An Insider’s Guide To London

London is a fantastic city. One of the world’s top travel destinations and a place steeped in history, culture and natural beauty. However, it’s also a very large place, and many visitors often find themselves drawn to the traditional tourist circuit, simply because they aren’t aware of all the other exciting activities on offer.

This article covers all the best that London has to offer, from the perspective of someone who has spent a great amount of time there. Covering some of the most unique alternative attractions in the city, this guide will show you how to enjoy this wonderful city like a local.

Fun Food Stops

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London is known for its endless extravagant and delicious food restaurants. With many top chefs gracing the city’s streets, you can be sure to find some of the best cuisine in the world. However, if you’re looking for something a bit out of the ordinary then there are plenty of great venues that will offer a once in a lifetime dining experience.

The Fat Duck is a one such experience, provided by eccentric Michelin star chef, Heston Blumenthal. Guests must book ahead, but if you manage to get a seat at this exclusive table you will be plied with courses of magical concoctions, that are as delicious as they are unique. For a quick snack with a twist, the Cereal Killer Café, on brick lane, offers more that 120 varieties of the crunchy breakfast favorite, with a whole range of different milks and toppings to jazz up your order.

Best Night Life

Unsurprisingly, London boasts one of the best nightlives in the world. As well as the more traditional clubbing experiences, there are endless alternative options that offer a truly unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. For example, Bloomsbury Bowling Lanes is set up with a true retro vibe, nighttime bowling, DJ’s and live bands and a free cinema that screens the best vintage classics. Similarly, Retro Bingo takes the traditional number-yelling, dauber dabbing experience with an extra mix of club music, alcohol, burlesque performers and glitter cannons.

Photo: Fernando Guillen

If you’re less of a night owl and more of an early bird, London is also home to revolutionary party – Morning Gloryville. These raves are held all over the city, and usually start around 7.30am. There’s no alcohol or other intoxicants, but bars serve a whole host of healthy smoothies and super food supplements instead, making them one of the best ways to start your day!

Shopper’s Paradise

London boasts some of the best shopping in the world, and you can’t spend time in this incredible city without indulging at some point. There are many diverse districts each with its own distinct characteristics that cater for shoppers of all kinds, so you’re sure to find something to treat yourself with, no matter your style.

Photo: Michel Jelijs

Oxford Street and Piccadilly Circus house the country’s most well-known brands, and are also home to many designer outlets, where you can get great deals on this season’s fashions. If you really want to splash out, Knightsbridge is home to the illustrious Harrod’s department store, alongside Harvey Nichols and many other exclusive designer shops. For an alternative experience, head down to Camden Market, Carnaby Street or Soho, where the latest fringe trends are dispensed for shoppers with an edgier fashion sense.

The Green Lungs

Londoners are true city-lovers – you have to be to make this urban metropolis your home. However, even the most streetwise city slickers like to take some time out and relax in the calming embrace of nature. London has some of the most famous parks in the world, and all visitors should definitely spend some time on their grassy expanses. Take a picnic, maybe some ball games or just a good book to read, and you can while away the time relaxing in the sunshine (when it’s not raining).

Hyde Park is amongst the most well known. With 350 acres, a plethora of artworks and sculptures, including Princess Diana’s memorial, there’s plenty to do and enough space to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Nearby is another key attraction: Kensington Gardens. Made famous in the cherished children’s book, Peter Pan, the park now houses many beautiful statues by notable artists new and old, and it’s a wonderful area to wander around and uncover its many hidden secrets.

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London is a world-class destination, but its diverse and eclectic culture deserves more time that most travelers give it. If you have a trip to this British capital planned, be sure to add a few of these more unique attractions to your itinerary.

Guest Post Sponsored by The Corinthia Hotels.