Curator’s statement
This was my first time truly experiencing all that London has to offer. I had just finished a cruise ship contract in Barcelona and figured—why not stay in Europe a little longer? My mom had never been to England before, and since we both love to explore and try new things, it was the perfect opportunity. London was nothing short of magical. From the rich history to the buzzing energy of the city, every moment felt unforgettable. I can’t recommend it enough—whatever you do in London, it’s bound to be amazing.
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Things to do in London
Inside the Moulin Rouge, Main Stage
Borough Market (cover market) Famous for its chocolate-covered strawberries, this market has so much to offer. From Spanish Pallea to elegant tea time, you can’t go wrong for any craving in this market.
Sherlock Holmes Museum (Museum) Visit the real-life 221B Baker Street apartment of the famous investigator. A tour guide’s description of a typical day and who might show up on the doorstep. Antiques and dressed characters fill the Victorian style rooms.
Piccadilly Circus (shopping/entertainment) The British Times Square has something for everyone. My favorite is the Theater District. Moulin Rouge, Phantom of the Opera, and so much more, old and new! Chinatown is also nearby which has amazing Asian foods and shops.
Tower of London (Historical Site) Not only is the history fascinating, but the views are amazing! From the Knights equipment to the Crown Jewels, all dripping with incredible history.
Buckingham Palace (Historical site) Surrounded by St. Jame’s and Green Park, this iconic building is a must-visit. Taking a stroll or having a picnic, you might just catch a glimpse of the Changing of the Guards or the King himself!
Westminster Abby (Historic Church) Ornate coffins and historic figures, every corner of this church is filled with intrigue. Grab an auto tour to dive deeper into iconic historical figures. For tea time, go to the Cellarium Cafe in the older part of the Abby. Incredible sips, and bites, plus a beautiful view of the courtyard.
Covent Garden (Market/Area) Best shopping area in the city! You can find everything unique and modern. I stopped by the Crusting Pipe for lunch, and it did not disappoint. Tucked away, I enjoyed the risotto and a glass of wine while listening to live music in the square.
Kensington Palace & Park (Historical building and park) A wonderful place to stroll, picnic, or bird-watch. The Palace was wonderful with a souvenir store and small restaurant. The greenery and flowers were breathtaking and Instagram gold.
Shakespeare’s Globe (Historical Theater) The original theater that William Shakespeare performed in this theater will take you back in time. A guided tour is the best way to experience this amazing place. This is a theater lover’s dream. Plus, stop by the Swan cafe and have some afternoon tea before catching your favorite Shakespeare show!
Jack the Ripper Night Tour (walking tour) Everyone knows the story and now you can experience the places also! If you are interested in the macabre and true crime, this is the tour for you! The guided tour leads you around the Whitechapel district. Describing the crimes and showing authentic pictures of the locations in the time period. Our tour guide was extremely friendly and showed up to some extra places along the way!
Tower Bridge (walking) This historical bridge is amazing just to walk across. There is a paid tour that takes you up into the cross section of the bridge and describes more of the history and construction of the bridge. A great stop to take selfies with the Thames River and other famous landmarks!
Places to eat & drink in London
Enjoy a hot cuppa inside the Cellarium Cafe at Westminster Abbey
Fitzrovia (Italian restaurant) Step into an Italian courtyard, inside! Stunning and totally instagram-worthy. Food and drinks are delicious with authentic flavors and dishes.
Chinatown (near Piccadilly Circus) has amazing Asian foods. Sushi, hotpot, and street bao buns are just some of the vast selection of street food and restaurants. There is also unique shops and boutiques all around the area.
Covent Garden (Shopping area/restaurant) Great shopping and even greater restaurants. We stopped by the Crusting Pipe for lunch, and it did not disappoint. Tucked away, I enjoyed the risotto and a glass of wine while listening to live music in the square.
Shakespeare Globe (Theater) After the guided tour of the theater, walk around the corner to The Swan Cafe. With great views of the Thames, stop by for some afternoon tea before catching your favorite Shakespeare show!
Westminster Abbey (Church) Exploring the iconic church can be exhausting. Relax with a cuppa at the Cellarium Cafe in the older part of the Abby. Incredible sips, and bites, plus a beautiful view of the courtyard.
Borough Market (shopping/restaurants). I had an elegant tea time on the upper level of the market. At Roast London, you can enjoy a beautifully tailored tea time, surrounded by flowers, delegate china, and views of the bustling Borough Market below. So worth the trip!
Need to know
The hotel is located in South Kensington. Directly across the street from the Gloucester Road Metro Station, which you can take direct lines to everywhere in the city. This hotel is also located close to Kensington Palace and Gardens and the Marble Arch. Also, a walks away from the shopping street, Oxford Street.
For the Fitzrovia restaurant reserving a table earlier than later! They fill up very quick and can reserve a table a month in advance!
Booking most attractions and tickets in advance is always a plus. Especially popular tourist attractions like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and more. Look into the London Pass if you are considering doing a lot of popular attractions and want to save money.
Having a metro/tube card is a huge help! Reload the card at any station kiosk and you don’t have to worry about paying every time you go to the station.
Consider taking a regional train to the countryside of the city. A day trip to Kent is completely worth it! (Review my trip guide to Canterbury for more details!)
Travel Advisor
Stephanie Theobald
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