Perfect 7-Day London Itinerary: Blossoming Adventures

Experience London in full bloom with this meticulously crafted 7-day spring itinerary. From cherry blossoms in St. James's Park to the vibrant colours of Kew Gardens, spring transforms London into a city of renewal and beauty. This guide gives you exact times, real locations, verified restaurants, and current prices—everything you need for an authentic England experience during the most enchanting season.

London in spring (March to May) offers mild temperatures averaging 11-15°C, longer daylight hours, and the city's parks bursting into life with daffodils, cherry blossoms, and tulips. It's the perfect time to explore outdoor markets, enjoy riverside walks, and experience London's cultural calendar as it awakens from winter.

Why Visit London in Spring?

Weather: Mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 8°C in March to 17°C in May. Occasional showers are common, so pack accordingly.

Seasonal Highlights:

Cherry Blossom Season: Late March to early May, particularly stunning in Greenwich Park and St. James's Park
Chelsea Flower Show: World-renowned gardening event in late May
Tulip Displays: Hampton Court Palace and Kew Gardens showcase spectacular tulip gardens
Daffodil Blooms: February to April, carpeting parks in golden yellow
Longer Days: Sunset extends to 9 PM by May, perfect for evening exploration

Best Spring Activities:

Picnicking in Royal Parks with seasonal blooms as your backdrop
Exploring outdoor markets like Columbia Road Flower Market
Thames riverside walks with blossoming trees lining the embankment
Visiting world-class museums without summer crowds
Enjoying afternoon tea with spring-themed menus

Day 1: Royal Westminster & St. James's Park Blooms

Morning: Buckingham Palace & The Changing of the Guard

Location: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA (51.5014°N, -0.1419°W)

Begin your London spring adventure at the official residence of the British monarch. In spring, the palace forecourt comes alive with visitors eager to witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Changing of the Guard Schedule:

Days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday (check official website for updates)
Time: 11:00 AM (arrive by 10:30 AM for best viewing spots)
Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
Cost: Free

Best Viewing Spots:

The Victoria Memorial directly in front of the palace
The gates along The Mall
The Duke of York Steps for elevated views

Pro Tip: Spring mornings can be crisp—bring a light jacket and arrive early to secure a prime spot along the palace fence. The ceremony is cancelled in heavy rain, so check the forecast.

Getting There:

Tube: Victoria (Victoria, Circle, District lines), Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, Victoria lines)
Bus: Routes 11, 211, C1, C10

Mid-Morning: St. James's Park Cherry Blossoms

Location: St. James's Park, London SW1A 2BJ (51.5025°N, -0.1348°W)

Just a 5-minute walk from Buckingham Palace, St. James's Park is London's oldest Royal Park and one of the most beautiful in spring. The park features stunning cherry blossom trees, particularly along the lake and near the Blue Bridge.

Spring Highlights:

Cherry Blossoms: Late March to early May, especially beautiful near the lake
Pelicans: The park's famous resident pelicans, fed daily at 2:30 PM
Daffodils: Golden drifts throughout the park from February onwards
Tulips: Colourful displays in formal beds near the Mall

Best Photo Spots:

The Blue Bridge for views of Buckingham Palace framed by blossoms
The lake with Westminster skyline reflections
The Flower Walk with seasonal plantings

Spring Wildlife: Look for ducklings and goslings on the lake from March onwards—a delightful spring sight.

Lunch: The Buckingham Arms

Address: 62 Petty France, London SW1H 9EU
Phone: 020 7222 3386
Price Range: ££
Distance from St. James's Park: 8-minute walk

This traditional Young's pub offers a quintessential British pub lunch experience. In spring, their outdoor seating area is perfect for people-watching.

Must Try:

Fish and chips with mushy peas (£16.50)
Young's bitter ale (brewed in London since 1831)
Sunday roast (if visiting on Sunday, £19.95)

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 AM-11 PM, Sunday 12 PM-10:30 PM

Afternoon: Westminster Abbey & Parliament

Location: Westminster Abbey, London SW1P 3PA (51.4994°N, -0.1273°W)

A 10-minute walk from St. James's Park brings you to Westminster Abbey, the coronation church and final resting place of 17 monarchs. Spring light streaming through the medieval stained glass creates an ethereal atmosphere.

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30 AM-3:30 PM, Saturday 9 AM-3 PM (last entry)
Admission: £27 adults, £24 concessions, £12 children (6-16), under 6 free
Audio Guide: Included in admission (available in 14 languages)
Highlights: Poets' Corner, the Coronation Chair, Royal Tombs, Lady Chapel

Spring Note: The Abbey's College Garden, one of the oldest gardens in England, opens to visitors from April to September (Tuesday-Thursday afternoons). This tranquil space features medieval planting and is particularly beautiful in spring bloom.

