London is a city unlike any other and one that you need explore beneath the surface to really see how great it is. Here are six ways to explore London like a local…

London. One of the most-visited cities in the world by tourists; a paragon of charm, brisk weather, tradition and culture. If you’re from outside the UK, London might be on the top of your bucket list. You’ve seen Love Actually and Notting Hill; you know that this city is full of love, life, and a must-see when exploring Europe. If you live here in the UK, London might feel too touristy for you, and you may have avoided visiting in the past! London is for everyone, and here you will learn how to discover this magnificent city and explore London like a local. 

Avoid The Ultra-Tourism Spots

Of course, for your first time in London, you will inevitably want to visit Westminster. Seeing the beautiful Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace is pretty important if you’ve come all the way here! Nevertheless, if you’re in London for a couple of days or more, you shouldn’t spend every single day seeing ‘The Sights’. Take a day to see the essential tourism spots, then spend the rest of your trip exploring the nooks and crannies that make London the amazing city it really is. London is a huge city, encompassing nine zones which go from the very centre to the outer countryside of the city. You won’t be able to absolutely everything – even those who live here can’t! – but try to explore at least one part of London that doesn’t reside in the very centre. There, you will learn how Londoners live, spanning across many cultures. 

Forget The Stereotypes

Like any capital city, London comes with its own set of stereotypes. When you think of London, you might think of a man in tweed and a flat cap, tipping his hat to all who pass him, saying ‘G’morning, guvnor!’ Right? But of course, mostly these stereotypes are old fashioned and outdated. London, in fact, is one of the most multicultural cities in the world right now. London holds its traditions very tightly. Around the city, you will find red phone boxes, black cabs, and cockney accents – but that’s not all. London is a hub for all cultures. Visiting London and expecting the stereotypes might leave you feeling disappointed. Embracing all that comes with the city, and the diversity that comes with it, is the way forward. 

Get To Know The East End

Infamous for its grimy streets of the 20th Century, Jack the Ripper and the Cray Twins, the East End is a must-see if you want to explore London like a local. While West London comprises some of the more polished aspects of the city, such as Kensington and Notting Hill, the East End is where life bubbles away behind the scenes. Sit in a tiny cafe in Bethnal Green; explore Whitechapel’s gorgeous markets; wander down Brick Lane and find hidden gems behind every corner. 

Go South of the River

Many people visiting London don’t explore the south of the city. South London nowadays is a bustling landscape filled with things to explore. Plus, most people who reside there are London locals. Following the River Thames right along the city, South London comprises stunning wharves, residential areas, and activities to do. Canary Wharf, the hub of corporate life and a stunning place to visit on a sunny day is largely underexplored by visitors. Walk down Clapham High Street and see how the locals live! If you want to avoid touristy locations, South London is the place to head. 

Get An Apartment

Many tourists opt for hotels when they visit London. This is due to the user-friendly aspect of hotel life: no cleaning, breakfast included, and a central location. Using hotels might be easy, but it doesn’t allow you to get to know the city in the same way. If you are going to explore London like a local, enting an apartment for your trip, using AirBnB or any other apartment service, means you’ll be tucked away in the busy residential streets of London town. This perspective allows you to become connected with the city on a deeper level!

Take the Bus

No, we don’t mean the Tour Buses. Getting around London in a cab is both expensive and time-consuming. Taking the tube is a great option if you need to get someplace fast, but the journey doesn’t exactly come with scenic views! Taking the bus is a great middle ground. If you’ve got a little more time, hopping on a London bus gets you to where you need to be, while showing you London in all its glory.