We planned a last-minute trip to London for the end of May 2026 once Arsenal clinched the Premier League title, so we could go to the Champions parade. It was my ninth time going to London - I always have a running list of things to do and places to go in London as it is my favorite city :) We are a couple in our early-40s that enjoys sightseeing, sports, eating, and drinks.
Lodging: This was my fourth time staying at the Hotel Indigo in Kensington. We were a two-minute walk to the Earls Court tube station (Piccadilly and District lines), the C1 bus line is mere steps away that goes to South Kensington and Knightsbridge, the 74 bus line is about a 6-minute walk (goes to Victoria Station), and there are lots of pubs and other food options nearby. The hotel is in a beautiful row house, and our room was a nice size. Staff, as always, was friendly; check-in was quick and they held our bags until our room was ready in the afternoon. The location is convenient for getting around London and for going to Heathrow.
Departure Day: Both J and I went to our respective offices in the morning and I went to a noon Pilates class on the way home. Once at home, I finished packing – I was very proud to only have a carry-on suitcase and tote bag for a week! After J was home and finished getting ready, we headed to Dulles in a Lyft. Checking J’s bag and getting through security was quick. The Polaris Lounge was so busy when we got there, but luckily we somehow snagged a table for two near the bar where I could enjoy some wine, snacks, and do work (boo). The flight was seamless – I watched Scream 7 and 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple while eating dinner and before drifting off for a couple hours of sleep.
Day 1: We landed in London a little before 7 am local time, went through passport control in a few minutes, and gathered J’s luggage. The Piccadilly line was not running to/from Heathrow Airport due to maintenance so we took the Elizabeth line to Paddington and transferred to the District line and got off at Earl’s Court. Our room wasn’t ready, so after dropping our bags, we headed next door to The Blackbird so we could plan what to do next. After a pot of breakfast tea and glass of cranberry juice, we headed to Westminster and The Red Lion Pub for some pints of London Pride. We then headed to the Palace of Westminster for our UK Parliament tour, which is approximately 90 minutes long. I did this tour in January 2025 on my solo trip, but J had not done it, so I thought he would like it. Ruby was a fantastic tourguide and she ran a bit longer than 90 minutes which was totally fine as she took the group through the main hall, the House of Lords, and the House of Commons. If you like learning how governments work in other countries, this is the tour for you! After the tour, we headed back to the hotel, got into the room, unpacked, showered, and got ready for the evening. This next part was NOT on the itinerary – while on a little walk around the neighborhood near the hotel, J got on one knee and proposed with the most gorgeous sapphire and diamond ring! I was too shocked to cry (that came later) but obviously said yes!!! We then headed to the Tube for the scheduled part of the evening – we took the Piccadilly line to Holborn and walked to the Rosewood to go to Scarfes Bar, which is rated as the 31st best cocktail bar in the world. They operate on a no-reservations policy, so we got there early (about 5:30 pm). Our bartender was incredibly friendly, the interior is cozy with wood and a fireplace but also whimsical because of caricatures, and our drinks (two rounds each) were delicious. I had their drink of the moment (their take on a margarita which was needed with the heat) and the Double Helix (GlenDronach 12, Dried Fig, Balsamic Wine, Toasted Marzipan), while John had the 4.50 From Paddington (Fords Gin, Chinotto Honey, Acqua di Cedro, tonic) and something else I can’t remember.