As I countdown to our trip to London in November, it’s time to start making lists of things to do in order to make the most of my time there. So, I thought it’d be cool to share my list of things that I do in London every time I go. You can call them my London Traditions.
I’ve been to London 5 times now and I’m a creature of habit. While I don’t always do the same things over and over, there are a few things that I’m sure to do every time I go. They’ve come to define what London is to me and I really look forward to repeating them on my next trip.
First British Breakfast
When you fly British Airways out of Chicago, all of their flights leave in the evening, so you arrive in London in the morning. This helps with jet lag but after 7 hours on a plane with crappy food, we’re usually starving. So, after we get into central London, the first thing we do is eat breakfast. I’m not a fan of the ‘traditional english’ breakfast but I usually get eggs, toast, bacon and a donut if I can find one. Our favorite breakfast joint (don’t know the name, just know where it is – across from Gloucester Road Tube Stop) has a machine that squeezes fresh orange juice on the spot – it’s the best orange juice you’ll ever have. It’s a true pleasure to sit outside a small breakfast cafe and eat breakfast on a cool London morning.
Visit MUJI London
MUJI is a Japanese lifestyle company that has a large presence in Britain and in London. They make the BEST pens I’ve ever used. So, I usually buy about 20 or 30 pens to last me until me next trip (or until I break down and order them online). They also have fantastic little notebooks for writing. My favorite is the passport sized notebook. They put Moleskine to shame. I also usually pick up a photo album, all my London pictures end up in a MUJI photo album. They also make great soap so I usually pick up a few bars of Mandarin scented soap. Months later, when I’m feeling London withdrawal, I just need to smell the soap and I’m instantly transported back.
Visit Travel Bookshop
I first visited this place because of it’s connection to the film “Notting HIll.” However, over the years, it’s become a must stop because of the great selection of books they have. They have more than just travel books – they have a lovely selection of international literature that you can’t find anywhere else. My wife loves browsing the books that you won’t see in the USA. I love the travel book selection and this is the place I usually pick up my trusty Ordnance Survey Maps. The staff are always helpful and friendly.
Visit Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square IS London in my head. So, I’m always sure to stop by and eat a lunch on the National Gallery steps, watch the people and enjoy a crisp London Day. Trafalgar Square is the center of London and it’s great to watch the city breath past you. The pigeons are quaint and the fountains great. I also greatly admire Nelson, so I like to give my deference to him.
Ben’s Cookies in Covent Garden
Ben’s Cookies, located in Covent Garden, simply have the best cookies on the planet. Now, I consider myself a bit of a cookie expert and I haven’t had a better cookie than those baked fresh by Ben’s. So, I’m always sure to pick up enough to get me through the trip. I also usually sneak back before I leave and take a few on the plane with me.
Dinner at Garfunkel’s
Garfunkel’s may just be a chain of restaurants, but I love their Filet Steak and fries. SOOOO delicious. I stop there at least once, maybe twice if I can convince my wife. They have locations everywhere in central London so they aren’t hard to find. My favorite is the cramped location in Leicester Square.
Walk Through Hyde Park
What trip to London would be complete without an amble through it’s premiere park, Hyde Park? Most people walk through the park on the way to somewhere else, which is a shame. There is so much to see and do in the park it deserves it’s own trip. My favorite thing to do is get up when the sun rises and walk through the park as the city awakens. I like pretending that for one day, I’m a local.
The Forbidden Planet
I’m a sci-fi geek and the Forbidden Planet is a must visit destination for sci-fi geeks. They have a huge selection of the latest collectible toys, some that you can only find there. In the basement is a massive collection of books, comics and DVD’s. Perfect place to pick up a model of a Dalek.
The Sunday Papers
The British have the Sunday paper down to an art form. My favorite is the Sunday Times, but I usually pick up a few others. They’re great reading material and they usually make their way home with me. It’s wonderful to sit in an outside cafe, sip some tea and read the Sunday Papers.
Countryfile
My favorite British TV show is Countryfile, a British Countryside affairs show that airs on the BBC on Sundays. So, if I’m in town, you can bet where I’ll be on Sunday. There’s just something extra special about watching my favorite show, while breathing London air. Generally though, I don’t watch too much British TV while I’m in London. I get most of it back home from various sources, so I don’t miss much and I have my live British TV feed from UKTV2C. So, while I’m in London I keep the TV off and explore what London has to offer instead.
What are your London Traditions?
You may be tempted into trying to find all inclusive holidays when coming to the UK as many people are worried about the cost of travelling to the UK. However as mentioned some of the best things are free so do drop a comment below if you think we have missed any of your favorite to-do’s.
About jonathan
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Anglotopia was founded by Jonathan and Jackie Thomas for people who love Britain - whether it's British TV, Culture, History or Travel - we cover it all. Anglotopia was started to get us back to the UK for a trip and it did that in 2009. Now, the goal is for Anglotopia to make our dreams of traveling to the UK whenever we want a reality.
I did a similar list a few years back, but have some new ones after this years trip….
Tea & Scones at the Savoy
Tour the BBC.. (We were there for rednose day, and brushed up against John Barrowman)
Visit Cardiff… (Not exactly London, but for a few quids you get to visit the filming location for London in Doctor Who and Torchwood)
Definitely visit “The Tower” (touristy, I know)
Get Guinness from a a pub…
Hit Ned’s Noodle Bar down by ‘The Eye’ and sit out in from of the Thames on a date.
Rent a land rover and go on a road trip up to Shere (filming location for “The Holiday” and other major U.S. films)
Get a Banozi from China Town
Hit the French bakery in Soho
Must go to Camden Street Market too… (Say hi to the Mexican man who makes wonderful burritos)
Bourough Market is a must…. and fish and chippies at FISH! behind the market..
(notice a trend here?…)
i agree a visit to a pub is missing from the list.
but you need a real pint (not guiness) how about fuller’s london pride
of course there are many many many pubs but if your stuck you could try the black friar (which has a great arts and crafts decor) its on a corner directly opposite blackfriars station
Wow… just got back from our 2nd trip to London in April (went with my twin sister) and even after going twice, it still seems we’ve missed some important pieces =) Only managed to do 4 things on your list – guess we’ll have to go back a third time to do the rest!
