London City Guide 07

London City Guide 2007

LONDON Official

Your guide to the best of London + tube, bus and street maps

City Guide 2007

visitlondon.com

Know London Welcome to the Official City Guide to London 2007 – brought to you by Visit London, every visitor’s first port of call for information on this great city. This guide shows the range of activities and sights that the capital can offer – whether you’re here for a weekend or a few weeks. And even the most experienced visitor still has a lot to learn about a city that continues to surprise and excite year after year.

4 We Love London 6 London by Area 9

Weekend Itineraries

14 An A-Z of London Facts 18 What’s On 21 Festivals 23 Sightseeing 37 Outdoors 45 Shopping 51 Food & Drink 65 Entertainment

John Lewis, one of London’s landmark department stores welcomes you to London Famous for our excellent quality, we are also Never Knowingly Undersold, promising you great value on all our products. First class customer service and complimentary services such as tax free shopping and an excellent export service guarantee to make your shopping experience as enjoyable as possible.

Call 020 7629 7711 or visit www.johnlewis.com/oxfordstreet

78 Accommodation 88 Transport 93 Useful Tips Cover photograph: Albert Memorial, Hyde Park by Pawel Libera www.liberadesign.co.uk

In the heart of London’s West End, our seven floors play host to hundreds of top fashion labels and homeware designers from around the world. From sportswear to formal wear and furniture to candles and cushions we’ve got something to suit everyone.

77 Essentials

94 Index 96 Tube & Bus Maps 98 London Street Map

Notting Hill Carnival

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Editor Imogen Aylen Art Editor Asger Bruun Picture Editor Graham Harper Picture Researcher Jenny Clarke Chief Sub Editor Paul Dimery Sub Editors KerrieAnne Love, Jo Mattock Staff Writer Alec Marsh Contributors Alison Cooper, Gemma Exley, Francesca Gavin, Christina Madden, Mike Pattenden, Scott Russon, Anna Wood Production Manager Simon Gandy Creative Director Chris Parker Account Executive Christine Cavaleros Group Account Director Rachel Butters Photography Britainonview.com, Ingrid Rasmussen for Visit London Brand Manager Liana Dinghile Brand Executive Emma Pretty London Official City Guide © 2006 Visit London is published on behalf of Visit London by John Brown 136-142 Bramley Road, London W10 6SR Tel: 020 7565 3000 Fax: 020 7565 3050; [email protected]; www.johnbrowngroup.co.uk. John Brown is a member of the APA. Advertisement Sales Mongoose Media, 2 Lonsdale Road, London NW6 6RD Tel: 020 7306 0300 Fax: 020 7306 0301. All information correct at the time of going to press and is subject to change. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without prior permission of the editor. Opinions expressed are those of the author and not of Visit London. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, John Brown and Visit London cannot accept responsibility for any errors in articles or advertisements, or changes to events after going to press.

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Razvan Investment manager, from Romania “It’s a very diverse city, I always feel at home in London. And it’s great to cycle around, too!”

We Love London With 25 million visitors flocking to the capital each year, there must be something pretty special about London. We asked residents and visitors what they love most about this dynamic and multi-faceted metropolis London is a city that deserves its long-held reputation as one of the greatest on the planet. And if you are thinking about paying a visit, it’s worth bearing in mind the vast range of experiences on offer. Culture lovers will be sated by the 17 national museums and galleries that offer free entrance. Fans of fine dining will be delighted to know that a staggering 53 international cuisines (and counting) are waiting to be sampled, while more than 35 Michelin-starred restaurants promise a gastronomic treat. With world-class department stores, quirky boutiques and 83 markets, there’s something to suit every shopper’s pocket and taste. Theatreland, cinemas, clubs, live gigs, comedy and cabaret – not to mention a pub on

every street corner and more bars than anyone could count – will ensure your days last long into the night. But it’s not all thrills and spills: London’s abundant public parks account for 30 per cent of the city, so there’s plenty of walks, wildlife and relaxation, too. Exploring the river and 80 miles of canals could take a lifetime – but dipping in often reveals a hidden side to the city. And thanks to the London transport network – 12 Underground lines, a bus network and trams connecting every corner – getting around is easy.

Hitesh Stallholder, Portobello Market “London allows me to be what I want to be – and it’s always full of surprises”

Zanzibar Street performer, Covent Garden “There’s such an incredible mix of cultures, combined with 2,000 years of history”

Kanako Fashion student, from Japan “Shopping is great here. I can find interesting designs, from new trends to vintage looks” Alvin & Nicola Visitors, from Tennessee, USA, and the UK “There’s so much open space. We don’t feel enclosed in London and can really enjoy being outdoors”

Andy Horticulturalist, Kew Gardens “You can always find a new green space, a secret park or hidden square”

out To find out more a,bgo to Londondon.com visitlon

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London by Area The capital is made up of villages, boroughs and districts, all with their own distinctive flavour

Go West With its live music venues, parks and riverside villages, it’s no wonder that west London attracts millions of visitors each year. Some of the country’s top chefs have opened fine restaurants and bars in Hammersmith, Chiswick and Ealing, and whether your preference is Caribbean, Indian or Oriental – try Edgware Road’s Oriental City foodhall – you’ll find something to tease your taste buds. To help you while away the daylight hours, there’s a wealth 6 visitlondon.com

of historic houses – the most impressive being Syon House – open spaces and riverside walks to enjoy. Football lovers will flock to Chelsea and Fulham football clubs and the new National Stadium, built to replace Wembley Stadium. The nearby Wembley Arena, along with venues like the Hammersmith Apollo, make the area a prime spot for live music. Or if TV and film are more your thing, take a tour around the BBC’s headquarters in White City.

Northern Lights Centre Stage From the lively streets of the West End and Theatreland, to the historic sites of the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace, there’s much to see, eat and enjoy in central London. The sights can be admired up close – marvel at masterpieces in the National Gallery – or from afar, atop the British Airways London Eye. Wander along the South Bank admiring the riverside views, enjoy the gastronomic delights of Chinatown and unique atmosphere of Soho or treat your loved ones to luxurious gifts at Harrods in Knightsbridge. Culture vultures should go to Exhibition Road with the Natural History Museum, the V&A and the Science Museum in close proximity.

If you’re wondering what that roar is, it’s the crowds flocking to see Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal football clubs! But there’s much more to north London than football. Not far away is Epping Forest, a 10,000year-old woodland that was once a hunting ground of Henry VIII, the RAF Museum in Hendon, which boasts more than 100 planes, and a museum dedicated to William Morris, founder of the British Arts and Crafts

Eastern Promise

movement. Shoppers can find all the best high-street names at Brent Cross, plus boutiques and restaurants in the villages of Islington, Crouch End, Walthamstow, Hampstead and Muswell Hill. Those in search of international flavours should head to the Turkish enclave of Green Lanes – if you time it right you might catch a music festival in Finsbury Park. And further to the north is the 19thcentury Alexandra Palace, set in 196 acres of parkland and offering ice-skating in the winter and open-air events in the summer.

Journey South From Richmond upon Thames in the west to Bromley in the east, south London is packed full of history, culture and charming neighbourhoods. Picturesque riverside settings provide the

perfect opportunity to roll out the picnic blanket. Historical buildings such as Down House – where Charles Darwin wrote The Origin of Species – and Hampton Court Palace are brimming with colourful tales. Shoppers will marvel at the choice of shopping in places

like Clapham, Barnes, Kingston upon Thames and Croydon. Outdoor attractions include the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, the London Wetland Centre – 100 acres of wetlands in Barnes – and Richmond Park, London’s largest open space, where deer roam free.

Nowhere does the old sit more comfortably beside the new than in east London, where diverse cultures and maritime heritage make for great exploring. This is London’s fastest growing area as it prepares for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Visit the oncerundown areas around Hoxton and Hackney, now transformed into buzzing scenes boasting great nightlife and eclectic markets like Spitalfields and Columbia Road. Across the river, the World Heritage site of Greenwich marries centuries of maritime history – brought to life at the National Maritime Museum – a vibrant market and riverside taverns. Head to the Bangladeshi and Indian restaurants on Brick Lane for a delicious and authentic taste of the Asian sub-continent. her For furt find to d n a fo in u’re what yofor in looking go to London n.com/ do visitlonplorer ex

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Voyage of Discovery Visiting London for the first time? Here are a few things not to miss

Something for the Weekend? Get inspired with four themed itineraries to ensure you experience all sides of the capital

london • 150 old park lane • 020 7514 1700 nearest underground station hyde park corner/green park

hardrock.com

A great place to start your first London adventure is the South Bank. From here, you can take a morning ‘flight’ on the 135mhigh British Airways London Eye (pictured), and marvel at iconic buildings like Big Ben and St Paul’s Cathedral. Then walk among the street entertainers to the Art Deco Oxo Tower, whose brasserie has wonderful riverscape views – perfect for a spot of lunch. Cross the river to Westminster Abbey – a medieval wonder and last resting place of assorted royals – then while away the afternoon browsing the masterpieces at the National Gallery. Swap peaceful corridors for noisy streets with a visit to Soho. Its myriad bars, clubs, restaurants and unique shops are popular with

both visitors and the capital’s creative types. For dinner, choose from the many restaurants in Chinatown. Sunday morning is the perfect time to stroll through St James’s Park, and enjoy lakeside views to Buckingham Palace. From here, continue along Piccadilly to Regent Street, where you’ll find the Tudor-fronted Liberty and Hamleys, the world’s most famous toy store. After lunch in Carnaby Street, head for the British Museum’s Great Court, and discover artefacts including the Rosetta Stone and Cleopatra’s mummy. Take a stroll through Bloomsbury’s handsome squares to build up an appetite, before heading back to Piccadilly and The Wolseley restaurant – a high-ceilinged space perfect for gourmet fare and people watching.

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Easy Does It A visit to the world’s most exciting capital city needn’t be all hustle and bustle…

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Gardens for dinner – a rooftop oasis with award-winning food amid beautiful planting, and even flamingos! Then it’s on to Ronnie Scott’s in Soho – the archetypal jazz venue. Next morning, take a riverboat to Kew Gardens (pictured). The journey is dreamily relaxing, and the destination is the ultimate pleasure garden – 300 acres of botanical beauties and magnificent glasshouses. Head back into the centre to the luxurious May Fair Spa, where divine massages and healing mud baths await you. Take your place in the sumptuous Ritz hotel for afternoon tea among gilded statues and cascading waterfalls. Later on, Portobello Road’s Electric Cinema is perfect for classic double-bills on roomy leather couches.

Off the Beaten Track Beyond the red buses, Black Cabs and Beefeaters, there’s a hidden London waiting to be discovered

Londonstills.com; Chelsea street

Spend the morning enjoying some leisurely window shopping on Bond Street. Along the way, call in at The Chocolate Society for some delectable treats, which can be consumed in the shelter of Farm Street’s little park. The Wallace Collection provides escapism of a different kind. Fine furniture, Sèvres china and remarkable paintings will transport you to a bygone age of aristocracy. If the sun comes out, head for Hyde Park, where you’ll forget you’re in Europe’s biggest capital. Admire the lovely Rose Garden and Apsley House, once home to the Dukes of Wellington. On Christmas Day, scores of brave (or mad) souls dive into the Serpentine’s frozen waters – but we recommend a genteel boating trip instead. Retreat to the exclusive Kensington Roof

Start by browsing Camden Lock Market, where you’ll find second-hand clothing and all kinds of weird and wonderful things to buy. Then head to Sir John Soane’s Museum, a jumble of ancient relics and Egyptian sarcophagi. On to edgy Hoxton, home to many fashionable BritArtists – the White Cube gallery makes for stimulating viewing. Finish the day with dinner at The Real Greek, a converted chapel whose chandeliered interior perfectly complements brilliant meze food. Next morning, after breakfast at the trendy

Bluebird Café, discover Chelsea Physic Garden (open April-Oct), a secret, walled treasury of fragrant herbs. Then tour the amazing warren of the littlevisited Inner Temple in the City. Its medieval church was built by crusading Knights Templar, and you can enjoy fine choral recitals during services. The City’s quirky ancient pubs, including the Old Doctor Butler’s Head in Moorgate, are well worth a pilgrimage. Then head south to Dulwich, a charming village with a neoclassical Picture Gallery. But leave room for dinner at Joanna’s brasserie in nearby Crystal Palace. visitlondon.com 11

The only way to see London

+44(0)870 5000 600 or londoneye.com Waterloo and Westminster

On a Budget

For a unique place to stay that won’t break the bank, try the YHA London St Paul’s (once home to St Paul’s Cathedral’s choirboys). While you’re there, visit Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece during a morning service to avoid paying admission. Start your Saturday by crossing the Thames on the futuristic Millennium Bridge and sampling Borough Market’s gourmet delights (pictured) – most stalls offer free samples, and it’s brilliant for picnic 12 visitlondon.com

necessities. From here, discover some free culture at the vast Tate Modern and Tate Britain. A visit to London wouldn’t be complete without taking in a show – and you needn’t miss out. The tkts booth in Leicester Square sells half-price tickets to the biggest shows in town. In the morning, hit Topshop on Oxford Street, a fashion-lover’s paradise that reproduces couture at fractional costs. Relax afterwards in St James’s Park and catch the pelicans being

fed at 2.30pm. The theatrical wonder of Harrods Food Hall has towering displays of every conceivable comestible, but forgo its caviar for nearby Stockpot’s lowcost feasts. Feed the brain for free in the Natural History Museum – absorbing exhibits range from dinosaur eggs to technicolour gemstones. And a final, traditional treat is fish and chips, followed by a good old English pub quiz: friendly entertainment for a few pounds – and you might even win a prize. For further information on the places mentioned, please consult relevant listings sections starting on page 23.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM LONDON Discover the story of those who have lived, fought and died in conflicts from the First World War to the present day. Featuring The Holocaust Exhibition The Children’s War New exhibitions for 2007 Camouflage The Falklands War

www.iwm.org.uk FREE ADMISSION Charges may apply for some special exhibitions Lambeth Road, London, SE1 6HZ Waterloo, Lambeth Nor th, Elephant and Castle, Southwark

© Tom Eckersley estate

Feeling the pinch? Don’t worry, as you’ll still find plenty to keep you entertained in London…

An AtoZ of London Did you know that over 300 different languages are spoken in the capital, or that most Black Cab drivers can identify any location you give them? Read on to find out 26 fascinating facts about London…

H

ighgate Cemetery This beautiful Victorian ‘garden cemetery’ is full of Gothic monuments and is ideal for a stroll. Known as a dissenters’ burial ground, it’s where Karl Marx (below) is laid to rest.

E

pping Forest Just ten miles from central London, this former royal hunting forest still boasts Elizabeth I’s hunting lodge, which you can visit for free.

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ord’s As well as hosting many of England’s international fixtures, the ‘home of cricket’ – known for its Old Father Time weather vane and futuristic grandstand – will host the archery at the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. See page 42.

A

bbey Road zebra crossing In 1969, a crossing in quiet St John’s Wood shot to world fame when The Beatles featured it on the front of their album Abbey Road. Rock fans still make pilgrimages there.

B

eck, Harry Paid just five guineas, this draughtsman devised the London Underground map in 1933, rationalising a hugely complex network into one iconic diagram.

C

anals A peaceful, picturesque way to explore London is along the nine-mile Regent’s Canal. See page 38.

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F

G

The first new bridge over the Thames for 100 years, this pedestrian walkway links the Tate Modern gallery with St Paul’s Cathedral.

J

herkin

Norman Foster’s daring addition to London’s skyline (left) towers over the financial district, and is nicknamed for its unusual shape – its real name is 30 St Mary Axe.

M

illennium Bridge

ack the Ripper The infamous murderer is believed to have killed at least five women in the 19th century, and was never caught. Take a tour around Whitechapel and see if you can uncover his identity. See Tours, page 30.

Getty; Illustration: Jenny Clarke

D

owning Street No 10 has been the home of British Prime Ministers since 1732, and is now the abode of Tony Blair.

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ce Rinks Fancy a twirl? Many grand institutions boast floodlit open-air ice-rinks in winter, among the most scenic is the courtyard of Somerset House.

oundling Museum Discover the moving story of London’s abandoned children, and the hospital founded by composer GF Handel in 1739 to take them in. Personal artefacts, photographs and recordings create a truly poignant experience. See page 32.

K

nowledge, The Black Cab drivers are London’s unsung heroes and fonts of wisdom. The Knowledge, their intensive training course, means they can identify any landmark or location. visitlondon.com 15

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outemasters After 50 years of loyal service, these stately chariots were retired from London’s bus lanes. Happily, nostalgists can still jump aboard along selected ‘heritage routes’.

S

ketch One of the most extravagant of all London’s restaurants, both in terms of its virtuoso gourmet fare and extraordinarily cool interior, which doubles as a gallery space and dance club. See page 56.

N

otting Hill Carnival Every August, millions flock to this dynamic Caribbean celebration – Europe’s largest street festival. Expect a three-day riot of steel bands, calypso dancing and exotic costumes. See page 21.

T

ime Greenwich is packed with maritime history – and is the birthplace of world time, no less. Straddle the Prime Meridian (0° Longitude) and you’ve one foot each in the eastern and western hemispheres.

O

P

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enophilia Multicultural London has a tradition of welcoming foreigners. And with 300 languages spoken here, it’s the most cosmopolitan and linguistically diverse city in the world.

X

V

oung British Artists BritArtists Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin and Rachel Whiteread revitalised the 90s art scene with often provocative shows. Now Charles Saatchi has launched a new Chelsea showcase of their works. See page 35.

&A South Kensington The Victoria & Albert museum houses a decorative-arts collection that’s among the greatest in the world, with fine examples from every discipline imaginable. Among the must-sees in this treasure-house are the Cast Room and costume collection. See page 33.

W

ld Bailey This ornate court building, a stone’s throw away from St Paul’s Cathedral, handles Britain’s most high-profile trials, which you can watch from the public gallery. rimrose Hill With fine views over London, this charming district is a favourite for picnics, kite-flying and celebrityspotting: Jamie Oliver, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law and Ewan McGregor all have houses here.

mbrellas In the event that it rains, pick up a bespoke brolly at the splendidly eccentric emporium James Smith & Sons on New Oxford Street. See page 49.

Q

ueen, The Highly popular since her first appearance in public as Princess Lillibet, the Queen now reveals more of her private life to the public. One can visit HRH’s home, gardens and art collection at Buckingham Palace. See page 29.

andle River A Thames tributary, this south London river once supported many working mills on its banks – among them William Morris’s. Today, it’s a wildlife haven and green corridor, home to trout, minnows and mayflies.

Y

Z

oo A haunt of the young Charles Darwin, this venerable establishment in Regent’s Park remains a favourite. Bring walking shoes, as there are many species to meet. Feeding time is a special treat. See page 26.

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What’s On

e page Turn th t about u o d n fi to in the festivalsital cap

Use our events diary to help plan your trip to the capital. You can check the online Events Diary at visitlondon.com for further information and details of all Official Royal Ceremonies.

January

February

New Year’s Day Parade 1 Jan From Parliament Sq SW1 www.londonparade.co.uk

London Fashion Weekend 1 Feb Duke of York’s HQ SW3 www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

London Boat Show 5-14 Jan ExCeL London E16 www.londonboatshow.com London Art Fair 17-21 Jan Business Design Centre N1 www.londonartfair.co.uk Charles I Commemoration 28 Jan Banqueting House SW1 +44 (0)1430 430 695

St Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival 17 Mar Various venues in London www.londonstpatricksday.org.uk The Vitality Show 29 Mar - 1 Apr Olympia W14 www.thevitalityshow.co.uk Head of the River Race 31 Mar The Thames, Mortlake to Putney

April Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year Celebrations 28 Jan Soho W1 www.chinatownchinese.co.uk

Oxford & Cambridge University Boat Race 7 Apr River Thames, from Putney SW15 to Mortlake SW14 www.theboatrace.org

Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition 11 June - 19 Aug Royal Academy of Arts W1 www.royalacademy.org.uk Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships 25 June - 8 July All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club SW19 www.wimbledon.org

March Daily Mail Ideal Home Show 9 Mar - 2 Apr Earls Court SW5 www.idealhomeshow.co.uk

Trooping the Colour* Horse Guards Parade SW1 www.royal.gov.uk

St George’s Day

Flora London Marathon 22 Apr From Greenwich SE10 to The Mall SW1 www.london-marathon.co.uk St George’s Day Events 23 Apr Various venues in London

May Chelsea Flower Show 22-26 May Royal Hospital, Chelsea SW3 www.rhs.org.uk

June Royal Ascot* Ascot Racecourse SL5 www.royalascot.co.uk

November

Michelob ULTRA London Triathlon 4-5 Aug ExCel London E16 www.thelondontriathlon.com

Festival of Remembrance* Royal Albert Hall SW7

September

Remembrance Day* Service & Parade Cenotaph SW1

London Fashion Weekend* Duke of York’s HQ SW3 www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

Lord Mayor’s Show & Fireworks Display 11 Nov City of London, River Thames www.lordmayorsshow.org

July

October Black History Month Various venues in London www.black-history-month.co.uk

Hampton Ct Palace Flower Show 3-9 July Hampton Court Palace KT8 www.rhs.org.uk Tour de France Le Grand Départ 6-8 July Various venues in London www.tourdefrancelondon.com The Proms 13 July - 8 Sept Royal Albert Hall SW7 www.bbc.co.uk/proms

The London BBC Good Food Show Olympia, Earls Court SW5* www.londonbbcgoodfoodshow.com

Great River Race* River Thames, from Ham TW10 to Greenwich SE10 +44 (0)20 8398 9057 www.greatriverrace.co.uk

Buckingham Palace Summer Opening* July-Sept Buckingham Palace SW1 www.royal.gov.uk

Frieze Art Fair 11-14 Oct Regent’s Park NW1 www.friezeartfair.com London Bierfest* Old Billingsgate EC3 www.londonbierfest.com

December The BlackRock Masters Tennis 4-9 Dec Royal Albert Hall SW7 www.theblackrockmasters.com Christmas Tree Until first week Jan 2008 Trafalgar Sq WC2 New Year’s Eve 31 Dec Various venues in London

Turner Prize Exhibition* Tate Britain SW1 www.tate.org.uk Autumn Ideal Home Show 5-14 Oct Earls Court SW5 www.autumnidealhomeshow.co.uk

Taste of London* Regent’s Park NW1 www.tasteoflondon.co.uk

Trafalgar Day Parade 22 Oct Trafalgar Sq WC2 +44 (0)20 7928 8978 Trooping the Colour

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August

Christmas Tree, Trafalgar Square

PLEASE NOTE: Always check the date and venue with the organisers as these may change. *Where no date is marked please check visitlondon.com for details. visitlondon.com 19

Festivals London’s calendar is packed with events celebrating the city’s diversity © Tim Whitby

© Gideon Mendel

Hampton Court Palace Festival © James Brittain

© The Samuel Courtauld Trust

Notting Hill Carnival

Somerset House Gorgeous inside and out Art Architecture Food Fountains Overlooking the Thames, by Waterloo Bridge, Somerset House is home to the Courtauld Institute of Art, Gilbert Collection, and Hermitage Rooms. In summer, linger and relax in the refreshing fountains, riverside terrace, cafes, and bars, or enjoy concerts, cinema, and dance in the majestic courtyard and, in winter, be captivated by London s most beautiful ice rink. Open Daily Admission to Somerset House is free (Entry fees apply to galleries and events) www.somerset-house.org.uk 020 7845 4600 Strand London WC2 Temple, Charing Cross, Embankment, Covent Garden

June Set in the grounds of the ancient palace, this lavish open-air musical event attracts artists as diverse as Eric Clapton and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa. www. hamptoncourtfestival.com

City Of London Festival June - July Now in its 45th year, this celebration of classical music features performances in some of the City’s most ancient churches and halls, including St Paul’s Cathedral and the Lord Mayor’s Mansion House. www.colf.org

Gay Pride Day July Colourful, flamboyant, outrageous: the annual

Gay Pride parade winds noisily through central London in celebration of the gay community, peaking with a rally in Trafalgar Square. www.pridelondon.org

Rise: London United July London’s biggest annual free music festival has a strong anti-racist message, and attracts a line-up of bands and DJs. Venue tbc. www.risefestival.org

More Events

Brick Lane Festival Sept* Low-key fun in E1, with stalls, music and dance. Vaisakhi City Showcase April* Sept* Sikh harvest festival with Fashion and music festival processions and music across now in its fifth year. the capital. www.cityshowcase.co.uk Festival of Youth Arts London Design Festival May* Sept* Music, dance and drama in A host of free events Trafalgar Square kick off a celebrate international week of creative projects. design across the capital. www.festivalofyouth www.londondesign arts.co.uk festival.com Summer Festival Regent Street Festival May - Sept* Sept* The Royal Botanic Gardens Street entertainers and two in Kew play host to various stages replace the usual events through the summer. traffic for a day of musical www.rbgkew.org.uk and theatrical extravagance. Meltdown Shoreditch Carnival June* Sept* The Royal Festival Hall’s Sound systems, food and music festival features a new stalls are the order of the day guest curator each year. at this street party in E2. www.rfh.org.uk London Open House Greenwich & Docklands 15-16 Sept International Festival More than 600 buildings July* open their doors to the Exciting theatrical, musical public for one weekend. and outdoor events. www.londonopenhouse.org www.festival.org Diwali Festival London Mela Festival Oct* Aug* The annual Hindu festival Free South Asian festival of light is celebrated with in Gunnersbury Park W5, fireworks and displays in with food, music and more. Trafalgar Square. *DATES TO BE CONFIRMED

parade, while soaking up the sun and good vibes.

