London is well known for being a multifaceted city. That’s why over 30 million tourists flock to the city each year. It’s all well and good if you have a week or two to explore the city, but if you are visiting for a work conference or a stop over, it can be a lot more difficult to fit everything in. Whilst your room at the Montcalm London will undoubtedly tempt you with its room service and ultra comfy beds, there is something special in a jam packed 24 hours in the city. Below are our tips for spending a day in London, getting a hearty balance of tourist sites, unexplored gems and a real sense of the city. There are plenty of ways you can utilise your one day, and spoiler alert, none of them include sleeping!
Waking up early and taking a trip to Hyde Park is the perfect way to start your London day. Beat the rush hour crowd and spend your morning in this beautiful park, exploring the many hidden nooks and crannies. If you have time, rent a pedalo on the Serpentine Lake and take a quick look in the Serpentine Gallery’s two exhibition spaces.
On your way out of Hyde Park, take the South Eastern Hyde Park Corner exit and walk through St james Park to Buckingham Palace. Here you will be able to appreciate the grand royal residence, and if you’re lucky, see the changing of the royal guard.
After your walk past Buckingham Palace, either take the tube up to Oxford Circus or walk through the grand townhouses of Green Park. Taking a detour past Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, you’ll see the glittering lights of London’s West End, giving you the chance to appreciate the hustle and bustle that attracts so many entertainers to the area. After this, traverse the winding lanes of Soho to find some of the most vibrant pubs, West End bars and cafes in Central London.
Either walk or take the tube to Waterloo and head on down to the South Bank. Here you’ll find some of the top chain West End restaurants alongside the BFI, Southbank Centre and National Theatre, giving you a heady slice of all things arty in London. Whether it’s a free exhibition at the Southbank Centre or a matinee performance at the National Theatre, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. If the arts aren’t your thing or you simply don’t have time, then take a trip on the nearby London Eye and see the London skyline.
Walking along the South Bank, you’ll find yourself passing the Tate Modern. If you have a moment, nip into this absorbing and free art space to experience the atmospheric converted powerstation for yourself.
Walk further along the Southbank and head to Borough Market and its adjoining restaurants for dinner. This artisan food market has a history dating back to the medieval era and a fine selection of international cuisines.
Last but not least, take the Northern Line down to Shoreditch to experience East London at its best. With a fantastic array of bars, clubs, curry houses and boutique shopping, you won’t regret an evening walk through the hustle and bustle of Brick Lane.
As the best-known shopping street in one of the world’s most iconic cities, exploring London’s Oxford Street is every shopper’s…
There is nothing quite like the London summer. From June to September, people from all around the world travel to…
If you're looking to experience London's timeless charm in a unique way, then this blog is for you! It's always…
The winter season in London is full of magical experiences. If you’re planning a visit to London, you must know…
A trip to the exciting capital city is incomplete without experiencing the charm of London’s top attractions. Read on and…
London’s West End is known to host Broadway, theatres, ballets, and musicals. Get into the festive spirit with some of…