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Why London is My Favorite City

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17 Sep I Love London

I’ve been obsessed with London since I was a teenager, since the days when my school friends and I would get the train up at the weekends to chase pop bands around.  Back then London was a place of absolute wonder and excitement; a place where you could realise your dreams, no matter how crazy or ridiculous. It’s so difficult to explain the exhilaration the 14-year-old me would feel getting off the train at Waterloo, a stranger in a city bigger than I could fathom with so much to see and do. I love London and always promised that teenage version of me that one day, I’d live there.

Why I Love London

Andrew and I have been living in London for nearly three years now and in all that time I’ve never lost that sense of teenage wonder.  I have my favourite restaurants and pubs, cinemas, film festivals, museums and walks. I love the life we’ve carved in London , the people we’ve met, the work we do and the routines we’ve established.

It’s more than that though.

I love London for its newness and oldness squashed together, the tall glass buildings surrounded by old cathedrals and tiny Victorian houses next to towering council blocks.  I love Christmas in London when the markets and pubs are full, the lights go up, the church bells sing and a centimetre of sleet can bring the transport system to a standstill. I love the summer time when everyone flocks to the parks and you can sit on the Southbank with a beer, gazing across the Thames. Right now especially, I love autumn in London, the frosty dark mornings and fireworks in the park .

Here are some of my favourite places and things to do in London.

The Southbank is my favourite place to visit in London, I just love the amazing view over the Thames . The river is lined with so many restaurants and pubs as well as the Royal Festival Hall and the British Film Institute.  Best of all, I’m lucky enough to work in Southwark, so I can walk over to the river in my lunch break.

Free London Attractions

London has some of the best free museums and they’re often the best places to visit in London on a rainy day. My favourite is the Imperial War Museum, which has a truly devastating Holocaust exhibition, the National History Museum is also great.

Aside from that, one of the best things about London is that there’s always something going on, a festival, a celebration, a protest, the Olympics… What’s even better is that you won’t pay a penny for lots of them. Recently I’ve seen alien street art at a festival in Greenwich and been to the annual Thames festival.

Buildings, Sights & Museums

There are so many sights to see in London.  My favourites include Greenwich , especially the view from the observatory on top of the hill shown below,  the tower of London, secret corners of Covent Garden like Neal’s Yard and the London Dungeons – touristy but brilliant!

Why I love London – the Parks

There are many great parks in London, the one we love the most though is the one closest to where we live,  Dulwich Park . It’s the best park for sunbathing, table tennis, running and dog-watching. Oh, and it’s absolutely stunning.

The Markets

We used to live in East London and the markets there were brilliant, cheap and full of proper east-enders heckling and trying to swindle you. My favourite is Borough Market though, which also happens to only be a 10 minute walk from work. Yes, I really lucked out on office location.

Film is one of my big passions, I even spent three years studying it at Uni. London is the perfect place to indulge my obsession with film. I have membership at my favourite art-house cinema, the Curzon in Soho. I’ve also been to some great film festivals, including the annual sci-fi film festival, a Japanese film festival, the Human Rights film festival and of course, my favourite:  Fright Fest .

I couldn’t finish this list without mentioning our local pub. We love it for the fact that it’s independent, the barman is crazy and it’s called The Hob (as in the Hunger Games, cool, huh?).

So why do I want to leave the city I love so much? Right now I find I’m asking myself that question every day. The only answer that I can come up is that my desire to travel trumps my love for London at this point in my life and who knows, maybe I’ll find somewhere even better? In any case, the city will always be here and hopefully one day I’ll return.

21 Comments

ohhh I miss London now ! I lived here for one year only and felll in love with this city even though the weather is quite crazy there :p

I’m sure I’ll miss London like crazy too – you’re right about the weather though! Right now it’s looking particularly grey outside my office window. Where in London did you live?

I lived near Baker street and studied in Le Cordon Bleu) in Marylebone Lane. Then I moved to Hendon area because the rent in zone 1 was so expensive. I worked part time in AMT coffee bar in Victoria station and also in TATE modern. Quite a hectic life but I miss it now 🙂

Wow – Le Cordon Bleu, that’s impressive! I work very close to the Tate Modern and I love that area of London. Don’t blame you for moving outside zone 1, we live in South East London (Forest Hill) where the rent is much cheaper!

Love the the photos and blog about London. Don’t know how you can bear to leave it!

I know Beast – it’s a tough one. I’m really going to miss everything except for the routine of working! I’m sure we’ll return at some point in the future though. Thanks for reading and commenting – more London pics and stories to come!

Koren @ City Gal

Great list! I lived in London for about 6 months and love LOVE that city (for many of the same reasons I love New York). I do appreciate a good market too!

Hi Koren, yes, London is such an addictive place – I don’t know how I’ll cope when I leave! I’ve also been to New York briefly and would love to go back and explore it more!

Funny, I’ve been living in London for the last 6 months and I trade it in a heartbeat to be back traveling the world! I just enjoyed checking out your blog, so far you guys have a similar route to mine. Indonesia was pretty rough at times (don’t go to India, much worse), but some of my favorite photos are from there. Have fun on your trip, I hope you guys keep it up!

Hi Christy, we also had a rough time in Indonesia but are having a great time overall. A part of me always misses London though, even when I’m having the best time on the road but like you, when I was living there I couldn’t wait to leave – wanderlust is a cruel beast!

It is! My friend that traveled with me is now back home and feels that life is very “underwhelming” after a year of travel. But I remember the rough days and just wanting to escape to air conditioning and a bathroom that doesn’t look like a murder scene. It’s absolutely the best thing I ever did though and I’m sure you guys will feel the same!

Glad to hear that you’re travel experience was so rewarding Christy – even through the tough times I know we’ll look back in years to come and be happy we made the decision to travel.

steva azura

hi I’m indonesian people, I love reading your blog, I am very amazed with london, it’s starts from reading the encyclopedia about london. I wish I could live there

Hi Steva, thanks for reading and commenting. We miss London while we’re travelling and can’t wait to go back and visit in the summer. It’s a great place and I hope you get to visit it one day too. 🙂

you guys traveler too? Cool! What countries have you both been? Yes, London is truly amazing. Amen!! I wish I could live there too. (:

London is an awesome place! We’re currently travelling in South-East Asia but will return to visit London in the summer.

You have to come to Indonesia, many amazing places in Indonesia such as Kuta beach in Bali, Raja Ampat in Papua,ranukumbolo in semeru,rupat beach in riau and many more

We have already visited Indonesia Steva; we saw some beautiful places, especially the Gili Islands and Mount Bromo. Of course there’s always more to explore! A part of me always misses London wherever I travel though 🙂

Oh these are some great tidbits on London :)! Excellent quality pictures also. My favourite spot is Waterstones on Piccadilly Circus. The best bookstore ever!!! Thanks for sharing!

Yes, I love that Waterstones too!

Elena Gilbert

I loved reading your blog really interesting, please keep on writing blogs like this in future as well.

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12 Reasons Why London Is My Favourite City in the World

In 2023, I touched down in London for my 9th visit in 11 years. Every single time I return to London , I fall more and more in love, happily calling London my favourite city in the world.

This city totally has my heart and if it wasn’t so hard on the wallet, I’d move there in a minute. But until that happens, I’m content to be a continual London tourist taking any chance I get to set foot in this world class city!

Not sold on The Old Smoke? Check out the 12 reasons why my favourite city, London, might become yours too!

Plus, check out my itinerary for how to spend 3 days in London!

Table of Contents

1. Public transit: The London tube is easy, efficient and fun to use!

“Mind the gap between the train and the platform.” Just hearing that, in a posh British accent, puts a big smile on my face. When I took my first tube ride way back in 2012, I was so amazed by this enormous network of underground trains. I couldn’t believe how many lines there were, how much land they covered and how far underground they really went.

You can literally get anywhere in London via tube. In fact, in over a decade of visiting London, I have only ever taken one cab and one bus (and both of those were just to try out the iconic black cabs and the double-decker buses) – everything else was via the famous London Underground! For English speakers, the tube is also easy to navigate with maps and apps, clear signage, and English speaking employees who can help.

Back in the day you had to have an Oyster card or paper ticket to use the tube but now you can simply tap on and off with a credit card, making London public transit even easier for visitors. No need to load money onto a card, worry you haven’t paid the right fare or fret about losing a paper ticket.

