Let’s start with the little gems I explored when I spent Christmas in London. To be honest, it wasn’t such a smart choice to come back for only 5 days, considering that on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day (26th of December) the means of transport, as well as some parts of the city are dormant.

I landed on the morning of the 22nd and in the afternoon and I immediately reached Leadenhall Market, a covered market in the Bank/Monument area, very Harry Potter style, with stores selling fine wines and cheeses. A large tree attracted all the attention along with the great rumble of voices of workers who came out on their lunch break for a quick meal or a few beers. I decided to eat in a very nice and easy place: Korean, the Bibimbap. You can create your own soups or rice, vegetarian or meat dishes, in short, super recommended!

Then, while I was trying to reach The Royal Exchange I got lost. Obviously going around in circles a bit, turning here and there I managed to find this wonderful building. In its history, as you can see, it has played all kinds of roles, from bank to warehouse, to now being a luxurious shopping center and dining area for those who work in the area. After that, I ran across Albert Bridge to The Shard. I’ve been wanting to go up there to see London from above for a long time. The view was breathtaking. The light radiating from the sun, which was slowly giving way to night, blended with the skyline of the buildings and the light of the streets, the tireless offices of the workers.

The 23rd of December I decided to go visit the famous Kew Gardens. However, I had chosen a completely wrong day to visit this corner of green paradise. That day the gardens were closed in the early afternoon for a wedding, and the main greenhouse was closed for restoration, what I was doing there I didn’t even know – the advice is therefore not to do like me, always check the site before visiting. Yet these gardens manage to amaze even in winter, making the visit another unmissable stop for those who want to discover the city at 360 °. Visiting the gardens in winter is like taking a break from the world, there is only you, the trees, and the wind. Try climbing the Treetop Walkway, an elevated platform that allows you to see the whole park from above.

So reluctantly leaving the tranquility of the entire village I resumed my way to the center and I went to South Kensington, the Natural History Museum and its temporary Ice Rink created by Swarovski to celebrate a sparkling Christmas. I knew that nearby was the famous Peggy Porschen Cakes bakery, all pink with marble tables, with the most beautiful decorations, in the quietest streets. A quick stop-by: there was no room, si I took my cookies – remember that the real specialties to try are cupcakes – and I left satisfied, towards the new goal that would end my day, the famous Tate Britain. Before taking the subway back to Pimlico, I decided to take a walk around Sloane Square, discovering only now and bitterly new fantastic neighborhoods: The Duke of York Square, near the Saatchi Gallery. A small neighborhood of stores and bars carved into the characteristic red brick houses.

It was the first time I went to the Tate Britain, mainly because contemporary art does not convince me. I went for the famous Christmas tree with golden roots hanging from the ceiling, made by the Iranian artist Shirazeh Houshiary, who was flooding my Instagram at that time.

Christmas Eve was a quiet day, the sun was shining and it didn’t seem like one of the typical London days at the end of December, anything but gloomy and grey. That morning I decided to leave the house late and walk at a slow pace, enjoying every minute. I took the subway and got off at High Street Kensington to visit the new Design Museum. There were three exhibitions available, I chose only one – given my low ability to interpret modern art.

From there, strolling through the elegant streets of the village, I came to my beloved Notting Hill antiques market, the stalls of silver jewellery and those of porcelain stacked on top of each other, make me dream of a Victorian London. In reaching the market I passed by the famous pub The Churchill Arms, built in 1750 is one of the oldest and its name is due to the assiduous attendance of the grandparents of the famous minister Winston Churchill. I recommend you to see it in the evening, when the sun begins to set to make way for the night and its magical lights.

Entering more and more in the Portobello area, I decided to drop by Biscuiteers Boutiques & Icing Cafés in Kensington Road, a cookie shop, yes that’s right, because their specialty is cookies, in any format: Christmas, personalized, for babies, for a wedding or a birthday, even for your four-legged friend and all packed in tender tin boxes decorated for the occasion.

The decision had been made to spend Christmas Eve in an alternative way, no dinners, just a glass of wine to relax from the day at a pub near Selfridge’s and then a Thai dinner at Busaba Ethai, which is located in a small and narrow side street of the department store. One thing I love is the atmosphere and mentality with which they have built the environment. There are no small tables, no tables of two, “no one can feel alone or be alone” in a place where the square tables are huge and you eat together with different families. If you stop here I recommend you try the Classic pad thai and Thai calamari, you will not regret it.

