2 days in London itinerary
A balanced 2-day London itinerary mixing markets, riverside walks, world-class museums, relaxed meals and local neighbourhoods at a steady pace. Walks and short transfers kept realistic to enjoy each stop without rushing.
Highlights
- Borough Market
- Tate Modern & Southbank walk
- St Paul's Cathedral views
- Natural History Museum & V&A
- Kensington Gardens and The Orangery
- Portobello Road / Notting Hill
Itinerary
Day 1
South Bank and City highlights: start at Borough Market, enjoy contemporary art at Tate Modern, stroll the South Bank and finish by exploring St Paul's area with a relaxed dinner.
Coffee and light breakfast at Monmouth Coffee Company
Start the day with excellent coffee and a pastry at a local favourite near Borough Market.
Local tips:
- Monmouth often has a short queue — it moves fast.
- Bring cash if you prefer (card accepted).
- Peak freshness around opening — good time for croissants.
Explore Borough Market stalls
Wander the market aisles, sample local cheeses, charcuterie and street-food snacks. Great for food photography and small tastings.
Local tips:
- Mid-morning is busy but lively; try small tastings rather than a full meal here.
- Look for seasonal British produce stalls.
- If you want a sit-down lunch, note which vendors accept card vs cash.
Walk to Millennium Bridge
Short riverside walk to the pedestrian Millennium Bridge for great views toward St Paul's and the Tate Modern.
Local tips:
- Allow a few minutes for photos from the bridge.
- The bridge can be windy — bring a light jacket.
- This is an easy 10–15 minute walk from Borough Market.
Visit Tate Modern (contemporary art)
Explore Tate Modern's free collection and special exhibitions (ticketed exhibitions optional). Focus on the turbine hall and key modern British works.
Local tips:
- Major exhibitions may require a timed ticket — book ahead if interested.
- Café on the top floor has good city views for a short break.
- Allow time to browse the gift shop for unique art-led souvenirs.
Short walk to lunch area near Southwark
Walk from the museum toward nearby restaurants to reach your booked table.
Local tips:
- If you haven't booked, expect queues at popular spots — consider reservations.
- This is mainly a 10–15 minute walk along the riverside and side streets.
- Look out for buskers and street food stalls en route.
Lunch at Padella (fresh pasta)
Casual, high-quality pasta at one of London's best value pasta restaurants. Ideal for a filling midday meal.
Local tips:
- Padella is very popular — if you don't have a reservation expect to queue or come early.
- Share a couple of plates if you want to save room for afternoon snacks.
- Ask staff about their seasonal specials.
Walk along Southbank to Shakespeare's Globe
Leisurely riverside stroll from Padella toward Shakespeare's Globe; enjoy riverside views, bookshops and performers.
Local tips:
- Plenty of photo stops — allow the full walk time to enjoy the atmosphere.
- If weather's fine, there are pop-up food stands and seating along the way.
- Sheltered seating is available near the Globe and under nearby arches.
See Shakespeare's Globe (exterior & quick visit)
Admire the reconstructed Globe from outside and, if time permits, browse the exhibition or take a short tour.
Local tips:
- Tours are timed; check availability in advance if you want to go inside.
- The riverside seating nearby is a nice place to rest for a few minutes.
- Good spot for photos with St Paul's in the background across the river.
Coffee or rest break at Southbank Centre
Short break to relax — cafes at Southbank Centre offer indoor seating and people-watching.
Local tips:
- If you prefer quieter seating, head indoors to the Southbank Centre complex.
- Check the events board — there are often free performances.
- Use restrooms here before continuing your walk.
Walk across Millennium Bridge to St Paul's
Cross the river for classic views and to reach St Paul's Cathedral area for late-afternoon exploration.
Local tips:
- Photo stop halfway for a direct view of St Paul's dome.
- This is a short walk but can be busy during rush hour.
- Mind the wind on the bridge; hold hats and paper items.
Visit St Paul's Cathedral area (photos & exterior)
Explore the cathedral exterior, cathedral gardens and immediate streets; consider a timed entry if you want to see inside.
Local tips:
- Interior entry is ticketed — book ahead if you plan to climb the dome.
- The area around Paternoster Square has nice cafés for a rest.
- Allow time for exterior photos and a relaxed walk around the cathedral precinct.
Walk toward Hawksmoor Guildhall for dinner
Short transfer to the restaurant area; relax before dinner and check in for your booking.
Local tips:
- Hawksmoor is a popular steakhouse — reservations recommended.
- If you prefer something lighter, ask for small plates or fish options.
- Give yourself a short buffer in case you want a pre-dinner drink nearby.
Dinner at Hawksmoor Guildhall
A relaxed dinner at a well-regarded British steakhouse offering seasonal sides and cocktails.
Local tips:
- Try to pre-book a table to avoid long waits.
- Consider the sharing steaks if you want to sample a few sides.
- Ask staff for wine pairing recommendations.
