Few experiences are as quintessentially British as enjoying a traditional afternoon tea. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to experience one of London's most beloved traditions, there's an afternoon tea to suit every style and budget. Here are some of our favourites.
One of the best ways to experience London is through its incredible food markets. From world-famous street food to artisan bakeries and local produce, these markets offer something for every taste and many are just a short journey from our Host-UP homes. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a leisurely lunch or unique local flavours, here are our favourite food markets to explore.
London may look enormous on the map, but many of its most famous landmarks are much closer together than visitors expect. Walking is often the best way to discover the city, allowing you to stumble upon hidden streets, beautiful architecture, independent cafés and charming parks that you'd otherwise miss. For example, you can easily walk between: Tower Bridge and Borough Market Covent Garden and Leicester Square Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and the London Eye St Paul's Cathedral and the Tate Modern (via the Millennium Bridge) Along the way you'll discover small shops, local bakeries, historic pubs and countless photo opportunities. Why We Recommend Walking Save money on transport Experience London's unique neighbourhoods Discover hidden gems away from the tourist crowds Enjoy the city's parks and riverside walks Comfortable shoes are one of the best things you can pack for a trip to London, you'll probably end up walking much more than you expected. ๏ปฟ Our local team is always happy to recommend scenic walking routes near your accommodation.
Whether you're visiting London for a weekend or staying a little longer, getting around the city is easier than you might think. The simplest option is to use a contactless debit or credit card (or Apple Pay/Google Pay). Just tap in and out on the Tube, Overground, Elizabeth Line and DLR, or tap once when boarding a London bus. The system automatically calculates the cheapest fare for your journeys, including daily fare caps. ๏ปฟ If you prefer, you can also purchase an Oyster Card , a reusable travel card available at Tube stations and selected shops. It works in exactly the same way and offers the same fares as contactless payments.
London is one of the world's most exciting cities—and you don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy it. From iconic museums and beautiful parks to breathtaking viewpoints and historic landmarks, there are plenty of unforgettable experiences that are completely free. Here are some of our favourite ways to explore London without spending a penny.
One of the best things about visiting London is that many of the city's world-famous museums are completely free. Whether you love history, art or science, you can easily spend days exploring London's incredible collections without spending a penny. Here are a few of our favourites:
Planning your first trip to London? You're in for an unforgettable experience. From iconic landmarks and world-class museums to charming neighbourhoods and bustling markets, the city has something for everyone. To help you make the most of your visit, we've put together a few simple tips that every first-time visitor should know. ๐ Use Contactless or an Oyster Card The easiest way to get around London is by using a contactless bank card or an Oyster Card on the Tube, buses, Overground, Elizabeth Line and DLR. You'll benefit from daily fare caps, making it much cheaper than buying paper tickets. ๐ถ Walk Whenever You Can Many of London's most famous attractions are surprisingly close together. For example, you can easily walk between: Big Ben and the London Eye Tower Bridge and Borough Market Covent Garden and Leicester Square St Paul's Cathedral and Tate Modern Walking is one of the best ways to discover hidden streets, independent cafés and beautiful parks. ๐๏ธ Visit London's Free Museums One of London's biggest surprises is how many incredible museums are completely free to visit. Some of our favourites include: British Museum Natural History Museum Science Museum Victoria and Albert Museum Imperial War Museum National Gallery Tate Modern Most museums are quieter on weekday mornings. ๐ฆ๏ธ Be Prepared for the Weather London's weather can change quickly, even in summer. A lightweight waterproof jacket or a compact umbrella is always a good idea, and comfortable walking shoes are essential. ๐ณ Card Payments Are Everywhere London is almost completely cashless. Most shops, cafés, restaurants and even market stalls accept contactless payments, so there's rarely a need to carry cash. ๐ฝ๏ธ Book Popular Restaurants in Advance If you're planning to visit well-known restaurants, rooftop bars or afternoon tea venues, it's worth booking a few days (or even weeks) in advance, especially at weekends. ๐ Start Your Day Early London's most popular attractions are much quieter first thing in the morning. Arriving early means shorter queues, better photos and a more relaxed experience. ๐ฑ Download Useful Apps A few apps can make your trip much easier: Citymapper > the best app for navigating London. TfL Go > official London transport app. Google Maps > great for walking routes and local recommendations. โค๏ธ Explore Beyond the Main Attractions While Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Tower Bridge are must-sees, don't miss London's vibrant neighbourhoods. Spend some time exploring places like Brick Lane, Borough Market, Covent Garden, South Bank, Greenwich and Notting Hill to experience a different side of the city. Stay Like a Local Choosing accommodation in a well-connected neighbourhood makes exploring London much easier. All Host-UP homes are close to public transport, giving you quick access to the city's top attractions while letting you experience London like a local. We hope these tips help you enjoy an unforgettable first visit to London. Happy exploring! ๐ฌ๐ง
