International broadcaster and Consumer Insight Expert Kate Hardcastle MBE continues sharing her personal guide to some of her favourite places in the world. Today she shares her top tips and recommendations should you have 24 hours in London.Â
London, with its timeless charm and endless dynamism, is a city that always feels like home, no matter how far I travel. Each visit unfurls new layers, revealing hidden gems alongside its iconic landmarks. Here's how I spent an unforgettable 24 hours in London, a city that continuously inspires and delights.
Stay: Rosewood Hotel
My journey begins at the Rosewood Hotel, a sanctuary of luxury nestled in the heart of London. With its Edwardian façade and Renaissance elegance, the Rosewood is more than just a hotel; it's a piece of London's rich tapestry, offering a serene escape from the bustling city streets.
Morning Ritual: Breakfast at The Ritz
No start to a London day could be more iconic than breakfast at The Ritz. Since its opening in 1906, The Ritz has been synonymous with elegance and luxury. Dining in the grandeur of The Ritz's opulent rooms, I'm transported to a bygone era, indulging in a breakfast that sets the tone for the day ahead.
Cultural Immersion: National Portrait Gallery
Next, I find myself at the National Portrait Gallery, a cornerstone of London's cultural landscape. The gallery's 2024 exhibits, showcasing a blend of historical figures and contemporary icons, offer a profound insight into the fabric of British society through the ages. It's a place where art and history converge, telling the story of Britain through the faces that have shaped it.
Shopping Splendour: Fortnum & Mason
A visit to London is incomplete without experiencing the delights of Fortnum & Mason. Known for its exquisite teas, luxury goods, and the iconic Eau Du Nil color, my top tip is to pick up tea towels and beautiful honey pots that serve as elegant reminders of my London escapades.
Luncheon: The Wolseley
Lunch at The Wolseley, with its seamless blend of European grandeur and British charm, is an experience in itself. Nestled in the heart of Piccadilly, it offers a culinary journey that's both comforting and decadent, embodying the spirit of London dining. Ask for a balcony table in your reservation to really take in the grandeur of the occasion
Afternoon Elegance: Selfridges and Notting Hill
An afternoon at Selfridges promises a retail experience like no other. Beyond its vast collection of designer brands, I book in advance for a transformative blow-dry at Hershesons, adding an extra touch of glamour to my day.
The allure of Notting Hill beckons next, with its vibrant streets, eclectic shops, and the famed Portobello Road Market. The Tube journey from Oxford Circus to Notting Hill Gate is a seamless transition from the hustle of central London to the charm of its beloved neighborhoods.
Evening Indulgence: Chiltern Firehouse and Harrods Spa
A visit to Harrods Spa for a session with Dimple Amani, a renowned lymphatic drainage specialist, follows. It's an oasis of tranquility, offering a rejuvenating escape that prepares me for the evening ahead.
Dinner at Chiltern Firehouse is a highlight, offering not just exquisite food but an atmosphere buzzing with the energy of London's social scene. It's a place where the city's pulse is palpable, wrapped in the warmth of its inviting ambiance.
Nighttime stroll to Buckingham Palace
The day concludes with a leisurely supper, a quintessentially British affair that allows me to soak in the city's nocturnal beauty. The final act of my 24-hour sojourn is a stroll towards Buckingham Palace. Under the soft glow of the streetlights, the palace stands as a testament to London's enduring legacy, a silent observer to the city's ever-evolving story.Walking through the streets of London at night, the city's history whispers in the wind, from the grandeur of its monuments to the quiet dignity of its parks. Each step on this journey reaffirms my deep-seated affection for London — a city that, no matter how often I visit, always has something new to discover, something beautiful to show, and a new memory to create
.A must book if you can:
A facial with Nicola Joss, now collaborating with British luxury favourite skincare Lyma, is the epitome of indulgence. Known for her transformative treatments favoured by celebrities, Nicola's expertise will leave you glowing, reflecting the very essence of London's blend of tradition and cutting-edge innovation.