London has always been just a plane ride away and although it has been a while, it is a city I love to return to. This trip should have been the first visit for my friend and I was ready to take the traditional sightseeing route with her. But plans change and I ended up going alone. So what to do with a whole weekend in London stretching endlessly in front of me? I was happy to take up the challenge.
What I really had in mind was a tour of Westminster Cathedral. That was easier said than done. On the first day I arrived in front of it, or as close as I could get, and found the whole area closed to the public due to a memorial service for VE Day. I tried again the next day and at least managed to reach the entrance, only to learn that it had been booked for the entire day. At that point I understood that I needed to get online and reserve a ticket. Finally, on my last full day, I arrived with my ticket in hand and was able to enter Westminster Cathedral on an audio guided tour.
Westminster Abbey @London
On Instagram I had come across a reel about the best spots to see wisteria in London. I love flowers and after a long winter nothing delights me more than seeing blooming colors again. The light blue and purple tones of wisteria are so delicate and the perfect harbinger of the season. It turned out to be a little too late for most of the blossoms, but I loved the idea of following a route around London in search of flowers. It gave me the chance to discover different corners of the city.
Horbury Mews @London
It is always a must for me to visit at least one museum and this time I made it to Leighton House. The former home of Lord Frederic Leighton, a Victorian era artist, is a gem in itself. Despite never having heard of him before, I loved stepping into his house and exploring all the nooks and crannies. There are so many different styles to see that the whole place feels quite magical.
the staircase of Leighton House @London
The many waterways of London also beckon to be explored. During my weekend I saw more than just Little Venice and walked along Regent’s Canal from Islington all the way to Broadway Market.
walking along the canal around Little Venice @London
Of course no visit to London is complete without getting at least close to the Tower of London and its mighty bridge right next to it. As it was a fine weekend with warm weather, locals and tourists were out in droves and everyone seemed to be enjoying the sun. I had no plans to go inside since this is something I have already done at least twice in the past, but it is always a pleasure to return.
Tower and bridge @London
What I enjoy most, though, is simply walking around without a plan. Stumbling into a bookstore and browsing the new releases or searching for interesting history books.
Daunt Books Marylebone @London
While on display go and see Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style. The exhibition showcases clothes from various stages of the Queen’s life and includes her wedding dress as well as her coronation dress.
day dresses @The King’s Gallery
Another thing you do not want to miss, no matter if it is your first time or your any other in this city, go for an afternoon tea. There is so much on offer from a luxury version to a simple tea. I can recommend The Veranda within The Goring hotel of you are up for tea in the Belgravia area.
brioche with raspberry cream @The Goring
Soaking up the atmosphere a little away from the tourist routes and enjoying the vibe of the city. Or just stopping somewhere for a pint in the sun. This is the magic of London. Yours, Pollybert
Plaquemine Lock pub @London
