7 Days in London Itinerary

7 Days in London Itinerary

An itinerary for 7 Days in London
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This guide is just a starting point for your next trip to London so I definitely want to encourage you to adjust it to fit your interests and travel style. I hope it gives you a general overview of what 7-days in London can look like! 

Where to Stay in London

There are so many options for where to stay in London and it's hard to go wrong! My main suggestion is that you stay in or near the heart of the city. For the purpose of this itinerary I'm providing a luxury, mid-level, and budget option that are accessible to all parts of the itinerary. 

Luxury - Brown's Hotel

As London's first hotel, Brown's opened its doors in 1837 and has played host to many famous individuals since. Brown's offers a uniquely personal experience that is hard to match elsewhere. I highly recommend for individuals looking for a luxury experience. 

Brown's Hotel
@elizabethrickert
As London's first hotel, Brown's opened its doors in 1837 and has played host to many famous individuals since. Brown's offers a uniquely personal experience that is hard to match elsewhere. I highly recommend for individuals looking for a luxury experience.
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Mid-Range

The Ruby Lucy is located in the adorable street of Lower Marsh. It's central location offers great access to all of London via foot and transport. The closest tube stations are Waterloo and Lambeth North. 

Ruby Lucy Hotel & Bar
@elizabethrickert
The Ruby Lucy is located in the adorable street of Lower Marsh. It's central location offers great access to all of London via foot and transport. The closest tube stations are Waterloo and Lambeth North.
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Budget

The Corner London City is located within the City of London making it a perfect location for accessing all of London's highlights. It's a five minute walk from Aldgate East and Aldgate Tube stations. The hotel has a pod concept. 

The Corner | London City
@elizabethrickert
The Corner London City is located within the City of London making it a perfect location for accessing all of London's highlights. It's a five minute walk from Aldgate East and Aldgate Tube stations. The hotel has a pod concept.
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Day 1: Buckingham Palace & Westminster

After you've arrived and settled into your accommodation, start your 7-day itinerary at Buckingham Palace. 

Buckingham Palace

If your visit coincides with the annual opening, usually during July and August, take a tour inside the palace. You'll get a chance to see the state rooms and gardens. You can book tickets here: 

Buckingham Palace
@elizabethrickert
Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, is an iconic symbol of London and British royal heritage. Visitors can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a famous tradition held regularly outside the palace gates. During the summer months, the State Rooms are open to the public, offering a rare glimpse into the opulent interiors where official ceremonies and state functions are held. Tickets for tours of the State Rooms must be booked in advance, and it's advisable to check the official website for current opening dates, ticket prices, and any special events or exhibitions. The palace's central location provides easy access from various points in London, making it a must-see landmark for tourists.
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St. James Park

After visiting the palace, walk through St. James Park to get to Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall, and Westminster. St. James Park is one of London's 8 Royal Parks.

St James's Park
@elizabethrickert
St. James's Park, located in the heart of London, is a picturesque green space offering stunning views of Buckingham Palace and the iconic London Eye. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, tranquil lakes, and a variety of wildlife, including pelicans and swans that are a highlight for many visitors. Strolling along the park's tree-lined paths or relaxing by the lake provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The park is easily accessible from central London and is a short walk from popular landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Westminster. It is open daily and free to enter, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a scenic picnic.
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Horse Guards Parade

The Horse Guards Parade is a ceremonial parade ground in St. James Park. Here you'll see the King's Guard on horseback. Changing of The King's Life Guard occurs daily (Monday to Friday) at 11:00. If you can time your visit for the changing of the guard, I highly recommend it! If not, no worries; the Horse Guards Parade is still worth a walk-through. 

Horse Guards Parade
@elizabethrickert
The Horse Guards Parade is a ceremonial parade ground in St. James Park. Here you'll see the King's Guard on horseback. Changing of The King's Life Guard occurs daily (Monday to Friday) at 11:00. If you can time your visit for the changing of the guard, I highly recommend it! If not, no worries; the Horse Guards Parade is still worth a walk-through.
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Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is an Anglican church built in 1066. It has been the location of the coronations of 40 English and British monarchs and a burial site for 18 English, Scottish, and British monarchs. In addition, it has hosted 16 royal weddings in a tradition that goes back 900 years. Admission to the Abbey costs GBP 27. If you can, I recommend booking a verger-guided tour. These need to be booked in advance and cost an additional GBP 10. 

