5 Days in London: What to See + Do
Life in London is one filled with diversity and excitement. There is always something to do, something to see and new things to try. Not to mention the fact that London is incredibly huge. It would take months to explore the city, much less the five days that I was there. In order to make most of your time in this bustling city, it is best to plan your trip ahead of time. I will share with you some of my favorite stops in London for places to play and stay.
“London is a city of contradiction and chaos, but that’s what makes it so thrilling and alive.” – Emma Watson
WHERE TO STAY
Safestay London Kensington Holland Park
This elegant hostel is set within the East Wing of a Jacobean building, originally known as Cope Castle, in the heart of leafy Holland Park. Dotted with antique shops and museums, there’s so much to see close-by – and you’re only a short tube-ride away from Hyde Park, Harrods and Buckingham Palace. The hostel provides a safe and comfortable stay tucked away in a part of town that is surrounded by miles of green leafy parks that make for great morning walks. There is a café bar onsite that offers meals and coffee and provides a great place to read, write or relax.
There is a garden and outdoor space to wander around and activities inside and outside to play including billiards. The hostel is located on Notting Hill, known for its lively carnival season. This is the perfect place to stay during the winter holiday festivities including the Notting Hill Carnival that takes place every August and the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland held in the winter.
ADDRESS: Holland Park, Holland Walk, Kensington, London W8 7QU
COST: $16.55 USD per night
WHAT TO SEE + DO
Camden Art Walk
This experience gives visitors the opportunity to visit Camden Town and see London’s art and graffiti hidden in street corners. There is street art featured by artists like Jimmy C and Banksy. Nearby are busy markets to shop at like Petticoat Lane Market. Crazy fun fact is that there is a route carved out by the infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper for those who are history buffs.
Various websites such as Trip Advisor offer guided Camden Street Art Tours for those who are looking to have a professionally led tour through the Camden area.
ADDRESS: Hawley Mews, Chalk Farm, London NW1 8DA, United Kingdom
Visit Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
This experience to me was one out of a dream and it is something that I wish I had the privilege of experience every year. When I planned for my trip to London, I had no idea that this Winter Wonderland would be taking place simultaneously to when my trip would be. I actually remember hearing about it during my stay at my hostel and decided to go check it out since it was just a stones throw away from where I was staying. The event is the epitome of a winter carnival and features everything from a Ferris wheel and amusement rides to an ice bar to spectacular circus shows. I fell in love with the surrounding of lights and the chocolate desserts and even road on a rollercoaster alone to prove to myself that I’m bad enough to go on a ride alone and travel alone.
ADDRESS: Louisa Duckworth Walk, London W1K 7AN, United Kingdom
COST: $8.27 USD/£7.50 and can be purchased here.
Take a picture with a red telephone box
Originally designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the red telephone box was once a popular and familiar site throughout London. The iconic London telephone booth appeared in the capital in 1926 and became a common sight across the country until the 1970s when they fell into disrepair. Although the number of red telephone boxes have been reduced over the years, the fun photo spot can still be found in many places throughout London and the UK.
Here is a guide to wear these famous booths can currently be found.
Ride a double-decker bus
What may seem like a captivating attraction to expats is a common source of transportation to London residents. The double-decker is bus is a convenient and cheap way to travel around the city. London buses are all cashless, so you need an Oyster card, Travelcard or contactless payment card to ride.
COST: Bus fare is £1.75, and a day of bus-only travel will cost a maximum of £5.25.
London Eye
One of the most notable attractions in London, the London Eye (also known as the Millennium Wheel) offers views of the Thames River. There is the option to make your visit even more special by riding on the London Eye or even riding the Thannes on the London River Cruise.
COST: Tickets for both experiences can be purchased here.
NOTE: Beware since this is a huge tourist spot that there are a lot of scammers working separately and in groups. Make sure not to interact with those you don’t know and to hold your personal belongings closely.
Trafalgar Square
One of the more charming parts of London is Trafalgar Square. There are several fountains, building ands sculptures within the square that each hold an important piece of history. Nelson’s Column is a monument in Trafalgar Square that honors Horatio Nelson, the greatest of English naval heroes, and commemorates Britain’s triumph over France. It is an ideal place to drink hot cocoa and relax and watch as the city go-ers pass by.
ADDRESS: Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DS, United Kingdom
Shakespeare’s Globe
Since I am a fan of Shakespeare, I found this to be one of my favorite attractions in London. Although it is not the original or first or even second globe, it is the third globe that remains and offers visitors a chance to both watch Shakespearean plays and learn about the globe’s history. For a small price, you can get a walking tour of the globe by a professional tour guide.
ADDRESS: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT, United Kingdom
COST: £27 ($29.79 USD) and can be purchased here.
Buckingham Palace
A remarkable part of British history, Buckingham Palace is currently the reside of several royal people, including the Queen of England. Many tourists enjoy visiting in order to tour the palace’s room and witness the changing of the guards. Since the palace also has a beautiful garden, I recommend visiting during a warmer season to get the best experience possible.
ADDRESS: London SW1A 1AA, UK
St. Jame’s Park
Only a five-minute walk from Buckingham Palace, St. Jame’s Park is the ideal place to unwind after a long day of exploring the city. You can enjoy watching happy locals interact with each other of feed the colorful birds at the park. Bring a small snack and you will find yourself with several birds on your arms!
ADDRESS: London SW1A 2BJ, United Kingdom
HOURS: 5am-midnight
The British Museum
This sight is one that you will most-likely enjoy if you learning about history and different cultures. The museum is both expansive and comprehensive since it contains history of not only England, but different countries from around the world. Since the museum is large and contains a lot of information, I recommend you hire a walking tour guide to have the most valuable experience.
ADDRESS: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG, UK
COST: The museum is free to attend if ticket is purchased in advance. Tickets can be found here.
