2026 Greater London Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

Let's share some must-see tips to make your trip unforgettable in London. Start your day at one of the city's most iconic landmarks, Buckingham Palace. There, you can witness the Changing of the Guard every day, a real experience of British tradition. Then, stroll through the palace park towards Big Ben. Take the opportunity to snap photos in the famous red telephone booths and visit the Tower of London, home to the crown jewels and fascinating stories. Don't forget to explore the Tower Bridge, one of the city's postcard-perfect sights. For culture enthusiasts, the Tate Modern and the British Museum offer a deep dive into world art and history. Wander through the charming markets of Portobello Road and Borough Market, where you'll find a variety of interesting foods. Exploring the street markets is a delightful experience. In the evening, how about a theatre play? London has it all, we can assure you—from The Lion King to Harry Potter. You'll surely find the perfect show to suit your taste. And, of course, pay a visit to the London Eye for breathtaking views of the illuminated city. Don't miss out on trying local delights, from traditional fish and chips to ethnic dishes at the street markets. London is a vibrant and diverse city, waiting to be discovered at every turn. #LondonAdventure #TravelTips #ExploreLondon #Tripcom #VisitLondon #Mettahara

🚗🏴 Escape the city! Departing from Edinburgh, embark on a three-day dream journey into the Scottish Highlands✨ Have you ever dreamed of pressing the gas pedal into a vast, ancient, and free land? Low-hanging clouds, deep lakes, winding roads stretching to the horizon—this is not a movie, this is the Scottish Highlands. --- 🌄 Three-Day Itinerary Highlights 🏔️ Day 1: Lakes, Canyons, and the Magical Train · 8:30 Depart Edinburgh → Loch Lomond, the morning lake surface like a mirror🏞️ · Drive along A82 through Glencoe Gorge, encounter the "Three Sisters" mountains⛰️ · Fort William for lunch → Head to Glenfinnan Viaduct, wait for the steam train beloved by Harry Potter fans🚂 (More runs in summer, remember to check the schedule!) · Loch Ness, snap a photo at the red postbox at Fort Augustus📮, the lake monster legend is right here~ · 🛏️ Overnight in Inverness or Fort William 🌊 Day 2: Castles, Islands, and the Rainbow Town · Eilean Donan Castle, a picturesque water castle reflection🏰 · Cross the Skye Bridge, encounter fluffy Highland cows🐮 · Portree town, take photos of the rainbow houses + lunch🌈 · Old Man of Storr (view from afar to save time and energy) → Kilt Rock Waterfall, feel the grandeur · Quiraing, drive up the winding road, overlook the heart-shaped lake and movie filming locations🎬 · 🛏️ Return to accommodation ⛳ Day 3: Towns, University, and the Home of Golf · Pass through Pitlochry, try a scoop of whisky ice cream🍦 · St Andrews, stroll the Old Course and snap photos at the stone bridge🏌️ · Visit the University of St Andrews → the historic cathedral ruins → seaside castle ruins · Return to Edinburgh in the evening with a heart full of memories --- 💡 Recommended Travel Methods 1. 🚗 Self-driving Suitable for experienced drivers who like to stop and go freely. Some Highland roads are narrow and weather can be changeable, so it’s recommended to familiarize yourself with right-hand driving in advance. 2. 👫 Carpool/Small Group Cost-effective choice! Ideal for solo travelers or groups of 2-3, meet travel companions, with professional drivers and guides taking you to all the classics, worry-free and safe. 3. ✨ Customized Small Private Tours The best choice for families or friends traveling together, flexible itinerary, exclusive vehicle and guide, deep experience without rushing. --- 📌 Travel Tips · Highland weather is changeable, windproof and rainproof jackets are a must! · Steam train schedules are seasonal, check times in advance to avoid missing out. · Signal on the Isle of Skye is weak, it’s recommended to download offline maps beforehand. --- “The Scottish Highlands are a waking dream.” Three days crossing lakes, gorges, castles, and islands, as if stepping into an ancient movie, and entering the distant place you’ve longed for. 🌟 Save this guide for your trip. 📮 Carpool available | Customizable | Consultations welcome, waiting for you in the comments!

