How to take the most of bank holidays in London?
With a few days off ahead, thanks to May’s bank holiday, it’s about time we make our short holiday plans. Unfortunately, not all of us will have to a chance to fly away, but this doesn’t have to mean you can’t get the most of your days off. The capital always has a lot to offer, so why not to jump on a train and indulge yourself a little? Read below to get some inspiration how to do it!
Fall in love with London at Barbican
The Barbican complex is the famous example of brutalist architecture in the country, with a vast, concrete estate of 2,000 fortress-like flats. In the heart of it is the established, world-class art centre, which mission is to push the boundaries of all major art forms including film, dance, theatre, visual arts, and music. Barbican Centre exhibitions are known to be well-thought of, and unprecedented even though you might think you knew everything about the subject or famous artists they cover.
The gallery is divided into sections, where each section is devoted to a different art domain, telling different, unique story on its own. It’s the best choice if you want to commit one full day to feed your artistic soul. Leave your luggage and check in at comfortable and cozy Thistle Barbican hotel and start your journey into the beating heart of London’s art scene.
Have unforgettable dinner at London’s highest public garden
The glass dome at 20 Fenchurch Street is one of the London’s famous viewing spots, where you can clink a few glasses of prosecco over some exquisite meals. Both luxe, rooftop restaurants - Fenchurch and Darwin Brasserie, offer a delish experience of contemporary British cuisine, that include delicacies such as roasted guinea fowls, or lemon and thyme crusted halibuts. The place is must-visit if you are planning to indulge your dearest and nearest with something truly special. Before the dinner, don’t forget to visit the stunning planted terraces that will help you to see London from a perspective you haven’t seen it before. Entrance is free of charge, but a restricted number of tickets is available every day, so it might be a smart move on your part to book them in advance.
Have a fluffy high tea
Due to huge popular demand, you will need to be really organised if you want to get into the Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium Cafe. But don't worry, while browsing their website you will be constantly reminded to book a table in advance. And although the visit might require some effort, it’s definitely worth it. Especially if you happen to be an enthusiastic cat lover. From various size wall clocks attached to all four walls and garden- like décor, the place shares a lot with the Alice in Wonderland rabbit hole. So why not jump it for a really unique cup of tea? The high tea at Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium will include a selection of savory treats, traditional scones with jam and clotted cream, a rich selection of cakes, biscuits, and a choice of unlimited tea, coffee or soft drinks. Your visit can last as long as 1, 5 hours!
Look for a good London resurge
If the hustle and bustle of the city, has already worn on you, a peaceful retreat somewhere nice is probably what you dream of, but we all know that’s going away is not always possible. Luckily, the capital also has a lot to offer, when you need some solitude and relaxation. Kew Royal Botanic Gardens, might not replace you the tropics but, the astonishing greens will at least let you enjoy the rainforest climate, in its staple Palm House building. Among many extraordinary plants, you can see there some very rare, young specimens of ‘suicide palm” - Tahina that is one of the last hundred individuals of that type, as well as ancient cicadas which were widespread over 250 million years ago. If you prefer rustical surroundings from glasshouses, then venturing to one of the London’s city farms might can be a great way to spend an afternoon. At Hounslow Urban Farm you can see anything from Shetlands Ponies, alpacas, to a bit more exotic blue-tongue lizard. A great choice if you long to breath in fresh air and reconnect with nature.