London's Worst Tourist Traps (AVOID!)

Traveling to London? These are the worst tourist traps in London to avoid on your visit. If you're planning to visit places like Leicester Square, which is a MAJOR tourist trap (plus it's one of the most overpriced areas in London) this you need to watch this video so you don't get scammed or ripped off while visiting London.
I'm Jess and I make videos for people who are visiting London and want to see the more local side of the city (I've lived here for 6 years and love to share spots you'll never hear from other sites and guides.) If you're visiting London for the first time and need help planning your trip, try watching:
Areas to Visit in London (that you've never heard of): • Cool Areas to Visit in...
Things You'll Forget to Pack for Your Visit to London: • 8 Things You'll Forget...
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Пікірлер: 508

  • @Sar_Sar1
    @Sar_Sar15 жыл бұрын

    This came up in my recommendations and can I say I was born and raised in London and everything she said was the truth lol

  • @nishajassal1476

    @nishajassal1476

    5 жыл бұрын

    SARA same! Born and live here. So accurate sadly

  • @JihadHorse

    @JihadHorse

    5 жыл бұрын

    Born and raised in London to

  • @catastrofica143

    @catastrofica143

    4 жыл бұрын

    How lucky are you guys, born and raised in London

  • @DonG191

    @DonG191

    4 жыл бұрын

    I have been living in London for 24 years and I totally agree what she said

  • @ibrahimbs2511

    @ibrahimbs2511

    4 жыл бұрын

    @Sara Horvat don't go to London looool. the city itself is a tourist trap. go to Edinburgh, lake district, Oxford, Manchester (basically a smaller and cheaper version of London).

  • @kphedges1
    @kphedges15 жыл бұрын

    Rickshaws are still not regulated they are unlicensed, unsafe and uninsured if you have an accident in one the rider will run away. Do not use them.

  • @DXmYb

    @DXmYb

    3 жыл бұрын

    Bloody nuisance, they blast their music at full volume at 3am on my street. If one were to have a *minor collision I'd be much happier. *No broken bones, just a bit shaken up, enough to put them off returning to the job

  • @danielw5850
    @danielw58505 жыл бұрын

    Jess, you've provided an invaluable service, here. I've lived in London for 30 years and each example is spot-on; I feel so sorry for visitors who've failed to heed your advice - London is a couple of streets off the "beaten track"!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks

  • @paulheanue505

    @paulheanue505

    Жыл бұрын

    Wrong on many things. Rickshaws still unregulated. Still ripping people off. Go to Hackney for fish and chips. What planet are you on. I assume you have been there. One of the highest crime rates in London. Certainly not renowned for food. Also go to virtually any country in the world and you will purchase cheap Chinese souvenirs. Tell most tourists with an ounce of common sense something they don't know.

  • @anneruby4182
    @anneruby41824 жыл бұрын

    My favorite souvenirs are dishtowels. I use them. I gift them. They’re easy to pack. Unbreakable. Not too expensive. And I think of my trip every time I use them.

  • @FateBoost
    @FateBoost5 жыл бұрын

    Fish and Chips are £15 a portion? In the north 2 portions are £10.

  • @chloemoe23

    @chloemoe23

    5 жыл бұрын

    That is why i dont wanna live in London . Everything is hella expensive ! 😩

  • @compuhad

    @compuhad

    5 жыл бұрын

    Problem is not only the price also what you get for that money. For £ 10 you can get proper fish with lots of fish meet in it. For £ 15 at those pubs you will end up a small piece of something with litle bit fish meat in it. But she should show positive places as well. Rock and Soul at Endell street covent garden is one of a small best place for fish and chips I can reccomend. Something like this should be in these videos

  • @davehoward22

    @davehoward22

    5 жыл бұрын

    Wetherspoons ain't bad

  • @Meatbeerboss

    @Meatbeerboss

    4 жыл бұрын

    But the North is a dump

  • @Empiric26

    @Empiric26

    4 жыл бұрын

    Enfield even £5.00 mate lol

  • @RetepElpmet
    @RetepElpmet5 жыл бұрын

    I live in the US now but grew up in London. I would highly recommend walking around side streets and just see what you find. I always find something new and different when I go for a visit and walk around. For some reason, compared to the US, I find walking in London way more relaxing.

  • @mczeljk

    @mczeljk

    2 жыл бұрын

    Because US cities are made for cars not for people!

