Hi Earthlings ! Sorry for the late posting of our London, UK trip, got busy with snow ha ! Nah, just been slow and jet lagged.
Anyway, London was a dream. You know those places that live up to the hype? This city was all that and more. From iconic landmarks to indulging in my full-on tourist era, I soaked it all in—and yes, my feet are still recovering.
London was everything I imagined and more. From chasing squirrels at Buckingham Palace to sipping on a Bridgerton-themed cocktail (yes, tipsy adventures were had), this trip was the perfect mix of iconic landmarks, countryside charm, a dash of whimsy and the kind of breakfasts that make you want to write poetry. I’m talking eggs, bacon, pancakes, fresh fruit, pastries, and coffee so good it could wake the Queen herself.
We started every day at around 7 AM , fueled and ready for all the adventures. Speaking of which, our stay at Hotel Riu Plaza London Victoria was an absolute gem. Not only was it cozy and central, but we strategically picked it because it’s just a few blocks away from the Victoria Coach Station—a total win for convenience, especially for day trips.
Let’s get into the details of this unforgettable trip!
Day 1: Big Sights, Big Views, Big Ben Oct 27
What's Inside
Our first day started with a short stroll to Buckingham Palace—just minutes away from our hotel. We made it just in time for the Changing of the Guard at around 10 AM. Watching the guards in their fancy uniforms and precision marching felt so quintessentially British, I couldn’t help but grin the entire time.
After the ceremony, we wandered around the palace gardens, where I became momentarily obsessed with chasing squirrels. (Don’t judge me, they were cute!) Sadly, these little fluffballs weren’t having it—probably because I didn’t have snacks to offer.
After our delightful morning at Buckingham Palace, we strolled towards Parliament Square, a historic and iconic spot in the heart of London. The square was alive with energy, surrounded by statues of notable figures like Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela, standing proudly against the backdrop of the city’s rich history.
From Parliament Square, we were treated to a jaw-dropping lineup of London’s most famous landmarks: the towering Big Ben, the stately Houses of Parliament, and the futuristic London Eye. It was like seeing London’s greatest hits all in one panoramic view!
When the clock struck 1 PM, we were lucky enough to hear Big Ben’s iconic bell chime. Fun fact: Big Ben isn’t the name of the tower—it’s actually the nickname for the massive Great Bell inside the Elizabeth Tower. The bell’s deep, resonant sound has been ringing through London since 1859, and experiencing it in person felt surreal.
Standing there, surrounded by history and grandeur, it was impossible not to feel the weight of the moment. It’s the kind of experience that makes you stop and think, Wow, I’m really in London.
Then we passed by The All Hallows by the Tower church near the Tower of London was another memorable stop. It’s the oldest church in the City of London and has been around since the 7th century, offering a peaceful haven amidst the bustling city. I lit a candle to pay my respects, just as I did in several other churches we visited during the trip. The act of lighting a candle felt like a simple, meaningful tradition that connected me to these places of history and spirituality.
After soaking in the sights at Parliament Square, we initially planned to explore Trafalgar Square, but a Diwali celebration had taken over. The square was packed with more people than I ever imagined London could hold. While the vibrant energy was contagious, we decided to keep moving.
We took a scenic walk along the River Thames, where iconic landmarks like the London Eye stood tall and proud against the skyline. The London Eye is massive in person—did you know it’s 135 meters high and was once the world’s tallest Ferris wheel? Along the way, we even stumbled upon a lineup of those classic red phone booths, which, to my surprise, actually still work! Of course, I had to pop inside one for a quick photo because, when in London, right?
The stroll along the Thames was so refreshing. There’s something magical about seeing the city from this perspective—the bustling river, the iconic architecture, and the charm of old meets new. It made our walk to Piccadilly Circus even more delightful.
Piccadilly Circus is just as lively and dazzling, even though we arrived just as the sun was setting, so we didn’t catch the neon lights in full glow. But the energy was still electric! The street performers were out in full force, adding a playful vibe to the area. Often referred to as the “British Times Square,” it’s a bustling spot where tourists and locals alike gather to soak up the excitement of the city.
Fun fact: The Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, which is a central feature in the square, actually has a statue of Anteros, not Eros, as most people assume. Anteros is the god of selfless love, while Eros is the god of romantic love. A cool tidbit to impress your friends next time you’re in the area!
