Since the start of the year I have been lucky enough to visit London twice; the first time to celebrate my sisters 18th birthday, and the second time to meet my friend Megan before heading to Lisbon in Portugal. London is a huge city and there is an insane amount to see and do. This was my fifth time visiting and I have again left knowing that there is more to experience. This post focuses on a few things I’d recommend doing when visiting Britain’s capital.
This blog post is slip up into two sections; the first includes things which are a bit more pricey and only on for a limited time, whereas the second section includes recommendations which are for those looking for cheap and cheerful, yet still allow you to experience London to the fullest.
London On the Pricier Side
See a West End Show
London boasts an array of amazing theatre shows. You will definitely find something to enjoy. I have seen The Jersey Boys and Les Miserables in London – both amazing pieces of theatre. You can book tickets before hand if you know what you want to see or try and get cheaper tickets the day before or day of the performance.
The Shard – Afternoon Tea
One of the plans we made before heading to London to celebrate my sisters birthday was afternoon tea at The Shard. There are various different places to have afternoon tea across London but The Shard offers it with a beautiful view of the city. Afternoon tea is a classic British experience which involves a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and of course tea. To go up to the Shard viewing platform it is £25, if you plan to do this I’d recommend considering the afternoon tea experience which is roughly £54. You get the same incredible view, the food is delicious, and the service is excellent. If you are looking for a slightly more budget option then maybe even go up for drinks or a light breakfast. Which may turn out to be cheaper than the viewing platform itself.
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park (Festive Season)
If you are visiting London around Christmas time then look out for the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. There are stalls where you can purchase cute little gifts, food vendors that have every Christmas treat imaginable and lots of carnival type rides for all ages. It’s definitely a good day out if you are visiting near that time of the year.
Mamma Mia the Party at the O2 (Limited Time)
Something which I also did when with my family at the start of January was attend Mamma Mia the Party at the O2. This is an experience which is perfect for any fan of ABBA, Mamma Mia or both. You can visit either London or Stockholm to see this all singing and dancing show, set in the movies Greek tavern. You are treated to a four course meal and a party after the show. You truly feel like you are sitting in Greece, and I promise you will not stop smiling the whole evening.
London on a Budget
My second visit to London this year was definitely a more budget one. I was on the lookout for cheap things to see and do.
Stay in a Hostel/Budget Hotel
Hostels are a budget travellers best friend. Shared dorms are not for everyone and I would say don’t have high hopes for a good sleep when you are staying in a hostel. However, if you are not too fussed and would rather spend money elsewhere, then I would recommend the chain of hostels called St. Christopher’s. They have 8 hostels in London alone and locations throughout Europe. I previously stayed at the one in Paris beside Gard Du Nore train station and was pleasantly surprised at the quality. That’s what led me to choose to stay with them again in London.
Free Museums and Galleries
London has a fantastic selection of free museums and galleries. Visit the Royal Academy of Art if you like unique, thought-provoking pieces. The Natural History Museum if you are interested in evolution and nature. The National Portrait Gallery or the British Museum are also great freebies. Although, my personal favourite from this recent trip was the Vagina Museum located in Camden Markets. This is a very small exhibition but so much fun and extremely eye opening. It promotes woman’s health and the knowledge of our autonomy, and will put to bed any of the silly myths we seem to believe.
Camden Market
Not only should you visit Camden Market for its fanny-tastic Vagina Museum but you should also visit for the endless amount of mouth watering food and great shops. I unfortunately didn’t have the time or the room in my stomach to try everything. However, two of the places I did get to try were Magic Falafel and Chin Chin Lab. Magic Falafel was truly magic and the best falafel I have ever tasted. Whilst Chin Chin Lab are famous for having the best ice cream in London and I wouldn’t dispute that. I devoured a vegan chocolate cookie dough with some vanilla flavoured ice cream. Also make sure to grab a quick coffee at Camden Coffee!
Portobello Road Market/Notting Hill
If you want authentic street food, vintage and antique stores, local produce and true London vibes, the head to Noting Hill. There is something for everyone in this area of London. It is much more than just the film Notting Hill. The houses are stunning, the bookstores are intriguing and the people are wonderful. If you like jackets with an artistic flare then go to Archetype Designs. You can work with them to crest your own exclusive print. Additionally, check out the Graffik Gallery for some Banksy style art, the Notting Hill Bookshop, and Daylesford for some coffee.
Vinegar Yard
If you are looking for somewhere that is good for casual drinks then I’d recommend Vinegar Yard. Located right beside London Bridge Station it serves food and drinks with an outdoor and indoor area. The drinks are a little pricey but not terrible for the centre of London. Perfect for a summer night.
To conclude that’s just a few recommendations for London, but I have barely even touched the surface of the things you can do in this stimulating city.
Lots of love,
Laura Jane.
Laura-Jane Adventures 