Ever wonder why conquering London feels like a never-ending adventure? Well, it’s because there’s always something new to see and somewhere fresh to go! Our city is constantly growing, so even we locals are sometimes caught off guard by the new spots in it.
But don’t worry, we’ve done our best to give you today’s guide. With this, you should be able to perform the ultimate capital conquest. Let’s get started on the perfect itinerary for a one-day trip to London!
7:30 AM – Eat breakfast at The Breakfast Club
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Location: 33 D’Arblay St, London W1F 8EU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7434 2571
Arriving at The Breakfast Club bright and early not only ensures you beat the rush but also allows you to savour their breakfast options. From classic full English breakfasts to fluffy pancakes and avocado on toast, there’s something for every palate.
And let’s be honest: food photos are a must when you’re travelling. The Breakfast Club’s retro-cool décor and mouth-watering dishes make for the perfect Instagram-worthy shots. #FoodGoals, anyone?
9:00 AM – Admire the grandeur of Buckingham Palace
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Location: London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 303 123 7300
Ever seen those red-coated guards with tall bearskin hats? Well, they’re not just there for show! At 9:00 AM on selected days, you can witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s a pomp and pageantry affair that’s quintessentially British and worth every minute of your time.
Plus, the early bird catches the best view! At this time, Buckingham Palace is relatively less crowded compared to later in the day. You can snap pictures without a sea of selfie sticks in the background, making your memories picture-perfect.
10:30 AM – Explore the historic Westminster Abbey
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Location: Dean’s Yard, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7222 5152
Westminster Abbey is where the British monarchs get their official “crown job”. The Coronation Chair, a part of the abbey’s treasures, has been used in every coronation ceremony since 1308. It’s like the Iron Throne but with more history and less drama.
Here, your eyes will be treated to the breathtaking expanse of the grand nave. This towering space is nothing short of majestic, with its high-vaulted ceilings and rows of elegant columns.
Note that the grand nave is where you’ll find some of the abbey’s most celebrated tombs and monuments. You can even take a moment to admire the intricately designed memorials, including the tomb of Queen Elizabeth I.
12:00 PM – Have lunch at Borough Market
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Location: London SE1 9AL, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7407 1002
Borough Market boasts an array of stalls and vendors, each offering a unique culinary experience. From gourmet sandwiches and international street food to artisanal cheeses, fresh seafood, and decadent desserts, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
As you indulge in your lunchtime feast, take a moment to soak in the charming surroundings. The market is situated near Southwark Cathedral and London Bridge, offering picturesque views of historic architecture alongside your mouth-watering meal.
1:00 PM – Take a ride on the iconic London Eye
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Location: Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7967 8021
At a towering 443 feet, the London Eye is your golden ticket to panoramic views of the city. As you ascend in one of its glass capsules, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of London’s skyline.
From your lofty perch, you’ll be able to spot London’s most iconic landmarks, from the historic Tower Bridge to the modern Shard. It’s like playing a real-life game of “Where’s Waldo?” with famous buildings.
2:00 PM – Take a trip to the top of The Shard
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Location: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 344 499 7222
When you reach the observation deck on the 72nd floor, you’ll be greeted with 360-degree views of London. It’s like a real-life Google Earth but without the pixels! You can spot landmarks from miles away, from St. Paul’s Cathedral to Wembley Stadium.
Oh, and fun fact – The Shard is the tallest skyscraper in the United Kingdom. Yep, you’ll be standing atop a bona fide London giant. It’s a symbol of the city’s ever-evolving skyline and a testament to human engineering.
3:30 PM – Explore contemporary art at the Tate Modern
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Location: Bankside, London SE1 9TG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7887 8888
Tate Modern is a haven for modern and contemporary art, showcasing pieces from the early 20th century to the present day. Inside these imposing former power station walls, you’ll encounter works by artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.
One of the most well-known pieces here is Andy Warhol’s “Marilyn Diptych”, which is a tribute to the iconic actress Marilyn Monroe. The diptych features multiple images of Marilyn, emphasising the duality of her public persona and the fleeting nature of fame.
