Multicultural London is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, and each of its 32 boroughs are marked by their own distinctive style and culture. Exploring the city can be lifelong endeavour, with acres of green parks, astounding historic and contemporary landmarks and an array of free museums. The food scene here is equally renowned, with offerings from low key street food and supper clubs to Michelin starred restaurants. Don’t forget to visit one of its many historic markets - selling everything from flowers, food and books - and spend the afternoon in one of its cosy pubs. Overall, London is a timeless city that will leave a lasting impression.
Eat & Drink
London’s food scene reflects its history and vibrant mix of cultures with fine dining and more casual establishments in abundance. For a chic Middle Eastern cafe with its own best-selling cookbook, visit Honey & Co in picturesque Fitzrovia, where you can enjoy their fresh shakshuka (an egg dish) with a selection of breads, jams and pickles for breakfast. For traditional British dining with a “nose to tail” approach, make a reservation at St. John in historic Clerkenwell, and feast on dishes like braised hare, savoy and bacon. Afterwards, visit legendary Dukes bar, Ian Fleming’s old haunt, and try their Martinis - frequently lauded as the best in the world - shaken, not stirred.
Sleep
With a huge range of hotels from five-star opulence to quaint townhouses and hip East London design hotels, you’re spoilt for choice. The Zetter Townhouse Clerkenwell is one of London’s best kept secrets - set over adjoining Georgian era houses in the east, looking over a pretty square, the hotel is independently owned and this is felt in the spirit of the place, which combines luxury with eccentricity. Rooms are filled with antiques, with four poster beds, union jack flags and illustrated elephants creating a cosy feel. If you’re after classic chic, try the Chiltern Firehouse instead. This hotel is a favourite with London’s celebrities, located in the elegant Marylebone neighbourhood and with a renowned adjoining restaurant.
Explore
One of London’s most atmospheric attractions is Sir John Soane’s museum, located on Lincoln’s Inn Fields. The museum preserves the home of the neoclassical architect John Soane, and has been kept as it was at the time of his death 180 years ago, giving you a unique insight into 19th century London. See his collections of antiquities, sculpture and paintings. On a sunny day, stroll around Hyde Park - a listed space that’s the largest Royal Park in central London. St Paul’s Cathedral is a legendary part of London’s skyline, and dates back to the 17th century from a design created by Sir Christopher Wren. It’s recommended to wander up the staircase curled around the vast dome to the Whispering Gallery, where you can experience the unique acoustics. For art-lovers, the Tate Modern is located in an iconic former power station on South Bank, and houses a fantastic collection of international modern art.
Shop
You’ll be spoilt for choice when choosing souvenirs to take home with you. Some of London’s most unique shopping experiences to try are Daunt Books, a beautiful Edwardian bookshop in Marylebone with long oak galleries, and Columbia Road Flower Market, held every Sunday on a hip east London street, which is filled with flowers and foliage. For antiques, vintage fashion and bric-a-brac visit Portobello Market in Notting Hill, an area made famous by the 90s film starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, where you can also find instagram-ready streets of pastel townhouses. If it’s gifts for foodies back home you’re after, go to Borough Market, located next to London Bridge and open Monday to Saturday. It’s a renowned farmer’s market which hosts the best of British fish and seafood, cheeses, meat, bread and fruit and vegetables.