London Itineraries

"Stand slightly to the left of the central gates for fewer people in your shots and better light in late-morning.If you want to avoid the larger crowds, linger near the Queen Victoria Memorial to the front side for quieter views.Carry a light jacket — spring breezes near the open forecourt can feel cooler than central London."

"Choose a balanced meal (carbs + protein) and sit near a window for natural light — helpful in November when daylight is limited.Book ahead for weekends; midweek you can often walk in. Ask staff for tap water refills if you prefer not to buy another drink.Consider a short 10–15 min walk in the palace gardens after eating to aid digestion and keep legs moving."

"Choose a small café off the main piazza for a quieter break — sit inside if it's breezy outside in May.Use this pause to confirm your cruise boarding time and photo spot preferences for the evening.If you're shopping for a small gift, pick it up now so you can travel light to the pier later."

"Perfect for ages 2–8: pebbled and soft-surface areas are safer for little ones; supervise near river edges.Public toilets and baby-changing facilities are nearby at Southbank Centre; note May can still be breezy by the river.Bring an extra layer for kids — while sunny in spring, wind by the Thames can feel cool in late afternoon."

"Sample small bites instead of a full meal to try more vendors.Weekends are busiest; midweek mornings are calmer.If you buy produce, ask vendors about best-before advice."

"Pick 2–3 masterpieces to focus on (e.g., Turner's light studies, Monet) rather than rushing through the whole museum.The National Gallery is mostly wheelchair-accessible; use the quieter upper rooms for a less crowded experience.Download the gallery map or ask at information for suggested short routes — perfect for couples who want depth over breadth."

"Ask at the information desk for a short, step-free route to the rooms with the best-known paintings (e.g., Turner & Van Gogh) to limit walking.Use the Gallery's free wheelchairs (subject to availability) and take advantage of frequent seating in the galleries.Visit the accessible toilets on the lower ground floor or use the ground-floor cloakroom to avoid stairs with coats/bags."

"Comptoir Libanais is good for mixed-diet families — mezze plates are great for sharing and for children to try small tastes.Confirm a high chair on arrival and ask staff to separate strong flavours if sensitive to spices.If tired little ones need early dinner, ask for a quieter table by the window or corner to minimize overstimulation."

"Visit smaller interior boutiques and ask shopkeepers about emerging UK designers — many display contact cards for studio commissions.Bond Street window displays are often unusually curated for the season — look for details in lighting and material palettes.If galleries are closed for house parties, note names and follow up via Instagram or email to request studio visits after the holidays."