London, a city close to my heart and one of my favorite destinations, is a captivating blend of historical grandeur and modern vibrancy. The allure of London’s charm is a timeless class, providing glimpses of its rich history and cultural heritage. London’s global influence is evident in its diverse culinary scene, reflecting flavors from around the world. In this post, I’ll share my favorite spots to explore in London, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, along with recommendations for hotels, dining, and more.
When you arrive, the best way to get acclimated to a new time zone, in my opinion, is to walk and explore. London’s parks and landscape are rich in history and offer a variety of experiences for visitors. From the iconic Hyde Park to the tranquil St. James Park, each green space has its own unique charm and story. Kensington Gardens, once the private gardens of Kensington Palace, offers a blend of natural beauty. Explore the picturesque Regent’s Canal or enjoy a riverside escape at Battersea Park– each park offers a glimpse into London’s rich history and natural beauty.
After exploring the city’s green spaces, you can embark on a shamelessly touristy but fantastic journey with Big Bus London, providing a convenient way to explore major landmarks. My personal highlights over the course of your time in London include:
- Witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony and the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch.
- Admire the architectural splendor of the iconic Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament and the renowned clock tower, Big Ben.
- Delve into history at the Churchill War Rooms, the secret underground headquarters from WWII, offering an immersive and educational experience.
- From there, stroll along the Thames River towards Millenium Bridge.
- Upon approaching, look north towards the masterpiece of English Baroque architecture St. Paul’s Cathedral and if interested in exploring the interior, climb to the top for panoramic views, and appreciate its iconic dome.
- Next, head south towards Tate Modern, a contemporary art museum with a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world. I really enjoyed the “Capturing The Moment” exhibit, which explores how the arrival of photography changed the course of painting forever, and explores the relationship between the two mediums. I unfortunately did not plan ahead to see Yayoi Kusama’s “Infinity Mirror Rooms”, but wish I had.
- If you’re craving more history, Shakespeare’s Globe is next on your list, as a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre.
- Continue on to the Tower Bridge and cross towards Tower of London to discover the history of the fortress, home to the Crown Jewels.
When it comes to hotels in London, here are a few recommendations:
1. The May Fair: Located in the heart of Mayfair, this hotel offers a reliable and comfortable stay, including a spa, fitness center, and dining options. Guests can enjoy easy access to nearby attractions such as Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park.
2. The Dorchester: Situated in the prestigious Park Lane neighborhood, this hotel is known for its opulence, Michelin- starred restaurants, and world-glass service. The hotel features a stunning spa, rooftop terrace, and personalized concierge service to cater to guests’ every need.
3. Langham: Nestled in the vibrant Marylebone district, this hotel offers a combination of luxury and refinement. With spacious rooms, elegant decor, and state of the art facilities, the Langham provides guests with a truly remarkable stay. Despite coming down with the flu during our stay, the amenities like the spa with sauna, steam showers, and pool were impressive. Although I didn’t have the chance to visit Palm Court, I’m eager to go back for the experience!
All 3 hotels mentioned above are located in Mayfair, which is my preferred area for stays in London. It is a neighborhood renowned for its elegance, sophistication, and central location. It exudes luxury and refinement. The area is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park. Visitors can indulge in high-end shopping, dine at Michelin- starred restaurants, or relax in one of the neighborhood’s beautiful garden squares. Mayfair is conveniently located near major transportation hubs, making it easy for visitors to explore other parts of London via the Tube, buses, or taxis.
When it comes to dining in London, I wanted to provide you with a diverse list of options, ranging from traditional British to cuisines from all over the world. Making reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants or Michelin-starred establishments, is recommended. Here are a few recommendations:
- British:
- St. John: Known for its British nose-to-tail dining experience, St. John boasts a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere where diners can savor classic British dishes with a modern twist. With its recent Michelin star recognition, St. John offers a culinary journey that celebrates the best of British cuisine. Everything was excellent. You must order the bone marrow. We also ordered the pig tongue, duck, welch rarebit, greens, and date loaf for dessert.
- Chiltern Firehouse: Situated in a historic firehouse converted into a luxury hotel, Chiltern Firehouse offers a modern take on traditional British cuisine. With its contemporary European menu and stylish ambiance, this restaurant provides a unique dining experience that perfectly blends heritage with innovation.
