Polkadot Passport in London: 5 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for London

Must-try foods in London

• Fish and Chips
  Fish and ChipsThe city's most iconic takeaway, featuring fresh white fish (usually cod or haddock) in a golden, crispy batter, served with thick-cut 'chunky' chips and a side of mushy peas and tartare sauce.
• Salt Beef Bagel (Beigel)
  Salt Beef Bagel (Beigel)An East End classic synonymous with Brick Lane's 24-hour bakeries. Thick, tender slices of cured salt beef are piled high into a chewy boiled bagel, usually topped with hot English mustard and a large gherkin.
• Chicken Tikka Masala
  Chicken Tikka MasalaWidely regarded as Britain's national dish, this creamy, tomato-based curry is best experienced in the curry houses of Brick Lane, representing London's rich South Asian culinary heritage.
• Afternoon Tea
  Afternoon TeaA refined London ritual involving tiers of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and an assortment of patisserie, traditionally served with loose-leaf tea.
• Beef Shin Pappardelle
  Beef Shin PappardelleA modern London icon from Islington's Trullo. This dish features silky, hand-rolled egg pasta tossed in a rich, slow-cooked beef shin ragu that has become a benchmark for the city's high-end Italian scene.
• Khachapuri
  KhachapuriRepresenting the 2026 trend for Georgian cuisine, this boat-shaped cheese-filled bread topped with a runny egg and butter has become a viral sensation at new hotspots like DakaDaka in Mayfair.

Trip guide

• About London
  About LondonLondon, the capital of the United Kingdom, is situated on the River Thames and contains a documented history spanning approximately 2,000 years. Originally established by the Romans as Londinium around AD 47, the city serves as a primary center for historical heritage, architecture, and traditional culture.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit London is during the late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city’s parks are in full bloom or changing color. While summer offers the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, it coincides with the peak tourist season, leading to significant crowds and higher accommodation prices. For lower costs and fewer crowds, consider the off-peak winter months of January and February.
• Getting around
  Getting around London

  • International Air Travel London is served by six major airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick, which connect to the city center via dedicated express trains, the Underground, or coach services for international arrivals.
  • London Underground (The Tube) This extensive rapid transit system covers most of the city across eleven lines; it is the most efficient way to navigate central London using contactless payments or an Oyster card.
  • National Rail and Eurostar Major railway termini like King's Cross and Waterloo connect London to the rest of the UK, while St Pancras International provides high-speed Eurostar links to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use a contactless card or mobile device for all public transport to benefit from automatic daily and weekly fare capping.
  • Always stand on the right side of escalators in the Underground to allow others to pass on the left.
  • Check your restaurant bill for a discretionary service charge, typically 12.5%, as no additional tip is expected if it is included.
• What’s new
  What’s new in London

  • V&A East Museum opening in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
  • The London Museum's grand relocation to Smithfield Market.
• VisitBritain↗
  VisitBritainThe official destination guide for London from the British Tourist Authority, providing travel information, attractions, and itineraries for the capital.