7 days in London: a unique itinerary for the artsy traveller
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London is one of those cities that never runs out of things to show you. I’ve lived here for years, and I’m still discovering new corners—hidden gardens, unexpected views, tiny exhibitions tucked into side streets. It’s layered, dynamic, and full of surprises.
If you’ve got a full week to spend here, you’re in for a treat. Seven days gives you space to explore beyond the big landmarks. You’ll have time to wander through neighbourhoods, hop across the river, see world-class exhibitions, and maybe even take a day trip out of town.
This itinerary builds on my original 4 Days in London guide, keeping the same mix of iconic sights, standout architecture, independent shops, and excellent food—while expanding into some new areas, including west London, a gallery-packed stretch of Hyde Park, and leafy escapes like Kew and Richmond.
Here’s how I’d spend 7 days in London.
A quick overview of the itinerary:
Day 1: Tate Britain to Covent Garden
Day 2: escape the city to Richmond and Kew
Day 3: Bloomsbury to the Strand
Day 4: a day trip to Cambridge
Day 5: Borough Market, Tower Bridge, and East London
Day 6: Notting Hill and Hyde Park
Day 7: Chelsea and South Kensington
Getting around London
London’s public transport is reliable, easy to use, and works with contactless cards or phones — no tickets needed. The Tube is quickest, but buses are cheaper and great for sightseeing. Walking’s often the nicest option for short distances, though central areas can get crowded.
Cabs and Ubers are easy to find but slower (and pricier) with traffic — I usually only use them late at night or for awkward routes. Boat services on the Thames are a fun way to see the city from the water. Good options include:
Where to stay in London
London’s big, and where you stay really shapes your trip. I’ve written a full guide to the best neighbourhoods for first-time visitors, but here are four great hotel picks that combine charm, design, and location:
Mason & Fifth, Bermondsey – Stylish aparthotel near Borough Market and Tate Modern.
Lime Tree Hotel, Belgravia – Cosy, boutique feel on a pretty street near Sloane Square.
The Culpeper, Spitalfields – Stay above a pub with a rooftop garden, close to Brick Lane.
The Academy, Fitzrovia – Characterful and central, perfect for Soho and Regent’s Park.
For more tips (including areas to avoid), check out my full guide to where to stay in London.
Day 1 in London: Tate Britain to Covent Garden
Start your London week in Pimlico, one of my favourite quiet corners of the city. It’s got a neighbourly feel, elegant garden squares, and it’s a short walk from Tate Britain—perfect for a gentle introduction to the city.
If you wan to minimise walking, this vintage bus tour will take you past many of the places I recommend in this itinerary: Guided Sightseeing Tour on a Vintage Open-Top Bus
Breakfast at Regency Café in Pimlico
Having a full English is such a classic thing to do, and you’ll need energy for this day. I recommend starting your day at Regency Café, a classic greasy spoon in Pimlico. This spot has been around since 1946 and is known for its no-frills, old-school charm.
A wander round Tate Britain
From Pimlico, walk along the Thames to Tate Britain for opening time at 10am. It’s home to the best collection of British art in the world, from Turner’s glowing seascapes to the bold work of the YBAs. Entry is free, and it’s usually much quieter than Tate Modern.
The cafe in the basement was painted by France Lise McGurn, one of my all-time favourite contemporary artists, so is perfect for a tea break afterwards.
Big Ben & Westminster
From Tate Britain, walk down Marsham Street toward Westminster Abbey. The facade is well worth a look, and if it is a priority for you to go inside, book a ticket here.
Just down the road is Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. There’s usually some kind of protest happening outside—an unintentional but fitting part of the Westminster experience.
If you’re into your history and want the full experience, here’s a highly rated tour: Westminster Abbey, Big Ben & Buckingham Guided Tour
From here, turn left down St George’s Street and follow Birdcage Walk into St James’s Park.
