Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
A Beginner's Guide to London!
25
items From a girl who has visited London every summer for 20 years and loves to see new parts of the city every time.
Map
Sections
6
Main Attractions
Museums and Arts
Parks
Dining
Transport
Fun Neighborhoods
Main Attractions
These are the most iconic, must-see attractions in London. They're all easily accessible by tube, bus, or walking.
Not to be confused with london bridge, this is where they hung the iconic Olympic rings in 2012. It's located super centrally and is easy to cross.
Tower Bridge
This iconic palace is free to see from the outside! Look up specific times for changing of the guards (it's seasonal) or there's an option for a paid guided tour that is super cool.
Buckingham Palace
There are so many amazing famous dishes to try at this market as well as regular produce and dairy products.
Borough Market
Even for locals or people who have been to London, this river cruise is so fun and one of the crew members tells you tons of history of the city.
Thames River Cruises
This was always my favorite square as a kid because there are 3 large lion statues and standing in the right spot you can see the parliament buildings.
Trafalgar Square
This is a little bit pricier but you get a completely covered, lengthy, birds-eye view of the city.
The London Eye
One of the most iconic views in the world, Big Ben can be spotted from many points in the city. My personal recommendation is to walk from the South end of the Westminster Bridge for the best views.
Big Ben - UK Parliament
Museums and Arts
London is home to amazing theater and art, and many of the museums are free.
There are amazing shows at this theater. The sets, actors, and production are all high quality.
West End Shows | London Theatre Tickets
This free museum houses hundreds of renowned pieces and it's huge so you can spend as long as you want exploring.
The National Gallery
This is a replica of the theater where many of Shakespeare's plays were performed. Ticket options include standing or sitting, so there's something for everyone's budget.
Shakespeare's Globe
Parks
London has some massive and beautiful parks. Remember to take a hat if you're visiting in the summer!
This park is beautiful and well-maintained. It’s very large so there’s so much to do, dog and kid-friendly. There are also events regularly!
Battersea Park
These are beautiful gardens, part of Kensington Palace.
Kensington Gardens | The Royal Parks
This is where the meridian line is, so you can stand in each hemisphere for a small fee, or you can walk around the park, which houses a large naval school.
Greenwich Park - The Royal Parks
This park is outside of the city center but is enormous and great for running, picnics, cycling, or a pleasant stroll. You're also almost guaranteed to see deer!
Richmond Park
Dining
There are countless dining options in London, but here are some of my favorites.
There are locations all over London! It's definitely a treat yourself meal but has a beautiful blend of sushi and meat dishes.
Sticks'n'Sushi
This is a must try if this is your first time in England, try all of the sauces too!
Nando's
“The best sandwich” from here is one of the best things I've ever eaten!
The Black Pig
This is a great pub for a classic full English breakfast or an evening pint. Keep in mind that most pubs close at 11pm.
Fox and Anchor
You cannot visit England without eating scones with clotted cream and jam. This is best done at a cream tea in the afternoon, where your scones are accompanied by your choice of tea, as well as other small snacks and pastries. There's also vegan and ...
Afternoon Tea - Swan London Bar & Restaurant
Transport
London is known for its iconic public transport systems. This was a highlight of my childhood, and has always been easy to use.
The London Underground, or the tube, is an extremely comprehensive and quick train system. You can use Google Maps to figure out where to get on and off, and you can Apple Pay your fare.
Tube - Transport for London
I highly recommend going on the top floor of the double-deckers and sitting at the front for a fun ride with a view through the city. You can Apple Pay when you enter, and no need to tap off when you leave.
Buses - Transport for London
This a great rideshare app that is often cheaper and faster than Uber, although I'd recommend public transport before trying to drive through the city.
Ride with Bolt
For all of my Harry Potter fans, this iconic train station is where Harry runs through platform 9 ¾. It's also where you might find yourself if you take trips in and out of the city.
London King's Cross
Fun Neighborhoods
If you're a fan of rom-coms, you'll know this name from the iconic Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant film. You can visit the bookshop featured in the film, or just stroll around the colorful neighborhood to shop.
Notting Hill
This collection of shops, located in Camden Town, is known for its market-style stores and vibrant, youthful atmosphere.
Camden Market