London, England
Planning guide and things to do in London
London Insider’s Guide
London’s energy is undeniable—whether shopping in Mayfair, enjoying a drink near Liverpool Street, or riding the District Line. Its “golden hour” bar scene and diverse food culture constantly surprise.
With landmarks like The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, The Shard, Borough Market, and Buckingham Palace, it’s easy to get lost in the city’s vast history. We’ve conducted surveys and most travelers agree that the logistics of planning a trip to London can be overwhelming.
As a tour company, we draw on our London-based guides—true locals who offer firsthand insights, not hotel-driven content. Welcome to the London Insider’s Guide, your trusted resource to experience this remarkable city.
When To Go | What to Pack
These are not simply the recommendations of a few writers. Instead, we surveyed hundreds of travelers and dozens of guides. We vetted the information and compiled it here.
When to Go
Short answer: May, early June, late August or September. For those looking for nightlife, Thursday is the best night to go out.
As summer holidays approach, European cities inevitably grow busier, but unlike some, London rarely suffers from the intense heat. The real challenge here is the crowds.
If you can visit before the summer break kicks in for families, you’ll be rewarded with mild weather and a quieter city, offering a more peaceful experience.
One of the newest trends in London is the explosive energy of Thursday evenings. With a growing “remote” culture, where many Londoners work from home on Fridays, Thursday nights have become a time for late-night revelry—something the city now thrives on. If you’re going for nightlife, don’t miss Thursdays in London!
- Jan, February, March: I would avoid London during these seasons unless it lined up with a business trip.
- April: Likely warmer than Jan – March, but rainy
- May & Early June: Favorite season to visit from locals. Dress in layers as your day may start off cool and finish warm.
- June – August: Warmer and beautiful months, but the city is crowded. I personally would go in early June.
- September: Locals were split between this season as their favorite and May.
- October – December: The city is already considerably colder than September. This is also the season with the highest rainfall on average.
- Christmas/New Year: A fantastic time to visit any European destination.
What to Pack
Short Answer: Your most stylish clothing that can be worn in layers.
Yes, “pub culture” thrives in London, but that doesn’t mean people are out in sweatpants at night. London is a business city, and at the end of the workday, the pubs fill with locals—many dressed in collared shirts and work suits, embodying the city’s sense of style.
During my last visit, I was struck by how sharp the locals looked, even late into the night. After heading to one of Soho House’s rooftop bars with friends, I found myself thinking about the next morning around 11pm.
As we left, I noticed the crowd arriving as the bar transformed into a lounge with a DJ. The diverse group of people—dressed in elegant dresses and smart business casual attire—created a vibrant, stylish atmosphere that truly impressed.
As always, I recommend packing stylish, layered clothing. London’s bars and restaurants are a mix of the casual and the chic. If you plan to stick to street-level pubs, jeans and clean clothes will suffice. But for the skyline spots, consider stepping it up with nicer shoes, slacks or well-fitted jeans, and a sharp jacket. It’s a city that appreciates a polished look, no matter the hour.
Men’s Packing List for London
The only rule, which is the rule in all of Europe, is don’t wear gym shorts or a “hoodie” around town unless you’re 15 or you don’t care.
Clothes I usually pack:
- 1 pair of nice (very nice) sneakers & 1 pair of dressier shoes (spray all shoes with waterproof/protectant)
- 1:1 ratio of slacks to jeans
- 1:1 ratio of button-down shirts & sweaters
- 1 jacket for every 2 days
- 2 pairs of socks each day (could get sweaty)
- An extra pair of underwear in case you have an accident (my five-year-old’s recommendation)
Other stuff I bring:
- Travel shoe erasers. I’ve gotten pretty intense about keeping my white shoes clean on the go.
- Shrinkable packing cubes. I am not particular about any brand as long as they have a zipper that makes them shrink.
- A great budget. London such a cool place with so much to do. Work a few extra shifts or eat ramen for a few months so you can really enjoy your stay.
Women’s packing list for London
British women are the masters of fancy chic. Women in London are glammed up and tottering around in high heels wearing the latest trends in a modern day Victorian style. Athletic gear is for athletics only. Leave your polyester and florals at home.