London BFI Film Festival

Oct - Nov Now in its 51st year, the Thames Festival annual film festival features 22 & 23 Sept 300 films from more than This free arts festival 60 countries, as well as features pyrotechnics, river lectures, talks and other events, street theatre and movie-related events. music. It climaxes with the www.lff.org.uk Night Carnival, complete with costumes and music. For further details go to www.londongov.uk/london www.thamesfestival.org and visitlondon.com www.nottinghillcarnival.org.uk

Notting Hill Carnival 25-27 Aug This street carnival with Caribbean roots has been celebrated since 1964. Today, some two million revellers take to the streets of west London to watch the vibrant costume

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Major Sights & Attractions

Get closer

Sightseeing

25

Houses & Palaces 29 Tours 30 Museums 32 Galleries 34

The Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace may be a must-see for first-time visitors, but don’t miss the lesser-known gems on the tourist trail

Gorilla Kingdom New at London Zoo From Easter 2007 For 10% off admission visit londonzoo.co.uk

The Zoological Society of London is the charity behind London Zoo and Whipsnade Wild Animal Park. Registered as a charity in England and Wales: no.208728

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CHANGE YOUR MIND – COME IN! Everyone is welcome

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Free exhibitions and galleries Events programme Café and restaurant Shop

96 Euston Road London NW1 T +44 (0)20 7412 7332 King’s Cross and Euston www.bl.uk/everyone

Major Sights Here are just a few of the attractions you shouldn’t leave off your itinerary Historic Landmarks The British Library Browse the world’s largest collection of books, maps and manuscripts. The library has over 150 million items and some of the rarest and most unique are on display. Euston Rd NW1 +44 (0)870 444 1500 www.bl.uk U King’s Cross

+44 (0)870 906 3773 www.parliament.uk U Westminster

Old Royal Naval College Set in landscaped gardens beside the Thames, this former place of learning for naval officers is now open to the public. Cutty Sark Gardens SE10 +44 (0)20 8269 4747 www.greenwich foundation.org.uk DLR Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich

St Paul’s Cathedral After extensive restoration, Sir Christopher Wren’s distinctive landmark is once again open to the public. Guided tours of the Cathedral and Crypt are available. St Paul’s Churchyard EC4 +44 (0)20 7236 4128 www.stpauls.co.uk U St Paul’s

Royal Observatory Discover more than two million objects relating to navigation, astronomy and measuring time – Greenwich Mean Time was based on measurements made here. Park Row SE10 +44 (0)20 8312 6565 www.rog.nmm.ac.uk DLR Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich

The Golden Hinde Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

Central Hall Westminster Take a guided tour around this historic Methodist church and conference centre – built in 1912 to mark the centenary of John Wesley’s death. The hall also houses an excellent fine-art gallery. Storey’s Gate SW1 +44 (0)20 7222 8010 www.c-h-w.com U St James’s Park

An accurate reconstruction of Sir Francis Drake’s Tudor galleon, the Golden Hinde combines authentic sights, smells and sounds to transport you to a bygone age of seafaring. Pickford Wharf, Clink St SE1 www.goldenhinde.co.uk U London Bridge

Somerset House This historic building houses three galleries and a riverside café, while the courtyard at the front has fountains in summer and an ice rink in winter. Strand WC2 +44 (0)20 7845 4600 www.somerset-house. org.uk U Charing Cross

HMS Belfast

Explore nine decks of living history aboard a ship that played such an integral role in the D-Day landings during WWII. Houses of Parliament Morgan’s Lane, Enjoy a tour round the Tooley St SE1 historic building where Tony +44 (0)20 7940 6300 Blair and politicians debate http://hmsbelfast.iwm.org.uk U London Bridge the issues of the day. SW1

Wellington Arch This often-photographed landmark was originally commissioned by George IV as an outer entrance to Buckingham Palace. Hyde Park W1 +44 (0)20 7930 2726 www.english-heritage. org.uk U Hyde Park

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey Built across the 13th to 16th centuries, the abbey is where Kings and Queens are crowned. Many are also buried here as are Dickens, Chaucer and other writers in Poets’ Corner. Dean’s Yard SW1 +44 (0)20 7222 5152 www.westminsterabbey.org U Westminster

Westminster Cathedral Steeped in history, this ornate building is a haven of architectural beauty. Francis St SW1 +44 (0)20 7798 9055 www.westminster cathedral.org.uk U Victoria Click on.com don visitlon re great for mo don Lon ons! attracti

visitlondon.com 25

Attractions Amora The Academy of Sex and Relationships offers a fascinating insight into these universal themes. London Trocadero Coventry St W1 +44 (0)20 7734 2529 www.amoralondon.com U Piccadilly Circus

British Airways London Eye This 135m-high observation wheel affords views over the whole of London. Celebrate that special occasion with a ‘Champagne Capsule’. South Bank SE1 +44 (0)870 990 8883 www.londoneye.com U Waterloo/Westminster

Fuller’s Griffin Brewery Discover the beer-making secrets of this historic brewery, then sample a pint or two for yourself!

Trinity Buoy Wharf

Chiswick Lane South W4 +44 (0)20 8996 2000 www.fullers.co.uk U Turnham Green

London Aquarium Walk among everything from starfish to sharks, stingrays to crabs, at this spectacular, £25-million underwater world. South Bank SE1 +44 (0)20 7967 8000 www.londonaquarium.co.uk U Waterloo

London Dungeon With attractions such as The Great Plague, The Ripper and The Torture Chamber, you’re guaranteed a spine-chilling time! Beware, as some of the exhibits have a habit of coming back to life… Tooley St SE1 +44 (0)20 7403 7221 www.thedungeons.com U London Bridge

London Zoo

London Zoo Get closer to animals and wildlife at London Zoo. Gorilla Kingdom opens Easter 2007, along with ‘Into Africa’ where you’ll find giraffes, zebras and many more exotic animals. Outer Circle, Regent’s Park NW1 +44 (0)20 7722 3333 www.zsl.org/london-zoo U Camden Town

Madame Tussauds Cuddle Brad Pitt or touch Kylie Minogue’s bottom at the world’s most famous waxworks collection. Marylebone Rd NW1 +44 (0)870 999 0046 www.madame-tussauds.co.uk U Baker Street

Tower Bridge Exhibition

Royal London Legend has it that if the ravens leave the Tower of London, the British monarchy will fall. Initially a potent symbol of Norman power following the conquest in 1066, today, it’s home to the Crown Jewels. Buckingham Palace is where the Queen and Prince Philip live while in the capital. From July to

Vinopolis A grape lover’s paradise, Vinopolis gives you the opportunity to explore (and taste!) different wine regions. Bank End SE1 +44 (0)870 241 4040 www.vinopolis.co.uk U London Bridge

Further Afield Leeds Castle Kent’s elegant castle not only offers an evocative tour of its rooms, but the chance to enjoy the extensive grounds. Maidstone, Kent ME17 +44 (0)1622 765400 www.leeds-castle.com Q Maidstone

Windsor Castle

Although this magnificent castle has existed for more than 900 years, it is still a working royal residence today. Windsor, Berkshire SL4 +44 (0)20 7766 7304 Tower of London This 900-year-old building www.royal.gov.uk has been the scene of many Q Windsor a bloody royal intrigue. Tower of London E1 +44 (0)870 756 6060 www.hrp.org.uk U Tower Hill Windsor Castle

© Justin Sutcliffe 2005

Tower of London

September, the palace’s lavish State Rooms are open to the public. Prince Charles and his sons are based at Clarence House, also open during the summer. In front of Buckingham Palace are the Queen Victoria Memorial and the Mall. From Hampton Court Palace, home to Henry VIII, to Westminster, scene of every coronation since 1066, and not forgetting historic Greenwich, there is plenty of Royal London to see and enjoy.

Enjoy amazing views of the Thames and learn about the iconic bridge’s history. Tower Bridge SE1 +44 (0)20 7403 3761 www.towerbridge.org.uk U Tower Hill

As well as being a venue for films, art exhibitions and dance performances, this is also a venue for educational workshops. Orchard Place E14 +44 (0)20 7515 7153 www.trinitybuoyarts.com DLR East India

Houses & Palaces Enjoy a glimpse inside some of the capital’s more stately residences

DISCOVER A PALACE WITHIN A CASTLE

Apsley House

Carlyle’s House

Also known as ‘Number One, London’, this was the home of the first Duke of Wellington. Today, it houses his art collection. Piccadilly W1 +44 (0)20 7499 5676 www.english-heritage. org.uk U Hyde Park Corner

The writer Thomas Carlyle entertained the ‘in crowd’ of the Victorian era here. Cheyne Row SW3 +44 (0)20 7352 7087 www.nationaltrust.org.uk U Sloane Square

Baden-Powell House Explore the history of Baden-Powell’s Scout and Guide movements. Queen’s Gate SW7 +44 (0)20 7584 7031 www.rbkc.gov.uk U Gloucester Road

The Banqueting House Built to house James I, this was also the scene of Charles I’s execution. Whitehall SW1 +44 (0)870 751 5178 www.hrp.org.uk U Charing Cross

A THOUSAND YEARS OF ROYAL HISTORY

WINDSOR CASTLE OFFICIAL RESIDENCE OF HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN Open daily, except during royal visits +44 (0)20 7766 7304 www.royalcollection.org.uk

Buckingham Palace The Royal residence in London since 1837. The State Rooms and gardens are open in the summer. The Mall SW1 +44 (0)20 7766 7301 www.royal.gov.uk U Green Park/Victoria

Ham St, Ham TW10 +44 (0)20 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/places/hamhouse Q Kingston/Richmond

Jewel Tower One of only two surviving buildings of the original Palace of Westminster. Abingdon St SW1P +44 (0)20 7222 2219 www.english-heritage. org.uk U Westminster

Kensington Palace

The former home of the late Diana, Princess of Wales. Kensington Gardens W8 +44 (0)870 751 5170 Chiswick House A fine 18th-century building www.hrp.org.uk U High St Kensington within glorious grounds. Burlington Lane W4 +44 (0)20 8995 0508 Marble Hill House Q Turnham Green A lovely Palladian villa set in 66 acres of parkland. Fenton House Richmond Rd TW1 This 17th-century house +44 (0)20 8892 5115 has elegant exhibits and www.english-heritage. wonderful gardens. org.uk U Richmond Windmill Hill NW3 +44 (0)20 7435 3471 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Osterley Park House U Hampstead This neoclassical house is situated in farmland to the Hampton Court west of London. Palace Isleworth, Middlesex TW7 One of the most beautiful +44 (0)20 8232 5050 of the Royal Palaces. www.osterleypark.org.uk U Osterley Famous for its maze, as well as its Tudor history. East Molesey, Surrey KT8 The Queen’s House +44 (0)870 751 5175 Designed for the wife of www.hrp.org.uk James I, this now houses Q Hampton Court a fine-art collection. Romney Rd SE10 +44 (0)20 8312 6565 Ham House www.nmm.ac.uk A Tudor house with a history steeped in the Civil DLR Cutty Sark for War – and lots of fine art. Maritime Greenwich

Ranger’s House An 18th-century Greenwich landmark. Chesterfield Walk SE1 +44 (0)20 8853 0035 www.english-heritage. org.uk U Greenwich

Red House Commissioned by William Morris and central to the Arts and Crafts Movement. Red House Lane, Bexleyheath, Kent DA6 +44 (0)1494 559799 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Q Bexleyheath

Kensington Palace

The Royal Mews Houses the stables for Buckingham Palace. Buckingham Palace Rd SW1 +44 (0)20 7766 7302 www.royal.gov.uk U St James’s Park

Sutton House A great example of Tudor architecture. Homerton High Street E9 +44 (0)20 8986 2264 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Q Hackney Central

Syon House Elegant state rooms and gardens set in a beautiful park by the Thames. Brentford, Middlesex TW8 +44 (0)20 8560 0881 www.syonpark.co.uk Q Brentford visitlondon.com 29

Tours

Good Company

Get the most out of your London visit with the help of a guide

Private sightseeing tours by car with a guide. Linguists available. +44 (0)20 7267 5340

All London Tours

The London Bicycle Tour Company

This US-based website offers a wide variety of themed tours around London. www.alllondontours.com

A Nous Deux Londres! Both pre-booked and turn up and go guided tours are offered in French. +44 (0)20 8876 0429 www.anousdeuxlondres. co.uk

Astral Travels Take a small group tour by minibus, including a Sinister Murder Tour and a Pub Tour. +44 (0)870 225 5303 www.astraltravels.co.uk

BBC Television Centre Tours Explore the famous White City studios and visit BBC News on a tour lasting up to two hours. Pre-booking is essential. +44 (0)870 603 0304 www.bbc.co.uk/tours

The Big Bus Company Hop-on, hop-off tours of the capital with commentary, available in eight languages. +44 (0)20 7233 9533 www.bigbustours.com

BlueBrolly London Audio Walks Download a range of London tours onto your MP3 or iPod, then walk around at a time that’s convenient for you, and at your own pace. www.bluebrolly.com

British Tours Comprehensive tours of the major London attractions, as well as lesser-known gems. +44 (0)20 7734 8734 www.britishtours.com

Golden Tours Popular tours include Madame Tussauds and the London Dungeon. +44 (0)20 7233 7030 www.londongrayline.com

Blue Plaques

Offers three-hour guided bike tours – cycles can be hired. +44 (0)20 7928 6838 www.londonbicycle.com

London TLC Tours combine culture, sightseeing and English language tuition. + 44 (0)7944 561 477 www.london-tlc.com

London Tours Visit the city by boat, bus or on foot. Tours are available in many languages and include a Jack the Ripper pub tour in the evening. +44 (0)20 7233 3569 www.londontourguides. com

out To find ore m t u o b a to tours go London ndon.com lo it is v

Magnus Nielsen Tours An independent ‘Blue Badge’ guide and a born and bred Londoner who is proud to show visitors around the city. +44 (020) 7625 9632

Tate Britain Tate’s Collection of British art from 1500 to the present day, seen in the BP British Art Displays.

The Original London Sightseeing Tour

Supported by BP

Runs regular tours and you can hop on and hop off at over 90 stops en route. +44 (0)20 8877 2120 www.theoriginaltour.com

Admission free Pimlico/Vauxhall

The Original London Walks

Millbank

Tate Modern

Tours include a Beatles walk and a Sherlock Holmes walk. +44 (0)20 7624 3978 www.walks.com

The leading gallery of international modern and contemporary art, showcasing the UBS Openings: Tate Modern Collection displays.

Luxury Vacations UK 21st Century Travel Offers a variety of tours: one visits locations from the Harry Potter films. +44(0)20 8669 3666 www.luxuryvacations uk.com

and humble dwellings, these plaques all have one thing in common: they celebrate great figures of the past While you’re exploring the who once lived or worked capital by foot, be sure to keep at that address, giving their a look out for blue plaques profession and the year/s they – a familiar and much-loved stayed there. From artists feature of London streets. and authors to politicians Found on both grand houses and scientists, there are 30 visitlondon.com

A trip to London isn’t complete without a visit to Tate Britain and Tate Modern. See outstanding art, spectacular buildings and amazing exhibitions – all in the heart of London.

Offers full-day, half-day and evening tours. +44 (0)870 225 6263 www.bestvaluetours.co.uk

Opening up art Tate Modern Collection with UBS

See page 39 for details of river tours

Admission free Southwark/Blackfriars

now more than 800 plaques commemorating the capital’s more renowned residents – such as Agatha Christie and Mahatma Gandhi, to name but two. As well as being fun to spot, they provide a fascinating picture of the city’s history. For specific locations, go to www.blueplaque.com.

Bankside

To find out more, visit www.tate.org.uk and sign up for free monthly email bulletins or call 020 7887 8888 Photo © Matt Stuart

Whatever your interests, there’ll be a place that has it covered Bank of England Museum Telling the story of England’s central bank since its beginnings in 1694, this museum includes coins, Roman gold and paintings. Threadneedle St EC2 +44 (0)20 7601 5545 www.bankofengland.co.uk U Bank

Britain’s campaign against Hitler’s Nazis. King Charles St SW1 +44 (0)20 7930 6961 http://cwr.iwm.org.uk U Westminster

Design Museum Housed in a former banana warehouse, this museum celebrates industrial design, graphics, multimedia, fashion and architectural design. Shad Thames SE1 +44 (0)870 833 9955 www.designmuseum.org U London Bridge

British Museum

The Fan Museum

The British Museum

Some 3,500 fans from the 11th century to the present day are featured here. There is also an orangery and tranquil garden. Crooms Hill SE10 +44 (0)20 8305 1441 www.fan-museum.org DLR Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich

Artefacts from prehistoric times through the ages are on display, alongside special exhibitions. A spectacular glass roof designed by Sir Norman Foster was unveiled in 2000 and the reading room has been carefully restored to its former glory. Great Russell St WC1 +44 (0)20 7323 8299 www.thebritish museum.ac.uk U Tottenham Ct Road

Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum Visit the underground rooms in which Winston Churchill organised 32 visitlondon.com

The Foundling Museum Exhibits tell the story of the Foundling Hospital, London’s first home for abandoned children. Brunswick Square WC1 +44 (0)20 7841 3600 www.foundlingmuseum. org.uk U Russell Square

Museum of London

Changing fashions in English domestic interiors from the 17th century onwards are the focus of this museum. Kingsland Rd E2 +44 (0)20 7739 9893 www.geffrye-museum. org.uk U Old Street

Tells the story of this vibrant city from its earliest beginnings. Exhibits include artefacts from Roman Londinium. London Wall EC2 +44 (0)870 444 3851 www.museumoflondon. org.uk U Barbican

Guards Museum Uniforms, weapons, medals, pictures and other memorabilia tell the story of the Foot Guards in both war and peacetime. Wellington Barracks, Birdcage Walk SW1 +44 (0)20 7414 3428 www.armymuseums. org.uk U St James’s Park

Handel House Museum Situated in the former home of composer George Frederick Handel, where he wrote some of his finest works, including Messiah. Brook St W1 +44 (0)20 7495 1685 www.handelhouse.org U Bond Street

Imperial War Museum Discover the history of conflict involving Britain from WW1 to the present day. (Its partner museum in Cambridgeshire, the Imperial War Museum Duxford, has more aircraft and vehicles.) Lambeth Rd SE1 +44 (0)20 7416 5320 www.iwm.org.uk U Lambeth North

Geffrye Museum

The Jewish Museum Permanent and temporary collections across two sites explore Jewish history, culture and religion, both in Britain and beyond. Exhibits include fine art, books and furniture. www.jewishmuseum. org.uk Albert Street NW1 +44 (0)20 7284 1997 U Camden Town East End Rd N3 +44 (0)20 8349 1143 U Finchley Central

National Army Museum Exhibits at this museum chart the history of the British army from the time of the Redcoats in 1415 to the present day. Royal Hospital Rd SW3 +44 (0)20 7730 0717 www.national-armymuseum.ac.uk U Sloane Square

London’s Transport Museum Marvel at a vast collection of vehicles, uniforms, signs, posters and photographs from a bygone age. The museum is closed until summer 2007 for refurbishment. Wellington St WC2 +44 (0)20 7379 6344 www.ltmuseum.co.uk U Covent Garden Science Museum

Natural History Museum You could spend all day at this vast museum and still not see everything. Cower at the feet of a lifesized T-Rex replica, experience an ‘earthquake’ and discover nature at work in the Wildlife Garden. The marvellous Victorian architecture alone will leave you in awe. Cromwell Rd SW7 +44 (0)20 7942 5000 www.nhm.ac.uk U South Kensington

A fascinating exploration into centuries of British sea travel, by way of exhibits and works of art. Park Row SE10 +44 (0)20 8312 6565 www.nmm.ac.uk DLR Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich

Exhibition Rd SW7 +44 (0)870 870 4868 www.sciencemuseum. org.uk U South Kensington

Sir John Soane’s Museum Former house of a renowned architect, the museum is packed full of sculpture and art. Lincoln’s Inn Fields WC2 +44 (0)20 7405 2107 www.soane.org U Holborn

Theatre Museum

National Maritime Museum

National Maritime Museum

© Victoria and Albert Museum

Museums

Geffrye Museum

Royal Air Force Museum Both young adventurers and air historians will love looking around more than 100 aircraft from around the world. The museum also includes uniforms, fine art and photography. Grahame Park Way NW9 +44 (0)20 8205 2266 www.rafmuseum.org.uk U Colindale

Science Museum There’s plenty for both kids and adults to get their hands on here – 300,000 objects cover science, technology and medicine. There’s also an IMAX 3D cinema, showing a changing programme of educational films.

