London

Don’t miss

Explore London’s winding River Thames from the Tower of London’s Crown Jewels and modern art at the Tate Modern to the culture hub of the South Bank and London Eye’s observation wheel. Free attractions include the relic-packed British Museum, South Kensington’s museums and the National Gallery on majestic Trafalgar Square or catch a show in London’s lively Theatreland.

Retail therapy

Leave room in your suitcase for London bargains. For British high-street fashion, bustling Oxford Street has everything from John Lewis to TopShop’s flagship store. Head to Covent Garden for quirky fashion and New Bond Street for top-end labels. Don’t miss Saturday’s Portobello Market (Notting Hill) and Sunday’s Spitalfields (Liverpool Street) for one-off designs and gifts.

Eat & drink

London dishes up everything from authentic Italian in Soho and Oriental snacks in Chinatown to cool bars in Hoxton (Old Street) and trendy eateries in Notting Hill. Sample fine cheese at Borough Market near London Bridge or opt for bubbly at The Champagne Bar at St Pancras International station.

Hidden gem

Warwick Avenue, a few tube stops from busy Oxford Circus, is home to Little Venice’s canal quarter. Find cafes, pubs and even a theatre inside the colourful converted barges, take a leisurely stroll along the towpath or enjoy a relaxing boat trip.