As one of the world’s oldest cities and the cultural epicenter of Britain, London has a lot to offer to visitors. After spending a semester living in this famous city, here is how I envision the perfect weekend in London for anyone on a British getaway.

A walk in Regent’s Park

London has many beautiful parks, from Hampstead Heath to Hyde Park, but Regent’s Park has the hearts of many. The royal park is located in Camden, a central London borough, easily accessible from popular areas such as Marylebone and Soho, and features 410 acres of land. The beautiful green space has something for everyone, from the London Zoo to ornate gardens and a lake. Last but definitely not least, the park contains a grassy hill perfect for picnics with a view of the London skyline. A walk through Regent’s is definitely worthwhile when spending a weekend in London!

Afternoon Tea at the Covent Garden Hotel

Afternoon tea is a must when visiting London. Covent garden is a bustling neighborhood in Central London, and the Brasserie Max in the Covent Garden Hotel offers afternoon tea from noon to 5pm with an elegant, royal theme. Enjoy a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and tarts, and your choice of a whole host of teas from English Breakfast, to peppermint and more. High tea is a favorite English tradition for good reason!

Visit the National Gallery

Art lover or not, you can’t miss the National Gallery. The museum is located in Trafalgar Square, less than a ten minute walk from Big Ben, the London Eye, and Westminster Abbey. The National Gallery features works from famous painters such as Joseph Turner, Velasquez, Botticelli, Monet, Picasso and more. For both modern and contemporary art, the National Gallery is the place to go!

Unwind at Claridge’s Spa

Make your weekend in London extra relaxing with a visit to Claridge’s spa. Claridge’s hotel in Mayfair is known for its beautiful art-deco exterior, and luxury 5-star experience. Whether or not you are staying at Claridge’s the spa can be reserved. Designed by interior architect Andre Fu, the spa is inspired by zen gardens and Japanese temples, and utilizes relaxing sensory and visual tools such as flowing water, incense, music, floral arrangements, and more to give guests a high-end, calming experience. Treat yourself.

Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, Of Course

If you have to pick and choose which London attractions to visit, Big Ben and Buckingham palace can be the priority. These two attractions don’t take much time to visit as you can’t enter inside, but they boast beautiful, ornate, exteriors and epitomize the city’s culture. Recently cleaned and repaired, Big Ben looks better than ever, with the London Eye just behind it. Buckingham Palace has guards and horses standing outside all day long, adding a unique performative aspect to the site, not to mention the amazing pictures that can be taken in both locations.

Follow this bucket list and you’re set to have a lovely weekend in London filled with delicious food and drinks, beautiful sights, and meaningful immersions that will make your trip unforgettable.

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