London England Layover

London November 2014 - Another layover in London.

If you have a 1-2 day stay in London there’s a lot to see and do. Don’t try to see everything but do focus on a few good experiences. Here are some ideas on how to enjoy a short stay in London.


Stay: I try to stay at hostel or hotels near Paddington Station, it is convenient for those early morning flight, as the Heathrow Express starts there, which a provides fast train services to London Heathrow Airport.

Eat: A day in London begins at dawn and one of the best ways to start the morning is with a traditional English breakfast. Around Smithfield Meat Market the pubs open at 6am when the trading ends. You’ll find a hearty breakfast alongside the porters and other night workers in this part of town. If taking the tube from Paddington Station, get off at Farringdon Station, here is the link to the Map https://goo.gl/maps/xNvxaMh1sim

See: St Pauls Cathedral is a short walk from Smithfield and one of London’s iconic sights. This was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and climbing to the dome gives a fabulous view of London. From here, head to the Tower of London where you’ll see some of the most famous landmarks in British history including the Crown Jewels. There are frequent boat trips that leave the Tower and head back to Westminster which is a lovely way to see the River Thames. From Westminster Bridge you can take a short walk around the Houses of Parliament, see Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.

Museums: London has some excellent museums and some of the best include the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Science Museum, and the British Museum. Many museums are free making them ideal for those on a budget. Focus in on a few highlights and you’ll enjoy your visit without being overwhelmed.

Theater:  London’s Theater Land is famous and there are many wonderful performances each night. Reserve a seat online before travelling to be sure of the show you want to see. In London you’ll find a variety of restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world. Some of the best places to eat include the Covent Garden area and around West London.


If you have longer stay in London one of the fun things to do is take a boat ride down the River Thames to Greenwich where you can see the Cutty Sark and the famous Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory. Alternatively the Cabinet War Rooms in Westminster shows a side to London experienced in World War Two. If you like to walk, then strolling across Hyde Park to Kensington Palace is a lovely way to spend a morning. In London there is always something to see and do and you’ll have a superb time.


Below a few Pictures I took, Click to enlarge

I was there late November and the streets had Christmas decorations.

London November 2013

Another Day stopover. Checked-in to my hotel, met a couple from Austria who were going to a Pub Crawl, they invited me to join them, Spent the evening and night at the Shoreditch District. London has an amazing Nightlife. 

London November 2012

Day stopover, took advantage of the stop over to see the City. Went to London Eye and walked along Thames river, last stop was the London Tower Bridge.

Below London Eye - Just great views of London, while in London go check it out.

Comments? What are some of your favorite things to during a overnight layover?

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