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Amazing London Experiences For Families

Today I have a guest post from Mel who runs Melanie's Fab Finds. Mel writes about life in London with a young family. Go check out her blog!

Visiting London with children? Then you'll want to make sure that that visit is a memorable one for all. This city is full of fun activities that are great for kids and families. It's hard to know what to do especially if you search the internet as you'll be inundated with hundreds of options. Here are some great options for the whole family to enjoy.

London Experiences That Families Will Love

ZSL London Zoo

Suitable for families with children of all ages London Zoo attracts thousands of visitors each year. Visitors can see over 500 different species of animals. As well as seeing the animals at the zoo they also offer experiences giving you the chance to be a keeper for a day or have a once-in-a-lifetime animal encounter. It is a great day out and you'll need the day to see everything and make use of the different photo ops and play area. The children loved that they were free to get hands-on with some of the animals too.

A Visit To Wembley Stadium

Wembley Stadium

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If you are planning a visit to London with the family, why not arrange it to coincide with an event at Wembley Stadium? This iconic UK stadium has been in London since 1923, a hundred years this year. As well as hosting events in the past such as the Olympics, and the World Cup, it is used for a variety of sporting and music events. So if you and your kids want to see the latest football friendly or Harry Styles in concert, it is always worth checking out what is on at Wembley Stadium before your trip to London. 

Escape Rooms

These have grown in popularity with both adults and children. There are plenty to choose from and you can do these as a family. Mission Breakout is suitable for a range of ages and is a really unique option when it comes to escape rooms. Located in a disused tube station, this fully immersive escape room challenges players to navigate through, work together and solve clues to escape in time. It's fun, different and ideal for a family day out, especially on a rainy day.

Afternoon Tea


I took my daughters for their first-ever afternoon tea last year at St Ermins Hotel. They had the most amazing time. The food was great as was the service. Both loved being treated like Princesses and it was definitely one of those experiences they'll treasure forever. The afternoon tea was themed which added to its appeal. You'll find numerous themed afternoon teas in London to choose from and it certainly is a relaxed and indulgent way to enjoy an afternoon.

The Crystal Maze

Many adults will recall tuning in to watch The Crystal Maze as children. Now you can take on the challenge yourself. This is great for anyone with families with older children (age 13+). Travel through the 4 adventure zones; Medieval, Industrial, Aztec and Futuristic. Collect as many crystals as you can, the more you have the more time in the crystal dome!!! This fun, action-packed game is certainly popular with an exceptionally high number of 5 star reviews on Trip Advisor. Clearly a fabulous experience worth doing at least once.

The Sealife Centre

Having been last year for the first time my son can't wait to visit again. Here you'll see hundreds of different marine species and come face to face with a giant turtle, sharks, jellyfish and more. The kids loved seeing all the different types of marine life, stepping over the shark walk, and playing on the well-placed activity stations that you'll find everywhere. Amazing for children and adults and perfect to visit as part of a family day out.

So there you have it, these are just some of the great activity options available for days families visiting or living in London. If you are looking for a great place to stay try the Park Grand Paddington Court London and Nannybag storing luggage London to store your luggage when you check out of an apartment.

Have a wonderful visit. We look forward to seeing some of you over on the blog or social media pages.

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Thanks for reading.

Melanie x
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Family-Friendly Shows In London You Must See

The theatre is always a fun place to visit, whether you are visiting with your partner, family or friends. But what family-friendly shows are there in London that you can all enjoy together? Using sites like best-tickets.co.uk, you can get some great deals and check out some fab shows without breaking the bank - something that is super important if you want to take the whole family out to the theatre! This is an ad.

Here are my top picks for shows that the whole family will enjoy. Having seen a few of them myself in the past, I cannot stress highly enough how much brilliant they are.

The Lion King


A stunning stage performance based on the hit 1994 film of the same name, this show has been in the West End on and off since 1999 and it is clear to see why it remains popular to this day. Featuring hit songs from the Disney films that the kids will just love to sing along to, everyone will enjoy this show.

