London Business Trip Basics

November 19, 2011 10:38 AM

I will be traveling on business to London Sunday to Friday, staying at the Four Seasons on Park and will be working most of my time there. Any down time will be after 5 pm, any suggestions on something to do/eat/see? I visited London when I was young and did many of the touristy things. I am most interested in just enjoying some of the city without making it too complicated. Also, curious about any suggestions of what things I should make sure to pick up in London for myself (sounds like there are so not to miss beauty products) and for co-workers/significant other. I was thinking of the Fortnum & Mason marmalade and possibly Scotch? This is my first time doing a big trip on business, any suggestion in that capacity would also be welcome!
posted by Carialle to travel & transportation around London, England (5 answers total)

It'll be dark around 4pm, but you have wandering options: westward to Edgware Road, eastward through Mayfair to Soho. Huge cultural differences in the space of a few minutes' walk.

This time of year in London seems made for cosy places, whether it's the sherry-laden cellars of Gordon's, the Victorian pubs of Fitzrovia, or the dingy basement bars of Hanway Street. Perhaps the Westminster by Gaslight walk?
posted by holgate at 10:56 AM on November 19, 2011

The Winter Wonderland has just opened in Hyde Park, right across the road from your hotel. Cheesy, but fun, and pretty after dark. Entry into the Winter Wonderland is free, but some of the things (skating, fairground rides) are ticketed. There's also a craft market.

Covent Garden's also really great at Christmas, there are some lovely little stores, craft markets and a huge Christmas tree.

If you'd like someone to go with, I'll be free on Thursday, after 5pm. MeMail me if you're interested.
posted by essexjan at 11:24 AM on November 19, 2011

I would definitely second the recommendation for a London walk. They are fun. I've been along to a few of these with locals and visitors, always successfully.

The Jack the Ripper tour finishes close to Brick Lane, so you can have some good food afterwards.
posted by plep at 11:25 AM on November 19, 2011

Thirding London walks. There is a Jack the Ripper one which might interest you too. I also recommend wandering around places like Marylebone/Seven Dials/Covent Garden/Soho which have a mix of shops and places to eat. Shopping-wise you're in walking distance to Harrods for really touristy stuff, but I'd suggest a supermarket for things like Marmite and Jaffa Cakes (cheaper than Fortnum and Mason).
posted by curious zoe at 12:15 PM on November 19, 2011

If you make connection with essexjan be sure to find that wonderful luminescent moisturizer that's available in the local drug store. Great stuff!
posted by mightshould at 4:23 PM on November 19, 2011