Classic Grand Café breakfast in an elegant setting to start the day near central London; solid full-English and pastries. The Wolseley typically opens early — check exact service times and pre-book at busy weekends.
Historic coronation church and burial site of monarchs and famous Britons; essential for history and architecture lovers. Typical visiting hours are c.09:30–15:30 (Mon–Sat) but services can affect opening — verify before you go.
Short walk for iconic Thames-side photos and views of the Palace of Westminster from Westminster Bridge. Exterior viewing is free and available any time; internal tours require booking and limited dates.
One of London’s best street-food and artisan-food markets with many international stalls — great for a quick, flavourful lunch. Borough Market is usually busiest midday and generally open Mon–Sat from around 10:00 to 17:00; check stall opening times.
360° river and city views from the giant observation wheel on the South Bank — excellent orientation for first-time visitors. Typical operating hours are c.11:00–18:00 (seasonal variation applies) so book a mid-afternoon slot in advance.
Modern and contemporary art in a dramatic converted power station on the South Bank; free entry to the permanent collection with paid special exhibitions. Usual opening hours are 10:00–18:00 (check for late openings on certain days).
Riverside dining with British dishes and great Thames views next to Shakespeare’s Globe — atmospheric for an evening meal. The restaurant usually serves dinner into the evening; reservations recommended.
Catch a West End theatre performance (usual start c.19:30–20:00) or enjoy illuminated riverside views and street performers along the South Bank; book theatre tickets in advance. Show times and availability vary — check listings for the day you travel.
Popular Bombay-style breakfast (try the bacon naans or house chai) in a stylish, atmospheric space; perfect before museum hopping. Dishoom branches typically open from early morning, but queues form quickly — reserve if possible.
World-class collection spanning human history including the Rosetta Stone and Elgin Marbles; free entry to the permanent galleries. The museum usually opens at 10:00 and closes around 17:30 (some rooms or exhibitions may have slightly different hours).
Excellent-value steakhouse with straightforward menus and fast service — a good midday treat in Soho. Typically open from lunchtime into the evening; queues are common so plan accordingly.
Masterpieces by Botticelli, Turner, Van Gogh and others in a central, free national collection — quick access to European painting highlights. Standard opening is around 10:00–18:00 (late openings on some days), and entry to the main collection is free.
Historic market piazza with craft stalls, boutiques and regular street performances — great for souvenir hunting and people-watching. Most shops and market stalls operate from around 10:00 to early evening; performances run intermittently through the afternoon and early evening.
London’s oldest restaurant, specialising in classic British game and traditional dishes in a cosy, historic interior — excellent for a special night. Open for dinner (usually until around 21:30); booking recommended.
Choose a musical or play in London’s theatre district — a highlight of many London trips. Typical show start times are 19:30–20:00; check the theatre’s schedule and book tickets ahead to secure seats.
Fresh pastries and good coffee in Bloomsbury — a relaxed start before heading to north London or museum areas. Most branches open early (around 08:00); check local opening times for weekend variations.
Iconic dome with dramatic interior and the chance to climb to the Whispering Gallery and beyond for great city viewpoints. Typical visiting hours are around 08:30/09:30 to 16:00 (Sundays and service times can restrict visitor access) — verify before visiting.
Eclectic market with global street food, independent shops and lively atmospheres — perfect for adventurous lunches. Camden Market traders generally operate from around 10:00 to early evening; some stall times vary by day.
Wander the canalside, browse vintage stalls and creative boutiques; a pleasant, less formal contrast to the museums. Canal-side walks are open year-round; Camden is busiest at weekends, so allow extra time to move around.
Short walk from Camden to Primrose Hill for one of the best free skyline views of London — popular at sunset. Open public park, accessible any time though facilities vary by season.
All-things-cheese menu celebrating British cheeses — fun, informal and a great way to sample local dairy produce. Usually open into the evening; check seasonal opening hours and stall availability.
Camden is famous for live music — check the Roundhouse schedule or local pubs for gigs. Event times and ticketing vary widely; book or check listings in advance.
Historic fortress, Crown Jewels and Yeoman Warder tours — a must for history fans. Usual opening is 09:00–17:30 (last admission times vary) — buy tickets online to skip queues and check for any seasonal adjustments.
Walk the high-level walkways and learn about the bridge’s engineering with panoramic views of the Thames. Typical opening hours are c.09:30–17:00; allow about an hour for the exhibition.
Riverside dining spot known for comfortable modern British plates and famous igloos in winter; great for views across the water. Open from lunchtime into evening — reserve for riverside seating.
Scenic 30–50 minute ride down the Thames offering a relaxed way to reach Greenwich and see London from the river. Services run throughout the day but check the timetable and fares (Oyster/contactless usually accepted).
Stand on the Prime Meridian line, enjoy telescopes and city panoramas from the hill, and stroll Greenwich Park. Observatory access typically opens around 10:00 and closes late afternoon (c.17:00); check the Royal Museums Greenwich website for current hours.
Historic tea clipper turned museum in the heart of Greenwich — interesting for maritime history and ship architecture. Usual visiting hours are c.10:00–17:00; verify seasonal timings.
Riverside historic pub with classic British dishes and a cosy atmosphere — a fitting final-night dinner. The Gun typically serves food into the evening; booking recommended for riverside tables.
Scenic evening return via Thames riverboat or quick DLR/Tube route back to central London; check last service times for riverboats and public transport before travelling. Night services vary by line so plan accordingly.