London Weekend: How to Do it Right..
Here’s how we spent a long summer weekend, balancing food, culture, parks, theatre, and little luxuries – so you can, too.
Even after many trips to London, we still find ways to make it smoother and more memorable each time. Subscribe to get access to an in depth review and all the details of the itinerary!
✈️ Getting There & Settling In
We flew United from SFO to Heathrow (T2) and no upgrade this time (busy summer flights), but a smooth enough journey despite a short delay. At SFO, we grabbed Joe & The Juice over the crowded United Club. At Heathrow, expect a long walk (20–25 minutes) to immigration, and variable wait times (we clocked 30 minutes this trip).
From T2, we recommend the Elizabeth Line into Central London. It is fast, modern, and affordable. Tap in and out with a no-foreign-fee credit card, no need for Oyster.
Before even checking in, we stopped for lunch at Turpan, a favorite Uyghur spot near Tottenham Court Road that is casual, hearty, and perfect after a flight.
Then we made our way to the hotel – Great Scotland Yard – tucked away but central, with thoughtful design and excellent service. Rooms are small (it’s London) but smartly laid out and very comfortable.
Day 1: Arrival & First Tastes
After settling in, we wandered a bit and picked up Bombolone Doughnuts on Whitcomb Street that was still stocked late in the day thanks to a canceled order. The pistachio doughnut is a must.
Dinner that night was at Paradise (more on that in the subscriber post), then a quiet night to recover from the journey.
Day 2: Museums, Parks & Yakitori
We started at the Victoria & Albert Museum, one of our favorites for its mix of art and design (and free admission). Then we walked through Hyde Park, soaking in the summer air and slowing down after a busy Day 1.
In the afternoon, we made a tea and biscuit stop at Fortnum & Mason (a little retail therapy we never regret) before resting back at the hotel.
Dinner was at Junsei, a yakitori spot in Marylebone. Highlights included the chicken skin chips, tsukune, okra, and short rib donabe. Worth trying once, though our hunt for London’s perfect yakitori continues.
Day 3: Clapham, Afternoon Tea & Theatre
We ventured south to Clapham, starting with the Saturday-only Venn Street Market, which is a compact but full of great finds (don’t miss Chilli Brothers’ hot sauces). After a walk through Clapham Common, we had lunch at Bababoom, known for juicy kebabs and a fun, low-key vibe.
Back in Central London, we indulged in afternoon tea at the Corinthia Hotel (easily the best we’ve had in London) before heading to the Lyric Theatre for Hadestown. The West End production felt intimate and magical, with superb staging and performances.
We ended the night back at the hotel with drinks at 40 Elephants and the hidden speakeasy Sibin, which boasts an incredible whisky selection and playful cocktails.
Last Day: Covent Garden & Heading Home
We wrapped up with breakfast at Dishoom in Covent Garden — still solid, though our excitement for it has faded over the years. Sunday morning in Covent Garden was surprisingly serene, making it a nice final stroll before heading to Heathrow.
📌 Pro Tips
• At SFO: Joe & The Juice > United Club during peak times.
• At Heathrow T2: long walk & immigration wait — use plane lav before landing.
• Mixed-passport group? Politely ask about the family line.
• Tube > taxi – faster, cheaper, and more comfortable.
• Tap with your credit card, no need for Oyster.
• Pack an umbrella even in summer – London weather is unpredictable.
• Afternoon tea is a great way to experience a luxury hotel without staying there.
• For theatres, you’ll usually need to buy a playbill – about £5.