Posh accents, perfect tea brews, and a 2,000 year-old history aside, there are hundreds of other unique events, scenery and shops to scope out in London Town. Check out these five London experiences that you might not know about for your next trip across the pond.
1. London Fashion Week
There are numerous wardrobe trends that we owe to the British: Mod, the miniskirt, punk, new romantics, and country chic. Organized by the British Fashion Council, the large catwalk shows by top designers and fashion houses showcase over 150 designers, during the months of February and September. But, it’s not just top fashion editors or insiders that get to enjoy LFW. There are plenty of fun opportunities for everyone as loads of retailers put together fabulously "shoppable" evenings, encouraging visitors to support the rich diversity of department stores, flagships, boutiques and high-street chains that make London such a brilliant fashion destination.
2. Barbican Art Gallery
The Barbican Centre in and of itself is a cultural treasure trove, but the crown jewel is located on the third floor of the Brutalist building. Here, the Barbican Art Gallery has a rotating number of exhibitions. Past exhibitions include retrospectives of the work of Viktor & Rolf, Le Borbusier, Bauhaus, Yohji Yamamoto, Pop Art and Jean Paul Gaultier. After walking through the exhibits, take a load off by treating yourself to the lemon drizzle cake from one of Barbican’s cafés and enjoy outdoor seating on the Lakeside, weather permitting.
3. Borough Market
London's oldest food market, Borough Market, dates back to the time when the Romans built the London Bridge and has lasted on its current site for the last 250 years. Whether you're a foodie or a shopping expert, Borough Market offers everything from exquisite macaroons to wholesale trading opportunities. Even if you're just window-shopping, Borough Market is a prime spot for people watching and experiencing the hustle and bustle of a Londoner's life.
4. One Lump, or Two?
It's teatime! You’ll find the perfect spots to enjoy afternoon tea all around London, which is traditionally served around 4 p.m. Although afternoon tea is no longer religiously adhered to, no trip is complete without sampling tea sandwiches, scones, and clotted cream and jams in lovely tiered trays. Spots like Bistroteque and The Orangery are the best at serving an authentic taste of what life at Kensington Palace might have been like during the turn of the 20th century.
5. Air New Zealand
Whether it's your first time on British soil or your 20th, Air New Zealand offers non-stop flights to London from Los Angeles, so you can experience the best of London as quickly as you can say "Cheers!" Save $300* on daily LAX to LON flights, including travel in Business Premier (*terms and restrictions apply), and experience the ultimate in comfort, care, and quality synonymous with the award-winning airline.
Air New Zealand partnered with Jill Lincoln and Jordan Johnson of Rachel Zoe Studio to create a video and lookbook with Air New Zealand passengers in mind, flying non-stop from Los Angeles to London on Air New Zealand. Take a look, then plan your must-see London trip with Air New Zealand, known for its award-winning seats including the Economy Skycouch and Premium Economy Spaceseat. Grab your peacoat, passport and your favorite lippy and embrace jet-set life.
