WEATHER
Jan -March:
Average 40-50F,
mostly rainy
April -June:
Average 50-60F,
partly sunny
July -Sept:
Average 60-65F,
mostly cloudy
Oct -Dec:
Average 45-55F,
mostly rainy
June-September is London's warmest weather and peak travel time. December-February can be rainy and cold,. While the English climate tends to be more mild than a North American climate, travelers should be prepared for any kind of weather at any time of the year.
Our favorite time to visit? Summer.
Welcome to The Big Smoke. England's capital city, London, is the former epicenter of one of the most powerful empires in history, with its origin dating back to the Roman rule. Today, it is a large, international travel hub and amalgamation of uniquely diverse neighborhoods. Its Big Ben, Parliament, and Westminister Abbey are all nods to its history, and the iconic London Eye watches over the River Thames that runs right through the middle of the city.
The history of London dates back to Roman times when the city was known as Londinium. Founded around AD 47, Londinium quickly grew into a major trading center and administrative capital for the Roman province of Britannia.
After the decline of the Roman Empire in the 5th century, London was abandoned and fell into disrepair. It was not until the 9th century, during the reign of Alfred the Great, that the city began to regain importance as a trading hub and political center.
Throughout the Middle Ages, London grew in size and importance, and by the 16th century, it had become the largest city in England. London was a center of trade, finance, and culture, and it played a crucial role in the development of the English language and literature.
In the 17th century, London was ravaged by a series of devastating fires, including the Great Fire of 1666, which destroyed much of the city center. The fire led to the rebuilding of London on a grand scale, with new streets, buildings, and public spaces designed to prevent future disasters. In the 18th and 19th centuries, London continued to grow and prosper, becoming a center of industry and innovation. The city was at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution, with new technologies and manufacturing processes transforming the economy and society.
During the 20th century, London faced many challenges, including the devastation of World War II and the decline of its traditional industries. However, the city continued to reinvent itself, becoming a hub of finance, tourism, and culture.
Today, London is one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in the world, with a rich history and culture that can be seen in its architecture, museums, and cultural institutions. From the ancient Roman walls to the iconic skyline of modern-day London, the city's history is a testament to its resilience, creativity, and enduring spirit.
The iconic West End of London is where tourists will find their most sought-after landmarks like Big Ben, Parliament, and the London Eye. This area is also home to most of Pinterest's high-end flats. Travel a few blocks north from Big Ben to find Buckingham Palace and then shopaholic's favorites - Regent and Oxford Street, in Mayfair. Marylebone is another neighborhood in this area that is a bit off the beaten path. To the right of Mayfair is Soho, a historic neighborhood in the heart of London's West End known for its theaters, music venues, and lively atmosphere. It's also home to many of London's LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. Covent Garden is next up along the Thames
On the edgier and more hipster side of London, you can find the East End which is home to Shoreditch, known for its vibrant street art, creative community, and thriving nightlife. It's a popular destination for young professionals and artists. The City of London is also located on the East End. Here, you can find the iconic Tower of London, where you can get a tour from a real Beefeater (mine had personally guarded Rudolf Hess after his plane crash in Scotland). There are many skyscrapers in this business-centric part of the city. The one-of-a-kind Shard and Borough Market are just across the river.
TOP TO DO'S
Other notable neighborhoods include Chelsea, an affluent neighborhood in southwest London, Chelsea is known for its upscale shops, restaurants, and boutiques. It's also home to the Chelsea Flower Show and the Chelsea Football Club. Located in southeast London, Greenwich is a historic neighborhood known for its maritime history and beautiful parks. It's also the site of the Prime Meridian and the Royal Observatory. Made famous by the movie of the same name, Notting Hill is a trendy and affluent neighborhood with beautiful Victorian houses, chic boutiques, and upscale restaurants. Known for its alternative music and fashion scene, Camden is home to famous markets like Camden Lock and Stables Market, as well as iconic music venues like The Roundhouse and The Electric Ballroom. If you need a tourist break, try Hampstead, which is a few miles from the hustle and bustle. This neighborhood is popular with locals because of its charming streets and stunning views.
Safety
England is generally a safe country to visit or live in, but as with any country, common sense will keep you safe. Make sure taxis or Ubers are licensed. Be vigilant in parks and dark alleys, and watch for pick pockets near tourist attractions. And if you are drinking, make sure you stay aware and get safely home. Overall, London is perfectly safe.
