The Perfect Start: The British Museum
Why begin anywhere else? Whether you’ve lived in London all your life or you’re just in for the weekend, the British Museum is a must-visit landmark. Housing a collection so vast it puts Hermione Granger’s bag to shame, this attraction is perfect for both locals and tourists. Dive into history with relics from around the globe or just enjoy a moment of existential dread considering how short life is compared to the relics housed here. Admission is free, but don’t leave without checking out the Rosetta Stone—it’s the one time you’ll get to say, “I knew how to decipher that!”
Get Fancy at Afternoon Tea
Feeling posh? Indulge in one of London’s most delightful traditions: afternoon tea. This is where tiny sandwiches meet delicate pastries, all chased down with a pot of your favorite brew. Top spots include The Ritz or Claridge’s, where your pinky finger will never feel more important as it does while lifting a bone china cup. Whether you’re a local seeking elegance or a tourist hoping for that quintessential British experience, afternoon tea is an absolute must.
Explore the Covent Garden
Covent Garden isn’t just for the street performers and tourists; locals know it as a gem for unique boutiques, quirky gifts, and endless entertainment. Once the site of a fruit and vegetable market, it now offers a plethora of shops, eateries, and even the Royal Opera House. Plus, if you ever feel uncomfortable with unsolicited attention, just pretend you’re part of the street performances!
Tower of London’s Gruesome History
Ah, the Tower of London, where history is as dark as your last hangover. This iconic fortress offers something for everyone: a vivid retelling of British history, the sparkling Crown Jewels, and of course, those world-famous ravens. The Yeoman Warders guide you through the palace’s grizzly history, making you thankful your worst workplace hazard is a paper cut. If you’re a history buff or just really into jewels, you’re in for a treat.
Picnic in Hyde Park
On sunny days, Hyde Park morphs into a veritable oasis of leisure. Pack up your picnic basket and soak up the sun in London’s largest Royal Park. Whether you’re looking to people-watch, take a leisurely paddle boat ride, or practice your best migratory goose impression, Hyde Park serves up the goods. For the more active, the park provides a great opportunity for relaxing walks in London.
Shop Till You Drop at Camden Market
If retail therapy is your preferred form of self-care, Camden Market is your sanctuary. It’s the place where you can find everything from vintage clothing to the most gothic accessories you never knew you needed. And, spoiler alert: You will leave with more incense than you know what to do with. Enjoy a global feast from myriad food stalls, offering everything from falafel to an alarming number of vegan options.
Stargaze at the Royal Observatory
For those who like to live vertically, take a trip to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. Stand astride the Prime Meridian Line and feel like you are truly in two places at once. Ideal for both locals and visitors, this attraction provides fascinating insights into the heavens, time, and why neither of those concepts work on the London Underground. Plus, the panoramic views over the city are simply sublime.
Get Theatre-ical at the West End
Is there anything more London than a night out at the West End? Whether you’re into musicals, drama, or a light-hearted comedy, the West End has a show for you. Locals and tourists alike flock to this entertainment hotbed. Plan ahead or take a chance on a last-minute ticket; either way, prepare to be entertained!
Discover the South Bank
With a dramatically picturesque riverside path, the South Bank offers spectacular attractions like the London Eye, Tate Modern, and Shakespeare’s Globe. Sip a riverside cocktail, take in the stunning views, and refuse to pay a small fortune to ride on the Eye. Even locals can’t resist the romantic draw of the South Bank on a clear evening.
End With a Pint at a London Pub
No trip to London would be complete without ending your day at a classic English pub. Whether you’re sipping a cask ale or sticking to trusty gin and tonic, London’s pubs are the social hubs of the city. Locals will tell you that a night out isn’t about where you start; it’s all about where you end with a pint in hand, surrounded by history.