Starting the Day with Elegance, History, and a Little Golden Magic…

This morning, I’m setting out from my sweet home base at The Clermont, Charing Cross—rested, ready, and filled with that giddy kind of gratitude that only comes when you pause and whisper to yourself, “I’m really here.”

First stop: breakfast at The Wolseley. I’ve heard it’s where timeless glamour meets perfectly brewed tea and the soft clink of silver spoons. A dreamy, dignified way to ease into the day—because let’s be honest, mornings in London deserve a touch of decadence.

From there, I’ll wander toward the Golden Jubilee Bridge—just a five-minute stroll from the hotel. But it’s not just a bridge. It’s a moment. A place to pause above the Thames, with sweeping views of the London Eye and South Bank, and feel the heartbeat of the city rise up beneath your feet. I’ll stand there for a minute or two… just breathing in the beauty.

And that’s only the beginning.

Today I set out with a revised itinerary—but with a very open heart. I like to have a plan. But my plan isn’t some long-term partner I’ve promised myself to. It’s more like someone new and intriguing—charming, well-dressed, and full of potential—but if something else catches my eye, I won’t hesitate to follow the spark. I’m excited to see where the day leads.

Today’s Itinerary: Wednesday Wanderings

• Breakfast at The Wolseley (Piccadilly) – Sophisticated and classic

• Pop into Fortnum & Mason – For tea, treasures, and a little retail joy

• Stop in at Maison Assouline – A secret spot for a beautiful tea break

• Stroll through Piccadilly Circus – Watch the city swirl around me

• Visit the National Gallery – I’ll spend about 1.5 hours soaking in masterpieces

• Walk to the Golden Jubilee Bridge – Views, stillness, and a moment to reflect

• Dinner at Barrafina (vibrant Spanish tapas) or The Delaunay (graceful and grand)

• Evening stroll – To walk off the day and let it settle sweetly into memory

THURSDAY: Historic London & Tower Time

A day for markets, coffee, and stories etched in stone and centuries

• Morning coffee & a bite at Monmouth Coffee (Borough Market)

• Wander Borough Market – grazing, tasting, delighting

• Explore Leadenhall Market – Magic, architecture, Harry Potter charm

• Visit the Tower of London – Give or take 2–3 hours of living history

• Dinner at Coppa Club (with those dreamy Tower Bridge views) or Gunpowder for flavorful, Indian-inspired plates

• After-dinner stroll – Because London after dark is its own kind of wonder

FRIDAY: Culture, Glamour & Greenery

A day of art, fashion, and a little floral fantasy

• Breakfast near South Kensington (perhaps Muriel’s Kitchen)

• Explore the V&A Museum – Style, history, and design galore

• Walk to Harrods – A feast for the eyes, even if I don’t buy a thing

• Late lunch or early dinner at Petersham Nurseries Café in Covent Garden

• Evening wander through Covent Garden – Charming, lively, and full of soul

SATURDAY: Westminster Icons & Serendipity

One last full day to soak in the regal roots of this city

• Begin the day at Westminster Abbey – A humbling, historical marvel

• Stroll past Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

• Take a walk along the Thames—or perhaps a river cruise if I’m feeling whimsical

• Maybe revisit a favorite spot or two—whatever my heart is craving

• Dinner at Sketch (eclectic, artistic) or Nopi (fresh, elegant flavors)

• A final after-dinner stroll, letting London linger in my bones before heading back to the hotel to pack and rest for my Sunday morning Eurostar ride to Paris

Honey Note 🍯

Travel isn’t just about checking things off a list.

It’s about standing still in wonder, sipping beauty slowly, and letting your heart stretch wide enough to hold the magic of a place.

Here’s to spontaneity, sparkle, and the joy of being exactly where you are.

Let’s see what this city has in store today.

With joy,

MaryNell (aka Honey 🐝 🍯 )