Before I came to London, the city was an utter novelty to me. I vowed that I would do everything there was to offer and make the most of having the city at my fingertips. However, now that I live here, I find myself caught up in my studies and extra-curriculars and neglecting what the city has to offer.
Therefore, I’ve made myself a rule to do at least one London related activity every weekend. I’ve also found ways to fit some of my favourite London pastimes into my work life, so I can experience the city whilst studying.
One of my favourite things to do is to visit the galleries and museums. This is one of the most peaceful activities to do in London. They offer a place to slow down your pace in an otherwise manic city. If laden with work yet still desperate to go out and experience the city, I find it useful to wander galleries listening to a podcast related to my subject, or to a presentation that I have to give. The National Gallery, the British Museum and Sir John Soane’s Museum are close to university and therefore remain firm favourites.
The events put on by galleries and museums are unique to London so are worth a visit. For example, “Tate Lates”, which allow you to visit the Tate at night and experience DJs and live music, or the silent discos at the Shard and National History Museum are novelties worth experiencing. The winter lights show at Canary Wharf is another nice way to spend an evening and see an important part of the city.
Musicals, plays, operas, concerts and shows of every kind are at your doorstep. The English National Opera offers free tickets for students under the age of 21. Even if opera is not your cup of tea, it is something worth experiencing at least once. Similarly, the National Theatre offers extremely cheap student tickets, which is worth taking advantage of.
The markets in London make for a peaceful Sunday morning outing. Some of the most popular, such as Portobello, Spitalfields and Borough certainly live up to expectations and allow you to explore a new part of the city without taking up the entirety of a day. Columbia Road Flower Market makes for a picturesque walk while the various markets along the Southbank offer a dramatic view of the river Thames.
London may be polluted and busy, but you can almost forget this by visiting the parks. No matter which part of London you’re staying, you’re likely to be close to a famous park. When it is slightly warmer, Regents Park and Primrose hill are my personal favourites, while Hyde Park with its Winter Wonderland can be festive in the winter.
London is filled with attractions and history that you should make the most of while you live here. Going out and about to different parts of the city can ensure balance in your life and keeps your weeks varied and interesting.