The Blythe Hill Tavern is located in South East London on the border between Catford and Forest Hill. The nearest station is Catford, it’s a ten minute walk to get here. The pub was built in the mid 19th century and started life as The Blythe Hill Hotel. This is three room pub with a public bar on the corner, a saloon to the left and a large room running across the back of the pub. The decor here is outstanding, so much so that it has been Grade II listed by Historic England. The walls are clad in dark wood panelling which originate from the 1920’s. Around the walls are a treasure trove of old signs, posters and mirrors relating to Irish writers, Irish brews and sporting pursuits. Other features include exposed beams, fireplaces that roar in winter, traditional seating and to top in off, a proper pub carpet. At the rear of the pub is a large beer garden that blooms in the summer. The beer lineup was great, there was a decent selection of four revolving cask ales, familiar favourites and of course Guinness. I ordered a pint of St Jame’s Gates finest, my pint was excellent and pleasingly cost less than six quid. There is food available here by way of @vandough pizzas. They serve up 10” pizzas which all cost in and around a tenner. Check their socials for timings. My brother and I arrived bang on opening at met Con the Guv’nor who was warm and welcoming. After ordering our pints we ended up having a great chat with Con about Ireland and London pubs in the 70’s and 80’s and the many characters that ran them. We were also chatting about The Arsenal as we are both fans and visiting Highbury and the pubs around there back in the day, what a lovely fella.

Nancy Spain’s is located on Curtain Road in the heart of Shoreditch. The nearest Tube is Old Street, it’s a five minute walk to get here. Curtain Road is where the very first purpose-built theatre was erected in London in 1576. This road has nothing to do with the manufacture of the popular window appendage. Nancy Spain’s opened on the 15th March just in time for St Patrick’s day. The pub’s name takes inspiration from the song ‘Nancy Spain’ made famous by Christy Moore. The pub is run by two brothers who hail from County Kerry in Ireland. This is a compact one bar pub that oozes old world Irish charm even though it’s just opened its doors. There is an island servery that has a pint plinth in front of the taps for letting the stout settle. Opposite the servey are cosy intimate booths for getting deep into conversation. Around the pub is a variety of seating areas consisting of two person poser tables, a superb ‘P’ shaped drinking ledge plus various nooks and crannies to plot up into. The decor consists of rickerty exposed brickwork walls, weathered beams, lots of Stout and Irish Whiskey memorabilia plus all manner of bric-à-brac. The pub offers a decent range of beers and has @murphysstout not Guinness as their stout of choice. I decided to try the Murphy’s which I haven’t had in some time. My pint was excellent, price point was a smidge above average. The pub also offers an extensive range of Whiskies and Irish themed Cocktails, one of which contains Murphy’s, if you’re feeling brave you may want to try the Poitín. The food offering varies with different kitchen take overs, for the next four weeks @bocachicaldn will be serving up flavoursome Dominican delicacies.

The Nott 📍257 Wandsworth Rd, London SW8 2NB 🚇 Nine Elms 🍺 £4.25 Fosters ❤️ An important community hub. . The Nott is located on busy Wandsworth Road in SW8. The nearest tube is Nine Elms which is just a couple of minutes walk away. . The Nott formerly The Nottingham Castle was built late 19th century. This three storey pub has been altered somewhat and looks like it has seen better days. . This is a large one bar pub with unique decor which was a bit of an eye opener. The walls are painted salmon pink and cream with a wood floor running throughout, the servery is a good size and runs the length of the bar. There is plenty of low level seating, the tables and chairs looked like they were from outside an ice cream parlour in Margate circa 1980. At the back of the bar is a raised area with pool table and dart board, around the walls are a few screens showing live sport. . The beer line up was a simple selection of keg stalwarts. I decided on a pint of Fosters, Fosters isn’t a favourite of mine but my pint was well kept and cost just over four quid. There is Chinese food available which can be either eaten in or for take away, i’ve seen Thai food available in many pubs, Chinese in a pub is a new one for me, great idea! . I visited with my brother and nephew and we arrived just before opening. There were a group of old boys waiting outside having a natter and were eager to get in and have their first pint. The doors opened and in we went, one of the old boys drove his scooter in and parked it in the corner to charge it up and then proceeded to the bar. We took a seat at the front of the bar to take stock of our surroundings and watch the footy.

Suspended like a fairy tale over the Thames, Tower Bridge is more than a crossing — it’s London’s heartbeat in steel and stone. Completed in 1894, its twin towers and iconic bascules evoke Victorian grandeur, lifting gracefully to welcome ships beneath like a dance of engineering and tradition ⚙️🚢. By day, its sky-blue arches shimmer against the city skyline; by night, it glows with golden charm, whispering stories of London’s rich past 🕰️🌃. From the glass-floor walkway high above, visitors are treated to jaw-dropping views of modern and historic London blending in harmony 🎡🏰. Whether you snap a selfie, stroll its span, or watch the bridge lift in majestic motion, Tower Bridge isn’t just a landmark — it’s a love letter to London’s soul 💌🇬🇧.

