5 Days in London

Day 1

Morning

 Westminster Abbey and Big Ben

 Start your day by visiting Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the venue for royal coronations. Afterward, view Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament nearby.

 Address: 20 Deans Yard, London SW1P 3PA

 Cost: £27 (Abbey entry); Big Ben is free to view

 The London Eye

 Take a ride on this iconic Ferris wheel for stunning views of the city.

 Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB

 Cost: £32.50

 

Lunch

 Flat Iron Covent Garden

 Known for simple yet perfectly cooked steaks.

 Address: 17-18 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8QH

 Cost: £15–£25

 

Afternoon

 The Tower of London and Tower Bridge

 Visit the historic Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels, then walk across the stunning Tower Bridge.

 Address: London EC3N 4AB

 Cost: £29.90 (Tower entry); Tower Bridge is free to walk

 

Dinner

 Duck & Waffle

 A modern British restaurant with breathtaking city views.

 Address: 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY

 Cost: £30–£60

 

Evening

 Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square

 End your day exploring London’s vibrant nightlife hub.

 Address: Piccadilly Circus, London W1J

 

 

Day 2: Royalty and Museums

Morning

 Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

 Witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony (10:45 AM).

 Address: London SW1A 1AA

 Cost: Free

 Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

 Walk through the expansive Hyde Park and enjoy the serene beauty of Kensington Gardens.

 Address: Hyde Park, London W2

 Cost: Free

 

Lunch

 Maggie Jones’s

 A cozy British restaurant with a countryside vibe.

 Address: 6 Old Ct Pl, London W8 4PL

 Cost: £20–£40

 

Afternoon

 Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

 Explore art and design from around the world in this free museum.

 Address: Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL

 Cost: Free

 

Dinner

 Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

 Michelin-starred dining inspired by historical British dishes.

 Address: 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA

 Cost: £90+

 

Evening

 Natural History Museum Night Tour (seasonal)

 Discover the museum’s exhibits after hours with fewer crowds.

 Address: Cromwell Rd, London SW7 5BD

 Cost: £28

 

 

Day 3: Markets and Local Favorites

Morning

 Borough Market

 Start with coffee and breakfast at this vibrant food market.

 Address: 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL

 Cost: Free to explore

 Shakespeare’s Globe

 Tour the reconstructed Elizabethan theatre.

 Address: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT

 Cost: £17

 

Lunch

 Padella

 Fresh, handmade pasta near Borough Market.

 Address: 6 Southwark St, London SE1 1TQ

 Cost: £15–£25

 

Afternoon

 St. Paul’s Cathedral

 Admire the magnificent architecture and climb to the dome for a panoramic view.

 Address: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD

 Cost: £20

 

Dinner

 Sketch (Gallery)

 Iconic for its pink-hued interiors and artistic ambiance.

 Address: 9 Conduit St, London W1S 2XG

 Cost: £50+

 

Evening

 Soho LGBTQ+ Bars

 End your day in Soho at popular spots like G-A-Y or Freedom Bar.

 Address: Old Compton St, London W1

 

 

Day 4: Historic Day Trip

Morning

Windsor Castle

Visit the Queen’s weekend residence and explore the surrounding town.

Address: Windsor SL4 1NJ

Cost: £28

 

Lunch

The Boatman

Riverside dining with British classics.

Address: 10 Thames Side, Windsor SL4 1QN

Cost: £20–£40

 

Afternoon

Stonehenge

Drive to this ancient monument to learn about its mysteries.

Address: Near Amesbury, SP4 7DE

Cost: £19.50

 

Dinner

The Harrow at Little Bedwyn

Award-winning countryside dining on your way back to London.

Address: Little Bedwyn, Marlborough SN8 3JP

Cost: £60+

 

 

Day 5: Hidden Gems in London

Morning

Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill

Enjoy nature and spectacular city views from Parliament Hill.

Address: Hampstead Heath, London NW5

Cost: Free

 

Lunch

The Spaniards Inn

Historic pub dating back to the 16th century.

Address: Spaniards Rd, London NW3 7JJ

Cost: £20–£40

 

Afternoon

Camden Market

Shop for unique finds and enjoy the alternative vibe of Camden.

Address: Camden Lock Pl, London NW1 8AF

Cost: Free to explore

 

Dinner

Regent’s Canal Dinner Cruise

A relaxing cruise with fine dining along the canal.

Address: Departs from Little Venice, London W9

Cost: £65

 

Hotel Recommendation:

If price is no option… we recommend The Langham, London, located at 1C Portland Place, Regent Street, London.

Why The Langham?

Timeless Elegance: The Langham blends Victorian grandeur with modern luxury. Its rich heritage as one of London’s most prestigious hotels is reflected in its elegant design, from the grand ballroom to the opulent rooms and suites. It’s a top choice for those seeking a mix of tradition and contemporary flair.

Location: Located in the heart of London, The Langham is close to landmarks like Oxford Street, Regent’s Park, and the British Museum. With easy access to public transportation, you’re perfectly positioned to explore both historic and trendy parts of the city.

