Tour Director Travel Guide: Afternoon Tea in London
Dan, a native Londoner and EF Ultimate Break Tour Director, shares his favorite things about London—and a spot of afternoon tea.
Apart from being the place where I was born (making it indelibly special), London is brilliant thanks to what some locals call its “dirty charm.” Think of it this way: If Paris is a black-tie event, London is a night out at the pub. It’s unassuming and humble, charming and down-to-Earth, and always welcoming—one of the last true judgement-free cities.
London’s hidden gem: “Little Venice”
Just behind Paddington station is a long stretch of canals called “Little Venice.” You won’t know it’s there from the street, and if you go during early May, you’ll find a huge canal party called the IWA Canalway Cavalcade. Longboats and canal boats shine themselves up, proudly fly their flags, and the waterways are awash with color. Beyond the boats, Little Venice comes alive with music, food, and drinks. It’s like a classic block party, only on a canal. All year, this hidden gem is a brilliant idea for a walk and a spot for some great photos, too.
If someone only has 24 hours to visit London, they absolutely can’t miss
Walk the river from Tower Hill to St Paul’s Cathedral. For me, it’s everything that encapsulates London in one small route. It’s where history at the Tower of London meet the Industrial Revolution at Tower Bridge. You’ll see the Square Mile and financial district, the HMS Belfast warship, the London Bridge, and the monument to the Great Fire. Eat your way through Borough Market, explore the Golden Hinde and the Clink before moving on to Shakespeare’s Globe Theater. And did I mention the Harry Potter (Millenium) Bridge? This one walk covers London’s entire history—from our founding moments to modern day.
British food is not the best in the world…
IT’S OKAY, I’M BRITISH, I CAN SAY IT! But, we do have something called a Sticky Toffee Pudding, and that IS the best dessert in the world. Think of a dense, moist caramel cake covered in caramel sauce…all served up with a scoop of vanilla ice-cream.
So, with that in mind - pack your emergency socks, warm up your hamstrings, polish your best cheeky smile and awaaaaay we go!
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