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It’s time to capital-ize: why now is a great time to visit London

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The ongoing COVID-19 crisis may not initially strike you as a great time to visit the capital, but it’s well worth thinking again. As long as you follow common-sense safety measures and comply with the latest UK government guidelines as you make your way around the city, there’s no reason why you can’t bask in London’s delights during this difficult time.

In fact, recent reports indicate that during the first coronavirus lockdown, London’s streets were quieter than in 1928. That could help to make now the perfect time to stroll around the city’s attractions in a socially distant way, maximising your own safety while also enjoying relative tranquillity – by London standards.

So with that in mind, here are just a few of the things that you might opt to do during your London stay in the autumn or winter of 2020.

Grab some food and drink

We’ve all been cooped up for quite some time, so why not treat yourself to a bite to eat or a drink in one of London’s many pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants? Table service has become the norm, so now’s a fine time to embrace the ‘new normal’ and support the city by drinking at a spacious rooftop bar or dining al fresco.

The UK government’s Eat Out to Help Out Scheme may have ended in August, but plenty of establishments are still offering alluring deals well into the winter months.

Visit some attractions

Are you itching to get what may be a much-needed post-lockdown culture fix? There are few better things you could do, then, than planning a day out at a museum or gallery in London. These venues have only been allowed to open because they’ve made sure they’re COVID-safe, so you won’t need to worry about being put at unnecessary risk.

Special safety measures are in place, including one-way systems and pre-booked tickets. It all means you’ll be able to enjoy your visit with that extra peace of mind. And if the weather’s nice, you could even check out a distinguished garden or outdoor heritage site.

Hit the shops

With shops in the British capital having now largely reopened their doors, the current moment’s an excellent time to head over to central London’s amazing retail destinations, including Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, and Carnaby Street.

Even if big boutiques and department stores aren’t your bag, there are smaller high streets where you can help to support struggling local businesses. And if you’re still in the mood to ‘keep it local’, you may like to know that London markets have even started to reopen.

No matter where you are, you can shop with confidence knowing safety measures are being implemented: expect socially distanced queuing, hand sanitiser stations, and limits on in-store capacity.

Explore the great outdoors

If the autumn sun is shining, you may also be tempted to visit a park or garden and enjoy a socially-distanced picnic. If you have kids with you, consider a day out spotting furry friends at a city farm, or pre-booking a ticket to London Zoo. There are so many natural charms to enjoy in London right now, whether on your own or with your household or support bubble.

Book an overnight stay

If you’re exploring London, it’s a great idea to book an overnight stay in a hotel to maximise your experience. Dorsett Hotel, City, for instance, is one of the many London hotels that have implemented new hygiene standards and safety measures to help to protect guests’ health and wellbeing during the coronavirus crisis. That’s just one more reason for you to rest easy!

Claire James