Travel
How to Spend 3 Days in London: What to Eat, See, and Do
I spent 3 days in London with friends last week. This trip was a little different since we were in town for The Eras Tour, and we had all been to London previously. One of my friends even lived in London for a year! We walked through the city and some of it’s most charming neighborhoods, and had the best time shopping and eating. While the city is full of iconic sights, since we had all been before, we decided to just enjoy being in a new city. This was a concert, food, and shopping trip. And a chance to unplug from work, life, and our families.
From cozy coffee shops to bustling markets and high tea, there’s so much to see and do. My friend who lived in London gave us an extensive list of her favorite places to go and things to do, and getting around with a former local made things a lot easier. If you’re planning a short stay in London, here’s a glimpse into how I spent 3 days in London in the summertime with friends.
How to Spend 3 Days in London: What to Eat, See, and Do
The city of London is one of my favorite places to visit. Great food, beautiful old buildings, and one of the most charming and quaint places I’ve ever been. This was my first time visiting in the summer months, and we got pretty lucky with weather. There was a little bit of rain one night, and our first day was quite hot. But other than that, the weather was perfect. My first trip to London was in the fall, and I preferred summer. I want to share some must-see attractions, shopping, and some of my favorite things in the city. Here’s my complete guide to how I spent 3 days in London.
Where to Stay: A Historical Hotel in a Great Location
The St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel in London is a testament to the city’s rich history. The iconic hotel is located in central London, with a story that spans over 150 years. The hotel is nestled in the vibrant King’s Cross area, offering a unique blend of historical architecture is pretty impressive. And it’s right by the tube, making it incredibly easy to navigate the city’s public transit. The St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel is a must-visit destination for travelers and history enthusiasts. We had some trouble checking in, but I still recommend this hotel based on price and location.
The story of the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel begins in the mid-19th century. It opened during a time of rapid industrial expansion and architectural innovation in London. The building opened in 1873 as the Midland Grand Hotel. It was one of the most luxurious hotels of its time. The hotel’s design was a bold statement of Victorian Gothic architecture. It’s characterized by its intricate brickwork, pointed arches, and elaborate interiors. Scott’s vision was to create a building that was not only functional but also a work of art. And the Midland Grand Hotel quickly became a symbol of Victorian opulence.
By the early 20th century, the hotel began to lose its appeal as newer, more modern hotels emerged in London. In 1935, after years of declining popularity, the Midland Grand Hotel closed its doors, and the building was repurposed for office use.
The Renaissance Hotel
For decades, the grand structure of the former Midland Grand Hotel stood largely unused. But its architectural significance was never forgotten. The building was then restored to its former glory while also being transformed it into a modern luxury hotel. You may recognize the grand staircase from a Spice Girls video.
In 2011, after years of restoration, the hotel reopened as the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel. The hotel’s blend of old and new makes it such a great place to stay – the building itself is incredible. I liked the rooms enough, but the most spectacular part of the hotel was the building, lobby, and convenience. it is really spectacular and felt like something from a Harry Potter movie. The building’s exterior is a masterpiece with its red brick façade. The clock tower is an iconic symbol of the hotel and the surrounding area.
The lobby, with its high ceilings and intricate detailing, serves as a stunning introduction to the hotel’s luxurious ambiance. The Chambers Club, located within the hotel, is a private lounge reserved for guests staying in the Chambers Suites. This exclusive space offers a blend of historical charm and modern comfort, with original fireplaces, large windows, and contemporary furnishings. The Chambers Suites themselves are a highlight of the hotel, offering spacious accommodations with unique Victorian features such as high ceilings, large bay windows, fireplaces, and detailed plasterwork.
Modern Luxury and Amenities
While the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel is steeped in history, it also offers all the modern amenities one would expect from a luxury hotel. The rooms and suites are elegantly appointed, with plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and state-of-the-art technology. Guests can enjoy a range of dining options, from the elegant Booking Office 1869 restaurant to the relaxed atmosphere of the Hansom Lounge.