The history of theatre in London’s West End comes to life, with exhibitions and activities for children and adults. Russell St WC2 +44 (0)20 7943 4700 www.theatremuseum. org.uk U Covent Garden

2 Willow Road Once the home of celebrated Modernist architect Erno Goldfinger, the house retains its original furnishings, including fine art. Willow Road NW3 +44 (0)20 7435 6166 www.nationaltrust.org.uk U Hampstead

V&A Museum of Childhood Naturally for a museum that’s dedicated to the history of play and childhood, there’s plenty of activities here to keep kids entertained. Cambridge Heath Rd E2 +44 (0)20 8983 5200 www.vam.ac.uk U Bethnal Green

V&A South Kensington Celebrating art and design, with everything from sculpture to ceramics, textiles to furniture. Cromwell Rd SW7 +44 (0)20 7942 2000 www.vam.ac.uk U South Kensington

V&A South Kensington

Winston Churchill’s Britain at War Relive the experiences of British people during WWII at this fascinating exhibit. Tooley St SE1 +44 (0)20 7403 3171 www.britainatwar.co.uk U London Bridge

The London Pass The London Pass is a visitor card that will save you money. From just £12 a day, you get free entry to over 50 top London attractions. You also get a free informative guide book and can jump to the front of queues. Go to www.londonpass.com or

visitlondon.com to find out more and buy the pass.

visitlondon.com 33

London Glassblowing Workshop

Galleries

Enjoy a free glassblowing demonstration and pick up some bargain gifts. The Leather Market, Weston St SE1 +44 (0)20 7403 2800 U London Bridge

From Old Masters to multimedia installations, London has it all Bayswater Road Artists Every Sunday, over 250 artists and craftsmen display and sell their original works along the railings of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Bayswater Rd W2 www.bayswater-roadartists.com U Lancaster Gate

Ben Uri Gallery, The London Jewish Museum of Art Historical and contemporary artworks by British, European and Israeli Jews. Boundary Rd NW8 +44 (0)20 7604 3991 www.benuri.org.uk U St John’s Wood

important collection. Furniture and ceramics are also represented. Somerset House, Strand WC2 +44 (0)20 7848 2526 www.courtauld.ac.uk U Charing Cross

Dali Universe More than 500 of surrealist genius Salvador Dali’s works are on display at this labyrinth of eccentricity. County Hall SE1 +44 (0)870 744 7485 www.countyhall gallery.com U Waterloo

Courtauld Institute of Art Gallery Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Cezanne and Turner are among the masters on display at this

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Did you know? There are 17 national museums and galleries in London that have free entrance, including the British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern and the V&A.

London’s galleries host a wide range of exhibitions with approximately 49 exhibitions open to the public every day!

34 visitlondon.com

Royal Academy The National Gallery of Arts Houses a collection of European paintings from 1250 to 1900, including Van Gogh’s Sunflowers. Trafalgar Square WC2 +44 (0)20 7747 2885 www.nationalgallery.org.uk U Charing Cross

The Hayward Gallery

Dulwich Picture Gallery

Guildhall Art Gallery

Charming art gallery situated in the leafy village of Dulwich. Gallery Road SE21 +44 (0)20 8693 5254

Changing exhibitions of art and photography – from Victorian to modern-day works. Guildhall Yard EC2 +44 (0)20 7332 3700 www.guildhall-art-gallery. org.uk U Bank

www.dulwichpicturegallery. org.uk U West Dulwich

Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art Housed in a grade II-listed building, this is the only gallery in Britain that is dedicated to the work of modern Italian artists. Canonbury Square N1 +44 (0)20 7704 9522 www.estorickcollection.com U Highbury & Islington

Gilbert Collection The late Sir Arthur Gilbert’s collection includes Italian mosaics, gold boxes and plenty of his beloved silver. Somerset House, Strand WC2 +44 (0)20 7420 9400 www.gilbert-collection. org.uk U Charing Cross

National Portrait Gallery Politicians, monarchs and TV celebrities are among those who are spotlighted in this collection of paintings, photography and illustrations. St Martin’s Place WC2 +44 (0)20 7306 0055 www.npg.org.uk U Leicester Square

Hayward Gallery With a focus on 20thcentury art, the Hayward features everything from sculpture to photography. South Bank Centre, Belvedere Rd SE1 +44 (0)20 7921 0813 www.hayward.org.uk U Waterloo

An outstanding permanent collection shares space with temporary exhibitions. Burlington House, Piccadilly W1 +44 (0)20 7300 8000 www.royalacademy.org.uk U Piccadilly Circus

Part of Buckingham

Advertising mastermind Charles Saatchi’s new gallery space is due to open in 2007. Duke of York’s HQ Building SW3 +44 (0)20 7823 2363 www.saatchigallery.com U Sloane Square

the nearby lake, the

The Hermitage Rooms An introduction to, and featuring exhibits from, the world-famous Hermitage Museum of St Petersburg in Russia. Somerset House, Strand WC2 +44 (0)20 7845 4600 www.hermitagerooms.com U Charing Cross

“The DNA of this city is constantly evolving so the adventurous will never be bored” Jason, music consultant, Australia

The Saatchi Gallery

Serpentine Gallery The Queen’s Gallery Taking its name from

Serpentine exhibits contemporary art in a 1930s tea pavilion. Kensington Gardens W2 www.serpentinegallery.org U Queensway

Tate Britain British art from 1500 onwards is displayed at this Thameside gallery, along with regular major visiting exhibitions. Millbank SW1 +44 (0)20 7887 8888 www.tate.org.uk U Pimlico/Vauxhall

Wallace Collection A collection of 18thcentury French painting, furniture and porcelain. Hertford House, Manchester Sq W1 + 44 (0)20 7563 9500 www.wallacecollection.org U Bond Street

Whitechapel Exhibitions, films and talks feature at this modern gallery. Whitechapel High St E1 +44 (0)20 7522 7888 www.whitechapel.org U Aldgate East

Tate Modern

Richard Haughton

Tate Britain also offers half-price entry to paid-for exhibitions during its evening sessions on the first Friday of every month.

Palace, this gallery offers the chance to see a selection of items from the Royal Collection. Buckingham Palace Rd SW1 +44 (0)20 7766 7301 www.royal.gov.uk U Victoria

A Bar at the Folies-Bergère, Édouard Manet, Courtauld Institute of Art Gallery

This iconic building on the South Bank is the home of modern and contemporary art in London. Bankside SE1 +44 (0)20 7887 8000 www.tate.org.uk U London Bridge

White Cube Jay Jopling’s trendy gallery showcases imaginative talent by British artists. Hoxton Sq N1 +44 (0)20 7749 7450 www.whitecube.com U Old Street visitlondon.com 35

The River 38

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GET CLOSER TO

WIMBLEDON Celebrate Wimbledon at the new world-class Museum.

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With its unique access to the legendary players the Museum provides a closer view of tennis than ever before through its artefacts, inter-actives and films, its amazing 200° Cinema taking a 3-D look at the Science of Tennis, and its award-winning behindthe-scenes tour. www.wimbledon.org/museum

Outdoors

Cruises Parks Sport Tours

39 40 42 43

From river cruises and expansive parks, to world-class spectator sports and boating on the Serpentine, there are enough al fresco activities to keep any visitor satisfied

The Museum Building The All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club Church Road, Wimbledon London, SW19 5AE Open Daily 10.30am until 5.00pm Nearest Underground: Southfields Telephone: 020 8946 6131

Wimbledon direct to your cameraphone. Visit www.upcomm.net on your phone for a free download.

MAKE A DAY OF IT!

Experience the Lord’s Tour Open All Year* Tours at noon & 2pm

A scrum machine to test your strength, special exhibitions,an audio-visual theatre to watch timeless rugby moments and everything you could ever want to know about world rugby – find all this and more at the Museum of Rugby. You also get a behind the scenes look at the home of England Rugby with our stadium tours. Museum of Rugby & Stadium Tours Tue-Sat 10am-5pm Sun 11am-5pm For further information or to book, visit rfu.com/microsites/museum or call 0870 405 2001

• LONG ROOM • THE ASHES • NATWEST MEDIA CENTRE • MOUND STAND • LORD’S SHOP

• MUSEUM • REAL TENNIS COURT • DRESSING ROOMS • INDOOR SCHOOL • LORD’S TAVERN

Adults £10.00, Senior and Students £7.00, Children £6.00, Family £27.00. Group rates available.

*except major match days and preparation days. Call for full details and bookings.

Hyde Park

020 7616 8595/6 www.lords.org

visitlondon.com 37

Setting Sail

The River

From idyllic cruises to high-speed voyages, London’s got it covered

Colourful history, fascinating wildlife and some of the finest watering holes in the capital vie for your attention along the Thames, London’s main artery Richmond Upon Thames to Putney From Richmond, with its waterfront bars, cobbled streets lined with chic boutiques, vast deer park and Royal history (Henry VIII and Elizabeth I both stayed at Richmond Palace), the river runs east to Kew, where attractions include the Royal Botanic Gardens

The South Bank

Oxo Tower

Stretching east from Westminster Bridge, the South Bank is home to many of London’s most celebrated attractions. The only problem is knowing where to start! If culture’s your thing, head for the Dali Universe and County Hall Gallery, the Royal Festival Hall, Richmond the Hayward Gallery and Kew Palace. It then and the National Film continues past Barnes, Theatre. Kids will love home of the London the London Aquarium Wetland Centre, to and the British Airways Putney. Visit in April and London Eye, which offers you might catch the start incredible views over the of the annual Oxford/ capital’s rooftops – as Cambridge University does the swish eighthBoat Race. floor restaurant at the

Regent’s Canal

Oxo Tower. Or you could just sit in the sunshine and cheer on the throng of street entertainers that line the promenade. As the sun goes down, admire the fabulous views east and west from Waterloo Bridge.

Bankside Built six years ago from the derelict remains of a power station, Tate Modern has emerged as an iconic centre for the arts in Britain. Besides its collection – art from 1900 onwards – its walls contain highly rated cafés and restaurants with spectacular views of the Thames and St

HMS Belfast

Bateaux London/ Catamaran Cruisers Enjoy London’s best sights aboard a restaurant boat. +44 (0)20 7925 2215 www.catamarancruisers. co.uk TheSouth Southbank The Tower Bridge Bank

Paul’s Cathedral. By the Tate, you can view the Millennium Bridge, the first footbridge to be built across the river in over a century. Nearby is the Golden Hinde, a replica of Sir Francis Drake’s 16th-century galleon, and HMS Belfast, a World War II battleship and naval museum. Further along is Shakespeare’s Globe, an accurate reconstruction of the Elizabethan theatre where the playwright worked, and a venue for open-air performances during the summer. Winelovers will want to visit Vinopolis, a museum celebrating wine, and, further along, Hay’s Galleria, a collection of shops, bars and restaurants.

Tower Bridge to Greenwich

Lazy days

There’s no better way to relieve the stresses of everyday life than by enjoying an idyllic cruise on a canalboat through the capital’s network of waterways. Such trips offer access to wonderful

London’s canals are a hidden delight often overlooked by visitors and locals alike…

The Tower of London, a commanding flint and stone castle, has been a feature on the riverscape of London for 900 years.

Greenwich

Today, its Yeoman warders also act as tour guides. Next to the castle is St Katharine Docks, thriving with yachts, bars and restaurants. Cross Tower Bridge for City Hall and Butler’s Wharf, a redevelopment of waterside warehouses that includes popular

restaurants such as Sir Terence Conran’s Le Pont de la Tour. After lunch, continue the Conran theme with a visit to his Design Museum. Then catch a boat to Greenwich for the Victorian covered market, National Maritime Museum, Royal Naval College, Cutty Sark – the last of the tea clippers – Greenwich Park and many excellent bars, restaurants and riverside pubs. loads There’s e river! th n o o d to out To find to more gon.com do visitlon

scenery and a whole world of wildlife that you would otherwise be unable to see. Several companies run boats along the Regent’s Canal, from Little Venice, with its quaint riverside cafés and pubs, to Camden Town,

British Waterways London For news and information. +44 (0)20 7985 7200 www.britishwaterways. co.uk/london

London RIB Voyages High-speed voyages up the Thames, complete with expert guides. +44 (0)20 7928 2350 www.londonribvoyages.com London River Services Information on boat services and charters. +44 (0)20 7941 2400 www.tfl.gov.uk/river

City Cruises Offers dinner-dance and lunch voyages. +44 (0)20 7740 0400 www.citycruises.com

London Waterbus Company Operates along Regent’s Canal, linking Little Venice, London Zoo and Camden. +44 (0)20 7482 2660 www.londonwaterbus.com

Crown River Cruises Take the Circular Cruise, or charter a boat. +44 (0)20 7936 2033 www.crownriver.com

Silver Fleet – Woods River Cruises Bespoke boat parties. +44 (0)20 7481 2711 www.silverfleet.co.uk

Dixie Queen (Thames Luxury Charters) Upmarket cruises between Putney and Thames Barrier. +44 (0)20 8780 1562 www.thamesluxury charters.co.uk

Thames Clippers – The Riverline Offering commuter services and popular tourist routes. +44 (0)870 781 5049 www.thamesclippers.com

London Ducktours Boasts amphibious vehicles that travel on roads and river. +44 (0)20 7928 3132 www.londonducktours.co.uk

with its bustling markets – and many stop off at London Zoo. There are also historic canals around King’s Cross and in the East End. For further details, visit www.british waterwayslondon.co.uk

Topsail Events & Charters Spectacular Thames cruises on beautifully restored historic ships. +44 (0)20 7022 2201 www.topsailevents.co.uk

If you want to find out more about the history of London’s canals, head to: London Canal Museum 12-13 New Wharf Rd N1 +44 (0)20 7713 0836 www.canalmuseum.org.uk U King’s Cross St Pancras visitlondon.com 39

Parks

London Wetland Centre

Get away from it all with a visit to one of the capital’s green oases Battersea Park

Hampstead Heath

Just over the river from Chelsea, this park boasts tennis courts, a bowling green, a lake thriving with all manner of wildlife and the Pump House Gallery. Little ones will love the adventure playground and zoo. www.batterseapark.org Q Battersea Park

Just four miles from the centre of London, Hampstead Heath is a sprawling 800-acre green space boasting ancient woodland, 25 ponds and eight children’s play areas, in addition to English Heritage’s Kenwood House. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk U Hampstead

Chelsea Physic Garden Founded in 1673, this is one of Europe’s oldest botanic gardens. Highlights include England’s oldest rock garden and the largest fruit-bearing olive tree in Britain. www.chelseaphysic garden.co.uk U Sloane Square

Best for...

Serpentine Lake, Hyde Park

Holland Park For the quintessential English experience, you need look no further than the al fresco opera season that takes place under canopy cover in Holland Park. The season runs for nine weeks from early June to August. First-timers mingle with music buffs for a picnic followed by a classic opera. As darkness falls, the park’s peacocks provide an atmospheric background chorus. www.operahollandpark. com U Holland Park

This World Heritage Site is a must for garden lovers, boasting more plant and flower species than any other garden in the world. www.rbgkew.org.uk U Kew Gardens

Tibetan Peace Garden

Holland Park One of London’s bestkept parks. Features include rose gardens, an ecology centre, a wide variety of sports pitches, children’s play areas – including an under-eights section – and a dog run. www.rbkc.gov.uk/ parksandgardens U Holland Park

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

London Wetland Centre

Morden Hall Park A former deer park, this picturesque place is peppered with pretty 18th-century buildings and waterways. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ places/mordenhallpark

The perfect spot for a bit of quiet contemplation – especially given its poignant setting, so near to the magnificent Imperial War Museum. St George’s Rd SE1 U Elephant & Castle

Marble Hill

U Morden

Painshill Park

Holland Park

History, art and landscape come together at this spacious park in Surrey, promising a great day out for all the family. www.painshill.co.uk Q from Waterloo to Cobham/Weybridge

Summer Concerts

Primrose Hill Once part of a great chase that was appropriated by

Kenwood House When the sun shines, around 10,000 people take to the great outdoors for a picnic and performance on Saturday nights from June to the end of August. As the perfect finale to the evening, most concerts end with a stunning

© IMG www.picnicconcerts.com 2006

Views Richmond Park Wildlife London Wetland Centre Flower Displays Kew Gardens Boating Hyde Park Kids Regent’s Park

As well as attracting 180 wild bird species every year, this man-made wetland park is home to eight types of bat, seven types of reptiles/ amphibians, and over half the UK’s dragonfly and damselfly species. www.wwt.org.uk/visit/ wetlandcentre U Hammersmith, then take the special 283 Duck Bus

fireworks display over the lake. Concerts may be cancelled due to bad weather. www.picnicconcerts.com U East Finchley/ Golders Green

Henry VIII, this muchloved green space offers one of the loftiest vantage points over the city. www.primrosehill.com U Camden Town

The magnificent riverside villa in leafy Twickenham provides a suitably atmospheric backdrop for a series of popular music concerts. Make sure you arrive early to enjoy a stroll through the beautiful gardens. www.picnicconcerts.com U Richmond

Richmond Park

Royal Parks The city’s nine Royal Parks encompass 5,000 acres of carefully conserved historic parkland Brompton Cemetery

Greenwich Park Kensington Spot fallow and red Gardens

The only Crown Cemetery in London, Brompton is also one of the finest in the country. It’s a haven for wildlife. U Fulham Broadway

deer, and enjoy fabulous views of the River Thames and St Paul’s Cathedral, at the oldest enclosed Royal park in London. It’s also home to the National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory. DLR Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich

Bushy Park The second largest of the Royal Parks, Bushy is situated north of Hampton Court, so you can visit both in a day. Q Teddington

Formal avenues and ornamental flower beds create the perfect setting for Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial and Serpentine Gallery. U Lancaster Gate

St James’s Park

Regent’s Park Designed in 1811 by celebrated architect John Nash, Regent’s Park is the largest outdoor sports area in London. Other features include an open-air theatre, a vast rose garden, playgrounds and London Zoo. U Camden Town

Surrounded by three Richmond Park Royal palaces, and Hyde Park featuring a lake that Once a Royal hunting Visitors flock to this harbours ducks, ground, this 2,000vast oasis in the heart geese and pelicans, St acre park offers the of London to row on James’s Park is a chance to walk the Serpentine lake, perfect picnic spot for among roaming deer, Green Park take a horse ride as well as an historians and The smallest of among the ancient uninterrupted view birdwatchers alike. London’s Royal Parks, trees, visit Kensington U St James’s Park of St Paul’s Cathedral, this former duelling Palace, listen to 12 miles away. U Richmond ground is a great tomorrow’s politicians place to sit and soak at Speakers Corner, up the sun. And if enjoy a spot of early you fancy treating morning tai chi or yourself, pop into the relax with a picnic. For further information on Ritz next door for tea. U Hyde Park all the Royal Parks go to U Green Park Corner/ Lancaster Gate www.royalparks.gov.uk

Kenwood House

40 visitlondon.com

visitlondon.com 41

Sport There’s no place like London for great sporting traditions… Athletics

Cricket

On your marks, get set, go! That’s a phrase you’ll be hearing a lot of in London in a few years, as the city is set to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012 (www.london2012. org). London has a strong athletics tradition – every April, its streets teem with runners taking part in the London Marathon, while runners and riders – and swimmers – pit their wits in the London Triathlon (see Get Active, right). And world-class meetings are regularly held at Crystal Palace Athletics Stadium (www.runtrackdir.com).

Lord’s (www.lords.org) is renowned as being the home of cricket. It’s no surprise, then, that thousands of visitors make the pilgrimage, either to watch an international test or one-day event, or to

The Hotel at Chelsea The Hotel at Chelsea complex may be home to one of the world’s best football clubs (Chelsea FC),

The Hotel at Chelsea

42 visitlondon.com

Lord’s

take a 90-minute tour of the venue and visit its artefact-rammed museum, which covers 400 years of cricketing history (see Tours, right).

but there’s so much more to it than that. Besides the 275-room hotel, there are five restaurants/bars, a state-of-the-art spa and the Chelsea Megastore – all open to non-residents. Stadium tours are also available (see right). What’s more, the complex is close to the trendy King’s Road. The Hotel at Chelsea Stamford Bridge SW6 +44 (0)20 7565 1400 www.thehotelatchelsea.com U Fulham Broadway

The Boat Race, Putney

London is also home to The Oval (www. surreycricket.com). It was here, at Surrey County Cricket Club’s ground, that an Andrew Flintoff-inspired England secured their famous Ashes victory over Australia in 2005.

Cycling Take care when crossing the road between 6-8 July, as, for the first time ever, the Tour de France (www.tourde francelondon.com) will begin in London with Le Grand Départ! The opening ceremony takes place in Trafalgar Square on Friday 6 July, followed by the time trials the following day. Then, on the Sunday, the cyclists will pedal to Kent for Stage One, which ends in Canterbury. For information on cycling in London, see page 90.

Football Right now, there’s no better place to sample English football at its best than in London. As well as being the home of the recently rebuilt Wembley Stadium (www.wembleystadium. com) – the venue for England’s home international fixtures – London also boasts some of the world’s most prominent clubs. These include current Premiership champions Chelsea (see box, left), who have been transformed by Russian owner Roman Abramovich’s fortune and now attract the world’s top players, Arsenal (www.arsenal. com), now running tours of their new Emirates Stadium (see Tours, right), and Mohamed Al Fayed’s Fulham (www.fulhamfc.com).

Horse Racing

Rugby

A day at the races is a great experience. Order some champagne and watch the jockeys in the parade ring, then grab your binoculars and watch the action unfurl. There are five major racecourses in the London area: Ascot (www.ascot.co.uk), Epsom Downs (www. epsomderby.co.uk) – home of the famous Derby – Kempton Park (www.kempton.co.uk), Royal Windsor (www.windsorracecourse.co.uk) and Sandown Park (www.sandown.co.uk)

As any Englishman will be only too proud to remind you, England are the current world champions. Whether or not they can retain their title in France in autumn 2007 remains to be seen, but you can catch all their warm-up games at Twickenham Stadium (www.rfu.com). The stadium also boasts a rugby museum, which can be visited during a tour of the arena (see Tours, below right).

Ascot

Rowing The annual Boat Race between the esteemed universities of Oxford and Cambridge has been taking place on the Thames since 1829. The race begins in Putney and finishes four and a quarter miles later in Mortlake, with numerous vantage points – not to mention pub parties – along the route. This year’s race takes place on Saturday 7 April.