  • @ninaelsbethgustavsen2131

    @ninaelsbethgustavsen2131

    2 жыл бұрын

    I find watching "Jools' London walks" a great guide. He's a Londoner who knows all those secret places, and their history too... 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Love from Norway 🙋‍♀️🇳🇴

  • @tysonator5433
    @tysonator54334 жыл бұрын

    Being a Brit and only a short train ride away from London this video does raise some very good points. Like any major city in the world there are scammers, pick pockets, over priced bars and food outlets. I do believe the attractions are very expensive and a couple could visit a few attractions have a pint or two, and dinner and kiss goodbye to way over £150 for one day in London and does not include transport ! Also plan your journey, down load any vouchers, use meerkat movies, AA app ect for food deals

  • @georgeclayton
    @georgeclayton4 жыл бұрын

    Anyone else live in London but interested to see what it’s like to visit here as a tourist 🤷🏼‍♂️😂

  • @shivamkaria6632

    @shivamkaria6632

    4 жыл бұрын

    George Clayton yup!!!

  • @eddiecordero2877
    @eddiecordero28775 жыл бұрын

    Felt like this was a NYC video as well. You’ll find all the exact same tourist traps here.

  • @runningfromabear8354

    @runningfromabear8354

    5 жыл бұрын

    I actually cringed at the claim to avoid tourist traps because what one person appreciates another doesn't. I've seen video's knock spots that some people like. But this was reasonable. I haven't been to NYC, but sorry to hear you have these same moronic tourist scams we have.

  • @eddiecordero2877

    @eddiecordero2877

    5 жыл бұрын

    RunningFromABear thankfully, these are only concentrated to the Times Square area. NY has so much more to offer than his trap

  • @erectustesticulus3191

    @erectustesticulus3191

    5 жыл бұрын

    You’d be surprised. New Yorkers and Londoners have similar places and share similar mannerisms. Only issue is that NY subway is 100x filthier

  • @greyladydamiana

    @greyladydamiana

    5 жыл бұрын

    Yes! As soon as she started talking about Leister Square, it reminded me of how I felt seeing Times Square-every god awful chain you could find all over the country and even an M&M store nearby

  • @rs-vp7re

    @rs-vp7re

    4 жыл бұрын

    London is the British version of NY. Same population, same murder rate, same attitudes lol

  • @hughtube5154
    @hughtube51545 жыл бұрын

    Speaking as a Star Wars cosplayer who serves authentic, traditional Pizza Hut souvenirs from the back of my rickshaw, this video offended me.

  • @MrDavfit

    @MrDavfit

    5 жыл бұрын

    haha

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    LOL

  • @joshuanaismith2427

    @joshuanaismith2427

    5 жыл бұрын

    I'll be honest if you want good fish and chips + beer go to wetherspoons DO NOT GO TO HACKNEY. not a welcoming place at all hahahah

  • @scousebusters1989

    @scousebusters1989

    5 жыл бұрын

    Yes go to Wetherspoons if you want microwave quality ready meals surrounded by people who start drinking at 7am. I cannot think of a worse recommendation to a tourist. The best pubs are just outside central london, in places like Islington. Even better still find a pub outside the capital.

  • @joshuanaismith2427

    @joshuanaismith2427

    5 жыл бұрын

    @@scousebusters1989 Put it this way.... Anywhere is better than Hackney! Why would anyone recommend a tourist to go to hackney.......

  • @PopnRockPlaylists
    @PopnRockPlaylists5 жыл бұрын

    Everyone should avoid cafe concerto. Cakes looks amazing in the shop window but it’s overpriced and they microwaved my scone!! And their macaroons were served frozen... never again.

  • @chrism-ow5uq

    @chrism-ow5uq

    5 жыл бұрын

    Ive been there, paid £10 for two hot chocolates...Never again.

  • @ninaelsbethgustavsen2131

    @ninaelsbethgustavsen2131

    2 жыл бұрын

    Macaroons should never be frozen ! They go all rubbery !! 😖

  • @Slice998
    @Slice9985 жыл бұрын

    I think these tips apply to pretty much every major city. Get out of the central areas if you want to eat authentic food and experience real culture.

  • @mczeljk

    @mczeljk

    2 жыл бұрын

    And for the love of everything avoid food chains you can find anywhere in the world

  • @jomartinkelly1
    @jomartinkelly14 жыл бұрын

    This is an absolutely essential video and should be watched by everyone visiting. It should be noted that a lot of the performers (the hideous tall Yodas, etc) are involved in crime gangs and a lot are "performing" against their will.