The hotel’s spa is located in the original underground kitchens of the building. It features a range of treatments, as well as a heated pool, sauna, and steam room. For those looking to stay active, the hotel also has a fully equipped fitness center.
St. Pancras Location
One of the best things about staying at the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel is its location. Situated directly above St. Pancras International Station, the hotel offers access to transportation links across London and beyond. It’s so easy to get around, from British Museum to Covent Garden, or take a train to other destinations in the UK and Europe. It’s really a great place to stay and I loved the easy access to the train station for coffee, shopping, and getting around.
St. Pancras International Station is also the terminus for the Eurostar, making the hotel a convenient choice for travelers arriving from Paris, Brussels, and other European cities. This unique combination of historical grandeur and modern connectivity makes the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel a true gateway to London and the world.
The St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel is more than just a place to stay. It is an experience that captures the essence of London’s rich history and vibrant present. From its Victorian Gothic architecture to its luxurious modern amenities, the hotel offers a unique blend of old and new that any guest would love. I was so impressed with the building itself, and loved the location. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a traveler seeking a memorable stay in London, the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel is a destination that should not be missed.
Getting Around: The Oyster Card
Getting and using an Oyster card in London is a must for navigating the city’s public transportation. It’s the best way to get around. You can purchase an Oyster card at any Tube station, London Overground station, or authorized retailers, as well as online. Simply top up the card with credit or add a travel pass, and you’re ready to go. The card can be used on buses, the Underground, trams, the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), London Overground, and some National Rail services. To use it, just tap the card on the yellow reader at the start and end of your journey on the Tube or rail services, or when boarding a bus or tram.
And don’t forget to tap out when you leave, which you have to do to exit. The Oyster card automatically calculates the cheapest fare for your trip, and if you’re staying in London for a few days, it’s a convenient and cost-effective way to travel around the city.
Where We Ate
Traditional English food might not be my favorite, but London has some truly incredible restaurants, and a wide variety of cuisine. Dishoom was the one restaurant I remembered from my first trip to London, and I now remember why. it was phenomenal – such an experience.
Flat Iron: A Quaint Steakhouse
My first night in London called for something casual yet memorable. Flat Iron was just the place for cozy English charm. This restaurant is known for its simplicity—one dish, done exceptionally well. And who can resist the cute little meat cleavers they give you to cut your steak? The menu is straightforward: a perfectly cooked steak with some sauce on the side, and the most delicious, perfectly portioned sides. Don’t let the simplicity fool you – the quality is incredible. The meat is tender, full of flavor, and pairs beautifully with their signature sauces.
We were given 2 small bowls of popcorn and ordered cocktails to start. The Sherbet Bellini was wonderful – I had two! We ordered the crispy bone marrow garlic mash, creamed spinach, green salad, and truffled macaroni and cheese. My friend who used to live in London recommended the Bearnaise and it did not disappoint. Try the Peppercorn and Homemade Smoked Chilli Mayo, too. Flat Iron is the kind of spot that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem, even though it’s a local favorite.
Dishoom: A Taste of Bombay
Dishoom is the one spot I remembered loving when I visited London over a decade ago. It’s one of the best places I ate in London. And it’s worth the hype – it did not disappoint. I would recommend getting there earlier, around 5 or 5:30. We put our names in and had to stand outside, which was fine since the weather was lovely. And someone offered us tea or lemonade while we waited. We stood for about 30 minutes and were then let into the bar downstairs, where we ordered drinks at our table. About 30 minutes later, we were moved over to the patio for dinner.
I started with the No-Hafta Colada, which is a twist on the frozen pineapple-coconut classic. It has lime juice, syrup of pitaya (dragonfruit) and a papaya puree and garnish. It was fantastic. We ordered so much food, so I’ll share everything we ordered, but want to start with my standout favorites. The chili broccoli salad was so good. I expected it to be spicy since it has fresh red chillies, but it wasn’t at all, and it was so, so good. You have to order it. The Dishoom chicken tikka and paneer tikka were both amazing. We loved the Masala prwans, chicken ruby, and both the garlic and cheese naan.
