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London Tourism: Winston Churchill Edition

History has a big role to play in London tourism, with Winston Churchill one of the most iconic and well known names from 20th century politics. In his role as Prime Minister, Winston Churchill had a major impact on the way that Britain was run during WW2 with his time as a wartime leader and figure in Britain making his presence across London something that is still recognised today.

For those visiting London to get a flavour of the city’s history, here are some of the places to add to your list which are directly linked with Churchill – the first of which is located a stone’s throw from The Queens Park hotel.

National Portrait Gallery

Home to portraits and paintings of some of Britain’s most distinguished names, leaders, and celebrities, it follows that there are a number of paintings and statues which depict Winston Churchill to be found throughout the gallery. From those which he posed for, to those done from memory or from existing portraits, the culmination of artwork showcasing Churchill throughout his life and career make this a great attraction in which to immerse yourself in the history of the former Prime Minister.

Churchill War Rooms

Located on the very site of the war rooms in Westminster used during WW2, not only have these war rooms inspired movies and television programs but they are also an iconic stopping point for history lovers – surrounded by convenient double room hotels for London tourists.

The war rooms remain as they were during the war, presenting a network of underground spaces which include the map room and the various rooms where Churchill and his team directed the war effort.

Another part of the Churchill war rooms experience includes the Churchill museum, which allows visitors to see love letters between Winston and his wife, artifacts, cigars and the possessions which epitomise the life of the leader in one place.

Westminster Abbey

A well known London landmark located within close proximity to the top hotels near Paddington London and other central spots, Westminster Abbey not only hosted a number of ceremonies and events which Winston Churchill himself attended, but is also where a green marble commemorative stone is laid in his memory. The stone, laid and unveiled by Queen Elizabeth II in 1965, commemorates both the life of Churchill and the war effort in which he played a significant role.

House of Commons statue

The House of Commons is one of the most famous places where you will find a status dedicated to Winston Churchill, with visitors staying in one of the nearby twin room London hotels able to see both the Churchill arch and the bronze figure statue where it stands by the Commons entrance arch.

So much of Winston Churchill’s time in Parliament was spent in the House of Commons, with Westminster Hall beyond the arch also playing host to a memorial plaque in the spot where Churchill’s coffin lay upon his death.

Beyond these most obvious stopping points on a historical tour of London through the eyes of Churchill, visitors can explore many other sites and landmarks that played a part in his leadership. Let us know where your tour takes you!

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Famous Streets in London

Whether you’re familiar with London or not, it’s fair to say that the number of things to see and do can fast become overwhelming without a plan or itinerary - especially one which considers the location of different parts of the city and where you want to head as part of your day out.

And while London is home to a great many attractions, including immersive experiences and family friendly museums within walking distance of your hotel near the Royal Albert Hall, there are more than a few things to see that aren’t listed in the top guides and itinerary planners you’ll find online.

In this article we’re sharing some of the most impressive and iconic streets in London, which can be found as you wander from your hotel restaurant in London to one of the city’s main shopping districts or attractions.

REGENTS STREET

Regents street is a stone’s throw from the Queen’s Park hotel London yet is often overlooked in favour of the busier and longer Oxford street - which meets regents street at a central crossing point and offers more in the way of high street stores and brands. Despite this, it’s regents street which offers a multitude of high end designer names, some delectable restaurants, and more than a few side streets which house 5 star hotels, Michelin star restaurants, and more.

HARLEY STREET

This is an odd one to add to any tourist list, mainly because the majority of its buildings conceal private hospital services and clinics. However, Harley street, which lies just north of the Queen’s Park hotel, boasts some of London’s most authentic and exquisite architecture in terms of its townhouse structures. Well worth a wander!

ABBEY ROAD

Another street which is towards the north of central London, abbey road is famous for its role in the career of the Beatles - namely for the abbey road crossing which features on one of their most famous album covers. In fact, tourists today flock to St. John’s Wood and often stop traffic as they attempt to take the perfect photo mid-crossing.

