My London Walking Guide

During Summer School, I prioritised walking around London almost every day, so I could see as much of the city as possible and also get a quick, costless workout while abroad. In this blog, I will give my top recommendations for walking routes to see the best of London!

I stayed near Kensington and one of my favourite routes was walking from Knightsbridge to Chelsea. When on campus, I would take the Piccadilly line from Holborn station, get off at Knightsbridge station, and after browsing the big London shops like Harrods, I would stroll along Sloane Street to Chelsea Square. This area is quite busy, especially around the shops, but you can admire the upscale neighbourhoods of London, the luxurious cars, and the beautiful architecture. Once you reach Chelsea, you can explore this lively neighbourhood and continue south towards the Thames River. If you have plenty of time, I highly suggest taking a walk around Belgravia as well. It is much quieter than other areas, and you can see lots of beautiful homes as well as multiple embassies and institutes.

I especially liked walking, or even biking, through Green Park, surrounded by the beautiful greenery. During the summer, you can also see people sunbathing and dogs playing around; perhaps even some squirrels hiding near the trees. You can continue your stroll to St. James Park, or you can take a walk down the historic Constitution Hill that leads to the majestic Buckingham Palace. If your timing is right, you might even come across the Changing of the Guards ceremony. Finally, end your walk in the sophisticated, luxurious neighbourhood of Mayfair, known for its upscale shops, elegant streets, and renowned restaurants.

Another fun activity is walking around the Tower Hill area and St. Katharine docks. If you plan to go there after class, you can take the District/Circle line from Temple Station near campus and get off at Tower Hill Station. You can start by taking a walk around the historical castles, and discover the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Afterwards, head towards St Katharine Docks, a hidden gem tucked away from the bustling city streets. This marina offers a picturesque setting with charming cafes and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing stroll by the water.

I suggest taking the Tube to Canary Wharf and exploring the business areas of London. They are iconic locations in London that offer a diverse and fascinating walking route. Starting at Canary Wharf, you'll be greeted by towering skyscrapers and the well-known financial district. As you make your way to the Isle of Dogs, you'll be able to enjoy stunning views of the River Thames and see the historic docks that once played a significant role in London's maritime industry. I highly suggest taking the Tube and travelling to Greenwich, where you'll find yourself immersed in history, with attractions such as the Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark. To top it all off, a visit to Greenwich Park is a must. This beautiful park offers lush green spaces, stunning views of the city skyline, and an unbelievable sense of tranquillity.

For another park walking route, I suggest starting at the Hyde Park corner, taking a walk through the entire park and checking out the beautiful greenery and picturesque scenes. As you keep strolling, head over towards Kensington Gardens, where you can check out the Princess Diana Memorial, the Albert Memorial, the beautiful lakes, and Kensington Palace. Finally, make your way to the urban area of Notting Hill and Portobello Road, where you can enjoy the lively, boho atmosphere, charming streets, and bustling markets, such as the iconic “Notting Hill Bookshop.”

For me, I mostly enjoyed less touristy areas, so I avoided places such as Oxford Street, Bond Street, and Regent’s Street. Make sure to always have your walking essentials with you; an iced coffee or your preferred fun drink, and your favourite playlist or podcast. Taking walks every day helped me discover gems around London, so I highly advise that you do the same. London is also a very walkable city. Trust me, it's worth every step!

 

This blog was written by one of our 2023 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at LSE.