Kids and parents alike adore The Lion King story so why wouldn’t you want to see it live on stage?

Horrible Histories

There have been the books, there’s been a TV show and there’s even been a film - now there’s a musical too! If you want your child to learn about history whilst being entertained at the same time, then you will want to check out this show for yourself. The songs and the humour remain entertaining for the whole family.

Whether you’re learning about the Romans, the Vikings or one of the World Wars, you are bound to be entertained.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child


Known as one of the shows you absolutely must see in London, this is great for families whether you are a Harry Potter fan or not. It is the eighth story in the Harry Potter series and the first official Harry Potter story to be presented on stage. This stage production has won many awards for its run in the West End and plenty of awards across the pond thanks to the Broadway version too! 

The show is amazing and the set design fantastic, but due to some scary scenes suitable for children of 10 years and older.

Mary Poppins

It returned to the West End in 2019 and is of course based on the ever-popular 1964 Disney film. It doesn’t matter if you’re a fan of the film or not but if you are, you’re bound to find yourself singing along to those memorable tunes, such as A Spoonful Of Sugar and Super‐cali‐fragil‐istic‐expi‐ali‐docious! 

This show couldn’t be more family-friendly if it tried.

The Nutcracker


Showing at the London Coliseum, The Nutcracker is a beautiful show. A ballet which the whole family can enjoy, it helps get children interested in classical music and is completely family-friendly. 

With Tchaikovsky’s recognisable score and over 100 dancers and musicians bringing the story to life, it is a truly enchanting show and well worth a watch.

There is so much to see and do in London and if you have never been to a family-family theatre show I highly recommend it. For more inspiration check out this London theatre bucket list. Do you enjoy going to the theatre? What shows have you been enjoying lately? Is there anything a little more obscure that you reckon I should check out?

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Secret Escapes Within Striking Distance Of London




London is a big, bustling, frothing city full of life. Sometimes, though, you want to leave it behind and find a bolt-hole out in the countryside where you can relax and unwind. 

London’s urban sprawl doesn’t go on forever. Eventually, you’ll hit the green belt, and from there, it’s out into the shires. Fortunately, the counties surrounding London are chock full of stunning, luxurious, and relaxing hotels - the perfect base for exploring the city.

Here are some favourites.

The Montcalm Marble Arch Hotel, London


The Montcalm Marble Arch Hotel is a luxury hotel at the top of Park Lane. It's very close to the centre of London including Mayfair, Regent's Street and Oxford Street. It has beautiful contemporary decor and features 153 rooms and 14 exceptional suites. 

Amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, LCD Tv with satellite channels and a pillow menu. Service is attentive and discreet. A must stay.

The Grove, Hertfordshire


The Grove in Hertfordshire is a converted historical estate dating back to the seventeenth century. Just 18 miles from London, it features a spa, golf course and a famous restaurant. What’s more, getting airport transfers from Loughton to the hotel is easy.

The mansion is ideal for people travelling to the UK from overseas who want to experience what the Old World is all about. Log fires burn in every room, there’s a grand library, and the gardens are stunning during the summer months.

Langshott Manor, Gatwick

Gatwick might be the UK’s second busiest passenger terminal, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t quiet corners nearby to relax and unwind. One of the best is arguably Lanshott Manor, an Elizabethan mansion that offers stylish gardens, fine dining and an ancient moat.

Langshott Manor, like Gatwick airport, is some distance from the city of London, accessible via the M23. It’s the perfect hideaway for a romantic weekend break or an ideal base for anybody holidaying in the southeast who wants to dip in and out of the hustle and bustle of London.

Pennyhill Park Hotel, Bagshot

Pennyhill Park Hotel lies in the heart of Surrey, one of the most beautiful and prestigious counties in England. The former stately home sits in a 120-acre estate and, according to many reviewers, offers one of the best spa experiences in the country.

The hotel has a semi-boutique feel, but is actually quite large, with more than 123 luxury bedrooms spanning several floors. Management at the hotel has tried to keep the contemporary style while also adding a host of modern amenities expected by international luxury travellers.

