Things may be different in London right now, but the capital still has a lot of great things to offer. Sahil Suri, Assistant Head of Concierge at The Cavendish London hotel, and a Golden Key concierge, shares his recommendations on how to safely experience London post-lockdown this winter.
Embrace the outdoors
“Wrap up warm and experience London on foot or rent a Santander Cycle and explore London at your own pace in a fun and sustainable way. London has plenty of wonderful outdoor spaces waiting to be explored, and The Cavendish London is located close to a number of interesting spots you may want to pass on your travels.
“There’s Handel & Hendrix, the former home of German-born British baroque composer George Frideric Handel in the 1700s and the American rock singer-guitarist Jimi Hendrix in the 1960s. Or how about a trip to Queen Elizabeth II’s birthplace at 17 Bruton Street? The house lived in by the Queen Mother’s parents, where Elizabeth II was born in 1926, was destroyed during the blitz, and is now home to Hakkasan – the Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant.
“Stop by 3 Savile Row – the area is famous for tailoring, but it is also where The Beatles’ rooftop concert and their final public performance took place on 30th January 1969. Then there’s Pickering Place in St James’s – the smallest square in Britain and the last place in London where a duel was fought.
“London offers plenty of lovely outdoor spaces for a wintery picnic. Warm up with a hot drink and get some fresh air while exploring London’s leafy parks including St James’s Park, Green Park, Regent’s Park, or Primrose Hill for some of the best views of the city.”
Support local
“At the Cavendish we are fortunate to be within walking distance of many great local and historic London-based businesses. Paxton & Whitfield has been Britain’s leading cheesemonger for over 200 years and sources incredible cheeses from all over the UK and the world. You can taste some of the cheeses before purchasing while learning about their origins – I would recommend trying Lincolnshire Poacher, Crozier Blue, and Lancashire Kirkham. In 1850 they were appointed cheesemonger to Queen Victoria and still supply to the British Royal Family today.
“Other guest favourites include Charbonnel et Walker, which is one of Britain’s earliest chocolatiers, or Berry Bros. & Rudd, a wonderful family-run British wine and spirits merchant which was founded in London in 1698.
“London offers a variety of markets all across the city, such as Borough Market, Exmouth Market, Berwick Street Market or Maltby Street Market. Markets are ideal for trying out some artisan treats and finding unique gifts, plus it is a great way to support the local community.”
See the sights
“The London Eye is a must-do when in the city. But don’t forget Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace – and sometimes even Windsor Castle, from a unique point of view. To ensure a safe visit, the London Eye currently has reduced the capacity per pod to allow for social distancing and face coverings are mandatory.
“Alternatively, see a different side of the city and spend a morning walking from Camden Lock to Little Venice – the 50-minute trip is an interesting journey along Regents Canal through Regent’s Park, the grounds of London Zoo and through the Maida Hill tunnel.”
*Due to Government restrictions and COVID-19, not all attractions mentioned may be open. Please check before visiting.
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