Clothes to pack:
- 1 pair of stylish, comfortable sneakers & 1 pair of versatile flats or low heels (low boots for fall/winter)
- 2 pairs of jeans in different styles/washes
- 1-2 pairs black pants
- Mix of blouses, lightweight sweaters, and a versatile dress or skirt
- 1 classic blazer
- 1 leather jacket or trench coat in a neutral color (for fall and winter)
- Tights or stockings (weather dependent)
- Scarves for layering and style
Other essentials:
- Travel-sized stain remover pen
- Foldable tote bag for shopping
- Crossbody bag for daily use
- Small clutch or evening bag
- Universal plug adapter
- If bringing hair styling tools from home, make sure they are labeled Dual Voltage (very important!)
- A generous budget. London is for indulging in great food, fashion, and experiences
Cash
A big question is, “How much cash should I bring to London?” The last time I went, I forgot my wallet and made out fine just using Apple Pay. Having about 40€ per day for tipping and small purchases isn’t bad, but I brought nothing but my passport & phone and survived.
Where to Stay | How to Get Around
We believe that your largest decision after picking your destination is choosing a neighborhood and hotel to stay in. I’ve spent countless hours deliberating over these choices as it can be a make-or-break and often irreversible decision that you don’t know is right or wrong until you’ve arrived.
This is why we offer “Where to Stay” content which is centered around which neighborhoods we love and the hotels we’ve gotten to know in each neighborhood. Below is a brief description and I highly recommend also reading through our Where to Stay in London article which goes over the city’s best neighborhoods and hotel options.
Where to Stay
Short answer: Border of Marylebone, Mayfair, Fitzrovia, and Soho
My travel mantra for choosing hotels is simple: stay close to the places you visit first thing in the morning and last thing at night. For me, that means morning espresso and evening drinks—a neighborhood with cafés, restaurants, and bars within arm’s reach is essential.
Mayfair stands as London’s crown jewel—luxurious, pristine, but costly. The price drops a bit as you move into Marylebone and even more so as you head toward the vibrant streets of Fitzrovia and Soho, just off Regent Street. It’s also where the best shopping awaits.
If you stray beyond these areas, be wary of going too deep into Soho. It’s lively, yes, but some corners are loud and less charming after dark. Lost? Don’t worry—I’ve made it easy. Below, you’ll find some solid hotel options in the heart of it all.
Attractions near Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Mayfair, and Soho:
Best restaurants in the area
How to Get Around
In-City Transporation
Short answer: Smartphone (Apple or Google Maps) + a credit card linked to Google Pay or Apple Pay.
Getting around London couldn’t be simpler. With one of the world’s best metro systems, all you need is your smartphone and a connected credit card. Plug your destination into Apple Maps (my go-to) and use Apple Pay to breeze in and out of the tube.
No need for tickets—just scan your phone at the gates, glide through, and do the same when you exit. If you prefer to avoid the phone route, a simple credit card swipe will do, but be sure to use the same one on your way out or you’ll be charged for a maximum fare.
Uber rides are always an option, but the tube is faster and cheaper more often than not.
Airports
London boasts three major airports:
- Heathrow (LHR)
- Stansted (STN)
- Gatwick (LGW)
All are well-connected to central London by train. Gatwick is just 30 minutes from London Bridge Station, and having recently flown from there, I can say it’s quicker and easier than a car ride.
Give yourself some extra time for the unexpected, but trains are by far the easiest, cleanest, and most efficient way to travel in London.
Americans often fear trains, but for most Europeans, that’s a laughable thought—mass transit here is so reliable, it’s often pointless to have a driver’s license in a city. The system is that good.
Chunnel
Chunnel Stations:
- London St Pancras International Station
- Paris Gare du Nord Station
- Brussels Midi/Zuid Station
The Chunnel is a fantastic way to travel between London and Paris, or on to Central Europe. The train ride takes about three to four hours, but be warned—it’s often packed with business travelers. I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance.
The Chunnel leaves from St Pancras International Station and arrives to Paris Gare du Nord in France and Brussels Midi/Zuid in Belgium. From those stations, you can get practically everywhere in Europe, from Amsterdam to Milan and Barcelona.
