London: A Capital City for short breaks

London truly has something for everyone who may visit the city on a short break, with beautiful parks and avenues contrasting with a hectic pace of life and areas such as the city’s bustling financial district.

One of the main reasons many people indulge in a short break to London is for the plethora of shopping opportunities the city offers. Oxford Street is widely regarded as the premier shopping centre of London, with the chain stores synonymous with many other cities in Britain located in this area. For a more luxurious and exclusive shopping experience, Bond Street and Knightsbridge are the places to go, with stores such as Harrods, Hamleys and a number of designer clothing emporiums located in these areas, as well as many quaint eateries, ideal for a leisurely lunch during your shopping spree.

A break in London wouldn’t be complete without a trip to catch a show in one of the West End’s stunning theatres. A popular short break for many in London consists of being based in and around the West End, allowing you to indulge in a spot of sightseeing while still having easy access to the bustling theatre district. Visitors to the Capital can also combine the historical with the theatrical and enjoy a show at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre on the South Bank.

It may not be possible to take in all of London’s major attractions in one short break but it’s certainly worth a try. The London Eye – a jaw-dropping sight in itself – offers spectacular views across the city; while a short stroll along the bank of the River Thames will eventually bring you to Westminster Bridge and, upon crossing, you’ll be able to enjoy the river view of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Making your way up Whitehall you’ll soon be confronted with Trafalgar Square, with Nelson’s Column resplendent at the centre. Carrying on down the Mall you’ll soon witness the majestic beauty of Buckingham Palace, perhaps the most iconic landmark in London.

Enjoying fine dining while you’re visiting London is also a must, with a wide range of restaurants vying for your custom, from world class cuisine to cheap and cheerful pub grub. Many exciting dining opportunities can be found in and around the Covent Garden and Soho areas, but make sure to book in advance as restaurants in these areas tend to be jam packed with theatre goers, both pre and post show.

With the sheer number of attractions, restaurants and shopping opportunities, short breaks in London can involve anything you want them to, depending on your personal tastes, and therein lies the beauty of Britain’s capital: it truly has something for everyone.