London is such a great city to explore. I have had the pleasure of visiting a few times now and each visit, I just love it more and more. There are so many incredible parks, it’s walkable and has great public transportation. There is great shopping and some of the best Indian food you’ll ever have. There’s so much history in this city and it’s really cool to see it all in person.
To me, London is also a great option to explore as a solo female traveler. Safe, walkable and absolutely so much to do. I think if I had to live in a new city, it would be London. As an American, it sort of feels like if NYC met DC. The row homes are all colorful and cute, the charming British accents and the adorable little cabs make this place feel so special.
My best meal was Dishoom, which was incredible Indian food. There’s a ton of wonderful Indian food in the city, so be sure to explore it for more than one meal! And you can’t go to London without a proper English breakfast! Here are a few of my favorite things to do in London.
My Favorite Things To Do In London
Best Hotels In London
Cafe Royal
Cafe Royal is a beautiful hotel that is right on Regent St in Piccadilly Circus. Great location, gorgeous hotel (as in ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS) and super spacious. Hard to come by in Europe. It’s definitely pricey and clearly a place where the stars stay; we had a Gigi Hadid sighting in the lobby! This location is great, though, as you are right in the middle of it all and can easily walk to quite a bit.
The Westbourne Hyde Park
Located in Hyde Park, this hotel was walking distance to Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens as well as Notting Hill. It’s a great location to be in. While the rooms were on the smaller side, they were modern and clean and did the trick.
The Hoxton
Any location is great as they have four scattered throughout the city. This hotel group is just adorable and I love the aesthetic and amenities. Simple little things made this stay really special like complimentary beverages, a tea kettle in every room, and incredible food at their restaurants. The lobby in any Hoxton is like a co-work space and you’ll find young creatives working on their laptops with a latte in hand. They’re my people!
The Pelham
Located in South Kensington just minutes from the V&A Museum and Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. The rooms are charming and colorful and you’re just steps from a tube stop to make getting around super easy.
London Marriott Hotel County Hall
Centrally located right on the Thames River, you are steps from Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and more. This is a large hotel, but it really is a great option for price and location.
The Clermont London, Victoria
This hotel was located right near so many things in Victoria. I loved how walkable it felt and the rooms were great. They felt traditional but were also spacious.
Where To Eat In London
Breakfast, Brunch, High Tea, Coffee & Pastries
Farm Girl (Notting Hill and South Kensington)
Just a solid breakfast brunch spot that’s charming and reliable. It was so good I went two days in a row. They serve chai lattes with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top shaped like a French Bulldog. I died over them.
One day I did the avocado toast, the next was the Turkish eggs. They were so delicious that I ate them so fast I burned the entire roof of my mouth. A common problem of mine. This is a great casual spot to go to and I love that it felt fresh and healthy.
Eggbreak (Notting Hill)
Another great breakfast spot in Notting Hill. I had their Mexican omelette which was delicious. This spot is in a super cute part of town surrounded by colorful row homes. Wish I had more time there, I would’ve gone back for more of their delicious items.
Thomas’ Cafe (Piccadilly Circus)
This is the cafe inside the Burberry store. I did high tea here and it was simply fabulous. They served your usual suspects like tea sandwiches and scones, but my favorite was the crumpets. Ashley and I ordered a second round they were so delicious.
Timmy Green
A trendy Australian cafe serving up healthy dishes, juices and coffees. I had the shakshuka and loved it. Lots of bright flavorful dishes here.
GAIL’s
A perfect spot for a pastry and coffee. There are several locations around the city and it’s consistently great. I really loved the babka bun. They also have a few savory options as well and some grab and go options like yogurts, sandwiches and more.
The Buttery
This restaurant is located inside the Lime Tree hotel in Belgravia neighborhood. It has a charming patio to dine at as well. The shakshuka and classic English breakfast were perfection. Everything we had here was delicious.
Claridges Afternoon Tea
For afternoon tea, try Claridges and their array of sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and desserts. This is definitely a more expensive experience, but a fun one!
Lunch, Dinner & Drinks
Sketch (Piccadilly Circus)
The famous pink restaurant. It’s so gorgeous I wish I could take it all home with me. I thought it would be super tacky when we walked in, but it was just the opposite. The food was okay, nothing amazing, but the cocktails were great. Definitely, a must-visit just for the ambiance.
Kricket
A delicious Indian restaurant serving up classic dishes. I did takeaway so I couldn’t order the Naan (I think they know this just doesn’t travel well) but I have heard it is life-changing.
The Mayfair Chippy
Can’t go to London without getting classic fish & chips. Really any pub will have this, but I headed to The Mayfair Chippy and it was delicious. The fried cod and giant chips comes with three epic dipping sauces.
Byron Hamburgers (Westminster, but several locations)
Stumbled onto this while hungry and in need of food quickly. It was a standard burger joint with great burgers and chicken sandwiches. Plus their fries were amazing.
Dishoom (Covent Garden, but several locations)
This was the best meal I had in London. This popular Indian restaurant was insanely delicious, full of great flavor and spice. The restaurant was packed, so make sure to get there early or be prepared to stand outside in the queue to wait for a table. I ordered the calamari, and their chicken curry.
Benugo (Covent Garden)
A little cafe with sandwiches and sweets in Covent Garden. We grabbed a cardamom coconut milk tea from here and it was divine. While also in London I had a cardamom pastry from Selfridges that was so delicious. I think this may be one of my new favorite flavors.
Borough Market
This is an incredible open air market with lots of different vendor stalls. From fresh produce, to cheese, and prepared foods. You can head here to grab breakfast, lunch or an early dinner. Take a big loop before making your decision because there is a lot to take in! Everyone swears by the raclette grilled cheese sandwiches. I had incredible cookies from one vendor, and paella from another. Can’t go wrong here!
