London Attractions that are Overrated
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 3 ต.ค. 2024
- There are some sights in London that in my opinion are overrated, they aren't worth your time or money to see. I recommend skipping these London attractions to save yourself time and money on something you might not have enjoyed (again, completely my own opinion!)
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Sky Garden (free views of London)
You should do a complimentary video to this "popular things to do in London that are worth your money"
Good idea Jaime!
@@milkandduckrailway323 Which ones better
I’ve been a tourist in London and have also lived there for 15 years. This is all great advice. Honestly, the only big ticket attraction worth the money is the Tower of London.
probably an unpopular opinion, but I think the london eye was really cool at night! It's probably only worth doing once though
There are LOADS of people who'd agree with you, and I think the Eye is cool, it just costs quite a bit :) Glad to hear you liked it!
Love and London yeah it's too bad it's not included in the London pass! Nonetheless London is one of my favourite cities and I can't wait to go back!
Yes once is enough, luckily I did that & I dislike London.
I thought it was great actually but probably wouldn’t pay to do it again 😂
Same
You can skip london eye too and get the same view for free by reaching the tip floor of tate modern.
Leicester Square: there is one totally legitimate reason to go there - the TKTS office. It's the only official discount ticket booth in London (despite so many claiming to be 'official' and 'half-price'), and I've had some amazing bargains from there. The staff are knowledgeable about all West End shows, so will point you in the right direction for tickets if they don't have any available. Definitely DON'T avoid TKTS if you're looking to go to a show!
I Am Frank and The Prince Charles Cinema.
managed to see waitress for half price :)
This video is spot on. Concentrate on the Tower of London, Borough Market, Covent Garden and the various museums, especially the British Museum, and don't forget Harrods, especially the food hall.
One of THE best views of London you get from Greenwich Park - next to the observatory, walk a little to your right of the main view down and up the hill on the other side of the 'dip' and take your camera! I'd also say check out Richmond Hill and river walk, towns in the southwestern suburbs like Farnham + castle (even international students there in this quaint suburbs from the University of the Arts), Virginia Water for boating and Eton and Windsor Riverside for Windsor Castle. Go to the horse racing at Ascot or Red Bull flying days there.
Take the train to Westbourne Park (it will look strange when you exit the station but trust me on this one), turn left out of the station and you will come to a bridge, drop down onto the canalside and keep walking, as it goes from waterside residences to Regents Park and Stratford for the business district and Olympic Park and shopping Mall. Along the Regents Canal that links with the Grand Union Canal, there are lots of different types of eating and drinking opportunities. Canal boats more in various locations with mini communities, multi-million pound houses on the water, riverside pubs and restaurants. When you get to Regents Park, detour to the hill for one of the best views in London, then back, keep going and depending on how long you like your walks, you could get as far as the Olympic Park for lots of shopping and eating. If you're into shopping and want somewhere covered if it's a rainy day (not many in London as people would have you believe - in fact, London is quite dry!), then you can go to Westfield Shepherd's Bush for Europe's largest mall.
Richmond Riverside is a gem, and the hill in the autumn is like a classic painting and many a tourist does find it. There's also great eating, shopping and cafe culture there too. There's so much so I'm going to stop there...but DO take in the view of London from Greenwich Park (remember, the better view is to face to the right away from the observatory and walk down the hill and back up the other side - the views are incredible with Georgian architecture and sail boat Cutty Sark meeting 21st century London's emerging skyline from nowhere in recent years. In winter the view is actually even better once the leaves have dropped - on a sunny morning soak up the view and go down into Greenwich for independent shops and food market - also you can even walk under the Thames to the other side via the Greenwich foot tunnel.
My advice to you in London is - explore, get lost, because so developed is it, you will always have a transport node or option to get home wherever you end up, not just in London but most of the country! London is vast, and exploration of the sum of all its parts may take time, but it's worth it...and you'll get a much better feel for where most of us live and play! Let's be honest, it's always great to get out of touristville too isn't it? Oh, and if you're looking for something different, the suburbs also have several real snow ski-domes in the suburbs too. Much to do, but London makes other European cities look small, so you have to be prepared to get your walking shoes on and push the boundaries of the geographical area your maps tell you to stick to!
Nice, thanks Richard.
I also like the view from Primrose Hill. It's close to the Zoo, so you can visit both places in the same outing.
