25 million visitors can’t be wrong – a great break on your doorstep!

It’s amazing how many Brits, even those only living a few hours away, have never actually visited London. Or maybe, like me, it’s more a case of a quick meeting or conference now and again, with no time to see anything other than Waterloo station, a couple of tube stops, and the inside of a hotel conference suite. But over 25million tourists visited London last year – so what are we missing? I took a day off and spent some time finding out!

By far, the easiest way to get into London is by train, and if you keep your eyes peeled you can get some good deals on train tickets, and can include a Tube pass too. I chose to stay for the night at the Marble Arch Suites London, just a five minute taxi ride from Paddington Station. My room was clean and spacious and, as I was to find out, the perfect place to kick back and rest my sore feet after a day’s touring!
                             
After dropping my bags off, it was time for Sightseeing and I got chatting to an excitable couple from America on the tube to Waterloo. Though their budget was bigger and their stay longer than mine, they helpfully shared their London must-sees. I took their advice and visited the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London. Of course, there must be the perfunctory selfie with a Beefeater, a red telephone box and Hackney carriage too.
After a quick nap, I nipped to Covent Garden and watched the enjoyably scary Woman In Black at the Fortune Theatre (don’t miss it!).

I spent the second day touring some of London’s famous museums and art galleries, the Natural History Museum and Tate Modern in particular were breath-taking.
I had a fantastic time exploring London properly - it made me see London for the fascinating, historical and buzzing city it is. It felt rather odd to be a ‘tourist’ in my own country but I really felt that I’d had a short holiday! What a really great opportunity to get away from the 9-5, without breaking the bank!

Everything you’ll want from London – find it in Covent Garden

If you’ve visited London before, or have exhausted the famous tourist attractions, then look no further than Covent Garden to tick all the boxes.
Covent Garden is like a town in itself and it’s easy to see why the area is a popular, trendy location for Londoners and visitors alike. There’s a palpable relaxed and artistic atmosphere in the district, particularly in the market area, where you’ll find street performers of every shape and style. Both traditional and modern shows run every day of the year, except Christmas day, and it’s easy to see why this 350 year tradition has continued – shows range from the musical to jaw-dropping, from hilarious to touching, and are great fun for kids and adults alike.

Covent Garden also boasts a unique shopping district – you’ll find top-end, big names like Dior, Ben Sherman, Mulberry and Chanel with high street names like Monsoon, Waterstone’s and of course, the Disney Store for kids of all ages! Combine this with fabulous cafes, delis and patisseries, like the stunning Ladurée – their delicious snacks and famous macaroons are nearly too pretty to eat! Take your treats away or stop a take in the buzz in their beautifully opulent rooms in the iconic Market Building. Covent Garden markets are famous the world over for their mix of unique, British designs and sellers. Don’t miss the Real Food market on a Thursday, and at weekends, the market features over 200 artisans showcasing unique art, design and crafts.

 

Another fantastic feature of Covent Garden is its proximity to West End theatres. With over 20 theatres, whether you’re a fan of the musical, thriller, or Shakespeare and Opera is more your style, there really is something for everyone. For a uniquely chilling experience, visit one of London’s smallest theatres – The Fortune Theatre in Russell Street. This atmospheric, traditionally styled venue has played host to The Woman in Black since 1989; performed by only two actors, this ever-popular play is memorably haunting and one of London’s most watched.

Covent Garden’s central location and buzzing atmosphere makes it the perfect place to stay and visit! The BW Premier Shaftesbury London is only a short tube ride away and provides a modern comfortable base for your stay.