Of course, the tube has its flaws. Getting on the tube at rush hour on a hot day? Not fun! And if you’re over six feet tall, you’re going to have a hard time squeezing into some of the compartments. But all of that stress melts away when you consider what you could be paying to take an Uber or taxi across the city. Plus, then you wouldn’t get to giggle like a 12 year old when you hear the voiceover announce, “This is a Piccadilly line train with service to Cockfosters.”

2. Voices: All the accents in London are amazing

It’s so fun to listen to people talk in accents that I don’t usually hear in my everyday life. Not being British, I can’t quite distinguish between the different types of British/UK accents. I just know they all sound cool!

And even cooler when they use fun UK English words like “jumper” (sweater) and “queue” (line) that we don’t usually hear in North America. And unfortunately, I’m one of those horrible tourists who start using the local lingo after only a couple of days in London . “I’ll just throw my rubbish in that bin by the lift” is a real life sentence I have said because I’m the worst.

Not only do you get to hear English accents in London but accents from all over the UK, Europe and the world speaking all sorts of languages. One of main reasons why London is my favourite city is because of all of the cultures, countries, religions, races and people who call it home.

3. History: Be wowed by the past in London

I love that in Europe, you can pass a church that has been around for 500 years and no one even bats an eye. It’s just another church. No big deal; there’s another one on the next block. That sort of thing just doesn’t exist in Canada! I love walking through streets and into buildings knowing that these have been around for ages.

If you’re a history buff, London is a great place to visit. It’s home to incredible museums (many of which are free!) and attractions where you can learn about British history like the Tower of London and the British Museum.

Of course, there are some really ugly parts of Britain’s history that still wreak havoc on our modern world. While we don’t need to celebrate all of Britain’s history, I do think it’s important to learn about it on a trip to London.

4. Size: I love that London is a big city

For some people, the fact that London is so big is a turn off. But for me, I love it! I grew up in downtown Toronto and I love a big city with lots of people, fast-moving traffic and loud noises. The sounds of sirens and streetcars lulled me to sleep as a kid.

As a visitor, I absolutely love having a huge city to explore. The idea of a small town sounds idyllic in theory – but I know I would be bored in an hour. Thanks to London’s size, I know I will never run out of neighbourhoods, restaurants, shops, parks or attractions to explore no matter how many times I return to London .

5. Beauty: All of London’s beautiful buildings & neighbourhoods

How can you walk through the streets of Notting Hill and not fall in love? Those Easter-egg hued houses, little independent shops and the outdoor market on the weekend? I would move in tomorrow if I could.

London is chock-a-block (a British term I heard used in Manchester and hope I am using right) with cool neighbourhoods, interesting markets and gorgeous buildings. I love the little brick houses, towering churches, bright parks, bridges over the Thames and awesome food markets.

Sadly I haven’t made it too far out of Central London on any of my trips but I know there are even better, cooler and more affordable neighbourhoods for me to discover on the next trip.

6. Diversity: There’s something for everyone in London!

I don’t understand people who don’t like London. There is something here for absolutely everyone! Whether you’re into sports, arts, nightlife or nature, you will find something here. There’s all types of foods, languages and activities. There are even things to satisfy every budget (though I know living in London is a whole different expense).

While London is probably best known for museums, history, royalty and theatre (more on that below), you don’t have to be into any of those things to enjoy a visit to London. You can spend your time watching a football match (aka soccer game), exploring parks, going on boat rides, eating food from every corner of the world, shopping, reading and even hiking around the city.

Like Samuel Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” If you don’t think you’d find something to interest you in London, I encourage you to give it a try. I’m positive you’d find something about London to love.

7. Theatre scene: London’s West End musicals are the best

Musicals are one of my huge loves in life. I used to perform in musicals when I was younger but these days, I just belt along to the tunes in the shower (and in the kitchen, and at my desk, and so on!). You don’t want to be my next door neighbour when I’m going for the high notes in Defying Gravity. So one of the reasons why London is my favourite city is the awesome musical and live theatre scene in the West End.

Every time I have visited London, I’ve seen a musical. Usually more like two or three! I love that there are so many shows playing all the time to cater to different theatre tastes and that getting discount tickets is super easy. Many of the theatres offer rush tickets or hold lotteries, or allow you to book discounted tickets through resellers, like TKTS and TodayTix. With so many options of what to see and how much you want to pay for it, theatre is a lot more accessible to everyone.

There’s nothing like seeing a musical or play in real life. I get the hugest smile on my face when I hear an actress belting out an impossible note, watch a company nail an intricate dance sequence, or see a stage transform with unbelievable sets and costumes. Live theatre is amazing and some of the best money I’ve ever spent!

8. Food & drink: Enjoy afternoon tea, Indian food & more in my favourite city, London

People are always ragging on British food. And, to be honest, mushy peas or bangers and mash don’t really do it for me either. But afternoon tea? I can definitely get on board with that. Tea, scones, cakes and mini sandwiches can be delicious!

Plus, with London being such a huge and diverse city, there’s lots of great food to be had from all over the world. London is well known for its awesome Indian food. I’ve also had some great ramen and Chinese baos in London. A visit to Borough Market will have you inhaling the scents of the global food scene, mouth-watering and ready to eat it all.

London is also great if you want to eat on a budget. Pret A Manger (found on every corner) is definitely one of my London staples. It’s so easy to pop in and grab a drink, sandwich and snack for just a few pounds. I highly recommend the hoisin duck wrap and the cranberries in coats!

9. Royalty: London is home to the British royal family (if that’s your thing)

I know the British royal family is not for everyone. While Canada is a commonwealth country under the British monarch, I don’t feel a deep allegiance to or affection for the crown and struggle to see where the monarchy fits into modern society. That being said, they are certainly a subject of fascination and a draw to London for many people.

Back in university, I was a pretty big fan of the royals. By that, I mean that I had a Kate and Will wall calendar and followed Kensington Palace on Facebook. Like many famous people that I admired in my youth, their appeal has lost its shine for me now as an adult. I’m still interested (I did read Spare after all), but I wouldn’t say I’m a supportive superfan.

That being said, my visits to London then and now have had royal themes. It would be a shame to visit London and not walk by famous places like Buckingham Palace or Westminster Abbey. I liked touring Windsor Castle in 2014 and wondering if the Queen was home. I also happened to be in town during Trooping the Colour in 2012 and 2014, allowing me to get a glimpse of the royal family on the palace balcony. I hadn’t planned my trip around the event but will admit it was cool to see Kate and Will in real life!

10. Pop culture: Harry Potter, Sherlock Holmes and more call London home

If you’re a pop culture enthusiast, odds are one of your favourite TV shows, movies or books was filmed, set, written or created in London. From Sherlock Holmes and James Bond to Paddington Bear and Harry Potter, you’d be hard pressed to find a London-based character or story you aren’t familiar with.

Fans can visit Sherlock’s home on Baker Street or the Paddington Bear store at Paddington Station. You can walk the streets of Notting Hill like Hugh Grant did in the movie by the same name, head to Bridget Jones’ favourite bar or order James Bond’s signature drink. And, of course, if you’re a Potterhead (despite not supporting the transphobic author who should not be named), London is full of must-visit stops like King’s Cross Station, the Millennium Bridge, and a visit out to the Harry Potter Studio Tour .

11. Travel opportunities: Access to the rest of Europe is so easy from London!

One of the reasons why I would love to live in London and why London is my favourite city in the world is because it’s so accessible. You can get almost anywhere in Europe from London. And usually the cheapest flights are into and out of one of London’s many airports.

When we lived abroad in Prague , I regularly saw flights in and out of London for less than $50 round trip. London also has an extensive train and bus network that can connect you around the UK and even over to mainland Europe. While the trains can be pricy, sales do pop up occasionally and sometimes it’s worth it to pay a bit more for a train to avoid the hassle of getting to and from an airport.

12. Why is London my favourite city in the world? All of my awesome London travel memories!

One of the big reasons why London is my favourite city in the world is because of all of the amazing memories I have in London. London was the very first stop on my first solo trip and first trip to Europe . That trip totally changed my life and it meant a lot to be able to start it in London.

I stopped in London on my way to spending three months living and interning in Swaziland (now Eswatini) , another big life changing trip. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting London with my mom, my husband, my siblings, friends from Vancouver, friends from abroad, and by myself. And, somehow, I’ve managed to visit London almost 10 times with only a couple of days of rain!

Final thoughts on why London is my favourite city in the world

I know London can get a bad rap for being big, busy and expensive. But to me, I’m always going to have a soft spot for London!

Not only is the city full of amazing memories for me – from my very first solo trip to exploring London with my favourite people – but it also continues to surprise me. Despite visiting almost 10 times in the last decade, I never get tired of London. There is always something interesting to do no matter your budget or interests.