- Indian:
- Dishoom: Indulge in authentic Indian flavors at Dishoom, modeled after Bombay’s Irani cafe culture. Dishoom offers a vibrant dining experiences that transports you to the bustling streets of Bombay.
- Gymkhana: Recently awarded its second Michelin star, Gymkhana offers an upscale Indian dining experience like no other. Inspired by the elite clubs of India where members of high society socialize, eat, drink, and play sport. With its exquisite cuisine and elegant ambiance, Gymkhana promises a culinary journey through the rich and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine. The highlight was the Wild Muntjac Biryani but I also highly recommend the Amritsari Shrimp & Queenies, Lamb Shank Roganjosh, Tandoori Broccoli, and Bengali Angoori Rasmalai.
- Chinese:
- China Tang: Step into the glamour of 1930s Shanghai at China Tang, a Cantonese restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine and opulent surroundings. From sumptuous dimsum to flavorful stir-fries, China Tang delivers an unforgettable dining experience that combines culinary excellence with old world charm. Kate Moss has said the location in Hong Kong is one of her favorites in the world!
- Japanese:
- ROKA: Experience Japanese grilling and sushi, where traditional technique meets innovative flavors.
- Chisou: Venture into Knightsbridge for a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine and expertly crafted sushi and izakaya dishes.
- Kikou: If you’re in Clapham, pop into Kikou for a lovely Japanese meal.
- Bone Daddies: A popular restaurant known for its delicious and innovative takes on Ramen. Perfect for a cold and rainy evening, or when battling the flu.
- Italian:
- Ciccolo Popolare is known for its vibrant atmosphere, Ciccolo Popolare is a trendy spot that offers a taste of Italy in London. Whether for a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal with friends, you will not be disappointed! We celebrated New Year’s Eve here/
- Afternoon Tea:
- Sketch: Experience the quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea at an iconic venue renowned for its visually stunning setting and exquisite tea service. Indulge in a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and delicate pastries served with your tea (and champagne) as you soak in the elegant surroundings and other entertainment, like a ballerina or singers!
- Street Food Markets:
- Immerse yourself in London’s bustling street food scene at markets like Borough Market or Camden Market. These vibrant markets offer a diverse array of global street food that are sure to please. Don’t miss the delicious toastie from Kappacasein Dairy!
Explore London’s vibrant drinking scene, encompassing traditional pubs and high-end bars. “Pub culture” is integral to London and UK social life, providing locals with a relaxed setting to unwind and connect with friends. In these establishments, everyone is equal, and it’s common for strangers to strike up conversations. Don’t hesitate to search for pubs nearby and experience the friendly atmosphere firsthand!
For those seeking a taste of luxury, indulge in London’s array of high-end bars where you can enjoy cocktails fit for royalty. These establishments offer exquisite drinks, lavish surroundings, and impeccable service, providing a regal experience for patrons looking to elevate their night out.
1. Tamesis Dock: Enjoy casual drinks with stunning views of Big Ben from this unique floating bar on the Thames River. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening drink with friends.
2. Rivoli Bar at the Ritz: Step into history at the Rivoli Bar, located within the historic Ritz Hotel. Admire the ornate ceilings and eclectic style while sipping on expensive cocktails. This bar holds significance as the meeting place for Churchill, De Gaulle, and Eisenhower during World War II.
3. Bar at the Dorchester: Indulge in a fabulous gin and tonic experience at the Bar at the Dorchester. With a wide selection of options and house-made tonics, it’s the perfect spot for those looking to treat themselves to an expensive and exquisite drink.
4. CoachMakers Arms Marylebone: Warm up with excellent mulled wine at this charming pub in Marylebone. Perfect for cozying up during the colder months and enjoying a traditional British drink or pint.
5. Anchor Bankside: Experience indoor and outdoor drinking right on the Thames River at one of London’s oldest pubs. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy a drink while soaking in the atmosphere of London’s iconic riverfront. With its rich history and picturesque location, Anchor Bankside remains a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
6. London Edition: Toast to special occasions at the London Edition, whether it’s for a New Year’s Eve celebration or a luxurious stay. With a glass of champagne in hand, admire the stylish surroundings and consider dining at the hotel’s renowned restaurant for a complete experience.
London never fails to captivate with its timeless charm and modern vibrancy. Inspired by my experiences, I encourage you to venture out and discover the endless delights this dynamic city has to offer! Cheers to your London adventure!