Transportation
Look right when crossing the street - it's a mistake you will only make once. The London Underground, aka the Tube, is the fastest way to get around the city. With 11 lines and over 270 stations, you can get almost anywhere in London. Get an Oyster Card (reusable electronic ticket) to save money and time. Taxis and Ubers are also abundant.
Currency
England uses the pound sterling, aka the British pound. It is abbreviated as GBP or £. It is the oldest currency still in use and has been in use since Anglo-Saxon times. The pound is divided into 100 pence. Tipping is not compulsory, but it is nice to leave a tip of 10-15% for good service. Some restaurants may include a service charge on the bill, so check first..
Polite Society
A handshake is the most common form of greeting. But friends and acquaintances may hug or kiss on the cheek. It is best to wait for the other person to initiate physical contact. Personal space is important; it's rude to stand too close to someone. Queuing is also very serious. Always join the back of the line and wait your turn.
Naturally.
Naturally.
This insta-famous pastry house has a "first come, first serve" policy due to its popularity. They have locations in Belgravia and Chelsea with the former having more lower ground seating, but Chelsea having much larger internal dining.
This is our recommendation for the health-conscious traveler. The healthy grub includes salads, smoothie bowls, sandwiches, coffees, and more. There are also affordable vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.
This somewhat secretive, gastronomic experience will have you feeling like you are in a Batman movie. Its 5 fine-dining restaurant and bar spaces will take you on a journey from London to Gotham.
Reserve a spot here for a special outing to enjoy sophisticated dining and arguably the city's prettiest panoramic views. Dinner is atop the 32nd floor. You can also enjoy live music most nights.
Westminster Abbey
St. Paul's & the Thames
Naturally.
Naturally.
Beware of the smart casual dress code, here you will find traditional British cuisine with broad European influences. The star of this show is the view of London from the 40th floor (one of the tallest in Europe). There's a 360-degree, walk-around “chef’s bar” where cocktails are created. Did we mention it's open 24 hours?
This eccentric tearoom lived a former life as an 18th townhouse, repurposed for happy hour with the girliest of clientele. We recommend the Pornstar Martini. Make sure you head to the bathroom before you leave.
Stop by this swanky cocktail bar in South Bank to enjoy concoctions from the award-winning restauranteur Mr. Lyan. These river views are only second to the hanpicked flavors featured in their renowned drinks.
A cafe for breakfast and lunch done right. They also are a great place for nice dinners at an affordable price. Friendly staff (that remember regulars' names). This Soho joint has a great atmosphere, loved by locals and bloggers
VB Tip: Plenty of pubs!
Pubs have been an essential part of London's social fabric for centuries. The city has over 7,000 pubs, some of which date back to the 16th century. Many of these historic pubs have unique features such as wooden paneling, fireplaces, and old-fashioned decor that give them a special charm. Pubs in London are known for their warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a local or a visitor, you can expect friendly banter, lively conversations, and a sense of community in most pubs. Beer is the most popular drink in London pubs, and there are many different types to choose from, including traditional ales, lagers, and ciders.
Many pubs also serve food, ranging from classic British dishes like fish and chips to more modern fare such as burgers and salads. Londoners take their pub culture seriously, and there are many customs and traditions associated with going to a pub. For example, it's customary to order rounds of drinks for your group, and it's considered polite to let someone else buy the next round. There are also rules around tipping and queuing at the bar.
London is home to many famous pub crawls, such as the Camden Pub Crawl, the Bermondsey Beer Mile, and the Greenwich Pub Crawl. These crawls typically involve visiting several pubs in a single night, often with a specific theme or focus on a particular area.
Neutral colors match the ambiance of this big city.
Clearly, I love turtle necks. This one is a staple for me because it goes with so much.
Click the picture to purchase!
I am obsessed with these pearly white Hunter boots that are perfect for rainy weather
Skirts paired with tights always give off an elegant vibe. Switch to a tank and sandals for warmer weather.
This collapsible travel umbrella is a must-have for rainy England. Plus it looks more expensive than it is!
Get the full dine guide (over 100 restaurants) with our downloadable travel itinerary!
VB Tip: Wet Place, Dry People!
