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The Ultimate London Guide by Nathan Rollinson

Published

19 July, 2022

Edited

31 August, 2023

Nathan Rollinson
Originally from Cambridge and West Midlands, Nathan Rollinson, founder of The Rollinson, moved to London for twelve years where he discovered his passion for finding the best hidden gems the city has to offer.

From elegant townhouses in Mayfair to trendy vibes in Shoreditch, London offers the ultimate contrast between the spectacular historical sights, the grind of a big city, and the lively cultural and foodie scene that makes London an interesting and exciting destination. Wander through St. James Park, visit Buckingham Palace, explore the streets of Covent Gardens, and take a ride up the River Thames. London's incredible shopping, endless sights, friendly locals, and vibrant restaurants offer something for every kind of traveller.

Your guide to must-do activities in London

In London, there's no end to activities to do! It is always a good idea to visit several museums, historical sites, and art galleries, or eat and drink your way through the many Michelin restaurants. London offers vast choices of what to do and where to visit, especially if you are a first time visitor to London; Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey would be your first visit as it's what represents London.

Explore the British old-school afternoon tea tradition

The Savoy’s world-famous Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed in the Thames Foyer, the heart of The Savoy, where a stunning glass-domed atrium, radiates natural light and sociable warmth. An impressive gazebo takes centre stage where a pianist plays during the day, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Created by The Savoy’s Executive Pastry Chef, Daniel Pearse, and his team, The Savoy’s Afternoon Tea offers the traditional Afternoon and High Tea favourites.

An extensive range of over 30 teas are accompanied by twists on classic sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream, jam, and lemon curd, and the talented pastry team’s selection of pastries, each one a tempting work of art. A glass of Laurent-Perrier Champagne or Nyetimber sparkling wine can be added to make your experience extra special. Today, in addition to their renowned traditional Afternoon Tea and High Tea they also offer a Vegan Afternoon Tea and a Vegetarian Afternoon Tea.

Shop around Mayfair & St. James'

Mayfair and St. James is an affluent area in the West End of London towards the eastern edge of Hyde Park, in the City of Westminster, between Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Piccadilly. There are many places to shop around Mayfair, especially grand arcades such as Burlington Arcade, the Royal Arcade and Piccadilly Arcade, where you can find many prestigious retailers.

From iconic Fortnum & Mason, Lock & Co, Dr Harris and Berry Bros. and Rudd are some of the oldest and most renowned shops in London, to fabulous jewellery boutiques such as Cartier, Tiffany's, and Harry Winston on Old Bond Street. Mayfair & St. James offers the most fantastic retail throughout the area and feels like an old yet elegant part of London.

Enjoy some hidden gems around London

From the many pastel hued houses lining the neighbourhood of Notting Hill to trendy vibes around Shoreditch. London offers many wonderful hidden gems, where you can go for a wander and get lost. The best way to find new corners/places. I especially adore the Columbia Road Market near Shoreditch, as it’s one of the few streets in the country composed entirely of independent businesses. Here you can find over 60 boutiques including small art galleries next to cupcake shops, vintage clothing stores, English and Italian delis, as well as gardening, and antique shops.

There's also a wealth of great pubs, cafés and restaurants. Plus, if you go on a Sunday, you can explore one of London’s oldest flower markets where you can find the highest quality plants and flowers at the best prices.

A day at the Wallace Museum

One of my favourite museums is called The Wallace Collection. It's a public museum in London occupying Hertford House in Manchester Square, the former townhouse of the Seymour family, Marquesses of Hertford. It is named after Sir Richard Wallace, who built the extensive collection and the Marquesses of Hertford in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Collection numbers nearly 5,500 objects, a range of fine and decorative arts from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The collection is known for its 18th-century French paintings, Sèvres porcelain and French furniture but also displays other objects, such as arms and armour featuring both European and Oriental objects, as well as displays of gold boxes, miniatures, sculpture and medieval and Renaissance works of art such as maiolica, glass, bronzes and Limoges enamels. You also can pop into their excellent orangery-style cafe in the courtyard for some tea and cake.

Still wondering what to do in London?

Head over to Nathan's Instagram and blog and discover his latest inside tips for the city.

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