Best Places to Visit in the UK
London, England
As the United Kingdom’s vibrant capital city, London offers an endless trove of eating, shopping, and sightseeing experiences that are as rich and varied as its own population. Its ubiquity in our own culture means I probably don’t have to tell you to check out Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and you’ve likely heard all about the fabulous London Eye and the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.
But London also offers plenty of novelty, often hiding in plain sight. One such gem is the Sky Garden, a lush public observation deck that sports a rooftop bar and botanical garden located within the famed “Walkie-Talkie” building (also known as the Fenchurch Building). Take in spectacular sunsets over the sprawling city at an all-day drinking and dining space in the heart of the city.
A myriad of museums abound, my favorite being Sir John Soane’s Museum. The awe-inspiring abode served as both a living quarters and canvas for its neoclassical creator’s experimental art and architectural ideas. An immersive 3D tour is on the museum’s website and helps explain why visiting in person is an unforgettable experience.
Enjoy dinner and drinks at Pop Brixton, a colorful open-air shipping container complex that caters to creatives, local arts, small businesses, and of course, food. If you’re prone to getting homesick, this place feels like a little slice of Austin.
Whether you’re spending a day or a week in the city, find time to step off the beaten path. London has so many stones to overturn!
