13 Tourist Mistakes NOT to Make in London and Amazing Alternatives

In 2023, London was voted the best city in the world to visit. And it’s no real surprise as to why. With its rich history, amazing foodie culture, vibrant art scene, and bustling energy, there’s always something to do or see in the British capital. But London is a city that’s always filled to the brim with tourists. Every year 30 million visitors pour into the already overcrowded city centre. And many of them are trying to see and do all the same things.

But, more often than not, these highly rated tourist activities are overcrowded, overpriced and sometimes down right overrated. If you’re looking to avoid tourist traps, skip overcrowded stops and discover some true hidden gems of London, check out our list below of the best things to avoid in London and, most importantly, what you can do instead!

Table Of Contents

1. #1 Don't Take a Ride on the London Eye
2. #2 Skip the Instagram Infatuation with Peggy Porschen
3. #3 Don't Bother with Harrods Overpriced Goods
4. But What About the Harrods Food Hall?!
5. #4 Skip Seeing the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London
6. #5 Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
7. #6 Don't Bother Visiting Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
8. #7 Walking across Abbey Road
9. #8 Having Afternoon Tea at the Ritz
10. #9 The Houses of Parliament
11. #10 Skip the British Museum
12. #11 Skip Tourist Trap Central at Leicester Square
13. #12 Don't be fooled by the Notting Hill Book Shop
14. #13 Don't Line Up for Phonebooth Photos Near Big Ben

#1 Don’t Take a Ride on the London Eye

The London Eye is that giant ferris wheel that dominates the west side of the Thames River skyline. A ride inside the giant glass pods that encircle the wheel supposedly offers panoramic city views across London. However, it is hugely expensive. At £34 per person ($41 USD), that’s over £130 if you come as a family of four. Even for a couple you’re looking at more than $80 USD for a 30-minute rotation. And the queues can be hours long to get inside. Even with advanced bookings, you can expect to wait in the queue for more than 20-minutes to finally be able to get inside and ride around the wheel.

And if you happen to book on a cloudy day, once you’re up to the tallest part, you might not even have that great of a view. And this can be super disappointing if you’ve spent your whole day waiting around for not that great of a sight. But I get the appeal, don’t get me wrong. Seeing the skyline of a new city is one of the best ways to see its sprawling architecture and learn all about the city’s layout. Luckily there is another option for you, and this one is FREE!

Instead, head to the Sky Garden

The Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden and observation deck. It is located on the 35th floor of the “Walkie Talkie” buildin, officially known as 20 Fenchurch Street. From the Sky Garden, you get panoramic views all across London. Being up here you get the chance to see London’s landmarks, such as the Tower Bridge, the Shard, and the Thames River. Best of all, entry to the Sky Garden is free! Visitors just need to book tickets in advance online, as there are limited slots available each day. If something happens and you need to cancel last minute, no worries, just be sure to cancel online to give your spot to someone else. 

Once inside, you’ll also get the chance to explore the green oasis in the sky. This garden features plants from around the world, as well as a restaurant and bars if you want to grab a snack or drink. This means that even if you arrive on a cloudy day, there are still a few ways to enjoy your time up here. Unlike inside the London Eye pods, where you’re trapped until you can get back onto the ground. 

#2 Skip the Instagram Infatuation with Peggy Porschen

If you’ve been on Instagram, you’ve undoubtedly seen Peggy Porschen Cakes plastered all over the discovery page. The uber-pink cafe in London’s fancy Belgravia neighbourhood is perhaps one of the most Instagrammed places in the entire city. It is best known most for that iconic pink interior dripping in flowers that rotate throughout the seasons. I won’t lie; I was curious when I first saw these pictures too. So on a jaunt through the neighbourhood, I popped my head in. Not only were the lines out around the block, but I found that anyone actually eating and drinking inside didn’t look too happy. The cakes might look pretty but are overpriced and mediocre. Plus, if you really want a photo of it, you can just hop in front, snap that pic and walk right on by. Without having to wait in line to dine inside.

Instead, Admire the Architecture in Host Cafe

If you’re looking for a stunning spot to sit and actually enjoy your morning brew, then you must get yourself over to Host Cafe. Host Cafe is located inside the Victorian Gothic interiors of St. Mary Aldermary church. The original church was built in the 17th century by Sir Christopher Wren, the master builder of St. Paul’s Cathedral. But over the years, its parish was dwindling and they were losing money trying to keep up with the costs of such a historic church. To help bring in more people and monet throughout the week, a tiny coffee shop was set up at the back of the church. Visitors can enjoy a fancy latte while admiring the beautiful historic architecture sprawling around them.

And while all the original architectural features have been preserved this readaptation of the space is ingenius. Ensuring buildings like this last another lifetime. The soaring vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and rich wooden pews make even a simple drip coffee break feel like a special event. This was my favourite spot in the city to come and work. Or just to relax inside while watching the eteral light stream through those fantastical stained glass windows. A magical place to be. And the perfect escape on a rainy day.

#3 Don’t Bother with Harrods Overpriced Goods

True, Harrods is one of the most famous department stores in London. And while its exterior is one of the city’s most iconic symbols, the location leaves much to be desired. Harrods is located in the upmarket Knightsbridge neighbourhood. If you’re a tourist, Knightsbridge won’t be someplace you’ll want to spend much time. There isn’t really anything to see and do around the area except for Harrods itself. At Christmas time, the lights around Knightsbridge are pretty beautiful, which can make the journey up here a little bit more worth your while. But outside of that, it’s a skip if you’re on a time crunch.

And the prices…oh my gosh! There is expensive, and then there is expensive. And Harrods is beyond the beyond. I can imagine that because so many people come here just to gawk and not to buy, results in everything costing more just to offset the price of all that real estate. Even a little plastic, made in China bauble at Chrstimas was priced at £20!

Instead, Try Liberty London

If you are still looking to do a little shopping in London but don’t want to trek out of Knightsbridge, you should check out Liberty London. Liberty London is also a luxury department store. But this one is located SOHO, in the West End of London. While Harrods might be beautiful it doesn’t have the monopoly on interesting architecture. The gorgeous building was designed by Edwin T. Hall, who was inspired by the architecture of the Tudor period. This era was known for its intricate woodwork, steep gables, and decorative half-timbering. Even the store’s interior is given the same beautiful architectural treatment, making walking around inside a joy.

The store was founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty. Liberty was inspired by his travels to the Far East and wanted to bring the exotic and beautiful products that he saw there back to London. Today, Liberty is still known for its unique and eclectic range of product. Including established luxury brands but also up-and-coming British designers. My favourite part of the store are these areas dedicated to new designers. Especially in the home goods selection where the prices are pretty affordable for smaller items. You find such unique and one-of-a-kind things here to jazz up your shelves. One of the store’s highlights is its beautiful floral fabric section. These patterns have become iconic over the years and even if you’re not there to buy, it’s worth a look just for inspiration and eye candy.

But What About the Harrods Food Hall?!

The most interesting part of Harrods for me is their food hall. The Harrods Food Hall is renowned for its gourmet selection of fresh and exotic foods from all over the world. It’s also perhaps the most visually interesting part of the building. Since they aren’t trying to compete with the branding of the high fashion clothes, these rooms are most historic in appearance. The opulent decor features ornate chandeliers, marble floors, and elaborate tiled mosaics along the walls.

Admittedly, the food hall is a beautiful place to come and admire the decor. But the Harrod’s Food Hall isn’t like Food Courts in the US. It’s more like a deli, where you order your food at the counter and then must take it away to eat. There aren’t any communal dining tables where you can sit and enjoy the ambiance inside unless you grab a quick coffee at the coffee bar. And again, you’re paying out the nose for the food and drinks here. While perhaps the food might be of higher quality than you’ll get elsewhere, it’s very overpriced, even for London.

Instead, Dine Inside the Fantasical Mercado Mayfair

If it’s a food hall inside a beautiful historic building with amazing decor and a real wow factor that you’re after, instead of hiking out to Knightsbridge, visit the Mercado Mayfair. Just off busy Oxford Street, the Mercato Mayfair Market offers up fresh, artisanal and sustainably sourced food. All in the heart of this amazingly restored church. Thank to this £5 million restoration, the original 19th century church has been reclaimed and transformed into a modern eatery. Welcoming people from the neighbourhood and beyond.

