Discovering London: A Timeless Adventure Over Three Days

London deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list for countless reasons. It’s a city brimming with history, vibrant culture, and an electric energy that breathes life into its age-old landmarks. Having visited London multiple times, I can confidently say that each trip has offered a unique experience—I find myself captivated anew with every return. This last trip, despite being just three days long, was by far my favorite, thanks to an itinerary filled with enriching recommendations from friends. If you’re planning your own London adventure, you’ll want to take note of the highlights from my journey!

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Our trip began with a redeye flight from LA, ultimately arriving in London around lunchtime. We checked into the cozy Marylebone Hotel and quickly refreshed ourselves before diving into the bustling surroundings of our new neighborhood. Marylebone, with its lively streets, eclectic shops, and inviting cafés, immediately stole my heart. The blend of fast-paced excitement and small-town charm made it feel like the perfect place to begin our explorations.

After wandering through the delightful streets, we ventured towards Mayfair, Soho, and ventured a bit into Chinatown. The jet lag started catching up with us, prompting an early dinner at the unforgettable Coach Makers Arms. Seated by the fireplace in an aesthetically pleasing, movie-set ambiance, we indulged in their classic fish & chips—and let me tell you, it was divine! We should have ordered a second dish to share, as the portions were ample and there were many enticing options on the menu.

That evening, we returned to the Marylebone Hotel to luxuriate in its cozy turn-down service and freshly laid-out slippers, savoring the anticipation of the adventures that lay ahead.

Day 2: A Day at Anfield

Day 2 was filled with excitement as it marked the primary reason for our trip: watching Caleb’s beloved Liverpool FC play at Anfield. The announcement of Jürgen Klopp’s impending retirement added an urgency to our plans, making this our chance to experience the magic of Liverpool matches—something Caleb has dreamed of for years.

We kicked off the day early, sauntering to a local bakery for flaky croissants that we enjoyed back at our hotel lounge. After a brief train journey, we found ourselves in Liverpool, sharing our train with a host of fellow fans. The atmosphere was electric, and sharing stories with passionate fans enhanced our excitement.

Attending a Premier League game is a must for any sports enthusiast. The experience was distinctly different from American sporting events. The focus on club history and tradition created an environment rich with camaraderie and passionate support. A notable piece of advice: the local culture often leads fans to dress smartly rather than in jerseys, which we learned thanks to a little research!

That evening, we returned to London and dined at The Ivy Marylebone. Everything we tasted was exquisite, with standout dishes like their Truffle Arancini rice balls. It was an indulgent conclusion to a thrilling day.

Day 3: Wandering Wonders

Day 3 was, without a doubt, the highlight of our London adventure. My favorite way to discover a city is simply by strolling around, absorbing the sights, sounds, and flavors. We started the day meandering towards Covent Garden, where a light drizzle drove us to seek refuge at The Gentlemen Baristas for a warm drink and a snack. With a cozy window seat, we enjoyed a delightful people-watching session until the rain subsided.

Afterward, we met friends who had joined us from Brighton, including their young daughter. This was our first time meeting their daughter, making the day even more special as we shared laughter and exploration. Our first stop was to Hamley’s, one of the oldest toy stores in the world, followed by a visit to the iconic Big Ben. We spent the afternoon wandering through Hyde Park and Westminster before re-fueling with a quick bite.

No trip to London would be complete without experiencing afternoon tea. I had stumbled upon Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus Tour during my research, and I knew this would make for a memorable experience! Riding a double-decker bus while sipping tea and enjoying scrumptious treats was a whimsical twist to traditional afternoon tea. We even splurged on a bottle of champagne, making it feel like a true celebration!

To wrap up our trip, we strolled the charming streets of Belgravia and Chelsea before heading back to our hotel to luxuriate and prepare for dinner at the stylish Chiltern Firehouse. The people-watching combined with delectable food and drinks provided a dreamy ending to our whirlwind adventure through London.

Your London Adventure Awaits

With its captivating blend of history, culture, and modernity, London is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that lingers long after you’ve returned home. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, finding new places and recommendations can breathe fresh life into your journeys.

What are some of your favorite things to do or see in London? I’d love to hear your recommendations and travel tales! For more London inspiration, check out other posts here. As always, I’d welcome tips and suggestions, as I’m already eagerly planning my next trip!