Spot on with Greenwich Park, one of the best views in London.
As a Londoner I can say... great advice!!
London Eye is so overrated. I've been to the upper gallery at St Paul's Cathedral and it's much better!
+David Fernando de Almeida Vieira :)
It is fabulous but a bit difficult for those not so able. I say this from knowledge
Sometimes higher does not mean a better view. In Paris, I liked the view better from the Pompidou (6 stories) than atop Montmartre.
But are tourists allowed to visit there ?
We visited London in 2007. We did do the Changing of the Guard and were able to get a spot right next to the gates. It was fabulous.
Massive tip for changing of guards see it at the Tower of London it's very cheap and not as popular as Buckingham but you get to see the crown Jewels there
Good one Luke!
Changing of the guard, it's not plural. Good tip though, also Windsor Castle, St James's Palace and Wellington Barracks.
We just returned from our week long stay in London. I watched all your London videos and they were so helpful! We had an amazing time and the weather held out for us until the last couple of days. Your videos were super helpful. We stayed one week in Paris and took the Eurostar to London for a week.
We opted not to do the London Pass. Instead, we utilized the Rails Days Out, and printed out several vouchers, which saved us a great deal on admissions on things from which we could pick and choose. Now, to clarify, this time of year (off season) made that work for us. The London Pass during the busy months would be something to consider. We also added a 7 Day Travelcard to our Oyster Card which made traveling around so easy. Then I went to the train station and bought a set of "throw away" tickets from Vauxhall to Queenstown and one for a week later return from Queenstown to Vauhall. This was about 5.30GBP total and it saved us fortune using the Rails Days Out. Only at the London Eye and Hampton Court did they ask for two sets of tickets and I showed them our Hampton Court ticket set for that. Our Oyster card expired on our last day and we only had to add 3.10GBP to each card to get us to Heathrow.
One topic you haven't covered in your videos is what to do if you get sick. Fortunately, for me it was treatable with over the counter medication from Boots (a store I hadn't heard of before), but was a lifesaver!
Other ideas might be walking tours and food tours. A highlight for our Paris trip was the Secret Food Tours. They have a branch in London, although we did not take advantage of it. We only were able to use one London Walks tour, but it was wonderful having someone walk you around, who knows were they are going and what they are talking about! Our Westminster Abby tour was so much more enjoyable this way.
We enjoyed our trip so much! We took in Sir Elton John's "Radical Eye" at the Tate Modern. (Our Eurostar ticket got us a buy one get one savings, but the Rails Days Out would have also worked.)
Thank you for all your wonderful videos! There is so much city and so little time, but we did our best!
Thanks for the nice comment and tips Sherry! Thinking about doing a video about the 2-4-1 train deal. Glad it worked out well for you.
The monument of the great fire of London is really good. It offers great views of the city and is only around £4. Only go up if you're prepared to climb 311 steps though!
Even better is climbing up St. Paul's. I was knackered when I got to the top, but the view was incredible.
Only 22 days until we leave for London! I am beside myself! As I am a crazy Beatles fan we will see Abbey Road as part of our walking tour. Thank you for the Sky Garden tip, I've been on the fence about the Shard or the London Eye so I will cross them off the list. Besides my Beatles stuff (yes, two days in Liverpool) I am most looking forward to the Tower and Westminster Abbey. My husband is ready for his pub tour and Jack the Ripper tour. We are going to be London Walks best customers for the week.
You've got so much fun stuff planned Kristina, have a GREAT time!!
Hope that you all have a great adventure. Having been to London, one can't beat the London Eye (on a good day), pub tour is great fun but Mme. Tussauds was a let-down. The one thing that I did was take a night tour of London in a black cab. Did not cost all that much and the drivers are a fountain of information. They were all great. The only pictures that I'm actually in were taken by the cab drivers (I was on holiday alone). By the way, one could spend weeks just doing the museums. I only made it to a few and I must say that the British Museum is well worth the time. The Tower, Westminster, Windsor, Hampton Court, and 8,000,000,000 other palaces, monuments and pubs were all great. HAVE A GRAND TIME.
I agree with most of what you've listed but 'Changing of the guards!' I love it!
Although I've been lucky and it was never crowded when I was there, and I once saw Prince Edward being driven out of the palace. I also like watching the guards to see if any of them make a mistake.