The nave has been transformed into a cafeteria-style dining room with all the different food stalls located inside the old side chapels. The market offers a range of unique culinary experiences, from Authentic Neapolitan Pizza to dumplings and, of course, fish and chips! Hidden away in the basement’s crypt is an actual gin and beer distillery. Here you can sit inside a cozy alcove and have your very own beer flight tasting. All made right under the floorboards. And one last treat for visitors is a trip up to the rooftop where you get a small but stunning view of the city!

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#4 Skip Seeing the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

While visiting the Tower of London is absolutely a must-do activity for new visitors, the Crown Jewels aren’t worth your time. Getting into see them can be a real pain. Due to security concerns, they can old let in a certain number of people inside at a time. And each must pass through a security check before hand. Once inside, certain exhibits require you to step on a moving walkway to see them. And you only get so much time to observe these precious jewels. This is to help control the flow of traffic but results in it feeling a little rushed.

Even with these elements in place, when I came in the winter, we still had to queue for over 45 minutes to get inside. And I knew the second we got out that I would never do that again. The crowds inside this tiny basement vault can be overwhelming, and the jewels may not be as impressive as expected. No photos are allowed inside as well if that is a deal breaker for you. Since the royal family is still actively using these accessories, certain pieces are often missing from the exhibition. So if there was a certain crown jewel you needed to see, you are guaranteed to find it all the time.

Instead, Be Dazzled by the V&A’s Jewellery Collection

I prefer spending my time inside the V&A’s Jewellery Collection if I need my sparkly fix. Unlike the Tower of London, which has a whopping entry fee of £29, the Victoria and Albert museum is free to enter. If it’s jewels once owned by Royals that you’re after, this collection has you covered! Queen Victoria‘s sapphire and diamond coronet is on permanent public display. A dazzling collection of embellished swords is in the upper level of the jewellery room. Small swords were items of male jewellery and a way that even the men could accessories for a court appearance. 

The museum’s jewellery collection is an incredible display of artistic and technical excellence. A testament to the cultural importance of jewellery throughout history. The collection showcases items from different periods, demonstrating the evolution of design and using materials. None of which you get at when viewing the Crown Jewels. So make a point to check out this place if you love things that sparkle!

#5 Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

When I lived in London, my flat was only a 10-minute walk to Buckingham Palace. And the Victoria Memorial, across from the Palace gates, was often one of my favourite places to come and sit with a coffee to people watch. But every day, as early as 9 am, the crowd would go from mildly busy to absolute chaos. And I knew it must be time for the changing of the guards. 

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a famous ceremony that occurs daily in the summer, and throughout the rest of the year, it’s usually every other day. The Changing of the Guard is a traditional ceremony that starts to St James’s Palace and ends at Buckingham Palace. If you are dead set on viewing the Parade, don’t line up with the crowds at Buckingham Palace. Instead, wait outside St. James Palace and follow the soldiers down the Royal Mall. This way, at least, you can avoid most of the crowds congregating around Buckingham Palace. That’s really the only way to have a good experience with the ceremony. And honestly, I far prefer the alternative option.

Instead, Hang with the Horses for the Changing of the King’s Life Guard

If it’s regalia you’re after, I prefer watching the Horse Guards Parade, also called the Changing of the King’s Life Guard. This ceremony occurs every day of the week (not on the weekend) when the newly mounted King’s Life Guard leaves Hyde Park Barracks. They ride on horseback to Horse Guards Parade to replace the old guards. Although I’m a bit scared of riding horses myself, I love mounted cavalry. The regalia and spectacle of this ceremony, I think, is far better than the band that is the most interesting part of the Changing of the Guard.

The ceremony’s highlight is when the incoming guard hands over the keys to St James’s Palace. This exchange symbolizes the transfer of responsibility for guarding the palace and is a reminder of the historical significance of this duty. The best place to plant yourself is outside Horse Guard Parade, just opposite St. James Park. This wide open area is huge, making it a much less chaotic alternative to the gated Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. But it still provides a chance to see the pageantry and tradition of the British military. The new guard arrives at Horse Guards Parade at 11 am, so I would advise getting there slightly before.

