By Jess Simpson
15 Ways to Have Fun in London
Alongside all the fascinating history and iconic landmarks, London is full of hidden gems – from daytime adventures to unique eateries and quirky nightlife, here are some of our favourite ways to while away a weekend in the city.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels
Adventure
Be brave and immerse yourself by swinging through the trees of Battersea Park. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or wanting to play it safe, challenge yourself to some thrills that will make you feel as if you can fly!
Rent a rowing boat for the afternoon in Richmond and cruise towards Teddington. This is suitable for beginners, and is a perfect activity for a sunny afternoon. We recommend completing your trip with an award-winning ice-cream from Danieli on Richmond Green.
Ride the Slide – ArcelorMittal Orbit
Head down to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to experience the thrills of the 178m long slide, with 12 twists and turns on the UK’s tallest sculpture.
Then relax in the beautiful parkland with its meadows, wetlands and waterways.
Nature
Richmond Park
Visit the largest of London’s Royal parks, which has so much to offer! For those who enjoy exercise, we recommend joining the Parkrun on Saturday 9am, or renting a bike for some scenic laps of the park. If you fancy some tea and cake, then wander along to Pembroke Lodge, located a short distance from the entrance. Be sure to visit the Isabella Plantation on the other side of the park as this 40-acre woodland garden is incredibly beautiful and secluded.
Primrose Hill/Regent’s Park
If you have a couple of hours to spare, another way to explore London’s Royal Parks is the Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill circular walk. It’s about 4 miles and suitable for all abilities. The summit of the grassy hills offers some of the most spectacular views of the London skyline. Stroll back via Regent’s Park gardens and Boating Lake. A perfect Sunday out, followed by a roast at a nearby pub!
Photo by Timur Valiev on Unsplash
Hyde Park
Located right in the heart of London, Hyde Park is an ideal place to relax and unwind in the open air. Whether you fancy exploring the park on foot or bike, hiring a boat for a sail on the Serpentine, or attending one of the many events, there is plenty to do and see in Hyde Park.
Photo by Marco Chilese on Unsplash
Eating out
A lovingly curated menu of comfort food that transports you to the heart of India. Serving tasty dishes at a reasonable price, Dishoom has plenty on offer for vegan and vegetarians too. But be sure to book in advance as it is extremely popular, and we hope you’ll get to see why.
if you find yourself near Covent Garden before a theatre show, or rack up an appetite after hitting the shops, then why not check out the many different food options at Seven Dials Market? It’s a lively food court with 11 independent micro-restaurants and 2 bars; we particularly love Bad Boy Pizza Society.
Eataly, Bishopsgate
This Italian spot offers some seriously good pizza and pasta options, an Aperol spritz tent and a multistorey supermarket where you can purchase plenty of Italian delights!
Coffee shops
Alchemy Café
Alchemy is a family run business, who have supplied their excellent coffee at venues all over the world, to guests from royalty to rock stars (including coffee for the artists backstage at Glastonbury, since 2005). Now with 3 cafés in the city, Alchemy is London’s best-kept secret in speciality coffee.
Kiss the Hippo
This coffee shop is dedicated to becoming the UK’s most innovative and sustainable speciality coffee company. Ethically sourced and roasted responsibly in London, then distributed to coffee drinkers worldwide.
Brickwood
For a taste of Australian brunch, look no further. Great food options and a large selection of hot and cold drinks, pop into one of the many locations dotted around London.
Night life
Cahoots
Fly back in time and visit this 1940s-themed bar in the heart of London’s Soho. With several quirky rooms to choose from, the bar is set in an abandoned train station, serving up great cocktails and small bites.
Fabric
If you are into live music, then Fabric is the place for you! The nightclub showcases electronic music, drum and bass and offers lots of different themed nights. Fabric is typically known for the amazing light show displayed within the warehouse.
Swingers
A fun night out with a difference – this bar combines crazy golf, street food and great cocktails into an incredible social experience!
Find out more:
Top 20 hidden gems in London – Visit London
10 Fun, Affordable Things to do in & around London
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