Hype or Hidden Gem: My Honest London Guide

Worth the hype

London bike tour

I started my first day with a small-group bike tour focused on London’s parks. It was the perfect way to fight jet lag and get oriented to the city right away. As a solo traveler, I loved being part of a group experience!

• Pro tip: The weather can be unpredictable, so pack a light, weatherproof layer just in case. And no matter how silly you may feel, wear your helmet!

Borough Market

It’s not just for TikTok—this market is famous for a reason. As one of the oldest and largest food markets in London, you’ll find more than 100 stalls serving up nearly anything you can imagine. I arrived early, and the energy quickly came alive. I joined a small-group food tour, which gave me the chance to sample about 10 different items—way more than I could have tried on my own!

• Pro tip: Branch out from the viral spots. Arrive early—and hungry.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

I knew next to nothing walking into St. Paul’s—besides it being where Princess Diana married Prince Charles—but I was absolutely blown away by the beauty and enormity of this cathedral. The crypt level alone is filled with memorials and burial sites you could appreciate for hours. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to take it all in.

• Pro tip: Skip visiting on Sundays. The cathedral is open for services only, not sightseeing, and photography isn’t allowed.

The Crown Jewels

This was one experience I was most excited for, and it truly lived up to the hype. Seeing centuries of British history on display and learning about the collection’s evolution was a captivating experience.

• Pro tip: Book a tour that includes the opening ceremony and early access to the Crown Jewels exhibit. Being able to view the displays up close—without massive crowds—makes a huge difference.

Fortnum & Mason

London is known for its iconic, high-end department stores, and Fortnum & Mason is one of the oldest—and still proudly British-owned—institutions. Across multiple floors, you’ll find everything from luxury goods to perfect souvenirs for anyone on your list.

• Pro tip: Visit the flagship Piccadilly location for six floors of Fortnum & Mason magic.

Not worth the hype

Notting Hill

This may be a hot take, but I was a bit disappointed with my visit to Notting Hill. It had a very touristy feel, with shop after shop selling similar trinkets and branded knickknacks in every window. There are some celebrated vintage stores in the area, but do your research ahead of time as they aren’t well-marked. For a similar but more authentic feel, check out Hampstead or Marylebone instead.

• Pro tip: While I wouldn’t choose to spend time wandering the shops of Notting Hill again, I absolutely loved my stay at The Laslett—a stylish, comfortable home base if you want to stay on this side of town.

King’s Life Guard Change

This is a classic British ceremony and an important part of royal tradition. That said, the event is often surrounded by large crowds of tourists, making it tricky to fully take in the pageantry. I’d still encourage visitors to appreciate the ceremony—just know it can feel more like a photo opportunity for the crowd than an immersive cultural experience.

Beyond the hype

St Martin-in-the-Fields Candlelight Concert

This was recommended to me as an under-the-radar experience, and I’m so glad I went! St Martin-in-the-Fields is centrally located and offers candlelit classical music concerts, typically on weekends. It was a beautiful way to slow down and enjoy something that felt quintessentially British.

Hotel breakfast

I sometimes have clients tell me that hotel breakfast isn’t a draw. To me, that means they haven’t been to the right hotels. My stay at The Londoner included one of the most phenomenal breakfasts—warm, attentive service, a full continental buffet with housemade breads, and an à-la carte menu of hot offerings.

Plus, clients who book through me receive complimentary breakfast as a VIP perk! The perfect way to fuel up for a full day of sightseeing.

Book some spa time

In the midst of the hustle and bustle, don’t underestimate the value of pausing for a spa treatment. If you’re staying at The Ned, the Ned’s Club Spa is a can’t-miss. With an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room, it’s the perfect way to unwind away from the city buzz.

Pre-book your airport transfer home

While this tip isn’t specific to London, don’t underestimate the relief you’ll feel when it’s time to head home and a driver is waiting to take you exactly where you need to be. The Heathrow Express was an easy way to get from LHR into the city, but you can’t beat the convenience of a private transfer at the end of a long, busy vacation.

From buzzy markets to quiet candlelit concerts, from the popular tourist spots to hidden corners, London isn’t just a city you visit—it’s one you experience.

If you’re ready to plan your own perfect London getaway, contact me and I’ll help you craft an unforgettable experience—VIP perks included.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our London page.