I just returned from London, and I particularly enjoyed this city with its eclectic vibe. I must say I was lucky; during my five days there, I didn’t experience a single drop of rain. Visiting England in November turned out to be a great idea. Here, I share my top five favorite spots in London. I must admit, I didn’t pay for any of my visits, preferring to immerse myself in the everyday life of Londoners, as I usually do. I’m not a museum person and rarely get excited about the history of the places I visit. These places don’t really reveal what I’m looking for anyway. I love wandering the streets for hours without any specific goal. I enjoy exploring markets, seeing what people buy for their Saturday night dinner. In a city like London, I like to dine at various restaurants to get a sense of the local cuisine. I enjoy street art, visiting neighborhoods less frequented by tourists, where I feel the real action happens. I like taking the subway, going out to bars outside the city center to mingle with locals. In short, I observe a lot… That’s what I did in London, I tried to live there for a few days, simply. Renting an apartment via Airbnb in South London, my experience in the English capital completely captivated me.
Brixton Village
Brixton Village is, unsurprisingly, located in the Brixton neighborhood. This area was long labeled as a Jamaican district. Today, while the Jamaican population is still present, the community is becoming increasingly diverse. Personally, it’s the neighborhood that captivated me the most. So, what exactly is Brixton Village? It’s an open-air space where you can enjoy various international cuisines and shop for plantains or even some clothing. It seems to be the place to be in Brixton. Japanese, Chinese, Jamaican, Thai, and French restaurants all coexist in Brixton Village.
I personally tried a green curry at the Thai restaurant Kaosarn, and for once, I could boast of having eaten something truly authentic. Let’s just say that in Montreal, Thai restaurants are far from offering anything remotely close to what you can eat in the Land of Smiles.
Shoreditch
Shoreditch is mainly known for its street art. Many renowned artists have painted beautiful works on the walls of this London neighborhood. It’s the hipster haven, where most young professionals in new technologies work, a place where art takes precedence. I loved wandering around and window-shopping in the decor shops of the area.
Portobello Market in Notting Hill
In my opinion, Notting Hill is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in London. This upscale area, filled with absolutely stunning and far-from-affordable houses, hosts one of the city’s most popular markets, Portobello Market. You can find almost anything there, from fresh vegetables to antiques. It’s an excellent idea to visit on a Saturday afternoon with a good latte in hand. If you’re there around lunchtime, several food trucks are also present south of Portobello Road and are definitely worth a try.
Pop Brixton
I stumbled upon Pop Brixton by chance. Leaving Brixton Village and walking towards my apartment, I heard music emanating from the place. Built from several containers, it’s one of the coolest places to party that I’ve seen. If I lived in London, this is where I’d celebrate. The atmosphere is quite relaxed, with several bars and eateries, picnic tables, and a dance floor to enjoy the place until the early hours of the morning. It’s the perfect spot to grab a drink on a Friday or Saturday night. Of course, at the end of November, you keep your coat on, but being Canadian, partying outside isn’t something too out of the ordinary for me.
Borough Market
Borough Market is one of the best places in London to get fresh food and local products. Every stall has something tempting to offer. Fresh fish, vegetables, cheeses, charcuterie, pastries, wines—you’ll find everything you need at Borough Market if you intend to whip up the best meal.
Exploring London is an experience unlike any other. From the bustling markets and diverse neighborhoods to the vibrant street art and hidden gems, the city offers something for everyone. My journey through London allowed me to immerse myself in its unique culture, blending history with modernity in a way that only this eclectic metropolis can.
Whether you’re wandering through the charming streets of Notting Hill, savoring authentic cuisine in Brixton Village, or marveling at the artistic expressions in Shoreditch, each corner of London has a story to tell. Pop Brixton’s energetic vibe and Borough Market’s culinary delights only add to the city’s allure, making it a destination worth visiting again and again.
If you’re planning a trip to London, my advice is to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions. Dive into the local culture, interact with the residents, and discover the hidden spots that make this city so special. Embrace the unexpected, and let the heart of the UK reveal its many treasures to you. Your adventure in London will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return.