Big Ben & Houses of Parliament:

Location: Parliament Square, London SW1A 0AA
Note: The Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) is currently only viewable from the exterior for most visitors
Photography Tip: Capture the tower framed by spring blossoms from Westminster Bridge

Late Afternoon: Thames Riverside Walk

Stroll along the Victoria Embankment for views of the London Eye and South Bank. Spring evenings here are magical as the blossom-lined paths glow in the golden hour light.

Walk Route: Westminster Bridge → South Bank → Tate Modern (30 minutes)

Dinner: The Anchor & Hope

Address: 36 The Cut, London SE1 8LP
Phone: 020 7928 9898
Price Range: £££
Cuisine: Modern British gastropub
Distance: 15-minute walk from Westminster

This award-winning gastropub near the Old Vic theatre serves seasonal British cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their spring menu typically features English asparagus, wild garlic, and spring lamb.

Must Try:

Grilled English asparagus with hollandaise (£12)
Spring lamb shoulder with seasonal vegetables (£28)
Sticky toffee pudding (£9)

Booking: Essential for dinner, especially Thursday-Saturday
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 12 PM-3 PM, 6 PM-11 PM; Sunday 12 PM-10 PM

Day 2: The Tower of London & Historic East End

Morning: Tower of London

Location: Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB (51.5081°N, -0.0759°W)

Arrive early at this UNESCO World Heritage site to beat the crowds and experience the Tower in the fresh spring morning light. The ancient fortress looks particularly striking against a blue spring sky.

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9 AM-5:30 PM, Sunday-Monday 10 AM-5:30 PM (last admission 4:30 PM)
Admission: £33.60 adults, £26.80 concessions, £16.80 children (5-15), under 5 free
Yeoman Warder Tours: Included with admission, every 30 minutes starting at 10 AM

Spring Highlights:

Tower Moat: The moat area features beautiful spring plantings and is particularly photogenic in April and May
Crown Jewels: Shimmer in the spring light; visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid queues
White Tower: England's oldest intact medieval building

Pro Tip: Join the first Yeoman Warder tour at 10 AM for smaller groups and more engaging storytelling. The Beefeaters' tales of imprisonment, execution, and intrigue bring history to life.

Getting There:

Tube: Tower Hill (Circle, District lines)
River Bus: Tower Pier (RB1, RB2, RB6 services)

Mid-Morning: Tower Bridge & Riverside

Location: Tower Bridge, London SE1 2UP (51.5055°N, -0.0754°W)

Walk across this iconic Victorian bascule bridge for spectacular views up and down the Thames. Spring is the perfect time to walk the glass-floored high-level walkways.

Tower Bridge Exhibition:

Admission: £12.30 adults, £6.20 children (5-15)
Highlights: Victorian Engine Rooms, glass walkways 42 metres above the Thames
Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 AM-6 PM (last entry 5 PM)

Photography Tip: From the South Bank, capture Tower Bridge with the Tower of London in the foreground and spring blossoms along the riverbank.

Lunch: The Hung Drawn and Quartered

Address: 26-27 Great Tower Street, London EC3R 5AQ
Phone: 020 7489 4713
Price Range: ££
Distance from Tower: 5-minute walk

This historic Fuller's pub near the Tower offers traditional British fare with a spring menu featuring seasonal ingredients. The name references the gruesome executions that once took place nearby.

Must Try:

Fuller's London Pride ale (£5.50)
Ploughman's lunch with spring vegetables (£14)
Steak and ale pie (£16.50)

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 11 AM-11 PM; Closed weekends

Afternoon: Leadenhall Market & The City

Location: Leadenhall Market, Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 1LT (51.5126°N, -0.0835°W)

This stunning Victorian covered market, with its ornate glass and iron roof, was used as Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. In spring, the market bustles with City workers enjoying lunch al fresco.

Spring Atmosphere:

The cobbled lanes and painted shopfronts look particularly charming in spring light
Flower stalls add splashes of colour
Perfect for photography enthusiasts

Nearby: St. Paul's Cathedral is a 10-minute walk west—consider adding this to your afternoon if time permits.

Late Afternoon: Sky Garden (Advance Booking Required)

Location: 20 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 8AF (51.5110°N, -0.0836°W)

London's highest public garden offers 360-degree views across the capital. Spring sunsets from here are spectacular, with the city's parks visible as patches of green and blossom.

Visitor Information:

Admission: Free (advance booking essential via skygarden.london)
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 10 AM-6 PM, Saturday-Sunday 11 AM-9 PM
Booking Window: Released every Monday for the following week

Spring Tip: Book the 5 PM slot for golden hour views followed by sunset over the city.

Dinner: Duck & Waffle

Address: 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY
Phone: 020 3640 7310
Price Range: ££££
Cuisine: British/European with a twist
Location: 40th floor of Heron Tower

For a special spring evening, dine at London's highest restaurant. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views as the city lights twinkle below.

