Airports
There are four big airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton.
I always suggest purchasing your flights first, and then booking a hotel that provides convenient access to the airport you'll be flying to and from. This way, you can save precious exploring time, as you won't have to spend unnecessary hours commuting to the airport. It ensures a smoother and more efficient travel experience.
For the most part bus will be cheapest, rail second cheapest and express services the most expensive.
Heathrow
The Heathrow Express is a fast and direct train service that connects Heathrow Airport to London Paddington Station.
Underground ( The tube) both the piccadilly line and the Elisabeth line goes to heathrow.
Heathrow Airport
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This is the biggest and most well known airport.
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Gatwick
The Gatwick Express is a dedicated train service that connects Gatwick Airport to London Victoria Station.
Both the Southeren rail and Thameslink will take you into the city and are cheaper options than the express train.
A last option is the National express, but the rail options are better here.
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Stansted
The Stansted Express is a fast and direct train service that connects Stansted Airport to London Liverpool Street Station.
National Express operates coach services from Stansted Airport to various locations in London, including Victoria Coach Station, Stratford, and Liverpool Street.
London Stansted Airport
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This is the airport you most likely fly to if you're on a tight budget. There can be quite long lines, so avoid bringing check in luggage.
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Luton
Thameslink operates a direct train service from Luton Airport Parkway station to various locations in central London, including St Pancras International, Farringdon, and Blackfriars.
National Express offers coach services to various destinations in London, including Victoria Coach Station, Baker Street, and Marble Arch.
London Luton Airport
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Like Stansted this is an airport a lot of budget travellers go to.
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Hotel
Hotel option if you're taking the Heathrow Express:
Nice hotel if you're on a budget.
If you're taking the Elisabeth line from Heathrow:
Super lovely and extremely central.
Great hotel option in Victoria when your coming from Gatwick, Stansted or Luton:
Super central and great transport links. I had a really great time when I stayed here.
Day 1 - The Classics
- Start the day of with a lovely breakfast at Daisy Green:
Daisy Green
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Super delicious and great atmosphere. It's also not super heavy, the avocado toast is always a good option.
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- Then head to Hyde Park, and enjoy a beautiful walk down to Buckingham Palace.
Hyde Park
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Hyde Park is a peaceful oasis of green surroundings. With vast lawns, the serene Serpentine Lake, and exciting cultural events, it is the perfect sanctuary from the bustling city. Here, you may encounter assertive squirrels and hungry parakeets, so one is never truly alone in Hyde Park.
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- Have look at Buckingham Palace and its surrounding areas.
Buckingham Palace
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Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch. While public access to the palace is limited, you can view the facade and experience the changing of the guard ceremony outside. This can be seen on the following days at 10:45 am: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday.
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- Walk through some of St. James park down to Westminister Abbey and Big Ben.
Westminster
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Westminster Abbey, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is a hallowed site in the heart of London. Steeped in history, it has hosted coronations, royal weddings, and countless notable events most recently the late Queen's funeral.
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Big Ben
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Big Ben, the iconic clock tower, stands next to the British Parliament. Big Ben's deep chimes have marked the hours and been a soundtrack for London for decades. Although you cannot visit the tower's interior, you can take pictures from Westminster Bridge or the surrounding areas.
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- It's now time to cross the Thames and head over to South London. Cross Westminister Bridge and head to London Eye.
lastminute.com London Eye
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London Eye is a magnificent Ferris wheel located on the South Bank, offering the finest panoramic views of the city skyline. Tickets cost around 50 pounds per person.
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- Grab a canal tour and see the remaining big sites from the water, sit down and enjoy the river cruise. You can either get off at Greenwich or what this guide suggest tak it back to Tower Pier.
Tower of London
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The Tower of London, a historic fortress and former royal palace, stands as a symbol of both power and intrigue. It was Bloddy Mary (Queen of Scotts) was held before execution.
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- Walk across Tower Bridge and head towards Borough Market to enjoy the most delicious food.
Borough Market
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Borough Market is a lively and renowned food market in London. Situated in the historic Borough area, the market boasts a long history dating back to the 13th century. It's a mecca for food enthusiasts and one of London's most popular destinations for culinary experiences. It's my absolute favourite food marked!
Info: the market is closed on Mondays and closes at 5pm.
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- After filling up on food reward yourself with a relaxing time at the Old Thameside Inn a nice Pub with the best view and truly the most british way to finish a hard day's work.
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Day 2 - Vibrant Soho
- Try and find an Ole and Steen near you, they have amazing breakfast and insane danish pastries. It's a chain so there will likely be one near you.
