2020 has been a strange, challenging, and extraordinary year to say the least. With most of the world in lockdown for a good 3 to 4 months leading up to summer, the thought of a two-week summer break may still seem like ‘wishful thinking’ for many. That’s why we’d recommend taking a 48-hour staycation in London instead or 72 hours if you’ve got the time. Luckily for you, the August Bank holiday is just around the corner. If you haven’t yet ventured out to experience the London summer, there’s still time to make the most of the good weather before winter creeps in.
Our guide to 48 hours in London is the perfect place to start planning, read on to find out more.
If you are heading into London from elsewhere in the UK, you’ll be happy to know that our Paddington, Kings Cross and Liverpool Street hotels are all located within 10 minutes walking distance from major railway hubs. Plus, if you’re savvy and thinking of arriving in London on an early morning off-peak train ticket, then you’ll want to start your day with a delicious brunch.
Being a melting pot for cultures around the world makes London a food lover’s paradise. If you arrive in London around noon, why not drop by at Camino’s near Kings Cross for a delicious Spanish tapas brunch. Or If a traditional eggs benedict breakfast is on your mind, there are plenty of cafés and eateries near all our hotels too.
Coming into London for a special occasion? Why not begin with some bubbly or a fancy summer cocktail at a hipster bar in Shoreditch. Check-in and drop your bags off at our Shoreditch hotel any time after 3pm, then head over to Rivington street for a wander through the many colourful bars, including Callooh Callay an award-winning cocktail bar definitely worth the visit. Make sure to call ahead to make a booking, as many restaurants and bars may have changed opening hours and seating capacity.
Be sure to check which of our A-list Partners are currently open too, so you can make the most of special discounts on offer, for more information visit our Hotel pages.
Once you are full of energy again or simply in the mood to do a bit more exploring, we recommend taking a leisurely stroll through London’s many parks including Hyde Park, St James Park and Regent’s Park. The most famous being Hyde park which is only a short walk from our Kensington Hotel. At 142 hectares in total size, Hyde Park is the largest of all the royal parks and has an excellent cycle track too. Hire a bike and enjoy cycling through the lush, green open spaces. While cycling through Hyde park you will also come across popular landmarks including Kensington Palace, Royal Albert Hall and Albert Memorial. From Hyde park you can easily cycle your way to St James Park, where you’ll pass by another famous attraction, Buckingham Palace.
If walking is more your thing, a visit to Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill is a great idea too. Especially for views of the London skyline, a walk up to Primrose hill will take no more than half an hour even for the most leisurely of walks. Although you won’t catch a sunset at Primrose, the long, drawn out summer day is an excellent opportunity to take in the brilliant twilight skies or the classic night lights.
Didn’t get a chance for some drinks during the day? Head over to The Gun an East London favourite, enjoy a classic British Dinner with an ample amount of choice for beers, wines and cocktails too, although booking is advised for both currently.
After dinner head over to Sky Garden for some spectacular views of the London night sky which overlooks everything from Tower Bridge to the Shard. Both The Gun and Sky Garden are within 10-15 minutes walking distance from our Liverpool Street Hotel.
Done with sightseeing altogether? Head over to our cosy communal areas in your Point A Hotel for some much-needed downtime. Surf the web using our super-fast Wi-Fi or simply relax with a book. Our Liverpool Street hotel also has a garden area if you would rather relax outdoors.
After a night of sleeping like a baby on one of our world famous Hypnos beds, head over to reception to grab a takeaway brekkie bag or enjoy a Brekkie Buffet if it’s open. You can also get a tea or coffee at the breakfast counter.
Following breakfast, make the most of your morning by checking out some of London’s many free museums that are now open. Here is a quick rundown of museums that are now open and a link to book a free ticket online. Many of these museums are also within walking distance from our Kensington Hotel.
Opening Times: From 6 August: Thursday – Sunday: 11.00-15.00. From 27 August: Thursday – Sunday: 11.00-19.00
Opening Times: Wednesday – Sunday: 11.00-18.00 (last entry 17.00). Closed Monday and Tuesday except 31 August 11.00-18.00 (bank holiday)
Opening Times: 10.00–15.00, Friday 28 August: 10.00–15.00, Wednesday–Sunday: 10.00–17.00. Closed: Mondays, Tuesdays, 24–26 December.
Advanced booking available from 12th August.
Opening Times: Open daily 11am–6pm, Friday until 9pm.
Opening Times: Monday-Friday: 11.30am-3.30pm, Saturday and Sunday: 10am-6pm.
5. Design Museum
Opening Times: Open daily 10am-9pm
Whether its relaxing in the summer sunshine or broadening your mind in London’s many museums, there’s something for everyone on a city break in London. Don’t wait until the cooler months creep back in, with the August Bank Holiday coming up, it’s time for that much needed staycation in the city. Plus with 15% off bookings for all A-list members, there’s never been a better time to book!
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