London In 6 Days : The Perfect Itinerary For A Memorable Trip

London In 6 Days - The Perfect 6 Day ItineraryVisiting London is on the bucket list of so many travelers, and it’s easy to see why. With a vast array of sights to see and a long list of must-have experiences when in London, planning a well thought out itinerary is essential for making the most of your trip to this city. Having visited London multiple times, we feel that exploring London in 6 days gives visitors a chance to see its iconic sights at a more relaxed pace.

Located in south-east England, London is the capital of the United Kingdom. This historic and cosmopolitan city offers the perfect juxtaposition of tradition and modernity making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

London is famous for its museums, iconic landmarks steeped in royal tradition, expansive parks, characteristic boroughs, brilliant theatre performances, and trendy gastropubs. It is truly a dynamic city and there is always lots to explore and experience during each visit.

So whether you are visiting London for the first time or returning to make more travel memories in this city, this itinerary can help you experience the best of London in 6 days at a relaxed pace.

Contents

Arrival in London: How to get to the city from the airport

London is one of the busiest air transport hubs in the world with six airports serving the city – Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, London City, and Southend. The airports are well connected to the city by shuttle buses, trains, tubes and of course the taxi. Taking the cab is a convenient and comfortable option but can be quite expensive depending on where your hotel is located and if you are traveling during the rush hour time. Buses and tube lines, in general, are budget-friendly options but will take more time to reach the stop you need to get to and might not be the most ideal option during rush hour time.

View of London from the plane

We found it very convenient to take the Heathrow Express and the Gatwick Express trains after arriving at the Heathrow and Gatwick airports, respectively. To get the best deals for the tickets for these express trains, be sure to purchase them online from the official sites. There are often discounted fares available online for advance purchase tickets that can help with keeping your travel budget in check.

In case you arrive in London late at night, be sure to check the City Mapper app to see what is the easiest way to get to your hotel at that time since the transport options will be more limited at late hours.

From Heathrow Airport to London

Heathrow Express offers a non-stop, convenient transfer from Heathrow to Paddington in 15 minutes. If you purchase the tickets in advance online, this can be an excellent option for a quick transfer to Paddington. Once you arrive at Paddington, the Bakerloo, District, Circle and Hammersmith tube lines can be taken if you are not staying in the Paddington area.

Heathrow is also connected to various tube stops across London by the Piccadilly Line. This a great budget option but this mode of transfer can take quite long as there are multiples stop along the way.

From Gatwick Airport to London

The Gatwick Express provides a convenient direct transfer from London Gatwick to Victoria station in about 30 minutes. From Victoria, you can easily take the Circle, District, and Victoria underground lines to transfer to another tube stop.

Besides the Gatwick Express, the Southern Railway Train service also connects Gatwick airport to Victoria. Additionally, the Thames Link Line connects Gatwick to Central London including stops at London Bridge and St. Pancras.

London in 6 Days - London Bridge Tube Station in London

From Stansted Airport to London

The Stansted Express is the best way to travel from the Stansted Airport to Liverpool Street Station in about 47 mins. From Liverpool station, the Central, Circle, Hammersmith and Metropolitan lines connect to various stops along the London underground. Before arriving at Liverpool station, this express train also stops at the Tottenham Hale Station from where the Victoria line can be boarded.

Arrival in London by train:

London is well connected to several destinations across the United Kingdom by the extensive National Rail system. Moreover, the Eurostar brings travelers from European cities including Amsterdam, Paris, Bruges via Brussels to the magnificent St. Pancras International Station. The major mainline train stations of London include Paddington, Waterloo, Euston, St Pancras, King’s Cross, Victoria, Charing Cross, London Bridge, Liverpool Street, and Fenchurch Street. These stations are also well connected to various London neighborhoods via the underground.

London St Pancras International station
Purchase the train tickets for London from the National Rail Service site if you are traveling to London from destinations across the United Kingdom or the official Eurostar site if you are arriving in London via the Eurostar.

In general, one of the first things you need to do when you get to London is purchasing the Oyster Card that you can top off online or at the stations with credit. The Oyster Card allows you to travel on the London underground by tapping in and tapping out at the Oyster Card readers at the turnstiles. It can also be used on the double-decker buses, trams, DLR, London Overground, and commuter trains making it a convenient pay-as-you-go option for transport in and around London.

An Epic London in 6 Days Itinerary:

Discovering London in 6 Days gives you the chance to explore its iconic landmarks, characteristic neighborhoods, splendid gardens and lively markets at a relaxed pace. All of London’s neighborhoods and its attractions are well connected by the London underground and buses but can be quite spread out. To make the most of your trip, focus on one borough at a time and plan your day accordingly.

If you are trying to see London in 1- 2 days, you might end up with a feeling of visiting a city but barely having scratched its surface. So plan on exploring London in 6 days or a week to get better acquainted with its well-known sites and its off-the-beaten-path hidden gems.

London in 6 Days - Tower Bridge of London

Day 1 of a London in 6 Days Itinerary: Get oriented to the city

After checking in at your hotel and settling down, the best way to beat jet lag is to head out and explore London. Following a hectic day of travel, taking a bus tour and a leisurely stroll along River Thames are perfect ways of taking in some of the iconic views of the city. The bus tour also allows you to get oriented to the city, making it easier to plan a perfect DIY London in 6 Days itinerary that allows you to explore some of the best things the city has to offer.

1. Stroll along Westminster Bridge and the South Bank towards Lambeth Bridge:

Take the tube to Westminster and enjoy crossing over the Westminster Bridge while taking in the iconic views of Big Ben (currently under renovation till 2021), Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Jubilee Promenade as you make your way towards Lambeth Bridge. There are several benches along this promenade that make it the perfect place to sip a cup of tea while taking in the views of the city.

Closest tube stop to Palace of Westminster and Big Ben: Westminster Tube Station

Big Ben Renovations and the Palace of Westminster

2. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the Victoria Tower Garden:

After crossing Lambeth Bridge, head over to Victoria Tower Gardens. This small pocket of green space adjacent to the Victoria Tower of Palace of Westminster feels like an oasis of tranquility in the bustling city of London.

The garden has a small playground for children and a promenade along River Thames from where you can take in some of the best views of the London Eye. The intricately designed Buxton Memorial Fountain is located in the center of this garden and is dedicated to the abolition of slavery in the British empire in 1834. It has an octagonal base around which arches are designed to enclose the granite basins of the fountain.

Closest tube stop to Victoria Tower Garden: Westminster Tube Station

Victoria Tower Gardens in Westminster London

3. Head over to Parliament Square for a magnificent view of the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben:

Walking in the direction of the Palace of Westminster from the Victoria Tower Gardens leads to Parliament Square. This open green space in Westminster is lined with trees and twelve statues of world-renowned individuals including Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Mahatama Gandhi, and Abraham Lincoln.

London in 6 Days: Big Ben - Queen Elizabeth Tower in LondonStanding in this central square of Westminster, you will be able to gaze at the iconic landmarks of Big Ben, Palace of Westminster and the Westminster Abbey. Big Ben is actually the name of the 13-tonne bell inside the clock tower known as Queen Elizabeth Tower. Presently this clock tower is undergoing planned renovations till 2021 and until then, you will find that the tower is covered with scaffolding.

The Palace of Westminster (also known as the Houses of Parliament) is the meeting place of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. In fact, the two flanking bridges near the Palace of Westminster are painted in colors that represent these two houses. The Westminster Bridge is painted green – the color of the House of Commons. Lambeth Bridge, on the other hand, is painted in red – the color of the House of Lords.

Houses of Parliament are open Monday to Saturday to the public, and a flag flying over the Victoria Tower depicts that Parliament is in session. When the Parliament is in recess and on Saturdays, 90 minutes long guided tours of the Houses of Parliament are available that can be booked in advance online.

Closest tube stop to Parliament Square: Westminster Tube Station

4. Get oriented to the city by taking a Bus Tour :

There are plenty of companies in London that offer bus tours. If you’ve purchased the London Pass, then the pass also includes the hop-on hop-off bus tour option. However, we chose to save this hop-on-hop-off bus tour option for a more active day of sightseeing to follow.

For our first day in London, we opted for the open-top night bus tour by Golden Tours. We had reserved this tour in advance and were able to board the tour from the departure point at Golden Tours Victoria. At approximately 1h 45min long, this bus tour allowed us to relax on the top deck of the bus and take in the views of the city as the lights came on while listening to the entertaining narration by the guide on-board.

London in 6 Days : Getting oriented by taking the Night Bus Tour in London

Our children thoroughly enjoyed taking in the iconic sights of Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, Tower of London, The Monument, Tower Bridge and it was a joy for us to watch them clicking photographs and enjoying the narration. The guide also pointed out many of the Harry Potter sites along the way and directed our attention to the dragon statues that mark the boundaries of the City of London as our tour bus passed by.

Whether you choose to take an evening bus tour such as this one or board a hop-on-hop-off bus and ride the entire loop, a bus tour in London on the first day is a great way to get oriented to the city.

5. Enjoy dinner at a neighborhood gastropub:

After a fun first day spent strolling around Westminster and taking a bus tour, dinner at a neighborhood gastropub sounds perfect. There are so many pubs around London and each neighborhood seems to have its own pub where the community gathers in the evening for a pint of ale. Pubs are an integral part of London’s fabric so be sure to check with your hotel for their recommendations and head out to sample a slice of the lively London pub scene.

We thoroughly enjoyed dining on Scotch Eggs and delicious Fish n Chips at the local gastropub that had been recommended to us by the staff of the hotel we stayed at. It was the perfect way to wrap up our first day in London!

Scotch eggs and Fish n Chips in London

 

Day 2 of London in 6 days: Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the City of London

Having rested after arriving in London on Day 1, get ready for a busier second day exploring the historic and dynamic side of London. This second-day itinerary explores Tower of London, Tower Bridge and touring the Square Mile – the City of London.

1. Start your day with a traditional full English breakfast before heading out for sightseeing

Knowing that the day ahead will include a significant amount of walking, we decided to fill up on a traditional English breakfast spread served at our hotel. This delicious, massive breakfast, also called the English Fry Up, included servings of eggs, bacon, sausage, baked beans, tomato, and bread. A spot of tea to wash that down and you know you are good to go for the rest of the day – it is certainly quite filling, to say the least!

Enjoy a hearty Full English Breakfast in London

2. Catch the Thames Cruise from Westminster to Tower Millennium Pier

Having seen London from the top deck of the bus on Day 1, consider taking a cruise along River Thames for a different perspective of the city on Day 2. Cruising along the river offers a relaxing way to take in these views from the open-air deck while learning more about them thanks to the informative narration in the background.

We took the City Cruises tour from Westminster Pier till Tower Millennium Pier as we planned to explore the Tower of London in the morning. This cruise route is also covered by the London Pass and is a fun way to start the day of sightseeing.

City cruises also offer services from Westminster to Greenwich if you wish to explore Greenwich during your trip to London or are heading over to London from Greenwich for a day of sightseeing. For more details, check the City Cruises site.

Closest tube stop to Westminster Pier: Westminster Tube Station

3. Learn about the history of the Tower of London

This historic fortress was built by William the Conqueror and was the wartime castle and also the most dreaded prison in medieval times. Today, a visit to Tower of London is a great way to learn about its history, tour the fortress, marvel at the Crown Jewels and gaze at the armory and artifacts collections in the White Tower.

