London, a city I’d previously had the pleasure of visiting, welcomed me back with open arms. This time, however, it felt different. The city I recalled seemed to have evolved, offering a fresh perspective on its familiar charm.
Joining me on this adventure were my closest companions from college. We arrived at Stansted Airport in the early morning hours, catching a bus that took us to Victoria Station. Just a short walk from the station, we found our home for the weekend – the Blades Hotel. The boutique hotel, with its inviting atmosphere and purple-carpeted lobby, immediately made us feel at ease. The friendly owner, welcoming us with a smile, directed us to our room. After a quick drop-off, we were ready to embark on our exploration.
A Walk Across the Tower Bridge
Despite the chilly weather and overcast sky, the Tower Bridge, adorned in its vibrant turquoise blue, stood out magnificently. I had purchased tickets online to experience the bridge’s glass walkway, and it was a decision I highly recommend! The pre-booked tickets allowed us to skip the queue and take the elevator directly to the walkway. Stepping onto the glass, I felt a thrill of anticipation, peering down at the River Thames rushing by.
Below the walkway, a small museum awaited. Included in the price of our tickets, it offered insights into the bridge’s engineering and history. However, my favorite exhibit was a quirky illustration. The image depicted a humorous scene that brought laughter to all of us.
London’s Iconic Landmarks: Big Ben and Buckingham Palace
Big Ben, a quintessential London landmark, awaited us. To my surprise, it was completely covered in scaffolding. Signs indicated ongoing renovation work, a project that began in 2017 and is expected to continue until 2020-2021. While I had missed this information during my pre-trip research, I was glad to see London prioritizing the preservation of this historical gem.
While I had previously enjoyed a ride on the London Eye, this time I opted to admire the city from other vantage points. The Shard, a towering skyscraper, offers spectacular views, which I will elaborate on later.
A Journey Through London’s Museums
London’s museums, free to the public, are a testament to the city’s dedication to culture and knowledge. My exploration took me to the National Gallery near Trafalgar Square and the British Museum.
Of the two, the British Museum held my attention for a longer period. Home to the Rosetta Stone, it also boasted captivating exhibits featuring ancient Greek and Roman ruins, and even a vintage cash register from the original Tiffany & Co. I wish I had more time to delve into its rich collection, but with a limited three-day stay, I had to make the most of my time.
London’s Vibrant Heart: Trafalgar Square and Kensington Palace
Trafalgar Square, the heart of London, bustled with activity. The energy was infectious, and I found myself captivated by the constant flow of traffic, shoppers, and tourists. It was a place where every corner offered something new to see and experience.
Adjacent to Hyde Park, the majestic Kensington Palace stood as a testament to architectural grandeur. It was impossible not to be drawn to the regal gates and imagine the events that had unfolded within its walls. Guided tours are available, a possibility I’d love to explore during a future visit.
In contrast to Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, positioned in the heart of the city, was surrounded by a bustling crowd of tourists seeking to capture the perfect picture. However, a late-night visit during a downpour allowed my friends and I to enjoy the palace’s grandeur without the usual crowds.
A Magical Journey Through Harry Potter’s London
One of the highlights of my trip was a free walking tour organized by Strawberry Tours. The tour, themed around the beloved Harry Potter series, was a delight for any fan. We walked past several real-life locations that inspired J.K. Rowling’s magical world. The Hardy’s Original Sweetshop served as the inspiration for Honeydukes, while the South African Embassy was the model for Gringotts Bank. The tour provided a unique perspective on London, revealing hidden details I would have otherwise missed.
London’s Artistic Soul: Carnaby Street and The Shard
Carnaby Street, a vibrant hub of charming shops and restaurants, was a feast for the eyes. The street is a canvas for creativity, with artistic displays adorning its walls.
The Shard, London’s tallest skyscraper, is a breathtaking sight. Its glass facade truly resembles a shard piercing the sky. The building houses elegant restaurants offering spectacular views of the city.
While my friends and I were on a budget and couldn’t afford a luxurious dinner, we still wanted to enjoy the view. We opted for a drink at one of the restaurant bars, finding a spot by the window. The cocktails, artfully crafted and adorned with colorful garnishes, were a visual delight.
An Afternoon Delight: Indulging in Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea, an experience I had never encountered before, became a favorite part of my trip. The tradition of enjoying tea and pastries in a leisurely setting quickly captured my heart, especially given my love for sweets. We chose Cafe Concerto, which offered a sophisticated atmosphere and reasonable prices compared to other options.
London’s Pub Culture and Diverse Cuisine
London’s pub culture is legendary, and it’s easy to find a welcoming establishment on any corner. The warmth and charm of pubs were particularly comforting during the cold and rainy days.
While pubs are a London staple, the city’s culinary landscape is far more diverse. This was evident in Carnaby Street, where we discovered a unique tapas restaurant. The tapas were displayed at the front of the restaurant, allowing diners to choose their favorites. Each dish was labeled with a stick indicating its price. The total bill was calculated based on the collected sticks. This interactive dining experience was perfect for trying a variety of dishes.
Memorable Moments and Mishaps
Our London adventure wasn’t without its funny mishaps. One night, we found ourselves locked out of our hotel room. Another incident saw us sprinting through the airport, barely catching our flight back to Rome. These experiences, while stressful at the time, now bring a smile to our faces.
A City That Holds a Special Place in My Heart
London holds a special place in my heart. The city’s culture resonates with me, feeling familiar yet unique. The slower pace of life compared to other metropolitan cities allows for a greater appreciation of the little things. I have a strong feeling I’ll be returning to this captivating city soon.
