What is actually worth YOUR time in London?
What is Actually Worth Your Time in London? A Locals' Guide!
Exploring London can be overwhelming, with so many famous landmarks, trendy spots, and hidden gems vying for your attention. But what’s really worth your time? After years of living in this vibrant city, we’ve curated a list of must-visit places that offer an authentic London experience. Whether you’re here for a quick visit or an extended stay, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the capital.
Morning Coffee in Shoreditch
Start your day in Shoreditch, one of Central London’s coolest areas. We kicked off our morning with coffee at Artisan Coffee, a great spot to grab your first cup of the day. But if you're like us and can't resist trying more, head over to High Grade Coffee, just a 5-minute walk away. The coffee here is top-notch, and with a beautiful terrace to enjoy it on, it’s the perfect place to relax and people-watch.
Immersive Art at the Van Gogh Experience
Next up, we visited the Van Gogh Immersive Experience. If you're a fan of art or just curious about Van Gogh's life, this is a must-see. The exhibition is more than just art on the walls—it’s an immersive experience that brings Van Gogh’s world to life. While the main room changes scenes, you can also try the Virtual Reality room for an additional £3, which adds an interactive twist to the experience.
Lunch at Gloria: A Taste of Italy in London
For lunch, we headed to Gloria, a stunning Italian restaurant in Shoreditch. Known for its Instagram-worthy interiors and delicious food, this place is a must-visit. We indulged in their authentic pizza and al dente pasta—both were absolutely delicious. The restaurant gets busy, even at 12:00, so be sure to book in advance.
Exploring London’s Iconic Markets and Buildings
After lunch, we strolled through Leadenhall Market, one of London’s oldest and most picturesque markets. Some of these buildings date back to the 14th century, and the atmosphere is truly unique.
Next, we tried to visit the Sky Garden, one of London’s top free attractions, but it was fully booked. However, we did manage to secure a spot for a future date (which we’ll show you later in this post). The Sky Garden offers panoramic views of London, and best of all, it’s free! Just remember to book in advance.
If you can’t get into the Sky Garden, there’s a lesser-known rooftop nearby that offers unobstructed views of the city. It’s quieter, has a bar, and you can enjoy the views without the long queues.
Covent Garden and the South Bank
On day two, we crossed the Hungerford Bridge from the South Bank to Covent Garden, one of our favourite spots in the city. We started our day at a Swedish bakery for a delicious breakfast of cinnamon buns and hazelnut pastries. Covent Garden is always bustling, but if you visit in the morning, you can enjoy it without the crowds.
Pro Tip: Be wary of the rickshaw drivers offering rides around Covent Garden. It’s one of London’s biggest tourist traps, with some charging up to £200 for a short ride. Stick to exploring on foot or using public transport instead.
St. Paul's Cathedral and a Local Lunch Spot
Next, we hopped on a classic double-decker bus to St. Paul’s Cathedral. With one of the largest domes in the world, St. Paul’s is a must-see for anyone interested in London’s history. After exploring, we grabbed lunch at Chao Now, a family-run spot known for its cold noodle salad – a perfect blend of flavours at an affordable price.
A Taste of Modern Art at Tate Modern
After lunch, we made our way to Tate Modern, a must-visit for art lovers. Located just across Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern is home to some of the world’s most impressive contemporary art collections—and it’s free to enter! Before heading in, we took a moment to soak up the sunshine with a cold beer in hand. It was the perfect way to unwind before diving into the gallery.
Final Thoughts: London’s Hidden Gems
London is full of iconic landmarks, but it’s the hidden gems that truly make the city special. Whether it’s a quiet rooftop bar with stunning views or a cozy coffee shop in Shoreditch, there’s always something new to discover. So, skip the typical tourist traps and explore London like a local.