London Uncovered: Highlights, Insights & Essential Tips

Thames River cruise (Westminster to Greenwich)

I recommend the one-way cruise option, which allows you to enjoy the scenery without backtracking. Cruising from Westminster to Greenwich offered a fresh perspective on London’s architecture and made the journey itself part of the experience.

Greenwich neighborhood

A wonderful area to explore on foot, rich in maritime history and noticeably calmer than central London. It’s an easy place to slow down, wander, and appreciate London’s seafaring past.

Borough Market

One of London’s most iconic food markets, Borough Market is a lively gathering place for local vendors offering everything from artisanal breads and cheeses to global street food. It’s energetic and crowded, but well worth the visit for travelers who enjoy sampling local flavors and soaking in the city’s food culture—arriving earlier in the day helps make the experience more enjoyable.

Tower Bridge

Be sure to walk across this iconic landmark—and don’t confuse it with London Bridge, which is a very different experience. The views alone make this a worthwhile stop.

Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard

I chose not to tour the interior, focusing instead on experiencing the exterior and the Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s absolutely worth seeing, but arrive early as crowds build quickly. I was lucky enough to briefly spot King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla returning to the palace. Later, while walking back through Hyde Park, I crossed paths with a King’s Guard walking alone and was able to get a photo—keeping a respectful distance, of course.

Westminster Abbey

The only guided tour I chose, and one I highly recommend. Walking inside Westminster Abbey was genuinely breathtaking, with centuries of history surrounding you at every turn. It’s an experience that deserves dedicated time and context.

Paddington Circle

A peaceful green space near Paddington Station, Paddington Circle is a charming place to pause and observe everyday London life. Surrounded by classic architecture and cafés, it offers a quiet contrast to the city’s busier attractions and is an easy stop while exploring the Paddington area.

Churchill War Rooms

A fascinating and immersive look into Britain’s World War II history, the Churchill War Rooms preserve the underground bunker where Winston Churchill and his cabinet directed the war effort. Walking through the narrow corridors offers powerful insight into the decisions made here, making this a must-visit for travelers interested in history, leadership, and London’s wartime past.

The Cambridge (Soho)

A classic neighborhood pub and an early stop on my mission to find London’s best fish & chips. Crisp, well-executed, and exactly what you’d hope for—though I quickly learned that mashed peas are simply part of the experience (a tradition I respect, even if I don’t fully embrace it).

Soho House (Soho)

Invited as a guest by a local I met, this artsy private members’ club offered a rare opportunity to experience London through a local lens. The atmosphere was creative and social, and the cocktails were standout—making it a memorable evening most visitors wouldn’t otherwise have access to.

Ye Olde Rose

A lively local pub with an easygoing, welcoming crowd. It was a fun place to strike up conversations, and I even met American expats who frequent the pub—adding to its neighborhood, community feel.

The King’s Arms (Greenwich Park)

One of my favorite dining experiences of the trip. Sitting outside in the sunshine with food and a drink felt quintessentially London. The fish & chips here were light and crisp—and notably served with unmashed peas—making it my top pick in the city.

The Prospect of Whitby

London’s oldest riverside inn, dating back to 1520, and an excellent stop for a drink and a sense of history. Its Thames-side setting alone makes it worth the visit.

Borough Market & The Wheatsheaf

A must-visit for food lovers, though patience is required due to crowds. I stopped at The Wheatsheaf for a quick lunch, tried a London-style burger, and was introduced to Camden Town Brewery’s Hells Lager—a light, refreshing local beer that even impressed a non-beer drinker.

The Chesterfield Arms (Mayfair)

A true local pub popular with professionals working in the Mayfair area. Naturally, I ordered fish & chips again—another solid contender in my ongoing taste test.

Park Corner Brasserie (Mayfair)

A proper Sunday Roast experience and a must while in London. Located inside the Hilton Park Lane, it offers a refined yet relaxed setting to enjoy this British tradition—perfect for travelers who want classic cuisine without a pub atmosphere.

Final verdict: Best fish & chips in London (in my humble opinion)

After my own taste-testing experiment, my favorite fish & chips in London was The King’s Arms in Greenwich—light, crisp, and perfectly cooked, without the mashed peas. Hands down, the winner for me!