Ah, London! The mere mention of this iconic city evokes images of bustling streets, charming pubs, and world-renowned landmarks. It was during my study abroad that I had the incredible opportunity to revisit this exquisite metropolis, my second time experiencing its unique charm.
Walking in familiar shoes, yet discovering new paths:
I couldn’t have asked for a better companion than my closest college friends for this adventure. Our journey began at Stansted Airport, where we hopped on a bus to Victoria Station. A short stroll later, we arrived at our charming hotel for the weekend – The Blades. The hotel, like many others on the street, boasted a boutique style, oozing a captivating mix of elegance and coziness. The purple carpet in the lobby was a welcome sight, a touch of lavishness with a dose of modesty. The friendly owner warmly greeted us, showed us to our room, and off we went to explore the city.
A Bridge with a View:
Despite the bleak weather, the day was full of vibrant experiences. The turqoise blue of the Tower Bridge stood out beautifully against the grey sky. I had purchased tickets online to walk across the glass walkway inside the bridge, which I highly recommend. This allowed us to skip the long lines and take the elevator straight up to the walkway. Stepping onto the glass, peering down at the Thames River, I could see the steady stream of cars below, a mesmerizing view.
Hidden Gems in the Tower Bridge Museum:
At the base of the bridge, we found a small museum, included in the ticket price. The museum showcased the bridge’s engineering and history, but what truly captivated me was an unexpected tidbit. Imagine this – a scene where someone decided to disguise himself as a sheep and infiltrate the flock to get a glimpse of the Queen’s coronation! This unconventional scene unfolded at the bridge’s opening in 1894, a testament to the quirky side of history.
Big Ben’s Transformation and London’s Free Museums:
A glimpse of history in the making:
Big Ben, a landmark synonymous with London, was undergoing a major transformation. Scaffolding completely covered the iconic clock tower, a reminder that this beloved landmark was being restored for future generations. Though I missed this information in my pre-trip research, it was exciting to witness the meticulous care London was taking to preserve its history.
A city brimming with cultural treasures:
One of the wonderful aspects of London is its free public museums. I visited the National Gallery near Trafalgar Square and the British Museum.
Ancient wonders and a Tiffany surprise:
At the British Museum, I delved into history, captivated by the Rosetta Stone. The museum also featured ancient Greek and Roman ruins and even a cash register from the original Tiffany & Co. The sheer scope of the exhibits was mesmerizing, and I wished I could have spent more time exploring its vast halls.
The Heart of London: From Trafalgar Square to Kensington Palace:
A vibrant heart:
Trafalgar Square, considered the heart of London, pulsated with an electric energy. The square is a symphony of traffic, shopping, and tourists, a visual feast for the senses.
A royal glimpse:
Adjacent to Hyde Park lies Kensington Palace, an architectural masterpiece. It’s impossible not to be captivated by the stately gates, imagining the stories unfolding within. I would love to explore the palace’s interiors on a guided tour, an experience I hope to cherish on a future visit.
A royal encounter under a London sky:
In stark contrast to Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace sits amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. The iconic gates are often surrounded by throngs of tourists, but we were fortunate to arrive at night, under a gentle rain, finding ourselves the sole witnesses to its grandeur.
Magical Moments: From Harry Potter to Afternoon Tea:
A journey through J.K. Rowling’s London:
One of my favorite experiences was the free walking tour offered by Strawberry Tours. The tour focused on J.K. Rowling’s London, bringing her fictional world to life. Walking by the inspirations for Honeydukes candy shop and Gringotts Bank, I was completely immersed in the magical atmosphere. The tour also revealed hidden gems I would have otherwise missed, like Benjamin Franklin’s house.
A kaleidoscope of colors on Carnaby Street:
Carnaby Street is a vibrant street filled with charming shops and restaurants, constantly transforming with artistic displays that leave you in awe.
A view from the top:
The Shard, London’s tallest skyscraper, is a breathtaking sight. It pierces the sky like a shard of glass, offering breathtaking panoramic views from its elegant restaurants.
Cocktails with a view:
While we couldn’t afford the expensive dinners at the Shard’s restaurants, we decided to enjoy the view with cocktails. The artfully crafted cocktails were a treat for the senses, with flavors that danced on the palate. My drink, a hibiscus and fruit concoction, adorned with a pink salt rim, was almost too beautiful to drink.
A delightful escape:
Afternoon tea is a tradition in London, and I couldn’t resist indulging in this delectable ritual. Cafe Concerto provided the elegant atmosphere we desired, offering a wide assortment of pastries, each more tempting than the last.
Pub Culture and Culinary Delights:
A comforting haven:
Pubs are an integral part of London’s charm. Their warm and inviting atmosphere is a welcome refuge, especially on cold and rainy days. The pubs we visited offered delicious dishes, including traditional English fare.
A culinary adventure in Carnaby Street:
Beyond the traditional pubs, London’s culinary scene is incredibly diverse. This was particularly evident on Carnaby Street, where we stumbled upon a unique tapas restaurant. The restaurant featured an interactive concept with a wide array of tapas displayed at the front. Each dish was marked with a stick indicating its price, making for a fun and engaging experience. This was an excellent option for lunch, allowing us to sample various dishes.
Unforgettable Moments and a Farewell to London:
Memorable mishaps:
No trip is complete without a few hilarious mishaps. One night, we found ourselves locked out of our hotel due to a misunderstanding with the keys. Our laughter echoed through the small entryway as we tried to figure out a way to get inside. Thankfully, our friend eventually came to our rescue.
A close call at the airport:
Our departure from London was almost a disaster. Our train tickets, purchased online, turned out to be for a day when the express train wasn’t running. We had to sprint through the airport to catch our flight, an experience that left us breathless but filled with laughter.
A city that holds a special place:
London holds a special place in my heart. Its cultural similarities to America make me feel at ease, while its unique charm ensures that I’m always aware I’m in a different country. The city’s relaxed pace allows you to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures. I have a feeling that I will be back to experience the magic of London again.
Listen to my podcast episode about my London adventure: (insert link to your podcast episode)