So, have I sold you on London? Are you ready to call London your favourite city too?  Let me know in the comments below how you feel about London and which city is your favourite.

Planning a trip to London? Don’t miss these posts:

• Our Itinerary: One Week in London and Iceland
• 3 Days in London – Your Perfect Itinerary
• Why I Keep Returning to London
• How to Spend a Weekend Break in Bath (the perfect side trip from London!)

Riana Ang-Canning is a travel writer who has been sharing her global adventures as the founder of Teaspoon of Adventure since 2012. In that time, Riana has travelled to almost 50 countries on 6 continents, including interning in Eswatini, working in Tokyo, road tripping New Zealand and living abroad in Prague. Riana helps everyday travellers discover the world on a mid-budget, proving that you don't have to be athletic, wealthy or nomadic to have an adventure!

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40 comments.

Sounds awesome! I’ve never been , but definitely adding to my list now! Maybe next year to visit you guys! Christmas in London?

That sounds awesome! I’ve heard London is a great place to be at Christmas. See you there!

London definitely gets undeserved bad reputation for the food, weather, being too much of a city etc. But like you, I have enjoyed London the 3x I have been. I took in 2 musicals on two of my visits, one was with you and I loved that play, and the other was on my first visit and saw Wicked and it was wicked! What is there not to love about the different areas of London? So much to see and do. I even love the parks. Yes, yes, yes…it’s all lovely! I will definitely visit when you guys are there next year!

Yay! Would love to see London with you again. I think our plan should just be to meet all of our visitors in London and then we’ll move on from there. I hear it’s beautiful at Christmas so I can’t wait to see that too!

I have visited London a couple of times and i absolutely love it! And I love the accent as well.

Glad to hear you love London too! And yes, the accents are amazing!

I’ve always been so curious about “the tube” haha I can’t wait to finally see what it’s all about.

I think if you’re a tourist, it can be pretty fun and charming. It’s impressive to see just how massive and sprawling it really is. But I’m sure if you lived in London and had to commute on a packed tube every single day it wouldn’t be nearly as much fun!

Doing anything every day often does ruin the fun

This is so funny to read as I have lived in London twice now. My husband is from London and so now and then he likes to go an live there for a while. I think to need to go and live in London to get the real sense of it. It definitely has its charms but……

Yes, I’m sure it’s a totally different experience to live in London rather than to just visit. I mean, I live in Vancouver, one of the prettiest places and often voted best places to live, and certainly don’t feel that way every day.

It is an exciting city with a great grunge and I don’t want to crush your dream. But check out well if you can afford to live there because it is ridiculous expensive with its rents. And if you live far out and have to do the trip into London every day during rush hour, the tube system shows a different side. Just a few notes.

Oh absolutely! Well aware that rent and living in London is pretty crazy. And I don’t want to spend all day commuting. So I don’t think a move to London is in our future – unless we win the lottery!

After reading your post, I must go see a musical in London! I never thought of that as an activity I must do there. Definitely adding it to my itinerary. Great job!

You absolutely do! It’s my favourite thing to do in London 🙂

Ohhh I absolutely love this post! London is definitely on my travel bucket list, and I really want to visit all the places you mentioned… 🙂

I hope you make it there! London is awesome!

I absolutely agree, London is wonderful. And the food scene is amazing with tremendous variety of different International cuisines delivering delicious fare!

Agreed! People are always hating on British cuisine but there are so many great eats in London!

London is one of my dream destinations! I hope I can go visit someday!

I hope you can too! It’s a great city!

I haven’t been to London in about 12 years and now I feel like I need to go back immediately. I loved it then and you just rekindled all that in me! I’m also a major Potterhead and the tours weren’t a thing yet when I went. Also, I feel like you should come to New York. Many of the things you love about London are here too so you would probably enjoy it.

Aw I hope you get to make it back to London soon. As a Potterhead, you will love all the new Harry Potter things. Yes, I did have similar feelings when I visited New York a few summers ago. Unfortunately, I visited in August and was sweating the whole time. But I’d love to visit New York again in the spring or fall!

We are totally on the same page! London is my soul mate 🙂

Ah, I love that! London is amazing!

Oh London town! It’s been too long since I’ve seen you.

Gotta get back soon!

London is such a dazzling city, you can always discover something new.

Absolutely! Always something new and exciting going on!

You make some great points about the best things in London. I’m totally with you on the tea, theatre and of course Harry Potter! My tips for getting tickets to the Cursed Child – sign up to the newsletter and join the queue as soon as it opens for getting tickets. Them gran what you can. It took me a year of trying to buy tickets for a year in advance. They were cheap seats super high up but the shows were amazing! Totally worth 2 years of effort 🙂

Thanks so much for checking out the blog, Hannah. And thank you for the tips! Will have to be more diligent and make Cursed Child happen one day soon!

The tube is great but I love the bus system. We rented a house for a month in Queen’s Park a block from a stop for the 36 bus. Two thirds of our trips were on the bus. You can see so much of the city that way. The grandkids loved sitting in the front of the upper deck. When we did use the tube we always looked for a bus route home.

Yes, good call about the bus! I was initially attracted to the tube because the planning seemed a lot easier with the tube maps. But the buses are great (and cheaper!). I went on my first one back in 2014 and loved the novelty of the double decker. Very cool that you rented a house in London for a month!

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I have to say the words you used (Jumper, queue, rubbish” aren’t slang words but actual English language words used every day. Slang words are more like “quid” instead of “pounds”, “bloke” instead of “man” or “pissed” instead of “drunk”.

I do agree though, London is a great city! Great for theatre and concerts. I definitely recommend venturing outside of London though 🙂

Good point! I’ll edit my post. I think I meant more lingo that is used in the UK that isn’t used in Canada/US, not that the words were made up, so I’ll make that change. But yes, a great city either way!

Definitely has something for everyone! Plus the theatre is great too.

Absolutely! And yes, the theatre is probably my favourite part.

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10 Reasons Why London Is My Favourite City in the World

1 London is a cosmopolitan city and very British at the same time

2 Historic landmarks

I guess almost everyone is familiar with the historic landmarks of London whether they have visited the city or not. Here are just a few examples:

Tower Bridge

St. Paul's Cathedral

Buckingham Palace

Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square got its name in 1830 and is named after the Battle of Trafalgar. William Railton designed a column and statue to honour Admiral Nelson, who won the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The lions are said to protect Nelson’s Column. The fountains, mermaids, dolphins and tritons were installed some years later. Today, Trafalgar Square is a centre of national democracy and protest. 

St Pancras Station

3 Skyscrapers of London

Walkie talkie building and Sky garden

Skyscrapers in Canary Wharf

As of 2021, Canary Wharf has 5 out of the top 10 tallest buildings in the UK, including One Canada Square skyscraper. Keep an eye out for a building with a triangle roof! It is the third tallest building in the United Kingdom at 235 metres (770 ft.) above ground level containing 50 storeys. One Canada Square is primarily used for offices.

Tip! If you are visiting London at the weekend and are interested in seeing  South East London , it's a good idea to look for accommodation in Canary Wharf. It might be cheaper then because it's busy on weekdays and empty on weekends.

4 Hidden gems

Keep in mind that London is big, so if you visit it quite often, you’ll realise that there are equally enough big touristy areas as well as less popular places but still worth exploring nevertheless. I have visited some of the hidden gems, but many more are left to explore in future, like Little Venice, Brown Hart Gardens, Stephen Wright's House of Dreams and Chelsea Physic Garden. From the lesser-known places in London, some of my favourites are as follows:

Sir John Soane's Museum

Daunt Books

Neasden Temple

Painted Hall

Seeing one of the best musicals in London is truly a unique experience. Some of the most famous musicals in London, such as The Lion King, Wicked, Les Miserables and Mamma Mia, have been running in London’s best theatres in the West End for years. My favourite is The Phantom of the Opera because of its wonderful music and great performance.

6 Many free of charge museums

7 Parks and gardens

I love spending time in the parks of London. Here are just some of my favourites:

St James's Park

Kensington Gardens

Kew Gardens

Hampton Court Palace Gardens

8 Street art

9 Greenwich and Prime Meridian

10 Afternoon tea

Oh, I almost forgot to tell you about shopping in London!

Long story short, I just love London!

What did you think? Have you visited London? What is your favourite city? I’d love to hear from you so please add your comment below.

