Category: England

Exploring the Tower of London: History, Mysteries, and Must-Sees

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

Visiting the Tower of London feels like stepping straight into the pages of a history book. Standing tall beside the River Thames, this fortress has been many things over the centuries. A royal palace, prison, treasury, armory, and even a menagerie for exotic animals. Historically, menageries were typically aristocratic or royal collections. Today, it remains one of the most iconic historic sites in England—and a must-see when exploring London.

A Fortress of History

Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the Tower has been at the heart of English history for nearly 1,000 years. Monarchs added to it, prisoners feared it, and legends continue to haunt it. Some of the most famous stories tied to the Tower include the imprisonment of Anne Boleyn, the Princes in the Tower, and tales of ghosts that still wander its halls. There are many stories to be told but do you dare enter the premises.

The Crown Jewels 👑

Perhaps the biggest highlight is the dazzling Crown Jewels. Safely guarded inside the Jewel House, these treasures are still used in royal ceremonies today. The sight of the Imperial State Crown and the Sovereign’s Sceptre up close is unforgettable.

Beefeaters & Ravens

No visit is complete without meeting the Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters. They’ve guarded the Tower for centuries and share fascinating (and often chilling) stories on their tours. And don’t forget the ravens—legend has it that if they ever leave, the kingdom will fall! We’ve seen so many documentaries about the Tower of London but it is something else to see it up close and personal.

Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

  • Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds, especially at the Crown Jewels.
  • Join a Beefeater tour—it’s both informative and entertaining.
  • Set aside at least 3 hours to explore everything, from the White Tower to the medieval walls.
  • Buy tickets in advance online to save time (and sometimes money).

Why We Loved It

For us, walking through the Tower was like walking through time. The mix of grandeur and grit, the sparkle of royal treasures alongside the shadows of prison stories—it’s the kind of place that makes history feel alive.

Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of royal stories, or just curious about one of London’s most famous landmarks, the Tower of London is well worth a visit.

✨ Have you ever been inside the Tower of London, or is it on your travel wishlist?

🍺Whitby Brewery – A Pint with a View

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

If you’re visiting the Yorkshire coast, there’s one stop we’ll always make time for – Whitby Brewery. Nestled right beside the hauntingly beautiful Whitby Abbey, this independent brewery is one of our favourites in all of England.

A Brewery in the Shadow of the Abbey

Few pubs or breweries can boast a backdrop quite like this one. From the outside terrace you can sip your pint while gazing up at the gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. It’s a view that makes every sip feel a little more special. And this is truly a special place.

What to Try

Whitby Brewery offers a rotating selection of their own craft beers, from crisp golden ales to rich stouts. Each brew is made on-site, and there’s something for everyone—whether you’re after a refreshing pint after a coastal walk or something darker to warm up with on a blustery Yorkshire day.

Why We Love It

We’ve visited Whitby several times, and this brewery has become a must-stop for us. There’s just something magical about enjoying a locally brewed beer in such a dramatic setting. It’s welcoming, relaxed, and feels like the heart of Whitby’s modern food and drink scene. Whitby has always been special to us, so much so that we named our first dog after it. Love having a wander through the town, then a hike up the stairs to the Abbey and Brewery. The view from the top is worth tackling the stairs. Take your time and enjoy the view.

Plan Your Visit

📍 Location: Whitby Brewery, next to Whitby Abbey

⏰ Opening times vary seasonally—check their website before you go.

🍺 Best for: A well-earned pint after exploring Whitby Abbey and the seaside town below. Plenty of walking and sightseeing to be had. The hike up the 199 stairs to the Abbey and Brewery is enough to make you thirsty. If you’re even more adventurous spend the day hiking the Cleveland Way to Robin Hood’s Bay, then stop in for a pint on the way back. The view from the cliffs is amazing.

Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a unique place to relax, Whitby Brewery is a stop we can’t recommend enough. It’s beer with a view at its very best!

A Wander Through Borough Market: London’s Foodie Haven

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

There’s something magical about Borough Market. Tucked under the shadow of London Bridge, this centuries-old marketplace feels like stepping into a feast for the senses. The moment you arrive, the air fills with the scent of fresh bread, sizzling street food, and ground coffee — a heady mix that invites you to slow down, wander, and taste a little of everything. It’s literally impossible not to!

A Market with History

Borough Market isn’t just another food stop. It’s one of the oldest and most iconic markets in London, with roots stretching back over 1,000 years. Generations of Londoners have gathered here to trade, share, and eat. And today, it continues as a lively meeting place where tradition and modern flavours meet.

Foodie Paradise

What makes Borough Market so special? It’s the sheer variety. Stalls overflow with British cheeses, cured meats, and artisan loaves that smell like home the moment you walk past. You’ll find mounds of spices, jars of chutneys, stacks of colourful fruit, and international street food sizzling away — everything from Spanish paella to fresh-baked pastries.

And it’s not just food. Flowers brighten up the corners, books and crafts are tucked between stalls, and everywhere you turn, there’s something to catch your eye. Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a slow afternoon wander, it’s impossible to leave empty-handed (or on an empty stomach).

When to Visit

Mornings are perfect if you’d like a quieter atmosphere, with time to browse before the crowds. We prefer mornings, which then turn into lunch. It’s hard to resist the temptation.

Weekends bring the full buzz and energy of the market, but be prepared to navigate the lively bustle of visitors. We prefer it a little less busy but if you only have the weekend, go for it. You won’t be disappointed.

If you can, stop by mid-week for a nice balance — vibrant but not overwhelming. Allows you time to browse but you can still enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Borough Market.

