One day in London to explore the city and experience it for all it has to offer whether it’s your first or fifth time visiting. Welcome to London, the vibrant city that never fails to captivate the hearts of adventurous travelers, business people, and history buffs. If you’re seeking an enlightening and budget-friendly way to explore the city of London, a self-guided walking tour is the perfect choice. Get ready to unleash the spirit of London as we take you on an immersive journey through its iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and diverse neighborhoods.
When it comes to truly experiencing the essence of a city, nothing beats the freedom and flexibility of a self-guided walking tour. As a big-city person, budget-conscious traveler, or history lover this adventure allows you to tailor your exploration to your interests, maximize your time, and save travel funds. I was fortunate to meet up with an old friend that currently lives in London, England and was able to explore the city walking around as a local, seeing the monuments of London and stopping at a pub for a beer every now and then to stay hydrated. As a foodie, I’ll also be sharing top places to eat in London for each borough that’s covered. Get ready for one day in London full of sight-seeing, food, and history.
Researching your route is key, and we’ve got you covered with walking guide featuring thirteen must-visit locations in London. Let’s delve deeper into each destination and discover the gems they hold.
This walking tour of London is expected to take a full day and entails extensive walking through the city. It’s important to wear appropriate shoes and dress accordingly.
London Monuments and the Boroughs of London
A quick background on the size of the city of London: there are 32 London boroughs with an estimated population of 8.797 million inhabitants as of mid-2021, according to the Greater London Authority. In comparison, its United States equivalent city, New York City, has 6 boroughs and an estimated population of 8.336 million residents as of 2022 (US Census Bureau). London is the capital of England and the United Kingdom and is one of the world’s oldest cities.
Exploring the Hip and Trendy East End
Start your adventure in the heart of the East End at Borough Market, a food lover’s paradise. This large market has everything you could imagine from fresh vegetables, British sausage rolls, and delectable street food. The bustling Borough Market is filled with endless options and is a great starting point to grab a coffee and a small snack as you begin your self guided walking tour of London. As you continue, you’ll make your way to the iconic Tower Bridge, an architectural masterpiece offering breathtaking views of the River Thames. Not to be confused with the popular London Bridge that’s later in the tour, the eye-catching Tower Bridge is much more of a sight than the London Bridge. Tickets for the Tower Bridge are about $15 USD, however I think you can see all that you’d need to see for free just by walking across the bridge.
Top Rated Food Suggestions:
- Roast: Located near Borough Market, this restaurant serves succulent British roast meats and traditional dishes.
- Bread Ahead: Treat yourself to their famous doughnuts and freshly baked bread.
Discovering Historical Charm in the City of London
Wander through the City of London and marvel at the majestic Tower of London, a fortress steeped in history. The Tower of London symbolizes royal power and is known for housing the Crown Jewels, protecting the royal family, and serving as a political prison where numerous executions occurred. As you continue on your walk, you’ll visit The Monument, a towering column commemorating the Great Fire of London the occurred in 1666 and lasted a total of 4 days. The Great Fire of London destroyed approximately one third of the city, equating to 13,200 houses and 87 churches being burned to the ground, including St. Paul’s Cathedral (NatGeoKids). From The Monument, you can walk back over to River Thames to see the London Bridge, of which you’ll discover is far less appealing than a number of other bridges in the city. Continue your journey to the Cathedral of St. Paul, an awe-inspiring masterpiece of architecture.
Top Rated Food Suggestions:
- The English Rose Cafe: Enjoy fresh baked goods and a delicious cup of afternoon tea.
- Dishoom: Experience the flavors of Bombay with their mouthwatering Indian dishes.
A Bird’s Eye View of the City of London
Cross back over the River Thames on the sleek and futuristic Millennium Bridge, a symbol of modern London. Spanning the River Thames, this pedestrian bridge offers panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline. Here you’ll land on the South Bank of River Thames, where you can walk along the water and pass the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, and the National Theatre until you reach the famous London Eye, formerly the Millennium Wheel. The London Eye is a towering ferris wheel that offers unparalleled views of the city through a clear globe. As one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, it costs about $45 USD per person.
Top Rated Food Suggestions:
- The Swan at the Globe: A Modern British restaurant linked with Shakespeare’s Globe theatre.
- Nando’s Stamford Street: An Afro-Portuguese restaurant known for their chicken and hot Peri Peri sauce.
Experience the Royalty of Westminster
As you’ve discovered by now, London is a city of bridges. You’ll continue your walking tour of London by crossing over the Westminster Bridge to the legendary Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Marvel at the striking Gothic architecture and the iconic 16 story clock tower that has become a symbol of the city. While Big Ben, found in the Elizabeth Tower, is currently closed for renovations, you are still able to tour the Houses of Parliament. Big Ben is expected to reopen in Spring/Summer of 2023.
Next, make your way to the magnificent Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Admire the grandeur of the palace’s facade and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a time-honored tradition that showcases the precision and splendor of the royal guards. Fun Fact: Buckingham Palace has 775 rooms, including the opulent State Rooms, which are open to the public during the summer months.
Make your way to Trafalgar Square, a vibrant hub teeming with history, art, and lively atmosphere. Admire Nelson’s Column, commemorating Admiral Horatio Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. Explore the National Gallery, home to an extraordinary collection of masterpieces, or simply relax and people-watch in this iconic public space.
Continuing your journey, venture to Covent Garden, a district renowned for its theatrical heritage and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through the bustling market, where street performers captivate audiences with their talents. Explore the boutique shops, charming cafes, and delightful pubs nestled amidst the cobblestone streets.
Top Rated Food Suggestions:
- The Cinnamon Club: A refined Indian restaurant housed in the Grade II-listed Old Westminster Library, where you can savor innovative Indian cuisine with a modern twist.
- Big Easy Restaurant – Covent Garden: Formerly a power station, the three story eatery is an open kitchen serving up American barbecue.
Embracing Soho’s Vibrant Entertainment and Chinatown’s Culinary Adventure
Conclude your walking tour in Chinatown and Soho. As you walk through Chinatown, you’ll experience a bustling enclave that immerses you in the flavors and traditions of East Asia. Discover vibrant shops, colorful decorations, and a plethora of authentic Asian cuisine. From aromatic dim sum to mouthwatering noodle dishes, Chinatown offers a delectable culinary adventure. Once your stomach is full, continue through the Soho district and let yourself be drawn to the theaters and lively nightlife that London is famously known for. If you’re able to, check out the legendary Ronnie Scott’s Jazz club!
Top Rated Food Suggestions:
- The French House: The historically famous pub that is a Londoner favorite serving half-pints.
- Four Seasons: Experience the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine at Four Seasons, a renowned restaurant famous for its succulent roast duck and other traditional dishes.
Self Guided Walking Tour London Concludes
London, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and tantalizing cuisine, is a city that begs to be explored on foot. Embarking on a self-guided walking tour allows you to immerse yourself in the charm and character of each neighborhood, uncover hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories. So lace up your walking shoes, grab your map, and set off on an adventure through the captivating streets of London. Whether you’re a history lover, a food enthusiast, or simply seeking to soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere, London has something to offer everyone.