14 reasons to fall in love with London

Okay, so Valentine’s Day might have already happened this week, but that’s no reason why love shouldn’t overflow throughout every other day of the year (ps guys, that’s not an excuse to not buy flowers on February 14th).

I’ve lived in London for nearly four years now which means I’ve had my fair share of experiences in this great city. While I’ve had both good and bad moments, it’s the good that shines through every nook, lamppost and cobbled street.

So on this Valentine’s Day, I wanted to share my highlights and why I love this city.

14 reasons to fall in love with London

The Londontown landmarks
London’s landmarks forever hold a place in my heart. Say what you want about the Monarchy (I bloomin’ LOVE it) but Buckingham Palace is a sight to behold. Have you ever been up the London Eye at sunset? Or how about sunrise at The Shard? Walking through St. Paul’s Cathedral. Tower Bridge! Should I stop now? There’s nothing quite like London’s iconic landmarks. I never get tired of them.

A very British pub on every corner
Yes, London pubs are littered throughout the city. You’ll find more of them than you’ll find grocery stores. Fact. Um, maybe not a fact, but it seems like it. Some of my favourites over the years are The Mall Tavern and Churchill Arms in Notting Hill; or The Founders Arms along the Southbank is one of Joe’s must go to spots. And of course, the classic Sherlock Holmes pub is a definite Instagram opportunity.

Food from around the world
Fish and chips with mushy peas may be what you think of when you come to England, but unsurprisingly, London’s food scene has evolved drastically, even in the three and a bit years I’ve been living here. For example, Dishoom serves up the best Indian around – and has even expanded now throughout the UK. There’s so much choice that I can’t even begin to name them all.

The architecture
I’m no Ted Mosby, but man London’s architecture is so stunningly beautiful you can’t help but to fawn over it. One of my favourite things about moving has been forever wandering between the mix of the old and new, the Victorian and the modern day.

Iconic Black Cabs
Just like NYC, London has the iconic Black Cabs. They’ve all got ‘the Knowledge’ which is essentially the test they need to take in order to earn their Black Cab badge. Which is pretty darn cool. If you can afford to, it’s always the best way to get quickly to and from.

The green space
Isn’t it lovely to be able to find so much green space in a city? Holland Park and Kensington Gardens are some of the less crowded haunts of mine. But St. James’ Park with a blanket, picnic basket and a couple of bottles of rosé with your pals is the best way to spend an afternoon. And there’s even the ones you can pay to visit, Kew Gardens is home to some of the most beautiful greenhouses. The Palm House is stunning. 

The Underground
Say what you want, but London’s underground is one of the best transport systems. It’s clean (except on weekend nights out), it’s easy to understand and everything runs mostly on time. Easy peasy.

London’s red buses
Even better than the underground is a good ole’ London bus. You can still use your phones (hallelujah!) and you get to see all the pretty sights along the way. I’ll take it every time.

Looking like a fashion model or like you literally can’t be arsed (I’m so English now)
I have walked to Tesco wearing sweats, no makeup and looking like I haven’t left the house or showered in days. I have also left the house looking like I’m going to go nab a modeling contract with Ford models. It depends on the day, and we all do it. You will not be judged by Londoners.

The markets

Leadenhall Market, Spitalfields Market, Borough Market, Portobello Road Market… just to name a few! I’ve found so many great finds for our flat from Portobello Road (and one of my favourite rings). There is so much choice as to which to visit. I’m well overdue another trip to Borough Market to tuck into all of their great food. PS. Don’t forget to look up! Leadenhall Market has gorgeous ceilings (like the photo above).

The theatre life
I’m not typically a ‘see-a-show’ kind of person but in the time I’ve been here I’ve seen a handful. I’ve sung/screamed to ABBA’s Mamma Mia. Defied Gravity with Elphaba and the cast of Wicked. Cringed thoroughly throughout Book Of Mormon. You can always snap up last minute tickets to shows if you’re flexible. Or plan months in advance! Either way, it’s an unmissable experience.

Museums and galleries for everyone
There’s something for everyone to be interested in when it comes to London’s museums and art galleries. The Natural History Museum, which is now home to the blue whale skeleton and the largest gemstone collection is fascinating. Then there’s the British Museum. Of course, homes for art include the Tate and the Serpentine. And the newly opened Design Museum (which I still need to get to)!

All of the stunning hotels
From the Shangri-La’s views to the iconic Renaissance at St. Pancras (Spice Girls filmed on the staircase! Eek!) and of course the famed Savoy. Whether you’re looking for a staycation, a great restaurant and bar, or you’re visiting the city – there are so many beautiful places to stay. Having lived in London, I have yet to properly explore hotels to stay in. But, I can attest to their beautiful bars and restaurants! The Rosewood’s Scafes bar is a stunner.

The Londoners, tourists, the newcomers
We all moan when people stop in the middle of the street to search their Google Maps. Or when they jump onto the tube before everyone has gotten off. We might be annoyed, but hey, anyone in this city is welcome – and that’s what makes it such the place that we know and love. London is acceptance. London is love. And well, London is home. 

Everyday you walk out the door in London its a new adventure and you can choose a different story.

Do you have a favourite part of London that holds your heart?

Kelly xoxo