Outside the Tower of London

Entry to the Tower of London is included in the London Pass. However, if you do not have the London Pass, consider purchasing the tickets for the Tower of London in advance to avoid the long queues at the ticket counters and get discounted prices for online tickets.

Yeoman Warder tour at Tower of LondonThe Tower of London is one of the most popular attractions in London and tends to be quite crowded as well. To avoid the crowds, try and plan your visit to this London attraction early in the day or late in the afternoon. Moreover, having experienced the long queues outside the building that houses the Crown Jewels at the Tower, head for a tour of the Crown Jewels first thing in the morning and then proceed to the popular Yeoman Warder Tours.

Visiting the Tower of London becomes all the more fun if you take the engaging and informative Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) Tours. These tours start at the moat near the entrance of the Tower and are included in the price of the ticket. Their historical anecdotes sprinkled with witty jokes keep the large crowd that follows the tour entertained.

While exploring the courtyard of the Tower of London you will probably see the ravens of the Tower. Our guide mentioned that their presence is accompanied by a superstition. It has been an age-old belief that their presence on the site protects the Crown and the Tower. You will also be able to catch glimpses of the nearby Tower Bridge as you climb along the stony, spiral staircases inside the White Tower. Enjoy a walk along the walls of the Tower of London before you head off to visit the iconic Tower Bridge nearby.

Closest tube stop to the Tower of London: Tower Hill Tube Station

4. Soak in the views of Tower Bridge and visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition

Glass Floor Walkway of Tower Bridge LondonOften mistakenly called London Bridge, the magnificent Tower Bridge is a sight to behold and is one of the most photographed landmarks of London. The deck of the bridge is accessible to vehicles, buses and has sidewalks for pedestrians who can enjoy a pleasant stroll over the bridge.

You can also choose to visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition at an additional cost (covered by the London Pass). This entry allows you to climb up the several stairs of the bridge’s twin towers, visit the Victorian engine rooms and walk along the glass skywalk at the top of Tower Bridge. Take your time to enjoy the fantastic views of London’s skyline from this glass skywalk.

Closest tube stop to the Tower Bridge: Tower Hill Tube Station

The iconic Tower Bridge of London

5. Explore the Square Mile – the City of London

The Tower of London marks the oldest part of London in the area that was once called Londinium during the time of Roman settlement. Today this area beyond the Tower of London is the thriving financial district of London – the Square Mile (1.12 square miles at present).

Some of the famous buildings in the City of London include the London Stock Exchange and skyscrapers such as 30 St Mary Axe – the ‘Gherkin’ and 20 Fenchurch Street, a.k.a. The ‘Walkie-Talkie.’ While exploring the Square Mile, you might also come across the still-standing historical fragment of the London Wall, located behind Tower Hill Station. Historical buildings of the City of London include the Monument and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Notice the golden spires on the churches of the City that were designed by Sir Christopher Wren who spearheaded the project of rebuilding the city after the fire of 1666.

The skyscrapers of the City of London

The best time to explore the Square Mile— more commonly called the City of London, is during the weekends when the offices are closed, giving visitors a chance to admire the glass skyscrapers and wander around the streets at ease before stopping by old English pubs for a pint to British ale.

6. Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral

London In 6 Days -Visiting St. Paul's CathedralOne of the architectural masterpieces in London is St. Paul’s Cathedral. Located in the City of London, the cathedral with a Renaissance-style dome was designed by Christopher Wren.

Once inside the cathedral, it is easy to feel awestruck by its spaciousness and baroque architecture. The clear lighting at the west end of the cathedral is perfectly contrasted by the painted glass windows and opulent Victorian décor at the east end. Attending the service at St. Paul’s is free of charge. However, if you would like to tour its crypt, galleries, and climb the dome, an entrance fee is required (covers the audioguide). Access to St Paul’s Cathedral is included with the London Pass.

Closest tube stop to St. Paul’s Cathedral: St. Paul’s, Mansion House and Blackfriars Station.

7. Climb the steps of the Monument

Strolling along the City of London is a lesson in history in itself. Located not too far from St. Paul’s Cathedral is the Monument. The Monument is a memorial to the Great Fire of London that started on 2nd September 1666. The bronze vase at the top of this Doric column represents the fire that was ablaze for four days and destroyed more than 13,000 homes.

The Monument in the City of London

The Monument is 202 feet tall and is located exactly 202 feet from the location of the bakery in Pudding Lane where the fire is thought to have originated. In 1667, an act was passed in Parliament to rebuild the city along with this memorial to the Great Fire of London. A sculpture at the base of the Monument depicts the rebuilding of the City of London after the devastating fires with the fallen lady on the left side representing the city. For a bird’s eye view, you can climb the 311 steps of the spiral staircase inside the Monument to the top.

Closest tube stop to the Monument: Monument Tube Station

8. Watch the sunset over the London skyline from Sky Garden

After a busy day of exploring the City of London, how about relaxing with panoramic views of the sunset over London’s skyline as you dine in an elegant restaurant. If that sounds good, then consider heading to the Sky Garden located on the 43rd floor of 20 Fenchurch Street, a.k.a. The ‘Walkie-Talkie.’

Access to London’s highest indoor garden is free of charge as such. Since the number of people allowed up to the viewing platform is limited, it is best to reserve the ride up its elevator ahead of time.

There are also bars and restaurants at the Sky Garden that are pricey but offer delicious food with a commanding view. The City Garden Bar and the Sky Pod Bar are located at this level and for a fantastic dining experience, consider reserving a table at the Fenchurch Restaurant or the Darwin Brasserie.

