My husband and I will be in England early in September 2017. We may take the standard tour in Buckingham Palace. We prefer some flexibility, but wonder whether advance tickets are recommended? Also, we are in the following places: Bath, Oxford, York, and London (especially South Kensington, Covent Garden, and Soho areas). Any recommendations for reasonably priced good food, probably some sort of ethnic (Indian, Thai, Chinese, Greek, Italian, etc.) are appreciated.
Posted by
Folsom
2738 posts
Cafe Murano in Covent Garden (there are two, the other near The Ritz Hotel). We went for pre-theater dinner, very nice Italian. We enjoyed the Borough Market, ethnic food galore. Padella (on the outside edge of the market) has great pasta worth waiting in line,and you will. Small portions very reasonable. The East End has a Bangladeshi neighborhood with many restaurants all vying for your business.
Posted by
Olympia, WA, USA
6713 posts
I'd definitely recommend advance tickets for Buckingham Palace, without them you probably won't get in. You can wait till a few weeks, maybe a month, ahead to book them and get some choice about days and times. I'd suggest as early in the day as you can, and the garden tour is a worthwhile add-on. Whether you want to add the art gallery depends on what the exhibit is.
Posted by
Atlanta, Ga, USA
2023 posts
We have toured Buckingham Palace twice in September and bought tics at the kiosk set up outside. There was no problem getting them--first time they told us to return in 45 minutes for entry. I see no point in pre reserving. There is a cafe set up where you can have tea/lunch after your tour. Both visits there was rain so we were unable to tour gardens. Don't miss the large gift shop they have set up--lots of items you won't find elsewhere. We stay in S Kensington when we visit London and I can recommend Khan of Kensington for really good Indian food--it is near the SK tube station. If you are anywhere near Piccadilly Jamie Oliver is good with some interesting dishes. Also, if you have not seen the Royal Mews it is worthwhile to see the famous coaches. We did not find the Queen's Gallery to be especially interesting. I would add Hampton Court Palace to your list.