Planning a trip to London? From its rich history to its status as a global fashion and shopping capital, London is a city that has it all. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more adventures, London offers unforgettable experiences for everyone. In this London travel guide, we’ll dive into the city’s fascinating history, iconic shopping destinations, must-visit attractions, delicious food scenes, and a few honest notes on its cost of living and safety. 🏙️
A Brief History of London 🏰
Founded by the Romans in 43 AD, London has been a centre of culture, politics, and business for nearly two millennia. 🕰️ Historic landmarks like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace are examples of the city’s legacy, whilst a stroll through London feels like walking through the pages of a world history book! 📖 It is much more than red phone boxes and iconic buses, it’s a nostalgia-filled destination. As one of my favourite capitals, I have had the pleasure of visiting a number of times, and I have adored spending a few of my birthday’s in the Capital!
London: A Global Fashion Capital 👗👜
London isn’t just about history — it’s a trendsetter on the global fashion scene. The city birthed legendary designers like Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney, and hosts London Fashion Week, one of the most important fashion events in the world. Whether you are window shopping along Oxford Street (the Hub street), hunting for designer pieces in Mayfair, or uncovering vintage finds at Portobello Market, fashion lovers will be spoilt for choice.
Best Things to Do in London 🌟
There are an abundance of activities to do in London, it will never leave you feeling bored — whether you’re an adventurer, a foodie, a shopaholic, or simply wanting to soak in the sights.
🌳 Stroll Through Hyde Park
Take a relaxing walk or rent a bike at Hyde Park, one of London’s most famous green spaces. Don’t miss the Serpentine Lake, where you can feed some ducks, Speaker’s Corner, and Princess Diana Memorial Fountain (as a huge Lady Diana fan this one is a must visit)
🍽️ Taste the Middle East on Edgware Road
If you’re craving authentic Middle Eastern flavours, head to Edgware Road, where you’ll find an endless array of Egyptian, Lebanese, Iraqi, and Syrian restaurants. The smell of grilled meats and aromatic spices will transport you to the Middle East. 🥙🍢✨ As a Middle-Eastern, this is one of my all-time favourite areas in London, It’s like I’m back in Egypt but only at an hour flight away from home! And don’t forget to enjoy some late-night shisha lounges and Arabic clubs.
🛍️ Go Shopping at Harrods
Harrods is a must-visit, even if luxury shopping isn’t in your budget (fair to say its not in mine), yet just walking through its beautifully decorated halls, exploring the Food Halls, and enjoying a coffee or pastry in their stylish café, is an experience as opulent as the items for sale. As you probably guessed, I like to visit the Egyptian staircase of the store as previously owned by Mohamed Al-Fayed.
🌸Visit Covent Gardens
A gorgeous historic district in the heart of London, known for its luxury fashion and beauty stores, vibrant atmosphere and award winning cafes and restaurants!
🕰️ Visit Big Ben, The London Eye & Westminster
You cannot visit London without heading to Big Ben or taking a scenic riverside walk and viewing the London Eye! I like to see the Houses of Parliament and try and spot some politicians (in 2021, I saw Boris Johnson and Larry the cat!). Take a scenic walk across Westminster Bridge and visit the magnificent Westminster Abbey, where kings and queens have been crowned for centuries. 📸
👑 Witness Royal Life at Buckingham Palace
Watch out for the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, home to the British Monarchy. The ceremony happens every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 10:45am. You can book tour tickets here! If you’re visiting during the summer months, you might even get a chance to tour the inside of the palace. Me and my family were fortunate to explore it one summer when the late Queen Elizabeth was holidaying in Balmoral – She was kind enough to let people tour her home, and boy was it magnificent!
🏰 Explore Kensington
The charming and upscale Kensington is home to the Natural History Museum (a must visit), which is free to enter, however if you prefer a guided tour you can check out this ‘reserved entry and audio tour‘ ticket from only £6 here. The Victoria and Albert Museum are also great to visit as well as Kensington Palace. After museum-hopping, enjoy a stroll through Kensington Gardens, one of London’s most elegant parks.
🐉 Explore Chinatown London
For a taste of East Asia in the heart of London, head to Chinatown near Leicester Square. 🧧✨ Strolling through its colourful streets, you’ll find an incredible selection of authentic Chinese, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese restaurants, bustling bakeries, and vibrant supermarkets. 🥢🥡 The air is filled with the delicious aroma of roast duck, fresh dumplings, and bubble tea.
☕ Experience London’s Café Culture
Whether you’re grabbing a flat white in Notting Hill, sipping an afternoon tea in Mayfair, or enjoying a traditional English breakfast in Soho, London’s café scene is world-class. ☕🍰
🧙♂️ Harry Potter World
If you’re a Harry Potter fan (like myself, as I discussed in my Edinburgh Blog), the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is an absolute must-see. Located in Leavesden, just outside central London, this immersive experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of the Harry Potter films.
What to Expect
Step into iconic sets like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Forbidden Forest. Explore authentic props, costumes, and special effects that brought the wizarding world to life. Don’t miss the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9¾ and the marvellous model of Hogwarts Castle!
🎟️ Tickets & Booking
- Standard Entry: Tickets start at £56.
- Packages: Options include hotel stays and breakfast for £76.
- Transportation: Round-trip transfers from London are available through partners like Golden Tours.
It’s highly recommended to book in advance, as tickets often sell out.
🚍 Getting There
- By Train: Take a train from London Euston to Watford Junction, then a shuttle bus to the studio.
- By Bus: Golden Tours offers direct bus services from central London locations.
- Click here for transfer deals!
🕒 Opening Hours
Tours typically start at 10:00 AM, with the last entry between 4:00 PM and 6:30 PM, depending on the season and day.
🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Visit the studio shop for exclusive merchandise, including wands, robes, and collectibles. Enjoy themed refreshments like Butterbeer at the on-site café! P.s Kings Cross Station has a Harry Potter shop too! Read more here.
✨ Special Events
The studio hosts seasonal events such as “Hogwarts in the Snow” during winter and “Dark Arts” for Halloween. In 2025, there is a new “Blackbox” exhibit featuring an 11-meter high audio-visual attraction, count me in!
For more information and to book your tickets, visit the official Warner Bros. Studio Tour London website.
The Other Side of London: Cost of Living & Safety 💸🚨
Unfortunately, the London Dream comes at a cost. It’s one of the most expensive cities in the world. Accommodation, transport (hello, £5 coffees! ☕😅), and attractions can quickly add up. It’s smart to book hotels and tickets early and budget wisely for your trip.
London has seen a rise in crime over the years, especially its knife crime and phone theft, which may impact on tourists wishing to visit the Capital. Always stay aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid isolated areas at night to stay safe. You can read more about crime in London here.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit London ✈️
From ancient palaces to royal parks and ambience, London offers something for every kind of traveller, whether you’re indulging in Middle Eastern cuisine on Edgware Road, soaking up the magic in Harry Potter World, shopping at Harrods, or immersing in the history at Buckingham Palace.
However, the rise of crime in the city has undoubtedly cast a shadow over its charm, but as long as you maintain caution and common sense, its a place you will enjoy exploring.
So, pack your walking shoes, bring an appetite for culture (and good food!), and get ready to fall in love with one of the greatest cities in the world.