• Published by Anita on February 04, 2022

Author: Anita Sāne

About the author Anita is a part-time traveller, passionate photographer and a retired career woman from Latvia,  travelling mostly solo for more than 15 years.  She is a skilled travel planner who plans and executes her travels by herself. Anita wants to show you how to travel the world and open your mind to new  experiences. Follow her on Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Pinterest ,  Twitter  and Bloglovin .

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13 reasons why you'll fall in love with London

Updated On 23rd February, 2024

London is by far one of  the  most iconic cities in the world. From the hustle and bustle of Piccadilly Circus and Oxford Street to the black cabs and red buses lining every street insight, it’s just as crazy and just as beautiful as you’ve seen it in the movies.

View my  30 fun things to do in London here.

One of my favourite things about London is just how much there is to explore. Even if you made it your mission to explore every street on the map, by the time you’d finished, I guarantee half of the city would have already changed. There are new pop-ups, bars, rooftops, installations and festivals popping up every single day. London is fast-paced and pretty crazy at times but you could literally spend a lifetime exploring the city and never be stuck for things to do.

London is often the starting point for many international travellers heading over for  the ultimate European adventure , due to it’s connectivity to the rest of the world via planes, trains, Eurostar and car. It’s an epic hub and the perfect gateway to  exploring Europe . Even if big cities aren’t your  thing,  you have to experience London at least once, even just for a day!

After making the short trip from  Dublin  to England’s capital, Robyn got the opportunity to throw herself into everything London has to offer and fell in love.

Other travel guides and blog post that you may enjoy:

• The best things to do in London when it rains
• The best free things to do in London
• A complete guide to enjoying winter in London
• Europe: The Ultimate Travel Guide
• 22 top tips for travelling in Europe

13 reasons why you’ll fall in love with London…

1. It’s a great place for solo travellers. 

London is an absolute gem for backpackers. There are so many awesome hostels dotted across the city in pretty epic locations – the perfect way to connect with other solo travellers. Though there are certainly tourist traps and way to empty your bank account here in London, there are also endless opportunities to explore London without breaking the bank. For example, take advantage of the epic walking routes and free museums.

CHECK OUT ALL MY SOLO TRAVEL GUIDES HERE

If you fancy dipping your toes into some old British tradition then check out some of  my favourite places to have afternoon tea   here .

2. The rest of Europe is right on your doorstep… hello cheap weekends away!

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – the rest Europe is literally within arm’s reach of London. You can pick up flights as cheap as £10-15, making it easy to go on a spontaneous weekend away after a long week at work.

For example, after a very spontaneous late night booking a few weeks back, I arrived in Munich 5 days later in search of some fresh mountain air. I only paid £40 for the return flight. You can literally fly to a new country for the same price a taxi would cost after a night out!

Go on, if you don’t believe me… search for some flights on EasyJet  here , or on Skyscanner  here  (to check multiple airlines and airports).

• 21 cheap places to visit in Europe
• 10 dreamy spring weekends in Europe
• Hidden gems in Europe: places you must visit

3. There are countless quirky, weird and wonderful museums to visit

Visit the Natural History Museum and dive into a real life earthquake simulator, or explore the fascinating history of England’s capital at the Museum of London. Look into the eyes of Seurat’s Bathers at Asnières in the National Gallery, or check out the actual Black Arrow rocket in the Science Museum.

Most museums in London are free, so take your pick!

4. It’s one of the most culturally diverse cities for exploring and eating.

There are nearly 300 languages spoken in London alone… wow! This is reflected in its plethora of options when it comes to eating out and engaging in cultural experiences. Whatever cuisine you fancy, I can guarantee it’s here.

Consider checking out Brick Lane for a good curry, China Town for an authentic Chinese cuisine, Soho for a rooftop bar and karaoke booth night with your friends, Southbank for the  Udderbelly festival  where you can drink Pimm’s on the Thames all summer long… Honestly, it’s ridiculous how much is going on. I’ve barely scratched the surface!

• A list of the best brunch spots for you to try in London
• Cocktails in London: 25 fun places to try
• The 15 best London markets that you should visit
• Fun and unusual date night ideas in London
• 18 places to have afternoon tea in London

5. So many free things to do and see!

No matter how long you’ve lived here for, there’s always an abundance of new things popping up and arriving in London.

From outdoor cinemas to brand new rooftop bars, your Saturday nights will never be boring. Some of free things to do include:

• Watching the changing of the guards ceremony outside Buckingham Palace
• Watching Tower bridge open for boats to travel through it
• Walking in the footsteps of The Beatles by crossing the famous Abbey Road zebra crossing
• My London Landmark walk –  check out the route here.
• Walk along the Embankment from Waterloo to Tower Bridge and listen to buskers.
• Explore Borough or Camden Market –  see my  15 London Markets that you should visit here.
• Visit all the museums and galleries.
• Take a picnic to one of the many urban parks.
• Marvel at the street art in Brick Lane.

Check out  the best free things to do in London here.

6. London has an incredible accessibility and transport system.

If you are based in the English countryside and are looking to dive into the energy London has to offer then you will not be short on transport options. Trains come from all over the UK to many of the central London stations. Also, if you’re coming from abroad, London is home to 6 airports with direct train or coach connections into the city, and the famous London Underground with which you can get from one side of London to the other with a tap of an Oyster card.

Oyster cards are a convenient way to get around London’s underground, bus and train lines. They cap at £7 a day which means you have all the freedom to jump on board and see areas of London that are a little bit too far for you on foot.

• A complete 48-hour guide to London

Top tip: save money in London by avoiding peak hours on the underground and trains (0630-0930, 1600-1900) or consider walking or hiring bikes to see the city.

7. The markets are the best!

From tasting bubble waffles at Camden market and jumping on a canal boat, to picking out your favourite bunch of flowers at Columbia market with a coffee in hand, each market offers a completely different experience and there are so many to choose from.

Pick a day, choose a market and indulge in soaking up all the colours, smells and energy of market sellers. The energy is contagious and it’s probably my favourite weekend pastime in London.

If you’re a foodie like me then make sure you head over to Borough Market… it’s vegan friendly!

Check out  15 London markets you cannot miss here .

8. Every corner is an insta-worthy opportunity.

From the increasingly popular flower wall at Peggy Porschen cafe to iconic photos of the London Eye and Big Ben, get ready to fill your insta feed with epic photos of London. Think black cabs, red telephone boxes and tower bridge kinda vibe… get ready to channel your inner tourist.

Check out  my landmark walk through London here  – the perfect opportunity to get all the snaps and some fresh air!

9. London comes alive at night… Get your best outfit ready. 

Sing the night away in quirky Karaoke bars, grab front row tickets to your favourite West End show or treat yourself to a night at the Opera House in Covent Garden. Spend the night watching world class artists at one of the O2 venues dotted around the city or enjoy views of the skyline from somewhere like The Sky Garden. Or if you want something more casual, check out Shoreditch, Brixton or Camden by night! Just a few of the ways you can spend your evening in London – are you ready?

See my  25 places to have cocktails in London here.

Heading to London on a date? Looking to impress?  Here are some  fun & quirky date night ideas for you to check out.

10. There’s nowhere like it at Christmas.

After spending a few sunny Christmas seasons in Australia, I have come to appreciate just how special Christmas is in London. Christmas is by far my favourite time to be in London. The evenings draw in, the big fluffy coats come out and the city turns on its lights. It’s magical.

Ice rinks open up all over the city (I went to the Tower Of London one last year!), Winter Wonderland opens at Hyde park and German inspired huts pop up along Southbank for some festive meandering through a Christmas market. There’s mulled wine everywhere. Honestly, it’s the dream.

Thinking of visiting London this Christmas?  I’ve put together…

• a  guide of my favourite things to do in London over the Christmas season.

11. There are lots of parks to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

London, we know, can be the most exciting place in the world but it can also become overwhelming at times. Sometimes you just want to step out of the madness and balance city life with some green space. London, surprisingly, offers that in abundance too –  phew!

Some of my favourite parks to visit include Hyde Park, Victoria Park, Battersea Park and St. James Park.

If you’re looking to escape the city you can also consider day trips out on the train –  check out my day trip from London to Windsor here.

12. It’s a great place to study.

London has some of the best universities in the world with people coming from all over to study here. Whether you want to come here to do your full degree, or just do a semester or year abroad, this cultural melting pot is the perfect place to be a student! Even though London can be expensive, it’s also student-friendly if you know where to look for cheap drinks and good deals! Not to mention all the free things there are to do here, and the easy transport links back home!

Check out the university mini-series on my blog here.

