15th July 2020
Our fair city is one of the world’s premier tourist destinations, at the top of millions of people’s bucket lists. Now that some sort of normality is returning to the capital, many of London’s landmarks are reopening with strict social distancing measures in place, so take advantage of London’s quiet streets and explore a new side of the city.
Just a short stroll from The Athenaeum, you’ll find yourself in Hyde Park. Home to London’s oldest boating lake, The Serpentine, set sail in one of their popular rowing or pedal boats. Once you’ve figured out how to stop going round in circles, enjoy soaking up the scenery and admire the wide variety of waterfowl who call it home.
After working up an appetite on the water, take advantage of the park’s acres of green space and tuck into a quintessential picnic in the sunshine (the Rose garden boasts a spectacular mix of seasonal blooms). We recommend hitting Fortnum & Mason’s food hall to pick up some pieces for an alfresco feast – their legendary scotch eggs are hard to beat!
London Zoo has re-opened it’s doors. Whilst talks and demonstrations are off the cards to prevent over-crowding – it’s menagerie of furry residents are guaranteed to please. We recommend swinging by the otterly adorable Asian short-clawed otters – with two newly born pups to coo over and some very paws-on parents, the playful family is sure to bring a smile to your face.
With the likes of The National Gallery and Royal Academy already open and more set to follow in the coming days, there’s plenty of masterpieces to feast your eyes on. Here are some of our favourites:
If you’ve binge-watched boxsets of The Crown during lockdown, get your royal fix by heading further west into Hyde Park to reach the impressive Kensington Palace – official residence of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. And with a wild flower meadow, immaculate formal gardens and picturesque cradle walk to explore – there’s plenty to see before even setting foot inside the Palace building that’s due to re-open from 30 July.
Explore one of the city’s defining landmarks – Tower Bridge – and immerse yourself in its inspiring architecture and engineering. See inside it’s iconic towers and watch city life unfold from its spectacular glass floor and high-level walkway – not for the faint hearted!
Hitting London’s streets can take it out of you. Rest and recuperate after a day of exploring back at the hotel, by taking the weight off your feet and settle into a cosy corner.
We’re sure you’ve had your fair share of banana bread during lockdown, so treat yourself to something a little more special. Enjoy a brew of the good stuff and tuck into our quintessential afternoon tea, filled with a delectable selection of mouthwatering cakes, pastries and classic finger sandwiches – you’ll have certainly earnt it!
Or, if you’re like us, you’ve spent the last three months daydreaming about perusing a cocktail menu – we’ve got just the ticket. With innovative, tipples, you can be sure to find something delicious to whet your whistle. Or if you fancy your drink with a view, head up to our exclusive residents’ lounge on the top floor. Boasting exceptional views of London’s iconic skyline, it’s the perfect spot to unwind as the sun goes down.
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