Your next adventure: London, England

From Big Ben—the massive, 15-ton bell that sits within the Great Clock of Elizabeth Tower, Westminster—to the gothic facade of the Houses of Parliament, London is awash in iconic buildings that feel instantly familiar. Though for National Geographic photographer Jonathan Irish, even return trips can feel new if you take the time to explore beyond the tried and true. “London is such a big city, but you can get into spaces where it doesn’t feel that way at all,” says Irish. “The way I do it is to go slow. Because the slower you go, the more you see.”

Discover London, England, through Irish’s lens, and see why this city should be your next adventure.

Embrace British history and heritage

Immersing oneself in London’s culture is essential for a memorable trip, and for Irish, this meant stopping by Lock & Co. Hatters.

The history of hats in London reflects the city’s rich cultural evolution, from the iconic bowler hats of the Victorian era to the fashionable couture hats seen at royal events, showcasing centuries of style and social significance. Lock & Co. Hatters, established in 1676, represents the pinnacle of British heritage and craftsmanship.

The 19th-century wooden hatmaker’s tools and mechanical sizing instruments scattered throughout the store create an atmosphere that makes you feel as if you’re stepping back in time. Visitors will also find the walls adorned with framed and signed head shapes of notable figures who have worn their handiwork, and the amiable shopkeepers are also a wealth of knowledge on all things related to London history and culture. While there, Irish learned that in Victorian London, it was a mark of respect and formality to wear a hat on Sundays to church and for other social occasions.

As for style and fits, the shop boasts something for every occasion, but it was the traditional bowler hat that caught Irish’s eye. “I’m not sure yet when or where I’ll wear it,” Irish says of his new prize. “But it fits me perfectly, and is a classic.”

Another must-do when trying to embrace British culture? A traditional Sunday roast. “In the U.S., we have Sunday dinner; in England, they have Sunday roast. It’s a time-honored tradition, and The Dickens Inn is the perfect place for it,” says Irish.

The meal typically includes roasted meats, potatoes, and a selection of root vegetables, with gravy and Yorkshire pudding on the side. Hearty eaters can round all that out with the 18th-century inn’s selection of appetizers (don’t miss the pork and sage Scotch egg) and desserts (sticky toffee pudding is a must).

And no cultural adventure through London would be complete without a stop at the London Review Bookshop. Opened in the heart of Bloomsbury in 2003, the shop quickly established itself as an essential part of the capital’s cultural life. Today, you’ll find about 20,000 titles on the shop’s shelves, along with a space where people can gather, meet authors, and discuss big ideas.

Discover the city’s green side

With more than 3,000 parks dotting the city, it’s likely that visitors could overlook a few. But one to add to your list: Saint Dunstan in the East Church Garden​.

This enchanting urban green oasis sits among the ruins of an old church that was severely damaged in both the 1666 Great Fire of London and the Blitz of 1941. In 1970, the space opened as a garden, and well-placed benches now encourage guests to pause and take it all in. The natural vines and greenery running among the gray-stone ruins create a woodland feel, allowing tourists and locals alike to enjoy moments of calm right in the heart of a bustling city.

For those willing to trek a bit farther out, be sure to take a “ramble” (as Londoners call it) to Hampstead Heath. Less than four miles from London’s city center, this free, public park offers more than 800 acres of woodlands, meadows, and breathtaking English gardens, and beckons those who enjoy quiet, green spaces and people watching. For epic views of the city, pop up to the Parliament Hill viewpoint, where the hubbub of central London feels a world away.

Other must-sees include the Viaduct Bridge, a striking example of Victorian engineering set amid lush greenery, and The Hill Garden and Pergola, a hidden gem with stunning terraced gardens and charming, overgrown pergolas that offer a tranquil retreat.

If you’re hungry after your stroll, be sure to check out nearby Ginger & White for a caffeine boost and a bite to eat. “It’s a very quaint neighborhood, and where we had one of the best meals of the entire trip,” says Irish. He recommends the coffee (“some of the best I’ve ever had”) and the Blythburgh bacon sandwich (a seemingly simple concoction topped with arugula, avocado, and chili mayo that packs a punch).

Marvel at classic landmarks

While the returning tourist might scoff at suggestions to embrace some of London’s classic landmarks, the truth is that no trip to London would be complete without them. Places like the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, and St. James’s Park are popular for a reason. On your next trip, consider seeing them in new ways.

To start, board the elevator for a 41-second trip to the 833-foot top of Horizon 22. There, almost scraping the clouds, London’s highest free viewing platform offers floor-to-ceiling panoramic views of the city and its iconic landmarks. “It’s always good to get a bird’s-eye view of a place when you’re experiencing it, and this provides probably the best one,” says Irish. “You’re in the heart of the city while looking out over it.”

Another great way to take in the London skyscape is from the water. A cruise on the River Thames with an operator like City Experiences is a chance to snap photos of the Tower Bridge, London Bridge, and Big Ben while relaxing on a two-hour cruise, drink in hand and enjoying live jazz music on deck. For photographers, the shift in perspective is a chance to see things anew.

And, of course, packing a good pair of walking shoes for your visit is a no-brainer. The city’s neighborhoods make it easy to craft your own route, discover self-guided tours, or rely on local experts through guided walking tours. 

Uncover hidden gems

When approached with time and patience, London reveals itself. Gems are hidden in plain sight, and wandering is often the best way to spot them. Irish discovered the city’s eclectic personality in spots like Neal’s Yard―a colorful alleyway chockablock with shops and cafes in Covent Garden. “It feels like a secret,” Irish says. “Like you’ve stumbled upon a really special place.”

Over near the River Thames in Southwark, Irish found the Ruins of Winchester Palace. The 12th-century buildings were once palatial in stature and home to the city’s powerful bishops. Today, you’ll find the ruins, including a gorgeous medieval rose window, still stand tall.

For a different peek at history, visit the Golden Hinde, a full-size reconstruction of the famous Elizabethan galleon, or get lost in the historic Borough Market, where you can chat with food purveyors and local traders as Londoners have since 1756.

And so much more…

London is calling: Whether this is your first visit or your 100th, you’ll find a city brimming with unique and captivating wonders, especially if you take the time to soak it all in.