See my review of  A beginner’s course at London School of Photography

13. London holds some of the best music festivals.

Head to Southbank to enjoy the 9-day Meltdown festival or head to west London’s leafy Gunnersbury Park for a two-day epic festival Love Box. Don’t forget the famous Wireless festival and Notting Hill Carnival! London celebrates every kind of art, especially when it comes to the famous music scene.

You’re also a stone’s throw from world-renowned Reading festival –  check out my experience here.

Looking for something unusual to do in London?  Check out my  fun bucket list for London here.

EXPLORE LONDON ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you ever been to London?

What made you fall in love with it? I’d love to know!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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London as a Place for a Tourist Vacation Essay

Introduction, works cited.

Saying that London is one of the most beautiful cities in the world is saying nothing about it. I have been going to this city since I was two years old and there were some years when I visited it four or five times a year; despite this, I will never stop getting amazed by it every time I get there. London is the best place for me and my Kuwaiti friends to spend a vacation in because this city is full of sights and nice places to visit with its shops and department stores offering goods for any taste; apart from this, a vacation in London can help non-English speakers, such as the Kuwaitis, perfect and sophisticate their English.

To begin with, London offers its visitors a number of sights the beauty of which is sometimes impossible to describe. Its parks are absolutely amazing; they are so diversified that one visit to London will not suffice if a person wants to see at least a part of them. London has a number of parks which are absolutely amazing. I can state for sure that none of other cities in the world has so much green and open space. There is at least one park in every part of London; at this, it does not matter “if it’s just a small pool with surrounding trees or a park like the magnificent and slightly wild in appearance Richmond Park” (“London Parks”).

The most prominent, perhaps, is Hyde Park which all the visitors go to play tribute to Princess Diana. The park is 360 acres in size and one can rent a boat to paddle in the lake there. There are also St. James’ Park, Primrose Hill Park, Alexandra Park, Regents Park, Syon Park, and an incalculable number of other parks. Theme and adventure parks are also numerous. A visit to any of them will become the greatest fun day a person could ever have.

Madame Tussauds and the London Dungeon are the most famous adventure parks in London, though the others are no less great. It is impossible to leave London without visiting Westminster Abbey, seeing Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, and having dinner in Covent Garden (Porter’s English Restaurant would be the best choice) (Moore and Porter 243).

London’s ancient buildings strike the visitors with their mysteriousness and one cannot stop wondering what hides between those old walls and columns created by famous architects and visited by no less famous people. So, visiting London is the best way to spend a vacation because after leaving the hotel one gets into a real fairy-tale where the sights whizz by and the memories about them remain in the mind forever.

Moreover, London is known as a city of shopping this is why doing shopping there is one of the duties each of the visitors is expected to fulfill. Shopping becomes a special entertainment in case the weather is not suitable for sightseeing. I for one adore London weather, though most of the visitors find it rather gloomy. I adore London for its rains for they are a rare occurrence in Kuwait where the weather is sunny hot.

Shopping is the best way to have fun during rainy days in London. The main shopping areas “center around Oxford Street and Regent Street, while Knightsbridge is home to stores stocking even more upmarket goods” (“London Shopping”). Major international and British brands can be found at these shops, but the visitors who look for specialist items will find them in Covent Garden. New Bond Street is for those who search for exclusive shops, while Hatton Garden is the best place to buy jewelry and watches.

Those who are interested in music, especially in rare cuts, will feel like in a dream in Soho where a great number of independent music shops offer the music items of all the possible genres. Therefore, the rainy weather of London is perfect for those who cannot imagine their lives without shopping and who are interested in goods which cannot be found anywhere but in London.

Finally, London is a great place to visit for Kuwaitis in particular because they can meet their nationals there and perfect their English speaking skills. Most of the Kuwaitis speak English well enough, but being in the natural environment will make their English absolutely great. British English is nothing like American English; it is like a song where all the words acquire special meanings. London natives sound so beautiful that all the visitors, regardless of their native language, get British accent because it is impossible not to wish resembling this mysterious language. London is full of people of different nationalities; the Kuwaitis are also numerous there this is why my friends will find London even more attractive and friendly.

Though the population of London is extremely diverse, most of people speak namely English there. This is the best place to improve spoken English because nothing except the communication with a native speaker can make your language richer. The communicative skills get improved after spending several days in London and the excitement, which speaking to the natives (who are, by the way, unbelievably sociable and polite) brings, stays with the visitors for a long time.

What is even more important is that learning English in such a way is entertaining rather than difficult or boring like some of the classes may be. Natural environment allows imitating not only language, accent, and even slang of the native people, but even some of their gestures and facial expressions. This makes the process of learning entertaining and favors the acquisition of knowledge. Thus, a vacation in London is especially useful for the Kuwaitis because English speaking environment can help them make their English even better.

In conclusion, London is indeed the best place for a vacation, especially for people whose native language is not English, such as the Kuwaitis. Ordinary, theme, and amusement parks of London will bring joy to all the visitors; they strike with their beauty and variety offering a number of ways to have fun. Shopping in London will satisfy the needs of even the most exigent shoppers. London shops and department stores not only ensure the visitors with an access to a wide range of goods, but open their doors for the buyers who look for something exclusive and provocatively expensive.

Lastly, a visit to London is extremely useful for the non-English speakers who can improve their English speaking skills, perfect their English, and adopt the beautiful accent of the true English language. I really doubt that there is at least one person who will find a vacation in London boring because it is the best place to have fun and to learn simultaneously.

Moore, Jennifer and Porter, Darwin. Frommer’s Europe. New York: John Willey and Sons, 2006.

“London Shopping.” London Guide. 2008. Talking Cities. Web.

“London Parks.” Life in London. 2009. London for Fun. Web.

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Hotel programs, best credit cards, back to {post.category_name}, back to guides, why i love london.

London is my favourite city in the world, and in this long-overdue post, I attempt to put down my exact reasons why.

Written by Ricky Zhang

Written by {post._embedded?.author[0].name || post.data.author}

On November 4, 2017

Read time 11 mins

“What’s your favourite city in the whole world?” 

One of the beautiful things about travel is that we all experience it differently. The above question crops up pretty frequently among travellers, but some can instantly name their personal favourite that holds a special place in their heart, while others would struggle to give it a proper answer, debating the relative merits of their top few choices for hours on end. Myself, I’m one of the former kind – there’s no doubt in my mind that London, England is my favourite city, and will likely retain that title even as I continuously discover more places around the world.

https://www.instagram.com/p/4MHp4goNDZ/

People have historically questioned why someone who was born in the Grace Hospital in Vancouver, spent his formative years in Beijing, and carried on his journey as a young adult in Toronto would be so enamoured with London, a city thousands of miles away from anywhere my roots may lie. And I’ve historically struggled to provide a satisfying answer, mostly phrasing my responses with vague notions like “I like football (soccer) and London has lots of it”. Eventually, I tended to resort to a canned response along the lines of “there’s just something about London that I love”, which probably only confused people further. (I never used the term “ je ne sais quoi ”, because that’s kind of an obnoxious thing to say, but it’s exactly what I’d be thinking.)

So this is a post straight from the heart, in which I attempt to explain precisely what lies behind that je ne said quoi factor that makes London so damn appealing in my eyes. After all, as the place where I document my travels and experiences, this blog wouldn’t be quite complete without it. I don’t expect everyone to agree with how I feel – I’d be surprised if anyone is as much of a die-hard city dweller as me, to start with – but I’d simply like to put my thoughts on this matter into words, once and for all.

London Is World Class

As one of only two Alpha++ World Cities as ranked by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network (no prizes for guessing the other one), London is a world-beater in many regards. It’s easy to understand intuitively how clusters of human population – in the form of cities – contribute to rapid civilization growth, and there’s perhaps no better example of that than the British capital.

Sightseeing is of course the most obvious example. London’s attractions draw in millions of tourists per year, and Central London alone can occupy travellers for days on end. After all, the zigzag on a map that begins near Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament (with its signature clock tower, Big Ben), darts across Westminster Bridge towards the London Eye, and connects to St. Paul’s Cathedral via the South Bank, is perhaps the world’s most classic tourist trail.

The London Eye

But there’s so much more than that. When you think of the world’s shopping hotspots, for example, Oxford Street and Harrod’s are top of mind. The City of London, the storied “city-within-a-city” originally founded by the Romans, is a key player in global finance (though its role is certain to diminish in light of Brexit). Meanwhile, London’s infrastructure was what “set the standard”, and as much as people love to complain about the Tube, the world’s oldest underground railway continues to serve Londoners incredibly well 154 years later.

Education? Depending on the program, UCL (shout-out!), LSE, and Imperial consistently figure near the top of global rankings, and of course Oxford and Cambridge are just a short train ride away. Big fan of football, the kind where the ball is round? Emirates Stadium and Wembley are iconic sites, and there’s a few other ones strewn about the city I guess 😉  Fine dining? A total of 79 Michelin stars to dazzle the palate. You get the idea. 

It’s not the case that London is the best of the best in every regard – Paris, New York, and Cambridge, Massachusetts might have a few choice words to say when it comes to some of the things I’ve listed – but at least for me, London is remarkable for being consistently outstanding in every single way that matters to me. That certainly puts it right into the mix when it comes to thinking about my favourite place in the world. But many other cities also meet these criteria, so what sets London apart?

London Is International

People often mistake me for a full-blooded Anglophile because I love London so much. The truth is that while there are some things I love about British culture, there’s also a fair bit that I don’t particularly care for. But that’s exactly the point – British culture isn’t what London is all about. Instead, people of all nationalities, cultures, and ethnolinguistic backgrounds live, work, and play in London, and thousands more flock there every year to add to the multicultural ranks.

As Canadians we know all about multiculturalism, and as someone who grew up at the crossroads of two very distinct cultures, London’s international vibe resonates particularly strongly with me.

Sure, much of the backdrop as you explore London will take the form of betting shops, pubs, and red double-decker buses. But go out to a bar on any given night, and chances are you’ll meet people and hear stories from so many places around the world that you’ll quickly lose count. While it might not be such a keenly felt phenomenon here in the Americas, London remains one of the most aspirational cities to live in for millions of people in Europe, Africa, and Asia. Students, professionals, those seeking a better future for their family… people from all walks of life entrust London with their hopes and dreams. 

Soho, Central London

Note that I’m not painting a picture of London as some kind of bastion of inclusivity and tolerance. We know Londoners, like most places around the world, have plenty of work to do in that regard – hell, I’d confidently say that we’re a lot farther along that path here in Canada.

But the city’s innate attractiveness and its ability to draw people from all corners of the globe can only help to improve things. You only need to take the train an hour in any direction to experience the stark difference between London and everywhere else in the UK, and to realize that “British culture” in London has long taken up a cozy spot in the backseat.

Of course, I do acknowledge that my experience as someone studying in Central London will be drastically different from, say, commuter life in one of London’s outer boroughs. But that brings me to my next point…

London Is Eclectic

There’s just so much to do in London.

Every city has its attractions, from must-see bucket list items to “off-the-beaten-path” “gems” or whatever Condé Nast Traveler is calling it these days. But London is simply on a whole other level. I spent a year living there and probably saw a fraction of what there was to see, and I’m constantly visiting new places in the city even now when I go back. I’m convinced that even if someone lived in London for ten years, they’d be hard-pressed to experience everything the city has to offer.

Regent’s Canal

Of course there’s the obvious stuff that we’ve already discussed: attractions, museums, galleries, theatres, cathedrals, squares, towers, bridges, parks, and riverbanks. But not many people realize, for example, that London also has an incredible network of canals, and walking along the towpath from one end to another is an amazing way of uncovering some of London’s best-kept secrets. (It’s particularly telling that during my year abroad in London, I somehow managed to miss the canals entirely and didn’t even check them out once!)

Once and always a mercantile hub, London’s markets are constantly buzzing, from Old Spitalfields in East London to the multi-storey operation in Camden Market. And if you’re into hiking, London has dozens of walking trails, the longest of which – the 78-mile Capital Ring that circles all the way around the Greater London boundary – I wish you good luck in completing.

And then you have all the neighbourhoods. Beyond Central London, every corner of the city has its own distinct charm, waiting for you to spend a little time to discover. From the quaint coffee shops of Kew that lead the way to the Royal Botanic Gardens , to the modern aesthetic of the patios on Canary Riverside, to Angel’s electric feel-good factor… I always find it a genuine pleasure to simply wander around and get lost in a new neighbourhood, and it’s one of my favourite things to do when in town.

London Is Challenging

Like anywhere else, London isn’t all good times. It’s a major city of 8 million people, so there’s bound to be occasions where your surroundings get you down a bit.

First, let’s talk about the weather. It rains a fair bit, but rainfall is generally quite light whenever it occurs, so Londoners aren’t all glumly walking around with umbrellas like the tropes will have you believe. The bright side is that it doesn’t ever get too cold – zero degrees celsius is about as low as it gets – so on the whole, the weather roughly works out evenly in my books.

Then let’s talk about the people. Often times, when people talk about their favourite city, they’ll say something like “oh, I love the people there!” This isn’t really a statement I would make about London: like any major city, being packed into such a densely populated area tends to add a touch of irritability to the average person you see on the street. Londoners have developed a reputation for avoiding small talk, so much so that it’s an unspoken rule to never make eye contact with another passenger when taking the Tube. On the whole, people are of course nothing but polite and friendly, but especially when compared to Canada, there’s definitely a noticeable drop in how approachable the average person seems.

And of course, the elephant in the room. Having sung London’s praises so emphatically, it would be disingenuous of me not to discuss the incredibly high cost of living in the British capital. The fact that Londoners typically denominate their rent in pounds per week, rather than per month, tells you everything you need to know. London is expensive, and in this regard, the sheer variety of things to do here may further squeeze on your wallet. Many Londoners struggle to make ends meet and are forced to move further away from the city centre, and although the excellent public transportation alleviates some of the pressure, the “London premium” remains a harsh reality.

Conclusion – London Makes It Worthwhile

Challenges, of course, are there to be overcome. And as you arrive home and brush the light rain off your coat, grow a marginally thicker layer of skin after that guy on the street barged past you, and prepare to treat yourself to a night on the town after a long month of nonstop hustle, you take a moment to look out over the city as the Overground trains whistle in the background.

You observe the sea of brick-top shingled flats, punctuated by the glimmering River Thames and the distinctive buildings of the City of London. And somehow, as you remark that St. Paul’s Cathedral is still as beautiful as you remember it from when you walked by during your lunch break, the considerable struggles that London throws your way makes the entire experience of living here feel far more worthwhile.

For me, what that feeling boils down to is quite simple. Walking around London, one truly feels as though they’re at the centre of the world. Spend an extended period in the city and that feeling starts to come very naturally. I found it truly special to experience a taste of that when I spent a year in London, and I’m deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to do so. Above all, and despite just having returned from a London trip very recently, I absolutely cannot wait for the next time my travels take me back.

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• Beyond London

What Do You Truly Love About London?

Last Updated 28 June 2022

Yes, London can suck. And we should always fight against the many miseries and injustices that plague city — from poverty to air pollution. But we can also sing its praises, for there is still much to love in London.

We asked — in the middle of a widespread strike by tube and rail workers — what Londoners truly adore about their city . Here are some of the responses.

We all love London's culture and diversity

Many responses shouted about how culturally diverse our city can be. "It is the most multicultural/cosmopolitan city in the world," reckons Miguel. "The ability to converse with people from all over the planet… and eat their food!," adds Martin. (Steven agrees, but quips that it's about time Martin bought his own food.)

Lorena provides an abundance of examples: "The variety of food, music, buildings, people, languages, things to do. One can never ever be bored. One never ever has to have a repeat experience as there is just so much to do - one could eat in a different restaurant every day of the year for 49 years, enough pubs and bars for a different one every day for 10 years, 139 museums, 94 music venues... And the fact that it's a city that's so old it runs like clockwork." Well, we're not quite sure about that last bit, but otherwise, YES!

Clarissa gives a personal example of just how culturally diverse the city can be: "On Saturday I went to a gut wrenching Russian language play based on Sophocles, near Baker Street. On Sunday I went to a documentary about Lithuanian independence and watched a Q&A with the director. On Monday I went to see Jacob Collier perform at Brixton Academy. London, as ever, has me spoiled with this level of culture. 17 years here and not tired of it."

"It's the most entertaining place to be anonymous, yet surrounded by generally very friendly people," sums up Stijn. "Also the endless variety in architecture. London IS my happy place. Bit it's not my wallet's happy place."

We love London's immense history

London's historical side is a big winner for many. Michael (and separately Christina) nominates the back alleys and courtyards in the old City of London as his true love — shared with Dr Johnson, whose second most-famous quote about London runs thus: "Sir, if you wish to have a just notion of the magnitude of this city, you must not be satisfied with seeing its great streets and squares, but must survey the innumerable little lanes and courts. It is not in the showy evolutions of buildings, but in the multiplicity of human habitations which are crowded together, that the wonderful immensity of London consists."