We had the English breakfast and hit Trafalgar Square (one of our favorites), Hyde Park and Forbidden Planet… also tops on our list would be a trip on the London Eye, nighttime at Piccadilly Circus, riding at the top of a double decker, and just added to this year’s trip – seeing a show at the theatre!
So much to see and so very little time – most important (as you mentioned when talking about Trafalgar) is to sit in the middle of it all and just enjoy the atmosphere…
These are great!! Really makes me miss England and there’s quite a lot on here that I’ve never experience before like Ben’s cookies and I’ve always been meaning to go to that travel bookshop and just never have!
I’ve been to London about 9 times, most of which were during my year studying abroad in Birmingham, and each time I go thinking “this time I’ll check everything off my list of what I want to do and then I won’t feel like I have to go back for awhile” – but the thing is, each time I return I only discover new exciting things that make me want to stay there forever. After all the centuries that have gone by, Samuel Johnson really was correct when he said “when you are tired of London you are tired of life.” The latest addition to my list of “most dos” is tour the HMS Belfast!
Whenever I find myself in London, I always have to walk through Kensington Gardens and marvel at the (sometimes terrifying) swarms of enormous birds that flock around the ponds; I do some shopping on Oxford Street – mostly stocking up on gorgeous Topshop clothes and cheap things at Primark; at night I like to stroll along the Thames from the London Eye to the Royal National Theatre and then cross the Waterloo Bridge over to the Somerset House – this is mainly because I just love the song “Waterloo Sunset” by the kinks! I also like to make sure I stock up on Cadburys and copies of the Guardian and the Independent and visit Portobello Road market early in the morning. *sigh* Wish I was back there now!
Thanks for all your wonderful comments!
I lived in London (or just on the outskirts) for a year in something like 1989… wow that is a long time ago…. However the pictures bring it all back. The breakfast especially they sure know how to do a full hearty if not healthy breakfast.
The English pubs are fantastic and a Sunday roast, be it lunch or dinner, in a real English Pub in England is something that should not be missed, especially fun when there is a football match playing (anywhere) which there usually is!
Loved the pictures
Regards
Adirec
How exciting! I made my third trip over in May, there’s no other place like London is there. If you’d like to see what I got up to, please feel free to visit my blog. Go to May in the archives and I started blogging about each day of my trip starting on the 19th. It’s like a virtual trip until you get to go on the real thing!
~D
I just returned from a 3 week trip to the UK. It was my third trip to London and my first trip to the countryside. I have been an avid Anglophile for many years, so I was shocked at how I was treated by the British on this trip. Has the world really changed that much in the 10 years since my last trip? I’m posting this with the hope that someone on this blog can help me understand why me and my 13 year old son were treated like dirt under the feet of the English during out trip. We were snarled at, scoffed at, ignored and laughed at. I was shocked. I am not an ‘ugly American’ tourist. I tip heavily, smile always and am gracious and polite, as is my son. I spent thousands of dollars staying at the best hotels and purchasing the best theater tickets, taking the black cabs about town (the cab drivers are the best good will ambassadors the Queen ever had) but even having money did not prevent me from being treated with disdain. There were many Eastern European workers and they were very friendly, but the English were intolerable. If I tried to talk to anyone, they turned their noses up. If I asked for help, I was ignored or told no one could help me. To be honest, my heart is broken. I want to love England, but I don’t think I’ll ever feel the same about it again. I have traveled all over the world and the only country where I was treated worse was Venezuela. Is there some explanation for the change of heart of the English towards the Americans? Have they always been this way, and because I traveled on a budget in the past I didn’t notice? I hope your experience is better than ours was. If there is some secret to interacting with the English that will help other travelers, this would be a good place to share. I wish someone had given me some advise before my trip. Take care, God Bless and happy travels. Patty.
I’m sorry you had such a bad experience. People are assholes in every country and Britain is certainly no exception. I hope you still had a good time and plan to go back. I know when I go, people are really secondary, I’m there for the sights and sounds. London is mostly foreigners anyway. It takes Brits a while to warm up to people.
Why do you think that having lots of money means you should be treated better than those who don’t?
It’s a real shame you got treated the way you did. I can promise you didn’t bump into me
Flaunting money is seen as a bit vulgar, the best seats in the theatre etc won’t enamour you to many people except those that own the theatre. Remember, we tend to back the underdog and shoot down the successful.
How dare they assault my name lol
)
I was a student in Leeds for a year in the 80′s. In Sept/Oct 2009 I took my elderly mother and my 11 yr old daughter to London. We were treated kindly at the hotel (Sloane Square Hotel), in the Tube, by cabbies, at tourist attractions including the last day of the summer opening of Buckingham Palace, essentially wherever we went. We rented a wheelchair for my mom for the long walks and I wd carry this up stairs and escalators in the Tube, making sure to keep to the right. I received many spontaneous offers of help with the chair. London Walks tours were brilliant and good naturedly pointed out national differences when relevant for those in our group: English, Scots, Australians, New Zealanders, Americans, Canadians, and German. They always made sure my mother had a good view from the chair.
We also met up with two families I had known 20 years ago for meals. On parting, the women of the families both kissed and hugged my mother, who they’d only just met, so British reserve does give way to affection when appropriate.
I cannot explain the rude treatment Patty received, only point out that it was not my experience.
(As an aside related to other posts, please do not bristle at being called Brit and I will not take offense at being called Yank. Both are shorthand and not meant to be a summation of being but a starting place.)
Your remark, “I want to love England, but I don’t think I’ll ever feel the same about it again,” reminded me that the England I love most is the England in my head. Time will soften your memories of your unpleasant experience, and chances are you would have an entirely different experience next time. In the meantime, continue to love the England in your head.
if you had come up to the north of england you would have found that people were more friendly than in london. I’ve found myself that London can be quite a hostile place – brilliant to look at maybe, but the people can be, as you say, just awful.
As another commenter said, if it was the case that you were flashing your cash then that would not have gone in your favour, but I am sorry to hear you were treated badly, and hope you do decide to come to England again.
