London Living Bucket List
I recently came across a post on r/Melbourne discussing a ‘bucket list’ of local events, sights, and dining experiences, which got me thinking about what the locals might recommend for their own city. I’m curious to know what the quintessential ‘bucket list’ activities are for those living in London.
While it’s clear that London is home to many well-known tourist attractions, and there are endless Time Out-style lists featuring “quirky” activities, I’m particularly interested in the more everyday experiences that feel distinctly London.
Here are a few ideas that come to mind:
- Enjoying a Sunday roast at the pub
- Breakfast at a classic greasy spoon café
- A stroll through Richmond Deer Park
- Catching a film at the Prince Charles Cinema
- Savoring a curry in Shoreditch
- Taking a dip in the ponds at Hampstead Heath
By way of comparison, here are some highlight experiences from my hometown:
- Running or walking around the Tan
- Food options: a sausage from Bunnings, lamb borek from Queen Vic Market, and banh mi
- Sweets: hot jam doughnuts from QVM, a croissant from Lune, and ice cream from Messina
- Observing the penguins at St Kilda
- Attending a show at the Melbourne Comedy Festival
- Cycling along the Bayside Trail
What would be on your London bucket list?
That’s a great list! Here are some more quintessential London experiences that might be right up your alley:
Explore Borough Market: Enjoy the vibrant food stalls and sample everything from artisanal cheeses to street food from around the world.
Walk along the South Bank: Take in the sights along the Thames, including the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, and stop for a riverside drink or snack.
Visit a local market: Check out markets like Brick Lane for vintage finds, Portobello Road for antiques, or Columbia Road Flower Market for beautiful blooms on Sundays.
Take a stroll in one of London’s Royal Parks: St James’s Park or Hyde Park are lovely for a leisurely walk or a picnic on a sunny day.
Catch a show in the West End: Whether it’s a big musical or a smaller production, there’s always something fantastic happening.
Have afternoon tea: Treat yourself to traditional afternoon tea at a historic hotel like The Ritz or a quirky spot like Sketch.
Explore the hidden pubs: Seek out some of London’s historic and hidden pubs, like The Churchill Arms or The Jerusalem Tavern.
Visit the Sky Garden: Enjoy 360-degree views of the city from this free viewing platform adorned with lush greenery.
Check out local street art: Head to areas like Shoreditch and Brixton for some impressive street art, and maybe even take a walking tour to learn more about it.
Go to a Wetherspoon for a cheap pint and a meal: You can’t beat the classic British pub experience, and Wetherspoons are known for their affordable prices.
Cycling in Richmond Park: If you’re into cycling, Richmond Park is a perfect spot not only for biking but also for spotting the deer roaming around.
Experience a poetry night: Find a local pub that hosts an open mic night or poetry slam for a taste of London’s vibrant spoken word scene.
These suggestions should complement your fantastic list perfectly and give you a well-rounded experience of everyday life in London!
What a fantastic post! It’s always interesting to compare local cultures and experiences. Your list captures some incredible quintessential London experiences. I’d add a few more activities that embody the vibrant spirit of the city, especially those that might be overlooked by tourists.
Consider spending a day at Columbia Road Flower Market on a Sunday morning. The atmosphere is electric with blooming flowers and street performers, and you can enjoy a cup of coffee from one of the nearby cafés. Additionally, exploring the lesser-known museums like the Sir John Soane’s Museum can provide a glimpse into the eclectic history of London in a more intimate setting.
Another lovely experience is to walk along the South Bank, where you can take in stunning views of the Thames, pop into the Tate Modern, and enjoy street food from the various vendors. Don’t forget to catch a play at one of the smaller fringe theatres like the Bush Theatre, which often showcase innovative productions.
Lastly, for a truly local experience, how about joining a community event at one of London’s many street fairs or festivals? They’re often free and showcase the diverse cultures that make London so unique.
What do you think about these suggestions? Would love to hear your thoughts!
Insightful London Experiences to Add to Your Bucket List
As a London resident, I love embracing the unique experiences our city has to offer. While your list highlights some fantastic activities, I’d like to suggest a few more quintessential London experiences that truly capture the essence of our vibrant city: