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Best Coffee Shops in London

 Best Coffee Shops in London

Wherever you are in London, you are never far from a coffee shop.  The hardest part is knowing which are the best ones to really enjoy a fantastic cup of coffee.  We have identified five of the best to be found anywhere in London.

Heading the list is Kaffeine.  There are two Kaffeine shops both within the West End and not far from budget hotels Kensington.  One is situated at Great Titchfield Street, Fitzrovia while the other can be found in Eastcastle Street, close to Oxford Circus.  So what makes Kaffeine so great? It is quite simply renowned as one of the top coffee shops, offering an incredible choice of coffees and even runs courses for people who want to know more about coffee.  Expect a double shot of expresso in every cup you drink at Kaffeine.

If you prefer something more traditional, where you can relax with some live music then head for Back on Track Coffee.  This is located at The Barretts of Wimpole Street, W1.  Here you can enjoy rich, dark coffee in relaxing surroundings, and frequently a little jazz is on offer too.

Want a coffee before attending one of London’s countless theatres? Then the Monmouth Coffee Company in Covent Garden is for you.  The only drawback here is that there is not a lot of seating inside, most people sit on benches outside.  Despite this it is always popular, and you will need to queue whatever the time of day.  All the coffee is made from organic coffee beans, and can be accompanied by gorgeous pastries.

A little further away is Holborn Grind in High Holborn.  This is where you can not only enjoy a conventional cup of coffee but also a coffee cocktail! The range on offer is quite extensive and includes a Hard Flat White Russian cocktail made from a mix of Grind House Expresso Coffee, vodka, kahlua and milk. This is coffee with a difference and certainly ideal for a night out on the town.

If you are a real coffee connoisseur, and aware of all the intricacies of flavours and aromas, then head for The New Black which is close to Monument Tube Station and well connected to Mowbray Court Hotel.  Quick decisions as to what type of coffee to enjoy are not possible here, you need to take time to study the massive bean flavour chart which lists all the varieties on offer.  Expect unusual varieties as well as more familiar ones.  Stock lists have been known to include ranges from all over the world such as  Cape Town’s Truth Coffee Roasting, Fast Forward from Guatemala and Small Batch Roasters from Melbourne in Australia.

Things To Do in Regent’s Park

Regent's Park

Regents Park, one of London’s royal parks, is a treasure trove of activities and attractions that promise a delightful day out for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking to unwind, Regent’s Park has something for you. And for those traveling on a budget, there are many affordable hotels in Kensington, just a short tube ride away, making it easy to enjoy the park without breaking the bank.

Yearning for green spaces, lots to do, and no city streets? Then head for Regents Park.

Located in North London, not too far from Euston Station, Regents Park is one of London’s Royal Parks.  It was designed by John Nash for the Prince Regent (who later became King George IV) but it wasn’t until 1835 that the public was allowed in.  Over the years it has become a much-loved park, where Londoners enjoy walking and relaxing.

It is also the home of one of London’s most popular attractions – London Zoo.  Opened in 1828, it is the world’s oldest scientific zoo and is now home to countless penguins, lions, tigers, and many other animals.  London Zoo was the setting for one of the most iconic scenes in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.  It was in the Zoo’s reptile house that Harry Potter discovered that he could talk to snakes – and accidentally released a boa constrictor from its cage leaving Dudley inside!

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Harry Potter is not the only film to feature Regents Park.  If you have seen Mary Poppins, 101 Dalmations, Bridget Jones, or An American Werewolf in London to name but a few of the films– then you will find many familiar locations.

So what else can you do in Regent’s Park?  There is a lovely boating lake where you can join the ducks on the water by hiring boats or pedalos.  There are all kinds of sports to be enjoyed or watched in London’s largest outdoor sports area.  

There are acres of lawns and gardens where you can stroll, relax, and watch the world go by while residing at Budget Hotels in Central London.  Queen Mary’s Garden is one of the most beautiful in the city. It is also one of the most fragrant housings over 12,000 scented roses, plus thousands of other plants and shrubs.  This is a garden to delight all your senses.  

Feel like a longer stroll, then cross the road and head up Primrose Hill for one of the most stunning views across the city.  The summit of Primrose Hill is almost 63 meters above sea level and is carefully maintained so that there are uninterrupted views all around.  

