One Day in London - Perfect 24 Hour Itinerary

One Day in London - Perfect 24 Hour Itinerary

London seamlessly blends rich history with modern marvels. With so much to see and do, it can be a daunting task to make the most of your limited time. But don't fret! I will guide you through a memorable day in London, highlighting the city's iconic landmarks, cultural gems and treasures including the best places to grab a bite (including VEGETARIAN & GLUTEN FREE recommendations)!
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Breakfast to-go at Borough Market

Borough Market
@whereissibley
One of London's most renowned food markets... allow yourself to be caught up in the bustling atmosphere & mouthwatering aromas. Sample a wide array of gourmet treats, from freshly baked pastries to international delicacies. Be sure to grab a cup of coffee to fuel your busy day ahead!
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Start your day at one of London's most renowned food markets... allow yourself to be caught up in the bustling atmosphere & mouthwatering aromas. Sample a wide array of gourmet treats, from freshly baked pastries to international delicacies. Be sure to grab a cup of coffee to fuel your busy day ahead!  

Tower of London

Tower of London
@whereissibley
Few places in London are as frighteningly beautiful as the Tower of London, where centuries of history have transpired. Plus you can gawk at some pretty jewelry (aka the Crown Jewels)!
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From the Borough Market it’s a 15 minute stroll across the Thames to The Tower of London. Explore the magnificent White Tower and admire the priceless Crown Jewels. The Tower is open for visits Tuesday to Saturday from 9am - 5pm and Sunday and Monday from 10am - 5:30pm. Buy tickets on the official site below!

Thames Hop-on/off Cruise

Aside from the stunning views, a Thames river cruise offers a chance to relax and unwind as you take in the sights while getting from point A to Point B (its a win-win...win!). The boat ride is smooth and comfortable, and you can choose to sit inside or outside on the deck.

Hop on at Tower Millennium Pier. I recommend the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers which operates 6am - 9pm and stops at 20 piers!

Tower Millennium Pier
@whereissibley
You'll find the Tower Millennium Pier a short walk from the Tower of London. Hop on & enjoy your ride through London, hopping off at Westminster!
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Hop off at Embankment Pier where you can easily head to Covent Garden for lunch. 

Embankment Pier
@whereissibley
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Lunch in Covent Garden

Bancone Covent Garden
@whereissibley
A charming Italian Eatery & Michelin Bib recipient. Stop for pasta (including gluten free options woohoo!) & a glass of Prosseco (it is 5 o'clock somewhere, after all). Bancone opens daily at noon.
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Bow Street Tavern
@whereissibley
Savor fresh takes on London classics (fish & chips, anyone?) including plenty of gluten free & vegetarian options! Bow Street Tavern makes for a memorable lunch stop with an ambience & decor you won't soon forget. Sit down for lunch as early as noon!
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Casa Manolo, Strand
@whereissibley
Because everyone likes tapas... Grab a filling sandwich or a few tapas to share! If you're in a rush you can even make an order to-go! Plus Casa Manolo opens at 10am!
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Big Ben & Westminster Abbey 

Big Ben
@whereissibley
The icon of London. Enjoy Big Ben & the Parliament Building on your journey from the Thames to Buckingham Palace.
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After lunch head back to the waterfront to either walk or hop back on the Thames cruise towards Westminster. If you opt to walk you can expect about a 20 minute journey to Big Ben, where you'll turn from the water & head to Buckingham Palace. 

Westminster Abbey
@whereissibley
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Journey past St Margaret's Church & Westminster Abbey as you make your way closer to the palace.

St Margaret's Church
@whereissibley
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Buckingham Palace and St. James's Park

Buckingham Palace
@whereissibley
From the striking beauty of the palace gates to the grandeur of the state rooms inside, the experience is one that you will surely remember. Visit during the Changing of the Guard ceremony and you’ll witness the military precision and ceremonial tradition of the British guards. Buckingham Palace is not to be missed on a visit to London.
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From the striking beauty of the palace gates to the grandeur of the state rooms inside, the experience is one that you will surely remember. Visit during the Changing of the Guard ceremony and you’ll witness the military precision and ceremonial tradition of the British guards. Buckingham Palace is not to be missed on a visit to London.

Be sure to purchase tickets in advance on the official website or book a guided tour! The staterooms are open to visitors for 10 weeks each summer & select dates in the winter & spring, check the official website to coordinate your visit. 

St James's Park
@whereissibley
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Take a stroll through scenic St Jame's Park on your way to dinner.

Dinner

Mildreds Soho
@whereissibley
Another charming eatery, Mildred's in Soho is perfectly located between Buckingham Palace & the West End theaters. Mildred's offers a plant-based menu including some gluten free options.
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Circolo Popolare
@whereissibley
The decor at this Italian eatery is simply divine, as is the food. Enjoy pizza & pasta at great prices!
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Padella
@whereissibley
More Italian cuisine, but this time on the opposite side of the Thames & only a 12 min walk from Shakespeare's Globe.
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Enjoy a Show at a West End Theater or Shakespeare’s Globe

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Shakespeare's Globe
@whereissibley
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No visit to London is complete without experiencing the magic of the theater. Catch a world-class performance in the vibrant theater district! You can also reserve seats (or standing room tickets) to watch a production at Shakespeare’s Globe! From musical extravaganzas to thought-provoking dramas, there's a show in London for everyone.

If you plan on seeing a show at the historic Globe you can hop back on the Thames cruise & head for Bankside Pier. From there you'll face less than a 5 minute walk to the theatre entrance!

or email sibley.slade@fora.travel

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
An American in Paris... Milan, Lisbon, Athens, London... I grew up between the Southwest and the Gulf Coast, but feel most at home in a bustling European city, typically with one of my trusty canvas totes by my side! I am a firm believer that anyone can travel well, regardless of budget, and I want everyone to understand that there’s more out there than just the popular spots you see on instagram. I yearn to connect with the locals wherever I travel, leading to authentic (and sometimes unexpected) adventures. I consider myself an off-the-beaten-path type of traveler, avoiding crowded areas and seasons, searching for hidden gems wherever I find myself in the world. I take pride in carefully curating trips for the traveler I am booking for, making for an extremely unique and memorable trip!
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