A Cool Girl's Guide To London, England

London is one of those cities that is hard to write a guide to - it feels like there is always something missing to the article. This is mainly because London is hard to put into words, you have to experience it to understand why the city is so magical. This guide will probably miss a few things - just like any other London guide does. However, after visiting London a few different times these places and things to do are my all time favorites. If you like cute cafes, vintage shops, stunning sights, and a good night out this cool girls guide to London is for you.

This post is all about a cool girl's guide to London.

About London

Currency - the pound sterling. 1 pound = 1.29 USD. Don't worry about getting pounds before your trip, pretty much everywhere takes cards.

Safety - London is one of the safest cities in the world. With that said, it is still a major city so there is some crime. Just take normal precautions and avoid the more dangerous neighborhoods (Brixton, Tower Hamlets, and Peckham).

Plugs - Type G (on my first trip to London I didn't realize the UK had different plugs than the rest of Europe so make sure you purchase one before your trip)

Language - I feel like I don't need to go over this, but in England they speak English. You wouldn't be reading this if you didn't know how to speak English so you will be fine.

Where To Stay In London

One thing I love is finding the cutest and coolest boutique hotels. London is full adorable hotels! Some of the best include The Milestone Hotel In Kensington, Vancouver Studios (affordable choice), and Artist Residence London.

In terms of what part of town to stay in I love Kensington. For budget friendly hotels read this article all about How To Do London On a Budget.

What To Do In London

Borough Market

Starting off strong at one of London's coolest places, Borough Market. At Borough Market you will find insanely good baked goods, pastries, coffee, sandwiches, risotto, cheeses, meats, fish, English strawberries dipped in chocolate, and pretty much everything else you can imagine. Dating back to the 12th century, Borough Market is truly a must visit in London! It is open daily from 10am - 5pm.

See Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is a must for any first time visitors to London. The iconic palace was built in 1705 and is most well known for being the home of the royal family. Be sure to visit at the change of the guard ceremony. The ceremony takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 11 am.

If you want to go inside the Palace you have to book a tour. Be sure to book it in advance because they sell out super fast - especially in the summer months. I did this tour and had a lovely time.

Visit The Churchill War Rooms

I stumbled upon the Churchill War Rooms by mistake and I am so glad I did. World War II was an incredibly sad time in history, but it is also so interesting to learn about. Winston Churchill played a huge role in the victory of the Allies. Churchill occupied the war rooms from 1940 - 1945. The rooms are underground and hidden because the English feared that London would be bombed.

In the War Rooms you can see bedrooms, offices, some of Churchill's old clothes, photos, and more historical objects. You can walk in and do a tour of the war rooms or book ahead here. If you are visiting London in the summer book tickets ahead as it is tourist season.

Book Here - Churchill War Rooms

Take a Photo In Front of Big Ben

Big Ben is easily one of the most iconic sights to see in London, it is totally worth visiting and it is within walking distance of Buckingham Palace. To get the best view of Big Ben walk over the Westminster Bridge. Construction for Big Ben started in the 1843 and finished in 1859. Big Ben was built as a part of the rebuilding of the Palace of Westminster as the building was destroyed in a fire in 1834.

If you want to go inside Big Ben you must be over 11 years old and book a tour in advance.

Book Here - Big Ben Tour

St. James Park

St. James Park is a lovely park located in the heart of Westminster. The park is the oldest Royal Park in London and it is surrounded by three palaces! You will find amazing views of London, a pond full of pelicans, a fountain, and an array of flowers and plants at St. James Park.

Go For Afternoon Tea

You can't visit London without having afternoon tea, I mean this cool girls guide to London would not be finished without a mention of afternoon tea. I know, drinking tea in England is super stereotypical, but no one does afternoon tea better. If you want to feel like a princess this is a must. Some of my favorite tea rooms in London include Freya, Fortnum & Mason, and Palm Court at the Ritz

Visit The Iconic Tower Bridge

The Tower Bridge is often confused with the London Bridge. The London Bridge is nothing special, but you will get great views of the tower bridge on it. The Tower Bridge was built in 1894 to ease traffic in the city. It doesn't take long to stop by the Tower Bridge, but it is a must in London.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the most interesting places in the city. Built in 1078, The Tower of London was built to proclaim Royal Power. You will find old prison cells, valuable royal jewels, and so much fascinating history. Some famous prisoners in the Tower of London include Henry the 6th of England, Anne Boleyn, the two young sons of King Edward the 4th, and Katherine Howard.

