London is packed with things to see and do. Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace are just a few of the attractions to see whilst in the capital. But London is more than just it’s tourist spots (although they are great too). So this is my alternative take on how you should spend one day in London.
Checking out the street art in Shoreditch is at the top of the list of things to do in London. Brick Lane and the surrounding streets are covered with exciting pieces and you’re always discovering something new when walking around. Banksy, Stik and Roa all have pieces on display, as well as many more world famous artists. And whilst you’re at it you should stop in to one of the many Indian restaurants in the area to try a delicious curry. The Aladin restaurant is my preferred curry house when in the Brick Lane area.
Visiting one of London’s markets is also something that has to be done when spending one day in London. Which market you visit is entirely dependent on your taste, budget and your shopping list. Borough Market is where to go when you’re looking for fresh produce and amazing street food. Camden’s Stable Market should be where you head for alternative clothes shopping. For markets offering something a little different go to the Columbia Road Flower Market for flowers obviously, and Portobello Market in Notting Hill for antiques and more unusual finds. Greenwich Market is one of my favourites and offers a great selection of food and shopping stalls to browse off an afternoon.
For those who you have a little spare time between the large activities on the agenda, then take some time to relax in one of London’s quirky cafes. It’s got the Cereal Killer Café in Camden and Brick Lane, Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium in Shoreditch and the cheese toastie café otherwise know as The Melt Room. If you’re looking for a great cup of coffee in a distinctive setting then my recommendation would be The Attendant on Foley Street. Just a short walk from Oxford Circus, you’ll find this little underground café that slightly resembles a men’s bathroom. This restored Victorian bathroom is complete with urinals and hand dryers, oh and coffee of course.
If you’re sticking around for the night, then grabbing a few cocktails is a must. Dirty Martini’s happy hour is great and offers half price Martinis- think Blood Orange and Strawberry and Black Pepper flavour. You’ll find bars in Bishopsgate, Covent Garden and Monument. Or head to one of the six themed London Cocktail Club bars that are dotted around the city. To give you an idea the bar on Shaftsbury Avenue is the Tattoo Rum Parlour and Oxford Circus is home to the Gangsters Tequila Paradise.
Hopefully this article has inspired you to explore a different side of London on your next visit, as well as showing you just how much you can fit in, in just one day. If you’ve got any great suggestions of what to do in just one day in London please do let us know.
- Subscribe to The Student Pocket Guide for exclusive competitions, deals, discounts, tips and advice!
- Read The Student Pocket Guide.