Once you have finished your dinner, if you like to walk, get out and stroll through the streets decorated with lights. In a few steps you will end up on Bond Street, at that point, having walked all of New Bond Street, you will find yourself in Piccadilly, and just a few minutes before midnight there is nothing more exciting than visiting St. James’s Church, just a few steps from Fortnum & Mason, a sign of humility with the few candle lights that adorn it and a giant Christmas tree in the entrance square.

Of course on Christmas and the 26th of December there was nothing much to do. So on the morning of the 27th I walked around Tower Bridge, every time its colors leave me speechless, the majesty of the towers. Around lunchtime I ate at the best and most beautiful pub ever: The Anchor, a red blob on the bank of the Thames with a terrace. I absolutely recommend it but try to call because it is often full of people, despite being very large.

Then, I looked for a place I had casually scouted out on Instagram, a little piece of heaven, a hidden terrace in the middle of the Mayfair district, between the rich residences and the confusing Oxford Street: The Brown Hart Gardens in addition to plants and benches also host a bar/restaurant suitable for workers and their breaks.

After a short break, through the narrow streets inside, I moved to the Soho district that I had never seen in detail. Passing through Carnaby Street, decorated and crowded for the crazy discounts of the period, I stopped at the famous Liberty, the department store with a large white chandelier and wood, with the latest fashion and small corners of the building used only for vintage. In Soho I managed to see the famous Algerian Coffee Store, any coffee or tea you are looking for there you will find it.

In the afternoon I found myself back in Piccadilly Street and after stopping at my beloved Ladureé’s with its delicious macaroons I discovered a new store, after St. James’s church, I hope you can see it before it closes – Wonderland – and a few meters after a historic bookstore that can take you back in time, a portal, a passage between present and past, between old and new – Waterstones – which is currently the largest in Europe, in short, for lovers of the scent of paper is a real paradise.

In the evening, after a bit of shopping at Harrods, and a quick visit before closing at its neighbor: Harvey Nichols, I then stayed on the top floor of this department store, where among the many restaurants there is Yo Sushi! Nice, but not the best in my opinion for those who love Japanese cuisine.

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The birds were chirping just like here, at my home, in the countryside, and the trees were in bloom giving pink and white buds in front of the entrances of the houses alternating with the dry branches, still coming from winter. It was the first time I breathed the scent of spring at home, in London. Not being a typical tourist period, the city seemed almost empty and compared to August or December, it was almost a normal city despite all its 9 million inhabitants.

For the first time after 11 returns to my capital of the heart I stayed in a hotel, Mowbray Court Hotel in Earl’s Court, in the Borough of Chelsea and Kensington, which as you know is characterized by white houses with arcades – which I love! I recommend it only if you know how to adapt and you don’t stay much in the city, because some rooms are really very small and uncomfortable, but the cleanliness is great, you will always have a free supply of water, tea and coffee in the lobby and also being in a central location with buses and metro you can quickly reach anywhere.

When I arrived at the hotel, the room was not yet ready, but the hunger lurked, I reached Portobello Road by bus, to go eat in a little place I had noticed on Instagram: Farm Girl. Located in a small inner garden at the beginning of the street, it is run by very young and nice guys. Before going try to call for a reservation because otherwise there’s the line. The menu includes sweet and savory, the must-haves are the avocado toast (full of avocado) and pancakes. Guys, I am not a lover of pancakes and waffles, because I consider them spongy, but these were fluffy, really good I must admit. In addition to free water, something not new in London, they offer “lattes”, our lattes, very alternative and tasty: rose, matcha, turmeric and ginger. Try and dare!

To work off this healthy but super caloric lunch, I walked around Mayfair, a neighborhood I will never stop loving. I headed towards Holland Park, one of the many parks in London that I had yet to visit. Although it was cloudy, the Kyoto Garden, which is located within the park, was wonderful and the fact that there were few people to admire it made it even more impressive. Obviously continuing the walk, you can see peacocks as well as flower beds and fountains kept in perfect condition, not to mention tennis courts and spaces for children to play. As usual, these spaces that appear small are actually great green oases where you can take refuge at any time or day to forget the chaos of the city.

Take the day to London’s former royal borough: Greenwich, which is known for its maritime history and for giving its name to the eponymous meridian and time zone. The Greenwich waterfront is one of the first attractions where you’ll find the Cutty Sark – a clipper launched in 1869 -, near which you’ll notice a circular building that houses the southern entrance to the pedestrian tunnel. This tunnel, opened in August 1902, connects Greenwich with the Isle of Dogs on the north bank of the Thames. Continuing eastward along the river is the Old Royal Naval College complex.

Various parts of this masterpiece by Sir Christopher Wren, are used by the University of Greenwich and the Trinity Laban Conservatory of Music and Dance. To the east of the Old Naval College is the Trinity Hospital, which, having been founded in 1613, is the oldest surviving building in the downtown area.

