We asked our UK Living Beauty family members to share their insider tips on the perfect day in London, from spas and salons to parks and pubs.
James Read
Founder, James Read Tan
“London is truly a city like no other. With its efficient transportation system that connects the city, it's no wonder that it's one of the easiest cities to travel around. Personally, I love living in London, especially in Richmond — one of my favourite places to be. It has everything I need: great bars, coffee shops, and restaurants. Not to mention, Richmond Park is an absolute haven for my dog and me. Whenever I'm there, I feel free and happy, making it my safe place.”
Carnaby Street
“Although Oxford Street can be overwhelming due to its busy atmosphere, Carnaby Street is a different story. It's the perfect place for me to visit whenever I'm in London. It's cool, trendy and has everything I need — from great shops like Liberty to fantastic coffee spots.”
Norma
“As a foodie, one of my favourite restaurants in London is Norma. Their food is inspired by Sicilian culture with an emphasis on the Moorish influences of the island's cuisine. The restaurant's sharing plates are perfect for groups of friends and the food is simply amazing.”
The London Edition
“Its beautiful interiors are perfect for meetings and socializing with friends. I even held a press dinner at the hotel when it first opened. Plus, it's located on the same street as the Sanderson Hotel, where I used to have a salon.”
Claridge’s
“When it comes to indulging in an afternoon tea experience, there's no better place than Claridge's. As one of the oldest hotels in the world, stepping inside feels like stepping back in time, with an abundance of fascinating history to explore. Recently, they've added a new five-level spa underneath the hotel that's simply breathtaking.”
Soho
“For drinks, my go-to spot has always been Soho. I remember visiting for the first time when I was just 18 and I've been hooked ever since. Soho has it all, from charming little bars and restaurants to cozy coffee shops.”
Dominic Hawksley
CEO, Olverum
Noble Rot
“Great French food from a small but perfectly formed menu with two outposts, one on Lamb’s Conduit Street, a lovely little street slightly away from the Central London hordes, and in Soho. As their name suggests, they are big into wine, so the wine list is incredible. Try the appetizer of choux pastry stuffed with duck liver paté — if you like that sort of thing — served with Tokaji jelly.”
Kiln
“A great Thai-inspired restaurant in Soho where everything is cooked in clay pots in front of you. There’s always a waitlist so drop in, put your name down — request a seat at the bar — and then go to the Crown pub next door, where a nine-year-old Mozart once gave a recital.”
Bedales of Borough
“The OG of wine bars and our fave single space in London to go midweek. Head for the basement area.”
Ember Yard
“The best cocktails and tailored small plates in town. It’s £££ but worth it.”
London’s Parks
“London is full of beautiful parks — Regent’s Park, St James’ Park, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens — but slightly north of Central London is Primrose Hill. It’s not big but a short hike to the top gives you wonderful views of the city’s skyline. Kenwood House in Hampstead Heath is also beautiful and a great place for a picnic. It featured in the movie Notting Hill.”
Brat Restaurant
“Shoreditch is a great area to walk around. In fact, check out the graffiti tour of Shoreditch for the real hidden London.”
Tim and Dani Binnington
Founder, Manta, and Founder, Healthy Whole Me
The Wolseley
“We love going somewhere special for breakfast, like the Wolseley restaurant. Some of the dishes have roots in Austria and since I’m Austrian that’s so nice!”
Spitalfields Market
“We love a mooch around Spitalfields Market in East London for a bit of young designer shopping, funky stalls and unusual shops. We then enjoy strolling down Brick Lane for the hustle and bustle and arty, creative feel.”
Mildred’s
“We love one of the oldest vegan restaurants in Soho called Mildreds. It’s small but with a fab selection of wonderful vegetarian dishes.”
Soho Theatre
“We then head off to Soho Theatre to catch a new act if we are lucky. We both love Soho for the vibe, night and day!”