St James’s Park & Buckingham Palace
Walk towards Buckingham Palace through St James’s Park, one of my favourite London parks (especially in the spring - Spring in London guide). There are excellent views of Buckingham Palace from here.
Lunch
From Buckingham Palace, its a short stroll to Trafalgar Square. Along that route, I’d suggest a sit-down lunch (you need some rest):
The Pem – a smart but relaxed spot inside the Conrad Hotel, serving modern British food with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
The Clarence – a classic central London pub just off Whitehall. Good for fish and chips, pies, and a pint.
Art afternoon at the National Gallery
After lunch, head into the National Gallery. Like Tate Britain, entry is free, and it’s full of major works—Sunflowers, The Arnolfini Portrait, The Ambassadors. I’d recommend picking 5–10 paintings you want to see and giving yourself about an hour here.
Late afternoon: Covent Garden & Seven Dials
If you’ve followed this itinerary, it’s probably about 4pm by now. I’d spend the rest of the afternoon/evening exploring Covent Garden, which is a short walk from Trafalgar Square. You can browse the covered market, grab a pastry, and enjoy the general buzz. You could check out:
Arôme Bakery – French-Asian fusion pastries (the honey butter toast is excellent)
Bagariet – for cardamom buns and cinnamon rolls
Choosing Keeping – a stationery lover’s dream
Royal Opera House rooftop bar – low-key, great mocktails, lovely view
Nearby, Seven Dials is worth wandering through. It’s a little calmer than the main piazza, full of boutiques, cafes, and colourful streets like Neal’s Yard.
You could wrap up the day here with dinner in the area, or head back to your hotel and recharge before tomorrow.
Evening: dinner and a show in the West End
If you’re still around Covent Garden, it’s the ideal base for an evening in the West End. You’ll be near dozens of theatres, and many restaurants offer pre-theatre menus if you're heading to a show.
Here are a few great dinner options nearby:
Dishoom (Covent Garden) – Bombay-style plates in a gorgeous setting. Very popular—book ahead or be prepared to queue.
Lahpet – Vibrant Burmese cooking with bold flavours. The tea leaf salad is a must.
If you’re catching a show, check listings on Official London Theatre or TodayTix for same-day deals.
Day 2 in London: escape the city to Richmond and Kew
Richmond and Kew are my favourite places in all of London. I’m a local, so I am biased towards South West London, but as a lover of gardens and history there is so much to enjoy here.
I’ve kept this day flexible, so you can decide how much to do. I’ll provide a basic itinerary with time to relax, plus options if you want to stay busy.
How to get to Richmond
Richmond is a bit further out, but definitely worth the trip. You can take the District Line from Central London to Richmond Station in about 30-40 minutes, or catch a direct train from Waterloo, which takes around 20 minutes.
Breakfast/Brunch
If you want to maximise this day and see as much as possible, then I suggest having a quick breakfast at your accommodation and heading out early.
For a more relaxed start, you can enjoy brunch in Richmond. I suggest either the super cute Peggy Jean boat restaurant on Richmond Riverside, or the quaint Hollyhock Cafe in Terrace Gardens.
Must-see spots in Richmond
First, I’ll give you my insights about the most charming streets to see while exploring Richmond. Then, I’ll suggest the optional activities that you can use to fill the day.
Richmond Hill & Terrace Gardens
Walk up Richmond Hill for stunning Thames views, admired by artists like Turner. For a peaceful break, visit Terrace Gardens, with its fountains and seasonal blooms.
Richmond Riverside
The riverside path in Richmond is perfect for a leisurely walk, with pubs, cafes, and scenic views. On a sunny day, rent a rowboat or relax on a bench, watching boats and the occasional high tide, when the White Cross pub becomes semi-submerged.
Old Palace Lane & Richmond Green
Old Palace Lane is a charming street in Richmond, lined with wisteria-covered cottages. It leads to Richmond Green, a spacious area often bustling with cricket matches, dog walkers, and pub-goers.
