   / Liverpool Street    MET     CEN     CIR     H&C   ), ☏ +44 20 7626-2454 . M-F 10AM-11PM . One of several pubs in Leadenhall Market where you can listen to insurance brokers from nearby Lloyd's talk business. £3.60 pint .  
  • 51.51107 -0.08476 12 The Ship , 11 Talbot Ct, EC3V 0BP ( tube: Monument    CIR     DIS   ), ☏ +44 20 7929 3903 . noon-10PM (closed Sa Su) . A Nicolson's pub rebuilt after it was burnt down during the fire of London. ( updated Oct 2021 )
  • 51.5144 -0.08 13 The Sterling , 30 Saint Mary Axe, EC3A 8BF ( The Gherkin, tube: Liverpool Street    MET     CEN     CIR     H&C   ), ☏ +44 20 7929-3641 , [email protected] . Daily 10AM–10PM . A central bar that resides in the heart of the Gherkin. Catch your breath from the bustle of the City and enjoy a bit of al fresco dining. Food and drink available. ( updated May 2021 )

EC4 south east city [ edit ]

wiki travel london

  • 51.5109 -0.08925 15 The Bolthole , 2a Suffolk Ln, EC4R 0AT , ☏ +44 20 7626 0996 . ( updated Mar 2021 )
  • 51.51226 -0.09273 17 The Sugar Loaf , 65 Cannon St, EC4N 5AA ( tube: Mansion House    DIS     CIR   ). Pub that is popular with City workers. You will often find a crowd spilling out into the adjacent pedestrian area, particularly on Tuesdays-Thursdays when workers tend to come into the office more.  

Bars [ edit ]

  • 51.51111 -0.07797 18 Savage Garden , Floor 12, 7 Pepys St, EC3N 4AF ( A top Double Tree by Hilton ), ☏ +44 20 7709 1044 . Cocktail bar with 360 views of London ( updated Mar 2021 )
  • 51.5176 -0.0938 19 El Vino , 3 Bastion Highwalk (125 London Wall), EC2Y 5AP ( along one of the raised walkways, not at ground level ), ☏ +44 20 7600-6377 . Wine bar.  
  • 51.5201 -0.1019 20 Vinoteca , 7 St John St, EC1M 4AA , ☏ +44 20 7253-8786 , [email protected] . M–Sa noon–11PM . Wine bar and shop.  

Clubs [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ].

  • 51.5256 -0.0829 1 The Hoxton, Shoreditch , 81 Great Eastern St ( tube: Old Street    NOR   ), ☏ +44 20 7550-1000 , [email protected] . 210 room hotel, with some cheaper "shoebox" rooms. From £60 web purchase . ( updated Dec 2017 )
  • 51.5131 -0.1004 2 YHA London St Paul's ( St Paul's Youth Hostel ), 36 Carter Ln, EC4V 5AB ( tube: St Paul's ), ☏ +44 8707 705764 , [email protected] . Small hostel converted from one of the City's oldest buildings. Cheap for Central London accommodation, range of room sizes, basic facilities. Dorm from £18.95 including breakfast. 6 rooms for 2 people and 3 singles .  
  • 51.5106 -0.0796 3 Apex City of London Hotel , 1 Seething Lane, EC3N 4AX , ☏ +44 131 441-0440 , [email protected] . Located in the City close to the Tower of London. 179 luxury bedrooms and suites, restaurant, bar and gym. Free fast speed Wi-fi. From £129 .  
  • 51.5139 -0.1089 4 Apex Temple Court Hotel , 1-2 Serjeants' Inn, Fleet Street, EC4Y 1LL , ☏ +44 131 441-0440 , [email protected] . 184 spacious luxury bedrooms and suites, bar, restaurant, executive lounge and gym. Free fast speed Wi-fi. From £151 .  
  • 51.5116 -0.0931 5 Queen Street St Paul's Apartments ( Citybase Apartments ), Queen Street, EC4R 1BR , ☏ +44 20 3701-4966 , [email protected] . These serviced apartments are situated in the centre of the City area of London, with Walbrook, Bank and Monument being a short walk away. The neighbouring streets are filled with cafes, restaurants and local shops, ensuring your stay is both enjoyable and convenient. From £120 .  
  • 51.516 -0.0881 6 Apex London Wall Hotel , 7-9 Copthall Avenue, EC2R 7NJ , ☏ +44 131 441-0440 , [email protected] . Close to the Bank of England and Liverpool Street Station. 89 luxury bedrooms and suites, bar, restaurant and gym. Free fast speed Wi-fi. From £151 .  
  • 51.5173 -0.0809 7 Andaz London Liverpool Street ( a concept by Hyatt ), 40 Liverpool St , ☏ +44 20 7961-1234 , fax : +44 20 7961-1235 , [email protected] . A concept casual luxury hotel. No two bedrooms the same. Features iPod rentals and 5 restaurants. From £120 .  
  • 51.5123 -0.0691 8 SACO Apartments – Aldgate , 99 Leman St , ☏ +44 20 7269-9930 , [email protected] . A grade II listed Victorian building. A great alternative to hotels for those travelling on business. From £120 .  
  • 51.5158 -0.0776 9 Travelodge London Liverpool St , 1 Harrow Pl ( tube: Liverpool Street    MET     CEN     CIR     H&C     ELI   ), ☏ +44 8719 846190 . £80 .  
  • 51.5102 -0.0767 10 CitizenM Tower of London , 40 Trinity Square EC3N 4DJ ( above tube: Tower Hill    CIR     DIS   ), ☏ +44 20 3519 4830 . Slick modern hotel, try for a room with a view of Tower of London. No dogs. B&B double £150 . ( updated Sep 2020 )
  • 51.5179 -0.1186 11 Citadines Holborn-Covent Garden London , 94-99 High Holborn, WC1V 6LF , ☏ +44 20 7395-8800 , fax : +44 20 7395-8799 , [email protected] . Located a short walk from Covent Garden. Each air-conditioned apartment houses a bathroom with a separate toilet, a separate kitchen area and Internet access. Daily rates starts from £209 .  
  • 51.5208 -0.1004 12 Malmaison London , Charterhouse Sq ( tube: Barbican    MET     CIR     H&C   or Farringdon    MET     CIR     H&C     ELI   ), ☏ +44 20 7012-3700 , [email protected] . Great location with attentive staff.  
  • 51.5122 -0.1046 13 Crowne Plaza London - The City , 19 New Bridge St, EC4V 6DB , ☏ +44 871-9429190 .  
  • 51.511306 -0.093845 14 Vintry & Mercer , 19-20 Garlick Hill, EC4V 2AU , ☏ +44 20 3908 8088 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: noon . ( updated Jul 2020 )

Connect [ edit ]

The City of London is covered by The City WiFi Network . Free and unlimited access for all users.

The Barbican also has WiFi.

Cope [ edit ]

Health [ edit ].

Visitors to the UK are entitled to free emergency treatment on the NHS. However, you may be charged for further hospital care, depending on the nature of the care and your country of origin. Check the NHS website if you need to know more. The nearest medical services are, in ascending order of severity:

  • 51.5185 -0.0882 2 Boots , 143 Moorgate, EC2M 6XQ , ☏ +44 20 7920-9347 . M–F 7AM–8PM; Sa Su closed .  
  • 51.5228 -0.0977 3 S Chauhan Chemist , 36 Goswell Road, EC1M 7AA , ☏ +44 20 7253-9691 . M–F 8AM–6PM; Sa Su closed .  
  • 51.5141 -0.0933 4 Boots , 104 Cheapside, EC2V 6DN , ☏ +44 20 7248-9340 . M–F 7AM–7PM; Sa 9AM–6PM; Su closed .  
  • 51.5037 -0.0871 5 Guy's Hospital Urgent Care Centre , Tabard Annexe, Great Maze Pond, SE1 9RT , ☏ +44 20 3049-8970 . M–Su 8AM–8PM (last patient arrival at 7PM) . For treatment of minor injuries like sprains, broken bones and bites.  
  • 51.5185 -0.0582 6 Royal London Hospital Accident & Emergency , Whitechapel, E1 1BB , ☏ +44 20 3416-5000 . For serious, life-threatening injuries.  

As anywhere in the UK, 999 is a multi-purpose emergency phone number. See United_Kingdom#Connect for additional numbers.

Go next [ edit ]

Go south, crossing the River Thames via the Millennium Bridge, to access the central part of South Bank , home to the Tate Modern gallery and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. Or head west down Fleet Street then Strand towards Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square or to Westminster , home of the British government and royal family.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to London – The Best Things To Do, See & Much More!

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to London – The Best Things To Do, See & Much More!

A Brief History of London

London fact file, getting there & around, top 10 neighborhoods to visit in london, top 10 london attractions, 10 unique & quirky things to do in london, top 10 green spaces & secret gardens in london  , top 10 best views in london, top 10 london shopping areas & markets, 15 london travel hacks, 10 fun facts about london, top 5 day trips from london, how to stay safe in london, maximize points.

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London: the heart and soul of the UK is a vibrant and eclectic city with plenty to offer every visitor. Historically important and culturally diverse, modern-day London is a hub of famous landmarks, iconic buildings, and innovative attractions on every level.

From the hipster heart of the East End to the tree-lined avenues in the West, London is a collection of unique and individual boroughs all pulling together to create one the greatest cities on Earth.

Whether you are visiting London for business or pleasure, you will always be made to feel at home. The tourist heart of theatre land in Shaftesbury Avenue and the shopping mecca of Oxford Street are always busy, always lively, and always the place to be.

But if you want to step away from the hustle and bustle, you’re never more than a few minutes away from inner city parks and open spaces. Eat lunch with the pigeons in Trafalgar Square or have a picnic with the penguins in London Zoo; London is a city for creatures from all walks of life.

Of course, while you are here, you must visit the Queen! Buckingham Palace is one the most iconic and revered royal buildings in the world, surrounded by a raft of equally important historical buildings that make London such a charming and fascinating destination.

The history of London stretches back as far as Roman times, when Londinium was established as a civilian town founded on the point of the river. As a strategic location that provided easy access to much of Europe , London was used as a base for many early conflicts.

Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the Saxons took over the founding city, where it flourished for centuries until they fell at the hands of the Vikings.

Fast forward several hundred years, and the London that we know and love today really started to take shape during the 16th and 17th Centuries. While the city suffered dramatic and devastating losses during the plague of 1665 and the Fire Of London in 1666, it was still able to rise from the ashes to become a bigger and more eminent capital for the Britons than ever before.

During Edwardian and Victorian times, London was (as it still is) very much at the heart of British royalty and Government. With 2 World Wars destroying parts of the city, the one thing that never disappeared was the determination and community spirit of residents, or their love for the city they call home.

With so much history before us, and as a world-leading city for innovation, London really is the undisputed capital of the world.

Hot Tip: Want to fly to London using the minimum amount of cash? If so, check out our in-depth guide on the best ways to fly to London using points and miles!

Every borough of London has its own distinct character and ambiance. From the curry houses of Brick Lane to the Victorian terraces of Chelsea, London is a collection of suburban villages that together create one of the most interesting and eclectic cities in the world.

Wherever you find yourself in the city, some facts remain the same.

Here a few useful factoids about the city as a whole:

Population:  8.6 million

Area: 610 sq miles (1,584 sq km)

Official Language: English

Other languages spoken:  Throughout the city there are as many as 250 different languages spoken by residents of all the different boroughs.

Official Religion: London, as with the rest of the UK is a Christian (Church Of England)/Anglican province.

Current Prime Minister : Teresa May (Conservatives)

Time Zone:  GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) applies from late October through until March. When the clocks are adjusted after daylight saving time, the UK joins British Summer Time (BST), which is GMT + 1

Currency:  Pound Sterling – GBP – £

Country Dialing Code Prefix: +44

Emergency Numbers: Dial 999 and ask for the service your require (police, fire service, or ambulance)

Open space: 33 percent (including regional, district, and local parks)

Black Cabs: 21,000

Pubs: 7,000

Nature reserves:  144

Westminster Station

Getting There

The city of London is easily accessible by land or air, and it is just as easy to make your way around once you get here.

Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton airports are all important transportation hubs, both for the UK/Europe and the rest of the world in general. With direct flights from over 190 destinations and over 650 flights a day from Heathrow alone, London airports are some of the busiest and best in the world.

London City Airport is just a few miles east of the commercial center of the city, and is well-placed to service the needs of business travelers, as well as tourists and holiday makers from certain countries.

When you land in the UK, all of the airports offer fast and efficient access to the West End and the city of London via road or rail.

From Heathrow

Heathrow Terminal 3 offers direct rail service to London Victoria Station. Trains run approximately every hour and the journey time is around 50 minutes. You can pick up one-way tickets from as little as £25.00, depending on the time of travel.

The Heathrow Express runs between London Paddington and all 4 Heathrow terminals. Trains run from just before 6:00am to 11:00pm (approx) and costs from £22.00 for a 15-minute journey.

If you find yourself turned around at the airport, use this guide for navigating between terminals at LHR .

You can jump on a National Express Coach from Heathrow Airport Central Bus Station for a 50-minute journey into London Victoria for as little as £5 per journey. Coaches run around the clock.

From Gatwick

Trains run from Gatwick Airport Mainline Station to London Victoria every 30 minutes and cost from around £16.00 for the 30-minute journey. Alternatively, you can travel from Gatwick to London Victoria on the dedicated Gatwick Express service from £14.00 one-way for a 30-minute journey.

You can catch a National Express Coach from Gatwick Airport Bus Station for the 90-minute journey into London Victoria for as little as £10 per trip. Coaches run around the clock.

Thameslink Trains run regular services from Luton to London Victoria throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 1 hour, and prices start at £20.00 one-way.

National Express Coaches run from Luton Airport to London Victoria regularly throughout the day, with prices from just £5 one-way for a 40-minute journey.

From Stansted

Stansted Express trains run regularly from Stansted to London Liverpool Street throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes, and prices start from £10.00 one-way.

National Express Coaches run from Stansted Airport to London Victoria regularly throughout the day, with prices from just £5 one-way for a 40 minute journey.

Getting Around

London is home the world-famous London Underground system spanning the central and greater metro area. The Underground (also known as the “Tube”) is one the most efficient public transport systems in the world.

First built in 1863 to service 6 intermediate stations between Paddington and Farringdon, the network now covers over 402km using 11 separate lines and stops at 270 stations.

The colored lines and easy-to-read maps make traveling on the Tube simple. Transport for London offers full details of timetables, ticket prices, and station information at www.tfl.gov.uk

The London bus network is equally famous the world over, with its iconic red rear-entrance Routemaster double-decker buses delivering passengers throughout the city day and night.

Buses have been used on the streets of London since 1829, and although the iconic Routemaster has been retired from service on all but one route, the London bus network still undertakes over 4.4 billion journeys every year.

The night bus is also available to carry weary partygoers back home all night long. Again, Transport for London offers full details of timetables, ticket prices, and station information at www.tfl.gov.uk.

Black cabs are a familiar sight on the streets of London, and they are an integral part of the capitol’s culture and community. Black cabs can be hailed on sight from anywhere in the city, and their drivers are legendary for having friendly personalities and extensive general knowledge.

Alternatively, you can call up an Uber and book where you want to go and when by using the app on your smartphone.

Cabs, Ubers , and other private hire vehicles will accept most forms of payment, including cash, credit, or debit card. Most taxis can also be pre-booked using any form of electronic payment.

The London Underground and London buses, however, are accessed using a pre-payment Oyster Card that can be purchased during your stay and topped up as necessary. You can also use a contactless credit or debit card on the Underground system.

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to use a card abroad that’ll earn you lots of valuable points – such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card which earns you 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x points on dining, and 2x points on all other travel purchases . This is our #1 recommended card. But – at the very least, do make sure you’re using a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees!  

Covent Garden

It’s true what they say: a man could truly lose himself in London. To ensure that you don’t, here are some of the most interesting, unusual, and downright delightful neighborhoods in London that you should definitely visit while you are there.

1. The West End, Soho, and Covent Garden

The West End of London is the beating, bustling heart of the capitol with something to see and do on every corner. Enjoy a little retail therapy in the famous shops and boutiques of Oxford Street, or rest a while in one of the many first-class restaurants or bars dotted throughout the area.

Step back from the main road to explore the avenues behind, and you will find yourself in the energetic and eclectic streets of Soho. Take in a show on Shaftesbury Avenue, or stop to see the famous digital advertising boards at Piccadilly Circus.

The West End also encompasses the wonderful Covent Garden with the Royal Opera House, Italianate piazza, and streets packed with designer boutiques and high-end bars and restaurants. The West End has some of the most iconic landmarks in London, and you can access the area from a choice of tube stations including Oxford Circus, Covent Garden, and Piccadilly Circus.

Where to stay:

  • Raddison Blu
  • St Giles Hotel

Where to eat:

  • Heliot Steak House

If you like cool music, people, and fashion, Camden has you covered. You won’t find a more diverse, warm, or energetic part of London anywhere else. Camden may be famous for its younger vibe, but it’s perfect for anyone who is young at heart. Chock full uber-cool bars, restaurants, and funky little shops, Camden is at the heart of the live music scene in London —  you can catch every kind of band here.

To really enjoy Camden, take the time to wander the streets and be sure to look in all the shops (even the strange ones!), as everybody is lovely and welcoming.

Undoubtedly its most famous attraction is Camden Market.  Eclectic to the max and offering a smorgasbord of unusual gifts and funky food stalls, it even has its fair share of well-known brands like Dr Martens, Shelleys, and other stores for you to peruse and enjoy.

Camden is also about the atmosphere. You can spend a day there without spending a penny as you watch the world go by. The best tube stations to use are Chalk Farm Road or Camden Town.

  • York & Albany
  • Holiday Inn
  • Andy’s Greek Taverna
  • The Blues Kitchen
  • Rossopomodoro

3. Shoreditch & Spitalfields

Things don’t get much more hip and trendy than they do in Shoreditch. Eye-wateringly cool and oozing with fantastic little pop-up bars plus some of the best cafes and restaurants in London, Shoreditch is a hit with hipsters of all ages.

The music scene in the area is on top of its game, and you can catch anything from a country music shindig to an electropop extravaganza in its East End streets.

Spitalfields Market on a Sunday offers cutting-edge fashion, interiors, and original artworks as well as food. Meanwhile, the ultra-chic and ultra-cool Hoxton is just around the corner with its great selection of bars, boutiques, and eateries.

Shoreditch has been heavily regenerated in recent years and is now an area of innovation, experimentation, and super fresh ideas. If you are looking for something different during your stay in London, you will probably find it here. The best station to use is probably Old Street, although Liverpool Street station is only 5 minutes away.

  • Z Shoreditch
  • The Clove Club

While not on many visitors’ itineraries, Peckham is well worth a visit as it is slowly becoming the Camden of the South. Trendy cafes, art studios, and pop-up bars are appearing everywhere…and the locals don’t seem to mind one bit. If it’s a bit of traditional London you’re after, Peckham has that too, with plenty of pie ‘n’ mash shops, traditional pubs, and the odd market here and there.

