London is nearly 2,000 years old. Established by the Romans on the banks of the river Thames, it went from an easily defensible walled city to a sprawling mass that is now home to almost 9 million people from all over the world. Of course over this 2,000 year period some pretty incredible things have happened, and each has left its mark on the city we know and love today.
Getting out there and exploring London from somewhere central, like The Park Grand London Paddington for example, is the best way to see the city. But there are so many amazing things to see and do, how on earth are you supposed to choose! Well here is a list of our favourite tours of the city that should help to make the most of your Park Grand London stay.
Bus Tours
The iconic double decker bus is synonymous with London, used by locals for decades as a means of transport- however it’s not only useful for getting to work on time. One of the best ways to see the city is by hopping on a sightseeing bus. You can get a 24 or 48 hour hop-on, hop-off pass, and each bus has a knowledgeable guide to educate you on the way around the best landmarks. The following tours are bus bound but offer a little something extra, to help you remember your trip…
Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
Brigit’s Bakery now offers an afternoon tea bus tour of the city. Need i say more? Snack on sumptuous finger sandwiches, enjoy delicate pastries and sip on the finest tea in the country, while an informative expert fills you in on the history behind the city’s most loved landmarks. If you think it sounds like heaven, you’re right.
Bustronome Bus Tour
This is a very special tour indeed. Just as the sun starts to set, you will hop aboard the beautifully converted Routemaster Bus, climb to the glass domed panoramic upper deck and enjoy a 6 course meal that can rival most actual restaurants in the city. This unique experience is perfect for those of you who like to experience fine food, and explore the easy way.
Ghost Bus Tour
The London Ghost Bus Tour is an absolute must for the horror fans out there. Your hosts on the aptly named ‘Necrobus’ are actors who remain in character throughout, and actually deliver a great deal of historical fact, mixed with a good amount of humour and fun. It’s a great way to see the city at night, and to explore the gruesome side of Londond’s past. This is one you and your group will likely never forget, and there is not a more fun way to see the sights.
On Foot
If buses don’t seem like your thing, or you would prefer to go at your own pace with a smaller crowd, guided walking tours are the best way to go. What better way to see the city, than to actually go out and see the city!
Harry Potter Walking Tour
For all you ‘Potterheads’ out there, this is something you can’t miss. Join your wizarding guide and see all the major locations from the books and films throughout the city. Your guide will fill you in with the magical history of the city as you go, and you will be spellbound by the incredible locations you will recognise from the movies! Platform 9 ¾, The Leaky Cauldron and the Ministry of Magic are just a few of the incredible locations you will visit. At this point I should probably mention the Warner Bros. Studio Tour too, it’s every Harry Potter fan’s fantasy! Check them both out!
Sherlock Holmes Walking Tour
The game is afoot for the Sherlock fans among you. Delve into the world of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s super sleuth, explore the city with your private guide and learn all kinds of facts about the books, movies and of course the infamous ‘Sherlock’ TV series. Visit filming locations, sets and the now world famous 221b Baker Street where there is a dedicated Sherlock Holmes museum. Best of all Baker Street is an easy walk from the Grand Park Kensington Hotel, so you’ll be able to stop for a coffee on the way!
West to East Food Tour
If you’re anything like me, you will be planning your trip entirely around food; so what better way to see the sights than to be guided to the best food and locations in the city? From Buckingham Palace, Westmisnter and The Tower of London you’ll sample pie and mash, scotch eggs, fish and chips and more. All the while you’ll be making your way towards the famous Borough Market, where foodies are essentially in heaven.
By Boat
London would be nothing without the river; in fact if you look over old maps and charters, you will see that most of the roads either started or ended at the river. Used to transport goods around the country, and throughout the city for millenia, it was truly the lifeblood of the city. So what better way to see the sights?
Dinner Cruises
Hop aboard a dinner cruise as the sun starts to set, and enjoy incredible views of the city’s world famous landmarks. These classy boats will take you on a round trip along the river, and you will be able to enjoy live music, some light tour guiding, and of course, an incredible three course meal. Dance the night away, or sit on the viewing deck and enjoy the night air. What a way to travel.
The Thames Rockets
This one’s for the adrenaline junkies out there. Climb aboard a literal rocket boat, designed to skim across the water’s surface at high speed with incredible agility. Between the doughnuts and spin tricks, your captain will actually give you some great info on the sights along the way- before he gets right back to tearing around the river like a hooligan. It’s such a blast, and a really unique way to see the city!
So there you have it, choosing any one of these incredible adventures will help you make lasting memories and enjoy your stay at the Park Grand London Hyde Park extra special. Get out there and experience the city then head back to comfort and luxury.
