By Caitlin Hornik
Culture Corner is an article series designed to share destination-specific cultural information. These tips and tricks are meant to help you as you plan your trip! Keep this information in mind as you embark on a journey to another culture that you may be unaccustomed to.
There is an elegance that exudes from London that I’ve yet to find in other corners of the world. From charming street corners to pub culture only rivaled by the other British Isles to the bustling markets, London’s regality is on display at every turn.
Also on display In London? History.
It’s easy to say that European cities have a richer history because they’re older than most in the United States. In some cities, it’s easier to grasp the gravity and depth of the history. London is one of those cities.
Every time I have visited, I’ve felt the years of history in the air. In sight-seeing, in pubs, in chatting with locals and walking around town, it’s just there and it is so undeniably rich. How can you do anything but embrace it?!
There’s a choice you can make here that will certainly influence your entire trip. Choosing to embrace the storied history of London during your trip will undoubtedly enrich your experience. In doing so, there are a few activities I’ve highlighted below that combine all the best of what London has to offer.
High Tea
Put on your pearls and your patent leather heels! High tea is a must, especially if you actually enjoy drinking tea.
Partaking in a traditional high tea will not only make a great memory, but will help you understand why it is a quintessential cultural experience.
Interestingly, the tradition of afternoon tea only dates back to the mid-1800s. However, the custom of drinking tea dates back before that. And, of course, we all know that happens when you stand in between an Englishperson and their tea!
Many hotels offer a high tea experience. Some are themed, some are traditional, and some have spectacular views that you’ll savor while you sip. Not to mention many high tea experiences offer the option to add a glass (or a bottle) of bubbly to take your tea party to the next level.
Open-Air Bus Tour
Feeling the crisp air blowing your hair around while you cruise through Regent Park? This is an experience that only a sightseeing bus tour can offer.
Now you may be thinking, “Ugh I don’t want to sit on a bus, I want to see the city!” Well, what about doing both? Truth be told, these sightseeing tours offer you an experience that can’t be beat. In fact, I highly recommend the London bus tour if for no other reason than to absorb the sheer beauty of the buildings, cathedrals, and palaces. It’ll give you a chance to appreciate from afar while making a mental list of places you’d like to visit up close. You can’t appreciate the spectacular exterior architecture of St. Paul’s Cathedral from inside!
Whether you get off at every stop or ride the entire loop, you’ll be immersed in the sights and sounds of London while enjoying the commentary of a knowledgeable guide.
Markets
If the idea of spending a leisurely weekend morning strolling through an open-air market is appealing to you, wait until you arrive in London.
Borough Market is located near both London Bridge and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Walk over the bridge, reading inscriptions along the way, before arriving at the market located under the railway. Spend time perusing the many stalls and savor the opportunity to try local artisanal goods (hellllo freshly baked bread and pastries!) while souvenir shopping! From there, it’s about a 15 minute walk along the Thames to get to the Globe. Yet another opportunity to indulge in a different, and important facet of London culture: the theatre scene!
There are plenty of other markets to visit too. Jubilee Market at Covent Garden is another favorite. Plenty to do, see, and absorb while strolling through the first “piazza” in London, which dates back to the 1600s.
Visiting different markets also gives you the opportunity to chat with the vendors, who may be able to offer insight into hidden gems around the city!
Reflection
When I think of London, I never fail to think of the elegance and charm that ooze from even the most humble-looking pubs and shops. I think of the wind whipping my face while sight-seeing on the top of a bright red tour bus. I think about the adrenaline rush I get when I’m there, wanting to absorb anything and everything that I can pack into a single day.
This is a direct product of the city’s history.
Choosing to embrace London’s historical significance is an incredible opportunity to learn more about this city and the people who live and work there. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifteenth, you’ll fall in love with London, and it’s history, again and again.