Westminster Abbey
@elizabethrickert
There are a few ways to see the abbey including: - Audio guide, included in your ticket. - Vespers guided tour cost an additional £10 and must be booked at the abbey. They run Mon - Sat at 10.30am, 11am, 11.30am, 2pm. - Evensong service, free to attend. You'll be able to hear the choral music and get a glimpse inside the abbey while enjoying the prayer and readings. These take place daily, except Wednesday, at 5pm. After visiting the abbey walk around the corner and visit Dean's Yard. This yard is a quiet corner of the busy City of Westminster and gives you a glimpse at the Westminster School. It's open unreliably but worth a visit if you can.
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Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

After visiting the abbey, go next door to the Houses of Parliament (aka Westminster Hall, aka Palace of Westminster). The nearest tube station is Westminster. It's nearly impossible to miss the site, so enjoy taking pictures of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. 

Big Ben
@elizabethrickert
Worth visiting from the outside you can also see from the inside. Tickets can be booked from the UK Parliament website. They come out in batches but must be booked well in advance.
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Palace of Westminster
@elizabethrickert
This is the location of the Houses of Parliament. You can tour this facility by booking online through the UK Parliament. There are a few types of tours including a multimedia guided tour, English guided tour, State Apartments of Speaker's House tour, and Big Ben tour. All of these tours need to be booked in advanced. If you're from the UK then these tour will be free but if you're not than the cost will depend on the type of tour and your age.
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Once you're feeling good, cross Westminster Bridge and head down the riverfront path. Take advantage of a photo spot on the Southbank's western side of the road. It provides excellent, less crowded views. 

Southbank

Now that you've crossed the river, you're in the Southbank. Stroll towards the London Eye and enjoy the ambience of buskers, street performers, and book stalls. 

London Eye

lastminute.com London Eye
@elizabethrickert
A ride on the London Eye costs GBP 25.50 and takes about half an hour. You need to book these tickets in advance.
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If you're jet-lagged or had to wake up early to travel, you might be feeling tired. If you have the energy left, take the Uber Boat from Waterloo Pier and enjoy a budget-friendly sightseeing cruise. You can see the timetable below—no need to pre-book this ride. You can tap on with your Oyster Card or your credit card. 

Day 2: Southbank & City of London

Today you'll explore the City of London and part of the Southbank. 

St. Paul's Cathedral

Start your journey at one of London's most famous landmarks. The cathedral was rebuilt after the London Fire of 1666 by Sir Christopher Wren. A visit to the site costs GBP 23 for a walk-up, while online rates are GBP 20.50. Admission includes a multimedia guide and provides access to the Cathedral Floor, Crypt, and Dome Galleries. A walk up the Dome involves climbing 528 steps and provides a gloriourious look over London. 

St. Paul's Cathedral
@elizabethrickert
It costs GBP 23 to buy your tickets if you walk up but costs GBP 20.50 if you buy your tickets in advance. St Paul's will give you an audio guide but you can also take a guided tour by one of their staff members. These are really well done and I recommend! The other key activity is to climb the 528 steps of St Paul's Cathedral and see amazing views of London. There are several places to stop so you don't have to climb them all at once.
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Millennium Bridge

You'll walk across Millennium Bridge into the Southbank neighbourhood from the cathedral. You experienced a small taste of this by the London Eye yesterday, but you'll experience more today. 

The Millennium Bridge is one of London's pedestrian bridges. It opened in 2000 and achieved worldwide fame during its cameo in 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,' as Voldemort's Death Eaters turn the bridge topsy turvy. 

While on the bridge, be sure to turn back and take pictures of St. Paul's!

