6 Must-Visit Landmarks for Food, Fun, and Sights on a 2023 Trip to London, UK
The warm festive atmosphere is growing stronger, and the winter of 2022 has arrived. Winter in London, unlike other seasons, is filled with Christmas cheer and the烟火气 (festive buzz) of New Year expectations. This remarkably romantic city, steeped in nearly two thousand years of history, is full of stunning charm. Every corner of this city is worth exploring in detail. Today, we will share with you the 6 most worthwhile things to do in London in 2023!
Travel Landmark: Big Ben
Many people first learned about Big Ben from Jay Chou's song "Big Ben." Located on the banks of the River Thames, Big Ben is a cultural icon of the UK and one of the most prominent symbols of Britain and parliamentary democracy. It often appears in films set in London.
Designed by Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin in the Neo-Gothic architectural style, Big Ben was the largest and most accurate four-faced striking clock in the world when completed in 1859. The shields on the tower represent all four regions of the United Kingdom: the rose for England, the thistle for Scotland, the shamrock for Northern Ireland, and the leek for Wales.
On August 21, 2017, Big Ben began a four-year renovation project. The renovation included adding an elevator, reglazing and repainting the clock dials, upgrading lighting, and repairing roof tiles. On November 13, 2022, the renovated Big Ben was fully revealed to the public, resuming its regular operation of chiming every 15 minutes.
Sightseeing Landmark: London Eye
Everyone has a unique impression of the London Eye. As one of the iconic landmarks along the River Thames, the London Eye sits opposite Big Ben.
Originally built to celebrate the millennium, the London Eye is also known as the "Millennium Wheel." With a total height of 135 meters, it has 32 capsules, each with a different design and name, capable of holding about 25 passengers. Notable capsules include the Private Pod and the Pub Pod. Although seats are available inside the capsules, people usually want to take in the panoramic views of London, so choosing a good spot for sightseeing after boarding is also important.
Dim Sum Food Landmark: Yauatcha
When traveling abroad, one often misses the flavors of home. As a representative of Chinese restaurants, Cantonese dim sum teahouses are popular among many students and tourists abroad. When it comes to Cantonese dim sum teahouses in the UK, Yauatcha is a must-mention.
Yauatcha is a restaurant brand under Tao Group Hospitality, with two locations in London: Soho and City. Yauatcha earned a Michelin star in its first year of operation, specializing in authentic Cantonese dim sum and Asian cuisine, such as rice noodle rolls, shrimp dumplings, and siu mai. Besides dim sum and dishes, Yauatcha's desserts are also worth trying, offering an ultimate taste experience.
This winter, Yauatcha has partnered with Scottish whisky brand Johnnie Walker, inspired by the newly released "City of the Future" limited edition Johnnie Walker Blue Label, to create a futuristic dream terrace. In this collaboration, Yauatcha has specially designed four cocktails themed around Johnnie Walker Blue Label. The blend of ancient British culture and futuristic technology feels like being in a space full of infinite imagination, empowering the future with creativity.
Shopping Landmark: Oxford Street & Regent Street
When it comes to London's shopping paradise, Oxford Street and Regent Street are the top choices.
Oxford Street stretches 3 kilometers across central London. Here you can find flagship stores of various luxury brands, fast-fashion affordable clothing brands, pubs, and traditional British department stores like Selfridges and John Lewis.
Heading south from Oxford Circus Station underground, you can reach another famous commercial street in London—Regent Street.
Located in the heart of London, Regent Street was completed in 1826. It is an early example of urban planning in England and a symbol of London's urban culture. Every building on Regent Street exudes classical beauty. Besides the grand royal-style architecture, this street, about one kilometer long, is known for its numerous high street brands, various pubs and restaurants, and Christmas lights display from November to January each year.
Cultural Entertainment Landmark: West End
Whether you are a tourist visiting London or a student studying there, your "to-do list" will surely include: go to the West End to watch a world-class musical performance.
The West End does not refer to the geographical west London but is synonymous with the British theatre district, ranking alongside Broadway in New York as one of the "world's two major theatre centers." The essence of British theatre is concentrated in the West End, which has over 40 theatres hosting classic musicals and plays year-round, such as the famous "The Phantom of the Opera," "Les Misérables," "Mamma Mia!," and "The Lion King."
Besides theatre, the West End is also a hub for London's art and culture. It houses the well-known British Museum and National Gallery, as well as niche galleries and cinemas. Here, you can always find different aspects of British charm.
Food Landmark: Hakkasan
Have you ever had an unforgettable meal at a Chinese restaurant in London? As the first Chinese restaurant in the UK to receive a Michelin star, Hakkasan is known as one of the "sexiest Chinese restaurants" ever. This restaurant was ranked 14th in the world restaurant rankings published by Restaurant magazine.
Hakkasan has two Michelin-starred restaurants in central London, located at Hanway Place and Mayfair. Hakkasan specializes in Cantonese cuisine, with signature dishes like Peking duck with caviar, and innovative dishes such as black truffle roast duck. The authentic Cantonese flavors, combined with Hakkasan's avant-garde brand concept, make this restaurant unique. In addition to the dining area, Hakkasan also features a bar serving a variety of drinks. The stylish décor and the fusion of Chinese and Western dishes make it an ideal choice for small gatherings with friends and birthday parties!