  • @amandamiller8313

    @amandamiller8313

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching’,, endeavor to write as soon for more enlightening tips W•h•a•t•s•A•p•p• m•e +•1• 3• 2• 3•9• 9• 1• 2 •5• 4•2•

  • @alisab3041
    @alisab30413 жыл бұрын

    Great advice! I’m from the US but have spent about 8 weeks in London during 4 trips to Great Britain. On my first trip in 2000, I bought a small umbrella at Harrod’s and I still use it - a perfect souvenir! I also like to buy neck scarves since they are easy to pack and make lovely gifts. We never had any decent fish and chips in London; best one was in a tiny town in North Yorkshire - cheap, fresh, and crispy! Focus on experiences while you’re there, not buying stuff. There is so much to do and enjoy in London. We took 4-5 walking tours with London Walks, which employs a lot of actors as guides. Their tour of East London was terrific. And take the boat down the Thames to Greenwich for a beautiful view of the city so you can visit a historical part of London that’s outside the main tourist area. The Markets are amazing - Borough and Spitalfields. We also enjoyed getting a picnic lunch at Harrod’s Food Court, then walking a few blocks to eat it on a park bench; eating carry out from markets and grocery stores was a way we saved money, since London is a very expensive city to visit. I look forward to seeing the rest of your videos; thanks for posting these. We always do a lot of KZread research before trips and people like you are providing a big service!

  • @marsgal42
    @marsgal425 жыл бұрын

    My London "don't bother" list includes Carnaby Street. It may have been amazing in the '60s. It isn't now. The best fish and chips I've had in London was a little hole in the wall just off the Embankment, run by a collection of mad Italians...when I went back the next trip a year later they remembered me. "Where were you? Why didn't you come back?" "Uh, Canada..."

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    I actually love Carnaby Street but I'm sure if I knew it like you did back then I would be sad at how it's changed too :)

  • @thegamebrary5096
    @thegamebrary50965 жыл бұрын

    Thanx a lot Jess!!! I'm headin there in a few weeks and your videos have been super helpful in my planning!!! I'm super excited!!!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    So glad I could help and glad you're excited :)

  • @CuriousPavel
    @CuriousPavel4 жыл бұрын

    love your stabilized shots, Jess :) and just another great video overall!

  • @discogareth
    @discogareth5 жыл бұрын

    Fish and Chipper in Leicester Square is actually ok, I’ve been a couple of times when visiting. Cheap and cheerful, and the food was plentiful and hot.

  • @lucilia7822
    @lucilia78225 жыл бұрын

    This filming is SO GREAT! I’m glad i’m here since 5k subscribers! Congrats ❤️

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Aw thank you Lucilla! Lots has changed since then :)

  • @ThoseTwoBrits1
    @ThoseTwoBrits15 жыл бұрын

    Fantastic video!! Love it x

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thank you guys xx

  • @nlaul
    @nlaul5 жыл бұрын

    Also avoid the American Candy stores that sell generic sweets and cereal for exorbitant prices. There are so many of them. Not sure how they stay in business. One pub in a tourist area that has good food is the Admiralty by Trafalgar Square

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Yes I don't know how they do either!

  • @tomfitz7431

    @tomfitz7431

    Жыл бұрын

    @@loveandlondon now reports say it's Afghanistan mafia. Money washing !!

  • @AmitSenguptaVlogs
    @AmitSenguptaVlogs4 жыл бұрын

    You have helped me a lot with your videos on London. Cant thank you enough.

  • @EdwardChangViolin
    @EdwardChangViolin5 жыл бұрын

    I just moved to London this morning from Canada, and have been bingewatching your videos. SO HELPFUL, THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Awesome! Good luck with getting settled in!

  • @paullewis2413
    @paullewis24135 жыл бұрын

    Agree with just about everything you said. London has become overwhelmed with tourists with the result that it's lost much of the defining character it once had. However, if you avoid the tacky shops and restaurants in the overtly touristy areas you can still discover the real city. Worst areas for inauthentic items/food etc are Leicester Square and some of the nearby streets and around the London Eye. Oxford street is a mix of tourist tack and some good stores, vastly overcrowded, Regent street which joins it is better and Jermyn street is more authentic. Bond st. is worth seeing but is now almost exclusively high end fashion stores. In general Kensington and Chelsea are less touristy, Harrods is an overpriced kitschy place, a tourist trap but worth a visit if only to see the amazing food halls.