Closest tube stop to 20 Fenchurch: Monument Tube Station

London in 6 Days : Breathtaking views of London skyline from Sky Garden in the Walkie Talkie building

 

Day 3 of London in 6 Days: Explore the South Bank of River Thames

A leisurely stroll along the Jubilee Promenade or The Queen’s Walk is a great way to explore the south bank of River Thames. Head over to Westminster tube station and start your day with a cup of tea as you sit on the benches lining the Jubilee Walkway on the bank opposite the Palace of Westminster.

The Queen’s Walk along the south bank of River Thames stretches from Westminster Bridge towards Tate Modern, crossing over the river via the Millennium Bridge onto St Paul’s Cathedral. As we had visited St. Paul’s Cathedral on Day 2, we chose to continue walking along the south bank walkway past Tate Modern towards Tower Bridge.

Read our detailed post on a self-guided walk from Westminster to Tower Bridge here

London in 6 Days : Strolling along Jubilee Promenade

1. Take the leisurely half an hour ride aboard the London Eye

The London EyeThe London Eye, a.k.a. The Millennium Wheel, is the tallest observation wheel in Europe. Located along the south bank, this nearly 450 ft tall observation wheel has air-conditioned pods that visitors can board for a relaxing 30 minutes full circle ride.

Standard, as well as fast track tickets, can be purchased online in advance to avoid the queues outside the ticket counter of this famous London attraction. The London Eye is not covered by the London Pass presently.

Closest tube stop to London Eye: Waterloo Tube Station

2. Admire the staggering collection of modern art at the Tate Modern

Tate Modern is London’s premier museum of modern and contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries. It was opened in the year 2000 at the site of a former power station. If you would like to see a staggering collection of modern art by renowned artists such a Dali, Picasso, Degas, and Delauney, then set aside at least a couple of hours of your sightseeing day to take in all that this museum has to offer.

Closest tube stop to the Tate Modern: Southwark Tube Station

3. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe for a superb theater experience

The half-timbered thatched reconstruction of Shakespeare’s Theater that we see today along the south bank of River Thames is a must-visit if you are an admirer of the performing arts and would like to watch a performance of Shakespeare’s plays. The London Pass includes the entry to the Globe Theatre Tours that run year-round and take about 30-40 minutes. Watching a play at the Globe theater is a unique experience as you get to see the performances in an ambiance that resembles the one from Shakespeare’s time.

Closest tube stop to Shakespeare’s Globe: Mansion House and Blackfriars tube station

4. Explore the food stalls of Borough Market and stop by Monmouth Coffee

There are plenty of food markets around London, but if there’s one that you absolutely must visit, then that would be Borough Market. This thriving food market located close to the London Bridge is the oldest food market of London and offers a wide variety of fresh produce and food stalls featuring an array of international dishes.

Sampling international dishes at Borough Market London

The market is particularly fun to visit on its full market days (Wednesdays to Saturdays) when more traders come and set up their stalls. Since we had decided to explore London in 6 days, we inadvertently found ourselves exploring this lively pocket of London for budget-friendly, delicious meals on several occasions.  Located right next door to the Borough Market is the famous Monmouth coffee and the constant lines at its doorstep speak for the fact that this is the place to be if you love coffee.

Closest tube stop to Borough Market: London Bridge Underground Station

5. Ride the elevator to the viewing deck of the Shard

The View from The Shard is included in the London Pass and allows visitors to take in the panoramic views from its Skydeck on the 72nd floor. After a filling lunch at the food stalls of Borough Market, head over to nearby Shard and enjoy the views from the highest vantage point in London. The Shard houses restaurants, corporate facilities, and the five-star hotel, Shangri-La.  After visiting the Shard, walk along Hay’s Galleria towards the river in the direction of Tower Bridge. The Hay’s Galleria offers a pleasant route past the shops and cafes under its arcade.

London in 6 Days : Enjoying The View From The Shard

Closest tube stop to The Shard: London Bridge Underground Station

6. Climb aboard and explore the WW II warship – HMS Belfast

Located close to the Tower Bridge is the museum ship on River Thames – the HMS Belfast. Visiting this former World War II Royal Navy battleship gives visitors the chance to explore all of its nine decks, engine rooms, and firing deck. Exploring HMS Belfast gives visitors a perspective into the working of the battleship and into what life must have been like for the 950 crew members on board during the battles of World War II and the Korean War.

Closest tube stop to HMS Belfast: London Bridge Underground Station

7. Pamper yourself with an elegant afternoon tea during your London in 6 Days Trip

London in 6 Days : An elegant afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason'sA quintessentially British experience that you must indulge in when in London is experiencing a proper afternoon tea ritual. It is said that the tradition of serving afternoon tea was started in the early 19th century by Anna Maria – the seventh Duchess of Bedford,  as a way to tide over the long hours between lunch and supper.

The afternoon tea has since evolved to include an elegant selection of refined teas, dainty finger sandwiches with the crusts removed, scones served with clotted cream and jam along with a delectable selection of pastries and cakes. The elegant aspect of the afternoon tea experience involves savoring these delicacies with a spot of tea at a slow pace.

There are a variety of places that offer afternoon teas across London for varying budgets where you can experience classic as well as themed afternoon teas during you London in 6 days trip. We decided to experience the afternoon tea at the beautiful Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly. This tea experience at Fortnum & Mason included a choice between the traditional afternoon tea, a champagne afternoon tea, a savory afternoon tea and even an afternoon tea for vegetarians. Be sure to reserve a table at the tea salon well in advance and slow down to enjoy a delicious, filling and memorable tea/dining experience.

