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The Localist
How To Spend
Life

How To Spend: 47 Hours 58 Minutes in London

Two guys hanging out by the canal

The Hoxton has launched Flexy Time. You can now check in and check out whenever you like. For free. Don’t know what to do with all that extra time? Let a few of our fave locals show you around with our 48-hour city guide.

As one of the world’s most mesmerising, historical and energetic cities, London has it all (and then some). Catering to all palettes, it’s a dinner spread that everyone can get their teeth stuck into. Whether you’re a foodie, culture vulture, tech fiend or nature lover, you won’t leave feeling hungry. There’s two ways to tackle London – start slow or dive straight in – and we’ve got you covered for both.

Where do you begin, I hear you ask? Well, exploring the streets by foot is a great place to start. Though be warned, us Londoners are fast when we pound the pavement. Fancy a more leisurely doddle? Take a front seat on the top of a double-decker. Otherwise, grab yourself a Boris Bike. They’ve got stations all over the city and Citymapper app can help you suss out the quietest or fastest routes with some sneaky shortcuts.

Did you know that London is one of Europe’s greenest cities? Amidst the fog, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to parks. Trek further afield – via bike or the Overground – to Hampstead Heath for a swim like no other. Open all year, the Garden of Eden-esque ponds (women’s only, men’s only and mixed) are great for a sunrise or sunset dip. Just watch out for the ducks!

People enjoying swimming outside

All that exercise making you hungry? First up, East London’s E Pellicci does a proper English breakfast. Greasy-spoon caffs are dotted all throughout London, usually serving up comforting classics like egg and chips, and pie and mash. E Pellicci is one of the oldest in the city, a local institution run by the same family for over 100 years. The cannoli, staff banter and panelled wood decor is reason alone to visit.

 

Once you’re packed to the brim with London’s finest grub, walk it off with a stroll along the canal to Broadway Market in London Fields. Happening every Saturday, you’ll find fresh flowers, vintage vinyl, organic coffee, quirky bookshops, local produce, pubs, bars and buskers galore! Once you’ve finished zig-zagging up and down the market, grab a coffee and sweet treat from Pavilion Bakery and walk along Regent’s Canal to Victoria Park, or further afield to Hackney Wick. Be sure to stop by Crate Brewery to refuel along the way.

Whether you’re a foodie, culture vulture, tech fiend or nature lover, you won’t leave feeling hungry.”

For the summer sunset chasers, hop on the Overground and travel south to Frank’s Cafe in Peckham. Located on the top of a former carpark, it’s just the spot to snag a mean negroni, heart-soaring view of the skyline and an Insta-worthy shot of those pink stairs.

 

And every big night should end up at Brick Lane Beigel Bake in the wee hours. Open 24 hours, seven days a week, this place is known for feeding the party-goers and morning shift workers of East London with fresh made-on-site bagels. Think of it as an early breakfast before heading back to bed.

Food on display in a cafe
Lobby area in The Hoxton, Shoreditch Seen enough?

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