It's really cool if you miss the crowds! You visited on a good day Thuha :)
I can't wrap my head around people going to Abbey road, Im British, and when I think of London I just don't think of that, I just see it as going to a crossing on a road at a place with nothing interesting.
Lol yeah
If you spent your life LOVING The Beatles, that's a place you MUST visit. In my case, there was some kind of magnetism. I just couldn't leave the place. Yes, there was nothing around - but just thinking of these four guys recording there made my hair stand on end!
Ben Jacobs the beetles took a photo on there or something.
give me a break how can you not understand people going to area..its the beatles ..??
Plus, since a station of the same name opened up in East London on the DLR, signs have been required telling people that they're in the wrong part of London.
I am planning on visiting in March and these are some of the site I am visiting...Westminster Abbey, British Museum, Tate Modern Art Museum, Tower of London and Big Ben.
Chris Nicholas you should definitely go to Camden Town too!
Chris Nicholas nice. Westminster Abbey and Big Ben are close to each other and you should be able to do British museum on the same day as those 2. Tower of London is fairly close to Tate Modern. You could get a boat along the river between the 2. Have fun
Chris Nicholas...Tate Modern Art Gallery on the South Bank is great and the new viewing platform is free and you can see most of London from up there. From Tate Modern you can then walk across the Millennium bridge to St Paul's Cathedral. The V&A, Natural History Museum and Science Museum are all next to each other in South Kensington and also free to visit. But I think Tower of Big Ben might be covered in scaffolding when you get here.
Have a great trip.
Awesome! Not long now, have a great time Chris.
try Greenwich or brick lane market on a Sunday that is in east London
I respect for your continuous work you put into your channel. I'm going to London in April after watching your videos and they're cool and I've learnt so much.
Thank you, that means a lot! I really appreciate your nice comment :)
Once again some good calls here, although the changing of the guard is one of the few free things in the city! In winter it’s quite sedate, otherwise get there early or see the Guards at Windsor Castle, or the Tower. It’s worth remembering that other regiments (and even the Royal Navy) now stand in for the Guard division, so you might not get to see the busby clad Guards of infamy.
Just found this video and am happy to find none of the places I visited on your list. Did the Tate Modern on advice from my friend in London and loved it (followed by loads of drinking at Founder's Arms), the British Museum, and the Imperial War Museum plus lots of just walking around the city.
You can get a great view from Guys hospital tower next to the Shard for nothing.Its the tallest hospital in europe.
Oh I'll be there next week, I'm gonna go find your spot! Nice one!
Agreed!
Guys hospital is also the ugliest hospital in Europe - it should be torn down and replaced a.s.a.p.
One thing everyone has to do when they go to London is tour inside Westminster! So fascinating and a lot of hidden secrets about the building which you'd never know about unless you go for a tour! I got to watch a live debate in the House of Commons as well!
+Craig Tilley cool!
Ive lived in london all my life, and here is some good advice!! you should come to london at Christmas time because its the most Christmassy thing you will ever see!!! And if you do, go to Winter WonderLand its great❤️💕
:)
yes but there are no transport available on 25th and 26th is boxing day with limited services, I missed my flight because of that at last Xmas.
I’m going tomorrow:) I bought myself a three day London Pass, I’m looking forward to this weekend!
Enjoy!
I get the the shard is expensive. But I have to disagree. The views from up there are phenomenal. I went on a solo trip with friends and an hour before sunset. I guess I got lucky with no clouds. But I get your point.
For me the most over-rated "attraction" was Sherlock Holmes museum.
For 15 quid entrance had to wait 45 mins to enter and was shown just 7 rooms which was around 20 mins in total.
Avoid it at all costs.
Abbey Road was VERY much worth it to us - celebrated my 64th Birthday that year (my "Beatles" birthday a couple back) and loved walking the crosswalk and having memories. Did it on a Sunday and not much traffic. So, to us it was great.
If I'm not mistaken, the shard has a policy regarding weather. If you get real crappy weather they give you a new ticket to another day.
Other than that, all of those locations really aren't worth the money and time spent.
