A Trip to London

There’s something about London that’s unique to the city. And it’s something you should experience, too. There are two ways to explore England’s capital – you can set off across the Atlantic and just figure things out when you get there, or you can plan ahead. A bit of preparation certainly wouldn’t hurt, so we’ve prepared this guide to help you plan your trip to London.

Where to Stay: A Range of Options

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London has no shortage of top-notch accommodation, but for the very best, you can’t go wrong with Claridge’s in Mayfair, the Shangri-La at the Shard, and the Savoy at the Strand. Claridge’s and the Savoy are famous for hosting both royalty and celebrities throughout their long history as two of London’s finest hotels. You might also want to check out some of the other amazing mayfair hotels london has to offer. There truly is something for everyone no matter what your budget. The Shangri-La is a virtual palace in the sky, with the Evening Standard praising its Asian influences and breathtaking views. Of course, there are other options, so feel free to check them out, too. Go for whatever suits you (and your budget).

Where to Eat: Here, There, Everywhere

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There’s a thriving food scene in London, so you won’t go hungry here for sure. Escapism Magazine recommends food walks around the city, and we suggest you heed that recommendation. You should try a guided walk where members of Forage London — the city’s foremost food experts — take you to the best mouth-watering food spots in the city. While you’re at it, ask about London’s best barbecues, like those in Borough Market, Hawker House, and on Maltby Street.

Ride a Bike

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In Amsterdam, which we featured here previously on The Quintessential Gentleman, biking is growing in London, and it is just as fun. The best part is that the city has fully embraced cycling, and you can rent bikes for a day, or even just for a few hours. “What’s in it for me” you ask? Well, let’s just say biking is a wonderful way to explore much of London. Plus, you get a good workout in the process.

Catch a Soccer Match

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Londoners love their soccer and they spend their weekends watching matches at home or in the pub. But without a doubt, the best way to watch a soccer match is live. So, go ahead and book some tickets — preferably at Wembley Stadium, the temporary home of Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur. The club are currently third in the Premier League and are also third favorites to win the title, according to bwin. If they do want to win they will have to make up a nine-point deficit to catch up with league leaders and favorites Liverpool. Whatever happens to Tottenham’s season, it’s worth noting that by being Wembley’s tenants, this is the best chance visiting soccer fans will have to watch a match live at England’s national stadium. Once they bid it goodbye next season, soccer matches at Wembley will become far and few between, as the cavernous stadium is normally reserved for cup finals and international fixtures only. Why not add a little excitement to the proceedings and place some bets on pick7 on the match you’re attending? Londoners also love their bets, and watching a soccer match AND winning some money on it is the perfect combo!

Go Shopping

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Yes, gentlemen, we know you want to shop, too. And London is the perfect city for that. Go to Savile Row for the best suits in the world or search for luxury brands at Harrods. Visit the one-stop-shop that is Covent Garden for pretty much anything you want and need, from clothes and jewelry to arts and crafts. Looking for bargains? Then make a beeline for the London Designer Outlet, which is literally just a few steps away from Wembley Stadium.

Go on a Pub Tour

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Ah, pubs! They’re the quintessential go-to destination for the gentleman who needs a break, and a drink or two. You can go on a designated pub crawl, which in itself isn’t a bad idea. It’s a great way to explore London at night and check out the establishments it has to offer. But that can be too limiting, as there’s a chance you might miss out on some of London’s very best bars. As an alternative, we suggest you read up about London’s finest pubs, choose a few, and fit them into your itinerary as best you can. To this end, Fodors has a few suggestions, like The Flask, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, the Lamb & Flag, The Churchill Arms, and Ye Olde Mitre. Each of these pubs are part of the city’s rich history and fabric. There are plenty of other choices, so feel free to check them out.

Even though we have barely scratched the surface, we hope this guide sets you up for an enjoyable trip to London.

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