Book Here - Tower of London Tickets

Visit Notting Hill

This cool girls guide to London would not be complete without Notting Hill. Notting Hill is easily my favorite part of London, and will soon be one of your too. The cafes, vintage shops, and stunning streets make you feel like you are in a movie. Speaking of, make sure you watch the iconic Julia Roberts film Notting Hill before visiting. Some of the best places to visit in Notting Hill include the Notting Hill Bookshop, Over Under Coffee, and Goldsmiths Vintage. If you are looking for a fun day of shopping and cool cafes Notting Hill is the place to be.

Go To a Pub

Pub culture in the United Kingdom is unbeatable, I mean they did invent it. Everytime I visit London I love going to a pub a striking up a conversation with a local. English people are so amazingly strange. I even heard a woman ask for a bloody pint. Order a beer and some fish & chips and enjoy the English culture. Some of the best pubs in London are Old Shades, The White Lion, and The Harp. A great way to meet other travelers and explore the cities best pubs in by doing a pub crawl.

Book Here - London Pub Crawl

See a West End Show

The West End is kind of like Broadway in New York City. Lined with theater's and offering amazing shows, the West End is a great place to spend a night out at the theater. I got to see Hamilton for only $50 because I bought last minute tickets at the theater. To get tickets you can either book them online here or go to the theater right before the show (you may get them for super cheap).

Best London Tours

London Pub Crawl - London is full of iconic pubs. This London pub crawl is a great way to see and experience them with a group of fellow travelers.
Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London - If you have an extra day in London, do a day trip. There are so many lovely villages around London. The two best day trips from London are Bath and Stonehenge.
Seven Sisters & South Downs Tour with Train Tickets Included - Another great day trip option from London is the Seven Sister & South Downs. On this day trip you will have the opportunity to see the stunning views atop the Devil's Dyke National Trust, stop by a rustic farm, see the views of Beachy Head, and frolic around the Seven Sisters Country Park.

Best Food In London

Best Cafes In London

This cool girls guide to London would not be complete without the coolest and most trendy cafes in the city! Here are some of my all time favorite London coffee shops.

Ole & Steen - Ole & Steen is located in the St. James area and offers amazing coffee, pastries, salads, and sandwiches. Everything is baked fresh and so good. They also serve up some amazing dessert options.
The Monocle Café - The Monocle Café is situated in the Hyde Park area and is home to lovely coffee and freshly baked pastries. The hipster cafe is a great place to go for a quick to go breakfast. It is small and offers limited seating inside.
Monmouth Coffee Company - Located in the heart of London, Monmouth Coffee Company offers carefully curated coffee and delectable pastries.
The Steaming Pitcher - Located right next to Borough Market, The Streaming Pitcher is easily one of the best cafes in London. This hidden gem is situated in the Hop Exchange and in a hole in the wall cafe serving all the classics.
The Wren Coffee - You will find The Wren Coffee in East London. The Wren Coffee has been named London's most beautiful coffee shop as it is located in a 12th century church. Serving up great coffee, pastiers, and lunch food The Wren Coffee is a great place to have your morning coffee in London.

Best Restaurants In London

Bob Bob Ricard- Bob Bob Ricard is a marvelous french restaurant located in the heart of London. The glamorous restaurant is pricey so be sure to budget and dress to impress.
Supperclub.tube - If you are looking for a unique dining experience in London Supperclub.tube is the place to go. The inventive restaurant is located in a 1967 Victorian Tub Cart and serves up Latin cuisine.
Bun House - If you are trying to stick to a budget while in London then checkout Bun House for dinner or lunch. This asian joint situated in London's Chinatown serves up the best buns in the city!
Pizza Pilgrims - Pizza Pilgrims is another affordable, yet delicious restaurant in London. At Pizza Pilgrims you will find amazing Neapolitan style pizza.
St. John - If you are looking to try the best traditional British food in London then checkout St. Johns. St. John's is located in the heart of London and pretty fancy so be sure to dress up a bit. Also make a reservation.
Ikoyi - Ikoyi is one of the most well known restaurant in London. With two michelin stars, Ikoyi is the definition of luxury. Be sure to make a reservation - this can be tough.

Best Bars In London

Cahoots Bar - Located in the St. James district the Cahoots Bar offers inventive cocktails in a luxurious setting. You will feel like you are transported back in time at the underground bar.
The Gobpsy - The Gobpsy is a 20s themed bar located in the heart on London. The once barber shop serves up incredible cocktails.
Lyaness - Lyaness is a fancy cocktail bar located right by the river. Enjoy luxurious drinks, seating, decor, and views at Lyaness.

When To Visit London

You can visit London anytime and have a wonderful time. London is the type of city where the weather doesn't really matter, it's super cool and interesting no matter what. The city is most popular in the summer, so if you are traveling on a budget avoid the summer months. I love London in the fall because the leaves are turning and it can be cozy. The holidays are also a blast because you can see all the holiday decor and wander around London's fabulous Christmas Markets.