Big red buses, telephone boxes, and Buckingham Palace aren’t the only things that London has to offer. As well as being home to quintessentially British characters such as Paddington Bear and Sherlock Holmes, the English capital also houses a melting pot of cultures, with vintage markets galore and countless cuisines interspersed throughout the city.
WHERE TO SHOP
Columbia Road Flower Market
Spend your Sunday morning soaking in the fresh aroma of flowers at Columbia Road Flower Market to find your next houseplant, shrub or bulb. Opening bright and early at 8 in the morning, be sure to arrive closer to opening time to avoid the busy rush of the afternoon. Closing at 3pm, you will have ample time to sift through all the stalls. Whilst you are in the area, make sure you venture behind the stalls to discover a whole host of homey cafés, galleries and antique shops.
Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG
Portobello Road Market
Live out your Julia Roberts fantasy and wander through the streets of Notting Hill. The bookshop that features in the eponymous film is located on Blenheim Crescent which is lined with stalls galore of fresh produce, homemade knick-knacks, vintage watches and more. As you wade through the numerous stalls selling weird and wonderful things, you will end up at Portobello Road market which showcases in all its fullness every Saturday of the week. Opposite the retail section lies the food market where you will find cuisines ranging from Caribbean jerk chicken to Korean bibimbap.
Portobello Road, London W11 1LJ
Bayley and Sage
Bayley & Sage is your neighborhood gourmet grocer and florist, where quality and provenance are paramount. Each visit is a celebration of the season’s best artisan cheeses and fresh-baked breads to vibrant produce and hand tied bouquets. Whilst also producing ready to eat gourmet meals, soups and salads, a favourite being their wild mushroom and truffle risotto.Whether you’re planning a dinner party, picking up a thoughtful gift or simply treating yourself to something delicious, Bayley & Sage brings a touch of everyday luxury to your table.
12 locations across London
Grays Antique Market
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Grays Antique Market is a treasure trove for collectors and those simply curious. Inside this impressive Edwardian building, you’ll find nearly 100 specialist dealers offering everything from rare ceramics and vintage watches to fine art and sparkling jewellery. Each stall has its own story, and the market’s lively, welcoming atmosphere makes browsing a joy. Whether you’re hunting for a rare find or simply soaking in the charm of Grays, this timeless treasure trove is yours to explore.
58 Davies St, London W1K 5LP, United Kingdom
Dover Street Market
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Dover Street market is more than a store–it’s a living, breathing fashion playground. Conceived by Comme des Garçons’ Rei Kawakubo, this six-floor emporium in St James’s and is a constantly evolving showcase of high fashion streetwear, and radical creativity. The space features installations by world-renowned artists, avant-garde displays, and an ever-changing lineup of both cult and emerging designers. The stripped-back, industrial interiors set the stage for a retail experience that’s as much about inspiration and discovery as it is about shopping, where you’re invited to lose yourself in “beautiful chaos”and connect with a global creative community.
18-22 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4DG, United Kingdom
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK
Wildflowers
When you step into Wildflowers in Pimlico’s charming, you’ll discover a Mediterranean-inspired sanctuary that feels like your own personal escape from London’s bustle. Chef Aaron Potter, formerly of Elystan Street, crafts a menu focused on high quality, seasonal ingredients cooked over coals–each bite comforting and inventive. Upstairs, the wine bar channels the spirit of Italian cicchetti and Spanish pintxos spots, offering a curated selection of European wines, spritzes and bar snacks in a beautifully designed setting. Whether you’re using the welcoming ground floor dining room or enjoying the terrace, you’ll appreciate how thoughtful accessibility has been considered for every guest.
Newson’s Yard, 57 Pimlico Road, London, United Kingdom SW1W 8NE
Hide
Picture yourself overlooking Green Park from this urban oasis, where you’ll experience three architecturally stunning floors, each offering you a different dining adventure. You’ll taste the celebration of seasonal British produce in every dish, with everything from charcuterie to bread made in house. Expect refined yet approachable modern European dishes, a la carte and tasting menus, and an extraordinary wine list delivered from Hedonism Wines. Hide’s ethos is simple: you’ll recieve attentive but informal service and food that is both nourishing and theatrical.
85 Piccadilly, London, W1J 7NB, United Kingdom
Brutto
Brutto brings the spirit of Florence to Farringdon, offering a menu that champions rustic, hearty Italian cooking. The dining room is warmly lit and inviting, with gingham tablecloths, napkin light shades and candles stuffed into wicker-chianti bottles, perfect for lingering over signature dishes like coccoli–pillowy fried dough with stracchino cheese–or their homemade pappardelle with rabbit. Brutto’s charm lies in its simplicity and sense of conviviality, evoking the spirit of your favourite local trattoria –proof that great food is as much about atmosphere as it is about flavour.
35-37 Greenhill Rents, London EC1M 6BN, United Kingdom
Holy Carrot
Discover your new plant based haven in Notting Hill, where you’ll experience a low waste, “plant forward” menu that spotlights fire and fermentation techniques. Each dish is innovative yet dependable, a favourite being the crispy celeriac with pickle butter. Not too reckless but presents polished and exemplar plant based dishes. The interior is visually pleasing and a pleasant environment, transporting you to a grey-hued Santorini, Holy Carrot is at the forefront of London’s vegan dining scene.
156 Portobello Rd, London W11 2EB, United Kingdom
Mountain Beak Street
A Soho hotspot that earned a Michelin star just six months after opening, Mountain is the latest venture from the team behind the Michelin-starred Brat, led by Tomos Parry. The restaurant’s open kitchen and wood-fired oven infuse each Spanish-inspired dish with irresistible smoky depth. The menu is designed for sharing, ranging from sweet raw red prawns with house made stracciatella to whole lobster caldereta paired with a wine list curated by Noble Rot. You can choose between the energetic ground floor that buzzes with activity or the basement booths where you can enjoy a more intimate experience.
16-18 Beak St, London W1F 9RD, United Kingdom
abc kitchens
abc kitchens at The Emory introduces chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s acclaimed abc brand to the UK in stunning style. With a refreshing and innovative menu featuring dishes like the Crispy Dover Sole Taco or Roasted Cauliflower with turmeric and tahini, the restaurant draws from the vibrant flavours of three of his iconic New York locations—abc kitchen, abcV, and abc cocina—offering a dynamic fusion of contemporary cuisine.
Old Barrack Yard, London SW1X 7NP, United Kingdom
Flute
Flute is a chic rooftop bar nestled in the heart of Soho. Adorned with eclectic pieces like leopard-print armchairs and glowing moon lamps, Flute exudes a quirky charm. If you get the chance, sit outside to admire the stunning London skyline and the bustling Soho streets below. Indulge in their imaginative cocktails, featuring delightful flavours such as matcha and green apple or kumquat and turmeric.
20 Broadwick St, W1F 8HT, Soho
The Aubrey, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
The award-winning Japanese restaurant tucked away at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel greets you in a refined space with over 250 pieces of Japonistic art. Why not opt for a free-flow to go with your weekend brunch as you relish the unique Japanese-inspired flavours of each cocktail? Live DJs form part of the ambience as evening falls, transforming the eatery into a lively izakaya. Be sure to order the highly desired A4 Wagyu Katsu Sando, the Miso Black Cod, and to finish, the Miso Salted Caramel Tart or the Matcha French toast.
66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA
The Connaught Grill
Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, the cosy Connaught Grill, helmed by Head Chef Ramiro Lafuente Martinez, offers an unforgettable culinary experience that should not be missed. Dive straight in with crowd-favourite heirloom beetroot salad, complemented by a delicate blend of avocado and chilli aioli. For mains, choose from a selection of the finest quality meats — from the succulent spit-roasted black-leg chicken to the A5 ribeye Kobe beef; your taste buds are in for a treat. Enhance your main course with the Connaught’s signature chips, reminiscent of a perfectly crispy rosti. If you fancy flavours from the sea, indulge in the world-class oysters from the Gillardeau family, guaranteed to satiate your desires; or opt for the grilled scallops, which are charcoal grilled within their shells and infused with flavours of seaweed and herb butter.
The Connaught, 16 Carlos Pl, London W1K 2AL
The Devonshire Pub
The Devonshire offers a quintessential pub experience with a twist — an in-house butcher and bakery to ensure everything from the bar snacks to the dry-aged Scottish ribeye is made with exceptional care. Upstairs, the wood ember grill restaurant serves up the freshest seafood and expertly prepared meats such as hand-dived scallops from the south of England, while the ground floor pub remains a warm, welcoming spot for a perfect pint of Guinness and homemade pub fare.
17 Denman Street W1D7HW
Brat
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Helmed by Chef Tomos Parry, Brat is located in two locations across London – Shoreditch and Hackney. The one Michelin-starred kitchen draws inspiration from Basque cooking styles which manifests itself in the form of stoves and grills, so you might catch a flame or two when you walk into the restaurant. Spoil yourself with the house speciality turbot or the tantalisingly juicy sirloin.
4 Redchurch St, London E1 6JL; 374 Helmsley Pl, London E8 3SB
Imperial Treasure
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The inconspicuous doors that stand at 9 Waterloo Place will transport you on a culinary adventure back to Hong Kong. Imperial Treasure is a fine-dining establishment which offers authentic and exquisite Cantonese cuisine. The menu consists of a plethora of classics such as the peking duck (which you should order in advance), live seafood and a wide array of the freshest dimsum that will leave you wanting more.
9 Waterloo Place, St. James’s, London, SW1Y 4BE
Spitalfields Market
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Spitalfields Market, located within the vicinity of the trendy Brick Lane and Shoreditch, is filled with a copious amount of independent stalls displaying their handicraft and rare, vintage pieces. Traders and artists alike are brought to the spotlight which is a great opportunity to promote their small businesses. Street food stalls ranging from Karapinka’s Sri Lankan cuisine to the Taiwanese Wheelcake Island sweet treats occupy the central area whilst the spaces that surround the market are home to a whole host of restaurants and high fashion brands.
16 Horner Square, London E1 6EW
Chiltern Firehouse
Step into this converted fire station in Marylebone and you’ll immediately understand why Chiltern Firehouse is synonymous with London’s culinary cool. Brunch here is outstanding, Head Chef Luke Hunns will present you with a vibrant mix of contemporary European and American influences, focusing on ingredient-driven, seasonal plates. The glamorous yet relaxed atmosphere makes this your perfect destination whether you’re a local seeking familiar comfort or a visitor wanting to taste modern London’s essence.
1 Chiltern St, London W1U 7PA, United Kingdom
Gymkhana
Step into the world of colonial-era gymkhana clubs, where Gymkhana in Mayfair offers you a refined take on Indian cuisine. These historic institutions, established during the British Raj in the 19th century, were exclusive social and recreational spaces primarily for British officials and wealthy Indian elites. The term Gymkhana derives from the Persian word “jamat-khana” meaning “assembly hall”. You’ll dine in private vaults and an opulent cocktail lounge that provide an exclusive setting for tasting menus and inventive cocktails highlighting Indian flavours and ingredients. Gymkhana is one of London’s most celebrated Indian restaurants, holding two Michelin stars since 2024–a London landmark with an undoubtedly special experience.
42 Albemarle St, London W1S 4JH, United Kingdom
Donia
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Donia is a modern Filipino restaurant tucked away in a classy, intimate room above Kingly Court, reimagining traditional flavours with unconventional ingredients and techniques. Awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, Donia boasts a menu brimming with must-try dishes such as the lamb shoulder caldereta pie with a tomato based sauce and adobo mushroom croquettes. The drinks menu is just as adventurous, featuring fabulously fruity cocktails like umeshu plum and mezcal-style negroni, or the creamy pipino–cucumber with sesame, coconut and gin–that will surprise and delight. Make sure to bring a friend with you to share plates, you’ll want to try a bit of everything.
2.14, Top Floor, Kingly Ct, Carnaby St, Carnaby, London W1B 5PW, United Kingdom
Scott’s Mayfair
A Mayfair institution since 1851, Scott’s is the epitome of classic British seafood dining. The menu showcases the finest fish, shellfish, and oysters, all served in an atmosphere of timeless elegance. With its glittering heritage and impeccable service, Scott’s remains a destination for those seeking the best London seafood traditions.
20 Mount St, London W1K 2HE, United Kingdom
SIGHTSEEING & ENTERTAINMENT
The Wallace Collection
Step into the opulent Hertford House and you’ll find yourself surrounded by one of Europe’s most dazzling collections of fine and decorative arts. The Wallace Collection spans centuries, with masterpieces by Titian, Velázquez, Rubens, and Van Dyck, alongside princely arms and armour, and exquisite 14th to 19th century French oil paintings. Wander through rooms designed to evoke the refined tastes of its founders, Sir Richard and Lady Wallace, and let yourself be transported to a world where every detail–from Limoges enamel to Renaissance bronzes–tells a story of artistry and elegance. No wonder it’s been hailed “one of the sexiest collections in Europe”.
Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN, United Kingdom
Leighton House Museum
Hidden in the leafy heart of Kensington, Leighton House is a true “palace of art” and the former home of Victorian artist Frederic Leighton. Here, you’ll step into a world where East meets West; marvel at the iconic Arab Hall, with its golden dome, intricate Syrian tiles, and tranquil fountain, all inspired by Leighton’s travels. Each room is a feast for the senses, from the mosaic floored staircase to the soaring, light–filled studio where Leighton painted and entertained the likes of Queen Victoria. Following a major restoration, the museum now boasts a contemporary mural, a garden view cafe and fully accessible spaces–making it a must-visit destination where beauty, history, and inspiration converge in one extraordinary house.
12 Holland Park Rd, London W14 8LZ, United Kingdom
London West End
Right beside Chinatown lies London’s very own West End. Immerse yourself in the arts scene in one of the city’s prominent theatres to watch timeless classics such as Matilda, Les Misérables, Wicked, Hamilton, Mamma Mia and more.
Shaftesbury Avenue, West End, London W1D
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Bar
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Established in 1959, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club is open 7 days a week, until 3am from Wednesdays to Saturdays. The world-famous venue showcases class acts of the most talented jazz musicians, having a historically rich lineup of artists such as Miles Davis, Dizzie Gillespie and Ella Fitzgerald.
47 Frith St, London W1D 4HT
Daunt Books
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The iconic branch of Daunt Books on Marylebone High Street is an Edwardian bookstore with deep oak interiors and old English library lamps which give it its stamp of bookworm approval. It originally specialised in travel books and was believed to be the first custom-built bookshop in the world so feel the historic pulse resonate from booklovers past in every shelf and floorboard.
84 Marylebone High St, London W1U 4QW
WHERE TO STAY
Broadwick Soho
Enter the whimsy wonderland of Broadwick Soho. Located in the beating heart of London’s bustling Soho district, this boutique hotel is impossible to miss — two majestic fibreglass elephants are perched above the entrance to welcome every guest that graces its grounds. Behind its doors, bold leopard print, vibrant geometric lines and sparkling gold details explode at every turn. The 57 rooms and suites within continue the eclectic aesthetic with bespoke decorative touches. Think wallpaper adorned with metallic elephants, glamorous art deco furnishings and minibars crafted from reclaimed Jaipur wood. Take in Soho’s dazzling nighttime views on the hotel’s rooftop bar Flute, and fuel up by indulging in seasonal Italian fare within the stylish interiors of the restaurant, Dear Jackie. For those who can’t head to bed without a nightcap or early birds who love their morning tea, head to the cosy Bar Jackie, which boasts an impeccable ambience.
20 Broadwick St, London W1F 8HT
The Savoy
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Sitting along the River Thames is The Savoy, London’s first purpose-built hotel and a pioneer of its time. In the early 1900s, young Guccio Gucci worked here as a porter and was inspired by well-travelled guests to build his prestigious leather goods company, which has grown to become the beloved Gucci today. This hotel remains an icon of opulence, its legacy forever entwined with one of luxury’s greatest names.
Strand, London WC2R 0EZ
Bulgari Hotel
Attention all fashion and jewellery aficionados: the Bulgari Hotel London is the epitome of living la dolce vita. Since its opening in 2021, it has attracted an elite clientele with its stylish fusion of historical details and contemporary flair. Every detail of the hotel, from bedside lamps echoing Bulgari’s designs down to the golden mosaic tiles lining the subterranean pool, is a shining testament to the brand’s savoir-faire.
171 Knightsbridge, London SW7 1DW
The Peninsula London
Having just opened in September 2023, The Peninsula London is where jet-setting Hong Kongers will find a luxurious home away from home in the heart of the city. After all, The Peninsula Hotels is Hong Kong-born and bred. The new London location houses The Canton Blue, which serves up familiar Cantonese comforts reimagined with British ingredients by chef Dicky To. Traces of Hong Kong can be found as guests sip on cocktails crafted from Asian fruits and spices in the hotel’s contemporary Little Blue bar, characterised by furniture pieces that nod to the famous voyage of the Keying junk, which sailed out of Hong Kong to New York and London.
1 Grosvenor Pl, London SW1X 7HJ
Claridge’s
Set in the heart of Mayfair, Claridge’s was founded in 1812 and was once frequented by Queen Victoria. From the grand lobby framed by beautiful stained glass windows to the intimate salons decked with nineteenth-century artworks, the hotel seamlessly marries English heritage with Art Deco glamour. Guests can pamper themselves with bamboo massages and bespoke facials at the spa designed by none other than Hong Kong’s very own André Fu. Renowned for impeccable white-glove service, Claridge’s continues to set the gold standard for luxurious hospitality in the city.
Brook Street, Mayfair, City of Westminster W1K 4HR
Editor
Christy Lam and Kaitlyn Lai and Brianna TangCredit
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