#6 Don’t Bother Visiting Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

There seems to be a Madame Tussauds Wax Museum everywhere in the world. Ignoring that it costs a jaw-dropping £36 per adult to get inside, once you’re in there, you’ll find little more than room after room of mediocre wax replicas of your favourite celebrities’ and historical figures. Yes, you can get right up close and personal and get a photo with them, but I think in an age of Instagram, where we have much more intimate access to celebrities than we did before, this just doesn’t interest tourists as it did before.

I think one of the reasons that people visit Madame Tussauds is for their kids. They are looking for an easy activity their kids will enjoy and think it will appeal to them. But in fact, your kids probably will have no idea who many of the celebs in here are anyways. Brittany Spears and Obama might be notable to us, but unless they have a giant Bluey puppy, chanes are your kids won’t have a clue.

Instead, take the kids to the Natual History Museum

Now they might not be “celebrities,” but the London Natual History Museum also had plenty of wax mammals on display. And unlike the Queen, dinosaurs are something no kid won’t recognize. The Natural History Museum in London is widely considered one of the best attractions for kids and adults, and for a good reason. The museum boasts an extensive collection of over 80 million specimens spanning millions of years. Making it an ideal destination for anyone interested in history, biology, and the natural world. Add to that, the price of entry is free! Pass those £ 39 savings onto the rest of your trip! 

In addition to their amazing exhibition of dinosaur skeletons, kids and adults can enjoy interactive displays, stunning collections of costly gemstones and a gigantic blue whale skeleton in the Hintze Hall. If you’re like me, and natural history isn’t totally your thing, a visit to the museum is still more than worth your time as the building it’s housed inside is a treasure trove of architectural easter eggs. The architect designed the building to feature carvings of plants and animals integrated into the bones of the building. You’ll be able to spot monkeys poking their heads out from around the arches. Snakes crawl around the lintels, and even etching of fossils can be seen embedded into the ceiling. It makes just wandering around this place an advebture!

#7 Walking across Abbey Road

For many hardcore Beatles fans, trekking to the famous zebra crossing outside the Abbey Road Studios is considered a pilgrimage.Abbey Road is one of the most iconic albums by the Beatles and holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. The album was released in 1969 and was the last studio album the Beatles recorded together. And the band’s image crossing the road on the album cover has become one of the most recognizable images in music history.

But many tourists, even those who couldn’t name a single Beatles song, get the idea of coming here to recreate the album cover for themselves. To get that amazing Instagram shot. And it’s truly just not worth it unless you’re a die-hard fan. The crossing location is extremely north of the centre of London. And it isn’t around a single other attraction most tourists will be interested in seeing. The road is also a busy thoroughfare; it’s not closed down for tourists as their play place. And even yet, there are so many tourists. Even if you make it out here, you’ll find yourself in a throng of others trying to get that very same photo.

Instead, head to the British Library

If you’re a huge Beatles fan but don’t want to fight amongst the hoards of tourists, I would head to the British Library. This true hidden gem of a FREE museum contains thousands of historic literary treasures. Including some of the world’s most famous documents and manuscripts. This includes a collection of handwritten lyrics, original scores, and sketches of some of the Beatle’s most famous songs. 

You can see original notes from the hit songs “Strawberry Fields Forever,” “She Said She Said,” and “In My Life,” handwritten by John Lennon. Who donated them himself to the British Library. The fact that their music is now part of the British Library’s collection is a testament to the band’s enduring cultural significance. And I found that getting this intimated glimpse into their musical process was much more meaningful than walking along a busy crosswalk.

#8 Having Afternoon Tea at the Ritz

While having Afternoon Tea at the Ritz is a bucket list experience, it comes with a steep price tag. Afternoon Tea at the Ritz is priced at £70 for adults (going up to £72 in June 2023), so this meal is a splurge. And no one should feel like they have to go over their budget simply to get a quintessentially British experience like Afternoon Tea.

And even with its high prices, there is huge demand. Getting a reservation at the Ritz can become a chore having to research and book months in advance. Resulting in anyone booking even close to the last minute being disappointed by not securing a spot. Luckily there are plenty of other options for having afternoon tea in London. The Ritz isn’t the only place in town. And my favourite place to go is almost half the price and also comes with some historic architectural cache to rival the Ritz’s history.

