Discover London

14/03/2025

Plans to reintroduce a variety of wildlife to the capital including eels, otters and beavers have been outlined by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan. The initiative comes as part of a wider scheme to improve the quality of rivers in London.

It comes as the Mayor announces £7.15 million of funding from City Hall and Transport for London to prevent road runoff pollution from entering waterways and killing aquatic life. The sum also aims to encourage large scale rewilding and provide funding from the Green Roots Fund for community groups and charities to deliver nature projects along waterways.

The project hopes to bring a 'nature revival' to the capital to restore beavers, water voles, eels, otters and other animals to London. It follows the successful reintroduction of beavers to Ealing and Enfield in recent years alongside a water vole reintroduction site on the Hogsmill River, led by the South East Rivers Trust.

https://uk.news.yahoo.com/sadiq-khan-plans-bring-otters-123906170.html

12/03/2025

Top 10 Most Visited Countries of 2024

Here is the list of the Top 10 most visited countries in 2024:

France
Spain
USA
China
Italy
Turkey
Mexico
Thailand
Germany
United Kingdom

https://curlytales.com/the-list-is-out-from-frances-charm-to-the-uks-heritage-there-are-2024s-top-travel-destinations/

11/03/2025

TOM KITCHIN BRINGS HIS ‘FROM NATURE TO PLATE’ PHILOSOPHY TO BROWN’S HOTEL
Celebrated Scottish chef, Tom Kitchin, known for his Michelin-starred restaurant The Kitchin in Edinburgh, is bringing his renowned ‘From Nature to Plate’ ethos to London’s iconic Brown’s Hotel. Until May 25th, 2025, guests at the hotel’s Donovan Bar will have the opportunity to indulge in a curated selection of Tom’s seasonal small plates, showcasing the finest local produce Scotland has to offer.

“I truly live and breathe our ‘From Nature to Plate’ philosophy,” says Kitchin. “It’s all about respecting the produce and using the best, freshest, seasonal ingredients. I’m passionate about introducing guests to new flavours and interpretations, creating memorable experiences that connect them with nature through food.”

Tom’s approach to cooking is rooted in his Scottish heritage and world-class training, blending modern British cuisine with French techniques. His dishes feature ingredients sourced from loyal local suppliers , each chosen for their commitment to quality and sustainability. “Freshness is everything to me,” Kitchin adds. “We work with independent businesses that are just as passionate about food as we are.”

A highlight of the menu will be Kitchin’s famous Oysters from Loch Creran, hand-picked from the West Coast of Scotland, paired with a unique Highland Park Whisky vinegar. Also featured will be a luxurious Wagyu beef tartare featuring Highland Wagyu from Dunblane, served with crispy kale chips and Petrossian Daurenki Tsar Imperial Caviar.

Tom’s signature dishes, including Mull cheddar cheese straws, smoked salmon from the renowned Welch’s fishmonger, and traditional Scottish haggis served as bon bons, are guaranteed to transport guests to the heart of Scotland. “Food is a powerful thing. It brings people together,” says Kitchin, emphasising the emotional experience of dining.

Alongside this celebration of Scotland’s natural larder, Tom will be collaborating with The Donovan Bar’s Maestro Salvatore Calabrese and Area Director of Mixology Federico Pavan, to pair his seasonal dishes with exceptional creations. Whether enjoying a Highland Park Old Fashioned with Oysters or pairing Tom’s carefully crafted small plates with a selection of wines, this residency promises an unforgeable gastronomic experience.

Tom Kitchin’s residency at Brown’s Hotel is a rare opportunity to experience his From Nature to Plate philosophy in the heart of London. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or new to Tom’s cuisine, this exclusive collaboration is not to be missed.

10/03/2025

London Eye celebrates 25 years

The London Eye is celebrating its 25th anniversary on 9th March 2025. Officially opened to the public on 9th March 2000, the London Eye is reported to have welcomed over 30 million visitors.

The attraction is celebrated not just for its views but for its engineering marvel. The London Eye has also garnered a reputation for being a romantic and memorable location for special moments, with more than 5,000 marriage proposals have taken place within the glass-enclosed pods.

The London Eye is also said to have played a significant part in London’s tourism industry, contributing millions to the local economy every year. The London Eye has also attracted numerous celebrities, with many choosing to take a ride for a unique perspective on the city.

https://www.traveltrendstoday.in/london-eye-celebrates-25-years-2/

06/03/2025

St Ermin's Launches New Sparkling Crémant Afternoon Tea Menu

The four-star deluxe St. Ermin's Hotel in London's St James's Park, has launched a sparkling new Afternoon Tea with bottomless Crémant. Crafted using the traditional method to make the fine wines of Champagne, the Crémant's luxurious bubbles are extremely desired.