  • @afterruncookie
    @afterruncookie5 жыл бұрын

    Hey Jess, I'm not sure if you're making a lot of friends with this video (I mean the owners etc.) but this video is so important. Thanks for that! Fully agree to each named spot. My best London memories are from the conversations while strolling through a big supermarket (more outside of central London - like ASDA superstore) or sitting in a neighborhood pub. So everything that is less tourist like and more like the real life. And this are the things that aren't expensive. Happy Easter to you and your team. xx Jo

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Happy Easter to you too Jo!

  • @GeneGonzales
    @GeneGonzales5 жыл бұрын

    LOL! Jess this was great! And I’m right there with you about M&M World. The smell as you walk by can be overwhelming. 😉

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Gene! Nice to hear from you

  • @Cpre1111
    @Cpre11115 жыл бұрын

    Great video and I really needed to hear this. Thanks so much.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    you're welcome Courtney!

  • @octaviodelaserna2007
    @octaviodelaserna20075 жыл бұрын

    Loved your video, everything you touched upon avoiding is everything I try to avoid! Spot on, great video!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Octavio!

  • @jefferycardoz6555
    @jefferycardoz65555 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the heads up This is gonna be of great help since I’m new to the Uk !!!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    You're very welcome!

  • @chesterfield3235
    @chesterfield3235 Жыл бұрын

    Love the honesty and great suggestions. thanks just love your blog's Jess keep up the great work.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching Chester!

  • @alyssaanderson8018
    @alyssaanderson80185 жыл бұрын

    So glad you did a video like this! I have seen that bakery all over Instagram and listed as top places to visit in London. I'm glad I can confidently remove it from my list of places to visit after watching this video.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    No problem Alyssa! Not everyone feels the way I do about it but if you don't want to be waiting around for a picture then now you know :)

  • @hjetnhgklhg
    @hjetnhgklhg5 жыл бұрын

    "If you have to say it, it's not true". That's TRUE right there, fellas. That's why when i'm visiting abroad and i want to eat some nice local food, i go to a really not well known small place far from the centre and touristic attractions!

  • @parthnikalje6823
    @parthnikalje68232 жыл бұрын

    Hey! Thank you so much for making this video. Would be a lot helpful for me.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it, thanks so much for watching!

  • @laurafuentes6021
    @laurafuentes60215 жыл бұрын

    As always great info! Thanks I'll be there in September yeah!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching Laura!

  • @Evgen_87433
    @Evgen_874332 жыл бұрын

    I'm going to visit London soon, thank you for your whole channel!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    2 жыл бұрын

    Fabulous, you're so welcome! If you want more of my recommendations, make sure you check out the Love and London shop where all of my travel guides are: shop.loveandlondon.com

  • @Tallinn8786
    @Tallinn87865 жыл бұрын

    There a loads of great pubs in central London. Just a bit of research will tell you which ones to visit and which ones to avoid.

  • @philiplettley
    @philiplettley5 жыл бұрын

    Remember shopping on Oxford Street, for lunch we went into Mayfair, small pub, very cheaply priced and good food, for anywhere not just for London, so agree with going well off the main attractions for cheap good food. And like with Mayfair, go into the expensive areas, as you'll probably find it cheaper there

  • @jacksugden8190
    @jacksugden81905 жыл бұрын

    Best cod fish and chips for me can be bought at either Cockfosters or at a shop near Brentwood Station on Warley Hill, there are three on Essex Road in Islington, one was almost good value for money, a question of knowing where to look around.

  • @importedmusic
    @importedmusic5 жыл бұрын

    Avoid Madame Tussauds and Ripley's Believe It or not.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Ripley's is gone! (yay)

  • @Magic_beans_
    @Magic_beans_5 ай бұрын

    2:10 I love this suggestion. As I traveled more I learned that I didn’t really use or even care for the tourist knick-knacks, they were just shelf clutter. What I’ve found more rewarding is to get one nicer item, something like an outfit or a painting that can have a story.

  • @lindajustin9949
    @lindajustin99495 жыл бұрын

    Very helpful! Thankyou very much.🌻🌷🌺🌻

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching Linda!