Visitors hoping to see Only Fools And Horses-related things will be disappointed, however. The show may have been set here, but it was filmed elsewhere entirely.

The secret of Peckhams’ success as an up-and-coming area is its diversity. All cultures meet here to share their combined love of the London vibe, making it an area that is packed full of music, food, fun, and parties.

Peckham is best reached by the overground rail network stopping at Peckham Rye Station.

  • The Victoria Inn
  • Peckham Rooms
  • Best Western
  • Peckham Bazaar
  • Peckham Refreshment Rooms
  • Begging Bowl

5. Notting Hill

World-renowned for its annual Caribbean Carnival, Notting Hill is also a mecca for those who like to browse unique boutique shops. Expect hefty price tags in some shops, though, as the area is awash with money, supermodels, film stars, and directors…such is its rating on the cool scale!

The world-famous Portobello Market is close by too, where you will find a universe of street foods, fashion, curiosities, and all sorts of things to grab your attention. Saturday is the best day to visit the market, as this is when the street stalls are out. Street food in London is second to none, and this market is the epicentre of culinary greatness in the capital.

If the weather is pleasant, take a wander from Notting Hill Gate to Portobello Road and check out the quirky backstreets and pretty front gardens of the beautiful terraced houses that date back to Victorian times. The best station for the area is Notting Hill Gate.

  • The Laslett
  • The Portobello Hotel
  • Notting Hill Gate Hotel
  • The Ledbury

6. Kensington and Chelsea

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea (to give it its proper title) is an affluent area to the west of the City of London. Bordering the Thames, the area has some lovely parks and conservation areas, as well as amazing views along the riverside.

If you like football, world-famous Chelsea FC play home games here in their enormous stadium, complete with its own 5-star hotel.

For everyone else, there are a myriad of designer shops, boutiques, super car showrooms, and beautiful people to be seen. Kensington is close enough to Harrods  (with over 330 departments and 1 million sq ft of shopping!) to be worth a visit, if only to see what being a millionaire could get you.

Dining in the area is a life-defining moment (as well as a wallet-busting one), but treat yourself at least once and you won’t forget it! The best tube stations are West Brompton or Fulham Broadway for Chelsea and High Street Kensington for Kensington.

  • The Bentley
  • The Five Fields
  • Launceston Place

There’s a reason Mayfair is the most expensive property on the Monopoly board. Take a wander around this exclusive area and you’ll soon see why. Mayfair contains some of the most expensive properties in London, usually with some of the most expensive cars parked out front.

Many of the world’s embassies are in Mayfair, and it can be a relaxing walk to tour the streets looking at the grand houses, hidden green spaces, and tranquil squares tucked away behind them. Hyde Park also borders the beautiful streets of Mayfair and is a stunning spot all year round.

Other local attractions include the Royal Academy of Arts and super-posh shopping strip Regents Street. As you might expect, food and drink are world-class in Mayfair, and your taste buds will thank you forever if you dine here. The best tube station to use for the area is Bond Street Station, just a short walk away.

  • Four Seasons
  • The Chesterfield
  • Ormer Mayfair
  • Le Gavroche

Colourful, lively, and vibrant are just some ways to describe Brixton. Here you’ll find the always-excellent market with its street foods and amazing stalls, plus a myriad of incredible smells coming out of the various Caribbean cafes and other food outlets. You’ll never not hear music coming from somewhere in Brixton, usually accompanied by laughter as Brixton residents are some of the friendliest people in London.

For gig lovers, there’s the famous Brixton Academy , which always has something cool going on, though you’ll have to book (usually very far) in advance. It’s worth just coming down for lunch if you have a busy day elsewhere, as this really is London’s finest kitchen!

When your belly is full, walk off those calories with a wander through the area and enjoy the amazing murals and artwork painted throughout the neighborhood. The nearest tube for Brixton is, usefully, Brixton, which sits at the end of the Victoria Line.

  • The Half Moon
  • Premier Inn
  • Gateway Hotel
  • Casa Morita

9. Greenwich

Britain invented time (sort of), and Greenwich is the place you can stand with one foot in the Eastern Hemisphere and one in the Western. It’s also the place to visit Greenwich Naval College and learn about Britain’s naval history, from it’s earliest beginnings to the modern day.

Be sure to see the Cutty Sark too. This beautiful tea clipper was once the fastest ship in the world, and she’s every bit as grand as you would expect her to be. Take a walk through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel, which runs underneath the Thames to Island Gardens on the North Shore…then take the DLR back if you don’t fancy the walk again.

Greenwich also has lots of shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants, as well as a theatre. Being a historic river town, it’s also handy for grabbing one of the many sightseeing boats that head upstream to Westminster and beyond.

The best station for Greenwich is Cutty Sark on the Docklands Light Railway line.

  • The Clarendon Hotel
  • Old Brewery
  • Elm Street Oyster House

10. Hampstead

Hampstead is a village within a town within a city. It’s a peaceful place surrounded by protected parkland, with a wonderful view down onto the London skyline below.

Hampstead Heath is the city’s largest ancient wetland and park. Take a walk through picturesque Swiss Cottage, which looks exactly as it should given the name.

Stop at any number of lovely almost-countryside pubs and eateries, or check out some of the local museums. Despite feeling like you’re in the depths of the English countryside, excellent transport links will whisk you back into the heart of London within minutes.

The best tube stations to use for the area are Swiss Cottage, Belsize Park, and Hampstead.

  • Ginger & White

London Eye

Hot Tip: There are lots of different hotel options in London including those you can book with points and boutique hotels .

London has more places to see and things to do than you could ever manage in just 1 visit. With this in mind, here are 10 of the top London attractions that you definitely should try to see on your trip.

Some of these attractions have specialized guided tours too so not only do you get to see the best of London, but you get a guide to tell you all the ins-and-outs along the way!

1. The Tower of London & Tower Bridge

The Tower of London is home to the Crown Jewels and is at the heart of much of Britain’s history. Guided tours start from £14.00 per person, and the Tower and visitor center is open from 9:00am–4:30pm almost all year round.

From the Tower you can see what is arguably the most famous bridge in the world. Opened in 1894, Tower Bridge is particularly impressive when it opens to let river traffic pass below. London Bridge walkways and visitor center are open daily and cost £8.70 per person. The nearest Tube station for both attractions is Tower Hill.

2. Buckingham Palace & the Changing of the Guard

Buckingham Palace is the London home of the British monarchy and a much loved tourist attraction. Visitors can tour the famous State Rooms from July to September, and the Changing of the Guard can be seen from 11:00-11:45am on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday from January to March, weather permitting.

For guided tours you can expect to pay £24 per adult (2018 prices), and the nearest tube stations are Victoria, St James Park, and Green Park.

3. The British Museum

Opened in 1753, the British Museum houses some of the world’s greatest treasures from throughout history. You can easily spend the whole day wandering the halls and still not see everything!

The 2001 renovation of the Great Court is also worth a visit. The museum is open daily and is totally free of charge, as are all museums in London. The nearest Tube station is Tottenham Court Road, about 500 meters away.

4. Big Ben & Parliament

The Palace of Westminster , which houses Parliament, was opened in its current form in 1870, although a palace has existed on the site since 1060. St Stephen’s Tower, home to the bell commonly known as Big Ben, sits at the eastern end of the palace. Various tours of the sprawling palace are available at various prices. The nearest tube station is Westminster.

5. Westminster Abbey

Opened in 1090, Westminster Abbey has hosted many royal weddings and funerals, so there are many Kings and Queens buried within the Abbey grounds. It is one of the most photogenic sites in London and sits right next to Westminster Palace. Open all year round, tickets cost £22 per adult (2018 prices). The nearest tube station is Westminster, which is a modern marvel in its own right.

6. The London Eye

For the best views of central London, take a trip on the London Eye . Opened in 2000, the giant ferris wheel will take you on a birds-eye tour of Westminster and the Thames over the course of 30 minutes. Tickets start at £25 and include entry into the 4D Cinema Experience.

The nearest tube station is Waterloo, although getting off at Westminster and walking over Westminster Bridge adds to the fun and affords some great views of the city too.

7. The Victoria & Albert Museum

Opened in 1852, the V&A Museum is one of the world’s largest (and best) collections of art, design pieces, and artifacts. It’s always worth checking out the website, as exhibitions and attractions change throughout the year. The museum is open daily and entry is free.

The nearest tube station is South Kensington, where the museum is just a short walk from the station through tree-lined avenues.

8. St Paul’s Cathedral

The original Cathedral was opened in 1300, although the one standing today was rebuilt and reopened in 1697. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world and has survived fires, plagues, and wars unscathed.

Visitors can tour this amazing feat of engineering, built by Sir Christopher Wren, and experience the delightful Whispering Gallery every day. Tickets start at £16 per adult (2018 prices), and the nearest tube station is St Paul’s.

9. Tate Britain & Tate Modern

The Tate Britain opened in 1897 and today houses a massive collection of British art dating back to Tudor times, including most of the works by Turner. Entry is free and the museum is open daily year-round. The nearest tube stations are Pimlico or Westminster.

The Tate Modern was opened by Queen Elizabeth in 2000. It houses the world’s largest collection of modern and contemporary art and always has special exhibitions going on. Entry is free and the gallery is open daily year-round. The nearest station is Blackfriars.

10. The London Dungeons

Opened in 1974, this horror- and history-themed attraction houses some gruesome and fun exhibits chronicling London’s sometimes-bloody past. Genuinely fun for all the family, it’s a must-see when visiting the capitol.

Tickets start at £21 per adult (2018 prices) and vary greatly depending on how much horror you can handle! The London Dungeons are open daily all year round. The nearest tube station is Waterloo.

Read our guide on the best museums in London for other attractions we recommend visiting.

Hot Tip: Don’t miss out on earning valuable points and miles when you’re abroad. If you don’t have long until your departure, you can always sign up for an instant approval credit card which will give you the card numbers instantly!

If you like your sightseeing to be a little bit off the beaten track, London has plenty of unique and unusual sights for you to see.

1. Dennis Severs House

The house is a time capsule of what a silk-weavers house would have looked like in the 18th century. Put together over many years, Dennis Severs House is a fascinating and detailed museum of early London life down to the finest detail. If you like historical recreations, the house is well worth a visit.

Open most days of the week, tickets start at £15 per adult. The house is on Folgate Street and the nearest tube is Liverpool Street or Shoreditch.

2. Clowns Gallery-Museum London

Located in a former church, the Clowns Gallery-Museum is all about everything to do with clowns, from galleries of clown faces where no 2 faces are like, to clown stained glass windows, and props and gags from throughout the ages. Rumor has it the best part of the exhibition is hidden in the basement, if you dare!

Open on the first Friday of every month, entry is free and the nearest station is Dalston Junction on the Overground.

3. Graffiti & Street Art Tour

If street art is your bag and Banksy is your boy, then this fascinating Graffiti and Street Art guided walking tour should be right up your alley. Kicking off in Shoreditch near Liverpool Street Station, this tour takes you to see some incredible pieces of graffiti and street art, with explanations and interesting facts thrown in along the way.

These tours take you deep into the heart of London, and even into areas that some Londoners may not know exist! The tour will take about 3 hours and cost you £15 per adult.

4. Jack the Ripper Tour of Whitechapel

Grizzly and gruesome, the Jack the Ripper Tour is dedicated to one of the world’s most famous serial killers. Taking you right into the heart of the East End where this prolific British murderer plied his trade, these tours are fascinating and frightening all at the same time. You’ll learn about the Ripper’s victims, his possible motives, and theories on who he was.

The tours meet every night at 7:00pm at Aldgate East tube station and cost £10 per person (2018 prices).

5. Hackney City Farm

An oasis of calm in the middle of the East End, Hackney City Farm is home to a wide variety of rescued and abandoned animals. There are always things going on at the Farm, from art classes to conservation programs and much more. If you have little explorers with you, it is the perfect place for them to get involved and learn about caring for animals and conservation on a wider scale.

Open every day except Mondays, entry is free but they do welcome donations. Hoxton and Cambridge Heath are the nearest tube stations.

6. Kayak on the Thames

Seeing London from the river is a great way to enjoy the many different sites the city has to offer. Take the plunge and kayak along the River Thames on one of many routes past Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and Little Venice. You can even do it at night.

These guided tours are safe and undertaken by a qualified instructor. Prices vary; for example, the Big Ben and Back tour starts at £39. Based near Battersea Bridge, the nearest station for the tours is Imperial Wharf on the Overground network.

7. Chislehurst Caves

Many visitors (and some Londoners too) don’t know that London actually has its very own underground cave network. Chislehurst Caves is a 22-mile long cave system that can be fully explored via a guided tour.

From London Bridge station, take the train to Chislehurst and the caves are just a short walk away. Open Wednesday to Sunday and every day during the school holidays, tours cost £6 per adult (2018 prices) and last about an hour. No booking required.

8. Stay Overnight in London Zoo

Want to see what goes on at London Zoo when everybody goes home? Now you can stay the night in a lodge and get an exclusive after-hours tour of the zoo, including dinner, breakfast, and 2 days of zoo entry. The lodges offer first class accommodation, and you will get the opportunity to see what really goes on behind the scenes at a world-class zoo and conservation center.

A stay at the Gir Lion Lodges at London Zoo costs from around £438 per lodge, based on 2 adults sharing and includes a host of extras. The nearest tube stations are Camden Town and Regents Park.

9. Lee Valley River Park

If you are feeling the need for an adrenaline rush, why not have a go at white water rafting on the very same course that was used for the London 2012 Olympics? Set within the glorious Lee Valley River Park on the northern edges of London, this massive venue hosts a myriad of outdoor activities, sporting events, and an impressive bar and restaurant to boot.

Tickets start at £50 per person (2018 prices) and are for those over 14 only. The park is open all day, every day. The nearest train station is Waltham Cross station, a 10-minute walk from the park.

10. Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Glide around London on your very own vintage Routemaster double-decker red bus, while sipping tea and eating cakes as you take in the sights and sounds of the city from your top deck vantage point. You can choose from an Afternoon Tea Bus Tour or a Gin and Jam Tour. Prices start at £45 per adult (2018 prices). The tours depart from various locations (see website for details) and are available year-round.

Primrose Hill London

London may be a densely populated city, but you are never more than a few minutes away from hidden gardens, open spaces, or a tranquil oasis perfect for a picnic lunch or a few minutes meditation.

Enjoy any one of these below, or maybe discover your own favorite space as you step away from the major tourist hotspots and explore the city at your own pace.

1. St Dunstan in the East

A stunning reminder of the strength of the city, St Dunstan in the East is the bombed out shell of this 900-year-old church. Now, it’s covered with trees, ivy, and has wall climbing flowers winding through its once grand arches. Tucked away behind the city, this hidden garden is a poignant testament to the destruction the city suffered at the hands of the Luftwaffe.

The garden is open from 8:00am-4:00pm daily, and the nearest tube station is Cannon Street.

2. Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park

Find your inner Zen in the Kyoto Gardens . The gardens were donated by the Chamber of Commerce of Kyoto in recognition of the Japan Festival held in London in 1992. This peaceful and serene “park within a park” is one of London’s most well known and frequented “secret” gardens.

The park is open daily from 7:30am until 30 minutes before dusk, and the nearest tube stations are Kensington High Street or Notting Hill Gate.

3. Culpeper Community Garden

Described as a “green oasis in the midst of streets, estates, and inner city bustle” the Culpeper Community Garden is a tranquil retreat for all to enjoy. Used as both a public park and an environmental community project, Culpepper Community Garden is managed by the people, for the people.

A true example of the community spirit of London, the park is open every day from 8:00am until 7:00pm. The nearest tube station is Angel.

4. Hampstead Hill Garden & Pergola

With its exotic flowers, overgrown vines, and faded grandeur, the Hampstead Pergola is both eerie and inspirational in equal parts. Formerly the home of Lord Leverhulme, the stunning raised gardens and the pergola itself are a delightful surprise set in the middle of Hampstead Heath.

The park is open daily from 8:45am until approximately 30 minutes before dusk, and the gardens are just a short walk from either Hampstead or Belsize Park stations.

5. Japanese Roof Garden

For some instant tranquility in the heart of the city, the Japanese-inspired roof garden at SOAS, University of London, provides a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of busy London streets. Perfect for a spot of relaxation and meditation, the garden is accessed via the first floor of the Brunei Gallery.

The gardens are usually open 10:30am-5:00pm Tuesday to Saturday, and the nearest tube station is High Street Kensington.

6. Richmond Park

The largest of the 8 Royal Parks in London and home to over 650 deer, Richmond Park is a beautiful and vast open space in an upmarket area of West London. Popular with cyclists, runners, dog walkers, and those looking to enjoy the splendor of it all, Richmond Park is a perfect example of the quintessential English parkland.

The park is open from 7:30am until dusk all year round, and the nearest station is Richmond.

7. Epping Forest

Forging a link between London and rural Essex, Epping Forest includes 2,400 hectares of forest and open spaces offering a variety of activities all year round. You can take a walk, try cycling, go fishing, visit Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, and explore the remains of 2 large Iron Age forts tucked within the forest grounds.

The park is open all day everyday, but the visitor centers and conservation centers are open from 8:00am-3:30pm daily. The nearest station is Epping Forest.

8. Walthamstow Wetlands

A recent addition to London’s vast selection of open spaces, the Walthamstow Wetlands conservation center just opened in 2017. Situated just 15 minutes from central London, the site offers 13 miles of footpaths and cycle tracks between 10 reservoirs, 8 islands, and London’s largest heronry. Despite being so close to the city, it has the feel of a rural English idyll…just smack dab in the middle of London.

The Wetlands are open to the public daily from dawn to dusk, and the nearest tube station is Walthamstow.

9. Hyde Park

Perhaps the most highly regarded of all of London’s parks and open spaces, Hyde Park is set right in the heart of the West End and is perfect for boating, tennis, horse riding, jogging, cycling, or just enjoying the beauty of it all. The park famously hosts festivals and live music year-round and is open daily from 5:00am until midnight.

The nearest stations are Marble Arch, Knightsbridge, or Green Park, depending on which of the park’s many entrances you’re heading for.

10. Regent’s Park

Still resplendent with all of its Victorian grandeur, Regent’s Park is the largest grass area for sports in Central London. There is plenty to do and see there, including: the famous Open Air Theatre, the extensive London Zoo, beautiful gardens, and even a boating lake. Opened to the public in 1835, it remains a perfect example of London’s love of green spaces and gardens.

Open daily from 5:00am until dusk. The nearest tube station is Regent’s Park.

The Shard

The London skyline is one the most famous in the world. With iconic modern architecture, industrial skyscrapers and historical spires all living comfortably together, London offers a whole world of opportunities above ground level.

If you are looking for the very best views of London, the sky is literally the limit. Try out some of these ideas for breathtaking vistas and unique aerial experiences.