Why not try York, Capital of the north – it has beautiful streets full of old shops and parks. It is gorgeous. Whitby in North Yorkshire is gorgeous – I love going to whitby – it is a seaside town with again little streets and a haerbour and it has an old abbey which you can look at, and the town is right next to the North Yorkshire Moors, which are amazing.
=]
I live in London and loads of people are so rude, even to locals. Last month the tubes were playing up and I was stuck in North West London, exact opposite to where I live in the South! I tried asking a woman who was pedalling a bike but stopped due to the sheer number of us walking from the tube station, she was one of the Waitrose bags in tow, arrogant eco warrior types you find around NW. She completely ignored me, and I wasn’t even vaguely rude! Thankfully someone else pointed me in the direction of a bus stop where I could get a bus to the centre, but it’s an experience I’d rather not repeat.
brick lane on a sunday is a must for a hipster ‘cool’ type, topshop and primark are good for clothes and something a bit different. harrods is amazing on the inside and they have some really good doughnuts.
I am sorry that you had a bad time in London but to be honest there are not that many english people left in London you really should try Chester a really beautiful city, full of history surrounded by complete Roman walls, the second most photographed clock in the world after Big Ben, oldest racecourse in the country, some great pubs literally hundreds of years old and the best steakhouse in the country,upstairs at the grill, and yes people are friendlier up north, I have had some great chats with A merican visitors in the Boot or the Falcon pubs.
My husband and I spent a week in London last October and experienced the same ill treatment. Since it was our 31st wedding anniversary, we decided to splurge on our hotel, dining, shopping and sightseeing experiences, and yet we also felt we were unwelcome Americans. We attempted to dine at a famous pub and several young men at the entrance actually yelled “F… Americans!” Yes, people are assholes everywhere, but I don’t remember any restaurants in all of my travels in the U.S. where there was such obvious disdain for their foreign guests. Of course, it didn’t help that we were in England during the financial meltdown, which was blamed on the U.S., as well as right before our presidential election–a highly popular topic all over England at the time. It was definitely a disappointing experience.
Having said all of that, I still love England (can’t help it) and I’m planning our next trip!
I found your blog on google and read a few of your other posts.
You have a great Blog!!! I just added you to my Google News Reader.
Look forward to reading more from you in the future.
Next month I will go to New York on Vacations, can you tell me where I can get the chepeast International flights to London?
Keep up the good work.
I found your blog on google and read a few of your other posts.
You have a great Blog!!! I just added you to my Google News Reader.
Look forward to reading more from you in the future.
Next month I will go to London on Vacations, can you tell me a good restaurant in London?
Keep up the good work.
I can vouch for the cafe across the road from Gloucester Tube stop…fresh-squeezed orange juice right in front of your eyes. Best orange juice you’ll ever drink. And if you’re hungry for something sweet, they have fantastic chocolate cake. Makes a great place to hang out at late at night and watch the streets get dark, too
Also, “restaurants in London”, I recall a very good (if a little pricey) Belgian restaurant walking distance away from Gloucester Road tube stop…bit further down the road from the cafe mentioned, but definitely worth a visit for the money.
I grew up in London although I am originally American – nowhere else have I felt more at home than in London
I went back recently for a short visit and stopped at my fave places:
- Rococo, the artisan chocolate shop on Marylebone High Street – their Easter treats are the best, but they have amazing candied violets as well!
- The Victoria & Albert Museum – consistently well curated and breathtaking shows – while I was there, Stephen Jones the milliner had put together an exhibition on hats that was wonderful.
- Covent Garden and Neal Street – Excellent shopping if you can avoid/stand the crowds; also where the Opera House is! Hidden in an alleyway is the famous Pineapple Dance Studio and Cafe Pacifico, my favourite Mexican restaurant.
- Tea at Sketch on Conduit Street – an offbeat artsy tea and scones with a twist; eclectic furniture mixed with contemporary art and a bathroom that’s actually an art installation!
.. as you can tell, I definitely miss the food
With love to old Blighty,
E
theres a forbidden planet in glasgow.
I’ve been to that one.
As a British person, who found this page while stumbling (gotta love stumbleupon), I thought I’d just give a small defence against the British Disdain some of you have experienced. A majority of the British Public will take the opinion of whichever newspaper they read, while this happens in a lot of countries, if you read Britain’s most popular newspapers (The Sun, The Daily Mail, The Daily Express i.e. Tabloid newspapers) you’ll find them to be vitriolic, racist and xenophobic and generally poisonous, the British Tabloid press have spent the last decade blaming everything on the USA, usually unfairly. Eastern European immigrants are friendly because they have to deal with British disdain on a constant basis. O,that wasn’t a Defence so much as an explanation, I don’t really want to defend the British Public’s casual racism.
@Patty, the best way to see Britain is on a budget, don’t bother with the expensive hotels.
And all of you remember…the North is friendlier than the South. Go see Manchester (wonderful nightlife, the Gay Village and Northern Quarter not to be missed* and Liverpool instead of London, or Chester if you enjoy history.
London is a pretty grim place, and I’ll only go there if I really have to. Some bits are rough and very unwelcoming even to others of us who are English. I’m sure you guy’s that have had bad experiences there should visit other parts of the UK, Sussex, Cornwall, Wales etc…
When i went to New York, i found it was full of miserable impolite barstardo’s. not once did anyone ever hold a door open for me, not to mention the all the mexican tourists or w/e the f they are.. and RUDE traffic cops everywhere.. and the customs officers as you arrive, omg.. they confiscated my baguette i bought on the plane, which i was looking forward t, and gave me a lecture.(tip: if you bring something small like a cake in wrapper, dont even bother declaring it or mentioning it, and no one will know.) i asked some woman for directions whilst waiting in the subway and she ignored me. i went to a macdonalds and the floor was flooded with water.. i mean wtf. fair play though, its a busy city.
see the point im making?
Londons not all that bad in comparison, but you need to visit some of the more rural and friendly places that are outside of the city center, and within the capital, but be sure to check out Camden Loch, easily accesible via the tube
I love the UK and visit every couple of years as DH’s family is from Belfast. We always make time for a stop in London. A few of my must do stops are:
Harrods: They have the most amazing food section covering two floors and the prices are really reasonable. We always pick up some chocolate, tea and stuff to nibble on. The chocolate area alone takes up a whole room. :faint:
Hyde Park: It’s always fun and inexpensive to get some food from Harrods and walk over to Hyde Park for a picnic. The people watching is great there.