Chunnel stations can feel as busy as airports, so treat them accordingly. Post-Brexit, you’ll go through passport control and security, so give yourself at least 60 minutes between arrival and departure. That way, you’ll have time to grab a sandwich, settle in, and board your train without the rush.
What to do | How to Plan
How to Plan Your Days
London is a business city with a drinking problem which is very different than Italy or France where everyone stays composed even into the evening hours. There are pros and cons to both approaches, and the lesson here is to plan around drinking.
Like anywhere else, I am going to plan my day around siteseeing, food, and drink. Yes, I have been to London many times and yes, I will still frequent museums and attractions each and every time I go. They are named “attractions” for a reason, and I like to schedule at least one structured “touristy” event each day. I love museums, guided or not, and they are a treat to visit with the right mindset.
8 am – Out of my hotel to sit for coffee. I don’t eat a large breakfast on holiday, you should be trying things as you go, and want to explore the destination, not my hotel.
9 am – Meet a guide somewhere and enjoy a tour. I own a tour company, so I will always do a private tour for personal pleasure and to get to know our guides. I also enjoy small group tours to see the reactions of other travelers as information is explained. I gravitate towards art museums as you can always find something new, but there are tons of Private Tours in London.
11 am – Noon: Have post-tour coffee and snack. Lunch is later in Europe, and you don’t want to get hangry. I love good conversation over an espresso and finger food. The key is finding relaxing pedestrian (no cars) areas to do so. Covet Garden is very pedestrian and Chestnut is a nice little coffee house. Be sure to walk towards La Goccia before or after as that courtyard is more perfect if you can find a table.
Noon – 1 pm: Walk around somewhere cool—Covet Garden Market is very nice and there is always someone performing out front. Read about some of the best things to do in London to fill your day.
1:30 pm: Lunch, again somewhere pedestrian. I would likely walk into Soho to look for some Dim Sum, or better yet, head to the Seven Dials which is such a clean and nice area, and pick a spot that looks nice over there. If you don’t fall in love with any thing in particular at the dials, hit the Seven Dials Market. Try something different like Oshpaz Dumplings inside the market! Uzbekistani cuisine!
3:30 pm: I normally like something structured again. If you lean towards history and culture, head to St. Paul’s Cathedral or book a tour of the Tower of London.
6:30 pm: Golden hour drinks. Depending on the day of the week, I am likely going to head to Carnaby Street in Soho, elegant and pedestrian part of Soho, and pick the most packed pub to hang out. On my last visit, I found some amazing golden hour energy at The Oxford Market.
If you don’t want to drink, consider over-price Afternoon Tea. It may be too late for this, but maybe it’s never too late. The Palour at Scotland Yard Hotel is a great choice. I’ve sat there for two hours and enjoyed something many cultures can’t do, doing nothing.
8:00 pm: Dinner time! I love making two sets of reservations and cancelling depending on my mood. I’ll likely RSVP at Little India in Kensington, definitely consider breaking your normal menu and getting special recommendations. If you eat at Little India, you’ll likely not have energy to go out after.
Your second option, more on the pricey side, is to go to A.Wong. I ate lunch here on my last trip, but would recommend dinner. It is Michelin star Dim Sum (I heart Dim Sum) run by Andrew Wong the chef himself. I learned from Andrew that Dim Sum means “from the heart” which is very much the case here. Despite being Michelin starred, the restaurant is family owned and operated by husband and wife duo. Chef Andrew even was able to take back over the location his parents had a restaurant growing up!
10:00 pm If I go the route of heavy Indian food I am not going out. Instead, I would make an RSVP at AIRE Ancient Roman Bath. Holy crap, this is amazing. Two things are likely to happen. First, if you’re on a romantic vacation you’re evening will end well back at your room. Second, you’ll sleep like a baby after. This not a traditional spa, but more of a hammam inspired by the Romans. Moving from one temperature bath to another in silence for an hour or so. Absolutely amazing.
If you go the route of a lighter Dim Sum dinner at A.Wong, then its time to see London nightlife. Although it is on the other side of the city, I would take the tube over to Los Mochis off Liverpool Street in the city of London. The location is potentially my favorite roof top bars on Earth. Definitely dress to impress here.
What to Do in London
There are countless and endless things to do and check out in London. Here are some of my favorite items, but you can see our full list on the top things to do in London.
