March 26, 2023

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Firstly, should you solely have three days to spend in London, then I’m sorry! I actually want you had extra, however I perceive, which is why I’ve written this 3-day London Itinerary that can assist you maximize your time.

London is without doubt one of the most numerous and experience-rich cities on the planet. I lived there for 2 and half years and have visited as a vacationer a number of instances; and there may be nonetheless a lot I haven’t accomplished.

A bridge over water with a city in the background
The Shard and River Thames

London is a straightforward metropolis to journey to. Since there are such a lot of free points of interest and issues to do, it makes for the best metropolis vacation spot.

However should you’re quick on time, one of the simplest ways to maximise your go to is by following this London itinerary for 3 days, which has been designed to include a few of London’s most iconic points of interest and greatest experiences – with just a little contact of native flavors and neighborhoods.

That is much like what we did on our first three days in London on our 10-day household journey final 12 months.

Table of Contents

How one can use this 3 Day London Itinerary

people sitting on a park bench

London is a big metropolis, and because you solely have 3 days, I created this itinerary to cut back the period of time getting round. Who needs to waste time on public transport?

Fortuitously, there is no such thing as a want, as London is very easy to get round. Simply strolling from Level A to B is a beneficial reminiscence making expertise and is the place you’ll join a lot to the London life-style.

However should you don’t plan correctly, you might be spending far an excessive amount of time zig zagging throughout town if you don’t have to.

Every day’s actions will probably be targeted on one space of London, so you possibly can spend extra time exploring and fewer time on the Tube. 

Adapt this as you see match, based on price range, pursuits, time of arrival, and your resort location.

I’ve put approximate timing based mostly on what we did – with any diversifications for errors made. (We make the errors so you possibly can keep away from them.)

Don't miss fish & chips in a London Pub
Don’t miss fish & chips in a London Pub

I’ll additionally suggest locations to eat, and occasional stops, and a few hidden gems. I notice how private these decisions might be so it’s possible you’ll need to substitute your individual in. 

Simply ensure you discover one thing near the points of interest to cut back your journey time. Excellent news, in London there’s a pub and a pastry store on each nook.

We additionally ate breakfast at our resort every morning because it was supplied with our room. Buffet English breakfast at your resort will probably be approach higher than any American one you’ve skilled. So, take pleasure in and refill!

Solely have two days in London? Merely drop off Day 3. We’ve created it so the perfect of London (from a vacationer perspective) is on Day 1 & 2.

IMPORTANT:

To make this London itinerary movement effortlessly, it’s vital to book all your attraction tickets and tours in advance. You’re going to get extra accomplished, should you ebook for the instances we propose on this define.

Purchase skip-the-line at any time when you possibly can. I do know it’s an additional expense, however you’ve come all this manner, you need to see and do as a lot as you possibly can. That is particularly vital if visiting in peak season.

Is 3 Days in London Sufficient?

The Millennium Bridge, London, England
Strolling throughout the The Millennium Bridge in direction of St Paul’s Cathedral

If you’re ready to get up early and put your greatest strolling sneakers on, 3 days is sufficient to see the highlights of London, however in case you have bought the time to spend longer, we suggest you spend no less than 5 days in London.

We’ll quickly have a 5-day, 7-day and 10-day itinerary for many who can keep longer, or allow you to plan your actions should you return!

We additionally produce other in-depth posts on London and its experiences, which is able to allow you to with additional studying and analysis.

You too can be part of our e mail group, the place we share extra useful journey plans and inspirations. We’re doing a 4-week Europe summer time journey in June 2023, so we will probably be sharing extra content material for the UK and Europe in our mailing listing!

You’ll additionally get entry to our free printable London Bucket Checklist and this printable itinerary in a one-page define.

And should you actually liked it as a result of we saved you time, and presumably cash, you can buy us a coffee!

Day 1: Royalty, Politics & The West Finish

On at the present time in London, you’ll go to a few of its prime points of interest within the Westminster and St James’s space, studying in regards to the two types of management in Britain with the Royals in Buckingham Palace and the Politicians at Huge Ben and Parliament Home.

You’ll be taking within the views of London at the most well-liked attraction within the metropolis then exploring the colourful arts and cultural West Finish.

9:30am Westminster Abbey Tour

people walking down aisle in Westminster Abbey, London, England

Westminster Abbey is the Royal Church of England, and one of many prime points of interest in London. I loved I loved our self-guided audio tour of Westminster Abbey greater than I believed I’d, as did our youngsters.