Instead, Taste some Tea at St. Ermin’s Tea Lounge

The St. Ermin’s Tea Lounge is a luxurious and elegant tea room in the historic St. Ermin’s Hotel. Located in the heart of London, near Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. The hotel was originally built in 1889 as a mansion block of flats designed by E.T. Hall and Frederick C. Mew. The building later became the base of operations for British intelligence services during WWII. The hotel’s proximity to government buildings and key institutions made it an ideal location for these intelligence operations. It hosted several notable guests, including Winston Churchill. And famed writer Ian Fleming is believed to have used the hotel as inspiration for his James Bond novel, “From Russia With Love.”

St. Ermin Tea Lounge

Its beautiful interior matches the immense importance of the building. When you step inside, that stunning white sweeping staircase with ornate balustrades welcomes you into the tea room. Inside, you can cozy up in one of their beautiful armchairs covered in ornate patterns. All set under the historic white tin ceiling and Victorian architectural details. The most precious spot to enjoy a delectable afternoon cup of tea.

In addition to the tea service, you’re served a three-tiered tray of goodies, including the quintessentially British scones with clotted cream and jam. But it was the finger sandwiches that really wowed me. I was amazed by the flavoured and spices they added to the more traditional ingredients inside, elevating the meal to another level. The same applied to the dessert, which were amazingly flavourful despite their bite-size.

We spent over three hours here, chatting in the comfort of the building while enjoying pot after pot of their delectable teas. The atmosphere was relaxed yet elegant, and it is my favourite spot to get afternoon tea in the city. At £43pp (£48pp with a glass of Champagne), the price is more than worth the amazing experience you get with it!

#9 The Houses of Parliament

When you think of London, one of the first things that come to mind is Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell inside the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London. But it’s often used to refer to the clock tower as a whole. Today, the clock tower is officially known as the Elizabeth Tower in honour of the late Queen Elizabeth II. The building encircling the Tower is the Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster. This historic building complex is located on the banks of the River Thames and was built all the way back in the 11th century.

But most of the current buildings only date back to the 19th century. For years, Big Ben was undergoing a huge renovation, and its face was totally obscured from the public. But building work has finally been completed, and the clock is back to facing the adoring public along London’s iconic skyline. 

Booking to Visit the Houses of Parliament

But with it being back in action, so are the tourists. Especially after the long years of covid, tourists as more excited than ever to get back inside the building and book a guided tour. While UK residents can book a free guided tour (up to six months in advance by contacting their local MPs,) tourists are only allowed inside for free if they are attending a debate or the Prime Minister’s Questions. If you aren’t booked to either of those events, to get inside, you’ll need to book a guided tour. And at £22 per person it doesn’t come cheap.

The 90-minute tour includes a guide through the House of Commons, House of Lords and Westminster Hall. And while extremely thorough and impressive, many tourists looking to save money on their trip won’t want to spend it. Plus, these tours book up fast and often you need to book at least two months in advance. Especially during the high season in the summer.

Instead, try the Royal Courts of Justice

A visit to the Royal Courts of Justice is an absolute true hidden gem in the centre of London. The Royal Courts of Justice is a stunning Victorian Gothic Revival building designed by architect George Edmund Street in the late 19th century. It was intended to symbolize the power and majesty of the law. With its grand exterior and intricate details reflecting the importance of the legal system in Victorian society. Today, the Royal Courts of Justice is the principal court building for England and Wales and houses the High Court and Court of Appeal. As such, many civil and criminal cases are heard everyday within. 

The exterior of the building features a dramatic façade, with a central tower rising to a height of 73 meters and flanked by two smaller towers. The building is adorned with ornate carvings, statues, and intricate stone details. With every aspect of the design is intended to convey a sense of grandeur and importance.

Exploring the Interiors of the Royal Courts

You must pass through an airport-like security check before entering the court building. But it’s very quick to get thorough. Be aware, just like the Houses of Parliament, you are not allowed to take pictures inside the building. But enjoy the time away from your phone and soak up all the history and architecture.