And once you’re here, don’t miss the Tate Modern’s viewing platform on the 10th floor. It offers panoramic views of the city that’ll have you reaching for your camera faster than you can say “abstract expressionism”.
4:00 PM – Grab a snack at Bun House
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Location: 26-27 Lisle St, London WC2H 7BA, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
Their buns, often called “bao” or “baozi”, come in a variety of mouthwatering flavours. From tender pork belly to succulent chicken, there’s a bun to satisfy every craving. And let’s not forget about the vegetarian options for our herbivore friends.
5:00 PM – Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the River Thames
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Location: 58 Riley Rd, London SE1 3DG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7237 3108
London is synonymous with charming bridges, and cruising on the Thames is like a bridge bonanza. You’ll sail beneath the famous Tower Bridge, catch glimpses of the modernist Millennium Bridge, and marvel at the majesty of the London Bridge.
Whether you’re with a special someone or just looking to indulge in some solo reverie, a Thames cruise exudes romance. The gentle sway of the boat, the soft glow of the city, and the water’s reflective surface create an ambience that’s nothing short of magical.
6:00 PM – Stroll through Covent Garden Market
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Location: 14 James St, London WC2E 8BU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7420 5856
As the clock strikes 6:00 PM, the market comes alive with a lively buzz. Street performers, musicians, and artists set up shop, creating an electric atmosphere that’s uniquely London. You’ll feel the city’s heartbeat here, and it’s oh-so-addictive.
Plus, the area is home to a diverse range of eateries, from cosy pubs to gourmet restaurants. You can taste traditional British fish and chips or explore international cuisines from around the world.
7:00 PM – Have dinner at Dishoom
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Location: 5 Stable St, London N1C 4AB, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
Dishoom’s menu is a culinary journey through the streets of Bombay. You can savour dishes like their signature Black Daal, succulent Chicken Ruby, or the delectable House Black Daal. And don’t even get me started on their naan bread – it’s sheer perfection!
If you’re a fan of cocktails, Dishoom has you covered. Their bar serves up some of the finest concoctions, including the legendary “Permit Room Old Fashioned” and “Viceroy’s Old Fashioned”.
8:30 PM – Satisfy your sweet tooth at Udderlicious Ice Cream
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Location: 187 Upper St, London N1 1RQ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7359 7777
When it comes to ice cream, Udderlicious is nothing short of an artisanal masterpiece. This charming little ice cream parlour is known for its handcrafted, small-batch ice creams that are a pure labour of love.
Now, don’t expect your usual vanilla and chocolate here (although they do have those classics for the traditionalists). Udderlicious takes ice cream to a whole new level with its imaginative and ever-changing flavour lineup. From Lavender Honey to Blueberry Muffin, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
9:30 PM – Catch a world-class theatre production at the
Apollo Theatre
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Location: Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EZ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 330 333 4809
This theatre is renowned for hosting some of the most captivating and diverse productions in the West End. Whether you’re into gripping dramas, side-splitting comedies, or dazzling musicals, the Apollo’s stage has seen it all.
The Apollo Theatre has witnessed its fair share of history, from grand openings to dramatic incidents. It’s the kind of place that comes with its own stories, and being there feels like a journey through time.
11:00 PM – Party at Ministry of Sound
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Location: 103 Gaunt St, London SE1 6DP, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7740 8600
Founded in 1991, the Ministry of Sound has been at the forefront of the electronic music scene since day one. Once inside, you’ll find yourself amidst the beating heart of London’s nightlife.
This place doesn’t mess around when it comes to DJs and artists. The world’s top talent regularly graces the decks here, delivering electrifying sets that will make your heart race and your feet move. From house to techno to drum and bass, Ministry of Sound has it all.
The club itself is a sight to behold. With its sleek, futuristic design and state-of-the-art lighting, it’s like stepping into another dimension. The main room, aptly named “The Box”, is where the magic happens, but there are multiple rooms to explore, each with its own vibe.