We needed to see Westminster Abbey to see the place the King’s and Queens of England have their coronations. It was additionally the place members of the royal household get married, the final being Prince William and Kate Middleton.

As you stroll by way of the pews, you possibly can take within the stunning Gothic structure, whereas your audio information tells you extra in regards to the art work, structure and notable monuments contained in the constructing.

You additionally get informed in regards to the Abbey’s lengthy historical past, from way back to the coronation of William the Conqueror.

Make sure you take a look at the surface of the cathedral, too. I loved seeing the angle of the abbey from strolling across the cloisters and gardens.

  • Hours: 9.30am – 4.30pm Monday – Friday, 9.00am – 2.00pm Saturday, Sundays for companies solely.
  • Deal with: 20 Deans Yd, London SW1P 3PA

10:30 Stroll by way of St James’s Park

people looking at view of pond in  St James Park, London
Lovely St James Park

My favourite of all of the parks in London is the 58-acre St James’s Park. It’s house to the Mall and Horse Guards Parade and is on the doorstep of Buckingham Palace.

It’s the smallest of the eight Royal Parks and has a quiet magnificence about it with its manicured gardens, blooming flowers, ponds, ample birdlife, and meandering paths underneath the shade of a whole bunch of bushes.

Relying on how a lot time you spend in Westminster Abbey, you’ll have to skip by way of right here to get to the Altering of the Guards at Buckingham Palace on time. Don’t fear, you’ll stroll again by way of it after the palace.

10.45am Buckingham Palace and the Altering of the Guard.

exterior of Buckingham Palace, London

It wouldn’t be a go to to London with out peeping by way of the wrought iron fence of one of the well-known palaces on the planet.

Buckingham Palace is the royal residence of the British Royal Household since 1837. Though the British royals select reside elsewhere (Windsor Fort is the place the Queen lived earlier than she handed), the palace remains to be used for stately occasions and conferences.

Most vacationers love to go to for the Altering of the Guards Ceremony, which takes place each day at 10.45am.

That is when The Queen’s Guard hand over duty for safeguarding Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Palace to the New Guard.

The Altering of the Guards does get crowded and make take up a bit of your time. For me, it’s not value it. I’d relatively put that point into different issues to do in London.

You too can tour the palace from July till October, on Thursdays till Mondays.

Altering of the Guard instances

  • June – July: Every day
  • August – Could: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
  • Begins at 10.45am and goes on for about 45 minutes.

Deal with: London SW1A 1AA

Various: Chances are you’ll need to discover Kensington Palace and Gardens which is west of Buckingham Palace.

Should you solely have three days, I’d skip it and stick with this itinerary as the remainder of at the present time is stuffed with epic London experiences. You’ll be able to assure Kensington is in our observe up 5-day London itinerary!

12.00pm Huge Ben and Parliament Home

Great view of the Houses of Parliament from our River Cruise
Nice view of the Homes of Parliament from our River Cruise

Should you didn’t get time to get your pictures right here if you have been at Westminster Abbey, now’s the time, as you’ll stroll again by way of it to get to the London Eye.

The Homes of Parliament is the place all of the vital enterprise in operating the nation occurs. You’ll be able to tour inside throughout choose days and instances. 

Huge Ben is the 13.5 tonne iconic clock tower that the majority guests gaze up at and might be seen from throughout London.

Winston Churchill Statue overlooking Big Ben
Winston Churchill Statue overlooking Huge Ben

Parliament Sq. is subsequent to the Homes of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. It has statues of well-known political leaders together with Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, and Nelson Mandela.

You may need to cease for lunch after visiting the Homes of Parliament. There are various nice eating places and cafes alongside the embankment, simply throughout Westminster Bridge on the South Financial institution facet. Simply stroll alongside Belvedere Highway and see what takes your fancy.

2.00pm Whitehall Gardens

pretty flowers in Whitehall gardens london
The gorgeous Whitehall Gardens

Across the nook from Parliament Home are the very fairly Whitehall Gardens. Chances are you’ll need to stroll midway out on the Westminster Bridge first for some beautiful views of Huge Ben and Parliament Home

Other than the prettiness of the Whitehall Gardens, the views from right here of the Thames and the London Eye listed below are nice. There’s not a lot else to do however benefit from the views as you stroll to your subsequent cease.

pub boat on river thames with london eye in the backgroun
Tattershall Pub London

Moored on the Thames is the Tattershall Castle, a former passenger ferry turned pub with views of the London Eye. This could possibly be a prime spot on your lunch on at the present time of your London itinerary. In any other case, it’s possible you’ll need to discover only a seize and go lunch because the day is kind of busy.

