Through the eyes of Julia...
If you are a first time visitor, London can be quite overwhelming with so many attractions, sites and restaurants. Here are the iconic tours, attractions, and restaurants you must visit for an authentic London experience.
Tours:
The Hop-on Hop-Off bus is a great way to cover a lot of ground while learning about this historic city but if you prefer walking or have a tighter budget, SANDEMANs NEW London Tours is another great option. For an adrenaline filled tour,London RIB Voyages is highly recommended and is ranked #1 on TripAdvisor for a reason!
Take the 80 minute Thames Barrier Explorer’s Voyage to see every major sight the Thames has to offer aboard an exhilarating 630hp speed boat. The company's award winning guides are stand-up comedians, actors and performers by night – not to mention total history buffs!
For those with quality cameras or an interest in photography, a “Hairy Goat Photography Tour” is a must. This tour is yet another great way to see London's historic and iconic attractions and the skilled tutor/tour guide can provide excellent tips to improve your photos.
Sightseeing:
London is full of culturally rich monuments, buildings, parks and markets. If you are not a fan of taking city tours, here are a few sites you must visit during your stay:
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Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of West Minster, also known as “Big Ben” and the houses of parliament.
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The iconic Tower Bridge, built from 1886-1894.
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Buckingham Palace which is open to the public for tours during the summer months while the Queen is on her annual vacation in Ireland.
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Kensington Gardens to enjoy the immaculately maintained landscaping and water features that have been featured in many films.
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The London Eye to get the breathtaking birds eye view of London from a maximum height of 433ft!
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St Paul's Cathedral to appreciate the detailed architecture, moldings, gilding and ornate artistry within.
Food:
From lite breakfasts such as delicious coffees and scones, to full brunches of Nutella crepes, stacked hot cakes or the English classic; fried eggs, tomatoes, beans, ham and toast, you must visit New London Cafe at least once during your stay.
For an inexpensive lunch, Tortellini Cup is the place to go for Italian fresh handmade pasta. London locals frequent this “fast food” pasta shop for a quick yet delicious bite on a busy day.
Next to St Paul's Cathedral, the famed Gordon Ramsay's Bread Street Kitchen is the perfect lunch stop on a long day of site seeing. The restaurant has extensive a la carte selections and 3 course prefix menu options.
If you enjoy a hearty pie, you must book a lunch or dinner table at Green Pea, where portions are generous and the extensive menu choices are delivered verbally by the charismatic owner himself!
For your afternoon sweet fix, treat yourself to the best cookie in London at Ben's Cookies. You can sample their menu of fifteen decadent flavours baked daily with classic to unique flavours like lemon and coconut cookies.
When in London, an afternoon high tea is an essential experience. Visit the Tea Room at Harrods or Chateau Dessert for a five star dessert selection to accompany your afternoon tea.
I hope this guide helps. Enjoy the weekend!
