London, the iconic capital of the United Kingdom, has always held a special place in the hearts of travelers. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and royal allure make it a city like no other. Our recent journey to this metropolis was an immersive experience that we’ll cherish forever. From exploring the grandeur of its palaces to enjoying the tranquility of its parks and gardens, our four days in London were a treasure trove of memories. Check out our London travel guide the next time you travel to this enchanting city!
Day 1: A Grand Entrance to Europe – Exploring London
As we touched down at the bustling London Heathrow Airport, a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation filled the air. Our European adventure had officially begun, and the iconic city of London was our first destination. The seamless journey from the airport to our home for the next few days, Lost Property St. Pauls London, set the tone for a memorable exploration. Our first day in London was packed with visits to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, providing us with a taste of the rich history and culture that awaited.
– Heathrow Express to Lost Property St. Paul’s London: Our journey into the heart of London began with a ride on the Heathrow Express, a convenient and speedy train service that whisked us away from the airport to the heart of the city.
– St. Paul’s Cathedral: Our first stop in London was a true masterpiece of architecture and history, St. Paul’s Cathedral. The grandeur of Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece left us in awe, from the iconic dome to the intricate mosaics that adorned its interior. Climbing to the top provided us with panoramic views of the city, making the 528-step ascent more than worthwhile.
– Tower of London: Next on our itinerary was the historic Tower of London. This fortress, with its storied past, was a fascinating glimpse into the annals of English history. We marveled at the Crown Jewels, explored the medieval architecture, and even crossed paths with the resident ravens, said to protect the monarchy.
– Leadenhall Market: Our first day of exploration concluded with a visit to the charming Leadenhall Market, a covered market dating back to the 19th century. Its ornate architecture, cobbled walkways, and boutique shops offered a perfect blend of history and contemporary charm. It was a delightful spot to wander and immerse ourselves in the unique ambiance of London.
– Dinner at Terra Rossa St. Paul’s: For dinner this night, we opted for Italian eats at Terra Rossa St. Paul’s, which was conveniently located within walking distance to our hotel. The food was delicious, and I’d highly recommend it!
Day 2: Exploring Iconic London
– Breakfast in Trafalgar Square: Our second day began with the quintessential English experience – a traditional breakfast in Trafalgar Square at Caffe Concerto. The hearty meal, complete with eggs, sausages, baked beans, and a latte (please excuse us passing on a cup of tea!), provided the energy we needed for a day filled with iconic London experiences.
– Buckingham Palace: Changing of the Guards: Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, was a sight to behold. Our visit coincided with the much-anticipated Changing of the Guard ceremony, a royal spectacle steeped in tradition. Be sure to arrive early to try to get an unobstructed view of the ceremony!
– Bag O’ Nails: Just around the corner from Buckingham Palace, we stumbled upon a hidden gem known as Bag O’ Nails. This historic pub, with its charming interior, was the perfect place to savor a pint of ale and soak in the ambiance. The pub’s history, including its association with rock legends, added a unique layer to our visit.
– Royals Mews: After a relaxing pub visit, we continued our royal-themed day with a tour of the Royal Mews. The stables and carriages on display provided a fascinating insight into the ceremonial aspects of the British monarchy. We marveled at the opulent State Vehicles and the Gold State Coach.
– Afternoon tea at Sketch: For a taste of sophistication and indulgence, we reserved a table for afternoon tea at the renowned Sketch. The elegant surroundings, including the iconic pink Gallery and the dome washrooms, created a memorable backdrop for our afternoon of sweet and savory delights. Come prepared to indulge in a plethora of tea sandwiches and treats, and opt for the champagne if you’re in the mood for bubbles!
– Phantom of the Opera: The evening was reserved for a world-class theater experience, and we headed to His Majesty’s Theatre for a spectacular performance of “Phantom of the Opera.”
– Dinner at Salisbury Pub in Covent Garden: For dinner, we opted for fish ‘n’ chips at a lively, local pub. The brews and cocktails were delicious, and the meal was even better!
Day 3: A Day in Notting Hill
– Explored Notting Hill neighborhood: Our third day in London promised a more relaxed pace as we delved into the charming streets of Notting Hill. The neighborhood’s unique character and colorful facades provided a delightful backdrop for our exploration. We started the day with breakfast at Cherry On. This establishment was as equally cute as it was delicious!
– Notting Hill Bookshop: Fans of the movie “Notting Hill,” we couldn’t resist a visit to the iconic Notting Hill Bookshop, made famous by the film. Its charming blue facade and cozy interior made it a memorable stop on our itinerary.
– Kensington Palace: A visit to Kensington Palace was a highlight of our day. The historic residence, set in the lush Kensington Gardens, offered a captivating journey through royal history. The touching Princess Diana memorial was particularly moving.
