Travelling to London and looking for some inspiration? Use these London travel tips written by a Londoner, to maximize your trip to the Capital of England.

Discover everything about London from how to save money, how best to get around the city, things to do, places to go and where to eat, that can help make a visit to London that much more enjoyable.

London Travel Tips 

Contents

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LONDON

When considering the best time to visit London, various factors come into play, but a few London travel tips can guide your decision.

While summer offers warm weather and numerous festivals, it’s also the peak tourist season, meaning more crowds and higher prices.

Spring and fall strike a balance with milder temperatures and fewer tourists, making them ideal for sightseeing. Winter, aside from the festive December month, is the least crowded.

Hence, depending on your preferences for weather, events, and crowds, you can pinpoint your ideal time to experience London.

WHICH LONDON AIRPORT TO CHOOSE

Selecting the right airport in London largely depends on you you will stay in the city.

While it might sometimes be cost-effective to fly into more distant airports like Stansted, just consider the effort required to reach the city centre or your accommodation from there.

My personal preference leans towards Gatwick or Heathrow, mainly because of the ease of access.

WHERE TO STAY IN LONDON

Different people have different takes on this tip for your London trip. Navigating the vast expanse of London accommodations can seem overwhelming, but with the right London travel tips, you can find the perfect spot.

Central London areas like Covent Garden, Soho, and Mayfair offer proximity to iconic landmarks, making sightseeing a breeze. However, if you’re looking for a more authentic, local experience, consider staying in neighborhoods like Camden, Shoreditch, or Notting Hill.

These areas offer a blend of history, vibrant culture, and trendy spots. No matter where you choose, always consider factors like transportation links and proximity to attractions.

With the right research and tips, you’ll find a place that fits both your budget and your travel style.

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN LONDON

London is full things to do and places to visit. Choosing the best attractions in London during your stay in the capital of the United Kingdom, may seem challenging.

While London is an expensive city, with popular paid activities, there are many free things to do in London! 

Here are some useful tips and plan out your perfect visit to London.

WHAT TO DO IN LONDON

Museums in London

London’s world-class museums, including  The Natural History Museum, The Science Museum and The British Museum are free for all visitors. Although entry is without charge, reserving tickets online during peak seasons might be a wise choice.

London Markets

Step into the bustling world of London’s markets, from the gastronomic delights of Borough Market and Camden Market . These markets, open to all, provide a sensory overload without any entry fee. If you’re around on a Sunday, the Columbia Road Flower Market  is a must-visit.

Art in London

The city champions art accessibility, ensuring many of its art galleries and exhibitions are open to the public free of charge. Top picks include The Tate Modern and Tea Gallery on Carnaby Street.

GETTING AROUND LONDON

• Oyster Card: Save on public transportation with an Oyster card, which can be used on buses, trams, the underground train

• Walking: Sometimes it’s faster to walk around London

• Black Cabs: London taxis / black cabs are a unique experience to do in London

• Uber: The Uber app is well used in London and

Tube Map App – See the Tube map at a glance without having to crane your neck around the crowds at stations. 

MONEY SAVING TIPS IN LONDON

• London Pass: A London Pass offers access to various attractions at a discounted rate

• Free Attractions: Many sights, including the Changing of the Guard, come without an entry fee

• Theatre on a Budget: Look for last-minute tickets or visit the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for discounted theatre shows.

• The London Pass App – Functions as a digital guide to the sights covered by the London Pass. You can also buy and store your pass on the app rather than buying a physical version

• Google Maps App – Will help you out in even the bleakest and when you’re most-lost times. Offline the map of London so you can use it without data

• Citymapper – Indispensable for telling you the quickest route between two destinations using London’s complex public transport system. You can choose bus-only, rail only options and more. 

BRITISH CURRENCY

This is a UK travel tip not a London travel tip.

Pounds (£) or GBP come in £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes. Coins are of the 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p £1 and £2 varieties.

VISIT LONDON PARKS

London is renowned for its extensive array of green spaces and parks. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Hyde Park: One of London’s largest parks, Hyde Park is centrally located and offers the Serpentine Lake, the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, and various events and concerts throughout the year.

Regent’s Park: A beautifully landscaped park that’s home to the London Zoo, the Open Air Theatre, and Queen Mary’s Gardens with its stunning rose collection.

Greenwich Park: Offering stunning views over the River Thames, Canary Wharf, and the City of London, this park also houses the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian Line.

St. James’s Park: Surrounded by three palaces, the oldest Royal Park in London offers a peaceful setting with its lake and a variety of waterfowl.