Stroll throughout the pedestrian-only Golden Jubilee Bridge to the London Eye, having fun with the views as you go.

Below this bridge, proper outdoors the Royal Competition Corridor, is the colourful creative 10ft transport container, which is the house of Beany Green, an Aussie Cafe chain in London.

Whereas sadly, I don’t assume their espresso is nice, I like the vibe of this place and their lamingtons are superb (they usually have gluten free ones). So, should you want a day caffeine and deal with choose me up, that is the spot.

3.00pm London Eye

London Eye over the river thames
the London Eye

The London Eye is the tallest remark wheel in Europe and an effective way to see completely different viewpoints of the well-known buildings in London, just like the Huge Ben and Homes of Parliament. 

The London Eye is completely value it. I feel similar to you’d go to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Sydney, you’d go to the London Eye in England’s capital.

When you ebook a time slot for the London Eye, you continue to need to line up. The traces transfer fairly shortly, however I’ve heard of lengthy waits. To keep away from that, get the fast-track ticket. 

  • Hours: 11.00am – 6.00pm each day
  • Deal with: Riverside Constructing, County Corridor, London SE1 7PB

Video: London Eye Expertise

You’ll be able to see extra of the London Eye expertise within the video under, together with a non-public pod!

4.00pm River Thames Cruise

people taking photos of tower bridge
Shut up views of Tower Bridge

Should you would like to do a sundown cruise tomorrow, it’s possible you’ll need to skip this. (It could possibly be a very good resting exercise.) 

Since these cruises depart at a particular time, and the London Eye doesn’t, it’s possible you’ll need to do the cruise first, then ebook your London Eye for after it.

The Lastminute.com London Eye River cruise is a 40-minute round tour of the Thames on a small open-top ferry with guided commentary. 

You’ll study many tales in regards to the iconic Landmarks you’ll go like Huge Bend, London Bridge, HMS Belfast, The Shard, Tate Trendy, Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge, which you’ll get to sail underneath earlier than turning round to cruise again.

You should buy a mixture ticket with the London Eye, which makes it simpler to slot in.

6.00pm The West Finish

covent garden london

Now you’re free to discover the West Finish. If you’re going to go to the theater, you can be on a time restrict. If not, discover at your leisure.

Will probably be straightforward to return to Convent Backyard on day three of this 3-day London itinerary should you run out of time at present. It’s an excellent space to discover so give your self time to wander. Returning is at all times an excellent thought! I’d return each weekend after I lived in London.

It’s a straightforward stroll again over the Golden Jubilee Bridge straight into Trafalgar Sq..

Earlier than a theater go to, I like to recommend a fast look across the following districts…

Trafalgar Sq.

girl standing in front of a water fountain
Trafalgar Sq.

Trafalgar Sq. has at all times been a spot for Londoners to assemble, whether or not that’s to herald the New Yr collectively, or protest, rally, or march for vital rights and causes.

The 52-m excessive statue of Lord Nelson dominates the sq. and the Nationwide Gallery is the gorgeous constructing within the background.

There’s not so much to do right here, aside from stroll round and take pictures with the fountain and lions of braveness. Be aware of the LGBTQ pedestrian visitors lights as you’re crossing the street. You’ll be able to what Trafalgar Square is like over on our reel.

Piccadilly Circus

people standing around Piccadilly Circus looking at flashing lights
Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is sort of a mini Instances Sq. in New York. Filled with neon lights, large flashing promoting billboards, and other people getting selfies.

It’s overrated, however many vacationers like it so I’m including it right here for you. You’ll little question come throughout it as you stroll across the West Finish.

From right here you possibly can simply stroll to Piccadilly, Leicester Sq., Shaftesbury Avenue, the curving Regent Avenue, and Covent Backyard.

Soho (The Greatest Space for Nightlife)

red exterior of House of MinaLima with window displays
Home of MinaLima retailer

Soho is the proud LGBTQ space of London. It has a enjoyable artsy vibe with loads of cafes, shops, bars, and eating places and theaters. It’s additionally the perfect place in London for nightlife and is full of vibrant bars and evening golf equipment.

For households, yow will discover so much to see and do in Soho too. The House of MinaLima in SoHo is a should go to for all Harry Potter followers. Look how cool MinaLima is in this reel.

This gallery and retailer showcase the graphic artwork of the Harry Potter and Incredible Beasts movies, all of which was completely designed by Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima.

