72 Hours in London

Accommodation: The Lanesborough

The Lanesborough is the perfect home base for any new or seasoned London traveler, with an unbeatable location in the heart of Hyde Park and just a close walk to Harrod’s and to Buckingham Palace. Featuring quintessential British décor and achieving a pristine attention to detail, each room or suite is uniquely designed. While the dining options in London are endless, we highly recommend dining on property one night or grabbing a cocktail in the Library Bar where live music rings through the adorned halls most nights.

Day 1:

Morning: Private ½ Day Highlights of London Tour

Whenever we arrive in a new city, we love to get the lay of the land with a guided tour. Private tours allow for scheduling flexibility while also providing a rich context of historical sights. Tour guides often have great recommendations for local hidden gems – whether it’s their favorite local dive bar or a new museum or restaurant opening in the area.  Visit Big Ben, the Tower of London and stop by the Buckingham Palace for the changing of the guard.

Afternoon: Lunch at Scott’s for oysters and champagne & Mayfair shops

Can it get more quintessentially British than an oyster and Champagne bar? Scott’s offers a large terrace for dining and cocktails in Mayfair and they’re been serving legendary seafood since 1851. Great scene, great food and great wine list. After lunch take a stroll and explore the beautiful shops in Mayfair.

Evening: Dinner and Drinks at Sexy Fish

Located in London’s exclusive Mayfair neighborhood, Sexy Fish is an elegant and stylish Asian seafood restaurant and bar adorned with beautiful artwork. The late-night bar stocks the largest Japanese whiskey collection in the world and features innovative cocktails with Asian-inspired names and ingredients. 

Day 2:

 Daytime: Private Borough Food Tour or Cooking Class with Mimo Foods

Mimo Foods has two locations in Europe – one in London and one in San Sebastian Spain. They specialize in gastronomic city experiences. While London is not typically known for its local cuisine, the Borough market’s rich history and plethora of artisan chefs, cheesemakers and organic farmers will not disappoint. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, there is a fabulous food tour of the market. However, they offer daily cooking classes that can be post-market or stand-alone experiences.

Evening: Dinner at The Ivy and a show in the West End Theatre District

Pre-theater, dine at The Ivy for delicious, seasonal British cuisine. The main bar underwent a stunning redesign in 2015 and now featuring a large central bar and contemporary art décor. Just minutes walking from the restaurant, you will find yourself fin the heart of the West End – akin to New York’s Broadway. 

Right now we’re loving Tina – The Tina Turner Musical at the Aldwych Theatre and Matilda the Musical at the Cambridge.

Day 3:

Morning: Spa Treatment

Nothing like ending your vacation on a high note! Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast through in-room dining. Each room at the Lanesborough has a 24/7 butler. Notify he or she that you would like a wakeup call and what you would like to enjoy! After breakfast, head down to the spa for a luxurious massage before you officially start your day. The property boasts the largest gym in London as well as a large spa with 6 treatment rooms and wide variety of services. 

Afternoon: Tea Time at Sketch

Located in the Mayfair neighborhood, this playful, pink dining room is covered in over 200 original prints and drawings by David Shrigley. This funky tea service is perfect for adults and children’s alike. Sketch is a must-go for London first timers and repeat visitors.  

Evening: Dinner at Chiltern Firehouse

On your last night, we recommend checking out the Chiltern Firehouse restaurant of the same name as the Andre Balazs property. This upscale yet casual restaurant is the perfect dinner spot for a cozy vibe and contemporary cuisine from Michelin-starred chef Nuno Mendes.