London is by far my favorite city. I fell in love with it when I was 15 on spring break. Loved it so much I chose it for my study abroad program. I recently spent my winter holidays across the pond and rediscover the magical city. Here are my top 8 favorites spots in London. Cheers! xoxo natoutandabout
Camden Town
Home of the hippies, weirdos, punks and rebels. Camden town is a inner city district of north west London founded in 1791. Camden town is not hidden but certainly one of London’s gems. An eclectic group of grunge, rock and overall bohemian: Camden is one of a kind. I used to hang out at the Dev (The Devonshire Arms) with my roomie for a pint of cider. The market is massive. Bargain shop and try food from the many assorted food booths. You most definitely need at least 2 hours to wander the unique clothing and accessories. If you fancy a new piercing or tattoo there are plenty of shops to choose.
St.Paul’s Cathedral and the Tate Modern
London is filled with Cathedrals and pubs on every corner. If you’re religious or not, St.Paul’s Cathedral is a must. Constructed in 1675, St. Paul’s an Angelic Cathedral and sits at the highest point of the City of London. St. Paul’s Cathedral is a working church with hourly prayer and daily services. However, you have to pay entry. Although the interior is incredible, I dare you to climb (if in good health) the 528 steps to Golden Gallery. At the tippy top, enjoy a breathtaking 360 degree view of London. Once you climb down (winded I’m sure) check out the crypt. After St. Paul’s, cross over the Millennium bridge to the Tate Modern, a fabulous modern art museum. Go up to the 9th floor restaurant to chill out with a drink and look at the view of London and St. Paul’s. Yes, you were just at the top of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
London Theater
If you appreciate live art like I do, do yourself a favor and go see a play or a musical in the West End. No matter what you see you will not be disappointed. I recently saw the classic Phantom of the Opera-absolutely stunning. We happened to watch at Her Majesty’s Theater where it originally ran and in its 30th year.
Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is a rod junction and public space of London’s West End in the city of Westminster. You can find shops,restaurants and theaters here. During Christmas, they have a dazzling display of lights.
The London Eye
The London Eye sees everything, literally. The London Eye is a massive Ferris wheel that showcases the London skyline. Locate in the South Bank of the River Thames the Eye opened in 2000 and is the highest viewing point in London.
Football!
I’m not the sportiest girls but I sure did love the Arsenal vs. Crystal Palace game. The game was absolutely freezing and raining but so worth it! Arsenal kicked some arse!
The British Museum
If you have one museum to choose from it’s the British Museum. The British Museum is dedicated to human history, art and culture. When I studied abroad my school was a 2 minute walk to the fascinating museum. In my ancient art history class, we spent most of our classes not with our noses stuck in a book but viewing the actual art itself. The museum’s architecture is amazing along with the exhibits. My favorite is the Egyptian and Roman Greek.
Buckingham Palace
The Queen’s Pad- Buckingham Palace. When I went, it was during the holiday and closed. The tours run spring to fall. Just walking by is breathtaking.
BONUS
If you have time an are a nerd like me, check out the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum located right next to each other. The Natural History Museum displays all nature, science and beyond. Watch out for the Dinosaurs! The Victoria and Albert Museum (V & A) is similar to the British Museum by focusing on art and culture. They have great fashion exhibiting featuring fashion throughout the decades.
Such a fun post! What neighborhood do you recommend staying for first time London visitors?
Author
Paddington is a charming area located right next to Hyde Park. Also, I stayed in the Waterloo district which is close to all the sites including Big Ben and the London Eye.