Evening stroll in Covent Garden
Finish the evening with a short tube or walk to Covent Garden to enjoy street performers, shops and a lively atmosphere.
Local tips:
- Covent Garden is lively in the evening — ideal for a relaxed post-dinner walk.
- There are many late cafés if you want dessert or a nightcap.
- If you prefer quieter spots, explore side streets slightly away from the piazza.
Day 2
South Kensington museums and Kensington Gardens in the morning, afternoon V&A, tea at The Orangery, then a relaxed late afternoon and evening in Notting Hill and Portobello Road.
Breakfast at Gail's Bakery (South Kensington area)
Casual bakery breakfast: coffee, pastries and light options to fuel a museum day.
Local tips:
- Arrive early to avoid queues on museum-days weekend mornings.
- Choose a takeaway option if you want to get to the gardens first.
- Gail's has good seasonal baked goods — ask staff for recommendations.
Short walk to Kensington Gardens
Transfer into the green space for a calm morning stroll before the museums open.
Local tips:
- Kensington Gardens are lovely in the morning for a quieter pace.
- Check the Kensington Palace grounds for any early events.
- Enjoy the Italian Gardens and the flower beds near the Albert Memorial.
Kensington Gardens short stroll
Relaxed walk through the park — great photo opportunities and peaceful morning air.
Local tips:
- Use benches near the Serpentine to rest if needed.
- If travelling with kids, the Diana Memorial Playground is nearby.
- Enjoy the gardens before the museum crowds arrive.
Walk to Natural History Museum
Short transfer into the museum complex; bathrooms and cloakroom available if needed.
Local tips:
- Museum entry lines form before opening — weekdays are calmer than weekends.
- Bag checks are standard; travel light if possible.
- The Hintze Hall with the blue whale skeleton is a must-see.
Visit Natural History Museum
Explore the museum's collections — dinosaurs, Earth gallery and Hintze Hall are highlights. Good for 1.5–2 hours.
Local tips:
- Some special exhibitions are ticketed — check ahead.
- Kids and adults both enjoy the interactive Earth and human biology displays.
- Plan which galleries you most want to see to use your time efficiently.
Lunch near South Kensington (Honest Burgers)
Casual lunch at a reliable local burger spot — good for a hearty midday meal before the V&A.
Local tips:
- If you prefer lighter options, many cafés nearby offer salads and sandwiches.
- Honest Burgers often has a daily special — ask the staff.
- If the queue is long, there are other options along Exhibition Road.
Walk to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)
Short transfer along Exhibition Road to the V&A entrance.
Local tips:
- The V&A is next to the Natural History Museum — easy walk.
- Check the day's gallery highlights at the information desk on arrival.
- Cloakroom facilities available for larger bags.
Explore the Victoria and Albert Museum
Focus on decorative arts, fashion galleries and special exhibitions. The V&A can easily fill a couple of hours.
Local tips:
- The fashion and textiles rooms are popular — set aside time if you're interested.
- Cafés inside offer a pleasant mid-visit rest spot with seasonal menus.
- Buy a ticket for any temporary exhibitions you most want to see before arrival.
Tea at The Orangery, Kensington Gardens
Afternoon tea or a light tea service in a classic setting — a relaxed break after museum browsing.
Local tips:
- The Orangery can be busy for afternoon tea — reservations recommended at peak times.
- A lighter tea option is ideal if you have dinner plans later.
- Seating often includes outdoor tables in good weather.
Transfer to Notting Hill / Notting Hill Gate station
Short tube or taxi ride to Notting Hill Gate to access Portobello Road and the neighbourhood.
Local tips:
- Tube (Circle/District/Central lines) from South Kensington to Notting Hill Gate usually takes ~10 minutes plus walking.
- If you have heavy bags, consider a taxi for door-to-door comfort.
- Use this time to check opening hours of any specific shops you want to visit on Portobello Road.
Stroll Portobello Road and Notting Hill
Wander the famous market street (antiques, boutiques and colourful houses) and explore side streets with independent shops.
Local tips:
- Portobello Road Market is busiest on weekends; late afternoon weekdays are calmer.
- If antiques are a focus, seek out specialist stalls earlier in the day.
- Great area for photography — look for the famous pastel terraces.
Transfer to dinner in Notting Hill
Short local transfer to your restaurant — a relaxed few minutes to freshen up before dinner.
Local tips:
- Notting Hill has lots of good casual dining options — reservations help at dinner time.
- If you prefer a pint, ask for a table near the bar area.
- This transfer typically involves a short walk; taxis are quick if preferred.
Dinner at The Cow (Notting Hill pub)
Relaxed, locally-loved pub dinner with a seasonal menu in a cosy Notting Hill setting.
Local tips:
- A warm, convivial atmosphere — book ahead for weekend dinners.
- Try the house specials and ask about vegetarian options if needed.
- Great spot to end a day of museums and neighbourhood wandering.