An expert guide to summer in London

Telegraph

2 days ago

Having it all is most definitely a good thing but it can also be a somewhat overwhelming – where to start? London has so much to offer, for all tastes, budgets and cultural persuasions. There is proper (grisly) history, statement buildings old and new, and world-class museums housed in jaw-dropping architecture. There are wonderful parks dotted, peacefully, throughout the city, markets galore, a thriving culinary scene spanning street food, fine dining and global cuisine that rivals any city in the world. It's also a centre for fashion, art and music.
And running through it all is the river Thames – still the life blood of the city, flanked with culture at every turn. London is also very much a collection of distinct neighbourhoods, each with their own flavour and characteristics so we'd advise you to play pick and mix with all it has to offer. Then come back.
For further London inspiration, see our guides to the capital's best hotels, restaurants, nightlife, shopping and things to do. For family focused places to stay, check out our guide to the best family-friendly hotels in London.
What's new in London this season
See: One of the city's most popular art shows
A key event in London's summer social calendar is the Royal Academy's Summer Exhibition. This annual event, running from June 17 to August 17, celebrates art and creativity. There are more than 1,200 art pieces on display, ranging from print to sculptures; many of which are from up-and-coming artists.
Go: Behind the scenes at the V&A Storehouse
Take a cultural excursion to Stratford to the newly opened V&A Storehouse – an archive of more than half a million works in a giant architectural space – which is hot on the heels of Sadler's Wells East as part of E20's cultural explosion. Afterwards, treat yourself to a fancy dinner at Kokin at The Stratford Hotel, the new wood-fired Japanese restaurant from acclaimed chef Daisuke Shimoyama.
How to spend your weekend
Day one: morning
Let's start at the very beginning. The Tower of London takes you back to the London of William the Conqueror – it was around 1078 when he began work on a great stone palace with walls 15 feet thick. You can learn about the history, in a very entertaining way, from the Yeoman Warders (more commonly known as Beefeaters) who run tours, as well as still living within the walls of the castle. Yes, you will hear about torture, death and punishment but you can also view the British Crown Jewels and eat ice cream.
Once inside the fortress walls, it's not what you would necessarily expect – a gentile mini-village in the heart of the City that's perfect for a wander – with its own pub, village green, church and doctor. We recommend getting to the Tower for opening time and staying for a few hours, taking you to lunch. Note that if you get there ahead of the 9am opening time you may be ushered in early.