Visiting London for the first time

London holds a special place in my heart – after living here for nearly five years, I find myself still discovering its many possibilities and eccentricities – from the thousands of deer that roam free in Richmond Park to the history-laden interior of the original City of London (the City within a city).

When I moved here from the United States ten years ago, it was the first time I travelled to the United Kingdom - and Europe in fact – and I remember quite clearly both the excitement and overwhelm of visiting a new place for the first time and wanting to do it all.

I spent countless hours researching, trawling Reddit boards, and scrolling social media until I was cross-eyed, yet still not feeling confident in what I was planning.

I found myself in the well-known and often deflating pre-travel rabbit hole – topped up with an extra dose of guilt and stress during what was supposed to be an exciting time. I longed for the human touch – someone to give me a few of their trusted favourites to help anchor my plans. 

So with a few years, countless museum visits and restaurant bookings, and even more nights out under my belt, here’s hoping my recommendations can be that for future first-time London visitors. 

Below are some of my favourite things to do, and my places to visit in London to make the most of your time in the city.

• Coal Drops Yard

• Primrose Hill

• Spitalfields Market

• Tate Britain 

• Queen Mary’s Gardens

• Seven Dials

• Redchurch Street in Shoreditch