What We Love In London: 10 Tips For a Great Weekend
WHAT WE LOVE IN LONDON: 10 TIPS FOR A GREAT WEEKEND
Whether visiting for the weekend, or seeking inspiration for fantastic new places to visit and things to do in London – here’s how we think you should be spending your time in the capital…
From where to eat, what to see, and things to do in London: we’ve got you covered.
Even if you’ve only got time to fit in a quick 24 or 48 hours, we have the ultimate guide for you.
A weekend agenda, by London Sock Co.
Where to eat & drink
Scarfes Bar, The Rosewood London
252 High Holborn, London
‘Where potions and paintings meet’
Unapologetically opulent and downright cool. Scarfes Bar, situated in The Rosewood Hotel, features a roaring woodfire, velvet armchairs, bookcases brimming with classic antiques, dozens of cocktails and oodles of champagne. This hidden gem is the ultimate spot for cocktails, great food and live music.
Scarfes Bar is inspired by the atmosphere of a drawing room and the sophistication of a gentleman’s club – named after political cartoonist, Gerald Scarfe, you’ll notice his famous pieces featured throughout.
The Rosewood itself is as grand as it is historic, a beautifully restored Grade II-listed Edwardian building. Only a short walk from Holborn Station and Covent Garden, it’s ideally situated for those exploring the Capital.
Our Tip: Speak to Giovanni, Bar Manager and Cocktail Guru, and he’ll be sure to recommend one of his signature tipples!
WHERE TO EAT | BREAKFAST & WEEKEND BRUNCH
Fitzrovia – 65 Great Titchfield Street, London
Devonshire Square – 9 Devonshire Square, London
‘An off-road adventure celebrating Highland hospitality and the best of Scotland’s produce’
Mac & Wild revel in serving not only the wildest, most delicious Scottish produce – but also the story and mastery behind each ingredient. Founder’s Andy and Calum champion and celebrate Scottish produce and personality with two friendly, relaxed and modern eateries in London. They truly nail authenticity and flavour – reiterated by the multiple awards this restauranteur duo has been awarded.
Visit Mac & Wild for an outstanding Sunday Brunch; serving roasts, brunch, and classic meat dishes – all with their own Scottish twist. Add the bottomless brunch option and make it a boozy one – in true Scottish style. Served 11am – 4pm every Saturday and Sunday.
Our Tip: The ‘Big Jim’s Breakfast’ (aka Jim Hamilton) for one very hungry Highlander or for 2 to share. Definitely washed down with a Whisky Bloody Mary or Irn Brunch Daiquiri! Perfect Hair of the Dog!
WHERE TO EAT | LUNCH
24 Great Windmill St, Soho, London
A relaxed and vibrant meat eatery encapsulating Soho heritage, Blacklock is set in the basement of an old brothel on a side street in Soho, with unbeatable value on quality meat and classic cocktails.
It’s atmosphere is energetic and casual, making it a great spot for a simple, fuss free bite to eat whilst visiting the city. It delivers what it is there to do; produce quality food. And who can argue with a £5 old fashioned?
Our Tip: Barbecued baby gems are the unsung hero on the menu but always an ‘All In’ for us with some big chop if on the right side of hungry.
WHERE TO EAT | DINNER
5 Pollen Street, Mayfair, London
Jason Atherton’s second Mayfair restaurant, ‘Little Social’ opened in March 2013 with a heady mix of classic design, a rich an intimate restaurant featuring traditional interiors and beautiful, antique furnishings.
Jason produces typically French plates with the best of British produce, from Braised Ox Cheeks to Roasted Line Caught Cornish seabass to his award-winning B.C. Burger with smoked cheddar and bacon.
Recommended for an intimate dining experience and perfect for special occasions.
Our Tip: Jason’s famous Apple tarte tatin is an absolute must-try – it’s served for two to share, and is guaranteed to live up to the hype.
WHERE TO DRINK | AFTER DINNER
69 Colebrooke Row, Angel, London
Renowned for its award-winning cocktails and identifiable by an outdoor lantern – 69 Colebrooke Row is a quirky but extremely intimate speak easy. They specialise in a seasonal menu of beautifully crafted cocktails and bespoke bar snacks.
Given the reputation behind 69 Colebrooke Row, the prices are very reasonable. If you are visiting at the weekend, we recommend booking as it’s a popular go-to spot.
Our Tip: The best martinis in town but if feeling adventurous, try a Pendennis Club or Sazerac. Also be sure to ask for an ‘oyster shot’ (oyster by name only…).
WHERE TO EAT | LATE NIGHT THROUGH TO THE MORNING
40th Floor, 110 Bishopgate, London
‘The highest 24/7 restaurant in London’
Duck & Waffle offers a playful take on traditional British cuisine – serving “all day” breakfast, brunch, classic main and desserts from sunrise to sunset! This is the ideal spot for ‘insta-brunchers’ – with a vibrant atmosphere, spectacular views and wholesome food served 24 hours a day.
Enter via a private entrance on Bishopgate via a scenic lift taking you all 40 floors up to Duck & Waffle.
Our Tip: Be sure to try their famous Duck & Waffles.
WHERE TO ENTERTAIN
Shoreditch – 2A Worship Street, London
Bloomsbury – 55 New Oxford Street, London
‘A social experience like no other’
A dynamic duo of twenty first century social darts and an award-winning bar. A quirky take on a great British pub, with the fun of enjoying a good game of darts with your friends.
Get your game on at Flight Club – whilst enjoying their range of classic beverages, cocktails and signature shots. Their hearty, pub grub style sharing platters are also worth a try.
Let the best man or woman win!
Our Tip: Watch out for that friend who is a darts shark, don’t bet money you can’t afford to lose!
WHAT TO SEE
Silk Street, London
One stop around the circle line from our office (which is in Farringdon), you will find the Barbican Centre. We think the Barbican is a must for anyone who wants to experience something modern and interesting in one of the most iconic settings in London. With the release of the new Blade Runner film, this high-rise development and cultural centre seems more relevant than ever.
The Barbican has a mixture of performing arts and exhibitions, the 2018 season of events asks “Can the arts change the world?” – if you find out the answer, please let us know.
Our Tip: Check on their website for events during your trip, if nothing else we highly recommend an architecture tour of the brutalist masterpiece.
WHERE TO SHOP
Piccadilly Store – 181 Piccadilly, London
St Pancras Store – 1A, St Pancras International, Pancras Road, London
Fortnum and Mason upmarket department stores encapsulate all that is British – the ultimate destination for unique gifts (including their famous hampers), seasonal treats and fresh produce.
Their legacy began as far back as 1705 – ands been committed to bringing the world’s best food to its stores for three centuries. Their history is also incredible, with an immensely charitable background, serving royalty and soldiers alike.
We are delighted that Fortnum and Mason also stock London Sock Co…
WHERE TO STAY
37 Eccelston Square, London
A luxury hideaway behind the doors of a striking 19th Century building, idyllically sitting on award-winning Eccelston Square. This boutique London Hotel has all the mod-cons and amenities you can desire in a central London get-away.
The rooms are small, as expected for its location, but Eccelston Square makes up for it in sophisticated interiors, fabulous service and laid-back but luxe appeal.
Quintessentially British… Winston Churchill lived just two doors down.
Our Tip: Take the 10 minute walk round to Sloane Square for a spot of luxury shopping with Hackett, Smythson, Cartier, J.Crew, Club Monaco, Massimo Dutti, to name a few. Then drop in to Comptoir Poliane (on Cadogan Gardens, just behind Peter Jones) for a morning coffee and pastry delight!
