London Favorites : What to do in London

I know, I know y'all are probably tired of hearing me gush about my trip to Paris and London to kick off the summer. Well, sadly for me (and maybe fortunately for you) those posts are winding down. London was the last place we went while on our trip and sadly we only spent 4 days there. Even more sadly, each morning from 8:30 until 12:00 we were stuck in starbucks listening to each persons 20 minute project presentation. In retrospect this was poor planning on the teachers part (this was the first year this specific trip was done so now they know) as we didn't end up with much time to see and explore London. I left London disappointed that I hadn't seen any sights or monuments but that of course gives me the perfect excuse to go back.

Keep in mind the limited time and tight schedule which limited our explorations to classically british sights. With that being said I was able to do some fun things with the limited free time I had and because of that I have a few recommendations for y'all. If you are planning a trip to London any time soon please plan your trip so that you can see plenty of touristy attractions and sprinkle in my recommendations for a more well balanced trip.

FOOD:

- Sketch Tea Room - It is said that this is the most instagrammed tea room in London. I had seen Sketch as a recommendation from another blog and another girl on the trip also saw that it was a fun and girly tea room to visit while in London so we knew we had to make a trip. With multiple different rooms that are all themed we were lucky enough to reserve our spot in the precious pink gallery that made all of us feel like more mature versions of Eloise. While it is a bit pricey the tea was yummy as were all the tea sandwiches and sweets brought out on the cutest black and white china. I was tempted to sneak the tea pot out of the restaurant because it was just that cute! Also, while you're there you must take a trip to their bathroom which I know seems bizarre but the toilets are in little white pods that look like eggs.

-Ffionas - One of the best brunches I have ever had. This restaurant is absolutely adorable with even better service. Ffiona herself took our order and sat with us to chat a bit while we devoured our delicious meals. Super reasonably priced entrees (I got the French toast, amazing), sides for about a pound, and an array of freshly squeezed juices and coffees to complete your meal. I will recommend this to everyone heading to London as I am already ready to go back just to sit in this restaurant and enjoy its blue and white decor. There aren't too many tables so if you don't want to wait then call to make a reservation. 

 - Fish & Chip Shop - Fish and chips are a staple in London and this was a great place to enjoy them. I ordered the fish as they traditionally cooked it and my chips as truffle chips. Both were perfectly battered and fried and I was sure to save room for dessert. I ordered a toffee chocolate pudding dish that had brownies and ice cream in it, so good! 

- Gelupo - Supposedly the best gelato in London (as claimed by one of our teachers) and I would have to agree. I had a chocolate hazelnut and cinnamon combination that left my tastebuds spinning. They had so many unique flavors to choose from and we all left wanting more.

- Granger & Co - Ok, so I didn't actually go to this restaurant but I've heard so many people rave about it that I just had to include it! 

SHOPPING:

- Liberty London - A must see department store in London. Bright and fun floral prints on just about everything in this old Tudor styled building. I left with tons of great gifts for my friends and family (and myself). They also carry loads of other brands with rooms filled with everything from fabric to makeup and home decor to shoes and clothes. 

- Scribbler - The cutest stationery stores in London. These are scattered all over the city and I wanted to find an excuse to buy every single one of these cards! 

SEE:

- High Society - A hysterical broadway type show focusing on family dynamics and marriage with plenty of music mixed in. We were all laughing throughout the entire performance with its wit and sets! The stage is so unique as it is in the center with seats all around. Definitely go see this show! 

- Notting Hill - My love for color isn't news to most of y'all and the doors and houses in this area had me gushing with their rainbow like exteriors. I was about ready to move into almost all of these houses and I couldn't help but think that Annie and Hallie were about to pop out of some of them (parent trap anyone?).

What were your favorite places to go in London?