Planning a visit to London? As an ex-Londoner of nearly six years, I consider myself a bit of a specialist. Tired of the typical top sights on every travel page? I’m going to walk you through some of the cities hidden treasures and haunts that the locals visit.
Sketch is a restaurant that has to be experienced with all the senses. Located in swanky Mayfair, this restaurant hosts multiple rooms, each with a distinct character and setting for any mood. Whether you want to drink in its lush emerald tropical bar, dine amongst the pink plush furniture and mod art in the Gallery, or enjoy the gastronomic journey via white tablecloth of the Michelin starred Library. Sketch has it all. I personally love dining in the gallery, the staff is immaculate, and the food divine and innovative. Trust me, you won’t ever forget your visit to the loo in their iconic egg-capsuled toilets atop a white majestic staircase enshrouding a private VIP club below.
Neal’s Yard is a blink and you miss it courtyard that is within the heart of Covent Garden. Painted with bright, cheerful colours, the space offers incredible dining options, quirky cafes and a hair salon to let out your inner fairy. Also, the yard features one of Londontown’s famous blue plaques as the flat above was the art space and creative headquarters for the legendary comedic troupe; Monthy Python.
Fortnum and Mason, rivals famous department store Harrods instead on the beautiful Piccadilly in the West End. The famous site opened in 1707 is a stunning place to visit; renowned for its sumptuous selection of teas, food and fine china. The iconic shop is the official grocer to the queen, and features numerous high tea restaurants within making it an obvious bucket-list experience for any tourist.
Heaven is a legendary club along the Strand that is one of the cities most popular spaces for dancing and drinks into the wee hours of the morning. Also known as G-A-Y, this LGBTQ+ iconic site is loved by all, featuring different genre’d rooms, and many A-list guests that put on surprise performances on the main stage most weekends. Tip: go to sister location, G-A-Y bar in Soho to get a flyer for a cheaper entrance cost.
The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is one of Central London’s most picturesque, lined with red bricked estates, and beautiful bespoke shops. Royal in name due to housing the famous Kensington Palace within its borders. Walk along Pont street, or Walton street and relish in the old charm. This area is also very popular due to its proximity to fabulous attractions like The Natural History museum, Victoria and Albert museum and the Science museum.
The Shard is one of the cities newest hot spots, and once you view it, you very quickly understand its appeal. A glass skyscraper with 95 floors; home to luxury hotel accommodation, numerous restaurants and bars, the views are world class. A romantic drink or dinner here just might do the trick; trust me!
So, you have probably heard that London is quite expensive; well yes it can be, but there are lots of selections at a more comfortable cost. Some Mid-Range Restaurants popular with locals and easier on the wallet that I would recommend are – Côte (French), Zizzi (Italian), Wagamama (Pan-Asian) and Inamo (Japanese). Give them a try to avoid a mega splurge; they are all delicious in their own way with multiple locations city-wide.
Butler’s Wharf along the Shad Thames on the south bank of the river transports you to Victorian-styled industrial, brick-lined streets full of lovely shops (including a year round Christmas store!) and incredible restaurants right along the river with epic views of the incredible Tower Bridge. For a memorable experience try the beautiful offerings at Le Pont De la Tour and Cantina del Ponte. I suggest visiting the latter on one of the nights they have an opera singer performing.
With regards to coffee, London is not short of cafe choices. Two of my favourites however are first Carpo, a Greek marketplace offering dried fruits, exotic chocolates and strong, delicious coffee. I love the location on Piccadilly, its a great start to an explore of Soho and the West End. Secondly, Monmouth Coffee is an artistic and educational experience. Rotating coffees, with international crop sources, the flavour profiles here are second to none. I prefer the Seven Dials location, but there is a lovely storefront also at Borough Market.
Hampstead Heath is a paradise of countryside in north London. With its quaint village surrounding, beautiful affluent homes and attractions like writer John Keats home to visit, it is an area meant to be explored. Rolling fields, beautiful lakes, and swimming clubs this is where to escape the busy sounds of the city and reconnect with nature.
I hope this guide for a visit to London is of use on your next trip! I could make a Top 100 list very easily, and keep thinking of other things to add but alas, I must allow you to get on discovering! Feel free to contact if you have any questions on this beautiful city for an upcoming holiday.
Ciao for now!
D.
Something About David 