In addition to its fame as the Beatles’ geographical muse, abbey road is a few minutes’ walk from high end St. John’s wood with its excellent breakfast restaurants, London’s too private hospitals, and some of the most peaceful outside spaces in the city.

CARNABY STREET

Ending our street tour back in the centre of the city, Carnaby street lies just off regents street and oxford street and is often considered the home of London’s most vibrant and unique independent boutiques and stores. With its location lending itself to the west end scene, Carnaby street is rife with eateries, bars, stores, and other destinations designed for the enjoyment of tourists and locals alike.

As you can see, London is so much more than just the landmarks and expensive attractions - with plenty to be seen and gained from a walking tour of the city’s lesser visited destinations and streets.

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How To Be Like Londoner On London Underground - 5 Top Tips!

The London Underground has its own quirks. The hustle and bustle of the tube is an experience in its own right, and navigating your way around London’s underbelly can be a thrill ride if you’re not sure what you’re doing.

London is easy to explore from London Hotel Queens Park, which is well-placed to access the London Underground.

There are some conventions to take notice of. You won’t get arrested if you don’t comply, but you’ll almost certainly get some steely glares or even a telling-off if you stand on the wrong side of the escalator.

Here’s 5 tips on how to be like a Londoner on the tube.

1: Use the Escalator Correctly

This is the number one most important piece of London etiquette. When you ride an escalator, you walk on the left only, and stand on the right. Everyone standing and simply riding the escalator stands on the right to let anyone who's in a rush through on the left.

It’s simple to remember - always stand on the right in the direction of the escalator. After a long, tiring day, you might find yourself drifting towards the left. Don’t panic - it happens!

2: Don’t Hang Around or Dawdle

The pace of life in London is fast, and you’ll definitely notice that on the tube. If you can move with determination, then do so, especially if it’s busy.

Obviously, it’s up to you to go what pace you can, but if you’re holding others up, expect them to push past you. The rush is particularly intense in the morning - be sure to fuel up at some breakfast restaurants London!

3: Don’t Make Eye Contact

This is one of London’s greatest stereotypes - people don’t make eye contact on the tube, they don’t talk, they don’t acknowledge anyone’s presence, they just keep to themselves.

To be fair, it’s the same on most tubes and public transport. Those few minutes you get to yourself on the train might be some of the only ‘quiet’ moments you get all day!

In the evening and at night, when people start going out and partying, you’ll definitely notice more interaction on the tube. But for the most part, it’s somewhere people like their relative privacy.

5: Be Polite

British people are famous - or perhaps even infamous - for being polite. Londoners will get bumped into by others and apologise to them even when it isn’t their fault.

Despite the stereotype of Londoners being rather cold, people are generally polite. Politeness goes a long way in London.

6: Mind the Gap!

The number one rule: mind the gap between the train and the platform. Some trains don’t meet the platform particularly well and you’ll have to traverse a small gap.

It’s rarely an issue, but you’ve got to keep an eye on it, and some platforms are worse than others. You’ll get used to the announcement, “please mind the gap between the train and the platform”. The underground is easy to access from hotels near Paddington Station UK which is excellently placed near the capital’s West End.

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Top things to do in London that keep visitors coming back

You can find new neighbourhoods, unseen  Hotels Near Paddington Station Uk, restaurants, and attractions in London even after a few visits. Of course, as a first-time visitor, classics like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye are a must. However, London veterans know there is so much more to the city than the hyped-up touristy attractions. It is no wonder many travellers return to discover more hidden gems that make London one of the best tourist destinations. If, like many, you're still not over the city, here is a list of top things in London that keep visitors coming back. 

Discover a new neighbourhood

The city of London is beaming with exciting neighbourhoods. So apart from spending most of your time in central London or the posh areas of Chelsea and Kensington, head out to East London. This artsy side of the city attracts a quirky crowd and is home to a vibrant mix of real estate from upmarket  Triple Room London hotels to some easy-going room-shares. You will find three very different and distinct neighbourhoods here, which are worth exploring.

