London Has Stolen My Heart—And I Don’t Want It Back

It’s never too late for love.

For now, I’m falling head over heels for new experiences—but I’m also oh so ready to allow true love to find me. And today, I let London sweep me completely off my feet.

This city is breathtaking. The cyclists glide by at speeds that rival the cars, and runners seem to appear on every corner. The walkways are wide and inviting, practically begging you to stroll, jog, or ride through them with a little extra joy in your stride. It’s all so alive, so vibrant—and so healthy. And then there’s the art, the theatre, the food, the fashion, the history… everywhere you turn, London opens its arms and says, “Stay a while.”

The service here has been exceptional—fast-paced but kind, polished yet warm. The city hums with energy, yet somehow still makes room for grace.

My Day in Moments

I began the day with breakfast at The Wolseley, indulging in a divine plate of fish cakes and poached eggs with hollandaise, followed by banana bread topped with a mango butter purée. A decadent start that set the tone for a day of discovery.

From there, I wandered through Piccadilly Circus and the charming elegance of Burlington Arcade before heading to Borough Market and Leadenhall Market—each one brimming with character, flavor, and life.

I had lunch at Barrafina, where I savored Pan Con Tomate and Seabass with Mojo Rojo. Bold flavors, effortless style—everything was perfectly executed.

I crossed London Bridge and Tower Bridge, and spent a couple of awe-filled hours at the Tower of London, imagining the lives that once filled those stone walls.

Later, I took a breather (and a scoop—or two—of La Gelatiera gelato). The lemon and basil chili flavors were wildly unexpected and absolutely unforgettable. Tonight’s dinner at Café Murano in Covent Garden was cozy and comforting—burrata and tortelli that might’ve just ruined me for all other pasta.

Next, I took an evening stroll through Hyde Park, made a quick stop by The Palace—because why not?—then walked down The Mall and through Trafalgar Square, soaking in the glow of a city that never stops shining.

I love London.

It feels like every city in the world is trying to be London, but none have figured out the secret recipe. Somehow it’s all at once royal and rebellious, fast and friendly, refined and wild. It’s a city that breathes art and welcomes aliveness. I can’t help but wonder—were my 31,700 steps today just my way of trying to chase down my heart?

Because I think London has it now. And I’m not sure I want it back.

Honey Note 🍯

If Paris is even more magical than this… I may need someone to pick my jaw up off the floor.

But for now, I’ll be dreaming behind my eyelids tonight—full of memories, full of joy, and full of love for a city that completely surprised me.

Plans for my Thursday in London: Art, Elegance, and Sweet Serendipity

One of my favorite things about solo travel is that I get to plan… and then completely ignore the plan if my heart tells me to take a different turn. But I still love waking up with a beautiful itinerary in my pocket—an outline of loveliness to guide me through the day, with room to linger, explore, and fall in love with the unexpected.

So here’s what I have in mind for Thursday in London—a day designed to delight, with just enough structure to keep things flowing, and plenty of flexibility to let serendipity lead.

☕ Morning: A Soft Start at Petersham Nurseries Café

I’ll begin the day gently, with brunch at Petersham Nurseries Café in Covent Garden. It opens at 10:00 AM, and it looks like a floral dream—rustic, elegant, and glowing with natural light. I’m imagining a pot of tea or a creamy latte, something fresh and nourishing to nibble on, and a slow, mindful start to the day.

🖼️ Late Morning: The National Gallery

Next, I’ll wander over to the National Gallery, just a 10-minute walk from Covent Garden. I plan to spend about an hour and a half getting lost in the colors and brushstrokes of Van Gogh, Monet, Turner, and da Vinci. I don’t need to see everything—I’ll let one or two paintings find me and trust that they’ll leave a little mark on my heart.

If time allows, I may stop into Maison Assouline near Piccadilly for a little tea break in what might be the most beautiful bookshop I’ve ever seen.

🛍️ Early Afternoon: A Touch of Grand at Harrods

Then it’s off to Harrods—whether by black cab or the Piccadilly line, I haven’t decided yet, but I know it’ll feel like a little adventure either way. Harrods is more than shopping—it’s an experience. I’ll wander the food halls (I’ve heard they’re divine), maybe pick up a keepsake, and possibly treat myself to tea in the Harrods Tea Room if the mood strikes.

🎨 Late Afternoon: A Light Stroll and a Pretty Pause

If I’m nearby, I might take a walk through Kensington Gardens, or if time allows, stop into the Serpentine Gallery for a splash of contemporary art. Or maybe I’ll swing by Liberty London—I’ve heard it’s utterly charming, and it feels like the perfect kind of place to browse with no particular goal except beauty.

🍸 Evening: Dinner at Sketch

Dinner Thursday is already making me giddy—Sketch at 7:30 PM. I’ve read that it’s whimsical, unforgettable, and just a little bit theatrical. I’ll be dressing up and leaning all the way into the magic. And yes, I will be visiting the powder room—because apparently, it’s a whole experience in itself.

🌙 Post-Dinner Wind-Down

If the moon is feeling friendly, I’ll wander toward Soho to feel the city buzz just a little longer. Or I might head straight back to the hotel, curl up with a cup of chamomile, and let Thursday’s memories settle sweetly behind my eyelids.

Honey Reminder 🍯

You don’t have to see everything to feel like you’ve seen it all. Follow the spark. Linger in beauty. And if you get a little lost… you just might find exactly what you didn’t know you were looking for.

With wanderlust and warmth,

MaryNell (aka Honey)