March 28, 2023

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Firstly, in case you solely have three days to spend in London, then I’m sorry! I actually want you had extra, however I perceive, which is why I’ve written this 3-day London Itinerary that will help you maximize your time.

London is among the most numerous and experience-rich cities on the earth. I lived there for 2 and half years and have visited as a vacationer a number of occasions; and there’s nonetheless a lot I haven’t finished.

A bridge over water with a city in the background
The Shard and River Thames

London is a simple metropolis to journey to. Since there are such a lot of free sights and issues to do, it makes for the perfect metropolis vacation spot.

However in case you’re quick on time, the easiest way to maximise your go to is by following this London itinerary for 3 days, which has been designed to include a few of London’s most iconic sights and finest experiences – with slightly contact of native flavors and neighborhoods.

That is much like what we did on our first three days in London on our 10-day household journey final 12 months.

Table of Contents

How you can use this 3 Day London Itinerary

people sitting on a park bench

London is a big metropolis, and because you solely have 3 days, I created this itinerary to cut back the period of time getting round. Who desires to waste time on public transport?

Luckily, there isn’t any want, as London is very easy to get round. Simply strolling from Level A to B is a helpful reminiscence making expertise and is the place you’ll join a lot to the London life-style.

However in case you don’t plan correctly, you would be spending far an excessive amount of time zig zagging throughout the town while you don’t must.

Every day’s actions can be centered on one space of London, so you may spend extra time exploring and fewer time on the Tube. 

Adapt this as you see match, in keeping with funds, pursuits, time of arrival, and your resort location.

I’ve put approximate timing primarily based on what we did – with any variations for errors made. (We make the errors so you may keep away from them.)

Don't miss fish & chips in a London Pub
Don’t miss fish & chips in a London Pub

I’ll additionally suggest locations to eat, and low stops, and a few hidden gems. I understand how private these selections may be so you could need to substitute your personal in. 

Simply be sure you discover one thing near the sights to cut back your journey time. Excellent news, in London there’s a pub and a pastry store on each nook.

We additionally ate breakfast at our resort every morning because it was supplied with our room. Buffet English breakfast at your resort can be approach higher than any American one you’ve skilled. So, take pleasure in and replenish!

Solely have two days in London? Merely drop off Day 3. We’ve created it so the easiest of London (from a vacationer perspective) is on Day 1 & 2.

IMPORTANT:

To make this London itinerary stream effortlessly, it’s vital to book all your attraction tickets and tours in advance. You’re going to get extra finished, in case you e book for the occasions we recommend on this define.

Purchase skip-the-line each time you may. I do know it’s an additional expense, however you’ve come all this manner, you need to see and do as a lot as you may. That is particularly vital if visiting in peak season.

Is 3 Days in London Sufficient?

The Millennium Bridge, London, England
Strolling throughout the The Millennium Bridge in direction of St Paul’s Cathedral

In case you are ready to get up early and put your finest strolling footwear on, 3 days is sufficient to see the highlights of London, however when you have received the time to spend longer, we suggest you spend a minimum of 5 days in London.

We’ll quickly have a 5-day, 7-day and 10-day itinerary for individuals who can keep longer, or make it easier to plan your actions in case you return!

We additionally produce other in-depth posts on London and its experiences, which is able to make it easier to with additional studying and analysis.

You may as well be part of our e mail group, the place we share extra useful journey plans and inspirations. We’re doing a 4-week Europe summer time journey in June 2023, so we can be sharing extra content material for the UK and Europe in our mailing checklist!

You’ll additionally get entry to our free printable London Bucket Checklist and this printable itinerary in a one-page define.

And in case you actually beloved it as a result of we saved you time, and presumably cash, you can buy us a coffee!

Day 1: Royalty, Politics & The West Finish

On at the present time in London, you’ll go to a few of its prime sights within the Westminster and St James’s space, studying in regards to the two types of management in Britain with the Royals in Buckingham Palace and the Politicians at Huge Ben and Parliament Home.

You’ll be taking within the views of London at the preferred attraction within the metropolis then exploring the colourful arts and cultural West Finish.

9:30am Westminster Abbey Tour

people walking down aisle in Westminster Abbey, London, England

Westminster Abbey is the Royal Church of England, and one of many prime sights in London. I loved I loved our self-guided audio tour of Westminster Abbey greater than I believed I might, as did our children.

We needed to see Westminster Abbey to see the place the King’s and Queens of England have their coronations. It was additionally the place members of the royal household get married, the final being Prince William and Kate Middleton.