Rooms & Suites: The rooms at The Langham are designed for supreme comfort and luxury, featuring plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and stunning views of the city. Suites like the Infinity Suite offer expansive spaces and exceptional amenities for an unforgettable stay.

Personalized Service: The Langham is known for its world-class service, including 24-hour concierge assistance, ensuring that all your needs are met with the highest level of attention to detail.

Fine Dining: Guests can enjoy Michelin-starred dining at Petrus by Gordon Ramsay or indulge in traditional afternoon tea in the elegant Palm Court. With a range of dining options, there’s something for every palate.

Amenities: The hotel offers a state-of-the-art fitness center, a luxurious spa, and a beautiful indoor pool. Additional services include exclusive experiences like private London tours and access to Langham’s curated events.

You can also find your own favorite spot here:


Annual Events in London to Consider:

Here are some of the most popular annual events in London that draw visitors from around the world. These events offer a glimpse of London’s vibrant culture, making them a great reason to plan your visit:

 

January

New Year’s Day Parade – Central London

London kicks off the year with this colorful parade featuring thousands of performers, including marching bands, dancers, and entertainers from around the world.

London International Mime Festival – Various locations

This unique festival showcases the best in contemporary visual theatre and mime, with performances across various London venues.

 

February

London Fashion Week (Fall/Winter) – Various locations

London’s premier fashion event sees top designers showcase their collections, attracting celebrities, influencers, and industry professionals from around the world.

Chinese New Year – Chinatown, Soho

London’s Chinatown comes alive with dragon dances, fireworks, and celebrations to mark the Lunar New Year.

 

March

St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Central London

London’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations feature parades, Irish music, and dancing in honor of Ireland’s patron saint.

The Ideal Home Show – Olympia London

A must-visit for anyone interested in home design and renovation, this event showcases the latest trends in interiors, home gadgets, and lifestyle.

 

April

London Marathon – Various locations

This world-renowned marathon attracts elite athletes and charity runners from around the globe, making it a key event on London’s calendar.

BBC Good Food Show – Olympia London

Food lovers will enjoy this event, featuring top chefs, food demonstrations, and the chance to sample delicious gourmet treats.

 

May

The Chelsea Flower Show – Royal Hospital Chelsea

A prestigious horticultural event, the Chelsea Flower Show brings together stunning garden designs and innovative floristry.

 

Royal Windsor Horse Show – Windsor Great Park

Held annually, this show features equestrian events, including dressage, jumping, and carriage driving, set against the backdrop of Windsor Castle.

 

June

Trooping the Colour – Horse Guards Parade

Watch the Queen’s official birthday celebrations, including a grand parade and fly-past by the Royal Air Force.

London Wine Week – Various locations

A week-long celebration of wine, offering tastings, masterclasses, and special events at wineries and wine bars across the city.

 

July

Wimbledon Tennis Championships – All England Club, Wimbledon

The world-famous tennis tournament is a must-see, with spectators enjoying top-class matches, strawberries and cream, and a quintessentially British atmosphere.

Hampton Court Palace Festival – Hampton Court Palace

Enjoy summer concerts at this stunning royal palace, set in beautiful gardens and offering a variety of live performances.

 

August

Notting Hill Carnival – Notting Hill

The largest street festival in Europe, celebrating Caribbean culture with colorful parades, music, food, and dancing.

BBC Proms – Royal Albert Hall

This classical music festival brings world-renowned orchestras and conductors to one of London’s most iconic venues for a series of concert performances.

 

September

London Fashion Week (Spring/Summer) – Various locations

Top designers and fashion houses showcase their collections in the fashion capital of the world.

The Thames Festival – South Bank

A riverside festival celebrating the arts with live performances, art installations, and outdoor events, right by the iconic River Thames.

 

October

London Film Festival – Various venues

Featuring some of the most anticipated films of the year, this festival attracts filmmakers, actors, and cinema lovers to screenings, premieres, and panel discussions.

London Design Festival – Various locations

A celebration of design across multiple disciplines, from furniture to fashion, with installations and exhibitions held throughout the city.

 

November

Lord Mayor’s Show – Central London

A 800-year-old tradition, this event features a spectacular procession through the streets of London to mark the new Lord Mayor’s annual appointment.

Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes Night) – Various locations

Enjoy fireworks displays and bonfires across London in celebration of the failed Gunpowder Plot, a major event in British history.

 

December

Winter Wonderland – Hyde Park

A festive extravaganza with ice skating, a Christmas market, carnival rides, and circus shows, offering a magical winter experience in the heart of London.

Christmas Markets – Southbank Centre, Leicester Square, Greenwich

These Christmas markets bring a festive atmosphere to London with holiday treats, handmade gifts, and seasonal decorations.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks – South Bank

London rings in the New Year with an impressive fireworks display along the Thames, featuring live music and a spectacular view of Big Ben’s countdown.

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