Paved Court & Ted Lasso streets
Paved Court is a quaint lane with independent boutiques and charming old shop signs, perfect for photos—especially at Christmas. Fans of Ted Lasso will recognise it from the show, and there are now a few themed shops. Nearby, you’ll find other picturesque alleyways and the Prince’s Head Pub, another Ted Lasso spot, but lovely even if you’re not a fan.
Options for the afternoon
There’s so many lovely things to see in the area, so depending on how much energy you have, choose from the following options.
Visit Kew Gardens
If you’ve got more time to spend in the area, hop on the 65 bus from Richmond station and head over to Kew Gardens. It’s one of the world’s most stunning botanical gardens, perfect for plant lovers, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys a scenic walk. Explore Victorian glasshouses, tranquil waterlily ponds, contemporary art galleries, and even a treetop walkway.
There’s so much to explore at Kew Gardens, so check out my full guide to what to see at Kew Gardens.
If you’re hungry, Jin Bao is perfect for dumplings and bao buns, or try The Original Maids of Honour nearby for classic English scones and tea—they’ve been serving since the 1800s.
If you opt for the Kew route, you could also visit in the morning and then head to Richmond for the afternoon and evening.
Walk to Ham House and Petersham Nurseries
One of my favourite ways to spend a weekend is walking along the Thames from Richmond to Ham House and then over to Petersham Nurseries. It’s peaceful, scenic, and full of charm at every turn.
Ham House is a 17th-century mansion with restored interiors and a lovely garden, especially beautiful in May when wisteria blooms. It’s a peaceful spot for those into historic design or scenic strolls.
Next, walk to Petersham Nurseries, a stunning spot with plant-filled greenhouses, boutique items, and a fantastic restaurant and tea room. I highly recommend their afternoon tea.
Explore Richmond Park
You can't visit Richmond without exploring Richmond Park. It's more like a small wilderness than a regular park, perfect for a few hours of wandering.
Renting a bike is a great way to explore more. You might spot deer, discover ancient trees, or find hidden clearings. Isabella Plantation is stunning in spring and summer with its rhododendrons and ponds. For a break, head to Pembroke Lodge for coffee and stunning views over the Thames Valley.
Dinner
Depending on the pace of your day, you may end your activities in different spots. But if you are still in Richmond, I recommend eating a hearty pub meal at the White Swan on Old Palace Lane. Scott’s and Peggy Jean are two other places by the river that I would recommend.
Day 3 in London: Bloomsbury to the Strand
Day 3 explores the cultural heart of London, from Bloomsbury to the Strand. You’ll visit major museums like the British Museum and the Courtauld, along with smaller gems like the Soane Museum and Inner Temple Gardens, offering a perfect blend of history, art, and hidden corners.
Morning: Breakfast at Fortitude, British Museum
Start your day with a delicious pastry and coffee from Fortitude Bakehouse on Leather Lane. It is internet famous for its giant cream-filled beignets.
The British Museum is just a short walk away—get there for opening time at 10 and allow an hour or two (depending on your dedication to history). Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and the Parthenon sculptures. But my favourites are the Aztec Double-Headed Serpent and the Benin Bronzes. It’s free to enter, so don’t feel rushed. My biggest advice when visiting major London museums is just to see a handful of highlights and move on — there’s no need to exhaust yourself seeing everything.
Midday: Explore Lamb’s Conduit Street & John Soane’s Museum
After the museum, take a stroll through Lamb’s Conduit Street—one of London’s hidden gems, filled with independent shops, cafes, and charming boutiques. If you’re hungry now, Honey & Co is a wonderful mediterranean restaurant.
From here, it’s a short walk to Sir John Soane’s Museum. This quirky, intimate museum was once the home of the neoclassical architect John Soane and is filled with fascinating art, curiosities, and his personal collection. It’s small but captivating, and worth a stop if you're into history and design. Make sure to wander through Lincoln’s Inns Fields afterwards.
