Explore London's Parliament Buildings and Big Ben
| VITAL INFORMATION | |
| Population | 8.5 million |
| Languages spoken | English |
| Currency | 1.00 GBP = 2.02 USD |
| Average temperature | Summer: 64F; winter: 40F |
| High season | July through August |
London stands, quite possibly, as one of the greatest cities in the world. An international hub for major commerce and businesses -- not to mention the breeding ground for the likes of Kate Beckinsale and Posh Spice -- London also enjoys a rich history steeped in grandeur, literature and scandal. One visit to London and you’ll fall fast for its cosmopolitan vibrancy and old-world elegance; you can rest assured that this magnificent city readily offers something for everyone. And the learned travel can -- and should -- mirror London’s sophistication and visit the city as both a tourist and as a local. For your next trip across the pond, mine the true brilliance of this fabulous destination by visiting both its obvious gems and its hidden treasures.
Where to stay
Much like all other aspects of the city, hotel options in London are plentiful, ranging vastly in their number of stars and their number of pounds (cost). On the economical side, the Swiss House Hotel provides excellent options for a very reasonable price, while the Berkeley and, of course, the Ritz tip the scale on luxury and expense. However, for those mid-range travelers who like to fall somewhere between hostel and high dollar, the Cumberland at Marble Arch always offers great rates on all discount-travel websites. Even better, this contemporary hotel sits smack in the middle of Central London, putting you in close proximity to major attractions and numerous tube (subway) stops.Day 1: Be an all-out tourist
Let your inner tourist shine through on your first day in town and visit London’s many brilliant, well-known sites. Rise and shine, grab breakfast at a nearby café and set out for a full day of sight-seeing. To maximize your time, begin your day in Trafalgar Square, hitting the National Portrait Gallery first. Located in the center of the Square, the National Portrait Gallery (free to enjoy, by the way) offers a historical glimpse of England’s good and great monarchs, citizens and artists. You’ll enjoy this quick-study timeline of British history given that the portraits are arranged in chronological order. And one unique, fun fact of the NPG is that you can print postcards of any of your favorite pieces for £5.00 (approx. $10 U.S.) each.From the NPG, walk south along Whitehall past the life-size statue of King Charles I. If you stay due south on Whitehall, you’ll pass several great sights: Portcullis House, the Oliver Cromwell Statue, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament. Then you'll end at Westminster Abbey. You should definitely stop in and pay your respects to the many kings, queens, officials, thinkers, and artists resting there. Inside the Abbey, you’ll feel humbled and awed by its vast beauty and true brilliance. Be sure to wander into Poet’s Corner and the Sir Isaac Newton Memorial. The Abbey is a grace-filled, inspiring experience tantamount to any visit to London.
The history and somberness of the NPG and Westminster Abbey will no doubt leave you ready for some levity, so head due east to South Bank, to the London Eye. London’s own Ferris wheel, the Eye, looms as the most visible landmark in the city’s skyline. While taking a 360-degree turn on the Eye, you’ll witness spectacular panoramic views of London. If the sky is clear, you can see out almost 25 miles. Enjoy the views and then enjoy some food, since your stomach will probably be growling at this point. Duck into Café Manga there at the Eye or find more traditional fare along South Bank in pubs like the Anchor or the East End smugglers’ pubs.
After a nosh in South Bank, head to the Tower of London to bask in London’s sordid, treacherous past -- not to mention the shimmering gleam of the Crown Jewels, which are kept in the Tower. Jewels aside, the Tower showcases the horror and wonder of London’s history, allowing you to explore the actual terraces, towers and chambers where past rulers and traitors lost their heads. The chilly air and experience of the Tower leaves visitors gasping at the atrocities of such a civilized, mannered people. So to lighten the mood after roaming the Tower, stop in at Cicada or Peasant for dinner and a drink.
After a fulfilling and hearty dinner, head back across the Thames to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. An open-air theater built in the fashion of an Elizabethan playhouse, the Globe presents the legendary works of Mr. Shakespeare himself. And besides, what’s a trip to London without a little Shakespeare, anyway?
Finally, after a long day of taking in the many sights of London, you’ll more than likely be ready to head back to your hotel for some R&R.
Day 2: Experience the culture
Having visited the notorious destinations the day before, you can spend your second day immersed in more proper pursuits. Make your way to St. James’s Park, London’s oldest and most regal royal park, for breakfast at Inn the Park. A chic cabin around the corner from the palace, Inn the Park offers radiant sunshine and stunning views of the city -- plus, the Great British Breakfast and the porridge aren’t bad either. After breakfast, enjoy spotting the 45 different bird species that inhabit the elegant grounds as you stroll about the park, ending your walk at the Queen’s house around 11:30.At Buckingham Palace, which borders St. James’s Park, you’ll experience the heart and soul of London and witness the Changing of the Guard at 11:30 a.m. As much a tradition as tea, the Changing of the Guard dates back to the reign of Henry VII (late 1400s). And make no mistakes, the “household division” isn’t just palace decorations; these chaps are some of the most skilled servicemen in the British Army. The Changing of the Guard is a compelling, impressive ritual that honors the past, present and future. You’ll find a rich, historical connection at Buckingham Palace -- so rich you’ll probably be ready to transition back into the present.