1. The Sky Garden

Situated at 20 Fenchurch Street, The Sky Garden offers superb views across the city and beyond. The enlarged glass dome offers 3 stories of landscaped public gardens, observation decks, and an open-air terrace. Yes, gardens on top of a building — how amazing! You can book to eat and enjoy the views, or try your luck and turn up as a walk-in.

Open 10:00am-6:00pm Monday through Friday, and 11:00am-9:00pm on weekends. Bookings for free visits are released every Monday, and the nearest tube station is Monument.

2. One New Change

As a recently constructed retail development in the heart of the city, The Roof Terrace at One New Change overlooks St Paul’s Cathedral and offers further views out over the city. You can visit the roof for free from 6:00am-midnight every day, or enjoy cocktails and tapas in Madison restaurant and bar. You can even book a yoga class on the roof terrace, and different events are held all year round. The nearest tube station is St Paul’s.

3. The Monument

The Monument was built in 1677 to commemorate the Great Fire of London and celebrate the rebuilding of the city. It’s in an iconic piece of British architecture and provides outstanding views of London in all directions from a height of about 160 feet. Due to the limited space in the viewing gallery, a maximum of 33 people are allowed inside at any one time.

Tickets cost £4.50 per adult, and the gallery is open from 9:30am-5:30pm every day, except for the December 25-26. The nearest tube stop is Monument.

4. Primrose Hill

First appropriated by Henry VIII to extend parkland available to the poor for open-air recreation, Primrose Hill is still a beautiful spot for everyone. With rolling hills and vast open spaces, it is situated 63 meters above sea level and offers views as far away as Hampstead and beyond.

The park opens at 5:00am and closing times vary throughout the year. The nearest tube stations are Chalk Farm and Swiss Cottage.

5. The Shard

The building that revolutionized the London skyline, The Shard is Western Europe’s tallest building. This whopping 95-story skyscraper is one of the most recognized landmarks in London, and as you would imagine, the views from the Shard are pretty spectacular.

Offering panoramic views stretching for up to 40 miles in every direction, you can enjoy your visit with tickets starting from £29.00 per adult, or an additional £15 for a 45-minute guided tour. The Shard is open daily from 10:00am and closing times changes throughout the year. The nearest tube station is London Bridge.

6. Tower 42

Built on the site of the former NatWest Tower, Tower 42 is the third tallest skyscraper in the City of London. At the top and 600 feet above pavement level sits Vertigo 42, a champagne bar that offers some of the finest views out across the city.

You can book to enjoy champagne and tapas Monday to Saturday from noon until 2:15pm for lunch, and 5:00pm to 9:30pm for dinner. The restaurant is open until 11:00pm, and the nearest tube stations are Bank or Liverpool Street.

7. Heron Tower

Situated at 110 Bishopsgate, Heron Tower is a 230-meter skyscraper in the heart of the city. At the top are 2 highly-regarded eateries that both offer outstanding views of the city.

The Duck and Waffle is an unusual take on traditional British food and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Sushi Samba offers Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine from noon until 1:00am. The nearest tube station is Liverpool Street, but Heron Tower is also accessible from Bank.

8. Oxo Tower

You can enjoy fabulous views across the river from the 8th floor of the Oxo Tower if you book a table in the rather swanky Harvey Nichols Restaurant, Brasserie or Bar . The lower floors offer shops and galleries for you to explore, and the Tower is just a short walk from Southwark or Blackfriars tube stations. The restaurant is open from noon to 11:00pm daily.

9. St Paul’s Cathedral

Visiting the inside of the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral is a magical experience. Visitors can climb 259 steps up the dome to find The Whispering Gallery, which runs around the interior of the Dome, or go even higher to enjoy some of the most spectacular views over London from the Stone and Golden Galleries.

Admission costs £18 per adult and the Cathedral is open to the public from 8:30am-4:30pm Monday to Saturday. The nearest tube station is St Paul’s.

10. Emirates Air Line

The Emirates Air Line is a cable car link that will transport you across the River Thames offering exciting views over the capitol. If you’re feeling adventurous, you will enjoy this opportunity to see some of London’s most iconic spots from the air.

Tickets cost £10.50 per adult and the attraction is open from 7:00am-11:00pm in summer, and closes at 9:00pm in winter. The nearest tube station is Emirates Royal Docks on the DLR line.

From the designer boutiques of Bond Street to the cool and quirky stalls of Camden, London truly is a shopping mecca to suit all budgets.

Whether you are looking for designer handbag or antique table, you won’t struggle to find what you seek in London. Great shops, malls, and markets can be found throughout the city, but here are some of the best.

Camden Market

As eclectic as they come, Camden Market is home to secondhand clothing, furniture, and antique stalls, as well as fabulously funky food stalls, bars, and restaurants. The market is open from 10:00am daily and is just a 5-minute walk from either Camden Town or Chalk Farm stations.

Portobello Road Market

Portobello Road Market is the world’s largest antiques market, and it regularly features over 1,000 dealers selling every kind of antique and collectible you could ever imagine. From tiny trinkets to one-of-a-kind furnishings, Portobello Road Market has something for everyone. The Market is open every day except Sunday. Times vary and every day is dedicated to different types of stalls.

Borough Market

Borough Market is one of Britain’s finest food markets, offering fresh meat, fruit, vegetables, and delicacies from every corner of the earth. The market is held every day from 10:00am until 5:00pm (6:00pm on Fridays), although it only offers limited stalls on Mondays and Tuesdays. The nearest tube station is London Bridge Station.

Old Spitalfields Market

More of a collection of markets than just a single one, The Spitalfields Markets offer cutting-edge fashion and interiors, original artworks, and secondhand clothes and goods. There are plenty of great bars and places to eat too, so you can make a real day of your visit.

The covered Victorian hall markets are open from 10:00am-8:00pm daily, while the outside traders are there from 10:00am-5:00pm. The nearest station is Liverpool Street.

Covent Garden

Known for its beautiful architecture, open markets, and designer shops, Covent Garden is the perfect place for a bit of retail therapy. You can explore the shops in and around the Italian-style piazza, as well as the pedestrian streets surrounding it.

Most shops are open from 10:00am-7:00pm 6 days a week, and 11:00am-4:00pm on Sundays. The nearest tube station is Covent Garden.

Oxford Street

One of the most famous shopping destinations in Europe, Oxford Street offers plenty of famous brand shops and restaurants for you to enjoy. With flagship stores on almost every corner, you will not find a better selection of High Street goods anywhere in the UK. Most shops are open from 9:30am-9:30pm Monday to Saturday, and 11:30am-6:00pm on Sundays.

Carnaby Street

Once the epicenter of the swinging 60s, modern-day Carnaby Street still has plenty to offer with over 100 shops and 60 different places to eat and drink. Most shops are open from 10:00am-7:00pm Monday to Saturday, and 12:00pm-6:00pm on Sunday. The nearest tube is Oxford Circus.

The streets of Soho are jam-packed with independent fashion outlets, record stores, and vintage boutiques. Where quirky meets classy, Soho offers plenty of unusual shops, great restaurants, and late night bars and clubs.

Opening hours will vary depending on the shops you’re planning to visit, with many clubs and bars staying open until the early morning hours. The nearest tube stations are Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus.

Bond Street

Home to some of the most prestigious shops in the West End, Bond Street boasts one of the biggest and best concentrations of designer shops in the world. If your wallet is up to the task, most shops are open 9:30am-9:30pm Monday to Saturday, and 11:30am-6:00pm on Sundays. The nearest tube station is Bond Street.

National History Museum

A trip to London is a wonderful experience, but it can also be an expensive one. You can help to keeps costs down however, by learning a few simple budget-busting tricks from the locals. Here are just a few to get you started:

1. Skip the Tour Bus

Save money on expensive bus tours by purchasing an Oyster Card instead. At no more than £4.40 a day for unlimited bus travel, you can save yourself a fortune. Routes 11 and 453 are considered the best, as they pass some of the most iconic sites in London and still operate using iconic red Routemaster double deckers.

2. Clip at a Pace Along the Thames

Don’t waste money on expensive river boat cruises, clip along instead!  The Thames Clipper is a regular boat service that travels from Putney to Greenwich, taking in many of the city’s prime locations along the way for as little as £4 for a single ride.

3. Travel Outside of Peak

Unless you need to commute for business, travel outside the peak hours of 6:30am-9:30am and 4:00pm-7:00pm Monday to Friday. Transport systems are very busy and fares are more expensive at these times of day, so try to avoid them when possible.

4. Avoid the Stairs

The London Underground is just that, built a long way under the ground. When it’s busy and escalators are packed, don’t be tempted to take the stairs! Congested stations clear quickly enough, and you would be better waiting your turn than collapsing with exhaustion after climbing hundreds of steps to street level. Convent Garden and Russell Square stations are the worst stair offenders.

5. Know Your Exits

The London Underground platforms can get very busy. Native Londoners save time and energy by getting to know where to stand to quickly board and alight from their regular journeys. If you are a visitor, keep your eye out for groups of Londoners hovered around a space on the platform; this is where the doors will be when the train pulls into the station.

6. Skip the Express Trains

Most London airports offer a dedicated “Express” service into the city. The only thing that is different about them from regular public transport is the price! For example, the Heathrow Express charges £34 to take you into central London, but you could actually jump on the Piccadilly Line for less than a fiver…the journey takes about the same amount of time.

7. Group Buying Websites

The internet has given us many great things, and group buying sites are one of its greatest blessings. Sign up to find excellent discounts for eating out and entertaining yourself in the capitol. Restaurants, theaters, attractions, and many more companies often offer discounts via Wowcher , Groupon , and many more.

8. Cheap Nights Out

Nights out in London can be pricey. Drinks, cabs, and entrance fees can quickly add up. If you are feeling cheeky enough, take some pictures of yourselves, tag your preferred venue on Instagram or Twitter, and see if the promoters will offer you a free VIP table or discounted entrance. It might not work, but it is certainly worth a try!

9. Get Cultured for Free

London may have a reputation for being expensive, but there is actually quite a lot to see and do for free. Like most museums in the UK, the Natural History Museum , the British Museum , the National Gallery , and the Tate Modern are all free to enter. Great for your cultural growth, and somewhere warm to hide from the rain!

10. Walk, Don’t Tube

The tube is worth experiencing and some fares aren’t particularly expensive, but don’t be a slave to it. In Central London it can be just as quick to walk between Tube stations, with the average journey of 3 stops or under being equivalent to a 20-minute walk at most. Walking around helps you to save money and take in more of great sights as well.

11. Stay Outside of Zones 1-3

Central London is easily accessible from all zones. To save money, don’t pay central London hotel prices; find somewhere outside of Zone 3 instead. AirBnB  properties and hotel prices are always much, much cheaper outside of the central zones.

12. Free Personal Shopping

If London fashion has got you feeling frumpy, Top Shop at Knightsbridge and London Oxford Circus has your back! Book a personal shopping appointment and you can select anything from a 30-minute “perfect jeans” session to a complete 120-minute “wardrobe overhaul.” Fabulous, darling!

13. Snap up Bargain Theater Tickets

Theater tickets can be very expensive in London, but if you’re smart you can see the best shows for a fraction of the full ticket prices. It you are between 16-25, you may be lucky enough to pick up one of the limited numbers of £5 tickets available at Cambridge Theatre (see website for details). Alternatively, matinee tickets are often much cheaper than evening performances and can be picked up at the box office of many of the theaters in town.

14. Find Free Entertainment on the South Bank

The South Bank stretches 2 square miles along the southern bank of the Thames. Every day there is a wide variety of free entertainment to be found in and around the Southbank Centre . Free lunchtime concerts at the Royal Albert Hall , free poetry, festivals, street entertainers, and lots more can be found here, along with a brilliant atmosphere and fabulous views of the river.

15. Charlotte Street: One of London’s Best Kept Secrets

Charlotte Street is a hidden gem in the heart of London. In the swanky sounding area of Fitzrovia, you will find a wealth of restaurants, shops, and bars all tucked away from the main tourist areas. Undiscovered by many visitors, the area has a great vibe and is full of Londoners enjoying their hometown.

London is full of unique and often surprising secrets. As a city so rich in history, there are myths and urban legends that have lived on for centuries…and many of them are actual true stories handed down over the years. Here are some of our favorites.

1. Big Ben Is Just a Bell

As one of the most iconic landmarks in London, you may be surprised to hear that “Big Ben” is actually just a big bell. The clock face and the tower it is housed in was actually just called the Clock Tower until the structure was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to celebrate the Queen’s jubilee.

2. Great Ormond Street Owns Peter Pan

The Great Ormond Street Hospital actually owns the copyright to Peter Pan and receives royalties from all associated works and performances. Author J.M. Barrie gifted the rights to this children’s hospital in 1929, despite having no children of his own.

3. The City Has Plenty of Streets, But No Roads

No, that’s not a riddle. Up until as recently as 1994 there were no streets named “Road” in the City of London, and today there is still only 1: Goswell Road. There are plenty of “Lanes,” “Streets,” and “Ways”…but public paths weren’t generally referred to as roads until the 16th century.

4. Hidden Histories

Cleopatra’s Needle on the Embankment houses a time capsule hidden underneath the monument. It is said to contain a capsule from 1878 with cigars, a razor, a portrait of Queen Victoria, copies of 10 daily newspapers, and pictures of 12 “English beauties of the day.”

5. Abandoned Underground

Abandoned tube stations are the stuff of legends, making great film sets and venues for private parties. These include The Strand, Down Street, Brompton Road, and Mark Lane, which is now a pub.

6. Get the Knowledge

If you want to become a Black Cab driver in London you need to successfully master “The Knowledge.” To complete the test you must learn all 320 basic routes, all 25,000 streets, and about 20,000 landmarks and places of interest.

7. St Paul’s and the Pineapples

St Paul’s Cathedral nearly had a couple of stone pineapples placed on the top of the dome. Sir Christopher Wren saw them as “a symbol of peace, prosperity, and hospitality,” and he wanted them to be seen by the whole of London.

8. Pet Cemetery

Hyde Park is home to a hidden pet cemetery that is rarely open to the public. Dating back to the 1880s, the cemetery contains the remains of over 300 animals marked in graves with teeny tiny headstones. At certain times of the year, you can book a guided tour to visit this dark part of the park.

9. Keep Well in Westminster

Feeling a bit under the weather? You should probably give The Houses of Parliament a miss then. Ancient law decrees it illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament. This is thought to be because anyone who dies in a Royal Palace is eligible for a state funeral.

10. Back to Bedlam

The Bedlam asylum was one of the most popular tourist attractions of 18th century London. Visitors paid a penny to watch suffering, and entry was free on Tuesdays. Thankfully, there are now many more wonderful and politically correct things to see in the glorious city that is London.

Bath UK

If you’ve got a bit of extra time and fancy seeing a bit more of the country, here are 5 destinations you should consider within easy reach of London.

Bath is a historical city in the southwest of England. Famous for its stunning 18th-century architecture and natural hot springs, the city is surrounded by rolling English countryside. Visit the Roman baths, the majestic medieval abbey, or just spend time strolling through this beautiful British city. Perfect for a day away from London, you can reach the city of Bath by road or rail.

Trains run from London Paddington into Bath Spa station daily, and an off-peak adult ticket will cost you from £35.00 one-way for the 2-hour journey.

Stratford Upon Avon

As the birthplace of Shakespeare, Stratford Upon Avon is a world-famous market town in the county of Warwickshire. Take in a play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, take a barge along the Stratford Canal, or just spend your time enjoying the stunning medieval architecture that can be found throughout the town during your visit. Stratford Upon Avon can be reached by rail or road.

Trains to Stratford Upon Avon run from London Marylebone Station and the journey takes approximately 2 hours 10 minutes. Prices start from £30.00 for an off-peak adult single ticket.

The university town of Oxford is famous for its 38 colleges, medieval architecture, students on bicycles, and plenty of stunning buildings and dreaming spires. Modern-day Oxford still centers around university life and is truly a picture-perfect town to visit. You can reach Oxford by rail or road, and the town is the gateway to the glorious Cotswolds if you want to travel further.

Trains run from London Marylebone to Oxford daily, and you can pick up an off-peak adult single ticket for as little as £25.00. The journey time is just over 1 hour 30 minutes.

Sometimes referred to as “London On Sea,” Brighton is a lively, energetic, and eclectic seaside town in East Sussex. With beautiful beaches when the sun is shining and plenty of attractions to see if it’s not, Brighton makes for a great getaway from the city. Close enough to get there and back in a day, Brighton is easily reached by rail or road.

Trains run from with London Victoria or London Bridge stations and reach Brighton in just over an hour. Off-peak tickets cost as little £18.00 for a one-way journey.

Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour

Opened in 2012, the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour is a very popular tourist attraction based a short distance outside London. It can get very busy, and you will need to book well in advance…but once there you get to enjoy a fun-packed day exploring the set and scenery of the world-famous Harry Potter films.

Although the studio is only located about 20 miles from Central London, there is no direct rail route or nearby station. You can take the train from London Euston to Watford for around £23.00 one-way, and catch a shuttle bus from Watford Station to the attraction. Alternatively, you can book a pre-paid coach excursion from various pickup points around the city.

For the post part, transport networks in the UK are very good. With a bit of pre-planning, you should be able to make your way all around the country using public transportation without it costing you a fortune.

Booking tickets in advance and not traveling at peak times will help reduce ticket prices and guarantee you seats. If you want to plan your journey before you visit, The Train Line , National Express Coaches , and Transport For London all offer timetables, fares, and plenty of useful advice on how best to use their services.

Overall, London is a very fun, safe, and vibrant city to visit. But like all big cities, there are incidences of crime — and knowing how to protect yourself or who to call if the worst should happen is always important when visiting somewhere new.

Emergency Contacts in the UK

  • If you are the victim of a crime, are unwell, or need urgent assistance with a fire, call 999 or 112 to contact the police, ambulance, or fire department.
  • For non-urgent crimes or advice on whether you need to contact emergency services, you can dial 101 and an advisor will be able to assist you.
  • Information about any major incidents in the capitol will be found on the Met Police website , or follow them on Facebook or Twitter .

If you need travel information, updates of disrupted or canceled services can be found on the Transport for London website.

Keep Safe In The City

Common sense and an awareness of what is going on around you are always important in big crowds of people or densely populated areas.

To ensure you are not an easy target for pickpockets or would-be thieves, follow these simple rules:

  • Keep mobile phones, wallets , and purses safely tucked away, and never leave them in plain sight.
  • Keep your handbags or briefcases tucked away under your chair in bars and restaurants, or use a table clip if the venue provides one.
  • Never accept drinks from strangers — incidences of “spiking” are relatively low in the city, but it’s always best to be cautious

Visiting Public Places

  • Never leave your bags unattended. Apart from the potential risk of theft, unattended items often lead to unnecessary security alerts.
  • Always carry your wallet or purse close to you, and never carry too much cash around. Keep bags close to you in busy areas, and carry your backpack forward facing on your chest.
  • Mobile phones and other devices are incredibly tempting to thieves. Ensure that you always keep yours out of sight when not in use.
  • Before you travel, make a note of your electronic serial numbers (ESNs).
  • If you do lose your valuables, dial 101 for the nearest police station. You will need to make a full report with them as soon as possible. If you lose your card or it’s stolen and you don’t have a backup, consider an instant approval credit card that’ll show you your numbers and card details instantly online. That’ll allow you to make online purchases (travel purchases such as train/airline/hotel tickets etc) without waiting for the card to come.
  • If you are using an ATM, be sure that there is nobody looking over your shoulder as you enter your PIN.

