Whether you’re based in the UK or are flying in from somewhere further afield, when you visit London for business there are some things you need to know.
Where to stay
With great tube connections, you can afford to stay pretty much anywhere in London no matter where your business meetings are, and there is a huge variety of London hotels you can choose from, suited to all budgets.
From chain hotels dotted all around London including; Travelodge, Ibis, and the slightly more luxurious chain, the Park Plaza, to boutique hotels including the quirky The Exhibitionist Hotel located opposite the Natural History Museum in South Kensington, the industrial and contemporary The Hoxton in Shoreditch, offering free printing and faxing services, and complimentary international calls, and the English classic St. James Court with its hidden Victorian gem of a courtyard, perfect for relaxing with a drink after your meetings.
No matter where you choose to stay, make sure you bag yourself a good deal, especially if the company you’re working for is paying, as they’ll appreciate your cost-saving savviness when it comes to submitting your expenses!
Where to lunch (or maybe wine and dine)
Again, your budget will probably be the deciding vote on where to go for lunch or even dinner meetings, but some of London’s favorites include:
- Sushi Samba – with two different locations in London, you can choose from either the entertaining views of the street performers in Covent Garden market or the mind-blowing 360 views of the whole city from Bishopsgate, which also boasts one of the highest outdoor dining terraces in Europe. A blend of Japanese-Brazilian-Peruvian sushi, a diverse menu is available all-day including vegan options.
- The Coal Shed – with lunchtime savory plates from only £10.95, this Tower Bridge restaurant is famous for sharing steaks and South Coast fish, making it a great choice if you are dining with clients who are more like close friends. Views of the River Thames and The Tower of London also top of the experience on offer to guests.
- Malibu Kitchen at The Ned – for those business lunches which need a bit of a health kick, this restaurant promotes clean eating, favoring vegetarians and vegans over meat and fish eaters, as well as accommodating raw food lovers. But don’t let their healthy focus put you off, as there is something available for everyone.
What to do if you find yourself with some spare time
If you find yourself with some spare time after you’ve run around attending all of your important business meetings, then why not spend the rest of your business stay in London doing what the tourists do best…
With so much choice available, there is an attraction suited to everyone. From museums including; The National History Museum, the Science Museum and the National Portrait Gallery, to west end shows including; The Lion King, The Phantom of the Opera, and Les Misérables. Or, make like the tourists and visit those key postcard places of interest including; Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the Tower of London.
