London - Three Days of Activities
Three Neighbourhood Jaunts For Your Trip Itinerary
Continuing the January 2025 London posts! One more London Restaurant Guide to come, and then we’ll move on to Copenhagen in February…
On our most recent trip to London, we prioritized leisurely days and fun with friends. When planning a trip, I often pick out the highlights that I want to see (art exhibitions mostly), eat and drink (noteworthy sandwiches or cocktails), and shop (Alex Eagle is always a top the list). From there, I cluster the top sites into neighbourhoods, trying to think of a practical way to hit the most. That, and to make sure husband is well fed and entertained throughout.
The following are three areas, with sites and eats in each. If you have been to London and want to skip the tour of the Tower Bridge, go ahead, but walking across the famed pont is fun no matter how many times you have frequented the City. We treated each of the following as a full morning, or afternoon. These recommendations can of course be extended to a full day depending on your pace - and how much you intend to spur the local economy.
Start your day at the Tate Modern Museum. I thoroughly enjoy the Tate because it pushes my artistic intellect - sometimes I get more out of reading the description of a work than the piece itself, there are rooms that I am drawn to, and exhibitions that I might rather avoid. It is a great place to form opinions about what you like - and do no like - in the art world. The gallery rooms are also incredibly large, so it never feels too crowded and there is a great kid’s room. Plus Plus - there is a fantastic view across the Thames from a lookout balcony.
While often tempted by the café at the Tate, just a 15 minute walk away is the Borough Market, a tight market with incredible vendors. By the time you are done at the Tate, the Market will be busy; waiting in line for Bread Ahead or The Black Pig is well worth it.
This side of the Thames is historic, several old buildings and landmarks such as the Globe theatre line the walk to the Tower Bridge - not to mention some new additions by world class architects like Renzo Piano. And just in case you did not eat enough at the market, the smoothie’s at Third Space gym and yoga studio are really quite good.
Across the bridge, you’ll find yourself at the Tower of London - if you plan to buy a ticket, get a guide to walk you through. There is something so fun about a Brit tickled by tales of torture.
Have you ever taken an Uber boat? Treat your tired feet to a tour of Thames via Uber, a la water. It’s not quite Venice levels of indulgence, but it is a unique way to see the City.
Sensing a theme, I clearly like to be the first one in the museum; starting the day at the The National Gallery is ideal. Pre-purchasing your ticket is a must. At the end of the viewing, stop by Muriel’s Kitchen for a light morning snack (salad, quiche) and a cappuccino.
If you have not spent all your money in the gift shop of the National Gallery, the shops of Soho are overpriced and full of merchandise. After working your way through the numerous sneaker shops and vintage stores, my two must-go-to’s are always Alex Eagle Studio and Neal’s Yard Remedies.
On the edge of Soho, before Covent Garden is Neal’s Yard - a very instagrammable courtyard with shops and restaurants. One of my favourite quick lunch spots is 26 Grains. We sat outside, in the pouring rain - Hermes on head - so that I could eat a memorable - and at the time very necessary - eggplant toast dish.
It is fairly easy to get to Hampstead Heath from most parts of London; we often favour the long route, taking a double decker bus instead of the subway. Most of my childhood visits to London were spent staying in this neighbourhood and I have incredible memories climbing trees in the park and telling ghost stories on evening walks with friends.
After a long walk through the 320 acres public space, stop for a pint at The Holly Bush, take a tour by Keats House, and purchase a new novel at Daunt Books.
With a stomach full of Guinness and a new book under your arm, settle in at the Duke of Hamilton for a Sunday Roast. You must pre-book!
Happy Travels!
Xx