At Your Hotel

  • Always keep your passports and other valuables in a locked room safe if one is available.
  • Keep a note of the address of your hotel and contact number with you at all times. If you get lost, you can use this to find your way back.

Traveling on Your Own

Always have a point of contact that you check in with during your stay, whether they are in the UK or another country. London is one of the safest cities in the world, but it is good to keep in touch with folks back home.

Although most areas of London do not pose any particular threats to single (or group) travelers, use your own common sense when walking around late at night. Stay on main roads and in well-lit areas.

Always Be Aware

Just as in any busy city, incidents can occur. To help stay safe during your stay, you can do some research before you visit. Watch the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s (NPCC) video with advice on what to do in the rare event of a firearms or weapons attack, and download the free CitizenAid app on Android or Apple, which gives advice on immediate actions in case of an incident.

It goes without saying that there are so many opportunities while traveling to earn lots of valuable points. The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card , for example, earns you 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x points on dining, and 2x points on all other travel purchases.

Don’t forget that the “travel” category is very broad and includes taxis, tours, parking meters, bus fare, and tube rides. There are also many other ways to earn Chase points.

Chase Ultimate Rewards are so valuable which is why we wrote up the best ways to use Ultimate Rewards points for incredible redemptions on both flights and hotel stays!

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The Ultimate City Guide to London

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest month to travel to london.

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world but if you travel out of peak season things will be a little cheaper. If you want to find a balance between good weather and being out of peak season, consider traveling to London in April, May, September, or October.

How much does a meal cost in London?

A typical main course meal without a drink in a restaurant or pub in London will cost around $13 to $16.

Is London safe?

Like most western cities, London is a safe place for tourists to visit. The usually rules still apply of being vigilant of pickpockets and scams, particularly in tourist areas.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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UK Travel Planning

London Travel Guide

London Travel Guide picture of Tower Bridge.

Welcome to our London Travel Guide . London is one of the most popular cities for visitors in the world. Every year an estimated 18 million people flock to sample the culture and history which make it so special.

Nearly 9 million people call London home and it is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world.

It is also where you will find some of the world’s most iconic buildings – Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London as well as 170 museums, numerous parks, restaurants and shops.

With so much to see and do what are you waiting for?

Below you will find links to all the information you need to plan your visit to London.

For general planning advice take a look at our UK travel planning page and guide to the best booking websites for UK travel.

Check out our new London Travel Planning website too which is totally dedicated to London!

LONDON PODCAST EPISODES

London travel guide – itineraries, london sights, landmarks & attractions, london with kids, london tours & tickets, london tips, london in winter, london in spring, getting around london, food & drink, where to stay in london, harry potter, london tv & movies, london sport, london events, day trips from london, beyond london, london packing, london travel books, when is the best time to visit london, how much time do i need in london, how can i get around london, how can i get from the airport to my hotel, how much money should i budget for london, what should i pack for london.

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If you are unsure about what to pack for your London trip I recommend including the following items.

You can find a detailed packing list (including a free printable) in this packing guide for London in winter or this all-seasons packing guide for the UK.

VISITING LONDON – FAQ’s

Below you will find the answers to frequently asked questions about planning your London trip.

London is busy pretty much all year round so deciding when to visit can be tricky if you are hoping to avoid the crowds!

London is particularly busy in July and August during the UK summer school holidays and again in December during the festive season.

To help you plan your visit to London read my guide to “When is the best time of year to visit the UK?” which looks at every season as well as detailing a month by month guide to events and festivals occurring throughout the year in London and the UK.

I recommend planning to spend at least 3 to 4 days in London to see some of the main sights and attractions.

Tip – If you are jet lagged on day one why not take a hop-on hop-off bus tour to get your bearings of the city.

Don’t underestimate how tiring visiting London can be especially if you pack a lot of attractions into a short period of time.

Public transportation is excellent in London with a choice of the Tube, buses, trains, riverboats, trams and even bicycles to get around.

The cheapest way to get around London is with an Oyster Card which allows you to travel between all parts of London using public transport.

Read more about London transportation in our guide.

There are various options to travel from Heathrow into London including the Tube, cab, bus or Heathrow Express train.

You can read more in our guide which details the various options including costs, time and availability.

Plan at least £120 per day per person in London. This will cover food, transportation, and accommodation costs. Consider the time of year that you plan to visit as prices for accommodation will be substantially higher during those times.

Whilst London is not a cheap city to visit there are ways to save money including purchasing an Oyster Card, visiting free attractions, and buying lunch from supermarkets. Read my guide to visiting London on a budget.

Pack layers! Even in winter it can be hot in shops and on the Tube so take clothes that you can layer off and on.

An absolute must are comfortable shoes. London is a walkable city so be prepared with sneakers or boots. Don’t wear heels!

Assume it will rain whatever time of year you are visiting and pack a waterproof.

Read more in my UK packing list.

> CLICK HERE FOR MY STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO PLANNING YOUR UK TRIP !

How to budget for your UK trip

What to budget

When to visit the UK 2

What to pack

Everything you need to know before you go to London

Jade Bremner

Sep 7, 2023 • 6 min read

wiki travel london

Make the most of your trip to London with these expert tips © Martin-DM / Getty Images

Even though I was born and raised in London, I’ve been caught out without a brolly (umbrella) in the rain countless times. I’ve felt the scorn of others when not noticing there’s a queue, and I’ve made the costly error of driving into the city. But as a local, I’ve made these mistakes so you don’t have to; I hope my experience and top tips help inspire a smooth and memorable trip to the UK capital.

1. Skip the car

London ’s roads are small, its traffic is chaotic, and there’s hardly anywhere to park. Plus, you’ll be charged for driving your car in to the center of London – the congestion charge is £15 a day, while the separate ULEZ charge starts from £12.50 and only certain energy efficient or electric cars are exempt. The best way to get around is on public transport. Use the Tube, hop on a bus, or rent a Santander bike if in the center of the city; cycle maps, highlighting designated paths for bikes, can be downloaded online.a 

A side view of a woman sitting on the London tube looking at her phone

2. Know your Tube etiquette

One easy way to annoy commuters is to not follow these very easy rules when traveling around on London’s Underground. Get your ticket, debit or credit card ready before you reach the ticket barriers so you don’t create a queue. Stand on the right when using escalators so passengers wanting to walk can pass. Let passengers off the train first (stand to either the right or left of the doors) before you board, and offer your seat to someone who may need it more, such as a pregnant person, an elderly person, someone who is disabled and so on.

3. Bring layers (and a raincoat)

London’s weather is changeable – temperatures have been known to rise and fall by 20°C in a matter of days. Showers can happen any time of year so pack a brolly (umbrella) or raincoat in your day bag and wear layers that you can easily take off. In summer, always carry a bottle of water on the Tube (the deep tunnels were built before air-conditioning). And while the climate may be mercurial, don’t let bad weather put you off going about your day – simply switch to more indoor-based activities, as there are hundreds of them to choose from.

A knee-down shot of a woman walking across London streets in black tennis shoes

4. Opt for comfort over fashion when it comes to shoes

Most people cover a lot of ground when exploring London, plus different terrains: grass in the many green spaces, long Tube escalators, slippery pavements and even cobblestones. Museums require leg work, as do bridges, boats and parks. Heels are pretty pointless in London, unless you are getting a door-to-door cab to a venue. 

5. Make reservations for top restaurants

While there are plenty of terrific places to eat that welcome walk-ins (although be prepared to queue for the best joints), many of the best restaurants are booked up weeks in advance, especially new ones or those run by celebrity chefs. More restaurants have adopted booking policies and deposits since the pandemic, so if you’re looking for a unique dining experience, book ahead.

6. Do as the Londoners do and go to a supper club

Embed yourself in London life with a dinner party with locals; a supper club is a superb way to try home-cooked local food from London’s diverse community. These are locally run endeavors, taking place in people’s homes or taking over whole restaurants – try The Bridge Club  serving British eats made with French cooking techniques in South London or Indian street food with Chaiiwala  in East London, run out of local chef Dhruv Mittal’s flat.

A group of friends at a pub laugh while holding pints of beer

7. Know how to order at a pub

There are unspoken rules when visiting a pub. One person – not a whole group – should go to the bar. Stand anywhere and wait your turn. If someone was waiting before you, it’s polite to signal for the bar staff to serve them first if they come over to you. When you go back to your table with the drinks, you just bought a ‘round.’ Now everyone at the table owes you a drink throughout the evening, each person has a turn at buying a round. Last orders are when the bell rings, and from this moment you have 20 minutes to finish your drink.

8. Go to a football game

Football rivalries run high in the city, with 17 football clubs, including seven Premier League teams and four Women’s Super League Teams. Giant temples to the Beautiful Game sit around London and are great places to feel the collective energy of the city, as locals congregate come rain or shine to watch their heroes on the field. You'll need to book tickets far in advance for Premier League Games, but women’s and lower league men’s games are easier to come by – and arguably far more fun to watch. Visit local team websites to book.

9. Be polite and embrace the art of queueing

Londoners (and British people alike) are big on manners, and not having any will get you into trouble. Say please and thank you, and apologize if you bump into someone. Don’t stare at people on the Tube, and hold the door open for people behind you when you walk through. Let people pass, and be sure to help people in need (people with buggies at the top of stairs, older people crossing the road etc). If there is a queue to the attraction you want to visit or a stall you want to buy from, join it – you’ll soon get into a confrontation if you skip the line. 

10. Make a plan, but don't go overboard

London is massive, so getting from one side to the other takes a couple of hours in a car (and that's if there is zero traffic). Riding the Tube is quicker, but journey times can still be long if attractions are on either side of the city. Minimize travel times by exploring by region – do a day in Central London, another day in North London and so on. Plan on spending at least a few hours in the big museums and galleries, as there is so much to see. Take many breaks, grab lunch at a cafe or pub and pause to take in the views. It’s easy to get carried away with the energetic pace of London, but sights are more enjoyable if you adopt a more leisurely approach.

11. Don’t leave your stuff lying around

Don’t leave your bags unattended at public venues like stations, buses, theaters or museums, as this is likely to cause alarm and your bag may be removed – or stolen. Only take around with you what you are able to carry for several hours. Luggage storage is generally rare in London, but hotels will likely store bags once you check out. Avoid carrying mobile phones in back pockets or where they can be easily swiped. 

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36 Hours in London

By Desiree Ibekwe Updated Dec. 22, 2022

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To the casual observer, London may present itself as a capital wedded to traditional and, at times, perplexing institutions, particularly over the past year, from the rotating cast of prime ministers to the choreographed schedule of mourning following Queen Elizabeth II’s death. In actuality, London is a complex knot of old and new. It is also an almost insurmountable task to try conquering the city in one weekend. This itinerary — which traverses an 1800s wine bar loved by a new generation, a night out in South London’s Caribbean heart, centuries of British art under one roof and riverside strolls — is here to help you unlock some of the city’s sprawling, youthful and diverse nature.

Recommendations

  • Tate Britain is a museum in Millbank that charts centuries of art created in Britain.
  • E Pellici is a 122-year-old traditional “caff” in East London.
  • Gay’s the Word , established in 1979, is considered the oldest L.G.B.T.Q. bookstore in London.
  • Brick Lane Vintage Market is a subterranean thrifter’s bazaar, selling vintage and independently made clothing and accessories.
  • Gordon’s Wine Bar , established in 1890 and thought to be London’s oldest wine bar, is situated next to Victoria Embankment Gardens.
  • Cafe TPT and Four Seasons are beloved restaurants in Chinatown, in the city’s West End, known for their roast meats.
  • Speedboat Bar is a new Thai-Chinese fusion restaurant and bar in Chinatown.
  • Fish, Wings and Tings is a South London restaurant serving Caribbean cuisine in Brixton Village market.
  • Negril is a small Caribbean restaurant on Brixton Hill.
  • The Old Queens Head is a pub in Islington, in North London, serving a hearty Sunday roast.
  • The Quality Chop House is a modern British restaurant in Farringdon, in Central London, with an impressive Sunday set menu.
  • Hootananny is a music venue in Brixton with diverse live acts and D.J. sets.
  • Skoob Books and Judd Books are secondhand bookstores with buckets of charm in Bloomsbury.
  • London Review Bookshop is a store connected to the literary magazine London Review of Books with a much-loved cafe.
  • Spitalfields Market in East London is home to independent sellers, food stalls, restaurants and boutiques.
  • Rajmahal Sweets is a cornucopia of treats on Brick Lane where you can get everything from jalebi and Turkish delight to bhajis and pakoras.
  • Atika is a vintage store that spans two floors off Brick Lane; it also sells independent art.
  • Jen’s Plants and Florist is a small, Black-owned plant store off Brick Lane.
  • Queen’s Walk is a walking route that stretches along the South Bank of the River Thames. Highlights on the walk include Shakespeare’s Globe Theater and the Southbank Center.
  • Regent’s Canal is a scenic waterway that stretches for almost nine miles.
  • London’s Tube network is the best way to navigate the city. Many lines run a 24-hour service called the “ Night Tube ” on Fridays and Saturdays. You can also hail a black cab in most areas, or order a car with ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt.
  • London’s outpost of The Standard is sleek and stylish with a perfect location — it’s a two-minute walk from King’s Cross Station and a short train ride into Central London. A double room hovers around £349 a night, or about $425.
  • For those after amazing views of the Thames, Sea Containers on the South Bank is an excellent option. A double room starts at £261 a night.
  • The Zetter Townhouse , a 13-room Georgian townhouse in Clerkenwell, is full of charm and eccentric decor. Rooms here start from £249 a night.
  • For those on a budget, rooms at the trendy Mama Shelter in Shoreditch start at around £100 a night, while Assembly in Covent Garden puts you at the center of the city without breaking the bank (rooms start at £100).
  • Shoreditch in East London can be ridiculously hip, but it is a perfect, slightly off-the-beaten-track location for short-term rentals. Marylebone is also a good option for those who want to be closer to the center of town.

wiki travel london

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Essential travel guide to london [updated].

London is one of our favorite cities to explore, not only because it’s a major cosmopolitan city, or because of the countless landmarks, museum, and restaurants to explore. London is the perfect vacation destination for everyone – romantics , food lover , history lover, or adventure junkie.

If you’re planning a trip to London and would like to find the best things to do, places to eat and drink in the city, this essential travel guide to London covers it all.

London Eye

Millions of visitors flock to London every year in their quest to see the various attractions that the city has to offer. The City is blessed with abundance of museums, palaces, magnificent landmarks, and wide variety of cultural sites including the parliament buildings, Buckingham palace and the Camden Town Market.

London is very spread out and there are multiple neighborhoods that offer something different and unique. You can see all the major sights along the Thames in a day or two , then spend many more days exploring neighborhoods like Notting Hill, Angel, Shoreditch, Soho and Camden.

Planning your trip to London?

  • Book a  transfer from the airport  to the city center with  Welcome Pickups .
  • Rent a car  from London airport through  Discover Cars .

Where to Stay in London:

  • Marriott County Hall ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor .
  • Clermont London Charing Cross ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor .

Best Tours and Experiences in London

  • Best of London, Including Tower of London, Changing of the Guard + Cream Tea or London Eye – Best of London’s landmarks on a comprehensive city tour.
  • Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London – Experience a guided day trip from London to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath, where you can explore historic landmarks.

Looking for more information about London to make your planning easier? Check out these resources:

  • Visit London’s top sights on a one-day walking tour
  • Find a unique dining experience , top international restaurants and the best cocktails and rooftop bars in London
  • See what to do, where to stay, and where to eat in London in this Essential travel guide to London
  • Paris is only a short train ride away. Check out these fun foodie things to do in Paris .

London city and Thames view

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do & See in London

The most famous attractions are Big Ben, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, and the historically rich Westminster Abbey.

If it’s your first time in London, you’ll no doubt be wanting to see the sights. We’ve got a full walking-tour guide to the top sights of London that you can do in one day. London is also full of iconic buildings to admire.

For us, foodie activities always take up at least a portion of our itinerary. Find some of London’s best foodie activities . One thing you can’t miss is visiting the various food markets , of which there are plenty, including my favorite, Borough Market .

Once you’ve seen Big Ben and Westminster, you might want to head further out of town to see Windsor Castle and the charming little town of Windsor . It doesn’t take long to get there on the train and is a perfect day trip from London. You can also visit Stonehenge on a day trip from London.

Borough Market

One-Day in London

If you only have one or two short days to see London, we recommend going on a walking tour around the major sights to start with.

After you’ve traversed a large part of the tourist attractions, spend some time discovering London’s best food markets , like Borough Market, where there are also dozens of great restaurants like Padella and Tapas Brindisi, plus wine bars like Bedales.

If there’s still time in your itinerary, make sure you do some good people watching at one of the major parks. We love Hyde Park and St. James Park for this.

buckingham palace

Tours You Must Take in London

Honestly, London has so many tourist activities that it’s hard to fit it all in to even the longest vacation itinerary. Look over the tours below and choose the ones that you want to see the most.

For some of the best tours in London, we recommend booking tickets on Viator . They make it super simple to book everything you want to see in one place!

  • Classic London Landmarks Bicycle Tour
  • Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour and read our full review of the tour.
  • Soho Food & Cocktail Tour (through Eating Europe )
  • East End Food Tour (through Eating Europe )
  • London Eye Fast-Track Ticket
  • Easy Access Tower of London & Crown Jewels with Tower Bridge Tour
  • London Pass Including Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Entry to Over 60 Attractions
  • Small-Group Tour: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London
  • Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London

More Tours to Book:

Top sights in london, the british museum.

Founded in the year 1753, the British Museum had a collection of over 71,000 unique items that had all been contributed by Sir Hans Sloane. Spend a day wandering through the eternal, labyrinthine corridors, exploring and discovering some of the greatest works of mankind’s cultural accomplishments and some take in some of the greatest relics of the Egyptian and Greek empires. Entry is free.

The London Eye

TThis gigantic wheel stands almost 135 meters over the entire city of London and is presently considered to be one of the tallest observation wheels in the world. From here you can view all of London with an entirely new perspective. Visiting the London Eye is an enchanting and inspiring experience.

Saint Paul’s Cathedral

Saint Paul’s Cathedral is famous for hosting royal birthdays, weddings, celebrations and even funerals of some of the greatest leaders in Britain. The Cathedral attracts millions and millions of tourists every year and is a historical accomplishment of the reconstruction that took place after the great London fire of 1666.

