Cue Taylor Swift's "London Boy" song for this post as I highlight our favorite spots in London. We've been fortunate to go to London four times and feel like every time, the experience just keeps getting better! As a helpful note, I only post about experiences I LOVE and do not post about the not so sparkly experiences to maintain a positive vibe here on Texas Gal Travels. With that said, I hope you love the recommendations for your next London dream trip!
Shopping
A favorite past time of mine when traveling is shopping so I can find the most unique pieces or brands I can't find back in the States. If big box stores are your thing and don't mind crowds you might enjoy Regents and Oxford Street, but for me, I recommend avoiding these streets and head to these areas instead:
Chelsea: Kings Road and Sloane Square as well as the surrounding streets are great for boutique shopping and a wonderful area to spend a day! Don't miss eating at The Chelsea Pig and L'eto.
Notting Hill: For unique and vintage finds this is a must. The two things I personally adore here are vintage watches you can find from many vendors on Portobello Road and The Blue Door made famous by TikTok for the most beautiful quilted jackets.
Carnaby and Soho: Such a vibrant spot with a mix of stores to choose from - for dinner, get a spot at Flat Iron in this neighborhood or one of their other locations.
Wandering Around
In addition to the places above, don't miss wandering around these neighborhoods where the shopping is a bit out of my price range but still so beautiful to see!
Mayfair: Beautiful buildings in a an area known for upscale shopping. We loved stopping in Queens for a snack and you must experience a drink at the Connaught Bar - order a martini from their famous martini cart!
Kensington: Stop at Kensington Gardens for the beautiful memorial to Princess Diana in the Sunken Garden and Kensington Palace (make sure to check it is open) and enjoy a pint at The Churchill Arms.
Attractions
I don't think I could ever cover all there is to do in London but hope this points you in the right direction of where to start!
Tower of London and Crown Jewels: The Beefeater tour (included with your ticket) makes the history so much more fun while visiting and my favorite part is getting to see the Crown Jewels!
Free Museums: There are so many great museums in London and many are free - we were specifically recommended to visit Victoria and Albert's Museum in Kensington.
See a Show in the West End: We love musicals and outside of NYC this is my next favorite place to see shows! A favorite of mine is SIX and so fun to see Hamilton here too
Abba Voyage: Located a good 30 - 45 minutes outside of Central London this all digital show is a must for Abba and technology lovers alike. It felt like I was in the year 2050 seeing this "concert" and such a fun and unique experience!
Other London Musts
Afternoon Tea: Don't miss a true English tea experience, I've tried many in the city and still say the experience at Fortnum and Mason in their Diamond Jubilee Tea Room is my favorite!
Harrods: It's fun to go and experience THE Harrods but my favorite part is the culinary experiences here. Make a reservation at a bougie spot like the Prada Cafe for a cocktail or pastry to say you've been!
Photo Shoot Fun: We had the absolute best time getting our photos taken by Jaimie found on Airbnb Experiences. I cannot recommend this experience enough and so grateful for the wonderful memories we have now thanks to doing this!
Where to Eat
My goodness London has some good food and our plans on being healthy went out the window thanks to these amazing establishments we got to dine at in addition to the ones I mentioned above
Clos Maggiorie: In Covet Garden you will be blown away by this romantic setting and amazing food. We regretted not doing the tasting menu here because the food was THAT good! And for you major foodies, also a Michelin!
Bancone: Also another Michelin that is extremely affordable is this quaint Italian spot, not really in a location near much you would go to but oh so good.
Dalloway Terrace at the Bloomsbury Hotel - What a beautiful spot you don't want to miss for a shopping break or romantic dinner. Their green curry was some of the best I've ever had, I'm still dreaming about it.
Side Hustle- What a fun surprise in Covet Garden and a treat for a Texan missing some Tex Mex to have an amazing mezcal cocktail and food that was a reminder of home.
You really can't go wrong in London with all there is to do and see! This post only scratches the surface but do hope it helps narrow down some incredible experiences I guarantee you will enjoy.
-Skyler