Tennis Perfectly tended lawns, brilliant-white outfits, strawberries and cream… Wimbledon (www. wimbledon.org) is an experience like no other – and it’s just a short tube ride from central London. A ballot decides who gets the tickets for the two main courts, but you can still catch the action on the outside courts by buying tickets on the day. And don’t forget to experience the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum & Tour (see Tours, right).

re out mo To find ort in the p s t abou al, go to capit on.com d visitlon

Get Active! Why not get stuck into the action yourself? The Grove Hotel with golf course. Chandler’s Cross WD3 +44 (0)1923 807807 www.thegrove.co.uk Q Watford Highgate Golf Club Denewood Rd NW6 +44 (0)20 8340 2745 www.highgategc.co.uk U Highgate Hyde Park Stables Bathurst Mews W2 +44 (0)20 7723 2813 www.hydeparkstables.com U Lancaster Gate Ice skating Enjoy outdoor skating at various venues in winter. visitlondon.com Michelob ULTRA London Triathlon Royal Victoria Dock E16 +44 (0)20 7559 2929 www.thelondontriathlon.com DLR Custom House

Oasis Sports centre with indoor swimming pool. Endell Street WC2 +44 (0)20 7831 1894 www.camden.gov.uk/sport U Holborn Regent’s Park Tennis Centre York Bridge NW1 +44 (0)20 7486 4216 U Regent’s Park Royal Victoria Dock Watersports centre Offers various courses. Tidal Basin Rd E16 +44 (0)20 8430 2484 U/ DLR Canning Town Urban Golf Indoor golf simulators. Two venues +44 (0)20 8430 2484 www.urbangolf.co.uk The Westway Climbing Wall Thorpe Close W10 +44 (0)20 8969 0992 U Latimer Road

Tours Arsenal FC Tour Emirates Stadium N7 +44 (0)20 7704 4504 www.arsenal.com U Arsenal Chelsea FC Tour Stamford Bridge SW6 +44 (0)20 7386 7799 www.chelseafc.com U Fulham Broadway Lord’s Tour Lord’s NW8 +44 (0)20 7432 1000 www.lords.org/ lords-ground U St John’s Wood

Twickenham Stadium Tour & Museum of Rugby Twickenham Stadium TW1 +44 (0)20 8892 8877 www.rfu.com U Twickenham Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum & Tour All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club SW19 +44 (0)20 8946 6131 www.wimbledon.org/ museum U Southfields

visitlondon.com 43

SHOP

WEST

END

Classic Cool Contemporary choice like nowhere else

Department 46 Stores & Fashion

Shopping Indulge in a spot of retail therapy. London’s chic shopping districts and fascinating markets offer everything from designer labels to bargain buys

Markets 47 Shopping 48 Destinations, Antiques & Museum Shops Traditional Shops 49 & Souvenirs

newwestend.com Bond Street Oxford Street Regent Street visitlondon.com 45

Shopping From famous department stores to trendy boutiques, London has it all Department Stores Fenwick Five floors of men’s and women’s fashion, as well as home collections. New Bond St W1 +44 (0)20 7629 9161 www.fenwick.co.uk U Bond Street

John Lewis A one-stop shop for all your fashion, homeware, electrical and sporting goods. Oxford St W1 +44 (0)20 7629 7711 www.johnlewis.com U Oxford Circus

Liberty

Harrods

Harrods As much a tourist attraction as a department store, Harrods features to-die-for fashion and home collections, plus a luxurious food hall. Brompton Rd SW1 +44 (0)20 7730 1234 www.harrods.com U Knightsbridge

www.harveynichols.com U Knightsbridge

Treat yourself to some luxury lingerie from this renowned brand. Bridalwear and cosmetics are also sold. Broadwick St W1 +44 (0)20 7439 0229 www.agentprovocateur.com U Oxford Circus

For moreg shoppin to ideas gon.com do visitlon

Mulberry

Luxury bags, wallets, purses, gift ideas and The Duffer of stationery can be St George bought at this British Traditional English designs label’s store. with a contemporary New Bond St W1 twist. Knitwear and T+44 (0)20 7491 3900 shirts are specialities. www.mulberry.com U Bond Street Shorts Gardens WC2 +44 (0)20 7836 3722

www.newlook.co.uk

www.peterjones.co.uk U Sloane Square

Selfridges & Co Browse the latest designer labels, play with the latest gadgets, eat sushi and drink champagne at this vast department store. Oxford Street W1 +44 (0)8708 377 377 www.selfridges.com U Bond Street

46 visitlondon.com

Agent Provocateur

U Marble Arch

Peter Jones

Harvey Nichols Boasts all your favourite upmarket labels, as well as a renowned bar that stays open after the store closes. Knightsbridge SW1 +44 (0)20 7235 5000

Fashion

This distinctive, Tudor-fronted building houses exquisite men’s www.thedufferofstgeorge.com New Look U Covent Garden and women’s clothes, Great women’s fashions homeware and cosmetics. that won’t cost you an Regent St W1 arm and a leg. Particularly +44 (0)20 7734 1234 good for shoes. www.liberty.co.uk Oxford St W1 U Oxford Circus +44 (0)20 7025 6700 Choose from a wide range of clothes, kitchenware, lighting and gifts, with many exclusive lines. Sloane Square SW1 +44 (0)20 7730 3434

Old Spitalfields Market

The Open Market

Esprit

Paul Smith

The biggest UK branch of the global label that’s strong on casual clothes, childrenswear and stylish accessories for the home. Regent St W1 +44 (0)20 7025 7700

This super-chic British designer offers classic tailoring with an emphasis on quality. Kensington Park Rd W11 +44 (0)20 7727 3553

www.esprit.com U Piccadilly Circus

www.paulsmith.co.uk U Notting Hill Gate

Poste Mistress J&M Davidson Offers a wide range of leather bags, belts and clothing that have been made to last. Ledbury Rd W11 +44 (0)20 7313 9532 www.jandmdavidson.com U Notting Hill Gate

Everything from Vivienne Westwood to Converse is represented at this store, which is decked out like a 1970s boudoir. Monmouth Street WC2 +44 (0)20 7379 4040 U Covent Garden

The indoor market of Spitalfields is justifiably popular, with stalls offering anything from dyed sheepskin rugs to handmade cards, while Covent Garden the surrounding stores sell Covent Garden Piazza rare posters, books and It’s easy to see why Covent great food. There’s Garden Piazza is such a a weekly fashion market people magnet. The Italian on Friday, but Sunday is neo-classic structure was the main day with the designed by Inigo Jones in largest number of stalls. 1632, and the glass-covered Open Mon-Fri 10ammarket at its heart has 4pm, Sun 9am-5pm, become one of London’s best www.visitspitalfields.com design showcases. Rows of U Liverpool Street colourful barrows selling arts and crafts fill the North Hall, while street performers can regularly be found in the courtyards – making it popular with all ages. Formerly the site of London’s Camden Lock largest fruit and veg market Camden Lock Market (now in Vauxhall), it’s still a Portobello Road This diverse market has undergone a facelift and now food lover’s paradise with Portobello Road comprises stalls and converted workshops selling everything an array of eateries – so a Market from furniture to wedding dresses. You can root around the lunchtime visit is a must. nearby Camden Stables Market for antiques, while the Open Mon-Sat 10am-7pm, West London’s renowned market has it all: plentiful Horse Hospital is pure vintage heaven. Note: Saturday Sun 11am-6pm, www. fruit and veg stalls, retro tends to be less busy than Sunday. Open daily, coventgardenmarket.co.uk clothing and accessories. U Covent Garden www.camdenlockmarket.com U Camden And it gets very busy on Saturdays, when some Columbia Road selling garden bric-a-brac, 1,500 antiques dealers vintage clothing and Flower Market descend on the Notting furniture, and cafés line Tucked away in the heart Hill end, so be sure to the street. Note: overseas of London’s East End, this sharpen your elbows. visitors won’t be able to take market has blossomed Open Mon-Sat plants and flowers home! into one of London’s most 8am-4.30pm (except Open Sun 8am-2pm, colourful areas. The 50Thurs 8am-1pm), www.columbia-flowerplus stalls offer countless www.portobelloroad.co.uk market.freewebspace.com varieties of flowers and U Ladbroke Grove U Bethnal Green Columbia Road plants, while a host of shops

With more than 300 street markets to browse in London, you’re sure to pick up a bargain

More Markets

off the beaten track Borough Market is foodie heaven, offering all kinds of lovingly sourced and created produce. The City’s Leadenhall Market is a more affluent affair – the stunning 19th-century hall offers the likes of salmon, grouse and oysters. Equally upmarket, Dover Street Market is as far removed from the idea of a market as possible: ‘stall holders’ include Dior’s Hedi Slimane. The historic Greenwich Market

serves all your gift needs, with crafts and speciality foods. Further south, the cute Merton Abbey Mills Market has stalls teeming with crafts and other goodies, while Chelsea Farmers’ Market is a haven of independent shops on the King’s Road. Borough Market, open Fri Cheese at Borough Market

12-6pm, Sat 9am-4pm, www.boroughmarket.org.uk; Chelsea Farmers’ Market, open Mon-Sat 9.30am-8pm, Sun 10am-6.30pm, www.chelseafarmersmkt. org; Dover Street Market, open Mon-Sat 11am-6pm, www.doverstreetmarket. com; Greenwich Market, open Thurs 7.30am-5pm, Fri, Sat & Sun 9.30am-5pm, www.greenwich-market.co.uk; Leadenhall Market, open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm; Merton Abbey Mills Market, open Sat, Sun & Bank Holiday Mondays 10am-5pm, www.mertonabbeymills.com visitlondon.com 47

Stella McCartney Even if you can’t afford the Beatle’s daughter’s designs, her catwalk classics are well worth a browse. Bruton St W1 +44 (0)20 7518 3100 www.stellamccartney.co.uk U Green Park

Topshop The flagship outlet for the UK-wide fashion chain. Four vast floors of catwalk-based trends, shoes and accessories that’ll suit even the most modest of budgets. Oxford Circus W1 +44 (0)20 7636 7700 www.topshop.co.uk U Oxford Circus

Turnbull & Asser Prince Charles is among the luminaries who buy their shirts and ties here. A bespoke service is available. Jermyn St SW1 +44 (0)20 7808 3000 www.turnbullandasser.com U Green Park

Urban Outfitters Funky clothes, CDs and quirky household goods vie for your attention

at this cavernous store. Kensington High St W8 +44 (0)20 7761 1001 www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk U High St Kensington

Shopping Destinations The Brunswick Fountains and an open arcade make this recently developed historic building a relaxing place to shop. Judd Street WC1 +44 (0)845 450 5463 www.thebrunswickblooms bury.com U Russell Square

www.mycanarywharf.com U/DLR Canary Wharf

London Museums

www.sevendials.co.uk Neal’s Yard

Carnaby Street & Kingly Court London’s famous street offers an array of fashion stores, while Kingly Court boasts flagship stores and individual boutiques, with a piazza-style courtyard. Carnaby Street W1 www.carnaby.co.uk U Oxford Circus

U Covent Garden

www.lotsroad.com U Fulham Broadway

West One Shopping

Traditional

Situated above Bond Street underground station, West One is perfect for shopping. U Bond Street

The Chocolate Society Bonbons, truffles and Easter Eggs are some of the delights on offer at this tempting shop. Shepherd Market, W1 +44 (0)20 7495 0302

Antiques Bermondsey Market

See page 32 for contact details.

www.chocolate.co.uk U Green Park

Hamleys Kids will love exploring this vast toy emporium. With everything from traditional teddies to high-tech Robosapiens on show, don’t expect to keep your wallet in your pocket for long! There’s another branch at Heathrow Airport, if you want to keep them happy during a long flight. Regent St W1 +44 (0)870 333 2455 www.hamleys.com U Oxford Circus

James Smith & Sons Be prepared for all weathers with a stylish umbrella from this classic British institution. New Oxford St WC1 +44 (0)20 7836 4731 www.james-smith.co.uk U Tottenham

Fortnum & Mason

Court Road

Fortnum & Mason

Penhaligon’s

Ever since it was founded in 1707, Fortnum & Mason has been synonymous with luxury foods – it’s known as the Queen’s grocer. Piccadilly W1 +44 (0)20 7734 8040

Offering pretty vintage packaging and distinctive fragrances, this longestablished store now has a cult following. Brook St W1 +44 (0)20 7493 0002

Seven Dials

Lots Road

Cobbled streets give Seven Dials a distinct

Every Sunday, this auction house holds

www.fortnumandmason.com

www.penhaligons.co.uk

U Piccadilly Circus

U Bond Street

V&A Best for jewellery With over 2,000 different items to choose from, the V&A shop is a great place to pick up a gift or souvenir. The shop’s main appeal is the replica jewellery inspired by the museum’s exhibitions. There’s also William Morris print scarves and glasswork by Dale Chihuly, the creator

of the chandelier hanging in the museum’s dome. www.vandashop.co.uk

items, while Tate Britain has beautiful accessories to tie in with recent exhibitions. Both shops specialise in art books. www.tate.org.uk/shop

and glasses, while Peter Saville has signed limitededition prints. www.designmuseum.org

Tate Britain/Modern Best for books Tate Modern’s level-two shop was designed by Swiss architects Herzog and de Meuron, and offers an exclusive leather range by Bill Amberg, among other

Midsummer Light by Tord Boontje; British Museum

From quality homeware and toys to limitededition jewellery and books, here are some of the best items on offer in London’s top museums and galleries… 48 visitlondon.com

two sales: modern and traditional furnishings, followed by antique furniture and pictures. Lots Rd SW10 +44(0)20 7376 6800

This Friday morning market thrives with Burlington Arcade antiques fans bartering London’s most elegant Duke of York Square for that old vase or shopping arcade still In the heart of trendy Edwardian tea chest. employs ‘Beadles’ who Chelsea, shops include Bermondsey Square SE1 ensure customers act LK Bennett and Ted Baker. U Bermondsey with decorum. Off King’s Rd SW3 U Sloane Square Piccadilly W1 Camden Passage +44 (0)20 7630 3833 Open from Wednesday to www.burlington-arcade.co.uk The Mall Ilford Saturday, this atmospheric U Green Park Over 80 shops and thoroughfare is a hotpot restaurants within easy of fascinating collectables. Canary Wharf reach of central London. Camden Passage N1 Three malls house 200Ilford, Essex +44 (0)20 7359 0190 plus shops and a wide +44 (0)20 8553 3000 www.camdenpassage islington.co.uk selection of bars, cafés www.themall.co.uk U Angel Q Ilford and eateries. +44 (0)20 7477 1477

Shopping at

Design Museum

village feel, but don’t be fooled: its hip boutiques keep it very much at the forefront of fashion. Off Monmouth St WC2

The Design Museum Best for homeware Stylish works by cuttingedge designers are up for grabs here. Tord Boontje offers up affordable plates

Science Museum Best for gadgets Budding Patrick Moores can splash out on telescopes and glow-in-the-dark stars, while James Bond fans will love the radio-controlled cars.

“London can’t be beaten for shopping, from hot new designers to high street fashion” Lina, designer, Selfridges

R Twining & Co Anyone for tea? Now more than 300 years old, R Twining sells a wide range of tea leaves and bags sourced from across the globe. Strand WC2 +44 (0)20 7353 3511 www.twinings.com U Temple

Smythson One of the most famous stationers in the world, Smythson offers a bespoke service on

its luxury products. New Bond Street W1 +44 (0)20 7629 8558 www.smythson.com U Bond Street

Souvenirs Crest of London With nine stores in the West End, Crest sells everything from ‘I Love London’ T-shirts to fridge magnets – great for gifts and mementos. Various locations +44 (0)20 7935 0044 www.crestoflondon.co uk

Bound to be a hit with kids! www.sciencemuseumstore.com British Museum Best for replicas Among the fascinating items on offer here are a Chinese fortune shaker, pottery feng shui cats and a black-resin statue of Bastet, the Egyptian goddess of love. www.britishmuseum.co.uk

British Museum replica

visitlondon.com 49

Food & Drink Chutney Mary

Amaya

London’s most beautiful and romantic Indian restaurant with refined gourmet cooking. Open daily for dinner and on Saturday and Sunday for lunch. Private salon seating 24 for lunch and dinner everyday.

The ultimate Indian grill with lighter food. Luxurious interiors and chic cocktails. In fashionable Knightsbridge. Private salon seats 14.

535 Kings Road, Chelsea, London SW10. Tel: 020 7351 3113

52 53

Italian & Indian World Cuisine Landmark Locations & Cafés Restaurant Chains Pubs & Bars

54 55 56 57 59

From historic old pubs to hip cocktail bars, and cosy little cafés to chic celebrity hotspots, there’s something here to suit all tastes and pockets

Halkin Arcade, Motcomb Street, Knightsbridge, London SW1. Tel: 020 7823 1166

Veeraswamy

Masala Zone

Britain’s oldest Indian restaurant. The restaurant has just been recently transformed. Opulent, playful and aristocratic 1920s India.

Delicious street foods and traditional home style cooking in a lively atmosphere. No reservations required.

Mezzanine Floor, Victory House, 99 Regent Street, London W1 (entrance located on Swallow Street). Tel: 020 7734 1401

British French

“I love sitting watching the East London faces go by… it’s always inspiring” ALEXIE, DESIGNER, BRICK LANE

Marshall Street, Soho, London W1. Tel: 020 7287 9966 80 Upper Street, Islington, London N1. Tel: 020 7359 3399 141 Earls Court Road, London SW5. Tel: 020 7373 0220

London’s finest Indian restaurants. From gourmet to everyday.

[email protected]

www.realindianfood.com

visitlondon.com 51

Food

+44 (0)20 7730 6922 www.boisdale.co.uk U Victoria

There’s a culinary cornucopia to savour in the city’s diverse eateries

The Butlers Wharf Chop House Traditional English dishes served in an airy room that is reminiscent of a cricket pavilion. £££ Butlers Wharf Building, Shad Thames SE1 +44 (0)20 7403 3403 www.conran.com/eat U London Bridge

Plateau Two glass-fronted dining areas – a bar/grill and a formal restaurant – with fantastic views. ££££ Canada Place, Canary Wharf E14 +44 (0)20 7715 7100 www.conran.com/eat U Canary Wharf

Roast

Fine British cuisine served in a stunning hall. £££ The Floral Hall, Stoney St SE1 City Café & +44 (0)20 7940 1300 S & M Café Millbank Lounge www.roast-restaurant.com British Bluebird Sample modern European U Borough The Atrium Housed in what was cuisine at the City Café, once Europe’s largest then retire to the Enjoy seasonal food Millbank Lounge for a among politicians from the motor garage, Bluebird dram of whisky. £££ Houses of Parliament. £££ is now a chic café, bar and brasserie. £££ John Islip St SW1 Millbank SW1 King’s Rd SW3 +44 (0)20 7630 1000 +44 (0)20 7233 0032 Simpson’s-in-the-Strand www.cityinn.com www.atriumrestaurant.com +44 (0)20 7559 1000 U Westminster U St James’s Park www.conran.com/eat S & M Café U Sloane Square S & M stands for sausage Bank Aldwych Joanna’s and mash – and this eatery serves it up, along Urban brasserie serving Boisdale Buzzing neighbourhood with other dishes, in its classics with a twist. £££ Boisdale comprises a restaurant with good Kingsway WC2 luxury, lively bar and views and great wine. £££ original 1920s interior. £ Essex Rd N1 +44 (0)20 7379 9797 restaurant with live jazz Westow Hill SE19 +44 (0)20 7359 5361 www.bankrestaurants. on the menu every night. +44 (0)20 8670 4052 www.sandmcafe.co.uk com/aldwych Also in Bishopsgate. ££££ www.joannas.uk.com U Covent Garden Q Crystal Palace U Angel Eccleston St SW1 Blueprint Café

Best for views There are few things more romantic than a splendid vista while you wine and dine. Here’s a selection of our top choices… 52 visitlondon.com

Blueprint Café

Cantina del Ponte

A stunning place to watch the sun go down over Tower Bridge. The modern British food is equally dazzling. £££ Design Museum, Shad Thames SE1 +44 (0)20 7378 7031 www.conran.com/eat U London Bridge

Simple Italian food with a focus on seasonal ingredients – and fantastic views of Tower Bridge. £££ Butlers Wharf Building, Shad Thames SE1 +44 (0)20 7403 5403 www.conran.com/eat U London Bridge

Sea Shell of Lisson Grove

Bistro 51

Informal bistro offering delicious French and Offers a variety of fresh fish and chips. A takeaway English fare. ££ Buckingham Gate SW1 service is available. ££ +44 (0)20 7963 8325 Lisson Grove NW1 www.bistro51.co.uk +44 (0)20 7224 9000 U St James’s Park www.seashellrestaurant. co.uk U Marylebone Bonds Restaurant Popular with stockbrokers, serving high-quality Simpson’s-ininternational food. £££ the-Strand A collection of unique Threadneedle St EC2 ‘dining establishments’ +44 (0)20 7657 8090 serving up English fare www.theetoncollection.com U Bank amid dark panelling and crystal chandeliers. ££££ The Savoy, Strand WC2 Brasserie St Quentin +44 (0)20 7836 9112 Serves simple, classic www.fairmont.com/svy/ Gallic fare. £££ simpsons Brompton Rd SW3 U Charing Cross +44 (0)20 7589 8005 www.brasseriestquentin. co.uk French U South Kensington Almeida

Restaurant & Bar

Le Pont de la Tour Offers modern French cuisine and a vast wine list. ££££ Butlers Wharf Building, Shad Thames SE1 +44 (0)20 7403 8403 www.conran.com/eat U London Bridge

Restaurant & Bar Orrery Housed in a former stable, Orrery promises quality food and wine. ££££ Marylebone High St W1 +44 (0)20 7616 8000 www.conran.com/eat U Baker Street

Le Cercle

Chamberlains Restaurant

Coq d’Argent

Galvin at Windows

Spectacular views over the City of London and St Paul’s Cathedral. And there’s even a lawned terrace for those warm summer evenings. ££ Poultry EC2 +44 (0)20 7395 5000 www.conran.com/eat U Bank

Situated on the 28th floor, this French restaurant named after its Chef Patron has unparalleled city views. ££££ The London Hilton on Park Lane, Park Lane W1 +44 (0)20 7493 8000 www.hilton.co.uk U Hyde Park Corner

Set in a stunning, Grade IIlisted Victorian building, this restaurant’s menu focuses on fish. ££ Leadenhall Market EC3 +44 (0)20 7648 8690 www.chamberlains.org U Monument

The Wolseley

Modern cuisine dished up in a grand former car showroom, complete with arches, pillars and stairways. The Maze Wolseley boasts an Gordon Ramsay’s Maze extensive wine list. £££ serves French cuisine with Piccadilly W1 an Asian influence. £££ +44 (0)20 7499 6996 Grosvenor Square W1 www.thewolseley.com U Piccadilly +44 (0)20 7107 0000 www.gordonramsay.com/ maze Italian U Green Park Bertorelli

Robust, regional French dishes are served in this intimate dining room in Islington. £££ Almeida St N1 +44 (0)20 7354 4777 www.conran.com/eat U Angel

Club Gascon’s chic sister offers deliciously creative French fare. ££££ Wilbraham Place SW1 +44 (0)20 7901 9999 U Sloane Square

+44 (0)20 7829 7000 www.pearl-restaurant.com U Holborn

Pearl A range of imaginative dishes are served up in a chic setting designed by the creators of trendy Nobu. £££ High Holborn WC1

Contemporary Italian food served up in chic, leather-boothed surroundings. £££ Frith St W1 and other locations +44 (0)20 7494 3491 www.santeonline.co.uk/ bertorelli U Leicester Square

Key £ ££ £££ ££££

Budget Low Mid Top End

Kensington Roof Gardens High above Kensington High Street, this unique restaurant boasts exotic gardens and views of London’s skyline. £££ Kensington High St +44 (0)20 7368 3993 www.roofgardens.com U Kensington High Street visitlondon.com 53

De Cecco

Indian

The Delhi Brasserie

Tamarind

Classic Italian dishes in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. Don’t miss the speciality lobster. ££ New Kings Rd SW6 +44 (0)20 7736 1145 www.dececco restaurant.com U Parsons Green

Amaya

This popular eatery in the heart of the West End offers diners awardwinning Indian cuisine in authentic and very elegant surroundings. ££ Frith St W1 +44 (0)20 7437 8261 U Tottenham Court Rd

Glamorous, Michelinstarred restaurant. £££ Queen St W1 +44 (0)20 7629 3561 www.tamarindrestaurant. com U Green Park

Top-end Indian cuisine with an open-show kitchen and grill to entertain diners. £££ Halkin Arcade, Motcomb St SW1 +44 (0)871 2238036 U Knightsbridge

Benares Restaurant & Bar

Sartoria

Pizza Express With several branches in London, Pizza Express offers Sicilian-inspired pizzas, pastas and salads – as well as live jazz in some restaurants. ££ Various locations +44 (0)20 7439 8722 www.pizzaexpress.com

Sartoria Inspired by the simplicity and elegance of the restaurants of 1930s Milan, Sartoria boasts more than 400 wines. £££ Savile Row W1 +44 (0)20 7534 7000 www.conran.com/eat U Green Park

The Indian chef was the first in Britain to win a Michelin star. His food is a pleasure to behold. £££ Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square W1 +44 (0)20 7629 8886 www.benaresrestaurant.com U Bond Street

Chutney Mary The dishes here are beautifully perfumed with herbs, spices and home-made stocks. £££ King’s Rd SW10 +44 (0)20 7351 3113 www.chutneymary.com U Fulham Broadway

Offers an innovative menu of Indian and Sri Lankan food with friendly service. ££ West End Lane NW6 +44 (0)20 7328 3308 U Tottenham Court Rd