1. Visit Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle, just over an hour from London, makes for an unforgettable day trip. The town, with its medieval charm, revolves around the castle and bustling shopping streets lined with restaurants.
Visiting the home of this historic family leaves a lasting impression. I stepped into one of the largest halls I’ve ever seen, only to learn it was the very spot where Meghan and Harry had their wedding reception. Walking the same floors as the Queen—now that’s a royal memory.
Address: Windsor Castle
2. See the Famous Churchill War Rooms
At King Charles Street, you’ll find the site where Winston Churchill, Britain’s greatest Prime Minister, masterminded the Allied response against Hitler. The famous War Rooms, with their secret underground halls and corridors, are yours to explore.
There’s also a Churchill Museum, packed with little-known stories of his remarkable leadership. And for history buffs, the BBC Broadcast Room awaits, where Churchill’s stirring speeches once echoed, lifting the nation’s spirits during the war. If WWII history calls to you, the Churchill War Rooms should be at the top of your London list.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out how to visit the Churchill War Rooms for more info. Check out our Churchill War Room Tours for more.
Address: Clive Steps, King Charles St
3. Travel Through Time at the British Museum
The British Museum is a must-see in London and one of my personal favorites. As the UK’s premier cultural treasure, it effortlessly earns its place on any list of top things to do in the city. Step inside, and you’re immediately transported to the heart of ancient civilizations, with iconic treasures like the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and awe-inspiring Egyptian mummies.
Don’t miss the Enlightenment Room, where you can explore quirky English curiosities and inventions from the Victorian age—a time when England led the way in scientific discovery. For more on how to navigate this historic wonder, check out our article on how to visit the British Museum.
4. Find Vintage Cars at the London Transport Museum
Stepping back into vintage British transportation is one of the most fun things you can do in London. The iconic red double-decker buses are synonymous with the city, so why not dive into a museum showcasing over a century of classic vehicles?
It’s a fantastic stop for families, adults, and anyone with a passion for trains or vintage cars. Discover how the rise of electricity revolutionized public transport in a city steeped in history. They even offer tours of hidden London, giving you a chance to explore the Underground like never before. Check their website for current events and tours if you’re looking to do more than just visit the museum.
5. March to the Royal Beats at Westminster Abbey
Dive into royal history at Westminster Abbey, the grand church where British monarchs have been crowned for over 750 years! This Gothic masterpiece is one of London’s top attractions, and the Coronation Chair is a must-see. It’s the very throne where King Charles III was crowned in May 2023—how cool is that?
But there’s even more to discover. Westminster Abbey is not only the site of historic ceremonies but also the final resting place of notable figures like Charles Dickens and Stephen Hawking, but surpringsingly not Winston Churchill.
For a truly memorable visit, I highly recommend a guided Westminster Abbey tour. You’ll skip the lines and get fascinating insights from a knowledgeable guide, ensuring you don’t miss any of the Abbey’s rich history. While wandering on your own is an option, a guided tour brings the stories and significance of Westminster Abbey to life in a way you won’t want to miss.
Check out our Westminster Abbey Tours for more.
Address: Westminster Abbey
6. Catch a Show at Shakespeare’s Globe
Is a trip to London truly complete without a visit to the iconic Globe Theatre, the Elizabethan playhouse rebuilt in 1997 where Shakespeare’s works once graced the stage?
I say no. Step into the world of one of history’s greatest playwrights and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of his legacy.
This stunning reconstruction offers a rare chance to witness live performances in a space that echoes the Elizabethan era. Guided tours offer fascinating glimpses into Shakespeare’s life, his works, and the cultural pulse of his time.
Address: 21 New Globe Walk
7. Stroll Through Hyde Park
Hyde Park, the largest and most famous of the Royal Parks, pulses with life—especially in the summer, when joggers lace up and tourists gather at Serpentine Lake to hire boats or bask in the rare English sun.
If you’re a fan of Princess Diana (and really, who isn’t?), don’t miss the Diana Memorial Fountain. In the summer, the park transforms into a spontaneous celebration, with hippy drummers filling the air, drawing in dancers to the rhythm. It’s pure Woodstock energy, wrapped in the heart of London.
