London 4-Day Itinerary: Feb 21–24, 2026 — Covent Garden, Westminster, Tate Modern, Kew

Central London (Covent Garden) · Saturday, February 21, 2026

Arrival and Covent Garden & West End Stroll

8:00 AM:

Start with a relaxed breakfast at The Delaunay on Aldwych - enjoy pastries and full English while planning the day's easy stroll through Covent Garden.

9:00 AM:

Wander into Covent Garden Market to browse stalls, street performers, and specialty shops, then pop into Benjamin Pollock's Toyshop for a whimsical souvenir.

10:00 AM:

Coffee break at Monmouth Coffee Company (Covent Garden branch) and sample single-origin espresso while people-watching on James Street.

10:30 AM:

Visit the nearby London Transport Museum for a short, engaging look at historic vehicles and interactive exhibits (great for 45-60 minutes).

11:30 AM:

Head toward Neal's Yard and explore the colorful courtyard, stopping at Neal's Yard Dairy for British cheese tastings and small bites.

12:30 PM:

Lunch at Balthazar near Covent Garden for classic brasserie dishes and people-watching; try the mussels or steak frites with a glass of wine.

1:45 PM:

Short walk to St. Martin-in-the-Fields for its crypt cafe and a chance to admire the church interior and nearby Trafalgar Square views.

2:30 PM:

Catch a matinee or buy last-minute tickets at the Royal Opera House box office and explore the historic theatre lobby and shop if time permits.

3:45 PM:

Tea and pastries at Petersham Nurseries Covent Garden (or nearby patisserie Maison Bertaux) to relax and recharge amid charming surroundings.

4:30 PM:

Stroll through Seven Dials and browse independent shops like The Shop at Bluebird and specialty boutiques for unique London finds.

5:15 PM:

Pre-theatre aperitif at The Harp (a classic pub) or cocktails at Bar Américain in Brasserie Zédel to soak up West End ambiance before evening plans.

6:15 PM:

Dinner at Rules (London's oldest restaurant) for traditional British cuisine, or choose the modern menu at The Ivy Market Grill for a lively atmosphere.

8:00 PM:

Attend a West End show at a nearby theatre (choose from Lyceum, Her Majesty's Theatre, or Savoy Theatre depending on tickets) to cap the evening with top-class entertainment.

9:30 PM:

Post-show nightcap at Barrafina (Covent Garden) for excellent tapas-style plates and Spanish wine in an intimate counter-seating setting.

10:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed stroll through Leicester Square and pop by the illuminated cinema marquees; stop for late desserts or cocktails at Zelman Meats or a nearby late-night patisserie.

11:15 PM:

For a low-key end to the night, slide into the cozy booth at The Escapologist for inventive cocktails in a Victorian parlour atmosphere.

12:15 AM:

Walk back toward Covent Garden through the atmospheric, quieter streets and grab a last coffee or hot chocolate from Monmouth Coffee Company (late service permitting) before heading to your accommodation.

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Westminster & South Bank · Sunday, February 22, 2026

Westminster Sights and Tate Modern

8:00 AM:

Begin with breakfast at The Red Lion near Westminster for a hearty English breakfast and quick views of historic political London before heading out.

9:00 AM:

Walk to Westminster Abbey and join a timed entry or guided tour to admire the nave, coronation chair and Poet's Corner; allow about 60-75 minutes.

10:30 AM:

Stroll across the gardens to see the exterior of Houses of Parliament and snap photos from Parliament Square, then cross Westminster Bridge for classic Thames panoramas.

11:00 AM:

Take a short riverside walk to Southbank Centre and pause for coffee and pastries at Riverside Cafés at the National Theatre while enjoying river views and street performers.

11:30 AM:

Arrive at Tate Modern and spend a focused morning exploring the permanent collection highlights and the Turbine Hall installations; aim for 60-90 minutes to see key works.

12:30 PM:

Lunch at Skylon inside the Southbank Centre for seasonal British dishes with panoramic river views, or grab a riverside bowl at Wright Brothers Southbank for excellent seafood.

1:30 PM:

Cross the Millennium Bridge and enjoy the view toward St. Paul's Cathedral, stopping for photos on the pedestrian bridge and watching river traffic glide beneath.

2:00 PM:

Explore the modern and contemporary displays at Tate Modern's new wings and special exhibitions, then take a coffee break at Tate Modern Cafe overlooking the Turbine Hall.

3:15 PM:

Walk east along the South Bank to browse book stalls and street art, pausing at Gabriel's Wharf for independent shops and craft stalls; relax with a gelato or hot drink from a waterside vendor.

4:00 PM:

Visit Borough Market for a late-afternoon food tasting tour-sample cheeses, charcuterie, and baked goods from vendors like Monmouth Coffee Company and Bread Ahead (short tube ride away).

5:30 PM:

Return toward the South Bank and enjoy an early evening pint or cocktail at The Anchor Bankside, soaking up the historic riverside pub atmosphere and views across the Thames.

6:30 PM:

Dinner at Swan, Shakespeare's Globe for British fare with river views, or choose modern small plates at Padella (near Borough) if you prefer handmade pasta and a lively scene.