La Porte des Indes London A 40ft waterfall and exotic flowers set the scene for the elaborate flavours you’ll savour on your plate. ££££ Bryanston St W1 +44 (0)20 7224 0055 www.blueelephant.com/ pi/london U Marble Arch

The Cinnamon Club

The beauty of this place lies in the contrast between the gentlemen’s club-style setting and the exoticism of modern Indian cuisine. £££ Spaghetti House Good-quality pizzas The Old Westminster and pasta dishes. ££ Library, Great Smith St Various locations SW1 +44 (0)20 7629 6097 +44 (0)20 7222 2555 www.spaghetti-house.co.uk www.cinnamonclub.com U Westminster 54 visitlondon.com

Elephant Walk

The Cinammon Club

Maharaja A highly regarded Indian and Balti restaurant. £ Queensway W2 +44 (0)20 7727 1135 U Queensway

Mint Leaf Start with a Burst of Mint cocktail in the bar, then enjoy baby lamb chops simmered in ginger. £££ Suffolk Place SW1 +44 (0)20 7930 9020 www.mintleaf restaurant.com U Piccadilly Circus

Veeraswamy London’s oldest Indian restaurant. Devotees come here to sample dishes such as sadgi korma – a curry with saffron and Himalayan pine essence. £££ Mezzanine Floor, Victory House, Regent St W1 +44 (0)20 7734 1401 www.veeraswamy.com U Piccadilly Circus

World Cuisine 1492 Latin Fusion

Pimlico Tandoori Has been serving up consistently good Indian food for more than 25 years – surely a good sign! £ Moreton St NW1 +44 (0)20 7834 3375 U Pimlico

Lively Latin restaurant named after the year Christopher Columbus found the Americas. £££ North End Rd SW6 +44 (0)20 7381 3810 www.1492restaurant.com U Fulham Broadway

Benihana Check out the chefs, who cook your supper before your very eyes in this Japanese restaurant. £££ King’s Rd SW3 and other locations +44 (0)20 7376 7799 www.benihana.co.uk U Sloane Square Masala Zone

Value Eats Just the slightest detour off the beaten track can pay great dividends for those food-lovers looking for a delicious meal at an affordable price

Brick Lane

year-round barbecue joint serving juicy American steak platters to appreciative THE WEST END carnivores (if you’re not, don’t worry, as Soho, in the heart of London’s West End, vegetarians get a look in, too). Non-meat is home to some ground-breaking – and eaters should drop in on The Place Below, cheap – restaurants, like Imli in Wardour set in a crypt below St-Mary-Le-Bow Street, an Indian restaurant from the church, which brings a welcome spirit of creators of Tamarind. The award-winning invention to veggie dishes (weekdays only). Masala Zone, tucked away around the BRICK LANE corner from Carnaby Street, plays it simple A 10-minute walk from Liverpool Street while the nearby Japanese noodle bar train station, Brick Lane is one of the Wagamama and Yo Sushi! offer excellent capital’s most celebrated foodie meals and super-quick service. All four thoroughfares, a parade of traditional Indian restaurants are contemporary twists on and Bengali restaurants that are magnets ethnic cuisine: affordable, stylish, accessible. for curry connoisseurs from all over London. CHINATOWN City Spice and The Monsoon are typical, Just to the north of Leicester Square, and make a great introduction to the Chinatown has long been a favourite haunt delights of ‘Banglatown’. of hungry Londoners drawn to the area’s GASTRO PUBS buzzing restaurant scene, with the likes of And what of traditional English dishes? the HK Diner keenly waving the flag for Well, you could see what’s on the menu Cantonese and Peking dishes, and the at one of London’s many gastro pubs. evergreen Golden Dragon packing them in. Try The Eagle, the original ‘boozer with THE CITY food’ that started off the whole gastroFurther out east, the City’s pinstriped pub phenomenon in Clerkenwell, or power-lunching business types are spoilt head to The Builder’s Arms in Chelsea, rotten by the wide range of high-quality, or The Engineer, up in Primrose Hill. All low-price eateries right on their doorstep. offer good food at reasonable prices. The Real Greek & Mezedopolio, in trendy THE EAST END Hoxton, is an For a taste of old London try traditional pie Wagamama absolute treat, and and mash or jellied eels, washed down with keeps us nicely on a mug of milky tea. Dotted around the East our globe-trotting End and south of the Thames, stalwarts like quest, while the Manze’s, near Tower Bridge, and F Cooke, in Arkansas Café, Broadway Market, are run by the same something of a families who first opened them a century Spitalfields ago, and still boast their original Victorian institution, is a tiles, marble table tops and ornate mirrors.

CHEAP EATS CONTACT DETAILS Imli Wardour St W1, +44 (0)20 7287 4243; Masala Zone Marshall St W1, +44 (0)20 7287 9966; Wagamama Lexington St W1, +44 (0)20 7292 0990; Yo Sushi, Poland St W1; +44 (0)20 7287 0443; HK Diner, Wardour St W1, +44 (0)20 7434 9544; Golden Dragon Gerrard St W1, +44 (0)20 7734 1073; The Real Greek & Mezedopolio Hoxton Market N1, +44 (0)20 7739 8212; Arkansas Café Commercial St E1, +44

(0)20 7377 6999; The Place Below St Mary Le Bow, Cheapside EC2, +44 (0)20 7329 0789; City Spice Brick Lane E1, +44 (0)20 7247 1012; The Monsoon Brick Lane E1, +44 (0)20 7375 1345; The Eagle Farringdon Rd EC1, +44 (0)20 7837 1353; The Builder’s Arms Britten St SW3, +44 (0)20 7349 9040; The Engineer Gloucester Ave NW1, +44 (0)20 7722 0950; Manze’s Deptford High St SE8, +44 (0)20 8692 2375; F Cooke Broadway Market E8, +44 (0)20 7254 6458 visitlondon.com 55

Floridita

Miyabi

Combines all the elements that make a lively Cuban bar: fat Cohiba cigars, a menu that’s heavy on the ceviche and, of course, lots of rum. ££££ Wardour St W1 +44 (0)20 7314 4000 www.floriditalondon.com U Tottenham Court Rd

Serves up excellent hand-rolled sushi. ££ Great Eastern Hotel, Liverpool St EC2 +44 (0)20 7618 7100 www.great-easternhotel.co.uk U Liverpool Street

Floridita

The Gaucho Grill Free-range Argentinian beef is this restaurant chain’s raison d’etre. £££ Heath St NW3 and other locations +44 (0)20 7431 8222 www.gaucho-grill.com U Hampstead Heath

Gilgamesh Vast, Babylon-themed restaurant in the heart of Camden Town. £££ Chalk Farm Rd NW1 +44 (0)20 7482 5757 www.gilgameshbar.com U Camden Town

Meza

56 visitlondon.com

Themed restaurant offering American and tropical cuisine. £££ Shaftesbury Ave W1 +44 (0)20 7434 3111 www.therainforestcafe. co.uk U Piccadilly Circus

Landmark Locations Grill Room Oscar Wilde dined at this restaurant, and it’s still one of London’s finest. £££ Café Royal, Regent St W1 +44 (0)20 7439 1865 www.grill-room.com U Piccadilly Circus

Harvey Nichols Fifth Floor A great pit-stop for shoppers at London’s top fashion emporium. £££ Knightsbridge SW1 +44 (0)20 7235 5250 www.harveynichols.com U Knightsbridge

Oxo Tower Restaurant, Bar & Brasserie Rooftop restaurant serving classics with

Royal Exchange Grand Café & Bar

Palm Court Check .com don visitloneal deals for m

Ideal for informal dining or afternoon tea – in art deco surroundings. £££ Sheraton Park Lane Hotel W1 +44 (0)20 7290 7170 www.sheraton.com/parklane U Green Park

Café/brasserie

Fine establishment housed in the central court of a colossal Victorian building. £££ The Courtyard, Royal Exchange EC3 +44 (0)20 7618 2480 www.conran.com/eat U Bank

The Brasserie

Rules

Café in the Crypt

Renowned as London’s oldest restaurant, this plush dining room was once frequented by Charles Dickens. £££ Maiden Lane WC2 +44 (0)20 7836 5314 www.rules.co.uk U Covent Garden

Enjoy a tasty, cheap meal by candlelight. £ St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square WC2 +44 (0)20 7766 1158 www2.stmartin-in-thefields.org U Charing Cross

Graze on a modern British menu with a global twist at Chelsea Football Club’s relaxed restaurant. ££ Stamford Bridge SW6 +44 (0)20 7565 1400 www.chelseafc.com U Fulham Broadway

Still one of the most glamorous places to dine out in London. ££££ Strand WC2 +44 (0)20 7592 1600 www.fairmont.com/savoy U Charing Cross

Popular cafés serving fresh Italian food, with excellent shops in case you want to take something edible home. ££ Various locations +44 (0)20 7580 3050 www.carluccios.com

Sketch

Coffee, Cake & Kink

This 18th-century building is now a venue for fine food, arts and music. ££££ Conduit St W1 +44 (0)870 777 4488 www.sketch.uk.com U Oxford Circus

A coffee shop with a naughty difference! £ Endell St WC2 +44 (0)20 7419 2996 www.coffeecake andkink.co.uk U Covent Garden

Best for Entertainment Swing by one of these restaurants for a toe-tapping treat Dover St W1 +44 (0)20 7491 7509 www.doverst.co.uk U Green Park

In the summer, sit on the terrace and order a glass of Chablis to wash down the brasseriestyle fare. ££ Heddon St W1 +44 (0)20 7255 8899 www.zincbar.co.uk U Piccadilly Circus

Harry Ramsden’s

Chains

My Old Dutch

Chez Gérard

Excellent sweet and savoury pancakes. ££ Various locations +44 (0)20 7242 5200 www.myolddutch.com

Eleven branches in London, serving up steakfrites et al in a 1930sstyle brasserie. £££ Various locations +44 (0)20 7881 8870 www.santeonline.co.uk

Carluccio’s The Savoy Grill

+44 (0)20 7514 1700 www.hardrock.com U Hyde Park Corner

Zinc Bar & Grill

Fine Burger Co. With several branches in London, this chain serves classic burgers alongside international fare. ££ +44 (0)20 7224 1890 www.fineburger.co.uk

Dover Street Restaurant

Great British favourites at reasonable prices. ££ Various locations www.harryramsdens.co.uk

Outback Steakhouse Serving juicy steaks in a relaxed atmosphere. ££ Riverside West Complex, Wandsworth SW18 +44 (0)20 8877 1599 www.outbackpom.com U Wandsworth

Planet Hollywood

Gaze at the movie memorabilia as you tuck into steaks and ribs. ££ A guitar that Lenny Coventry St W1 Kravitz smashed and a shawl worn by Janis Joplin +44 (0)20 7437 7639 www.planethollywood are some of the things london.com you’ll find here. ££ U Leicester Square Old Park Lane W1

Hard Rock Café

British Museum

Tempting Spanish tapas and good old-fashioned cocktails. ££ Wardour St W1 +44 (0)20 7314 4002 www.conran.com/eat U Tottenham Court Rd

Rainforest Café

a modern twist. £££ Bargehouse St SE1 +44 (0)20 7803 3888 www.oxotower.co.uk U Waterloo

Bateaux London Enjoy world-class live entertainment while you eat lunch or dinner on a Thames cruise. £££ Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment WC2 +44 (0)20 7925 2215 www.bateauxlondon.com U Embankment Dover Street Restaurant & Bar Listen to live jazz or rhythm and blues in this restaurant, which serves creative French fare. £££

Hackney Central R&B and funky house music play in this train station turned bar/restaurant. ££ Amhurst Rd E8 +44(0)20 8986 5111 www.hackneycentral.com Q Hackney Central Quaglino’s Retains the glamour of the 1920s with live jazz. ££££ Bury St SW1 +44(0)20 7930 6767 www.conran.com/eat U Green Park RS Hispaniola Dine on Mediterranean classics aboard this elegant Thameside ship. £££ Bury St SW1 +44(0)20 7839 3011 www.hispaniola.co.uk U Embankment

Museum Mouthfuls Visiting a museum is not just about seeing a great exhibition – with excellent shops (see page 48), cafés and restaurants, there’s a whole day’s entertainment. After admiring the art, refuel at Tate Britain’s café and espresso bar, or marvel at the stunning mural in the more formal restaurant as you browse the modern British menu. Tate Modern’s levelseven restaurant boasts stunning river views and an eclectic menu based on seasonal produce. But if you’re after a more casual

meal, try the level-two café. Amid the history of the British Museum, sit under Norman Foster’s aweinspiring glass roof in the Court Restaurant, or head to the gallery café or court café for a lighter meal. For further details, see museum listings, page 32 Court Restaurant

visitlondon.com 57

Visit the home of one of the world’s greatest writers in the city that inspired him. Situated in Bloomsbury. Central London the Charles Dickens Museum contains Dickens’s letters, manuscripts, personal items, paintings and reconstructed rooms. The Museum offers a wide range of events and activities including handling sessions with original artefacts and readings from Dickens’s works. Groups are also welcome. If you would like to join the Friends of the Charles Dickens Museum and support our work please contact us.

Hotel Dining You don’t have to be staying there to enjoy fine food at these hotels Radisson Edwardian

ice cream! Nova at the Sussex offers hearty This hotel chain boasts portions of British fodder, some of the best leather chairs and a restaurants in London, chilled soundtrack. At the serving predominantly Vanderbilt Hotel’s dining modern English cuisine. room, 68-86, you’ll Ascots at the Berkshire is find signature British enticing with its luxurious food is served, with a wood-and-leather delicious Pacific Rim interior. Somewhat twist. For details of more more minimalist, Aston restaurants see www. at the Grafton was radissonedwardian.com named after the Aston Martin Club, which was Hilton founded on the site in The Hilton chain takes the 30s. Creation at great pride in offering a the Kenilworth allows culinary experience that diners to watch the matches its high-quality accommodation. The Woburn Place Dining Room at the London Euston serves up English, European and Far Eastern fare within a Victorian conservatory. The chefs preparing food Tiger Green Brasserie influenced by cuisines at the London Green from the Far East through Park entices you with a glass divide. Glass contemporary dishes at the Marlborough is inspired by world cuisine. furnished with individual Visitors to the London mirrors and the dramatic Hilton on Park Lane canvasses of Heidi can choose between Harrington. The open the Park Brasserie kitchen and grill at (Mediterranean-inspired), the May Fair’s opulent Trader Vic’s (Polynesian) Amba is renowned for or the 28th-floor Galvin its bread-and-butter at Windows, complete 58 visitlondon.com

And here are a few more top restaurants that are found within London hotels… Brasserie Roux at the Sofitel St James London (www.sofitelstjames.com) is housed in an elegant former banking hall and offers French-style brasserie food. Citrus at the Park Lane Hotel (www.starwoodhotels. com) serves up delicious Mediterranean fare and offers al-fresco eating in the summer. L’Estaminet at the Ibis London City (www.ibishotel.com) is an informal, French-style bistro serving lunch and dinner. The Loft at the Mercure London City Bankside (www.mercure. com) offers modern European cuisine, and could be preceded by a romantic Thames walk. Addendum at the Apex City of London (www. apexhotels.co.uk) serves up the likes of diver-caught seared scallops and roast squab pigeon to diners on leather banquettes. The deVille Restaurant at the

with majestic views. Further views are to be had at Nippon Tuk, an Oriental restaurant on the 23rd floor of the London Metropole. Plum at the London Olympia wows guests with international classics and traditional favourites. The Brasserie at the London Paddington offers cross-continental

Mandeville Hotel (www. mandeville.co.uk) offers modern British cuisine in a theatrical setting. The Mandarin Oriental (www. mandarinoriental.com) overlooking Hyde Park has two restaurants – Foliage and The Park – both of which offer exquisite international recipes in chic surroundings. The recently refurbished Grill Room at the Dorchester (www.thedorchester. com) is as sophisticated as they come, and boasts a fantastic wine list. The Ritz Restaurant at The Ritz (www.theritzlondon. com) is one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the world, and features a four-piece band on Friday and Saturday nights. Finally, One-O-One at the Sheraton Park Tower (www.starwoodhotels. com) offers sumptuous French cuisine and serves some of the finest seafood in London.

dishes amid elegant surroundings. And the Waldorf Hilton’s Homage serves up classic and contemporary fare in a dramatic setting. www.hilton.co.uk

Ignorance and Want: the Social Conscience of Charles Dickens, a new exhibition, open throughout 2007, tells the story of Dickens’s reforming nature through his traumatic childhood experiences and his novels Oliver Twist and Nicholas Nickleby, both written at the Museum.

48 Doughty Street, WC1N 2LX Tel. 020 7405 2127 www.dickensmuseum.com Nearest tube: Russell Square

Adults £5 Concessions £4 Children £3 Families £14

Open:Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. Sun 11am-5pm

Delhi

BBC Television Centre Tours Get a fascinating insight into the world of BBC Television.You must pre-book by calling: 0870 603 0304* or textphone 0870 903 0304. * Lines open from 9am to 5pm. Calls are charged at National Rate and may be monitored or recorded for training.

bbc.co.uk/tours

The

brasserie

A different day out

Ben

Visit The Ben Uri Gallery

‘The best museum of the region’, just off the Beatle's famous Abbey Road, followed by lunch in Little Venice then onto nearby London Zoo in Regent’s Park or Madame Tussauds

Ideally situated in the heart of London’s theatreland for business lunches and pre- or after-theatre dinners.

Dishes from various regions cooked to perfection and served with style. 44 Frith Street, Soho W1 Tel: 020 7437 8261 Fax: 020 7437 3789

134 Cromwell Road, Kensington, SW7 Tel: 020 7370 7617 Fax: 020 7244 8639

Indian Cuisine

Recommended by prominent food critics including BBC Good Eating Guide

www.delhibrasserie.com

Uri

Jan-Feb Ambiguous Realities, Photographs by Dorothy Bohm March-April Art of the Holocaust May Julie Held & Shanti Panchal painting different experiences June-July The London School, Freud, Auerbach, Kossoff August Contemporary artists’ festival Sept-Nov Varian Fry and the artists he saved from tyranny Dec Highlights from the renowned Ben Uri collection www.benuri.org.uk for details

Mon-Fri 10-5.30pm April to October and from 10-3.30pm on Fridays between November and March, Sunday opening 12-4pm 108A Boundary Road, London NW8 ORH. Tel: 020 7604 3991

Bar Etiquette

Drink Fancy a tipple? Here’s a sample of the capital’s best watering holes Pubs

Crown & Greyhound

Butcher’s Hook

A large Victorian public house with a real taste of traditional British drinking, set in pretty village surrounds. Dulwich Village SE21 +44 (0)20 8299 4976 Q North Dulwich

Popular gastro pub serving high-quality food and wine. Fulham Rd SW6 +44 (0)20 7385 4654 U Fulham Broadway

Cork & Bottle Atmospheric wine bar that also serves up tasty food. Cranbourn St WC2 +44 (0)20 7734 7807 U Leicester Square

‘There shall be but one mistress here and no master’

Queen Elizabeth I by an unknown artist, c.1600 © National Portrait Gallery, London

A good selection of real ales is served up to a diverse clientele. Ladbroke Grove W11 +44 (0)20 7229 5663 U Ladbroke Grove

Lamb Housed in a Grade IIlisted building, Lamb features photographs of 19th-century actresses.

Canary Wharf

Ascribed to Elizabeth I in response to the Earl of Leicester

History Art Biography Fame Discover them for Free

The Elgin

www.npg.org.uk Open daily 10.00 – 18.00 Thursdays and Fridays until 21.00 u Leicester Square

Office workers and shoppers create a buzzing atmosphere around the waterside bars and restaurants of Canary Wharf. Champagne and wine bar Corney & Barrow puts on summer barbecues, The Fine Line combines soft furnishings with contemporary art, and Davy’s and Smollensky’s offer delicious informal dining. The Jubilee Place Food Court serves food from around the globe, and for something

The Fine Line

special try stylish restaurants Ubon and Plateau. Canary Wharf E14 +44 (0)20 7477 1477 www.mycanarywharf.com U/DLR Canary Wharf

Be patient. Don’t wave your cash at the barman or shout for attention. It’s considered rude. Pick a good spot at the bar. Everyone tries to squeeze in from the edges but this is often where dirty glasses are collected. Stand here and you will be ignored. Make eye contact when you want to get served. Smile, keep looking at the bar person’s eyes and, at some point, they’ll come to you. Always ask before you join someone’s table. In crowded pubs, sharing tables is acceptable. In bars, they may look at you in horror! Expect to buy rounds of drinks. The British usually take turns around the table to buy the drinks. Be prepared to offer to buy the next round.

Lamb’s Conduit St WC1 +44 (0)20 7405 0713 www.youngs.co.uk U Holborn

Fleet St EC4 +44 (0)20 7583 6470 www.tipperarypub.co.uk U Blackfriars

The Royal Oak The Oak offers a range of specialist beers. There are also regular book readings and other events. Tabard St SE1 +44 (0)20 7357 7173 Waxy O’Connor’s U Borough Enormous Irish themed pub whose menu includes traditional dishes like Irish Seven Stars Situated behind the Royal stew and mussels. Courts of Justice, this old Rupert St W1 pub is, unsurprisingly, +44 (0)20 7287 0255 U Leicester Square popular with lawyers. Carey St WC2 +44 (0)20 7242 8521 Bars U Holborn Auberge Bar &

Restaurant The Tipperary This 400-year-old pub survived the Great Fire of London to become the city’s first Irish pub. Great pub food is available.