Day 2: A Serendipitous Day in Windsor Oct 28
This day was all about spontaneity, with no solid plans in place. With a bit of free time on our hands, we decided to head to Windsor on a Sunday. However, upon arrival, we learned that Windsor Castle was closed for the day. But we didn’t let that stop us! We simply strolled around the picturesque town, taking in the quaint charm of the area. Windsor has an old-world charm with its cobbled streets, cozy little cafes, and a laid-back vibe. The perfect place for a peaceful afternoon of sightseeing.
One of the highlights of our walk was the Long Walk, a stunning 2.65-mile path lined with majestic trees, stretching from Windsor Castle to Snow Hill. It was such a tranquil experience, and the view of the Copper Horse statue of King George III at the end of the path was truly breathtaking. The Long Walk is one of the oldest royal avenues, dating back to the 17th century, and offers some of the best views of the castle, making it an iconic part of Windsor’s charm.
After wandering around, we found a cozy Creperie in the heart of Windsor, perfect for a little snack break. The vibe in Windsor is so relaxed and charming—it feels like stepping back in time. I sipped on a comforting cup of coffee and enjoyed a delicious bowl of soup, while Marcus had a hearty pasta dish. The quaint surroundings of Windsor made the meal feel even more special, like we were truly immersed in the small-town magic of this royal getaway.
Later, we visited the Windsor Parish Church of St. John the Baptist, a beautiful and peaceful church nestled in the heart of Windsor. This church has been a place of worship for centuries and holds a significant place in Windsor’s history. Dating back to the 12th century, it is one of the oldest buildings in the area. The church is known for its striking architecture, including its stunning stained-glass windows and intricate details.
I took a moment to light a candle in the church, a small but meaningful tradition I followed throughout the trip. Whether at St. Paul’s Cathedral or St. George’s Chapel, lighting candles felt like a quiet way to connect with these sacred places. The peaceful atmosphere of St. John the Baptist Church was the perfect spot for reflection.
The church also has a rich history tied to the town of Windsor. It has been the site of several royal events, including being a place of prayer and reflection for members of the royal family. The church’s serene environment and beautiful interiors made it a fitting stop during our day of exploration.
On the bus back to Victoria London, We decided to visit King’s Cross Station to experience the Harry Potter magic at Platform 9¾. This spot, inspired by J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world, features a luggage trolley embedded in the wall, creating the illusion of passing through to the magical platform .It’s a popular photo op for fans, and a gift shop offering authentic Harry Potter memorabilia. We couldn’t resist picking up a few souvenirs to commemorate the visit.
Interestingly, King’s Cross Station has a rich history beyond its literary fame. Did you know that the station was opened in 1852 and has 11 platforms, serving over 50 million commuters annually?citeturn0search0 Additionally, the nearby St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel (next to St. Pancras Station) was the filming location for the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” music video in 1996.The hotel’s grand staircase featured prominently in the video, adding a touch of pop culture history to the area.
For lunch, we dined at Indian Lounge, an Indian restaurant known for its flavorful yet mild dishes—perfect for Marcus, who isn’t a fan of spicy food. We enjoyed a comforting lentil soup, flavorful chicken tikka, and rich tikka masala, accompanied by soft and warm naan bread. The meal was a delightful exploration of Indian cuisine without overwhelming the palate.
While we had hoped to visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour for an authentic Harry Potter experience, it was fully booked during our stay. Nevertheless, our visit to King’s Cross Station provided a magical glimpse into the wizarding world, and the day’s culinary adventure added a delicious twist to our London journey.
Day 3: Stonehenge and Brigerton Filming Location (Oct 29)
We were out the door by 7:30 AM after another round of our hotel’s legendary breakfast (seriously, I think I dreamed about their croissants). The Victoria Coach Station was just a short walk from the hotel, tucked behind Victoria Station, and super easy to find—even with my tendency to get lost.
We booked our Stonehenge and Bath day trip through TripAdvisor, and let me just say: 10/10, highly recommend. Our tour guide, Ruth, was amazing. She was this perfect mix of informative and laid-back, sharing fascinating tidbits about the countryside and quirky facts about the places we passed. Then, she gave us plenty of freedom to explore each stop on our own. No clingy tour guide vibes here—Ruth gets it.
Stonehenge was our first stop, and wow, those stones are something else. We had so much fun making up stories about their magical powers—was it an alien landing site? A wizard’s hangout? Who knows, but it was so fun to imagine. Standing there in the middle of this ancient mystery was surreal.