St. Paul's Cathedral

The National Gallery

Situated in the center of Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is home to some of the finest works of art in the world. Some of these pieces date back to the 13th century. Construction of the gallery commenced in the year 1832 and ever since it has collected many great pieces of art, which include works by Monet, Van Gogh, Da Vinci, Renoir and many more.

Tate Modern

One of London’s most contemporary galleries, the Tate Modern consists of great collections and diverse exhibitions of modern art. Appealing to both, children as well as adults, connoisseurs as well as novices, the Tate Modern houses grand collections of artists like Matisse, Andy Warhol and Bacon.

The Tower of London

Constructed with white stone that was imported from France , the Tower of London or the ‘Bloody Tower’ has been known to imprison, protect and even execute the wrongdoers in the past.

tower of london

The Natural History Museum

An enigmatic gothic building that is home to some of the largest collections of dinosaurs in the world, the Natural History Museum consists of exhibitions that dominate the huge halls and tower.

Westminster Abbey

It is a medieval work of monumental significance and the burial ground for some of the most famous kings, statesmen, musicians, scientists and poets since the 11th century. The Westminster Abbey offers some of the most intriguing literary works and artistic talent in the way of paintings, murals and tombs.

Where to Eat & Drink in London

London is overflowing with exciting places to drink and eat. We won’t pretend to stay on top of the ever evolving restaurant and bar scene in London, but we do have some great recommendations for visitors to this vibrant city.

Smokestak Brisket Buns

Frog by Adam Handling is my absolute favorite restaurant in London. It’s fine dining, but in a casual atmosphere. The food is incredibly good. Every bite is surprising and delicious.

The brisket buns and pork ribs at Smokestak in Shoreditch are insanely good. The sticky toffee pudding is the best here too. Life changing, really.

Sunday roast is a serious business in London. You need to book well ahead – like 4 weeks ahead – to get a table at one of the most popular spots. Blacklock (multiple locations) is an absolute must. You can order the All In with 2 people or more, but it’s really impressive with 4+ people.

cocktail trading company

Cocktails are a specialty in London. Everyone is addicted to gin in this city. There are tons of cocktail bars that make super fancy craft cocktails.

At Cocktail Trading Company , the cocktails are super creative in a fun and carefree way. The menu changes frequently and so does the barware. It’s located in trendy Shoreditch, near the historic Brick Lane where there’s a fun Sunday market along the whole street.

Mr. Fogg’s Tavern Gin Parlour in Covent Garden is my favorite gin bar. It’s incredibly unique in both atmosphere and cocktails. There are a few locations. Also check out the London Gin Club for unique gins and cocktails.

Big Ben and Parliment

How to Get Around in London

The easiest way to get around, if you’re hopping between tourist sights is on foot. Walking will get you to all the main sights along the Thames and with the least amount of hassle.

If you can’t walk between the sights you want to see, then the Tube (Underground) or buses are the way to go. To make your travel in the city easy and convenient, get an Oyster card to use on public transportation. You can’t use cash to pay for buses – you will need an Oyster card. You can also use a contactless credit or debit card directly at the terminal on the bus and the Tube. Your card needs to have the contactless symbol on it to use it. Regular credit cards are not accepted.

With an Oyster card you can travel to any part of London without the fear of being stranded anywhere. You can top-up your Oyster card at almost any newsagent or convenience store in London, or in a Tube station.

Where to Stay in London

There are many different parts of London, and each has a different feel to it. The best location for tourists is near Covent Garden, because it’s so convenient to the typical tourist attractions of the city.

Soho is also a great location if you want to be in the heart of the action, near tons of great restaurants and bars. Here are our recommended places to stay in London:

  • Marriott County Hall: Great value for the price. Nice affordable luxury hotel in a great location »  Read reviews on Trip Advisor or check prices on Expedia
  • Clermont London Charing Cross: If you’re planning your time seeing the main tourist sights in London, this is the perfect location »  Read reviews on Trip Advisor or check prices on Expedia
  • The Resident Covent Garden: Covent Garden is one of the most fun neighborhoods in London for visitors. This hotel is prime location, and really nice » Read reviews on Trip Advisor or check prices on Expedia

Essential Travel Guide to London

Essential London Travel Guide

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London travel guide

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

13 thoughts on “ Essential Travel Guide to London [Updated] ”

Love the way you’ve laid this out, much easier to read than an article! We’re headed there in January, reckon the chocolate ecstasy and gin tours need to be on the cards!

Glad you like it, Heather. We have a bunch more under Destinations! Enjoy your trip to London!

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I would like your advice for my sister and me. We are planning a trip to London and The Netherlands from Atlanta next May, our first time. Thinking we would prefer heading on to The Netherlands for the first week then back to London for last week. Wondering about the first night. Stay in London then take Eurostar next morning to Rotterdam (we think we’d like staying in Delft)? Try to manage customs and getting Eurostar soon after we land? Just not sure the best way to plan our first night. Much appreciate your advice.

Hi Peggy. I sent you an email to answer your question, but for others wondering here, it’s definitely possible to go from Heathrow to Eurostar in about 2.5 hours. It’s a straight shot on the Piccadilly line.

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Amazing article, your blog looks awesome. Thank you for sharing the best information about london with us and other travelers. By the way your pictures are very nice

Fantastic guide! Thanks for the updated tips. Currently staying at Presidential Serviced Apartments London for my London adventure – the central location makes exploring the city a breeze. Your insights are truly valuable!

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London Travel Guide

SD › London Travel Guide Updated: May 20, 2022

View across the River Thames from the London Eye to Big Ben and Westminster Palace.

View across the River Thames to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

London is the capital and largest city in the United Kingdom, and chock-full of great attractions, from historic to ultra-modern. Though its reputation as a cold and rainy island is well-deserved, summer weather in London is often warm, sunny, and ideal for sightseeing – especially for those looking to avoid the high summer heat found in other European cities. Its wealth of important cultural sites, fantastic restaurants, historic luxury hotels , world-class theater, and some of the best museums in the world make London a fantastic vacation destination at any time of year. The London Travel Guide Skip to our London FAQ London Basics Where to Stay in London Best Time to Visit London London with Kids London Hotels Best Hotels in London Best Hotels in London for Families Best London Boutique Hotels Best Cheap Hotels in London London Choice Hotels London Hotels with Pools Gatwick Airport Hotels Heathrow Airport Hotels New Hotels in London London Hotel Map London Activities Best Things to Do in London Best Restaurants in London Best Bars & Pubs in London Best London Shops & Markets London Trip Planning London Airport Transportation London to Paris by Eurostar Latest Articles & My Travel Newsletter Travel Guides & Newsletter Frequently Asked Questions about London Where is London? London is the capital city of England, and is the largest city in the United Kingdom (which also includes Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). London is located on the southern and eastern end of the island, straddling the River Thames 80 km upstream from its North Sea estuary. London lies about 115 km west of the English Channel, a 33 km waterway (at its narrowest point) that separates England from continental Western Europe. London has a land area of 1,570 km²; its population is just under 9 million. What are the best things to do in London There is no shortage of great things to do in London , no matter your age or interest. Must-see sights include the jaw-dropping Westminster Cathedral, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace – tour them, or view them aloft from across the Thames on the London Eye. Royal watchers will also want to visit Kensington Palace, Windsor Castle, and Hampton Court Palace. History buffs appreciate the storied Tower of London (once a royal palace and prison, it’s now a World Heritage Site that houses the Crown Jewels) and visiting the Cutty Sark, Churchill War Rooms, and the East London haunts of Jack the Ripper. The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Theater-goers have their pick of world-class shows in the West End’s Theatreland or can catch an Open-Air Play at Shakespeare’s famous Globe Theatre. Among London’s many world-class museums are the British Museum, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, National Gallery, and Victoria & Albert Museum. Some of the best things to do in London with kids are the Harry Potter Studio Tour, Legoland Windsor, and visiting the London Zoo and Sea Life Aquarium. When is the best time to go to London? The best times to visit London are during spring (March through April) and fall (Mid-September through November), when the city sees mild weather and fewer tourists than in the busy summer travel season, when the weather is ideal but crowds and prices are at their peak. It is easiest to secure theater tickets to West End shows in the low season of January and February, and theater-going families can find discounts on kids’ tickets during the month of August. All of London’s best shopping sales, including Harrods’s ultra-popular summer sale, are in late June and early July. Royal watchers would do well to visit in June, when the queen’s annual birthday celebration (Trooping the Colour) is held, or in August, the only month in which all royal sites are open to visitors. Westminster Abbey, British royal headquarters for coronations, weddings, and burials. Most of London’s royal attractions are open to visitors year-round, but Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms are available to tour from late July through September, Kew Palace is closed during the winter months, and Clarence House (home to the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall) only opens to the public in August. How long should I spend in London? There is so much to see and do in London that we recommend spending at least 3-4 full days there, and the more the better. Three days will allow you to get a good sense of the city and see the absolute highlights, like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and a museum or two. No matter how long your stay, your time can be maximized by taking a guided tour . If staying in London longer than 5 days, it’s a worth considering a guided tour or day trip to explore the surrounding countryside. The best day trip destinations from London include the majestic university towns of Oxford and Cambridge , Stratford and the Cotswolds (home of the Bard), the beautiful Georgian city of Bath , mystical Stonehenge , Leeds Castle and the white cliffs of Dover, and Windsor Castle – the ancestral home of the British Royal Family. You can even visit the filming locations of Downton Abbey . Combination tours allow you to visit more than one far-flung destination in a day. The charming stone villages of the Cotswolds in southwest England make an idyllic day trip from the busy city. Where is the best area to stay in London? The best neighborhoods of London for first-time visitors are Covent Garden and Mayfair; their central locations makes it easy to visit many of the city’s biggest attractions or catch a play, and they’re both loaded with great restaurants and hotels – both have plenty of luxury and boutique accommodations, Covent Garden also provides budget options. The Connaught , London’s best luxury hotel, is located in Mayfair. The best areas to stay in London for a local vibe are Camden (the birthplace of British Rock) and the East End (Jack the Ripper’s old haunt). These are also two of London’s best neighborhoods for nightlife, along with centrally-located Soho. The best areas in London for families with kids are the quieter neighborhood of South Kensington or in Marylebone, which is within easy reach of London Zoo. Both of these neighborhoods are near the immense Hyde Park, which is filled with paths and playgrounds, a small lake popular for boat rentals, and hosts the family-friendly Winter Wonderland during the colder months.

Map of London for Tourists.

Which London airport should I use? The London area is home to six airports, but the two most commonly used by travelers are Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW) . Located 24 km from central London, Heathrow is the closest large airport to central London, and is also the best-connected, served by both underground metro (the Tube) and express train. Gatwick is about a 40 km drive from central London and connected by express train. To get from any London airport into central London without public transportation, we recommend pre-booking a car service rather than taking a taxi, which are notoriously expensive. Aerial view of the river Thames, with the Tower Bridge in and Tower of London in the foreground. Most travelers flying into London will use Heathrow or Gatwick airport. What currency is used in London As England is part of the United Kingdom, the official currency used in London is the pound sterling (£), commonly referred to as “the pound”. Similar to American pennies, there are 100 pence (p) to a British pound. £1 and £2 currencies are available as both coin and banknotes. To change money we recommend withdrawing pounds directly from an ATM in London. These will have lower exchange rates and be quite a bit cheaper than using money changers or banks. Remember that ATMs often charge foreign transaction fees, however, so it is usually better to withdraw a larger amount at once than the smaller amounts over multiple withdrawals. ATMs are easy to find in all parts of London. Rules is the oldest restaurant in the city, and one of the best places to eat in London . Tipping in London restaurants is common, generally 10-20% of the total bill. However, many restaurants will include a “service charge” on the bill – usually about 12-15% of the total – if so, this is the only tip that is expected and there is no need for an additional tip. Cab drivers in London expect to be tipped 10%. In the best London hotels , it is customary to tip the bellhop £1-2 per bag, the housekeeper £1 per day, and the doorman £1-2 for hailing you a cab. Tipping is not expected for drinking in British pubs, unless you’re buying food. Still, most barkeeps will be appreciative of a few pounds for exceptional service. Is London safe? London is generally very safe, but like any other large city has its seedier sections, and common precautions should be taken. While most areas of London are fine during the day, parts of Camden, as well as Hackney and Shoreditch in the East End, can be sketchy at night, especially for solo travelers. The Soho and Leicester Square area can also get rough late at night, and Hyde Park is best avoided after dark. Similarly, while the King’s Cross area has been rejuvenated, the area around the train station can still be a bit dodgy and is best not to wander around late at night. In general, stick to populated areas – especially at night – and take care to protect your belongings from pickpockets and petty thieves. Kingly Street in Soho. Soho is one of the best areas in London for nightlife, and generally very safe.
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London Travel Guide

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For the tourist, London is a thrilling place with a multitude of places to visit. Monuments from the capital’s glorious past are everywhere, from medieval banqueting halls and the great churches of Christopher Wren to the eclectic Victorian architecture of the triumphalist British Empire.

Top things to do in London in pictures

London orientation: best places to visit, westminster, london areas - bloomsbury, covent garden, the east end, hampton court, kensington and chelsea, north london, the south bank, south london, tate modern, west london, eating and drinking in london, culture and entertainment in london, best time to visit london, brief history of london.

There is no shortage of things to do in London: you can relax in the city’s quiet Georgian squares, explore the narrow alleyways of the City of London, wander along the riverside walks, and uncover the quirks of what is still identifiably a collection of villages. The largest capital in the European Union, stretching for more than thirty miles from east to west, and with a population of just under eight million, London is also incredibly diverse, ethnically and linguistically, offering cultural and culinary delights from right across the globe.

The capital’s great historical landmarks – Big Ben , Westminster Abbey , Buckingham Palace , St Paul’s Cathedral , the Tower of London and so on – draw in millions of tourists every year. This isn’t a city that rests on its laurels, however. Since the turn of the millennium, all of London’s world-class museums, galleries and institutions have been reinvented, from the Royal Opera House to the British Museum . With Tate Modern and the London Eye , the city boasts the world’s largest modern art museum and Europe’s largest Ferris wheel. And thanks to the 2012 Olympics, even the East End – not an area previously on most tourists’ radar – has been given an overhaul.

You could spend days just shopping in London, mixing with the upper classes in the “tiara triangle” around Harrods, or sampling the offbeat weekend markets of Portobello Road, Brick Lane and Camden . The city’s pubs have always had heaps of atmosphere, and food is now a major attraction too, with more than fifty Michelin-starred restaurants and the widest choice of cuisines on the planet. The music, clubbing and gay and lesbian scenes are second to none, and mainstream arts are no less exciting, with regular opportunities to catch outstanding theatre companies, dance troupes, exhibitions and opera.

London’s special atmosphere comes mostly, however, from the life on its streets. A cosmopolitan city since at least the seventeenth century, when it was a haven for Huguenot immigrants escaping persecution in Louis XIV’s France, today it is truly multicultural, with over a third of its permanent population originating from overseas. The last hundred years has seen the arrival of thousands from the Caribbean, the Indian subcontinent, the Mediterranean, the Far East and Eastern Europe, all of whom play an integral part in defining a metropolis that is unmatched in its sheer diversity. For more on how to make the most of your time in the capital on foot, we've curated a collection of the best walks in London .

Book tickets and tours in Westminster Abbey.

Book tickets and tours in Buckingham Palace.

Book tickets and tours in St Paul's Cathedral.

Book tickets and tours in the Tower of London.

Book tickets and tours in The British Museum.

Book tickets and tours to the London Eye.

Book tickets and tours in London.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for England, created by local experts

The Great British Road Trip

20 days  / from 3042 USD

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

Refreshing English Countryside Break

5 days  / from 648 USD

Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

Walking around vintage England and picturesque Scotland

14 days  / from 3274 USD

Walking around vintage England and picturesque Scotland

Visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands by foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included in the trip.

Hiking in out-of-the way Northern Cornwall

12 days  / from 2917 USD

Hiking in out-of-the way Northern Cornwall

Northern Cornwall is a hiker's paradise and this itinerary includes the most scenic parts. You will start your journey in London with some unique activities to get to know the city, before setting off on a 5-day walk across Cornwall. End your trip in Bath and explore the backdrop of Bridgerton.

A walking holiday on the Jurassic Coast

12 days  / from 2708 USD

A walking holiday on the Jurassic Coast

Walking the Jurassic Coast is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the spectacular scenery. Walks range from easy to challenging. 6 days walking are included in this itinerary, as is an extensive pre-program in London and a last night back in the capital.

England Historical Highlights

11 days  / from 1308 USD

England Historical Highlights

Discover the highlands of England: From busy London and its Buckingham Palace over historical Oxford to the mysterious Stonehenge. England has plenty to offer and this self-drive itinerary allows you the freedom and flexibility to choose activities to your liking.

Discover 'All Creatures Great and Small' - England & Scotland

8 days  / from 4001 USD

Discover 'All Creatures Great and Small' - England & Scotland

Explore the sets of the TV show "All Creatures Great and Small". The show follows the adventures of a young veterinarian in the Yorkshire Dales during the 1930s. Start in London and make your way up to Yorkshire and then further to Edinburgh in Scotland.

01 British Museum

The British Museum is one of the great museums of the world. Its assortment of Roman and Greek art is unparalleled, its Egyptian collection is the most significant outside Egypt and, in addition, there are fabulous treasures from Anglo-Saxon and Roman Britain, from China, Japan, India and Mesopotamia.

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© Ram Kay/Shutterstock

02 Tower of London

Bloody royal history, Beefeaters, lots of armour, the Crown Jewels and ravens – and a great medieval castle. The Tower of London has it all.

The Tower of London fortress in the evening light with white clouds © balounm/Shutterstock

© balounm/Shutterstock

03 Highgate Cemetery

The city’s most atmospheric Victorian necropolis, thick with trees and crowded with famous corpses, with Karl Marx topping the bill.

Book a private London tour to St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London.

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04 King’s Cross Redevelopment

Take a stroll around the brilliant King’s Cross redevelopment, where galleries, restaurants and public squares have transformed the industrial landscape.

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© lazyllama/Shutterstock

Book tickets and tours in London Warner Bros. Studio.

05 Hampstead Heath

Fly kites, look across London and walk over to Kenwood, for fine art, tea and cakes.

Group of friends relaxing under a tree on summer day on Hampstead Heath London England UK

06 London pubs

Have a pint of traditional real ale in one of London’s many old and historic pubs, or visit one of the craft brewhouses that are popping up over the capital.

The Crown _a popular pub for beer and food in Islington London attracts both older customers and a young crowd.

07 Tate Modern

One of the world’s greatest modern art collections housed in a spectacularly converted riverside power station.

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© Richie Chan/Shutterstock

08 Houses of Parliament

See the “mother of all parliaments” at work from the public gallery; book in advance to attend Question Time or take a summertime guided tour.

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© Dan Breckwoldt/Shutterstock

09 Spitalfields and Brick Lane

Visit the offbeat market stalls, shops, cafés and bars on the edge of the East End.

gnocchi-ravioli-t raditional-italian-food-brick-lane-market-london-england-shutterstock_656531614

© marandstock/Shutterstock

10 National Gallery

From the Renaissance to Picasso: the National Gallery is undoubtedly one of the world’s great art galleries.

national-gallery-london-shutterstock_214772101

© Kiev.Victor/Shutterstock

Book a private tour in the National Gallery.

