My London Travel Guide
How does the saying go again? “Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.” Well, if I had to weigh in myself, it would be “Once a year, go to London”.
London is such a great city to explore. I have had the opportunity to visit every year since 2012 and each time, I fall more in love with the city, the people, and the English countryside. So, when throwing around ideas about what my first travel guide should focus on, it almost was a no-brainer – London!
I believe recommendations from friends are quite possibly the only way that I would travel. Have any of you ever been burned when it comes to trusting certain travel booking websites? Somehow that ‘boutique hotel nestled in the city center’ translates to literally a 5-floor walkup with no elevator and air conditioning. To say I have slight trust issues is an understatement.
I am so beyond excited to share with you my Guide to London. I’m confident the recommendations in this guide will have you falling in love with London too.
On My PACKING LIST
WHEN TO GO
We always travel to London in March or April, which is supposed to be a bit of an unpredictable time to travel to London, however, we have never been disappointed. It’s always a perfect combination of crisp weather and sunshine, or drizzly with a chill in the air – which is preferably my personal favorite.
WHERE TO STAY
Kimpton Fitzroy London
A 19th-century beauty meets the London of today: that’s what you’ll find at Kimpton Fitzroy London. From the outside, the landmark building, which occupies a full block along the eastern side of Russell Square in Bloomsbury, looks every bit the part of Grande Dame. Inside, though, contemporary interiors beckon the discerning traveler to settle in and stay a while – cocktail (or two) in hand.
InterContinental London Park Lane
Situated at one of London’s most prestigious addresses, InterContinental London Park Lane showcases modern luxury in the heart of Mayfair. Inspired by its location overlooking the Royal Parks, the hotel features elegant natural interiors and award-winning seasonal cuisine.
Hotel Indigo London – Leicester Square
Mirroring the 1920s glamour of its theatrical surroundings, Hotel Indigo London draws you into an art deco, glass-and-marble haven. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Rooftop Bar, overlooking London’s iconic skyline.
The Savoy London
The Savory is perfectly located on the River Thames, in the heart of all that London has to offer. At the forefront of the luxury hotel scene for over 130 years, the Savoy offers guests an experience that continuously evolves. Don’t forget to make a reservation at the Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay to partake in one of the best beef wellingtons I have ever had.
Luna Simone Hotel
For those travelers looking to stay on a budget, the Luna Simone Hotel is a family-run business based in Victoria where personal care and attention are paramount. Its proximity to various transport systems and nestled in a non-touristy part of the city is a key highlight in my books.
WHERE TO EAT
St. Martin-in-the-Fields – Café in the Crypt
Café
Located in the stunning crypt of St Martin-in-the-Fields, at the edge of Trafalgar Square, this popular café has been a favorite of mine since 2012. Original brick-vaulted ceilings and historic tombstones line the floor providing the backdrop to a daily changing menu of freshly prepared food – perfect for a quick lunch.
Farm Girl
Healthy Food & Coffee
Founded in Notting Hill in 2015, Farm Girl is a diverse group of health-focused cafes and restaurants in London. They serve holistic, fresh food and amazing coffee! They serve a chai latte with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top shaped like a French Bulldog and they are known for their Rose Latte.
Paradise Indian
Indian
Specializing in traditional curry dishes, Paradise Indian is a small family-run restaurant in the heart of Pimlico just walking distance from Victoria Station.
Grumbles
English
Nestled in one of Belgravia’s local neighborhoods, Grumbles is the perfect spot for elevated pub fare. We always book our first dinner in London at Grumbles to celebrate. It’s our little home away from home.
Claridges
Tearoom
Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s is a must while in London. The menu faithfully follows the traditional combination of sweet and savory, including freshly baked cakes, precisely-cut sandwiches, and countless pots of tea.
Borough Market
Open-air Market
This is an incredible open-air market with lots of different vendor stalls. From fresh product to cheese, and prepared foods, plus the raclette grilled cheese sandwich is to die for!
THINGS TO DO & SEE
Notting Hill
Located in west London, Notting Hill is one of the capital’s most desirable and Instagrammable areas, with iconic pastel-colored houses and a thriving market.
Queen Mary’s Rose Gardens
Stroll through one of my favorite gardens in London which is home to London’s largest collection of roses with approximately 12,000 roses planted within the garden.
West End Theater
Whether you’re a local or in town for a special occasion, a West End show is a brilliant way to spend an evening. From award-winning musicals to book adaptations, London is packed with entertainment.
Westminster Abbey
The iconic church in London. Inside you will see the beautiful architecture, the poet’s corner, and the burial locations of many royals and famous people.
Buckingham Palace
When in London, you have to visit Buckingham Palace and watch the changing of the guards. The palace has served as the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837 and today is the administrative headquarters of the Monarch.
National Gallery
Hands down my favorite gallery in London, plus it’s free to visit! The National Gallery houses one of the greatest collections of paintings in the world, including works from Van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Caravaggio.
SHOPPING
Harrods
Make sure to plan a trip to the iconic department store in Knightsbridge. A luxury shopping destination where you’ll find exclusive collections, top-notch restaurants, and outstanding customer service.
Sloane Street
A luxury cornerstone of Chelsea, London’s most beautiful neighborhood. Home to flagship boutiques of global luxury brands, world-class restaurants, and landmark hotels.