Stonehenge: A Timeless Wonder
Stonehenge isn’t just a circle of ancient stones; it’s a masterpiece of mystery and history. Over 5,000 years old and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as a symbol of humanity’s ingenuity. The fact that these massive stones were hauled over 150 miles—without modern tools—just adds to its magic. Was it an observatory? A sacred space? No one knows, and that’s the beauty of it.
Standing there, you can’t help but feel connected to the past. Whether it’s the solstice sunrise aligning perfectly with the stones or the quiet hum of history in the air, Stonehenge isn’t just a sight to see—it’s a moment to feel.
After getting our fill of magical vibes, we headed to Bath, a city I initially only knew about because it was included in the tour package. But let me tell you, this place completely charmed me!
A few quick facts about Bath:
- It’s named after its famous Roman Baths, built by the Romans around natural hot springs.
- The architecture is pure Georgian perfection—those honey-colored stone buildings are straight out of a period drama (and yes, this is where they filmed Bridgerton!).
- And guess what ! It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and honestly, every street looks like it belongs on a postcard.
We strolled around the Roman Baths, and let me tell you—they were absolutely stunning. No, we didn’t take a dip (yes, you can actually take a bath there), but we skipped it after Ruth, our ever-charming tour guide, mentioned all the “minerals” in the water. Apparently, the Romans swore by its “healing powers” back in the day. I’ll take her word for it!
We also made a stop at Bath Abbey, a breathtaking Gothic-style church that left me speechless. Its intricate details, towering architecture, and serene vibe had me snapping pictures from every angle. It felt like stepping into a medieval fairytale!
But for me the real magic was just wandering the streets. I kept imagining the Bridgerton cast strolling around in Regency gowns—it was hard not to feel like a debutante.
Before diving headfirst into all the Bridgerton vibes, we made a pit stop at Square Grill House for lunch. The first thing to arrive? My Lady Bridgerton cocktail—before the food. Rookie mistake! I sipped it on an empty stomach, and wow, did it hit fast. Delicious and dangerously strong, it had me giggling like I’d just heard a scandal from Lady Whistledown herself before the meal even arrived. Pro tip: never drink on an empty stomach !.
When the food finally came, their signature steak and pasta totally lived up to its best-seller status. Rich, flavorful, and exactly what I needed to soak up that cocktail-induced buzz. Let’s just say I spent the rest of the day feeling delightfully tipsy—but hey, it added to the fun!
Even though it started raining after lunch, we didn’t let it dampen our spirits (pun intended). Armed with our trusty Stonehenge souvenir umbrella, we braved the drizzle and headed to the Holburne Museum, which played the role of Lady Danbury’s home in Bridgerton. Stepping into its grand rooms and manicured gardens felt like walking straight onto the set of the show. Bath’s charm had me swooning!
We spent the rest of the afternoon getting lost in Bath’s picturesque streets, pausing for a quick coffee near the roundabout to sober up. (Hot drinks aren’t allowed on the coach, FYI—learn from my almost-mistake!) Bath completely exceeded my expectations with its quaint beauty, Georgian architecture, and romantic vibes.
Of course, we couldn’t miss exploring Pulteney Bridge, which looked like it was plucked straight from a storybook, or the iconic Royal Crescent, a stunning row of curved townhouses that oozes old-school elegance.
By the time we made it back to London, I was absolutely exhausted—but in the best way possible. A day filled with ancient stones, Bridgerton fantasies, and Ruth’s witty tour guide wisdom? 100% worth it.
Day 4: Royal Escapes to Windsor Oct 30
Windsor was calling, and we couldn’t resist! We hopped on an iconic double-decker bus to Windsor Castle, swiping our card for the fare—so convenient, no booking needed. Just a heads-up: the ride takes about two hours, so plan accordingly to make it on time for your tour. (Pro tip: Windsor Castle tours are organized by time slots, so don’t be late!)
Once we arrived, it was clear why the royals love this place—it’s straight out of a fairy tale. The grandeur of the castle grounds and the intricate beauty of St. George’s Chapel left me awestruck. Walking through these historic halls felt like stepping back in time, imagining centuries of royal drama and splendor.
If you missed the full story of my Windsor trip, don’t worry—I spilled all the tea here: Visiting Windsor Castle. You won’t want to miss it!