  • @travisaxewound4748
    @travisaxewound4748 Жыл бұрын

    Great video Jess. London is so big that you can stay in the west end and find value, just head down the side streets of Soho and there are great little cafes like Thai West Cafe on Brewer St. A colleague took me when I was working near Oxford Circus and I'd have never have picked it, let alone found it. Same with good value pubs. Kerb food is also good and made by people passionate about food rather than chains, well worth looking up.

  • @livingstorytelling
    @livingstorytelling5 жыл бұрын

    I was hesitant concerning Madame Toussods, but went out totally flashed. Loved the short immersive parts and am sad not to have went for the Sherlock thing. That short part I went through was cool though. and the 4d cinema was also great. If it only where about taking selfies with wax people it might be weirder. But really like the package it offers atm 😀

  • @ViaVicary
    @ViaVicary4 жыл бұрын

    This is so helpful. My Mom is taking me to London for the very first time (I'm 14) November 4-8th! Any tips? I love your videos! Learning a lot. Thanks so much.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    4 жыл бұрын

    I have a whole channel and website full of tips :)

  • @andreisubaru
    @andreisubaru5 жыл бұрын

    i live in London for the past 5 yrs and this is the best advice you can get ! Totally agree! if you want good things don't go central go almost zone 2

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Nice to hear you agree

  • @geoffreyhansen8543
    @geoffreyhansen85435 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for posting the useful video.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching Geoffrey!

  • @jawadarif5676
    @jawadarif56765 жыл бұрын

    One of my best travel tip is no Mather where in the world you go for the best food is alway go out of the tourist place, which the local uses, if it busy then must be good

  • @andrewb4556
    @andrewb45565 жыл бұрын

    Hi Jess THANKS for the vlog and information ! Nothing worse than a tourist traps.❤ it. Australia

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Andrew

  • @michalgruncl7075
    @michalgruncl70754 жыл бұрын

    Thanks you for this vide channels like you or honest guid shuld be more praised

  • @funnyhappystudios
    @funnyhappystudios2 жыл бұрын

    3:00 I remember seeing a Lego builder (Brick City Depot) recreate that red and blue row house! Its so cool to see it in this video as well!

  • @OmarScofield
    @OmarScofield4 жыл бұрын

    As a born and bread native of this City. I can also confirm truth in this especially the large gift shops! Great video

  • @kjellhl1975
    @kjellhl19755 жыл бұрын

    If you want to do some shopping, then go to one of the big malls outside the city centre. The prices there are much better, and you also find pretty much anything you need. Brent Cross shopping centre is one of them. And 20 minutes from that shopping centre you will discover the RAF Museum, it is a free museum with aeroplanes from Raf history ranging 100 years. It is a fascinating museum and not that crowded. I highly recommend it.

  • @grantrennie
    @grantrennie5 жыл бұрын

    I spent every weekend for 3 years in London then lived there for a while as well, there are nice restaurants in North Finchley.

  • @aymenyaz937
    @aymenyaz9375 жыл бұрын

    The dislikes are from all the shop owners that she criticized HAHAHAHAHA

  • @ninaelsbethgustavsen2131

    @ninaelsbethgustavsen2131

    2 жыл бұрын

    Good one ! 😉

  • @sheridangay
    @sheridangay5 жыл бұрын

    Thank you these tips are rather helpful, so I don't get ripped off when I come to London.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    No problem Sheridan!

  • @cubdukat
    @cubdukat4 жыл бұрын

    And I actually managed to avoid all of them :) BTW, your tips were really helpful!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Larry!

  • @lorna_alice
    @lorna_alice4 жыл бұрын

    Would recommend The Rocket in Euston for pub grub. Was in there and March and the food was nice and not over priced etc. It was like being back up north just with funnier accents. 🙂

  • @jtoatm5923
    @jtoatm59233 жыл бұрын

    I love how you gave the negatives but also positive alternatives!!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad to hear it :)

  • @LinkWave290
    @LinkWave2905 жыл бұрын

    3:10 LOL I've heard that happens in NY too!

  • @heywoodjerbloume
    @heywoodjerbloume Жыл бұрын

    When one was in London in the mid 70s there was a chain called the Pot.Great food and cheap.Loved the old Borsch and Tears.

  • @dobbinism
    @dobbinism4 жыл бұрын

    Excellent advice, thanks, and I was born and raised in London.

  • @spsppspsspsp8348

    @spsppspsspsp8348

    4 жыл бұрын

    David O'Brien so sad what’s happening there

  • @susanseeing9948
    @susanseeing99485 жыл бұрын

    I spent a little time in Leicester Square this past trip and it was eye-opening! Pretty much the British version of Time Square down the the M&M store--you're right, what is with these stores?? interesting to pass through, once, but that is all.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Yeah!

