Welcome to my 14-day adventure in London! This city brims with history, culture, and endless discoveries. My daughter joined me for this part of my journey, and it was so nice to explore London with her, as she loves London and has spent a lot of time in London, including a month she spent here in February of 2024. Our day began with a stroll through Nottingham Hill before we headed to some of London’s most iconic royal landmarks. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab a cup of tea or coffee, and let’s dive into Day 1!
Morning:
This was a travel day for me coming by train from Southampton. I met Kate at Waterloo Station around 2pm, as she had spent the night with a co-worker when she arrived in London yesterday. After dropping our luggage at our Airbnb, we wandered through Notting Hill to check out the bookstore and the blue door flat from the movie “Notting Hill”.
Afternoon:
A Stroll Through Hyde Park
Our first stop after leaving Notting Hill was the magnificent Hyde Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks, covering an impressive 350 acres. As you wander through the park, you’ll encounter serene landscapes, beautiful gardens, and historic monuments. The park was packed as people headed into the park for the Stevie Nicks concert later in the evening. I loved seeing all the people strolling through the park, kids playing and all the dogs having a blast on this late summer afternoon.
Highlights:
- Serpentine Lake: Perfect for a leisurely walk or even a paddleboat ride.
- Speaker’s Corner: Historically known for public speeches and debates, you might catch a modern-day orator sharing their thoughts.
- Diana Memorial Fountain: A beautiful tribute to Princess Diana, it’s a peaceful spot to reflect and relax.
Fun Fact: Hyde Park has been a place of celebration and protest for centuries, from hosting The Great Exhibition in 1851 to being a central location for political movements.
Royal Splendor at Kensington Palace
Next, we make our way to Kensington Palace, a short walk from Hyde Park. This royal residence has been home to young royals for over 300 years, including Queen Victoria and Princess Diana. Tickets are required which can be purchased HERE.
Must-See Attractions:
- Victoria Revealed: A permanent exhibition that offers an intimate glimpse into Queen Victoria’s life.
- The King’s State Apartments: Lavishly decorated rooms that showcase the grandeur of the palace.
- The Sunken Garden: Recently transformed into the White Garden in memory of Princess Diana, it’s a botanical delight.
Pro Tip: If you are into high tea, don’t miss the chance to have a royal tea at the Kensington Palace Pavilion, where you can enjoy delicious treats with a view of the beautiful gardens.
Late Lunch Break: A Local Pub
After an afternoon filled with exploration, it’s time to refuel. Consider finding a local pub for a brew or cider and a meal. Kate and I for our entire stay in London enjoyed wonderful food and atmosphere.
Late Afternoon: Buckingham Palace – The Heart of Monarchy
Our royal adventure continues with a visit to Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch. Although the palace is only open to the public during the summer months, the Changing of the Guard ceremony is a must-see. Tickets are available HERE.
Things to Do:
- Changing of the Guard: This iconic ceremony takes place at 11 AM and showcases the precision and tradition of the Queen’s Guard.
- The Queen’s Gallery: If the State Rooms aren’t open, the gallery often hosts exhibitions of the Royal Collection.
- Buckingham Palace Gardens: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through these beautiful and expansive gardens.
Did You Know? The palace has 775 rooms, including 19 State rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms!
Late Afternoon: The Queen Victoria Memorial
Just outside Buckingham Palace, you’ll find the Queen Victoria Memorial, a tribute to one of Britain’s most influential monarchs. The grand monument stands 25 meters high and is adorned with stunning sculptures representing truth, justice, and motherhood.
Interesting Fact: The memorial was unveiled in 1911 and designed by Sir Aston Webb. It’s a popular spot for photos and offers a fantastic view of the Mall leading up to Trafalgar Square.
Evening: Reflect and Relax
After a day filled with royal sights and historical wonders, it’s time to unwind. Consider ending your day with somedown time at a nearby pub.
Conclusion: A Day Well Spent
Day 1 in London has given us a delightful taste of the city’s royal heritage and stunning parks. From the tranquil beauty of Hyde Park to the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, this day sets the stage for an unforgettable journey through London.
Stay tuned for Day 2, where we’ll explore the cultural and historical depths of this incredible city. Until then, cheerio and happy travels!
Feel free to share your own experiences or tips in the comments below. See you tomorrow for another exciting day in London!
