Top Must-Do Activities in London

Our Family with a Beefeater on a private tour of the Tower of London

On my way back from my river cruise in Burgundy & Provence, I had the delightful opportunity to spend a few nights in one of the world's most vibrant cities, London. As many of you know, I was born in Manhattan and divide my time between NY and Philadelphia, both incredible places, but London possesses a truly unique energy. From the moment you arrive, it's hustle and bustle but with a certain British civility. These are just a few activities I enjoyed while in London.

The Tower of London with the Crown Jewels

One of the most breathtaking tours I have ever experienced was my visit to the iconic Tower of London, a historic fortress that has stood for over a thousand years. This magnificent structure not only serves as a symbol of British history but also houses the dazzling Crown Jewels, a collection of royal regalia that is both awe-inspiring and steeped in tradition. To enhance my experience, I opted to take the tour accompanied by the Beefeaters, the ceremonial guardians of the Tower, who are officially known as Yeoman Warders. These Royal Guards are not just there for show; they play a crucial role in the Tower's history and offer a unique perspective on its rich past.

The Beefeater leading us shared a wealth of knowledge about the Tower’s architecture, its various functions throughout the centuries, and the significant events that have taken place within its walls. Each Beefeater has their own personal anecdotes and tales that bring the history of the Tower to life, including the Tower's darker side as a place of imprisonment and execution.

We arrived at the Crown Jewels exhibit, a highlight of the tour that left me utterly speechless. The Crown Jewels are not merely beautiful objects; they represent the history and continuity of the British monarchy. The collection includes the magnificent Imperial State Crown, adorned with nearly 3,000 diamonds, and the stunning Sovereign's Scepter, which features the largest clear-cut diamond in the world. The sheer opulence of these treasures, combined with the stories of the ceremonies and the history behind each item, created a sense of wonder and reverence.

The Poppies art installation of over 30,000 original ceramic poppy sculptures was both touching and stunning, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. It served as a wonderful tribute to all who made sacrifices during the war. The exhibit is spread throughout the Tower complex, which enhances its beauty.

Churchill's War Rooms

The eccentric and brilliant Winston Churchill is a larger-than-life figure who played a crucial role in shaping the modern world. The museum, primarily located underground, offers an excellent insight into both his life and the espionage activities of WWII. You should allocate at least two hours to explore all the various rooms and exhibits. The map and cabinet room houses all the plans, communication equipment, and briefing areas. As you navigate the corridors, planning tables, living quarters, and even Churchill's very modest bedroom, you'll experience life underground.

The museum captures the essence of secret operations carried out under the constant pressure of a city under siege, where every decision could determine the outcome of victory or defeat.

Shopping

Harrods

World-famous Harrods does not disappoint, with brands from across the globe in such a beautiful setting. Don't miss the lower level; it has a very large gourmet market, which is a treasure trove of goodies from the far corners of the earth. Harrods also has a wonderful food hall, and the top floor offers various types of restaurants. It's hard to stop yourself from overbuying, but even if you don't have an unlimited budget, you can still have some fun here.

Fortnum and Mason

Not just a shopping experience but a fantastic dining experience as well. They have several restaurants and offer high tea. Fortnum and Mason is a foodie's dream; they even offer cooking classes. If you are not a cook, you should check out the liquor store with fine wines and spirits from around the world. Don't forget to try a Scotch egg created by Mr. Fortnum while you're visiting. Way more than just tea, Fortnum and Mason is a real treat.

Sloane Square

Elegant and upscale neighborhood in West London, Chelsea area. Beautiful and unique shops intertwined with small local restaurants, a perfect area to spend the afternoon exploring. Don't miss Peter Jones department store, Saatchi Art Gallery, and the Royal Court Theatre. Very easy area to get to with a tube stop in the square and many buses that stop in the area. It's a very sweet hidden gem.

London is such a vibrant city with so much to do that you cannot possibly do it all in one trip, so these are just a few suggestions for activities in London. If you would like more suggestions for activities, hotels, dining, and more in London, reach out to us via our website www.PersonalEscapeTravel.com