Image credit: Visit London & Jon Reid
London is a city that never sleeps, with something new to discover at every turn. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, spending 48 hours in London can be an inspiring and unforgettable experience. From the Tower of London to Kensington Palace, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, you'll get to see the very best of what London has to offer in just 48 hours. Here's a guide on how to make the most of your time in this incredible city and discover its hidden gems.
Day one:
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tower Bridge, where you can explore Victorian Engine Rooms, make your way up to the Tower Bridge Exhibition, and — if you’re feeling brave — take a walk along its glass-bottomed walkway.
Spend the rest of the morning exploring the Tower of London then head to Borough Market, one of London's oldest and largest food markets. Taste the best of British food, a wide range of artisanal products, and fresh produce. After lunch, take a stroll along the South Bank of the River Thames and take in the sights of London's skyline, including the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey the site of many coronations and royal weddings, including the upcoming coronation of King Charles III.
This evening see a show at one of the many theatres in London’s West End such as The Lion King or another musical of your choice. Enjoy a pre or post theatre meal in Covent Garden – check out Joe Allen, if you go post theatre you’re likely to see at least one actor.
Day two:
Start your second day in London with a visit to the British Museum, one of the world's largest and most comprehensive collections of art and artifacts. Be sure to check out the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and the Egyptian mummies.
HOT TIP: Book your free ticket to guarantee museum entry.
For lunch, head to Soho, one of London’s coolest spots, known for its excellent restaurants and buzzing bars. We love the modern Spanish tapas and great décor at Barrafina.
After lunch, take a walk-through Hyde Park, one of London's largest and most famous parks. Here you'll find the Serpentine Lake, the Diana Memorial Fountain, and the famous Kensington Palace - which was once the home of Princess Diana and is now a royal residence for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
Wind down enjoying panoramic views of the city while sipping on a cocktail or glass of wine at Sky Garden, London’s highest stunning rooftop garden located in the heart of the city.
HOT TIP: Be sure to book your free entrance tickets 3 weeks in advance as this is a popular spot and can get quite crowded.
Round off your 48 hours in London with a meal in Shoreditch, the East London food mecca, now one of London's trendiest neighbourhoods. Here you'll find a variety of restaurants serving everything from classic British fare to international cuisine. A stand out is Brat, known for its delicious open fire cooking.
48 hours in London may not seem like enough time to see and do everything, but with careful planning, you can make the most of your time. From historic landmarks to trendy neighbourhoods and world-class museums, London truly has something for everyone.
