Each summer at the end of August, the usually quiet, aristocratic neighborhood of Notting Hill transforms into a high-energy hotbed of revelry and becomes the site of London’s biggest celebration and outdoor party: It’s time to celebrate Notting Hill Carnival. Here’s everything you need to know to have a wild first-time experience at this epic, weekend-long street party. ... Read More
Kensington is one of London’s most elegant and exclusive neighborhoods. It’s even the official home of royalty: Members of the royal family including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (a.k.a. Will and Kate) call Kensington their home. Given the prestigiousness of its residents, Kensington makes for an ideal setting for pushing out the boat. Here’s your Kensington guide: ... Read More
There is a massive French population in London. In fact, with an estimated 300,000 French citizens, London has more French nationals living in it than the cities of Bordeaux, Nantes and Strasbourg. French president Emmanuel Macron called London France’s “sixth city” in terms of its French population size, and it’s thought that more French people live in London than any other city outside of France. It’s no surprise then that Bastille Day, the national day of France celebrated annually on July 14, is a big deal in London. ... Read More
The annual London Festival of Architecture takes place in June. As the world’s biggest architecture-based festival, it makes sense that it’s held in London since London is one of the world’s most fascinating capitals from an architectural standpoint. From timeless Tudors to gravity-defying skyscrapers, the architecture in London is at once historic, diverse, influential and creative. ... Read More
Nothing beats the excitement and energy of Wimbledon. Even if you’re not planning on attending the tournament, visiting London during Wimbledon is a great idea. The city comes alive with all the excitement of the matches, and there are plenty of Wimbledon-themed activities to enjoy. Regardless of if you’re attending or not, this guide to Wimbledon covers all the basics. ... Read More
London is not only home to over 8 million human residents but also a wild population of animals. Talk about an urban jungle! London’s many green areas and parks play hosts to lots species of birds including pelicans, peacocks and parakeets—and that’s just the start. From stealth urban foxes to majestic stags, here’s where to spy some amazing wildlife in London. ... Read More
London loves a bit of royal pomp and circumstance, and if you do as well then you need to celebrate the annual Trooping the Colour this summer. Trooping the Colour, also called the Queen’s Birthday Parade, is an official British military event that celebrates the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Here’s everything you need to know about London’s Trooping the Colour. ... Read More
Whether or not you’d consider yourself a horticultural enthusiast, London’s Chelsea Flower Show is one of the city’s most historical and delightful spring events. Every year, thousands of locals and visitors head to Chelsea to observe a floral spectacle blooming with creativity and beauty. Not only is there plenty to see at the show, but there are lots of places to shop and dine at the show’s main pavilion as well, making this a great way to spend the day. Here’s you full Chelsea Flower Show guide. ... Read More
Two thousand nineteen marks the 200th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s birth. One of the most prominent British monarchs, Queen Victoria and her husband Prince Albert left an important legacy in London that can still be discovered today. Here’s how to celebrate the many achievements and lasting influence of one of Britain’s most popular queens in the city of London. ... Read More
Notting Hill may be London’s most popular neighborhood. (Thank you, Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant!) But it really does live up to the cinematic hype. The whole West London neighborhood is abounding with creative, bohemian energy that’s no doubt fostered in part by the neighborhood’s iconic painted houses. Here’s where to go to discover Notting Hill’s most colorful streets. ... Read More
As the weather grows milder and the days get longer, it’s impossible not to be impressed by London’s spring flowers. With blooms and bushels of magnolias, wisteria, daffodils and crocuses, London is a sea of the most charming pinks, purples and yellows this time of year. Here’s where to go to make sure you don’t miss out on blooming London. Have your camera ready. ... Read More
The city of London is home to a massive Irish community, so you can be sure that St. Paddy’s Day is on the radar of many Londoners as a day—or whole weekend—of revelry. From the epic parades to the pints of Guinness or a little something more special, consider this your go-to guide to observing St. Patrick’s Day in London. Here’s how to get in on the good times. ... Read More
Consider this your guide to all-things romantic in the British capital. London is romantic all year round, but it gets especially cute and cozy during the cold British winters. Whether you’re after a night on the town at a warm, candlelit restaurant or a night in at a couple-friendly apartment, these are the romantic places in London that have love in the air. ... Read More
It’s a sensational time to plan a trip to London. The year 2019 brings a whole slew of exciting events to the already-exciting capital of London. From amazing art exhibitions at world-class museums to important royal anniversaries, here are 9 reasons to visit London in 2019. Keep them in mind when booking your next trip because you won’t want to miss out on the fun. ... Read More
London is a famously literary city. Not only has the city been home to many famous historical authors like Virginia Woolf and Charles Dickens and modern-day icons like Zadie Smith, but it also acts as the backdrop for many classic and contemporary works. There are lots of books to read before visiting London, but here are our picks of the very best London-centric books. ... Read More
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