Plagues, fires and even world war: London has endured them all. The city is no stranger to reinvention and this year perhaps sees it undertake its biggest resurgence yet. With the cautious reopening of restaurants, shops, attractions and accommodation, there’s a wave of excitement rippling through the streets as they welcome the returning pitter patter of culture-starved visitors. Here Unique Homestays hand-picks a selection of the best things to do in London on your city break this year.
1. Belgravia
The Belgravia neighbourhood, specifically Elizabeth street and the paralleling streets, offers a generous community and village-like feeling, with a plethora of niche boutiques and independent cafés. Whether it’s a stroll to find that hidden gem brunch spot (we recommend Chucs or Baker and Spice) or a sugar dusted treat at one of the famous bakeries like Peggy Porschen, you will feel embraced by the people and charmed by the history of the area.
The Thomas Cubitt
Immaculate white mews houses with neat window boxes, ice cold rosé and succulent beef served up with piping hot Yorkshire puddings; what more could you ask for on a bright Sunday afternoon? Perched on a corner between Ebury Mews and Elizabeth Street sits the quaint The Thomas Cubitt pub, founded by a Victorian property developer known for his portfolio with notable history across Belgravia, Pimlico and Bloomsbury. The food is British and flavoursome, with the roast dinner sharing platter leading the favourites. The ambience is casual, chaotic and serves well for a social afternoon with the whole family.
Wander Art
A trail of engaging and vibrant artworks lead wanderers through a collection of works designed by twelve national and international creatives including Ricardo Cavolo, Fernando Laposse and Emily Forgot. For art and design enthusiasts, Wander Art is the largest outdoor gallery in London and is the perfect way to explore the streets and architecture of Mayfair and Belgravia whilst guided by personal stories and perspectives of the city.
2. Richmond
If you fancy exploring London outside its city centre then Richmond is a perfect escape; still within the city yet far enough out to embrace the capital’s greener areas. Known for its botanical gardens and picturesque landscapes, namely Kew Gardens and Richmond Park, there is a tranquillity that sets in when exploring this gentler slice of London. Partake in picnics, deer watching and long dog walks backed by panoramic views. It doesn’t stop there… the foodie scene is quite the topic of conversation here too.
Picnic in the Park
With creativity at the forefront of hospitality, take advantage of the blossoming backdrop while indulging in a picnic curated by some of the city’s popular eateries. Ibérica are offering a hearty charcuterie feast paired with Estrella Galicia beer or a selection of wines, delivering nationwide all prepared in a hessian bag containing the essentials (glassware, bottle opener and eco-friendly cutlery). After a savoury start, garnish with dessert from The Proof. ‘The proof is in the pudding’ comes to mind as you gaze across their menu offerings including a berry drizzle cheesecake, triple chocolate brownies and coconut macaroons. For themed movie-night boxes filled with tortilla chips and all the dips, summer brunch offerings and an afternoon tea range with all the fuss, check out Pique.
Petersham Nurseries Café
A little bit of us, Petersham Nurseries is one you can’t miss off the list when visiting Richmond, awarded a Michelin green star earlier this year for its efforts. A rustic and casual affair by day with a touch of modern English romance by night, there may be wooden tables and bare earth floors, but the elegant chandeliers and greenhouse planting serve a glamourous edge to the laid-back scene.
3. Chelsea
For a shopping frenzy, head to Chelsea where The Kings Road is the main attraction; from high street names to independent boutiques and designer brands, this is a lively stretch to absorb the stylish Sloane Square vibe as well as tuck into the many eateries on offer.
Photographed by Jo Rodgers for Vogue
Daphne’s
Hidden away from the shopping mayhem sits a well-groomed and quiet spot to soak up the vibrancy from a distance in their conservatory-style dining area. There's an authentic Italian feel throughout Daphne's, from the waiters to the colour palette of the décor, with a seasonal a la carte menu to taste.
RHS Chelsea Flower Show
Taking place this September, watch the Royal Hospital Chelsea transform into a blossoming garden filled with beautifully curated and inspiring ideas designed by garden and floral experts. With show-stopping artworks and thought-provoking designs to influence your own landscaping, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show is an iconic immersive experience surrounded by beauty and nature.
4. The West End
Georgian architecture dating back to the 1800s sets the scene here, fashionable residents flock the streets and cafes, restaurants and shops spill onto the pavements. Whilst an iconic tourist destination, there's plenty of culture on offer; from British fodder to Michelin starred Chinese at Hakkasan around the corner in Mayfair. Mostly a theatre district, sit back and enjoy world famous performances as the vibrancy of musicals and plays returns. Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap and Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre are already on show, whilst Hairspray returns in June and Pretty Woman returns to the Savoy this July. For more information, visit the London Theatre website.
Le Relais de Venise L’Enetrecote
Originating in Paris over 60 years ago, French mini-chain Le Relais de Venise L’Enetrecote has yielded the perfect blend of authenticity and simplicity, stamping their imprint globally with 20 restaurants. A French bistro concept with tiny wooden tables closely aligned and waitresses dressed in traditional black and white uniforms invites you for an evening through 1950s Paris. You’ll have no trouble choosing from the menu because it quite literally chooses for you; paralleling a traditional French format, there’s a chestnut salad to start, followed by two helpings of steak and frites smothered in secret butter sauce for mains… and that’s it!
Covent Garden Rosé Festival
For a limited time only, the Covent Garden piazza will be inviting rosé lovers to enjoy a day of drinking some of the best rosé in town. From rosé flower barrows to cocktails, ice-cold frosés and rose petal infused Prosecco, the festival will offer a fun day out, seeing the whole district turn pink!
Where to stay
The Fourth Wall
Luxuriate high above the sparkling city in a Unique Homestay you never knew existed. Pushing through the plush, tie-back curtains of The Fourth Wall in Covent Garden could very well be mistaken for a free ticket back into Victorian London. This exclusive apartment celebrates the theatre and eccentricity of the West End with vigor. There's an open fire, slipper bath and two beds to choose from.