Must Try:

Signature duck & waffle with crispy leg confit, fried duck egg, and maple syrup (£25)
Spring pea and mint risotto (£22)
Cornish squid with spring garlic (£19)

Booking: Essential, especially for window tables
Opening Hours: 24 hours (best views at sunset)

Day 3: The British Museum & Bloomsbury Gardens

Morning: The British Museum

Location: Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG (51.5194°N, -0.1270°W)

Start your day at the world's oldest national public museum, housed in a magnificent Greek Revival building. Spring mornings see fewer crowds, allowing you to appreciate the treasures at a leisurely pace.

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM-5 PM, Friday until 8:30 PM
Admission: Free (donations welcome)
Audio Guide: £7 adults, £6 concessions

Spring Highlights & Must-See Exhibits:

The Great Court: The stunning glass-roofed central courtyard is bathed in natural spring light
Rosetta Stone: The key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphics (Room 4)
Parthenon Marbles: Ancient Greek sculptures from the Acropolis (Room 18)
Egyptian Mummies: One of the world's finest collections (Rooms 62-63)
Spring Exhibition: Check the museum's website for seasonal special exhibitions

Pro Tip: Visit the Great Court Café for morning coffee beneath the spectacular glass roof. The spring light creates beautiful patterns across the space.

Getting There:

Tube: Tottenham Court Road (Northern, Central lines), Holborn (Central, Piccadilly lines), Russell Square (Piccadilly line)
Bus: Routes 7, 8, 10, 14, 24, 25, 29, 73, 134, 390

Mid-Morning: Bloomsbury's Garden Squares

The Bloomsbury area surrounding the British Museum is famous for its garden squares, which burst into colour in spring.

Russell Square:

Location: Directly behind the British Museum
Spring Features: Formal gardens with spring bedding, cherry trees, and magnolias
Café: Russell Square Café for outdoor spring refreshments

Bedford Square:

London's best-preserved Georgian square
Private gardens visible through railings, stunning in spring bloom
Beautiful Georgian architecture backdrop

Lunch: The Museum Tavern

Address: 49 Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3BA
Phone: 020 7242 8987
Price Range: ££
Distance from British Museum: 2-minute walk

This historic Victorian pub opposite the museum has welcomed visitors since 1723. Karl Marx reportedly drank here while writing Das Kapital.

Must Try:

Traditional Sunday roast (if applicable, £18.95)
Hand-raised pork pie (£8.50)
London Pride or ESB ale

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 AM-11 PM, Sunday 12 PM-10:30 PM

Afternoon: Charles Dickens Museum & Bloomsbury Walking Tour

Location: 48 Doughty Street, London WC1N 2LX (51.5245°N, -0.1170°W)

Visit the only remaining London home of Charles Dickens, now a museum dedicated to the author's life and work. Spring was Dickens's favourite season, and the museum's garden reflects Victorian planting schemes.

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10 AM-5 PM (last entry 4 PM)
Admission: £12.50 adults, £9.50 concessions, £6.50 children (6-16)
Garden: The small walled garden is a hidden spring oasis with period-appropriate plants

Bloomsbury Literary Walk: Follow in the footsteps of the Bloomsbury Group and other literary figures:

The Lamb Pub: Dickens, Tennyson, and Blake drank here (94 Lamb's Conduit Street)
Bloomsbury Square: Beautiful spring gardens
Coram's Fields: Seven-acre park and playground, spectacular in spring

Evening: Covent Garden

Location: Covent Garden, London WC2E 9DD (51.5117°N, -0.1240°W)

A 15-minute walk south brings you to Covent Garden, where spring evenings buzz with street performers, outdoor dining, and the beautiful Piazza.

Spring Highlights:

The Piazza: Outdoor cafés perfect for spring people-watching
Neal's Yard: Colourful courtyard with health food shops and cafés
Street Performers: Daily entertainment from midday

Dinner: Dishoom Covent Garden

Address: 12 Upper St Martin's Lane, London WC2H 9FB
Phone: 020 7420 9320
Price Range: ££
Cuisine: Bombay-style Irani café

This beloved London institution serves exceptional Indian cuisine in atmospheric surroundings inspired by Mumbai's Irani cafés. Their spring menu often features seasonal specials.

Must Try:

Bacon naan roll (£8.50)
Black daal (cooked 24 hours, £9.50)
Chicken ruby (£14.50)
House chai (£4)

Booking: Recommended, especially for dinner
Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday 8 AM-11 PM, Friday 8 AM-midnight, Saturday 9 AM-midnight, Sunday 9 AM-10 PM

Day 4: South Bank & Shakespeare's Globe

Morning: Borough Market

Location: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL (51.5055°N, -0.0904°W)

London's oldest food market (dating back to 1756) is at its finest in spring, when seasonal produce floods the stalls. Thursday to Saturday are the liveliest days.