Millennium Bridge
@elizabethrickert
The Millennium Bridge is one of London's pedestrian bridges. It opened in 2000 and achieved worldwide fame during its cameo in 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,' as Voldemort's Death Eaters turn the bridge topsy turvy.  While on the bridge, be sure to turn back and take pictures of St. Paul's!
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Tate Modern

Across Millenium Bridge sits Tate Modern, a free modern art museum. It has a good cafe inside and spending as much or as little time inside as you want is easy. 

Tate Modern
@elizabethrickert
This free modern art museum is located in London's Southbank. It hosts rotating exhibits that usually cost additional, but the standing display is free.
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Shakespeare's Globe

From here, you're going to take a walk along the Southbank to your lunch stop at Borough Market. On your way, you'll spot a recreated Shakespeare's Globe. If you're a fan it is worth taking a tour of the theater or going for a performance. 

Shakespeare's Globe
@elizabethrickert
The best way to see the Globe is by going to one of the performances. If this isn't your thing but you love Shakespeare and just want to know as much as you can, then taking a tour of the Globe is a great idea. I recommend booking the tour in advance. They run pretty frequently so if you choose to do a walk in tour, you probably won't have to wait very long. The tour talks about the rebuild of the globe, the design, Shakespeare's history, and the relationship to London.
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Borough Market

Borough Market is one of the city's best spots to grab lunch! It's a local classic. There are stalls selling everything from burgers to baked goods and beyond. 

Borough Market
@elizabethrickert
London's most famous food market is a must visit! It offers extensive options and all of them are delicious. You can't go wrong here!
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London Bridge

After lunch, cross London Bridge - the site of the original bridge built by the Romans to cross Londinium - and catch views of Tower Bridge. 

London Bridge
@elizabethrickert
London Bridge, an iconic and historic structure spanning the River Thames, has a rich history that includes several iterations. It's in the approximate location of the original Roman bridge, built around 50 AD. It was a crucial crossing point and played a significant role in London's early development. It was a wooden structure that was eventually replaced by a stone bridge in the 12th century. The current London Bridge, opened in 1973, is a modern engineering marvel and provides a crucial crossing between the City of London and Southwark. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Thames and the surrounding cityscape from the bridge, and explore nearby attractions such as Borough Market and Tower Bridge. The area around London Bridge is vibrant, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites, making it a bustling destination for both tourists and locals. The bridge is well-served by public transport, including the London Underground and several bus routes, making it easily accessible for visitors.
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Tower of London

You can walk down the north bank towards the Tower of London. You can visit the Tower of London for GBP 33.60. A visit to the medieval castle includes entry to see the crown jewels, exhibits on the ravens, the white tower, line of kings exhibit, tower green, bloody tower, and the battlements. 

Tower of London
@elizabethrickert
A visit to the Tower of London costs GBP 33.60. Here I recommend prioritizing the Crown Jewels, the Beauchamp Tower to see the prison graffiti, and the chapel royal to see where several royals are buried . Additionally, if you can, attend the Ceremony of the Keys. This ancient ceremony occurs at sunset when the tower is locked for the evening.
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Tower Bridge

From here, cross Tower Bridge - London's most iconic bridge. If you have time and a desire, you can walk across the top of Tower Bridge. The Museum of Tower Bridge provides the history of how the bridge was built and how it functions today and offers excellent views of London and the bridge. Entry to the tower bridge costs GBP 12.30. 

Tower Bridge
@elizabethrickert
It costs GBP 12.30 to visit the top of Tower Bridge. You can walk over the glass floor and see the busy bridge below. If you're lucky, the bridge will open while you're on it! In addition, you can visit the engine rooms and see a history of how the bridge was built.
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Bermondsey Street

Day 3: Notting Hill and West End

Notting Hill

The next morning, you'll begin your day in Notting Hill. This west London neighbourhood was made iconic by the 1999 film. Beyond that, it's one of the most gorgeous areas to be in. You'll find darling Georgian townhomes, shops, markets, and mews.

