Short on Time, But not Short on Fun:
If you’re only in London for a short time, I have a great list of things you can do when you only have 48 hours in the city. Making the best of your time works well when you are in London, once you’ve figured out how to get around. When you spend less time getting to the destination, you have more time for fun. It can be really easy to get around London when you have the Oyster Card. Follow the link for more great planning tips for your next trip to England.
Day 1
Visit Notting Hill Bookshop
Start the day off right with a little shopping. If you stay in the Earls Court area as I did you’re able to get to Notting Hill in 15 to 30 minutes. The Notting Hill Bookshop might not be the exact one from the movie, but it has an amazing book collection and all the uniqueness of quaint English bookshop. Your next stop is only 30 minutes away by train from Lancaster Gate to Holland Park.
Visit Kensington Palace/Gardens
Kensington Palace may not be open for visitors right now, but you can still get great views of the exterior. Spend about an hour exploring the grounds of Kensington Gardens. There’s so much to see. If you love statues and garden hedges this is the place for you, and right in the center of London.
Have Afternoon Tea at Candella Tea Room
After exploring the grounds of Kensington Gardens, head over to Candella Tea Room. It opens at 12pm, but it’s best to make reservations in advance if you want to have seating inside. The scones and sandwiches will hit the spot and give you the energy you need for your next adventure.
Explore Some of the Prettiest Streets in London
Some of the prettiest streets I’ve seen in England were located in London. Check out some of the mews around London, these were former royal stables that have now been turned into high price luxury homes. From Notting Hill to Kensington, as you explore, be sure to find St. Luke’s Mews and Ennismore Gardens Mews.
Head to Croydon for Dinner at Yah So Caribbean
After a long day of exploring, settle down for the night by heading to Croydon for some amazing food. The best way to describe this place is by calling it a local gem with Caribbean comfort food. Some of my favorites included the shrimp dish and sweet plantains. Call and make reservations, the place fills up fast.
Day 2
Get Views of London from the London Eye
Be strategic about your exploration, since you only have two days to see the things you want. Spending the day on one side of London each day can give you enough time to pack a lot of activities into a short span. Start day 2 off with a view of the entire city from the London Eye. Then hop on the 381 bus from County Hall to Blackfriars Road to visit Tate Modern. Not in a rush, take the 20 minute walk along South Bank Walk.
Explore the Tate Modern Museum
A visit to Tate Modern Museum is a great way to explore modern art connected to a variety of artists who have been known for great work in the 20th century, including Pablo Picasso and Diane Arbus. There’s a lot to see at the Tate Modern museum, and the best part is, the experience is free. There are some special exhibits that will cost a fee, but overall entrance into the museum will cost you nothing.
Eat Your Way Through Borough Market
After the long walks and exploration, a visit to Borough Market could be exactly what you need. On your walk to Borough Market, keep an eye out for the amazing art, bridges and architecture located right on the Thames. Once you get to Borough Market, be prepared to take in all the sights, sounds and smells. There were so many vendors from all over England located in one spot. From sandwiches, artisan cheeses to chocolates and cakes. Be ready to treat your mouth to a variety of flavors.
Walk Across Tower Bridge
Continue down The Queens Walk as you head toward Tower Bridge. Head across Tower Bridge, taking in all the city views. On the other side you will find the Tower of London, Tower Hill and a variety of other museums in between. This wraps up your quick, but exciting trip around London.
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