There’s no doubt that the capital has changed over the last months, but there is a whole range of activities that can be done in a safe way. Shops, attractions, and bars and restaurants have made subtle adaptations so that you can still get out and enjoy yourself, but feel confident that you are keeping yourself safe.
Here’s our pick of things to do near The Savoy this autumn:
The area has reopened safely – it’s calmer, but has a pleasant buzz. All the shops have adapted to social distancing, limiting numbers, insisting on masks, and providing hand sanitizer and some are offering private visits. Restaurants have reduced their seating and some have added outdoor seating so that social distancing can be observed.
Many museums and galleries that are within a short walk of The Savoy have reopened, and most require online booking with specified time slots to limit numbers. The National Gallery is open with its world-class permanent exhibition as well as a stunning temporary exhibition on Titian. Somerset House is featuring fungi – an unusual, but engaging topic – in a new exhibition ‘Mushrooms’ and across the river, The Hayward Gallery has reopened with a wonderful exhibition, ‘Among the Trees’ a creative forest of art, sculpture, and installations.
While the city is slightly quieter, it’s a great time to enjoy some key attractions. A visit to the London Eye means the same great views, but avoiding queues and having more space within the ‘pods’. Uberboats offer guaranteed seating and are a fun way to get about the city. Maritime Greenwich is a fabulous excursion and the Royal Naval College with its jaw-dropping Painted Hall has recently reopened. Head the other way down the Thames and you can stop off at Battersea Park for a stroll or a visit to the Children’s Zoo, that’s also now reopened.
There are some fun things ahead in London’s calendar of events. London Mural Festival kicked off in September and across the city, the sides of buildings are being enlivened by bold, bright, and provocative imagery from 150 artists from around the world. October will see the biggest city-wide celebration of cocktails in the world in London Cocktail Week, which this year has been extended to a month and will feature immersive experiences and great value beverages around the city.
Don’t forget also that autumn is the best time to just enjoy simple strolls along the Thames or in our wonderful parks, many of which offer amazing views across the city. Head to Hampstead Heath for rugged wildness or Hyde Park, which offers boating, tennis, and horse-riding. Nearby Embankment Gardens are tranquil and pretty and a good starting point for a riverside exploration along the Thames Path.
We hope these ideas might pique your interest, but if you would like some personal recommendations, then of course our team will be delighted to help!