Spring Market Highlights:

English Asparagus: Late April to June, the "English season"
Wild Garlic: Foraged from British woodlands
Spring Lamb: Seasonal meat from British farms
Forced Rhubarb: Yorkshire rhubarb, bright pink and tender
Elderflower: For cordials and spring cocktails

Best Stalls for Spring:

Turnips: Seasonal fruit and vegetables
The Ginger Pig: Award-winning butchers with spring lamb
Neal's Yard Dairy: British cheeses at their spring best
Bread Ahead: Spring-themed pastries and doughnuts

Getting There:

Tube: London Bridge (Northern, Jubilee lines)
Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday 10 AM-5 PM, Friday 10 AM-6 PM, Saturday 8 AM-5 PM, Sunday 10 AM-3 PM (limited traders)

Mid-Morning: South Bank Walk

Route: Borough Market → Tate Modern → Millennium Bridge → St. Paul's (45-minute walk)

This riverside walk is spectacular in spring, with the Thames glittering and blossom trees along the embankment.

Spring Stops Along the Way:

Gabriel's Wharf: Riverside cafés with outdoor seating
The Understudy: National Theatre riverside bar, perfect for spring drinks
The Southbank Centre: Spring festivals and outdoor events

Lunch: Padella

Address: 6 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TQ
Phone: No reservations
Price Range: ££
Cuisine: Fresh pasta

This no-reservations pasta bar near Borough Market serves some of London's best fresh pasta. Their spring menu features seasonal ingredients like wild garlic, asparagus, and fresh peas.

Must Try:

Pici cacio e pepe (£9.50)
Ravioli of Westcombe ricotta with spring vegetables (£12)
Seasonal asparagus pasta (spring special, £11)

Pro Tip: Arrive before 12 PM or after 2 PM to avoid queues. No reservations taken.

Afternoon: Shakespeare's Globe

Location: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT (51.5082°N, -0.0972°W)

Experience theatre as it was in Shakespeare's time at this faithful reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre. Spring marks the beginning of the outdoor theatre season.

Visitor Information:

Exhibition & Tour: Daily 10 AM-5 PM
Admission: £17 adults, £15 concessions, £10 children (5-15)
Theatre Season: April-October (check schedule for performances)
Groundling Tickets: £5 standing tickets in the yard (the authentic Elizabethan experience)

Spring Performances: The season typically launches in April with Shakespeare's comedies—perfect for spring evenings.

The Globe Gardens: The riverside gardens feature Elizabethan-style plantings and are beautiful in spring bloom.

Late Afternoon: Tate Modern

Location: Bankside, London SE1 9TG (51.5076°N, -0.0994°W)

Britain's national museum of modern and contemporary art occupies a former power station on the South Bank. The Turbine Hall and galleries are free to enter.

Spring Highlights:

The Switch House Viewing Level: 360-degree views of London, spectacular at sunset
Spring Exhibitions: Check for seasonal special exhibitions
The River Café: Spring menu with Thames views

Dinner: The Swan at the Globe

Address: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
Phone: 020 7928 9444
Price Range: £££
Cuisine: Modern British

This elegant restaurant occupies the first floor of Shakespeare's Globe, offering Thames views and seasonal British cuisine.

Must Try:

Spring vegetable tart with goat's cheese (£18)
Pan-fried sea bass with spring greens (£26)
Sticky date pudding with toffee sauce (£9)

Booking: Recommended for dinner
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 12 PM-3 PM, 5:30 PM-11 PM; Sunday 12 PM-4 PM, 5:30 PM-10 PM

Day 5: Kensington Gardens, Museums & Chelsea

Morning: Kensington Gardens & Hyde Park

Location: Kensington Gardens, London W2 2UH (51.5073°N, -0.1794°W)

Spring transforms London's largest Royal Park into a wonderland of blossom, bulbs, and new growth. The gardens surrounding Kensington Palace are particularly beautiful in April and May.

Spring Highlights:

The Albert Memorial: Magnificent spring backdrop with surrounding gardens
The Round Pond: Spring ducklings and goslings
The Italian Gardens: Ornate Victorian water gardens, beautiful in spring light
The Peter Pan Statue: Framed by spring foliage
The Serpentine: Spring walks along the lake

Kensington Palace:

Location: Inside Kensington Gardens
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM-6 PM (last entry 5 PM)
Admission: £25 adults, £19.50 concessions, £12.50 children (5-15)
Spring Note: The palace gardens feature beautiful spring bedding and the famous sunken garden

Getting There:

Tube: Queensway (Central line), Lancaster Gate (Central line), South Kensington (Circle, District, Piccadilly lines)

Mid-Morning: The Victoria & Albert Museum

Location: Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL (51.4966°N, -0.1722°W)

The world's largest museum of decorative arts and design is housed in a stunning Victorian building. Spring exhibitions often focus on fashion, design, and the decorative arts.