As you stroll by the pews, you may take within the stunning Gothic structure, whereas your audio information tells you extra in regards to the art work, structure and notable monuments contained in the constructing.

You additionally get advised in regards to the Abbey’s lengthy historical past, from way back to the coronation of William the Conqueror.

Be sure you try the surface of the cathedral, too. I loved seeing the attitude of the abbey from strolling across the cloisters and gardens.

  • Hours: 9.30am – 4.30pm Monday – Friday, 9.00am – 2.00pm Saturday, Sundays for providers solely.
  • Tackle: 20 Deans Yd, London SW1P 3PA

10:30 Stroll by St James’s Park

people looking at view of pond in  St James Park, London
Stunning St James Park

My favourite of all of the parks in London is the 58-acre St James’s Park. It’s house to the Mall and Horse Guards Parade and is on the doorstep of Buckingham Palace.

It’s the smallest of the eight Royal Parks and has a quiet magnificence about it with its manicured gardens, blooming flowers, ponds, ample birdlife, and meandering paths below the shade of tons of of bushes.

Relying on how a lot time you spend in Westminster Abbey, you will have to skip by right here to get to the Altering of the Guards at Buckingham Palace on time. Don’t fear, you’ll stroll again by it after the palace.

10.45am Buckingham Palace and the Altering of the Guard.

exterior of Buckingham Palace, London

It wouldn’t be a go to to London with out peeping by the wrought iron fence of one of the vital well-known palaces on the earth.

Buckingham Palace is the royal residence of the British Royal Household since 1837. Though the British royals select reside elsewhere (Windsor Fort is the place the Queen lived earlier than she handed), the palace remains to be used for stately occasions and conferences.

Most vacationers love to go to for the Altering of the Guards Ceremony, which takes place day by day at 10.45am.

That is when The Queen’s Guard hand over accountability for safeguarding Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Palace to the New Guard.

The Altering of the Guards does get crowded and make take up a bit of your time. For me, it’s not value it. I’d quite put that point into different issues to do in London.

You may as well tour the palace from July till October, on Thursdays till Mondays.

Altering of the Guard occasions

  • June – July: Every day
  • August – Could: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
  • Begins at 10.45am and goes on for about 45 minutes.

Tackle: London SW1A 1AA

Different: It’s possible you’ll need to discover Kensington Palace and Gardens which is west of Buckingham Palace.

In the event you solely have three days, I’d skip it and follow this itinerary as the remainder of at the present time is stuffed with epic London experiences. You’ll be able to assure Kensington is in our comply with up 5-day London itinerary!

12.00pm Huge Ben and Parliament Home

Great view of the Houses of Parliament from our River Cruise
Nice view of the Homes of Parliament from our River Cruise

In the event you didn’t get time to get your pictures right here while you have been at Westminster Abbey, now could be the time, as you’ll stroll again by it to get to the London Eye.

The Homes of Parliament is the place all of the vital enterprise in working the nation occurs. You’ll be able to tour inside throughout choose days and occasions. 

Huge Ben is the 13.5 tonne iconic clock tower that almost all guests gaze up at and may be seen from throughout London.

Winston Churchill Statue overlooking Big Ben
Winston Churchill Statue overlooking Huge Ben

Parliament Sq. is subsequent to the Homes of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. It has statues of well-known political leaders together with Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, and Nelson Mandela.

You may need to cease for lunch after visiting the Homes of Parliament. There are a lot of nice eating places and cafes alongside the embankment, simply throughout Westminster Bridge on the South Financial institution aspect. Simply stroll alongside Belvedere Highway and see what takes your fancy.

2.00pm Whitehall Gardens

pretty flowers in Whitehall gardens london
The gorgeous Whitehall Gardens

Across the nook from Parliament Home are the very fairly Whitehall Gardens. It’s possible you’ll need to stroll midway out on the Westminster Bridge first for some pretty views of Huge Ben and Parliament Home

Other than the prettiness of the Whitehall Gardens, the views from right here of the Thames and the London Eye listed here are nice. There’s not a lot else to do however benefit from the views as you stroll to your subsequent cease.

pub boat on river thames with london eye in the backgroun
Tattershall Pub London

Moored on the Thames is the Tattershall Castle, a former passenger ferry turned pub with views of the London Eye. This could possibly be a prime spot to your lunch on at the present time of your London itinerary. In any other case, you could need to discover only a seize and go lunch because the day is sort of busy.

