First London Visit ( My Birthday)

When you say "somewhere to spend my birthday", do you mean a hotel or a place to visit or see?

A suggestion for a place to visit or see.

I think it depends on what you like, or would enjoy doing on your birthday; me, I would go spend the day with the ravens at the Tower.

Wow, nice chance to attend a concert at Albert Hall, have a wonderful lunch or dinner at Wallace Collection museum atrium restaurant. And get around by taxi that day.
Or If the day is sunny take a Thames cruise.

I really enjoy live music. Some UK favs are Queen and Eric Clapton. A nice place with good cover bands maybe?

1> Get tickets for a play or musical- splurge and buy really good seats! Then plan a 'pamper me' day- the works and a supper of your favorite things before or after the theatre.

2> Go to Kew Gardens and enjoy them completely. Then buy something special in their shop- maybe even seeds to take home . Then attend a concert- check for any that might interest you- choir or organ recitals at St. Martins in the Fields or other churches, current or older bands, classical, etc. LOTS of different venues- check out "What's On".

3> Go to Windsor. It is my favorite castle and favorite small town/village to visit. Do a cruise down the Thames and see the back of the castle and some of the countryside, tour the castle, wander around the grounds (maybe sight Meghan and Harry and the new baby ; ) )

'Seeds to take home' like any agricultural product have decided non-zero odds of being confiscated by immigration & customs on return to the USA. At the very least, you have to specifically declare them or risk large fines if you're caught bringing them in without properly declaring them.

For your travel dates check the websites for Wilton’s Music Hall, Alexander Palace, Bush Hall and Royal Albert Hall.

I think Clapton is at Royal Albert Hall in May .... maybe while you're there? Check their www site.

https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/