London is hard to compare with other cities in sheer, dizzying variety.
The UK capital is full of centuries of history, starting with royal landmarks and cobblestone streets, and stretching to the most advanced art and other international cuisine. However, even when you have just 2 hours to spare, there is still time to experience the best the city has to offer, as long as you make some smart decisions and get around in an efficient way.
We will discover seven attractions that we cannot afford not to see in less than two hours without a doubt that they represent the spirit of London.
1. The South Bank
The South Bank is an ideal starting point in case you want to absorb the London spirit in a short time. This is a few minutes walk out of Waterloo Station, and a riverside walkway with a blend of street life, culture and skyline.
In this case, the River Thames is passing by cafes, galleries, and pop-up stalls. Take a stroll down the foot pavement, spend some time there in the second hand book market, or have a quick bite take away coffee even as you gaze at the Big Ben and the London eye on the horizon.
On your stroll to the east, you will come across the National theatre, the British film institute and the notorious Undercroft – a skateboarder haven and a street performers haven. It is the sort of place that makes you immediately get the sense of how creative and energetic is city.
Time: 20 minutes
2. Tate Modern
Go on the river and you will encounter the Tate modern which is one of the largest museums of contemporary and modern art globally. It is located in an old power station and everything is holding Picasso to Warhol, Dali to Rothko is displayed in its spacious halls.
In case you do not have enough time, begin at the Turbine Hall where enormous and immersive installations turn the industrial hall into a work of art in itself. Exhibitions of other artists such as Anish Kapoor and Ai Weiwei have made this hall a world icon.
It is an impression that lasts even after a mere visit- the building, the art and even the sight of St Pauls Cathedral on the other side of the Millennium Bridge make this stop memorable.
Time: 20 minutes
3. Shakespeare’s Globe
The Shakespeare’s Globe is a poetic diversion into the life of Elizabethan London, and all it takes is a few minutes of a walk along the Tate. This pious rebuilt of the original of 1599 was constructed all of oak, with a thatched roof above–another rarity in the town.
Since it reopened in 1997, all of the plays written by Shakespeare have been performed there. In case you are in a hurry and cannot watch a full show, make a brief visit or even enjoy the exterior architecture that revives centuries of old-style skills.
It is among the most picturesque as well as historically sensitive places of London, a breathing reminder of the eternal heritage of the Bard.
Time: 5 minutes
4. Over the River to the Cathedral of St Paul
The Millennium Bridge will put you right in the front of one of the most recognizable domes on the planet in the form of St Pauls Cathedral. This masterpiece was built under the supervision of Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London, and it has been the venue of royal events, national dedications, and even moments of strength, including Blitz survival during World War II.
A short visit would leave you with the wonder of the interiors and the use of intricate mosaic and the opportunity to whisper across the Whispering Gallery in the dome. It takes but one glance to grasp the whole splendor of London when you either enter it or merely admire it in the plaza, St Paul.
Time: 20 minutes
5. Covent Garden
The Covent Garden area is the next place of interest, which can be reached in a short ride with Ray Executive Cars, the most convenient way to travel through central London in a hurry. This historic market incorporates the historicity with the buzz of modernity. It was a trading powerhouse in the 17th century but today it has reduced to boutique stores, artisan booths, street entertainers, and fancy cafes under the glass-roofed piazza.
Take a look around the stalls, watch live musicians or taste homemade pastries and proceed with your trip. The small structure of Covent Garden is perfect in offering a fast but interactive and immersive experience of London.
Time: 25 minutes
6. Trafalgar Square
The city is symbolically central, with the Trafalgar Square just several minutes away. The square has Nelson at its center attracting visitors, buskers and pigeons under the scrutiny of the bronze lions.
The art enthusiasts can visit the National Gallery or National Portrait Gallery which are free to visit and only a few steps apart. Contemporary art installations are a common feature of the Fourth Plinth, which presents an interesting contrast between the classical architecture of the square and the contemporary artworks.
When you have time to spare, pay a visit to the church of St Martin-in-the-Fields nearby – its cafe on the crypt-level and classical concerts can be a much-needed respite in the noise.
Time: 20 minutes
7. Gordon’s Wine Bar
To sum up, finish off two hours of activity on a high note at Gordon Wine Bar, which is located within a short walking distance of Trafalgar Square. It is the oldest wine bar in London and a classic that was established in 1890.
Enter its cellar, whose dimly lit walls and vaulted ceilings are made of wood panels, and the dark, old-world effect is complete. Get through an exquisite range of wines, cheeses, and charcuterie and consider your short yet gorgeous London experience.
When it is nice outside, take a table outside to enjoy some sunshine and people watching, the best way to end your mini-escape.
Time: 10 minutes
Fast Logistics Cheat-Sheet
Transport:
Ray Executive Cars will save you time when you want to take the two-hour London tour. Your professional chauffeur makes sure that you travel without any difficulties in between attractions without showing up in public transportation, and parking issues. Also, you can leave your valuables in the car as you go sightseeing.
Tickets:
You can book your tickets to the Tate Modern and St Pauls Cathedral in order to avoid queuing.
Luggage:
When you are on a layover, buy bags in the Waterloo Station or other major stations before you go out.
Dress Code:
Always have an umbrella, the London weather is always erratic. Riverside walks must be done in comfortable shoes.
Language:
Politeness goes a long way. Even a simple thank you and a smile during interaction will ease the process.
Make the most of two hours in London.
London is also a memorable experience despite the short time. Whether it is walks along the river or a visit to historic landmarks and local flair, each destination is a glimpse of the stratified character of the city.
Whether you are on a layover or a quick visit, Ray Executive Cars assists you to do more, worry less and travel comfortably, so that you can spend time on what is really important to you, that is, having an enjoyable time in one of the greatest cities in the world.