Perhaps you prefer to watch a play or a film? Regents Park Open Air Theatre is the oldest permanent outdoor theatre in the country. This pretty amphitheater can be found within the Inner Circle of the Park and has a wide range of film, music, comedy, and drama performances throughout the summer. It is a fantastic way to relax on a warm summer evening. 

Escape the ordinary and dive into the heart of London’s charm at Regent’s Park! Unwind amidst nature’s embrace, just a moment away from the bustling city life. Consider, Mowbray Court Hotel in London for an authentic experience without breaking the bank. 

THE WORLD OF HARRY POTTER

The World of Harry Potter

Harry Potter, the boy wizard has become an international phenomenon with London taking a key role in his adventures which is why countless fans follow in his footsteps every day.

Many of the scenes around the center of London are all too familiar to Harry Potter fans.  The Knight Bus sped across London’s bridges and through the West End; the little shops of Leadenhall Market provided the inspiration for the Leaky Cauldron and Diagon Alley while the flying car set off from St Pancras Station and every year, Harry Potter set off for Hogwarts via the Hogwarts Express steaming at Platform Nine and three quarters at Kings Cross Station.  

Now, let’s talk about accommodation. London, notorious for its pricey lodgings, might seem daunting to the budget-conscious traveler. But fear not, for hidden amidst the hustle and bustle of the city lies a plethora of affordable accommodations in London, waiting to welcome you with open arms.

Warner Bros Studio Tour, where all the films were made.  This is the setting for an incredible Harry Potter adventure behind the scenes, where visitors can find out the secrets of a green screen, and see the wonderful sets and props that brought the films vividly alive.  

The original Hogwarts Express stands puffing on the platform, waiting for passengers.  Stroll down the Great Hall of Hogwarts, take a look under the staircase of No 4 Privet Drive, follow the gold to Gringotts Bank, and admire the wands in Ollivanders.  Who can resist the fun of Weasley’s Joke shop in Diagon Alley?  Peep inside the Knight Bus and drink some butterbeer.  

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The Forbidden Forest awaits you – and if you don’t like spiders then it may be something of a nightmare.  This is where the giant animated model of Aragog has her lair together with all the spiderlings.  

Admire the delights of Mrs Weasley’s kitchen complete with self-stirring cauldrons or imagine yourself sitting in Professor Snape’s gloomy potions classroom.  Other famous sets include Professor Dumbledore’s study, the Gryffindor Common Room, and the turret dormitory shared by Harry, Ron, and their friends.  

Everywhere you go within the Studio Tour are hundreds upon hundreds of original props made for use during the filming. There are wands, time turners, chests, armor, games, paintings, books, and over 200 monster heads.  One of the highlights of the tour is undoubtedly watching the metal snakes slithering over the great door to the Chamber of Secrets – and seeing it slowly open!

The incredibly detailed model of Hogwarts arouses admiration from every visitor.  Every single detail can be seen, nothing has been left out.  Green screen technology enabled this model to be used for filming many of the exterior scenes showing Hogwarts in all its glory.  It never fails to impress.  

You can even get yourself filmed on a broomstick, flying across the sky! Harry Potter’s magical universe is definitely alive and thoroughly enjoyable.

After a day of exploring the wizarding world, why not retreat to the comfort of the Mowbray Court Hotel in Central London? Located in the heart of the city, this cozy hotel offers the perfect home base for your magical adventures. with comfortable accommodations and easy access to all of London’s attractions, it’s the ideal place to rest your weary feet after a day of spellbinding fun.

Exploring one of the World’s Greatest Gardens

 

Exploring-one-of-the-World’s-Greatest-Gardens-Kew-Garden-Mowbray-Court-Hotel-London

A totally different world awaits you just a short distance away from London. This is a world of calm tranquility, of extensive lawns and flowers with unexpected treasures such as a tree top walk and a royal palace.  Kew is one of London’s hidden secrets.

The wide expanses of parkland make you feel as though you are far away from the busy London streets, which on a hot humid day can be a real treat. London’s green spaces have always been highly prized and Kew is no exception.

But before we delve into the enchanting world of botanical wonders, let’s talk about something equally important for a family adventure: finding the perfect place to stay.  Lucky for you, there are plenty of family-friendly hotels near Kensington, ensuring that your exploration of this green oasis is not only memorable but also comfortable and convenient. 