Lunch: Toklas Bakery/Restaurant
When you’re ready for lunch, head towards Toklas Bakery for incredible focaccia sandwiches and pastries, or sit down at their restaurant for bright small plates on a beautiful terrace.
Toklas Restaurant
Wander over to the Inner Temple Gardens, tucked away in a peaceful corner of Temple, which is open to the public on weekdays between 12-3:30pm. It’s one of my favourite hidden gems in London.
Late afternoon: Somerset House and the Courtauld Gallery
After a quiet lunch, head to Somerset House—this grand neoclassical building is home to a number of art exhibitions and events, with a striking courtyard and the famous Courtauld Gallery. The gallery is known for its collection of Impressionist art, including Van Gogh's Self-Portrait and my favourite painting, Manet's Bar at the Folies-Bergère. This is where I studied art history, so it is close to my heart! An hour is about enough for this small collection.
Evening: St. Paul’s & City Sights
If you’re in the mood for a serene evening, hop on a bus to St. Paul’s Cathedral and catch Evensong—a peaceful and beautiful service that’s open to the public (check times in advance). The Cathedral itself is awe-inspiring, and hearing the choir sing is a quintessential London experience.
Afterward, you can enjoy some of the classic City of London sights if you still have daylight:
St. Dunstan-in-the-East: A stunning ruined church turned into a public garden.
Sky Garden: If you’ve got time and daylight left, head up to this public garden for some incredible views of the city skyline. It’s free, but booking in advance is recommended.
Leadenhall Market: A beautiful, historic covered market—great for a wander if you’re near by.
Or just enjoy a nearby pub and relax for the evening.
Day 4: a day trip to Cambridge
Take a break from London with a day trip to Cambridge, a charming university town full of history, beautiful architecture, and art. The city is compact, walkable, and ideal for a day of exploring. While Oxford is another brilliant option, Cambridge is my top choice for its blend of old-world charm and easy-to-navigate streets.
How to get to Cambridge
Trains run regularly from London King’s Cross, taking around 45 minutes. It’s best to book your tickets in advance through Trainline to get the best prices.
One day in Cambridge
Here’s a quick glance at my suggested itinerary for a day trip to Cambridge, but again you can find all the details in my Cambridge guide here.
Morning: College visits & Fitzwilliam Museum
Arrive and take a short 20-minute walk into the city center. Begin at King’s College Chapel, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. From there, wander along the river to visit other colleges like Trinity and St. John’s. Some colleges charge small fees for access to chapels or halls.
Next, head to the Fitzwilliam Museum to see a range of art from Titian to Monet. It’s free to visit and a great way to dive into some culture before lunch.
Lunch: Fitzbillies & Market Square
Stop by Fitzbillies for their famous Chelsea buns or check out Market Square for street food and local snacks. There are also plenty of cozy pubs nearby if you want a heartier meal.
Afternoon: Punting & Kettle’s Yard
After lunch, enjoy a classic punting tour on the River Cam, where you’ll pass landmarks like the Bridge of Sighs. Punting tours cost about £20–30 per person.
Then, visit Kettle’s Yard, a modern art gallery and house museum filled to the brim with amazing objects. Admission is free, but booking in advance is recommended.
Evening: Evensong & Return to London
End your day with Evensong at King’s College Chapel. The service is free and offers a peaceful way to enjoy the chapel’s stunning architecture.
For dinner, try a local spot like The Cambridge Chop House or Dishoom, before catching an evening train back to London.
Alternative: Oxford
If you prefer Oxford, it’s another charming day trip. Visit its beautiful colleges, explore the Ashmolean Museum, and see Christ Church College. The train ride from London takes about an hour.
Day 5 in London: Borough Market, Tower Bridge, and East London
Day 5 takes you from Borough Market, past Tower Bridge's iconic landmarks, to Spitalfields and Brick Lane.
Morning: Bermondsey and/or Borough Market
Start your day by wandering Bermondsey Street, a great spot for boutique shops and galleries like White Cube. After soaking in the art, head to either Maltby Street Market (if it’s a Saturday) or Borough Market for some food.
