London 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day London Itinerary for the Curious Traveller

This itinerary focuses on experiencing a variety of London’s attractions, from historical landmarks to museums and cultural experiences. It’s designed for those who want to explore beyond the typical tourist fare and delve into the city’s unique charm.

Accommodation: For this itinerary, we recommend staying in a centrally located hotel to minimize travel time. The South Bank area offers fantastic views and easy access to many attractions.

Transportation:

  • Purchase an Oyster Card or use contactless payment for seamless travel on London’s public transport system.
  • Utilize the Tube (London Underground) for efficient transportation within the city.
  • Consider walking between close attractions, especially in central London, to soak up the atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way.

Day 1: Historical Highlights

  • Morning: Start your journey at the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history. Explore the Crown Jewels, witness the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), and learn about its gruesome past.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional pub lunch at the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, a historic pub near the Tower that’s been around since the 17th century.

Things to Know:

  • Oyster Card/Contactless: Use it for travel on the London Underground, buses, trams, and some train lines.

Tips:

  • Purchase your tickets online in advance to save time and money (avoiding queues at popular attractions).
  • London Pass: Consider a sightseeing pass like the London Pass if you plan on visiting multiple attractions.

Food Recommendations:

  • The Tower of London Pub: Traditional British food and atmosphere near the historical landmarks.
  • Pieminister: Enjoy delicious pies for lunch or dinner.

Day 2: Royal Encounters

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Buckingham Palace with the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot as it’s a popular attraction.
  • Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through St. James’s Park, enjoying the views and green spaces.

Food Recommendations:

  • The Wolseley: This iconic restaurant offers a luxurious afternoon tea experience.
  • Hawksmoor Seven Dials: Indulge in a steak dinner fit for royalty.
  • Borough Market: Sample diverse food offerings from around the world at this vibrant market.

Day 3: Museum Mania

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in history and culture at the British Museum. Explore ancient civilizations, marvel at historical artifacts, and discover fascinating stories about humanity’s past.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely picnic in Hyde Park, taking in the views of the Serpentine Lake and the surrounding gardens.

Things to know:

  • Changing of the Guard Schedule: Check the official website for the schedule as it varies by season.

  • Museum Hopping:

    • Free Museums: London has many free museums, so take advantage!

Day 4: Art & History

  • Morning: Explore the world-renowned National Gallery, home to masterpieces from Western art history.

  • Afternoon:

    • Immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare at the Globe Theatre.
    • Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at the Fortnum & Mason Fountain Restaurant.

Things to Eat:

  • Afternoon Tea: Scones with clotted cream and jam, finger sandwiches, and delicate pastries.

  • Budget-Friendly Eats:

    • Street Food: London’s street food scene is vibrant and diverse, offering delicious and affordable meals throughout the city.

  • Street Food Markets: Borough Market for a variety of fresh and prepared foods.

Day 5: A Day in Nature (with a Twist!)

  • Morning: Visit Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and botanical paradise. Take a stroll through the various gardens, greenhouses, and exhibitions.

  • Afternoon:

    • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Kew’s Kew Gardens with its stunning plant collections and historical glasshouses.

  • Evening:

    • Free Museums: Many museums in London are free to enter, so take advantage!

Day 5 (cont.): A Day for Culture & Relaxation

  • Things to Consider:

    • Kew Gardens:

      • Consider:

        • Booking tickets online in advance for popular attractions.

  • Afternoon:

      * Explore the world-renowned **Kew Gardens** during a free afternoon.

  • Evening:

    • Relax and enjoy the beauty of Kew Gardens: Enjoy a tranquil walk through the gardens, wander among the trees, or catch a Shakespearean play at the theatre in the afternoon.
    • Things to do: Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea with all the trimmings at the Botanical Gardens.

  • Tip: Don’t miss the Kew Palace, the former home of royalty.

Things to Consider:

  • Travel Passes: Explore other historical sites in London, like the Tower Bridge or Hampton Court Palace, for free entry and travel to major attractions.
  • Free Activities: Enjoy a picnic on the grounds of one of the many parks, watch street performers, or explore the free art exhibitions at the National Gallery.

Things to See & Do:

  • London Eye: The iconic Ferris wheel offers stunning views of the city (consider purchasing tickets in advance).
  • Shakespearean Play: Enjoy a performance from Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre (check for availability and booking information online).
  • Borough Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market, known for its diverse food stalls.

