These Are the Best Spots in London for History Buffs, Foodies, and Everyone in Between, According to a Top Travel Advisor

I was once asked how many times I have been to London. The answer is that I lost count years ago. But even after 60 years, there’s always something new to experience. As a less-seasoned visitor, it can feel overwhelming to make an itinerary for a city so vibrant and expansive, but it doesn’t have to be. After decades of planning trips to London for a living, I’ve gathered my favorite must-visit spots for every type of traveler, so deciding where to go can be a breeze. Plus, some tips and tricks for seeing the sights without the crowds.

For History Buffs

London is about 2,000 years old, so it’s a history lover’s heaven. One must-visit spot is the crypt of All Hallows Church, which was founded by the Abbey of Barking in the year 675 AD. It has surprising American connections: William Penn was baptized there, and John Quincy Adams married his British wife, Louisa, there. 

To experience the historic Westminster Abbey without the crowds—or a ticket—attend a short 8:00 a.m. service in one of the chapels. Tuesday service is particularly special because it’s held in St. Edward’s Chapel, which is usually off-limits to the public.

For Art Lovers

London is home to hundreds of museums, but a few stand out from the rest. Sir John Soane’s Museum on Lincoln’s Inn Field in the Holborn neighborhood is a museum that actually consists of three early-19th-century townhouses. In it, you’ll find architectural models that the artist used for his own projects; his personal collection of sculptures, drawings, and paintings, including 18th-century English artist William Hogarth’s famous series A Rake’s Progress; and even the famed sculpture, the Sarcophagus of Seti I.

The National Gallery is always a must-visit spot, but if it’s too crowded, try The Courtauld Gallery at Somerset House on the Strand instead—here, the impressionist collection alone is breathtaking.

For those who enjoy performance art, West End theatre is iconic, but ticket prices can be quite high. Instead, check out Off West End performances to catch smaller-scale, less traditional productions. Shakespeare’s Globe, located on the south bank of the River Thames in Southwark, is another great venue. Standing tickets in the Yard at the foot of the stage are a more affordable option—but just be aware that a ticket in this area means standing in an uncovered area for the entire two- to three-hour performance.

For Shopaholics

Shopping is a dream in London. My two favorite shops are right next door to each other in the Piccadilly Circus area of the city: Hatchard’s and Fortnum & Mason. Hatchard’s, one of the oldest book shops in England, is a bookworm’s paradise, with five stories full of every genre imaginable. And although Fortnum & Mason is known for its gourmet tea, don’t miss the upper floors, which are full of household and decorative treasures. Plus, the on-site restaurant, the Parlour, is perfect for a quick break from shopping. Aside from the restaurant’s innovative ice cream sundaes and floats, visitors can snack on classic British treats like Welsh rarebit (melted cheese on toast) and toasted crumpets. When leaving the store, be sure to head across the street right before the hour to watch the clock chime—Mr. Fortnum pops out to bow to Mr. Mason.

For Foodies

Although English cuisine is often overlooked, London is a surprisingly robust foodie destination. For modern British fare with a Spanish twist, book a table at Kitty Fisher’s in Shepherd Market, which was once a Georgian bakery (the old ovens are still in the basement). And you can’t go to London without having afternoon tea, so kill two birds with one stone by booking a table on the top deck of Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus London Sightseeing Tour, a vintage double decker that takes visitors to see all the sights while indulging on cakes and scones.

For Hidden Gem Seekers

Despite being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, there are still plenty of lesser-known treasures in London. For instance, visitors can see the changing of the guard at the much-less-crowded Horse Guards Parade instead of the Buckingham Palace, and go to the Royal Horticultural Society’s Hampton Court Garden Festival in July instead of the renowned Chelsea Flower Show in May. If you’re visiting in May but can’t get tickets to the Chelsea, spend the morning off Sloane Square on Pavilion Road, where local shops create spectacular floral displays of their own.

Other, quirkier experiences include Postman’s Park, a public park that houses a memorial dedicated to “ordinary” individuals who died saving the lives of others, and The Postal Museum, where visitors can ride through the hidden tunnels of Mail Rail, a narrow, driverless underground railway originally designed to transport mail throughout the city. If you’re up for an active challenge, try climbing up the 334-step spiral stairwell of the Elizabeth Tower to see Big Ben up close.

Ellen LeCompte is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in U.K. trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with LeCompte by contacting her at [email protected].