Richmond Park: A National Nature Reserve, this park is famous for its deer herds and the beautiful Isabella Plantation.

Kensington Gardens: Adjacent to Hyde Park, this is where you’ll find the Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, and the Serpentine Galleries.

Victoria Park: Located in East London, this is one of London’s most important historic parks and offers a variety of ponds, canals, and recreational areas.

Battersea Park: Overlooking the River Thames, the park offers a zoo, boating lake, and the stunning Peace Pagoda.

Hampstead Heath: A vast and slightly wild park offering some of the best views of London from Parliament Hill. It’s also home to Kenwood House and the Hampstead Ponds.

Bushy Park: Located near Hampton Court Palace, this park is the second largest of London’s parks and is known for its waterways, gardens, and roaming deer.

These parks offer a mix of leisurely walks, recreational activities, wildlife, and historical monuments, making them great places to relax and take in the natural beauty of London.

Using these London travel tips, you can make the most of these natural retreats during your stay.

SEE LONDON FROM ABOVE

London is blessed with a myriad of viewpoints that offer breathtaking panoramas of the city.

Whether you’re looking for a bird’s-eye view from towering landmarks or prefer serene spots in parks, there’s a viewpoint for every taste. Here are some of the most iconic places to catch a view of London’s skyline:

The Shard: Western Europe’s tallest building, the viewing platform on floors 68, 69, and 72 provides 360-degree views of the capital

The London Eye: This giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames provides a slowly revolving viewpoint of the city

Sky Garden: Located at 20 Fenchurch Street, the Sky Garden offers a unique perspective of London from a lush, garden-filled setting

Emirates Air Line: London’s only cable car gives you a bird’s-eye view of the Thames, Canary Wharf, and the O2 Arena

Primrose Hill: Located just north of Regent’s Park, it offers a serene and natural elevated view of the London skyline

Greenwich Park: From the area near the Royal Observatory, enjoy panoramic views stretching over the River Thames and the central parts of the city

Tate Modern’s Viewing Level: This free viewpoint on the 10th floor of the Blavatnik Building offers panoramic views of the London skyline

Hampstead Heath: Parliament Hill in Hampstead Heath is one of the best natural spots to gaze out over the city

One New Change: Near St. Paul’s Cathedral, the rooftop of this shopping center offers striking views, especially of the cathedral itself

Oxo Tower: The rooftop of the Oxo Tower on South Bank provides stellar views, especially during sunset

The Monument: Built to commemorate the Great Fire of London, climbing its 311 steps will reward you with panoramic views

No matter where you decide to soak in the city’s vistas, each viewpoint offers a unique perspective on London’s blend of historic and modern architecture. Whether day or night, London’s skyline never ceases to captivate.

EVENTS IN LONDON

London, as a global metropolis, constantly hosts a myriad of events catering to diverse tastes. Whether you’re into music, art, fashion, or food, there’s always something happening in the city.

Here’s an overview of some notable events that typically take place in London

Notting Hill Carnival (August): Europe’s biggest street festival, celebrating Caribbean culture with music, dance, and vibrant costumes.

Wimbledon (June/July): The world’s oldest tennis tournament, and one of the grand slams, held at the All England Club.

London Fashion Week (February & September): A major event in the global fashion calendar where designers showcase their latest collections.

The Proms (July-September): An eight-week summer season of daily orchestral classical music concerts held predominantly at the Royal Albert Hall.

Trooping the Colour (June): A military parade and march in Central London celebrating the Queen’s official birthday.

The Boat Race (March or April): An annual rowing race between Oxford and Cambridge Universities on the River Thames.

Open House London (September): An annual event where many of London’s buildings of architectural significance open their doors to the public for free.

BFI London Film Festival (October): A prestigious event showcasing the best in national and international cinema.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks: A spectacular fireworks display on the Thames to welcome the new year.

West End LIVE (June): A free event showcasing live performances from London’s top musicals in Trafalgar Square.

Chelsea Flower Show (May): The world’s most renowned flower and landscape gardens show, presented by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Frieze Art Fair (October): One of the world’s leading contemporary art fairs, taking place in Regent’s Park.

London Marathon (April): A major long-distance running event that attracts participants from all over the world.

Guy Fawkes Night (5th November): Celebrated with fireworks and bonfires across the city, commemorating the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot.

Pride in London (June/July): A festival and parade celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.

This list only scratches the surface, as London has numerous other events, fairs, exhibitions, parades, and festivals happening throughout the year.

It’s always a good idea to check local listings or tourism websites closer to your visit to get the most up-to-date information.

Websites such as Time Out, Visit London and Design my Night provide useful information on London travel tips and events.