Closest tube stop to Fortnum & Mason: Piccadilly Circus Tube Station

Beautiful interior decor at Fortnum and Mason in London

For a detailed travel guide highlighting the sights to see along the South Bank Walk, read our post of a self-guided walk from Westminster to the Tower Bridge

Day 4 of your London in 6 Days Itinerary: Explore Westminster

Having had a glimpse of Westminster on Day 1, it’s time to dedicate an entire day to explore many of its prominent landmarks on day 4 of your 6 days in London visit.

1. Take a morning walk through the beautiful St. James’ Park

An early morning walk through the beautiful, green St. James’ Park is a great way to start the day. St. James’ Park is one of the eight Royal Parks located in Central London – the other ones being Green Park, Hyde Park, and Kensington Gardens, to name a few. These Royal Parks had once been the hunting grounds of the royalty but are now open to the public year-round.

Walking past the rolling lawns surrounded by tall trees, tranquil ponds, and peppered with deck chairs, I couldn’t help but feel amazed by the sheer size of this open green space in the heart of a bustling city like London.

Closest tube stop to St. James’ Park: St. James’s Park Underground Station

Strolling along St James' Park in London

2. Watch the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace and tour the State Rooms if open to public

Walking along St James’s Park or the adjacent Green Park brings you to Buckingham Palace – the administrative headquarters and the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

Buckingham Palace LondonIf you happen to plan your London in 6 days trip during the 10 weeks of summer when the lavish State Rooms are open to the public, you will be able to marvel at the grandeur of the Palace interiors, including the throne room. The informative multimedia guide that is included in the price of the tour offers insights into the history of this iconic building and its State Rooms.

Prebooking tickets for this approximately 2 hours tour is highly recommended. Besides touring the State Rooms, you can also visit the Royal Mews to see the stables and the state vehicles (open to public Feb-Nov) and admire art exhibits at the Queen’s Gallery.

To witness the age-old regal tradition of Changing of the Guards, plan on being outside Buckingham Palace before 11 am on at least one of the days of your London in 6 days trip. Crowds of tourists and onlookers line up daily along the parade route to watch the royal spectacle. The entire process of Changing of the Guards lasts for an hour and to see this royal ritual, arrive well before 10:30 am to get a place next to the fence or at the best vantage point – the steps of the circular Victoria Memorial outside the Palace.

Outside Buckingham Palace London

Be sure to keep your valuables safe when waiting to watch this event as pickpocketing is quite common at this site. Wear a money belt so that you can enjoy the experience with some peace of mind.

Closest tube stop to Buckingham Palace: St. James’s Park Underground Station and Victoria

3. Tour the historic Westminster Abbey

The Westminster Abbey is the impressive Gothic Church located in the City of Westminster, London. It has been the site for the royal coronations, royal weddings and the final resting place for the royalty since 1066.
Naturally, touring this historic Church had been high on our bucket list of things to do during our London in 6 days visit. Since the queues of visitors and worshippers outside Westminster Abbey’s North Door can become quite long in the peak season, we prebooked discounted timed-entry tickets as these allow for fast track entry into the Abbey at the specified time. Entrance into Westminster Abbey is also included in the price of the London Pass (not fast-track entry). Be sure to follow the tour as laid out by the informative audioguide provided to make the most of your visit to Westminster Abbey.

The towering Gothic arches of the abbey’s central nave lead to the centerpiece – the tomb of the king who founded the Abbey – Edward the Confessor. The tombs of 29 kings and queens of England, including Queen Elizabeth I, are located inside the abbey around its centerpiece. The remains of many prominent saints, soldiers, poets, and musicians are also buried in this Abbey.

London in 6 Days : Touring Westminster Abbey
While touring the Abbey, you will also come across the Coronation Spot near the high altar as well as Poet’s Corner, where some of the famous poets are buried and many more are honored by commemorative plaques. One of the highlights of a tour of the Westminster Abbey is witnessing the extraordinarily beautiful vaulting and perpendicular Gothic architecture of Henry VII Chapel (Lady’s Chapel) located in the eastern-most part of the Abbey.

Be sure to take a peaceful stroll along the cloisters lining the courtyard of the Abbey before concluding your tour of the Westminster Abbey.

Closest tube stop to Westminster Abbey: Westminster and St. James’s Park Underground Station 

4. Stop by for your personal postcard of London: A photo-op in Westminster

There are so many iconic symbols of London that have become instantly recognizable worldwide. While exploring London in 6 days, you are sure to come across several of these that include not just the landmarks but also the bright red telephone booths, post boxes and of course, the double-decker buses.

Pose along one of the classic telephone booths near Parliament Square for the perfect photo-op with Big Ben in the background. It makes for a great travel memory and your own personal postcard from London.

Iconic London Symbols the Telephone booth and double decker bus

5. Stroll along Whitehall and learn about the historical significance of the sites along the way

London in 6 Days: Westminster Tube StopHead north along the left side of the busy Whitehall from Parliament Square towards Trafalgar Square. This prominent London street is lined with several ministries and war memorials along the way and was named after the Palace of Whitehall that had once been the residence of royalty.

One of the best ways to learn about the significance of the buildings and memorials that you see along this street is by listening to the free Rick Steves Audio tour of the Westminster Walk that you can easily download on your phone before leaving from the hotel. We were able to gain a better understanding of the sights we saw along the way thanks to this informative, easy-paced audio tour.

i. The Cenotaph on Whitehall

The war memorial – Cenotaph on Whitehall in the middle of the road, is an empty tomb that pays homage to all those who lost their lives during the world wars. The Cenotaph is also the site of the annual National Service of Remembrance on Remembrance Sunday.

ii. The Churchill War Rooms

Turn left on King Charles Street near the Cenotaph and walk through the triple-arched bridge towards the end of the street if you would like to visit the Churchill War Rooms. The Churchill War Rooms are one of the most interesting historic sites in London and a tour of these once secret-underground bunkers gives visitors a glimpse into how Churchill commanded the movement of the British troops during the fight against the Nazis.

