Best Restaurants, Bars and Things to Do in Victoria, London

via Ana Sheppard

🚂 ALL ABOARD this brand new transport-themed afternoon tea in London! AD We loved the Ticket to Ride afternoon tea @dtlondonvictoria it was one of the more relaxed festive experiences we’ve done and loved. The board game by @asmodeeuk is great for interaction and conversations around travel and geography, the food is full of crowd pleasers and the atmosphere is very relaxed and crowd free! 📍DoubleTree by Hilton, 2 Bridge Place, Pimlico, SW1V 1QA 💷 from £15.95 per person #theyounglondoner #Londonfoodie #londonkids #londonchildren #afternoontealondon

via Ana Sheppard

'The course of true love never did run smooth' AD The Midsummer Night's Dream Afternoon Tea @taj51bg is very cute. Lovely attention to detail alongside beautiful teas and treats. It's not a cheap eat but a good one to know for a special occasion. 📍51 Buckingham Gate 🕑12pm, 2pm or 4pm 💷 £75 pp #theyounglondoner #afternoonteainlondon #londonbylondoners #diningoutwithkids #London #londonfamilies #Londonfoodguide #ldn #londra

via Ana Sheppard

From skyline views to farms, play cafés, galleries, and museums - here’s your ultimate autumn inspo to keep young Londoners busy without bankrupting us parents. 📢 You know the drill. 🔖 save 🔊 share 💬 comment 🎈 Play & Create @tate (Tate Britain Play Space) 🆓 🚀 Explore @sciencemuseum The Garden, Now Play This, Wonderlab + NEW Space Gallery 💷/🆓 🎭 Family shows @halfmoon_theatre (Stepney) 💷 ⚓️ AHOY! gallery @wearelondonmuseum Docklands 🆓 🎨 Creative fun @nationalgallery (Roden Learning Centre) 🆓 🐄 Big city farm vibes @mudchute_farm 🆓 🌳 Discovery + nature @theroyalparks The LookOut Hyde Park 🆓 🎭 @polkatheatre shows (Wimbledon) 💷 🛝 Princess Diana Memorial Playground 🆓 🧗‍♀️ Adventure play in Holland Park🆓 🏊‍♂️ Swim + soft play @better_uk centres throughout London @britannia_leisure_centre is our favourite 💷 ⚽️ Riverside play @fulham.pier 🆓 ⛳️ Free mini golf + art trail @canarywharflondon 🆓 ☕️ Role play fun @role2playuk (Walthamstow) 💷 🥐 Coffee + play @cheekychopsplaycafe (Twickenham) 💷 🦕 Explore @hornimanmuseumgardens Forest Hill 🆓/💷 🖼 Family-friendly art @dulwichgallery 💷 🎨 Free art & workshops @southlondongallery 🌆 Free 58th floor views at Horizon 22 📜 Family trails @nationalarchivesuk (Kew) 🆓 🦌 @theroyalparks Richmond Park 🆓 🐖 Meet animals @vauxhallfarm 🆓 🎨 Design fun @designmuseum (Kensington) 🆓 🦖 Dinosaurs + space @natural_history_museum 💷/🆓 📚 Stories & Creativity @young.vam (Bethnal Green) 🆓 🚲 Indoor/outdoor play @dreamiplaycafe (Hackney) 💷 🐎 Huge park + zoo + pirate ship @batterseaparklondon 💷/🆓 🎖 Play Base & family fun @nam_london (National Army Museum, Chelsea) 🆓 🚇 Transport adventures @ltmuseum (Covent Garden) 💷 🦖 Quirky skeletons @grantmuseumucl (Bloomsbury) 🆓 📚 Science + art @wellcomecollection 🆓 🎨 Free exhibitions @whitechapelgallery 🆓 🌳 Urban nature @londonwildlifetrust Camley Street Natural Park 🆓 🧸 Story adventures @discover_story (Stratford) 💷 🏰 Playground + farm @coramsfields_charity 🆓 🎭 Puppetry fun @littleangeltheatre 💷

via the_victorian_society

Encaustic floor tiles, popular throughout the 19th century, were clay tiles made by inlaying different coloured clays into the surface, rather than a painted-on glaze, creating a more durable design that remains visible even as the tile wears away. Sone of the finest examples can be found in St Stephen’s Hall at the Palace of Westminster. During the Victorian rebuilding of Parliament after the 1834 fire, architect Charles Barry and designer Augustus Welby Pugin transformed the hall into a richly decorated Gothic Revival space. The encaustic floor tiles, inspired by medieval precedents, were an essential part of this vision.