European beers are a firm favourite at this café bar tucked away near Waterloo station. Sandell St SE1 +44 (0)20 7633 0610 U Waterloo visitlondon.com 61

Absolut Ice Bar

Bar Soho

Crazy Bear

Late bar offering great cocktails and food in the bustling heart of Soho. Old Compton St W1 +44 (0)20 7439 0439 www.barsoho.co.uk U Leicester Square

This beautiful basement bar offers oriental-style cocktails and bar snacks. Whitfield St W1 +44 (0)20 7631 0088 www.crazybeargroup.co.uk U Goodge Street

Cellar Gascon

Greenwich Park Bar & Grill

Boasts a vast wine list from Gascony in France, also some weird and wonderful snacks. West Smithfield EC1 +44 (0)20 7796 0600 U Barbican

Cheers Bar A reproduction of the bar from the legendary TV series. At night it’s a club with DJs from London radio stations Kiss, Capital and Virgin. Regent St W1 +44 (0)20 7494 3322 www.cheersbarlondon. com U Piccadilly Circus

Three-storey venue with a fine array of beers, as well as a patio courtyard for summer evenings. King William Walk SE10 +44 (0)20 8853 7860 www.thegreenwichpark.com DLR Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich

Julie’s

Ruby Blue

Hotel Bars

Dial Bar

This wine bar next to the restaurant of the same name has a great selection of French and New World wines. Portland Rd W11 +44 (0)20 7229 8331 www.juliesrestaurant.com U Holland Park

A funky bar, restaurant and club where you can dance until 3am. Leicester Place WC2 +44 (0)20 7287 8050 www.rubybluebar.co.uk U Leicester Square

The Blue Bar

Funky urban bar serving great snacks and cocktails. Radisson Edwardian Mountbatten, Monmouth St WC2 +44 (0)20 7836 4300

Sirocco

Boasting twelve plasma screens, this is a great bar Thick cigars, delicious to catch some sport, but cocktails and tapas there’s also a dance floor. transport you to Cuba. 39-45 Shaftesbury Av W1 Wardour St W1 +44 (0)20 7437 0847 +44 (0)20 7314 4001 www.sirocco-london.com www.lacasadelhabano.co.uk U Piccadilly Circus U Tottenham Court Rd

La Casa del Habano

This chic bar offers tasty cocktails and a choice of more than 50 whiskies. The Berkeley, Wilton Place SW1 +44 (0)20 7235 6000 www.the-berkeley.co.uk U Hyde Park Corner

A cocktail bar, TexMex restaurant and club that stays open till 3am. Russell St WC2 +44 (0)20 7379 0220 www.los-locos.co.uk U Covent Garden

Jewel

This champagne bar on the 42nd floor of Tower 42 is the highest in London. Old Broad St EC2 +44 (0)20 7877 7842 www.vertigo42.co.uk U Bank

Drink with soccer stars at Chelsea Football Club. The Hotel at Chelsea, Stamford Bridge SW6 +44 (0)20 7565 1400 www.thehotelatchelsea.com U Fulham Broadway

LVPO

Top Five Design Bars

Absolut Ice Bar

Candles, cocktails and banquettes combine at this chic bar/restaurant. Dean St W1 +44 (0)20 7434 3399 www.lvpo.co.uk U Leicester Square

A great party venue with top DJs spinning the tunes. Bear St WC2 +44 (0)20 7839 4188 www.zoobar.co.uk U Leicester Square

An 80ft-long bar buzzing with fashionistas. Sanderson Hotel, Berners St W1 +44 (0)20 7300 1496 www.sandersonlondon.com U Goodge Street

Rockwell Claridge’s Bar Art-deco bar serving cocktails to die for and rare champagnes. Claridge’s, Brook St W1 +44 (0)20 7629 8860 www.claridges.co.uk U Bond Street

Zoo Bar

Enjoy a cocktail in beautiful surroundings. Glasshouse St W1 +44 (0)20 7439 4990 www.jewelbarlondon.co.uk U Piccadilly Circus

U Leicester Square

Long Bar The Bridge Bar

Vertigo 42 Los Locos

www.radissonedwardian.com

Top-notch cocktails amid chic monochrome décor. The Trafalgar Hotel, Spring Gardens SW1 +44 (0)20 7870 2900 www.thetrafalgar.com U Charing Cross

The Tenth ut Check o o.uk ho.c iloveso ils of for deta ars great b nts aura and rest ho in So

Tenth-floor bar with views across Hyde Park. Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington High St W8 +44 (0)20 7361 1910 www.royalgarden hotel.co.uk U High St Kensington

Historic Pub Tour London’s oldest inns offer much more than just a great pint… The old pubs of London not Ye Olde Mitre only give the city its character, they also capture its history. Ye Olde Mitre, off Chancery Lane, was founded in 1546, though the current building was erected in 1772. A tree trunk in the front bar is said to have been part of a maypole that Elizabeth I danced around. If you want something a bit more decadent, try the Jerusalem Tavern in Britton Street, where William Hogarth and Handel used to drink. Today, this warren of a pub stocks some of the best real ales in the city. Charles Dickens frequented the 18th-century George Inn in Borough, and even plugged it in his serial novel Little Dorrit. The building is now a National Trust monument. The lovely Windsor Castle in Kensington dates back to 1835 and was frequented by farmers bringing their animals to sell at Hyde Park. The quiet Star Tavern in Belgravia, on the other hand, is surrounded by mews cottages originally created as stables. Its lovely upstairs room is thought to have been where the Great Train Robbery was planned. The French House, on Dean Street, was named after the Resistance fighters who met here during WWII. The George Inn The Coach and Horses, on nearby Greek Street, is a favourite haunt of actors and theatre folk – and was, until recently, famous for having the rudest landlord in the city! PUB TOUR CONTACT DETAILS Ye Olde Mitre Ely Court, Ely Place, +44 (0)20 7405 4751 (closed weekends); Jerusalem Tavern Britton St EC1, +44 (0)20 7490 4281 (closed weekends); The George Inn Borough High St SE1, +44 (0)20 7407 2056; The Windsor Castle Campden Hill Rd W8, +44 (0)20 7243 9551; The French House Dean St W1, +44 (0)20 7437 2799; The Coach and Horses Greek St W1, +44 (0)20 7437 5920

Trailer Happiness

If stylish clientele in an even more stylish setting appeal, check out these hot spots 62 visitlondon.com

As much a tourist attraction as a bar, the Absolut Ice Bar is, as the name suggests, entirely made of ice – from the walls, to the seats, to the glasses themselves. When the cold gets too

much, there’s Below Zero downstairs, where you can get warm and lounge on the pillow-covered banquettes. Heddon Street W1 +44 (0)20 7478 8910 www.belowzerolondon.com U Piccadilly

Albannach

Cocoon

Loungelover

Trailer Happiness

Scottish-themed bar offering more than 200 whiskies, cocktails and bar snacks. Trafalgar Square WC2 +44 (0)20 7930 0066 www.albannach.co.uk U Charing Cross

Models and party people often prop up the bar at this futuristic Asian restaurant-cum-cocktail-bar. Regent Street W1 +44 (0)20 7494 7600 U Piccadilly Circus

East End cocktail bar full of antiques and oddities. The cocktails are equally eclectic. Whitby Street E1 +44 (0)20 7012 1234 www.lestroisgarcons.com U Liverpool Street

Kitsch basement bar serving vintage cocktails with lots of West Indian rum. Portobello Road W11 +44 (0)20 7727 2700 www.trailerhappiness.com U Ladbroke Grove visitlondon.com 63

CHELSEA FC

Entertainment

STADIUM TOURS VISIT THE HOME OF THE CHAMPIONS

From top West End shows and cutting-edge fringe theatre to live comedy, cabaret and jazz, make sure you save enough energy to enjoy London after dark

Arts Centres & West End

66

Open-Air Theatres Off West End Dance & Music Comedy, Cabaret & Casinos Live Music & Cinemas Nightclubs, Gay & Lesbian London

67 68 71 72 73 74

VISIT STAMFORD BRIDGE AND GO BEHIND-THE-SCENES INTO AREAS OF CHELSEA FOOTBALL CLUB THAT YOU WOULD ONLY HAVE EVER DREAMED OF SEEING! Your fully guided tour will take you into the Home Dressing Room, the Press Room, the Players’ Tunnel, the Managers’ Dug-out and the Centenary Museum, where you can have your photograph taken with the Barclays Premiership Trophy*. The tours are perfect for fans of all ages and run throughout the year so do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and book your tickets now! *All Tours and photo opportunities with the Barclays Premiership Trophy are subject to availability, alteration or cancellation without prior notice. Stadium Tours and Museum will be closed on all home Matchdays. Photo opportunities incur an additional fee.

Scene from The Lion King, Catherine Ashmore ©Disney

ORDER ON-LINE ON AT WWW.CHELSEAFC.COM/TOURS OR CALL 0870 603 0005

visitlondon.com 65

Theatre

undergoing a major refit. Mare St E8 +44 (0)20 8985 2424

The stars shine brightly in the capital’s vibrant theatreland

Q

Arts Centres Artsdepot North London arts centre offering a vast array of entertainment – theatre, live music, dance, spoken word and more – to suit all ages and tastes. Nether St N12 +44 (0)20 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk U Finchley Central

Barbican Theatre, art, dance, film and music – you name it, this vast lakeside complex has it. Venues range from the 1,950-seat Barbican Hall to the intimate Pit, with just 200 seats. Silk St EC2 +44 (0)20 7638 8891 www.barbican.org.uk U

Barbican

www.hackneyempire.co.uk

Hackney Central

Lyric Hammersmith

Upstairs at the Gatehouse Based in an historic inn, at 446ft above sea level, this is quite literally London’s top theatre! Highgate Village N6 +44 (0)20 8340 3488

Two modern spaces host Battersea Arts Centre new writing, live music and www.upstairsatthe gatehouse.com A grade II-listed building children’s theatre. U Highgate provides the backdrop King St W6 for cutting-edge comedy, +44 (0)870 050 0511 drama and modern dance. www.lyric.co.uk U Hammersmith Lavender Hill SW11 +44 (0)20 7223 2223 www.bac.org.uk Q

Clapham Junction

Fairfield Hall There’s much more than theatre on the menu at this buzzing arts centre. Park Lane Croydon CR9 +44 (0)20 8688 9291 www.fairfield.co.uk Q

East Croydon

Hackney Empire Charlie Chaplin is among the stars who have lit up this beautiful East End landmark, which reopened its doors in 2004 after

Menier Chocolate Factory As the name suggests, the Menier began life as a 19th-century chocolate factory. It now houses a studio theatre, gallery and restaurant. Southwark St SE1 +44 (0)20 7907 7060 www.menierchocolate factory.com U

“London’s like an enormous arts festival that runs all year round” Imogen & Gerrard, tour guides, Theatre Royal

66 visitlondon.com

Former BBC TV studios where you can enjoy everything from theatre and dance to cinema and comedy. Crisp Rd W6 +44 (0)20 8237 1111 www.riversidestudios.co.uk U

Hammersmith

U

Leicester Square

Duchess Catherine St WC2 +44 (0)870 890 1103 www.duchesstheatre.co.uk U

Covent Garden Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre

Duke Of York’s St Martin’s Lane WC2 +44 (0)870 060 6623 Leicester Square

West End

Garrick

Adelphi

Charing Cross Rd WC2 +44 (0)870 890 1104

Strand WC2 +44 (0)870 403 0303 www.adelphitheatre.co.uk U

www.seetickets.com U

Charing Cross

Charing Cross

Gielgud Aldwych

Shaftesbury Ave W1 +44 (0)870 890 1105 www.seetickets.com U

Piccadilly Circus

Her Majesty’s Haymarket SW1 +44 (0)870 890 1106 www.seetickets.com U

Piccadilly Circus

London Palladium

www.nt-online.org

Riverside Studios

www.donmarwarehouse.com

U

London Bridge

Waterloo

Earlham St WC2 +44 (0)870 060 6624

www.theambassadors.com/ dukeofyorks

Aldwych WC2 +44 (0)20 7379 3367 National Theatre www.aldwychtheatre.com Three theatres stage classic U Holborn plays and cutting-edge new work. Backstage tours Apollo run daily from Monday Shaftesbury Ave W1 to Saturday. +44 (0)870 890 1101 www.seetickets.com South Bank SE1 U Piccadilly Circus +44 (0)20 7452 3000 U

Donmar Warehouse

Cambridge Earlham St WC2 +44 (0)870 890 1102 www.seetickets.com U

www.dominiontheatre.co.uk U

Tottenham Ct Road

Shakespeare’s Globe This carefully recreated 16th-century openair theatre has a spectacular riverside setting on Bankside. The thatched theatre has run for 10 years to great acclaim, with a programme of classics and new writing. The seated tickets are under cover and offer an excellent view of the stage, or you can buy a bargain-priced ‘groundling ticket’ for ‘the yard’ in the centre of the auditorium to see the action up close. Prepare for all weathers, as the show goes on regardless.

Open Air Theatre Regent’s Park The beautiful outdoor theatre in Regent’s Park opened in 1932 and hosts a crowdfriendly summer programme of mainly Shakespearean classics. Doors to the picnic lawn open early as a thousand people enjoy the relaxed BBQ and bar before the show, then afterwards the bar stays open until midnight. The house favourite, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, plays each year, as does a children’s programme throughout August.

Insider’s tip: Don’t worry if you don’t Insider’s tip: If you have a seat for the get a picnic table – you have the whole of show, splash out the extra £1 for cushion hire. If you’re standing, buy a rain mac sold Regent’s Park to spread out a picnic blanket. at the theatre, as umbrellas are not allowed. May – Sept*, The Ironworks, Inner Circle, May – Oct*, New Globe Walk, Bankside SE1 Regent’s Park NW1 +44 (0)870 060 1811 +44 (0)20 7401 9919 www.openairtheatre.org www.shakespeares-globe.org U Baker Street U London Bridge * SEE WEBSITES FOR PROGRAMME INFORMATION

www.seetickets.com U

Oxford Circus

Lyceum Tottenham Court Rd W1 +44 (0)870 169 0116

al fresco theatrical treat

Argyll St W1 +44 (0)870 890 1108

Leicester Square

Dominion

Open-Air Theatres Take advantage of summer and enjoy an

Wellington St WC2 +44 (0)870 243 9000 www.ticketmaster.co.uk U

Charing Cross

Booking Tickets

sometimes returns are sold on the day, at reduced prices. You can snap up half-price To avoid missing out on that tickets for selected West End show you’ve always wanted shows on the day of the to see, book your tickets performance at tkts booths before your visit to London, in Leicester Square and either online or by telephone, Canary Wharf. as the popular shows tend Theatre tickets and a to sell out long in advance. pre-theatre dinner table But it is always worth asking can also be booked at at the theatre’s box office as visitlondon.com

USEFUL CONTACTS Advance Box Office +44 (0)870 240 1900 www.advanceboxoffice.com See +44 (0)871 230 0010 www.seetickets.com tkts www.officiallondon theatre.co.uk

visitlondon.com 67

Lyric

Piccadilly

+44 (0)870 162 8787

Shaftesbury Ave W1 +44 (0)870 890 1107

Denman St W1 +44 (0)870 060 6630

www.stmartinstheatre.co.uk

www.seetickets.com

www.theambassadors.com

U

U

West St WC2 +44 (0)870 060 6627 www.newambassadors.com U

Prince Edward Old Compton St W1 +44 (0)870 850 9191 U

Leicester Square

Leicester Square

New London Theatre

Coventry St W1 +44 (0)870 850 0393

Drury Lane WC2 +44 (0)870 890 0141

www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk U

Leicester Square

www.seetickets.com

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Noel Coward Theatre St Martin’s Lane WC2 +44 (0)870 950 0920 www.delfont mackintosh.co.uk U

Leicester Square

Novello Aldwych WC2 +44 (0)870 534 4444

Queen’s Shaftesbury Ave W1 +44 (0)870 950 0930

Covent Garden

U

Piccadilly Circus

Royal Shakespeare Company The RSC performs in venues across town. +44 (0)870 609 1110 www.rsc.org.uk

St Martin’s West St WC2

Palace Shaftesbury Ave W1 +44 (0)870 890 0142 www.seetickets.com U

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www.ticketmaster.co.uk U

Charing Cross

Shaftesbury Shaftesbury Ave WC2 +44 (0)870 906 3798 www.ticketmaster.co.uk U

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Drury Lane WC2 +44 (0)870 890 1109 www.seetickets.com U

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U

Charing Cross Rd WC2 +44 (0)870 950 0925 www.theambassadors.com/ wyndhams U

tkts

Shepherd’s Bush

Leicester Square

Old Vic www.oldvictheatre.com U

Waterloo

Royal Court Theatre

Almeida Theatre

Sloane Square SW1 +44 (0)20 7565 5000

Almeida St N1 +44 (0)20 7359 4404 U

THE CLOCKTOWER BUILDING

www.royalcourttheatre.com U

Christmas at the London Coliseum

Sloane Square

Angel

Victoria Palace Apollo Victoria Wilton Rd SW1 +44 (0)20 7834 6318

8 December – 13 January

Victoria St SW1 +44 (0)870 895 5577 www.victoriapalacetheatre.co.uk U

Victoria

Mon - Sat: 10am - 7pm Sun: 12 noon - 3pm

Victoria

Theatreland Wonders

Tickets from £10 Call 0870 145 0200

ALSO AT CANARY WHARF DLR STATION PLATFORMS 4/5 Mon - Sat: 10am - 3.30pm

www.ballet.org.uk tkts.co.uk

National Tour Sponsor 2006

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C OU

CIL

OPERATED BY THE SOCIETY OF LONDON THEATRE

N

Unlike anything you’ve ever seen before, the Blue Man Group at the New London Theatre is a heady mish-mash of comedy, rock music and multimedia installations, performed by men in blue paint and caps! The adventures of lion cub Simba are

brought to life at the Lyceum in Disney’s The Lion King, with the help of no less than 232 puppets. Elton John and Tim Rice co-wrote the songs, which include chart hit Can You Feel the Love Tonight? Guys and Dolls tells the story of a group of smalltime gamblers. Patrick Swayze and Ewan McGregor are among the big names who’ve appeared in the hit show at the Piccadilly Theatre.

Catherine Ashmore ©Disney

Catch one of these great shows during your stay

Ewer. Fritware painted under a coloured glaze. Iran, Kashan, late 12th or early 13th century © V&A

The Cut SE1 +44 (0)870 060 6628

Off West End

U

68 visitlondon.com

Shpds Bush Green W12 +44 (0)20 7610 4224

Wyndam’s

www.apollovictoria.co.uk

The Lion King

The Bush Theatre www.bushtheatre.co.uk

www.almeida.co.uk

your To booskgo to t e tick don.com visitlon

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Prince of Wales

U

Savoy

Photo: Dirk Rees. Registered charity 214005

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Piccadilly Circus

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Piccadilly Circus

U

DISCOVER THE V&A THE WORLD’S GREATEST MUSEUM OF ART AND DESIGN

theatre art dance

film education music

Dance & Music

Visit the Barbican

From concertos to cha-cha, the world’s culture descends on one city Barbican Theatre, art, dance, film, music and workshops are all hosted at this complex, which is also home to the London Symphony Orchestra. Silk St EC2 +44 (0)20 7638 8891 www.barbican.org.uk U Barbican

Europe’s leading arts and conference centre www.barbican.org.uk Box office 0845 121 6838 u Barbican,

Moorgate, Liverpool Street

English National Opera Performances of famous and lesser-known works at the London Coliseum. St Martin’s Lane WC2 +44 (0)870 145 0200 www.eno.org U Leicester Square

Mark Morris Dance Company, V (18-22 Oct 2005). Photo Robbie Jack

London’s Dance House

from ballroom to ballet. Kensington Gore SW7 +44 (0)20 7589 8212 www.royalalberthall.com U South Kensington

Royal Ballet Based at the Royal Opera House, this company performs classic and contemporary ballet. Bow St WC2 +44 (0)20 7304 4000 www.roh.org.uk U Covent Garden

Royal Albert Hall

Royal Festival Hall

As well as classical and pop concerts, this distinctive venue hosts dance performances ranging

Major South Bank entertainment complex. Belvedere Rd SE1 +44 (0)870 380 4300

Islington, London EC1

Richard Bryant; Bill Cooper

Did you know?

Visit www.sadlerswells.com for more information, videoclips and more.

Chalk Farm’s most famous landmark has reopened Originally an engine shed, the Roundhouse has long been recognised as an outstanding example of mid-19th century architecture, but it wasn’t until 1964 that the magnificent round building became a cutting-edge arts venue, with the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd performing there. After closing for a lengthy spell, it reopened in 2006 following a multi-million

pound refit. It is now in full swing once more, boasting the Roundhouse Café and two bars, making it one of London’s most exciting live-performance venues. Chalk Farm Road NW1 +44 (0)20 7424 9991 www1.roundhouse.org.uk U Chalk Farm

www.rfh.org.uk U Waterloo

Royal Opera House A stunning venue for opera and ballet with a history dating back to 1732. Bow St WC2 +44 (0)20 7304 4000 www.roh.org.uk U Covent Garden

The Roundhouse

South Bank Centre The Royal Ballet

From cutting edge contemporary to flamenco, from classical ballet to hip-hop, from the world's greatest international companies to local youth projects, you can see it all at Sadler's Wells - London's Dance House.

Round Two

The English National Opera makes 500 seats at every weekday performance available for £10 or less. The Royal Opera House offers bench, standing and/or restricted-view tickets for opera and ballet performances for as little as £4. There are regular free performances in the Royal Festival Hall, part of the huge South Bank Centre complex. These span classical, folk, modern jazz and rock music.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra This orchestra is based at the Royal Albert Hall. Kensington Gore SW7 +44 (0)20 7589 8212 www.rpo.co.uk U South Kensington

Sadler’s Wells Puts on ballet and opera. Rosebery Ave EC1 +44 (0)20 7863 8198 www.sadlerswells.com U Angel

Featuring concerts – some free – film and dance. Belvedere Rd SE1 +44 (0)870 380 4300 www.sbc.org.uk U Waterloo

St Martinin-the-Fields Superb acoustics for concerts by candlelight. Trafalgar Square WC2 +44 (0)20 7839 8362 www.stmartin-in-thefields.org U Charing Cross visitlondon.com 71

Nightlife When the sun goes down, the capital really comes into its own Comedy

The Comedy Store

Amused Moose

The birthplace of British alternative comedy. Oxendon St SW1 +44 (0)870 060 2340 www.thecomedystore.biz U Piccadilly Circus

Ricky Gervais and Eddie Izzard are among those who have played at these two intimate venues. www.amusedmoose.com Moonlighting, Greek St W1 +44 (0)20 8341 1341 U Tottenham Court Rd The Enterprise, Chalk Farm Rd NW1 +44 (0)20 8341 1341 U Chalk Farm

Enjoy great comedy, then dance the night away after the show. www.jongleurs.com Middle Yard, Camden Lock, Chalk Farm Rd NW1 +44 (0)870 787 0707 U Camden Lavender Gardens SW11 +44 (0)870 787 0707 Q Clapham Junction

The Laughing Horse

Comedy Café

With several branches in London, The Laughing Horse offers cutting-edge comedy and workshops. Kingly St W1 +44 (0)7796 171 190 www.laughinghorse.co.uk U Oxford Circus

Comedy Camp Gay and straight comics perform to a similarly balanced crowd. Archer St W1 +44 (0)20 7483 2960 www.comedycamp.co.uk U Piccadilly Circus 72 visitlondon.com

Topical political satire in the quaint setting of Little Venice. Canal Café Theatre, Bridge House Pub, Delamere Tce W2 +44 (0)20 7289 6054 www.newsrevue.com U Royal Oak

St Katharine’s Dock E1 +44 (0)20 7480 5353 www.medievalbanquet.com U Tower Hill

Thames River Cruises Your four-course dinner is accompanied by a live band on a luxury boat. Westminster and Embankment Piers +44 (0)20 7439 2333 www.expressevents.com U Westminster

Jongleurs

The Medieval Banquet

Expect great stand-up acts, a late bar and reasonably priced food. Rivington St EC2 +44 (0)20 7739 5706 www.comedycafe.co.uk U Old Street

Newsrevue

Madame JoJo’s

Casinos

Cabaret

Golden Nugget

Jermyn Street Theatre

Shaftesbury Ave W1 +44 (0)20 7439 0099 www.goldennugget london.com U Piccadilly Circus

Cabaret shows can be combined with a pre- or post-show dinner at the Getti restaurant above. Jermyn St SW1 +44 (0)20 7287 2875 www.jermynstreet theatre.co.uk U Piccadilly Circus

Old Park Lane W1 +44 (0)20 7491 8586 www.rendezvouscasino.com U Hyde Park Corner

Madame JoJo’s

Sportsman

Kitsch, draggy cabaret – you really have to see it to believe it! Brewer St W1 +44 (0)20 7734 3040 www.madamejojos.com U Piccadilly Circus

Old Quebec St W1 +44 (0)20 7414 0061

Lee Hurst’s Backyard Comedy Club The Medieval The madcap TV star owns Banquet this East End club. Cambridge Heath Rd E2 +44 (0)20 7739 3122 www.leehurst.com U Bethnal Green

Rendezvous

www.thesportsmancasino.com U Marble Arch

Ain’t Nothin But

The 02

Opened in 1993, this club offers live blues until late every night of the week. The Blues Bar, Kingly St W1 +44 (0)20 7287 0514 www.aintnothinbut.co.uk U Oxford Circus

Set to open in July 2007, the O2 can hold 23,000 for live music and sport. www.theo2.co.uk U North Greenwich

