A city of infinite colour and variety, London is both richly historic, tracing its roots back over 2000 years, and unceasingly modern, at the forefront of fashion, music and the arts. There is a fantastic amount to interest and entertain the visitor here: a selection of the best of the best is explored here.
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The Kenwood Brew House is a casual restaurant attached to the side of Kenwood House. We visited the Brew House on a Saturday morning, having enjoyed the 3km amble through Hampstead Heath from the bus stop at South End Green. The route we took led through trees and grassy meadows, and we were able to look back on some great vistas of London.
When we reached the Brew House, we were definitely ready for breakfast (served from 9 to 11:30am). I tucked into an “English” breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, and tomato, while Tina went for a couple of croissants and coffee. It was too early for champagne or beers (although they are on sale), and we wanted more than the cold sandwiches, which are also on offer. We found a table in the outside eating area – among the shrubs, squirrels, and friendly robins and blackbirds – and watched happy families enjoying themselves. There were lots of toddlers running around and generally having fun. No dogs in this area – they and their owners have their own very pleasant spot in front of the building.
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This majestic mansion with interiors designed by Robert Adam has a small but important collection comprising 17th-century Dutch and Flemish works, 18th-century English portraits, and a small French Rococo section. There are statues by Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth in the extensive grounds.
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This magnificent mansion, filled with Old Masters, is set in an idyllic lakeside estate on the edge of Hampstead Heath. Vermeer’sThe Guitar Player and a self-portrait by Rembrandt are among the star attractions. Concerts are held by the lake in summer – audiences sit in the grassy bowl, with picnics to sustain them.
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Acres of glorious gardens and woodland in tranquil setting by the Thames. Internationally acclaimed collections of plants and constant events for families and individuals. Fun and learning together.
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The smallest royal palace, Kew was built in 1631 and used as a residence by George III and Queen Charlotte. Nearby Queen Charlotte’s Cottage was used for picnics and housing royal pets. The palace is set in Kew Gardens
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These were the favourite dogs of King Charles II. Today, the Queen prefers corgis.
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This variety of English potato was named after King Edward VII, who visited Ireland after the 1903 potato famine.
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Hop aboard the Hogwarts Express by walking through the barrier between Platforms 9 and 10 at King's Cross Station. Made famous in the Harry Potter (TM) series, there is now a luggage trolley 'stuck' between the two platforms. Getting your photo taken here is a must for all Harry Potter fans but if you're a real film buff then head for the barrier between platforms 4 and 5, where scenes from the films were actually shot.
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A busy but delightful Victorian pub with a theatre showing musicals and fringe performances on the upper floor. Delicious vegetarian food is available in the downstairs bar.
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Cosy little bar/ club - open late on weekends with a dance floor and great tunes on a Saturday night. Cocktails are delicious and if you reserve a table in advance the bar staff will come up with a cocktail especially for your party - you just tell them the ingredients and a name! There might be a small entrance charge later on at the weekends and it can get crowded at the bar.
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