When you get inside, go to the reception desk and ask for their detailed map to guide you around the building. Walking into the Great Hall, you are overcome with wonder. The amazing interior is wall-to-wall with beautiful stained-glass windows, historical portraits, sumptuous architecture and powerful sculptures. Visitors can explore the various courtrooms, which are ornately decorated and feature a range of different architectural styles, from Gothic Revival to classical. In addition to the courtrooms, visitors can also seek out the Permanent Exhibition of Legal and Judicial Costume. The exhibition showcases a wide range of historical outfits worn by barristers and judges. It gives visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the UK legal system.

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You should also check out the restored Bear Garden on the second floor. No, there aren’t real bears in here. The name comes from Queen Victoria’s description of the noise that the barristers made, so loud it sounded like a pit of fighting bears. If you are keen on having someone lead you through the building, you can book a guided tour. These must be pre-booked in advance but they don’t book up as quickly as the Houses of Parliament. And only cost £16 for adults. 

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#10 Skip the British Museum

The British Museum is one of the world’s largest and most famous museums. Inside these great walls are a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits from around the globe. Covering the entire span of human history. And while many people will put this museum at the top of the things to see in London, I think there are better options for you.

The British Museum specifically has had some controversial history that more and more people are starting to find an issue with. Their history of “collecting” (aka stealing) objects from other cultures during the colonial era and refusing to return them when those countries have requested them, puts some tourists off visiting the museum altogether. The other thing to note is that most of the objects inside the British Museum are, as I mentioned, not British. Making it a rather strange thing to see when you’re visiting the UK and might want to seek out authentically British works of art and artifacts.

Instead, Find Real British Artists inside the Tate Britian

If you want something authentically British, I highly recommend visiting Tate Britain. Tate Britain (as opposed to the more famous Tate Modern) is located along Millbank in the borough of Westminster. Inside the comparably small building, a neo-classical structure designed by architect Sidney R. J. Smith, you’ll find a fantastic collection of British art from the 16th century to present day. The museum’s collection includes works by many celebrated British artists, such as J.M.W. Turner, William Blake, Francis Bacon, and David Hockney.

In addition to their fantastic permanent collection, one of my favourite parts of a visit to Tate Britain is seeing the up-and-coming new British artists. When I was there in 2022, the new exhibition featured British sculptor and contemporary visual artist Hew Locke. His large-scale installation for the 2022 Commission was titled The Procession. It depicted a series of fantastically dressed mannequins taking part in the life cycle. It was a vibrant and dynamic exhibit, and I was thrilled to learn more about this fantastic British artist. Had I not come here, I never would have had the chance to learn more about this new British artist. As well as see more artworks from Britain’s artistic history.

#11 Skip Tourist Trap Central at Leicester Square

Leicester Square is one of those places that people seem to think they should visit, but when they get there, it is often an overwhelming and incredibly disappointing experience. Leicester Square is like Times Square in New York. And while it may have had a storied history, today, you’ll find the square is simply a collection of crappy chain restaurants, rowdy bars and tourist traps. Often it is so crowded here that it can be difficult to easily make your way out. And with so many pickpockets in such a crowded area, it’s a place to avoid.

Instead, visit Sloan Square

If it’s a charming London Square you’re after, I would much rather recommend Sloan Square. Sloane Square is a bustling public square located in the affluent Chelsea neighbourhood. Chelsea is a gorgeous borough to visit as it is both beautiful to explore and has a more relaxed atmosphere. Surrounding the square are ornate estates featuring gothic, classic and Edwardian architecture. In the centre of the square is the beautiful Venus Fountain, designed by sculptor Gilbert Ledward in 1953. Look closely, and you’ll see that the fountain basin contains a relief depicting King Charles II. I love sitting here on a sunny day and watching locals mill about.

If you thought you wanted to visit Leicester Square for the cafes and restaurants, you’ll find that just off Slaon square, along the picturesque Pavillion Road, are some of the BEST cafes and restaurants you’ll find in the entire city! Instead of visiting M&M World store, you can get your sweet fix at Bread Ahead. Dive into one of their sumptuously sweet-filled doughnuts and you’ll forget all about M&Ms. If you walk along Pavillion Road, you can check out the iconic Ottolenghi Cafe, London Cheesemongers or nosh on some vegan food at Wulf & Lamb. You can even eat outside under the cheerful bunting and night-time fairy lights. A perfect way to end the day in London.

