Simple Ways to Enjoy a Weekend in London!
Saturday is easily the most anticipated day of the week.
You start your week on Monday with fresh energy and good intentions, but by Monday evening, reality hits ya! By the time you get to Thursday evening, you’re fully set on the weekend, with Friday looming just around the corner.
But let’s be honest; sometimes, we over-plan, over-exaggerate, and think way too hard about how to make the most of our weekend. In my time living in this city, I’ve found that simple really is better.
One important thing to remember: you shouldn’t spend the weekend escaping your life but rather embracing it and building more of the life you want!
The best weekends are the ones that leave you feeling refreshed, with a new perspective and a bit more insight about life. Simple things are the way to go!
There are so many incredible places in our city to enjoy that help create a refreshing weekend.
1. Go for a walk.
Simple but does wonders. The hustle during the week doesn’t give us time to slow down and appreciate our communities, local areas, and the city. A leisurely walk lets you reset your mind, recharge, and reflect!
While exploring your local neighbourhood is always a win, here are a few walks I’d personally recommend:
- North Dulwich to Dulwich Common: A quiet, village-like neighbourhood nestled in the depths of South London!
- Richmond Hill to Richmond Riverside: A scenic walk that treats you to views of Richmond’s green spaces, independent shops in the town centre, and a serene riverside experience.
- King’s Cross Coal Drops Yard to Primrose Hill: A lovely canal-side stroll, ending with stunning views from Primrose Hill.
- Mudchute to Canary Wharf: Begin at Mudchute station for a visit to Mudchute Farm, then head into the skyscrapers and sleek streets of Canary Wharf—Chicago vibes, anyone? 😂
- Kensington High Street to Holland Park: Start on the best high street in London, Kensington High Street, and end up at the beautiful Holland Park.
2. Go visit a food hall (or a high street with loads of great food options)!
One of the best things about London is its wealth of food options. We’re lucky to experience an entire world of flavours without booking a flight!
From the bold Nigerian flavours in Peckham to Korean BBQ in New Malden, London has it all.
Here are a few of my favourite foodie spots, both food halls and high streets:
Food Halls:
- Tooting Market + Broadway Market: An exciting mix of local and international bites.
- Brixton Village: Packed with flavour and culture, where you can find just about anything.
- Camden Market: It’s a bit pricey, but there are endless options to choose from!
Foodie High Streets:
- New Malden High Street: London’s Korean food haven, with barbecue, stews, snacks—you name it.
- Tooting High Street / Upper Tooting Road: A mix of South Asian and other global flavours.
- Brick Lane: Known for its iconic curry houses and a bit of everything else on the side.
There are loads of other options out there, but these are solid spots to start with!
3. Go visit some animals, dude!
I’m not talking about the pigeons in your backyard or the fox lurking around your bins. I mean alpacas, llamas, cows, sheep, deer, and more!
London is filled with places where you can see animals up close, and here are a few free options you can check out this weekend:
- Vauxhall City Farm: A small city farm tucked away in Zone 1, complete with all the farm favourites.
- Richmond Park: London’s biggest deer reserve, and yes, it’s absolutely as magical as it sounds! 😂
- Hackney City Farm: I haven’t actually been here yet, but it’s on my list. Conveniently located, just a short walk from Shoreditch!
- Mudchute Park and Farm: Probably one of the best city farms, with a wide variety of animals and tons of space.
So there you have it! A few simple ways you can enjoy your weekend. Take a moment, keep it simple, and find a hidden gem near you!