Stroll throughout the pedestrian-only Golden Jubilee Bridge to the London Eye, having fun with the views as you go.

Underneath this bridge, proper exterior the Royal Competition Corridor, is the colourful inventive 10ft delivery container, which is the house of Beany Green, an Aussie Cafe chain in London.

Whereas sadly, I don’t assume their espresso is nice, I really like the vibe of this place and their lamingtons are wonderful (they usually have gluten free ones). So, in case you want a day caffeine and deal with decide me up, that is the spot.

3.00pm London Eye

London Eye over the river thames
the London Eye

The London Eye is the tallest statement wheel in Europe and an effective way to see totally different viewpoints of the well-known buildings in London, just like the Huge Ben and Homes of Parliament. 

The London Eye is completely value it. I feel similar to you’d go to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Sydney, you’d go to the London Eye in England’s capital.

When you e book a time slot for the London Eye, you continue to need to line up. The traces transfer fairly rapidly, however I’ve heard of lengthy waits. To keep away from that, get the fast-track ticket. 

  • Hours: 11.00am – 6.00pm day by day
  • Tackle: Riverside Constructing, County Corridor, London SE1 7PB

Video: London Eye Expertise

You’ll be able to see extra of the London Eye expertise within the video under, together with a non-public pod!

4.00pm River Thames Cruise

people taking photos of tower bridge
Shut up views of Tower Bridge

In the event you would like to do a sundown cruise tomorrow, you could need to skip this. (It could possibly be an excellent resting exercise.) 

Since these cruises depart at a particular time, and the London Eye doesn’t, you could need to do the cruise first, then e book your London Eye for after it.

The Lastminute.com London Eye River cruise is a 40-minute round tour of the Thames on a small open-top ferry with guided commentary. 

You’ll be taught many tales in regards to the iconic Landmarks you’ll go like Huge Bend, London Bridge, HMS Belfast, The Shard, Tate Fashionable, Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge, which you’ll get to sail below earlier than turning round to cruise again.

You should purchase a mix ticket with the London Eye, which makes it simpler to slot in.

6.00pm The West Finish

covent garden london

Now you’re free to discover the West Finish. If you’re going to go to the theater, you may be on a time restrict. If not, discover at your leisure.

It will likely be straightforward to return to Convent Backyard on day three of this 3-day London itinerary in case you run out of time immediately. It’s a fantastic space to discover so give your self time to wander. Returning is all the time a fantastic thought! I might return each weekend once I lived in London.

It’s a simple stroll again over the Golden Jubilee Bridge straight into Trafalgar Sq..

Earlier than a theater go to, I like to recommend a fast look across the following districts…

Trafalgar Sq.

girl standing in front of a water fountain
Trafalgar Sq.

Trafalgar Sq. has all the time been a spot for Londoners to assemble, whether or not that’s to usher in the New Yr collectively, or protest, rally, or march for vital rights and causes.

The 52-m excessive statue of Lord Nelson dominates the sq. and the Nationwide Gallery is the beautiful constructing within the background.

There’s not rather a lot to do right here, aside from stroll round and take pictures with the fountain and lions of braveness. Be aware of the LGBTQ pedestrian visitors lights as you’re crossing the highway. You’ll be able to what Trafalgar Square is like over on our reel.

Piccadilly Circus

people standing around Piccadilly Circus looking at flashing lights
Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is sort of a mini Occasions Sq. in New York. Filled with neon lights, huge flashing promoting billboards, and other people getting selfies.

It’s overrated, however many vacationers like it so I’m including it right here for you. You’ll little question come throughout it as you stroll across the West Finish.

From right here you may simply stroll to Piccadilly, Leicester Sq., Shaftesbury Avenue, the curving Regent Avenue, and Covent Backyard.

Soho (The Greatest Space for Nightlife)

red exterior of House of MinaLima with window displays
Home of MinaLima retailer

Soho is the proud LGBTQ space of London. It has a enjoyable artsy vibe with numerous cafes, shops, bars, and eating places and theaters. It’s additionally the perfect place in London for nightlife and is stuffed with vibrant bars and night time golf equipment.

For households, you could find rather a lot to see and do in Soho too. The House of MinaLima in SoHo is a should go to for all Harry Potter followers. Look how cool MinaLima is in this reel.

This gallery and retailer showcase the graphic artwork of the Harry Potter and Implausible Beasts movies, all of which was completely designed by Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima.

You’ll be able to learn extra about it in our teen’s information to London.

