Discovering London: A Travel Guide by Someone Who Visits Way too Often
London, the bustling capital of the United Kingdom, offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, cuisine, and entertainment. Whether you’re a foodie, shopping enthusiast, or history buff, this cosmopolitan city has something for everyone.
As a UK citizen who was raised in America, I think I have insight into the (sometimes) contradicting mindsets of tourists and locals. I’ve been traveling to England since I was born, studied there for a summer during University, and have family in various locations across the UK. So let’s consider this the “best guide by a non-local who just visits way too often.”
Here's a comprehensive list to help you make the most of your visit, with my favorite recommendations for food, shopping, cafes, high tea, and activities.
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Duck & Waffle: Enjoy beautiful views from one of London's highest restaurants, offering a menu of modern British and European cuisine.
**Cinnamon Club: Indulge in modern Indian cuisine in the elegant surroundings of a historic library.
***Dishoom: Known for its flavorful Indian dishes, this restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of Bombay with various locations across the city.
*Sushi Samba: Enjoy a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine with stunning city views. Heron Towers is my favorite location.
*COYA Mayfair: Savor exquisite Peruvian dishes and cocktails in a sophisticated setting.
**Hide: A moody hideaway with contemporary European cuisine and an extensive wine list.
**Sushi Atelier: Try innovative sushi creations in a sleek, modern setting.
Jamavar: Experience royal Indian cuisine in a chic, refined atmosphere.
The Wolseley: Known for its luxurious ambiance and British-European menu, perfect for any meal of the day.
BiBi: Contemporary Indian dishes with a modern twist in Mayfair.
Bao: Enjoy Taiwanese steamed buns and other mouthwatering street food in Soho.
Native at Browns: This zero-waste restaurant offers innovative cuisine using sustainable, locally sourced ingredients.
Circolo Popolare: Delight in Italian dishes served family-style in a picturesque, Instagram-worthy setting.
Parrillan: Experience Spanish cuisine in a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
**Brigadiers: Enjoy Indian barbecue and cocktails in a lively, stylish setting.
**City Social: Fine dining with panoramic views and elegant ambiance.
Brat: Enjoy a menu of wood-fired dishes in a laid-back yet sophisticated setting.
Berenjak: Treat yourself to Persian flavors in a bustling atmosphere.
Antidote Wine Bar: A curated selection of natural wines in a cozy setting.
Moro: Savor Spanish and North African-inspired dishes in the vibrant district of Farringdon.
**San Carlo Piccadilly: Enjoy contemporary Italian cuisine in a stylish venue.
Gymkana: Experience high-end Indian dining.
MiMi Meifair: Indulge in authentic Italian dishes and aperitifs in the heart of Mayfair.
Shopping
*Harrods: Explore the world's most famous department store, offering an unmatched selection of luxury goods.
Oxford Street: Shop along one of the busiest shopping streets in Europe, with high street brands and department stores.
New Bond Street: Discover luxury fashion, jewelry, and art galleries in this upscale shopping area.
**Brick Lane: Explore vintage shops, street art, and cultural treasures in this lively East London neighborhood.
Soho: Enjoy eclectic boutiques, independent shops, and a vibrant atmosphere.
**Carnaby Street: Known for its shops, colorful street art and cool restaurants, Carnaby Street is a must-visit.
Cafes
**Monmouth (Borough Market): A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Monmouth offers exceptional coffee in a bustling market.
Apostrophe: Discover delicious coffee and pastries in a sleek, modern cafe.
Prufrock: Known for its high-quality coffee and welcoming atmosphere, Prufrock is a great spot to relax.
Workshop: Enjoy expertly brewed coffee and a delicious menu in a cozy cafe.
Kaffeine: With two locations in Fitzrovia, Kaffeine is a local favorite for top-notch coffee and friendly service.
**Jolene Redchurch: Delicious specialty coffee and fresh-baked goods in a bright, welcoming space.
Watchhouse: Enjoy a cup of quality coffee in a stylish and contemporary setting with various locations across London.