London In 6 Days - Visiting the Churchill War Rooms

Follow the informative narration in the audioguide provided as you tour these 27 bunkers. Take the time to visit the museum dedicated to Winston Churchill before exiting these War Rooms. Purchase tickets in advance online for specific entry times that ensure that you get priority entrance for the designated time slot. Access to the war rooms is also covered by the London Pass though that doesn’t provide priority entry to the site.

iii. 10 Downing Street

Continuing forward towards Trafalgar Square from the Cenotaph, you will come across black iron barricades on the left along Downing Street. The black brick building down this street is 10 Downing Street- the official residence of the Prime Minister and the headquarters of the government of the United Kingdom.

iv. Horse Guards Parade

Further north along Whitehall is the entrance to the Horse Guards Parade. At the entrance, you might notice several visitors posing for photographs with the horse guards stationed at the archway. Walk past the arches and take the time to explore the Horse Guards Museum dedicated to the history and accomplishments of the Household Cavalry. A visit to this museum allows you to see the regiment in action, visit the stables, see the uniforms and even take guided tours.

Outside the Horse Guards building in London
During your London in 6 days visit, if you spend one day watching the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace, then stop by Horse Guards Parade on another day to see the changing of the horse guards (11:00 am  Monday – Saturday, 10:00 am on Sunday). The soldiers stationed here are the Queen’s bodyguards, and you will be able to see the daily changing of the horse guards at this location amidst fewer crowds.

v. Stop by a pub for some British ale before continuing to Trafalgar Square

Having spent a good part of the day touring Westminster, stop by a pub along Whitehall for a pint of beer and some snacks before heading further to Trafalgar Square.

Closest tube stop to Whitehall: Westminster and Charing Cross Station 

The Lord Moon of The Mall Pub along Whitehall London

6. Take a relaxing break at Trafalgar Square – the central square of London

The famous public square called Trafalgar Square is an ode to the British Naval power and commemorates the victory of the British Navy during the Battle of Trafalgar. The prominent Nelson’s column in the center of this square is dedicated to Admiral Horatio Nelson who led the British fleet to victory during the Battle of Trafalgar against the French but ended up dying in the battle. Nelson’s Column is surrounded by fountains and four iconic bronze lion sculptures.

Marking the center of London, the city seems to fan-out from this square with streets leading to the Buckingham Palace, Parliament Square, Soho, and Covent Garden. It is a great place to relax while pondering upon where to head next for a visit.

London in 6 Days : Trafalgar Square in London
While easy to miss, the smallest police station in Britain is also located at the south-east corner of Trafalgar Square. This building is no longer in use by the Police now and is instead for other purposes by the city.

Overlooking the square on its north side is the National Gallery, and towards the northeast, you will be able to notice St. Martins-in-the-Fields – an Anglican church. Stop by this church for its classical concerts held in a beautiful baroque setting and the hidden café located in its crypts for some homestyle food.

Closest tube stop to Trafalgar Square: Charing Cross Station 

7. Marvel at exquisite art at the National Gallery

If you are an art lover and would like to see some splendid European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries, then one of the must-sees on your London in 6 days itinerary should be the National Gallery. Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is home to masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Renoir, Botticelli, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt, to name a few. The entrance to the National Gallery is free of charge.

Closest tube stop to the National Gallery: Charing Cross Station 

8. Explore the boutique stores and charming alleys of Covent Garden

For a fun boutique-shopping experience, head over to vibrant Covent Garden that has existed in this corner of London since the 1600s. An easy walk or a short tube ride away from Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden is a must-see market when in London.

The large square of Covent Garden teems with people enjoying lively street performances. A lovely mix of antique markets and boutique stores along with a myriad of trendy cafes made Covent Garden one of our favorite places to visit in London.

London in 6 Days : Souvenir Shopping at Covent Garden

It is fun to browse the artisan stalls selling antiques and crafts in the Apple Market that can be easily found in the Covent Garden Square. Enjoy spending time shopping for some unique souvenirs in Covent Garden and trying some delicious snacks sold by the vendors at Covent Garden. Stop by Ben’s cookies for delicious, warm cookies and at Ladurée for some delicious macarons.

Laudree Macaron Storefront in Covent Garden London
Continue to walk along Neal Street towards Seven Dials – a roundabout from which seven streets fan out. Seven Dials is often less crowded than Covent Garden yet equally charming. Be sure to head along the little alley of Seven Dials that leads to the colorful Neal’s Yard – one of the most photographed spots in London.

Fun fact – did you know there is a Covent Garden Market located in London, Ontario as well? Read more about this charming Canadian market in our post here.

Closest tube stop to Covent Garden: Covent Garden Station

9. Indulge in delicious Indian cuisine at Dishoom Covent Garden

London is a melting pot of various cultures and cuisines. We loved trying out different types of cuisines each day during our London in 6 days visit. However, if you are looking for the perfect place to savor delicious Indian curries and more, look no further than Dishoom. Dishoom restaurants are located in Kensington, Shoreditch, King’s Cross, Carnaby, and Covent Garden.

We seem to find our way back to Dishoom Covent Garden every time we are in London, and the food served at this restaurant is always top-notch. Be sure to reserve a table ahead of time if you plan on dining at this restaurant. The long waiting lines outside Dishoom are a testament to the high quality and bold flavors of the food served.