For dinner, we went to Giraffe in Victoria, it’s just across our hotel. For our appetizer we shared a lovely hummus plate—creamy and smooth, with warm pita bread and fresh veggies on the side, making for the perfect start to our meal.
I had the delicious Japanese Katsu Curry—crunchy, breaded chicken cutlet with a flavorful, slightly sweet curry sauce that made for the perfect comfort food. Marcus went with the classic Cod and Chips, which was everything you could ask for in a British favorite: perfectly battered cod, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, served with golden French fries. It was the ultimate British comfort dish, simple and satisfying.
To finish the night on a cozy note, I ordered a coffee, which was the ideal way to wind down after such a satisfying meal.
The vibe at Giraffe is always lively and welcoming, perfect for both families and couples. Their menu is packed with global flavors, from Mediterranean to Asian-inspired dishes, and there are plenty of options for everyone, including vegan and gluten-free choices. It was a great place to relax, chat, and refuel after a day of exploring.
Day 5: Towering History and West End Magic Oct 31
After another mouthwatering breakfast at our hotel (seriously, the spread was so good I was almost tempted to skip sightseeing for more pastries), we hopped on the Tube to Tower Hill Station, ready for a day packed with history and jaw-dropping views.
Our first stop was Tower Bridge, and walking across it was like stepping onto a movie set. The air was crisp, and the London skyline looked so cinematic behind us. Did you know that the bridge can actually be raised to let boats pass underneath? It’s a mechanical marvel that still works after more than 125 years. I could almost hear the soundtrack playing as we snapped pics!
Next up: The Tower of London. It’s not just a fortress—it’s also home to the Crown Jewels, and let me tell you, they are as sparkly and over-the-top as you’d expect. The Imperial State Crown, in particular, weighs a whopping 2.23 kg (about 5 lbs) and is adorned with nearly 3,000 diamonds! Talk about bling.
After all that royal history, we headed over to St. Paul’s Cathedral. The cathedral’s dome was so impressive, and after a few flights of stairs (okay, more like a lot of stairs), I made it to the top. The view from up there? Worth every single step. The dome is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, and it’s one of the most recognizable sights in London.
I also lit candles at St. Paul’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of architecture and one of the most famous landmarks in London. Did you know that it took 35 years to build St. Paul’s, and it’s been the site of major events like Winston Churchill’s funeral and the wedding of Charles and Diana?
Lunch was a feast at Borough Market, a foodie paradise that had everything from gourmet sandwiches to the dreamiest desserts. I couldn’t resist getting a little something extra to snack on later, because who can pass up fresh truffles and artisan chocolates? Not me, obviously.
We decided to visit King’s Cross Station to experience the Harry Potter magic at Platform 9¾. This spot, inspired by J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world, features a luggage trolley embedded in the wall, creating the illusion of passing through to the magical platform. It’s a popular photo op for fans, and there’s even a nearby gift shop offering authentic Harry Potter memorabilia. We couldn’t resist picking up a few souvenirs to commemorate the visit.
Interestingly, King’s Cross Station has a rich history beyond its literary fame. Did you know that the station was opened in 1852 and has 11 platforms, serving over 50 million commuters annually?
Additionally, the nearby St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel was the filming location for the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” music video in 1996. The hotel’s grand staircase featured prominently in the video, adding a touch of pop culture history to the area.
For lunch, we dined at Indian Lounge, an Indian restaurant known for its flavorful yet mild dishes—perfect for Marcus, who isn’t a fan of spicy food. We enjoyed a comforting lentil soup, flavorful chicken tikka, and rich tikka masala, accompanied by soft and warm naan bread. The meal was a delightful exploration of Indian cuisine without overwhelming the palate.
While we had hoped to visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour for an authentic Harry Potter experience, it was fully booked during our stay. Nevertheless, our visit to King’s Cross Station provided a magical glimpse into the wizarding world, and the day’s culinary adventure added a delicious twist to our London journey.
Night fell, and it was time for one of the highlights of our trip: watch a West End show, the Boradway of UK, we booked for Hadestown in the West End. We arrived early in the area, which gave us some time to explore the bustling Theatre District around Shaftesbury Avenue. The streets were lined with glowing marquees for shows like Stranger Things: The First Shadow, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and so many others. This area is the beating heart of London’s theater scene, and you can feel the creative energy buzzing everywhere you turn.
