Our recent buying trip took us to London for the weekend. Come experience this incredible city as we did, with only 36hrs and so much to do!
London is a city like no other. For us it's a city that hums with excitement and an abundance of charm. From it's rich architectural history, quaint market streets and of course endless fashion options, there is something for everyone. Read on to discover our Morning to Midnight guide to London in a weekend.
Where To Stay
Of course there are endless options to suit every budget but we couldn't resist staying at Kettner's London. Ideally positioned for our meetings, Kettner's is a centrally located boutique hotel in the heart of Soho and is part of the Soho House Group. The entire hotel is utterly charming, cosy and cool, and the service was warm and exceptional.
Breakfast
Coffee please! Don't worry - the days of bad London Coffee are over, thanks to the abundance of Aussie expats determined to bring Australia's coffee culture (and quality) to the big city. Either indulge in Kettner's delicious (and reasonably priced), wholesome breakfast & excellent coffee, or head to Farm Girl in Soho. Not only great coffee, but excellent fresh farm-to-table produce translated into dishes like avo on toast, smoothie bowels and salads.
Morning Activities
Outside pre-scheduled business meetings the priority was visiting as many leading boutiques as possible! Having not been to London in many years, it was inspiring to see the level of retail presented in London, and to know our brands and edit are absolutely world-class! Staying quite central we visited all the major shopping meccas including Dover Street Market, Harvey Nichols, Alex Eagle Studio, The Shop at Bluebird, Harrods, Liberty, Joseph and Selfridges, as well as Bond Street with the beautiful new Casa Loewe store. A highlight from the day included an afternoon piercing from the amazing Maria Tash at Liberty! If you're game, watch the full experience here (Peter, Ilana's incredible piercer, was amazing - the care, the skill and the attention to detail all made for a pain-free, stress-free experience and an exquisite new earring!).
Lunch
We were lucky and got some of London's brilliant sunshine-y days. A pit-stop to refuel and get a cold drink was essential, and Daylesford in Marylebone delivered just what was needed. Organic, filling and fresh, Daylesford brings the goodness of the English countryside to your plate with functional botanical infusions and amazing cold press nut blends (think cold brew coffee with fresh nut milks, vanilla, dates and salt, yum!)
Afternoon Delight
From Marylebone take a stroll through the famous Hyde Park. Take your time and make your way over to the West side of the park until you reach Kensington Palace. Once home to Prince Harry and Megan Markle, its beauty is magnificent. Wish you could see the inside? Make your way next door to The Orangery and you'll get a taste in the dining room set in a garden pavilion originally build for Queen Anne in 1704. Here you'll be able to have the quintessential English experience and enjoy an elaborate selection of teas and cakes for Afternoon Tea. Let us know what you think as we could not fit it in this time!
From here, Portobello Road in Notting Hill is a stone's throw away. If it's a Saturday you'll be greeted with the hustle and bustle of vintage street markets, all whilst taking in the beautiful multi-coloured houses which line the famous street.
Dinner
We met friends at well-known Soho spot Bocca di Lupo, an Italian trattoria serving yummy pasta and Italian share plates. Other spots on our list include any of Ottolenghi's restaurants, Annabel's and Sketch (see below).
When it's Dark
A day in London wouldn't be complete without catching a West End musical. With so many incredible shows to choose from, we couldn't pass up the chance to see the Broadway phenomenon Hamilton!
Afterwards, still buzzing from the show, catch a late night cocktail at Sketch (quite possibly the most beautiful restaurant/ bar in town, full of the perfect shade of pink and an Insta-worthy marble patterned floor!)
Our magical 36hrs in London did not disappoint! Feel free to contact us for specific tips on the cities we frequently visit, and if you find it hard packing well for a week away, view and