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM-5:45 PM, Friday until 10 PM
Admission: Free (donations welcome)
Special Exhibitions: Ticketed, book in advance

Spring Highlights:

The Cast Courts: Spectacular Victorian plaster casts beneath glass roofs
The Fashion Gallery: Spring/summer collections on display
The Garden: The John Madejski Garden is a peaceful spring oasis
The Café: The world's first museum restaurant, stunning Victorian interiors

Lunch: The Anglesea Arms

Address: 15 Selwood Terrace, London SW7 3QG
Phone: 020 7373 7960
Price Range: ££
Cuisine: Gastropub

This charming neighbourhood pub near South Kensington serves excellent seasonal British food. Their spring menu showcases the best of British produce.

Must Try:

Spring vegetable soup with homemade bread (£8)
Slow-roasted lamb shoulder with spring greens (£22)
Rhubarb crumble with custard (£8)

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 12 PM-11 PM, Sunday 12 PM-10:30 PM

Afternoon: Chelsea & the King's Road

Location: King's Road, London SW3 (51.4875°N, -0.1684°W)

Famous for its boutiques, galleries, and the annual Chelsea Flower Show, this elegant neighbourhood is perfect for spring afternoon wandering.

Spring Highlights:

Chelsea Physic Garden: London's oldest botanic garden (open April-October)
- Address: 66 Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HS
- Admission: £12 adults, £8.50 concessions
- Highlights: Spring bulbs, medicinal plants, historic glasshouses
Sloane Square: Spring plantings in the square
The Saatchi Gallery: Contemporary art in the former Duke of York's Barracks

Chelsea in Bloom: Even outside flower show week, Chelsea's shops and restaurants create stunning floral displays in May.

Evening: Royal Albert Hall

Location: Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP (51.5009°N, -0.1774°W)

If your visit coincides with a performance, experiencing this iconic venue in spring is magical. The BBC Proms season runs July-September, but spring offers an eclectic programme of concerts.

Spring Events:

Classical concerts
Jazz performances
Film with live orchestra

Dinner: The Ivy Chelsea Garden

Address: 195-197 King's Road, London SW3 5EQ
Phone: 020 3301 0300
Price Range: £££
Cuisine: Modern British

This beautiful restaurant features a stunning garden terrace that's perfect for spring dining. The seasonal menu reflects the best of British spring produce.

Must Try:

Crispy duck salad with spring onions (£18)
Pan-roasted chicken with wild garlic (£26)
The Ivy's famous shepherd's pie (£19)

Booking: Essential for garden terrace
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 11:30 AM-11 PM, Saturday 9 AM-11 PM, Sunday 9 AM-10:30 PM

Day 6: Greenwich & the Thames Barrier

Morning: Greenwich Park & Royal Observatory

Location: Greenwich Park, London SE10 8QY (51.4769°N, -0.0015°W)

Greenwich Park is London's oldest enclosed Royal Park and one of the finest locations for spring blossoms. The hilltop location offers panoramic views across London.

Spring Highlights:

Cherry Blossom Avenue: One of London's most spectacular cherry blossom displays (late March to early May)
Ranger's House Gardens: Spring bulbs and formal plantings
The Rose Garden: Early spring preparation for summer blooms
Deer Park: The park's resident deer with spring fawns

Royal Observatory Greenwich:

Location: On the hilltop within Greenwich Park
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM-5 PM
Admission: £16 adults, £12 children (5-15), under 5 free
Highlights: Stand on the Prime Meridian Line, Harrison's timekeepers, the Great Equatorial Telescope
Spring Note: The observatory courtyard offers spectacular spring views across the park to the Thames

Getting There:

DLR: Cutty Sark or Greenwich
River Bus: Greenwich Pier (RB1, RB2 services)
Train: Greenwich or Maze Hill (Southeastern services from London Bridge)

Mid-Morning: The Cutty Sark & Greenwich Market

Location: King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT (51.4819°N, -0.0090°W)

Visit the world's last surviving tea clipper, now beautifully restored and suspended in a glass dry dock.

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM-5 PM
Admission: £18 adults, £15 concessions, £9 children (5-15)
Spring Events: Check for special spring family activities

Greenwich Market:

Location: Greenwich High Road, SE10 9HZ
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10 AM-5:30 PM
Spring Highlights: Arts, crafts, antiques, and street food with outdoor seating perfect for spring

Lunch: The Gipsy Moth

Address: 60 Greenwich Church Street, London SE10 9BL
Phone: 020 8858 1996
Price Range: ££
Cuisine: Gastropub

This historic pub next to the Cutty Sark offers riverside views and seasonal British cuisine. Their spring menu features locally sourced ingredients.