Quirky and artsy Shoreditch

Charming Little Venice

Trendy Soho

Visit an old church.

London is no stranger to housing incredible churches dating hundreds of years. However, some of these places tend to be flooded with tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of places like St Paul's Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. So for a unique experience in true London fashion, head to St Mary Aldermary Church. The church hosts a neighbourhood café; visitors can bring their own lunch or buy something onsite.

Shopping

It's the shopping that makes London worth visiting again and again. Aside from the famous Harrods and Oxford Street, London is also home to several markets known to have everything from antiques and vintage pieces at reasonable prices. Some markets worth exploring:

Old Spitalfields Market

Portobello Street Market

Camden Market

Incredible food

You can't go wrong with good food, and London ticks all the boxes when it comes to offering an extensive selection of international flavours. While  Breakfast Restaurants in London are plenty, visitors looking to enjoy in-room dining can book a stay at the London Hotel Queens Park. Some restaurants to try:

Afternoon Tea at "Thomas's at Burberry Regent Street

Lunch at MotherMash

The Pembroke for pub grub

Explore London Parks and Gardens

London is a green city home to thousands of parks and gardens. While first-timers opt for popular spots like Hyde Park and Regent's Park. Both these royal parks tend to be touristy, particularly over the summer. If you want to avoid the crowds, head to Kyoto Garden in Holland Park. Peacocks can be seen wandering around and flashing their feathers in this beautiful idyllic Japanese garden. Other parks worth exploring:

Greenwich Park

St James Park

Chelsea Embankment Gardens

Whitehall Gardens

Capture London from above 

No matter how many times you visit London, there's still nothing better than watching the city lights begin to glow.

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4 of the most unique Wine Bars in London

With so much emphasis on dinner, lunch, and even breakfast restaurants in London, bars can often be overlooked in the vast landscape of online recommendations and content. But with London home to some of the most exciting cocktails, most iconic drinking environments, and most immersive wine bars in the UK, knowing where to go for a great night out is key for many visitors and tourists.

Without further ado, here’s a rundown of some of the best wine bars in the city – and best of all, many are within walking distance of the best areas for family accommodation in London, meaning you won’t have far to walk home after a few glasses.

10 Greek Street, Soho

Minutes from the Queens Park Hotel in Bayswater, this destination may be a restaurant from the outside but for those in the know, it boasts the best little black book of wine recommendations in the area. Compiled by their inhouse wine expert, this book identifies the best glass or bottle for any occasion and any meal – making it the perfect place to go if you want to learn about, as well as enjoy, wine.

Vinoteca

Vinoteca is popular not just for the selection of 400+ wines they have, but also for the fact that many of them are served in self-serve vats – making the whole experience a fun and unique one for drinkers to revel in and enjoy. With six sites across London and some great food designed to accompany and compliment the selection of wines, this is the perfect night out in a nutshell.

Not to mention, if you become part of the wine club, you are also entitled to a case of wine a month – making Vinoteca as much about their community of wine lovers as it is about selling wine by the glass on a Friday night.

Humble Grape

With a number of wine bars across the city, this destination combines sustainability with great wine, friendly staff, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in an evening of wine and food tasting. Humble Grape has some of the best wines, from some of the best producers, around the world – and the team inhouse know everything there is to know about each one.

From the Battersea location to their Angel and Islington branch just east of the top hotels near Paddington Station London, Humble Grape is also highly family friendly.

Hide Bar

Again, this one makes it onto the list thanks to its highly unique offering – this time with its partnership with the Hedonism wine shop which sees customers browse online, select their favoured wine from the shop, and await delivery to their table in Hide Bar.

Creating a cohesive experience between the wine shop and the bar, customers enjoy greater selection and the knowledge that what they drink really is up to them. Plus, the glamour of the venue makes this an exciting and memorable place to enjoy a drink at the end of a long day.