Indian food: London has some of the best Indian food in the world and it’s always a treat to stop at a restaurant in Soho for a late night meal.
New Diamond Restaurant: The best Chinese food in London. Located on Wardour street in Chinatown.
Neils Dairy Yard: Cheese heaven.
Costa Coffee: I just love their coffee, one of the best chains in the UK. The best being Clements Coffee in Belfast.
Theater: London has a wonderful theater life and you can get same day half price tickets at the kiosk in the center of Leicester Square.
Museums: There’s so many to choose from but the BM is a must, if you haven’t been before.
Some like to do items are:
Evensong: There are several beautiful churches which allow visitors to come for evensong but dress appropriately, it is a church after all.
The London Eye: Yes, it’s a very touristy thing to do but the views of London are amazing and ever changing, depending on the weather.
Clarks shoes: Clarks is a very well know English shoe company with a very wide selection of very comfortable yet stylish shoes. They do sell a few styles in the states but it’s mostly clogs and chunky sandals. I find a better selection of shoe styles and better prices on the Clarks brands in the UK. They have stores all around London and various UK cities.
Covent Gardens: It’s always fun to watch the buskers (street performers) at Covent Gardens as they usually have the best buskers there.
Tea shop: There are wonderful tea rooms in London, although with the coffee chains and sandwich shops moving in, it’s harder to find proper tea rooms. If you can find one, be sure to have scones with clotted cream and jam. It’s a slice of heaven on a plate.
As a Brit I was really sorry to read the comments of Americans who’ve had bad experiences in the UK. Yes, we are difficult to get to know but I wouldn’t say any worse than other countries. I’ve visited the US many times and I’ve met great people and been terrified in the big cities..
Everyone judges on their own personal experiences but I think unfortunately general anti-American attitudes are back in fashion at the moment, mostly due to the Iraq war and the economic situation. I’m afraid sometimes you can’t really win, i.e. by saying that you tip a lot in restaurants that will be frowned upon because the Brits generally don’t tip atall (I know I don’t) so you’ll come over as a flash yank!!
Also please don’t judge the country against London, suffice to say I don’t live there and although it is interesting to visit- the people there do think they are better than the rest (maybe not unlike NY?). You should visit the South Coast, Wales, Scotland, the Lake District, the Norfolk Broads, there is so much else to see. Harrods, Covent Garden and tea shops are tourist traps and nothing else IMHO.
Another Brit here, and I am horrified to hear that our visitors have had a rotten experience. I work in a very touristy part of London (near Trafalgar Square, and on a very famous road found on a UK Monopoly Board), and I always go out of my way to help out if I can if someone is lost (it’s easy to lose your bearings in London). Things like Tube Strikes, the inevitable delay on the Circle line, awful day at work or missing the last copy of the Metro can turn any cheerful person into a miserable, misanthropic git! Though I agree with Al that flashing the cash is seen as a bit crass/vulgar in the UK.
Other things I suggest to do in London when you visit:
The Changing of the Guard – especially now that Horseguards Parade is temporarily closed to make way for a Beach Volleyball court, the change takes place on Whitehall, so while you have a mooch at Downing Street, you can watch the guard change take place. You get an excellent view of both at the Cenotaph. You can’t do London without a smidgeon of pomp and ceremony, after all
St James’ Park: If you want a change of scenery from Hyde park, nip off to Strutton Ground, just off of Victoria (the adjoining road between the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey), there are some amazing hot food stands, and an excellent Jamaican Food stall (when they are out), and chow down while watching the world go by or the squirrels running around like nutters…
I agree about Harrods, and it’s food hall – a great place to sit and eat, do not leave without one of their green and gold bags!
For all of you theatre lovers, this might sound sacrilegious, but this is something which was, until rather recently, uniquely British: SINGALONGA!
Yes, come to the Prince of Wales theatre in Leicester square to see your favourite musicals, as you have never seen (or heard) them before – Singalonga Sound of Music is something to experience, and not for the faint hearted, come in fancy dress, drink in the theatre and sing along to the tunes (and be prepared for some rather lewd call outs and shadow puppetry!). Due to popular demand, Grease and Rocky Horror are also being done.
On a completely different note, if you want somewhere vibrant, then Camden Market is a must see – A eclectic mish mash of stores, stalls, and some great bars, pubs and music venues – this isn’t somewhere to flash the cash (in fact, pretending you’re a bit short for money works in your favour on a number of the stalls, and watch them slash prices!), it’s a colourful place with equally colourful characters (just check out Cyberdog while your there if you want to bring something back for your teen relatives).
Hopefully you will come back to the UK, but if you cannot quite face London again, York and Edinburgh are absolutely beautiful cities steeped in history!
London is the place where you’re most likely to experience rude people. It’s also the most expensive place in the UK. Try the North of England; Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds are within easy distance of each other and if you head north into the Yorkshire Dales, you can be IN Countryfile, rather than just watching it on TV.
Everybody is much friendlier too.
Thank you for all the wonderful comments everyone!
I went for about two weeks in May. This was my second trip. First trip was for 7 days and we antiqued the whole time.
My favs this time: Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, Evensong at the Cathedral, Imperial War Museum, boat ride to Greenwich and the Naval Museum. Ate at a lot of pubs. Had absolutely no problem with the English people, got along with them famously. I’m a 20-year Rotarian, so I arranged a side trip for 4 days to another town to stay with a Rotary family. That was the best ever! I’m also 17 years sober in AA, went to 10 AA meetings and had a ball with those blokes.
I can’t get enough of that town.
You Americans seem to think that London is England – well its not, any more than New York is America (and what an unfriendly place that is!). Clearly some of you have been throwing your money around – never appreciated in a recession, especially from arrogant American’s who caused it in the first place.
We don’t have a tip culture and find it insulting to have you rich yanks waving money in our faces – a friendly “thank you” is enough (and none of the cheesey “have a nice day” crap please).
If you want to see Britain at its friendly best, travel on a budget away from London and the South East. Go on – stop following each other like sheep and do something original for a change!