The indulgent, free-flowing Crémant Afternoon Tea costs £62 per person and is available throughout March, with the exception of Mother's Day weekend, when the hotel will host an exquisite Specialty Mother's Day Afternoon Tea, complete with a harpist and carefully curated gifts

Afternoon Tea is a specialty at the St. Ermin's Hotel, served every afternoon in the beautiful, elegant first floor mezzanine Tea Lounge. All teas are served with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, homemade jam and award-winning teas from The Tea Makers of London. Vegan, Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Afternoon Tea is also available. A Children's tea is available on request throughout the school holidays and every weekend.

The traditional Crémant Afternoon Tea menu offers a selection of sandwiches including Suffolk ham with St. Ewes golden eggs and watercress, Red Hereford roast beef with tomato chutney, horseradish cream and rocket pesto, poached chicken with a truffle mayonnaise, Goldstein smoked salmon in a beetroot wrap, with beetroot hummus, avocado and black pepper with lemon, and mature cheddar cheese with apple and onion chutney. Sweets include violet and black currant macarons, St Ermin's honey madeleine pancake buttermilk panna cotta served with Amarena cherries, passionfruit cheesecake served with mango jelly, and pecan and cranberry tart with whipped cream cheese.

The Plant Based menu boasts sandwiches including a spicy chickpea beetroot wrap, sundried tomato with artichoke and lovage pesto, a pulled BBQ jackfruit sandwich with vegan cheese and crunchy salad, and a lemon and dill cucumber triple decker with green pea, avocado, cream cheese and basil. Sweet treats include stem ginger cake with maple vegan cream, chocolate mousse with blueberry compote, raspberry cheesecake with raspberry and thyme gel, marmalade lamington topped with desiccated coconut, and carrot cake with vegan cream cheese frosting.

A gluten-free Crémant menu is also available and includes the traditional sandwich fillings in freshly made bread, free from wheat and other grains. All the sweet treats found on the plant-based menu are gluten free.

To book, visit www.sterminshotel.co.uk/eating-drinking/afternoon-tea-with-bottomless-cremant

22/02/2025

London’s Direct Train Links to Europe: New Routes on the Horizon
A direct London train link to six European cities may soon become a reality. This expansion could transform international travel, offering faster and greener alternatives to air transport. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
Plans to enhance St Pancras station’s capacity could introduce direct train services to Germany and Switzerland. London St Pancras Highspeed, managing the station and high-speed tracks, aims to attract train operators.
Don’t miss…Belgrade to Purchase 100 Modern Trams to Improve Urban Transport
Their goal is to increase passenger capacity from 1,800 to 5,000 per hour at St Pancras. Currently, Eurostar has exclusive control over passenger trains through the Channel Tunnel.
Eurostar operates trains to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, along with seasonal ski routes. However, it ceased services to Disneyland Paris in June 2023 and no longer reaches southern France.
Competition may arise as Evolyn, a Spanish start-up, and Virgin Group explore launching alternative train services. Getlink, the Channel Tunnel’s French owner, sees potential in routes connecting London to new cities.
Getlink envisions services linking London with Bordeaux, Cologne, Frankfurt, Geneva, Marseille, and Zurich. In pursuit of this goal, it has signed an agreement with London St Pancras Highspeed.
How London’s Rail Expansion Will Change Travel?
Robert Sinclair, CEO of London St Pancras Highspeed, expressed commitment to expanding Europe’s railway network. He emphasized the importance of unlocking the full potential of international train travel.
https://www.railway.supply/.../londons-direct-train.../

22/02/2025

London’s Direct Train Links to Europe: New Routes on the Horizon

A direct London train link to six European cities may soon become a reality. This expansion could transform international travel, offering faster and greener alternatives to air transport. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Plans to enhance St Pancras station’s capacity could introduce direct train services to Germany and Switzerland. London St Pancras Highspeed, managing the station and high-speed tracks, aims to attract train operators.

Don’t miss…Belgrade to Purchase 100 Modern Trams to Improve Urban Transport

Their goal is to increase passenger capacity from 1,800 to 5,000 per hour at St Pancras. Currently, Eurostar has exclusive control over passenger trains through the Channel Tunnel.

Eurostar operates trains to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, along with seasonal ski routes. However, it ceased services to Disneyland Paris in June 2023 and no longer reaches southern France.

