Fun filled days in London with friends this summer

3 women laughing and enjoying London with friends

With such a range of activities and views to enjoy, London is often thought of as being the perfect city break with family. Likewise, this variety also makes it the perfect destination for a trip with friends. Whether it’s just a day out for two, or the whole gang together for the full weekend, what better place to explore? London is known as one of the most wonderful cities in the world, filled with high-class food and drinks, iconic historical sights, and breath-taking entertainment, that you will undoubtedly have a hard time choosing what to do. Here are our top picks for making the most of your time in London with friends this summer.

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July is on the horizon – and it’s perfect weather for a picnic in the park

A picnic in the park arranged by DUKES London in one of the surrounding Royal Parks with a hamper, blanket and wine.

After an unusually cold start to the summer months, the weather is finally starting to pick up and there is the glimmer of some sunnier weeks ahead. With the warmer weather comes the promise of great opportunity – you can finally get out and fully enjoy all that the city of London has to offer. DUKES London believes there is no better place than London in the sunshine and both the locals and tourists agree. If you are looking to relax during your visit to the capital, The Royal Parks of London are the perfect location to take advantage of the climate and step away from the hustle and bustle of London which the season brings. And DUKES has the perfect summer day activity – a picnic in the park.

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How to escape the hustle and bustle of London

Tourists in front of Big Ben showing the hustle and bustle of London

There’s no denying that London is a busy city. As the capital of the United Kingdom, it is the largest city in the country and one of the largest in the world. It is home to more than 8 million people and attracts more than 30 million tourists every single year. Crowds flock to the world-famous attractions, theatre shows sell out most nights, and popular restaurants need to be booked in advance. When taking a trip to a hectic city, rest and relaxation isn’t the first thing that springs to mind in a place that is always on the go. However, here at DUKES London, we believe there are plenty of opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle of London and enjoy a stay where you can truly unwind. Find out our top 3 ways to relax when enjoying a stay at our hotel.

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5 of the best shows in London’s West End to see this summer

Theatre seats at best shows in London's west end

London is known for its spectacular West End theatre scene and a visit to a show is top of the list for many tourists visiting the capital. The vibrant theatre district is a mixture of large-scale theatres which showcase some of the biggest and best musical spectaculars, through to smaller scale venues which host intimate dramas and hilarious comedies. When visiting London, you will never be short of shows to pick from and may even want to see more than one. We explore some of the longstanding productions which are now classics within the West End circuit, as well as some of the new shows which are set to become firm favourites for theatre goers. Find out the 5 best shows in London’s West End to see this summer.

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How to make the most of your family stay in London this May

Boy and girl eating afternoon tea at DUKES during a family stay in London

The capital city is a diverse place, filled with so much to see and so much to do, there is always something new to explore.  That is why, here at DUKES LONDON, we believe there is no better place to take a holiday as a family. The last week in May is half term for many schools up and down the country and getting away for a family stay in London is an ideal break for everyone. From historical sights and royal palaces, to spectacular shows and an amazing selection of places to shop, London has something to entertain all ages and interests. Find out how to make the most out of your family stay in London at DUKES Hotel this May.

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4 simple reasons you need to visit London in 2019

Chelsea Flower Show 2019Year after year, London continues to attract visitors from across the globe with its spectacular events. There is always something happening in the capital city, with an exciting calendar of festivals, tournaments, performances and exhibits happening each day. No matter if you’re interested in history, sports, food or theatre, there is something for everyone to enjoy in London in 2019.

2019 is no exception and DUKES can’t wait to welcome guests throughout the year and make their trip an unforgettable experience. Each season brings new opportunities and we are very excited to share in these experiences.

Here are our 4 simple reasons you need to visit London in 2019. Continue reading “4 simple reasons you need to visit London in 2019”

6 things to do in London with children this half term

Half term at Hamley's Toy ShopHere at DUKES London, it feels as though we have only just got over the Christmas holidays and the half term holidays are upon us once again. Children and teenagers throughout the UK have left school behind them for the week and it is the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time together as a family.

London is the ideal place to take a family friendly break – with its diverse nature, there is something for all ages. With so much to see and do, you will certainly be spoilt for choice.

We have rounded up our top 5 things to do in London with children this half term, check them out below. Continue reading “6 things to do in London with children this half term”

10 days to Christmas: where to get those last minute Christmas presents in London

A small, colourful section of Portobello Road MarketIt might be just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean you have to have all of your Christmas presents bought, wrapped and underneath the tree!

We know plenty of people like to be this organised so they can enjoy the festivities in other ways, and we know others who revel in the Christmas atmosphere, preferring to leave their shopping until a few days before Christmas to truly soak up the festive feeling.

Whichever camp you fall into, London’s the perfect destination. Continue reading “10 days to Christmas: where to get those last minute Christmas presents in London”

The fascinating stories behind London’s three biggest and quintessentially British department stores

An external view of Selfridges, LondonWhether you’re visiting London for the first time or you live here and spend every day in the city, when it’s time to shop, your mind will no doubt head to one of the well known department stores we have.

There’s a retail option whatever your needs, starting right at the small, independent boutique level, but the department stores are iconic. They’re British. They’re what makes London shopping as attractive and as popular as it is.

And whilst the whole shopping scene in London has a fantastically fascinating background, the stories behind three of the city’s most famous departments stores – Harrods, Selfridges and Liberty – are particularly wonderful, and so we had to share! Continue reading “The fascinating stories behind London’s three biggest and quintessentially British department stores”

6 Things You Need To Do On Your Christmas Shopping Day Trip To London

London Eye at Christmas, at nightOne of the busiest times of the year, hundreds of thousands of people descend upon London to enjoy a spot of Christmas shopping every December. Both for them and for their loved ones, there’s something particularly enthralling about shopping in London on the run up to Christmas.

And with so much to take in and do, we’ve pulled together six key points that can help make your Christmas shopping day trip all that more enjoyable.

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