Tucked away on the Thames sits the stunning city of London. With its delicate balance of modern city life and medieval architecture dating back 1,000 years, the city expertly blends the new world and the old. Its mix of vibrant cultures from around the world adds an extra touch that is hard to find nearly anywhere else. Here are some great ways to get lost in this magnificent place.
National Portrait Gallery
Tucked away just north of Trafalgar Square you will find the National Portrait Gallery. This amazing museum provides you a walking tour of the history of England and the United Kingdom through the eyes of some of its greatest artist. With pieces from Master Holbein and the Tudor dynasty to the famous Chandos portrait of Shakespeare, you will find some of the most famous works of English history nestled away in this beautiful facility. When you are done pop upstairs to the Portrait Restaurant– while the food is great the views of the top on London are breathtaking. From that vantage point you will almost feel like you are in Mary Poppins dancing with the chimney sweeps.
Churchill War Rooms
From the Portrait Gallery head a few blocks south towards Whitehall to the Imperial War Museum. Just down the Clive Steps you will find the Churchill War Rooms. The facility was constructed in 1938 beneath the Treasury building and served as the command center of the British government throughout World War II. From here the military would provide regular updates to the King, Prime Minister and Cabinet officials. Tunnels also provided access to key government buildings in the surrounding area. Not only can you see the nerve center of the war effort, but you can also take a journey through the life of Churchill.
The West End and Piccadilly Circus
From the War Rooms you can head past the household calvary and north through St James Park. Just past the Duke of York statue you will find Waterloo St, which lands you dead center in the middle of Piccadilly Circus. Think the British version of Times Square, this area is alive and vibrant with many colors and sounds. This is also the entrance to the West End– a great place to catch an amazing musical, play or concert. Perhaps even grab a bite to eat at some of London’s best food spots. Quick tip: have a soccer fan in your family? Stop into Lillywhites in Piccadilly to grab a European soccer jersey at a great price!
Go Shopping in Knightsbridge
One of the most famous shopping districts in Europe, this is a great spot to shop the latest fashions. But for me it’s really all about going to Harrods Department store! The motto of the story translates into “all things for all people, everywhere”. Situated on more than 5 acres, the store features 330 different departments and is the single largest department store in all of Europe. From a bridal shop to a pet store, you can find nearly everything you need here. Now my absolute favorite spot in this entire place is the Food Hall. Chocolate, champagne, teas and candy are just a few of the many things you can sample and enjoy! If you want something a little more local and less touristy, check out Harvey Nichols right by the Knightsbridge tube stop.
Find a Secret Bar or Eat Some Fish & Chips
Most people do not realize there are some great speakeasy spots across the city. One of our favorites is situated in Grosvenor Squre– The Luggage Room is an intimate bar hidden behind a simple black door. Just knock and enter into a world of delicious food and great cocktails. Fish & chips? Go check out the amazing Bonnie Gull Seafood Shack on Foley St. Want a nice historic pub? Check out the Nag’s Head on Kinnerton. And of course, we do miss the Texas Embassy Cantina of London since it closed a few years ago– the British take on our Texas life was always quit interesting!
How to See London?
At Whitney World Travel we have a great bit of both personal and professional experience trips to London. Whether you want a guided adventure or a bespoke designed “explore on your own” vacation, our team of experts is here to help! Contact us today for help on your next trip to London!
About the Author:
Jennifer Whitney, Owner & Travel Advisor
Jenn has a passion for travel. She loves helping families create amazing memories while exploring the world. After growing up in a household where the family summer vacation meant heading to grandma’s house, Jenn has spent her adulthood seeing the world and exposing her kids to travel adventures. From fun family road trips through the mountains of California, to climbing Machu Pichu, conquering Disney Parks, and even sailing the seas, she has either been there or helped a family get there! Jenn is a graduate of the University of North Texas.