And don’t forget the samosas – we ordered the vegetable samosas which have crunchy Punjabi-style shortcrust pastry, pea and potato filling warmly spiced with cinnamon, and tamarind chutney for dipping. Dishoom is one of those places where you could easily lose track of time, savoring each bite and soaking in the atmosphere.
Granger & Co.
My friend Lucie who used to live in London gave us a few recommendations for easy places to walk in for dinner, and Granger & Co was great. We ultimately chose it because she sold us on the food being good and it being 10 minute walk from the hotel. This place is the definition of relaxed, with its bright and airy interiors. We ordered the Dusty Knuckle sourdough (Dusty Knuckle is the name of the bakery that makes it, and it’s down the street). The yellow datterini tomatoes and ricotta was fine but there wasn’t much flavor, so I’d skip that one. We all absolutely loved the crispy gochaujang chicken – it was delightful! The 4 of us shared two pasta dishes, the prawn and chili linguini and broccolini and kale rigatoni. It was delicious with ricotta, lemon, basil, and parmesan, and note that there is a full vegan menu!
We ordered dessert, too! The tiramisu was perfect, and we had to order the pavlova after seeing that Bluey episode. Ha.
Seven Dials Market: The Cheese Bar
No trip to London is complete without a visit to a market, and Seven Dials Market in Covent Garden is a must-see. My highlight? A trip to the world’s first cheese conveyor belt restaurant in the heart of London’s West End. The Cheese Bar offers the most delicious mini cheese platters that pass by on a conveyer belt, just waiting to be tasted. It’s the most charming and brilliant concept – cheese plates with glass domes and little numbers that you match up to the menu, so you know what you’re grabbing. This is the perfect place to pop in and relax after walking through the city. Imagine a menu dedicated entirely to cheese with the most delicious cheese you’ll ever have. It was more than I could have hoped for, and the portions are small and perfect for sampling.
Once you find your favorite, grab a few more. The vibe here is lively and fun, making it a perfect spot to indulge in some comfort food while people-watching.
Harrods Tea Room for High Tea
A visit to Harrods for shopping is a must. And we lucked out since the Christmas shop opened early this year. But the Tea Room takes the experience to another level. It’s quintessentially British, with its elegant setting and refined service. I went for the traditional afternoon tea, complete with delicate finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a variety of the most perfect little pastries. It’s a lovely way to slow down and enjoy a moment of calm amidst the city’s energy, and you can’t beat shopping at Harrods.
Riding House Bloomsbury Brunch
Brunch is always a good idea, and Riding House Bloomsbury delivers. The space is chic and cozy, with a mix of retro and contemporary design elements that give it a unique character. I couldn’t resist their buttermilk pancakes, which were served with berries, vanilla clotted cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Every bite was a sweet, indulgent treat. The service here is top-notch, making you feel like a valued guest, whether you’re popping in for a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely brunch. This was also a short walk to our hotel.
EL&N: Instagram-Worthy Coffee
If you’re looking for a coffee spot that’s as pretty as it is delicious, EL&N is the place. Known for its pink décor and picture-perfect lattes, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves a bit of whimsy with their caffeine fix. I ordered a latte, and it arrived with the kind of latte art that makes you smile. The coffee itself was smooth and rich, just what I needed after a busy morning of exploring. EL&N is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a little slice of happiness in the middle of the city.
PAUL: A Parisian Moment in London
To round off my trip, I stopped by PAUL for one last coffee and a pastry. This French bakery chain has a lovely spot in London, and it’s perfect for a quick break or a casual lunch. I chose a classic croissant and a cappuccino, and it was the perfect pairing—flaky, buttery, and just the right amount of indulgent. Sitting there with my pastry, I felt like I could have been in Paris, savoring a little moment of European charm in the heart of London.
London is a city that never gets old, with its mix of history, culture, and culinary delights. This trip was a perfect reminder of why I love coming back, each time discovering something new and wonderful.