8. Grab a Beer on Bermondsey Beer Mile
The Bermondsey Beer Mile is a vibrant stretch of brewery bars and bottle shops nestled under railway arches, now nearly two miles long. What sets it apart is the timing—every Saturday afternoon, they all open around the same time, creating the perfect setting for a lively pub crawl.
Address: 56 Stanworth St.
What to Eat & Drink + Where
Below you’ll find a great list of must-try dishes in London. For a longer and more comprehensive version, check out our article on the Top Foods to Try in London.
1. Full English Breakfast (Fry up)
Sausages, bacon, baked beans, fried eggs, tomatoes, and mushrooms are the traditional core of a full English breakfast, but it would not be truly complete without black pudding and hash browns. The very English cuppa (cup of tea) completes the meal, though some choose coffee, cappuccino, green tea or herbal tea.
Indeed, there are healthier variations of the breakfast. Some cafés serve avocado rye bread toast, kale, spinach, or rosemary sweet potatoes in place of the traditional fried ingredients. Whichever one you choose, it’s so popular that it would be difficult to find a London cafe that doesn’t serve it. The truly complete full English breakfast—hash browns, black pudding, and all—is more often found away from the big city centre, closer to residential streets and local communities.
Where to get it: Terry’s Café London or The Sportsman (away from the city centre)
2. Afternoon Tea
The elegant, high-society origins of the afternoon cream tea experience date back to the 19th century. Back then, it was a key feature of nobility dining. The upper class introduced it as a filler meal for those who felt hungry before dinner. The finger-sized cucumber sandwiches and cakes of the period are firm favourites today.
Ideally, you’ll order Earl Grey tea and scones with clotted cream and fresh strawberries. You can also choose among elegant-looking cakes and pastries that bring Victorian high society to mind. Afternoon cream tea is usually taken at 3:00 pm.
Where to get it: Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly
3. Sheppard’s Pie
Don’t be fooled by this terrible stock photo we’ve chosen of the dish, Londoners love shepherd’s pie: delicious layers of minced lamb or mutton, mashed potatoes, vegetable filling, and cheese topping.
Many notable English dishes from the 17th and 18th centuries were the result of families trying to make the most of their leftovers, and this dish is no exception. Its creamy, cheesy topping and mince and veg filling established it as a firm favourite rather than a budget meal.
Book and film fans fuss over its feature in Harry Potter. There are several mentions, but the most quoted one is in Chapter 7, as Harry’s school detention with Gilderoy Lockhart approaches. And don’t get it mixed up with a similar English dish, cottage pie, which uses beef filling instead of lamb or mutton.
4. Scotch Egg
The name of this snack suggests Scottish roots, but it is commonly associated with Yorkshire, England. Still, the exact origins of Scotch egg – a boiled egg cooked in a breadcrumb layer of sausage meat – are much debated.
Innovative food traders around Shoreditch and Borough Market have produced their own artisanal versions that are a moister, better-seasoned version of the original. However, the originals are easier to find due to their popularity, and most London supermarkets sell them.
Where to get it: Scotchtails in Borough Market
5. Banoffee Pie
An English dessert with condensed milk as an essential ingredient is certainly intriguing. Equally intriguing is its crushed digestive biscuit base (or a pastry base alternative). Banoffee pie is a mouthwatering combination of cream, bananas, caramel sauce and, of course, condensed milk.
Restaurateur Nigel Mackenzie is credited with inventing this dessert in 1971. And Banoffee pie is so quintessentially English that it had a memorably feature in the “quintessentially English” romantic comedy Love Actually.
Top London Tours
Here are our top-rated tours of London that clients love. Whether you want to stay in the city or head out for a day trip or two, these tours will make your vacation to London worthwhile.
The Tower of London
Find the exclusive experience that’s perfect for you at the Tower of London. Explore this fortress with a River Thames boat ride first, or choose the early entry option that lets you see the Beefeaters open the gates! Want more? How about a private meet and greet with a Beefeater before your tour? Book now!
Stonehenge, Windsor & Bath Day Trip
Taking a day trip to the countryside is a great idea in London. So many incredible attractions nearby! Windsor Castle has a millennia-long legacy that allows you to get up close and personal to the royals. Stonehenge trumps that with almost 5,000 years of history!
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