Notting Hill
@elizabethrickert
Notting Hill is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in West London, renowned for its charming streets, colorful houses, and bustling markets. A highlight for visitors is the Portobello Road Market, which is famous for its antiques, fresh produce, and diverse food stalls. The area also boasts a lively cultural scene with boutique shops, trendy cafes, and a variety of restaurants offering international cuisine. Notting Hill is also known for its annual Notting Hill Carnival, one of the largest street festivals in Europe, celebrating Caribbean culture and music. Additionally, the neighborhood gained global fame as the setting for the 1999 romantic comedy film Notting Hill, starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, which has contributed to its enduring popularity among tourists. Easily accessible by public transport, including the London Underground, Notting Hill offers a unique and picturesque experience for those exploring London.
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Portobello Road Market

If you can, time your visit to a Saturday in order to visit Portobello Road Market. This market contains food, antiques, and other goods. It is still worth heading towards the market if it's not a Saturday. Some form of the market takes place here nearly every day.

Portobello Road Market
@elizabethrickert
This market is most active on Saturday but busy everyday of the week. It’s most famous for antiques which are in the street stalls, brick and mortar shops, and stalls in the shops along the street. I recommend grabbing a drink at Portobello Gin Company which stills their own gin on site! There’s plenty to do here and it can easily be an all day activity. Shops do close up early and set up late.
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I recommend having lunch in Notting Hill either at the Portobello Road Market or, if you want a pub lunch, at the Churchill Arms. 

After having lunch, make your way to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. 

Kensington Palace

You can start your visit to Hyde Park at Kensington Palace. A ticket to the palace costs GBP 25.40 and includes an audio guide. The palace served as the Georgian royal court and the birthplace of Queen Victoria. The tour takes you through Queen Victoria's childhood, William and Mary's early years, and more. 

Kensington Palace
@elizabethrickert
This palace covers the history of William and Mary, Queen Victoria, and more! It is also a current royal palace and members of the royal family actively use it. I recommend using the audio guide throughout your visit but don't miss talking to the staff since they're so knowledgable.
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Hyde Park

After enjoying Kensington Palace, take a stroll through Hyde Park. Hyde Park is one of the eight royal parks in London. It's a great place to take a walk and see some views. A few park highlights are the Serpentine Lake and the Serpentine Galleries if you want to spend some time there. 

Hyde Park
@elizabethrickert
This massive park can occupy your whole day! A few highlights to look for: - Marble Arch and Wellington Arch - Speaker's Corner - Serpentine Lake for a boat ride or people watching - Apsley House - Watch the horses on Rotten Row - Serpentine Galleries - Rose Galleries
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Soho and Covent Garden

These areas have plenty of options for eating and drinking. They're a great place to spend time in London at night. 

If you enjoy theatre, you're in the right area to see one of the many musicals, plays, comedy shows, operas, ballets, or gigs in the West End.

For more information on visiting the West End, visit my guide below. This guide discusses how to purchase tickets on a budget, where to eat, notable shows, and hotels in the West End.

Day 4: Day Trip

There's enough to do in the city to fill years, but many places within a short train ride of London are worth a memorable trip.

- For a seaside adventure, consider Brighton, Bristol, Dover, Whitstable, 

- For the English countryside, consider Bath, Bourton-on-the-Water, Moreton-in-Marsh, 

- For history, visit Bletchley Park, Hampton Court Palace, Windsor Palace, Stonehenge, Manchester, Liverpool

- To visit famous university cities, see Cambridge and Oxford. 

- For medieval cities, consider St. Albans, Winchester, Rochester, York, Canterbury, Leeds, 

- If you're feeling ambitious and want to go across the channel, consider Paris, Brussels, and Lille.

For more information, see my "Easy Day Trips from London by Train" itinerary. 

Day 5: Bloomsbury, Clerkenwell, and Local Areas

Start your day in Bloomsbury; you can visit the British Museum or wander around the leafy squares. The British Museum is free to visit and often has special exhibits. If you're short on time and don't know what to see, the museum has an Around the World in 90 minutes tour twice a day. 

