The Best of London On Foot
If you want to know a city you must view it as it’s residents do - by foot. Walking through the historic streets of London you will see, hear and smell the atmosphere of the past and present blending together.
When planning to see London on foot you will want to take some time to plan your days. The Best of London on Foot can be experienced by dividing it into 2 “must see” tours.
1. Begin at the beginning. Arriving in London you may find yourself with a small case of jetlag. A great way to adjust to the time change is by taking a good long walk in the fresh air. Aquaint yourself with the city by taking the “Love London” walk. Begin at Picadilly Circus and walk along Haymarket Street for a while taking in the sights of the city. Take a slight left and walk along Trafalgar square road. When you reach Trafalgar Square you will find yourself in the heart of the city. Down at the end of the road you will see Big Ben peeking at you. Behind you stands you will see the National Gallery open nearly every day for free. Follow Whitehall street and pass by 10 Downing Street, the home of the British Prime Minister. Take a left onto Bridge street and prepare to see Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the famed Parliment Buildings. Turn left again on Victoria Embankment and follow the Thames River up to Northumberland avenue. Northhumberland will take you back to Trafalgar Square and up to Picadilly.
Allow a good 2 hours or more for this walk as you will want to stop and see the sites along the way. Be sure to take lots of photos and email them home. It’s a great way to say “Look Where I Am!”
2. Now that you have a feel for London take a walk on the “Royal Side.” Begin this walk at the House of Parliment. Walk up Birdcage walk past the Churchill War Rooms museum (well worth a visit!) and the Guards museum (also a very facinating place to tour). Turn right onto Spur Road and you will find yourself on the Buckingham Palace circle. This is a great place to see the “Changing of the Guards” or simply pose by the imposing gates for a picture. After seeing the palace continue down Birdcage walk to Rueben’s Hotel. This elegant hotel serves an amazing afternoon tea. A perfect place to get a feel for being royal and a nice spot to rest your feet. Leave Ruebens and continue down Birdcage which has now become Buckingham Palace Road. End by following Buckingham Palace road to the signs for Victoria Station. Victoria Station leaves you in Central London.
You can now continue on your journey or take a train to other parts of the U.K.
Want ideas for additional walks? Try reading Rick Steve’s London which features a variety of additional walks and can be read on your Kindle, Ipad or Phone.