Travel
Top Tips For Travelling To London This Summer
Plan ahead for an unforgettable summer with this much-needed travel guide for travelling to London.
London is a fantastic destination in the summer, and with this year’s sudden heatwave you can combine Mediterranean temperatures with culture, history and great food for a London summer you won’t forget. Travel is back in force with many people set to fly again in the hope the pandemic has run its course, however not only is this not the case but there are a whole host of other important things to factor in for your upcoming trip.
If you’re heading to the capital, Heathrow receives the majority of international and European flights and is conveniently located just west of the city, so making West London your base will allow you to step off the plane and into the comfort of your own place in under an hour, while being right in the heart of the capital.
Checking Flight Schedules
Unfortunately, airports aren’t coping well with the sheer number of travellers this summer and many airlines, particularly short-haul within Europe are being cancelled. Checking your flight status regularly if you’ve already booked is vital to stay up to date with the latest developments.
Likewise, having travel insurance will usually cover you for unexpected delays and cancellations such as these so you should still be able to save your holiday if the worst happens. Arriving at the airport early is essential, as security and check-in lines are particularly long at the moment, and arriving early simply means you can enjoy a drink while watching the planes take off.
Leaving early is easy if you’re staying at a Nestor property, where contactless check-out will mean you can simply pack and go.
Travel Sustainably
If you’re lucky enough to be travelling through Europe this summer and want to include London on your itinerary, consider booking train journeys such as the Eurostar from Amsterdam or Paris which are less likely to have cancellations and are far more eco-friendly. The Eurostar arrives in St. Pancras International, which is in the centre of the action and which is only a few stops from popular West London hubs such as Earl’s Court and Kensington.
While you’re in the capital, make the most of the beautiful weather and instead of sitting on a hot tube, rent a Santander bicycle or an e-scooter which have now become common sights around central London. Quick and easy to use, affordable and eco-friendly, they’re a great way of seeing the sights.
If you’re looking for even more fun eco-friendly things to try, London has some popular, sustainable restaurants serving dishes made with fresh ingredients. Just a short stroll from Victoria near Sloane Square, you’ll find the famous Daylesford Organic Farm Shop, which sells a range of locally produced goodies, not to mention excellent cakes and coffee.
If you’re willing to go a bit further west, W5 Collective is the city’s first-ever climate-positive restaurant. The food here is as fresh as it gets, plus your meal actually removes CO2 from the atmosphere via reforestation programs in Brazil – and did we mention for each espresso martini you buy, a tree is planted. Enjoy a drink while saving the planet? Cheers to that!
Consider Transport Strikes
Although they don’t occur often, train, bus and tube strikes have been increasing in both London and across the UK this summer. There is currently a rail strike at the end of July, although strikes within London haven’t been announced.
Nevertheless, it is worth checking in advance to make sure you can get into the city when you arrive and that you’ll be able to get around while you’re here. From the airport, consider getting one of the regular coaches into London instead of booking a less sustainable and far more expensive taxi.
If you’re staying centrally, such as in Kensington or Victoria, you can walk or cycle to many of the city’s major attractions and tourist areas such as the West End via stunning St. James or Hyde Park.
Check Out What’s On In London This Summer
Although while you’re in London you will definitely want to see the famous sights, such as the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London and the many parks, heading to some cultural activities will give you a true taste of life in the city. This summer there are endless events to entertain and fascinate you, so check ahead to see what will be on while you’re visiting.
Two great events in West London are Kew the Music and the Kensington & Chelsea Art Festival. However, there are also regular food markets, outdoor cinemas and other events throughout July, August and September. Notting Hill, home to the famous Portobello Road Market, will once again host Notting Hill Carnival which is an unmissable celebration of all things the Caribbean if you’re visiting at the end of August. Although you may not want to go inside in the lovely weather, London can be unpredictable. If you’re hit with a day of rain, you won’t be short of museums which are all located in South Kensington, including the V&A, Natural History Museum and Design Museum, there’s something for everyone.
Also nearby is the iconic Royal Albert Hall which is playing host to world-famous artists and performers this summer, so book yourself a ticket quickly.
Book Restaurants And Bars Ahead Of Time
London is a diverse melting pot of people and cultures which is why you’ll find some of the world’s best cuisines right here, all in one place. From Indian to Italian, Lebanese to Japanese you can find a snack you’re in the mood for or try something new. Not just in restaurants either, London has Michelin star dining, hole-in-the-wall eateries and bustling food markets galore. Not to mention, some excellent rooftop bars, coffee shops and clubs. With London being so busy in the summertime, both with locals and tourists, booking ahead will ensure you get a table at any restaurants or bars you’ve been itching to try.
Some of the best to keep a note of include Dishoom, off Kensington High Street, which serves some of London’s best south Indian cooking, Da Mario which does excellent Italian food hailing from Venice and Restaurants Ours, which is one of Knightsbridge’s most romantic and Instagrammed spots.
In terms of great bars, it’s hard to select just a few, but make sure to check out some of the best in West London, such as Pergola Paddington for rooftop music, The Ivy Chelsea Garden for outdoor seating in the sun and the St. James Hotel rooftop bar for views over Victoria and Parliament.
Make West London Your Summer Base
With spacious and comfortable properties conveniently located in West London locations including Kensington, Earl’s Court and Victoria, a Nestor property is the perfect place to stay while visiting.
With easy transport links to Heathrow, you’ll be unpacking in no time. Every property is within walking or cycling distance to parks, museums, restaurants and shops so that you never have too far to travel – you’ll find something new around every corner!
