Do you have the duty of taking a London newbie out in the city for their first time? Or have you moved to the English capital and are now constantly welcoming a stream of visitors? Then it’s your responsibility to show them the best that the city has to offer. Here are some suggestions…
Take them to… The Southbank and all that is on offer there…
London’s Southbank has done a lot to make tourism cool again, or at least in London anyway. You’ve got a number of London’s biggest sites within walking distance. There’s the London Eye that they’ll have seen on so many pictures, and of course, it’s right across from the Big Ben and Westminster. There is also a load of awesome culture venues here too. You’ve got The Southbank Centre and The National Theatre pretty much right next to each other. Not to mention the fact that all of these places are right on the Thames. A trip here is ideal if they only have a day in the city, as they can take in lots of things all at once. Plus, if you’re visiting during the warmer months, the Udderbelly will be open. This is a great venue for al-fresco drinks.
Take them to… That secret bar you only tell a few select people about…
A London virgin will want to see the tourist sights. After all, they’re popular for good reason. But alongside this, you should also introduce them to places that only true Londoners know about. Take them along to that secret hotspot you don’t tell many people about. Yes, that one!
Take them to…The open air market where you buy all your best stuff….
London does many things well, and one thing it totally excels at is its markets. They’re dotted right across the capital, and every Londoner has their favourite. If your guests love touristy environments, take them to Covent Garden. But if they want something a little more authentic, how about Portobello Road or Notting Hill? Not to mention Spitalfield market or Columbia Road’s flower market. Find out what it is they like to browse or buy, and the find a market to suit.
Take them to… The most authentic accommodation
London hotels are extortionately expensive. This is a fact of life, and unless your Dad owns a chain or you’re super rich yourself, there is no way of getting around it! So, instead of getting your visitor to blow all their cash on costly accommodation, seek out something cheaper. Room club is one such company that does short-term lets in the capital at affordable rates. Companies like this are ideal if the visitor is sticking around for a couple of months.
Take them to… A West End show
New York has Broadway, but London has the West End! A must-do activity for any London virgin is to take in a show at one of the many theatres here. No matter what their taste, there will be something for them. Into musicals? Take them to see Wicked? Into classics? How about Lion King? Even a local will enjoy these incredible shows.