What to See and Do
There’s no shortage of things to see and do in London. From shopping and dining to royal palaces and incredible sites, it’s a great city to explore. I didn’t visit all of these tourist attractions this trip, but did see them when I visited London for the first time a decade ago. This was a short girls’ trip and was just about getting out and having some fun. Had this been my first trip to London, I would have made it a point to see them again.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, is an iconic symbol of the British Royal Family. Located in the heart of London, it is known for its impressive architecture and the Changing of the Guard ceremony. It is a must-see when visiting London.
Tower of London
The Tower of London is a historic fortress on the banks of the River Thames. Its rich history dates back over 1,000 years. It’s an incredible site that you have to see if you love history. Today, it is home to the Crown Jewels and is famous for its medieval architecture, the Yeoman Warders (or Beefeaters), and the ravens that, according to legend, protect the kingdom.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is a stunning Gothic church that has been the site of royal coronations, weddings, and burials for centuries. Located near the Houses of Parliament, the abbey is renowned for its architecture.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most recognizable landmarks, known for its distinctive twin towers and Victorian Gothic design. Spanning the River Thames, the bridge features a pedestrian walkway with glass floors, offering stunning views of the river and the city.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most famous parks. It offers a green oasis in the middle of the city, and is a beautiful place for an afternoon stroll. Known for its picturesque landscapes, the Serpentine Lake, and Speaker’s Corner, Hyde Park is a popular spot for relaxation, outdoor activities, and cultural events. The park’s extensive paths, gardens, and recreational areas attract both locals and tourists.
Big Ben
Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, though it is often used to refer to the entire clock tower. The clock tower, now officially named Elizabeth Tower, is one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
London Eye
The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering the best views of the city. Heights are not my thing so there was no way I was going to do this. But since its opening in 2000, it has become one of London’s most popular tourist attractions. Each glass capsule provides a panoramic perspective of London’s skyline.
London Bridge
London Bridge is one of the oldest and most historically significant bridges crossing the River Thames. While often confused with the more ornate Tower Bridge, London Bridge has a simpler design and a history that dates back to Roman times. The current bridge opened in 1973, and replaced earlier versions that have spanned the river for centuries.
Notting Hill
Notting Hill is a beautiful and charming neighborhood in West London. It is known for its charming streets, colorful houses, and eclectic atmosphere, and of course, the famous apartment that Hugh Grant lived in in the film. It’s home to Portobello Road Market, which offers antiques, fashion, and street food.
Borough Market
Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and most famous food markets, located near London Bridge. A haven for food lovers, the market offers a diverse range of fresh produce, gourmet foods, and street eats from around the world. Its historic setting and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking culinary delights.
Kensington Gardens
Kensington Gardens is a royal park adjacent to Hyde Park, offering a more tranquil and refined atmosphere. Once the private gardens of Kensington Palace, the park is known for its elegant landscapes, the Serpentine Galleries, and the Albert Memorial. Visitors can explore the picturesque Italian Gardens, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground.
Where to Shop
London has some really amazing shopping, although the only shopping I did was for my kids. If you want designer clothes or a bag, they have everything. But that’s not what this trip was for me after buying a Celine belt and sunglasses in Paris a few months ago.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is one of London’s most vibrant and historic shopping areas, located in the heart of the city. It is a lively destination filled with an eclectic mix of boutiques, high-end shops, and market stalls offering everything from designer clothing to handmade crafts. The area is also famous for its street performers, adding a lively atmosphere to your shopping experience. With its beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, and an array of cafes and restaurants, Covent Garden is not just a shopping destination but a cultural hub where visitors can enjoy both retail therapy and a taste of London’s rich history.
Harrods
Harrods is located in the upscale district of Knightsbridge, and is worth seeing, whether you plan on shopping there or not. This world-renowned department store spans over seven floors, offering everything from high-end fashion and beauty products to fine jewelry, gourmet food, and gifts. Harrods is not just a store. It’s an experience. The food halls are incredible and filled with delicacies from around the world, are a must-visit. We were there for high tea, but loved the gift shop at the bottom floor, and walked through the incredible food halls after high tea.