Covent Backyard

Covent Garden, London
Avenue leisure in Covent Backyard

Probably the most well-known locations to go to in London is Covent Backyard. 

Wander the cobblestoned areas surrounding the central market, which had its beginnings as a convent backyard within the 1500s. 

There are limitless eating places and bars and buying shops. Performers rotate all day lengthy on the road slightly below the balcony of the well-known Punch and Judy pub (good luck attempting to get on it!).

Don’t neglect to unfold out throughout the central Covent Backyard market space to discover the encompassing cobblestone streets and aspect alleys for different secret gems!

We discovered Cecil’s Court docket and Goodwin Court docket each of that are stated to have impressed Diagon Alley.

Locations to Eat in Convent Backyard:

lamb and flag pub covent garden
The Lamb and Flag – a London icon

I’m certain you’re able to collapse in a restaurant at this level.

Covent Backyard and the West Finish is overbrimming with them, many with out of doors seating. So, discover one you want and sit down… if there’s area. In the event you’re going to the theater, you’ll want to time it proper.

Listed here are a number of concepts.

  • Lamb & Flag is the oldest pub in Covent Backyard. (This was one among our favourite London pubs).
  • In the event you don’t have youngsters, you received’t need to miss the beautiful big tree in the midst of Waxy O’Conner’s Irish Pub on the sting of Soho and Leicester Sq..
  • The Crown & Anchor has good meals and a snug lounge upstairs.
  • The Seven Dials Market has a various providing of cuisines to swimsuit any tastebud.

7.00pm West Finish Theater

matilda cambridge theater
Matilda Cambridge Theater |Supply Deposit Photographs

There are over 40 theater venues within the West Finish performing a wide range of reveals to over 14 million guests yearly.

They’ve reveals all through the day, however most night reveals start at 7:30pm.

On our household trip to London, Kalyra, Savannah and I went to see Matilda within the Cambridge Theater, whereas Craig caught up along with his outdated North Sydney Bears teammates in Chelsea.

I’m glad we added this to our London itinerary on the final minute as our teen stated it was one among her favourite London experiences.

Day 1 in London Video Wrap

Click on play to see what Day one among this itinerary in London appears like!

Day 2: When Historic and Fashionable London Meet

On Day 2 of this London itinerary, you’re going to proceed studying extra of Britain’s historical past (it’s darkish form) on the Tower of London, and the beautiful St Paul’s Cathedral earlier than crossing over the Tower Bridge into its extra trendy, inventive vibe.

You’ll be exploring bustling market vibes, artwork galleries, and beautiful views!

9.00am Tower of London

full view of the the tower of london on the river thames
The Tower of London

The UNESCO World Heritage, Tower of London is a fortress comprising twenty-two towers however sitting within the center is the unique White Tower constructed within the 1070s by William the Conqueror.

Don’t miss the free Yeoman tour with the red-coated Beefeater (Yeoman Warders) guides entertaining with grotesque tales of its macabre historical past from its former years (and I imply centuries) as a Royal residence, armory, treasury, and zoo (thank goodness they stopped that!)

After your tour, stroll across the outdated fortress grounds to see the jail towers, Crown Jewels, and lots of different notorious websites. Head to the Crown Jewels first. Whereas I discovered them overrated, others line up for 2 hours simply to see them!

As among the best issues to do in London, The Tower of London is infamous for its lengthy traces, which might prolong into hours, that’s why we’ve scheduled it in first. Tickets will also be cheaper online.

  • Hours: Normal opening hours 9.00am – 5.30pm Monday – Friday, 10.00am – 5.30pm Saturday and Sunday
  • Tackle: London EC3N 4AB

12.00pm Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge over the river thames
The enduring Tower Bridge

Nearly anybody coming to London is already aware of the elegant great thing about its neo-Gothic turrets and blue suspension cables.

Stroll throughout the long-lasting Tower Bridge without spending a dime and get nice views overlooking the Thames and again over the Tower of London.

Verify for occasions when the Tower Bridge will elevate up its bridge arms so boats beneath can go by (often twice a day). Check opening times here.

In the event you comply with our schedule as outlined on this London itinerary, the perfect views of the bridge (taking into consideration solar) can be on the south aspect of the bridge. The north aspect was fully washed out.

1.00pm Lunch at Borough Markets

hand holding cup of peach prosecco in front of colorful heat mural
Peach Prosecco

Whether or not you’re hungry for strawberries dipped in chocolate, mushy native cheeses, bowls of Vietnamese pho, sausage rolls or a refreshingly candy peach Prosecco, you’ll discover it on the Borough Markets on the south aspect of the River Thames.

