1. Hop On, Hop Off Bus Tour

We love the Hop on, Hop Off bus! It’s an easy way to get around the city – if you’re not keen on using the tube – and takes you right to all the “must see” attractions like Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, Big Ben etc. It’s also perfect if you’re limited on time and your feet are sore, it’s a quick and easy way to feel like you are seeing all the things you want to in London.

2. Picnic in Hyde Park

Grab a bevi and a wrap from Pret A Manger and head to Hyde Park for an afternoon siesta! We always travel with our pack towels, which makes a perfect picnic blanket, and don’t forget a deck of cards or Monopoly Deal, and enjoy the beautiful green spaces that Hyde Park has to offer! You can even rent a bike and explore the park paths and make your way to Princess Diana’s memorial, Kensington Palace, and the pond to see the swans. It’s our favourite place to go to escape the busy streets and relax.

3. Take a stroll through Notting Hill

Wake up early, grab a coffee, and take a stroll through the colourful streets of Notting Hill. If you can get there early enough, you’ll be able to enjoy the calm, quiet streets, before they become packed with tourists and content creators.

4. Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace

Check out Buckingham Palace’s changing of the guards. It’s quite entertaining as you watch the guards on horses make their way to Buckingham, so plan to be in the are during this time. Unfortunately every time we’ve visited, the tours for Buckingham have been closed, but if you visit London during the summer months, make sure to look into a Buckingham Palace tour! I’ve heard from family that it’s “quite neat” as per my father. We were able to do the Kensington Palace tour, which I do recommend!

5. English Pub

I love an old English pub, and London has one on every corner. Fun fact, all pub signs in the UK have a picture instead of words because back in the 12th century when signage began, most people were ilitterate. So while you’re walking around, look up the signs to find some of the oldest pubs in London. Our favourite pubs are Winston Churchill’s and Chesterfield Arms.

6. Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historical castle on the bank of the river thames. It houses crown jewels, an armoury, Medieval Palace, famous guardian ravens and much more! It also has the best view of the Tower of London Bridge. It was busy when we went and at times you felt like you were being funnelled through buildings, but it was still a neat experience and we do recommend!

7. Oxford Street, Carnaby Street, Portobello Market, Harolds

London has some great shopping, so put on your comfortable shoes and explore some of the best shopping areas in London! Our favourite stores to shop and browse are Harolds, Simons, and Mango. You also must check out Fortnum & Mason for cute souvenir tea and preserves.

Affordable

1. The Grand Royal London Hyde Park – This Hotel has so much character, we loved it!

Splurge

1. The Mayfair Townhouse – Great location and room was spacious!