The hotel itself is, of course, beautiful, but it’s also within striking distance of some of the UK’s most famous attractions, including Windsor Castle and Ascot.

The Crown, Amersham

The Crown is a little different from the stately homes and country manors we’ve discussed so far. It’s a converted coach house, offering more than 40 bedrooms, a bar, and close access to the London Metropolitan line. The restaurant serves up seasonal salads and grilled meats every night, making it well worth a visit if you want a luxury British pub experience. 

So here are some secret escapes within striking distance of London. Have you been to any of these places?

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The Most Exciting Places To Dine When Visiting London

Aside from being one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet, London is also something of a food-lovers paradise with thousands of restaurants serving up almost every delicacy imaginable. If you really want to experience the very best of what the capital has to offer in terms of its mouth-watering cuisine then there are a few key locations and dining experiences that you really can’t afford to miss.

Thames Cruise Dinner


There can be few experiences as magical as the regular Thames dinner cruises that are scheduled along the river every evening. A perfect way to see the city skyline whilst enjoying some of the freshest local cuisines, it’s a two-for-one sightseeing and dining experience that offers a range of options – from a simple taster menu on the deck to an evening full of live music and entertainment.

Dishoom Shoreditch 


If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine then this is an opportunity not to be missed. Located on the iconic Boundary Street in the effortlessly classy Shoreditch area of London, Dishoom has become something of an institution since it arrived in Shoreditch in 2012. The shell of the building is an old café that now plays host to the best street food in London. Indian chefs are renowned for their succulent and fragrant street cuisine so you know you’ll be getting something truly special. There’s also a verandah area for summer evening meals as well a prohibition themed cocktail bar called “The Permit Room.”

Borough Market



For those that prefer to devour their food on the go and appreciate a little variety, Borough Market is not only the most famous food market in London but might also be the best in the world when it comes to fresh produce and sheer selection. From oysters and cheese toasties to Korean, Indian, Thai, Chinese and good old fashioned British comfort food; a man who has grown tired of dining at Borough Market has grown tired of dining.

Maltby Street Market 


The cooler and quieter cousin to Borough Market that manages to fit a cavalcade of bars, restaurants and street vendors into a single narrow street, Maltby is an unmissable London dining experience for anyone that considers themselves something of a foodie ‘hipster’. You might end up paying a little more than you would at Borough, and the selection isn’t quite as varied, but what is on offer is all uniformly excellent and interesting. The name of the game here is quality and when it comes to this game, everyone is a winner!

Let me know, where do you recommend to eat in London?

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Five Things To Do In London

If you’re visiting the city of London for the first time, it can be pretty overwhelming. There’s a lot to see and do, and if you’ve only got a short stay or even a long one, it’s important to know what needs checking off the travel bucket list. So here’s five things to do in London, whenever you go.


See A West End Theatre Show

London is a known hub for all things theatre, and one of the must-do’s is to experience a West End Theatre show. There is plenty on offer all year round, and even if you’re looking for something last-minute, there will always be something available to suit your taste. From musicals to plays, a great way of finding theatre tickets is to go through a site like TodayTix or with the theatre directly. Todaytix is particularly good because they’re discounted tickets and that helps save the pennies. You could also go to see a show like Mary Poppins, and then go on a movie location tour after in London.

Go Up The Shard


If you’re not afraid of heights and want the opportunity to see the whole of London, then The Shard has beaten The London Eye when it comes to 360° views of the city’s landscape. The Shard was built back in 2009 and is a 95-storey building fitted out with multiple viewing platforms, restaurants, a hotel and offices. So if you find yourself feeling a little peckish on the way down from the viewing point, you could always stop in for a meal at one of their renowned fine-dining restaurants.

Taste The Delights Of Borough Market


If street food is more your style, then Borough Market is a definite place to stop by during your stay in London. It’s a busy hub of retail and food that has been around since the 12th century. That’s a long, long time! It’s one of the oldest and largest markets in London and is certainly worth going to if you want to try a variety of cuisines and of course, to get a few bargains in the process.