Duncan hit the nail on the head – whatever nationality you are, if you want to see Britain, avoid London. For all the wonderful sights, remember that it is a primarily a business, political, and tourist city – Londoners are also pretty insular (even though most are wonderful).
Britain IS NOT London. Escape the South East and visit the 53m other of 60m that live in the country.
Yes, Al’s right, we’re going through one of those phases in Britain when a sort of political anti-Americanism is fashionable, because of reactions to George Bush and Iraq. It means those people who feel hostile to Americans are more ready to feel okay about actively being rude. I’m sorry about that, but please don’t let it any of it put you off London. It’s not unique to us, I’m sure it must be fairly rare, and as people have said, people can be rude to visitors everywhere, including sometimes in the US.
Plus, you need to factor in that service generally in England, especially in London, is pretty awful – we don’t like it, either. The best thing you can do if you’ve been served badly at a restaurant is refuse to pay the service charge. It’s not compulsory. As for tipping, the Wikipedia article is good on this:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tip#United_Kingdom
Sometimes British people can react badly to tipping – we can perceive it as reducing personal contacts to financial transactions, and as sort of arrogant, so it’s not a sure-fire route to popularity in London. I’d certainly advise against tipping in pubs (except if you eat a meal there).
While I’m at it, would you like some tips for brilliant, traditional pubs? My top tip is the Seven Stars just off Fleet Street
http://www.pubs.com/pub_details.cfm?ID=237
or if you’re in the Westminister/Buckingham Palace areas, it’s well worth a walk to The Speaker
http://www.beerintheevening.com/pubs/s/18/1898/Speaker/Westminster
The Two Chairmen
http://www.beerintheevening.com/pubs/s/29/2999/Two_Chairmen/St_James_s
(note the disparaging remarks about American tourists in the review on that site)
or The Grapes
http://www.pubs.com/pub_details.cfm?ID=191
You should definitely try “real ale” while you’re here – for Guinness, go to Dublin! Seriously, if you stick to yellow bubbly American/European style beer or Guinness, then you’re missing out on one of the best discoveries England has for you. It’s ike going to a cafe in Paris or Rome, and drinking Coke.
You should look out for the beers that are served by “hand pumps” – the person behind the bar has to physically pull a handle down, like a lever, to pour the beer. They look like this
http://www.ronsaari.com/stockImages/uk/ShipAndShovelTaps1.php
which incidentally reminds me that the Ship and Shovell just off Trafalgar Square is another good pub, especially if you sit on the south side
http://www.beerintheevening.com/pubs/s/86/864/Ship_and_Shovell/Charing_Cross
If the pub you’re in has a selection of real ales, ask what each is like, and have a pint of the one you like the sound of! Some pubs even offer you a taste nowadays before you buy.
Hi
Am British myself but don’t live in London, have vistited there myself on a few occassions.
I am sorry to hear about you’re unpleasant experiences. The thing you have to remember is that London isn’t exactly a very happy place. It’s very stressful living there and working there.
I can only echo what my fellow citizens have said and reach out a bit more, maybe try other cities such as Manchester, York (which really is Beaytiful) or down south, Bristol, Oxford etc. I live in Bristol Myself and I think it’s a good base for most tourists who want to see the south western countryside and be able to see the cities and it’s not far from the City of Bath.
I am sure you will find it all VERY different from London and yet extremely enjoyable.
I lived in London long enough to understand some nuances about racial disharmony. Like it or not, many British cities don’t welcome foreigners because of the high influx of immigrants. No difference from Paris or Rome or other modern European cities. The society is changing and the British find it harder to accept and to adapt. On the other hand, my one observation of the American tourists is their complete oblivion of the people around them. There was this PA parody on the tube (subway) in regards to conversations in the carriages. She said, “We’d like to remind our American tourist friends that you are almost certainly talking too loudly.” I am afraid this is often true and frowned upon by commuters nearby. We think the Americans think that they are the most powerful people in the world and hence demand a lot of attention and taking up a lot of space. This is so not welcome in this country. Don’t get personal. The Americans are still way down the list when it comes to racial or class intimidations. My suggestion is to visit this city like a budget traveller and humble upon people. Understand that some English people that work behind the service counters are usually well-educated – they may be bidding time so pay them due respect. Choose your pubs wisely and do like the locals do. Don’t ask for a cocktail list when you go to a theatre. Use British terms like football not soccer, lager not beer, loos not bathrooms etc. Or don’t do the OTT greetings and goodbyes. Or worst, waving wealth or class in people’s face. Londoners may not be friendly because they moan and whinge a lot, but I have never seen as much kindness and compassion in my travels as this awesome city. Some London tips – Kensal Green cemetery, London Silver Vaults (fairly interesting place but I like the secrecy of it), bangers (sausages) and mash at S&M, Notting Hill Carnival, Borough Market, quirky second-hand bookshops (usually west or north London), the Thames river from Putney to Richmond, Hatchard’s bookshop, the West End and Sundays at areas around Spitalfields.
I have a London list as well at http://www.darsys.com/london.html — and I list a number of things I’ve enjoyed over my many trips. And I’ve eaten at the first breakfast place on the list too. Quite good and not too overpriced by London standards at any rate.
Hello fellow anglophile. I am going on my third trip to London in the past 12 months. I went in Dec 08 for the first time, then again in April and now am going again in November. I am also bordering on a brit-obsession (started with Davy Jones of The Monkees when I was a tot, then Mary Poppins didnt help, Sid Vicious when I was an angry tween, and I actually married an english guy and am hoping to move there one day even though he prefers the US!)
Happy Travels and Cheers!!
Tami
London is a big place, and a lot of people with big personalities (Americans, but others as well) feel that this means they can be even bigger and louder than they usually are (and if you come from the states then you’re probably already a lot bigger and louder than the average Brit). Unfortunately this isn’t going to win you a lot of friends, London can be a menacing and dark place at times, and a lot of people that live here learn to keep their head down. Acting overtly like a tourist makes you look arrogant and out of touch. It’s also going to make you a target for criminals. The sorts of places you’ll be staying as a tourist are likely to be quite nice, but remember a good proportion of people on the street will live somewhere far more violent than you are used to. Combine this with the aforementioned fashionable anti-Americanism and you can see why you aren’t given the warmest of welcomes. The anti-American sentiment comes out of a variety of factors, the current recession was triggered in America, we’re currently involved in a war (and have recently pulled out of another) started by an ex-president of yours, and we’ve had bombs going off in our city as a result of said president’s actions.