I went to London 6 years ago and I'm visiting for one day this summer. The things I found most interesting on my first trip were definitely Camden Market, the Tower of London and a couple of pubs that I visited. Now that I'm visiting again for a short day, the things I'm looking forward to most are visiting Camden again - big Madness fan over here, so I've got to - and visiting the Westminster Abbey. I agree with you on the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, though, on the other hand I feel like, if you're a tourist in London and you want to visit Buckingham Palace, you could easily make it fit your schedule so that you can see the changing of the guards. I personally did not think it was all that spectacular, but I suppose it's that kinda thing which is nice to tell that you saw it. Anyway, I'm really looking forward to visiting London again!
If you want to get more off the beaten path this time around (highly recommended) then you'll want to grab my Casual Tourist Guides: shop.loveandlondon.com/collections/casual-tourist-guides-to-london
When I went in last May my first place I visited was Windsor Castle. Although my places I liked visiting was the London Transport Museum, Tower of London, also went on a bicycle tour that started near the Millenium Wheel, and went to Monument and Piccadilly Circus.
On the bicycle tour I went outside of Buckingham Palace, but I will NEVER go for the changing of the guard again. When I was 12 my mother and father took me there to see it and I was being pushed up against the concrete barrier so hard I was trying to climb up because it physically hurt so much, and I still remember how much it hurt today.
Loved this vid so much that you also you gained a new sub! I'm planning on making yearly trips to London as ironically it's cheaper to visit than for me to return home to Washington, DC.
Aw thanks so much, and great to hear about your experience. I hope you do come yearly, what a great thing to look forward to :)
If you want an almost free experience, free apart from the cost of your Oyster card, get on the 176 .. there's a bus stop outside the Garrick Theatre on Charing Cross Road. The 176 has Penge on the front but get off at the Horniman Museum, Sydenham Hill. There's a charge for the aquarium and special exhibitions ..otherwise no charge and great views back to London.
If want some good photos/instagrams stop off at Nunhead cemetery on the way back - a Victorian cemetery that looks like the set for a horror film.
As someone who has just moved to London and has a couple of weeks before starting work, this has definitely helped me out! I'm loving how so many of the museums and galleries are free!
The free museums are SO great! Enjoy your time here :)
I TOTALLY agree! Each and every you mentioned are a waste of time and money. Or boring. Or just weird. Great work! Thanks! Cheers! 👍👍💗💗😁😁😘😘🇬🇧
Lol thanks!
Lol It feels great to know that there´s other people who think that the London Eye is overrated. Great video !
Idk if it was just a great time to go, but I loved the shard!
Changing of the guards is TRULEY packed, but not too bad if you get there early.
The Palace tour was amazing!
THE LONDON EYE IS MEH, not totally worth the money.🤷🏻♂️
I have been in London many times, I totally agree with you about Madame Tussauds, I've always avoided it like the plague, although I'd love to go nearby and see Baker Street (because of Sherlock of course). And I've been to Abbey Road, glad I did but you are absolutely right about not trying to try for a picture on the crossing...Well, believe it or not I love Leicester Square (yep, I am weird like that) but I love Covent Garden much more! I'll be in London next month with my cousin who wants to go to the Shard and has already booked tickets (she paid for them, so...). I actually am looking forward to it and hopefully the weather will be at least decent to see from its top the city I love so much...Thanks for the videos Jesse, they are giving me lots of ideas and tips for my trip! Greetings from Italy!
Agree 100% - we stayed in premier inn borough high st which I cannot recommend enough and shard was at our back door but just too expensive. We were advised against London eye and madam t as well so avoided those. Did Buckingham p tour which was out if this world as was Westminster Abbey, although it's somewhat overwhelming and very busy. Covent g was the most glorious corner of London and hop on/off tour really was good value in the end. Couldn't afford to fit in everything but regret not doing tower of l and seeing crown jewels which is quintessentialy british. Loved your vids and found them so helpful!
The open top bus is a common one , tickets span two days, but bus routes close around 6 pm ,and usually change buses along the route!
Londoner here. I’ve done most of what the video suggested. London eye and Madame tuassards are on the merlin annual pass - so and UK travellers who have it can go for free. It’s the only time it’s worth it! (There are restrictions in summer holidays though) Or you can get 2 for 1 vouchers.