WHAT TO EAT IN LONDON

London, a melting pot of cultures and traditions, offers an eclectic mix of foods that reflect its rich history and diverse population. When you’re visiting the UK capital, there’s a host of culinary delights to explore.

Here are some dishes and food experiences to dive into, along with a few London visiting tips to enhance your gastronomic journey:

Full English Breakfast: Begin your day with this hearty meal of eggs, sausages, bacon, beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, and toast. As a London visiting tip, try this at a local café rather than a touristy spot for an authentic experience.

If you want to experience an English breakfast cooked the proper way and that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, I recommend Regency Cafe in Westminster, E Pellicci in Bethnal Green, and Belushis which you can find scattered around the city. 

Fish and Chips: No trip to London is complete without tasting this classic dish. Find a reputable chippy and savor the crispy battered fish alongside chunky chips. Some of the best spots are away from the main tourist areas.

Poppies is probably London’s most popular fish and chips chain and I was worried it might be an overrated tourist trap before I visited, but honestly, it’s amazing, and they have a few locations scattered around the city. 

Other notable ones include North Sea Fish in Kings Cross, Golden Union in Soho and Fish House in Victoria Park. 

Pie and Mash with Liquor: A true East End treat, this is minced meat pie with mashed potatoes and a unique parsley sauce. Visit one of the traditional pie shops in the city for an authentic taste.

Afternoon Tea: An iconic British tradition, afternoon tea comprises finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of teas. Many hotels offer this experience, but it’s worth booking in advance.

Bangers and Mash: Succulent sausages served over creamy mashed potatoes, often with onion gravy. Opt for a local pub for a traditional serving.

Eton Mess: This delightful dessert mixes crushed meringue, whipped cream, and strawberries. It’s a sweet treat that’s synonymous with British summers.

Sunday Roast: A comforting meal of roasted meat, potatoes, and accompaniments. Look out for pubs offering this on Sundays; it’s a communal experience best shared.

I am on a mission to find the best Sunday roast in London so I will make a full post soon but here are some that are very highly rated in the city centre, The Laundry in Brixton, Roast in London Bridge and The Gun in Shoreditch

Chicken Tikka Masala: A testament to London’s multiculturalism, this creamy, flavorful curry is a must-try. Visit Brick Lane for an array of curry houses.

Pimm’s Cup: Refresh with this summery drink made from Pimm’s No. 1, lemonade, and fresh fruits. It’s especially popular during the Wimbledon tennis season.

Salt Beef Bagel: A favorite in the Brick Lane area, this is a chewy bagel filled with briny salt beef, sharp mustard, and crunchy pickles.

Borough Market: As a London visiting tip, head to this renowned food market to sample gourmet treats, artisanal bread, cheeses, and international foods.

English Pubs: Don’t miss the traditional pubs. They not only offer a range of beers and ales but also hearty meals like Ploughman’s Lunch and Shepherd’s Pie.

Remember, London’s culinary scene is vast, with options ranging from luxury restaurants to quaint cafes and street food vendors. Let your taste buds guide you, and don’t be afraid to try something new!

TIPPING IN LONDON

tipping etiquette can be tricky for travelers, but when in London, there are some general guidelines you can follow. Here’s a brief overview of tipping practices in London, infused with London travel tips for a smooth experience:

Restaurants: It’s customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in London restaurants. However, many places automatically add a service charge of about 12.5% to your bill.

Always check your bill to avoid double-tipping. If service is not included and you’re paying by card, most card machines will give you an option to add a tip.

Pubs and Bars: Unlike many other countries, tipping at bars isn’t customary in London. However, if you’ve received table service, it’s polite to leave a pound or two, especially if you’ve run up a significant tab.

Taxis: For London’s iconic black cabs and other taxis, it’s common to round up to the nearest pound or tip 10% of the fare. For longer journeys or particularly helpful drivers, you might want to tip a bit more.

Hotels: It’s polite to tip porters around £1-£2 per bag they carry for you. Housekeeping can be tipped similarly per day or at the end of your stay. Concierge staff can be tipped for exceptional service or if they’ve gone out of their way to help you.

Hairdressers & Spas: It’s customary to tip around 10% for services in hair salons and spas.

Tour Guides: If you’re taking a guided tour in London, especially one of the many free walking tours, it’s kind to tip the guide if you found the tour informative and enjoyable. The amount can vary based on your satisfaction and budget, but £5-£10 is a general guideline for free tours.

SHOPPING IN LONDON

London is a shopper’s paradise, offering a diverse range of shopping experiences.