Competition may arise as Evolyn, a Spanish start-up, and Virgin Group explore launching alternative train services. Getlink, the Channel Tunnel’s French owner, sees potential in routes connecting London to new cities.

Getlink envisions services linking London with Bordeaux, Cologne, Frankfurt, Geneva, Marseille, and Zurich. In pursuit of this goal, it has signed an agreement with London St Pancras Highspeed.

How London’s Rail Expansion Will Change Travel?
Robert Sinclair, CEO of London St Pancras Highspeed, expressed commitment to expanding Europe’s railway network. He emphasized the importance of unlocking the full potential of international train travel.

A direct London train link to six European cities may soon become a reality. This expansion could transform international travel, offering faster and greener al

20/02/2025

The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in London February-April.

Step into the heart of everyone’s favourite TV show, at the European flagship of The ​FRIENDS™​ Experience.
​​The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in London promises a taste of New York City, and never-before-seen content including “London, baby!” and FRIENDS™ Station. ​

Immerse yourself in recreated sets; dance in front of the fountain, peep through the iconic purple door at Rachel and Monica’s apartment, play foosball at Joey and Chandler’s, and take a selfie on the orange couch in Central Perk.

The Turkey Head – we have it. Phoebe’s New York cab – we have it. The 18-page letter – we have it (front and back!)

​​Hang out in the FRIENDS™ Station for even more photo opportunities, snacks, and of course, ​coffee​ before hitting up the FRIENDS™ Retail Store. And yes, we’ve got Hugsy and the famous yellow frame waiting for you. ​

​​OH.MY.GAWD! The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in London. ​

FRIENDS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

https://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/local-events/Wandsworth/1287507.Event.Nature_Knows_Best/?_evDiscoveryPath=/event/36704268t-the-friends-experience-the-one-in-london-february-april-

19/02/2025

I toured the Tower of London after dark, and witnessed a mysterious 700-year-old ceremony

The Tower is opening after dark for spooky tours: a rare opportunity to visit without the crowds

Murder, ravens, people in funny hats: even if you've never been to the Tower of London, you know the vibe. It’s a massive, medieval castle right in the centre of town, and an absolute, nailed-on essential for tourists and school trips. I’ve stepped through its gates many times, but never after dark.

So I was intrigued by the rare chance to tour the grounds at night, without the crowds – and to witness the ancient Ceremony of the Keys, a mysterious medieval ritual that has taken place every night for centuries.

https://www.timeout.com/london/news/i-toured-the-tower-of-london-after-dark-and-witnessed-a-mysterious-700-year-old-ceremony-021925

19/02/2025

UK's most expensive historic tourist attractions unveiled following huge price increases

The price of tickets to some of the UK's most famous historical sites have been massively hiked up in the past three years.

The UK has no shortage of historic sites to visit, from Stonehenge to Henry VIII’s former abode, Hampton Court Palace, or taking in the Roman’s feat of engineering at Hadrian’s Wall, there’s plenty of attractions to choose from.

But taking in this history can come with quite the price tag, and new research by consumer group Which? has found the cost to visit some of the UK’s most beloved historic attractions has soared by over 50% in the past three years.

Dating back to the 1200s, a ticket to York Minster Cathedral will now set you back £20, a staggering 54% increase since 2022 when tickets were slightly more affordable at £13.

And it seems you can put a price on fun, as the most expensive church in the country is officially more expensive than a trip to some of the UK’s most popular theme parks.

https://www.express.co.uk/travel/uk/2016199/UK-historic-tourist-attractions

17/02/2025

According to the Met Office, London is set to see sunny weather on Monday and Tuesday, with temperatures of around 6C with the rest of the week getting steadily warmer until Friday’s highs of 14C.

The predicted temperatures of 14C by the middle of the week are well above February's average, with 9C the usual average in southern England, which will be a "noticeable shift" after the last fortnight which was below average, Met Office meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey previously said.

11/02/2025

LONDON MOTORCYCLE SHOW: Start your engine for the London Motorcycle Show, wheeling into town for three days at Excel. See the latest bikes, kit and accessories, as well as a 'base camp' hosted by Charley Boorman. 14-16 February

https://londonist.com/london/things-to-do/things-to-do-this-week-in-london-10-16-february-2025

11/02/2025

ARCELORMITTAL ORBIT: After a lengthy closure, the ArcelorMittal Orbit in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park reopens , with new operator Zipworld at the helm. The viewing gallery is back open to visitors, as is the world's biggest tunnel slide, now rebranded as 'Helix'. From 14 February

https://londonist.com/london/things-to-do/things-to-do-this-week-in-london-10-16-february-2025