Widespread London Borough Markets are a set of stalls and distributors promoting contemporary produce. It’s a fantastic perception into native London life. 

On the periphery you’ll discover pubs, cafes, eating places, murals and some Harry Potter filming places, together with the Leaky Cauldron Pub.

Be aware that weekdays can be a lot quieter.

  • Hours: 10.00am – 5.00pm Monday – Friday, 8.00am – 5.00pm Saturday, 10.00am – 3.00pm Sunday
  • Tackle: Riverside Constructing, County Corridor, London SE1 7PB

Don’t Miss: Espresso from Monmouth and a cup of the candy peach prosecco. There are additionally nice murals round right here and the encompassing cobblestone streets nice to discover. 

2.00pm Stroll alongside Southbank Promenade

man taking photo of river thames

This 2.5 miles / 4 km South Financial institution stroll alongside the Thames goes from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge. There are beautiful views throughout as you go many prime sights.

When you’re strolling alongside the promenade, you may cease off at a number of thrilling sights. Similar to…

2.30pm Go to Tate Fashionable Artwork Gallery

chimney and warehouse building of tate modern london
The Tate Fashionable (and Shard to the left)

Any artwork lover can have the FREE Tate Fashionable Artwork gallery and its over 78,000 artistic endeavors on show, on their London bucket checklist.

Opened in 2000 in a dilapidated outdated energy station, it has fully revitalized this Southbank space, making it fully unrecognizable to my 22-year-old self dwelling in London in 1997.

people looking at view of st paul and river thames from tate modern bar
View from Tate Fashionable Bar

It’s not only a place to admire world-class artwork, however for its views of the Thames, Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral from the enclosed sixth ground Kitchen and Bar within the Natalie Bell Constructing.

3.30pm See the Shakespeare Globe

tudor style exterior of shakespeare globe theatre in london
The Shakespeare Globe Theatre

If you wish to have a singular expertise and see one thing quintessentially English, you may catch a Shakespeare manufacturing at The Globe Theatre on the banks of the River Thames.

Truthful warning: this a standing theater so possibly take into consideration that if there’s a manufacturing of Hamlet or King Lear. Our pals stated they booked privileged seats for the four-hour manufacturing of King Lear. Unsure I might do this standing up. Additionally they provided a bit of canopy in case it rained, because the Shakespeare Globe is the way it was throughout Shakespeare’s Days!

If that every one feels like your worst nightmare, simply benefit from the views from the surface.

4.00pm Afternoon Drink Cease

hand holding pimm's and lemonade with views of london in background
Pimm’s with a View

In London, it’s frequent to include a drink cease throughout your day. English pub tradition is among the delights of UK journey.

Founders Arms Pub has out of doors seating, spectacular River Thames Views, and vibrant London environment (particularly when the solar is out.) I loved a Pimm’s and Lemonade right here (iconic English drink) (Exterior the Tate Fashionable)

The Anchor can be an outdated London pub with out of doors seating on the River Thames worthy of a drink break.

4.45pm Cross the Millennium Bridge – the Wobbly Bridge

unusual shaped Millennium Bridge, crossing the thames over to st paul view
The Wobbly Bridge

The Millennium Bridge is among the coolest, more moderen additions to London metropolis. Opened in 2000, it has a warped, futuristic look with magnificent views throughout.

I beloved the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral rising in entrance of your eyes with every step as you cross. And look behind for views of Tate Fashionable, and to the appropriate for Tower Bridge views, and views of life on each banks of the river.

Harry Potter lovers will need to know, this was focused by Loss of life Eaters in Harry and the Half-Blood Prince.

5.00pm St Paul’s Cathedral

people looking at at the dome of St Paul's Cathedral, London, England
St Paul’s Cathedral was spectacular.

You’re going to see this architectural masterpiece from Sir Christopher Wren, constructed after the Nice Fireplace of London between 1675 and 1710 from viewpoints throughout London.

St Paul’s Cathedral is among the most well-known cathedrals on the earth and one among London’s most opulent buildings.

It’s value a tour, and if the highest of the dome is open (closed on our go to) be sure you go up to have a look at the unbelievable views of London (I did this once I lived in London)

Ask the attendants if they’ll take you to the spiraling Harry Potter staircase. This staircase in St Paul’s was used because the “Divination Stairwell” situated within the North Tower of Hogwarts Fort for the Harry Potter movies.

