Travelling Thirties

London

The Most Instagrammable Places in London

London is one of the most iconic places in the world. When you mention London Red Telephone boxes, Double Decker Buses, Pubs, afternoon tea and beautiful buildings all come to mind. Of course, iconic and older cities come with many places to capture the perfect instagrammable photo.

From the pretty flowery buildings, to the delicious treats and the famous black cabs. I have compiled the “Most Instagrammable places in London”

Peggy Porschen

Peggy Porschen Cakes - Instagram photo spot #1

PeggyPorrschen is one of the most popular “Instagram” photo spots. I suggest you go early as the cafe fills up very quickly and of course, their food is super “instaworthy” as well!! The inside is just as beautiful outside so make sure you go in and support their business whilst you are taking your photos.

Notting Hill

Tips for being a considerate traveller: If you are taking photos in front of someone’s house, please stay off their property, stay on public property such as the footpaths, and be mindful that these are people’s homes.

Notting Hill
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Every where you look in Notting Hill there is an Instagram moment. The colourful houses, the eclectic market stalls, the beautiful cafes and the Notting Hill Bookshop!

Coppa Club

Coppa Club is perfect for an instagram photo

I think on this one, a picture speaks a thousand words! The beautiful decor, the stunning views, what more could you want? As I am sure you can imagine, this one books out very quickly so make sure you book to avoid being disappointed

Tower Bridge

Try taking an Insta worthy shot at Tower bridge

When ever I think of London, I picture Tower Bridge (no it is not called London Bridge – although this is a very common mistake!). It is such a beautiful bridge and completely free to visit – it is very busy, with both traffic and pedestrians, so go early in the morning to get your best shots.

When you are taking your photos remember a lot of locals use this bridge as a means to get to work!!

Brigit’s Bakery Bus Tour

Briget's Bakery bus Tour

Bridget’s Bakery Bus Tour is the most instagrammable bus I have ever been on. The whole experience is a perfect Instagram moment, from the cute bus to the delicious treats, you will continuously have your camera out! For those perfect shots out of the bus, request a seat at the front of the bus.

Covent Garden

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Covent Garden is a beautiful part of London. Probably one of my favourite, whenever I am in London I go back at least three times.

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Not only are decorations beautiful (especially at Christmas!!) but the market is gorgeous, the surrounding area is stunning. It is a must if you are in search of the Most Instagrammable places in London.

Neil’s Yard

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Neal’s Yard is still a relatively hidden gem amongst London’s hustle and bustle. Located just off Covent Garden there are plenty of cafes, shops and of course photo opportunities to amuse yourself for a few hours.

If you think Neal’s Yard Remedies began here, you would be correct, way back in 1981!

Businesses here benefit from tourists and locals supporting them. So if you are here taking some photos go and do some shopping or eating in the cafes.

Churchill’s Pub

The Churchill Arms has to be the prettiest pub in London, if not in the UK. In my opinion is it is the prettiest pub I have ever seen and you should definitely go back at Christmas to see how they transform the decor.

If rumours are true they spend up to £25,000 a year on floral displays!!! I feel bad on the occasion I spend $15 on a bunch of flowers, but hey, thanks for making such a pretty pub!!

Their food is actually pretty amazing too, so make sure you grab a bite or a pint!

Westminster Abbey

Inside and out this is a stunning builidng. It stands tall above the streets of London and makes for a beautiful photo. If you want the “London” style photo, walk away from the cathedral and you will find some read telephone boxes that will add to your photo

Platform 9 and 3/4

If you are a complete Harry Potter nerd like me, this photo does not need an explanation!!
There are always lines here and they take the trolley away at night time, so make sure you go early! There are staff there taking professional photos but you do not have to buy the photo and you are free to take your own pictures.

Ledenhall Market

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The best time to visit this covered market is when the shops and restaurants are closed. If you visit after about 6pm the crowds are gone and you can snap a photo of the empty market

Lewisham Micro Library

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This tiny library acts as a book exchange which is perfect for us travellers. It also acts as a beautiful Instagram spot.

The box which stands near the corner of Loampit Hill and Tyrwhitt Road, which is just down from St John’s Station.

If you are travelling around Europe, can an eye out for these micro book exchanges!

One final reminder, there are other people who would also like to take some photos. So please, take your photo and then move away and allow other people some time to take their photos.

Find out more about London….

Top 15 Things to do in London

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The Best things to do in London

London Calling to the faraway town!! If you are in the United Kingdom or in fact, any where in Europe you have to visit London. Whether this your first time in London or you have visited hundred times, London is always a good idea. As Samuel Johnson said “If you are tired of London, you are tired of life!”