The British Museum
@elizabethrickert
This free museum hosts more than four and a half million objects. It's so overwhelmingly large that it's often daunting to know where to start. If you're short on time taking the Around the World in 90 minutes tour is a great way to ensure you see the highlights.
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Spitalfields Market

From here, walk or take the bus to Spitalfields Market. You'll spend the rest of your time exploring the hip East End of Shoreditch, and Spitalfields Market is the perfect place to start. This market first started in the 13th Century and was rebuilt in its current location after the Great Fire of London. It offers many wonderful lunch and shop options. 

Spitalfields Market
@elizabethrickert
Spitalfields Market, located in the heart of East London, is a vibrant and bustling market known for its diverse range of stalls and shops. Originally a trading hub since the 17th century, the market now offers an eclectic mix of artisanal goods, vintage clothing, crafts, and gourmet food from around the world. Visitors can explore the market’s unique array of stalls, enjoy a meal from one of the many street food vendors, and experience the lively atmosphere of this historic site. The market is conveniently accessible by public transport, including the London Underground, with Liverpool Street station just a short walk away. It's an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of traditional and contemporary shopping experiences in a dynamic setting.
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Brick Lane Market

From here, walk over to Brick Lane Vintage Market. On the way, be on the lookout for street art throughout Shoreditch. Brick Lane has vintage clothing stores throughout the whole street. It's a great place to meander!

Brick Lane Market
@elizabethrickert
Brick Lane Market, located in the vibrant East End of London, is a bustling and eclectic market known for its diverse range of offerings. The market features an array of stalls selling everything from vintage clothing and antiques to unique crafts and international street food. Visitors can explore the lively atmosphere, sample dishes from around the world, and discover one-of-a-kind items. The market operates on Sundays, with nearby Brick Lane also known for its renowned curry houses and trendy shops. Easily accessible via public transport, including the London Underground and Overground, Brick Lane Market provides a dynamic and culturally rich experience in one of London's most eclectic neighborhoods.
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Columbia Road Flower Market

If it's a Sunday, stop by Columbia Road Flower Market. The market closes by 3 pm so make sure to time your visit before the stalls close down. 

Columbia Road Flower Market
@elizabethrickert
This Sunday only flower market is gorgeous! I recommend either getting here early to avoid crowds or getting here late to receive sales. The market often becomes very very crowded and difficult to move through during the mid morning. In the early afternoon vendors will start doing really good sales in order to pack up their shops early.
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Kings Cross

After enjoying the markets of the East End head towards Kings Cross Station and explore some of North London. At Kings Cross Station, you can enjoy a photo opportunity for Harry Potter lovers, and check out the area around Regent's Canal and Granary Square. 

You can also visit the British Library to see one of the surviving copies of the Magna Carta. 

King's Cross
@elizabethrickert
King's Cross Station, a major railway hub in London, is renowned for its striking Victorian architecture and modern upgrades. The station serves as a key gateway to destinations across the UK and is famously associated with the Harry Potter series, where Platform 9¾ is depicted. Visitors can explore the station’s impressive range of shops and restaurants, as well as the nearby Granary Square, which features vibrant fountains and open spaces. The station's recent redevelopment has enhanced its facilities, making it a central and convenient spot for travelers. Easily accessible via the London Underground and several bus routes, King's Cross Station is a vital and iconic part of London’s transport network.
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The British Library
@elizabethrickert
It's free to visit the British Library and it is one of the places where you can see an original copy of the magna carta.
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Primrose Hill

From there, head towards Primrose Hill by tube. Primrose Hill is home to many pretty shops, cafes, restaurants, and side streets. The hill itself offers a gorgeous view over central London and is incredibly gorgeous at sunset. This is a great neighbourhood to grab dinner and a pint!

Primrose Hill
@elizabethrickert
This park has stunning views of Central London from it's peak. It makes for a great picnic spot!
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Day 6: St James, Mayfair, and Marylebone

St. James

Spend your morning in St. James Park getting a coffee at one of their kiosks. 

St James's Park
@elizabethrickert
St. James's Park, located in the heart of London, is a picturesque green space offering stunning views of Buckingham Palace and the iconic London Eye. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, tranquil lakes, and a variety of wildlife, including pelicans and swans that are a highlight for many visitors. Strolling along the park's tree-lined paths or relaxing by the lake provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The park is easily accessible from central London and is a short walk from popular landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Westminster. It is open daily and free to enter, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a scenic picnic.
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Fortnum & Mason

From St. James Park, you can travel down Piccadilly and pop into the famous department store of Fortnum & Mason. 

