First-time visitors to London come with a host of preconceptions: gentlemen in bowler hats, terrible food, equally terrible weather, and lots of history with world-famous buildings.
However, these clichés are largely unrepresentative of the real London experience. You can still find them if you look hard enough, but you can find anything in London because there is an entire world of experiences in one city.
London is not just saturated in multiculturalism, but defined by it. People from 270 different countries speak more than 300 languages. In this United Nations of a capital, it wouldn’t be at all unfeasible in the space of 24 hours to eat Ethiopian stew, have a salsa lesson, gaze upon artifacts from ancient Egypt, slurp down Vietnamese pho, and listen to an oompah band in a Bavarian beer hall.
This isn’t to say London’s identity is entirely made up of globe-spanning components; it still has uniqueness by the bucketload. The buses really are red, the taxis really are black, and that massive clock by the river really is magnificent. The main attractions are world-class, often incomparably so, and absolutely worth visiting. Whether you’re on your first visit or your 100th, there’s always more to discover in London.
How to Get to London
Most international visitors arrive in London by air; however, train travel has experienced a surge in popularity as the carbon impact of air travel becomes more understood. Long-haul buses are a low-cost option for getting to the capital. Eurostar travels between London and Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. Most long-haul flights land at Heathrow. Flights from Europe and the Middle East also land at Gatwick and Stansted. Luton and London Southend serve budget airlines only. All airports are connected by train to central London, but only London City Airport and Heathrow are on the London Underground network.
Best Neighborhoods in London
London is often described as an amalgamation of different villages rather than a single place. Fewer neighborhoods are remotely village-like, but it’s certainly true that different areas have varying atmospheres, which can be useful for organizing your sightseeing. Three main, connected neighborhoods – the West End, South Bank, and the City of London – sit on either side of the River Thames and are the focus of most visits, especially for first-time travelers. Still, there are plenty of other areas worth exploring.
Where to Eat in London
It’s difficult to imagine a type of food not available in London. The city features a wide array of cuisines, with the highest concentration of restaurants in the West End, ranging from cheap Chinese in Soho to gastronomic wonders in Mayfair. South Bank has plenty of reliable chains and notable gastropubs where food is taken as seriously as drink. The City buzzes during the week but quiets down on weekends when bankers and brokers go home. Sandwich shops and burger and noodle chains fill in the gaps across the capital, proving convenient for quick refueling.
When it comes to national cuisine, there are two dishes first-time visitors should try: fish and chips, and curry. Excellent portions of both can be found in east London. For fish and chips, seek out local favorites, and for a heaping helping of curry, head to Brick Lane. Another British classic is roast dinner, traditionally eaten at Sunday lunchtime and comprising roast meat, potatoes, vegetables, and Yorkshire pudding all covered in gravy. Any decent pub around town should offer one.
Where to Drink in London
Londoners have a strong affinity for social drinking, and a classic experience for any first-time visitor is enjoying a pint in a pub. You won’t have trouble finding one; they’re ubiquitous, particularly good choices include renowned establishments that showcase historic charm. When it comes to bars and clubs, the West End and east London stand out for their abundance. Soho remains the undisputed nightlife district, offering a variety of LGBTQI+ venues alongside Vauxhall.
Where to Stay in London
With the need to accommodate 19 million visitors a year, London boasts a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious boutique hotels. For your first visit, aiming for a central location is wise. A well-located budget option is available, while mid-range travelers might appreciate accommodations in the heart of the West End. For those without budget constraints, luxurious experiences await in high-end hotels.
Getting Around London
London has numerous transportation options to navigate the city. Walking is an excellent way to take in its rich history, but no visit is complete without experiencing the London Underground, famously known as the Tube. Established in 1863, the Tube offers a quick way to traverse the city. Buses provide scenic views, but they can be slower. Taxis are available, although they may be costly unless traveling in a group. Additionally, boat services operate on the Thames, offering unique perspectives of the city.
Is London Safe to Visit?
London is regarded as one of the world’s safest and most tolerant cities. However, like any urban area, crime is not unheard of. Pickpockets may target tourists on the Tube and in crowded places, so keeping valuables secure is advisable. Phone snatching can occur, so being vigilant while using your phone in public is wise. For emergencies, remember the number 999 (or 101 for non-emergencies).
Etiquette in London
- Tipping: A service charge is often included on the bill for meals at sit-down restaurants. If not, consider adding 10% to 15%. No tipping is required for drinks in pubs, while rounding up to the nearest pound for taxis is customary.
- Escalators: Stand on the right and walk on the left.
- Waiting in Line: Queuing is a deeply ingrained social custom, so be sure to wait your turn.
- Social Interaction: It’s best not to initiate conversations with strangers, particularly on public transport. Londoners generally value their privacy but can be approachable for directions.
What to Pack for a Trip to London
Contrary to common belief, it doesn’t rain continuously in London. Winters are usually cool and gray, while summers see warm, sunny-dispositions with average temperatures around 72°F (22°C). Layered clothing is crucial, along with waterproof garments for potential rain. When going out, London is fairly casual, and for most venues, dress codes are relaxed, except for very fancy restaurants that may require men to wear a jacket.
Advance Planning
Although spontaneity can be exciting, making advance plans can help prevent long waits or missed opportunities. If there are specific restaurants or attractions that pique your interest, reserving in advance is highly recommended, particularly in busy central London. Moreover, booking online can often yield better prices compared to entry fees on-site. Some theaters may offer last-minute tickets, but there are no guarantees; thus, securing tickets ahead of time is preferable.
This article was originally published in April 2018.