Whatever it is that you are interested in, I can guarantee that London has it. So, if you haven’t been before, or even if you have, start packing your bags!

Here are the best things to do in London

The Tower Of London

You can’t go passed meeting a real life “Beef Eater” also known as the Yeoman Warders. Tower of London is a fantastic place to visit. It is packed full of history, gruesome stories and entertaining tours.

Top tip: Make sure you take one of the Yoeman Warders tours before you begin exploring the tower

Notting Hill

“I’m also just a girl standing in front of a boy asking him to love her!” We have all seen Julia Roberts fall for Hugh Grant in the rom-com Notting Hill…..and it is a real place. Notting Hill is a beautiful neighbourhood in London, it has one of the most amazing markets and photogenic streets! Of course, it also has the Notting Hill Bookshop – keep an eye for Hugh Grant.

Top Tip: The Market is at its busiest and biggest on the weekends but there are still some stalls open during the week

Churchill’s War Rooms

I’ve never been one for war museums or museums at all really, but this is one museum that I would go back to time and time again. Discover what life was like for Churchill and his members hidden away in secret tunnels under Westminster.

Top Tip: Book your tickets in advance or arrive early! It has become a very popular place to visit and for good reason.

Afternoon Tea bus tour

When I think of London, I think double decker buses and afternoon tea, so why not combine the two! Take a tour on an old double decker bus passed some of the most iconic places in London whilst relaxing with a scone….or two. Just don’t spill your wine!

Top Tip: Make sure you order a hot drink (it is included in the price) so you can keep the super cute keep cup!

Visit an English Pub

You cannot visit London (or any where in England) without stopping into an English pub, whether it’s for a pint or two, or something warm. There is something so cosy about an English pub.

My favourite would have to be Churchills arms (How pretty is it?). Make sure to order some fish and chips and a cold pint!

If you’re near Kings Cross station trying to make your way to Hogwarts, stop by the Lucas Arms pub for a Steak and Ale pie!

Kensington Gardens

London is full of beautiful gardens but as your stroll back to the center of London from Notting Hill, take a walk through Kensington Gardens. You can check out Kensington Palace to say G’day to Kate and Wills or visit the memorial for Princess Dianna.

Visit Platform 9 and 3/4

For all the Harry Potter nerds out there, you cannot miss Platform 9 and 3/4 at Kings Cross Station. You can get your photo taken as you run towards the Hogwarts express or stop by the shop to pick up a gift or two.

Top Tip: You do have to line up to get your photo taken. There are staff there taking professional photos but you are under no pressure to buy one. They do also allow you to have your photo taken on your own camera.

Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour

In case trying to catch the Hogwarts express wasn’t enough. Take a trip out to Leavesden and see where the magic of Harry Potter was bought to life!

See a show on the West End

Make sure you head to Leicester Square and pick up some tickets for a musical or play on the West End. They have the old classics such as Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera but also some new shows such as School of Rock and The book of Mormon

Top Tip: Shop around. Don’t buy the first tickets you see. Go to a few of the booths selling tickets to get the best price available. You don’t have to book in advance either – it is easy to get tickets on the day.

Neil’s Yard

Just around the corner from the gorgeous Covent Garden is Neil’s Yard. A small and very colourful courtyard away from the hustle bustle, it is worth a visit for a nice cuppa or a wee shop.

Abbey Road

Who doesn’t own a Beatles album? Head to Abbey Road and recreate the photo that was made famous in 1969. Look out for the recording studio – it is still used by some big names today!

Top Tip: Remember it is a road used by many locals and it gets busy, especially around school pick up time. If you can, go in the morning on a weekend to get the perfect shot.

Harrods

As one of the most famous department stores in the world, you must check out Harrods. The architecture of the building and the food halls are well worth a look. Even if you can’t afford to shop in most of the store (we can dream can’t we?) head to the gift store for some iconic London gifts

Top Tip: If you get offered a map from one of the staff, take it!! It is very easy to lose your way in Harrods

Markets

If you are looking for some fresh, local produce you will want to seek out the Borough Market. It is open every day, except Sundays, from 10am – 5pm (some days to offer longer trading hours).

The Camden market is open everyday from 10am – late. This is one the most famous markets in the world. It has over 1,000 stalls offering food, arts and crafts, fashion, music and so much more. You will come across some amazing characters. The atmosphere of the market on the weekend is one of a kind.

Marvel at the Views

Take in the views of London’s famous landmarks from the Shard. It is hard to miss the Shard as it literally looks like a shard of glass up in the sky.

Top Tip: Don’t pay to go to the top level, save some money and head to Aqua bar on level 31 for a cocktail. You still get the amazing plus you get to sip on a drink and save some money.

