SELF GUIDED LONDON TOURS

London is one of the best cities in the world for walking. Once you have scoped out the city centre, you’ll realise how easily walkable the whole area is for people looking to skip the public transport. On top of this, there are many parts of the city you simply can’t see through driving or using the train. The centres of parks, the depths of the river and those long forgotten lanes of East London are all examples of the areas in London which can only be explored by foot. If you are staying at the Park Grand Paddington Court Hotel, you’re already well placed for London strolls, the canals of Little Venice an the pastures green of Hyde Park just round the corner.

Sometimes we want to explore the city on our own terms, and so tour guides become redundant in our quest to enjoy London our own way. With the introduction of apps and most public spots having wifi connection, you wouldn’t be blamed for wanting to shed the touring flock and take a tour your own way. Below are some tips for a great walking route for exploring central London.

Hyde Park

After leaving the Hyde Park Paddington Hotel take a walk through the titular royal park and explore the wide range on offer here. From the Serpentine Lake and Gallery to speakers corner, there’s plenty to explore and hundreds of thousands of plants to see in this lush staple on the London park scene.

Green Park

A more field based park adjacent to Hyde Park, you’re next stop is on the way into Central London. It’s all in the name with Green Park, and with its vast fields and beautiful views, it’s easy to see where it gets its name.

Buckingham Palace

Perched on thecorner of Green Park and St James Park, take a look at the Queen’s royal residence from behind the gate. You might even be lucky enough to witness the changing of the guard.

Westminster

Located a short walk from Buckingham Palace, Westminster and the Houses of Parliament were built specifically for their proximity to the monarchy’s place of residence. This large grand building is made from Magnesian limestone, quarried from the village of Anston in South Yorkshire.

Big Ben

On your way across the River Thames, you will pass Big Ben, or Queen ELizabeth tower, the large clock iconic to the London landscape.

South Bank

Once you cross Westminster Bridge, you will be on the SOuth Bank. The southern side of the Thames, the South Bank is home to many of the most popular entertainment and arts venues in London, not ot mention a wide range of restaurants and market spaces. From the BFI to the Southbank Centre, you’ll have plenty of options for entertainment if you need a breather.

The Tate Modern

Walking further along the South Bank for about twenty minutes towards London Bridge, you’ll be faced with the idonic former Bankside Power Station, now the Tate Modern. Ome to contemporary arts in London, the Tate Modern holds a wide range of galleries and events on a daily basis.

Borough Market

If the gallery legs haven’t got you resting yet, then you can walk further along towards London Bridge towards the Borough Market area. You’ll have worked up an appetite by now, and Borough Market is the perfect spot to find some stellar street food and intimate restaurants to tie off a great day traversing the city.