Essential London: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting the City of Big Ben
London
Is your next stop London? We know that when visiting a destination, it’s essential to know important information such as must-see places, documentation, hotels, restaurants, regulations, transportation, currency, and more — all to avoid setbacks and enjoy your trip with complete peace of mind, especially when traveling with family.
Here we share some tips for your trip to London so you can make the most of your stay.
Why Visit London?
The Big Ben, London
There are many reasons why you should visit London, but to keep it simple, here are the highlights:
A Multicultural City
Without a doubt, one of the most striking features of this city is its incredible cultural diversity. While visiting, you’ll meet people from all over the world and enrich yourself with new experiences. This multiculturalism is one of the main reasons why London remains one of the most desired destinations among travelers worldwide.
Street Markets
London is famous for its many markets spread throughout the city on different days of the week. Any day you choose, you’ll find one to visit — and you’ll probably return with an interesting souvenir, a delicious dessert, or some artisan food.
Museums and Monuments
Museums in London
The number of museums you can visit in London is astounding — and you definitely won’t be able to see them all in one trip. That’s why it’s helpful to plan ahead and decide which ones are must-sees to make the most of your time.
A Fashion Capital
If you love shopping, London will amaze you with its incredible variety. You’ll find exclusive stores from brands like Dior, Nike, and Apple, as well as fabulous shopping centers where you could easily lose track of time.
The Weather in London
You’ve probably heard that London is a very rainy and often gray city. No matter the season, you should always be prepared for a bit of rain — there’s no fighting nature’s whims!
Still, despite its unpredictable weather, London is a city full of charm. The rain doesn’t stop anyone from enjoying the sights. And when the sun finally comes out, the streets fill with energy and good vibes — a truly delightful experience for any visitor.
Traveling to London in Different Seasons
Spring in Westminster, London
Spring
Spring is a wonderful time to visit London. Temperatures rise, and the weather becomes pleasant, fresh, and mostly dry. Sudden showers are still possible, so it’s always best to carry an umbrella. The best months are mid-April through June, when you can also enjoy events like Easter Monday and April Fools’ Day.
Summer
Summer is undoubtedly the best time to travel to London, as the weather is warm and stable. Although occasional showers can happen, they’re rare. You can enjoy events like the Orange Day celebrations and many summer festivals. The best weeks are late June to early July, though crowds and queues can be intense later in the season.
Autumn
Although not the most popular time to visit, autumn can bring some beautiful days with fewer tourists. However, weather conditions can change abruptly, with frequent rain and storms. Early September offers the best chance for mild weather, while October is great for enjoying “Halloween” and “Guy Fawkes Night.” Plus, flight prices tend to be lower in autumn and winter.
Winter
Winter is the coldest season in England, with frequent snow and gray skies. It may not seem ideal for vacationing, but it has one big advantage — fewer tourists! If you’re not afraid of the cold or rain, it might be the perfect time for you. The best weeks to visit are late March, when the weather starts to stabilize and you may even get sunny days.
Overall, depending on your preferences, spring and summer are the best seasons to experience London’s charm and energy under brighter skies.
Currency in London: The Pound Sterling (£)
As mentioned in our London essentials, the official currency in England is the Pound Sterling (GBP). To make any purchase, you’ll need to have this currency on hand.
It’s a good idea to exchange your money before your trip — your bank at home can often offer better rates. If you arrive without exchanging, avoid doing it at banks in London, as they tend to have high fees and poor rates.
Instead, look for exchange offices that don’t charge commission and usually offer fair, official exchange rates.
Good to Know
Safety in London
Bobbies, London
London is a very safe city, heavily monitored by security cameras — what locals refer to as “Big Brother.” You’ll see them everywhere: on the subway, buses, and streets.
You’ll also notice urban guards, known as “bobbies.” They’re generally friendly, often chatting or helping tourists find their way.
Shopping Hours
Most shops are open continuously from Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On Thursdays, many stay open until 8:00 PM, and on Sundays, hours are typically 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Restaurants and cafés usually open from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with kitchens closing around 10:00 PM. Many places close on Sundays or Mondays.
Important Information
Smoking is strictly prohibited in all public and enclosed spaces in the UK — including train stations, hotels, bars, clubs, and public transport. Violating this rule can result in hefty fines. This restriction also extends to alcohol consumption and illegal drugs.
Additionally, anyone under 18 years old is not allowed to enter nightclubs or purchase alcohol.
Now that you know everything you need for your London trip, you can travel worry-free! And don’t worry about getting around — at https://airporttransportation.com/london-heathrow-airport-transportation, we’re here to help you enjoy your stay with safe, private transportation wherever you need to go.