Kew Gardens is the largest and most diverse botanical garden in the world, housing hundreds of thousands of different flowers, many of which are rare and endangered in the wild.  The gardens are so important that they are UNESCO listed and contain acres of beautiful scenery.  You can explore on your own or join one of the many free walking tours that take place daily.  It is full of surprising hidden corners such as the Minka House, which was originally a farmhouse near Okazaki City in southern Japan. It was donated to Kew as part of the 2001 Japanese Festival.

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Hunt out the Badger Sett, home to several badgers who live underground; and the incredible willow sculptures by Tom Hare, which line the walkways near the Main Gate. Designed to resemble giant flowers, the sculptures include horse chestnut and a giant star anise. This is something for everyone who resident at hotels near Earl Court and especially, Artists may enjoy visiting the Marianne North Gallery lined with hundreds of paintings of flowers, landscapes, animals and birds from all over the world.

Don’t forget to explore the massive glasshouses containing thousands of exotic plants.

Then there is the meandering Tree Top Walkway where you can get a bird’s eye view of the gardens but beware – you do need to climb over a hundred steps to reach it.  How about exploring a Chinese Pagoda?  Tucked away in the furthest corner of the grounds is a magnificent Chinese Pagoda complete with dragons, which was built in 1762.

Equally unusual is The Hive.  This is a giant translucent building that resembles the interior of a beehive. You can actually step inside and find out what life is like for the busy bees who live within hives. Constantly changing lights and sounds create a multi-sensory experience.  

To complete your visit to Kew which is well connected from Mowbray Court Hotel Kensington, head for the smallest royal palace in the country. Kew Palace was a royal retreat popular with the royal family in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.  You can visit many of the rooms, which are beautifully proportioned and decorated, as well as the stunning Royal Kitchens.  Recently restored, the Royal Kitchens include numerous preparation rooms and the massive Great Kitchen which would been at the heart of the culinary activity, preparing extensive meals every day.  

Searching for a Rooftop bar in London?

ROOFTOP BARS LONDON

Want to relax with a drink and a meal and enjoy superb views across London? Then head for one of the many rooftop bars that can be found across the city.

We take a look at some of the best bars worth trying.

Oxford Street is one of the busiest streets in London. A thriving, busy shopping destination it also boasts two of the most relaxing rooftop settings for a leisurely drink.  During the summer, the John Lewis department store has a very pretty rooftop area complete with its own mini pub – the Gardeners Arms.  This is where you can enjoy the best of British inspired food and drink including beer and wine.  Relax in the garden or reserve a private ‘summer house’ complete with white picket fence.

You have to hunt for the entrance to Notch near the Marriot hotel, as it is not easy to find.  But the effort is well worth it as the rooftop venue has some stunning views as well as a festival atmosphere.  Enjoy a drink within the garden, relaxing on swinging seats in the gentle breeze.

The City of London has some of the best rooftop bars around.  Take the lift up to the 38th floor of the Heron Tower to the Sushisamba bar.  This is where you can find a really good selection of beers, wines and cocktails. Phone up before making the journey to Sushisamba just to check it is open to the public, as it frequently hosts private parties amid its pretty rooftop setting.

Alternatively,  while staying at Mowbray Court Hotel, you can visit the Coq d’Argent which offers stylish roof dining as well as a well-stocked bar.  This easy to find location close to Mansion House is open all year round.  Good food is guaranteed here, but during busy times it is best to book a table.  Take a stroll around the garden to enjoy a variety of rooftop views across the historic heart of the City of London.

Want music or films as well as a drink? Then head for the Golden Bar on Singer Street, close to Old Street Tube.  At weekends, there are resident DJ’s who play a variety of house and club classics, while on Mondays there is often a film being screened.  Pull up your chair and enjoy the movie, while sipping your drink in comfort.

For a quieter venue, Culpeppers on the Commercial Road is the place to go. Worth trying is the garden julep – a mixture of bourbon, lemon and whatever herb of the day is in use.  This is a working, rooftop garden providing herbs and vegetables for use in Culpeppers kitchens.  If you are planning to visit for a meal or a barbeque while residing in hotels near Earls Court, then booking is recommended.  It is a very popular venue and seating can be limited.

‘Must See’ Museums in London

MUSEUMS IN LONDON

Best Museum in London – That you must visit

If you want to find out something about London’s history, this is definitely the place to come.  It is quite simply the world’s largest urban museum telling the story of London’s heritage.  

Find out about the prehistoric people who lived on this site, what life was like under Roman rule, and how William the Conqueror built the Tower of London.  There are the tales of London’s bridges, the Great Fire of London which destroyed most of the city, its wealthy merchants, the theatres, shops, and ceremonies that still exist today. This is London’s history!