Must Try:

Beer-battered fish and chips (£17)
Spring vegetable risotto (£15)
Local Greenwich Meantime ale (£5)

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 AM-11 PM, Sunday 11 AM-10:30 PM

Afternoon: The Old Royal Naval College

Location: King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9NN (51.4828°N, -0.0086°W)

Sir Christopher Wren's twin-domed masterpiece is one of London's most beautiful buildings. The Painted Hall, recently restored, is spectacular in spring light.

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM-5 PM
Painted Hall Admission: £15 adults, £9 concessions, under 16 free
Grounds: Free to explore
Spring Note: The riverside lawns are perfect for spring picnics with views across the Thames

Thames Clipper to Central London: Take the river bus from Greenwich Pier back to central London—a scenic spring journey past the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the South Bank.

Journey Time: 35 minutes to Westminster
Cost: £9.50 single with Oyster/contactless

Evening: Columbia Road Flower Market

Location: Columbia Road, London E2 7RG (51.5292°N, -0.0700°W)

If your visit falls on a Sunday, this legendary flower market is an essential spring experience. The entire street transforms into a riot of colour and fragrance.

Market Information:

Opening Hours: Sunday 8 AM-2 PM (best selection before 11 AM)
Admission: Free
Spring Highlights: Spring bulbs, bedding plants, cherry blossom branches, tulips in every colour

Nearby: The surrounding streets feature independent shops, galleries, and cafés perfect for spring browsing.

Dinner: Brawn

Address: 49 Columbia Road, London E2 7RG
Phone: 020 7729 5692
Price Range: £££
Cuisine: Seasonal European

This acclaimed restaurant on Columbia Road serves a daily-changing menu based on the best available seasonal ingredients. Spring brings an abundance of fresh produce.

Must Try:

Seasonal small plates (menu changes daily)
Spring vegetables with romesco (£12)
Whole grilled fish with spring herbs (£28)
Natural wine selection

Booking: Recommended
Opening Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 12 PM-3 PM, 6 PM-10:30 PM; Sunday 12 PM-5 PM

Day 7: Kew Gardens & Richmond

Morning: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond TW9 3AB (51.4788°N, -0.2956°W)

No spring visit to London is complete without experiencing Kew Gardens at the height of the season. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a botanical paradise in April and May.

Spring Highlights:

The Palm House: Victorian glasshouse with tropical rainforest
The Temperate House: The world's largest Victorian glasshouse, recently restored
The Princess of Wales Conservatory: Ten climatic zones including orchids and waterlilies
The Treetop Walkway: 18 metres high, offering spring views across the gardens
The Japanese Garden: Cherry blossoms and traditional landscaping
The Great Broad Walk Borders: 320 metres of spring herbaceous borders

Seasonal Spring Displays:

Crocuses: February-March
Daffodils: March-April, particularly in the Natural Areas
Cherry Blossoms: Late March to early May
Magnolias: March-April near the Palm House
Bluebells: April-May in the Conservation Area
Azaleas: April-May in the Azalea Garden
Tulips: April in the Order Beds

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM-7 PM (varies seasonally)
Admission: £21.50 adults, £19 concessions, £9 children (4-15), under 4 free
Getting There: Kew Gardens Station (District line, London Overground)

Pro Tip: Arrive at opening time to experience the gardens in morning light before crowds arrive. The Treetop Walkway opens at 9:30 AM.

Mid-Morning: Kew Palace & Queen's Garden

Location: Within Kew Gardens

The smallest of the royal palaces offers an intimate glimpse into Georgian royal life. The adjoining Queen's Garden features plants exclusively grown in Britain before 1760.

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: Daily 10:30 AM-4 PM (spring/summer)
Admission: Included in Kew Gardens ticket
Spring Note: The formal garden is at its best in April and May

Lunch: The Glasshouse

Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Price Range: ££
Cuisine: Café/restaurant

This restaurant within Kew Gardens offers seasonal dishes with views of the gardens. Their spring menu features fresh, light dishes perfect for a garden lunch.

Must Try:

Spring vegetable tart (£14)
Kew-grown herb salad (£10)
Seasonal fruit crumble (£7)

Alternative: The Orangery for lighter café options and afternoon tea.

Afternoon: Richmond Park

Location: Richmond Park, Richmond TW10 5HS (51.4415°N, -0.2747°W)

London's largest Royal Park is famous for its herds of red and fallow deer. In spring, the park bursts into life with wildflowers and new fawns.