Our show was at the iconic Lyric Theatre, and I was beyond excited. But, here’s the thing—jet lag decided to make its grand entrance right then. I hate to admit it, but I found myself dozing off through parts of the performance. So embarrassing! It wasn’t the show’s fault; the music, the performances, and the staging were absolutely stunning. But between the cozy theater seats, the dim lights, and a long day of exploring, my eyelids just wouldn’t cooperate.
Even so, I caught enough to appreciate the brilliance of Hadestown, maybe rewatch it one day—this time fully awake! Or another West End show I really want to see, Hadestown was a last option since Marcus and I couldn’t agree what to watch, I wanted the classic and he wanted the modern. Lessons learned: jet lag doesn’t care how exciting your plans are and watch what you really like so you don’t fall asleep!
Day 6: Wrong museum, but we had fun with the detour! Nov 1
Day 6 turned out to be a classic tourist moment. We had big plans to visit the British Museum, but somehow, after a random walk, we ended up at the Natural History Museum instead. Oops! But honestly, it ended up being such a fun detour, and we made the best of it.
We started our walk with the intention of heading towards the British Museum. We strolled through the vibrant streets of Bloomsbury, passing by some charming cafes, bookshops, and quaint streets. As we walked, we noticed more and more signs leading us to the Natural History Museum, and without realizing it, we ended up at South Kensington. At that point, we were like, “Why not?” and just decided to go with the flow.
The Natural History Museum was a treat! From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the towering Diplodocus skeleton in the main hall, which was an absolute showstopper. The museum is full of fascinating exhibits, from dinosaur fossils to a stunning collection of gems and minerals, and even a huge blue whale model hanging from the ceiling. There are interactive exhibits and fascinating displays that make you feel like you’re walking through time, from prehistoric creatures to the wonders of the natural world.
If you’re walking around the area, you’ll also pass some other iconic spots like:
- The Victoria and Albert Museum: Just a stone’s throw away from the Natural History Museum, this museum is a treasure trove of art, design, and fashion history. It’s got everything from ancient sculptures to modern fashion exhibits.
- Hyde Park: Just a short walk away, this massive park is a perfect spot for a peaceful break, with serene walking paths, boating lakes, and beautiful gardens. It’s also home to the Kensington Gardens and the iconic Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.
- Royal Albert Hall: Another gem in the area, this historic concert hall is an architectural marvel. It’s where you’ll find world-class performances ranging from classical music to rock concerts.
Walking through this part of London feels like strolling through a royal neighborhood, with its beautiful architecture and the lush greenery of Kensington Gardens. We might’ve missed the British Museum, but we definitely got a dose of British culture with a detour to the Natural History Museum.
The architecture of the Natural History Museum in London is absolutely captivating! From the moment you approach the grand facade, you’re struck by its majestic Romanesque style. The intricate detailing of the exterior, with its stone carvings of plants, animals, and historical figures, gives the building a timeless, almost mythical quality.
Inside, the grandeur continues. The central hall, often called the “cathedral of nature,” is a marvel with its soaring vaulted ceilings and the iconic, life-size dinosaur skeleton (a diplodocus) that greets you as you enter. The museum’s design reflects both Victorian grandeur and a deep respect for nature’s beauty, with the blending of Gothic and Romanesque influences. The building itself is not only a place to explore natural history but also a work of art in its own right.
The combination of its majestic exterior and awe-inspiring interiors makes the Natural History Museum an architectural gem, one that perfectly complements the fascinating exhibits inside.
Final Thoughts
London isn’t just a city; it’s an experience. From our mornings at Hotel Riu Plaza London Victoria to the jaw-dropping landmarks and every delicious bite in between, it was everything I hoped for—and then some.
If you ever find yourself in London, take my word for it: eat the breakfast, watch the guards, and walk across Tower Bridge. Oh, and bring comfy shoes—you’ll thank me later.
I absolutely love walking around London. There’s something so magical about the city—the beautiful building facades, the charming architecture, and the cobblestone streets. It all feels so timeless, like the city is telling you its story with every step you take. And it turns out, there’s actually a law to protect its beauty! Buildings with historical or architectural significance are “listed,” which means they can’t be changed or knocked down. How amazing is that? It’s like London’s beauty is safeguarded forever, and every street feels special.
Until next time, Earthlings.
