London is one of the world’s most bustling and vibrant cities and there is so much to do that you could visit a different restaurant, bar or attraction everyday for years. But what if you only have a short time in the capital city, like a twenty four layover? Ebookers have asked me to share my favourite way to spend 24 hours of luxury in London inspired by their new Take Over Your Layover tool which customises an itinerary depending on the length of time travellers have, their companion and mood. I’ve put together an itinerary that allows you to experience the most luxurious dining options and things to do so that you don’t feel like you’re missing out. Also check out my contribution to their locals spotlight!
9am. Breakfast
With a full day of exploring ahead, start the day right with a really good breakfast. The Dorchester in Mayfair is one of London’s most luxurious hotels and The Grill at The Dorchester is one of the most spectacular dining rooms in London.
You’ll relax in the softest of leather seating with a Murano Glass chandelier suspended above you trying the very best British breakfast. Opt for the traditional English breakfast, a delicious selection of pastries or go down the healthy route with porridge and fruit.
10am. Shopping!!
From The Dorchester it’s an easy walk to Piccadilly where you will find some of London’s best food shops. If you have a sweet tooth, I’d highly recommend heading to the Burlington Arcade and the famous Ladurée for macarons and desserts.
Or for chocoholics head to the the nearby Prince’s arcade, the home of Prestat, London’s oldest chocolate shop. The shop was loved by one of my favourite children’s authors; Roald Dahl who even featured the truffles in one of his books.
Also located on Piccadilly is the Caviar House & Prunier, a place where you can pick up the very finest smoked salmon, caviar and other delicious smoked fish. You can grab a bottle of champagne to go with it too!
A foodie trip to Piccadilly wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Fortnum & Mason. First established as a small store in 1707, Fortnum & Mason has grown to be one of London’s most luxurious department stores. The Queen herself has even visited to formally open the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon and the store proudly holds the Royal Warrant. 
The Food Hall at Fortnum & Mason is the best bit and I defy anyone to not feel like a kid in a candy store while exploring all the gorgeous produce.
1pm. Lunch
All that shopping will make you hungry and it’s time for lunch! I recommend heading to one of my favourite Japanese restaurants Nobu Berkeley Street, not too far from Fortnum & Mason. A well-known name, Nobu is one of the best sushi restaurants in the London with the highest quality of food and a beautiful interior.
I’d highly suggest some sushi rolls, tacos and salads from the Japanese / Peruvian menu but keep it light as I have something very special in mind for the afternoon.
3pm. Spa!
Head to the gorgeous Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane and take the lift up to the 10th Floor Spa. The hotel is one of the only places in the London to have a rooftop location so you can still enjoy sweeping views across London as you enjoy a massage or facial in one of their luxurious treatment rooms. After your massage you can go for a bespoke blow dry in the salon to get ready for a big night out in London.
On a layover in London, you absolutely have to experience the British institution of afternoon tea and the beautiful Four Seasons is one of the best places in London to do so. The in house chef uses the absolute best seasonal produce to create the beautiful signature afternoon tea and you can can enjoy finger sandwiches, scones and pastries in the comfort of one of the hotel’s beautiful lounges. 
6. pm
Head to your hotel to get ready for a night out in the big smoke! The beautiful Connaught is one of the most luxurious hotels in London and is located in the centre of Mayfair. Once you’ve checked into your room, I’d recommend heading to the Connaught Bar for a pre-dinner cocktail.
An Art Deco jewel and one of the most beautiful bars in the city, The Connaught is one of my favourites. Check out the signature Martini trolley for a cocktail made for you right at your seat or drink a glass of champagne from their custom made glasses.
8.pm Dinner time!!
For dinner head to one of my favourite restaurants and one of the hottest in town, Hakkasan Mayfair for incredible Michelin-starred Cantonese food in a cool and buzzy environment. Definitely don’t miss the dim sum, roasted cod and soft shell crab at this top notch restaurant.
10.pm Cocktails!!
Though you may be in a food coma by now, you can end your night with drinks at one of London’s most iconic restaurant / bars. Located just up the road from Hakkasan, sketch has been a London institution for years and you can explore the beautiful yet surreal space and don’t forget to check out London’s most famous toilets…
12.pm Good night!
By now I’m sure you’re ready for bed so hop in a black cab and head back to The Connaught for a really good night’s sleep before your flight the next day.
All the locations in this post are a easy walk or short taxi ride away from each other – the perfect way to make the most of a London layover.
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This post was written in collaboration with ebookers.