Big Ben and Westminster Abbey

Sitting on the banks of the Thames river is Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. I highly recommend taking a tour of the Abbey to really make the most of the 700 year old building!!

Top Tip: At the moment (2020) Big Ben is under renovations until mid 2021 but Westminter Abbey is still open to the public

Of course, you can’t forget….

Don’t forget some of the other famous sights of London

  • Buckingham Palace
  • Covent Garden
  • Trafalgar Square
  • The Thames River
  • London Eye
  • Leicester Square
  • Picadilly Circus
  • Shakespeare’s Globe Theater

London is such a buzzing place and there really is something for everyone! What is your favourite spot in London?

Read more about London

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Top things to do in London

Tips for travelling London on a budget

History, culture, music, food, and class are just a few of the reasons why London is usually the top of many travellers bucket list. However, alongside Paris, it is also proclaimed to be one of the most expensive cities in the world.
If you take the right steps it doesn’t have to be as expensive as you imagine.
Here are some of my tips for travelling London on a budget.

There are plenty of free attractions

Most of the major museums in London are free and I’m not talking about obscure museums you’ve never heard of. I mean the British Museum, Tate Modern, National Museum just to name a few. Most of the main museums in London are free!

Why not wander around some of the beautiful parks in London such as St James Park, Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens. Notting Hill is also a beautiful suburb of London that is perfect for all of those instagam shots!

Of course, you cannot visit London without going to Buckingham Palace and watching the Changing of the Guard. Make sure you check the website for the dates as it is not on every day in winter.

Public Transport

London has one of the best public transport systems I have ever used. Once you become used to the map of the tube, you can easily navigate your way around London like a local.

When using the Tube, bus or light rail it is essential that you purchase an Oyster Card. When using an Oyster Card you automatically save money on single tickets and you can load the card with multiple rides passes which can save you 50% in comparison to single-ride tickets.

You can purchase your Oyster card online, at the airport, convenience stores or at the train stations. When purchasing your Oyster card you can preload your card and just tap when you enter a train station.

A day on public transport can easily cost upwards of £15 per day without an Oyster card

Free Walking Tours

There is no better way to get the lay of the land, “hit” the major sites or find some hidden gems than walking. Sadly, walking tours can often set you back upwards of $50, however, there are plenty of free walking tours in London.

The tour guides are not professionals but they are enthusiastic locals who volunteer their time, I have usually had university students who are entertaining and very informative. They will often be able to give you amazing advice on where to find cheap eats, happy hours or some cool off the beaten path sites to check out. I have used Strawberry Fields and Sandermans New Europe.

While the tours are free, it is common practice to tip the guide at the end of the tour but you can pay what you feel is the right price for the tour or what you can afford.

Eating Out and About

Stop by one of the local supermarkets or chemists and pick up a meal deal for £3 for breakfast and lunch. Some of the supermarkets also do meal deals for dinner ranging from £6 to £14. Marks and Spencer does a great three-course meal and bottle of wine for £14 – all you will need is access to a microwave or oven.

Of course, you can also lookout for a local pub or cafe that will have some more traditional “grub” at reasonable prices and the atmosphere in the pubs can be fantastic. The other option you have is to check out some of the markets such as the Borough Market, Camden Market or Portobello Road Market.

Accommodation

The final tips for travelling London on a budget are to do with accommodation. This can be one of the biggest costs when you are travelling. One of the biggest tips would be to stay out of the centre of London. It is still easy to access the centre of London with a short tube ride.

Keep an eye out on Airbnb or a local hostel as these tend to be the cheapest options in London. I loved staying at Clink 78, and it was only a ten-minute walk to Kings Cross station and then a short ride on the tube to the heart of London.

Try to find a hostel or apartment that has a kitchen so you can save money on eating out! Supermarkets in London are amazing.

Grab the London Pass

If you are the sort of traveller that loves going to all the paid attractions a city has to offer the London Pass is just for you! It will set you back £99 for two days but will grant you access to 32 attractions and there are some great discounts that are associated with the card too.

The if you check out their website, you can often find some great discounts which makes the card even cheaper. Of course, the more days you buy the pass for the cheaper it becomes.

The includes many of the major London highlights, such as the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Britain at War Museum. A lot these attractions are inside so that could be something to remember in the winter too.

If you are not interested on going to see a lot of these attractions it is not worth it. So make sure you do some research before you go to check out what is on offer and what you are interested in.

It may also be cheaper to buy the pass for your first two days and then pay for some of the cheaper attractions. For example Buckingham Palace is only £11 or Eltham Palace is only £6. Again, make sure you do some research to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.

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