London Unlocked: Tailored Experiences for Every Taste!

London is a city where history and art are seen on every street; food is amazing, and the entertainment is anything but boring. In this blog, get ready to discover London’s best parts, whatever your interests and budget – this isn’t your average tourist guide!

Art & Museums

The National Gallery (free entry) - This museum hosts a treasure trove of art, right in the heart of London, and is the perfect place for a cultural escape. Spend an afternoon getting lost in masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh, Botticelli, and Monet.

The Victoria and Albert Museum (free entry) - This is the world's largest decorative arts and design museum. It offers an incredible collection of fashion and art, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The building is a masterpiece, and the diverse collections make for an engaging visit.

The British Museum (free entry) - Just a 15-minute walk from LSE, this world-famous museum houses treasures from ancient civilisations, including the Rosetta Stone, Elgan marbles and Egyptian mummies. You could spend hours exploring its collections without spending a penny.

Food

Camden Market (free to explore) – Camden Market offers a variety of global cuisines, from Ethiopian to Asian street food. It’s perfect for trying new flavours while enjoying the lively atmosphere. I personally tried the chai, and it was one of the best I’ve ever had.

Borough Market (free to explore) - One of London’s oldest and most famous food markets, it offers a variety of street food from worldwide cuisines. It’s a food lover's paradise, from artisan pastries, to TikTok viral chocolate strawberries, to amazing meals like mushroom risotto!

Pizza Union (£10-£15) - You can find this restaurant on almost every corner; here they serve Roman-style pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven with great value and quick service.

New Street Square, especially Garbanzos Falafel & Salad Bar (free to explore) - This is a great place to be inspired and motivated about your future. Since it is between office buildings, you will see businesspeople having their lunch break, which may be you in the future. Plus, there are multiple options to choose from!

Recreation & Outdoors

St. James’s Park (free entry) - Just a short distance from LSE, you can enjoy a stroll, spot birds, or relax by the scenic lake while enjoying the beauty of British gardens and a stunning view of Buckingham Palace.

The Southbank Walk (free) – Along the River Thames, you can enjoy the iconic views of London and catch glimpses of British life. You’ll pass by street performers and markets and often find events along the riverbank.

The Poetry Pharmacy (£0-£5) - If you're feeling down or need words of wisdom, the Poetry Pharmacy offers a unique, literary remedy. It provides "prescriptions" of carefully selected poems to lift your spirits or give you a new perspective. It’s a peaceful retreat for poetry lovers, offering a rare and thoughtful way to connect with literature.

Exploring British culture

Theatre District (varies by show) - Catching a play is a must for experiencing British performing arts. From musicals to classic plays, it showcases British talent and storytelling. The West End, home to British theatre, is located a very short walk away from LSE’s campus!

Kensington Gardens (free entry) - It has beautiful landscapes, the Serpentine Gallery, and the Albert Memorial; this park is a lovely place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Try fish and chips from any pub in the Theatre District! (varies) - The crispy and delicious fish and chips is a British classic, and is a must-try for anyone wanting to savour this iconic meal.

See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (free) - A touristy British experience, the Changing of the Guard is a must-see for anyone wanting to glimpse royal tradition. The event typically starts at 11:00 on Sundays, so check the schedule before you go.

And there you have it! Whether you’re here for the culture, the food, or just to get lost in the city’s eclectic vibes, this guide has you covered. Now, go out and explore - you might discover your new favourite spot!

This blog was written by one of our 2024 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at LSE.