Great tips! It really hate crowds and realize that they Cannot be completely avoided while visit such a busy place. But I really appreciate the comment about changing of the guards and London Eye. Will be visiting in June! So excited! I'm hoping to visit the Sky Garden among many other things :)
Yay! Mikki, you might want to consider a hop on hop off tour if you're not into crowds. There are lots in June but if you're on the tour bus, you can ride past the major sites instead of being within the crowds near them! Here's my video about the buses: th-cam.com/video/i5i8aX1l4jw/w-d-xo.html
Awesome! Definitely going to try a Bus Tour! I also enjoyed your shopping video. My husband lived in London for two years over ten years ago and can't wait to restock on suits and dress shirts with the wide color that are difficult to come by where we live in the US :) I have another question about how it will be visiting with all the political stuff happening in the US. Are people going to hate us? 8-/ Do people give you a hard time about being American over there?
Sorry for a true Beatles fan, Abbey Road is a must. I Aldo went to Liverpool, strawberry fields and Penny lane.
Two underrated attractions. HMS Belfast near Tower Bridge. And the Cabinet/Churchill's war rooms.
I totally agree that Madame Tussaud is one of the worst attractions in Britain, but I lived in Brighton about 20 years ago and I used to love changing the guards. By the way the worst museum I've ever been in the UK is the Beatles museum in Liverpool. It's a total waste of time. It's not in London, but I think it's worth mention
I was planning a visit for next spring. I have only been in London once and I must share my experience with the Buckingham Palace change of guard. First, I should say this was a LONG time ago. It was Jan. or Feb., the temperature was in the 0s Fahrenheit and I had to stand there for about two hours in the snow to see the show. It was rather crowded iirc. I was wearing a thick coat and boots with many layers of socks but eventually the cold got through the clothes and it felt no different than being naked. Freezing my butt off like never in my life. It was a cool show but the price I paid was enormous.
Excellent advice! (I would, however, disagree on the Changing of The Guard, but only if you can get there in plenty of time to grab a prime spot.)
If you want good views of London then I’d recommend the Sky Garden. You need to book but it’s free and there is a cafe there if you fancy a drink or something to eat. Alternatively have a drink at one of the bars/ restaurants in the Heron Tower.
I went to Abbey Road as a Beatles fan and got emotional. I totally recommend visiting it
I enjoyed the Tower Bridge tour and the view from the walkway at the top of the bridge when you are in the middle of the river is great. If you go to the changing of the guard, avoid the spots right in front of the palace and stand a ways down the road. You still get to see the parade to the palace, but then you can pop around to St James and in a few minutes they change the guard there also and hardly anyone is there.
Nice tips!
We enjoyed going to the beefeaters distillery. The drink at the end of the tour was super nice. Ok the tour was a bit lame, but we just got off the plane and the drink was delish and our room wasn’t ready.
Nice!
Every single one of your "avoids" is spot on! You've become a true local! ;-)
Especially Pester Square!
Thank you for mentioning Sky Garden! I'm going to London in like two and a half weeks (omfg) and my friends and I weren't sure about doing the London Eye. Sky Garden seems like a much better options for us!
I think you'll really like it Jess! It's not as high up but it's worth the free price tag :)
Take boat down the river from Westminster thru the Thames Barrier. It is amazing. Get off at Greenwich then walk thru the Naval Museum up the hill to the Royal Observatory, and stand on the Prime Meridian. One foot in the past, one in the future. Interesting small museum there and it's free. 2 things I struck off my life list in one morning.
Your videos are so helpful! Requesting the guide now...
Spot on especially about Abbey Road, Madame T’s, Ripley’s, London Eye & The Shard! Avoid! Avoid! Avoid!
And yes, I love Covent Garden..
If you buy a ticket for the shard, and it is a cloudy day and you can see certain landmarks you will get a free ticket for another day.
This had me saying YES and agreeing watching it because we skipped so many of the things you mentioned on our trip back in September 2018 (first ever trip to London)! We went to the Sky Garden (made reservations before we came to London) and it was fabulous and we took pictures of the Shard from our window seat table! haha :D There were so many great things to do and see aside from the "main" tourist attractions you just have to do a little extra research prior to your trip .. it will be worth it! ♥
Exactly :)
Great list and pretty much re-enforced what I suspected. Something to note though is that as I write this (4 Oct 2019) the Shard is included in the London Pass so you can enjoy the view and not have to buy a separate ticket for it. :-)
Jess, as a person born and raised in London it's quite interesting to gain insight into a foreigner prospective. Interestingly I agree on most of those. Especially Madame Tussaud's! Outrageously expensive.