The O2 Arena – formerly known as the Millennium Dome – is another attraction in the neighborhood. Behind the Old Royal Naval College is the National Maritime Museum, which features horseshoe-shaped buildings around Queen’s House. To the south of this building is Greenwich Park. The park is located on the hilly terrain on top of which you will find the Royal Observatory, where the famous prime meridian passes and from where you can admire a wonderful view of the town and the buildings of the City of London.

The central area of Greenwich extends around the famous covered market of the district, the Greenwich Market. Vinyl and vintage lovers to me! Casbah Records is the ideal place for you. You will find vinyl of old music but also more recent, CDs, DVDs, books, prints and T-shirts dedicated to your favorite author. The other part of the store is reserved for clothes, shoes and accessories, if you wanted something particular of the ’50s, ’60s or ’70s you will find it.

If the day is not over yet, I suggest you go back to the City by ferry. The river ferry service connects you from Greenwich to central London, but I recommend Canary Riverside, part of Canary Wharf, in Tower Hamlets, that’s in the East End. The area is now known as London’s financial district of the City, it has a modern charm, with skyscrapers, perfect flowerbeds with fountains coordinated in amazing water games.

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Today we talk about London street markets! Most are know, but many others are smaller and less known from tourists.

1.

Portobello market is another one that I love. This is where I found my vintage necklace that I never take off. Take the tube and get out at Notting Hill Gate. This market is varied, at first you will find more vintage stalls, vinyls, jewellery, toy soldiers or leather shoes and gloves that will take you back to the early 1900’s. The further you go the more the theme will shift towards food – as usual – but also towards gardening, you can find flowers and plants of all kinds! My advice is to avoid the weekend, or you will find it impossible to walk.

2.

Brick Lane market is know because you’ll breathe the air full of spices typical of traditional Indian markets. First important clarification, the Brick Lane market takes place only on Sundays and it’s in East London. Its stalls are a paradise for all lovers of vintage or, in general, of what is second-hand. In addition, Rough Trade, a store of records, vinyls, books and now also a bar, is a must for music lovers, who could lose the whole day there. Whatever genre or record you are looking for there you will find it. But arm yourself with patience because there are many things to look at, and the crowds there don’t help either. As far as food is concerned, this market is definitely right – like any other -: there are several stalls along the street and especially there are two stands – indoor – with food specialties from around the world.

Nearby there’s also the entrance to Spitafield Market, another covered market, whose surroundings are characterised by very special furniture stores that I love!

3.

Borough Market is a must. Fresh food, but also street food stalls for every taste and preference. For the health-conscious, seasonal fruits and vegetables, fish or meat, ostrich eggs or grass centrifuges, bread and cheese, red velvet or cupcakes, different types of cereals or jams or even honey and much, much more. Whenever I’m in London it’s my favorite stop and every time I change the menu. You also have the luck that it is open every day and I recommend going there in the morning, for lunchtime, because you can still enjoy everything.

4.

Columbia Market is probably the most renowned flower market in London and being very close to Brick Lane, it creates the perfect Sunday afternoon pairing. The market is tiny but very cute and traditional. Do not expect anything but flowers and florists who, wearing the traditional green apron.

5.

Among the markets Broadway Merket is perhaps the trendiest or at least the one where you can meet people dressed in a more eccentric way to keep up with the latest trends in London. It’s not as big as the Brick Lane market but it has the advantage of being close to the London Fields park and in a street, Broadway market, with pubs, cafes and restaurants that will make you fall in love with London. Here you will find dozens of stalls with delicious food specialties and, in some cases, cooked in front of your eyes. Leaving the park and continuing towards the end of the market you will also find the inevitable stalls with second-hand clothes and kitschy objects, although nothing comparable to Brick Lane.

6.

Covent Garden market is a covered market, a gallery on two floors where you can find stores full of souvenirs or collectibles. If you feel like eating something tasty, there are street vendors selling waffles and all kinds of sweets, but also English specialties to be enjoyed while sitting at a table, while below the stairs the opera or the violinist are performing. You can find many shops, in particular Whittard of Chelsea, Ben’s Cookies, and finally Stanfords Map and Travel. Sherlock Holmes and Byron have passed through this historic emporium, dating back to around 1840, so you can’t help but pass by.

7.

