Calypso Rose
12-02-2025
LONDON DAYS OUT BEYOND THE BUBBLE
"The thought of crossing London can feel like a mission. “It’s just too far,” as if Shoreditch and Peckham are in different time zones."
Discovering London Days Out: Taking the Scenic Route to Adventure
GGrowing up in Earls Court, I was the queen of being trapped in my bubble, until one day (when I hit 30) the bubble burst - I moved onto a canal boat and then every two weeks we moved to a new area of London and now I can't really sit still.
Every time I push myself to venture to a new postcode, I get butterflies in my stomach, I'm so excited to discover a new cafe, pub or things to do.
A proper London day out is full to the brim with traveling around, looking up and being surprised by London all over again. I'm also always very happy to come home again.
The thought of crossing London can feel like a mission. “It’s just too far,” as if Shoreditch and Peckham are in different time zones. Two changes and a bus journey are anticipated as a bad idea but this just needs to be part of the adventure!
Embrace that Journey. Take the scenic route (I'm usually plugged into a podcast, dreamy)! How about these ideas....
1. This bus has the best views: Hop on the 11 from Fulham to Liverpool Street and soak in the sights—Chelsea, Westminster, St Paul’s, all from the top deck.
2. The Thames Clipper: Turn your commute into a boat trip— cruising at speed from Battersea to Greenwich is the only way to get to the O2! TBH it's my favourite part of getting home from a gig at a venue that seems like the end of the world.
3. Overground Roulette: I love the Elizabeth Line for this one. Pick a random Overground station you’ve never been to and just see what’s there. You could even hitch all the way to Reading and go to the Thames Lido. Yes please.
4. Hopping on a Lime Bike: If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a Lime Bike and cycle through the city—ride from Soho to Southbank, or along the canals (slowly please) from Paddington to Hackney - starting at The Cheese Barge. It’s a brilliant way to see London from a new perspective.
Here are three spots that make perfect sightseeing trips, each with a totally different vibe:
1. Camden – London’s Alternative Playground. Yes, it’s famous, but it's not all about Camden Market. Camden has a super buzzy street food scene.
Must do: Walk along Regent’s Canal to Primrose Hill for incredible views, go on an Indytute walking tour, discovering all the best musicians that lived and played here or go on a really fun foody treasure hunt.
2. Victoria Park Village – East London’s Hidden GemJust off the edge of Victoria Park, this little enclave feels like a countryside escape in the heart of East London.
Must do: Have brunch at Pavilion Café overlooking the lake, browse the independent boutiques, and sip a pint in the Lauriston pub. You might also spot my canal boat, so give me a wave. They have a fantastic, foody market on most Sundays from 10-3pm.
3.Kensington & Chelsea – The Blue Plaque Capital. With more blue plaques than any other borough, this area is steeped in history.
Must do: Wander through quiet mews streets, potter Kings Road and spot plaques dedicated to figures like Oscar Wilde and Agatha Christie, and finish up with a visit to the Design Museum, Saatchi Gallery or a stroll through Holland Park.