#12 Don’t be fooled by the Notting Hill Book Shop

One of the most famous romantic comedies in the 1990s was undoubtedly ‘Notting Hill.‘ It starred British heartthrob Hugh Grant and American darling Julia Roberts. Written by famed British screenwriter Richard Curtis, the film gained international popularity, more so than his other British films. Perhaps due to the presence of Miss Roberts herself. As such, the movie placed itself in the eyes and minds of all young girls growing up in the 90s. And the idea of visiting that very same shop that the character of Hugh Grant owns in the film, became somewhat of a pilgrimage site for millennials. Sadly, the ‘Travel Bookshop’ featured in the film didn’t exist in real life. However, the house at which they filmed in did. Outside the house, a small plaque reads, “The Travel Book Shop” to honour the spot where the movie was filmed.

But interestingly enough, another bookstore calling itself “The Travel Book Shop” opened up just around the corner. And then there is “Notting Hill Bookshop” at 13 Blenheim Crescent, which also boasts a similar blue sign. Hundreds of people visit these shops daily, thinking they are the same ones from the movie. But they’re just imitations. The interiors are super cramped, and it is not at all the cozy, curated interior dreamed up by Hugh grants character. It’s just another tourist trap.

Instead, Get Inspired inside Books For Cooks

But what made the Travel Bookshop so interesting was the concept that you could find these interesting bookshops dedicated to a specific topic. Curated by a loving owner on the quirky stretch of Portobello Road. Thankfully there is such a place that does exist today. And that is the Books For Cooks bookshop. Books For Cooks is exactly what it says on the tin. A book shop for people who love to cook. The selection of books here is unreal. Just browsing the shelves feels like going on vacation around the world.  

The shop has been open even longer than the Notting Hill movie, opening in 1983. Over 8,000 cookbooks ranging from classic to modern featuring different cuisines, techniques, and diets line the shelves. But the shop isn’t just selling cookbooks for fun; the owners are serious about cooking. So much so that at the back of the shop, they have their own “test kitchen.” Here, they test their own recipes from the cookbooks they sell on their shelves.

Visitors can even sample some of these baked goods on tiny cafe chairs squished into the back of the shop. They are only available until they run out, which can be very quick! So get here early. The menu changes daily, so you never know what will be cooking in the oven. They also host cookery workshops throughout the week, so on your next visit, you might find will-be cooks at the back trying their hands at becoming the next British Bake Off contestant.

#13 Don’t Line Up for Phonebooth Photos Near Big Ben

I know what you’ll say, “OMG, that photo below is perfect!” And while it looks great, what you don’t see in the Instagram edited photo is the lineup of people behind the photographer. These red phonebooths outside Westminster station are thronged with tourists, even in the wet and cold weather. I lived about 10 minutes from this station, and every time I walked by the area, I was amazed that no matter how early or how crazy the weather was, there was almost always a lineup of people just waiting to get a photo.

If the line isn’t too long, I get why you’d want this shot. But time is precious on your vacation, and I don’t think waiting for any phone booth photo is worth it. There are hundreds of these red phone booths all over the city. And they all can serve the same purpose without the wait or awkwardness of posing in front of grumpy, impatient strangers.

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Instead, Find the Phone Booth Outside Tate Britain

As I mentioned, these phone boxes are everywhere, so there isn’t a need to search for any particular one. But if you want my opinion on my favourite phonebooth I spotted, the answer would be the one just down the road from Tate Britain. Located on Millbank, at the intersection of Shelton Street. This peaceful street has gorgeous overhanging trees and beautiful brick buildings in the background. Composing the most darling scene that screams London just as much as dear ol’ Big Ben. If you’re in the area, stop to check it out!

I hope this guide helped you suss out what is and isn’t worth your time. But in the end, it’s your vacation, and you should do whatever you want, no matter what anyone else says! But if you are looking to save some time, save some money and save your sanity, I think this helpful guide is here to give you some great alternatives!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!