  • Hours: 8.30am – 4.30pm Monday and Tuesday, Thursday – Saturday. 10.00am – 4.30pm Wednesday, 8.30am – 6.00pm Sunday
  • Tackle: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD

7.00pm Get pleasure from Sundown Views from The Shard

the view from the shard london

The Shard View is an costly factor to do in London, however the 244m excessive sweeping views from the 72nd ground open-air platform make it worthwhile. It was my favourite London view, which you’ll perceive because it’s the tallest constructing in Western Europe.

Purpose for about an hour earlier than sundown so you may expertise the nightfall golden gentle views, sundown panoramic views, and nighttime views when these London lights sparkle.

You must reserve your tickets in advance, (plus it can additionally prevent cash).

  • Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm Thursday – Saturday (entry till 8:30pm). 10.00am – 7.00pm Sunday – Wednesday (entry till 5:30pm)
  • Tackle: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG

Video: London Day 2 Wrap

Click on play under to see what this epic day in London appears like!

Different Endings for Day 2 in London

My selection could be The View, however listed here are a pair extra choices for you.

Sky Backyard Views and Dinner

Sky Garden glass building rising above london skyline with the Shard in the distance
Sky Backyard faces off with the Shard

Again throughout the London Bridge (close to the Shard) is the Sky Backyard, one other nice viewpoint in London. It’s free, however they’ve restricted openings that should be booked upfront. Some say the views are higher from right here, however I’m not too certain about that.

Whereas it was closed (Monday) once we tried to go to, we had an identical view at The Backyard 120 Fenchurch across the nook, and whereas it was incredible, it nonetheless didn’t evaluate to the Shard view! It’s free nevertheless, which could be very engaging. 

There’s a restaurant on the Sky Backyard, which can be a method to rise up there if the viewing platform is booked. It should even be booked upfront, and I’ve heard nice issues about it. We additionally needed to try this however couldn’t make it occur on this journey.

Sundown River Cruise alongside the Thames

thames clipper boat going past london skyline on the thames at sunset
The Shard River View

Alternatively, you would finish the day with a sundown river cruise alongside the Thames leaving from close to the Tower of London.

This Thames River cruise leaves because the solar goes down and begins with a glass of glowing wine and canapes as you cruise and have a look at the lights of London go by!

Day 3: North London: Camden City to Kings Cross

camden lock markets
CAmden Lock markets

Welcome to one among my favourite days in London. Camden City was an everyday outing for my pals and I. Twenty-five years later, I nonetheless take pleasure in visiting and I beloved taking my daughters there.

We stayed right here for the ultimate few nights of our London journey and actually loved it.

Camden city is London elective and different. Identified to all the time be the house of punks, artists, and musicians, it’s additionally a spot for nice buying, enjoyable pubs and cafes, and incredible reside music.

At the present time will even embrace the British Museum and a go to to Kings Cross Station. You could have to think about at the present time’s itinerary rigorously to adapt to your pursuits.

9:30am Espresso and Lamingtons from Beany Inexperienced

You want this to your canal journey. It’s across the nook from the place you depart at Beany Green Little Venice. There may be nothing higher than a espresso and lamington as you cruise Regents Canal. 

Proper close to right here is the Darcie & May Green (similar house owners), which is a restaurant on a ship on the canal. Brunch right here is supposed to be superior and it opens at 8am, so very doable to start out the day right here. I had deliberate on it however couldn’t make it work!

10:15am Canal Cruise

A boat traveling along a river

The enjoyable and picturesque 40-minute canal ride will take you alongside Regents Canal, by the 248m Maida Hill tunnel, and previous the unique neighborhoods of Maida Vale and Primrose Hill, with houses of celebrities, and expansive and landscaped again gardens of grand homes.

An alternate Concept could be to stroll between Camden and Regents Park, to discover one among London’s hottest and expansive of the royal parks and gardens.

11.00am Discover Camden City And Camden Market

people walking through camden markets under colorful umbrellas

Your canal cruise will ship you straight to the center of Camden Markets, which is hottest on the weekends. Right here you’ll discover a great deal of stalls promoting all types of wares together with an abundance of meals stalls representing cuisines from world wide.

There are limitless selections for meals right here with cuisines from world wide. 

Don’t miss strolling up and down the primary streets of Camden City and the aspect streets for incredible avenue artwork, buying, and unbelievable folks watching. 