You’ll be able to learn extra about it in our teen’s information to London.

Covent Backyard

Covent Garden, London
Avenue leisure in Covent Backyard

One of the well-known locations to go to in London is Covent Backyard. 

Wander the cobblestoned areas surrounding the central market, which had its beginnings as a convent backyard within the 1500s. 

There are infinite eating places and bars and procuring shops. Performers rotate all day lengthy on the road just under the balcony of the well-known Punch and Judy pub (good luck attempting to get on it!).

Don’t neglect to unfold out throughout the central Covent Backyard market space to discover the encompassing cobblestone streets and facet alleys for different secret gems!

We discovered Cecil’s Court docket and Goodwin Court docket each of that are mentioned to have impressed Diagon Alley.

Locations to Eat in Convent Backyard:

lamb and flag pub covent garden
The Lamb and Flag – a London icon

I’m certain you’re able to collapse in a restaurant at this level.

Covent Backyard and the West Finish is overbrimming with them, many with out of doors seating. So, discover one you want and sit down… if there may be house. Should you’re going to the theater, make sure to time it proper.

Listed here are just a few concepts.

  • Lamb & Flag is the oldest pub in Covent Backyard. (This was one among our favourite London pubs).
  • Should you don’t have children, you gained’t need to miss the gorgeous large tree in the course of Waxy O’Conner’s Irish Pub on the sting of Soho and Leicester Sq..
  • The Crown & Anchor has good meals and a cushty lounge upstairs.
  • The Seven Dials Market has a various providing of cuisines to swimsuit any tastebud.

7.00pm West Finish Theater

matilda cambridge theater
Matilda Cambridge Theater |Supply Deposit Pictures

There are over 40 theater venues within the West Finish performing quite a lot of reveals to over 14 million guests yearly.

They’ve reveals all through the day, however most night reveals start at 7:30pm.

On our household trip to London, Kalyra, Savannah and I went to see Matilda within the Cambridge Theater, whereas Craig caught up along with his outdated North Sydney Bears teammates in Chelsea.

I’m glad we added this to our London itinerary on the final minute as our teen mentioned it was one among her favourite London experiences.

Day 1 in London Video Wrap

Click on play to see what Day one among this itinerary in London appears like!

Day 2: When Historical and Trendy London Meet

On Day 2 of this London itinerary, you’re going to proceed studying extra of Britain’s historical past (it’s darkish sort) on the Tower of London, and the gorgeous St Paul’s Cathedral earlier than crossing over the Tower Bridge into its extra fashionable, creative vibe.

You’ll be exploring bustling market vibes, artwork galleries, and gorgeous views!

9.00am Tower of London

full view of the the tower of london on the river thames
The Tower of London

The UNESCO World Heritage, Tower of London is a fort comprising twenty-two towers however sitting within the center is the unique White Tower constructed within the 1070s by William the Conqueror.

Don’t miss the free Yeoman tour with the red-coated Beefeater (Yeoman Warders) guides entertaining with ugly tales of its macabre historical past from its former years (and I imply centuries) as a Royal residence, armory, treasury, and zoo (thank goodness they stopped that!)

After your tour, stroll across the outdated fort grounds to see the jail towers, Crown Jewels, and plenty of different notorious websites. Head to the Crown Jewels first. Whereas I discovered them overrated, others line up for 2 hours simply to see them!

As top-of-the-line issues to do in London, The Tower of London is infamous for its lengthy traces, which may lengthen into hours, that’s why we’ve scheduled it in first. Tickets will also be cheaper online.

  • Hours: Common opening hours 9.00am – 5.30pm Monday – Friday, 10.00am – 5.30pm Saturday and Sunday
  • Deal with: London EC3N 4AB

12.00pm Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge over the river thames
The long-lasting Tower Bridge

Virtually anybody coming to London is already accustomed to the elegant great thing about its neo-Gothic turrets and blue suspension cables.

Stroll throughout the long-lasting Tower Bridge without spending a dime and get nice views overlooking the Thames and again over the Tower of London.

Test for instances when the Tower Bridge will increase up its bridge arms so boats beneath can go by (often twice a day). Check opening times here.

Should you observe our schedule as outlined on this London itinerary, the perfect views of the bridge (considering solar) will probably be on the south facet of the bridge. The north facet was fully washed out.

1.00pm Lunch at Borough Markets

hand holding cup of peach prosecco in front of colorful heat mural
Peach Prosecco

Whether or not you’re hungry for strawberries dipped in chocolate, tender native cheeses, bowls of Vietnamese pho, sausage rolls or a refreshingly candy peach Prosecco, you’ll discover it on the Borough Markets on the south facet of the River Thames.

Well-liked London Borough Markets are a set of stalls and distributors promoting contemporary produce. It’s an excellent perception into native London life. 

On the periphery you’ll discover pubs, cafes, eating places, murals and some Harry Potter filming places, together with the Leaky Cauldron Pub.

Observe that weekdays will probably be a lot quieter.

  • Hours: 10.00am – 5.00pm Monday – Friday, 8.00am – 5.00pm Saturday, 10.00am – 3.00pm Sunday
  • Deal with: Riverside Constructing, County Corridor, London SE1 7PB

Don’t Miss: Espresso from Monmouth and a cup of the candy peach prosecco. There are additionally nice murals round right here and the encompassing cobblestone streets nice to discover. 

2.00pm Stroll alongside Southbank Promenade

man taking photo of river thames

This 2.5 miles / 4 km South Financial institution stroll alongside the Thames goes from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge. There are gorgeous views throughout as you go many prime points of interest.

When you’re strolling alongside the promenade, you possibly can cease off at a number of thrilling points of interest. Akin to…

2.30pm Go to Tate Trendy Artwork Gallery

chimney and warehouse building of tate modern london
The Tate Trendy (and Shard to the left)

Any artwork lover may have the FREE Tate Trendy Artwork gallery and its over 78,000 artistic endeavors on show, on their London bucket listing.

Opened in 2000 in a dilapidated outdated energy station, it has fully revitalized this Southbank space, making it fully unrecognizable to my 22-year-old self residing in London in 1997.

people looking at view of st paul and river thames from tate modern bar
View from Tate Trendy Bar

It’s not only a place to admire world-class artwork, however for its views of the Thames, Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral from the enclosed sixth flooring Kitchen and Bar within the Natalie Bell Constructing.

3.30pm See the Shakespeare Globe

tudor style exterior of shakespeare globe theatre in london
The Shakespeare Globe Theatre

If you wish to have a singular expertise and see one thing quintessentially English, you possibly can catch a Shakespeare manufacturing at The Globe Theatre on the banks of the River Thames.

Truthful warning: this a standing theater so perhaps take into consideration that if there’s a manufacturing of Hamlet or King Lear. Our associates mentioned they booked privileged seats for the four-hour manufacturing of King Lear. Unsure I may do this standing up. In addition they supplied a bit of canopy in case it rained, because the Shakespeare Globe is the way it was throughout Shakespeare’s Days!

If that each one appears like your worst nightmare, simply benefit from the views from the surface.

4.00pm Afternoon Drink Cease

hand holding pimm's and lemonade with views of london in background
Pimm’s with a View

In London, it’s widespread to include a drink cease throughout your day. English pub tradition is without doubt one of the delights of UK journey.

Founders Arms Pub has out of doors seating, spectacular River Thames Views, and vibrant London environment (particularly when the solar is out.) I loved a Pimm’s and Lemonade right here (iconic English drink) (Outdoors the Tate Trendy)

The Anchor can also be an outdated London pub with out of doors seating on the River Thames worthy of a drink break.

4.45pm Cross the Millennium Bridge – the Wobbly Bridge

unusual shaped Millennium Bridge, crossing the thames over to st paul view
The Wobbly Bridge

The Millennium Bridge is without doubt one of the coolest, more moderen additions to London metropolis. Opened in 2000, it has a warped, futuristic look with magnificent views throughout.

I liked the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral rising in entrance of your eyes with every step as you cross. And look behind for views of Tate Trendy, and to the appropriate for Tower Bridge views, and views of life on each banks of the river.

Harry Potter lovers will need to know, this was focused by Dying Eaters in Harry and the Half-Blood Prince.

5.00pm St Paul’s Cathedral

people looking at at the dome of St Paul's Cathedral, London, England
St Paul’s Cathedral was spectacular.

You’re going to see this architectural masterpiece from Sir Christopher Wren, constructed after the Nice Fireplace of London between 1675 and 1710 from viewpoints throughout London.

St Paul’s Cathedral is without doubt one of the most well-known cathedrals on the planet and one among London’s most luxurious buildings.

It’s value a tour, and if the highest of the dome is open (closed on our go to) ensure you go up to have a look at the unimaginable views of London (I did this after I lived in London)

Ask the attendants if they will take you to the spiraling Harry Potter staircase. This staircase in St Paul’s was used because the “Divination Stairwell” situated within the North Tower of Hogwarts Fort for the Harry Potter movies.

  • Hours: 8.30am – 4.30pm Monday and Tuesday, Thursday – Saturday. 10.00am – 4.30pm Wednesday, 8.30am – 6.00pm Sunday
  • Deal with: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD

7.00pm Get pleasure from Sundown Views from The Shard

the view from the shard london

The Shard View is an costly factor to do in London, however the 244m excessive sweeping views from the 72nd flooring open-air platform make it worthwhile. It was my favourite London view, which you’ll be able to perceive because it’s the tallest constructing in Western Europe.

Intention for about an hour earlier than sundown so you possibly can expertise the nightfall golden mild views, sundown panoramic views, and nighttime views when these London lights sparkle.

You must reserve your tickets in advance, (plus it would additionally prevent cash).

  • Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm Thursday – Saturday (entry till 8:30pm). 10.00am – 7.00pm Sunday – Wednesday (entry till 5:30pm)
  • Deal with: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG

Video: London Day 2 Wrap

Click on play under to see what this epic day in London appears like!

Various Endings for Day 2 in London

My selection can be The View, however listed below are a pair extra choices for you.

Sky Backyard Views and Dinner

Sky Garden glass building rising above london skyline with the Shard in the distance
Sky Backyard faces off with the Shard

Again throughout the London Bridge (close to the Shard) is the Sky Backyard, one other nice viewpoint in London. It’s free, however they’ve restricted openings that should be booked upfront. Some say the views are higher from right here, however I’m not too certain about that.

Whereas it was closed (Monday) once we tried to go to, we had an analogous view at The Backyard 120 Fenchurch across the nook, and whereas it was implausible, it nonetheless didn’t examine to the Shard view! It’s free nonetheless, which may be very enticing. 

There’s a restaurant on the Sky Backyard, which can be a technique to stand up there if the viewing platform is booked. It should even be booked upfront, and I’ve heard nice issues about it. We additionally needed to try this however couldn’t make it occur on this journey.

Sundown River Cruise alongside the Thames

thames clipper boat going past london skyline on the thames at sunset
The Shard River View

Alternatively, you might finish the day with a sundown river cruise alongside the Thames leaving from close to the Tower of London.

This Thames River cruise leaves because the solar goes down and begins with a glass of glowing wine and canapes as you cruise and have a look at the lights of London go by!

Day 3: North London: Camden City to Kings Cross

camden lock markets
CAmden Lock markets

Welcome to one among my favourite days in London. Camden City was a daily outing for my associates and I. Twenty-five years later, I nonetheless take pleasure in visiting and I liked taking my daughters there.

We stayed right here for the ultimate few nights of our London journey and actually loved it.

Camden city is London elective and different. Recognized to at all times be the house of punks, artists, and musicians, it’s additionally a spot for excellent procuring, enjoyable pubs and cafes, and implausible reside music.

This present day may also embody the British Museum and a go to to Kings Cross Station. You will have to contemplate at the present time’s itinerary fastidiously to adapt to your pursuits.

9:30am Espresso and Lamingtons from Beany Inexperienced

You want this on your canal journey. It’s across the nook from the place you depart at Beany Green Little Venice. There may be nothing higher than a espresso and lamington as you cruise Regents Canal. 

Proper close to right here is the Darcie & May Green (similar house owners), which is a restaurant on a ship on the canal. Brunch right here is supposed to be superior and it opens at 8am, so very doable to start out the day right here. I had deliberate on it however couldn’t make it work!

10:15am Canal Cruise

A boat traveling along a river

The stress-free and picturesque 40-minute canal ride will take you alongside Regents Canal, by way of the 248m Maida Hill tunnel, and previous the unique neighborhoods of Maida Vale and Primrose Hill, with houses of celebrities, and expansive and landscaped again gardens of grand homes.

Another Thought can be to stroll between Camden and Regents Park, to discover one among London’s hottest and expansive of the royal parks and gardens.

11.00am Discover Camden City And Camden Market

people walking through camden markets under colorful umbrellas

Your canal cruise will ship you straight to the center of Camden Markets, which is hottest on the weekends. Right here you’ll discover a great deal of stalls promoting every kind of wares together with an abundance of meals stalls representing cuisines from all over the world.

There are infinite decisions for meals right here with cuisines from all over the world. 

Don’t miss strolling up and down the principle streets of Camden City and the facet streets for implausible road artwork, procuring, and unimaginable individuals watching. 

12.30pm Lunch Cease at Edinboro Fort Pub

Edinboro Castle, London, England
Lunch on the Edinboro Fort Pub in Camden

A couple of blocks away from Camden Market is the Edinboro Fort Pub. We’d suggest this as an alternative of the Camden Markets, particularly on a Sunday or sunny day, as a result of they’ve a implausible out of doors beer backyard and a scrumptious Sunday roast (and gluten-free beer).

A Sunday roast is a standard English meal to not miss!

  • Hours: 12.00pm – 11.00pm Monday – Saturday, 12.00pm – 10.30pm Sunday
  • Deal with: 57 Mornington Terrace, London NW1 7RU

2.00pm Kings Cross Station and Platform 9 ¾

woman holding wand at cart going into wall at Platform 9 3/4, Kings Cross Station, London
Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross Station in London

Should you’re a Harry Potter fan it’s possible you’ll need to embody this in your London itinerary. In any other case, I wouldn’t fear. Even in case you are a fan, it will not be value it should you’re quick on time.

You might be simply strolling as much as the faux cart towards the wall to take an image, and usually traces are lengthy. We have been blessed with only a 10-minute wait.

Kings Cross Station is an actual practice station and one of many busiest transport hubs in London. If you wish to see the platforms (the place many scenes have been filmed) both catch a practice someplace or ask the guards if they will allow you to on the platform to take a photograph.

Throughout the street is St Pancreas which is the background setting for the flying automobile scene within the second film.

You’ll be able to catch the tube or stroll 20 minutes to right here from Camden City.

2.30pm Go to the British Museum

glass ceiling inside British Museum,
Inside British Museum

The British Museum is excellent, and I extremely suggest it as top-of-the-line locations to go to in London.

It’s England’s largest museum and recognized to be one of many oldest and best on the planet with huge collections that span Egyptian, Greek Roman, European, and Center Jap cultures and histories.

Close to this London Museum is the historic Plough Pub. We suggest stopping in at this fairly refined but very cozy Victorian pub for lunch or only a pint! 

Once more, a 20-minute stroll or quick tube experience.

4.00pm Free Time! Or…

Princess Diana statue, Kensington Gardens
Kensington Palace

From the British Museum, you’re as soon as once more close to Covent Backyard and the West Finish. Since Day one among this itinerary was so busy, it’s possible you’ll need to transfer the West Finish theater to tonight, discover extra of Covent Gard, or simply loosen up.

Should you’re pondering of including one thing else to the top of your journey, listed below are another points of interest you might go to which might make for the right ending to your London itinerary…

  • The Nationwide Historical past Museum or Victoria and Albert Museum – should you love museums, these two are arguably the perfect in London. Head over to South Kensington to complete a day at one of many museums. Children will love seeing Dippy the Dyoplosaurus and the Large Blue Whale skeleton of the Pure Historical past Museum, or see vogue traits on the V&A.
  • Go to Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens – the well-known house of Princess Diana and now the residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
  • Take a hop-on/hop-off bus tour – in case your ft are drained, they usually in all probability are, take within the ultimate websites of London on an open prime double-decker bus.
  • Stroll by way of Hyde Park – this is without doubt one of the largest royal parks in London and is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to if the noise and chaos of town is beginning to get overwhelming.
  • Buy groceries in Notting Hill – a fast stroll alongside Portobello Highway in Notting Hill and also you’ll really feel such as you’ve been remodeled into an entire new metropolis. This prosperous space is thought for its vintage, classic and boutique shops and is the place you possibly can choose up some distinctive finds.
  • Stroll alongside the Embankment in direction of Greenwich – earlier we steered strolling alongside the embankment in direction of Southbank, however why not stroll the opposite approach? You’ll go the Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark.
  • Spend the night at Brick Lane in Shoreditch – need to see some superb road artwork? Brick Lane is one other mecca for artists, and since we’re on a hippy bohemian theme in Camden at present, it will be the best place to complete a day studying about London’s most flamboyant communities.

Video: Day 3 in London

Click on play to see all of the enjoyable we had on this time out in London!

Various Day for Harry Potter Followers

people sitting on a moterbike
We needed to ebook upfront for Harry Potter!

Should you’re a Harry Potter fan, it’s possible you’ll need to incorporate Harry Potter experiences into your London journey. It’s included in our London 5 Day Itinerary.

 This tour of the Warner Bros Studios is the closest you’re going to get to being part of the movies. It’s implausible and properly value a go to.