Walk Along The Southbank


There are many beautiful spots in London to enjoy the sites, but one of the most popular places for tourists and locals to go is the Southbank. The Southbank sits alongside the River Thames and has a whole host of chain restaurants and bars to entertain you late into the night. It’s particularly beautiful in the evening, and you’re likely to see many a busker and street entertainer along the way.

Visit Free Museums


If you’re trying to save money on your trip away, there are plenty of free things that you can get up to around London. These freebies can still provide you with a wonderful experience and insight into London’s history. There are plenty of museums in London, of which the majority are free to enter. The main ones to visit are the Natural History Museum, the V&A and the Science Museum.

If you are looking for a well-positioned hotel in Paddington with easy train links then check out the Chilworth London Paddington, with its timeless elegance.

With five things to add to your list, your trip to London will certainly be one to remember. Enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer!

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Visiting London On A Budget - Can It Be Done?

Today we have a guest post from Yaya. Yaya runs My Dreamality - a lifestyle blog that encourages you to start living your best life now! From sharing travel tips to advice on simple living you can find a variety of articles to simplify your life and live joyfully.



My first London moment was one of the best experiences of my life. I had only just landed in the city when I started to fall head over heels in love. The sights, the atmosphere, the big, American city vibe in a European setting; I just couldn’t get enough. But what hit me pretty much as soon as I got to London was the prices. Oh my gosh, it is expensive! Anyone who has been to London will have a story about how much money they spent and how it is majorly overpriced, just like I have!

Today, I don’t want to focus on the inevitable spending spree. Today, I want to focus on London on a budget. That’s right, a lot of people say it can’t be done and are calling me a fool! But I think that the tips below can slash the cost of visiting London by a big margin. Check them out and see for yourself.

Plan Your Trip in Advance 

London is huge and there is a lot to visit. By winging your journey, you run the risk of additional expenses and from experience, I definitely don't recommend that. I know they only seem small and insignificant, but over the space of a weekend, for example, unforeseen expenses can add up to a lot of money. So do your research beforehand, decide on what is too expensive and cross it off your list. Accommodation is probably the big one when it comes to this. My advice is to book as far in advance as possible and don't book breakfast as it's usually very pricey for what you get.

I like to use Free Tours By Foot as a guide because it has information on everything you need, including places to stay and eat, discount tickets, and free things to do.

Buy An Oyster Card 

Oyster Cards are London’s travel pass. You top them up at a machine and use them electronically to ride the Tube and catch buses. What makes an Oyster card cheaper than the alternatives is the spending limit. If you don’t go out of zones one to three, you will only spend seven pounds and can ride the Tube all day. Or, I have just found out you can use contactless bank cards, which is pretty much the same.

Walk! 

For me, there is no better way to see London than to get your walk on. Okay, it might take a lot longer than normal and isn't possible for everyone. But you see a lot more of the city than you do on public transport. I mean honestly, how much of the city can you see from the underground? Plus, walking is, and always will be, free!

I once walked from London Bridge to Waterloo, for example, and had a wonderful afternoon. The route, you might be surprised to hear, includes all of the following:


* Traditional riverside pubs

* Great views of St Paul's Cathedral

* The Shard

* Tower Bridge

* HMS Belfast

* The Globe Theatre

* The Golden Hinde

* Royal Festival Hall

* The London Eye

Free Attractions 

Not all the attractions in London cost money. The best tip I came across when I first visited was the free attractions. And often they are just as good as some of the ones you have to pay for. The Changing of the Guard is amazing. Because I am somewhat of a foreigner, old, British traditions are a love of mine. Plus, among many others, there is the Tate Modern Gallery, the very impressive Natural History Museum as well as Hyde Park, which is a wonderful place to visit when the weather is nice.

Save Your Tokens Or Points For London 

If you've got supermarket points, tokens or any discount codes to hand, save them for your next trip to the capital. Last time I was in London I used Tesco Clubcard points I had accumulated on two yummy dinners - one of them at Prezzo, which I love. This meant that I saved a considerable amount on what would have otherwise been either an expensive dinner at some fancy restaurant or at an overpriced pub. 