Maltby Street Market is tucked under railway arches and offers a mix of restaurants, food trucks, and bars. Don't miss St. John’s Bakery for the best doughnuts in London. If it’s not Saturday, Borough Market is the place to go. While it’s busy, it’s iconic—grab a pork sandwich at The Black Pig and try the Humble Crumble for dessert.
Walk to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London
From the market, take the short walk over to Tower Bridge, one of the most iconic London landmarks. Walk across the bridge, or go up to the top and walk across the glass floor if you’re feeling adventurous.
On the other side, you’ll see the Tower of London. It’s packed with history, and if that interests you, it’s worth a visit, especially for the Crown Jewels. But it’s pricey and takes a couple of hours, so if you’re short on time, just enjoy the exterior and continue your walk through the City of London.
Book: Tower of London Guided Tour with Boat Ride
Afternoon and evening: explore East London
From Tower Bridge, head towards Liverpool Street station, with Spitalfields Market just a short walk away. It's a great place to grab a bite and explore the eclectic shops and stalls. Across the street, don't miss Townhouse, a charming homewares shop full of historic character.
If you’re into quirky house museums (like me) don’t miss Dennis Severs' House. It’s an immersive experience that transports you through time, offering a glimpse into the lives of its former residents.
Next, take a stroll to Brick Lane, where you'll find a mix of vintage shops and iconic food spots. Swing by the Truman Brewery Market for more food and unique finds, or pop into Cuemars for a great selection of art, books, and homeware. For a tasty bite, grab a sandwich from Dal Fiorentino or try a salt beef bagel from Beigel Bake—it's a London classic.
Finally, head to Columbia Road, a charming street lined with independent shops. Even when the flower market isn't open, the area is still lively, with its lovely boutiques and artisanal stores. Treat yourself to something sweet at Lily Vanilli Bakery, or enjoy browsing the unique shops in the area.
There’s a few nice pubs to hang out in here, or you can have dinner at Campania, a gorgeous Italian restaurant.
For more on exploring East London, check out my full guide.
Day 6 in London: Notting Hill and Kensington
Day 6 in Kensington is the perfect mix of easygoing vibes and a bit of culture. You’ll wander through Notting Hill’s colourful streets, pop into bookshops, and grab a coffee before heading over to one of London’s most peaceful parks. From there, it’s a choice between exploring museums or just taking in the gardens.
Breakfast in Notting Hill
Start the day with breakfast in Notting Hill at one of its beloved bakeries. Layla Bakery is known for having a long queue, meaning you’ll have to arrive early to snag one of their perfect pastries. If you’re too late, head to Moi et Toi, another really beautiful bakery that is new on the scene so less busy.
Morning: Notting Hill shopping
After your breakfast, it’s time to wander the picturesque streets of Notting Hill. Start with a stroll down Portobello Road Market, the vibrant London market street with anything you can imagine, from vintage jeans to Victorian maps. While you’re at it, pop into Daunt Books, a charming bookshop with a unique travel section. If you love cooking, Books for Cooks is where you can browse beautiful cookbooks while enjoying a meal made from the books on the shelf, if you are lucky enough to snag a lunchtime seat. The Spice Shop is filled to the brim with any spice you can imagine, wrapped in a retro yellow label that I find really charming. Lastly, take a detour to Westbourne Grove for chic boutiques.
Lunch
For lunch, I’m suggesting my favourite London restaurant, the jewel that is 6 Portland Road. This cute neighbourhood restaurant serves monthly menus of seasonal dishes with super friendly service. If you’re craving something more casual, Ria’s is a viral deep dish pizza spot. And if it’s been a long day of wandering and you need a proper sit-down, head to The Pelican for classic British comfort food in a relaxed pub setting.
Afternoon: Holland Park & Leighton House
In the afternoon, make your way to Holland Park for a much-needed break. The Kyoto Garden is a tranquil escape, with its calming pond, stepping stones and wandering peacocks.
