It is true what they say about London – it’s beautiful, there is so much to see and do, and the food is outstanding. With so much to see and do, it can truly be overwhelming to decide how best to spend your time. See below for what we did in our 5 days and copy our trip! It was amazing – we can’t wait to go back and see more.

What to See

London is brimming with iconic landmarks, historical sites, and charming neighborhoods. Here’s a list of must-see attractions:

• Downton Abbey Village & Castle Tour “Highclere Castle”: Venture outside the city to see the grandeur of Highclere Castle, where Downton Abbey was filmed. Explore the opulent rooms and lush grounds. THIS was Kara’s favorite tour. She seriously planned her entire England visit based on seeing this castle! What’s so amazing about Highclere is that this is actually a real, royal home and the Duke that currently lives there was the godson of Queen Elizabeth. The mementos, photos, heirlooms in the home are all part of the family’s own belongings, not just museum pieces made to look like real life. Simply amazing/stunning! You must go!
• Buckingham Palace: Book now to tour Buckingham Palace – the tour we took was the walking tour and audio guide of the state rooms. *Note – the Palace is only currently open only for tours of the state rooms for 10 weeks in the summer. Mid-July – mid-September so BOOK now! We were lucky enough to snag a “skip the line” tour– with an amazing guide in early August. The art in the galleries as well as the royal coronation exhibit were outstanding.
• Westminster Abbey: Immerse yourself in centuries of history at this stunning Gothic masterpiece where royal weddings, coronations, and other significant events have taken place. You can also attend a mass (times throughout the day) free of charge. We recommend you take a full tour though and give yourself several hours. There’s so much history in this church, including the oldest door in England. The wood for the door was felled after 1032 AD and that the door was constructed sometime in the 1050s. This was during the reign of King Edward the Confessor, who built the Norman Abbey which was consecrated in 1065.
• Secret Food Tours!: Explore Borough Market for a delightful culinary adventure. Consider joining a secret food tour to uncover hidden gems and indulge in delectable treats. The secret market tour was the perfect mix of culinary and history and we were SUPER full by the end of the tour. We tried several dishes (fried fish, sausage roll, bread pudding, cheese etc.) as well as wine, port and beer!
• The Imperial War Museum: Step back in time to the secret underground command center where Winston Churchill and his team operated during World War II. You can spend a whole day visiting this site – perfect for history buffs.
• Tower Bridge: Admire the architectural marvel of Tower Bridge, an iconic symbol of London that offers stunning views of the Thames River. The area surrounding the Tower Bridge is perfect for photos and strolling.
• Notting Hill and Abbey Road: Stroll through the colorful streets of Notting Hill, famous for its charming houses and the bustling Portobello Market. We were able to purchase all of our souvenirs here as well as some cute jewelry and scarfs. Abbey Road is a must-visit for Beatles fans.

Where to Eat

London’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting, offering a range of flavors and experiences. Here are some restaurants to tantalize your taste buds:

• Kiln: Indulge in authentic Thai cuisine with a modern twist at Kiln. Try their flavorful grilled dishes and vibrant curries. We loved the squid and the noodles!
• Sketch: Experience artistic and culinary excellence at Sketch, a quirky restaurant known for its unique decor and creative cuisine. Don’t miss the famous afternoon tea or the several bars. If you stay for dinner, be prepared to pay a hefty $$$.
• Bao: If you’re a fan of Taiwanese street food, Bao is a must-visit. Savor their delectable bao buns and other Asian-inspired delights.
• Little India: Embark on a culinary journey through India at Little India. Enjoy aromatic curries, tandoori specialties, and more. The curries were all amazing.
• Stables Bar at the Milestone Hotel: For a delightful cocktail experience, head to the Stables Bar. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails in the charming ambiance of the Milestone Hotel. The little bites and ambience were such a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of downtown London.

Where to Stay

Choosing the right place to stay can enhance your London experience. Consider the following option:

• The Academy: Partnered with Hyatt, The Academy offers a comfortable and stylish stay in the heart of London. Enjoy modern amenities and convenient access to many attractions. The attention to detail, the complimentary breakfast, the large and luxurious bath towels and the soaker tub were outstanding!

London is a city of endless possibilities, from its historic sites to its culinary delights. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks or savoring international cuisine, this city has something for everyone. Make the most of your visit by immersing yourself in its rich culture and vibrant energy!