Want to be treated better? Try and tone down your accent. Understand how tipping works in this country (NO TIPPING IN PUBS. FULL STOP). Work out how you’re getting to your destination BEFORE getting on the tube. Walk faster (especially in the West End, I work in Soho and there is nothing worse than having to walk to work at a snale’s pace.) Be aware of the part of town you are in and act appropriately, in fact just stay the hell away from Camberwell, Hackney Wick, Forest Gate, Holloway, Seven Sisters etc. Familiarise yourself with what the money looks like. Don’t try and strike up conversation with everyone you meet, most people don’t want to be talked to (we just don’t go in for the whole talking to strangers so much here, though there are of course situations where it is acceptable. Asking for directions is probably taking things far enough.) Don’t stand in groups directly in front of tube stations / in the middle of the pavement. Understand how BIG London is, it can take several hours to get from one side of town to the other. On that point don’t expect everyone you meet on the street to know the street layout of the area you’re in. Something like 7 million people live in London, I live about 7 miles from where I work, but I’m still in London. It’s not funny to ask how the queen is.
Do something that isn’t touristy.
Just a couple of little things from a Brit (who will agree whole heartedly with finding NY to be hideously rude, although i’ve been told post 9/11 New Yorkers are a tad friendlier.)
Ok first off… Harrod’s, if you go to one department store don’t bother with this one it’s over priced ($8 for a juice..) and gaudy. try Selfridges especially at Xmas for their famous window displays.
Camden Town is definitely worth seeing for it’s eclectic mix of people and wonderful Gilgamesh restaurant above one of the markets
The British Museum is incredible, from its breathtaking architecture to its exhibits
I would have to agree though that London has it’s own very specific set of unwritten rules – especially in regards to the Tube, please plan your journey before getting on the trains, please don’t talk to strangers and please above all DO NOT make eye contact on the tube, it may seem ridiculous but if you take a look around everyone but the tourists have their heads down, in a cramped underground system eye contact is the last bit of “personal space” a commuter can cling on to.
But yes I do also agree that London isn’t Britain, there is so much to visit – Bathh, Manchester, Liverpool, Devon, Newcastle etc even Bucks Herts Essex ad Kent contain a few little gems for days out
As a Brit who also stumbled across it…
1. Garfunkels????? You have got to be kidding! Check out Hardens’ restaurant guide for some much better joints. Next you’ll be telling me you’re one of the three people who eat at Aberdeen Angus steak houses.
2. Brits are now chuffing rude. No doubt. London is a fairly unpleasant place these days. My neighbours like to throw rubbish that has blown onto their porch onto mine. Love ‘em. People barge you on public transport, drop litter willy nilly and are happy to not help when someone’s in trouble. They do like to film it for YouTube, though.
3. For analysis, read ‘Watching the English’ by Kate Fox. Best description of how we really are.
4. Spare a thought for why we might have a slightly low opinion of the Americans. I personally think that they are like fine wines – they just don’t travel too well. Also the comments about your customs/law enforcement are spot on – land of the free? Having worked alongside some of the US govt agencies in their foreign deployments, I can see that the education system in the States is not too, how shall we say, descriptive of the rest of the world.
5. I love my homeland and always will. There are great ways to see London (Big Red Bus, the river ferries, walking over Waterloo Bridge, the South Bank, to name but a few). I’m delighted you love it and know there are many like you. Enjoy and grumble with us about how much it costs.
Fantastic blog.
As a true born Englishman I too am saddened to read of some of the treatment received by one or two visitors. However, as pointed out by fellow countrymen, don’t let this spoil your love of our nation and make sure you visit again.
There are some pertinent points in others posts though.
Firstly, please don’t take an impression of Britain as being London. It is a very different City to every other in England. Much of that is to its benefit, but equally as much is to its detriment. From the comments in this blog, and particularly those of the site owner, I would strongly recommend you expand your wings and make a point of furthering your travels north to the Lake District and Northumberland in particular. That, not London, is England. The ‘real’ England.
Enjoy the unparalled landscape, the untouched air and the completely different treatment you’ll receive from your average resident – and you’ll never want to go elsewhere.
I have travelled the globe and count the USA as a favourite destination, but I took have suffered at the hands of the ignorant that blight every great nation. As was said earlier, every country has them. It takes time to filter out the best from the masses and if you move from the South you will begin to appreciate England for what it really is – an incredibly changed nation over the past decade but one that still harbours echoes of old in some locations in the far corners.
Trust me, take a couple of days northbound to the Lakes or Northumberland and you will return a changed man who has seen England as England should really be.
So I’m an aussie whose been living in London for almost a year, I’m well travelled and have been to many countries.
I’m not your typical tourist in that I don’t just sightsee, I like ‘getting into the heads’ of the people I’m living amongst and adopting their way of life. I change who I am to be mindful of the customs and traditions in other countries, especially in a place such as Japan, where blowing your nose in public is considered the height of rudeness but sniffing is ok!!
I guess what I’m trying to say to those people who’ve grumbled on this page is that you can’t go to any country and expect it to be like it is back home and for people to react how you think they should. I’m sorry you’ve had a bad travel experience but it is really just that. If you take into account the time you were here and the financial meltdown of the world, I don’t think Americans were being readily accepted anywhere unfortunately.
Even in Australia, the lucky country, the land of sun & see, you will get amazing service & friendly people in some places but next door you could find the grumpiest person in the world who could completely ruin your holiday. I don’t think any country would be exempt from this unless everyone is on happy pills!
I’ve only done a few touristy things since I’ve been here, preferring to spend time with friends but I’m always on the lookout for the ‘unknown’ places to visit to avoid the crowds and to see the true side of London which is a far cry from the tourist hotspots. Some of the suggestions on this page sound really great and I’ll certainly give a few a go, the tea houses in particular sound fantastic!
I’m English too and I have to agree with what others are saying. London Isn’t England. Period.
