Leave Embankment pier and turn…
LEFT: Does Police and criminal history fascinate you? Have a drink in the Great Scotland Yard’s 40 Elephants bar which is inspired by an all-female gang who were responsible for some of Britain’s largest shoplifting operations in the 1800’s. Along with the bar, this hotels design is so unique that wherever you look, you’ll notice something interesting, including artwork created by real prisoners. Plus, you know its a good hotel when they karate chop the cushions to dent the middle! Children are welcome, as are dogs and they have a delicious new afternoon tea. You don’t have to be a guest to enjoy the facilities. INFO
A further 5 minute walk from here brings you to Trafalgar Square. Whilst here, I recommend a drink at The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St James – a favourite of mine for years. Whether its lunch with friend, or cocktails at dusk with someone special, this bar over looks Trafalgar Square where you can watch the world go by. INFO
While in Trafalgar Square, try a Treasure Map Trails – A great family activity for any age group; you’ll explore the area whilst having fun looking and learning along the way! These beautifully illustrated treasure maps include towns across the country. In Central London you’ll find Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and Leicester Square. For a 10% discount on any map, enter this code at the checkout: COVENTGARDENMUM Full details: INFO
STRAIGHT: Which founding Father of the United States was born in Boston, Massachusetts 1706 and came to live in a Georgian terraced house at 36 Craven Street, London? Benjamin Franklin of course! You can visit his old house, in fact its the only remining Franklin house on earth: INFO
RIGHT: Turing right out of the pier you will see a crossing. Cross over and continue right until you arrive at the entrance to Victoria Embankment Gardens (less than a minute away). This pretty green space has a stage for live performances in the summer as well as a café with outdoor seating and a fantastic play area for children which is at the other end. These gardens have the most beautiful floral displays throughout the year. Mid-way through the gardens you will see the Savoy hotel on your left; a world famous hotel frequented by the rich and famous. When you reach the other end of the gardens you can either turn left up Savoy Street for step free access, or continue underneath Waterloo Bridge and climb the steps directly on your left. From here, find your way to visit Somerset House, a glorious open courtyard with a huge fountain in the summer (which children LOVE!). The fountain is not currently on due to some awesome summer events, one being Dodge; a colourful, dazzling combination of food, drinks and late night DJ’s and dodgems! INFO. From October this year you can see Beano: The Art of Breaking the Rules. INFO
Other photos from this area…
If you visit any of these places, or perhaps somewhere I haven’t mentioned, please let me know via Instagram @coventgardenmum or by email. Id love you hear your experience and perhaps even see some photos! Have a great time…