What Wanderers Must See on a Visit to London

Isabelle Harrison
Aug 27
3 min read

Wander Like Travel founder Isabelle Harrison has traversed just about every corner of London, curating delightful experiences that are as unique as each of her guests. There are a few spots, however, that any visit to London would not be complete without!

Here’s a snapshot of our must-see recommendations for London.

Primrose Hill Viewpoint

“I have conversed with the spiritual sun. I saw him on Primrose Hill,” wrote William Blake, a 19th century poet, painter, and printmaker. These words are etched into stone atop Primrose Hill, one of six protected viewpoints in London and a smashing place to see panoramic views of the city and beyond. In fact, the coveted space in North London was once full of woodland and then appropriated by Henry VIII who used it as hunting grounds centuries ago. It was also once a place where duels were fought and price-fights took place. Today, locals and travelers alike visit the beautiful hilltop which stands almost 63 metres (206 feet) above sea level and boasts unobstructed views that are especially incredible at sunset.

Maltby Street Market

For those looking to Wander Like a foodie, this one’s for you! A little alley flanked by railway arches and colorful flags is how the hidden gem Maltby Street Market identifies itself and there’s truly no better way to characterize it. Tucked within South-East London, the iconic brick and cobblestone backwater promises to “entertain you, keep you hydrated and feed you until you can move no more” with rotating street traders like Amen Ethiopian, Mooncheese toasties and Gyoza Guys offering up incredible eats you won’t find anywhere else. The market is only open on Saturdays and Sundays. Get ready to eat and then roll your way home!

Hot tip: You can even get married at the Old Timber Store, a historic railway arch that will have you and your guests stepping right into the magic of 19th century London.

Chelsea

The West London neighborhood of Chelsea is world-renowned for its sophistication and class - a distinguished level of posh that makes it a quintessential London stop. Lined with exquisite homes, Chelsea is perfect for a morning of high-end real estate exploration, followed by an afternoon of shopping along King’s Road where you’ll find more than 160 shops and restaurants along a mile stretch. You’ll also find a consortium of fabulous pubs, including the architectural beauty of Cadogan Arms and Cross Keys, a Chelsea institution dating all the way back to 1708. Just off King’s Road sits Pavilion Road - a vibrant and charming hub for delicious dining, shopping and strolling. One of our absolute favourites.

St. JOHN Restaurant

St. JOHN Restaurant’s Michelin star was very well earned. Known as one of the foremost proponents of nose-to-tail cooking, the brilliant minds behind St. JOHN hue their menu closely to seasonal shifts while remaining authentically London. With crisp white tablecloths and a divinely simple yet elegant atmosphere that parallels the menu design, you’ll find items like “Pigeon and Braised Red Cabbage” for supper or “Cold Roast Middle White on Dripping Toast” for lunch. There are three restaurants across the city, as well as a bakery and winery. Founders Fergus Henderson and Trevor Gulliver stay true to their 30-year philosophy: start with purpose and simplicity. “Fergus puts it on the plate and Trevor puts it in the glass.”

Walking tour of Little Venice

Little Venice is one of our favourite places, as it is a lesser known hidden gem amidst the hustle and bustle of London’s iconic sites and truly offers an oasis reflective of its namesake in Italy. It is a picturesque community beset with enchanting restaurants and quirky cafes - a magnet for English writers, playwrights and artists. We adore the cute restaurants, boutiques on Formosa street, and the gorgeous hidden cafe nestled within a flower shop called Clifton Nurseries. There are so many beautiful photo ops.