Curator’s statement
London is an expansive, bustling and diverse city with delicious cuisines and a rich history. As we journey through this historic city, we'll explore not only the grandeur of its royal past but also engage in critical reflections on the empire that shaped much of the world.
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Where to stay in London
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Things to do in London
The National Gallery: Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery houses a vast collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries.
The Churchill War Rooms: Delve into the secret underground bunker where Winston Churchill and his team directed British operations during World War II. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the wartime history and the personal life of Churchill. This is a must-do for history buffs.
The Tate Modern: The Tate Modern is perfect for contemporary art lovers. The museum is housed in a converted power station and features works by Picasso, Warhol and more.
Camden Passage: A hidden gem, Camden Passage is a quaint, pedestrianized street filled with antique shops, boutiques and cafes. It’s the perfect spot for browsing vintage finds and unique gifts. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, there’s a bustling antiques market where you can hunt for treasures.
The Serpentine Galleries: These contemporary art galleries are split between two locations: the Serpentine Gallery and the Serpentine Sackler Gallery, connected by a bridge over the Serpentine. Both galleries host rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.
Chinatown: Located in the heart of Soho, Chinatown is a vibrant area filled with authentic Asian restaurants, supermarkets and bakeries. Visit during Chinese New Year for an especially festive atmosphere.
Theaters and nightlife: Soho is the heart of London’s West End, home to numerous theaters showcasing some of the best musicals and plays in the world. After a show, explore Soho’s legendary nightlife, with a variety of bars, pubs and live music venues to choose from.
The Victoria and Albert Museum: A treasure trove of art and design, the Victoria and Albert is one of London’s premier museums. Its vast collection spans centuries and includes everything from fashion and textiles to sculptures and ceramics. The museum’s architecture and courtyard are also worth admiring.
Places to eat & drink in London
Dishoom Shoreditch: A nostalgic tribute to Bombay's Irani cafés, Dishoom serves up unlimited hot chai that will change your life. I recommend going for breakfast and dinner to try both menus.
Koya Soho: A minimalist haven for lovers of authentic Japanese cuisine, Koya Soho delights with its handmade udon and fresh, seasonal ingredients. I've waited in the rain for a seat at this bar, and it was well worth it.
Bancone: An Italian-inspired eatery renowned for its fresh pasta and elegant simplicity, this is my first choice for a pre-theater dinner.
Tamil Crown: A culinary gem offering a vibrant blend of South Indian flavors with a modern twist. Their sister restaurant Tamil Prince is just as worthy of a visit.
Afternoon Tea at The Ritz: Afternoon Tea at The Ritz is the epitome of British elegance, offering a timeless experience of indulgence and refinement in a setting steeped in luxury. Don't forget to check the dress code before you go!
Harrods Food Hall: A luxurious culinary wonderland where global flavors meet British elegance, this food hall is worth the visit. Their £10 chicken box is all the rage right now on TikTok, but their timeless selection is great for gifts too.
Rosa's Thai: A vibrant and contemporary spot that brings the bold, authentic flavors of Thailand to the heart of London, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. I rarely recommend chain restaurants, but Rosa's has locations all over the city, so I find myself ordering in or dropping by often.
The Devonshire: A classic British pub with a modern edge, The Devonshire combines hearty comfort food with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Buns from Home: Buns from Home serves up freshly baked, buttery buns with inventive fillings that make for an unforgettable, mouthwatering treat. Get a good mix of savory and sweet buns to fully enjoy the range of options. I love getting buns from the Angel location on Camden passage after shopping at their vintage market on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
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Travel Advisor
Amanda Widom
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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to London. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Ciani Rey Walker's guide, Top Five Markets in London for Foodies and Explorers