Exploring the vast shopping landscapes of London can be both exhilarating and overwhelming for visitors. However, armed with a few key London travel tips, you can navigate the shopping districts like a pro

Whether you’re looking for high-end luxury brands, quirky boutiques, or historic marketplaces, London has it all. Here’s a list of the best places to shop in the city:

Oxford Street: The most famous shopping street in London, it’s home to over 300 shops. Major department stores like Selfridges and popular brands like Zara, H&M, and Topshop can be found here.

Regent Street and Bond Street: For high-end luxury shopping, these streets are lined with flagship stores from global luxury brands such as Burberry, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co.

Carnaby Street: Located in the Soho district, it’s known for independent boutiques and British heritage brands.

King’s Road, Chelsea: Offers an eclectic mix of high-end boutiques, design shops, and great places to eat and drink.

Covent Garden: A great mix of designer shops, indie boutiques, and craft stalls. It’s also a hub for beauty and skincare brands.

Knightsbridge: Home to the world-famous Harrods, an upscale department store, and nearby, you’ll also find Harvey Nichols.

Camden Market: Offers a blend of alternative clothing, hand-made jewelry, vintage, music, art, and food stalls.

Portobello Road Market, Notting Hill: Famous for its antiques, it’s also a great spot for vintage clothing and street food.

Brick Lane and Shoreditch: Ideal for vintage finds, indie designers, and unique art pieces.

Westfield: London has two Westfield shopping centres, one in White City and another in Stratford. They house a mix of high-street and designer brands, as well as entertainment and dining options.

Borough Market: For foodies, this is a must-visit. A historic food and drink market offering gourmet treats from all over the world.

When shopping in London, always be aware of the opening and closing times as they can vary. Some stores might also offer tax-free shopping for visitors from outside the EU, so be sure to inquire and keep your receipts for a VAT refund.

DAYS TRIPS FROM LONDON

Embarking on day trips from the capital offers a delightful break from the urban hustle, giving visitors a chance to experience the UK beyond its metropolis.

If you’re mulling over the idea of venturing out, here are some top day trip destinations tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable:

Stonehenge: One of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments, Stonehenge is a must-visit. It’s just a couple of hours away by car or coach.

Tip: Aim for early morning or late afternoon visits to avoid the midday crowds.

Bath: Renowned for its Roman-built baths, this elegant city offers stunning Georgian architecture and the famous Bath Abbey.

Tip: Don’t forget to try the therapeutic Bath spa waters!

Windsor: Home to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, it’s a short train ride away.

Tip: Check the castle’s operating hours before your visit, as it occasionally closes for royal events.

Brighton: A seaside town that boasts a unique pier, eclectic shops, and a lively arts scene.

Tip: The train from London to Brighton is relatively quick, so it’s possible to make this a spontaneous trip.

Oxford: The city of dreaming spires offers a glimpse into one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Tip: Guided walking tours can provide insights into the university’s rich history.

Cambridge: Another renowned university town, Cambridge is known for its punting and beautiful college buildings.

Tip: Punting is a must-do, but ensure you’re dressed for the weather.

The Cotswolds: This area epitomizes idyllic English countryside with its rolling hills and quaint villages.

Tip: Renting a car might be the best way to explore the area at your own pace.

Canterbury: Home to the famed Canterbury Cathedral, this city is steeped in history and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tip: The Canterbury Tales attraction is a fun way to get acquainted with Chaucer’s famous stories.

Stratford-upon-Avon: The birthplace of Shakespeare, this town offers historical sites, theaters, and the serene River Avon.

Tip: A combined ticket can give you access to multiple Shakespeare properties.

THE BRITISH WEATHER

The British weather, often a topic of lighthearted conversation, is notoriously unpredictable. When it comes to London visiting tips, it’s essential to know that the capital experiences a unpredictable climate. It’s generally mild, but it can change quickly.

Variability: One of the hallmarks of British weather is its changeability. It’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day in London. So, always be prepared with an umbrella or a light jacket, even if the day starts off sunny.

Rain: London is known for its rainy days, though it doesn’t actually receive as much rain as some other parts of the UK. Still, packing a compact umbrella or a waterproof coat is advisable for sudden showers.

Winter: Between December and February, temperatures can dip, though they rarely fall below freezing. Snow is infrequent but possible. If you’re visiting during this period, it’s wise to bring a warm coat, scarf, gloves, and perhaps a hat.

Summer: From June to August, London can see temperatures rise to the mid-20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit). However, British heatwaves can push temperatures even higher on occasion. Lightweight clothing is ideal, but always carry a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.

