London is calling….I blame it on all the books I read but my heart has been set on visiting London for years! I’ve tried to get there (even Owen got to visit the United Kingdom before I did!) for years, even the direct Nashville to London flight didn’t help my chances! But thanks to Open Invite, my dream finally came true! Lauren with Open Invite planned the best itinerary as she knows all the local spots!
Day 1: We stopped at the most beautiful Petersham Nurseries for lunch in Richmond. It may have been my most favorite spot of the whole trip! We explored the Royal Mall, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, shopping at Harrods and walked and walked around town.
It was very surreal to see Buckingham Palace and the guards there. I had hoped King Charles would invite us in for tea but unfortunately he was at the Ascot Races.
Can you tell we are American tourists? After exploring, we checked in and rested at our hotel-Page 8, which was right in the middle of town and such a convenient location! In fact, the MLB was in town and was just across the street for fan festivities. We had the most amazing dinner at Dishoom!
We started Day 2 by boarding Brigit’s Bakery Tea Bus making my dream of riding a double decker bus come true! The bus was equipped with the cutest tea party set up and as we enjoyed our treats, we drove around and saw many sights around London.
After the tea tour, we explored the sights taking in Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge and stopped by Borough Market for an afternoon snacks!
After Borough Market, we raced over to Westminster Abbey for the Evensong service. This program was so special to experience, so much history in that church. It’s been home to coronations, Royal weddings and is a burial location for many dignitaries. Hearing the Westminster choir was something I’ll always treasure.
The group headed in a few different directions for the evening. I decided to stroll through Covent Garden-such a lively area with so many shops and restaurants. I dined at The Ivy and it did not disappoint!
Of course, I had to check out some of the charming local bookstores! Stanfords had such a great selection of local travel books and so much more! I could’ve spent hours in there!
Day 3 found us touring Kensington Palace! I have to admit it was different than I pictured it. However, I really enjoyed seeing the exhibit and gardens! We also saw a helicopter touching down when we arrived, pretty sure it was William and Kate’s ride!
These wildflowers made me happy, poppies symbolize remembrance and hope for the future!
After the Palace, we had lunch at the delicious {and historic} Maggie Jones before walking around the most charming Notting Hill! I adored all the quaint homes, gardens, shops, Portobello Road…all the things! We ended our trip with dinner on the Thames at The Swan.
I absolutely loved London! NYC has always had my heart as the best city but London is now in the running! I wish I would’ve had more time in this amazing city!! Until next time, London! Thanks Open Invite Trips for planning the best trip!