Eat, Shop, Love: 48 Hours in London

London in summer is a delight—warm weather, longer days, and the city buzzing with fashion, food, and energy. Whether you’ve got 48 hours or more in “the Big Smoke,” save these spots for your next visit.

DAY 1  ✈︎ CHIC LONDON + CULINARY DELIGHTS

Morning 


Breakfast at Dishoom (Covent Garden) – Start with a bacon naan and chai at this Bombay-style café.

Explore Covent Garden – Pop into Neal’s Yard for photos and browse boutiques like Free People or Charlotte Tilbury.

Midday

Lunch at Borough Market – Feast on artisanal cheeses, truffle pasta, or fresh oysters. Try Padella (queue early) for handmade pasta.

Walk along the Southbank – Pass the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe, with views of St. Paul’s across the river.

The Genesis Exhibition: Do Ho Suh: Walk the House © Do Ho Suh. Photo Jeon Taeg Su via The Tate Museum

Afternoon Shopping Fix


Liberty London – A fashion-lover's dream: eclectic, luxe, and British heritage in a Tudor-revival building.
Carnaby Street – Trendy, independent fashion stores and vibrant energy.

Evening


Dinner at Sketch (Mayfair) – Dine in the blush-pink Gallery or the ultra-futuristic Lecture Room. Instagrammable interiors and decadent food.

Cocktails at Aqua Spirit – Rooftop bar near Oxford Circus with views and a stylish crowd.


Sketch London, image York Avenue

DAY 2  ✈︎  ART, PARKS & AFTERNOON TEA (OF COURSE)

Morning


Brunch at Granger & Co. (Notting Hill) – Light, stylish Aussie-inspired fare. Order the ricotta hotcakes or smashed avo.

Notting Hill Wandering – Browse Portobello Road Market, second-hand designer shops, and indie bookstores. Don’t miss Biscuiteers for cute, iced cookies.

Midday


Stroll through Kensington Gardens – Visit the Serpentine Galleries and walk to Kensington Palace. Chic and peaceful.

Afternoon Tea at The Berkeley (Knightsbridge) – Their Prêt-à-Portea is fashion-themed, with desserts inspired by the latest runway looks.

Afternoon tea at The Berkeley. Image The Berkeley Hotel

Late Afternoon


Shopping at Harrods or Selfridges – Even if you don’t buy, the designer sections are pure eye candy. Head to the Harrods Food Hall for luxe souvenirs.

Evening


Sundowner picnic in Primrose Hill or Hampstead Heath – Pick up goodies from a deli and enjoy sweeping city views.
OR —
Dinner at Circolo Popolare (Fitzrovia) – Maximalist Italian vibes with fairy lights, mountains of burrata, and a fashion-forward crowd.

Image via Circolo Popolare

JSC suggests...
What to wear Think chic but comfy. Flowing dresses, crossbody bag, stylish sneakers for day; elevate with heeled sandals and a bold lip for night.
Book ahead for Sketch, afternoon teas, and any fine dining.
Weather Warm but unpredictable—carry a light trench or umbrella.


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