If that’s the case, simply add it into your itinerary the place you possibly can and take one thing out. Chances are you’ll change out a complete day. You’ll need no less than half a day for the studio tour.

It takes round three to 4 hours to stroll by way of the entire tour, which options units, costumes, props, and butterbeer from the movies.

Plus, there are interactive displays to expertise from inexperienced display screen broomstick rides to leaping in just a few of the car props. It’s additionally an hour journey outing of London.

Because it’s open late, you might go straight right here after lunch on the Camden Markets OR, go within the morning and Camden Markets if you return!

Right here is our full information to the Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour.

TOP TIP: You will need to reserve your ticket upfront. They will ebook up shortly. If they’re offered out, book a place on this tour from London to Harry Potter world. They’ve already bought tickets, so that you’re assured entry and it contains bus transportation from London. You will have to pay just a little extra, nevertheless it means you’ll get in!

Video: Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour London

Click on play under to see the Harry Potter magic come to life.

Harry Potter Strolling Excursions

woman and child on harry potter wanted witches poster
Be careful for thes witches on the streets of London!

For extra magical enjoyable, it’s possible you’ll need to be part of this Harry Potter themed strolling tour throughout London. This could possibly be a very good afternoon addition to the itinerary on Day 3.

Discover out which Hogwarts Home you belong in and check your Harry Potter data. Stroll down Diagon Alley, go to the Leaky Cauldron, and See iconic London websites reminiscent of Borough Market, The London Eye, and Trafalgar Sq.. Reserve your spot here.

3 Day London Itinerary Map

Now we have created a useful map for you, which is damaged down into the strolling route for every of the three days outlined above. To make use of it, click on the highest left button for the image key and strolling instructions for every day.

Click on the highest proper button to open it in a full web page. From there, click on the highest left drop right down to make a duplicate of the map. Then you possibly can regulate it as wanted on your private use. Or click on the star subsequent to the map, so as to add it to your Google Maps account. You’ll then discover it underneath Your Locations on the menu tab in google maps.

The place to remain in London

girl on bed Millenium Hotel with london mural on the wall
Our Millenium Resort was proper close to Kensington Tube Station

Particularly with a brief period of time in London, you need to select lodging that’s in Zone 1 or 2. That is the Central London space and the place most points of interest featured on this itinerary will probably be situated. It’s going to prevent time and presumably cash on getting round.

Make sure you ebook your lodging close to a Tube Station. The perfect ones for Central London vacationer points of interest are:

  • Piccadilly Line (darkish blue) (may also take you to Heathrow)
  • Circle Line (yellow)
  • Central Line (purple)

Now we have a listing of vetted London lodging choices right here, together with a brief assessment of the three accommodations we stayed in.

Getting Round London

person holding up oyster card out front of tube station
Oyster Card

Now we have an excellent in-depth put up for you on getting round London with invaluable recommendations on getting round on the Tube (like it), Nationwide Rail, and strolling (our most favourite).

Now we have designed this itinerary to spend as little time on public transport as attainable, so you’ll solely have to get the practice from the airport to your resort.

You’ll need to get the underground to start your day’s exploring, however for 3 days it’s not value getting the Oyster Card and simply purchase single journey tickets.

Should you resolve to remain 5 days or extra, then we suggest you possibly can choose up an Oyster Card, which is a transport card for London and lets you experience on all London’s public transport for a set value every day.

High tip: In case you have a contactless bank card, you should use this as an alternative of shopping for a ticket and it’ll cost you for a single ticket journey.

Closing Ideas on this London Itinerary for Three Days

woman and girl walking across london bridge
Clocking up the miles!

This isn’t a hazard warning however be ready. Your days will probably be lengthy, and if like us, will contain loads of strolling. 

Get stroll match earlier than you arrive, put on snug sneakers, have a refillable water bottle and snacks available, and pack your endurance and good spirits. I promise you gained’t remorse it. 

You’ll be able to see and do so much in three days in London. Our women have been 14 and 10 on the time of our journey, and we walked 20,000 steps a day and they didn’t complain as soon as! that’s a memorable household journey!

I actually hope you could have essentially the most superb time in London and this itinerary helps you. It actually showcases the perfect of London which you could match into three days. 

There are nonetheless extra nice issues to see and do in London, so that you’ll have to come back again or keep longer.

Should you discovered this itinerary information for London useful, please share it with your folks, put up on social media, or save to Pinterest and keep in mind to tag us!

Remark: Have you ever visited London in three days? Are you able to provide another suggestions or strategies. Do you could have any questions on this London 3-day itinerary?