A First-Timer's Guide to London

Tower of London

This is a must-see for a first trip to London. Dating back to the 11th century, it has been a fortress protecting the city for over 900 years. View the dazzling Crown Jewels, Henry VIII’s suit of armor, and the famous ravens who keep the kingdom from falling. You’ll also see where several English queens lost their heads.

Westminster Abbey

The center of British history for nearly a thousand years, the abbey is the spiritual home of the nation. This is where kings and queens are crowned, married, and buried and visitors can marvel at the vast Gothic architecture. Pro tip: It’s still a working church, so attend a service (held daily) to experience Westminster Abbey as originally intended.

Kensington Palace & Gardens

Buckingham Palace is usually top of the list for visitors to London, but unless you’re there during the limited weeks each year when it’s open for tours, I’d give it a miss. Kensington Palace has been a home for the royal family for centuries, from Queen Victoria to Princess Diana to the current Prince and Princess of Wales. In addition to the palace tour, there are always special exhibitions, such as royal fashion through the decades.

Walk the south bank of the Thames

On foot is by far the best way to see London, and a walk along the south bank of the Thames provides the most spectacular views. Start at the base of London Bridge (near Borough Market) and head west along the river. You’ll pass Shakespeare’s Globe theater, the Tate Modern, numerous pubs and coffee shops, the London Eye, and, finally, the best view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament when you arrive at Westminster Bridge.

Afternoon tea at Claridge’s

No trip to London is complete without partaking in a classic afternoon tea, and Claridge’s offers one of the best. The sandwiches are light and savoury, the sweets delightful, and you can add a glass of champagne if desired. Come dressed to impress.

A spot of shopping

Leave Harrod’s to the hordes of other tourists and head to Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly. Load up on gifts at the spectacular food halls on the ground and lower floors and don’t miss the Christmas floors if you’re there between October and December. Liberty (just off Regent Street) is worth a visit, too. Wander through the elegant beauty department, peruse the signature Liberty print papers, scarves, and accessories, and dress your kids like the royals do with a stop at the Trotters children’s boutique on the third floor.

See a West End show

One of my favorite things to do in London is go to live theater in the West End. Comparable to New York’s Broadway, there’s something on every night of the week. I skip the musicals and go straight for the plays; most of them have some of the best British actors you’ll recognize from TV and movies. Some of my favorites were The Hills of California, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, The Ferryman, and The Libertine. But all plays have limited runs, so check your travel dates to see what’s on.

Cozy pub afternoon

You won’t have any trouble finding a pub in London, whether you are looking for quiet conversation or to watch the rugby or football (soccer) with the locals. A few of note include The Lamb and Flag (Covent Garden), the Devonshire (Soho), Chesterfield Arms (Mayfair), and the Princess Royal (Notting Hill).

The Barley Mow

This quintessential pub in the center of London is a perfect place to indulge after a busy day of sightseeing. Don’t be fooled by the lively atmosphere when you walk in— the upstairs dining room is calm and cozy (or “cosy,” as the Brits would have it).

Dishoom

London is known for its ubiquitous and high-quality Indian cuisine, and Dishoom is no exception. Their “Bombay-style street food” is delicious and accessible—travelers without a lot of experience will be able to find something they like. Be prepared to wait in line, as they don’t take reservations for groups smaller than six—but it’s worth it!

Mr. Fogg’s

Mr. Fogg’s is a collection of quirky Victorian-inspired bars with several locations throughout the capital. My favorite is the Botanical Tavern in Fitzrovia, where you can enjoy inventive cocktails and classic British bites.

The Wolesley

This soaring space in the heart of Mayfair used to be a car showroom, and many of the original features are still extant. A great stop after an afternoon of West End shopping, the extensive menu offers something from every corner of Europe.

Borough Market

This bustling market on the south bank of the Thames has over 100 vendors and restaurants. You’ll find every kind of food from every corner of Britain (and the world)—meats and cheeses, fruit and veg, Taiwanese street food, classic baked treats, fine wines, local honey, and so much more.