Small Beer is located in the bustling heart of Crouch End close to local landmark The Clock Tower. The nearest station is Hornsey mainline. This pub is part of a Victorian parade of shops built in 1895. This converted shop has had a few monikers over the years, The Wishing Well, The Henry Reader and since 2017, Small Beer. This is a simply decorated one roomed pub with a rustic feel. The servery is located at the back right with hand pulls on the counter and keg taps on the back bar. The decor consists of a bare boarded floor, exposed brick walls, industrial looking furniture and a few chalkboards. The beer choice was excellent and offers a range of 12 keg beers from local London breweries and a few from around the UK. There are four cask ales and also no and low options. I decided on Martina Lager by Tottenham brewers @bohembrewery . I have had this beer a few times, it’s always good, price point was average. The food menu is a selection of pizzas, a Margherita costs a tenner.

#thingstodo My recent sojourn at Plaza Premium Lounge in London Heathrow Airport was a pleasurable pre-flight encounter. This calm and well-appointed lounge sets a new standard for airport comfort and luxury. The chic seating, serene atmosphere, and top-tier amenities offered an ideal escape before embarking on my journey. What distinguishes Plaza Premium Lounge is its commitment to providing exceptional service and hospitality, ensuring passengers relish a genuinely comfortable and revitalizing experience. The dining choices were a culinary masterpiece, featuring a variety of gourmet dishes and beverages to satisfy diverse preferences. For travelers in search of a serene and elevated experience before their flight, Plaza Premium Lounge at London Heathrow proves to be an outstanding option for a premium airport retreat. #plazapremiumlounge #heathrow

December in London is a magical symphony of lights, street markets, culinary delights, and a joyful atmosphere ✨🎄 Every corner radiates festive cheer, the aroma of mulled wine, warm mince pies, and the joyous melodies of carolers fill the air. Here are some of the best things to do in London during the holiday season: 1. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: This iconic event transforms Hyde Park into a festive village with ice skating, a Christmas market, thrilling rides, and seasonal food and drink. 2. Christmas Lights Tour: Take a stroll or a guided tour to marvel at the spectacular Christmas lights that adorn famous streets and landmarks like Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden. 3. Ice Skating: Enjoy the enchantment of ice skating at one of London's picturesque outdoor rinks, at the Natural History Museum or Somerset House. 4. Traditional Christmas Markets: Explore the numerous Christmas markets across the city, including the Southbank Centre Christmas Market and the Winter Market at Tate Modern. 5. Attend a Christmas Carol Concert: Experience the magic of a Christmas carol concert in one of London's historic churches or cathedrals, like St. Paul's Cathedral or Westminster Abbey. 6. Christmas Shopping: London's famous shopping districts, including Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden, are beautifully decorated during the holiday season, making shopping for gifts a delightful experience. 7. Admire the Christmas Trees: Don't miss the stunning Christmas trees around the city, with the tree in Trafalgar Square being a highlight, donated annually by Norway as a token of gratitude for Britain's support during World War II. 8. Christmas Afternoon Tea: Indulge in a festive afternoon tea at one of London's renowned hotels, where you can savor seasonal treats in a luxurious setting. These activities capture the essence of Christmas in London, offering a mix of tradition, festivity, and holiday spirit. December in London is not just a month, it's a celebration of lights, laughter, and the timeless enchantment of the holiday season 🌟🎁 #LondonMagic #FestiveSeason #WinterWonderland #ChristmasInLondon #TravelTips #ExploreLondon #Tripcom #VisitLondon #Mettahara

THE COFFEE HOUSE CUM CAFE AT THE TOWER BRIDGE ROAD IN LONDON UNITED KINGDOM SERVES ONE OF THE BEST ALL DAY BREAKFAST AND LUNCH STAPLES FOR PATRONS. THE LOW KEY OPTION CAFE IN THE HEART OF LONDON HAS ONE OF THE BEST EGG, FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST AND BURGERS AVAILABLE ALL DAY LONG. THE CAFE SERVES SIMPLE STAPLE GOOD MAINLY FOR THE WORKERS NEARBY THE AREA. THE STAFF WERE FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL WHICH MAKES ORDERING VERY FAST AND EASY. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport #西餐 #甜品下午茶 #夜景 #哈利波特 #哈利波特 a

Yet another wonderful morning walk from King's Cross to work. I wish they did an earlier train, I'd love to get in and take some pictures with a sun rise in summer. It was a tiny bit fresh in the air this time, but pleasant enough as walking at a decent pace in the sun does get very hot very quick. I walked down to Russel Square, past the museum, up to Trafalgar Square, then followed it past Westminister. I forgot to put my watch on again so was unable to record the exact route. I can confirm I have learned 95% of it and am now not relying on Google maps anymore. If I could finish work a better time I would walk back, but at that time of day I would rather tube it and get to a decent train given the 1hr 20min journey back. In total: 50 minutes 5km