Afterward, head to the Leighton House Museum if you love ornate house museums. Home of the artist Frederick Lord Leighton, this 19th century home is full of surprises, including the glimmering Arab Hall. Or, if you have other priorities, skip it and head to Hyde Park.
Late Afternoon: Kensington Gardens & Hyde Park
Hop on a bus to Kensington Gardens, where you can lose yourself in the green expanses of this well-manicured park. Take a moment to admire the Albert Memorial—it’s grand in the best way possible—and then enjoy a peaceful walk by the Serpentine Pond. For something more active, you can rent a paddle boat and glide across the water or simply sit by the Italian Gardens, which are always picture-perfect.
Evening: Dinner in South Kensington
I will suggest coming back to the museums in South Kensington on Day 7, but if you still have some energy you could pop into one of them, especially since they are open late on weekends. The V&A, Science Museum and Natural History Museum are all next to each other here.
Finally, some dinner recommendations in South Kensington:
Brother Marcus is a Mediterranean sharing plates restaurant right near the station
Daquise is a lovely Polish restaurant with a classy vibe, also right outside the station
I really like Gỗ, a high-end Vietnamese restaurant just down the stret
And I haven’t tried it yet, but I’m obsessed with Georgian food, and Shoty looks good (across the street)
Day 7 in London: Chelsea and South Kensington
A calm but classic way to end the week. You’ll start the day wandering Chelsea and Belgravia’s elegant streets, duck into a favourite bakery or brunch spot, then spend the afternoon at one of London’s best museums. End the day with something sweet—or something stylish—and head back into central London for a memorable final dinner.
Morning: Sloane Square and Belgravia
Start your day in Sloane Square, then explore the chic streets of Chelsea. Wander along King’s Road for boutiques, cafés, and design shops. You can grab a pastry from the gorgeous Birley Bakery, or head to The Buttery in Belgravia for brunch in their garden. Elizabeth Street is lovely to stroll, and the interiors shops along Pimlico Road are worth a detour if you like browsing beautifully made things.
If you happen to be visiting in May, you’re in luck, as the shops will all be covered in floral installations as part of Chelsea and Belgravia in Bloom (pictured above).
Lunch: Chelsea
I recommend the humourously named Phat Phuc, a Southeast Asian noodle bar with excellent laksa. It’s tucked in a courtyard and very popular with locals, so don’t be surprised if there’s a bit of a queue.
Afternoon: V&A Museum
Head to the V&A Museum to explore its collection of art, fashion, and design. I always make time for the Cast Courts—the light streaming in over the giant plaster replicas of world masterpieces is magical. The jewellery galleries sparkle, and the fashion section is full of surprises. If you have time, explore the galleries on design from around the world.
Late Afternoon: Tea and Harrods (Optional)
Pop into Anya Café for a cake (they’re the cutest in London) or even go for their afternoon tea. If you feel like ticking off a classic, stop by Harrods before or after for a quick wander through the food hall.
Evening: Dinner in Central London
On your last evening, I like heading back into the centre—Soho, Covent Garden, or Clerkenwell—to soak up the atmosphere. A few great picks: St. John for classic British cooking, Quo Vadis for seasonal plates in a private members’ club (open to all for dining), or Darjeeling Express, which always feels like a special meal.
And that’s a wrap on 7 days in London — a mix of iconic landmarks, world-class museums, neighbourhood cafés, historic streets, and a few hidden gems I genuinely love. Hopefully, it’s helped you get a sense of the city beyond just the highlights, from riverside walks to quiet galleries and memorable meals. If you’re staying longer, I’ve got guides to great day trips (Cambridge is my favourite), or you can explore more of London’s lesser-known corners in my roundup of places that are off the beaten track in London.
Planning a week in London? This 7-day London itinerary covers everything from major landmarks and museums to charming neighbourhoods, hidden gems, and great places to eat. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a well-rounded, local-feeling experience of the city.