Classic Day Out in London Itinerary for a First Timer
Looking for a great itinerary for a day out in London? If you want to take in all the top London sights in a day, in order, here’s a great one day itinerary for you to follow. Welcome to my day out in London itinerary for first timers…
London is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, filled with history, architectural wonders and many places where you can go sightseeing, eat and shop. As the capital of England, there’s a LOT to do here.
With just one day out in London you can have a great day, but you’re going to have to prepare for it! With so much to see and do, you need a plan.
London is best known for the Royal Family, the iconic views on the South Bank, and the legendary London Underground. Don’t worry, with this day out in London itinerary, you’ll get to experience them all. Pack an umbrella, and your sunnies!
So, let’s get started on your day in London itinerary, shall we?
How to Have the Best Day Out in London
I lived in London for 7 years. There’s a fine line between hitting up the tourist spots and living like a local – here’s what I’d recommend you do on a whistlestop tour of London in a day. Hope you’ve got some comfy walking shoes – running trainers could be best!
Hyde Park
One of the best spots to start your day tour would be Hyde Park, in the centre of the city.
Hyde Park is the most popular of London’s 9 Royal Parks. Enjoy a peaceful walk with outstanding views from the gardens and the Serpentine Lake. It doesn’t matter which season it is; nature will reveal majestic colours all year long.
Pick up a coffee from one of London’s many coffee shops to enjoy on the walk. If you haven’t got one before, then head for the Serpentine in the park for ease.
Buckingham Palace
Walking through Hyde Park you’ll get to Buckingham Palace, the first must-see on your day in London. This Palace, as you might now, is home to the Royal Family. What’s most notorious here (asides from the breathtaking building) is the Guard Change, which happens on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10:45am.
You can admire from the outside or from around £20 you can go in and see different exhibits, depending on the time of year.
St. James Park
Head over to St. James Park right after the Guard changing ceremony ends. You’ll get a glimpse of more green wonders and you’ll have a great view of both the Buckingham Palace on one side and the London Eye on the other one. The gardens are beautiful here.
Westminster Abbey
Map yourself to Westminster Abbey, only a few minutes walk away. As one of the most iconic buildings in England, Westminster Abbey is a remarkable landmark to see on any day in London. This has been the Coronation Church since 1066, and is one of England’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s also where Prince Wills and Kate got married all those years ago.