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Center for Global Education Study Abroad United Kingdom

London Travel Tips

tskluzace001

March 7, 2025 • 3 min read

A group of twelve people pose happily with drinks in front of Buckingham Palace. The sky is clear and sunny. They are dressed in casual winter clothing, and the palace's ornate gates are visible in the background.
Written by Ellie W.

Don’t Forget to Pack:

  1. A rain jacket and a cute, versatile jacket: London weather can change quickly!
  2. Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll definitely get your steps in.
  3. Any niche items you love: Certain brands or specific products may not be as easy to find.
  4. Ranch dressing: If you’re a ranch lover, bring a bottle—it’s surprisingly hard to find in stores!
  5. Fitted sheets: The flats often come with non-fitted sheets, so if you love the convenience of fitted ones, consider bringing your own or buying them upon arrival.

Strongly Consider Buying:

  1. A versatile weekend bag: Most people used a sturdy travel backpack as both their suitcase and a grocery bag. A great option is the Mother Lode Travel Backpack. It’s practical for weekend trips and everyday use.
  2. A streaming device (like a Roku or Fire Stick): The TV options in the flats are mostly limited to English channels, which can be a bit underwhelming. Bringing a streaming device (and an HDMI cord) allows you to access your favorite shows, streaming services, and even watch football.
Tower Bridge in London illuminated at dusk, with lights reflecting on the Thames River. The sky is cloudy, creating a moody atmosphere. Buildings are visible in the background.

Best Eats in the Area:

  1. Da Mario: fancy famous restaurant that isn’t too expensive
  2. Borough Market: A must-visit for street food and fresh local produce
  3. Flat Iron: Delicious and affordable steak with free soft-serve ice cream
  4. Fireaway Pizza: I forgot what day, but they have a really good deal one day of the week. Find this out!

Must-Try Local Dishes:

  1. Fish and Chips: Pubs are a great place to enjoy this dish
  2. Afternoon Tea: Sketch is expensive but a great tea experience!
  3. Sunday Roast: Complete with Yorkshire pudding at a classic British pub
Four friends take a selfie in a dazzling installation of hanging lights. The scene is vibrant, with strands of glowing bulbs creating a festive atmosphere. Other people are visible in the background, enjoying the display.

Fun Things to Try:

  1. See a play: Theater tickets can be surprisingly affordable. We saw Wicked through FIE, and it was a blast!
  2. Visit the Sky Garden: It’s free, but you need to reserve tickets in advance. You’ll get stunning views of the entire city of London.
  3. Ride the London Eye: We went on our last night, and it was a perfect way to take in the city one last time.
  4. Explore Harrods: This iconic designer mall is worth a visit, even if it’s just to wander around and people watch.
  5. Try puppy yoga: Yes, it’s a real thing—look it up for an adorable and unique experience!
  6. Catch a concert: Keep an eye out for deals—we snagged cheap tickets to see Tyler Childers and Old Dominion.
  7. Have a picnic in Kensington Gardens or Hyde Park: Both parks are beautiful and perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
  8. Go to a football (soccer) game: If you enjoy sports, it’s worth spending the money for an authentic experience. The atmosphere is incredible!