Fortnum & Mason
@elizabethrickert
This is one of the classic department stores. It's great for a department store afternoon tea or picking up tea to take home as a souvenir. It can be easier to access than the others making it an appealing stop.
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Mayfair

Walk throughout Piccadilly into Mayfair. Mayfair is home to luxury goods shops, fine dining, and the iconic Regent Street. I recommend strolling down old and new Bond Street on your way. Bond Street is home to the most luxurious shops in London and often has beautiful window displays. 

No trip to London is complete without afternoon tea, and Mayfair is a great place to have it. 

Mayfair
@elizabethrickert
Mayfair is one of London’s most prestigious and exclusive neighborhoods, known for its elegant streets, luxury shops, and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the upscale boutiques and designer stores along Bond Street and Savile Row, renowned for its bespoke tailoring. The area is also home to several notable attractions, including the Royal Academy of Arts, which hosts a range of art exhibitions and cultural events. Mayfair boasts beautiful green spaces such as Grosvenor Square and Berkeley Square, offering a serene retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. With its proximity to major landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the vibrant shopping areas of Oxford Street, Mayfair provides a sophisticated and central base for exploring London.
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Marylebone

From Mayfair, cross Oxford Street to get to Marylebone. Marylebone High Street is one of my favourite areas in London. There are a lot of great restaurants, cafes, pubs, and shops on Marylebone High Street. No trip is complete without a stop at Daunt Books. It is one of the best independent bookshops in London. 

Marylebone
@elizabethrickert
Marylebone is a charming and upscale neighborhood in central London, known for its elegant Georgian architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the picturesque streets lined with boutique shops, chic cafes, and a variety of dining options. Key attractions include the impressive Marylebone High Street, renowned for its independent stores and lively atmosphere, as well as the nearby Baker Street, famous for the Sherlock Holmes Museum. The area also features the beautiful Regent’s Park, which offers expansive green spaces and the lovely Open Air Theatre. Marylebone is well-connected by public transport, with its own London Underground station, making it a convenient and appealing destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and sophistication.
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Regent's Park

From Marylebone, walk north to Regent's Park. As one of London's most famous green spaces, it is a must! In summer take advantage of the rose gardens!

Regent's Park
@elizabethrickert
Regents Park is over 410 acres. It is home to one of the oldest zoos and one of the oldest outdoor theatres. A must visit is the Avenue Gardens. It's easy to miss but by far the most beautiful part.
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Camden

After enjoying Regent's Park, leave via a different exit towards Camden. This fun neighbourhood is a great area to have dinner and enjoy the rest of your evening. 

London Borough of Camden
@elizabethrickert
Camden is a lively and eclectic neighborhood in North London, renowned for its vibrant market scene and alternative culture. The area is famous for Camden Market, which offers a diverse mix of street food, vintage clothing, unique crafts, and quirky stalls, attracting visitors from all over the world. Camden is also known for its rich music heritage, with iconic venues like the Roundhouse and the Electric Ballroom hosting live performances. The neighborhood features picturesque canals, including the Regent’s Canal, which provides scenic walks and boat trips. Easily accessible via the London Underground, Camden’s dynamic atmosphere and eclectic offerings make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring London.
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Day 7: Belgravia, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, & South Kensington

Belgravia

Begin your last day in the area of Belgravia! This area has cute cafes and shops, particularly on Elizabeth Street. 

It's a great area to wander around leafy squares and hidden mews. Take your time here!