11 Borough Market

Feast on all the scrumptious free titbits at London’s leading foodie market.

Book tickets to the Borough Market Self-Guided Food Tour.

Borough Market a renowned popular international produce retail market London Bridge Southwark  London UK

12 Olympic Park

You can still see some of the iconic venues and Orbit Tower, set amid the beautifully landscaped Olympic Park.

olympic-park-london-shutterstock_1115806991

© James E Sealey/Shutterstock

Book tickets and tours at the ArcelorMittal Orbit.

13 Cycling in London

Rent a Boris Bike and explore the cycling paths of Hyde Park, or pedal along the Regent’s Canal to Little Venice and beyond.

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© chrisdorney/Shutterstock

14 Greenwich

Soak up naval history at the National Maritime Museum, and climb up to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park to enjoy the view over the river.

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© Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH/Shutterstock

Book tickets and tours in Royal Observatory.

15 V&A Museum

For variety and scale, the V&A is the greatest applied arts museum in the world.

Europe, United Kingdom, England, London, Victoria and Albert Museum. Image shot 2010. Exact date unknown.

16 The view from the Shard

Simply the most impressive view in London.

london-england-shutterstock_276543158

© IR Stone/Shutterstock

Book tickets and tours in The Shard.

17 Hampton Court Palace

Take a boat to this sprawling red-brick affair, the finest of London’s royal palaces.

hampton-court-palace-london-england-shutterstock_398948101

© Kirill Ts/Shutterstock

Although most of the best places to visit in London are north of the River Thames, which loops through the centre from west to east, there is no single focus of interest . That’s because London hasn’t grown through centralized planning but by a process of random agglomeration.

Villages and urban developments that once surrounded the core are now lost within the vast mass of Greater London, leaving London’s highlights widely spread, and meaning that visitors should make mastering the public transport system, particularly the Underground (tube), a top priority.

If London has a centre , it’s Trafalgar Square , home to Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery . It’s also as good a place as any to start exploring the city, especially as the area to the south of here, Whitehall and Westminster , is one of the easiest bits to discover on foot. This was the city’s royal, political and ecclesiastical power-base for centuries, and you’ll find some of London’s most famous landmarks here: Downing Street , Big Ben , the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey .

River view of Big Ben and-Houses of parliament in London, England, United Kingdom © S.Borisov/Shutterstock

River view of Big Ben and-Houses of parliament in London - shutterstock

The grand streets and squares of St James’s , Mayfair and Marylebone , to the north of Westminster, have been the playground of the rich since the Restoration, and now contain some of the city’s busiest shopping zones : Piccadilly, Bond Street, Regent Street and, most frenetic of the lot, Oxford Street .

East of Piccadilly Circus, Soho , Chinatown and Covent Garden are also easy to walk around and form the heart of the West End entertainment district, where you’ll find the largest concentration of theatres, cinemas, shops, cafés and restaurants.

Adjoining Covent Garden to the north, the university quarter of Bloomsbury is the location of the ever-popular British Museum , a stupendous treasure house that boasts a wonderful central, covered courtyard. To the north of Bloomsbury lies King’s Cross, home to the British Library and the city’s Eurostar terminal at St Pancras, and now at the centre of a massive redevelopment project with galleries, restaurants and a swimming pond.

Fashionable Clerkenwell , to the east of Holborn on the northern edge of the City, is visited mostly on weeknights for its many popular bars and restaurants, but also has vestiges of London’s monastic past and a radical history to be proud of.

A couple of miles downstream from Westminster, The City – or the City of London, to give it its full title – is the original heart of London, simultaneously the most ancient and the most modern part of the metropolis. Settled since Roman times, the area became the commercial and residential heart of medieval London, with its own Lord Mayor and its own peculiar form of local government, both of which survive (with considerable pageantry) to this day.

The Great Fire of 1666 obliterated most of the City, and although it was rebuilt, the resident population has dwindled to insignificance. Yet this remains one of the great financial centres of the world, with the most prominent landmarks these days being the hi-tech skyscrapers of banks and insurance companies. However, the Square Mile, as it’s known, boasts its fair share of historic sights too, notably the Tower of London and a fine cache of Wren churches that includes the mighty St Paul’s Cathedral .

East of the City, the East End and Docklands are equally notorious, but in entirely different ways. Traditionally working-class, the East End is not conventional tourist territory, but its long history of immigration is as fascinating as is its more recent emergence as a bolthole for artists. With its converted warehouse apartments and hubristic tower blocks, Docklands is the converse of the edgy East End, with the Canary Wharf tower – for three decades the country’s tallest building – epitomizing the pretensions of the 1980s’ Thatcherite dream.

The South Bank and Southwark together make up the small slice of central London that lies south of the Thames. The Southbank Centre itself, London’s concrete culture bunker, is now ingrained on the tourist map – thanks, in part, to the nearby London Eye , which spins gracefully over the Thames. The area is going from strength to strength, with the Millennium Bridge linking St Paul’s Cathedral with the former power station that’s home to Tate Modern , London’s beloved museum of modern art.

In Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens you’ll find a large segment of greenery that separates wealthy west London from the city centre. The museums of South Kensington – the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum – are a must, and if you have shopping on your agenda you may well want to investigate the hive of plush stores in the vicinity of Harrods, superstore to the upper echelons.

Some of the most appealing parts of north London are clustered around the Regent’s Canal, which skirts the northern edge of Regent’s Park and serves as the focus for the capital’s busiest weekend market, held around Camden Lock. Further out, in the chic literary suburbs of Hampstead and Highgate, there are unbeatable views across the city from half-wild Hampstead Heath, the sprawling stomping ground of dog walkers and kite flyers.

The glory of south London is Greenwich , with its nautical associations, royal park and observatory (not to mention its Dome).

Finally, there are plenty of rewarding day-trips up the Thames, southwest of the city centre from Chiswick to Hampton Court , an area that is liberally peppered with the stately homes and grounds of the country’s royalty and former aristocracy, from Syon and Kew, to Richmond and Ham.

Book tickets and tours on Thames River Cruises.

Book tickets and tours in The Science Museum.

The City is where London began. Long established as the financial district, it stretches from Temple Bar in the west to the Tower of London in the east – administrative boundaries that are only slightly larger than those marked by the Roman walls and their medieval successors. However, in this Square Mile (as the City is sometimes referred to), you’ll find few leftovers of London’s early days, since four-fifths of the area burnt down in the Great Fire of 1666. Rebuilt in brick and stone, the City gradually lost its centrality as London swelled westwards, though it has maintained its position as Britain’s financial heartland. What you see now is mostly the product of three fairly recent building phases: the Victorian construction boom; the overzealous postwar reconstruction following the Blitz; and the building frenzy that began in the 1980s and has continued ever since.

When you consider what has happened here, it’s amazing that so much has survived to pay witness to the City’s 2000-year history. Wren’s spires still punctuate the skyline and his masterpiece, St Paul’s Cathedral , remains one of London’s geographical pivots. At the City’s eastern edge, the Tower of London still boasts some of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Europe. Other relics, such as Wren’s Monument to the Great Fire and London’s oldest synagogue and church, are less conspicuous, and even locals have problems finding modern attractions like the Museum of London and the Barbican arts complex.

Aiming high: city skyscrapers

Economic recession notwithstanding, the City skyline is sprouting a whole new generation of skyscrapers . From 1980, for thirty years, the City’s tallest building was the 600ft-high Tower 42, designed as the NatWest Tower by Richard Seifert (in the shape of the bank’s logo). Richard Rogers’ Lloyd’s Building , on Leadenhall Street, completed in 1984, was more remarkable for its inside-out design than its modest height – even with Norman Foster’s 590ft-high Gherkin , it was the shape, not its height, that drew attention. In 2010, the NatWest Tower was finally topped by the Heron Tower , a fairly undistinguished 660-ft skyscraper, at 110 Bishopsgate, designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox – on the plus side, public access means you can check out the shark aquarium in the atrium, and pop into the bar-restaurant on the 40th floor. More are planned: Rafael Viñoly’s 525-ft Walkie Talkie , 20 Fenchurch St, so-called because it will get wider as it gets bigger, will include a public “sky garden” on the roof; The Pinnacle , 22–24 Bishopsgate, also by Kohn Pedersen Fox, will be a swirling 945-ft helter-skelter of a tower (with a restaurant on the top floor); and The Cheesegrater , Richard Rogers’ 737-ft triangular-shaped office block at 122 Leadenhall St, is due for completion in 2013.

St Paul’s Cathedral

Designed by Christopher Wren and completed in 1711, St Paul’s Cathedral remains a dominating presence in the City, despite the encroaching tower blocks. Topped by an enormous lead-covered dome, its showpiece west facade is particularly magnificent.

The best place from which to appreciate St Paul’s is beneath the dome, decorated (against Wren’s wishes) with Thornhill’s trompe l’oeil frescoes. The most richly decorated section of the cathedral, however, is the chancel, where the gilded mosaics of birds, fish, animals and greenery, dating from the 1890s, are spectacular. The intricately carved oak and limewood choir stalls, and the imposing organ case, are the work of Wren’s master carver, Grinling Gibbons.

The galleries

A series of stairs, beginning in the south aisle, lead to the dome’s three galleries, the first of which is the internal Whispering Gallery, so called because of its acoustic properties – words whispered to the wall on one side are distinctly audible over 100ft away on the other, though the place is often so busy you can’t hear much above the hubbub. The other two galleries are exterior: the wide Stone Gallery, around the balustrade at the base of the dome, and ultimately the tiny Golden Gallery, below the golden ball and cross which top the cathedral.

Although the nave is crammed full of overblown monuments to military types, burials in St Paul’s are confined to the whitewashed crypt, reputedly the largest in Europe. Immediately to your right is Artists’ Corner, which boasts as many painters and architects as Westminster Abbey has poets, including Christopher Wren himself, who was commissioned to build the cathedral after its Gothic predecessor, Old St Paul’s, was destroyed in the Great Fire. The crypt’s two other star tombs are those of Nelson and Wellington, both occupying centre stage and both with more fanciful monuments upstairs.

Tower of London

One of Britain’s main tourist attractions, the Tower of London overlooks the river at the eastern boundary of the old city walls. Despite all the hype, it remains one of London’s most remarkable buildings, site of some of the goriest events in the nation’s history, and somewhere all visitors and Londoners should explore at least once. Chiefly famous as a place of imprisonment and death, it has variously been used as a royal residence, armoury, mint, menagerie, observatory and – a function it still serves – a safe-deposit box for the Crown Jewels.

The lively free guided tours given by the Tower’s Beefeaters (officially known as Yeoman Warders) are useful for getting your bearings. Visitors today enter the Tower along Water Lane, but in times gone by most prisoners were delivered through Traitors’ Gate, on the waterfront. Immediately, they would have come to the Bloody Tower, which forms the main entrance to the Inner Ward, and which is where the 12-year-old Edward V and his 10-year-old brother were accommodated “for their own safety” in 1483 by their uncle, the future Richard III, and later murdered. It’s also where Walter Raleigh was imprisoned on three separate occasions, including a thirteen-year stretch.

Tower Green

At the centre of the Inner Ward is Tower Green, where ten highly placed but unlucky individuals were beheaded, among them Anne Boleyn and her cousin Catherine Howard (Henry VIII’s second and fifth wives). The White Tower, which overlooks the Green, is the original “Tower”, begun in 1076, and now home to displays from the Royal Armouries. Even if you’ve no interest in military paraphernalia, you should at least pay a visit to the Chapel of St John, a beautiful Norman structure on the second floor that was completed in 1080 – making it the oldest intact church building in London.

Crown Jewels

The Waterloo Barracks, to the north of the White Tower, hold the Crown Jewels; queues can be painfully long, however, and you only get to view the rocks from moving walkways. The vast majority of exhibits post-date the Commonwealth (1649–60), when many of the royal riches were melted down for coinage or sold off. Among the jewels are the three largest cut diamonds in the world, including the legendary Koh-i-Noor, which was set into the Queen Mother’s Crown in 1937.

Clerkenwell, Hoxton and Shoreditch

Since the 1990s, the northern fringe of the City has been colonized by artists, designers and architects and transformed itself into the city’s most vibrant artistic enclave, peppered with contemporary art galleries and a whole host of very cool bars, restaurants and clubs. Clerkenwell , to the west, is the most thoroughly gentrified, whereas Hoxton (to the north of Old Street), and to a lesser extent Shoreditch (to the south), have a grittier side to them. There are few conventional sights as such in all three areas, though Hoxton and Shoreditch are stuffed full of art galleries (most famously the White Cube on Hoxton Square), but their hip nightlife and shopping scenes keep them lively.

Welding the West End to the financial district, Holborn is a little-visited area, but offers some of central London’s most surprising treats. The Inns of Court make for an interesting stroll, their archaic, cobbled precincts exuding the rarefied atmosphere of an Oxbridge college, and sheltering one of the city’s oldest churches, the twelfth-century Temple Church .

Close by the Inns is the Sir John Soane’s Museum , one of the most memorable and enjoyable of London’s small museums, packed with architectural illusions and an eclectic array of curios.

Political, religious and regal power has emanated from Westminster for almost a millennium. It was Edward the Confessor (1042–66) who first established Westminster as London’s royal and ecclesiastical power base, some three miles west of the City of London. The embryonic English parliament used to meet in the abbey and eventually took over the old royal palace of Westminster. In the nineteenth century, Westminster – and Whitehall in particular – became the “heart of the Empire”, its ministries ruling over a quarter of the world’s population. Even now, though the UK’s world status has diminished, the institutions that run the country inhabit roughly the same geographical area: Westminster for the politicians, Whitehall for the civil servants.

The monuments and buildings in and around Westminster also span the millennium, and include some of London’s most famous landmarks – Nelson’s Column , Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament , Westminster Abbey , plus two of the city’s finest permanent art collections, the National Gallery and Tate Britain . This is a well-trodden tourist circuit since it’s also one of the easiest parts of London to walk round, with all the major sights within a mere half-mile of each other, linked by one of London’s most majestic streets, Whitehall .

Houses of Parliament

Clearly visible at the south end of Whitehall is one of London’s best-known monuments, the Palace of Westminster, better known as the Houses of Parliament . The city’s finest Victorian Gothic Revival building and symbol of a nation once confident of its place at the centre of the world, it’s distinguished above all by the ornate, gilded clocktower popularly known as Big Ben , after the thirteen-ton main bell that strikes the hour (and is broadcast across the world by BBC radio).

The original medieval palace burned down in 1834, and everything you see now – save for Westminster Hall – is the work of Charles Barry, who created an orgy of honey-coloured pinnacles, turrets and tracery that attempts to express national greatness through the use of Gothic and Elizabethan styles. You get a glimpse of the eleventh-century Westminster Hall en route to the public galleries, its huge oak hammer-beam roof making it one of the most magnificent secular medieval halls in Europe.

Book tickets and tours in Westminster Abbey and Parliament.

Westminster Abbey

The Houses of Parliament dwarf their much older neighbour, Westminster Abbey , yet this single building embodies much of the history of England: it has been the venue for all coronations since the time of William the Conqueror, and the site of more or less every royal burial for some five hundred years between the reigns of Henry III and George II. Scores of the nation’s most famous citizens are honoured here, too (though many of the stones commemorate people buried elsewhere), and the interior is crammed with hundreds of monuments and statues.

Entry is via the north transept, cluttered with monuments to politicians and traditionally known as Statesmen’s Aisle, from which you can view the central sanctuary, site of the coronations, and the wonderful Cosmati floor mosaic, constructed in the thirteenth century by Italian craftsmen, and often covered by a carpet to protect it.

The abbey’s most dazzling architectural set piece, the Lady Chapel , was added by Henry VII in 1503 as his future resting place. With its intricately carved vaulting and fan-shaped gilded pendants, the chapel represents the final spectacular gasp of the English Perpendicular style. Look out for Edward I’s Coronation Chair, a decrepit oak throne dating from around 1300 and still used for coronations.

Nowadays, the abbey’s royal tombs are upstaged by Poets’ Corner , in the south transept, though the first occupant, Geoffrey Chaucer, was in fact buried here not because he was a poet, but because he lived nearby. By the eighteenth century this zone had become an artistic pantheon, and since then, the transept has been filled with tributes to all shades of talent.

Doors in the south choir aisle (plus a separate entrance from Dean’s Yard) lead to the Great Cloisters , rebuilt after a fire in 1298. On the east side lies the octagonal Chapter House, where the House of Commons met from 1257, boasting thirteenth-century apocalyptic wall paintings. Also worth a look is the Abbey Museum, filled with generations of lifelike (but bald) royal funereal effigies.

It’s only after exploring the cloisters that you get to see the nave itself: narrow, light and, at over a hundred feet in height, by far the tallest in the country. The most famous monument in this section is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, by the west door, which now serves as the main exit.

Once famous for its riverside mansions, and later its music halls, the Strand – the main road connecting Westminster to the City – is a shadow of its former self. One of the few vestiges of glamour is The Savoy, London’s grandest hotel, built in 1889 on the site of the medieval Savoy Palace on the south side of the street. As its name suggests, the Strand once lay along the riverbank until the Victorians shored up the banks of the Thames to create the Embankment.

Bloomsbury was built over in grid-plan style from the 1660s onwards, and the formal bourgeois Georgian squares laid out then remain the area’s main distinguishing feature. In the twentieth century, Bloomsbury acquired a reputation as the city’s most learned quarter, dominated by the dual institutions of the British Museum and London University, but perhaps best known for its literary inhabitants, among them T.S. Eliot and Virginia Woolf. Today, the British Museum is clearly the star attraction, but there are other minor sights, such as the Charles Dickens Museum. Only in its northern fringes does the character of the area change dramatically, as you near the hustle and bustle of Euston, St Pancras and King’s Cross train stations.

British Museum

The British Museum is one of the great museums of the world. With more than 70,000 exhibits ranged over several miles of galleries, it boasts a huge collection of antiquities, prints and drawings – more than 13 million objects (and growing).

The building itself, begun in 1823, is the grandest of London’s Greek Revival edifices, dominated by the giant Ionian colonnade and portico that forms the main entrance. At the heart of the museum is the Great Court , with its remarkable, curving glass-and-steel roof, designed by Norman Foster. At the centre stands the copper-domed former Round Reading Room , built in the 1850s to house the British Library. It was here, reputedly at desk O7, that Karl Marx penned Das Kapital .

The British Museum collections

The most famous of the Roman and Greek antiquities are the Parthenon sculptures, better known as the Elgin Marbles , after the British aristocrat who walked off with the reliefs in 1801. The Egyptian collection of monumental sculptures is impressive, but it’s the ever-popular mummies that draw the biggest crowds. Also on display is the Rosetta Stone , which finally unlocked the secret of Egyptian hieroglyphs. There’s a splendid series of Assyrian reliefs, depicting events such as the royal lion hunts of Ashurbanipal, in which the king slaughters one of the cats with his bare hands.