For Fran it's the City churches: "...such medieval gems, places of history, tradition, peace… and only feet away from the bustling modern streets. St Bartholomew the Great is my favourite so far."

"You are always walking among ghosts," sums up Alexandra — presumably alluding to all the people who've walked these streets before, and not genuine phantoms.

London's much-loved transport

Despite asking the question on a strike day, many people replied to sing the praises of London's transport network. The Elizabeth line naturally came in for praise, but also the older parts of the system. "I still love getting the bus in London," says Tamsin, "You can see amazing things."

"And then there's the Underground," adds Stijn. "It's such a well thought-out thing that it just makes my brain happy."

Your favourite London places

We've all got a favourite spot or two in London — a subject that might have been an article in its own right. "The Heath," nominates Susana,"One of my favourite happy places. A walk along the Southbank is lovely too".

Jean opts for a West End stroll: "Walking from Oxford Street down Regent Street to the Duke of York steps to the Mall and Green Park."

Many others noted the parks and open spaces (Kensington Gardens was nominated several times). Matthew champions the "Rus in Urbes: the genuinely pastoral/medieval ambience you occasionally find in the middle of the huge modern city." Stefan, meanwhile, prefers the industrial heritage: "Just lounging on the Regent's Canal, it's lovely".

Jim opts for one of London's famous view points: "Standing on Waterloo Bridge on a glorious day like today, looking on either side and feeling a swelling of joy and pride that many of the capital's finest buildings are on show. It's always a sense of re-realisation that "shit, I actually live in London."

And the charmingly specific

Some people got joyously specific. Clive sings the praises of taking the path least known: "I walked back home this evening along a street I don’t usually use — and there was a charming new Nepalese café staring me in the face. Result!"

Monica advocates al fresco bookishness: "Eating lunch on the terrace of the café at the British Library (in between sessions working at that magnificent library)!"

Esha loves the city for its music scene... though not necessarily the one you're thinking of: "British/European early music, meaning medieval, Renaissance, Baroque — there's a fair amount of it going on [in London]".

Jeane nominates "Jubilee the raven from the Tower of London, who gave me a stick this morning."

See how these answers compare to last time we asked the question, back in 2015 .

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18 Reasons Why London Is The Ideal City To Live In

London, as with any major city, can often be subject to stereotypes and misconceptions which lead to an unfair reputation.

The city’s fast-paced, bustling nature can be mistaken for rudeness . It is also often labelled as excessively expensive, overlooking the multitude of free or reasonably priced attractions and experiences available. You’ll often hear people talk of its grey and overcast skies, when in fact it’s one of the sunniest and warmest places in the UK. 

Yep, we think it’s fair to say that London has an unfair reputation, putting some people off moving to the capital altogether. Well, we’re here to tell you why London is the IDEAL city to live in.

• You Can Live In An Area That Suits Your Vibe

Different strokes for different folks, different tribes for different vibes. This pretty much sums up the appeal of living in London for us. It’s a city that relishes in its contrasts, home to myriad diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct charm.

As the Metro highlights, if London areas were people, they would have very different personality types ; Camden is akin to an “aging former hippie and rocker”, Shoreditch is “the consummate hipster” who loves a craft beer. Canary is the “extremely professional, no-nonsense individual who is mostly concerned only about work” while Soho, with its late-night loving reputation, is the classic example of an insomniac. You just need to find the best personality match for you (now, what were we saying about stereotypes?).

Or you can move around the city, living in different areas and all over the Tube map, and experience a new side of the city every time you up sticks. There are always rooms for rent in London  for those with itchy feet. You can even live on a canal boat, should you wish to. Speaking of canals…

• Regent’s Canal

Visiting the Regent’s Canal is like stepping into an oasis of calm in the city (forgive the cliches, but it’s true). Approximately 9 miles long, the canal’s historical significance adds to its charm – back in its industrial heyday, it was bustling with scenes of trade.

Today it’s taken on a different role and has been reclaimed as recreational space for Londoners to run, cycle and socialise. Here, you’ll find canal side attractions including Camden Lock, Little Venice, Broadway Market and a whole host of riverside cafes, pubs and eateries, all bustling with activity every weekend.

• The Plentiful Parks

Yes it’s true that many Londoners aren’t blessed with gardens. Or, if they are, the garden is probably overgrown or inaccessible, or has become a den for foxes due to the lack of care and attention from landlords .

However, London is blessed with some incredible green spaces that have become shared back gardens; a playground for picnickers, dog-walkers, sun-worshippers and the rest. There’s even a handful of  parks you’re allowed to legally grill in , including Burgess Park in Southwark (complete with views of The Shard), and Camden’s Cantelowes Gardens.

In 2019, London was named the  world’s first National Park City , and it’s easy to see why; the capital boasts nearly as many trees as it does residents, at 8.3 million and 8.6 million respectively. 

We’ll break it down further; an incredible  47% of London is green space , and another 2.5% is blue (lakes, rivers, canals…). But most importantly for London residents feeling stifled by the size and relentlessness of the place, the city has an incredible 3’000 parks. See you on the grass for a can?

• Pubs Spilling Into The Streets After Work

The sight of people from pubs spilling into the streets after work is a common occurrence in London and adds to the city’s lively, inclusive atmosphere. There’s a sense of camaraderie and community that comes with meeting friends and colleagues for a drink, creating a vibrant after-work culture that segues effortlessly into a night of carousing.

Heading to the bar? I’ll have anything but a Camden Hells, please…

• The Music Scene

London’s music scene is one of the best in the world. It’s a melting pot of genres, birthing ground-breaking movements like punk, grime, and the British Invasion, spearheaded by legendary bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

London has been home to iconic music venues like the 100 Club, Brixton Academy, and the Royal Albert Hall, hosting up-and-coming artists and international stars alike. 

The city’s music festivals, such as the Notting Hill Carnival , All Points East and Wireless, attract a global audience, showcasing its influence in the music industry. London’s music education is world-class, too, with institutions like The Royal Academy of Music nurturing the next generation of music talent.

In short, the capital’s music scene is a thriving, pulsating entity that continues to revolutionise world music, making London the ultimate music capital worldwide.

• At A Loose End? Go To A Market

Not sure what to do on a weekend in London? The answer is always head to a market. Indeed, the capital is home to a plethora of brilliant markets, each with its own charm and ideal for mooching around when you’re at a loose end.

The bustling ambience, the amicability of the traders, and the general vibrancy of a busy London market makes it a great place to experience the spirit of the city. Strolling through a market, discovering new stalls, tasting fresh local produce, and soaking up the atmosphere is an enjoyable way to spend a weekend day, that’s for sure.

But perhaps our favourite thing about London markets is the food, as they offer diverse culinary delights that can’t be found elsewhere. You can enjoy food from all over the world, freshly prepared, and often at a fraction of the cost of eating at a restaurant. Here are a few of our favourites:

• Borough Market : Located in Southwark, Borough Market is one of the oldest and largest food markets, dating back to the 12th century. It’s a paradise for food lovers offering fresh and organic food from all over the country (and world).
• Portobello Road Market : Situated in the vibrant Notting Hill area, this iconic market is famous for its antique stalls, fashion and street food.
• Camden Market : One of London’s most popular markets, it is known for its eclectic mix of stalls selling vintage clothing, handcrafted items and global cuisine.
• Spitalfields Market : Located in the heart of East London, this market brings with it a diverse range of fashion, antiques and food.
• Covent Garden Market : An upscale market in a historic setting offering speciality shops, fashion boutiques, arts and crafts, and food and drink options.
• Greenwich Market : London’s only historic market set within a UNESCO World Heritage site , here you’ll find arts and crafts, antiques and food stalls.
• Old Spitalfields Market : This covered market in East London offers a variety of stalls from designer clothes to food vendors from around the globe.
• Leadenhall Market : Located in the City of London, Leadenhall is one of the oldest in London, featuring a stunning Victorian architecture and offering high-end shops and dining.
• Columbia Road Flower Market : A street market in East London that is transformed into an explosion of scent and colour every Sunday, offering a wide array of plants and flowers.
• Brick Lane Market : Famous for its artsy vibe, Brick Lane Market sells all sorts of items from vintage clothing and furniture to street food from different cuisines.

Speaking of Brick Lane…

• The Curry Houses & Bagel Shops Of Brick Lane

Brick Lane, in London’s East End, is one of the best streets in London. It’s known for its abundance of colourful street art and eclectic vintage stores, but above that, it’s famous for its curry houses that line the streets. 

