24 Hours in London (Podcast Show Notes)
24 hours in London is better than no hours in London! London is a fascinating place that's easy to navigate, it's rich in history, and the food. Oh my, the food is so good, it will take you to a new land you may never want to return where you came from. Listen to this podcast episode on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or click the play button above!
My proposed itinerary for 24 Hours in London
Head Over to the British Museum
I think it's important to see real history (and stolen treasure) and explore one of the best Museums Britain has to offer. At the British Museum, you can see mummies (many), the Rosetta stone, Samurai armor, Younger Memnon and much much more.
Take a Tour of the Tower
The Tower was one of my favorite places I visited. It will blow you away! The Crown Jewels are kept here (yes, they are real) and you can even find real Palace guards here. Tours are given throughout the day and are given by a real Yeoman. This isn't Disney, the people that work there are the real deal. The last tour starts at 2:30 PM in the winter and 3:30 in the summer.
Give yourself a few hours to explore the Tower and hear the stories.
Go Up in the Shard at Sunset
The Shard is 95 stories high and the views at the top are breathtaking! There's even a bar up top so you can sip on your favorite drink as you soak up the views. There is something magical about watching London turn from day to night, plus it's not far from The Tower. Up there you can see excellent views of the Tower Bridge and all of London.
Enjoy the Food
Tapas de Brindisa is just around the corner from the Shard, and if you are a meat eater, you have to try their Iberico. It is heaven in your mouth!! If Spanish tapas is not your thing, then make a reservation for Indian food at Dishoom. I also thoroughly enjoyed Lahore Kebab House. I can still taste the curries I had there as they dance on my tongue.
Eat Breakfast or Lunch at The Borough Market
From December 4th to the New Year the Borough Market is open 7 days a week. The rest of the year, they are open Monday-Saturday (closed on Sunday). You must go here. The food here will take you to another land. I found an amazing sauteed mushrooms with a spelt risotto that blew me away and some of the best mussels I had ever eaten. This market won't disappoint!
Skip High Tea and Head Over to Tipsy Tea!
I know that high tea is the thing to do in London, but let me tell you, it is expensive!! I am not willing to shell out $80 for tea and crumpets. However, I will pay $40 for 2 cocktails, a tray of sandwiches and desserts, an amazing magician (Harry de Cruz), and amazing music in a place that will transport you to another era.
That's right, I'm talking Mr. Fogg's Residence. This amazing gem made me get up and dance the Charleston as the lovely piano player played behind me. Now if you're not into a cocktail or not of age, then I don't recommend going here, however, if you appreciate a solid drink, from a teapot, then make a reservation!
Tips for Visiting London
Use the Tube for Transportation and a Tip on Accessible Travel
Fly into London, take underground trains (The Tube) into the city (avoid the Heathrow Express as it is pricey!). You will need to add money to an Oyster card at the airport to use the Tube everywhere. For 24 hours, throw $9 on there, you should be fine.
It's fairly easy to read the map for the Tube and if you're unsure of how to get somewhere, put where you are going into Google Maps and click on 'trains' and follow the walking and train directions. If you are in a wheelchair, get off on the stations with an accessible sign on them on the map, and there you can use an elevator to get out.
Check out the London Pass
Take a look at what you want to do compared against the cost of a London Pass. The London Pass will get you into the Tower, The Shard, The British Museum and more.