The leathery half-corpse of the 2000-year-old Lindow Man , discovered in a Cheshire bog, and the Anglo-Saxon treasure from the Sutton Hoo ship burial, are among the highlights of the prehistoric and Romano-British section. The medieval and modern collections, meanwhile, range from the twelfth-century Lewis chessmen, carved from walrus ivory, to twentieth-century exhibits such as a copper vase by Frank Lloyd Wright.

The dramatically lit Mexican and North American galleries , plus the African galleries in the basement, represent just a small fraction of the museum’s ethnographic collection, while select works from the BM’s enormous collection of prints and drawings can be seen in special exhibitions. Among fabulous Oriental treasures in the north wing, closest to the back entrance on Montague Place, are ancient Chinese porcelain, ornate snuffboxes, miniature landscapes, and a bewildering array of Buddhist and Hindu gods.

Book tickets and tours in The British Museum

More sanitized and commercial than neighbouring Soho, the shops and restaurants of Covent Garden today are a far cry from the district’s heyday when the piazza was the great playground (and red-light district) of eighteenth-century London. The buskers in front of St Paul’s Church, the theatres round about, and the Royal Opera House on Bow Street are survivors of this tradition, and on a balmy summer evening, Covent Garden Piazza is still an undeniably lively place to be.

Royal Opera House

The arcading on the northeast side of the piazza was rebuilt as part of the redevelopment of the Royal Opera House , whose main Neoclassical façade dates from 1811 and opens onto Bow Street. Now, however, you can reach the opera house from a passageway in the corner of the arcading. The spectacular wrought-iron Floral Hall serves as the opera house’s main foyer, and is open to the public, as is the Amphitheatre bar/restaurant (from 90min before performance to the end of the last interval), which has a glorious terrace overlooking the piazza.

Few places in London have engendered so many myths as the East End (a catch-all title which covers just about everywhere east of the City). Its name is synonymous with slums, sweatshops and crime, as epitomized by figures such as Jack the Ripper and the Kray Twins, but also with the rags-to-riches success stories of a whole generations of Jews who were born in these cholera-ridden quarters and then moved to wealthier pastures.

As the area is not an obvious place for sightseeing, and certainly no beauty spot – despite all the fanfare around the 2012 Olympic Village – most visitors to the East End come for its famous Sunday markets: cheap clothes on Petticoat Lane (Middlesex Street), clothes and crafts in trendy Spitalfields , hip vintage gear around Brick Lane and flowers on Columbia Road. As for the East End Docklands , including the vast and awesome Canary Wharf redevelopment, most of it can be gawped at from the overhead light railway.

Thinking big: Olympic Park

Focus of the 2012 Olympics, London’s Olympic Park is situated in a most unlikely East End backwater, on a series of islands formed by the River Lea and various tributaries and canals. The centrepiece of the park is the Olympic Stadium, surrounded on three sides by rivers, and earmarked to become home to West Ham United football club. Standing close to the stadium, with a bird’s-eye view of the whole site from its public observation deck, is the Orbit tower, a 377ft-high continuous loop of red recycled steel designed by Anish Kapoor, and dubbed the Helter Skelter. The most eye-catching venue, however, is Zaha Hadid’s wave-like Aquatics Centre, to the east, which may have cost four times its original, but at least it looks good. The other truly sexy building is the curvy Velodrome, with its banked, Siberian pine track and adjacent BMX circuit. The nearest tube is Stratford; you can also approach from Hackney Wick Overground or Pudding Mill Lane DLR station.

Hampton Court Palace , a sprawling red-brick ensemble on the banks of the Thames thirteen miles southwest of London, is the finest of England’s royal abodes. Built in 1516 by the upwardly mobile Cardinal Wolsey , Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor, it was purloined by Henry himself after Wolsey fell from favour. In the second half of the seventeenth century, Charles II laid out the gardens, inspired by what he had seen at Versailles, while William and Mary had large sections of the palace remodelled by Wren a few years later.

The Royal Apartments are divided into six thematic walking tours. There’s not a lot of information in any of the rooms, but audioguides are available and free guided tours are led by period-costumed historians who bring the place to life. If your energy is lacking – and Hampton Court is huge – the most rewarding sections are: Henry VIII’s State Apartments , which feature the glorious double-hammer-beamed Great Hall; William III’s Apartments ; and Henry VIII’s Kitchens .

Tickets to the Royal Apartments cover entry to the rest of the sites in the grounds. Those who don’t wish to visit the apartments are free to wander around the gardens and visit the curious Royal Tennis Courts (April–Oct), but have to pay to try out the palace’s famously tricky yew-hedge Maze , and visit the Privy Garden , where you can view Andrea Mantegna’s colourful, heroic canvases, The Triumphs of Caesar , housed in the Lower Orangery, and the celebrated Great Vine , whose grapes are sold at the palace each year in September.

Book a tour in Greenwich Peninsula.

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens cover a distance of two miles from Oxford Street in the northeast to Kensington Palace, set in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea . Other districts go in and out of fashion, but this area has been in vogue ever since royalty moved into Kensington Palace in the late seventeenth century.

The most popular tourist attractions lie in South Kensington , where three of London’s top museums – the Victoria and Albert, Natural History and Science museums – along with the vast Royal Albert Hall, stand on land bought with the proceeds of the 1851 Great Exhibition. Chelsea, to the south, has a slightly more bohemian pedigree. In the 1960s, the King’s Road carved out its reputation as London’s catwalk, while in the late 1970s it was the epicentre of the punk explosion. Nothing so rebellious goes on in Chelsea now, though its residents like to think of themselves as rather more artistic and intellectual than the purely moneyed types of Kensington.

Book tickets and tours in Kensington Palace.

Piccadilly , which forms the southern border of swanky Mayfair , may not be the fashionable promenade it started out as in the eighteenth century, but a whiff of exclusivity still pervades Bond Street and its tributaries, where designer clothes emporia jostle for space with jewellers, bespoke tailors and fine art dealers. Regent Street and Oxford Street , meanwhile, are home to the flagship branches of the country’s most popular chain stores.

Marylebone , which lies to the north of Oxford Street, is, like Mayfair, another grid-plan Georgian development – a couple of social and real-estate leagues below its neighbour, but a wealthy area nevertheless. It boasts a very fine art gallery, the Wallace Collection , and, in its northern fringes, one of London’s biggest tourist attractions, Madame Tussauds , the oldest and largest wax museum in the world.

Book tickets and tours in Madame Tussauds.

Oxford Street: the busiest street in Europe

As wealthy Londoners began to move out of the City in the eighteenth century in favour of the newly developed West End, so Oxford Street – the old Roman road to Oxford – gradually became London’s main shopping thoroughfare. Today, despite successive recessions and sky-high rents, Oxford Street remains Europe’s busiest street, simply because this two-mile hotchpotch of shops is home to (often several) flagship branches of Britain’s major retailers. The street’s only real landmark store is Selfridges opened in 1909 with a facade featuring the Queen of Time riding the ship of commerce and supporting an Art Deco clock.

Almost all of North London ’s suburbs are easily accessible by tube from the centre, though just a handful of these satellite villages, now subsumed into the general mass of the city, are worth bothering with. First off is one of London’s finest parks, Regent’s Park , home to London Zoo; Camden Town , famous for its huge weekend market, is nearby. The highlights, however, are the village-like suburbs of Hampstead and Highgate , on the edge of London’s wildest patch of greenery, Hampstead Heath .

Book tickets and tours in ZSL London Zoo.

Camden Town

For all its tourist popularity, Camden Market remains a genuinely offbeat place. The sheer variety of what’s on offer – from cheap CDs to furniture, along with a mass of street fashion and clubwear, and plenty of food stalls – is what makes Camden Town so special. More than 100,000 shoppers turn up here each weekend, and parts of the market now stay open week-long, alongside a crop of shops, cafés and bistros.

Highgate Cemetery

Highgate Cemetery , ranged on both sides of Swain’s Lane, is London’s best-known graveyard. The most illustrious incumbent of the East Cemetery is Karl Marx . Marx himself asked for a simple grave topped by a headstone, but by 1954 the Communist movement decided to move his grave to a more prominent position and erect the hulking bronze bust that now surmounts a granite plinth. To visit the more atmospheric and overgrown West Cemetery , with its spooky Egyptian Avenue and sunken catacombs, you must take a guided tour. Among the prominent graves usually visited are those of artist Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and lesbian novelist Radclyffe Hall.

Bounded by Regent Street to the west, Oxford Street to the north and Charing Cross Road to the east, Soho is very much the heart of the West End. It’s been the city’s premier red-light district for centuries and retains an unorthodox and slightly raffish air that’s unique for central London. It has an immigrant history as rich as that of the East End and a louche nightlife that has attracted writers and revellers of every sexual persuasion since the eighteenth century. Today it’s a very upfront gay enclave, especially around Old Compton Street . Conventional sights in Soho are few, yet there’s probably more street life here than anywhere in the city centre, whatever the hour. Most folk head to Soho to go the cinema or theatre, and to have a drink or a bite to eat in the innumerable bars, cafés and restaurants that pepper the area, which includes Chinatown in the south.

The South Bank has a lot going for it. As well as the massive waterside Southbank Centre , it’s home to a host of tourist attractions including the enormously popular London Eye . With most of London sitting on the north bank of the Thames, the views from here are the best on the river, and thanks to the wide, traffic-free riverside boulevard, the whole area can be happily explored on foot. Just a short walk away lies the absorbing Imperial War Museum , which contains the country’s only permanent exhibition devoted to the Holocaust.

Despite being little more than ten years old, the London Eye is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Standing an impressive 443ft high, it’s the largest Ferris wheel in Europe, weighing over 2000 tons, yet as simple and delicate as a bicycle wheel. It’s constantly in slow motion, which means a full-circle “flight” in one of its 32 pods (one for each of the city’s boroughs) should take around thirty minutes: that may seem a long time but in fact it passes incredibly quickly. Book online (to save money), but note that unless you’ve paid extra you’ll still have to queue to get on. Tickets are also sold from the box office at the eastern end of County Hall.

Now largely built up into a patchwork of Victorian terraces, South London nevertheless includes one outstanding area for sightseeing, and that is Greenwich , with its fantastic ensemble of the Royal Naval College and the Queen’s House, the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory, and the beautifully landscaped royal park. The Sunday market is also a popular draw.

The only other suburban sights that stand out are the Dulwich Picture Gallery , a public art gallery even older than the National Gallery, and the eclectic Horniman Museum , in neighbouring Forest Hill.

Greenwich draws tourists out from the centre in considerable numbers. At its heart is the outstanding architectural set piece of the Old Royal Naval College and the Queen’s House , courtesy of Christopher Wren and Inigo Jones respectively. Most visitors, however, come to see the National Maritime Museum and Greenwich Park’s Royal Observatory . With the added attractions of its riverside pubs and walks – plus startling views across to Canary Wharf and Docklands – it makes for one of the best weekend trips in the capital. To reach Greenwich, you can take a train from London Bridge (every 30min), a boat from one of the piers in central London (every 20–30min), or the DLR to Cutty Sark station (every 4–10min).

Book tickets and tours in Cutty Sark.

In Tudor and Stuart London, the chief reason for crossing the Thames to what is now Southwark was to visit the disreputable Bankside entertainment district around the south end of London Bridge. Four hundred years on, Londoners are heading to the area once more, thanks to a wealth of top attractions – led by the mighty Tate Modern – that pepper the traffic-free riverside path between Blackfriars Bridge and Tower Bridge. The area is conveniently linked to St Paul’s and the City by the fabulous Norman Foster-designed Millennium Bridge, London’s first pedestrian-only bridge.

Book tickets and tours on Tower Bridge.

Shakespeare’s Globe

Dwarfed by Tate Modern, but equally remarkable in its own way, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is a more or less faithful reconstruction of the polygonal playhouse where most of the Bard’s later works were first performed. The theatre, which boasts the first new thatched roof in central London since the Great Fire, puts on plays by Shakespeare and his contemporaries, using only natural light and the minimum of scenery. To find out more about Shakespeare and the history of Bankside, the Globe’s stylish exhibition is well worth a visit. You can have a virtual play on medieval instruments such as the crumhorn or sackbut, prepare your own edition of Shakespeare, and feel the thatch, hazelnut-shell and daub used to build the theatre. There’s also an informative guided tour round the theatre itself; during the summer season, you get to visit the exhibition and the remains of the nearby Rose Theatre instead.

Book tickets and tours in Shakespeare's Globe.

Bankside is dominated nowadays by the awesome Tate Modern . Originally designed as an oil-fired power station by Giles Gilbert Scott, this austere, brick-built “cathedral of power” was converted into a splendid modern art gallery in 2000. The best way to enter is down the ramp from the west so that you get the full effect of the stupendously large turbine hall. It’s easy enough to find your way around the galleries, with levels 3 and 5 displaying the permanent collection, level 4 used for fee-paying special exhibitions, and level 7 home to a café with a great view over the Thames. Along with the free guided tours and multimedia guides, various apps are available (Tate has free wi-fi).

Works are grouped thematically. Although the displays change every year or so, you’re still pretty much guaranteed to see works by Monet and Bonnard, Cubist pioneers Picasso and Braque, Surrealists such as Dalí , abstract artists like Mondrian , Bridget Riley and Pollock, and Pop supremos Warhol and Lichtenstein. And such is the space here that several artists get whole rooms to themselves, among them Joseph Beuys, with his shamanistic wax and furs, and Mark Rothko , whose abstract “Seagram Murals”, originally destined for a posh restaurant in New York, have their own shrine-like room in the heart of the collection.

St James’s, the exclusive little enclave sandwiched between St James’s Park and Piccadilly , was laid out in the 1670s close to St James’s Palace . Regal and aristocratic residences overlook Green Park, gentlemen’s clubs cluster along Pall Mall and St James’s Street, while jacket-and-tie restaurants and expense-account gentlemen’s outfitters line Jermyn Street. Hardly surprising then that most Londoners rarely stray into this area. Plenty of folk, however, frequent St James’s Park, with large numbers heading for the Queen’s chief residence, Buckingham Palace , and the adjacent Queen’s Gallery and Royal Mews .

Buckingham Palace

The graceless colossus of Buckingham Palace , popularly known as “Buck House”, has served as the monarch’s permanent London residence only since the accession of Victoria. Bought by George III in 1762, the building was overhauled in the late 1820s by Nash and again in 1913, producing a palace that’s as bland as it’s possible to be.

For two months of the year, the hallowed portals are grudgingly nudged open. The interior, however, is a bit of an anticlimax: of the palace’s 660 rooms you’re permitted to see twenty or so, and there’s little sign of life, as the Queen decamps to Scotland every summer. For the other ten months there’s little to do here – not that this deters the crowds who mill around the railings, and gather in some force to watch the Changing of the Guard , in which a detachment of the Queen’s Foot Guards marches to appropriate martial music from St James’s Palace (unless it rains, that is).

The Changing of the Guard

The Queen is colonel-in-chief of the seven Household Regiments: the Life Guards (who dress in red and white) and the Blues and Royals (who dress in blue and white) are the two Household Cavalry regiments; while the Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish and Welsh Guards make up the Foot Guards.

The Changing of the Guard takes place at two London locations: the two Household Cavalry regiments take it in turns to stand guard at Horse Guards on Whitehall , while the Foot Guards take care of Buckingham Palace. A ceremony also takes place regularly at Windsor Castle.

Book tickets and tours in The Household Cavalry Museum.

Most visitors experience West London en route to or from Heathrow Airport, either from the confines of the train or tube (which runs overground at this point), or the motorway. The city and its satellites seem to continue unabated, with only fleeting glimpses of the countryside. However, in the five-mile stretch from Chiswick to Osterley there are several former country retreats, now surrounded by suburbia.

The Palladian villa of Chiswick House is perhaps the best known. However, it draws nothing like as many visitors as Syon House , most of whom come for the gardening centre rather than for the house itself, a showcase for the talents of Robert Adam, who also worked at Osterley House , another Elizabethan conversion.

Running through much of the area is the River Thames , once the “Great Highway of London” and still the most pleasant way to travel in these parts during summer. Boats plough up the Thames all the way from central London via the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew and the picturesque riverside at Richmond , as far as Hampton Court.

Kew Gardens

Established in 1759, Kew’s Royal Botanic Gardens manage the extremely difficult task of being both a world leader in botanic research and an extraordinarily beautiful and popular public park. There’s always something to see, whatever the season, but to get the most out of the place come sometime between spring and autumn, bring a picnic and stay for the day.

Of all the glasshouses, by far the most celebrated is the Palm House , a curvaceous mound of glass and wrought iron, designed by Decimus Burton in the 1840s. Its drippingly humid atmosphere nurtures most of the known palm species, while in the basement there’s a small, excellent tropical aquarium.

Book tickets and tours in Kew Gardens.

Every weekend trains from Waterloo and Paddington are packed with people heading for WINDSOR , the royal enclave 21 miles west of London, where they join the human conveyor belt round Windsor Castle . If you’ve got the energy or inclination, it’s possible to cross the river to visit Eton College , which grew from a fifteenth-century free school for impoverished scholars and choristers to become one of the most elitest schools in the world.

Windsor Castle

Towering above the town on a steep chalk bluff, Windsor Castle is an undeniably imposing sight, its chilly grey walls, punctuated by mighty medieval bastions, continuing as far as the eye can see. Inside, most visitors just gape in awe at the monotonous, gilded grandeur of the State Apartments , while the real highlights – the paintings from the Royal Collection that line the walls – are rarely given a second glance. More impressive is St George’s Chapel , a glorious Perpendicular structure ranking with Henry VII’s chapel in Westminster Abbey, and the second most important resting place for royal corpses after the Abbey. On a fine day, put aside some time for exploring Windsor Great Park , which stretches for several miles to the south of the castle.

You can pretty much sample any kind of cuisine in London, from Georgian to Peruvian, from Modern British to fusion – you can even get yourself some Cockney pie and mash. And it needn’t be expensive – even in the fanciest restaurants, set menus (most often served at lunch) can be a great deal, and the small “sharing plates” that are currently all the rage are a godsend if you want to cut costs. While the old-fashioned London caffs are a dying breed, the city has plenty of great little places where you can get quick, filling and inexpensive meals – especially good at lunchtime, most of them are open in the evenings too. Bear in mind also that many pubs serve food, from simple pub grub to haute cuisine.

More than just a cuppa: afternoon tea

The classic English afternoon tea – assorted sandwiches, scones and cream, cakes and tarts, and, of course, lashings of tea – is available all over London. The best venues are the capital’s top hotels and most fashionable department stores; a selection of the best is given here. To avoid disappointment it’s essential to book ahead. Expect to spend £20–40 a head, and bear in mind that most hotels will expect “smart casual attire”; only The Ritz insists on jacket and tie.

