Finally London-May 2013

That sounds very do-able. The first day I note you haven't programmed time to have a sit-down if you need one. The Bag O'Nails is a nice (chain, but nice) pub a block or so from Buckingham Palace, and would be a good spot to sit down, have a pint or a soft drink and maybe a bite to eat before going on to the War Rooms or the Abbey. And smart to get to the Tower in the morning when it opens! I don't think Thursday is as insane as Saturday, but that place can get PACKED. For me, a self-guided ramble in the British Museum would be preferable to a guided tour. A tour would mean that if you are really shot down by something amazing, you can't linger. Of course, I feel that way about tours in general, so that may just be me. And that being said, a tour at the Tower is a great idea, because you learn so much, and the guides tend to be super informative and lend a lot of color. Have a great time!

A couple of suggestions: (1) Time your visit to either Westminster Abbey or St. Paul's so that you can take in Evensong, always one of the highlights of our trips...although on Wednesdays it's spoken rather than sung; (2) If you have time, take in a show on the West End...we try to find something we can't see in the States; (3) Cabinet War Rooms has a cafe where you can take tea...may want to time your visit so you can eat there (save time); (4) National Gallery might be another site to take in - you could make it as long or short as you like; (5) I believe it's Friday night that the Musueum has extended hours (and I agree that a guided tour is not necessary): (6) Try to build in time to stroll along the Thames - and perhaps have a pint or dinner. Happy travels!

Since you are staying in Belgravia, you might be able to fit in a visit to the Victoria and Albert Museum if it interests you. Several of the museums are open one or two evenings a week. Also, the National Portrait Gallery has a lovely restaurant on the top floor with excellent views. Reserve ahead if that interests you.

The Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower (in the evening) is impressive. You must request tickets ahead of time which can be mailed to you or to your London lodging. Check the BTA site for current info.

~My hotel location is Ebury Street. ~My research says Heathrow Express from airport and the only one that comes up says, National Express. I prefer not to use the Tube w/ my one rolling carryon luggage & Large Shoulder Tote. What suggestion can you make? ~I do enjoy walking but not sure how much time I'll have to just wander & explore. Being the first time I want to try to see a few things on my list. ~ The hotel said they can call for me to pre book early ride to airport. So there is a car service versus the taxi for this? As Berlin will be my second visit my goal is to visit the Pergamon & see the Antiquities highlights. I'm not looking to see an art gallerry in Berlin. The RS tour will be taking us to some during other parts of the trip itinerary. If I do though I'll look into the National Gallery as others have suggested. Thank you in advance for the suggestions & tips from everyone. I guess I'm trying to leave some time for some serendipity!

Diane, sounds like a great visit! My wife and I were there June 2012. On Thursday morning after doing the Tower of London, consider a quick stop (30 minutes or less) at a beautiful church next door, All Hallows by the Tower. It has great history and a beautiful exhibit in the crypt-like basement below the church, including part of the Roman era building floor that existed on the site before the church was built. You'll pass by it right outside the Tower of London as you walk to St. Paul's. Well worth a short visit if you're inclined. Steve

The Heathrow Express is different from National Express. The latter is the national long-distance bus company - think Greyhound. The Heathrow Express is a high-speed premium fare rail service to Paddington station in central London - if you want to avoid the tube taking this and then a cab from the station will be usually be your fastest route. Alternatively there is a cheaper and slightly slower rail service on the same route called Heathrow Connect. On the other hand, Victoria Coach station is closer to Belgravia than Paddington, but you'll be travelling into town in the rush hour and traffic will be heavy. Note that neither the Heathrow Express or Connect accept Oyster payments or Travelcards.

Thanks for this information. For arrival day I'll use the Heathrow Express & then a Taxi. The extra cost for these services provides a comfortable and easier transfer after an overseas flight. After I get settled into my hotel, I'll purchase an Oystercard. I was thinking 10-15 pounds and understand 5 of that is a deposit.