ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳

On the one hand, planning an itinerary for your London trip will save you time, money and is likely to make you feel more comfortable about moving around this bustling city. Trust me, every neighbourhood of London has its own characteristics, style, and historical legacy - it’s fascinating to see everything on offer.

One way to plan your time in London is to pin all the sights, restaurants, cafés, clubs, pubs, parks and spots you would like to visit on Google Maps. By doing so, you are bound to build your itinerary by location, making it easy to pick an area of London to explore for the day. Many apps, like and will help you plan your journey using public transport. You will be able to compare prices and commuting time as well! On top of that, I strongly advise you to search for tips on Instagram and TikTok: just type the name of the neighbourhood you are thinking of visiting and you will find hidden gems and all kinds of reviews from locals!

On the other hand, many of my favourite memories from Summer School stem from completely unplanned activities. My best advice is to leave room for surprises, spontaneity, and flexibility. London is a city where there is always something new to try - don’t forget to enjoy the sunny days, to cherish the experience accompanied by friends and to get out of your comfort zone. Below, you can find my favourite spots you should consider, whether in planning an itinerary, or as places to stumble upon this summer:

• Marylebone – a lovely neighbourhood in Central London which became my favourite - don’t miss Daunt Books bookshop, the Wallace Collection Museum and Granger’s and Co’s delicious brunch.

• Notting Hill Gate: walk around the area - famous for the colourful houses that make a perfect backdrop for a photoshoot! Then, have a picnic in Kensington Gardens after visiting Deidara Bakery, look at Kensington Palace and don’t miss the famous Portobello Road Market on Saturdays.

• In Northern London, you will also find astonishing skyline views in Hampstead Heath and Primrose Hill/Belsize Park – take a picnic at sunset for the best experience! Regent’s Park and Holland Park are also very nice, especially on weekends!

• If you are on campus, visit Neal’s Yard and Covent Garden between classes, which are only a 10 minute walk away! Even closer to campus is Somerset House’s , and it is impeccable. The and the are also must-goes near ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳. After class, I recommend heading to the theatre to watch a musical or play in the West End (also incredibly close to campus) - Mamma Mia is incredible!

• My favourite visit of all was to , an exhibition about the UK’s experience during World War 2.

• If you have the chance, take a tour inside the , and visit . When in Westminster, you can also visit Westminster Abbey, where church services are open to the public, and famous parks such as Green Park and St James Park.

• If you want to explore fancy neighbourhoods, head to Mayfair (the home of the best fish and chips at The Mayfair Chippy), Knightsbridge and Chelsea. Don’t miss shops such as Selfridges, Harrods, and museums like the and the . Fortnum and Masons’ store in Piccadilly is also worth a visit (especially for the viral chocolate cake)!

• For architecture fans, London is a city which best balances modern and new, innovation and tradition! In Bankside, you will be amazed by the Millenium Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the spectacular - but crowded - Borough Market. In London’s oldest food market, savour Humble Crumble (traditional English crumble desserts!) and thank me later! The rooftops, like The Shard and Garden at 120, are breath-taking, has free-entrance and occasionally hosts events, such as yoga classes with a view. The “concrete jungle” of Canary Wharf is one of a kind.

• Visit Columbia Road Flower Market on Sundays, as well as Angel and Shoreditch. Meanwhile, for less central trips, I’d recommend heading to Windsor or Richmond.

• Last but not least, the night clubs and pubs need to be on your list! Keep an eye on ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳ student group chats, which are created at the beginning of each session, for updates on the best parties in town, especially in Soho and Piccadilly.

 

This blog was written by one of our 2024 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳.