There are several things Sarah and I have in common: our passion for dogs (we love all kinds), food (my favourite is Thai) and travel, and they pretty much follow in that order.
With the Easter holidays finally upon us we jumped at the chance to get back on the road and Wales was on the radar, particularly Tenby and travel around the southern coast. Dogs and Thai food an expected bonus.
We arrive by train (book on Trainline or National Rail three months in advance for the best rates), having travelled from London’s Paddington station, via Swansea and across the southern coast.
As always we were eager to explore our new surroundings and everything Tenby might hold for us. Sarah and I decided to base ourselves at Croyland guest house which is conveniently just a five minute walk from Tenby train station, a stone’s throw from the centre of town and the dramatic cliff-top ocean views of Wales’ stunning coastline.
Armed with our cameras we strode into town excited by what lay ahead. Within minutes of our departure we are confronted by Tenby’s iconic coastline.
The first thing that catches my eye is the sheer expanse of the sea which looks like a rippling blanket of aqua-blue embracing the coastline’s vertical rocky cliffs.
Tenby’s picturesque harbour can’t be missed. I’d seen it many times on postcards, pictures and advertisements, but there’s nothing like witnessing the real thing. Lean fisherman unload their haul while squabbling seagulls cry overhead, keen to scavenge whatever is left of the loot. We drink in our surroundings and click happily, capturing the scene which is dominated by the famous pastel tinted houses perched along the overhead hills.
The beautiful beach below reminds us of our fine sandy offerings back in Australia. I discovered it was during the Georgian and Victorian (19th Century) period that Tenby became popular with tourists because they believed the waters had therapeutic healing powers.
The appreciation of families and the abundance of happily barking dogs enjoying the cascading waves on the shore below was certainly leaving the impression that this place never fails to impress.
A foody aroma entertains our senses so we set off in pursuit of a meal. For lunch we eventually chose the cosy family-run Caffe Llew – homely and highly recommended! It’s situated just down from the 800 year old St Mary’s Church. Of course, we later discovered many pubs, cafes and restaurants offer meal and drink deals, and we didn’t have a negative dining experience here, so would suggest all are worth a try.
The medieval town of Tenby is encased by an imposing stone wall – a reminder of an earlier period when it was once fortified by the Normans. Its maze of narrow cobbled streets, colourful houses and medieval buildings is wonderful, and it’s easy to envy those who get to dwell here just a little bit longer.
Tenby truly tops our list of most charming seaside stops, and not only is the town itself well worth hanging out in for a few days, but it’s the ideal place to explore the surrounding southern coastal region of Pembrokeshire.
Travellers tips
Cash
We’re used to using cards for everything, but we discovered more often than not in Wales (especially the smaller towns like Tenby) cash is king, so don’t be caught short because swiping ain’t going to get you far here.
Wifi
Actually, we had great difficulty with coverage and internet in Wales (bit challenging when you’re a travel blogger). Let’s just say that you need to have an idea of where you’re trying to go, because it’s not really helpful if you’re relying on Siri and just as she’s explaining how to navigate the Google map you’ve got open, she gives you the silent treatment because your coverage has disappeared in the middle of the Welsh countryside.
Train travel
Be organised here because while the train network is extensive, the timetable often has gaps of two to three hours, so you do need to be on time for connections. The upside though, is that they do have ticket facilities on board, so you can jump on at the last minute without fear of being penalised for not having paid the appropriate fare.
Car hire
Despite its status as a tourist destination, you can’t hire a car in Tenby. You can however, source hire options in nearby Kilgetty, Pembroke Dock or Carmarthen. If like us you’re coming to the area by train, from Swansea or Cardiff you’re likely to pass through Carmathen on the train anyway, so could get off there and pick up your car then drive to Tenby. Alternatively, you could catch a train from Tenby to Kilgetty or Pembroke Dock as we did, and hire from there. Book in advance though, as this whole area is popular and a car is essential so they do book out.
Here’s a glimpse of our southern coast adventure and the kinds of places you can explore from a base in Tenby including St Govan’s Chapel, Stackpole and Carew Castle…
Grey skies and the rhythmic rumble of the train had us lulled into a calm, dreamy state – understandable coming into our third hour since boarding in London.
I enjoy the countryside in the UK and I’m a total advocate of train travel here because you have the chance to enjoy it to the fullest. I love how it’s possible to identify where a town begins and ends, interspersed between vast rolling green spaces, broken down ruins of centuries-old structures, and historical steeples standing proudly.
Onward, and I spied the pretty-looking outskirts of a city with homes neatly displayed upon the hillsides. As we crossed a romantic river with arched bridges stretching across the water and on into the distance, it occurred to me that it might be nice to stop here for a while and explore. I began to wonder where we might be and squealed a little with excitement as I pointed out to Cooper that we must have crossed over the border from England into Wales, because all of a sudden street, shop, train station and advertising signs all appeared in not just one language but two – the customary English and Welsh options evident across this country.
Next, to our surprise the conductor announced we had arrived in Swansea and it was time to alight. As it turned out, I would have the chance to explore this lovely little city more. Aptly too, Swansea was home to the world’s very first passenger railway service.
We were in Wales for our very first visit!
Wales’ second largest city and the twenty-fifth largest in the UK, Swansea lies within the historic county boundaries of Glamorgan. Once a prosperous market village with medieval roots, later gaining prominence as a spa town, and evolving successfully into the industrial revolution, Swansea enjoyed positive growth for many years. While remnants of this history remains, sadly much of the city centre was destroyed during WWII when Swansea suffered numerous devastating bombing attacks due to its perfect positioning as a military port. Perhaps this is why much of the city felt to me like it was quite new. However, it has undergone heavy redevelopment recently and rundown port-side precincts are now being turned into housing, university campus sites plus film and television studios (an emerging industry in Wales right now).
Swansea was our first stop en-route to Tenby, then back to Cardiff and the Gower. Here for 24 hours and keen to keep the spending to a minimum, here’s our guide to budget travel in Swansea.
See in Swansea
The best value option here is definitely the bus. For £4.20 a day (as at April 2016) you can hop on and off the local bus which offers a multitude of routes around the entire area.
Our best tip is to get yourself on a number 2 express (easy to find at the city’s central bus station) and head over to a gorgeous coastal precinct called ‘the Mumbles’. Imagine pretty houses, extraordinary views across Swansea Bay, boutique shopping, fish and chips, and a grand old castle called Oystermouth. The Mumbles is just 25 minutes bus ride from the city centre, and you can wander along the promenade up to the lighthouse, or discover where the clifftop walks begin and take yourself off on a windswept adventure.
Stroll in Swansea
There’s much to see and do in Swansea and most of it is accessible on foot. The main mall presents shopping, pubs and eateries of all types. This is a university city, so as you’d expect there’s plenty of great deals on food and beer to be had. We don’t mind the odd meal at Pizza Express or a stop-over at Aussie-themed Walkabout (both particularly good value if you’re taking advantage of UK-wide TasteCard or Gourmet Society 2-4-1 deals as we do), and it’s not hard to discover something to fit a tight budget and your unique taste.
Across Swansea there’s lovely open areas, parks, waterways, interesting historical architecture and even an old castle (although it’s not hard to find castles in Wales – apparently there’s 641 of them).
The city is well signed with regards to directing visitors to its most important attractions and facilities, so see where your feet and imagination take you.
Sleep in Swansea
We chose to stay at the Premier Inn on the waterfront. It’s positioned in a quiet, recently-redeveloped part of town overlooking the marina, and set below the hills decorated with locals’ homes that I originally noticed on the train. Book well in advance for a neat deal that includes a contemporary, well-appointed room plus breakfast. Conveniently there’s a Tesco Express with an ATM and a bus stop outside; the hotel is just a ten to fifteen minute walk from the city centre, a large Sainsburys supermarket and the enchanting museum dedicated to writer and poet, Dylan Thomas.
Hey there, fellow explorers! It’s Sarah here. I recently revisited Rugby, a charming market town nestled in the heart of England, and oh my, how it’s blossomed since our last jaunt here in 2016! If you’re mulling over where to venture next, let me share with you 30 compelling reasons why you should visit Rugby in England.
Visit Rugby in England: video guide
Travel to Rugby in England: A 2024 Guide
Rugby Art Gallery & Museum: A Cultural Hub
The Rugby Art Gallery & Museum, one of the town’s cultural highlights, offers free admission to all visitors. It’s a fantastic spot for art enthusiasts with its range of events and exhibitions, including the Rugby Open 2023 exhibition and engaging drawing workshops.
A Calendar Brimming with Events at The BENN Hall
The BENN Hall in Rugby is bustling with events in 2024. Notably, the Phantom Revival Concert on January 20, priced at £17.50, and the Bay City Rollermania on February 23, for £29.00. The New Year’s Eve Party is another highlight, with tickets at £28.99.
Family-Friendly Performances at Macready Theatre
The Macready Theatre offers delightful family-oriented shows, like The Man Who Wanted to be a Penguin, with ticket prices ranging from £0.00 to £14.00. It’s a perfect venue for families seeking entertainment in Rugby.
Alexmas at The Alex: An Artistic Christmas Celebration
The festive event Alexmas at The Alex, located at Alexandra Art, 72-73 James Street, is a free event. It combines art with festive cheer, offering a unique experience during the Christmas season.
Rugby Town Concert Band: Melodies that Resonate
The Rugby Town Concert Band performs at various venues, including St. Peter and St. John’s Church. Their concerts are priced at £12.00 – £14.00, with some events being free.
Santa and the March of the Penguins: A Festive Delight
This charming free event in Rugby’s town centre runs from late November to early January, bringing the magic of a winter wonderland to life.
A Glimpse into the Past: Celebrating Rugby’s Heritage
The 200th anniversary of Rugby football at Rugby School in 2023 was a milestone for the town. The Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum, which commemorates this heritage, offers adult tickets for £8, concessions for £5, and free entry for under 12s.
Rugby’s Rich History and Modern Charms
Rugby School Shop & Tours: Walk Through History
Rugby is synonymous with the game that shares its name, and no visit is complete without exploring the Rugby School Shop & Tours. Walking through the corridors of this prestigious school, where the game was born, was like stepping into a historical novel. The tours are insightful, and the shop is a treasure trove for rugby enthusiasts.
The Outdoor Splendour of Rugby: Draycote Water and More
The town isn’t just about history; it’s also about embracing the outdoors. Draycote Water has become one of our favourite spots for a peaceful walk or a bit of bird watching. And if you’re into nature, don’t miss the Swift Valley Nature Reserve and the Great Central Walk – perfect for those who love to explore the natural beauty of the English countryside.
Fun for Kids: From Toft Studio to Elliotts Field
Rugby is incredibly family-friendly. Take your little ones to Toft Studio – they’ll have a blast. For a day of shopping and leisure, Elliotts Field Retail Park offers a great mix of stores and eateries. It’s ideal for families looking for a variety of activities.
The Culinary Scene: A Taste of Rugby
The Bull Inn: A Culinary Delight
We loved The Bull Inn on our last visit. It’s still there, offering the same warm, inviting atmosphere. The food is as delicious as ever, and the vibe is just perfect for a relaxing evening. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic English pub cuisine.
Summersault: More Than Just a Vegetarian Café
We revisited Summersault, and it remains a gem in Rugby’s culinary crown. The vegetarian fare is scrumptious, and the quirky gift shop adds to its charm. It’s a place that leaves you feeling content, both in heart and stomach.
The Architectural Beauty of Rugby
St. Marie’s Church: A Historic Marvel
On our stroll around town, we were drawn again to the architectural splendour of St. Marie’s Church. The history embedded in its walls and the welcoming community make it a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture and local history.
Wrapping up the Day
A Country Escape in Clifton upon Dunsmore
Our stay in a quaint Airbnb in Clifton upon Dunsmore, just outside Rugby, was the cherry on top of our visit. Overlooking the serene countryside, it was the perfect blend of rural tranquillity and proximity to the town’s attractions.
Rugby: Where Every Street Tells a Story
Caldecott Park: A Green Oasis
Amidst the bustling town lies Caldecott Park, a verdant oasis that offers a tranquil escape. Its well-maintained gardens and playgrounds are perfect for a family day out or a quiet stroll to enjoy nature’s beauty. It’s amazing how this park combines the charm of old England with the vibrancy of modern landscape design.
Rugby Theatre: A Cultural Beacon
The Rugby Theatre continues to be a cultural beacon, showcasing a variety of performances. Whether it’s a gripping drama or a light hearted comedy, the theatre’s vibrant community spirit makes every visit memorable. It’s a testament to Rugby’s thriving arts scene.
The Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum: Celebrating Rugby’s Legacy
No trip to Rugby would be complete without a visit to The Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum. This small yet fascinating museum offers a deep dive into the history of the game and its roots in this very town. It’s an absolute must for sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Discovering Rugby’s Hidden Gems
The Adventure Zone: Family Fun Unleashed
For those travelling with kids, The Adventure Zone is a gem. It’s a place where laughter and excitement fill the air, and children can have a blast while parents relax. We loved the vibrant atmosphere and the range of activities available.
Great Central Walk: A Journey Through Nature
The Great Central Walk is a hidden treasure for nature lovers. It’s a peaceful trail that takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of the Warwickshire countryside. Ideal for a leisurely walk or a cycling adventure, this path is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty surrounding Rugby.
A Peek into Rugby’s Artistic Side: Local Art and Craft
Rugby’s artistic scene is vibrant and diverse. From local galleries to craft shops, the town is brimming with creativity. We stumbled upon several local artists’ studios and were mesmerised by the talent and variety of artwork on display.
Rugby: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
A Taste of the Local Life: Markets and Shops
Exploring the local markets and shops in Rugby is a delight. From fresh produce to artisan crafts, these markets are a window into the everyday life of the town. The friendly vendors and the quality of goods reflect the town’s commitment to maintaining its rich heritage while embracing modernity.
Rugby’s Culinary Diversity: From Traditional to Contemporary
Rugby’s culinary scene has something for every palate. From traditional English fare to contemporary cuisine, the variety of dining options is impressive. We enjoyed everything from cosy cafes to elegant restaurants, each offering a unique taste of the local culture.
Rugby: Where Past Meets Present
Rugby’s Festive Spirit: A Victorian Christmas
One of the highlights of our trip was experiencing Rugby’s festive spirit. The Victorian Christmas events at the Rugby Art Gallery and Museum were a delightful journey back in time. Making our own Christmas crackers and listening to readings from A Christmas Carol truly captured the essence of a traditional English Christmas.
Engaging Workshops at Rugby Art Gallery and Museum
The Rugby Art Gallery and Museum also offers a range of engaging workshops. A popular recent example friends of ours attended was the Drawing Workshop with Jamie Boots, focusing on wildlife themes like elephants and tigers. These sessions are not just educational but also a fun way to interact with local artists and like-minded art enthusiasts.
Exploring Rugby’s Outdoor Adventures
Beyond its historical and cultural offerings, Rugby has plenty of outdoor adventures. Draycote Water is ideal for water sports and picnics, while Swift Valley Nature Reserve offers tranquil walks amidst diverse wildlife. For the more adventurous, The Adventure Zone provides a thrilling experience for all ages.
Rugby’s Community Spirit
Rugby Town Concert Band: A Musical Treat
Another gem we discovered was the Rugby Town Concert Band. Their performances, filled with energy and community spirit, are a testament to the town’s vibrant cultural life. The blend of classic and contemporary pieces makes their concerts enjoyable for everyone.
St. Marie’s Church: Architectural and Spiritual Grandeur
A visit to St. Marie’s Church is a journey into Rugby’s spiritual and architectural heritage. The church’s stunning architecture and the warm community make it a serene and welcoming place for reflection and admiration.
Unwinding in Rugby’s Serene Countryside
A Country Retreat in Clifton upon Dunsmore
Our stay in Clifton upon Dunsmore offered the perfect balance between rural tranquillity and accessibility to Rugby’s attractions. The countryside’s scenic beauty, combined with the cosy and comfortable Airbnb, provided a much-needed retreat after our days of exploration.
Rugby’s Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Adventure
Rugby’s culinary scene is as diverse as its culture. Whether you crave traditional English pub food or contemporary vegetarian dishes, Rugby’s restaurants cater to every taste.
A Town That Leaves You Wanting More
Rugby: A Tapestry of Experiences
As our reminiscing on Rugby comes to a close, I’m reminded of the town’s unique charm. From its historic roots in the sport of rugby to its lively arts scene, vibrant community events, and picturesque natural surroundings, Rugby is a tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered.
So, there you have it – 30 reasons why Rugby should be on your travel radar in 2024. Whether you’re seeking history, culture, nature, or culinary delights, Rugby offers an enriching and diverse experience. I can’t wait to hear about your adventures in this captivating English town! Drop us a line in the comments to share :)
I enjoyed some time off from my day-job yesterday and remembered the merits of working for myself. That is, the freedom to wander and work from wherever I please. On this particular day, that took me on one of the best of London secret walks, along the Thames path around Bermondsey. Lovely!
Not that I didn’t miss my work friends, on the contrary, they don’t realize how much I value them. As any independent contractor or remote worker will verify, working on your own all the time can be a lonely business.
I’ve never had the chance to really indulge in this kind of down-time in London though. Usually, if I had time off it was because I was chasing employment or contracts, and I never allowed myself to chill out and explore!
But with a pay-cheque coming in, this time I was happy to indulge in the surprises of London’s beautiful old back streets without any worries. Speaking of which, as we bid farewell to 2023 — a year of coronation celebrations and Superloop introductions — we’re embracing what 2024 has in store for us in London.
London secret walks – Rotherhithe to Tower Bridge
Yesterday was a crisp winter/spring cross-over day, where the sun was shining brightly.
It was chilly but divine; ideal for taking a stroll along one of the best London secret walks.
Charles Dickens describes such a day perfectly in Great Expectations:
“It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.”
Thames Walk: London Secret Walks
What I wanted to share with you, is my favourite thing to do in London when I have a spare bit of sunlight – the Thames path walk around Bermondsey.
London secret walks – the Thames path
This section of the Thames path walk weaves its way around the back streets of zone one (the city), along the water and into central London where Tower Bridge dominates the landscape, as it has done for around 130 years.
Our friends Barry and Paulo introduced us to this vibrant area and secret London walk. Many of the great London secret walks can be had around Bermondsey, Southwark, from London Bridge, around Southbank, and across Tower Bridge to the extraordinary Tower of London or lovely St Katharine Docks.
I recently worked out that my favourite wander of them all is accessible via the London Overground (train) from where I jump on at Dalston Junction. It’s just a 12-minute ride up the line to Rotherhithe. From here, you are only a fifteen to twenty-minute walk away from Tower Bridge, but a world of magical experience from the tourist grind.
Thames Walk London Tower Bridge Shard Sunset
London Secret Walks, my route along the Thames path, begin at Rotherhithe. Head to the Overground (orange line) station of Rotherhithe in East London.
No, I still can’t pronounce it, but it’s now one of my free-time go-to destinations.
Turn left out of the station, and then left again immediately at the first street, Railway Avenue (next to the station). It’s just a short walk to the end of this street, where you’ll end up right on the Thames, and on the doorstep of the fascinating Brunel Museum.
Last summer when we passed by here, the tunnel was open underground, and we crawled down a man-hole to below the street where there was a fab light-show art installation being exhibited!
Walk along the riverside – just head towards the bridge! My Google map above might help you out (start at the blue star and follow the red markers into the city). Essentially you can explore what is called ‘The Thames Path’ which travels past some terrific old buildings. This includes what I understand is the oldest pub on the Thames, the Mayflower.
Apparently, to avoid paying mooring taxes, Captain Christopher Jones tied his ship up alongside this pub, and people boarded here before the Mayflower sailed to Plymouth to pick up the remaining passengers and then continued on its historic voyage to America in 1620.
There’s always been surprisingly few people down this part of the world when we’ve dropped by. We’ve taken many visiting friends on this walk because it’s historical and pretty.
Serenity in Central London
Who would have thought you could experience such nostalgia in a peaceful setting in central London? This was the first chance I had to walk it on my own, and as haunting church bells rang out from St Mary’s, I couldn’t help but think about all the lives that had passed here before me.
Perhaps if I close my eyes, I could be transported to any space in time when this place was bustling with trade, markets, sailors, religious folk mingling on the church’s steps, and kids in newsboy caps and scruffy neck-scarfs running barefoot in the street. Just imagine what it might have been like…
Water laps against the old buildings, crows cry out, and seagulls squawk, but the sound of tourist chatter is nil. Every now and then the warehouse conversions open up to vast and amazing viewing spaces, like the spot just past a pub by the name of Angel, which is opposite ruins of King Edward’s manor.
Here you can gaze up and down the Thames, with all of London’s famous landmarks in sight. It’s breath-taking whether the sun is out or not (though it can be windy and a bit chilly on a cloudy day).
Thames Walk London City View Cityscape
You can’t really get lost at this point, because while there’s construction going on, you just need to walk adjacent to the water. Follow the Thames Path signs towards Butlers Wharf; there’s an underpass where eventually you will find more people congregating around Tower Bridge.
I like to stop and people-watch from a perch at All Bar One (free WiFi and yummy tapas here too). But you can easily continue meandering along to the bridge and then across towards the Tower of London.
The experience is ‘secret London’ at its best, and I feel so privileged and grateful to have the chance to get to know this energising old city intimately.
Quieter Walk Along the Other Way from Rotherhithe
If you want to take a look at this area but would prefer to hang out in a quieter spot rather than walking towards the city, we discovered a lovely large and comfortable pub that’s about a five-minute walk from Rotherhithe station. Turn left and go directly down Salter Road until you come to the Thameside YHA.
Across the road from there, positioned on a nice patch of land by the water is The Salt Quay, a good place to eat, chat, blog and soak up some atmosphere. We had a good old gossip with Jordan Lea and Rachael at this very place last summer.
2024 Updates: Embracing New London Walks and Challenges
As we step into 2024, it’s exhilarating to see new trends and opportunities for walking enthusiasts in London. Embrace the London secret walks and discover even more about this wonderful city.
Guide Dogs Sculpture Trail in Canary Wharf (March 2024)
This spring, don’t miss the Guide Dogs sculpture trail in Canary Wharf, featuring stunning guide dog sculptures by various artists. It’s a fantastic way to explore London’s art scene while enjoying a leisurely walk.
Walk 2024km Challenge
For those looking for a more ambitious challenge, why not aim to walk 2024km this year? It’s a great way to stay fit, explore new areas, and contribute positively to our environment.
Nature Notes (iOS Only)
Take the time to appreciate and note the beauty of nature on your walks. It’s a wonderful way to enhance your wellbeing and connect with the environment.
Personal Walking Challenges: Embrace London Walks
Customise your walking experience with a challenge that suits your style. Dive into the world of London Walks by choosing a step, distance, or time-based challenge.
This is your opportunity to uncover the diverse array of Hidden London tours. Make 2024 a year to walk more and discover the secret corners and treasures of London. Every step you take is a chance to experience something new and extraordinary in the city’s unique and lesser-known paths.
Exploring London’s Evolving Landscape
In 2024, London continues to evolve, offering an array of experiences that enrich our walks. The city’s dynamic changes not only reflect its history but also its commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future. Each step along these London secret walks is a journey through time and imagination.
Energy Revolution Gallery at the Science Museum (Spring 2024)
For those who intertwine their walks with a touch of educational enrichment, the upcoming Energy Revolution Gallery at the Science Museum is a must-visit. This space, dedicated to the climate crisis, offers insights into how we can pivot towards greener energy sources. It’s an inspiring addition for anyone interested in environmental sustainability and the future of our planet.
The British Science Festival at UEL (September 2024)
Another exciting event in 2024 is the British Science Festival, returning to London after over two decades. This festival, hosted by the University of East London, is an excellent opportunity for science lovers to engage with innovative ideas and discoveries. It’s a perfect blend of education and leisure for those who love to combine their intellectual interests with their walking adventures.
Living in and Loving London: Embracing the Journey
In 2024, let’s walk not just for the sake of exploration but for the stories we will tell, the people we will meet, and the memories we will cherish. London is a city of endless surprises, and each walk is an opportunity to uncover something new.
So, lace up your walking shoes, step out the door, and let’s make 2024 a year of unforgettable walks and discoveries.
Let’s build a community of walkers who not only seek the beauty of London secret walks but also engage actively with the city’s evolving narrative. Your stories and insights are what make this journey so enriching for all of us.
Do you have a favourite walk in London? Please do share in the comments so we and other readers can check it out! Your insights always add such richness to our community’s experience.
Maybe it’s all those Downton Abbey marathons, but when people think about ‘tea’, it’s usually associated with Britain and its cultural status as one of the world’s top tea drinking countries. Based on the extensive tea rounds at my place of work in central London, I can understand where this notion comes from!
It’s a popular belief that drinking tea, and in particular the tradition of afternoon tea is a big deal in the UK, but you might be surprised to know that of all the tea drinking countries in the world, Old Blighty is not the number one consuming region on a per person basis.
The top 5 tea drinking countries in the world
England – 6.04lbs per capita
Just how much do the British love their tea? According to an independent study conducted by Gala Bingo, the answer is ‘very much’, which places this region at number five on the list of the top tea drinking countries in the world.
A third of the respondents said they drink at least five cups of tea a day, while a quarter admitted to drinking tea before they were even five years old!
Mauritania – 7.10lbs per capita
In Mauritanian (north Africa) cuisine includes something called thrice-served tea. It’s just as the name suggests: tea is served three times, the first one being bitter while the succeeding servings get sweeter and sweeter. Tea is served in Mauritania after meals and always whenever a guest pops by.
Ireland – 7.10lbs per capita
Tea only made an appearance in Ireland in the 19th century, so the country is a relative newcomer to the whole experience, especially compared with Asian tea-drinking cultures. Evidently the Irish are busy making up for lost time, so expect to enjoy a cuppa or two when you visit.
Morocco – 9.57lbs per capita
Similar to Mauritania, tea is an important component of both Moroccan cuisine and culture. It’s served all throughout the day and is considered a drink of hospitality. In fact, whenever tea is served to guests (which is always), it’s considered impolite to refuse it.
Turkey -15.15lbs per capita
Turkey is by far the most tea-crazy country in the whole world. Whether it’s a hot summer day, cool winter’s night, or people are out shopping or at a yoga retreat, you can bet your wallet that tea will be served before, during, or after a meal.
This isn’t your garden variety tea-in-a-packet type drink, either. Turkish tea is a strong, full-flavoured drink served boiling hot.
Tea really does have such an interesting history. Globe Trekker produced a great documentary on it, and I once compiled a complementary piece on their website about the ten best places to try tea. You can read it here.
Feature images via Wiki creative commons; and Flickr creative commons by Chris Tse and A Girl With Tea. This is an affiliate post.
It seems no matter where you look in London a crane isn’t too far from sight. Construction is cranking at a frenetic pace, with new skyscrapers and tower blocks quickly altering the cityscape. Contemporary architecture boasting eccentric names means unique structures like the Shard, ‘Gherkin’ and ‘Walkie Talkie’ now rub shoulders with older smaller cousins like St Paul’s Cathedral, Monument and London Eye.
There is one thing most of these structures have in common – they’re expensive if you want to enjoy their views! So, here we have presented some of our fave alternatives that are free or inexpensive to enter.
6 of the best London views free or under £5
Walkie-Talkie building (20 Fenchurch Street)
The Walkie-Talkie is one of our ultimate go-to destinations when family or friends arrive in London. The viewing platform is called the Sky Garden and it’s set over three storeys of elegantly landscaped public gardens.
As you exit the lift you’re greeted by a spacious and airy cafe/bar which connects seamlessly to the outside viewing platform. The Sky Garden boasts wonderful uninterrupted views across London, plus three restaurants if you fancy a meal. Entry is free BUT you need to book your place in advance.
Nearest tubes to the Sky Garden: Monument, Bank, Tower Hill, Cannon Street
Monument
The Great Fire of 1666 blazed for three days and destroyed much of medieval London. To commemorate this significant tragedy, Sir Christopher Wren designed the world’s tallest stone column, the Monument.
Monument is 202ft (61.5m) high and is situated 202ft away from the house of Thomas Farynor, who was the king’s baker in Pudding Lane (where the fire started). Climbing the 311 steps won’t you leave breathless but it will surprise with great views of the ‘Cheese Grater’ (122 Leadenhall Street) and Tower Bridge.
Dating back to Roman times, the former hunting park of Greenwich offers the best views of Docklands, Canary Wharf and the city of London. Additionally, it is home to the historic National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House and the Royal Observatory perched on top of the hill. The world-famous prime meridian and home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is only a stone’s throw away. Pack a picnic basket and make a day of it in one of London’s best and most beautiful Royal parks. There’s much to see and do in Greenwich, so we’d suggest setting a day aside to explore. Park entry is free.
Nearest tube: Cutty Sark or Greenwich (or catch a Thames ferry)
We first discovered the lovely view from Tate’s restaurant when our friend, Nicole, invited us up there for a catch-up drink when we were visiting London as tourists in 2009. We now take our own guests here!
Aside from housing an amazing art collection dating back to the 16th Century, Tate’s positioned on the Thames, and you can make your way to the cafe/bar for free to check out the amazing river view, Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral. It’s worth splashing out on a beer or glass of bubbles (like Sarah does) when you’re visiting, and head up at nightfall to see the city sparkle. Entry is free (although special exhibits do have a separate charge).
Nearest tube: London Bridge, Blackfriars, St Pauls, Southwark
Emirates Cable Car
If you don’t mind being suspended by a thin cable 90m (300ft) above the River Thames, then the Emirates cable car is a truly memorable experience.
The journey between the Greenwich Peninsula and Royal Dock lasts an unforgettable ten minutes and provides a spectacular setting against the glass and steel of London’s skyscrapers. From the comfort of your cabin, you’re presented with bird’s eye views of the O2 arena, Canary Wharf, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the Thames Barrier. Use your Oyster Card (London transport card) and receive a 25% discount.
Heron Tower (officially 110 Bishopsgate) is a commercial skyscraper near Liverpool Street station in the city and is home to two of London’s finest restaurants, the acclaimed Sushi Samba and the Duck and Waffle.
Sarah and I have indulged in many a cocktail at Sushi Samba while enjoying the 360-degree views of the city. You can almost touch my favourite building, the ‘Gherkin’. The elevator ride to the top is both terrifying and exciting as it shoots up the side of the building like a bullet train. Entry is free.
Nearest tube: Liverpool Street
Have other tips or a comment to share on the best London views? Drop us a line below…
Hi, we’re Sarah & Cooper. Welcome to Travel Live Learn! We’re Aussie expats currently living in the UK (for the third time!) with our adorable Westie, London. Our mission? To inspire you to embrace a life of adventure—whether it’s travelling longer, relocating to the UK or Europe, or exploring the freedom of remote work and digital nomadism. Enjoy your time on our site! We'd love to stay in touch: subscribe for our weekly stories, updates and remote work job opportunities direct to your inbox.
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