First Impressions of London: From Heathrow to Harry Potter and Fish & Chips Dreams

Toni Reid
Jun 2
3 min read

Updated: Jun 19

After exploring two countries back-to-back, I finally landed at London’s Heathrow Airport around 6 PM. Exhausted doesn’t even begin to explain it. So once I checked into my hotel on Great Russell Street, I laid down... and straight-up passed out. Sometimes sleep is the best souvenir. 😴

Luckily, my hotel was perfectly positioned. I woke up around 7 AM ready to kick off my UK adventure, and the closest place to grab food was VQ Bloomsbury, a 24-hour café that’s a go-to for both locals and travelers craving classic eats at all hours. I ordered French toast, turkey links, tea, and a small orange juice. The food? Honestly, it was just okay. But the service came with a smile, and that counts for a lot when you’re still jet-lagged and confused about which way traffic is coming from.

🚌 The Big Bus & a Bite of London

Just a few blocks away—also on Great Russell Street—I hopped on the Big Bus Tour. I love using hop-on-hop-off buses when I first arrive in a new country. They give me a visual map of the city, a chance to relax, and a few moments to take in the vibe without having to plan a route. I chose the Green Line and rode for about 30 minutes until I ended up in South Bank along the River Thames.

Oh—and shoutout to the British Museum, which I had to walk past to catch my bus. As one of the most famous museums in the world, this massive institution showcases the story of human culture from ancient times to now—and it’s totally free (but I have thoughts on my visit, which you can read [here]).

🚶‍♀️ Unintended Wandering Turned Magical

South Bank unexpectedly stole my entire afternoon. What started as a “quick stop” turned into 5+ hours of wandering—purely on foot. I crossed the Westminster Bridge, soaking in views of the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Palace, and Parliament—basically a visual bucket list check-off all at once. 🎯

After that, I ended up on The Queen’s Walk, a scenic pedestrian path along the Thames. It’s the kind of place that feels very London—a mix of people-watching, street performers, skateboarders, and riverside cafes. I stumbled on a little market tucked under the Jubilee Bridge, where vendors sold vintage books, records, and collectibles. It reminded me of NYC’s Brooklyn Flea in DUMBO. That’s where I scored a first edition of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” for my growing collection—magical find, right?

🐟 BFI Riverfront Café & Jubilee Strolls

By now I was starving again, so I followed the smell of fried heaven to the BFI Riverfront Café, known for having some of the best fish and chips in town. And let’s talk about fish & chips: it's the national comfort food of the UK. Golden battered fish, thick-cut fries, and a hit of malt vinegar—it’s a bite of British tradition. My meal lived up to the hype.

With a full belly and my Instagram Stories updated (📲), I decided to take a stroll across the Jubilee Bridge. This iconic footbridge offers some of the best panoramic views of London—from the London Eye to St. Paul’s Cathedral. I took my time with it, letting the views soak in. On my way back, I made one last stop.

🌳 Jubilee Gardens: A Quiet Urban Escape

I wandered into Jubilee Gardens, a peaceful green space filled with manicured lawns, flowering trees, and benches perfect for a midday break. Originally developed to celebrate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977, this garden now stands as a symbol of urban calm amidst London’s bustle. Families, solo travelers, and lunch-break office workers all find refuge here—and so did I.

💡 Why This Was a Must-Do

This day wasn’t tightly planned, and that made it perfect. It reminded me that in London, culture can sneak up on you—whether it’s a spontaneous book find, the skyline view from a bridge, or a surprisingly reflective moment in a crowded café. Despite all the tourists, the city still manages to feel personal. It's vibrant, historical, chaotic, and charming all at once.

If you're ever in London, spend a day walking South Bank and the Jubilee area. It's a crash course in modern London life—with a side of nostalgia and fried fish.