via inchelsealondon

Missed @klattermusen’s Global Running Day run this morning? Chelsea’s running scene is locked in. Keep an eye on news from @klattermusen and @nikewomen’s King’s Road stores for upcoming community runs and events. Need your fix now? Train with @onetrack_club on the track where running legend Sir Roger Bannister prepared for his historic sub-four-minute mile, or head indoors to @kxulondon’s PAYG boutique gym on Pavilion Road. Share this with your running mate and make a date.

via londonf00die

??Sticks�n�Sushi, Victoria (& other locations) I visited @sticksnsushi.uk a couple of weeks ago to try their �All You Can Sip� Bottomless Brunch, and all I can say is WOW�. It was such a good experience! The vibe was relaxed but lively, and the service was 10/10 - suuuuper friendly and attentive without being rushed. The food was brought out in beautifully-presented sharing courses - everything was fresh, creative and well-seasoned. The portion sizes were MASSIVE and they gave us so much food�we left feeling stuffed! For drinks, we went through a good few rounds of cocktails and sparkling sake??, which kept coming consistently. No stinginess at all with the bottomless drinks which we LOVE to see. Here�s everything we had: Sharing Ichi (for the table): ?? Spicy Edamame ?? Cauliflower (fried with black truffle goma) ??? Oksazu (kimchi with chilli) ?? Potato Sarda (cucumber, red onion, carrot, cress, crispy potato) ?? Kappa Chilli (cucumber, almonds, chilli, onion, roasted sesame oil) Sharing Ni (for the table): ?? Bimi Tempura (tenderstem broccoli tempura, daikon oroshi, dashi-like citrus soy sauce) ?? Grilled Avocado (avocado, sesame oil, sumomo soy, soy sauce) ?? Green Tartare Bites (grilled broccoli marrow, ginger, yuzu, avocado, coriander on crispy flatbread). Maki (x8pcs pp): ??Garden Roll ?? Red�n�Green Roll ????? Rice Paper Kinoko ?? Mamma Mia Roll Nigiri (x2pcs pp): ?? Avocado ????? Mushroom ?? Aubergine Sticks (x1 pp): ?? Imo Yaki (sweet potato, coriander cress, teriyaki) ?? Shishito Yaki (padron peppers, spicy gochujang, tsume & lime sauce) ????? Eringi Yaki (king oyster mushroom, miso herb sauce) Dessert: ?? Shabetto (sorbet trio: Alphonso mango, chocolate & Avola almonds, blackcurrant) Overall Rating: ????? - INSANE!!!! Best Dishes: Cauliflower with truffle goma (without a doubt!!) Grilled Avocado, Mamma Mia Roll, Shabetto sorbet trio Drink Highlights: Mio Sparkling Junmai (sparkling sake)???? Thank you so much for having me @sticksnsushi.uk *invite - I can�t recommend this brunch enough!!!??

via raisingislainlondon_

Cruise through London�s iconic sights with Uber Boat by @thamesclippers - a fab way to explore the city�s beauty from the Thames! Such an unforgettable adventure as we feel the pulse of London�s vibrant energy as iconic landmarks pass by. From the majestic Tower Bridge to the grandeur of the Houses of Parliament. So lovely to share laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments with friends against the backdrop of London�s timeless beauty. Will definitely bring Isla next time as she would absolutely love this. ?? Experience the magic of London from a new perspective with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers! #uberboat #uberboatbythamesclippers Uber Boat | Thames Clippers | Explore London | Visit London | London Day out | London Family Day Out | Half Term Activities

via raisingislainlondon_

A Wickedly Magical Afternoon at The Clermont, Victoria for �55 per person! @theclermontlondon ad| We recently visited The Clermont, Victoria for their Wicked Afternoon Tea and it truly felt like stepping into a little piece of theatre magic right in the heart of London. ?? ?? The hotel itself is elegant and luxurious, and the Tea Lounge perfectly matches that atmosphere, beautiful d�cor, comfortable seating and a lovely, relaxed vibe that immediately makes the experience feel special. Being just a short walk from the Apollo Victoria Theatre, you can really feel the Wicked influence throughout the experience. The afternoon tea includes a beautifully presented selection of sweet and savoury treats inspired by the musical. The stand featured savoury finger sandwiches, traditional homemade scones served with jam and clotted cream, and some gorgeous themed desserts like the witch�s hat chocolate brownie and a Raspberry Pink Macaron. Staff were incredibly helpful, polite and attentive throughout our visit. They also made the experience extra special for Isla by gifting her a Clermont teddy bear, which was such a lovely touch and completely made her day. From the elegant setting to the thoughtful details and magical theme, it�s such a fun and memorable experience, especially if you�re planning to see Wicked next door. Definitely one of the more unique afternoon teas we�ve tried in London. @joli_app #wickedthemusical #thingstodoinlondon #londonafternoontea #toplondonrestaurants #londonexperience