Check out blogs and vlogs for shopping on a budget tips

There is a wealth of information out there about shopping on a budget in London. There are a number of cool charity shops, markets, bargain shops and vintage stores. Check them out and you can really get a bargain.

Personally, I think London on a budget can be done. What is your London on a budget tip?
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London - Vintage Markets And Car Boots Sales You Can't Miss

The Beatles, Queen Elizabeth, cricket, James Bond, the red telephone box – all things traditionally associated with Britain. However, perhaps more authentically, that should be fish and chips, accents, tea, queuing, car boot sales and a love for all things vintage.



Of course, you can't get much more British than London – home to Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the iconic red bus. Moreover, there is such a wide variety of vintage markets and car boot sales in the capital that it's easy to find a different style to experience each day of the week. There are both specialist markets and more general street markets, so there really is something for everyone.

Old Spitalfields Market



Now, when we say vintage, you may envisage a range of ionic '70s garments or an LP from your favourite artist – but, here, we’re talking clothes, children’s toys, home items and even artisan food products. This market received a major revamp prior to the turn of the millennium and has since transformed into a one-stop shopping destination. This rejuvenated market can be found in the heart of East London, just off Commercial Street.

On Thursdays, a specific antique market runs all day long, offering a bonus cluster of stalls awash with collectables you could find yourself just dying to get your hands on. Five minutes away from this vibrant vendor is the multicultural Shepherd's Bush, the perfect neighbourhood in which to stay overnight during a jaunt in the capital.

The Dorsett Hotel in this area provides an ideal base after a busy day of scouring the markets, while there's also Dorsett Hotel, City of London accommodation if you would prefer somewhere more central.

Hackney Flea Market



Antique furniture is back in trend, and Hackney Flea Market is the place to find it. This monthly market is held at Abney Hall on Stoke Newington's Church Street, and if you’re on the hunt for a bargain, you’re in luck, as you’re sure to find throwback pieces stretching back to the '60s here. If you’re not after furniture, there are also stalls selling vintage fabrics, ceramics, prints and some amazing jewellery.

St Augustine’s Car Boot Sale

Found in Kilburn Park, this is arguably London's most famous car boot sale. It has been growing rapidly since its birth in 1996 and continues to attract a trendy crowd on the lookout for hot bargains. If you rummage thoroughly enough, you're sure to find a treasure, whether it is an unspoilt violin, vintage cake stand or virtually brand new Laura Ashley tea set.

Portobello Market



At the south end of this wonderful street market, you'll encounter some pristine antiques and, at the north end, you’ll find a manner of small collectables and goods you’re likely to describe as bric-a-brac. In the middle, the aroma of fresh fruit and vegetables is sure to consume you.

On Saturdays, masses of traders erect over 2,000 stalls here and sell everything from collectables to vintage clothing to books to various fabrics. Understandably, this market attracts a large crowd with people vying for bargains or one-off unique pieces. The market is situated on Portobello Road, north of Notting Hill.

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My West End Wishlist For 2019

There are many reasons why people go to the theatre - it's such an immersive experience and a really enjoyable spectacle and this year I have made a resolution to go to the theatre more. As well as visiting my local theatres in Cardiff I really want to visit the West End again and see a theatre production in London. There is nothing like seeing a show in the theatre district of the UK's capital city, so here is my West End wishlist for 2019.

 Les Miserables

 This musical based on the 1882 novel of the same name by Victor Hugo is well known and has been running for a while. I have seen the film starring one of my favourite actors Hugh Jackman and to see this memorable production on the stage with a live orchestra would be amazing. It's such a dramatic play with huge highs and lows and the live music will just really make the show. 

This is my first choice of a show to see this year in the West End before it tours the country. It has been seen by 70 million people worldwide in 45 countries and I can't believe I have yet to see it.