Camden Town, the English Venice. To reach the neighbourhood, just get off at the black subway station of the same name: Camden Town. The stores have colourful signs and giant reproducing the products that are sold in 3D, also most are dark or punk. Camden Lock is the main market, which overlooks the Regent’s Canal. You should know that Camden is famous for the amount of things you can find there. Do you have in mind an object that you have seen on the Internet and that you have wanted for a long time? Or do you want to get a tattoo? Everything is possible here. The central part is mainly composed of food stalls: from sweets to savory things, for vegetarians, vegans or carnivores, for those who are healthy or for those who do not do anything with their diet. As before, everything you’ve dreamed of eating could become reality as you’ll find products from any country in the world. Obviously, as a sweet lover, I found my paradise in Camden Lock Place, where, in addition to Chinese food – in particular at the Horse Tunnel Market – you can find a cart of only donuts and doughnuts of any taste and filling for one or two pounds. Yumchaa tea is my favorite place: typical English, small but cozy and with metal tables outside. You’ll see vintage shops too!

8.

Chalk Farm is another market northern from Camden: the Stables Market. If it is a nice day, walk along the Regent’s Canal, which in a few kilometres will take you to Regent’s Park. Along the way you may see the Pirate Castle and also the Chinese restaurant in the shape of a boat, which is very famous.

9.

Piccadilly Market is the last, but not least, London street market that I propose. It’s in the heart of London, in Piccadilly Street and just before Fortnum & Mason, is vibrant and charming and is set up in front of St James’s Church – built by Sir Christopher Wren, architect of St Paul’s Cathedral. Here as in each you will find food, art, jewelry or handicrafts, antiques, collectibles and prints of London. It’s perfect for spending an afternoon looking for the perfect gift.

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I used to go to London every year, this time was August 2019. I couldn’t imagine it would have been the last. I stayed at the Qbic Hotel, which I absolutely recommend, because it’s a green hotel. The hotel is in fact one of the greenest in the city, the staff is friendly and the rooms, like the rest of the hotel, have a very particular design. It is located in Aldgate East, still zone 1, so central and the hotel is very close to the metro station. From the hotel, moreover, you can easily walk to Tower Bridge and Tower of London.

Along the Thames you can stop and grab a bite at Ping Pong, a chain of restaurants excellent for quick lunches based on dim sum (Chinese dumplings). When discovering a city I prefer to take long walks. From there, you can move towards Piccadilly Circus, ready to immerse yourself in the chaos of shopping between Regent’s Street, New Bond Street, and Oxford Street. If you enter one of the many little streets to the right of Regent’s Street and you will find yourself exploring Carnaby Street, which will leave you speechless.

Make your way to the famous Liberty department store, my favorite of all, with its solid wood structure and fantastic chandeliers in the center. Another great place you can choose to have lunch (or whatever) is the Brasserie of Light restaurant, which is located next to the main entrance of Selfridge’s. Don’t let the chic appearance scare you off, it’s a much quieter place than you might imagine. A perfect place for Instragram lovers: pink marble bathrooms and a winged pegasus created by Damien Hirst in crystals (and great burgers!).

This time, I also tried the famous experience at the London Eye, official stop for any tourist in the capital. In my opinion to be avoided. Apart from the huge queues (which can be avoided by buying the ticket online), the price is high, and all to enjoy a view that can be enjoyed from many other free terraces scattered around the city. For example, one of my favourites is the at the 10th floor of the Tate Modern. Another one is at the 6ht floor of the Oxo Tower. But also, Madison Terrace right in front of Saint Paul’s Cathedral. In short, you have many other options in my opinion more valid (and free!) to enjoy the view of London.

Another experience I finally got to enjoy was a visit inside the Palace of Westminster (Parliament). I thought it would be more disappointing and I was actually ecstatic. The palace which is divided into the two “houses”: House of Lords and House of Commons is a play of colors (representing the “houses”) and history. It is not allowed to take pictures inside except in the lobby. In addition, along with the ticket you will be given the audio guide, interesting to understand how the British Parliament works. For example, did you know that citizens can get an interview with a minister without an appointment?

From the Parliament, heading towards Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery, take Parliament Street and in just 10 minutes you will be there. If you’re hungry you’ll find a super good and cute pub on your right: The Red Lion – Ale & Pie. Order their homemade pie with sweet potatoes!

As far as concerning street markets you can try visit the Columbia Road Flower Market, near Brick Lane. It’s a small market of flowers and plants of all kinds, with vintage, country, and modern furniture stores on either sides. Then from Columbia Road you can quickly reach Brick Lane and the Spitalfields district, where at number 216A you must try the bagels of Brick Lane Bakery, open 24/7. Get the classic smoked salmon and cream cheese for £2.20 and then you’re ready to tackle all the vintage and non-vintage market stalls.

