5-Day London Holiday Itinerary!
As the winter chill sets in and London dresses up in its holiday best, I found myself weaving through the fabric of this timeless city. From the quaint charm of Notting Hill to the stately presence of Westminster, every moment of my trip was out of a page out of a storybook. Come along with me as I recount a journey filled with festive cheer, culinary delights, and the historic whispers of the capital.
Day 1: Notting Hill Charm and Westminster Majesty
I begin my journey in the charming district of Notting Hill at Farm Girl Café. Their delightful brunch included organic, locally-sourced dishes and perfectly brewed coffee. The ambiance was a fusion of a country farmhouse and California coastal vibes, making for a cozy and picturesque start to the day.
Next, we headed to Westminster Abbey. As you wander through this living page of British history, take in the beauty of the Gothic architecture and the solemnity of the more than 3,000 great Britons laid to rest here. Don't miss the verger-led tour which includes access to areas typically closed to the public.
The day ended with a visit to the Palace of Westminster. I marveled at the iconic Big Ben and the neo-Gothic architecture. Make sure to pre-book a tour to dive deep into the heart of British politics and admire the stunning interiors, from the lavish Lords Chamber to the historic Westminster Hall.
Day 2: Culinary Heights and Theatrical Delights
Duck & Waffle provided a morning of indulgence. Located on the 40th floor, it's a culinary nest with a view that rivals the taste of its namesake dish - a harmony of crispy duck and soft waffle, drizzled with sweet syrup.
The cultural tapestry continued with a visit to Shakespeare's Globe, a reconstruction that encapsulates the Elizabethan era's dramatic flair. I then soared on the London Eye, London's modern marvel, offering a view of the city you don't want to miss!
The evening echoed with applause at St. Martin's Theatre, the longest-running theater show in the world! I ended the night with a late night bite at Port House, which is known for its intimate ambiance and wide selection of tapas.
Day 3: Royal Encounters and Festive Illuminations
Juices from Ottolenghi and brunch at Eggsbreak kicked off a day of royal connections at Kensington Palace, an intimate glimpse into the lives of monarchs past and present.
The afternoon was sweetened with tea at Zetter Townhouse. This was a delightful last minute addition to the trip, that turend out being one of the highlights. This cozy spot, is a holiday must!
As twilight descended, Kew Gardens transformed into a Christmas wonderland, with lights that danced like fairies amongst the trees. The day culminated with rooftop toasts at Wagtail, where I savored dining in an igloo under the city lights.
Day 4: Market Bustle and Artistic Musings
Brunch at Grainge & Co fueled a day of historic discoveries at the Tower of London. I marveled at the Crown Jewels, symbols of a monarchy that has withstood the test of time.
Tate Modern offered an afternoon of contemporary contemplation, with artworks speaking the language of our times. Dinner at Blacklock and drinks at Sky Garden painted the evening with flavors and cityscape views that left me breathless.
Day 5: Skyline Feasts and Thames-side Toasts
Brunch at The Shard was an ascent to culinary heaven, with the city sprawling below like a canvas of dreams. I wandered the halls of Buckingham Palace, where history and luxury live in every detail.
A Thames River boat tour was a fluid narrative of London's skyline, with bridges and buildings each telling their part of the story. The journey ended with dinner at Holborn Dining Room and drinks at The Folly by Drake and Morgan.
London during the holidays proved to be an enchanting escape. This trip reminded me that the heart of the holiday spirit lies in the experiences we gather and the memories we create. London, with its blend of tradition and festivity, was the perfect backdrop for my winter narrative. Until next time, this city of stories has left a lasting impression on my heart, one that twinkles like the holiday lights of Regent Street.
xoxo
Visualmiles
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