Photo by Sera Tü
London is one of the most stimulating cities in the world: the sheer amount of things to do is dizzying. Sometimes though, you will just want to take a little ‘time out’. When London’s buzz gets too loud, slow down the tempo with some leisurely, relaxing pursuits. After running around the tourist sights in town, you may feel like living like a local for a day (or two). The good news is; there’s a number of delightful, peaceful spots to enjoy around the city!
Whether it’s taking a picnic and soaking up the greenery of Regent’s Park or enjoying the space and stillness of the Tate or joining a sky high yoga class at The Shard, here are our picks for a mellow day in London – guaranteed to make you decompress.
Cycle along the Thames
Exercise and relaxation combined; a cycle along the river is a win-win. When the crowds hit fever pitch, hit the river routes on your bike. Take a London Perfect River Thames Bike Tour. The journey takes in both sides of the Thames, the key tourist sights and guests return on a Thames Clipper boat. After clocking up your mileage, stop for a pint – riverside.
Photo courtesy of Tate Photography
Tate Museum
A quiet museum can be a very calming place. Bring into the mix beautiful art to ponder, gorgeous architecture and roomy spaces and it’s a slow and steady pace. There are many free exhibits in the city but the Tate has numerous museums (Tate Britain & Tate Modern in London) and has to be at the top of any travelers list.
Linger Over Fancy Food at a Secret Spot
Book a table at Hush, just off busy Bond Street but worlds away from the masses. It has a captivating outdoor courtyard and is sufficiently hidden away to be an ‘insider’ spot. Kick off with a Bubblegum Martini and browse the fine-dining menu. The highlight? From mid-June, the place becomes ‘Hush Riveria’ with seafood and lobster-led dishes and a nautical design. Bon appetit!
Yoga at The Shard
Go slow on a yoga session with 360 degree views at the top of The Shard, the tallest building in London. Yogasphere has Saturday classes and when the weather is fine, they reach new heights when classes take place in the glass tip right at the top. You can also join in a viewing tour as part of your class experience. It will definitely be a memorable weekend doing yoga with this vista!
Photo courtesy of Yogasphere
Go to Libreria
You have no choice but to disconnect at Libreria, literally. If you don’t ditch your smart phone once inside this indie bookstore, they’ll do it for you, as phones are banned. A bibliophiles dream store, it’s great to unplug and get lost in the lofty bookshelves here.
Picnic in the Park
It’s a British institution: the picnic. It’s always an event (that we even have the weather), so go all out, make up a luxurious picnic and plant yourself among nature. Regent’s Park covers 395 acres and has an Open Air Theater, rowing boat hire and fragrant rose gardens. Then there’s the added attraction of the London Zoo for the kids. Meander around the park itself, go to the Japanese Island or just people watch.
Take a Life-Drawing Class
Spend your Friday night capturing real life on canvas, by taking a life-drawing class. You don’t need to be Picasso; beginners are very welcome at this fun and informal event at the Royal Drawing School.
Having downtime is an essential part of any vacation and there are plenty of rejuvenating spots in the city to discover.
For your next stay in London, our friendly reservations team are on hand to help you select one of our stunning family vacation rentals. We can also help with shopping, itineraries, tours, dining reservations, and customized private experiences!
