Eat, Drink, Explore: London

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN LONDON

While the exact location of the first fish and chip shop remains unclear, the earliest known shops opened in England in the 1860s, courtesy of Jewish immigrants from Spain and Portugal. By the 1930s, UK boasted over 35,000 fish and chip shops, all serving variations of fresh fish, fried in crispy, golden batter, paired with salty fried potatoes (“chips”). This simple, yet delicious combo is sold across England today. Discover why Brits consume 382 million meals from fish and chip shops every year!

Top Cultural Foods To Try in London

Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in London:

• Fish & Chips: Fish & Chips is an iconic English classic for a reason. This simple but delicious meal features a crispy, battered piece of fish served with thick-cut fries, usually wrapped in paper. You have to try it from a local "chippy" for an authentic experience! It's the perfect, no-frills meal that is an important part of daily British culture.
• Full English Breakfast: It's not just breakfast, it's an essential! The Full English is a massive plate featuring fried eggs, bacon, sausage, baked beans, mushrooms, and toast. It is the go-to meal for a lazy weekend morning or a perfect remedy for a long night out. Finding your favorite "fry-up" is a must for your London study abroad adventure.
• Sunday Roast: On Sundays, you simply have to enjoy a classic Sunday Roast. This is a beloved tradition where a big plate of roasted meat, potatoes, and vegetables is drowned in rich gravy and served with a giant Yorkshire pudding. It is the quintessential weekend meal that brings people together and is the centerpiece of almost every pub's Sunday menu. You can't miss this one!

BEST DRINK IN LONDON

In the 1880s, afternoon tea was a fashionable social event for upper-class and society women. Donned in long gowns, gloves, and hats, ladies would drink tea in the drawing room between four and five o’clock. Today, afternoon tea is a quintessential English custom celebrated by all. When in London do as the Brits do and spend an hour with earl grey, lady grey, white peach, or green tea. Add milk, lemon, or sugar to taste and drink up!

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in London

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in London:

• English Breakfast Tea: Having a cup of tea is an important part of daily life in London. English Breakfast is the classic blend, which is a strong black tea that is often served with a splash of milk and sugar. It is the go-to drink for any time of day, and ordering "a cuppa" is an essential part of assimilating into the local culture.
• Vimto: This is a drink that will take you straight back to a British childhood. Vimto is a super popular fruit cordial that tastes like a mix of grapes, raspberries, and blackcurrants. It's usually diluted with water and can be served either cold for a refreshing drink or hot on a chilly day.
• Dandelion and Burdock: If you are looking for a more unique flavor, you have to try this classic soft drink! Dandelion and Burdock has a distinct, earthy flavor that is a bit like root beer but with a sweeter, more floral taste. It's an old-school British beverage that is a fun and quirky alternative to regular sodas. You'll mostly find it in pubs and traditional sweet shops around the city.

BEST PLACE TO EXPLORE IN LONDON

There are far too many must-sees in London to name just one, so consider buying a one-day hop-on, hop-off bus tour pass to discover all of London’s best sites. You can choose from 110 stops and take in famous London landmarks while a tour guide narrates your journey through this storied city. See it all – the London Eye, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, and so many more iconic London attractions. Riding around in one of London’s classic double-decker buses is a fabulous way to take in the city!

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in London

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in London:

• Tower of London: The Tower of London is a historic castle that has been used as a fortress, a palace, and even a prison for some of England’s most famous figures! You can explore its ancient walls and see the Crown Jewels up close, all while hearing epic tales from the famous Yeoman Warders. It's a great way to dive into centuries of royal history and drama.
• Buckingham Palace: This is the official London residence of the British royal family, and it's one of the most iconic buildings in London. The Palace is the center of many royal events and a powerful symbol of the British monarchy. You have to try and catch the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, which is a massive spectacle of tradition and pageantry!
• Big Ben: You definitely cannot leave London without seeing the famous clock tower! Located at the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben is an iconic symbol of London and a major part of the city's identity. Its famous chimes are heard all over the world. Seeing it in person is a moment you will remember, as it represents the very heart of British democracy and tradition. 

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