Sights and activities in London
Walking alongside the River Thames is one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of many of London’s most famous sights.
Views of London – for spectacular views of the city, go to Primrose Hill, Parliament Hill, The Hilton Park Lane or The Shard. These are all located in different parts of the city, giving you the chance to see its many different sides. Sit down, have a snack and just enjoy the view.
Buckingham Palace – the King’s home is almost a must-see for any visitor to London. The palace is open to the public in August and September; during the rest of the year you can visit The King’s Gallery, which features items from the royal collections. The changing of the Guard is also not to be missed. The ceremony takes place either on even or odd days (depending on the month) and is accompanied by a Guards band playing traditional marches or other popular music.
Museums – from historical museums such as the British Museum, the National History Museum and the Science Museum to contemporary museums like Tate Modern and the Victoria and Albert Museum, London’s museum scene is well worth exploring.
West End theatres and musicals – where the most important and popular musicals are playing.
Parks – visit a park for relaxation, exercise or fun activities; Hyde Park, Green Park, Kensington Gardens, Greenwich Park, Observatory Gardens, Regent’s Park and Kew Gardens are all great options that are always within easy reach.
Football – a big sport in London, which is home to teams like Chelsea, Arsenal, West Ham, Crystal Palace and Tottenham. The atmosphere at a London team’s home game can be truly unforgettable.
London nightlife – for an exclusive VIP-style night out, head to West London’s clubs, where the famous and beautiful gather. East London provides a more hip and local clubbing scene.
Shopping in London
London offers everything from shopping streets to malls and markets; perfect for those who feel tempted to treat themselves to something nice.
Oxford Street – one of the city’s famous shopping streets, filled with shops like Primark, Miss Selfridge, Topshop and Urban Outfitters. You can easily spend hours here browsing the huge selection that each store has to offer.
Department stores – you’ll find brand-name products on every floor in stores like Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Harrods.
Hamleys – a gigantic toy store on Regent’s Street, which is a pleasure to visit both for kids and adults.
Portobello – a famous market situated in Notting Hill with quirky clothes, antiques, jewellery, toys and flowers.
Camden Lock market – lots of second-hand goods and music; located in north-west London, about 10 minutes away from the city centre by metro (known locally as ‘The Tube’).
British food & drink in London
Fish and chips – battered cod (or haddock), served with chips and mushy peas.
English breakfast – including toast, bacon, mushrooms, eggs, sausage and baked beans.
Afternoon tea – tea with sandwiches, cakes or scones.
Sunday roast – classic oven-roasted meat with gravy, potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and roasted vegetables.
Indian curry – nowadays probably the most common meal in British homes.
Shepherd’s pie – a pie with a filling of lamb and vegetables, covered with mashed potatoes.
Trifle – a dessert made of sponge cake, fruit, jelly and custard, topped with whipped cream.
Black tea – a classic hot beverage served with milk that is usually enjoyed in the morning and in the afternoon. Some of the most common types of black tea include Earl Grey and English Breakfast tea.
Beer – a great variety of beers is available in a range of traditional or modern pubs.
Cocktails – London is filled with cocktail bars serving innovative drinks.
Things to see and do near London
Oxford and Cambridge – easily accessible from London by train. Traditional university cities with beautiful surroundings and gardens, and unique architecture.
Brighton – a seaside city with hippie flair, where you can spend a day on the beach.