  • @Pavlogsz
    @Pavlogsz5 жыл бұрын

    Totally agree, good video!!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @ItsGermaine
    @ItsGermaine4 жыл бұрын

    This video is genius. My sister and I are visiting London next year and this video helped

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    4 жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it

  • @rych7852
    @rych78525 жыл бұрын

    Lived here all my life. (*cough* 40yrs!!!) Agree with every word. Especially regarding "Pester" Square being one to avoid. I'm so glad there's a concise series of videos to warn Tourists about the less good parts of my home town. I want them to enjoy their trip, not get ripped off!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @kazza5599
    @kazza55995 жыл бұрын

    It’s so weird to me because most of those places are American chains. Why would anyone go out of the country to visit somewhere we could go to at home? Great video and great to be warned!

  • @wen33

    @wen33

    5 жыл бұрын

    Karen J I agree for the most part, but my travel partner and I do have a goal to visit McDonald’s in every country. 😂 It’s amazing how much better the food is there vs. here!

  • @pyeltd.5457

    @pyeltd.5457

    5 жыл бұрын

    Because these American fast food restaurants are better in Europe due to the strict EU laws.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    I think unfortunately people just get nervous when traveling and want something familiar maybe!

  • @kazza5599

    @kazza5599

    5 жыл бұрын

    Love and London I disagree with the other commenters saying American food is better in England because that’s just not the case. I have had it there too and it’s no better yet it is more expensive. Give me a proper English breakfast in the morning and fish and chips in the afternoon and I am set for the day!

  • @neilhayes4166
    @neilhayes41665 жыл бұрын

    Some good calls here, especially with regard to the tourist traps in Leicester Square. Only thing I would disagree with is, that when in Central London, you will find some great and reasonably priced pubs down the backstreets. It is an expensive city I’m afraid, so do be prepared to get a hit on your wallet. For a more peaceful wallet friendly holiday I recommend Durham/ Northumberland.

  • @nn.roberts
    @nn.roberts2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the video. J from Norway.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching!

  • @FairycuteUSA
    @FairycuteUSA5 жыл бұрын

    Ahh, was going to try and squeeze in Peggy Porschen but won't try too hard now. Thanks for the tips! :)

  • @kristajones3592

    @kristajones3592

    5 жыл бұрын

    Our flat was a 5 minute walk from Peggy Porschen in Belgravia and we ended up buying cupcakes from there twice to take away. They were delicious. There was always a queue outside but that seemed to be to take pictures out front, which we thought was kind of crazy. There wasn't a wait to purchase anything.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    No problem!

  • @jonbyrnes4349
    @jonbyrnes43494 жыл бұрын

    Definitely agree about the rickshaws avoid at ALL costs ! They are dangerous and charge a lot more than the great London black taxi .

  • @Zaye_James
    @Zaye_James Жыл бұрын

    Visiting London today, been watching your videos all plane ride ❤

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    Жыл бұрын

    Hope you're having an amazing time!!

  • @Charlie-pu9bx
    @Charlie-pu9bx3 жыл бұрын

    Imagine going somewhere just to take Instagram photos. Just put the phone down and take in the experience.

  • @gmnewlook
    @gmnewlook Жыл бұрын

    I love fish and chips and so does my wife and our teen and I was recommended a chippie by a local Londoner located between Holborn and Russell Square Underground stations which fry the fish in beef drippings. It's on our to do list while in London, can't wait to try it.

  • @alyssaharris4850
    @alyssaharris48505 жыл бұрын

    This is kind of off topic but I didn’t know where else to ask.. Do you know how long the decoarated store fronts for Chelsea in Bloom next month stay up? I know the flower show ends May 25, but my mom arrives the 26th and is really hoping she won’t miss all the pretty displays on Kings Road specifically. Do you know when they’re taken down?

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    They'll probably stay up for a couple of days after but not sure :)

  • @jemitofuk6584
    @jemitofuk65844 жыл бұрын

    Is this like the honest guide from Prague? Im glad i found this

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    4 жыл бұрын

    We're a bit different than them but we do travel guides for London :)

  • @DionneWard
    @DionneWard5 жыл бұрын

    As a Londoner I love your videos as you say it how it is 👍🌸

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @Ella-fx1kx
    @Ella-fx1kx4 жыл бұрын

    Hi I live in Australia so we are not used to the cold and are not prepared, I was just wondering where you got your jacket because it looks incredible and comfy!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hey Ell! It's not great, and was made cheaply. Any warm jacket will do!

  • @diannalocke997
    @diannalocke9975 жыл бұрын

    Talk about the VAT so travelers can understand how it works. Love your videos!

  • @syedahyder2636

    @syedahyder2636

    5 жыл бұрын

    My mum spent ££££s in shopping collected all vat receipts. When she went to claim vat she was told that all the goods she bought must be with her when claiming vat. Unfortunately, she checked-in her luggage before approaching the VAT claim hence had to leave it. No retail business or even the Hmrc does say clearly about vat claim procedure. We understand all goods along with all Vat receipts to be taken to VAT claim counters. Then do your check-in.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Hi Dianna Visit London has a good guide to VAT, that will help

  • @flamingpieherman9822
    @flamingpieherman98225 жыл бұрын

    I went to Harrods they have a great gift shop

  • @pomelodrive21
    @pomelodrive215 жыл бұрын

    10000000% honest reviews,,👍👍👍

  • @jackvazquez-solis4840
    @jackvazquez-solis48405 жыл бұрын

    Nyc prepared me for this !😂

  • @furdiebant
    @furdiebant5 жыл бұрын

    Great advice. If you want to go to the best bookshop in London, go to Daunt books in Marylebone (the area is also very pleasant)

  • @danielw5850

    @danielw5850

    5 жыл бұрын

    Hatchards (Est. 1797), on Piccadilly is also very special.

  • @Abhi-rs2nx
    @Abhi-rs2nx2 жыл бұрын

    Interesting info. 🤔

  • @wowJhil
    @wowJhil5 жыл бұрын

    Some obvious things, but also some less obvious once. Nice vid!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Just because it's obvious to you doesn't mean it is to everyone else :) Thanks!

  • @applebebe2002
    @applebebe20025 жыл бұрын

    In terms of pubs, I suggest go to the areas of London that are filled with office workers and English people. Those are the more authentic ones. There are some around the Strand in Alleys. A good Pub is 'Ye Old Cheshire Cheese' which is in Fleet Street.

  • @Tallinn8786

    @Tallinn8786

    5 жыл бұрын

    As a Londoner, the pubs I always tend to avoid are the ones full of office workers! :D

  • @MissEdie1973
    @MissEdie19732 жыл бұрын

    The last time I visited London, I had a stay in the Earls Court area and I did not venture into the tourist spots, which is probably why I'd had so much fun.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    2 жыл бұрын

    could definitely be!

  • @beanie3398
    @beanie33983 жыл бұрын

    I'm a true londoner.....born and bred and agree with everything you say in the Video! Great to see a factually great Video! Keep reppin London!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching beanie

  • @ianforsyth2692
    @ianforsyth2692 Жыл бұрын

    I totally agree with what you said about Leicester Square. I try to avoid the area; the problem is if you want to see a show, you usually go through the area, and I play poker, so they have two good casinos there with poker rooms: The Empire Casino and the Hippodrome. All that said, the place has horrific restaurants and shops that only a desperate tourist would visit. I remember being charged 50p for extra hot water in one of those restaurants, and it's the worst food imaginable. Leicester Square is our Pier 39 in San Francisco.

  • @downingbethune8758
    @downingbethune87584 жыл бұрын

    I agree with everything on the list except for the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace. It's worth doing. Once. I'm a bit of a history buff and wanted to see the Palace so might as well watch the changing of the guards while I was there. Still, we peeled off at some point during the ceremony and had the park largely to ourselves. The cost (free) was certainly right, lol. Leicester Square, which we avoided, looks like a freak show. The only time we spent in Picadilly Circus was on our way to Soho and/or Jermyn Street. Who in their right mind would shop in one of those ubiquitous made in China souvenir shops? So many better choices out there. Go to central London for the history and the neighborhoods for the culture and food. Loved London and will definitely return.

  • @harmeetsingh-oo9di
    @harmeetsingh-oo9di4 жыл бұрын

    Solo travelling to London from India. I am excited about this trip but at the same time m nervous a lot. Should i say at some hotel or book some room thru airbnb??...Planning to stay about for a week in London, which one should i go for. Any Suggestions....and in Jan is it going to be too cold in UK??