I also just watched a video of yours regarding the difference between the UK and US. You made some interesting behaviourally observations of us Brits. Which made me wonder do you have much experience in dating English men prior to your marriage. It would be interesting to hear your thoughts behind the difference between dating American men and English men how we differ in regards to behaviour around women.
Hey Haz! Nope my husband is the only Brit I've dated.
I plan on going to Sherlock Holmes museum, and Jack the ripper tour at night
You're absolutely correct. Couldn't agree more
Thank god u said the London eye as the arcelormittal orbit serves the same purpose and is accessible plus its in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park which is beautiful and was home to the 2012 Olympic Games. The orbit also has a slide and you can abseil from it. The London Madame Tussaud’s is the original but that’s the only good thing about it. Abbey road is ok but nothing special and please everyone don’t block the crossing. Near to abbey road is Lord’s Cricket Ground which is in my view a incredible place and is home to the one of the oldest sports museums in the world.
I want to do the British Museum. i've heard about it my whole life, and I just MUST go.
Totally!
You definitely have to visit the British Museum.. and like all museums in London, it's free!!
Yes! Definitely go!!
Kevin Key I was there about 10 years ago and they offered a Highlights tour which a great to get your bearings plus seeing everything they are famous for
Yes the 'british' museum, that stole everything from everywhere else!
Nice list! I agree with most of these, except for the changing of the guard. I've been to it several times and I always thought the crowd wasn't too bad, even when I went in the middle of tourist season. It was definitely a lot of people but I managed to get out quickly and it seemed well worth it. I've been to most of the others you mentioned though and definitely agree that they were rather underwhelming!
Thanks Gabriella! :)
I absolutely love London and have been there every year over the last 10 years. Highly recommend skipping the London Eye and go to 22 Fenchurch or the Walkie Talkie building. Admission to the top is free but you do need to get tickets online before visiting. Great views and a nice bar to sit back and take in the view.
The Sky Garden :) Yes I think I mentioned it!
Watching your videos in preparation for an upcoming London trip. I‘m a sucker for ferris wheels and I have been on the London Eye three times already 😁 but I also agree that Skygarden is really great. I once took my mother there for a mother’s day dinner. Only way I could justify the expensive food... it was really good though.
For a great view of London at a much cheaper cost take the lift to the top of the tower of Westminster Cathedral in Victoria. Plus the view of London from The Greenwich Observatory takes some beating and you get that for free...
Is the tower that high?
I was born in London and have never done the abbey rd thing. Its a zebra crossing, the end 😁
Also if you want to avoid crowds then December is a fabulous time to visit.
I totally agree that Leicester square hasn't much to go on but covent garden is my favourite place to walk about ❤
I agree, Abbey Rd. is not much to write home about but London Zoo and Regent's Park are nearby alternatives, although they are obvious ones. I like Kensal Green Cemetery ; as the final resting place of Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Williams Blake and Thackeray it has a lot of cultural significance.
I could go to a Ripleys in LA. Thanks for the heads up. Love your content keep up the great work
Personally I wouldn't go to ripleys ANYWHERE 😂 thanks for watching!
@@loveandlondon yeah I’m with you on that.
Definitely agree that madame tussauds and Ripley's believe it or not aren't worth it, they show or say nothing about London itself, so what is the point? Abbey Road requires patience if you want that photo, so again I agree it's probably not worth it. The Shard is great but a one time do, or maybe once in the day and once at night as we did in Seattle with the Space Needle. It's also great as an impulse on a nice day even though it's expensive. The Changing of the guards is great if you get there early, or in a quiet time of the year. Only reason I go to Leicester Square is the Lego Shop :). I have the same feelings about the London Eye as the Shard, unless anything changes about the Skyline, I have no need to go back
Visiting in April and a huge Tudor history buff, so I will be seeing Hever Castle, Hampton Court Palace, St James Palace, and the Tower for sure. Also, my ancestors are from northern England near Harrogate, so I'll be taking a train up there to see an ancestral home. Other than that I want to see Hyde Park, and just walk around Covent Garden/7 Dials (staying in that area). What are Sundays like there? Are things open? LOVE your videos!
Thanks! In the centre, things are open on Sundays.
I am a Beatles fan, and I didn’t visit Abbey Road...but I did go to Liverpool, and went to Mathew Street! Much more authentic if you can make it!