We’re particularly fond of Aladin on Brick Lane, a restaurant that claims to serve ‘ London’s hottest curry ’. The curry in question is their phaal and, more specifically, their ‘chicken tikka blast’ version of that already scorching dish.

However, it’s the late night bagels, a cornerstone of London’s afterhours eating, that keeps us coming back. Chewy, highly calorific and filling, a lone, late night bagel is a very satisfying meal.

• Late Night Food In Chinatown

Whilst we’re on the subject of late night eats, and although London doesn’t have the same late night food culture as cities like New York or Bangkok, you will find late night revellers enjoying a feast in the West End’s Chinatown late into the night.

Whether you’re looking for classic Cantonese from  Oldtown 97 (open until 4am), are in need a dumpling fix at Dumplings’ Legend (open until 3am on weekends), or are after a bowl of Mama Noodles from the Thai/Chinese Speedboat Bar (open until 1am on weekend), Chinatown will always provide a late night feed.    

• The Restaurant Scene

For food lovers, London is still the best place to live in the UK, and, arguably, the world. One of the greatest joys of living in London is that you can find just about any cuisine, and eating out in this city is one of the biggest perks of living here. The diversity of deliciousness on offer, quite simply, makes the rat race worth it. Sometimes…

• There Are So Many Free Things To Do

We already mentioned that London is one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in. However, a lot of it is, remarkably, free.

Many museums, art galleries and many loosely educational attractions won’t cost you a penny to enter – amazing and largely unique for a capital city. Here are a handful of them:

• The British Museum : This world-famous museum houses works from over two million years of history. It’s located in the Bloomsbury area and is open daily.
• National Gallery : Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is home to over 2,000 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to the 1900s.
• Tate Modern : This popular modern art museum is located on the former Bankside Power Station, on the south bank of the Thames.
• Natural History Museum : Here you’ll find a vast range of specimens in the areas of botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology, and zoology.
• Victoria and Albert Museum : Known as the world’s leading museum of art and design, it covers 5,000 years’ worth of artefacts from around the globe.
• Science Museum : Visit this museum in South Kensington to see exhibits on the history of science, technology and medicine.
• Museum of London : Discover the city’s history from prehistoric to modern times.
• National Maritime Museum: Located in Greenwich, it’s the leading maritime museum of the UK.
• Imperial War Museum : A museum dedicated to everyone who lived, fought and died in conflicts involving Britain and the Commonwealth since the First World War.
• The Wallace Collection : Here you’ll find a rich array of fine and decorative arts from the 15th to the 19th centuries.
• Whitechapel Gallery : This public art gallery on the north side of Whitechapel High Street focusses on contemporary and modern art.
• Sir John Soane’s Museum : This museum displays the eclectic collection of the architect Sir John Soane, including antiquities, furniture, sculptures, architectural models and drawings, and paintings such as Hogarth’s A Rake’s Progress.
• London In The Summer

There’s nothing quite like London in the summer sunshine. In fact, we’d go as far as to say that it’s the best city in the world come the season. 

For a start, in those lazy, hazy days of June, July and August, the city looks magnificent – like it’s been touched by the gods. The warmth and buzz in the air is electric. Crowds line the streets of Soho in the evenings, spilling out onto the pavements. The city’s rooftop bars buzz from early evening until close, and the parks come alive with festivals and open air cinemas. It’s glorious.

• The Thames Path

The Thames is one of London’s most famous sites and home to many of the city’s hidden treasures. One of the best ways to appreciate this iconic landmark is to hire a bike and cycle the 40-mile city stretch of the Thames Path . This picturesque route has many quieter spots to be discovered, with highlights including public beaches, the charming village of Rotherhithe, and The Prospect of Whitby , which was one of Charles Dickens’ favourite pubs.

• Notting Hill Carnival 

London is one of the most diverse cities in the world , attracting people from all corners of the globe. As such, London’s calendar is filled with cultural festivals and celebrations that reflect its population. Come summer, the most famous of all is, of course, Notting Hill Carnival. We can already smell the delicious aromas of jerk chicken, fried plantains and goat curry wafting through the air. It’s a damn good weekend to be alive.

• Street Food Markets & Halls

Markets? Again?

Well, we’re talking about a different type of market this time; London’s street food markets and halls, which seem to epitomise the recent reimagining of British food culture as a thrusting, forward thiinking scene.

These places seem to foster a dynamic, sociable atmosphere, ideal for both casual lunches and lively evening feasts. Here’s a handful of our favourites…

• Arcade Food Hall , close to Tottenham Court Road Station. Housed in the Centre Point building on New Oxford Street, and just a few second’s stroll from Tottenham Court Road station, Arcade Food Hall offers a veritable feast of global cuisines, with nine restaurant concepts currently operating here, and a fully-fledged Southern Thai joint on the mezzanine above the communal dining area.
• The raucous weekend atmosphere of  Shoreditch’s   Boxpark isn’t to be missed; a host of stacked shipping containers slinging street eats and craft beer to the hungry, thirsty throngs.
• Eataly in London is an expansive, vibrant Italian marketplace. It features several eateries, a bakery, a cooking school, and an array of grocery items that bring a taste of Italy to London. It’s a wonderful immersive experience for food enthusiasts and an excellent place for an aperitivo, to boot.
• Seven Dials Market , located in London’s Covent Garden, is an indoor food market housed in a transformed Victorian warehouse boasting an array of unique, independent food stalls. The market seamlessly combines a bustling street food scene with artisan coffee shops and craft cocktail bars. It’s great.
• Market Hall Victoria is nestled in the former Pacha Club building. It houses 11 exceptional kitchens, and has three bars with food spanning the globe. Its chic interior with a stunning glass ceiling and a mix of communal and individual seating, adds to its modern, urban ambience.
• Bang Bang Oriental is London’s largest Asian food hall, offering a diverse range of cuisines from across Asia. Located in Colindale, it features over 30 food stalls, ranging from Japanese sushi to Chinese dim sum. Result.

• It’s Chriiiiiistmaaaaaas

If you’re a fan of twinkling lights, festive cheer, and the occasional mistletoe-induced awkwardness, then London at Christmas is your dream come true.

Christmas in the city is a magical spectacle – a time when the city transforms into a vibrant winter wonderland and decorative trees stand tall. The air is filled with the melody of carol singers and the scent of mulled wine, and things just feel different .

750,000 bulbs create a breathtaking annual spectacle along Oxford Street, offering some of the most spectacular Christmas lights in London. Wandering down the street and admiring the seasonal window displays at Harrods, Liberty, Fortnum and Mason and Selfridges will always get you in the festive mood (or, in despair at the inequality of the UK, to be honest).

Then there’s the Christmas market along the Southbank and the ice skating at Somerset House – because nothing screams ‘festive fun’ like clutching onto the side railings for dear life!

• Iconic Buildings & London Institutions on Your Doorstep

Living in London, a city steeped in history and culture, is an experience like no other. With its iconic landmarks and vibrant entertainment scene right at your doorstep, it’s a city that never ceases to amaze.

Imagine waking up, knowing that if you wish in a matter of an hour, you could go and admire the city’s architectural marvels such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, and even The Barbican .

With London institutions like the The Roundhouse in Camden Town, Ronnie Scott’s in Soho, and Brixton Electric, a renowned live music venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry, you feel like you’re connected to the cultural moments of the country.

And let’s not forget that you can have a drink and pubs like the Anchor Bankside, which was established in 1615 and was frequented by the likes of William Shakespeare.

For a Londoner, these places are not just tourist attractions, but a part of everyday life. 

• You Don’t Have To Drive

For many, London is city where your car is about as useful as a chocolate teapot. Why bother with the hassle of navigating through the labyrinth of narrow streets when you can hop on the tube or bus and get whisked away to your destination?

Indeed, London’s extensive public transport network, including the famous red double-decker buses and the underground tube system, allows Londoners to navigate the city with ease. Moreover, you can enjoy a pint at the pub without worrying about the drive home.

• Wimbledon & Other Sports

Wimbledon is the sporting event of the summer for many. You can convene with picnics and Pimms and watch matches on the big screen across the city and, of course, take a perch on the famous Wimbledon Hill. With 17 professional football clubs and Twickenham, and even the Olympic stadium, London is simply great for sports.

And with that, we’re off for a kick-a-bout in one of those lovely parks we mentioned!

• The Bottom Line

This is by no means and exhaustive list of the reasons why Londoner’s love London. In fact, we could name at least eighteen more.

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