Selfridges
Selfridges is located on Oxford Street, and is another incredible department store. Known for its amazing window displays and a wide range of luxury and high-street brands, Selfridges has something for everyone. The store is a hub for fashion, but has a great children’s department, and is home to the Jellycat bar which I had to see. If you have kids and those kids love stuffies, you cannot miss the toy department at Selfridges. The Vtech Toot Toot cars are so cute, too, and have English accents.
I should mention that you can order Selfridges online. Shipping is kind of pricey, but if you pay $100, you can get 1 year of free shipping to their site. I did that a few years ago when the girls were on a big Peppa kick.
Liberty London
Liberty London is another historic and iconic department store, best recognized for its distinctive Tudor-style building on Great Marlborough Street. Founded in 1875, Liberty is synonymous with eclectic and artistic design, offering a curated selection of luxury fabrics, homeware, fashion, and beauty products. The store is especially famous for its Liberty prints—unique floral and patterned fabrics that have been popular for decades. Shopping at Liberty is a unique experience, and even if you don’t plan on shopping, it’s worth walking around for a little bit.
La Coqueta
La Coqueta is one of my favorite brands for children’s clothing for special occasions. The brand specializes in traditional Spanish children’s clothing, and was founded by a Spanish mother living in London. The store offers a beautifully curated selection of gorgeous pieces, including dresses, knitwear, and footwear. I love their shoes! If you’re looking for a special occasion outfit or gift for a new baby, La Coqueta is a must-see. Each item is crafted with attention to detail – they just have the most beautiful, quality outfits. La Coqueta is a go-to destination for parents looking for high-quality, stylish outfits for their little ones.
Trotters London
Trotters London was another store I had to stop at for my kids, and I ended up getting quite a few things. I bought darling little cardigans for my girls, and a few sweaters for my son. The store is on King’s Road in Chelsea, and is a darling children’s boutique that offers a wide range of clothing, shoes, toys, and accessories for kids. I grabbed a few sticker books, too. Known for its classic yet contemporary style, Trotters provides well-made, stylish clothing that blends traditional British design with modern trends. The store also features an in-store hair salon, making it a one-stop shop for children’s fashion.
I should add that you can purchase both children’s brands in the US, but shipping is pretty expensive, and the items are priced a little lower in the UK.
Our 3 Day London Itinerary
Day 1
We took a taxi from Heathrow to our hotel where our room wasn’t quite ready, so we decided to head out for a little bit. Our first stop was St. Pancras International Station which is attached to our hotel. We grabbed some coffee and lemon pastries at EL&N which might be a chain, but it’s so cute and has the best coffee and treats. Their tomato, basil, and mozzarella bagel is the perfect thing to pick up before a long travel day home. After getting our Oyster cards, we took the tube over to Kensington gardens. It was so lovely to walk around, and we obviously had to stroll past Kensington palace. We finished our slow, relaxing day with steak at Flatiron.
Day 2
We took the tube over to the West End of London. It was so nice walking through Soho, and saw the famous Carnaby street. Covent Garden was packed, but was a great way to spend a few hours in London. There’s a cloud world installation that my kids would have loved. I popped into Liberty London which would be a great spot to look for a small gift. I didn’t do any real shopping there since the clothes were all designer and very expensive. Then we popped into Seven Dials market for cheese and I ended our time there with a spritz slushie. We were all a little tired, so we took a cab back to the hotel and went over to Dishoom to put our name in for dinner.
Day 3
We ventured over to Harrods to do a little shopping before sitting down for high tea. I recommend making a reservation in advance, and allowing time to walk through the department store. Harrods is a good place to do a little shopping. There’s an extensive book selection on the bottom floor, so I picked up some books and Christmas ornaments for my kids.
After high tea, we took the bus to Notting Hill for a little walking tour of one of the most charming neighborhoods in London. Then we ventured over to dinner.
If you’re looking for a getaway, and love to sightsee, shop, and enjoy city life, London is a wonderful city to visit. The next time I go, I’d love to plan on spending 2 days in the countryside. And I’d love to see London at Christmas time at some point. It really is an incredible city, and I couldn’t get over the charm around every corner.
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