My London Adventure: Bookstores, Paddington Bear, and Time on My Own

People often call England a “starter country” for European travel because English is the primary language. England, however, was not my first European adventure, France holds that title. But when one of my closest friends decided to move to London for a few years, how could I not take advantage of that travel opportunity?

So after the COVID lockdowns, in 2022, I booked my roundtrip flight—which proved to be its own adventure. I left from Dulles, which is where I parked my car. But while checking in for my return flight from London, I realized I wasn’t returning to Dulles, but instead to BWI. And yes, I Ubered from BWI to Dulles to retrieve my car. Travel tip: Ensure your flights leave and return from your desired airports.

But while in London, I had a fantastically fabulous trip. I took a classic black cab to get to my friend’s flat. We did a quick catch up and then I had to head out for Kensington Gardens. My girlfriend told me to go out her front door, make a right and the train station would be on the right—and I was off! I asked the station attendant how to purchase a pass for the week, where to get off for Kensington Gardens, and I hopped on the next train.

Then I panicked. I was in a European country and had no idea how to navigate the train system or where I was going. Thankfully, the thought came and went quickly. I told myself, worst case scenario, I could call my friend if I needed help, even though she was working. But true calm settled in when I reminded myself: I regularly navigate the New York City subway system. I can do anything. And since my London trip was 2 years before my Asia adventure, you can see why I was mentally prepared to take public transportation all over Japan.

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The Attractions: Worth It, Skip It, and Everything In Between

Truthfully, I wasn’t impressed with Kensington Gardens. The Princess Diana statue, commissioned by her sons for what would have been her 60th birthday, was touching. Overall, this wasn’t a must-see.

Let’s skip ahead to my favorite tourist attraction—Stonehenge. Construction started in 3100 BC. BC!!! It may be the oldest structure I ever see in my lifetime and it did not disappoint. How are these formations still standing? I continue to be in awe. It is quite a ride from London’s city center, but I think it’s worth it.

Before Stonehenge, we stopped at Windsor Castle, which was impressive. Even though we were on a tour and had tickets, we still had to wait in line. But the rooms we were allowed to tour were beautiful. I can’t imagine living in a castle and then having complete strangers tour part of your home. Though odd, it was cool to think that the royals were living in a few castle wings over.

Westminster Abbey was one of the most beautiful churches I’ve ever seen. Since I visited prior to King Charles’ coronation, I got to see the incredibly uncomfortable wooden chair up close and personal that he would sit on during the ceremony. But more amazing is that the church is the resting place of Charles Dickens, Isaac Newton, and Mary, Queen of Scots. I have no idea how long I wandered through the church but since I was on my own timeline, it didn’t matter.

Speaking of the coronation, The Tower of London (which is a misnomer because it’s not one tower, it’s a very large labyrinth of buildings) houses the Crown Jewels worn at said ceremony. I can’t imagine trying to value those for insurance purposes. And while The Tower of London is historically fascinating, it is incredibly tiring to walk and takes a lot of time. It’s worth it but I’ve earned the right to say this: Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Big Ben was undergoing a bit of a facelift, but it’s right next to Westminster Abbey, so you can’t miss it. The general area is home to the London Eye, which my friend and I rode. We reserved tickets so we didn’t have to wait in line. I thought it was worth it to legitimately jump the queue, as the British say. And the views were spectacular!

Most think of having tea in London, which believe it or not, I did not do. My trip, my rules. But you know I can’t go anywhere without visiting a bookstore or stationery shop. And I would highly recommend Hatchard’s—London’s oldest bookstore, established in 1797. Seeing the beautiful winding, wooden staircase alone is worth the visit.

Waterstones is another booklover’s paradise. And with multiple locations, you’re bound to find one near you. I think of it as London’s version of Barnes & Noble. It doesn’t have the same charm of Hatchard’s but if you’re a reader, you have to go.

I stopped in Paddington and purchased a bear, which reminded me of the one my mother had and I think is somewhere in my house. And yes, I even had fish and chips at a very small local restaurant on the corner of an otherwise open-air street market. The food was tasty and I felt like I was having an authentic solo London adventure, and there was no one to tell me I wasn’t.

Because while I had quality time with my friend during the trip, I also spent a significant amount of time flying solo. And it’s very freeing to go where you want, stay as long as you want, and only consider how you want to spend your time.

Navigating London—often on my own—taught me I could travel solo, and I haven’t looked back.

Have you been to London? If I make a repeat visit, Notting Hill is on my list. What else should I add, since my girlfriend doesn’t appear to be coming home anytime soon?