From royal palaces to historic monuments, London has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained. But before you plan your trip, here are 10 things you should know when you visit this iconic city.
Pack the right clothing
London weather is notoriously unpredictable, so layers are important! When packing clothing for London, make sure to bring a variety of items suitable for all weather conditions, including lightweight tops and bottoms, extra sweaters and jackets, rain protection gear such as waterproofs or umbrellas, comfortable walking shoes, and warmer clothes for colder days.
Always carry an umbrella
An umbrella is an essential item to carry in London as the weather can be unpredictable and can change suddenly. Having an umbrella on hand will ensure you stay dry no matter what Mother Nature throws your way!
Get an Oyster card
With a comprehensive underground system and reliable bus and rail services, getting around London is quite easy. Grab an Oyster card or use contactless payments for added convenience. An Oyster card is the most convenient, cost-effective way to get around London. It can be purchased at any Tube, railway or select bus station and can be loaded with money for use on buses, Tubes and certain rail services in London. An Oyster card allows you to travel quickly and easily throughout the city with discounted fares compared to other methods of transport.
Book your accommodation early enough
Accommodation options in London are plentiful, with everything from budget hostels to luxury hotels available. Make sure to book ahead of time if possible as prices can fluctuate depending on the season.For a luxurious stay in London, why not try The Savoy Hotel or the Dorchester? Or for a more budget-friendly option, check out The Premier Inn London Tower Bridge or the easy Hotel London Paddington. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something more homely, Homelike offers cosy and comfortable short term rentals across London.
Eat out and try London’s outdoor markets
If you’re looking for something more than traditional English food, London has an array of global cuisines on offer, from Italian and Spanish to Thai and Japanese dishes. Prices can vary greatly so do some research on Google beforehand if you’re trying to eat on a budget.The area around Cambridge Circus has plenty of options in terms of cuisine but many of them are touristy. Be sure to read reviews before you decide.
If you like street food, check out Camden Market, Seven Dials Market and Borough Market. Borough Market actually has a couple of Oyster stands where you can get Oysters at half the price of a restaurant.
London has some free museums
The city boasts hundreds of museums, galleries, landmarks and other attractions worth exploring during your visit – including world-famous institutions like the British Museum and the National Gallery – don’t miss out!
For budget travellers looking to explore London’s culture, there are plenty of free museums to visit. From the Natural History Museum and the Tate Modern to the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Science Museum, you can enjoy a variety of exhibitions dedicated to art, culture and natural history without paying an entry fee. Take a stroll around one of these incredible institutions and experience the breadth of knowledge on display in one of London’s great attractions.
Shop till you drop at Oxford Street
Whether you’re after vintage finds or cutting-edge fashion, there’s something for everyone in this shopping mecca! Oxford Street offers plenty of high street shops while Covent Garden is home to quirky boutiques and antiques stalls alike.
Enjoy London’s nightlife
As the sun goes down, London comes alive with its lively nightlife scene! From packed bars to live music performances at pubs across the city – this is one place that definitely knows how to party!
London is packed with popular bars for every preference and budget. If you’re looking for a lively night out, check out Soho’s Electric Ballroom or Attendant in Fitzrovia. For more of a casual evening, try The Lady Ottoline in Bloomsbury or The Three Compasses in Dalston. Craft beer lovers should visit Five Points Brewing Co. in Hackney while cocktail connoisseurs can find something to enjoy at Bar Swift in Soho or Merchants Tavern in Shoreditch. Whatever scene you’re after, you won’t have trouble finding the perfect spot for a drink in London.
Speak like a local
To sound like a true Londoner while visiting, be prepared by mastering some British slang phrases such as “bob’s your uncle,” “the tube” (used when referring to the underground train network) or “cheers” (a popular way of saying goodbye).
Download City Mappers
Download essential apps like Citymapper which will allow you to plot routes around the city and learn more about transport times; it also provides handy tips on what’s nearby such as restaurants and tourist attractions so you won’t get lost or miss anything out!
Do a day trip to Oxford or Cambridge
A day trip from London to Oxford or Cambridge is a great way to explore the historic beauty of England’s countryside. From canalside walks in Oxford to punting on the River Cam in Cambridge, embarking on a day trip from London offers an exciting chance to visit two of England’s most iconic cities. Take advantage of the various train and bus services offered by national rail carriers and experience some of the best English culture, history and architecture with ease.
Know about tipping culture in restaurants
Tipping is not a legal requirement in the UK and is left to the discretion of customers when they’re happy with their experiences. In London, tipping generally ranges from 10%-15%. However, some establishments automatically add a service charge to the bill so it’s important to read carefully before you leave your tip. Most places will allow you to leave cash or add money to the card payment at your discretion.
See a West End Show
Seeing a West End show is a must-do for any London visitor! The West End includes the city’s most iconic theatres, such as the Theatre Royal and London Palladium, as well as unique shows like Phantom of the Opera and Wicked. Whether you’re looking for a classic musical or an immersive experience, you’ll be sure to find something that will blow you away. Some popular shows include Les Miserables, Matilda the Musical, Disney’s The Lion King, Hamilton and the Mouse Trap.
