A brief guide to the wonders of London
Whether you have 3 days or 3 months, it is never enough time for the magical city of London. Now I do understand not everyone feels the same way I do about this city, but here are a few things to see/do and remember during your trip:
1. The underground is filled with stairs - remember that when packing a heavy bag (you will have to drag that thing up and down millions of stairs when going from Heathrow to your hostel) - trust me, it is a pain and you look like a real tourist.
2. If you are capable of walking, do it! There are so many things to see it is done easiest while wandering around. Start at Big Ben and make your way through Birdcage Walk to Buckingham Palace and through St. James Park. Stroll down South Bank and cross Millennium Bridge. You will see more things getting lost wandering around then you would trying to plan out every second of every day.
3. The London Eye - although it is a tad expensive I would recommend it for first time London goes. However go at sunset, it is so beautiful and makes the city glow.
4. St. Paul's Cathedral - Everyday at 5 they do 'Evensong' (a short free service for anyone) It is a great way to see the inside of the Cathedral. It's a great experience and a fun non-tourist thing to do.
5. Fish and Chips - Of course you have to have fish and chips while in London! Go to Nellie Dean's Pub, it is looked in Soho. Best fish and chips for a grand total of 5 pounds (can't beat that price)
6. Nando's - You must eat there - end of story.
7. Richmond - looking for a relaxing day a little outside the busy part of London? Take a 45 minute tub ride to Richard, it is a wonderful area, another great place to just get lost wandering around.
8. Hyde Park - You have to spend at least one day in Hyde Park. My personal favorite as it is the home of Peter Pan, Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, The Italian Fountains, Serpentine River and many more.
9. Famous Tourist Spots - 1. Abbey Road, is number one on most tourist's list to see while in London. Bring a marker with you because there is a big wall that you can write on. There is always a line to take a picture walking the Beatles walk, hint - walk about 15 more feet up the street and you will find an identical walk you can do the same picture and it's less crowded.
2. For the HP fans, Kings Cross is cool to see but the 9 3/4 wall is a little disappointed, don't expect much, but still fun for the photo.
10. Pubs - Fleet Street is a popular pub crawl street. If you are looking for a non tourist pub try Thornbury Castle off of Enford Street, or The Met, which is right next to the Baker Street tub station.
1. The underground is filled with stairs - remember that when packing a heavy bag (you will have to drag that thing up and down millions of stairs when going from Heathrow to your hostel) - trust me, it is a pain and you look like a real tourist.
2. If you are capable of walking, do it! There are so many things to see it is done easiest while wandering around. Start at Big Ben and make your way through Birdcage Walk to Buckingham Palace and through St. James Park. Stroll down South Bank and cross Millennium Bridge. You will see more things getting lost wandering around then you would trying to plan out every second of every day.
3. The London Eye - although it is a tad expensive I would recommend it for first time London goes. However go at sunset, it is so beautiful and makes the city glow.
4. St. Paul's Cathedral - Everyday at 5 they do 'Evensong' (a short free service for anyone) It is a great way to see the inside of the Cathedral. It's a great experience and a fun non-tourist thing to do.
5. Fish and Chips - Of course you have to have fish and chips while in London! Go to Nellie Dean's Pub, it is looked in Soho. Best fish and chips for a grand total of 5 pounds (can't beat that price)
6. Nando's - You must eat there - end of story.
7. Richmond - looking for a relaxing day a little outside the busy part of London? Take a 45 minute tub ride to Richard, it is a wonderful area, another great place to just get lost wandering around.
8. Hyde Park - You have to spend at least one day in Hyde Park. My personal favorite as it is the home of Peter Pan, Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, The Italian Fountains, Serpentine River and many more.
9. Famous Tourist Spots - 1. Abbey Road, is number one on most tourist's list to see while in London. Bring a marker with you because there is a big wall that you can write on. There is always a line to take a picture walking the Beatles walk, hint - walk about 15 more feet up the street and you will find an identical walk you can do the same picture and it's less crowded.
2. For the HP fans, Kings Cross is cool to see but the 9 3/4 wall is a little disappointed, don't expect much, but still fun for the photo.
10. Pubs - Fleet Street is a popular pub crawl street. If you are looking for a non tourist pub try Thornbury Castle off of Enford Street, or The Met, which is right next to the Baker Street tub station.