Make The Most Of Springtime In The Capital
The royal wedding and the extra day off that it means for the UK have made this spring a time for celebration. Many people are using this conveniently placed new holiday to travel abroad and soak up some of the first sun of the year. But it would be a huge mistake to miss the biggest event the monarchy has witnessed in recent times, as well as the nation-wide party atmosphere it will no doubt inspire.
London is a great place to enjoy Easter and the springtime air, even when there isn’t a major public event taking place. As we’ll all be flocking here from all corners of the country anyway to crowd around Westminster Abbey, here are a few other places worth visiting this springtime in the capital.
Historical houses
London is simply stuffed with beautiful architecture. Just walking down one of the celebrated London highroads could take your breath away as you pass fascinating building after fascinating building. But the true gems of architecture in London are the ancient, grand manor houses and the extensive grounds that surround them. These gardens are particularly lovely in mid-spring when the flowers are just unsheathing themselves. Hampton Court is particularly great to explore and is even holding a special performance of a Tudor drama over the Easter weekend. Kenwood House in north London is another personal favourite.
Picturesque parks
The surprisingly large parks of London are also stunning to behold in the spring months, even if they are a little wilder than the grounds of historical manors. The ancient twisting trees and sudden open green spaces of Hampstead Heath, the view on the Serpentine in Hyde Park or the Japanese-themed gardens of Holland Park – they’re all worth a visit once the weather begins to warm up. Also, all sorts of interesting characters can be found walking around these parks, from groups of London singles to big family groups – and the variety is always a delight to watch.
Magnificent markets
It’s finally warm enough to enjoy the many outdoor stalls of London. The markets here come in all shapes and sizes – you can buy your seasonal vegetables on Wednesdays at Greenwich Market, find vintage clothing bargains in Portobello Market or stroll along Camden Loch Market with some interesting cuisine bought at one of the many food stalls. For spring flowers, grace the Columbia Road Flower Market, and for chef’s delicacies, get down to Borough Market. The choice is endless!
Fun-filled farms
Yes, there are farms in London. And where better to embrace the celebration of new life that the season of spring and the festival of April are all about? There’s one in Kentish Town, Vauxhall, Hounslow – so it won’t be difficult to find one relatively close. Your kids will love it, and if you don’t have any, the kid in you will love it!
Charming chocolatiers
In the true spirit of Easter, why not visit one of London’s many fine chocolate shops? There are many simply magnificent ones dotted around the capital.
Whether you’re a couple who met through dating sites or a group of friends, everyone can enjoy London this spring and its many attractions. Just make sure you remember to celebrate the royal wedding amid all this sightseeing!