Bodyism: Sip on healthy coffee options at this wellness-focused cafe.
Nathalie: Explore a menu of fresh, nutritious options alongside quality coffee.
Cafe Botanical: Enjoy coffee and plant-based delights in a lush, green space.
Gecko: Savor quality coffee and delicious bites in a trendy, modern cafe.
Lela Bakery: Treat yourself to expertly brewed coffee and delicious baked goods.
Le Deli Robuchon: Experience a taste of Paris in London with exceptional coffee and gourmet treats.
High Tea
*Fortnum & Mason: Enjoy a traditional high tea experience in a classic setting.
Harrods: Treat yourself to a luxurious afternoon tea in the elegant surroundings of Harrods.
The Savoy: Experience high tea in the opulent setting of The Savoy's Thames Foyer.
The Ritz: Enjoy a quintessential British afternoon tea in the lavish setting of The Ritz.
The Wolseley: Delight in high tea in a stunning, art deco-inspired venue.
*Sketch: Known for its quirky decor and stunning egg pod bathrooms, Sketch is a must-visit for an unforgettable dining experience.
Daytime Activities
*Covent Garden: Experience the charm of this historic district with its boutique shops, street performers, and market stalls.
See a Play at Shakespeare's Globe: Immerse yourself in history with a performance at this iconic theater.
**Borough Market: Sample fresh produce and delicious street food at one of London's most famous food markets.
**Hyde Park: Relax in one of London's largest and most beautiful parks, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
Chinatown: Explore the vibrant colors, scents, and flavors of London's Chinatown.
River Boat Cruise on Thames River: Take in the sights of London from the water with a scenic river cruise.
Greenwich: Visit the historic Royal Observatory, National Maritime Museum, and beautiful Greenwich Park.
*British Museum: Delve into history and culture at one of the world's most renowned museums.
*Stroll Through Green Park to Buckingham Palace: Take a leisurely walk through Green Park and marvel at the iconic Buckingham Palace.
Columbia Road Flower Market: Enjoy the colorful blooms and lively atmosphere of this Sunday market.
**Notting Hill/Portobello Road: Discover vibrant street markets, colorful houses, and charming boutiques in this iconic neighborhood.
**See a show: Visit the legendary West End or check out the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre for an authentic experience of the Bard's work.
*Hit all the sights like:
Tower of London: Visit a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames that offers insights into London's history and a chance to see the Crown Jewels.
The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: These iconic buildings are part of London's skyline and are steeped in history.
The London Eye: An enormous Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the Thames that provides stunning views of the city.
Tate Modern: A contemporary art museum located in a former power station, showcasing works from around the world.
The National Gallery: Located in Trafalgar Square, this museum houses a collection of over 2,300 paintings from the mid-13th century to 1900.
The Shard: The tallest building in the UK, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
Westminster Abbey: A famous church with a rich history of royal weddings, coronations, and burials.
Near London
*Stonehenge: This iconic and prehistoric monument, standing as a testament to ancient engineering and spiritual significance, isn’t too far from the city itself.
*City of Bath: Explore a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture. Immerse yourself in the city's history and picturesque streets.
*Windsor Castle: Visit the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, featuring magnificent State Apartments, St. George's Chapel, and stunning views of the Thames River.
Blenheim Palace: Discover the splendor of this Baroque masterpiece, birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, set amidst breathtaking landscaped gardens and parkland.
**Jurassic Coast: Experience the beauty of England's natural heritage along the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning cliffs, fossils, and coastal landscapes. Enjoy lunch by the sea or a picnic icecream on the beach.
**The Cotswolds: Wander through picturesque villages and rolling hills in the Cotswolds. Admire honey-colored stone cottages, historic churches, and scenic countryside views. Castle Comb is a favorite.
Stratford-upon-Avon: Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Explore Shakespeare's family home, Anne Hathaway's Cottage, and enjoy a performance by the Royal Shakespeare Company.
*Good for first-timers
**Our favorites
