Trying to “do” London in a day? Bold move—and we love it. Thankfully, Angel Castellanos is here to help you pull it off, from royal pit stops to street market feasts. This video walks you through the highlights, the shortcuts, and the must-do moments.
What We Cover in This Video
Getting to & Around London
Morning in Westminster
Lunch & Shopping in the West End
Afternoon in Kensington Gardens
St. Paul’s Cathedral & the Tower of London
Dinner and drinks
Resources Mentioned in This Video
London Guide Book
Best Restaurants in London
Top Things to Do in London
Best Tours to Take in London
London In a Day: Video Guide
Segment 1: Getting to & Around London
- Getting to London by Plane: London has 6 international airports, but don’t panic. Nearly all flights from North America land at Heathrow Airport (LHR).
- Getting to London by Train: Coming from Paris? Skip airport security and instead take the 2.5-hour journey on Eurostar.
- From the Airport to London City Centre: You have three options, the Heathrow Express (15 minutes, around £25), Elizabeth Line (27 minutes, £12.80), or take a taxi (1 hour, £45–£70).
- Getting Around London: The tube is absolutely the way to go. Use your contactless credit card paired with Google Maps (or Apple Maps).
- Jet-lagged? Look for Monmouth Coffee or Bar Italia for a coffee that packs a punch.
Not ready to book a tour? Find out if London tours are worth it.
Segment 2: Morning in Westminster
For this guide, we’ll assume you got in the night before—now it’s time to make the most of a full day in London.
- Westminster Abbey – Walk through nearly a millennium of royal coronations, poet burials, and whispered secrets. Book a morning tour to beat the crowds!
- Parliament Square – Snap a photo with Big Ben, then spin around and take in some of London’s most iconic landmarks.
- Buckingham Palace – Swing by at 10:30 am for the Changing of the Guard, or if you’re here in the summer, book a tour for a peek behind those famous gates.
- Whitehall Street – Catch the Changing of the Horse Guards Parade at 11 am.
Want us to visit your restaurant, hotel, attraction, or bar? Pitch us on the history of your location and your story by emailing press@thetourguy.com
Segment 3: Lunch & Shopping in the West End
- 26 Grains – This cozy spot serves up wholesome bowls, eggs, and cold-busting porridge.
- Covent Garden – Browse designer labels, artisan goods, and unique accessories in London’s most iconic shopping destination.
- Bar Italia (Soho) – Grab an espresso here before tackling the second half of London in a day.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the Top Places to Eat in London.
Segment 4: Afternoon in Kensington Gardens & Hyde Park
- Wellington Arch – Completed in 1830 to commemorate British victories. Now, an excellent photo op.
- Kensington Gardens – These formal gardens are home to Kensington Palace, the Serpentine Galleries, and a memorial to Princess Diana.
- Afternoon Tea at Kensington Palace – Pinkies up for pastries and palace views!
Segment 5: St. Paul’s Cathedral & the Tower of London
- St. Paul’s Cathedral – Climb to the top for sweeping views, then head underground to the crypt where London’s legends are buried.
- Tower of London – Meet a Beefeater, see the Crown Jewels, and spot the legendary ravens keeping the kingdom safe.
Depending on your pace, you might need to choose between Kensington Gardens and the Tower. Or, skip the West End if you’re not in the mood to shop.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our London Guide for more resources.
Segment 6: Evening – Pick Your Feast
- The Old Bank of England – A grand pub built inside a former bank with classic British fare.
- Lamb & Flag – One of London’s oldest pubs, once beloved by Dickens himself.
- Dishoom – Bombay comfort food done right, in a setting inspired by old Irani cafés.
- Mercato Mayfair – Food trucks meet holy arches in this former church-turned-international food hall.
- The Donovan Bar (Brown’s Hotel) – Expect martinis with a side of moody lighting, 1960s swagger, and portraits that might raise a brow or two.
And there you have it, London in a Day! If you like what you saw, don’t forget to bookmark this page and subscribe to our YouTube updates below.
More Inspiration For Your Trip to London
London’s been standing for nearly 2,000 years, so don’t expect to see it all in a day. But with our insider guide, you can narrow down what to see, where to eat, which tours to book, and more.
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