Belgravia
@elizabethrickert
Belgravia is an exclusive and picturesque neighborhood in central London, renowned for its elegant Georgian architecture and upscale atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through its beautifully landscaped streets, admire the grand white stucco houses, and explore charming squares such as Belgrave Square and Eaton Square. The area is home to high-end boutiques, fine dining establishments, and luxury hotels, providing a sophisticated shopping and dining experience. Belgravia is also conveniently located near major attractions like Buckingham Palace and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Easily accessible by public transport, including the London Underground, Belgravia offers a refined and tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.
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Chelsea

Wander over to Sloane Square and the King's Road in Chelsea from Belgravia. These areas have great shopping and dining options. If you're ready for lunch,h this is an excellent place to stop. 

If it's a Saturday, enjoy the Duke of York food market. 

Chelsea
@elizabethrickert
Chelsea, located on the south bank of the River Thames, is a stylish and affluent neighbourhood in London known for its charming streets, upscale boutiques, and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore King's Road, a bustling shopping street lined with high-end stores, trendy cafes, and exclusive restaurants. The area is also home to the renowned Chelsea Physic Garden, a historic botanical garden with a fascinating collection of plants and herbs. Chelsea's picturesque riverside offers lovely walking paths along the Thames, with views of iconic landmarks such as Chelsea Harbour. Additionally, the neighborhood's rich history and architectural beauty make it a delightful area to wander through, with notable sites like the historic Chelsea Old Church and the elegant homes of the famous Chelsea Embankment. Accessible via the London Underground and bus routes, Chelsea provides a blend of luxury, history, and charm for visitors exploring London.
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Knightsbridge

From Chelsea, wander over to the iconic department stores of Harrods and Harvey Nichols. These are great places to window shop and pick up a tea to take home. 

Harrods
@elizabethrickert
One of the most famous department stores in London this is a must for window shopping. It's a great place for a department store afternoon tea or to purchase tea as a souvenir. It is best at Christmas when the lights are up and the window displays are at their best.
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Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge
@elizabethrickert
Harvey Nichols is a renowned luxury department store located in Knightsbridge, London, offering an exceptional shopping experience with its high-end fashion, beauty products, and gourmet food. The store features an extensive range of designer clothing, accessories, and cosmetics, making it a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts and those seeking premium brands. Harvey Nichols also boasts a stylish rooftop restaurant and bar, where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink with panoramic views of the city. The store’s central location, just a short walk from Harrods and other notable landmarks, makes it easily accessible by public transport. It’s advisable to check their website for details on current events, exclusive collections, and any special promotions before visiting.
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South Kensington Museums

South Kensington has a collection of free museums. If shopping isn't your thing feel free to skip Harrods and Harvey Nichols together or come here after visiting those. 

The Victoria and Albert (popularly known as the V&A, which focuses on art, design and performance), the Natural History Museum, and Science Museum are all next door. They are all free, making it easy to spend as much or as little time in them as you would like. They also have great special exhibits that you must book in advance. 

Victoria and Albert Museum
@elizabethrickert
This free museum is located in South Kensington and features amazing sculptures, art, jewelry, fashion pieces, and more.
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Natural History Museum
@elizabethrickert
This free museum in South Kensington hosts a large array of natural history exhibits. It is also in one of the prettiest buildings in London. I highly recommend taking some time just to admire the architecture! In addition don't miss the escalator through the earth that takes you to Earth Hall. In Earth Hall you also need to visit the earthquake simulator.
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Science Museum
@elizabethrickert
This extensive free museum can occupy a whole day! It covers all aspects of science from clocks to transportation to technology to science fiction. There’s something here for everyone! It’s very kid friendly.
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I recommend grabbing dinner at one of the casual places near South Kensington before preparing to finish your trip in London. 

If you want more information or help planning a trip to London specific to you, consider booking a 30-minute consultation appointment. I'd love to help!

If you've enjoyed this guide, please share, write a review, or leave a tip! Thank you!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Drawing from my rich experiences exploring over forty countries across the globe, I offer unparalleled insights and invaluable advice to fellow travelers seeking unforgettable adventures. Whether you're planning a leisurely getaway, an off-the-beaten path expedition, or a cultural immersion, my diverse expertise ensures personalized recommendations tailored to your preferences. From hidden gems to iconic landmarks, let me and my guides, assist you on your journeys and provide you with adventures filled with discovery, authenticity, and unforgettable moments.
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