I have spent almost half a decade walking through this city, finding hidden gems in the form of cafes, stores and of course, multiple Instagrammable spots. Earlier this weekend I asked on my Instagram whether you'd like to see some walking tours and recommendations for places to visit, dine at and photograph – I got so excited, I finished over four guides in one night. Keep reading to find your favourites.
The Head to Toe Tour: If you're travelling in from a different city, and can get in at London Bridge Station, I'd definitely recommend you do that so you can start this walking tour as soon as you alight your train into the city. This two-hour walk takes you all the way from the station, through Borough Market, along the banks of the Thames, into Trafalgar Square, Chinatown, Soho and comes out all the way at Regent's Park. A good idea would be to reach the station early, pick up some treats and coffees at the market and have a picnic at the end in the park.
Best Brunches: Of course I wouldn't leave you without breakfast options. You can find at least one out of 6 of my favourite spots all over London. There's something for everyone, and I do mean everyone. If you want a healthy breakfast, Gail's Bakery has a table for you. If you want to indulge and celebrate a special occasion, head straight to Christopher's. Grind is my favourite brunch spot to take all the Instagram enthusiasts for their decor, coffees and of course the delicious food. Finally, I would never forgive myself if I didn't tell you to try the Nutella french toast at Eggbreak. Thick slices of brioche, generously stuffed with Nutella and rolled in cornflakes, does the indulgent Sunday brunch get any better than this?
The Shopper's Walking Tour: It's no secret around this part of the internet that I do love a good shopping trip (even if I don't always end up buying anything), it's the fun of observing the window displays and checking out what's new in stores that make this route special for me. It takes an hour to complete this walk, but factor in the time you might spend at the different stores along the way – I'd set an entire afternoon aside for this tour. Start at the edge of Mayfair at Piccadilly Arcade, take a stroll through Old and New Bond Street, spend some time at Selfridges and make your way slowly towards Covent Garden Market. Would you like to see a list of shop's I'd recommend for different budgets? Slide right into those DMs here.
Bougie Beauty: This specific list is also a result of a Q&A on my stories this weekend. I've compiled a list of places where you can buy skincare, makeup and lots more cosmetics, but I've also included a list of salons and stores where you can get treatments like haircuts, nail care and blow-dries for any budget. Must visits are the beauty halls at Selfridges and Harrods!
The West-End Route: I've saved my favourite for the last. Start from Westminster bridge, all through St. James' Park and Mayfair, bike through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens and finish by walking through Portobello Market in Notting Hill. You can rent Santander bikes from various kiosks all over London for as little as £2!
I've said it before and I'll say it again – the best way to see any city is on foot. If you like these guides, let me know and I'll make more for the East End and other cities I've frequented in and around the UK.