Our Borough Market Experience

We spent our time strolling slowly, weaving between the stalls, sampling bites, and chatting with the friendly vendors. There’s a certain joy in finding your own little corner to pause with a bite to eat, and just watch the market unfold around you. We love to people watch and this is definitely the place.

Our favourites? Freshly baked pastries that practically begged to be taken home, and a plate of sizzling street food that we couldn’t resist. There is so much to choose from but we are certain you will find something to your liking. It wasn’t just the flavours but the whole experience — the atmosphere, the stories shared, and the feeling of being part of something truly local. We also have to recommend, you check out the chocolate covered strawberries, you’ll know when you see them, and the “Oh so English” – Humble Crumble. Now we’re drooling.

Tips for Visiting Borough Market

Come hungry — leave Happy. The variety is too good to miss.

Many stalls accept cards, but a little cash is handy.

Take your time to wander — there’s always something new tucked away.

Pair your visit with a walk along the Thames or a quiet moment inside Southwark Cathedral, just next door.

Final Thoughts

Borough Market is more than a place to eat; it’s a place to experience. Whether you’re a foodie, a traveller seeking a taste of London’s history, or simply someone who loves exploring vibrant corners of a city, this market won’t disappoint. For us, it was a reminder that travel isn’t just about grand landmarks — sometimes it’s about pausing in a bustling market, sharing a meal, and feeling like part of the rhythm of the city.

Visiting Tower Bridge: A Must-See Landmark in London

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

No trip to London feels complete without standing beneath the towering Gothic arches of Tower Bridge. Often mistaken for “London Bridge,” this iconic structure has become one of the city’s most photographed spots. In this post, we’ll share a bit of history, the best ways to experience it, and our own impressions from our visit.

A Bit of History

  • Built in 1894, Tower Bridge was designed to ease traffic across the Thames while still allowing tall ships to pass.
  • Its Victorian Gothic style makes it instantly recognizable.
  • It is one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
  • Over 40,000 motorists, pedestrians and cyclists using it every day.
  • 500,000 tourists visit it each year.

Best Ways to Experience Tower Bridge

Walk across: Free and gives great views of the Thames, Tower of London, and City of London skyline.

When visiting London, our preferred way of getting to Tower Bridge is via the South Bank. Crossing over via the Millenium Bridge, make your way along the South Bank to Tower Bridge. You can’t miss it in the distance. There is plenty of sightseeing to do along the way, with no shortage of photo stops. Tate Modern, Borough Market, the Golden Hinde and HMS Belfast, just to name a few. Of course, we can’t forget the required pub stop for lunch, of which there are many choices. It’s the “carrot on the stick” to keep my husband moving.

Tower Bridge Exhibition: Inside, after a climb to the top, you can explore the glass-floored walkways and learn how the bridge was built. It was rather an eery feeling looking down at the cars below our feet. The ticket centre and entrance are located midspan along the bridge. You can climb the stairs to the top of the bridge or there is an elevator for those who need a lift. It is quite a climb to the top.

From the water: A Thames river cruise or boat ride gives you a dramatic view from below.

At night: When the bridge is lit up, it feels magical.

Photography Tips

  • Early morning or golden hour for fewer crowds and softer light.
  • Capture it with the Tower of London in the background for a classic London shot.
  • Don’t miss the reflections on the Thames if the water is still.

Our Impressions

The Tower Bridge is an iconic London sight. A beauty and a definite reminder that you are in London now! Something familiar, even if you haven’t been here before.

Truthfully, we are not big city people. We spent most of our lives living in Vancouver and couldn’t wait to move away. To find a quieter existence away from it all. BUT London is different. It’s hard to explain. We forget about the chaos of people and traffic, and are able to lose ourselves in the history around us. There is so much to see. London feels familiar to us. It brings the history to life.

Conclusion:

Tower Bridge isn’t just a way to cross the Thames – it’s a symbol of London’s history and resilience. Whether you stroll across, admire it from the banks of the river, or explore inside, it’s an experience that belongs on every London itinerary.

Getting from Gatwick Airport to London King’s Cross – Fast & Easy

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

If you’re landing at Gatwick Airport and heading straight into central London, one of the quickest and most comfortable options is the Gatwick Express. Here’s how to make the journey smooth from start to finish.

Step 1 – Board the Gatwick Express 🚄

  • Travel time: Around 30 minutes from Gatwick Airport to London Victoria.
  • Why choose it? It’s direct, non-stop, and designed for airport passengers with plenty of luggage space.
  • Tickets: You can buy at the station, but booking online often saves you 10% or more (visit gatwickexpress.com).

Step 2 – Take the Underground to King’s Cross🚇 

  • At London Victoria, follow the signs to the Victoria Line (Underground).
  • Trains run frequently and take about 15 minutes to King’s Cross St Pancras.
  • It’s a straightforward, single-line journey – no changes needed.

Step 3 – Arrive at King’s Cross ✨

  • You’ll step out into one of London’s busiest and most beautiful stations.
  • From here, you can connect to the rest of the UK by train, hop on Eurostar at St Pancras, or start exploring central London right away.

Travel Tips

  • Book ahead: Online tickets for the Gatwick Express can be cheaper than buying on the day.
  • Contactless or Oyster: For the Underground portion, use your contactless card or Oyster card to avoid queueing.
  • Allow extra time: If you’re catching another train at King’s Cross, build in a buffer for delays.

📍 Quick Facts:

  • Total journey time: ~45–50 minutes
  • Best for: Speed, comfort, and minimal hassle
  • Website: gatwickexpress.com