via sebhardinglondon

Imagine facing arrest and the end of your career because of your sexuality....? ? This month marks LGBTQ history month so I decided to take a trip to the former London home of Sir John Gielgud. ? ? It was here that Gielgud was living when he arrested after being caught soliciting for sex in a public toilet in Chelsea. ? ? 16 Cowley Street, Westminster is a charming Georgian house built from warm red brick which sits in a close of streets that is up there as one of my favourite London neighbourhoods.? ? Over the past few weeks I've been exploring the former homes of LGBTQ luminaries in the capital. For similar stories join my Substack at the link in my bio.? ? #queerheroes #LGBTQIA #LGBTQIAhistorymonth #Londonhistory #London?

via baldtruths

Part VII: No Appointment Necessary

via sebhardinglondon

Have you ever noticed this sign?? ? A tantalising reminder of the Blitz tucked away on a Georgian street.? ? Westminster's historic streets are within walking distance of some of the busiest tourist spots in the city but they are often practically empty. ? Well worth a weekend saunter for the avid architecture or history buff!? ? #London #historicarchitecture #blitz #Londonarchitecture?

via the_victorian_society

�A masterpiece in striped brick and stone� - John Betjeman Happy birthday to John Francis Bentley, born #onthisday in 1839. His Neo-Byzantine fantasy was inspired by visits to Venice and Istanbul, the works of Ruskin and Norman Shaw, and the Arts and Crafts movement. Completed after Bentley�s death, much of the architect�s original vision was never realised. Interested in uncovering more historic buildings like this? Join the Victorian Society at the link in our bio. #heritage #architecture #victorian #hiddenlondon

via Living London History

It was inside this building in Westminster that one of the most important meetings of the 20th century took place� It was here at Methodist Central Hall on the 10th January 1946, exactly eighty years ago this year, that the first ever meeting of the United Nations took place. I was lucky enough to be invited for a tour around and see where history happened, so I thought I would share that with you! The building dates from 1912 and was constructed primarily as a Methodist Church. However, after World War Two, it was thought that the first meeting of the UN should take place in war-torn London and Methodist Central Hall was chosen. The devastation and destruction of war would be evident and stark for the 51 delegates who attended from around the world. The world came together after two catastrophic world wars, to try and avoid conflict, encourage cooperation to create a stable, safe world and enshrine human rights. It is a moment in history that feels increasingly important to remember today. #london #londonhistory #unitednations #westminster londontravel

via Halal Xplorer

Finding the best coffee in London Episode 01: Nostos @nostoscoffee are absolute legends in the London coffee scene. What they�re most famous for is their unique freeze distilled flat white. It�s a technique used by baristas in barista competitions and typically it takes a bit of time so you won�t find this being done in many cafes at all. What is it? It is when milk is frozen and then defrosted. Milk defrosts quicker than water so when the defrosting is happening, you�re initially left with concentrated creamy and sweet milk. And that milk is used to make your flat white. It tastes sweeter and creamier and slightly sweeter too. And fascinatingly the taste changes as the drink gets cooler! . #londoncoffee #londoncoffeeshops #londoncoffeeshop #londoncafe #coffeelondon

via This Food Bangz

Falling off the bone! Now that�s Tenderism Full review @caxton_grill pending! #tenderism #tendernism #beefribs #steakhouse

via proper_boozers

Some cracking boozers have come and gone from London�s streets and the Windsor Castle was up there with the best of them. What other lost London pubs do you miss?

Big Ben

via the_victorian_society

The Clock Tower of Westminster Palace, Britain’s best-loved landmark and an intricately detailed realisation of the Gothic Revival, was completed #onthisdayinhistory in 1859. Discover more about AWN Pugin in our book on the architect, available in the Victorian Society online shop. Images: “Detail of Big Ben on the newly restored Elizabeth tower of the Palace of Westminster, London by Julian Herzog” is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International. “Elizabeth Tower and the Great Clock following restoration - May 2022” by ketrin1407 is licensed under CC BY 2.0. “Houses of Parliament in 2022 alt crop” by Terry Ott is licensed under CC BY 2.0. “Pugin’s Tower at Westminster (detail)” by Lawrence OP is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Hanbaagaasuuteeki