Closest tube stop to Dishoom Covent Garden: Covent Garden Station and Leicester Square Station

Delicious Indian food at Dishoom Covent Garden in London

Day 5 of London in 6 Days Itinerary: A half-day trip to Stonehenge

There are so many popular day trips visitors can head out for using the UK public transportation from London. These day trips include visits to Windsor, Cotswolds, Oxford, Cambridge, Bath, and Stonehenge. Intrigued by the mystery surrounding Stonehenge, we wanted to include a half-day trip to this World Heritage Site as part of our London in 6 days itinerary.

We decided to avoid the hassle of renting a car and instead opted for the morning Stonehenge tour offered by Golden Tours. Signing up for a half-day tour allowed us to return to the city by afternoon which gave us ample amount of time to explore London upon return.

1. Take the half-day morning tour to Stonehenge from London

There are plenty of companies offering tours to Stonehenge from London. We boarded the tour bus from Golden Tours Victoria which transported us to Stonehenge in just about two hours. We had two hours to explore this nearly 5000 years old stone circle before boarding the bus back to London.

While the tour did not include an in-person guide, the bus operator arranged for audio guides that gave insightful narration at designated stops along the Stone Circle. The audio guide narrated theories of how the stones were likely to have been transported and of the purpose of Stonehenge.

Whether Stonehenge was built as an ancient burial site, an astronomical clock, a healing site or as a place of worship remains a mystery to this date. I couldn’t help but feel amazed thinking of how these massive stones were brought to this site from vast distances.

I hadn’t known until I visited Stonehenge that this stone circle was built in several stages by many generations over several centuries. In fact, the first outer henge monument was built 5,000 years ago, and the unique inner stone circle is likely to have been placed during the Neolithic period in about 2500 BC. Two types of stones were used in the construction of this prehistoric Neolithic monument – larger sarsens and the smaller bluestones arranged in an inner circle. Both these types of stones have been dated back to distinct locations that are quite far away from each other.

The tour we had signed up for allowed us to view these stones while standing behind the rope-marked boundaries. Access to the inner stone circle is only provided for special tours that are conducted outside the regular hours due to which they have limited availability. We thoroughly enjoyed taking this half-day tour from London and learning more about this World Heritage Site.

2. Visit the Natural History Museum of London

After returning to London and having lunch, we decided to head off to explore the Natural History Museum of London. The architecture of the stunning Victorian-style building that houses this museum is sure to leave visitors in awe.

London in 6 Days : Exploring Natural History Museum in London
The display of the giant blue whale skeleton suspended from the roof of the entrance hall of the Natural History Museum is stunning. The museum houses one of the largest natural history collections in the world with over 80 million specimens. This extensive collection includes parts of the first Tyrannosaurus rex and Iguanodon skeletons ever to be found. Needless to say, it is a fascinating museum for kids and adults alike.

Closest tube stop to Natural History Museum: South Kensington Tube Station

3. Enjoy a stroll through Kennsington Palace Gardens and a visit to Kensington Palace

A 7-mile long Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk takes walkers through four parks of London along sites that had been significant in the life of Princess Diana. These sites include Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, St James’s Palace and Spencer House.

We decide to follow a portion of this walk along the well-tended Kensington Gardens. Plaques guide visitors along the walking route that take them past landmarks such as the Albert Memorial, Kensington Palace, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, The Round Pond, the bronze Peter Pan statue, and The Italian Gardens.

London in 6 Days: Markers along Princess of Wales Memorial Walk in London
The Kensington Palace, once the residence of Queen Victoria and Princess Diana, is now home to HRH Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. It is possible to tour sections of the Kensington Palace that are open to the public. The Kensington Palace admission tickets include a tour of the historic King’s and Queen’s State Rooms and the King’s Staircase ( also covered by the London Pass). The grand King’s Staircase is adorned with exquisite art and leads to the King’s State Apartments.

For a unique tea experience in a royal setting, stop by The Orangery located next to Kensington Palace in the Kensington Palace Gardens. Make sure to reserve a table at the Orangery ahead of time for an elegant breakfast, lunch, or for indulging in traditional afternoon tea.

Closest tube stop to Kensington Palace: High Street Kensington and Queensway Tube Station

Day 6 of London in 6 Days Itinerary: British Museum, Lords, Little Venice and more 

London is home to so many world-class museums and entrance to most of these museums is free of charge. On the last day of your 6 days in London, head over to the magnificent British Museum and the British Library. Enjoy a stop at the Harry Potter store at Platform 9¾, King’s Cross Station before heading off for a tour of the iconic cricket ground – Lord’s. Head off-the-beaten-path from Paddington along Little Venice and take a stroll past Regent’s Canal to Camden.

1. Marvel at the historical artifacts at British Museum

One of the finest museums in the world dedicated to humankind, history, arts, and culture is the British Museum. Entrance to this museum in London is free and the museum is open daily. The informative audio guide provided at this museum makes a tour of its expansive galleries all the more fascinating. There are also guided tours available at the British Museum. Inquire about the free volunteer-led eye-opener tours at the information desk that can give you a great introduction to the select rooms covered.

London in 6 Days : Exploring British Museum

With an unrivaled collection of nearly 8 million artifacts from around the world, the British Museum is a must-visit attraction in London. The most popular sections of the British Museum include the Egyptian, Assyrian, and Greek rooms.

i. Egyptian section

The first artifact that you get to see as you enter the Egyptian section is the world-famous Rosetta Stone. It was a thrill in itself to see this stone in person, given its significance in deciphering the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. The stone was discovered in 1799 and bore inscriptions on it in three languages – ancient Egyptian, modern Egyptian and Greek. By comparing the contemporary styles with each other and then with the ancient one, archaeologists were able to crack the code that finally led them to understand the old Egyptian script.