7:30 PM:

Take an evening stroll along the South Bank toward Shakespeare's Globe, pausing for photos of the lit-up Millennium Bridge and the Thames as the city lights come on.

8:00 PM:

Enjoy dinner at Swan, Shakespeare's Globe if you didn't earlier, savouring seasonal British dishes with river views and a relaxed theatrical atmosphere.

9:15 PM:

Cross to the north bank and head to The Monument area for a short walk through historic streets, then settle in for cocktails at Gordon's Wine Bar, one of London's oldest and coziest subterranean spots.

10:15 PM:

For a lively late-night scene, take a short ride to Soho and drop into NQ64 for retro arcade games and colourful cocktails in a fun, informal setting.

11:30 PM:

If you prefer something calmer, return toward Covent Garden and enjoy a nightcap at The Escapologist for inventive cocktails in a Victorian parlour atmosphere before heading back to your accommodation.

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Kew & West London · Monday, February 23, 2026

Kew Gardens and Relaxed Neighborhood Time

8:00 AM:

Begin with breakfast at The Orangery at Kew (or the nearby Petersham Nurseries Café) to enjoy pastries and a warm drink before heading into the gardens.

9:00 AM:

Enter Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and stroll straight to the Palm House to admire tropical plants and enjoy morning light in a steamy, atmospheric glasshouse.

10:00 AM:

Walk the tree-lined paths toward the Temperate House to see rare temperate species; pause on the way for photos at the iconic Pagoda and its serene views.

11:00 AM:

Visit the Kew Gardens Treetop Walkway for elevated views over the canopy, then pop into the Kew Gardens Pavilion Café for a mid-morning coffee and light snack.

11:45 AM:

Explore the Princess of Wales Conservatory displays or the Wakehurst-style themed beds nearby, sampling seasonal displays and stopping at a small bench for a relaxed moment before lunch.

12:30 PM:

Lunch at The Orangery Restaurant (inside Kew) or the nearby Petersham Nurseries Café; enjoy seasonal British dishes and a relaxed pace before continuing through the gardens.

1:30 PM:

Take a gentle riverside walk toward the Kew Gardens Ferry (if running) or the Thames path, pausing for photos of the riverside vistas and charming boathouses.

2:15 PM:

Head to the Kew Palace and its surrounding historic kitchen garden to learn about Georgian royal life and enjoy the intimate museum rooms for about 45 minutes.

3:00 PM:

Visit the Rock Garden and nearby seasonal borders, stopping at The Botanical Gift Shop to browse unique plant-themed souvenirs and gardening books.

3:45 PM:

Relax with tea and cake at The Elizabeth Gate Café or, if you prefer a short taxi ride, try The Glasshouse Café at nearby Kew Green for a cosy local atmosphere.

4:30 PM:

Take the short bus or taxi into nearby Richmond and wander along Richmond Riverside, watching boats and pausing at Petersham Nurseries Richmond for a browse of homeware and plants.

5:15 PM:

Early dinner at The Ivy Café Richmond or the riverside The White Cross (a historic pub) to sample modern British plates while the light softens over the Thames.

6:30 PM:

Catch a return into central London or head back to your accommodation; if staying local, enjoy a relaxed pre-bed drink at The Roebuck pub on Kew Green to round off the day's calm rhythm.

7:30 PM:

Enjoy a riverside sunset walk along Richmond Riverside, then stop at The Petersham for a pre-dinner drink on their terrace if the evening is mild.

8:00 PM:

Dinner at The White Cross - order seasonal small plates or classic fish dishes and take in the cosy riverside pub atmosphere as lights reflect on the Thames.

9:30 PM:

Take a short stroll back into Richmond town centre and enjoy artisanal gelato or dessert at Gail's Bakery Richmond or a coffee at Kaffeine if you prefer a warm treat.

10:15 PM:

For a relaxed local nightcap, settle into The Roebuck on Kew Green for a pint or a classic cocktail in a friendly neighbourhood pub setting.

11:15 PM:

If you're in the mood for live music or a late show, check listings at Richmond Theatre for any performances or enjoy ambient live acoustic sets at The Orange Tree pub.

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Southwark / departure via airport · Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Borough Market, Frameless/Outerner visits and Departure

7:30 AM:

Grab an early coffee and a warm pastry at Monmouth Coffee Company (Borough Market) and enjoy the market waking up before the main crowds arrive.

8:00 AM:

Stroll through Borough Market sampling a few vendor tastes-try fresh croissants at Bread Ahead and a cheese taster from Neal's Yard Dairy-while soaking up the morning atmosphere.

9:00 AM:

Head to Frameless (Southwark) for a focused visit; explore immersive digital exhibits or timed installations and ask about shorter early-morning entry options if available.

10:00 AM:

Walk along the river to Hay's Galleria for photos, then pause for mid-morning snacks or oysters at The Oyster Shed if you fancy a seafood treat near the Thames.

10:45 AM:

Short taxi or Tube ride to Outerner's location (check opening hours) for boutique shopping, experiential displays, or a curated tech/art pop-up depending on current exhibitions.

