London City Guide: What To See, Eat, Wear, and Do

Let’s talk about bucket lists — we all have one. A fortunate number of us have checked off our top dream destinations, collecting passport stamps and unforgettable memories along the way.

But… let’s be real. Traveling is expensive, paid time off is scarce, and sometimes jetting off into the sunset just isn’t in the cards.

What’s worse, it seems like you can’t login to Instagram without seeing so-and-so on their umpteenth trip to the Bahamas. We all know the feeling.

With that said, I’m a firm believer that if you want something badly enough, you will make it happen. So, I took a look at my bucket list and decided to stop dreaming and start planning.

Now… where to go? For me, the choice was an easy one. England met the following criteria:

• Easy, direct flight from Los Angeles to London (Air New Zealand, you’re the best!)
• English as native language
• Rich history to soak in

Oh, and let’s not forget to mention that March is the perfect time to visit Great Britain! The temperates are mild, the parks are in bloom, and it’s just before the rush of tourist season. And, whether you’re single, married, or have a family, England offers something special for everyone.

I teamed up with Air New Zealand, Visit Britain, and a few awesome travel bloggers to experience the best of Great Britain. I cannot wait to share my visit, and it all starts with Air New Zealand.

Below I included some of the trip highlights, I hope you enjoy it!

 

Sometimes, the journey is as magical as the destination. This was the case when traveling with Air New Zealand. We began our journey with a champagne toast, then transitioned to New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc – my favorite type of wine!

Now, let’s take a peak at the cabin. Each passenger enjoyed a fully reclinable seat, with the option to fold it into a bed. Our accommodations made for quite a cozy travel across the Atlantic.

While we’re at it, we should probably talk about the food. This plane’s food was anything but plain food. I enjoyed a gourmet appetizer (above), followed by the most delicious gnocchi! In fact, it was so good that I consumed it before I was able to sneak a photo!

The journey to London took about 12 hours, which flew by (no pun intended). I was able to sleep for most of the flight…shocker.

And alas, we arrived!

1. Courthouse Hotel Soho

Upon arrival, we checked into Courthouse Hotel Soho. Located in Central London, the hotel is walking distance from all the city’s major shopping destinations, tourist attractions, and more. As the name suggests, the building used to be a courthouse – jail cells and all!

The rooms were spacious, clean, and provided all the amenities a girl can’t live without (read: hairdryer, coffee machine, iPhone charger cable, etc).

The hotel also has a fabulous, complimentary breakfast which I found to be key to fuel me through all the activities we planned.

2. Danesfield House

On our third day, we checked into the Danesfield House Hotel and Spa, located between Marlow and Henley-on-Thames in Buckinghamshire. Though it’s located just 30 minutes from central London by train, the countryside offered a completely different feel than the bustling heart of London.

The hotel is surrounded by 65 acres of landscaped gardens, and would make for a beautiful wedding destination. In fact, George and Amal Clooney held a post-wedding bash at the property, and rented out the entire hotel to house their guests.

Built in 1901, the Danesfield House possesses the same charming antiquities from the original build, with all the high-end modern conveniences in the suites.

Everything from the shower to the toilet seats have manual temperature controls, if that gives you an idea of how modern the interior is! Also, I love a good tub. Baths are kind of my thing, and I took advantage.

3. Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch

On day 3 of our trip, we checked into Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch, which had a verrry different vibe than Courthouse Hotel Soho. The Courthouse Hotel in Shoreditch is much more modern with a greater luxury feel.

In the hotel’s lower level is the famous Jailhouse Bar, which offers a unique way to experience the building’s dark history. As you can see in the image above, the jail cells still remain, now with comfortable seating and craft cocktails.

1. Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley
Aternoon tea at the Berkeley was unlike any other high tea I’ve tried. The pastries are inspired by fashion week trends (see below). The tea comes with miniature savoury skewers, taster spoons, elegant canapés and tea sandwiches. I enjoyed rose loose leaf tea, but they also offer matcha, coffee, or even hot cocoa if tea isn’t your thing. Oh, and of course champagne!

When you order matcha, the server will make it at the table!

2. sketch
Do it for the ‘gram. sketch is easily one of the most popular hot spots in London, and for good reason. The food was remarkable and the setting is wildly unique. Take a look for yourself!

Every room is more memorable than the last, including the toilets! Each toilet is inside of an egg. The experience was surreal, as if it were something from a movie.

All pink everything. From the food to the ambience, sketch is a MUST see for all. We went for brunch, and I enjoyed truffle scramble eggs and let’s just say they did not disappoint.

3. Dinner at Millie’s Lounge in The Ned

Owned and operated by Soho House, The Ned is a gorgeous hotel home to high end bars, top-rated restaurants and hip hangouts. Dinner at Millie’s Lounge was my first taste of what it would be like as a London local. We arrived on a Monday night, a time when young professionals were off work and ready to loosen their ties for cocktails and live music.

4. Bel and The Dragon, Windsor

Located in Windsor, Bel and The Dragon was everything I’d imagine a hearty lunch in the countryside to be. The restaurant is cozy, a bit rustic, and ever so charming.

I ordered the gnocchi, which was prepared with roasted sun dried tomatoes, artichoke, peas, and sage. It was delish!

1. Champagne Experience at The London Eye

The tallest ferris wheel in the world, the London Eye offers 360 views of the entire city. This is universally regarded as a must and I couldn’t agree more.

2. Sky Garden

4. Walk the streets of Shoreditch

Known as the creative hub of London, Shoreditch felt a bit more like Los Angeles than the rest of the city. The hip neighborhood is home to artists and producers, and isn’t short of inspiration. We strolled the neighborhood and explored record stores, vintage thrift stores, and other cool spots like Cereal Killer. See below!

5. Boat Ride Along The Thames River with The French Brothers

Experience one of the best views of Windsor and the Castle with a 40 minute excursion from Windsor boat trip on the Thames. There were hundreds, if not thousands of swans along the river. In England, the legacy of the swan dates back centuries and denotes wealth and aristocracy. I couldn’t help but notice the recurring theme in paintings, interiors, and more. Even more interesting: the Queen owns all of the UK’s swans! They’re counted every year in what’s referred to as “Swan Upping.”

6. The Churchill Arms

Built in 1750, the famous pub was a regular hangout for Winston Churchill’s grandparents. Enjoy a British beer among Churchill memorabilia in this famous joint.

Have you been to London? What’s on your travel bucket list? Share in the comments below!