As far as I’m concerned it’s an overrated tourist trap that really isn’t that great. Don’t get me wrong there are some great hidden gems there like Camden town etc but overall it’s nothing special. It’s just the capital.
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If you’re going to visit England then branch out and come up north where you’ll get the REAL England experience. It’s SO much friendlier and people know how to have a good time unlike some snobby Londoners who are mad at the world because they have to pay ridiculous amounts of money and commute everyday.
It’s probably a little colder than you’re used to but places like Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle have alot to offer. Especially Newcastle which has the best nightlife and shopping in the UK.
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If you’re after countryside or history instead then go to York or Northumberland (where I’m from)! They are beautiful places; the viking influence everywhere. Plus everyone is so laid back we rarely get any bother up here.
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Seriously, take my advice and try to avoid London if you can. There are so many other amazing cities and towns that are full of sights you won’t find in the capital. There is more to England than London.
I live in Camden Town, and am curious as to what makes it such a huge tourist destination. It obviously is one (can hardly walk down the street, it’s so chocka with visitors at peak times), but what is it you all like so much?
It’s Camden Market for me, it’s so individual and full of stuff you’d never find anywhere else. Loadsa hidden alternative shops and alleys to explore. You can always guarantee that no-one else’ll be wearin’ what you are if you get clothes from there.
I love it
To expand – if you’re in the North, visit Durham! The Cathedral’s beautiful.
London’s not London without a West End Show – and make an effort to visit CyberCandy just off Covent Garden. It’s the best sweetshop there
All these stereotypes! American here who travels solo and enjoys particularly traveling to Britain. Haven’t noticed the rudeness, was there last 2 weeks in May ’08. But of course I don’t speak to anyone (I don’t speak much anyway) so no one hears the accent. I suppose I just look like anyone going about their business. Used to subways and don’t suffer from “Oystercard Unreadiness Syndrome”. Money is a lot like ours isn’t it? Except the $2 coins? Never take out a map in London and stand in the middle of the sidewalk. No need to. I have the city memorized.
I’m not giving away my fav London haunts. No need for a crowd please. But I will comment on Harrods. In Philadelphia we used to have these enormous beautiful department stores (when I was a child) that have been sold off one by one, closed, turned into crap Macy’s, etc. Harrods is must for me because it reminds me of what the old Wanamaker’s used to be. Selfridge’s is too modern and bright and reminds me of MOMA. Big disappointment.
I’ve traveled around southern Brtiain and recommend southern Wales. Also Brighton. It’s worth one trip. Particularly walking the streets at night! Saw I-Koma perform last time I was there in an open bar on the beach. But you WILL get beer spilled on you by the enthusiastic and very drunken Brits. Accidently. They just tend to knock over pitchers and chairs jumping up and down.
Planning my trip up north for June ’10. Planning to fly into Manchester, drive around Yorkshire and Northumberland, then up into Scotland. Should be good. But I don’t plan to speak to anyone. OR tip.
I would not agree that Londoners are ruder than elsewhere. They are however more likely to be indifferent and, as in most large cities, generally in a hurry to get where they need to be. The British in general do not go in for talking to strangers. It’s not being rude; it’s nothing personal; no one is being snobby or aloof – it’s just not something we do, in general.
Many people are attracted to Britain by images of the countryside in films and TV and then spend 99% of their visit in London with the occasional day-trip to Oxford or similar. Much as I tend to agree with Samuel Johnson, do get out and about: take a coach trip to Stonehenge or for a longer trip, spend a week in a Lake District cottage for a very different change of pace. And if you find yourself on a rural bus in North Wales, do not be surprised if you can’t understand a word anyone is saying – it will be because most of them are speaking Welsh.
There are idiots on both sides of the Pond. Fortunately for the Brits, most American idiots stay at home – unfortunately for Americans visiting Britain, most of our idiots stay at home too…
The North isn’t miraculously friendlier than the rest of England; this is a myth. Having lived an hour away from London as well as in Yorkshire, I feel I must defend London from some of my countrymen’s comments. London isn’t ‘grim’ or intimidating any more than other big cities: when living near London I always thanked my luck that I could get there so quickly. There is so much to do and so much history, and such an amazing mix of people it makes you proud to be British.
I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with the North, by the way, but a lot of people like to dismiss London as miserable and expensive and intimidating. I would also say that Londoners are more cosmopolitan and welcoming of different cultures than most places in the UK. I feel a bit embarrassed about the bad experiences of some tourists. It’s unfortunately fashionable currently to hate America and Americans, but I think this phase is passing. And we aren’t rude, we’re just quiet and reserved. If you say something to a stranger they might just smile and nod; they aren’t judging you, that’s just how some of us react to strangers!
Now I know who eats in Garfunkels! I’m a Londoner, but I don’t know anyone who has EVER eaten in one. They are strictly a chain used by foreign tourists only. Mainly Americans.
Oh and the people who live in the United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland never ever refer to themselves as British or, worse, Brits. You are either English, Scottish, Welsh or Irish. Also I agree with the comment above: most of us just don’t like making conversation full stop! We aren;t being rude, we just wish you’d stop talking. (And I don’t mean Americans, we do like you, honestly, we just don’t talk to strangers over here.)
Garfunkels?! I’ve wondered sometimes who keeps them in business (-:
If you like books and travel shops, try Stamfords in Covent Garden. The most wonderful map shop I’ve ever been to.
Hi Anglophiles,
Just thought I’d chip in with a couple of suggestions.
If you’re looking for a non-London destination I’d suggest Cornwall – it’s a beautiful part of the country, especially the coastline. Sporty Americans might like to try surfing – there’s quite a surf culture bubbling away down there, particularly in Torquay. The “big” city is Truro, though this may confuse metropolitan Americans who could be forgiven for overlooking it. I personally love Perranporth, though it gets very busy in the school holidays, and there are some wonderful little beaches randomly tucked away all over the place. Warning: please, do try and avoid calling anything “quaint” if you can help it (limit yourself to one a day, if it all gets too much). The Cornish are as fiercely proud of their Celtic heritage as the Scots, Welsh or Irish.