11/02/2025

WITH LOVE, MARILYN: The current Marilyn Monroe exhibition in The Arches London Bridge celebrates Valentine's Day with special performances of With Love, Marilyn, a one-woman musical cabaret tribute performance to the actress. 13-15 February

https://londonist.com/london/things-to-do/things-to-do-this-week-in-london-10-16-february-2025

11/02/2025

DRINK OF THE WEEK: The plush Coral Room is always worth having up your sleeve should you need to flee the bustle around Tottenham Court Road — and it's just launched an aeronautically-themed cocktail menu. 'Mr Crosbie's Great Aeronautic Adventure' riffs off the 18th-century Irish aeronaut Richard Crosbie with 16(!) new concoctions, including the Silver Nymph (vodka, mastiha, cucumber and mint Greek yoghurt) and a Japanese twist on the negroni made with with gin, sake and lychee. A couple of these and you'll be flying too...

https://londonist.com/london/things-to-do/things-to-do-this-week-in-london-10-16-february-2025

11/02/2025

Eurostar has resumed its direct service between Amsterdam and London, offering travellers a seamless and sustainable journey from the heart of Amsterdam to the heart of London.

Eurostar will now operate three daily services on weekdays and Sundays (two on Saturdays) between London St Pancras and Amsterdam.

The resumption marks the first step in a phased expansion of Eurostar’s services:

10 February – Late March 2025: Services will accommodate a maximum of 400 passengers from Amsterdam per journey, a +10% increase.
30 March – 22 April: A temporary terminal closure will take place at Amsterdam Centraal to facilitate further platform renovations.
From 22 April: Passenger capacity will increase to 600 from Amsterdam +220% increase and +160 from Rotterdam. Enhanced services and facilities will include an exclusive boarding point for a seamless travel experience.
By September 2025: Full capacity of up to 650 passengers from Amsterdam will be introduced.
Looking ahead, Eurostar’s ambition is to expand to five daily services between London and Amsterdam by 2026.

A State-of-the-Art Terminal at Amsterdam Centraal
Coinciding with the service expansion, the new UK Terminal at Amsterdam Centraal opened on 10 February. This terminal, located in one of Europe’s most historic stations, offers a 21st-century travel experience with sustainability at its core:

Eco-friendly design: The terminal features carbon-negative flooring, an A+ energy efficiency rating, and sustainable finishes such as recycled plating and felt ceilings.

Enhanced customer experience: Ultra-fast Wifi modern real-time information system, and smart lighting.

Comfortable spaces: A variety of seating areas designed for relaxation and productivity, including a low-stimulus space for added comfort.

Premium refreshments: Travellers can enjoy barista-made coffee, fresh pastries from our new café, and free chilled water while unwinding under our smart lighting system.

“We are delighted that direct Eurostar services between Amsterdam and London are back. This is more than just a train journey — it is a seamless connection between two vibrant capitals, offering our customers an efficient, comfortable, and sustainable way to travel. Eurostar is proud to unveil this state-of-the-art terminal, reinforcing our commitment to providing a seamless, sustainable, travel experience. We know we will welcome more passengers on board as we continue to grow our services and set the standards for connectivity across Europe. The tripling of capacity on the Netherlands-UK route is step one in a broader strategy to increase Eurostar’s network for customers all across Europe,” explained Gwendoline Cazenave, CEO of Eurostar.

Seema Malhotra MP, Minister for Migration and Citizenship said, “Working closely with our European neighbours is a priority for this government, as we continue to ensure seamless passenger travel for those travelling to and from the UK while protecting our borders.

I am pleased to see the reinstatement of the direct Eurostar connection to London from the Netherlands. Our hard-working UK Border Force officers based in Netherlands will ensure that our border security remains robust.”

https://traveltradejournal.com/eurostar-resumes-direct-amsterdam-london-services-with-enhanced-customer-experience/

10/02/2025

42 Of The Most Romantic Things To Do This Valentine’s Day In London

Cupid is ready to hit you with his best shot at some London's most romantic, fun and even competitive activities this February.

Whether you’re a reluctant participant, a hopeless romantic, or just looking for an excuse to have a couple of cocktails, we’ve found some pretty cracking things to do in London this Valentine’s Day (and on the weekends around it).

From good, old-fashioned dinner dates in romantic restaurants to lively, competitive games, there’s plenty for a first date, 100th date, and a great time with pals. Get inspired, and fall in love with the capital again… https://secretldn.com/valentines-day-london/?utm_source=MEDIA+Secret+London+Subscribers&utm_campaign=45105da132-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_02_10_12_45&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ef9bca831c-45105da132-144978396