Living Like a Local in London, England

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Curated By

Fora

  • England

  • London

  • City Travel

  • Local Travel

  • International Travel

  • Slow Travel

  • Extended Stay

  • Hidden Gems

  • Sightseeing

Street in London lined with townhomes and green foliage
Fora’s Take

London is vibrant all year round, but Spring springs extra hard. The tourist crowds have yet to arrive, leaving more room for the locals to be out enjoying the sun and the long bank holiday, so visit in May!

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Where to stay in London, England

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Things to do in London, England

View of London's Tower Bridge

View of London's Tower Bridge

On your first full day in London, head to Westminster. Westminster is a great place to start your exploration of London as it is the political, cultural and geographical center of the city.

Cruise along the River Thames and then explore the Tower of London and London Bridge.

Take a day-trip to see the Harry Potter Warner Brothers attraction.

Cat lover? Head to Pause Cat Cafe in Bournemouth, or Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium in East London.

Brits love a good pub crawl. To make like a local, blot out an afternoon visiting a handful of pubs and drink your way through local brews.

There is an incredible stretch of Dorset coastline that is a favorite English road trip, thanks to natural wonders including Durdle Door and lesser-known beaches.

England is home to some impressive vineyards in Worcestershire, Kent, Surrey and Devon.

Day Trips

  • Stonehedge and Roman Baths

  • Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio, a must for Harry Potter fans!

  • Stratford upon-Avon is a picturesque medieval market town located along the River Avon in the West Midlands. It is best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare and for its well-preserved Tudor buildings. The best way to get here is by car, train or by joining a tour.

  • Highclere Castle & Downton Abbey Sites. Highclere Castle is a country house best known for being a prime filming location in the British television series Downton Abbey. The easiest way to get here is by car or by joining a tour.

Places to eat & drink in London, England

Colorful buildings and seating outside Covent Garden in London

Whether you're looking for a glass of icy Champagne on a sun-trap terrace or oysters in a restaurant, Madison will have what you're looking for.

Expect the unexpected as Circus opens its doors in Covent Garden. The swish restaurant and bar takes you deep into the fun of the fair as they serve Pan-Asian cuisine alongside dazzling acts including fire-breathers, acrobats and burlesque.

One of the best restaurant bars in London, 10° is the gorgeous Mayfair bar attached to Michelin-starred eater Galvin at Windows. Head up to the 28th floor of the Hilton Park Lane and sample the delights of both spaces with an evening of cocktails and quality dishes.

Boasting a menu of creative cocktails and New York City-inspired comfort food, a chilled playlist of old-school hip-hop tunes and stunning decor, Dirty Bones oozes cool.

Delve deep into the sensuous world of Lebanese culture with a spot of dinner at Levant.

One of the best restaurants in Central London? Old Compton Brasserie is a staple in Soho's drinking and dining scene, from its quirky weekend brunches right through to its atmospheric dinners.

Padella is a modern bistro with a short list of house-made pasta dishes accompanied by wine and Italianate drinks.

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This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to London. In need of further inspiration? Check out Hollie Grantham's guide, First Timer's Guide to London.