British cook and presenter of Luxury Escapes: The World's Best Holidays, Rachel Khoo, shares her top tips for the UK capital.
While Sweden-based Rachel Khoo is a regular fixture on Australian TV screens (thanks to Zumbo's Just Desserts, The Great Australian Bake Off and now, Luxury Escapes: The World's Best Holidays), the British capital is her birthplace: somewhere that always draws her back with its high-octane blend of history, multicultural cuisine, art, culture and globally-renowned landmarks.
Discover more about London on the new season of Luxury Escapes: The World's Best Holidays, airing Tuesdays 8.30pm AEST on Foxtel Lifestyle and on demand on Binge and Network 10. *Check your local TV listings for details.
LE: What's one quintessentially British experience every visitor to London should have?
RK: Afternoon tea. I can't think of anything more delightful (and quintessentially British) than taking the time to sit down and enjoy a cup of tea in some fine china with delicious sandwiches and of course, my favourite, scones with clotted cream (always first) and strawberry jam. Especially when you've had a busy day sightseeing. It's nice to take a moment to relax.
LE: What is one tourist attraction that's 100% worth queuing for?
RK: Despite me being petrified of heights, climbing the roof of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was really thrilling. You get to see London from a whole new perspective.
LE: Can you name one London experience off the beaten track you shouldn't miss?
RK: Brixton Market. The colourful vibe, mixing with the locals and enjoying cuisines from around the world that have become part of the Brixton community.
LE: What was your standout dining experience on this trip?
RK: I loved Fish, Wings and Tings. Brian, the owner, is not only an excellent chef, but also a beloved member of the community. You really get a sense you're hanging out with the locals as well as eating delicious Caribbean cuisine.
LE: How do you think London challenges the stereotype of British food? And how will this surprise a first-time visitor to London?
RK: Sure you can find tasteless food in any major city (I've eaten some bad food in Paris and other places in France before). London's reputation of dull food is one that is outdated. There's a vibrant food scene, which caters for both cheap-and-cheerful to the Michelin-starred. The variety ranges from the expected fish and chips to the lesser-known cuisines.
LE: What makes The Londoner hotel a great base in the city?
RK: The location and the view from the rooftop bar (the view from my room was also amazing). You can easily spot some of London's most famous landmarks like Big Ben, St Paul's Cathedral, The London Eye… Being able to simply walk out of the foyer of the hotel into buzz of London with Chinatown, Soho, Theatreland and the National Portrait Gallery is also thrilling.
Discover more about London on the new season of Luxury Escapes: The World's Best Holidays, airing Tuesdays 8.30pm AEST on Foxtel Lifestyle and on demand on Binge and Network 10. *Check your local TV listings for details.
Ready to escape? Discover our London collection here.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out the World's Best Afternoon Teas.
