First Visit to London?

London is a world class City for all the right reason. Some hate it, but that’s ok. I’m not here to persuade you to think otherwise. I’m telling you about London through my eyes.

London means the world to me, literally. It's not because I was born here in this magnificent city. Instead, I'm beginning to understand how it pulls you into its fold. Ever since I started Tabby London, I've been mesmerised.

#MyLondon is different to the London I grew up in. Then it was just a home and a bustling metropolis, it was a functional city, and the main aim was to get from A to B in the fastest way possible. However, now, it feels like a magical city with SO much to offer residents and visitors.

I'm not talking about tourist attractions and the trendy hotspots, I'm talking about the vibe, the incredible and unmatched history, the melting pot of different dreams and aspirations, and there's so much to do. 

I'm not saying London is perfect, and it's not. Like many, I wouldn't say I like the crowds, the noise, the traffic, the roadworks, and the constant bustle. However, there's something for everyone in London. 

First Things First - Getting Around London

International Travellers

If you’re an international tourist, getting an Oyster Card is advisable.

Buy an Oyster Card and top it up with money at any Tube Station. You can Claim a refund in person; if your remaining credit is £10 or less, you can get a refund for the credit and (where applicable) the deposit from a Tube station ticket machine (source: TFL).

For more information https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/how-to-pay-and-where-to-buy-tickets-and-oyster/pay-as-you-go/oyster-pay-as-you-go?intcmp=55536

If you’re a domestic visitor, you can use your debit or credit card to ‘Touch and Go’. Your card will be charged each time you use it but capped at the daily rate depending on the travel zones.

For more details https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/how-to-pay-and-where-to-buy-tickets-and-oyster/pay-as-you-go/contactless-and-mobile-pay-as-you-go?intcmp=55539

You can get Black Cabs or Uber Taxis, but there’s great fun in taking in London on the Transport of London (TfL) extensive network of Tube, trains, Uber Boat, buses and trams. For more information https://tfl.gov.uk

Places to visit on a first-time visit to London

❇️Tower Bridge

❇️Westminster Abbey

❇️London Eye

❇️Buckingham Palace

❇️Tower of London

❇️Green Park

Tabby’s Favourite Walking Route

If you love walking, here’s a great walking trail for you.

A great 2-3 hour walk includes walking down to the Tower of London and over Tower Bridge (South side), then taking the Thames Path along the Thames towards Southwark Bridge, Millennium Bridge with great views of St Paul’s. Keep walking along the South Bank and head towards Westminster.

Take in the views of the National Theatre, Royal Festival Hall, Somerset House, the London Eye, the old County Hall and the London Aquarium. Cross over Westminster Bridge and take in Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey.

If you still have energy left, walk along Whitehall, see Downing Street, the old Palace of Westminster, and the Household Cavalry Museum, and head towards Trafalgar Square.

Londinium

My favourite place to visit so far has to be the old Londinium.


Londinium as it was called by the Romans, created buildings and structures still visible in some parts of the City of London. It’s remarkable that such architecture, has stood the test of time, including the infamous London Wall. The Museum of London gives you an insight into what Londinium might have looked like with a treasure trove of artefacts.

Parting Comments

The London I've been discovering is usually off the well-beaten track. However, I love the nooks and crannies and walking along the streets steeped in centuries worth of history.

I'm particularly fond of Zone 1 because that's where it all began centuries ago. 

So, when are you coming?

If you enjoyed reading this article and want to support my work, you can now buy me a coffee ☕️.

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TabbyLondon

Thank you for your attention.

Best wishes

Tabby