The Rolling Stones and Oasis are two of the big names to appear at Dress up for an evening of this renowned venue. feasting, merriment and Oxford St W1 even jousting! The night +44 (0)20 7636 0933 is rounded off by a disco. www.the100club.co.uk U Oxford Circus Ivory House,

Watch the latest Hollywood and arthouse films in style at London’s cinemas Electric Cinema With its leather seating, bar, and tables for food and drink, the Electric offers a very different, very stylish movie-going experience. Portobello Rd W11 +44 (0)20 7908 9696 www.electriccinema.co.uk U Ladbroke Grove/ Notting Hill Gate

Bar 606 Top-drawer jazz every night. Note: to drink alcohol, you have to eat. Be sure to book. Lots Rd SW10 +44 (0)20 7352 5953 www.606club.co.uk U Fulham Broadway

Barfly

Electric Cinema

PizzaExpress Jazz Club

Indie-music pub hosting up-and-coming acts. Chalk Farm Rd NW1 +44 (0)20 7691 4244 www.barflyclub.com U Chalk Farm

Renowned musicians play to diners in a relaxed atmosphere. Dean St W1 +44 (0)20 7439 8722 www.pizzaexpress.co.uk U Tottenham Court Rd

Borderline

Pizza On The Park

Hosts breaking and cult acts from the UK and US. Orange Yard, Manette St W1 +44 (0)20 7734 5547 www.meanfiddler.com U Tottenham Court Rd

Enjoy a jazz show while you tuck into a pizza. Knightsbridge SW1 +44 (0)20 7235 5550 www.pizzaonthepark.co.uk U Hyde Park Corner

Live Music 100 Club

Let’s Go to the Movies…

BFI IMAX Experience short films and the occasional Hollywood blockbuster – some in 3D – on a 20-metre-high screen. Charlie Chaplin Walk SE1 +44 (0)870 787 2525 www.bfi.org.uk/ incinemas/imax U Waterloo Curzon Mayfair Foreign-language films are the speciality at this two-screen cinema. Curzon St W1 +44 (0)870 756 4621 www.curzoncinemas.com U Green Park

National Film Theatre As well as showing new films, the NFT puts on seasons dedicated to specific themes, plus film-related guest talks. Belvedere Rd SE1 +44 (0)20 7928 3232 www.bfi.org.uk/showing/nft U Waterloo Prince Charles Cinema An eclectic mix of one-off screenings, seasons and events – with a low-pricing policy on tickets. Leicester Place WC2 +44 (0)20 7494 3654 www.princecharles cinema.com U Leicester Square

The Ritz Jazz Cafe Luminaries from the worlds of Latin, rock and jazz music perform while you eat and drink. Parkway NW1 +44 (0)20 7916 6060 www.meanfiddler.com U Camden Town

A five-piece jazz band plays at the famous hotel on Friday and Saturday nights. Piccadilly W1 +44 (0)20 7493 8181 www.theritzlondon.com U Green Park

National Film Theatre

Did you know? Check local listings magazines such as Time Out and visitlondon.com for one-off nights and short runs. Register for the Circle Club Card at www.circleclubcard.com and receive discounted entry to selected clubs, plus two-for-one drinks offers. From £10. visitlondon.com 73

Ronnie Scott’s

For monre o don’s aboutliLfe check night don.com visitlon

Get up close and personal with jazz legends at this famous club. Frith St W1 +44 (0)20 7439 0747 www.ronniescotts.co.uk U Tottenham Court Rd spun by big-name DJs who flock to the superclub. Charterhouse St EC1 +44 (0)20 7336 8898 www.fabriclondon.com U Farringdon Ronnie Scott’s

Lucky Voice Karaoke

The 12 Bar Club

This nine-room private karaoke club promises a night of uninhibited entertainment! Poland St W1 +44 (0)20 7439 3660 www.luckyvoice.co.uk U Tottenham Court Rd

Showcases three or four talented acts every night of the week. Denmark Place WC2 +44 (0)20 7240 2622 www.12barclub.com U Tottenham Court Rd

Wembley Arena The newly refurbished venue hosts the world’s biggest acts. Empire Way HA9 Lucky Voice Karaoke +44 (0)870 060 0870 www.whatsonwembley.com No 5 U Wembley Park Sumptuous members club playing funky soul, R&B and Latin grooves. Nightclubs Club Aquarium Cavendish Square W1 Bring your swimsuit +44 (0)20 7079 5000 for a dip in the in-house www.no5ltd.com U Oxford Circus jacuzzi and pool! Old St EC1 +44 (0)20 7253 3558 Turnmills www.clubaquarium.co.uk Dance to top-name DJs U Old Street until the early hours. Clerkenwell Rd EC1 +44 (0)20 7250 3409 Fabric London www.turnmills.co.uk Three dancefloors U Farringdon reverberate to tunes 74 visitlondon.com

Gay & Lesbian London London is recognised as one of the gay capitals of the world, and at its centre are Soho and Old Compton Street, where European café culture has taken off in a big way. A mixed crowd

The Village

sit and watch the world go by at the many bars and coffee houses along the street. Balans and its smaller sister Balans Café are particularly popular. Afterwards, head to G.A.Y. for live cheesy pop, or to Village for some karaoke singing (Tuesday nights only). Alternatively, dance the night away to funky lounge sounds at The Shadow Lounge. The best night out for the girls in London is the Candy Bar, a two-floor club known for its buzzing parties. Be warned, though,

boys are strictly not allowed (unless they’re gay and with girls). If camp cabaret’s your thing, head to Too2Much, or go east and catch Tranny Lipsync at slinky restaurant, bar and club Bistrotheque. Edgy gay East Enders are found in the George and Dragon pub, or dancing at Family at Bar Music Hall on Saturdays. In the south, head to the Royal Vauxhall Tavern, where queues stretch round the block, even on Sundays. In North London, the guys go to indie club Popstarz every Friday at Scala in Kings Cross. But if you want something a little more classic, try 18thcentury gay pub The William IV in Hampstead. If all those nights out wear you out, then unwind with a good book from Gay’s The Word on Marchmont Street. And if you’re here in summer, don’t miss July’s Gay Pride – visitlondon.com has all the details.

A 75 minute adventure tour of the City of Westminster by road and river onboard an amphibious ‘Duck’, including a live commentary. London Ducktours offers more than just a sightseeing tour - it's an exciting road and river adventure appealing to visitors of all ages taking in some of London’s most famous landmarks. Ask about our personalised tours for weddings, children’s parties, hospitality, educational tours, special events etc!

w w w. l o n d o n r i b v o y a g e s . c o m

Look out for the official London Gay & Lesbian Guide and go to visitlondon.com for more info +44 (0)20 7278 7654; George and Dragon Hackney Rd E2, +44 (0)871 984 1146; Village Wardour Balans Old Compton St St W1, +44 (0)20 7434 W1, +44 (0)20 7439 2183; 2124; Royal Vauxhall Bar Music Hall Curtain Rd Tavern, Kennington Lane EC2, +44 (0)20 7613 5951; SE11, +44 (0)20 7737 Bistrotheque Wadeson St 4043; The Shadow E2, +44 (0)20 8983 7900; Lounge Brewer St W1, +44 Candy Bar Carlisle St W1, (0)20 7287 7988; +44 (0)20 7494 4041; Too2Much Walkers Court G.A.Y. @ ASTORIA Charing W1, +44 (0)20 7734 0377; Cross Rd WC2, +44 (0)20 The William IV 7434 9592; Gay’s The Hampstead High St NW3, Word Marchmont St WC1, +44 (0)20 7435 5747 GAY & LESBIAN LONDON CONTACT DETAILS

AN ESSENTIAL ‘MUST DO’ EXCURSION WHEN VISITING LONDON Skim across the surface of the river in a rigid inflatable boat, going further and faster in an hour than any other cruise. Enjoy this exhilarating experience with professional guides on board helping you explore the sites, sounds and stories of the Thames.

Phone: 020 7928 2350 or 020 7401 8834 Email: [email protected] Kiosk situated on the Waterloo Millennium Pier underneath the BA London Eye

CHURCHILL’S BRITAIN AT WAR EXPERIENCE 64/66 Tooley Street, London Bridge, SE1 2TF Experience what life was like for people in war-torn Britain during the

'LAMOUR 'RANDEUR 3LEAZE $ISEASE

Essentials

Hotels

78

B&Bs, Apartments & Hostels Transport Useful Tips Index Tube & Bus Maps

87 88 93 94 96

Everything you need to know when planning your visit, from airport-arrival tips to where to stay, plus how to get around when you want to explore

SECOND WORLD WAR This is a unique museum of interest to all ages, featuring evacuation, rationing, shelters, weddings, bomb disposal and gas masks. Walk through the London Blitz

SEE IT! FEEL IT! BREATHE IT! Every day except 24 – 26 December

Tel: 020 7403 3171 www.britainatwar.co.uk [email protected]

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Cross oceans, space and time all in one day

G R E E N W I C H

•

L O N D O N

Admission free Visit www.nmm.ac.uk or call 0870 780 4264 Greenwich (Zone 2) by rail, riverboat or Docklands Light Railway

visitlondon.com 77

Where to Stay London has a huge range of accommodation, so there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Here’s our guide to some of the best places to rest your head… The Familiar Faces Hotel Groups

Claridge’s

The Grand Dames Luxury Hotels

the Strand are individually designed traditional and art-deco rooms, many If you want a flavour of with river views, and quintessential England, a delightful, Michelinbook into one of the starred restaurant. capital’s grandest For London’s finest hotels. The Ritz (www. example of art-deco theritzlondon.com), at the opulence, and another corner of Green Park, on great restaurant (headed the cusp of Mayfair and by chef Gordon Ramsay), the West End, is perhaps book into Claridge’s the grandest of them all. (www.claridges.co.uk), It remains as ritzy as ever, close to Bond Street. with rooms to make you A little further west feel like royalty (in fact, in Knightsbridge, The royals have been known to Berkeley (www.thestay here) and a glorious berkeley.co.uk) has two rococo restaurant, as excellent restaurants, well as a less-formal a rooftop pool and a dining room where you fabulous cocktail bar. can take afternoon tea. At Hyde Park Corner, On the north bank The Lanesborough of the Thames, the (www.lanesborough.com) Savoy (www.fairmont. is a former hospital that is com/savoy) is almost as now a beautiful Regency legendary. Through the hotel with a heavenly imposing entrance along spa. A perfect escape. 78 visitlondon.com

Like any major city, London has its fair share of chain hotels, most of which offer an excellent standard of accommodation and service, and often at discounted prices. At a four- or five-star Radisson Edwardian (www.radissonedwardian. com), Radisson (www. radisson.com), Hilton (www.hilton.co.uk) or Sheraton (www. sheraton.com), you will feel part of an international community of business-trippers and holiday-makers, and there will invariably be a fine restaurant and bar. Among the best of these are the huge London Hilton on Park Lane

t-priceFor bes e hotel te n ra a u g s go to booking on.com d visitlon

– where you can sip a martini and soak up the birdseye view of the capital from the 28thfloor restaurant – and the stylish, newly refurbished The May Fair. The mid-range chains, including Thistle Hotels (www. thistlehotels.com), Premier Travel Inn (www.premiertravelinn. com), Best Western (www.bestwestern.co.uk), Novotel (www.novotel. com), Holiday Inn (www.holiday-inn.co.uk) and Travelodge (www. travelodge.co.uk) all have a number of branches in and around central London, and all promise a reliable stay in quality surroundings. Visit the respective websites for location details.

The Beautiful Boutiques Designer Hotels

to Kensington, its rococo décor tucked behind a demure Georgian façade. In recent years, the The romantic, eccentric number of small-butMiller’s Residence (www. perfectly-formed hotels millersuk.com), on the in London has increased. fringes of Notting Hill, The Soho Hotel (www. has six rooms and two firmdale.com), tucked suites full of antiques and down an alley in London’s curios, plus an extravagant, liveliest neighbourhood, 40ft drawing room. has a very English blend In complete contrast of luxury and eccentricity, to this is The Zetter while its sister, the Covent (www.thezetter.com), a warehouse conversion Garden Hotel (www. in Clerkenwell. Classic firmdale.com), is a little Baglioni Hotel 60s and 70s modernist more traditional but just designs are everywhere, as decadent. Both are but there are also The Welcome located close to some touches of old-fashioned of the city’s best shops, Signs restaurants and theatres. grandeur, such as the pink Airport And chandelier in the lobby The Baglioni Hotel Station Hotels and the rooftop studio At London’s main airports, (www.baglionihotels. with a private terrace. chain hotels abound. com) brings Italian style Hilton has branches at Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted (www.hilton. co.uk). The following chains also have hotels near airports: Radisson Edwardian (www.radisson edwardian.com), Marriott (www.marriott.com), Premier Travel Inn (www. premiertravelinn.com) and the Sheraton group (www. starwoodhotels.com). The Soho Hotel Near the city’s train

stations, you’ll find a wider choice of hotels with period character. Close to Victoria Station, Hamilton House Hotel (www. hamiltonhousehotel.com) and The Windermere Hotel (www.windermerehotel.co.uk) are friendly, mid-range options, while The Rubens at the Palace (www.rubenshotel.com) has a Monarch Suite with a jacuzzi and four-poster bed. The area around Paddington Station teems with hotels. Royal Norfolk Hotel (www.royalnorfolk hotel.co.uk) is a good, traditional choice, while The Pavilion (www. pavilionhoteluk.com) is more eccentric, favoured by musicians and actors. The Great Eastern The May Fair Spa is a hidden retreat in the heart of the capital Hotel by Liverpool Street that combines understated luxury and top-notch spa science Station (www.greatwith seven treatment rooms, a traditional sauna and a herbal steam room. Signature treatments include the Algotherm JetLag eastern-hotel.co.uk) Reviver package – perfect for kickstarting weary travellers after a offers an interior full of long-haul journey to London. The more adventurous might like to period detail. There’s great try the May Fair Mud Bath, which can be enjoyed alone or with a food in its restaurants, partner. After your treatment, complete your blissful experience as well as nearby Hoxton in the relaxation room with a herbal tea or lemon sorbet. and Spitalfields.

A Relaxing Experience…

The May Fair

The May Fair Spa

+44 (0)20 7915 2826, www.mayfairspa.com

visitlondon.com 79

Accommodation Showcase

Advertising Feature

A selection of London’s fi nest hotels

Crescent Hotel

Grosvenor House

Hyde Park Radnor

Riverbank Park Plaza

Springfield Hotel

Hyde Park Hotels

49-50 Cartwright Gardens, London WC1H 9EL T: +44 (0)20 7387 1515 F: +44 (0)20 7383 2054 E: general.enquiries@ crescenthoteloflondon.com www.crescenthoteloflondon.com

Park Lane, London W1K 7TN T: +44 (0)20 7499 6363 F: +44 (0)20 7493 3341 E: [email protected] www.grosvenor-house.co.uk

7-9 Sussex Place, London W2 2SX T: +44 (0)20 7723 5969 F: +44 (0)20 7262 8955 E: [email protected] www.hydeparkradnor.com

18 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TJ T: +44 (0)20 7958 8000 F: +44 (0)20 7769 2400 E: [email protected] www.parkplaza.com

154 Sussex Gardens, London W2 1UD T: +44 (0)20 7723 9898 F: +44 (0)20 7723 0874 E: info@springfield hotellondon.co.uk www.springfieldhotellondon.co.uk

170-172 Sussex Gardens, London W2 1TP T: +44 (0)20 7402 0704 F: +44 (0)20 7262 2055 E: [email protected] www.centrallondonhotels.com www.hydeparkhotels.com

Your find in Bloomsbury. This family-run B&B hotel, founded in 1956, is in a classical Georgian crescent away from main roads, 10 minutes from three Tube and mainline train stations. Refurbished sympathetically to its origins in 2005, it provides an elegant base for your London break, offering 3-star accommodation. The hearty English breakfast will sustain you through serious shopping, sightseeing or simply mooching. Pastimes? We can provide ideas or you can use our website to plan your stay.

Grosvenor House is one of the capital’s most iconic and bestknown hotels. Centrally located on Park Lane, the hotel offers some of the most extensive facilities in London. Perhaps best known for the myriad high profile events held in the Great Room, Europe’s largest banqueting space, Grosvenor House also offers 494 quiet and beautifully appointed guest rooms, of which 72 are executive suites, with the amenities and services one would expect of a leading international 5-star hotel. Deserving of its status, Grosvenor House also boasts the most extensive meetings and banqueting facilities in the capital, not to mention a variety of dining options, all in the heart of Mayfair.

Located in the heart of central London, the Hyde Park Radnor has recently been refurbished to a high standard. The excellent location provides easy access to all of London’s top attractions, shops, restaurants and theatres. The hotel is in walking distance of Paddington Underground, mainline train stations, Heathrow Express, tour buses, Hyde Park, Oxford Street, Madame Tussauds, Harrods, Kensington Palace, Marble Arch and many more sights and locations. All rooms are ensuite, with tea/coffee-making facilities, hairdryer, telephone, satellite TV, serviced daily, with lift to all floors. Rates from just £40 per person, including full English breakfast.

Riverbank Park Plaza is a stunning new-build, 4-star deluxe hotel. Situated on the south side of the River Thames, its exemplary location affords spectacular views of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye. Its state-of-the-art facilities ensure a luxurious night’s sleep or a fantastic dining experience in its Chino Latino Brasserie, Bar & Lounge – sure to be a memorable event for any visitor. Riverbank Park Plaza joins a growing portfolio of Park Plaza Hotels in London – the Victoria Park Plaza in Westminster and the Sherlock Holmes Hotel on world-famous Baker Street. Visit our website for more information.

A warm, welcoming Hotel that puts people immediately at ease on arrival. Traditional values ensure a happy comfortable stay. We are minutes away from Oxford Street, Hyde Park and London’s wonderful sights. Plenty of information is available to enhance your visit, whilst our delicious English breakfast sets you up for the day and the experiences of London. The hotel may be very quiet but it is not remote, being near to plenty of restaurants and bars, not to mention two minutes from the Underground station. All rooms are ensuite with TV, tea and coffee facilities and hairdryers. Many customers return year after year, please come and find out why.

Our hotels and apartments are comfortable, convenient and excellent value for money. Located only a short walk from Paddington station, overlooking the peaceful Sussex Gardens, Talbot Square and some of the most beautiful views of London. Our central location, close to Theatreland, all of London’s top sights and some of the finest shops, offers you a great opportunity to relax and enjoy your stay with us.

80 visitlondon.com

visitlondon.com 81

Good value accommodation… www.centrallondonhotels.com

……in Central London GREAT VALUE: FROM JUST £22 PER PERSON Our hotels and apartment suites are comfortable, convenient and great value for money. Because we don’t take large groups or pay agents’ commission, we give you the full value of your room. Book direct with us and save as much as 20% on what you might pay elsewhere. EASY TO REACH

ASPEN APARTMENTS

ABBEY COURT HOTEL

WESTPOINT HOTEL

174 Sussex Gardens Hyde Park, London, W2 1TP Tel (020)7402 0704 Fax (020)7262 2055 www.abbeycourthotel.com e-mail [email protected]

170 – 172 Sussex Gardens Hyde Park, London, W2 1TP Tel (020)7402 0281 Fax (020)7224 9114 www.westpointhotel.com e-mail [email protected]

• Convenient location 2 minutes from Paddington station & Heathrow Express and 4 minutes from Airbus

• Pleasant central location, convenient for all major sights, museums & theatres

• Easy access to all London’s important tourist sights, shopping districts and theatres

• Close to all shopping districts, Oxford Street & Piccadilly Circus • Clean, comfortable, well decorated rooms

• Ensuite shower and w.c. in all rooms

• All rooms ensuite, colour TV & direct dial telephone

• Lift to all floors. Car parking by arrangement

• Lift to all floors, free daytime luggage room facility

• Each room with colour TV & direct dial tel

• 2 mins from Paddington and Heathrow Express

• Tea and coffee making facillities in all rooms

• Tea and coffee making facillities in all rooms

RATES Per Person per night

Singles Doubles Triples Family room

Low Season from £49 from £32 from £23 from £22

High Season from £56 from £34 from £25 from £23

Fully serviced studio, one & two bedroom apartments 176 Sussex Gardens, Hyde Park, London, W2 1TP Tel (020)7262 2325 Fax (020)7262 0889 www.aspenhydepark.com e-mail [email protected]

• Ensuite • Fully equipped kitchen • Fully serviced • 24 hour reception • Parking by arrangement • Lift

ABBEY COURT & WESTPOINT HOTELS & ASPEN APARTMENTS

Whether you arrive by Eurostar or plane train or tube our hotels are easily accessible and couldn’t be easier to reach.

EASY TO FIND Our hotels and apartment suites are just two minutes from Paddington station for Heathrow Express, British Rail, excellent bus and taxi services and four tube lines (Bakerloo, Circle, District, Hammersmith & City).

ASPEN APARTMENTS

RATES from just £70 per apartment per night & ASPEN APARTMENTS

RATES Per Person per night

Singles Doubles Triples Family room

Low Season from £52 from £34 from £24 from £23

High Season from £59 from £37 from £28 from £24

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CONVENIENT & CENTRAL We are right at the heart of London, just a few minutes by direct tube from Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus and Embankment for sightseeing, shopping, restaurants, theatreland and the River Thames.

Accommodation: The hotel’s 387 guest rooms will be designed in a timeless English style with the modern conveniences of flat screen televisions and music systems. The 60 newly decorated suites will be complemented by a neo-classical design. The new L ondon signature suite, will create the feel of an ultra-luxurious apartment. The floating staircase and innovative use of light will reveal stunning vistas over B u c k i n g h a m Pa l a c e .

Dining: The sleek, spacious lobby will be the place to meet throughout the day or night, with a jovial atmosphere that echoes the buzz of London life. Theo Randall, until recently head chef and partner at the River Cafe, will open his eponymous restaurant at the InterContinental. Creating his own unique interpretation of regional Italian cuisine, he will be sourcing the freshest ingredients from specialist s u p p l i e r s i n t h e U n i t e d K i n g d o m a n d I t a l y. To c o m p l e m e n t t h i s , I n t e r C o n t i n e n t a l L o n d o n P a r k L a n e will also boast a second restaurant, Cookbook Cafe. Here you can find British comfort food and international specialities. The cafe will be an academy for young c h e f s , s h o w c a s i n g c r e a t i v e c o o k e r y, w i n e d e m o n s t r a t i o n s and cookery book launches.

L ocated at Number One Park L ane, the renamed InterContinental L ondon Park L ane overlooks two Royal Parks and Buckingham Palace. A £60 million refurbishment will p o s i t i o n i t a s a g l o b a l f l a g s h i p f o r t h e b r a n d w h e n i t o p e n s i n N o v e m b e r. T h e h o t e l w i l l boast luxurious new guest rooms and suites, including four distinctive signature suites with commanding views. The experience will be further enhanced by the addition of a new destination restaurant, Theo Randall at The InterContinental, contemporary event space and a chic urban spa in partnership with Elemis.

One Hamilton Place Park Lane London W1J 7QY Tel:+44 (0)20 7409 3131 Fax:+44 (0)20 7493 3476 E-mail:[email protected] Website:www.london.intercontinental.com

Spa InterContinental: The new chic, urban spa, run in partnership with Elemis, will redefine what it is to relax. The spa will feature 5 luxurious treatment rooms, 2 private spa suites and a discreet VIP spa suite with private entrance, which offers the u l t i m a t e i n e x c l u s i v i t y.

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• The best value Bed & Breakfast accommodation in the UK.

• We have an extensive range from superb quality character properties to budget level accommodation from £20 per person per night.