But London is more than a city, London’s museums have an international basis containing massive world-renowned collections relating to almost every corner of the world.

The British Museum

Founded in 1753, this is one of the oldest and largest public museums in the world.  If you only have a short time here, search out the Rosetta Stone which led to the translation of hieroglyphs, the vast collection of Egyptian mummies, the cool beauty of the Elgin Marbles, the exquisite Lewis Chessmen and the incredible Sutton Hoo Anglo-Saxon helmet found in a ship burial in Suffolk. There are always several major exhibitions on display as well as permanent collections.   

The Victoria & Albert Museum

Words are impossible to describe the sheer beauty that lies within the walls of this museum.  It is quite simply a treasure trove of decorative art and design covering everything from furniture to jewellery, fashion to ceramics.  Every corner of the V&A holds new delights, where you can marvel at the stunning craft skills.  Some of the objects are very famous indeed, such as the exquisitely embroidered eighteenth-century jacket which featured in Beatrix Potter’s well-loved children’s story, the Tailor of Gloucester.  

The Science Museum

From DNA to space travel, steam power to electronics – the Science Museum offers a fascinating insight into science and technology through the ages.  Discover the ideas of Charles Babbage who conceived the concept of the computer way before one was ever created, the role of magic lanterns and the secrets of limelight, how aircraft took to the skies, and medical secrets. It is easily accessible from the Mowbray Court Hotel in London.

Natural History Museum

This magnificent building is stunning in its own right – and then there is the superb collection of animals, plants, fossils, and minerals to be found inside.  Among the exhibits are some of the biggest and rarest animals in the world, as well as a fascinating dinosaur collection, a life-sized blue whale, and a 40 million-year-old spider!  

If you are planning to visit London,  the Mowbray Court Hotel is definitely the right budget accommodation near Earls Court tube station.

The Best Comedy Clubs in London

London comedy clubs

Want to relax and have an entertaining evening? Then head for one of London’s many stunning comedy clubs. No matter whether you want to see well-known names or up-and-coming comedians, there is a venue that will suit you.  London is home to an incredible array of comedy options.

By far the busiest venue is The Comedy Store.  Located close to Piccadilly Circus, it attracts over 3,500 people each week.  The range of performers is vast.  Every night there is a different show.  Expect improvisations, topical news-based comedy based on whatever is happening in the world – no politician is exempt! – as well as a vast range of stand-up comedy.  You can even try your own comedy skills by taking the microphone during one of the regular talent search sessions which take place on the last Monday of every month.

For the visitors staying at Mowbray Court Hotel in Earls Court, The Soho Theatre is another  West End comedy venue where the hottest new comedians try out their sketches and routines.  The theatre acts as a center for new writing development, making it a very vibrant and lively venue.

Booking may be necessary at the Leicester Square Theatre as it attracts well-known names such as Ricky Gervais.  The range of comedy on offer changes rapidly, with a lot of one-night bookings.  This is where you can find anything from skits on Shakespeare, stand-up comics, interviews with comedians as well as heats of the New Comedian of the Year awards.

Heading north to Camden and Islington, you can try the alternative comedy on offer at the Laugh Out Comedy Club’s two venues.  During the summer you can often find many of the Edinburgh Fringe comedians polishing up their acts dealing with issues such as irresponsible journalism.  Entry prices are generally low.  

Arrive very early if you are planning to go to the Angel Comedy in Islington.  Entry is always free and it can get full very quickly.  Space is limited.  No two nights are the same.  You can find yourself being entertained by a resident troupe experienced in improvisation or by experienced comics trying out new routines.  There may also be specialist nights involving established alternative comedians like Nick Dixon and Ant Dewson.

Don’t be deterred by the fact that Live at the Chapel takes place in a working church – this is also one of the best comedy venues in London.  This is where you expect the unexpected and find yourself being entertained by dramatic comedy.  

Prefer being on the water? Then head for the Westminster Embankment and board the Tattersall Castle for one of their Boat Show Comedy Club sessions.  Big names often use these sessions to practice their routines before heading out on tour or to television shows.  The quality of the comedy on offer is always extremely high.

If it is the weekend, then you can head to Greenwich for a session at Up the Creek.  According to Time Out, this is ‘one of the best places to see live comedy’ and can feature up-and-coming performers such as Jazz Mafia or Carl Donnelly.