London Travel Guide

Clayton and I just returned from an incredible five-day trip to London! It was Clayton’s first time, and while I had visited when I was much younger, this felt like a whole new experience.

 

London is massive, and while we had the chance to explore some amazing sights and enjoy fantastic food, we couldn’t fit in everything on our list. Many of the recommendations below are based on your tips and personal favorites, all of which are also saved on my Google Maps for easy reference by location.

 If you are looking into planning a trip to London, I’ve got some great recommendations on how to get there, what to do, and most importantly — where to eat!  

Where to Eat and Drink

The food scene surprised us (in the best way!)—despite the old stereotype, we didn’t have a single bad meal. The food was outstanding, service was great, and perhaps most memorable was how friendly everyone was.

Pubs and Bars:

• The Audley Public House–A must-visit pub we loved!
• Gordon’s Wine Bar– Unique wine bar in a cave near the river; perfect for wine and cheese.
• The Connaught Bar– Known for martini service on a cart and a lively vibe.
• Duke’s–Famous for martinis.
• The Guinea–Classic London pub.
• The Donovan Bar–Stylish cocktail bar.
• The Cocktail Club (Old Street)–Fun, eclectic cocktails.
• Nightjar (Shoreditch)–Speakeasy-style bar.
• The Harwood Arms–Only Michelin-starred pub in London.
• The Mason’s Arms– Great spot for fish and chips.
• Harry’s Bar–Traditional and cozy.

Lunch/Dinner:

• Berenjak (Soho)–Our favorite! Authentic Persian cuisine.
• Gymkhana–Delicious Indian fare.
• Noble Rot–Excellent wine and European dishes; try the roast chicken!
• Borough Market–Iconic food market; don’t miss the Black Pig Sandwich and famous paella.
• Manteca (Shoreditch)–Creative Italian cuisine.
• Chiltern Firehouse–Versatile for drinks, lunch, or dinner; try the mushroom pizza and roasted chicken.
• Scott’s–Upscale seafood.
• Kitty Fisher’s (Mayfair)–British cuisine in Shepherd’s Market.
• KILN–Casual Thai grill, best for late nights or post-football match.

Additional Highly Recommended Spots:

• Dishoom–Highly recommended Indian (we didn’t get to try it this trip)
• Manthan–Indian
• Jamavar–Indian
• Park Chinois–Chinese
• La Brasseria Milanese–Italian
• Chutney Mary–Indian
• The MAINE Mayfair
• Dorian
• Fezmangal (Mayfair)
• Bubala Soho–Vegetarian Middle Eastern
• Wicked Fish–Gluten-free fish and chips
• Barrafina Adelaide Street–Spanish tapas
• The Ivy–Classic British
• Fallow–Modern European
• Sketch–Quirky and unique dining experience
• The Palomar–Mediterranean

things to do

• Churchill War Rooms–We did a private tour here with an expert guide. The general tour is also excellent, offering a look at the rooms from behind glass.
• Tower of London–Self-guided exploration of the fortress and Crown Jewels.
• Art Gallery Hopping–Especially in Mayfair, packed with excellent galleries.
• Attend a Football Match–We went to a Chelsea vs. Arsenal match and loved it! The nearby pubs are also worth checking out.
• Westminster Abbey–Britain’s most historic church.
• Kensington Palace & Gardens–Great for a scenic walk.
• Changing of the Guards–Classic London experience at Buckingham Palace.
• Shoreditch & Street Art–Vibrant and artsy.
• Parliament Square & Big Ben–A must-see area.
• Private Thames River Boat Ride–Lovely views of London landmarks.

Where to Shop

• Mayfair, Belgravia, Knightsbridge – High-end shopping at Harrod’s, Liberty London, Selfridge’s, Bond Street, Oxford Street, and Regent Street.
• Portobello Market–Famous for antiques.
• Vintage Shopping–Check out Rellik, Found and Vision, One of a Kind Archive, Annie’s Vintage, and Vintage Modes.

How to Get Around

We walked most of the city, but taking the Tube or an Uber was easy and efficient. My travel advisor helped us seamlessly plan everything from flights and restaurant reservations to guided tours and unique shopping spots tailored to our schedule. She truly thought of everything, and we couldn’t recommend her enough if you’re looking for expert help planning your next vacation—Clayton and I both give her an A++ for making this trip unforgettable! You can find more information about her services here.

Okay, I think that wraps up my London Travel Guide – at least for now! I’m sure there are even more incredible places that we missed, so feel free to share any favorites in the comments for others to check out!

Again- if you want to save my GOOGLE MAPS, I have all of these recommendations saved here!