12.30pm Lunch Cease at Edinboro Fort Pub

Edinboro Castle, London, England
Lunch on the Edinboro Fort Pub in Camden

A couple of blocks away from Camden Market is the Edinboro Fort Pub. We’d suggest this as an alternative of the Camden Markets, particularly on a Sunday or sunny day, as a result of they’ve a incredible out of doors beer backyard and a scrumptious Sunday roast (and gluten-free beer).

A Sunday roast is a conventional English meal to not miss!

  • Hours: 12.00pm – 11.00pm Monday – Saturday, 12.00pm – 10.30pm Sunday
  • Tackle: 57 Mornington Terrace, London NW1 7RU

2.00pm Kings Cross Station and Platform 9 ¾

woman holding wand at cart going into wall at Platform 9 3/4, Kings Cross Station, London
Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross Station in London

In the event you’re a Harry Potter fan you could need to embrace this in your London itinerary. In any other case, I wouldn’t fear. Even in case you are a fan, it will not be value it in case you’re quick on time.

You’re simply strolling as much as the faux cart in opposition to the wall to take an image, and sometimes traces are lengthy. We have been blessed with only a 10-minute wait.

Kings Cross Station is an actual practice station and one of many busiest transport hubs in London. If you wish to see the platforms (the place many scenes have been filmed) both catch a practice someplace or ask the guards if they’ll allow you to on the platform to take a photograph.

Throughout the highway is St Pancreas which is the background setting for the flying automobile scene within the second film.

You’ll be able to catch the tube or stroll 20 minutes to right here from Camden City.

2.30pm Go to the British Museum

glass ceiling inside British Museum,
Inside British Museum

The British Museum is excellent, and I extremely suggest it as among the best locations to go to in London.

It’s England’s largest museum and recognized to be one of many oldest and best on the earth with huge collections that span Egyptian, Greek Roman, European, and Center Japanese cultures and histories.

Close to this London Museum is the historic Plough Pub. We suggest stopping in at this fairly refined but very cozy Victorian pub for lunch or only a pint! 

Once more, a 20-minute stroll or quick tube journey.

4.00pm Free Time! Or…

Princess Diana statue, Kensington Gardens
Kensington Palace

From the British Museum, you’re as soon as once more close to Covent Backyard and the West Finish. Since Day one among this itinerary was so busy, you could need to transfer the West Finish theater to tonight, discover extra of Covent Gard, or simply calm down.

In the event you’re considering of including one thing else to the tip of your journey, listed here are another sights you would go to which might make for the proper ending to your London itinerary…

  • The Nationwide Historical past Museum or Victoria and Albert Museum – in case you love museums, these two are arguably the perfect in London. Head over to South Kensington to complete a day at one of many museums. Youngsters will love seeing Dippy the Dyoplosaurus and the Big Blue Whale skeleton of the Pure Historical past Museum, or see vogue developments on the V&A.
  • Go to Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens – the well-known house of Princess Diana and now the residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
  • Take a hop-on/hop-off bus tour – in case your ft are drained, they usually most likely are, take within the closing websites of London on an open prime double-decker bus.
  • Stroll by Hyde Park – this is among the largest royal parks in London and is among the finest locations to go to if the noise and chaos of the town is beginning to get overwhelming.
  • Buy groceries in Notting Hill – a fast stroll alongside Portobello Highway in Notting Hill and also you’ll really feel such as you’ve been reworked into a complete new metropolis. This prosperous space is thought for its vintage, classic and boutique shops and is the place you may decide up some distinctive finds.
  • Stroll alongside the Embankment in direction of Greenwich – earlier we steered strolling alongside the embankment in direction of Southbank, however why not stroll the opposite approach? You’ll go the Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark.
  • Spend the night at Brick Lane in Shoreditch – need to see some wonderful avenue artwork? Brick Lane is one other mecca for artists, and since we’re on a hippy bohemian theme in Camden immediately, it might be the perfect place to complete a day studying about London’s most flamboyant communities.

Video: Day 3 in London

Click on play to see all of the enjoyable we had on this day trip in London!

Different Day for Harry Potter Followers

people sitting on a moterbike
We needed to e book upfront for Harry Potter!

In the event you’re a Harry Potter fan, you could need to incorporate Harry Potter experiences into your London journey. It’s included in our London 5 Day Itinerary.

 This tour of the Warner Bros Studios is the closest you’ll get to being part of the movies. It’s incredible and properly value a go to.