If you are in London (and I love the place, for all its many, many flaws), Sam Smiths pubs do the best ale – and that’s quantifiable fact. There are a few of them dotted around, but you’ll find The Chandos if you come out of the National Portrait Gallery and walk straight on past Nelson’s column. Combine the three for an afternoon of culture, unashamed tourism and beer.
Finally, on the subject of tipping in pubs: of course not at the bar (you crazy guys!), but it’s not always entirely inappropriate if you’re ordering food – especially in some of the more corporate gastropubs. I mention that on behalf of my brother who works in one, and is a huge fan of wealthy American tourists.
Cheers!
I have my first trip to London planned for early in September. I am taking careful notes of things to see and do. Thank you for pointing out some things that I would have surely missed such as “The Forbidden Planet” which is now high on my list. Again, thank you.
Garfunkle’s, Seriously? This place is not good, it borders on being as bad as Aberdeen Steak House. If you want to be local, don’t go to either of these, venture out. A great place is the Butcher and Grill in Wimbledon Village, a 10 minute walk from Wimbledon station.
http://www.thebutcherandgrill.com/wimbledon/
I grew up in Oxfordshire, not far from lovely Oxford, but have lived in London for the past 22 years…Chiswick (West London) for the past 8. Overall, it`s a fantastic place to live. I know the local newsagent, butcher, greengrocer by (almost) first name terms and feel very much part of the community. I have three children and have always had offers of help with the pushchair up tube stairs etc, and I`m fairly certain I wouldn`t attack anyone with a meat cleaver if they glanced at me on a bus or the tube! I`m very proud of what a beautiful, tolerant and dynamic city London is. Of course it has it`s faults but what big city doesn`t? I`m not sure why a couple of posters think London isn`t much to write home about and as for “snobby Londoners”, surely inverse snobbery is just as bad? Don`t knock it, until you`ve tried it (ie lived here and taken advantage of everthing it has to offer) If you head over to the West of London, please don`t miss Richmond Park, Kew Gardens and the beautiful Petersham Nurseries…an absolute gem of a garden centre (lifts my spirits every time I visit!).
Lots of comments here saying that England is not just London – which is true – but I felt the need to say some words in defence of the capital here. London is an amazing buzzing city which nowhere else on earth can rival for its variety – in every respect that there can be variety, London has it. That said, it is also a busy place, which can be stressful to live and work in. Most Londoners will admit to having a love-hate relationship with the place. It also gets huge numbers of tourists – you being there is nothing special to anyone. So go with it – don’t expect special treatment – you won’t get it; don’t expect the fawning service in restaurants that is common in the US – we find it fake; don’t hold people up when they are clearly in a hurry – remember we get this all the time. If you have the misfortune to happen upon someone who is rude to you, then you got unlucky, forget about it – there are people like that everywhere alas. Most people – provided they are not rushing for a train or late for work – will be more than happy to point you in the right direction. Do all this (not much really) and you will have a great time and end up loving it (ok, yes and also hating it a bit) as much as I do!
I went to London in 2008 and had a great time. However I did read up and specifically left all my sneakers at home. Walking through Hyde Park in the morning was wonderful. One absolute must is Burrough Market. The world’s biggest farmer’s market. It’s amazing and worth walking around. The British Museum is free for gosh sake, go visit it.
You said ” but after 7 hours on a plane with crappy food, we’re usually starving”
You need to go to London via Virgin Atlantic. After several trips to Europe as a kid and having bad food, Virgin Atlantic’s food on regular coach class is quite good. Their food was practically actual food. After being surprised by the first meal, I no longer dreaded any of the others. You even get a small glass of complimentary wine with dinner.
Virgin Atlantic is the only way to go to London.
The only problem with that is that Virgin only flies out of Chicago (where we live) for 3 months in the summer. We usually go in the spring or fall. BA is the only option unless we’d like to fly American or United, which I’d rather not!
I live on the edge of London, quite a few miles from the center, and my favourite park that’s near me is Cannon’s Park in North West London. It’s simpily beautiful. If you ever have a chance to visit. it’s beautiful in the summer/spring, and go to the pond, and make sure you go to the ice cream stall in the center of the park! It’s amazing! My seccond favourite park in London is Regent’s Park. It’s much closer to the center of London. It’s near Westminister, and there’s a tube station called Regent’s Park, so it’s easy to access. It’s beautiful. Sometimes, I feed the ducks in the lake, and afterwards, I go to London Zoo, which is next to the park. It’s quite expensive to get in, but if you’re as interested in animals as I am, it’s worth it!
We recently made our first trip to England and enjoyed it very much. We spent 3 days in London and surrounding area, and 2 days in Yorkshire, seeing the city of York and traveling to Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay.
As an American, I didn’t get the feel of Londoners (or indeed, the English people as a whole) being unfriendly, or treating us rudely. And, yes, we did ask directions when needed, and some people were more expansive than others in helping, but I don’t remember rudeness.
It seems to me that London is like any other very large city, people who live there are in a hurry, they are just going about their own daily business, and sometimes tourists are annoying and in the way. No difference from NYC. That’s understandable.
By asking one gentleman directions on a bus in Yorkshire, we made a new friend who offered to escort us for the day to Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay, and gave us a wonderful tour, making the day so very enjoyable. I’m so glad we talked to him!
I do believe that Americans are much more loud than the British, as a whole, but that is generalizing. I, for one, usually am told to speak up, I don’t like to draw attention to myself. And, I was always taught to be polite.
It’s been mentioned on here about well-to-do Americans going to the UK and spending and flaunting our money. Oh, how I would give to be one of those! My husband and I went for our 30th anniversary, it was also the honeymoon we could never afford. We saved for a very long time for our trip of a lifetime. We stayed in budget hotels, didn’t buy many souvenirs, ate in less expensive restaurants (I do have a fish & chips addiction now!), and only took a cab one time. I’m sure there are many, many other Americans just like us, going for the memories and the love of the country.
I also didn’t feel that I was treated badly because of the political climate. Thank goodness. Most Americans don’t agree with our own political climate anymore and have been trying very hard to change things. Few of us are traveling to make a political statement, we are just trying to fulfill some of our dreams.
I personally can’t wait for my next trip to England, I love it now more than ever, that small taste was just enough to make me hungry for more!