A weekend in London, to the most expensive capital in Europe!
I had to wait 33 years before I came close to the country of the Queen of England, it was about time. I don't know, I wasn't very motivated to go to London, more attracted by sunny destinations... In short, I finally decided to go and I had good weather! It doesn't rain every day in England... On the other hand, a weekend in London is short. So I decided to give priority to my desires rather than the "must-do" ones.
NOTTING HILL: its market, its colourful streets and its atmosphere...
Our first destination Notting Hill, famous for Hugh Grant's film, its Portobello market and pretty pastel houses.
The Brunch: the Electric Diner in the heart of Portobello Market is a perfect place to start the day. The Breakfast is good and copious, the retro decoration and the kindness of the staff is also part of the party. The day starts well.
Portobello Market: the stands are set up from 8am to 6pm every Saturday. There is something for everyone. It's a vintage spirit where junk is waiting for takers, oops, you can't miss it. A little hunger? Don't hesitate to let yourself be tempted by the Food Truck.
Elgin Crescent and Arundel Crescent: perpendicular to Portobello, two sublime streets with pretty pastel houses. If you have time (unlike us) push on to Westbourne Grove and Callcott Street.
LITTLE VENICE
Our second walk of the day begins just a few steps from Notting Hill. In the district of Maida Vale, around the Regent's canal we can discover a beautiful barge village. An air of countryside in the heart of London, enough to recharge your batteries before visiting the very lively district of Camden. You can if you wish push the walk to Camden, about 1 hour walk. This ballade is all the more pleasant as one crosses there that very few tourists.
CAMDEN: The Gothic, punk and street art district
An incredible neighborhood, "Underground" and Bobo at the same time, don't just walk down the main street (Chalk Farm Road), walk through the different markets which are very folkloric. Camden is the biggest flea market in London. Whether you are Hippie, Gothic, punk, old, young... There is something for every style.
Being a fan of street art, you decide to visit this area not through its markets but rather by discovering different streets where artists have expressed themselves. We even had the chance to meet some of them in action.
SQUARE GARDEN
Our tour of Camden ends voluntarily at Square Garden. Another pastel colored street, but the houses are so charming that I could only go there.
Our evening at SOHO
I had planned in our program to go to Ronnie Scott's jazz club to enjoy a meal in the atmosphere I like. Unfortunately I didn't make a reservation, so it's sold out... no big deal... another excuse to come back to London very soon!
We'll be in the Indian, just next door : The Delhi Brasserie. If you like Indian food, I can only recommend this address. Beware in London the dishes are spicy, but it's a pure delight and a well deserved meal especially after this long day.