If that’s the case, simply add it into your itinerary the place you may and take one thing out. It’s possible you’ll swap out a complete day. You’ll need a minimum of half a day for the studio tour.

It takes round three to 4 hours to stroll by the entire tour, which options units, costumes, props, and butterbeer from the movies.

Plus, there are interactive reveals to expertise from inexperienced display screen broomstick rides to leaping in a number of of the car props. It’s additionally an hour journey outing of London.

Because it’s open late, you would go straight right here after lunch on the Camden Markets OR, go within the morning and Camden Markets while you return!

Right here is our full information to the Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour.

TOP TIP: You will need to reserve your ticket upfront. They’ll e book up rapidly. If they’re bought out, book a place on this tour from London to Harry Potter world. They’ve already bought tickets, so that you’re assured entry and it contains bus transportation from London. You could have to pay slightly extra, however it means you’ll get in!

Video: Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour London

Click on play under to see the Harry Potter magic come to life.

Harry Potter Strolling Excursions

woman and child on harry potter wanted witches poster
Be careful for thes witches on the streets of London!

For extra magical enjoyable, you could need to be part of this Harry Potter themed strolling tour throughout London. This could possibly be an excellent afternoon addition to the itinerary on Day 3.

Discover out which Hogwarts Home you belong in and check your Harry Potter information. Stroll down Diagon Alley, go to the Leaky Cauldron, and See iconic London websites similar to Borough Market, The London Eye, and Trafalgar Sq.. Reserve your spot here.

3 Day London Itinerary Map

We’ve got created a useful map for you, which is damaged down into the strolling route for every of the three days outlined above. To make use of it, click on the highest left button for the image key and strolling instructions for every day.

Click on the highest proper button to open it in a full web page. From there, click on the highest left drop right down to make a duplicate of the map. Then you may modify it as wanted to your private use. Or click on the star subsequent to the map, so as to add it to your Google Maps account. You’ll then discover it below Your Locations on the menu tab in google maps.

The place to remain in London

girl on bed Millenium Hotel with london mural on the wall
Our Millenium Lodge was proper close to Kensington Tube Station

Particularly with a brief period of time in London, you need to select lodging that’s in Zone 1 or 2. That is the Central London space and the place most sights featured on this itinerary can be situated. It’ll prevent time and presumably cash on getting round.

Be sure you e book your lodging close to a Tube Station. One of the best ones for Central London vacationer sights are:

  • Piccadilly Line (darkish blue) (will even take you to Heathrow)
  • Circle Line (yellow)
  • Central Line (purple)

We’ve got a listing of vetted London lodging choices right here, together with a brief assessment of the three resorts we stayed in.

Getting Round London

person holding up oyster card out front of tube station
Oyster Card

We’ve got a brilliant in-depth submit for you on getting round London with invaluable recommendations on getting round on the Tube (like it), Nationwide Rail, and strolling (our most favourite).

We’ve got designed this itinerary to spend as little time on public transport as attainable, so you’ll solely must get the practice from the airport to your resort.

You’ll need to get the underground to start your day’s exploring, however for 3 days it’s not value getting the Oyster Card and simply purchase single journey tickets.

In the event you determine to remain 5 days or extra, then we suggest you may decide up an Oyster Card, which is a transport card for London and lets you journey on all London’s public transport for a set value every day.

High tip: In case you have a contactless bank card, you should utilize this as an alternative of shopping for a ticket and it’ll cost you for a single ticket journey.

Remaining Ideas on this London Itinerary for Three Days

woman and girl walking across london bridge
Clocking up the miles!

This isn’t a hazard warning however be ready. Your days can be lengthy, and if like us, will contain numerous strolling. 

Get stroll match earlier than you arrive, put on comfy footwear, have a refillable water bottle and snacks available, and pack your endurance and good spirits. I promise you received’t remorse it. 

You’ll be able to see and do rather a lot in three days in London. Our women have been 14 and 10 on the time of our journey, and we walked 20,000 steps a day and they didn’t complain as soon as! You understand that’s a memorable household journey!

I actually hope you’ve got essentially the most wonderful time in London and this itinerary helps you. It actually showcases the perfect of London that you may match into three days. 

There are nonetheless extra nice issues to see and do in London, so that you’ll have to come back again or keep longer.

In the event you discovered this itinerary information for London useful, please share it with your pals, submit on social media, or save to Pinterest and keep in mind to tag us!

Remark: Have you ever visited London in three days? Are you able to supply every other suggestions or recommendations. Do you’ve got any questions on this London 3-day itinerary?