Other:

  • Free events: Check their website for free events and performances.
  • Kew Gardens: Enjoy a walk through the gardens and explore the various greenhouses and plant collections.

Things to Do:

  • Explore Kew Gardens: Enjoy the diversity of the botanical gardens, including the “Kew Gardens” experience.

  • Borough Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market with a variety of free activities like tours and workshops (often available in conjunction with a ticket purchase).

  • Enjoy free entry to:

    • The British Museum: Explore the vast collections of artifacts from around the world.

  • Kew Gardens: Enjoy the diverse and vibrant plant life, including the “Kew Gardens” attractions.

Things to Eat:

  • Free tastings: Stop by the “Borough Market” for a free taste of the culinary diversity on offer.

  • Restaurants & Cafes:

    • Enjoy a picnic in one of the beautiful gardens or parks around London (Regent’s Park, Hyde Park, St James’s Park are great options).

  • Enjoy fresh and delicious food:

    • Borough Market is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes.

  • Afternoon tea: Enjoy the traditional experience in a setting with stunning views.

Tip: For a more immersive (and budget-friendly) experience, pack your own picnic basket for a relaxing afternoon.

Other Considerations:

  • Free entry: Many museums offer free admission on certain days or evenings.
  • Picnic spots: Check the “Borough Market” website for information on events and workshops.

Day 3 (cont.):

  • The British Museum:

  • Enjoy a variety of food options in the museum’s cafes and restaurants.

Remember:

  • Things to remember:

    • Always book tickets online for popular attractions, especially museums and galleries.

  • Enjoy free entry:

  • Check the opening hours of the museum/attraction you are interested in visiting.

Other things to Consider:

  • Free food at:

  • Some museums offer free entry, but may have special exhibitions that require a separate ticket.

  • National Gallery:

  • The “Shakespeare” playhouse is open for free tours and performances on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

  • Enjoy the variety of free activities in the “Garden” area.

Remember to:

  • Purchase tickets online beforehand for “free” entry days at the museum.

  • The British Museum offers a variety of exhibitions, including:

  • Free admission days (usually Mondays) are free for all visitors.

  • Free events and tours:

    • The “Kew Gardens” website lists all upcoming events and activities.

Enjoy a peaceful evening in:

  • Free Shakespearean playhouse events:

    • Enjoy the tranquility of the gardens and the beauty of the surrounding nature.

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the park’s open-air theater and take part in the interactive exhibits at the “Shakespeare” museum.

Enjoy a variety of activities, including:

  • Borough Market: Explore the various food stalls and markets at your leisure.

Free tours and experiences:

  • The British Museum’s website:

    • Visit the website to check for free events and exhibitions available on specific dates.

Enjoy a variety of activities:

  • “Borwich Market”:

Other things to consider:

  • Weather: London weather can be unpredictable, so it is always best to check the forecast before going.

  • Crowds: Even “free” attractions and events are popular and attract crowds.

  • Check for free entry days:

    • Many museums and galleries offer free entry on specific days or evenings, often with a request for donations.

Enjoy the experience of exploring:

  • The British Museum is a great place to enjoy a peaceful afternoon away from the crowds (they have timed entry).

Crowds are unavoidable:

  • Consider:
    • Booking tickets in advance for popular events and exhibitions, especially at “London’s” free attractions.
  • Enjoy the variety of offerings:

Free Monday evenings:

  • The British Museum offers free general admission on Mondays.

Other Considerations:

  • Remember to check the website for specific hours and availability of free entry.

Please remember that this is just a suggestion, you can adapt it to your own interests and budget. For example, “free” events are often free for Londoners but may have entrance fees for tourists or those who want to see special exhibitions.

Enjoy the beauty of Shakespeare’s “Garden”:

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of “London” with a variety of activities and events available.

For a relaxing experience:

  • Enjoy the beautiful gardens at the museum, which are often quieter than the main exhibits.
  • Relaxing in a quiet park is a great way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Enjoy the free “Shakespeare” exhibitions:

  • Bring a picnic lunch or snacks and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere on a Monday afternoon at the “National Gallery”.

Other:

  • Enjoy the historical ambiance and beauty of the “Shakespearean plays” venue.