London! Just the name conjures up images of iconic landmarks, bustling streets, and a rich history. My husband and I recently had the opportunity to experience this vibrant city firsthand, and we couldn’t wait to share our adventures with you.
We’ve always cherished our annual international escapes, a tradition that began with our honeymoon in Thailand. Since then, we’ve made it a priority to prioritize travel, saving diligently for our next big adventure. To make this dream a reality, we’ve adopted a simple rule: no extravagant gifts for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or Christmas. Instead, we gift each other the priceless experience of exploring a new destination.
Having children has only solidified the importance of these couple’s trips. It’s a chance for us to reconnect, rediscover our bond, and embark on adventures just the two of us. While we miss our little ones dearly, we cherish this time to escape the daily routines and embrace the freedom of being a couple again.
Why London?
Our decision to visit London wasn’t just about its allure, but also about maximizing our time. We found amazing direct flights from Texas, allowing us to spend every minute exploring. But the true catalyst for our trip was a chance to reunite with dear friends – Katie and Ben, whom we met on our previous voyage to Turkey and Greece. Their warm hospitality made London feel like a second home.
Where We Stayed
We called the DoubleTree by Hilton London Hotel – Westminster our home base. The location was perfect – right on the Thames, within easy walking distance to central London’s attractions. We enjoyed complimentary breakfasts each morning, followed by cozy evenings in the Millbank Lounge. The staff was welcoming, and the rooms were comfortable.
A Culinary Adventure
London’s culinary scene exceeded our expectations. From charming cafes to historical pubs, we indulged in some of the most delicious food and drinks.
Farm Girl Café in Notting Hill was a delightful find, serving a delectable brunch and a stunning rose latte that was almost too pretty to drink.
We were on a mission to find the best fish and chips, and Rock and Sole Plaice delivered! This restaurant has a storied history, established in 1871.
LIMA Floral in Covent Garden was a revelation. Katie and Ben introduced us to this Peruvian restaurant, where the ceviche was as incredible as we remembered from our trip to Peru.
The most romantic meal of our trip, however, was thanks to my husband’s meticulous planning. On our last night, he persuaded me to experience Rules, London’s oldest restaurant. The ambiance was enchanting, and the cocktails in their upstairs lounge were sublime. My husband even declared the Old Fashioned “the best measured” he’d ever had. Our dinner was a culinary masterpiece – we savored the Rib of Beef for Two, served with dauphinoise potatoes, spinach, and, to my delight, Yorkshire Pudding. And for Downton Abbey fans, the restaurant featured in several episodes!
Sightseeing and Shopping
London is a city of endless possibilities, and we embraced its vibrant energy.
After brunch with Katie and Ben in Notting Hill, we strolled down Portobello Road, browsing boutiques and antique shops. We were enthralled by the stories the shopkeepers shared about the history of the items they sold. I couldn’t resist trying on a tiara, imagining myself as Lady Grantham hosting a grand dinner party.
We continued our shopping spree towards the Oxford Street and SoHo area, hopping on a double-decker bus. It was during this walk that I stumbled upon a shopping find that made the trip worthwhile. Katie and I spotted gorgeous Dolce & Gabbana pumps in a designer consignment store. While the boys enjoyed a pint at a nearby pub, I found myself drawn to a pair of black patent leather Christian Louboutins – in my size! And to my astonishment, they were only 180 pounds! This shop had high standards for quality, and the shoes were in pristine condition. It was a steal I couldn’t pass up.
Afternoon Tea Delights
Afternoon tea is a quintessential London experience, and Dalloway Terrace did not disappoint. Every course was a delightful surprise, and I highly recommend this enchanting spot. It made me wonder why afternoon tea isn’t more popular in the U.S. – I could easily make this a weekly ritual!
Iconic Landmarks and Hidden Gems
With our hotel’s proximity to numerous tourist attractions, we took full advantage of the city’s historical charm. We admired Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Parliament, and strolled along the Thames.
We were awestruck by the Crown Jewels, those priceless pieces of history that took our breath away. The sheer size of the diamonds was simply astonishing!
The Tower of London provided a glimpse into the city’s past, with its imposing architecture and haunting history. While photos weren’t allowed inside Buckingham Palace, we were fortunate to see the state rooms and a collection of The Queen’s wardrobe.
Exploring London with Local Friends
One of the highlights of our trip was spending time with Katie and Ben in their North London neighborhood, Belsize Park. We climbed Primrose Hill for a breathtaking view of the city, feeling a sense of wonder and appreciation for the moment.
Our whirlwind weekend in London was everything we hoped for and more. It was a perfect reminder of the magic that travel can bring to a relationship. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, I encourage you to embrace the adventure of a short trip, a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.
We’ll definitely be back to London soon, and we can’t wait to explore more of this vibrant city with our children one day.
Stay tuned for Friday’s post where I’ll share details about my London style. In the meantime, you can catch a glimpse on Instagram (@fabeveryday).
