Business travel often entails a relentless whirlwind of meetings, conferences, and predetermined deadlines. Even in London, the beautiful city, the monotonous cycle of hotel rooms, conference calls, and room service can feel tedious. The good news is that work does not need to prevent one from enjoying the numerous attractions that a city as vibrant as London offers.
London is a historic city infused with modern hustle, which makes it an attractive destination for anyone. There is no shortage of ways to relieve the stress of a trip from exceptional food to breathtaking sights. This guide is meant to assist anyone with limited time, in finding some joy and exploration during their tiring stay.
Explore London’s Culinary Scene Beyond Room Service
While business schedules can get hectic, nothing beats the culinary wonderland that is London. It is perfectly acceptable that room service is offered during most busy seasons, but London’s diverse cityscape calls for a lot more than a bland hotel menu.
Michelin-Star Restaurants
On the chance that you want to celebrate the successful outcome of meetings, booking a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant should definitely be on the agenda. You can enjoy British cuisine at Core by Clare Smyth, or head for tasteful French delicacies at Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester.
It is wise to make reservations several days in advance, as these restaurants are renowned for their international appeal as much as for their local visitation.
Casual Bites with Personality
Hidden within the hustle and bustle of London lays eating spots that capture the growing city’s culture, which is not duplicated in your simple room service meals offered by the hotel. If you’re in a hurry but eager to soak in the local charm, journey to Dishoom which is a Bombay-style café serving comforting meals such as black daal and spicy lamb chops. Alternatively, there is also Flat Iron that deals with no-nonsense steak.
Street Food Adventures
In between business meetings, if you’re looking for a quick bite, then London does not disappoint with its street food markets. There is Borough Market, which serves artisanal cheeses as well as freshly baked pastries and street food from every corner of the globe. You can also go to the Southbank Centre Food Market which is situated alongside the Thames. The market offers pretty much everything from gourmet tacos to Ethiopian stews.
Nightlife: Unwind with Celebratory Drinks After Meetings
Who wouldn’t want to crown a tiring day of meetings by drinking a well-crafted drink to refuel? Even better when the drink is acquired from one of the top restaurants London has to offer. Depending on your nocturnal preference London’s nightlife tends to pubs and intimate cocktail lounges.
Cocktails with a View
To sip on a cocktail while taking in the gorgeous view of London’s skyline, you can visit Sky Garden which is a rooftop bar known for its breathtaking panoramic view.
Sip on a Cocktail and Gaze at The Shard and Tower Bridge
Aqua Shard is another great option for lunch with panoramic views of London and some of the most imaginative mixed beverages.
Traditional Pubs
Pub hopping is undoubtedly one of the most cherished experiences when in London. Visit The Churchill Arms for a pint of ale and check out its excentric decor or head down to The Spaniards Inn; a historic pub bursting with rich character and charm. With regard to food and drinks, the diversity of London’s pubs is admirable, and combined with the multicultural atmosphere, they provide a perfect setting to wind down and socialize with people after a long, tiring day.
Hidden Speakeasy
If you are seeking a more exclusive vibe, test your skills on finding some of London’s hidden speakeasies. Nightjar is one of those; an underground bar famous for its exceptional cocktails and live jazz. The Vault is also a good place to go if you are around Soho, as it is a secret drinking den inside a whiskey shop.
Sightseeing: Fitting In Iconic Landmarks In Between Appointments
Even such a busy day allows some time for sightseeing, and does not require changing your schedule. The overwhelming rich history and lovely landscapes of London allow discovering the city with ease and at any time.
Must-See Landmarks
Are you on lunch break and have an hour to kill? Then visit Tower of London and marvel at the medieval architecture or St.
Most central locations in London are easily accessible. Both landmarks offer a wealth of culture and Paul’s Cathedral, a symbol of London’s skyline.
The London Eye and Tower Bridge are so breathtaking that they make for wonderful viewing as one takes a stroll along the Thames River. The Thames River is perfect for unwinding after a long day. Should time permit, it is always soothing to hop on a riverboat cruise of London.
Tranquility can also be found in parks all over London. And during long meetings, a rewarding stroll through Hyde Park or Regent’s Park can help reset your focus for the next meeting. The corporate hustle can become overwhelming, and grabbing a coffee to-go makes for more enjoyable tranquility in these meticulously manicured green spaces.
Do not shy away from exploring and immersing yourself into London’s vibrant culture, dining, and nightlife to combat travel fatigue hoping to create lasting memories, even during a business trip.
Finding small pockets of time between meetings
From enjoying a Michelin-starred dinner to grabbing street food in a rush, or sipping on drinks while enjoying breathtaking views of the city from a rooftop bar, London has something for everyone and is a perfect blend of recreation and tourism.
Make sure to explore and relax during your next visit to London. It is quintessential for every businessperson to unwind after an inspiration-filled trip, thus making it a perfect business getaway.