  • @woodgatejack
    @woodgatejack2 жыл бұрын

    About 20 years ago, I used to see numerous vendors selling hotdogs and burgers from little metal trolley stoves. Nowadays these usually sell caramelised nuts. However, I was recently surprised to see a vendor that still had hotdogs. A few things to note- These little stoves have no coverings on them, open to the wind, rain and bird poop. Also, where do they keep their stock? Are those little cubbyholes below the hot-plate refrigerated? The reason I was surprised to see a hotdog/burger vendor with one of these little trolleys is because about 20 years ago I saw a show following health inspectors investigating these kind of vendors. The raw sausages were kept in a greasy cardboard box in the trolley, next to a gas cylinder that fed the hotplate (so, no- not refrigerated) The health inspector also pointed out how there was nowhere for the vendor to wash their hands and that the trolley was so poorly put together, that the whole thing could blow up!

  • @thethe6232
    @thethe62325 жыл бұрын

    Be good if you recommended some more good places to balance it out. The Bear and staff pub, bear street, is cool with good food. Bar Remo just beside Karen Millen off, Regent street and China town, Gerard street are good value to eat out. also. Covent Garden market, British Museum, St. Paul’s church Covent Garden for the live quire , are all worth a visit or stroll round👍

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    I have tons of other videos on the channel with good recommendations :D

  • @idek4973
    @idek49734 жыл бұрын

    Chinatown in Leicester Square is amazing and the food is very delicious. It is a good alternative to all the other food chains nearby.

  • @stevecusimano2116
    @stevecusimano21165 жыл бұрын

    We are heading there in September. Thanks for all your information. We do have one question not related to this video but is there anywhere we can buy local art work. Is there a flea market or area where this stuff is sold. Thanks.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Lots of markets have artwork, plus you can Google art galleries. I've got some galleries and markets as part of the 3-Day London Itinerary: loveandlondon.com/3-day-london-itinerary

  • @danielw5850

    @danielw5850

    5 жыл бұрын

    steve cusimano are you having a laugh... the city is rammed with affordable art! I once went to an "Affordable Picasso" exhibition and there were signed squiggles on napkins (authenticated) for £70. I admit, it was 15 years ago, but the point stands; look-up The Courtauld Institute or Goldsmith's College, for example, see if their graduates have a sale of their work; hope you have an adventure!

  • @aaishasingh3565
    @aaishasingh3565 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching!

  • @lovejaycakes
    @lovejaycakes5 жыл бұрын

    I’ve actually been to Peggy posrchen and you’re totally right! I went there for the picture mainly, beautiful presentation of the desserts.. but i got a hot chocolate and it was the worst one yet. How do you mess that up! Lol

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    Oh nooo :( I hate to bash a small biz but that's good to know :)

  • @lovejaycakes

    @lovejaycakes

    5 жыл бұрын

    Love and London haha yes! I’m actually glad you added this on there. Another one is Elan Cafe! They have a couple locations now and it’s an okay place but definitely really touristy for pictures since there’s a lot of pink and instagrammable walls!

  • @Porto_Pablo
    @Porto_Pablo5 жыл бұрын

    Golden Union fish shop in Poland St is amazing, albeit pricey but you don't get cheap in London. Saying that, Cookhouse Joe Berwick St is also a decent place for lunch.

  • @davemunro5029

    @davemunro5029

    5 жыл бұрын

    Zilly cafe Cleveland st is also good

  • @choconena10
    @choconena102 жыл бұрын

    What do you think about Five Guys and Bleecker? Are these good to give it a try? I'm travelling with kids over 9 so I bet they want to try these...

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    2 жыл бұрын

    Bleecker is more London. Five Guys you can have all over the world

  • @LXS1303
    @LXS1303 Жыл бұрын

    I love the way you loathe the MnM shop! HAHHAHA!!! I will definitely avoid this when I visit!

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    Жыл бұрын

    I will die on this hill lol!

  • @mz.channel
    @mz.channel5 жыл бұрын

    This is so accurate! The bit about the pubs also relates to restaurants - if you wanna try any of the world cuisines, DO NOT do that in central! It will be poor quality and very overpriced! Like, don't eat Chinese in Chinatown, for Indian food go to Wembley, and head south of the River for Afro-Caribbean, for example.

  • @loveandlondon

    @loveandlondon

    5 жыл бұрын

    You can find good food like that in central but you need to know where you're going and you're also not getting the "hole in the wall but great spot" options you might find in say Wembley like you mentioned