Ah, London…how I love this city! The energy, the beauty, and there’s always something to do. Since we moved to London from the countryside, I try to stick to a weekly date with the city and visit a museum or a special exhibition, go to a play, walk in a new park or try a new restaurant. It’s a little tradition that makes me fall in love with the city even more.
Over the years I discovered many of London’s hidden gems so I thought I’d share them for your next trip to London…
1. Explore “Little Venice”
Take a scenic walk along Regent’s Canal from Little Venice in Paddington to Camden, it’s incredible in Autumn. This walk takes around 3 hours and is such a great route if you love getting off the beaten path, and passing by pretty waterfront cafes and pubs. Enjoy the serenity as you walk along the canal, passing by Regent’s Park along the way… and then you’ll find yourself in the bustling heart of Camden Market.
2. Hampton Court Palace
Located in Richmond, south-west London, Hampton Court is a truly spectacular baroque palace that takes you back to the 16th century for a glimpse at royal life in England. You have to explore its staggeringly beautiful gardens and have a go at the maze which is also the oldest surviving hedge maze in Britain! The Great Hall is a view to behold with beautiful tapestries and stained glass.
3. The Painted Hall in Greenwich
If you’re an art enthusiast, I would highly recommend going to The Painted Hall in the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. You will get lost admiring the breathtaking Baroque art – the first time I visited, I was simply star-struck at the grandeur and the level of detail of The Painted Hall.
4. Spaniards Inn pub
In Winter I absolutely love a traditional, cosy pub with a large fireplace. The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead ticks those boxes! A historic, charming pub built in 1585 by two Spanish brothers, this establishment has seated many famous literary authors and poets like John Keats and Mary Shelley. I love that the pub has kept many of its original design elements such as the wood panelling and the large brick fireplace- it creates such a cosy feel, perfect for the cold winter season.
5. Theatre Royal Drury Lane
I couldn’t resist mentioning the theatre as you guys know how much I love it! Catch a show at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London’s oldest theatre, built in 1663. Its opulent, dramatic architecture makes it one of the most iconic theatres and really puts you in the mood for a play!
6. Camden Passage, Islington
To get into the festive season of Christmas, I’d suggest walking down Camden Passage in Islington. Picture this… warm-toned Christmas lights twinkling, an atmospheric buzz of shoppers and carol singers filling the street. Walking along this pedestrians-only street during December is such a beautiful way to spend the afternoon as there are market stalls selling antique trinkets (which I’m always on the lookout for!), independent coffee shops (for a warming hot chocolate) and overall merriment.
7. Mercato Mayfair
A cool spot for drinks and delicious food in an unexpected location… Just outside of Oxford Street, this market is located in a regenerated Church that still has all the breathtaking architecture and glass-stained windows. For some wine, head to the vaulted wine cellar.
xx,
