Fun in London

The Best Things to Do in the City

Hello everyone! My name is Nicolò Ferretti, and I am currently studying International Relations and European Studies in Florence, Italy. In August 2023, I attended the Summer School course IR120:Trade, Development and the Environment at LSE. Aside from taking part in the lessons of the course, I had the opportunity to explore and tour the marvellous city of London and I would love to give you some tips about how to best enjoy entertainment in the city.

Restaurants

London has one of the most extensive assortments of restaurants and bars in the whole world, so it is a perfect city for any foodie out there. There are many areas where you can find delicious and affordable food, but my favourites are Artillery Lane, near Liverpool Street train station, and, obviously, Chinatown. Aside from these areas, I would suggest trying some of my favourite eatery spots. Firstly, Abuelo, in Covent Garden, offers a mix of Australian and South American cuisine perfect for a casual Sunday brunch (seethe photo above!). Secondly, if you and your friends are looking for a more unique experience, I would strongly recommend the Mercato Mayfair. Hosted in an unused church, the market is composed of a number of different food stalls that serve specialties from around the world. As for bars, my favourites are located in Soho and in Seven Dials, both within walking distance of the LSE campus.

Museums

Aside from all the eating, it also crucial to engage in some cultural activities. For example, London offers a comprehensive collection of modern and contemporary art. If you are looking for a free museum experience, the National Gallery is what you are looking for. The visit only took me about 2 hours, but the museum accommodates some of the most amazing pieces from world-renowned artists such Van Gogh or Monet. As a bonus, the museum is only a 15 minute walk from campus! For contemporary art, Tate Modern in the place to go. It displays some of the most impactful and popular installations that you could find in London. Lastly, I always suggest looking up the different temporary exhibitions in the Victoria and Albert Museum: they are always breath-taking!

Theatre

Another suggestion I would like to give to future students would be to explore the theatre scene in London. The city is home to some of the best and most exciting shows in the world. If you are a musical lover, then you will be hugely satisfied. The West End offers tons of classic and new shows each year. Some of the most notable ones are the Lion King and Mamma Mia. In addition, I must recommend a trip to the Globe Theatre. Each season, some of Shakespeare’s best plays are showcased here. I had the opportunity to attend Macbeth and As You Like It, both amazing and very evocative plays. If you are interested in it, please note that the week prior to each show you can buy online £5 standing tickets, which is a total bargain.

Nightlife

Last, but not least, I have to encourage you to explore the nightlife in London, since there are so many ways in which you can spend your nights in the city. Firstly, if you would like to combine a fun time with amazing city views, you should try any rooftop bar, such as the ones in Canary Wharf. If you prefer a more laid-back vibe, then the area around Granary Square is perfect for you. In addition, if nightclubs are what you are looking for, I couldn’t recommend Heaven enough, near Trafalgar Square, home to some of the best drag shows in London and an overall pop haven.

 

Besides these specific recommendations, I urge you to be open and ready to have one of the most thrilling adventures of your life. Enjoy every second of it!

 

This blog was written by one of our 2023 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at LSE.