So I watched your vids, then went to London for the first time. We stayed at an ABnB in Camden which was an interesting place, especially at night. GET THE OYSTER CARD! Anything in South London seems to be a waste. Westminster Abbey was full of history and paired well with our trip out to Edinburgh Castle in Scotland.
No way South London is pretty great too! :) Glad you had a nice time
Instead of doing the Shard, you should do the Sky Garden on Fenchurch Street. It’s free to go up, has a rooftop bar and has great views with the Shard included
That is what she says at 3:30.
My trip a few months ago:
-The Natural History Museum is (like Ripley's Believe it or Not) has several locations around the world, and the London one wasn't as good as the one in New York City. I was disappointing. But if you've never been, it might be worth your while.
-British History museum was ok,, I'd honestly pick out the exhibits that predominately interest you and toss the rest. Restrooms were very gross and had a never-ending line (both male and female). The Victoria and Albert museum on the other hand, rocked!
-I agree, changing of he guard at Buckingham Palace is too crowded, unless you get there a full hour 1/2 prior to it and can get close to the gates. The palace is enchantingly a beautiful sight at night or on a snow day, those are times where not too many tourists are around.
London is a good place to visit if you have a Merlin annual pass mainly because a Majority of Merlin's flagship attractions (excluding Alton towers) are either in the city centre or within a half hour to hours drive. I'd definitely recommend visiting the London Dungeon and Chessington World of Adventures if you get the chance.
I wouldn't agree but it's just my opinion and you're entitled to yours :) Thanks for watching
I rode the Eye at sunset which was very cool.
Interesting comments which I for the most part agree with apart from the changing of the guard. Nice one.
Thanks for watching!
I was just in London this April. I thought that Covent Garden is now just a tourist trap. Wasn't worth my time. We saw the Changing of the Guard, but we did not try to be in front of the palace. Instead, we stood by the gates to the Wellngton Barracks where they finish. Once they are inside the gates, head back up the street a little and wait, because the old guard does a final inspection which most tourists will miss. For some good views, go to the 10th floor of the Tate Modern. It's free and has amazing views of the city (as long as it isn't too murky), just be prepared to have to squeeze into an elevator like sardines. I recommend getting some exercise and using the stairs.
Covent Garden is great if you know where you're going and venture away from the Piazza.
I rode the London eye when i went and it was OK (especially because the Big Ben wasn't still under renewal) but i assure you it is no that cool and now that I have learned about sky garden I rather go there and save the £35. I think the high roller in las Vegas is cooler and cheaper.
London Eye but it looks good from a distance but boring. Needs seat belts and more speed :). Yes I am a heathen. Never been to Tussauds as doesn't interest me. Walked around Abbey Road as near Lords. One attraction I always enjoy Tower of London.
Here's a tip for saving some money if you want to see St. Paul's Cathedral. If you visit during a service, say during the Vespers Evensong service, admission is free. Keep in mind that it is a service, so you can't wander around or take pictures. You will have to be seated. That said, you can still see most of the interior from your seat and the choir is nice too, and if you are religious you will probably get something spiritual out of it too. The Evensong service lasts 40-50 minutes.
You can skip the services and be a tourist, but it will cost you about 20 Pounds each (about $26 USD). That said, even though admission to the service is free, you might want to drop something on the collection plate. There are also votive candles you can light at the rear of the cathedral for a small donation. Arrive early and you will get a seat under the dome.
I believe that this tip also applies to Westminster Abbey.
Thanks Frank. Definitely recommend a donation if you attend a service!
One of the Merlin attractions that's definitely worth it if you have children is the Shrek one in county hall - all my kids enjoyed it and the groups they send you around in aren't overly big.
Oh I could never
My family will be headed to London in the fall, so I'm so happy I've found your channel!!! 👏🏼 I'll most likely be binge watching all of your tip videos and downloading your helpful guides. I'll be traveling with my kiddos (age10 & 5) and so we're researching kid friendly/fun things to do. Already had Madame Tussauds and Ripleys crossed off the list as well as the zoo and most museums...not sure how the kids will hold up walking through the museums for hours 😕 We plan to enjoy the parks and had the suggestion to go to Camden lock market. Any suggestions for family adventures while in London? Also, my girls would love a classic "tea party"....is there a particular tea house or restaurant you would suggest for high tea? ☕️ THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
Hi Sarah! So exciting. Check out my Pinterest board for ideas for what to do with kids: uk.pinterest.com/Jess_inLondon/visiting-london-with-kids/ One Aldywch has a Willy Wonka-themed afternoon tea, or there's a science-themed tea at The Ampersand Hotel.
well.abbey road itself is only common road..close to that is little venice what is worth to see it
Good tip!
