How you can make the most of your business trip to London
There's no need to stay just where your meeting is – take advantage of the extensive transport network and make one of these buzzing areas your home away from home when you're next in the capital for work
It’s easy to feel bamboozled by the sheer volume of things to do in London, especially if you’re only here for work and time is limited.
What you can be sure about is that, thanks to the capital’s extensive transport network, getting to all of its many bustling hubs is simple – no matter where in the city you’re staying.
So, next time you’re in the capital for business meetings, why not make the most of the time you have away from domestic responsibilities and explore the plentiful delights of one of these buzzing areas? Here are some things to put on your London to-do list…
South Bank/Borough
For a lively location with no shortage of food, culture and landmarks, London's South Bank can do little wrong. Start at the ever-impressive Southbank Centre, where acclaimed exhibitions, musical events and a food market tick all the right boxes. Cross the Thames to enjoy a sunset drink at Somerset House’s chilled Terrace bar or head east along the river until you get to the tantalising Borough Market. En route, why not see what Oxo Tower has to offer?
Marylebone
An afternoon spent navigating the charming cobblestoned streets of Marylebone is a great way to experience the capital’s old-world charm. Take in the grandeur of The Wallace Collection, before browsing in the elegant Daunt Books for new essentials for your reading list. Feeling hungry? Book a table at Sri Lankan restaurant Hoppers to try their celebrated kari dishes or, if you fancy dining alfresco, tuck into the tasty Greek fare at Opso.
The City
It’s hard to think of London’s oldest district without conjuring up images of its famous buildings – but it’s not just St Paul’s Cathedral and the Bank of England that make the area a joy to stay in. St Dunstan in the East – a picturesque church ruined in the Blitz and now blooming with greenery – is a great place to take five in the midst of it all. If you’re hungry afterwards, take a scenic stroll to Bloomberg Arcade, where outposts of some of London’s most hyped eateries will leave you spoiled for choice. End your evening in style with cocktails at Iris, The Gherkin’s sophisticated cocktail bar.
Farringdon
After working up a thirst window-shopping in London’s diamond and jewellery quarter, Hatton Garden, head down a discrete passageway to Ye Olde Mitre. This traditional pub has been around since the 16th century and has a real historic charm. Gastronomes should head to St John, a well-loved Michelin-starred restaurant that's sophisticated but unpretentious. Afterwards, have an amble down to the Barbican Centre to admire the Brutalist architecture and check out what’s on its boundary-pushing artistic programme.
King's Cross
Begin your day with one of Granger & Co’s famed breakfasts – it’s great fuel for a picturesque walk down Regent’s Canal from Granary Square, or exploring Coal Drops Yard – Victorian viaducts converted into shops, galleries and restaurants. For dinner in a stunning locale a stone’s throw from the station, try the German Gymnasium: the Mittel-European cuisine is as impressive as the grand café-inspired décor.
Shoreditch
The ever-changing street art of Shoreditch makes wandering its vibrant roads an experience in itself. But there’s a whole lot more to to discover in the veritable creative hub. Not only are there an abundance of cool independent shops to peruse (try Elemental for restored antique furnishings), but you can also catch a memorable theatre performance at Shoreditch Town Hall. If it’s live music you’re after, head to Old Street Records, where you can tuck into pizza and a cocktail during a performance.
With 77 Travelodge hotels in London alone, you'll never be far from the action. To find out more and book now, visit travelodge.co.uk