Every trip I go on, I learn things. This was not my first time in London so I did not feel obligated to explore things I had already done. This trip to England was no exception for learning so I thought I would share.
Location, location, location. We stayed in an AIrBNB flat in Chelsea. It was very close to the South Kensington tube, V and A Museum, British Natural History Museum and Hyde Park. The neighborhood had lots of restaurants and was totally awesome. Plus we saved some money.
Many British Museums are free. I guess I did not realize this...We went to the British Art Gallery, the British Natural History Museum and the British Museum. Just because they are free doesn't mean that the special exhibits are. Having said that, I went to the special photographic award exhibit in the Natural History Museum and found it mesmerizing. Probably one of my highlights!!
Go to British plays. We decided no BIG musical productions (ex. The Lion King). We went to see The Importance of Being Earnest and Kenneth Branaugh's production of Harlequin. Both were GREAT and I probably would not have picked them out if I hadn't been in London.
Don't be afraid to explore on your own. I was a tag along for my husband's business trip. I was initially nervous about experiencing London on my own but learned to love it. I had the freedom to spend as little or as long as I wanted and to be selfish with myself. I looked at London totally different than I would have with a partner to experience it with.
Embrace the unexpected and just go for it. We were jet lagged the first day but after reading your advice and RS book we decided to buck up and impulsively attended the candlelight recital at St. Martin's in the Fields on a Friday night. Probably one of my favorite things we did.
Finally, slow down and smell the roses. We did just one big thing a day and found it very fulfilling. Riding the Thames to Greenwich and exploring the town and observatory, going to Hampton Court Palace and the museums.