I'm British and know London well although I don't live there. I agree with the advice in this video.
I think whether its worth it or not people want to go to these places as a bucket list checked off. Other than the Mme Tussauds and Ripleys I suggest tourists should visit them.
Thanks for posting I will be in London March, my first time and I have no plans to go see any of those expensive touristy things. I do plan on going to Borough Market, Sky Garden, V&A, National, British and Tate museums. I have an appointment at the British museum print room to view 400 year old watercolors. I am going to a play call Comedy about a Bank Robery. A reservation at a nice restaurant called St John. And much more.. Probably won't get to everything this trip.
Nice Richard, enjoy it! Sounds like you've got loads to do.
OMG Richard, viewing the water colors sounds AMAZING. I had no idea one could do that!
Instead of the shard go to sky gardens on the other side of the thames. It's free!
Hello Jess. As I mentioned in one of your previous video, they're really helpful. I couldn't stop myself from watching all your videos coming next 😂 well i am visiting London at the end of July, for the first time so i hope i run into you by luck and say thanks in person.
Thank you Lisha! yes please do!
@@loveandlondon Can i DM you if i have any doubts about my visit?
I'm scared of the London Eye - no worries. Is The Shard that expensive restaurant that has expensive prices for everything? I would love to see your take on London attractions you shouldn't miss. Thank you!
There are many expensive restaurants with expensive prices ;)
When I saw Changing of the Guards I arrived pretty early. One it was finished I didn't have any problems leaving.
Most of the things you mentioned are tourist traps. Londoners wouldn't go to see them, so why would anyone else. The one thing that I've done recently that I would recommend to anyone is go and see a show at Wilton's Music Hall. It's a fantastic experience. An old original Victorian music Hall in the East End that has some great shows, particularly at Christmas, but not only then. And very reasonably priced compared to West End theatres. It's fantastic.
As an Englander one of the best things you can do in London is go to the museums, since they are free, and yes everything you said is defo overrated :)
yes yes yes!
The houses of certain great English poets or writers have also sometimes been turned into museums. For instance. So far as I can recall, there is the Charles Dickens museum in Hollborn
Three tips:
If you must go to Abbey Road, do NOT go to the Abbey Road station on the DLR - that is a different Abbey Road!
The Beatles Abbey Road is between Maida Vale (Bakerloo) and Swiss Cottage (Jubilee) Underground stations.
DO NOT catch the Tube from Leicester Square to Covent Garden - the fare is about £4 and by the time you've gone down to platform level, waited for a train, travelled, and then come back up to ground level again, it's much quicker to walk!
If arriving at Paddington, and heading for Lord's cricket ground, avoid the Underground. If you come out of the back of Paddington station (i.e. by the Hammersmith & City platforms), cross the canal, and follow it, it brings you out near Lord's. You can also walk to the Zoo that way, but by the time you've walked to the Zoo, walked round it, and gone back to Paddington, it's a long way!
the sky garden is great! its almost as good as the shard and completely free. also has a bar and restaurants
I’m in London for the first time ever!! What’s the ONE thing I should see or do?
Greenwich Park, stunning view of the docklands and Greenwich uni is in the foreground. All free and so is the museum in the park .
Love your channel and this video. Congrats. I agree with you, a lot, even tho I liked the Eye, but it's just too much money. I think I have an unpopular opinion - what I thought was overrated was Tower of London. I felt it was a bit fake and extra hyped. And I am really into history, but it just didn't work for me... Xx
Hey Arthur, thanks so much! Yeah I could see how people could feel that way. I haven't been for years so I can't comment my opinion to be honest! Thanks for watching :)
Don't agree about the Changing of the Guard. This is an ages old ceremony full of symbolism and history. We Brits feel so proud of these ceremonial traditions. If you don't see it in London, it also happens at Windsor Castle where you can get a closer view.
It's good to know about it, good tips. I am so nervous because I'm planning a trip to London but by myself. I don't know how is it going to be, nervous and scared a little.
No need to be nervous, you'll have an absolutely great time.