via raisingislainlondon_

🍽️ London Eats You Don't Want to Miss 🇬🇧✨

British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England

via raisingislainlondon_

ad| All aboard the Hogwarts Express - well, almost! ?? Isla and I, as the biggest @harrypotter fans, had the time of our lives aboard the iconic @belmondbritishpullman train for the launch of Yoto�s Hogwarts Library Collection. From the most magical service to endless delicious treats and fun activities for Isla, it was an unforgettable journey through the stunning English countryside. I absolutely loved listening to the new audiobooks and am now on a full-blown Harry Potter marathon, every film, every spin-off, no stopping now! Obsessed is an understatement. Huge thanks to @yotoplay for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Truly one for the books! . . #harrypotter #britishpullman #belmondtrains #yoto #yotoplayer #harrypottercollector #wizardingworldofharrypotter #hogwartslibrary #hogwartsexpress #harrypottertrain #harrypottertravel #harrypotterbooks #harrypotterexperience #harrypotterfans #9and3quarters #kingscrossstation #kingscrossstpancras #londonforkids #londonmums #uktravel #uktrains #belmond #potterhead #beedlethebard #quidditch #gryffindor #englishcountryside #audiobooks #audiobookreview Harry Potter, Belmond Train, London for Kids, London Experience, Yoto, Yoto Player

The Rubens at the Palace

via raisingislainlondon_

ad | A royal treat for the family!?? We had the loveliest afternoon tea at @rubenshotel , right by Buckingham Palace! Think delicious sandwiches, fresh pastries, and warm scones with cream (yes please ??). The views of the royal stables were such a cool touch, and the whole vibe felt super fancy but still fun and relaxed, perfect for a little family day out. You can even upgrade with a glass of champagne if you�re feeling extra! If you�re looking for something a bit special to do in London, this one�s a winner. Book now on the @fever_uk app and use my code MAERFAMILY10 for �� off! ??

account the clermont victoria london

via raisingislainlondon_

A Wickedly Magical Afternoon at The Clermont, Victoria for �55 per person! @theclermontlondon ad| We recently visited The Clermont, Victoria for their Wicked Afternoon Tea and it truly felt like stepping into a little piece of theatre magic right in the heart of London. ?? ?? The hotel itself is elegant and luxurious, and the Tea Lounge perfectly matches that atmosphere, beautiful d�cor, comfortable seating and a lovely, relaxed vibe that immediately makes the experience feel special. Being just a short walk from the Apollo Victoria Theatre, you can really feel the Wicked influence throughout the experience. The afternoon tea includes a beautifully presented selection of sweet and savoury treats inspired by the musical. The stand featured savoury finger sandwiches, traditional homemade scones served with jam and clotted cream, and some gorgeous themed desserts like the witch�s hat chocolate brownie and a Raspberry Pink Macaron. Staff were incredibly helpful, polite and attentive throughout our visit. They also made the experience extra special for Isla by gifting her a Clermont teddy bear, which was such a lovely touch and completely made her day. From the elegant setting to the thoughtful details and magical theme, it�s such a fun and memorable experience, especially if you�re planning to see Wicked next door. Definitely one of the more unique afternoon teas we�ve tried in London. @joli_app #wickedthemusical #thingstodoinlondon #londonafternoontea #toplondonrestaurants #londonexperience

Franco Manca Victoria

via londonf00die

??Franco Manca, Victoria Deeeeelish wood-fired pizzas at @francomancapizza ???? We had: ?? Truffle Burrata Pizza � mozzarella, creamy burrata, wild mushrooms & black truffle oil ?? No. 6 Chorizo Pizza � organic tomato, mozzarella, chorizo (dry & semi-dry), and fresh basil ?? Dips � garlic, pesto, and �nduja Perfect sourdough bases, generous toppings, and dips that made the crusts the best part. Nothing fancy - just really, really good pizza. Thank you for the *invite @francomancapizza ????????

Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue

via bowlofchalk

There would seem to be more statues of known animals in London (like people's pets) than there are of women (not including Royalty and mythological women), something that is very slowly being redressed. Out of all the blue plaques in London, only 15% are for women. As it's International Womens Day, here are a few of my fave female statues in London inc. Edith Cavell, Florence Nightingale, Mary Seacole, Millicent Fawcett and Boudicca. I've also added the Women of World War II memorial on Whitehall for good measure, 'cause it's flippin' wicked. Anyone got their own favourites? I'll add a link to the full blog post in the accompanying Story. #iwd #internationalwomensday #statues #women

St Saviours Church

via the_victorian_society

The last few tickets are available for our visit to William White�s Grade I Listed Church, St Saviour, in Aberdeen Park, North London on Saturday 9th August. This year we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of Victorian architect, William White, with a visit to one of his greatest churches built in 1885. This has not been a parish church for many years now, but has been well preserved and cherished by the Florence Trust, a group of artists. There will be talks by Gill Hunter, author of 'William White Pioneer Victorian Architect', and John Scott, Chair of the Society's Southern Buildings Committee and of the Exeter Diocesan Advisory Committee. See the link in our bio to book tickets. #victorianarchitecture #victorianchurch #williamwhitearchitect #architecturalhistory #churchcrawling