– Westminster Abbey: The awe-inspiring Westminster Abbey was our next destination. Stepping into this Gothic masterpiece, we were surrounded by centuries of history, from royal coronations to notable burials. The grandeur of the abbey, both inside and out, was truly remarkable.
– Top Secret Comedy Club: The evening was filled with laughter and entertainment as we made our way to the Top Secret Comedy Club. The intimate setting and the lineup of talented comedians provided us with an evening of humor and merriment.
Day 4: Exploring the Cotswolds
– Cotswolds Day Tour : Day four marked our departure from London for a delightful day trip to the enchanting Cotswolds. Our adventure began with an excursion to this picturesque region courtesy of Evans Evans Tours. The rolling hills, stone cottages, and quaint villages of the Cotswolds felt like a journey back in time. We explored charming towns like Bibury (“The Most Beautiful Village in England”), Burford (“Gateway to the Cotswolds”), and Bourton-on-the-Water (“The Venice of the Cotswolds”). The beauty of the countryside, with its idyllic landscapes, was truly captivating.
– Dinner at The Ivy Victoria: Our return to London was accompanied by a hearty appetite, and we indulged in a scrumptious dinner at The Ivy Victoria. The elegant ambiance and delectable menu made it a fitting end to our day of exploration in the English countryside.
Day 5: London
After Day 4, we explored other notable cities in Europe, including Edinburgh, Amsterdam, and Paris. View other travel blogs for more details on those cities. Below will detail our final day in London upon our return back to this memorable city!
– Hilton London Paddington: We checked into a different hotel due to its convenience to Paddington Station, making our departure the following day smooth and stress-free. The hotel has a direct entrance into the station, making it a breeze to check out and board your train.
– Frozen: The Musical: Our afternoon was filled with the enchantment of theater as we attended a showing of “Frozen: The Musical.” The magical world of Elsa, Anna, and Olaf came to life on the stage, providing a delightful experience for all ages.
– Drinks at Marquess of Anglesby Pub: After the musical, we strolled through the vibrant streets of Covent Garden, where we discovered the Marquess of Anglesby Pub. The cozy atmosphere and the enticing aroma of coffee and spirits lured us in, and we couldn’t resist sipping on espresso martinis while we booked last minute tickets to another show!
– Explored Covent Garden: Covent Garden, with its street performers, boutique shops, and lively atmosphere, was an ideal place for an evening exploration. We meandered through the bustling market square and discovered hidden gems at every turn.
– Dinner at Prima Sapori d’Italia: We had a delightful meal at this Italian eatery where we dined on the patio. With an extensive menu featuring fresh pasta, pizza, salads, and more, there were plenty of options to choose from.
– Mrs. Doubtfire Musical: Our day ended with a flourish of Broadway excitement as we attended a performance of “Mrs. Doubtfire.” The heartwarming story, brought to life by a talented cast, left us with a sense of nostalgia and joy.
Day 6: Farewell London
– Hyde Park: On our final day in London, we savored a leisurely morning stroll through the serene beauty of Hyde Park. This iconic green oasis provided us with a moment of tranquility and a chance to bid farewell to the city.
– Heathrow Express to London Heathrow Airport: With cherished memories of our European adventure, we made our way to London Heathrow Airport. The efficient Heathrow Express from Paddington Station ensured a smooth and swift journey to the airport.
In conclusion, our five days in London were an immersive experience that allowed us to traverse the city’s rich history, culture, and royal heritage. From the grandeur of Buckingham Palace to the tranquility of Kensington Gardens, each day brought new discoveries and memorable moments. London, with its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant streets, left an indelible mark on our hearts. It’s a city where history meets modernity, where traditions thrive alongside innovation, and where every corner holds a story waiting to be uncovered. As we bid adieu to this enchanting metropolis, we carried with us the warmth of its culture and the grandeur of its history.
Other Hotel Options Considered in London:
– The Westminster London, Curio Collection by Hilton
Additional Hotel Tips:
– Many hotels offer discounts when you sign up for their free rewards programs. These programs often provide exclusive benefits, including reduced rates, room upgrades, and complimentary amenities. It’s worth considering joining the program of your chosen hotel to enhance your overall experience.
– Look for discounts and promo codes on social media and through online searches to secure better rates for your stay. With a bit of research, you can often find special offers and deals that can make your trip more budget-friendly.
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Looking to discover more of Europe? Don’t miss my extensive Europe travel blog detailing my exciting two-week European adventure. You’ll find a treasure trove of helpful resources and tips, from top hotel recommendations and insights into various train options to essential travel apps you should download in advance of your trip: Detailed Travel Guide: A Two Week European Adventure