British humor is known for being witty, sarcastic, and often dry. It is a form of humor that is often characterized by its clever use of wordplay, irony, and understatement, and it has been a hallmark of British culture for centuries. A key element of British humor is its ability to poke fun at social norms and conventions. British comedies often explore taboo subjects in a lighthearted and irreverent way, challenging the audience's expectations and inviting them to see the world in a different light.
One of the earliest examples of British humor can be seen in William Shakespeare, whose plays were known for their clever wordplay and sharp wit. Over time, British humor evolved into classic entertainment like "Monty Python's Flying Circus" to contemporary comedies like "The Office" and "Fleabag," and the works of Sacha Baron Cohen.
as the locals say...
Fit/Leng:
Attractive
Friend
Mate:
Bloke:
Man/guy
Lad:
Boy
Bird:
Girl
Fag:
Cigarette
Knackered:
Super tired
Daft:
Stupid
Bunda:
Butt
Gutted:
Disappointed
1 quid:
A pound
Loo:
Toilet
Innit:
Isn't it
Banter:
Good laugh or conversation
Dodgy:
Suspicious
Chuffed:
Delighted
POP QUIZ!
WATCH
Austin Powers
Love Actually
Skyfall
Sherlock Holmes
The Crown
London: A City in Time
Love Island
Notting Hill
READ
London Calling by GA Ponsoby
London, Block by Block by Cierra Block
Babel by RF Kuang
Atonement by Ian McEwan
A Darker Shade of Magic by VE Schwab
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
There are also many different accents across the United Kingdom, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most common include Received Pronunciation (RP), considered "standard" British, and associated with the educated upper-middle classes. RP is often used in formal settings like business and broadcasting. Cockney is associated with working-class East Londoners. It is known for its distinctive vowel sounds and rhyming slang. The London Estuary accent is characterized by its mix of features from both Cockney and RP.
London has been home to some of the most influential musicians of the past century. The Beatles famously played their first concert in London in 1962, and the city was a key part of the British Invasion that took the world by storm in the 1960s. The punk movement that emerged in the 1970s was also closely associated with London, with bands like The Clash, Queen, and The Sex Pistols playing a major role in the scene,
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Vibe: Sri Lankan
Featured drink: Curry Leaf Champagne
Featured food: Masala spiced tuna with mayonnaise
When: Saturday/Sunday
Price: €€€
Vibe: Pastel elegance est. 1926
Featured drink: The Delphinium
Featured food: Victoria Lobster omelette with truffle
When: Everyday
Price: €€€
Vibe: Tea for an eclectic boulevardier
Featured drink: Besou Spritz
Featured food: Redcurrant and chocolate macaron
When: Everyday
Price: €€€
Vibe: Luxury and splendor
Featured drink: Lapsang Souchong
Featured food: Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserve
When: Everyday
Price: €€€
Vibe: Lavish garden revelry
Featured drink: Earl Grey Blue Flower
Featured food: Roasted duck
When: Everyday
Price: €€
Vibe: Modern, sociable elegance
Featured drink: Strawberry Tart
Featured food: English garden pea sandwich
When: Everyday
Price: €€
Vibe: English decadence
Featured drink: Arishan Tai Milky Oolong
Featured food: Parmesan Madeleine
When: Everyday
Price: €€€
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Ethical Tourism
Protect Our Planet And Its People
It is universally agreed amongst scientists and conservationists that humans have had a negative effect on wildlife. From decimating natural habitats to poaching, we each have a responsibility to make sure we are experiencing and learning from the world, but positively not negatively.
Here are our suggestions:
1. Reduce your carbon footprint. London has an extensive public transportation system, so consider using buses, trains, or bikes instead of driving or taking taxis. This helps to reduce carbon emissions and supports sustainable transportation. E
2. Choose eco-friendly accommodation. Look for hostels or lodging that are eco-friendly, such as the use of renewable energy sources or implemented water and energy conservation measures.
3. Shop small. When traveling to London, make an effort to support local businesses, such as restaurants, shops, and tour companies. This helps to support the local economy and preserve the unique culture of the city.
4. Educate yourself. Stop by any and all museums that you can fit in, but make sure you are learning about the history of the city you are visiting, one that is not always particularly kind or easy to confront. We recommend the Museum of London Docklands. This museum explores the history of London's docks and the role they played in the transatlantic slave trade. Visitors can learn about the conditions faced by enslaved people and the ways in which they resisted slavery.
VAGABLOG
The City of London
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VAGABLOG
Best Photo Ops in London
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VAGABLOG
London After Dark
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