Spring Highlights:

Isabella Plantation: A 40-acre woodland garden spectacular in spring
- Azaleas: Late April to early May in full bloom
- Rhododendrons: Colourful displays throughout spring
- Bluebells: April carpets of blue in the woodland areas
Deer: Spring fawns with their mothers, particularly visible at dawn and dusk
Pembroke Lodge: Tea rooms with panoramic views

Getting There: Bus 65 or 371 from Richmond Station, or a 30-minute walk from Kew Gardens

Evening: Richmond Riverside

Location: Richmond Riverside, TW9 (51.4584°N, -0.3060°W)

End your London spring adventure along the Thames in Richmond, where the riverside pubs and restaurants offer a perfect setting for a farewell dinner.

Riverside Walk: Stroll along the Thames Path as the sun sets, with views of the river, passing boats, and the beautiful Georgian riverside architecture.

Dinner: The Petersham Restaurant

Address: The Petersham Hotel, Nightingale Lane, Richmond TW10 6UZ
Phone: 020 8940 7471
Price Range: ££££
Cuisine: Modern European

For a special farewell dinner, this elegant restaurant offers fine dining with views across the Thames and Petersham Meadows. The seasonal spring menu showcases the finest British ingredients.

Must Try:

English asparagus with hollandaise (£16)
Spring lamb with seasonal vegetables (£38)
Rhubarb soufflé with ginger ice cream (£14)

Booking: Essential
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 12 PM-2:30 PM, 6:30 PM-10 PM; Sunday 12 PM-3:30 PM

Alternative: The White Cross (Water Lane, Richmond) for a more casual riverside pub experience with excellent spring evening atmosphere.

Practical Information

Getting to London

By Air:

Heathrow Airport: 15 miles west of central London
- Heathrow Express: 15 minutes to Paddington, £25 one-way
- Elizabeth Line: 30 minutes to central London, £12.80 one-way
- Tube (Piccadilly Line): 50 minutes to central London, £6.30 one-way
Gatwick Airport: 30 miles south of London
- Gatwick Express: 30 minutes to Victoria, £19.90 one-way
- Thameslink/ Southern: 30-40 minutes, from £11 one-way
Stansted Airport: 40 miles northeast
- Stansted Express: 47 minutes to Liverpool Street, £19.40 one-way
Luton Airport: 35 miles northwest
- Thameslink: 25 minutes to St. Pancras, from £15 one-way
London City Airport: 7 miles east, closest to central London
- DLR: 22 minutes to Bank, £4.90 one-way

By Train:

Eurostar: From Paris (2h 16m), Brussels (2h), Amsterdam (4h) to St. Pancras International
National Rail: From Edinburgh (4h), Manchester (2h), Bristol (1h 40m), Cardiff (2h)
- Booking: Advance tickets from £50 return; book at trainline.com or nationalrail.co.uk

By Car:

Not recommended for central London due to congestion charge (£15/day), ULEZ charges, and limited parking
Park & Ride: Use outer London tube stations with parking (e.g., Cockfosters, Stanmore, Osterley)

Getting Around London

Oyster Card / Contactless Payment:

The most cost-effective way to pay for transport
Daily caps: £8.50 (Zones 1-2), £15.20 (Zones 1-6)
Contactless bank cards work the same as Oyster

Tube (Underground):

11 lines covering central and greater London
Operating hours: 5 AM-midnight (Night Tube on Friday-Saturday on select lines)
Spring note: Some lines may have weekend engineering works—check tfl.gov.uk

Buses:

Extensive network, £1.75 per journey with hopper fare (unlimited changes within 1 hour)
24-hour service on many routes
Spring advantage: Upper deck views of blossoming streets

Santander Cycles (Boris Bikes):

750 docking stations across London
£1.65 for 30 minutes, £3.30 for 24 hours
Perfect for spring cycling through parks

River Bus:

RB1, RB2, RB6 services along the Thames
Fares from £4.50 with Oyster
Scenic spring alternative to the Tube

Walking:

Central London is very walkable
Spring is the perfect season for walking with mild temperatures and long daylight hours

Spring Weather & What to Pack

Spring Weather Overview:

March: 5-11°C, occasional frost, increasing daylight
April: 7-14°C, frequent showers, beautiful blossom season
May: 10-17°C, warmer days, occasional rain, longest days

Essential Packing List:

Waterproof jacket: Essential—April showers are frequent
Light layers: Mornings can be cool, afternoons warm
Comfortable walking shoes: You'll walk 5-10 miles daily
Umbrella: Compact travel umbrella for sudden showers
Light scarf: For cool mornings and evenings
Sunglasses: Spring sunshine can be bright
Light sweater or cardigan: For temperature changes
Daypack: For carrying layers, water, and purchases

Spring-Specific Items:

Allergy medication: If sensitive to pollen (tree pollen peaks in March-April)
Camera: Spring colours are spectacular
Picnic blanket: For impromptu park lunches
Reusable water bottle: Free refills at most cafés

Money & Costs

Currency: British Pound Sterling (£)

Daily Budget Guidelines:

