Historic buildings, museums, royalty & more
London is packed with affordable adventures and outings. I spent three weeks studying abroad there, exploring both the popular spots and hidden gems. Take a look at all the places I visited during my time in London and which ones were worth the money.
London is the capital of England and one of the largest cities in the world. The city is known for beautiful historic monuments, Harry Potter, theater, the tube station, and endless museums. From Tampa, the flight was only 9 hours long to London Heathrow.
Checkout Exploring London’s Culinary Scene and What to Wear in London this Winter for more!
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Language
English is mostly spoken in Australia making it less of a culture shock
Currency
Pound sterling (GBP)
Tap-to-pay was the predominant form of pay almost everywhere in London.
Transportation
There are numerous forms of transportation around London. Most locals and tourists use the tube station as it is the most reliable, affordable, and quickest way to get around the city.
You can pay for the tube with tap-to-pay or activate an Oyster card at the beginning of your trip. Use Google Maps and the Tube app to navigate. Always be aware of your surroundings, pick pockets are everywhere.
Other forms of transportation include the Big Red Bus, Uber, taxis, walking, biking, and the traveling by train to reach other cities in England.
Climate
I studied abroad in London during the coldest time of year (January), but it is recommended to travel there during the spring when the flowers are blooming and the weather is comfortable enough for walking around. It rained for about a third of the time, but everyday was cold and windy. Keep in mind that walking is essential in London, and even when it’s 30 degrees outside, many businesses still offer outdoor seating.
Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
Your visit London isn’t complete without seeing these two breathtaking monuments. Big Ben and Houses of Parliament are right next to each other on the river. For the best photo opportunities, head to Westminster Bridge.
Kensington Palace
There are several palaces throughout England, but Kensington was my favorite of the places I visited. The 420-year-old building was the birthplace and home to Queen Victoria. The historic home is open for guests to walk through the rooms and hear stories about royal figures who lived here. On your way out, take photos in the photo booth outside the entrance and wander through the gardens around the palace.
River Cruise
A river cruise is the perfect way to see the city in a short amount of time with minimal walking. My friend and I did the sunset river cruise and the view was absolutely amazing. There was a tour guide providing insight throughout the cruise by pointing out historic landmarks and interesting facts like scenes from Harry Potter. This is an affordable way to enjoy the river and see the London lights at night.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
With one of the largest domes in the world and a unique whispering gallery, the cathedral has the most remarkable architecture I’ve ever encountered. Climbing the 528 steps to the top offers the best panoramic view of the city. Once you reach about halfway you have to continue the journey to the top because the staircase is too narrow to turn around. Beware some areas of the stairs are tight with only one person fitting through. Once you reach the top, there is limited space between you and the railing, keep this in mind if you are claustrophobic or scared of heights.
Tower of London
The castle is known for the House of Jewels, infamous ravens, and guarded royal possessions. Here you can learn about the royal families, historic weapons, and coronations. There is a strict no-phone policy in the house of jewels so you will have to see it for yourself to be in the presence of the royal jewels and crowns worn by royalty.
Tower Bridge
Walking distance from the Tower of London is Tower Bridge. This landmark is often confused with London Bridge but they are not the same. You can see the Bridge by walking across it, taking a river cruise, or walk across the top walkways of the bridge, part of the exhibit (admission fee). I walked across the bridge but did not go inside the exhibit.
Garden at 120
Discover the perfect rooftop garden to enjoy London’s beauty and soak up the sun. This hidden gem offers spectacular city views and is completely free to visit! We wanted to eat dinner at Sky Garden but they were booked a month out so this was definitely a great alternative.
National Gallery
The National Gallery is a must-visit museum in London for some of the world’s most famous and historic artwork. My favorite pieces were the Van Gogh paintings! The museum is in a beautiful area near Trafalgar Square.
Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum, famous from movies like ‘Loch Ness’ and ‘Paddington,’ quickly became my favorite museum in London. The architecture and exhibits were very interesting with dinosaur, mammal, marine, space, insect, and natural disaster exhibits. Make sure to check out the earthquake simulator!
TEA Exhibit
Discover a unique hidden art exhibit located on Carnaby. The free art gallery is a great spot for photos and celebrating the unique beauty of the female body! Don’t forget to write a note on the mirror and checkout the gorgeous nude paintings by Sophia Tea.
Word on the Water
Calling all book lovers! London is full of book enthusiasts and endless bookstores. This hidden gem is nestled on a small boat full of books. One of my favorite things about England is the unique designs of their book covers compared to those in the US.
Buckingham Palace
Changing of the guards starts at 10:30, but if you want to have a good view, I would get there at least an hour early and stand near the entrance. The changing of the guards takes about 45 minutes. If you have the time, I recommend going to see it!
Royal Opera House
Grab tickets to a theater show or ballet at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. On top of enjoying the show you’ll get to experience the royal beauty of the architecture and stacked box seating facing the stage.
A Few Words of Advice
While English is the predominant language spoken in England, there are several cultural differences to be aware of. The biggest ‘culture shocks’ I encountered included the practice of walking and driving on the left side of the street, sidewalk, stairs, and escalators. It’s easy to get caught carrying your luggage up the Tottenham Court Road staircase, only to realize you’re on the wrong side…
Another difference I was unaware of before my trip was the use of military time, which is the default for businesses and reservations in London. England is also known for pickpockets, so it’s crucial to keep your belongings close, especially in the tube stations. I had a close call with my phone almost being taken at a coffee shop—pickpockets are everywhere.
Lastly, if you’re from a small town in the US like me, you might not be familiar with public transportation. The tube station is London’s primary form of mass transportation, where people pack into the underground subway like sardines after hearing the familiar phrase, ‘mind the gap’. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, hold onto something if you’re standing, listen for your station announcement, and don’t be surprised if no one says, ‘excuse me’.”