London Travelogue: My Favorite Places in London

We have wanted to visit London for years. Finally, this June, my wife and I took a five-day trip. It was quite a hard decision because the visa approval was ambiguous. We could find ourselves in a difficult situation if they rejected our visa, but we decided to try it, at least. After 2 months of effort, we got our visa!

The flight from Ankara Esenboğa Airport to London Stansted Airport lasted approximately four hours. Then, we waited for almost two hours to get off the plane and go through passport control. We then went to the city center by Stansted Express train. After all these steps, we finally arrived at the place where we stayed: Camden Town. We stayed in a lovely, small apartment there.

There are many places to visit in London, but I can not list them here. However, I can mention some remarkable places for those interested.

Places to Visit in London

London is a city that effortlessly balances history and modernity, with each neighborhood offering something unique. During my visit, I was drawn to its iconic landmarks and more eclectic spots, each leaving a distinct impression. From the regal Buckingham Palace and serene Hyde Park to the bustling Oxford Street and the fascinating exhibits at The British Museum, every place had its own story. While some locations, like Chinatown and Camden Market, didn’t fully match my taste, the experience of exploring these vibrant spaces was worthwhile. 

Buckingham Palace

Starting with the iconic Buckingham Palace felt like a must. The palace, with its grand architecture, truly embodies British royalty. Watching the Changing of the Guard was a highlight – it’s not every day you get to witness such a formal tradition up close. Though tours weren’t available year-round, just standing outside the gates felt surreal, a reminder of London’s deep-rooted history.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park was a beautiful, peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Walking around Serpentine Lake, I was taken by the tranquility right in the heart of London. People were out enjoying the day – some boating, others cycling or lounging. It’s a perfect spot to recharge while surrounded by nature.

Kensington Gardens

Adjacent to Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens felt like stepping into a more curated space. The pathways were lined with statues and well-maintained gardens, giving the area a refined touch. I enjoyed visiting the Albert Memorial and spotting Kensington Palace at the end of a beautiful tree-lined path. It’s a wonderful blend of history and greenery.

Baker Street

Baker Street had a certain charm, with its classic London feel and vibrant shops. The area was bustling with people, and while I didn’t spend too much time here, I appreciated the unique energy that felt both modern and timeless.

Oxford Street

A shopping paradise – Oxford Street was vibrant and full of energy. From high-end boutiques to quirky little stores, there was so much variety. Walking along, you get caught up in the pace of the city, with people from all over the world here to explore, shop, or just take in the scene.

Chinatown

Chinatown was lively and full of energy, but honestly, I didn’t enjoy the food as much as I expected. The atmosphere was great, and the decor with the red lanterns was interesting, but I struggled to find dishes that matched my taste.

Camden Market

Camden Market was full of quirky shops and vibrant street art, giving it an alternative, creative feel. However, I found the food here didn’t really suit my taste. It’s still an interesting place to explore, with its unique stalls and diverse crowd, but the food wasn’t quite for me.

Mercato Mayfair

Mercato Mayfair was an unusual setting – a food market within a renovated church. While the architecture was fascinating, I didn’t enjoy the food selection as much as I had hoped. It’s a unique spot and a visually interesting space, but the flavors didn’t fully meet my expectations.

The National Gallery

As an art lover, The National Gallery was a dream. I could have spent hours admiring pieces by Van Gogh, Monet, and so many others. The layout was easy to navigate, and the museum is free, which is amazing. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in classic art without feeling rushed.

The British Museum

The British Museum’s sheer size and collection were impressive. From Egyptian mummies to ancient Greek sculptures, there’s so much to take in. It’s like traveling through different civilizations under one roof. If you’re interested in history, this museum is a must, though plan for at least half a day.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey was magnificent, both in terms of architecture and history. Walking through, I could feel the weight of British history – it’s where monarchs have been crowned for centuries. The atmosphere was respectful and quiet, a space where you can reflect on the past while surrounded by Gothic beauty.

Big Ben

Big Ben is an undeniable London classic. Seeing it in person felt a bit surreal, as it’s such an iconic part of the city’s skyline. Standing across the Thames, looking up at the clock tower, I couldn’t help but appreciate the timelessness of London’s architecture.

London Eye

The London Eye was perfect for a panoramic view of the city. The slow-moving capsules allowed me to spot landmarks from above, giving me a whole new perspective on the city. It’s a bit touristy but totally worth it—you get a sense of just how vast and layered London really is.

Places to Eat in London

With only a short time in the city, we couldn’t try all the restaurants we’d hoped to. Instead, we often grabbed snacks from M&S Food or Pret. They’re convenient options for quick, tasty bites and offer a surprising variety, perfect for fueling our day without slowing down. But I can mention two places.

Ole & Steen

We started one of our mornings with breakfast at Ole & Steen in Piccadilly Circus, and it didn’t disappoint. The pastries were fresh, the coffee was spot on, and the atmosphere was inviting. It’s a great spot to kickstart a busy day in London, offering a cozy and delicious breakfast experience right in the heart of the city.

Woody’s Camden

Another highlight was Woody’s Camden, a Turkish restaurant where we had the lamb döner. The flavor was incredible, and it felt like a slice of home away from home. The authentic spices and tenderness of the meat were truly comforting, making this spot a standout on our trip.

Conclusion

What I Loved About London

London has a unique charm, from its elegant buildings to its easy-to-navigate public transport. The architecture alone is stunning; it’s hard not to appreciate the beautiful facades and the character each building brings to the cityscape. Accommodation here feels accessible thanks to the efficient public transport – getting around was surprisingly simple.

Something that might sound odd, but I genuinely enjoyed, was the use of Serif fonts on signs and plates; it gave the city a timeless, refined look. London’s multicultural vibe adds so much depth, and the people are incredibly warm and welcoming. The parks were another highlight; whether Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens, each space felt like a well-tended oasis in the city’s hustle and bustle.

What I Didn’t Like About London

While London is captivating, there were aspects I didn’t enjoy as much. Some public areas felt unkempt, with litter and a noticeable presence of homeless people, which can be disheartening. The underground trains, though practical, are old and quite noisy, making journeys less pleasant than I’d hoped.

London is undeniably expensive, and living here would require a substantial budget – it’s not the easiest place to manage on a tight wallet. One thing that felt outdated was the sight of police on horseback; in a city as modern as London, it felt out of place to see mounted police in the 21st century.

Additionally, I was surprised by the lack of a distinct local cuisine. While the multicultural food scene is impressive, I missed the experience of sampling authentic, traditional London dishes.