From the palace, head across the Thames to the Tate Modern for fantastic (free) displays of some of the most influential artists of the 20th century such as Dali, Matisse, Picasso, Pollack, and Warhol. Even the building itself is an architectural treasure. Conclude your museum tour with a stop in the tasteful, yet not too expensive, Tate Café which offers sandwiches, salads and other light dishes. And the last bit of modern art you can enjoy from the Tate Modern should be your walk straight across the Millennium Bridge to St. Paul’s Cathedral for evensong. While you rest in the peaceful melodies of evensong, you can absorb the grandeur of the mosaics and frescoes of the building. As you leave, walk around the cathedral’s fantastic grounds and enjoy the impressive sculptures and beautiful fountains.
You can leave St. Paul’s and head back to your home away from home to freshen up for a night out in Soho. One of London’s most vibrant villages, Soho features fabulous restaurants such as the Red Fork and Barrafina, as well as London’s version of Chinatown. After dinner in the spot of your choice, wile away the night in Soho’s happening bars, like Refuel and Thirst or in the racy after-dark venues just over in the Red Light District (part of Soho).
Day 3: Live like a local
On day three, ditch your fanny pack, grab a coffee and pastry at the nearest Pret a Manger, and live like a local. Your first activity should be a lovely stroll through Kensington Gardens, which houses Kensington Palace, the Peter Pan Statue, the Albert Memorial, and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain. After enjoying this heavy concentration of lush greenery and regal tributes, walk back into Hyde Park, pass the Serpentine Gallery, and exit right onto Brompton Road, where top-notch shopping stores line the street -- none are as British as Harvey Nichols and Harrods, so make sure you stop in at these two royal establishments. To make the most of your shopping excursion -- and to rest your weary legs -- grab lunch in the café at Harvey Nichols, which offers posh cuisine at a decent price.Lunch ended, jump on the tube at Knightsbridge (just up from Harvey Nicks) and head out to Notting Hill, where you’ll find Portobello Road. An antique market and street fair, Portobello Road offers unique treasures for anyone and everyone. In the market for a classic, one-of-a-kind watch? Then drop by the Admiral Vernon arcade for a unique, antique selection. And along the way, if your feet get tired, dodge into any one of the many quaint restaurants peppering the market for a soul-satisfying pint. When you’ve had your fill, you’ll probably be ready for the next stop, which should be Primrose Hill (Chalk Farm stop off the Northern Line on the tube).
Primrose Hill, a charming, quiet community just north of Central London, boasts a large celebrity population and none other than the Primrose Hill. Though not quite equal to Parliament Hill, Primrose Hill offers magnificent sunsets that are by far the most spectacular you’ll see in all of London.
Once the sun has set, venture a couple blocks over to Regent’s Park Road for several local options. The Russian Tea Room and J’s Italian are both great, but so is Lemonia, which offers delicious, fresh Greek food. Any choice will be a wise decision. With dinner complete, be sure to walk around the corner to cap the night off at the Lansdowne Pub. This local secret offers a warm fireplace, several draft and bottle beers, cocktails, appetizers, and a cozy atmosphere. You might even bump into the Martins or Baby Spice while you’re there.
tips for the trip
- Take a day flight and arrive in London in the evening hours. It may take another vacation day, but it prevents you from having to stay awake for over 24 hours or sleeping away valuable daylight hours.
- Complete a currency exchange before you arrive in London. You’re likely to save at least a few cents on the dollar and sure to save valuable time not looking for a currency-exchange store in London.
- Be mindful of transportation. London cabbies negotiate both the location and the price before you’re guaranteed a ride. So don’t stray too far from public transportation, just in case. Also, travel everywhere with a tube map and pass (Oyster card) to make getting around easier.
- Purchase as many tickets/passes online as you can before you arrive. Most attraction websites offer discounts and specials on companion attractions throughout the city.
- The restaurant pace in London is laid-back and casual. Don’t take offense if you find that it takes your server a few minutes to approach the table with a drink order or a check. And, after all, you are on vacation, so enjoy the relaxed pace.
time for some bangers and mash
Three days in London won’t allow you time to absorb all this vibrant, historical city has to offer, but it will afford you time to see the important highlights (which might be just enough for some). And whether you strictly follow the plan above or not, you’re sure to find yourself wowed and wide-eyed in this brilliant city that teems with historical significance and overwhelming beauty.Resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/
http://www.thecityoflondon.com/
http://www.changing-the-guard.com/index.htm
http://www.shakespeares-globe.org/
http://www.visitlondon.com/
London Travel Guide
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