DK Travel : London

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.

Berkeley Square

This pocket of green in the middle of Mayfair was planted in 1789 and its 30 huge plane trees may be the oldest in London. In 1774 Clive of India, hero of the British Empire in India, committed suicide at No. 45. Memorial benches in the square bear moving inscriptions, many from Americans who were billeted in Mayfair during World War II. The main UK Bentley and Rolls-Royce dealer’s showroom is on the east side of the square.
Berwick Street Market

There has been a market here since the 18th century, and the daily fruit and vegetable stalls remain cheap, cheerful and thoroughly Cockney. Half the time, traders talk in old money (“ten bob” is 50p) and round things up to a “nicker” or a “quid” (£1). It opens around 9am six days a week.
Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood

Everyone will find something to delight them here: from dolls and teddy bears to train sets and games through the ages. Each weekend there is a soft play-zone for under-fives and art classes for older kids. There are regular activities themed to complement current exhibitions.
Beyond Retro

A vintage warehouse, rather than boutique, that if sought after, holds many hidden treasures. The stock is actually scoured from the US, and consequentially brilliant for finding serious vintage tees and those gorgeous baseball jackets with university and team logos. It is also suprisingly liked by fashion magazine stylists and the occasional celeb. But even if you visit without the intent to buy, it's an experience in itself - especially trekking through Brick Lane to get there!
BFI London IMAX

Giant-screen cinema that shows exciting movies set in the natural world.
Bistro 190

Set in a large Victorian house, and part of the luxurious Gore Hotel, this traditional bistro is open from 7am to midnight, serving modern Mediterranean cuisine.
Blackheath

This treeless expanse, enjoyed by kite flyers, lies behind Greenwich Park. Donkey rides can be taken around the edge, and on the far side is Blackheath Village.
Blakes Hotel

A Victorian delight, with sumptuous cushions and drapes, bamboo and bird cages, each room is individually styled with exotica from all over the world. The Chinese Room bar and restaurant in the basement continues the theme with low seating and cushions.
Blood Brothers

The story revolves around twins separated at birth because their mother cannot afford to keep them both. One grows up with his poor, natural, mother, the other lives with her wealthy employer. The consequences when they eventually meet are a successful blend of comedy and tragedy.
Bloomsbury & Fitzrovia on Foot

Morning

Arrive at the British Museum at 10am (opening time) so that you can enjoy the new Great Court in peace. View Norman Foster’s glass dome while having coffee at the café here. Stroll past the great Assyrian bas-reliefs on your way out.

Browse the antiquarian book and print shops, such as Jarndyce , along Great Russell and Museum streets. Turn left up Little Russell Street, noticing the fine Hawksmoor church of St George’s. Loop around Bloomsbury Square and check out the list of Bloomsbury group literary figures posted here. Head west to Bedford Square with its elegant Georgian houses. Cross Tottenham Court Road and carry on to Charlotte Street.

Afternoon

See the photos of literary figures such as Dylan Thomas in the basement bar of Fitzroy Tavern at No.16 Charlotte Street, while enjoing a pre- lunch drink. If you fancy something more substantial than bar food, try a curry from Rasa Samudra at No. 5.

After lunch amble gently back to Tottenham Court Road for some homeware shopping. Heals and Habitat sell a wide range of furniture and household items, many at the cutting edge of British design. On the second floor of Paperchase (at No. 213–5), the cafe serves good tea.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes, and extra charges.
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Hotel price categories

Prices are for a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
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