The Book Of Mormon



The Book Of Mormon is a musical comedy that I have already seen and would love to see again. The play makes light of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, otherwise known as the Mormons' and various Mormon beliefs and practices. However, it ultimately endorses the positive power of love that the Mormons' give out. Written by Trey Parker and the rest of the team at South Park it's about Mormon missionaries that are preaching their religion to a remote Ugandan village. The villagers, however, have more on their mind than religion such as poverty, war and AIDS.

The Mormons even appear to endorse it as they advertise in the brochure for the show - 'you've seen the play now read the book!' Winner of 9 Tony Awards, it's a surprisingly light-hearted and uplifting show however not for the easily offended.  

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child 


Now, I must admit I haven't read a Harry Potter book but I have seen the films and this show is next on my list. Marketed as the "eighth story" of Harry Potter, taking place after Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Even the critics have enjoyed this show with The Telegraph calling it 'a magical show with a strong emotional core' and The Guardian stating the 'thrilling Broadway transfer is magic'. 

One of the reasons I really want to see this show is the fact that I believe it will be a really immersive experience with amazing sets. I've been to the Wizarding World Of Harry Potter in Universal Studios Orlando and the awe-inspiring sets here has really motivated me to go and see it.

There are so many different London theatre shows out there, the most dramatic thrillers, colourful musicals for kids, shows where dance is the star and shows where comedy is the main attraction. Let me know, have you been to the West End in London? Do you have a favourite theatre show?

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A Stay In A West London Apartment With FG Properties

If you have older kids you have that dilemma when you go on holiday - do you book more than one hotel room to give them (and you) privacy and space or do you share a room with them? This is where booking an apartment is a perfect choice, especially in areas where hotel rooms are pricey. 

FG Properties is an apartment rental company, that has properties in London and Paris, and was the perfect choice to use when we decided to visit London recently for my son’s 21st birthday.

Bookings can be made on their website, and availability for all the apartments can clearly be seen. Prior to arrival, you are contacted via email by City Relay the management company, and then by text to confirm check-in time. You can collect the keys to the apartment at their London office or they will email you with the apartment code or meet you at the property with the keys.

We were staying at an apartment on Holland Road, walking distance to Westfield shopping centre.

Helene who greeted us with the keys was courteous and helpful. Initial impressions were excellent. The apartment looked fresh and modern and was spotlessly clean.

We entered the apartment up one flight of stairs through a smart black door, into a short hall then right into the lounge/diner. The lounge was a good size and had a large convertible sofa, large flat screen TV, small lounge table and dining table and chairs, to the side, big enough to seat 6.





The room had the illusion of looking bigger as it had high ceilings. It was nicely decorated with chic but fun furnishings such as a lamp in the style of a pineapple.





To the right of the lounge/diner was a small kitchen that was well equipped with most things you would need including a fridge/freezer, dishwasher, toaster, and pod coffee machine as well as a cafeteria for your morning java hit.

All the appliances looked new and modern. There were a small number of tea bags, coffee, sugar and milk provided, enough for a couple of days. Washing up liquid was also available.


As you came out of the lounge and into the hall there was a small but well-appointed bathroom with bath, shower, sink and toilet. Nicely decorated again, there were also Dove toiletries available, including body wash, shampoo and conditioner.  This was a brilliant touch as in my experience when renting an apartment, you often don't get toiletries provided.


Down the hall was a double bedroom with side tables, lamps, and a wardrobe. In the cupboard were an iron, ironing board and hairdryer. We loved the quirky print on the wall! 


At the bottom of the small corridor was the second double bedroom. This had a couple of steps to walk down and you had a view of the gardens below. This room had a chair as well as a chest of drawers. The decor was simple here, in the same fresh style, with white walls and a white duvet cover and pillowcases. Again spotlessly clean.

We have stayed in a number of FG Properties now and they have all been appointed to a high standard. Every property has given that 'hotelesque' experience as toiletries are complimentary, towels and a hairdryer are provided as well as coffee and tea and free Wi-Fi.  A big plus point is the space as if you are travelling with a few people, you get all the space of a flat or apartment so you can relax without being on top of each other.  With prices from £79 for a two-bedroom apartment, they are extremely well-priced too.