• Properties in all the major tourist destinations London, Bath, Cotswolds, Stratford, York, Lake District, Scotland and Wales.

• Group & touring itineraries arranged. W: www.host-guest.co.uk • E: [email protected] T: +44 (0) 207 385 9922 • F: +44 (0) 207 386 7575 103 Dawes Road, London SW6 7DU, England

ENTERPRISE HOTEL 15-25, HOGARTH ROAD, EARLS COURT, KENSINGTON,LONDON SW5 OQJ TEL: 020 7373 4502 FAX: 020 7373 5115 [email protected] www.enterprisehotel.co.uk

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

GREAT VALUE FOR AN EXCELLENT LOCATION

The hotel is ideally situated within walking distance to the tube & buses in the cosmopolitan heart of Kensington, close to Earls Court exhibition centres and within easy access to London’s popular west-end theatres, night clubs and museums. The fashionable shops of high street Kensington & Knightsbridge are within easy reach. The hotel boasts of a relaxing lounge, restaurant & bar and 100 en-suite rooms featuring TV with satellite channels, pay movie channels, direct dial telephones, fast internet access, hospitality trays and hairdryers. Singles From £49.50 Doubles/Twins From £69.50 Triples From £89.50 Quads From £109.50 The rates above are on a Room Only basis inclusive of Current VAT of 17.5% and Service Charge

Provides a warm and friendly welcome, with comfort and convenience, for business or pleasure…at an all-inclusive competitive price. All major credit cards accepted. Rooms: All rooms have toilet and showers, well designed and newly decorated with central heating, colour TV, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer. Prices: Singles Double Triple/Family

from £49 - £59 from £54 - £69 from £69 - £79

Full Continental breakfast included in tariff. Call, fax or E-mail us. Tel: (020) 7430 2504/ (020) 7405 9470 Fax: (020) 7430 0697 E-mail: [email protected] Or you can visit our website: www.guilfordhotel.co.uk 6 Guilford Street, Russell Square, London WC1N 1DR

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St. David’s & Norfolk Court Hotels 16-20 Norfolk Square, Paddington, London W2 1RS

Tel: +44 20 7723 4963 / 2968 / 3856

Fax: +44 20 7402 9061

Friendly, family run hotel minutes from Hyde Park, Oxford St, Paddington Station and Heathrow Express. Situated in a quiet garden square, we offer affordable, clean and comfortable accommodation. Single room from £49 Triple from £80 Quad+ from £100 Double / Twin from £69 Prices are for rooms with ensuite facilities per night and include our famous full English breakfast. Discounted rates available for long stays. Approved by London Tourist Board, Lonely Planet, Frommers Guide, Visit London to name a few !

Website: www.stdavidshotels.com

E-mail: [email protected]

For comfort and convenience, for business and pleasure THE CARLTON HOTEL has a lot to offer at a moderate all-inclusive price. Located in London’s central area of Victoria and fashionable Belgravia, the Hotel is conveniently situated within walking distance of London’s famous landmarks. All rooms with private toilet & shower, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer & T.Vs.

B&Bs, Apartments & Hostels If you don’t fancy staying in a hotel, here are a few great alternatives Family Affairs B&Bs

Homes From Home Self-Catering & Serviced Apartments

YHA Earl’s Court

The Cheval Group (www. chevalgroup.com) offers The bed and breakfast a range of luxury serviced (B&B) is a great British apartments in west institution so, of course, London and the City. While London has its fair share If you plan to stay in Beaumont Apartments of small, often familyLondon for more than (www.beaumont-londonrun hotels. The opposite a few days, it makes apartments.co.uk) is a value experience to staying in a sense to find an apartment option in leafy Southfields, chain hotel, a B&B offers – and there is sure to be near Wimbledon. the chance to stay with something to suit For more self-catering your hosts in a homely your budget. accommodation, go to environment, often in a 196 Bishopsgate visitlondon.com residential area – although (www.196bishopsgate. still in central London and com), in the City, has Cheap And well-connected. 48 fully serviced suites Cheerful 66 Camden Square is with marble bathrooms Hostels a Japanese-style house on and sleek kitchens. Scala The constant flux of a quiet square just north House (www.scala-house. international travellers in of Euston, designed by co.uk), in the heart of the London means there’s a the architects who live West End, has elegant well-established network there. 30 King Henry’s apartments with amazing of hostels here. Road in Primrose Hill has views. Clarendon House The Youth Hostel just one room, with books Apartments (www.hunny Association (www.yha. lining the walls and a huge pot.org.uk/clarendon) org.uk) has eight hostels bathroom. The Attic offers stylish art-deco and in the capital, including in Kensington is a little Victorian accommodation a stunning townhouse in pricier than most B&Bs in Ealing, west London. Earl’s Court that recently – but it does have a hot Dovetail House (+44 reopened, and one in the tub on the roof. (0)20 8291 0924), in elegant former choirboys’ For more info or to south London’s Forest accommodation by book a London B&B, log Hill, is a more suburban St Paul’s Cathedral. St on to visitlondon.com two-bedroom house. Christopher’s Inns

Singles from £49 Double/Twin from £59 90 Belgrave Road, Victoria, London SW1V 2BJ Tel: (020) 7976 6634 Fax: (020) 7821 8020 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cityhotelcarlton.co.uk Hampstead street

(www.st-christophers. co.uk) has six secure backpackers’ residences in London. Journey’s Hostels (www.journeys hostels.com) has residences in King’s Cross and Waterloo. Universities also offer cheap places to stay in the summer. London School of Economics (www.lse.ac.uk/vacations) has rooms beside the Thames, by Covent Garden and in other areas, while University College London (www. ucl.ac.uk/residences) and University of Westminster (www. wmin.ac.uk) also offer accommodation in the centre or more relaxing outer parts of London. info For moreook or to b B&Bs, & hostels to go don.com n visitlo

Home Stays

Useful Information

Staying with a family is becoming increasingly popular with visitors wanting to sample real London life, and there are many agencies that specialise in this. See the Visit London Official Accommodation Guide 2007, available in tourist offices, or log on to visitondon.com for more information.

Most hotels and B&Bs require a deposit for advance bookings. The amount varies and will be deducted from your bill. Many establishments require payment on arrival if you have not made a booking, and be warned that late cancellations can be subject to a fee. For further details, see visitlondon.com visitlondon.com 87

Getting Here

Heathrow Airport

Alex, chef, from Denmark Tate Modern

88 visitlondon.com

To London by Coach National Express runs roughly three buses every hour to Victoria Coach Station. Fares from £10 single; journey time 40 mins. www.nationalexpress.com

Giving directions

To London by Bus Night Bus N9 goes to Aldwych via Trafalgar Square and High Street Kensington. Bus services run every 30 mins; journey time around 65 mins. www.tfl.gov.uk/buses

London City Airport +44 (0)20 7646 0088 www.london cityairport.com

Getting Around

The airport is on the Docklands Light Railway. Fares from £1.50; journey time around 22 mins to Bank station.

Exploring the capital is simple with the excellent transport networks

London Luton Airport +44 (0)1582 405 100 www.london-luton.co.uk Luton Airport Parkway station is near the airport, and a free, regular shuttle bus service connects them. To London by Rail First Capital Connect operates up to eight trains an hour to King’s Cross Thameslink, Farringdon, London City Thameslink and Blackfriars stations.

Travel Information

All prices quoted correct at time of going to print

To London by Rail/Tube The Piccadilly line connects Heathrow Terminals 1, 2 and 3, and Getting to London couldn’t be 4 with central easier, however you prefer to travel Terminal London every 4-5 mins. Fares from £4 single (from £2 with an Oyster card); On arrival journey time around journey time about 40 mins. Gatwick Airport www.southernrailway.com an hour. www.tfl.gov.uk/tube +44 (0)870 000 2468 www.baa.co.uk First Capital Connect The Heathrow Express runs up to four trains operates four non-stop To London by Rail an hour to Blackfriars/ trains each hour to and Gatwick Express runs London Bridge. Fares from London Paddington four trains an hour to from £10 single; station. Fares from £13.50 London Victoria station. journey time 35 mins. single; journey time 15-20 Fares from £14 single; www.firstcapital mins. There are two journey time 30 mins. connect.co.uk Heathrow stations: As with all airport Central for Terminals 1, 2 transport services, To London by Coach and 3, and Terminal 4. check the website for There is an hourly coach Transport for London (TfL) departure times. service to Victoria Travelcards are not www.gatwickexpress.com Coach Station run by valid on this service. National Express www.heathrow Southern Railways Airport. Fares from express.com operates three trains £6.60 single; journey hourly to Victoria station. time 1 hour 20 mins. Fares from £9 single; www.nationalexpress.com Heathrow Connect is a new service that runs between Heathrow and Paddington via five stations in West London. Trains run every 30 minutes; journey time around 25 mins. www.heathrow connect.com

“There’s so much to explore in London, and it’s very well connected”

up to four trains per hour Arriving by to Liverpool Street station. Eurostar Fares from £15 single; +44 (0)870 518 6186 journey time from 45 mins. www.eurostar.com www.stanstedexpress.com There are frequent To London by Coach services from London National Express runs Waterloo to Paris and three separate coach Brussels daily. The Paris services into London. journey takes 2 hours 35 easyBus runs every 40 mins to Baker Street. Fares www.nationalexpress.com mins; Brussels is 2 hours and 20 mins away. The Fares from £10.70 single; from £1 single; journey Terravision Express trains arrive at Waterloo journey time from 35 mins. time around 55 mins. Shuttle operates two station, bringing travellers www.firstcapital www.easybus.co.uk coaches per hour to straight into the national connect.co.uk Victoria Coach Station rail network and the TfL London Stansted Airport in central London with bus and Underground Midland Mainline good onward travel systems. Later this year, operates a regular rail +44 (0)870 000 0303 connections. Fares from Eurostar is switching from service to St Pancras www.baa.com £8.50 single; journey Waterloo to its new hub station. Journey time time around 75 mins. at St Pancras International, from 23 mins. To London by Rail so check details online. www.midlandmainline.com Stansted Express operates www.lowcostcoach.com To London by Bus Green Line operates three coaches an hour to Baker Street, Marble Arch and Victoria. Fares from £9 single; journey time 75 mins. www.greenline.co.uk

+44 (0)870 000 0123 www.baa.co.uk

Victoria and Liverpool Street, as well as at Transport for London (TfL) West Croydon bus has an extensive website station, and these providing up-to-theare great points of minute information on all contact for visitors modes of London who need to plan transport. TfL also has their onward journeys. a network of Travel www.tfl.gov.uk Information Centres located in stations At every Underground throughout the city, station, blue-uniformed including Euston, staff are happy to help Piccadilly Circus, with general directions Heathrow Airport, and route advice.

date For up to ation form in l e v a tr on call in Lond 22 1234 0 72 +44 (0)2 g on to or lo .gov.uk www.tfl

For further information on London’s attractions, and to plan your own itineraries online go to visitlondon.com/explorer

Underground

There are 12 colour-coded Tube lines. Most operate from 5am to 12.30am Travel tickets and Mon-Sat, and from 7.30am information are also to 11.30pm on Sundays. available at the Britain It’s cheaper and less & London Visitor Centre crowded to avoid the rush on Lower Regent Street, hour and travel after near Piccadilly Circus. 9.30am. The network is divided into six Journey Planner is a useful concentric zones – Zone website that tells 1 is the central area. you the best routes to and from specific locations, Buses by rail, tube, bus or on Some routes are foot, and it’s available especially good for in five languages. sightseeing, and services www.tfl.gov.uk/ 9 and 15 use heritage journeyplanner Routemasters during the visitlondon.com 89

day. Most bus services operate from 5am to 12.30am daily, with many routes now operating 24-hour services. Tickets must be purchased before boarding a bus in Zone 1 and are available from ticket machines at bus stops, although visitors may find it easier and cheaper to buy a bus pass or Travelcard.

and Victoria, serving the south of England; Paddington, the southwest; Euston, the north; King’s Cross, the northeast; and Liverpool Street, the east. Various annual discount cards are available – go to www. railcard.co.uk for details. www.nationalrail.co.uk

Taxis

Tickets

London’s famous Black Cabs offer a safe, reliable, door-to-door service. Taxis can be hailed on the street when the yellow light is on, or at designated taxi ranks. Fares are regulated, and all drivers and vehicles are licensed by the Public Carriage Office.

Trams

Minicabs

Single fares are available for any journey, although visitors will find it easier and better value to purchase a Travelcard. Travelcards are valid for use on the Underground, bus, DLR, tram and national rail, and also offer a one-third discount on River services. They are available for one, three or seven days, and in peak or off-peak versions for one and three days.

Tramlink’s service links Docklands Croydon with, among Light Railway other places, Wimbledon. The DLR connects the City www.tfl.gov.uk/trams and the Underground network with Docklands, Coaches and offers a great way of Coaches are a quick and exploring this rapidly inexpensive way of changing area of London. making a day trip out of It also forms a useful link London. Victoria Coach to Maritime Greenwich. Station is a major hub Services operate from for various bus 5.30am to 12.30am and companies. See www. tickets must be purchased nationalexpress.com/save before boarding a train. for discount cards. www.tfl.gov.uk/coaches or www.nationalexpress.com National Rail Trains are useful for reaching places that are The River not served by the Tube, See pages 38-39 for such as Hampton Court details on river transport. and Windsor. Mainline visitlondon.com/river or stations include: Waterloo www.tfl.gov.uk/river

Private hire companies or ‘minicabs’ cannot be hailed on the street; they must be booked by telephone or in person at the operator’s base. To check if an operator is licensed, call +44 (0)20 7222 1234 or go to www. tfl.gov.uk/pco – do not get into a vehicle that is not licensed, or if the driver approaches you in the street. Text HOME to 60835 to get the phone numbers of three local, licensed minicab numbers sent to your mobile phone. A good, reputable company is Addison Lee – call +44 (0)20 7387 8888 or visit www.addisonlee.com

London Underground London Underground station

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Oyster cards The Oyster card is London’s travel smartcard: Travelcards and bus pass season tickets can be put on them, or you can charge up to £50 to travel payas-you-go. For most visitors, Oyster is the cheapest way of getting around. For more information, go to www.tfl.gov.uk/oyster. You can order one before you travel from overseas ticket agents.

Cycling public holidays), you need to pay the Congestion Charge. The charge is £8 per day, which must be paid in advance or on day of travel. If you pay by midnight the next day, the charge is £10. Payment can be made online, by Congestion Charge calling 0845 900 1234 or If you are driving in central by sending an SMS from a London between 7am and mobile phone to 81099. www.cclondon.com 6.30pm Mon-Fri (except For information on cycling in London, see www.tfl. gov.uk/cycles. For bicycle hire from various pick-up points in London, contact OY Bike Systems on +44 (0)20 8955 6800.

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Useful Tips All you need to help make your trip run as smoothly as possible Money The unit of currency in Britain is the pound sterling (£), and all London areas are served by ATMs, which accept Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus or Maestro cards. If you are bringing travellers’ cheques, these can be exchanged at banks, bureau de change offices, hotels and post offices. Take advantage of taxfree shopping and receive the VAT back on your purchases. If you are from outside the EU ask for a tax-free shopping form or go to www.premiertaxfree. com to find out more. Global Refund’s currencyconversion system, First Currency Choice, is the first credit-card payment system that allows international customers to make payments in their own currency at the point of sale, and it is available in selected shops and hotels in the city. For money

exchange, TTT Foreign Exchange Corporation and Thomas Exchange Global both have several branches in the centre.

Visitor Information Find all you need to know at visitlondon.com, the official one-stop shop to London. You can also visit the Britain & London Visitor Centre, 1 Lower Regent Street W1, open seven days a week or email blvc@visitbritain. org. For the inside guide to London, check out London TV, available in hotels, cabs, planes and trains and via visitlondon.com

Visas

Citizens of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the USA are given, at their point of arrival, ‘leave to Opening Hours enter’ the UK for up to Shops are generally open six months. However, if from Monday to Saturday you’re a citizen of the EU, from 10am to 6pm, you don’t need a visa to though some central enter the country. Visa stores stay open till 7pm – regulations are always and later still on Thursdays subject to change, so – while on Sundays many please check with the open from midday to 4pm. local embassy or at Visitor attractions and www.ukvisas.gov.uk. museums typically open daily from 10am to 6pm, Tipping though most close for Although there are no a couple of days for the fixed rules, tipping in Christmas holidays. the UK has become Public holiday dates commonplace. If you’ve for 2007 are New Year received good service, (1 January), Good Friday/ whether in a restaurant, Easter Monday (6 and 9 café or hotel, it is quite April), May Day Holiday (7 normal to leave a tip of 10 May), Spring Bank Holiday per cent of the total bill. (28 May), Summer Bank Taxi drivers will expect Holiday (27 August) and tips of around 10 per cent. Christmas Day/Boxing Day Communications (25 and 26 December). The minimum amount for a call at a public Emergencies payphone is 30p. You can As in all major cities, you should be aware of your own personal use the Totally London safety. To avoid being a victim of pick pocketing, keep all your phonecard to make cheap bags closed. If you have anything to report, you can telephone phone calls abroad, see the emergency services on 999 for more serious incidents. visitlondon.com. Stamps Be vigilant and never leave baggage unattended.

can be bought at post offices or newsagents. Postcards to Europe cost 44p, to the rest of the world 50p. Many hotels have internet access and there are internet cafés throughout the city.

Health Pharmacists can dispense certain drugs over the counter – Boots being the biggest chain. Most are open standard hours, but each neighbourhood has a duty chemist that opens on Sundays. Most doctors’ surgeries have a daily drop-in hour. You can also turn up at the Accident and Emergency department of hospitals.

Travellers with Disabilities Thanks to the Disability Discrimination Act of 1995, all new tourist attractions and hotels now make full provision for wheelchair users, and access to other public places has greatly improved. Most TfL buses are equipped for passengers who have mobility problems. visitlondon.com 93

Index Accommodation Airport and Station Hotels Bed and Breakfasts Designer Hotels Home Stays Hostels Hotel Groups Luxury Hotels May Fair Spa Self-Catering Apartments

Pubs Pub Tour 78 87 78 87 87 78 78 78 87

Restaurants Best for Entertainment Best for Views British Cafés Chains French Hotel Dining Indian International Italian Landmark Locations Museum Restaurants Value Eats

Dance and Music

71

Essentials

77 93 93 93 93 Nightlife 93 Cabaret Casinos 93 Cinema 93 Comedy Gay and Lesbian 18 Live Music 21 Nightclubs

Communications Health Money Opening Hours Tipping Travellers with Disabilities Visas

Events Festivals Food & Drink Bar Etiquette Bars Canary Wharf Design Bars Hotel Bars

51 61 61 61 62 63

London’s skyline You may be surprised at just how many of these iconic buildings you recognise… 94 visitlondon.com

Outdoors Bankside Canals Cruises Parks River, The

61 Royal Parks 63 South Bank, The Summer Concerts 52

Shopping 57 52 52 56 57 53 58 54 55 53 56 57 55 72 72 72 73 72 74 72 74 37 38 39 39 40 38

Antiques Department Stores Destinations Fashion Markets Museum Shops Souvenirs Traditional Shops

Sightseeing Attractions Amora British Airways London Eye Fuller’s Griffin Brewery Leeds Castle London Aquarium London Dungeon London Zoo Madame Tussauds Tower Bridge Exhibition Tower of London Trinity Buoy Wharf Vinopolis Windsor Castle Galleries Bayswater Road

41 Artists 38 Ben Uri Gallery 40 Courtauld Institute of Art Gallery 45 Dali Universe 48 Dulwich Picture 46 Gallery 48 Estorick Collection of 46 Modern Italian Art 47 Gilbert Collection 48 Guildhall Art Gallery 49 Hayward Gallery 49 Hermitage Rooms London Glassblowing 23 Workshop 26 National Gallery 26 National Portrait Gallery 26 Queen’s Gallery Royal Academy 26 of Arts 26 Saatchi Gallery 26 Serpentine Gallery 26 Tate Britain 26 Tate Modern 26 Wallace Collection Whitechapel 26 White Cube 26 Historic 26 Landmarks 26 British Library 26 Central Hall 34 Westminster Golden Hinde, The

34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 25 25 25 25

Hampton Court Richmond Park Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Pagoda and Palm House Wembley Stadium Kenwood House Royal Albert Hall Serpentine Gallery Lord’s Cricket Ground Battersea Park – Buddhist Peace Pagoda Albert Bridge Battersea Power Station Alexandra Palace London Central Mosque London Zoo – Aviary & Entrance Buckingham Palace BT Tower Statue of Eros

HMS Belfast Houses of Parliament Old Royal Naval College Royal Observatory Somerset House St Paul’s Cathedral Wellington Arch Westminster Abbey Westminster Cathedral Houses & Palaces Apsley House Baden-Powell House Banqueting House Buckingham Palace Carlyle’s House Chiswick House Fenton House Ham House Hampton Court Palace Jewel Tower Kensington Palace Marble Hill House Osterley Park House Queen’s House Ranger’s House Red House Royal Mews Sutton House Syon House Museums Bank of England

25 Museum 32 25 British Museum 32 Cabinet War Rooms 25 and Churchill Museum 32 25 Design Museum 32 25 Fan Museum 32 25 Foundling Museum 32 25 Geffrye Museum 32 25 Guards Museum 32 Handel House Museum 32 25 Imperial War Museum 32 29 Jewish Museum 32 29 London Pass, The 33 29 London’s Transport 29 Museum 32 29 Museum of London 33 29 National Army 29 Museum 33 29 National Maritime 29 Museum 33 Natural History 29 Museum 33 29 Royal Air Force 29 Museum 33 29 Science Museum 33 29 Sir John Soane’s 29 Museum 33 29 Theatre Museum 33 29 2 Willow Road 33 29 V&A Museum of 29 Childhood 33 29 V&A Sth Kensington 33 32 Winston Churchill’s Britain at War 33

30 Tours All London Tours 30 A Nous Deux Londres 30 Astral Travels 30 BBC TV Centre Tours 30 Big Bus Company 30 BlueBrolly London Audio Walks 30 Blue Plaques 30 British Tours 30 Golden Tours 30 Good Company 30 London Bicycle Tour Company 30 London TLC 30 London Tours 30 Luxury Vacations UK 30 Magnus Nielsen Tours 30 Original London Sightseeing Tour 30 Original London Walks 30 21st Century Travel 30

Sport Athletics Cricket Cycling Football Horseracing Rowing Rugby Sport Tours Tennis Tour de France

42 42 42 42 42 43 43 43 43 43 43

Theatre Arts Centres Blue Man Group Booking Tickets Guys and Dolls Lion King, The Off West End Outdoor Theatres West End

Transport Buses Coaches Congestion Charge Docklands Light Railway Eurostar Gatwick Airport Heathrow Airport London City Airport London Luton Airport London Stansted Airport Minicabs National Rail Oyster Cards River Transport Taxis Tickets Travel Information Underground

65 66 68 67 68 68 68 67 66 88 89 90 90 90 89 88 88 88 88 89 90 90 90 90 90 90 89 89

Chinatown MI6 Big Ben Trafalgar Square Charing Cross Hungerford Bridge British Airways London Eye King’s Cross Somerset House Cleopatra’s Needle Oxo Tower Tate Modern Millennium Bridge St Paul’s Cathedral Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre The Guildhall Monument Tower 42 The ‘Gherkin’ HMS Belfast City Hall Tower Bridge The Old Truman Brewery Peckham Library Canary Wharf Walthamstow Greyhound Stadium Greenwich Foot Tunnel National Maritime Museum Royal Observatory The O2 Thames Barrier visitlondon.com 95

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