Whether you’re flying into London City Airport for business or pleasure, hiring a car means you can skip the stress of the Tube and enjoy a little comfort as you explore the sprawling metropolis.
And there’s certainly no shortage of things to do.
Touring the Thames
The River Thames is central to London’s identity, and many of the city’s most distinctive sites are clustered along the banks. Big Ben stands on the west, and when the sky is clear head across Westminster Bridge to the London Eye. Unveiled in 1998, this super-size observation wheel is an awe-inspiring way to see the city from above.
As the river curves round Shakespeare’s Globe comes into view, an authentic recreation of the original round theatre, complete with gleaming white walls and a thatched roof. Continue east and you’ll see the shadow of Tower Bridge come into focus – another iconic sight.
There’s so much more to explore along the Thames, from the Tower of London with its resident ravens to the eclectic buzz of South Bank where you’ll find pop up markets, the Tate modern, famous skate parks and eateries galore. Hire a car to experience it all, soaking up every sight, sound and taste of this vibrant city.
Neighbourhood hopping
If you can tear yourself away from The Thames, you can explore the incredible neighbourhoods which surround the central core. From Kensington to Camden, and Brixton to Balham, each pocket is bursting at the seams with personality, painting the streets with its own independent style.
The elegant lanes of upmarket Kensington are lined with world-famous museums, including the Natural History Museum – home of magnificent dinosaur and blue whale skeletons. The perfectly-preened lawns of Kensington Gardens are ripe for a picnic, while the famous blue door of Notting Hill is just 10 minutes’ drive away.
Further north, the eccentricity of Camden Market awaits. More than 1000 stalls are piled high with hand-crafted souvenirs, walls are painted with murals and the outfits of passers-by are sometimes like avant-garde masterpieces themselves. South of the river, Brixton beats with the sound of live music venues, and Balham spoils you for choice with cosy brunch spots.
Global gastronomy
In London, the food scene is as diverse as its people. Go local and explore the free-spirited eateries of the trendiest neighbourhoods. Brixton Market, Borough Market and so many others of their kind are filled with intimate, cupboard-sized venues, serving up big flavours from around the world. Thai, sushi, oysters or even a full English breakfast – you’ll find something delicious to sink your teeth into.
At the other end of the spectrum, there are dozens and dozens of Michelin-star restaurants waiting to whisk you away on a culinary odyssey. Some carry the names and reputations of world famous chefs like Gordon Ramsay, others are housed in the grandeur of prestigious five-star hotels like The Dorchester.
Whether you’re ticking off the sights, going back to see them again or discovering new and exciting parts of the city, London will always have you coming back for more. Make it the most comfortable trip possible with car hire from London City Airport.
