London! Just the name evokes images of iconic landmarks, bustling streets, and charming pubs. My husband and I recently embarked on a whirlwind weekend in this vibrant city, and it was nothing short of magical. We packed in a ton of activities and experiences, and I’m excited to share our adventures with you!
This trip was part of our annual tradition of exploring the world together, a tradition born from our unforgettable honeymoon in Thailand. Every year, we prioritize saving for our next adventure, and instead of showering each other with material gifts, we opt for the gift of shared experiences. Since becoming parents, these child-free getaways have become even more vital, a chance to reconnect as a couple and indulge in adventures just for us. While we miss our little ones terribly, the freedom to explore without bedtime routines and restaurant meltdowns is truly liberating.
Don’t get me wrong, we absolutely adore traveling with our kids! We plan road trips and weekend getaways with them regularly, and cherish the joy of seeing the world through their eyes. This year, we even took them on their first international adventure to The Netherlands and Kenya, which was an amazing experience. But since our planned couple’s getaway had become a family affair, we decided to treat ourselves to a quick escape just the two of us. A European flight sale presented the perfect opportunity, and we snagged direct flights from Texas to London at a great price!
Besides the convenience of direct flights, another major reason we chose London was the chance to catch up with dear friends living there. During a previous trip to Turkey and Greece, we met Katie and Ben, kindred spirits who instantly became friends. Their warm hospitality in London was a highlight of our trip, giving us a glimpse into their extraordinary corner of the city.
Where to Stay: Finding Comfort in the Heart of London
London proved to be the ideal destination for a romantic escape. We chose the DoubleTree by Hilton London Hotel – Westminster, a fantastic option considering its prime location right on the River Thames. Everything you’d want to experience in Central London was within walking distance, making it incredibly convenient. We loved the complimentary breakfast each morning and enjoyed cozy evenings in the hotel’s Millbank Lounge. The staff was friendly, and the rooms were comfortable, providing a relaxing haven after a day of exploring.
Food and Drink: A Culinary Adventure in London
London is a culinary paradise, and for me, dining is an essential part of travel. Our taste buds were treated to an unforgettable feast!
Farm Girl Café in Notting Hill was a delightful discovery. The rose latte was a visual and tastebud delight, and the brunch was equally satisfying.
We embarked on a mission to find the best fish and chips in town and hit the jackpot at Rock and Sole Plaice. Established in 1871, this restaurant has a rich history and is famed for its exceptional fish and chips.
Our friends, Katie and Ben, introduced us to LIMA Floral, a Peruvian gem in Covent Garden. This vibrant restaurant is a sensory experience, with ceviche as good as I’ve had since our trip to Peru a few years ago.
For a truly romantic dinner, my husband, who usually takes a backseat to my planning, surprised me with a reservation at Rules, London’s oldest restaurant. The ambiance was enchanting, and we started our evening with cocktails in the upstairs lounge. My husband claims it was the “best measured Old Fashioned” he’s ever had! Dinner was just as delightful, with a succulent Rib of Beef for Two served with dauphinoise potatoes, spinach, and my favorite, Yorkshire Pudding. This restaurant even made an appearance in a few episodes of Downton Abbey, a bonus for fellow fans!
We also enjoyed exploring local pubs, always a fun experience filled with great conversations. The age of some of these pubs and the buildings they inhabit left me in awe. As Ben pointed out, some are older than our entire country (the U.S.)! Mind-blowing!
Another highlight of our dining adventures was afternoon tea at Dalloway Terrace, a topic I’ll delve deeper into later.
Things to Do: From Tiaras to Tower Bridges
London, being a bustling metropolis, offers a plethora of entertainment options. With only a few days, we decided to prioritize exploring and letting our whims guide us, while weaving in a few historical attractions.
After brunch with Katie and Ben in Notting Hill, we strolled down Portobello Road, browsing the boutiques and antique shops. Listening to the stories behind the items for sale from the shopkeepers was truly captivating. I became completely enchanted trying on a tiara, envisioning myself as Lady Grantham hosting a grand dinner party!
Portobello Road is also home to adorable candy-colored buildings lining the side streets, which you’ll see as a backdrop for some of my London fashion shots coming soon to the blog.
Our shopping escapade continued as we walked towards our bus stop for a double-decker ride to the Oxford Street and SoHo area. It was on this walk that I stumbled upon a shopping score that made the entire trip worthwhile. Katie and I spotted stunning Dolce and Gabbana pumps in the window of a designer consignment store and decided to pop in. While I browsed, my husband grabbed a pint at the pub across the street. This shop was a treasure trove of impeccable resale designer accessories, and I was lucky enough to find the perfect pair of black patent leather Christian Louboutins in my size. And the best part? They were only 180 pounds! I couldn’t resist adopting them. The quality was exceptional, as this shop has strict standards for the items they sell. The price plus my plane ticket would have equaled the original retail price. A definite SCORE!
We then indulged in a delightful afternoon tea at Dalloway Terrace, where every course was as delicious as the last. I can’t recommend this place enough. I don’t understand why afternoon tea isn’t a bigger thing in the U.S. I could make this a weekly tradition!
Staying near so many tourist attractions in Westminster made it easy to squeeze in some sightseeing. We walked past Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Parliament and took a leisurely stroll along the Thames.
We also paid a visit to the Tower of London, where we were mesmerized by the Crown Jewels. Gazing at these priceless pieces of history took my breath away. It was hard to resist drooling over the giant diamonds!
The Tower Bridge, as seen from the Tower of London, was a magnificent sight. We weren’t allowed to take photos inside Buckingham Palace, but we did get to see the state rooms and a collection of the Queen’s wardrobe as part of an exhibit celebrating her 90th birthday.
As I mentioned earlier, we spent a lot of time wandering and exploring. We discovered the charm of South Bank, Covent Gardens, SoHo, and Trafalgar Square at different points throughout the weekend.
One of my favorite moments was when Katie and Ben took us to their neighborhood in North London near their home in Belsize Park. Before calling it a night, we walked up to the top of Primrose Hill, where we were rewarded with the most stunning view of the city. Standing there, I felt a profound appreciation for where I was in the world at that moment and who I was sharing it with.
It might seem crazy to travel so far for just a few days, but this whirlwind weekend was absolutely perfect. It was everything we hoped for and more. If you’re looking for a romantic escape, I encourage you to embrace the thrill of a short getaway like this. We’ll definitely be returning to London soon to explore more, and I can’t wait to bring our kids someday to experience this magical city.
If you’re curious about my London looks, be sure to check out my blog post on Friday for outfit details. You can get a sneak peek of some of the looks on Instagram (@fabeveryday).