The Black Pig was one of our favorites for their epic sandwiches. And be sure to pick up a cocktail along the way while you explore.
Rosa’s Thai
If you’re looking for a casual bite to eat, Rosa’s Thai is perfection. I had the green curry with prawns and it was absolutely perfect. I’m a sucker for green curry and this was one of my favorites I’ve ever had.
Maine
For a more fine dining experience, check out Maine in Mayfair. I loved the vibe of this spot and the live jazz we enjoyed. The short rib appetizer was absolutely incredible, and the mussels were so flavorful. Highly recommend finishing the meal with the apple tartin dessert.
Cocotte
This fast casual restaurant makes one of the best rotisserie chickens I have ever had. It’s so simple and delicious. You choose your sides and sauces and dig in.
Fatt Pundit
This asian fusion restaurant was incredible. I really loved their dumplings and noodles. It was casual and delicious. Perfect for enjoying before or after shopping at Liberty down the street.
Kensington Gardens & Their Cute Neighbors
Things To Do In London
Kensington Palace
I visited Kensington Palace twice. On the first day I learned that the Diana exhibit was opening the following day but I wasn’t 100% sure I’d have the time. Thankfully I did, so the following day I went back to see all of her gorgeous dresses. It was a beautiful exhibit that was really well done.
The Diana exhibit showcased a collection of her outfits, sketches from designers and bits of history. It was incredible to see such beautiful pieces of couture and learn more about Princess Diana.
Notting Hill
Just walking around Notting Hill made me happy. Stumbling onto the pretty colorful row homes, the trees were starting to bloom and seeing all the cute dogs walk around the neighborhoods. Churchill Arms, a popular restaurant and landmark, is also in this area. I decided not to dine here because it smelled like a porter potty, but I’ve heard good things.
Oxford Street For Shopping
I headed to Oxford Street for some shopping to check our Selfridges. It’s a major department store with an impressive food market on the ground floor. It was delicious and made for the perfect afternoon pick me up to hold me over before dinner. If you’re a Topshop kinda person, definitely hit them up as the prices are SO much better.
The Parks!
There are so many gorgeous parks around London so grab your food for takeaway, or pick up a coffee and pastry and take a stroll through them. The Regent’s Park which has Queen Mary’s Rose Garden is beautiful and Hyde Park is stunning. Find one nearby and take a stroll!
See A Show
So many great theatre shows to see here. The theatre district is great so make some time to finally get to see a show while you’re visiting. I saw the musical, Six, and absolutely loved it. Great music and fun!
Shop Along Kings Rd
There is some really wonderful shopping in London. Explore Kings Rd and pop into boutiques and shops. I stopped into Soho Home, Ganni and a few other spots. This entire street is packed with great shops and a few cafes.
Borough Market
This is a large open air market that serves up everything from fresh produce, food products, ready to eat foods like sandwiches, risottos, pasta and more. You can stop into all the different stalls and sample items, try different things and make a whole afternoon out of it. Come hungry!
Afternoon Tea
A really fun way to spend a couple of hours in London is to experience afternoon tea. Complete with scones and clotted cream, finger sandwiches and tiny desserts, this is the perfect way to experience the culture.
Visit The Usual London Attractions
Westminster Abbey
The iconic church in London. You can walk through Westminster Abbey and you just feel like you’re taking in so much history.
Buckingham Palace
Obviously, you have to visit Buckingham Palace. You can also watch the changing of the guards which is a whole experience. Walk through St James Park and pack a sandwich too if you like!
Tower of London And The Crown Jewels
A really cool museum and experience. You can also see some of the Crown Jewels. This is a must visit attraction when you’re in London.
Churchill War Room
This was such a neat museum to get to see where Prime Minister Winston Churchill lived and worked during WWII.
Big Ben
Walk past Big Ben which is at the very end of the Parliament building. The bridge is always packed so mind your bag and phone from pick-pocketters.
The London Eye
I’m usually not into attractions like this, but if you have the time, do it! It’s an incredible view of the city and it’s all within walking distance to the above attractions anyway.
Abbey Road
This iconic road made famous by The Beatles is a must visit. It’s just really cool to see this in person. And yes, everyone will be walking the crosswalk trying to get the iconic photo. Not far from here is a little area called St Johns Woods where there are lots of restaurants and little shops to grab some food. From here you can walk to Queen Mary’s Rose Garden as well.
Covent Garden
A neighborhood in London’s West End, this is a lovely place to stroll through shops, cafes and more. Explore the Apple Market and Royal Opera House.
Things To Know When Visiting London
Before you visit London, here are a few things to know. One major thing to remember is that their converters are not the same as the rest of Europe. Credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere, but having a few pounds on you is always smart. Plus, this city is MASSIVE. Taking a taxi can add up and you can lose a ton of time with traffic. Take public transportation like the tube and bus. You can easily tap to pay with your phone and it will get you to where you need to go much faster and more cheaply.
How To Get From London Heathrow To City Center
Public transportation is really great in London, so there’s really no need for a car unless you have a ton of luggage. You can take the Heathrow Express into the city center which is about 26£, and then your Underground tube to where you’re headed. But definitely check travel times before you head out because sometimes the tube itself is the same amount of time and much cheaper.
Other Things To Know
- Currency – Pounds
- Electricity – UK Converter – I don’t understand how the UK is different from the rest of Europe, but it is. So be sure you’re prepared.
- Getting Around – The Tube or walking. The traffic is INSANE here so avoid taxis if you can. The Tube allows you to also use Apple pay, just set this up in your payment settings.
- Yes, it rains – The weather is very mild and I don’t think you need to bring all your rain gear. Pack a packable umbrella that can fit in your purse, and throw in a light rain jacket that you can throw on over anything.
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