If you love mysteries and have already heard of the famous Jack the Ripper, you’ll know that you’re right in “his” neighbourhood. So, to have an all-round hunted experience go have a beer at The Ten Bells pub, dating back to the 18th century, still with the original ceiling and tiles of the time, is full of mysteries because it is said that two of the prostitutes victims of Jack the Ripper, Annie Chapman and Mary Kelly, usually went there. If you want to have a cheap lunch, stop at any of the stalls of Spitalfields Market, there is something for all tastes and dishes from all over the world; or a few steps from the pub you will find Poppies, considered the best fish & chips in Britain!

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I went to London for the 11th time in 2018. Nonetheless, I’ve been there so many times, I still had to visit the Tower of London. I booked the tickets online on the official website. You can choose the day and you’re free to enter, saving you from the very long queues at the desk. Inside the Tower you can learn it was first a fortress, then palace and prison. It’s like a small enchanted city and the view from the walls is breathtaking, making it all the more unique.

Upon exiting the Tower and walking along the Thames, I came across the Coppa Club restaurant. It’s famous for its interior design and the “igloos” in which you can eat and enjoy a view that I will never stop loving. After this pit stop I headed across town to Southwark Cathedral. This church is famous or at least, if you’ve been to London you’ve definitely seen it because it’s on the side of Borough Market. It’s an Angelic church and I recommend going in, in the end it’s free and costs you nothing if you love art in any of its forms. In fact, you can admire the chapel to Sir Harvard and the stained glass windows to Shakespeare.

After this, I headed to Covent Garden, because no matter how many times you go to a place you will never know enough. In particular I was looking for the famous Seven Dials, which as you can guess is an intersection where seven streets meet, a district of art, food, and fashion. If you’re looking for the little corner in the photo – Neal’s Yard – you’ll have to be careful because it’s on a little side street called Shorts Gardens. Then, in Covent Garden you can have a great cocktail at Ivy Chelsea Garden and then a Vietnamese dinner at Pho, a cute little place.

It was almost evening and I moved to Bond Street and walked down New Bond Street. I love this street, away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Oxford Street with its storefronts overflowing with glittering luxury, it gives me a sense of peace, almost as if it were my place in the world, even though I don’t come from that world. Even in Milan, when I’m angry or sad, a walk is enough for me to recalibrate my goals. For dinner I went to Sketch. This restaurant is famous for its interior and its quirky but cute egg-shaped bathrooms. I don’t think it’s as overrated as many would like to think. The place is an enchanting fairy tale impossible to forget.

If you love art, always look for the exhibition of the moment at the Tate Britain. In general, what I recommend is to always check on the internet for any exhibitions that may be on in the period you decide to go, especially if you have already visited the famous National Gallery. If you prefer something free while enjoying the view, book a visit to the London Sky Garden, a small free oasis that they have created on the 35th floor of a skyscraper open to the public. You can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city, there are also several restaurants and bars.

If you love pictures spots and coffee go to the famous Élan Cafe. Another one is L’Éto Cafe, right next door to the Élan. The honey cake is a treat that you absolutely must try. As well as the pistachio milk. On the other hand, for a quick lunch at YoSushi at Selfridge’s. For dinner I tried the French-Russian restaurant Bob Bob Ricard. It was an experience I loved. I had made reservations well in advance because no matter what day it is, the restaurant is always full. The ambiance is distinctive, the rooms are recreated in true Orient Express style. At each table there is a nice little bell “Press for champagne” if you want champagne to be served. I do not recommend it only for the atmosphere and the friendly and helpful staff, but because in my opinion the quality of food is fantastic, even the portions are large. I tried the Mariner’s fish pie and for dessert a chocolate soufflé.

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Why a London travel guide?

For those who know me they are aware of how much I love London, and well for those who don’t I’m telling you now. That is why I’m doing this little London travel guide, where I put together all the articles I wrote up to know for Alpi Fashion Magazine.

London is like a home to me. I’ve been there 12 times now and I’m planning to go back each year, despite Brexit. As Samuel Johnson said: “Why, Sir, you find no man, at all intellectual, who is willing to leave London. No, Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.”

From the oldest post to the newest one, you will found tons of places where to go and where to eat. You can take ideas to organize your perfect weekend following my steps or doing your trip in your way. In any case, I hope to be helpful!

• London
• London is like Venice, at the very end
• London from The Shard
• Christmas in London!
• Greenwich and a beer
• London’s markets
• A stroll around neighborhoods
• Kew Gardens in wintertime!
• News and traditions in London
• Best restaurant in town
• The Tower of London and 7 Dials
• London’s rooftops and its amazing view

I’ll maintain this list up to date, so anytime you will need to check a London travel guide for your trip, you won’t have to worry, because you will find everything you need here!

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