London, United Kingdom : A curated interactive map

London, United Kingdom : A curated interactive map

Lea Di Giovanni
Welcome to my personalised map of London! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this guide is crafted to help you experience the city like a local. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I've curated my favourite spots across the capital, ensuring you make the most out of your London adventure. Dive into this map to uncover the best places to eat, drink, shop, and explore. Let's embark on this journey together and discover what makes London truly unforgettable!
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What to know before going:

1. Weather & What to Pack

Unpredictable Weather: London’s weather can be quite unpredictable, so pack layers. Even in summer, a light jacket or sweater is handy.

Umbrella or Waterproof: Rain is common, so carry a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket.

Comfortable Shoes: London is a walking city, so comfy shoes are a must for exploring.

2. Transport Tips

Oyster Card or Contactless: Get an Oyster card or use a contactless bank card for the Tube, buses, and trains. It’s the most cost-effective way to travel.

Mind the Gap: Be aware of the “Mind the Gap” announcements on the Tube, especially at older stations.

Rush Hour: Avoid travelling during rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM and 5-7 PM) if you can; the Tube and buses can get crowded.

Black Cabs & Ride-Sharing: Black cabs are iconic but pricey. Ride-sharing apps like Uber are more affordable alternatives.

Walking: Central London is surprisingly walkable, and often quicker than public transport during peak times.

3. Navigating the City

City Layout: London has vast neighbourhoods, each offering something unique. Use maps or apps like Google Maps to plan your routes.

Left Side Driving: Remember that cars drive on the left, so always look right when crossing streets.

Etiquette: Stand on the right side of escalators, walk on the left. Londoners are big on this, especially on the Tube.

4. Money & Costs

Currency: The currency is the British Pound (£). Contactless payments are widely accepted.

Tipping: Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it's appreciated. In restaurants, 10-15% is standard if service isn’t included. No need to tip in pubs.

Budgeting: London can be expensive, so budget accordingly. Look for free or discounted attractions and activities.

5. Accommodation

Booking Early: Hotels and Airbnb options fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Book early to get the best deals.

6. Dining & Drinking

Varied Cuisine: London offers diverse culinary experiences. Explore street food markets like Borough Market for a taste of everything.

Pub Culture: Visiting a pub is a must. Pubs are more than just drinking spots—they’re social hubs. Order at the bar and pay upfront.

7. Attractions & Activities

Free Museums: Many museums and galleries, including the British Museum and National Gallery, offer free entry.

West End Shows: If you’re into theatre, catch a show in the West End. Look for last-minute deals at TKTS in Leicester Square.

8. Cultural Etiquette

Queuing: Brits love to queue (stand in line). It’s seen as a sign of politeness, so always join the end of the line.

Politeness: Use “please,” “thank you,” and “sorry” often—Londoners are generally polite and appreciate good manners.

Tipping at Bars: It’s not customary to tip at the bar in pubs. If you want to, you can offer to buy the bartender a drink instead.

9. Safety & Emergencies

Safe City: London is generally safe, but like any big city, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Emergency Number: Dial 999 for emergencies. For non-urgent matters, dial 101.

Pickpockets: Be cautious of pickpockets in busy areas like Oxford Street or on the Tube.

10. Staying Connected

SIM Cards: If you need to stay connected, consider getting a local SIM card. Major providers include EE, Vodafone, and Three.

Wi-Fi: Many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi, but it’s worth having data on your phone for on-the-go access.

11. Time Zone & Electricity

Time Zone: London is in the GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) zone, but follows BST (British Summer Time) during summer months.

Plugs: The UK uses type G plugs (three-pronged). If you’re coming from abroad, bring an adaptor.

12. London Pass

Tourist Pass: The London Pass can be a good deal if you plan to visit multiple attractions. It offers entry to over 80 attractions and can save you money and time.

13. Public Holidays & Events

Public Holidays: Be aware of public holidays like Christmas and Easter, as many shops and attractions may be closed or have reduced hours.

Events: Check out local events or festivals happening during your stay—there’s always something going on in London.

15. Sustainability

Eco-Friendly: London is becoming more eco-conscious, so consider bringing a reusable water bottle, using public transport, and supporting sustainable businesses.    

Now that we have that covered, let's move on to the guide!

Areas:

Covent Garden
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Oxford Street
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Piccadilly Circus
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Carnaby Street
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Spitalfields
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Cultural experiences: 

Buckingham Palace
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lastminute.com London Eye
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Museums:

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Natural History Museum
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The British Museum
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the Design Museum
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Markets:

Spitalfields Market
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Portobello Road Market
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Camden Market
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Borough Market
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Brick Lane Market
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Shop:

Serotonin Vintage London
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Brick Lane Vintage
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TOWER London
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Cheshire Street
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Levisons Vintage Clothing
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Carnaby Street
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Liberty London
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Restaurants: 

The Breakfast Club Spitalfields
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Nando's Covent Garden
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Tonkotsu Shoreditch
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BAO Noodle Shop
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ALFI Bar & Italian Restaurant Spitalfields Market
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Cecconi's Shoreditch
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Bill's Covent Garden (St Martin's Courtyard)
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Amber Restaurant
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Smoking Goat Shoreditch
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Dishoom Shoreditch
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Buddha-Bar London
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Core by Clare Smyth
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Coffee shops:

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Prada Caffè
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Bars:

The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
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Kaso Rooftop Bar & Kitchen
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Seed Library
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Nightclubs:

Ballie Ballerson London
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Cirque Le Soir
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Maddox Club
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Green room for house
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lea Di Giovanni
Currently at 30 countries visited, and 165 to go! Where I am right now: Tulum - Mexico city - Puerto Escondido A little about me and the guides : I'm a world traveller and passionate explorer, dedicated to crafting interactive maps and curated travel guides that inspire wanderlust! My mission is to curate unique destinations, hidden gems, and must-visit landmarks for fellow adventure enthusiasts 🤩 Let's embark on this global exploration together and uncover all of the world's wonders, one guide at a time! 🌍✈️ All maps are free, and so are guides and itineraries until they’re fully complete :))
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