11:30 AM:

Return toward your accommodation to collect luggage, or enjoy a light brunch at Roast (Borough Market) for seasonal British dishes before heading to the airport transfer.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Wright Brothers Southbank or grab a warm bowl from Kappacasein in Borough Market to fuel the afternoon before final errands.

1:15 PM:

If you still have luggage to collect, take a quick taxi back to your accommodation; otherwise, wander the riverside toward Tate Modern for scenic views and photos along the Thames.

1:45 PM:

Stop for a final coffee and pastry at Monmouth Coffee Company (near Borough) or the Tate Modern Cafe if you're already on the South Bank, enjoying river panoramas while you plan the airport transfer.

2:15 PM:

Head to a convenient pick-up spot for your airport transfer-confirm timing with your driver-and pause at Hay's Galleria for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final riverside photo.

2:45 PM:

If time allows before leaving for the airport, pop into Southwark Cathedral for a brief, calm visit and a moment of quiet close to Borough Market.

3:30 PM:

Take a relaxed riverside walk toward Tate Modern's vicinity and stop for modern coffee and cakes at Tate Modern Café while enjoying views over the Thames and the warming late-afternoon light.

4:15 PM:

Browse the independent stalls and book sellers under the Millennium Bridge, then pop into Hayward Gallery Shop or the Tate Modern shop for unique art-focused souvenirs.

5:00 PM:

Enjoy an early pre-flight dinner at Swan, Shakespeare's Globe or grab seasonal small plates at Padella (nearby) for fresh, satisfying pasta before you head to the airport.

6:15 PM:

If time permits, take a short stroll to Shakespeare's Globe for exterior photos and a relaxed pause on the riverside benches as the lights start to come on across the water.

7:00 PM:

Return toward Borough Market and enjoy an evening pint or cocktail at The Rake to soak up the neighbourhood vibe and reflect on the trip over small plates or oysters.

8:00 PM:

For a playful late-night diversion, head to NQ64 in Soho (short taxi ride) for retro arcade games and colourful cocktails - a fun send-off before bed or travel the next day.

9:30 PM:

Take a calm riverside stroll back toward your accommodation, pausing for a night-time photo of the illuminated Tower Bridge from across the Thames if your route allows.

10:15 PM:

Wind down with a nightcap at Gordon's Wine Bar for a cosy, subterranean atmosphere and a final relaxed taste of London before preparing for your morning transfer.

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Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
The Delaunay (breakfast)£18
Covent Garden MarketFree
Benjamin Pollock's Toyshop£10
Monmouth Coffee Company (Covent Garden)£4
London Transport Museum£23
Neal's Yard / Neal's Yard Dairy tasting£6
Balthazar (lunch)£30
St Martin-in-the-Fields (crypt cafe / visit)Free
Royal Opera House (box office / matinee tickets)£40
Petersham Nurseries Covent Garden / Maison Bertaux (tea/patisserie)£8
Seven Dials / shoppingFree
The Harp (pre-theatre drink)£8
Rules (dinner)£45
The Ivy Market Grill (alternative dinner)£40
West End show (Lyceum/Her Majesty's/Savoy - average ticket)£60
Barrafina (post-show tapas/nightcap)£25
Leicester Square (evening stroll)Free
The Escapologist (late cocktails)£12
The Red Lion (breakfast)£12
Westminster Abbey (entry / timed ticket)£29
Houses of Parliament exterior / Parliament SquareFree
Southbank Centre / Riverside Cafés (coffee)£5
Tate Modern (suggested donation / major exhibitions paid)Free
Skylon (lunch)£30
Wright Brothers Southbank (lunch / seafood)£30
Millennium Bridge / St Paul's viewsFree
Gabriel's Wharf / gelato£6
Borough Market (food tasting / snacks)£12
The Anchor Bankside (pub drink)£7
Swan, Shakespeare's Globe (dinner)£35
Padella (dinner - pasta)£25
Gordon's Wine Bar (cocktail / glass)£10
NQ64 (arcade / cocktails)£15
The Orangery at Kew (breakfast)£12
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (entry)£20
Palm House / Temperate House (within Kew)Free
Kew Gardens Treetop WalkwayFree
Kew Palace (on-site historic house)Free
The Botanical Gift Shop / souvenirs£10
Petersham Nurseries Richmond (cafe / browse)£15
The Ivy Café Richmond / The White Cross (dinner)£30
The Roebuck (pub drink/nightcap)£7
Monmouth Coffee Company (Borough Market)£4
Frameless (immersive digital exhibits)£18
Hay's Galleria / The Oyster Shed (snacks)£12
Outerner (boutique/tech pop-up)£10
Roast (Brunch at Borough Market)£25
Kappacasein (cheese toastie / quick bite)£6
Southwark Cathedral (brief visit)Free
Hayward Gallery Shop / Tate Modern shop (souvenirs)£10
The Rake (pub pint / small plates)£12
Gordon's Wine Bar (final nightcap)£10
Estimated Total (per person)£816
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