Budget: £80-120 per day (hostel, supermarket food, free attractions)
Mid-range: £150-250 per day (3-star hotel, restaurant meals, paid attractions)
Luxury: £300+ per day (4-5 star hotel, fine dining, theatre, taxis)

Tipping:

Restaurants: 10-12.5% (check if service is included)
Pubs: Not expected for drinks, optional for food
Taxis: Round up to nearest pound or 10%
Hotels: £1-2 per bag for porters

Free Attractions:

British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, Tate Britain, V&A, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, all Royal Parks, changing of the guard

Spring Events & Festivals

March:

St. Patrick's Day Parade: Trafalgar Square (March 17)
Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race: Thames (late March)
Mother's Day: UK Mother's Day (fourth Sunday of Lent)

April:

London Marathon: Iconic race through London streets (mid-April)
Easter Weekend: Good Friday to Easter Monday (variable dates)
St. George's Day: England's national day (April 23)

May:

Chelsea Flower Show: RHS flagship event (late May)
Spring Bank Holiday: Last Monday of May
Covent Garden May Fayre: Puppet festival celebrating Punch & Judy

Safety & Health

Emergency Numbers:

999: Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance)
101: Non-emergency police
111: NHS medical advice
112: Also works for emergencies

Healthcare:

NHS: Free emergency treatment for all visitors
Pharmacies: Boots, Superdrug, and independent chemists throughout London
Spring Health: Pollen counts can be high—pharmacies sell antihistamines without prescription

Safety Tips:

London is generally safe, but take normal city precautions
Keep bags closed and valuables secure, especially in crowded tourist areas
Use licensed black cabs or reputable ride apps (Uber, Bolt)
Be aware of pickpockets on the Tube and at major attractions

Useful Apps

Citymapper: Essential for navigating London transport
Tube Map: Offline London Underground map
TfL Oyster: Manage your Oyster card and journey history
OpenTable: Restaurant reservations
YPlan: Last-minute tickets for events and attractions
Weather: BBC Weather or Met Office for accurate forecasts
Google Maps: Download offline maps for London

Where to Stay

Budget:

YHA London Central: 104-108 Bolsover Street, W1W 5NU. Phone: 0345 371 9349. £25-50/night
Generator London: 37 Tavistock Place, WC1H 9SE. Phone: 020 7388 7666. £30-60/night
Palmers Lodge: 40 College Crescent, NW3 5LB. Phone: 020 7483 8475. £20-45/night

Mid-Range:

The Hoxton, Holborn: 199-206 High Holborn, WC1V 7BD. Phone: 020 7661 3000. £150-250/night
The Zetter Townhouse: 49-50 St John's Square, EC1V 4JJ. Phone: 020 7324 4567. £180-300/night
The Resident Covent Garden: 51 Bedford Street, WC2R 0PZ. Phone: 020 3691 6200. £160-280/night

Luxury:

The Savoy: Strand, WC2R 0EU. Phone: 020 7836 4343. £400-800/night
Claridge's: Brook Street, W1K 4HR. Phone: 020 7629 8860. £500-1000/night
The Ritz: 150 Piccadilly, W1J 9BR. Phone: 020 7493 8181. £450-900/night

Spring Dining Recommendations

Breakfast & Brunch:

The Breakfast Club: Multiple locations, legendary breakfasts (£10-15)
Duck & Waffle Local: Heron Tower, 24-hour breakfast with views (£15-25)
Granger & Co: Notting Hill and King's Cross, Australian-style brunch (£15-20)

Afternoon Tea:

The Ritz: Classic afternoon tea, book months ahead (£65-75)
Fortnum & Mason: Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon (£60-75)
Sketch: Famous for its quirky interiors (£60-85)
BB Bakery Bus Tour: Afternoon tea on a vintage bus (£45-55)

Street Food Markets:

Borough Market: Thursday-Saturday, artisan food (£10-20 for lunch)
Maltby Street Market: Saturday-Sunday, Bermondsey (£8-15)
Broadway Market: Saturday, Hackney (£8-15)
Southbank Centre Food Market: Friday-Sunday (£8-15)

Final Thoughts

London in spring is a city transformed. As the parks burst into bloom, the terraces fill with diners, and the cultural calendar kicks into high gear, there's an energy and optimism that's infectious. From the cherry blossoms of Greenwich to the tulip displays of Kew, from the historic streets of Westminster to the trendy markets of East London, this 7-day itinerary offers a comprehensive introduction to one of the world's greatest cities at its most enchanting time of year.

Whether you're marvelling at ancient treasures in the British Museum, watching the sunset from Tower Bridge, or simply enjoying a pint in a riverside pub as the spring evening light fades, London in spring offers memories that will last a lifetime.

Safe travels and enjoy your blossoming London adventure!

Last Updated: 19 February 2026
Quality Score: 95
Enhanced: true