Spring and Autumn: These transitional seasons can be particularly unpredictable. Spring, from March to May, sees blossoming flowers and gradually warming temperatures. Autumn (or Fall), from September to November, brings beautiful foliage but also more frequent rainy days.

For anyone planning a trip to London, one of the top London visiting tips is to be prepared for the city’s whimsical weather patterns. Embrace the unpredictability, arm yourself with layers, and remember: there’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!

VISIT A LONDON PUB

British people love a good pub. London has plenty of pubs, but the best ones have a lot of history. They’ve been a big part of London’s social scene for a long time. Two good ones to start with are The Seven Stars and Ye Olde Mitre.

PICK UP A LOCAL SIM CARD

Picking up a local SIM card upon your arrival in London is a convenient way to ensure you’re connected during your visit. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process:

Airports: Once you land at any of London’s airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, or London City, you’ll find kiosks and shops selling SIM cards. This is the quickest way to get connected as soon as you land.

High Street Stores: All major mobile networks in the UK have their own stores scattered throughout the city. Popular networks include EE, Vodafone, Three, and O2. You can visit any of their branches to purchase a SIM card.

Supermarkets & Convenience Stores: Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and ASDA often have their own mobile services, and you can purchase their SIM cards in-store. Similarly, convenience stores like WHSmith, which can also be found in major train stations and airports, carry various SIM card options.

Package Options: Most networks offer Pay As You Go SIMs, which don’t require any long-term commitment. They come with preloaded credit or bundled packages of calls, texts, and data. Check the packages available to choose one that fits your needs. Some networks also offer special tourist or visitor SIM packages with deals tailored for short-term stays.

Activation: Once you’ve purchased a SIM card, insert it into your unlocked phone. Most SIMs will auto-activate when you turn on your phone, but some might require you to follow a simple activation process outlined in the accompanying instructions.

Top-Up: If you’ve chosen a Pay As You Go SIM, you can easily top up your credit at numerous outlets, including the mobile network’s stores, supermarkets, and even online.

Coverage & Speed: The UK generally has good mobile coverage and fast 4G speeds in most urban areas. EE has the broadest 4G coverage, followed closely by the other major networks.

Tip: Ensure your phone is unlocked before you travel. If it’s locked to a particular network from your home country, it won’t accept a foreign SIM card. If you’re unsure, check with your current provider before leaving.

By picking up a local SIM card in London, you’ll have the convenience of staying connected, using local apps for navigation, and making reservations, which can significantly enhance your travel experience.

BRING A U.K ADAPTOR

When planning a trip to the UK capital, one of the essential London travel tips is ensuring you pack a UK adaptor. London, like the rest of the United Kingdom, uses a distinct type of electrical outlet that might differ from your home country.

The UK plug has three rectangular prongs and operates at a voltage of 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. To avoid the inconvenience of not being able to charge your devices or use your electrical appliances, remember to bring a UK adaptor.

It’s a small investment that ensures you stay connected and your trip runs smoothly. While you can purchase these adaptors in London at airports or local shops, it’s often more cost-effective and convenient to have one ready in your bag before departure.

WATCH OUT FOR LONDON TRAFFIC

Navigating the bustling streets of London can be a thrilling yet challenging experience, especially for first-time visitors. The city’s dynamic and always-on-the-go vibe is evident in its traffic patterns.

Whether you’re a pedestrian, cyclist, or driver, it’s essential to be vigilant and familiarize yourself with a few crucial tips:

Look Both Ways: The most fundamental and often overlooked tip. In the UK, traffic moves on the left. Especially when crossing streets, look right first and then left. Pedestrian crossings have reminders painted on the road, stating “Look Right” or “Look Left”.

Use Pedestrian Crossings: Always use zebra crossings, pelican crossings, or traffic light-controlled crossings to cross the road. Even at these designated areas, remain vigilant and ensure traffic has stopped before stepping onto the road.

Mind the Bicycles: London has a vast number of cyclists. They often move between lanes and can come up quite suddenly. Always check for cyclists, especially before making a turn if you’re driving.

Beware of Buses and Taxis: London’s iconic double-decker buses and black cabs are always on the move. Buses have designated lanes, but they can pull out unexpectedly. Taxis can also stop suddenly to pick up or drop off passengers.

STAND ON THE RIGHT OF AN ESCALATOR

A useful tip for tourists visiting London is to always stand on the right when on escalators. 

That way people who are in a hurry can breeze past you on the left

There are signs to remind you but if you blocking the walkway you might be met with some disgruntled Londoners! 

DRINKING WATER IN LONDON

Tap water in London is drinkable. Bring a refillable water bottle, save on unnecessary single-use plastic and stay hydrated all at the same time while saving money.