I recently got asked if it was possible to see London in a stopover. My first instinct was to yell “NEVVVEEERRRR!!” But on reflection, I’ve realised that due to the close proximity of many of London’s icons, it’s perfectly possible to get a feel for the central city in a few hours. Of course, I’d certainly hope that you would be back soon for a week or longer, to soak up all that London has to offer. The best of London isn’t necessarily found just in its tourist icons, but also in the unique vibe of each neighbourhood, from the hipster havens of East London to the leafy avenues of the West, as well as South and North. But if you’re pressed for time, here’s my guide to seeing central London in the space of a stopover. Click here to go straight to the map!
I’m assuming you’ll be flying into Heathrow or Gatwick, and leaving your baggage there. From Heathrow, you have the option of the Heathrow Express train to Paddington station, or catching the underground (aka the Tube). The Heathrow Express is more expensive, but will take almost an hour less to get to central London. From Gatwick you also have the option of the speedier Gatwick Express, or local trains. Either way you should arrive into Victoria station. If it’s summer and you’re a fan of walking, it’s possible to do the rest of my tour on foot. But if it’s winter or you prefer to save some time (and your feet) then purchase a day travel card for the tube. This will also let you on local buses, including the 15 which takes in many of the best tourist spots. If you’ve got a smartphone, then an app like Citymapper could save you a lot of time – it certainly saves my life on a regular basis!
The Mall to Buckingham Palace
Start at Piccadilly Circus, with its neon billboards and whirl of people. Head down Haymarket, and then hang a left to visit Trafalgar Square with Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery. If you’re taking the bus option, the 15 leaves from here. If not, then next, head along the Mall to Buckingham Palace. The Changing of the Guard usually takes place at 11:30am, although you’ll want to be there earlier if you’d like a front-row view. Wander through pretty St James’ Park down to Westminster Bridge for views of the Elizabeth Tower (which houses Big Ben), the House Of Commons, and the London Eye. From there, you can head east along the Southbank, stopping at galleries or a riverside pub as they catch your eye. Millennium Bridge gives great views over the river, and there’s St Paul’s Cathedral and Shakespeare’s (reconstructed) Globe Theatre nearby.
Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral
If you’re up for the walk, then keep heading down the river to London Bridge, where Borough Market will provide ample reward for your efforts in the form of stalls loaded with delicious bites. Refreshed, you could even make your way to Tower Bridge – note that this is the iconic bridge that goes up and down, that you might be imagining when you hear the words London Bridge! It sits next to the Tower of London, and is raised sporadically – for times, check here. If you’ve made it all that way, then I recommend checking out the Monument to the Great Fire of London – for just £3 (and a few stairs) you can get great views of the area. Then probably get the District or Circle tube line back into the centre to rest your no-doubt weary feet!
If London Bridge and the rest is too much of a stretch, from Southbank or Millennium Bridge you could opt to head to the north bank, for a look around Covent Garden. There’s always street performers to watch and cute shops to browse. Or you might prefer to check out the shops and winding streets of nearby Seven Dials and Soho. These areas are hotspots for fantastic eateries, from casual to Michelin-starred… check out Time Out London or Londonist for recommendations, or just see what looks good! My tried and tested central London favourites are here.
And then it should be time to get back on that tube or train to the airport. You will have seen a LOT of central London, but I implore you to come back soon for more. For inspiration, check out my London List!
Map
So what do you think? If you’ve been to London, do you agree with my picks? If you haven’t, do you have any questions?