Rosetta Stone and Ancient Egyptian Paintings at the British Museum in London

Further along the Egyptian section, visitors can marvel at Egyptian art, pottery, statues, sarcophagus, and Egyptian mummies. All these artifacts give visitors a glimpse into life and death in the ancient Nile Valley.

ii. Assyrian section

Assyrian Winged Lion at the British MuseumYou know you are entering the Assyrian section when you walk past the famous Assyrian winged human-headed lions. These lions had once marked the entrance of the Assyrian Palace at Nimrud.

The Assyrians had conquered Egypt, and displays on the walls of the museum depict their strengths as warriors and hunters.

iii Greek section

Fragments of ancient Greek sculptures and carvings that had once adorned Parthenon – the temple of Athena in Athens, can now be seen in the British Museum. Displays include the marble relief from the temple that depicts mythological scenes and a procession celebrating the birthday of Athena.

Closest tube stop to British Museum: Tottenham Court Road

2. Admire the literary treasures at the Treasures Room of the British Library  

The British Library is the national library of the United Kingdom and houses some of the greatest literary treasures of modern civilization. These famous treasures include Shakespeare’s First Folio, da Vinci and Jane Austen’s notebooks, the Magna Carta, and even handwritten Beetles lyrics to name a few.  

Most of these literary treasures, including the Gutenberg Bible and illuminated manuscripts are on display in the Treasures Room of the British Library.

Closest tube stop to British Library: King’s Cross

British Library in London

3. Stop by Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾, King’s Cross Station 

If you are a Harry Potter series fan, then stop by the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾, King’s Cross Station. My kids enjoyed purchasing some Harry Potter memorabilia while posing along the half-trolley in the brick wall underneath the platform sign. Posing with the trolley along with the props is free of charge and purchasing the officially clicked photograph is optional. You are always welcome to click the image from your own camera as well.  

Closest tube stop to Platform 9¾: King’s Cross

Platform 9 and three quarters at Kings Cross Station

4. Take a guided tour of the Lord’s Cricket Ground 

If you are a cricket fan, then consider including a visit to the Lord’s Cricket Ground in your London in 6 days itinerary. Having enjoyed watching cricket since childhood, taking the 100-minutes long guided tour of the impressive Lord’s Cricket Ground was a highlight for us.   

Book a guided tour that runs daily except on significant match play days and be sure to arrive at least 30 mins before the entry time for security clearance. Once inside, the tour guide will take you through the MCC Museum where you can see the Ashes Urn, the Long Room in the Pavillion, the dressing rooms, and the J.P. Morgan Media Centre.  

Closest tube stop to Lord’s Cricket Ground: St John’s Wood

Lords Cricket Ground in London Tour

5. Enjoy a stroll along Little Venice and the Regent’s Canal from Paddington to Camden

We took the tube to Paddington and from there followed the signs towards Little Venice which is located very close to Paddington station. Little Venice is the part of the Regent’s Canal that meets the Paddington Canal. Canals in London had once served as the main way of transporting goods around the city. Today Little Venice marks a tranquil area lined with houseboats, making it hard to believe that you are just a stone throw away from the busy streets of Paddington. I would highly recommend getting off-the-beaten-path for a stroll along this peaceful oasis during your London in 6 days trip.

London in 6 Days : Strolling along Regents Canal from Little Venice to Camden

Strolling along Regent’s Canal or taking a boat ride aboard Jason’s Boat Trip from Little Venice brings visitors to the famous and busy Camden Market. The boat tour from Little Venice takes about 45 minutes to reach Camden and is accompanied by narration from the onboard guide. Alternatively, you can always choose to walk for about an hour along the 2 miles long path next to Regent’s Canal to reach Camden – a fantastic way to experience London off-the-beaten-path.

Closest tube stop to Little Venice: Paddington and Warwick Avenue’s tube station

6. Wrap up your London in 6 days visit with a unique shopping experience and intriguing eats at Camden Market

The lively, edgy Camden Market is the largest street market in London and is actually a collection of small markets along the street. These include the Camden Buck Market Street Market (plenty of stalls selling clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs), the Inverness Street Market, the Camden Lock Market near the canal (several booths in the main hall and plenty of food vendors) and the Horse Stables Market ( largest collection of shops and plenty of eateries). If you are trying to plan a visit to Camden Market during your London in 6 days stay, then try to avoid the weekends as the market is especially crowded during those days.

We stopped by the Cheese Bar in Camden and what a find this was! It is located right opposite the Amy Winehouse statue in the Horse Stables Market of Camden. If you are a cheese fan and would like to try some dishes featuring English cheeses, then this is the place to be! The fondue served here is incredibly flavorful.

Closest tube stop to Camden Market: Camden Town Station

After your visit to London, if you are planning on traveling to Belgium or Netherlands, do read our posts on Bruges, Zaanse Schans, and Amsterdam as well. 

London is a city that beckons travelers to revisit over and over and discover it some more. No matter how many times you’ve traveled to London, there always seems to be something new to see every time you are back in the city.

We thoroughly enjoyed exploring the classic and off-the-beaten-path sites highlighted in this DIY London in 6 days itinerary and hope that this travel guide will be able to help you plan your next epic visit to London.
It’s always a joy for us to return to London and explore it some more…Until thenGoodbye, dear London!

Disclaimer: It’s a pleasure for us to share our travel experiences with all our readers and we sincerely hope to inspire your future travels. In order to help us maintain this blog and offset the costs of running landoftravels.com, we have sprinkled affiliate links throughout the site. If you choose to make a purchase via any of these affiliate links, we’ll earn a tiny commission at no additional cost to you.

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The Epic 6 Days In London DIY Travel Guide

 

 

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