The London Proms

The London Proms , provide a feast of classical music at bargain-basement prices. Uniquely, there are more than five hundred standing places – £5, even on the famed last night – which must be bought on the door, on the day; seated tickets cost between £7.50 and £90; last-night tickets start at £55. The acoustics may not be the world’s best, but the calibre of the performers is unbeatable, the atmosphere superb, and the programme a creative mix of standards and new or obscure works. And the hall is so vast that even if you turn up an hour or so before the show starts you are unlikely to be turned away.

Gay and lesbian nightlife in London

London’s lesbian and gay scene is so huge, diverse and well established that it’s easy to forget just how much – and how fast – it has grown over the last couple of decades. Soho remains its spiritual heart, with a mix of traditional gay pubs, designer café-bars and a range of gay-run services. Details of most events appear in Time Out , while another excellent source of information is the London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard . The outdoor event of the year is Pride London in late June/early July, a colourful, noisy march through the city streets followed at the end of the month by a huge, ticketed party in a central London park.

London Theatre

London has enjoyed a reputation for quality theatre since the time of Shakespeare and, despite the continuing dominance of blockbuster musicals and revenue-spinning star vehicles, still provides platforms for innovation and new writing. The West End is the heart of “Theatreland”, with Shaftesbury Avenue its most congested drag, but the term is more of a conceptual pigeon-hole than a geographical term. Some of the most exciting work is performed in what have become known as the Off-West End theatres, while further down the financial ladder still are the fringe theatres, more often than not pub venues, where ticket prices are lower, and quality more variable.

Notting Hill Carnival

The two-day free festival in Notting Hill is the longest-running, best-known and biggest street party in Europe. Dating back more than forty years, the Caribbean carnival is a tumult of imaginatively decorated parade floats, eye-catching costumes, thumping sound systems, live bands, irresistible food and huge crowds. It takes place on the Sunday and Monday of the last weekend of August.

Considering how temperate the London climate is, it’s amazing how much mileage the locals get out of the subject. The truth is that there’s no best time to visit London – summers rarely get really hot and the winters aren’t very cold.

In fact, it’s impossible to say with any certainty what the weather will be like in any given month. May might be wet and grey one year and gloriously sunny the next; November stands an equal chance of being crisp and clear or foggy and grim.

So, whatever time of year you come, be prepared for all eventualities, and bring a pair of comfortable shoes, as, inevitably, you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

The Romans founded Londinium in 43 AD as a stores depot on the marshy banks of the Thames. Despite frequent attacks – not least by Queen Boudicca, who razed it in 61 AD – the port became secure in its position as capital of Roman Britain by the end of the century. London’s expansion really began, however, in the eleventh century, when it became the seat of the last successful invader of Britain, the Norman duke who became William I of England (aka “the Conqueror”). Crowned king of England in Westminster Abbey, William built the White Tower – centrepiece of the Tower of London – to establish his dominance over the merchant population, the class that was soon to make London one of Europe’s mightiest cities.

Little is left of medieval or Tudor London. Many of the finest buildings were wiped out in the course of a few days in 1666 when the Great Fire of London annihilated more than thirteen thousand houses and nearly ninety churches, completing a cycle of destruction begun the year before by the Great Plague, which killed as many as a hundred thousand people. Chief beneficiary of the blaze was Christopher Wren, who was commissioned to redesign the city and rose to the challenge with such masterpieces as St Paul’s Cathedral and the Royal Naval Hospital in Greenwich.

Much of the public architecture of London was built in the Georgian and Victorian periods of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, when grand structures were raised to reflect the city’s status as the financial and administrative hub of the British Empire . And though postwar development peppered the city with some undistinguished modernist buildings, more recent experiments in high-tech architecture, such as the Gherkin, have given the city a new gloss.

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 1.07.2021

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The Fashion Person's Guide to the Coolest Places to Stay, Dine, Shop, and Go in London

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Welcome to Who What Wear Travels , a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

If you have any interest in fashion, chances are you've been to London, know someone who was just there, or want to go. It's one of Europe's biggest, most bustling cities, and one of the world's major fashion capitals. And like its fellow fashion capitals, there's always something new to see and do. There's so much, in fact, that it's hard to know where to start.

The times I've visited London, I've felt like I barely even scratched the surface of the sprawling city with all of its unique neighborhoods. When I speak to people about London, the consensus is clear: There's something for everyone, and if you don't gel with a certain neighborhood, there are plenty of others to choose from. Influencer Lizzy Hadfield summed it up best, telling me, "Each borough is like its own little city. It’s a sprawling city, and people who live here tend to really stick to the area they live in. And every area has so much to offer: great restaurants, shops, galleries. You could have an incredible London experience without setting foot in Central London once."

Speaking to the appeal of London, NET-A-PORTER Market Director Libby Page said, "Whilst London has a unified identity, I love that the scene and style can vary so much depending on where you are and what you are looking for. Almost every area has something interesting to offer; big or small, there are hidden gems all over. You should visit for the architecture, the food, the parks, and the markets."

WWW Travels Tip: The general consensus is that summer is the best time visit London, given its unpredictable weather. Hadfield advises walking as much as you can and exploring the many side streets, but for longer distances, take the Tube.

To find out everything there is to know about visiting London, I enlisted some of the chicest in-the-know Londoners one could hope for. I wanted to go beyond the obvious tourist destinations such as The London Eye and Big Ben and tell you about the spots locals recommend. You're in good hands with their advice and recommendations.

Libby Page is NET-A-PORTER's market director (a role that bridges content and commerce), so you already know that her taste is impeccable. Originally from Wiltshire in the English countryside, Page was drawn to London by the fashion, and she touts the vibrancy, the community, the art, creativity, and importantly, the restaurants as what she loves most about it.

Next up is influencer Lizzy Hadfield . She is originally from Leeds, England, and now splits her time between London and NYC. Hadfield says that London is "a city of saying yes to people and new experiences" and it has hugely influenced her personal style in terms of how practical she dresses.

Remy Farrell is one of our own. As Who What Wear UK's fashion editor, she has her finger on the pulse of what's cool in London at any given moment. She originally hails from the north of England and calls London "a cultural melting pot unlike any other." She's an expert when it comes to seeking out the city's hidden gems.

One of the best hotels in ritzy Notting Hill is The Laslett , a favorite of Page. She recommends the boutique hotel for "a short stay over the weekend if you want to experience Portobello Market and dine in some of London's best restaurants." Fittingly for Notting Hill, The Laslett is made up of five Victorian townhouses. Inside, you'll find vintage furniture and interesting artwork throughout the hotel. It boasts a library, a spa, The Henderson Bar and Kitchen, and a lovely year-round terrace.

Simply put, Broadwick Soho is a luxurious feast for the eyes in one of Central London's most bustling neighborhoods. A newbie on the London hotel scene, it opened late 2023. The hotel's designer, Martin Brudnizki, describes it as "Studio 54 meets your eccentric godmother's Soho townhouse." The design of the hotel is eclectic and glamorous, so if you want a hotel with tons of personality in one of the most fun, history-rich pockets on London, this is the place. The restaurant Dear Jackie and three bars throughout the hotel are just as opulent and chic as you'd imagine.

WWW Travels Tip: The coast is just two hours away, so hop on a train for a quick getaway to some of the UK's most charming coastal towns.

Also in Central London (Fitzrovia, to be exact) is the sleek The London EDITION , a fashion person's favorite no matter what city they're in. The rooms are modern and minimal, with oak-paneled walls that are meant to resemble the interior of a luxury yacht. Farrell shared her firsthand experience of the hotel, telling me, "If you're looking for convenience, The London EDITION is in the thick of the centre and is home to one of my favourite breakfast and dinner spots, The Berners Tavern. It is on the pricier end, but the rooms are akin to miniature chalets, complete with fluffy blankets and Le Labo–stocked bathrooms, making them feel like a vacation in themselves." If you want to stay somewhere exciting, sceney, and glamorous, you can't go wrong with this spot. 

More stays to jot down: Page also recommends the perennial hot spot Chiltern Firehouse in peaceful Marylebone. The Standard in trendy Kings Cross with its quirky, retro-inspired interiors is a favorite of Farrell. Another newcomer on the hotel scene is 1 Hotel Mayfair , the sustainable hotel chain's first location in Europe.

Located in the Islington/Highbury neighborhood in North London, Westerns Laundry is one of those IYKYK places. Housed in a converted garage (an exotic thing in London, so I hear), the cozy restaurant has a seafood and natural wine–focused menu that changes daily and is written on a chalkboard in the restaurant. Page says, "[It's] off the beaten track, but I love the interior of this place—it's homely meets London industrial with an indoor and outdoor area." It's also a favorite of Hadfield, who says, "Such a great date spot, [with] an ever-changing menu. Thankfully, the Rum Baba seems to be a permanent fixture, which you can't miss. They always have great wines available, and if you fancy a stroll after, you can walk 15 minutes to the Compton Arms, another one of my favourite pubs." It's also worth noting that it has a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand recognition.

WWWTravels Tip: It's standard for bars and pubs to close at 11 p.m. or midnight in certain parts of the city, so make your plans earlier in the evening. 

Claridge's Hotel is one of several grande dame hotels in London, but it might be the most "grande" of them all. It's been around forever, but now it has a sophisticated Art Deco restaurant to add to its appeal. Claridge's Restaurant opened in mid-2023 and features modern, upscale renditions of classic British cuisine, including a traditional Sunday roast. Page shared that "breakfast here is delicious, and it's the perfect spot for a truly British bite." The Calacatta marble–laden space is also wildly photogenic. Get there early to try to snag a seat at the stunning curved bar for a glass of champagne.

Perilla is another lovely neighborhood spot in North London and comes highly recommended by Hadfield. She says, "With a changing menu and beautiful interiors (keep an eye out for the cutlery drawers built into the tables), I have never had a bad experience here. It's on the pricier side but so consistent it's absolutely worth it, and I recommend it to everyone." With its relaxed, greenery-filled atmosphere and menu of inventive takes on traditional dishes, it's no wonder it's been a hot spot since it opened nearly 10 years ago.

More meals to jot down: When it comes to pubs, Farrell says that The Devonshire in Soho is a popular choice, as is The Pig and Butcher in Islington. Hadfield names the historic Chesham Arms as one of her favorite East London pubs. Page loves The River Café for special occasions and advises going in the summertime for the ultimate al fresco experience. Another favorite of hers is neighborhood bakery and restaurant Jolene . For brunch, Farrell says Milk London and The Apple Blue are worth getting up for. But for afternoon tea, Farrell recommends The Cadogan Hotel in Chelsea. "Afternoon tea in London is a category all of its own and The Cadogan hotel is one that has to be seen to be believed. There’s no better place to experience London’s most stylish borough—Chelsea, and Chef Benoit’s eye for detail elevates this British tradition to new heights. Expect seasonal fare and exquisite pastries all against the backdrop of a stunning 5* hotel. Silver service doesn’t get more luxurious than this."

Borough Market is a can't-miss stop in Central London. It's one of the largest and oldest (as in, about 1000 years old) food markets in London. There are more than a hundred stalls, stands, restaurants, and shops to peruse. Farrell recommends going hungry and prepared to spend, as you'll want to snack your way through the market. It's advised to avoid the market on weekend afternoons when it gets the most crowded, and be sure to save room in your luggage for non-perishable wares.

WWW Travels Tip: If you need to get across the river and don't want to walk or deal with traffic, Farrell suggests taking Uber Boat (yep, it's a thing), which she says is still an untapped resource.

London is filled with a mind-blowing number of museums and galleries, but if you visit just one museum during your trip and are a fashion fan, I'd recommend Victoria and Albert Museum in South Kensington. The museum, which is dedicated to the power of creativity, features a vast permanent exhibit, but it's the special exhibits that people come out in droves for. At press time, you'll find exhibitions on Gabrielle Chanel; Diva , which celebrates iconic performers across time; and ones on Naomi Campbell and Tropical Modernism architecture coming soon. Just be sure to book ahead, as the special exhibits usually require separate tickets and they tend to sell out.

WWW Travels Tip: It's a good idea to bring cash (pounds) when dining out, as that's how people often tip if service isn't included on the bill. It's also wise to purchase an Oyster card at the big Tube stations to use for public transportation throughout your stay. Oh, and be sure to stand to the right on the escalator at the Tube stations.

Every one of this guide's experts sang the praises of London's many parks. In particular, they love the historical Hampstead Heath , which boasts some of London's best views. Page recommends taking a dip in the park's swimming ponds in September when they're the most mild. Richmond Park , which is one of London's eight Royal Parks and dates back to 1625, is another popular green space. It's famous for its wild red and fallow deer that roam freely in the park. Page recommends heading further southwest to Petersham Nurseries , a garden center with a beautiful restaurant and café. Primrose Hill and Queen's Park are other green spaces our experts recommend checking out.

More sights to jot down: Tate Modern is a must-see if you're interested in contemporary art, while the overwhelmingly rich British Museum is Britain's largest museum. Farrell recommends walking down the Thames from Tower Bridge to Westminster, while Hadfield says that Royal Albert Hall is "a beautiful experience for live music." Last but not least, Page calls Aire Ancient Baths London exceptional and recommends the Barbican Centre , "a turning table of interesting artists, architecture, and film."

Located just off of Soho's iconic Carnaby Street, Annie's Ibiza is where you'll find owner Annie Doble's curation of pieces from her favorite designers from around the world, her special collaborations (such as Annie's x Clio Peppiatt, currently), and her designs , one of which was just worn on the red carpet by Dakota Johnson. You'll also find repurposed dresses and vintage, so there's something for everyone. The store is a celebrity favorite and counts Amal Clooney, Kate Moss, and Cara Delevingne among its fans. There's no better place to shop for a jaw-dropping party dress.

WWW Travels Tip: Skip crowded, tourist-filled Oxford Street and head to the shops on Kings Road instead. Farrell says, "It's far quieter and has more designer boutiques, independent stores, and interesting homeware."

If you're like me and would be happy to wear nothing but Toteme day in and day out, you'll want to visit its brand-new flagship store in Mayfair. Page says, "Their new store on Mount Street is incredible, and the furniture and architecture is the perfect backdrop to their always considered collections." It's the perfect minimalist space to shop the Scandinavian luxury brand's timeless pieces. It's worth noting that this is Toteme's first European store outside of Sweden.

You can't talk about London shopping without talking about vintage. Located in East London's Shoreditch neighborhood, Nordic Poetry is one of the city's best—especially for rare luxury finds. The shop is curated by its Swedish owner, Ameli Lindgren, who travels the world in search of vintage treasures from Alaïa, Gucci, Chanel, Prada, and all the rest of the most desired designer brands. Ask any London-based fashion person for the top vintage stores in the city, and Nordic Poetry is almost certain to be on their list.

More shopping to jot down: If you've never been to Liberty London department store, it's an absolute must. The Swedish brand Our Legacy's London location is a store Hadfield says she never leaves empty-handed. Foyles on Charing Cross Road is an enormous bookstore that Hadfield says she'd gladly lose an entire afternoon in. For vintage furniture, Page recommends Golborne 44 , while Hadfield loves 2&4 Vintage Furniture . Alex Eagle is a popular high-end lifestyle store, and Lovers Lane on Portobello Road is another popular vintage store that gets an honorable mention.

The consensus is that comfort is key in London. You're inevitably going to be doing a lot of walking, and flat shoes that'll take you up and down the Tube station stairs are essential. Hadfield also recommends packing layers, as you could easily go from hot to cold (especially when taking public transportation), and London is known to rain without any given notice—so waterproof outerwear will serve you well. Page also recommends packing cashmere sweaters for a trip to London. As Farrell puts it, "To say that London weather is unpredictable is generous." She says that right now Londoners are relying on long coats with jeans and a T-shirt and a sweater tied around your shoulders. Her advice? "As with any city trip, sunglasses, fine knits, jeans for day, slip dresses for evening, and a great coat like a trench, and you're sorted." All in all, try not to overthink it. As Hadfield puts it, "Really, anything goes. Spend the morning in East London and the afternoon in West, and you will see how different the style is from one end of the city to the other."

Scroll to shop some of the wardrobe essentials that are perfect for a trip to London.

Call it cliché, but a trench coat is truly the perfect outerwear for London.

"City chic and great for running around and exploring." — Page

Stylish flats are key for a trip to London.

British girls love outerwear from Whistles.

You'll never regret investing in a Khaite sweater.

Londoners wear Chelsea boots year-round. These are Hadfield's go-tos, as they can be dressed up or down.

Page loves these "comfy and versatile" jeans.

Perfect for wearing under your trench coat for a night out.

This will make your jeans and T-shirt look wildly elegant.

You'll need these just in case the sun comes out.

Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.

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Prince William Says He and Kate Middleton Are Concerned About the Rise of Antisemitism

The Prince of Wales visited a synagogue in London's West End today.

the prince of wales visits the western marble arch synagogue

Upon his arrival at the synagogue, William received a bouquet of flowers for his wife. (The Princess of Wales is currently recuperating at home at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor.) His appearance comes amidst heightened speculation surrounding Kate's health , and keeping with Kensington Palace's modus operandi of late, he did not provide any updates.

the prince of wales visits the western marble arch synagogue

At the synagogue, William met with young people who have participated in Holocaust Educational Trust's program "Lessons from Auschwitz," and heard from students and young people who have experienced antisemitism. "Prejudice has no place in society," the Prince said during his visit. "Both Catherine and I are extremely concerned about the rise in antisemitism... That's why I'm here today to reassure you all that people do care, and people do listen, and we can't let that go."

britain royals holocaust

The Prince of Wales also spoke with Renee Salt, a Holocaust survivor. According to Kensington Palace, it was very important to the Prince that he hears directly from those who have been impacted by the rise of hatred and antisemitism.

"When [Renee Salt] was liberated nearly 80 years ago, she never could have imagined that once again, within her lifetime, there would be a global explosion of antisemitism," Karen Pollock, the Chief Executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust, said in a statement. "His Royal Highness' visit sends a powerful message that Britain is a country where Jews, whether Holocaust survivors who came to find sanctuary or young Jewish students – are welcome and celebrated. He reminds us that even in the darkest days, the Jewish community is not alone."

the prince of wales visits the british red cross

Prince William's visit to the synagogue comes on the heels of his statement on human suffering in the Middle East , which stopped short of calling for a ceasefire but spoke about "an end to the fighting as soon as possible." He wrote, "Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home."

This past fall, the aftermath of Hamas's October 7 terrorist attack in Israel, the Prince and Princess of Wales released a statement , saying they were "profoundly distressed by the devastating events that have unfolded in the past days." In addition, Prince William penned a personal letter to the United Kingdom's Chief Rabbi , Sir Ephraim Mirvis, where he reflected on his 2018 trip to the region . "I was struck by how many Israelis and Palestinians wanted one and the same thing: a better future," he wrote. "I do hope though that in time, voices calling for peace, common understanding and co-existence can once again come to the fore, so that such human suffering can be consigned to the past."

Headshot of Emily Burack

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

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