Ole & Steen
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Authentic danish pastries and amazing bread. A lot of different breakfast options.
This one will be close to Oxford street.
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- After Breakfast start the day of with some shopping on Oxford street, but please note the shops are most likely the one you know from back home, so personally I wouldn't plan on spending too much time here.
Oxford Street
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Famous shopping street. Not to be missed during Christmas time.
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- Head dow to Carnaby Street.
Carnaby Street
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Carnaby Street is an iconic shopping street known for its independent boutiques, trendy brands, and creative atmosphere. It's a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts and those seeking unique shopping experiences. The street is often beautifully decorated, making it well worth a stroll for any visitor to London.
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- Treat yourself to a little cookie or actually massive cookie at Creme.
Crème
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They are expensive cookies but they are glorious, you'll never have better gooey, crunchy cookie than this one.
Info: 5 pounds per cookie.
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- This one is for the Harry Potter fans; visit the Minalima store, the team behind the designs of Harry Potter.
House of MinaLima
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MinaLima store is a popular destination for fans of graphic design and film art. Located in London's Soho area, this shop pays tribute to the graphic design team MinaLima, responsible for the design of the graphic elements in the Harry Potter films.
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- Walk towards Chinatown and enjoy the electricity of this area.
Chinatown
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Super vibrant and so many great dumpling and bubble tea options.
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- If you're hungry head to Beijing Dumplings and enjoy a small lunch.
Beijing Dumpling
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Super delicious, I usually split a few plates of dumplings with friends for a light lunch.
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- Head towards Seven Dials and have a look through the cute little boutiques.
Seven Dials
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Seven Dials is a unique and charming area known for its distinctive intersection, where seven streets converge to create a central square. This historic area has retained its original charm and offers a blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. This is my favourite area of soho as its a little less stressfull.
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- Time for an afternoon coffee break, and Monmouth is some of the best coffee I've had.
Monmouth Coffee Company
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The coffee is exquisite and if you love it as much as me then buy a bag of beans for a souvenir.
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- Head to Covent Garden and check out the surrounding marked.
Covent Garden
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Covent Garden is a charming and vibrant area that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern entertainment. The area is renowned for its iconic market hall, which has been transformed into a shopping paradise with a multitude of shops, stalls, and restaurants. Covent Garden Market offers everything from unique handmade goods and antiques to fashion, jewelry, and gourmet food.
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- Time for Dinner, I have two options one veggie and one meat based.
Vegan:
Mildreds Covent Garden
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This place is amazing and will leave everyone satisfied. The food is next level and I highly recommend getting one of their cocktails.
Its also a delicious brunch spot!
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Steak:
Flat Iron Covent Garden
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I think this is the best priced steak, and the sides are also to die for. The best part you get free popcorn when you're seated and a free ice cream on the way out.
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- Finish the day with a West End show, have look through my guide to help you pick the best show for you.
Day 3 - A bit of edge and punk
It's a day in Camden, here you'll find lots of pubs, and perhaps even run into a pub quiz.
I suggest you skip breakfast as you'll want to save room for the market.
Camden Town
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Camden Town is a place of great diversity, with individuals ranging from entirely white-dressed ladies to people walking their parrots. Known for its historical punk scene, it still bears the marks of its rebellious past. It's a neighborhood with a bit more edge, despite the growing tourist presence.
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- Head to the masive and iconic market.
Camden Market
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Camden Market offers a wide array of goods, including clothing, accessories, art, antiques, and international street food. It's divided into different sections like Camden Lock Market, Stables Market, Camden Lock Village, and West Yard. Visitors can shop for unique items, savor diverse cuisine, experience live music, and immerse themselves in the vibrant street culture and atmosphere of the area.
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- Have a walk down the canals and enjoy the noise of the city disappear.
Little Venice
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Little Venice is a picturesque area in London, located near the junction of the Regent's Canal and the Grand Union Canal. It is known for its tranquil waterways, tree-lined streets, and charming houseboats.
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- Head back to the market and finish off with an amazing dinner at My Village Hawraman Cafe Bar.
My Village Hawraman Cafe Bar
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A super local dining experience, the food is served as tapas, so it's great for sharing. Definetly don't skip the drinks here.
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- If the weather is good then head to Edinboro for a lovely time in a beer garden.
The Edinboro Castle
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My favourite feature of this pub is the beer garden, which is nice and spacious.
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- If its raining head to the famous World's End Pub.
The World's End
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A classic London Pub, where they often have live music playing.
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I hope you have a wonderful trip!
If you require any further assistance in planning your trip or would like tailored suggestions just for you, please feel free to get in touch. I'm here to help.
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