 All the apartments in London are very well located as well. A welcome pack with a map and tourist information is extremely useful and always provided as well as contact details in case you have any queries when staying in the apartments.

During our stay, we were called to ask us if everything was ok, which was a nice touch. With prices cheaper than many hotels in London it is definitely worth checking out the website if you are looking to stay in London and want the space. 

Highly Recommended.

 *We were given a complimentary stay in exchange for an honest review
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5 Quirky Things To Do In London

If you visit London on a regular basis and are getting tired of the usual tourist spots, you have teenagers who like doing weird stuff or you just like doing unusual and quirky things, then this guide to my 5 quirky things to do in London may be just what you are looking for. Enjoy!

 Explore mummification at the British Museum

The British Museum is a fabulous museum and has an interesting collection of items related to Egypt, Egyptian death and afterlife. In fact, it's the largest collection of Egyptian artefacts outside of Egypt.  Explore mummification, magic, rituals, coffins, masks and items designed to be buried with the deceased. Entrance to the museum is free but a donation of £5 is welcomed.

Play I-Zombie at the Novelty Automation Museum

The Novelty Automation Museum houses a number of satirical homemade arcade machines. It's owner and creator Tim Hunkin has designed some fun, modern and downright weird games such as I-Zombie where you dodge phone obsessed zombies and find out if you are one too. We enjoyed Test Your Nerve where you had to put your hand in a dogs cage and see how long you would leave it there before you lost your nerve to an angry and slobbering dog. Don't worry the dog was a model! For £20 you can do all the games. Allow an hour for a visit.

Stare at a jar of moles in the Grant Museum of Zoology

The Grant Museum of Zoology is a natural history museum that is part of University College London. This free to enter museum based in one room is fascinating for teenagers (and adults). It's one of the oldest natural history museums in the UK and is full of skeletons and animal specimens including dodo bones, a Quagga skeleton - one of the rarest in the world and various preserved animals such as giant centipedes, bats and a jar of moles. This museum is certainly worth an hour of your time and, I think I had better say this, don't visit if you are squeamish!

 Sit looking at plants and a view in the Sky Garden

The Sky Garden is a large domed garden dedicated to three stories of public gardens. With an observation deck, open-air terrace with natural ventilation (bring a coat as it can be cold), bar and two restaurants, it's a cool place to visit to have a wonderful view over London. If you want to eat in one of the restaurants book 30 days in advance or you may not get in, and if you want to come and have a great view and a drink in the bar, free tickets are released a week at a time. 

 Follow in the footsteps of the Prime Minister and the Queen at the Houses Of Parliment

 The Houses Of Parliment is an iconic London landmark but did you know you could take a tour behind the scenes? You can find out how Parliament works as you travel through the Commons Chamber and the Lords Chamber, follow in the footsteps of the Queen at the State Opening and be inspired by Westminster Hall which is almost 1000 years old. Prices are from £25 per adult. There are also family tours aimed at children 7 to 12 and all kids go free!
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Other quirky things to do include visiting the eclectic modern art at the Tate Modern, take a trip with a breathtaking view of the Emirates Skyline, getting scared by the undead at the London Dungeon, seeing the Clockmakers section at the Science Museum and listening to the oddballs debating at Speakers Corner Hyde Park.  For a hidden gem in London check out this post on Eltham Palace, a beautiful Art Deco building and this post on hidden gems in Soho.

 Theatre shows can be quirky too, think The Woman In Black, The Exorcist and Harry Potter And The Cursed Child. If you want to add in some culture, check out this theatre break by Zena's Suitcase. If you want to visit London and you want to do it cheaply, check out A Weekend In London On A Budget. Also, check out this post for must-see attractions in London with kids. For further inspiration check out more London Itineraries.

For accommodation check out the Piccadilly London West End, which has a Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence and is not far from Soho and Chinatown.

 Have you visited any of these attractions? Do you know any quirky places to visit in London?
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