Doing London Like a Local
London is a bustling tapestry of historic grandeur, modern innovation, and—if you believe the tabloids—a never-ending parade of tourists. But what if you want to go beyond the standard selfies at Big Ben, break free of the endless queue for the London Eye, and actually experience the city like someone who calls this place home? Doing London “like a local” can be easier said than done, but it is possible. Here’s how:
Skip the Tourist Traps (At Least Some of Them)
There’s no shame in wanting to see the big hitters. Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London have graced a million postcards for a reason. But if you want to do London like a local, try limiting how much time you spend in the city’s most congested areas. Peek at the Tower Bridge, snap your obligatory photo, and then slip away to a lesser-known neighbourhood. Perhaps you’d fancy strolling through Wapping, a riverside area with a maritime history that dates back centuries. Its cobbled streets and refurbished warehouses tell stories of dockworkers and merchants, and you won’t be jostling through a crowd of selfie sticks to enjoy it. Or pay a visit to Hampstead for a dose of village charm—amazing that you can still find places in London that feel like you’ve stepped into a different era altogether.
Locals often roll their eyes at busloads of tourists flocking to the same handful of monuments, so if you’re determined to blend in, do what the locals do: enjoy the iconic landmarks quickly, then vanish into the side streets for coffee or a cheeky pint somewhere relatively unknown. You’ll see more of the city’s real personality, not just the polished tourist façade.
Master the Art of the Tube (and Buses, Too)
The Tube is London’s lifeblood, whisking people from one corner of the city to another in a maze of tunnels that baffle newcomers almost as much as they thrill them. Locals sometimes complain about delays and overcrowded carriages, but they’ll still defend the Tube with all the passion of a sports fan cheering for their home team. If you want to look like you know what you’re doing, invest in an Oyster card or ensure you’ve got contactless payment set up. Fishing for paper tickets is a dead giveaway that you’re new around here.
But don’t discount London’s iconic red double-decker buses. They’re not just slow-moving tourist vehicles; they can be a scenic and cost-effective way to see the city from ground level. Routes like the 24 or 11 pass a surprising number of famous sights. Sit on the top deck—front row if you can—and watch the city unfold before you. Just remember to tap in when you board; there’s no tapping out on buses. Miss that detail, and you’ll confuse the driver (and everyone behind you) to no end.
Luggage Storage for the Win
If you’re planning a day of exploration and your hotel check-in time is hours away, or perhaps you’re between accommodations, lugging your suitcase around is not only a hassle but also a fast track to sweaty frustration. This is where luggage storage, such as Radical Storage London, becomes your best ally. There are plenty of businesses (some even near major stations like King’s Cross or Paddington) that offer secure storage for your bags. It’s a small investment that pays off in droves when you can stroll without a mini-fridge worth of personal belongings in tow.
Locals aren’t carting around heavy luggage on the Tube; they’re weaving nimbly through stations or breezing along the footpaths. Mimic that carefree vibe by ditching your luggage early in the day. You’ll look more like a resident heading to work (albeit with a camera in your back pocket) and less like a backpacker who’s lost, exhausted, and craving a bench.
Eat and Drink with a Touch of Adventure
Anyone who still believes the stereotype that British food is boring has clearly not delved into the city’s vibrant dining scene. From classic pub grub to the high-end flavours of Michelin-starred restaurants, London spoils you for choice. A local favourite is the Sunday roast—head to a pub on a Sunday afternoon, and you’ll find a hearty meal of roasted meat, potatoes, vegetables, and a Yorkshire pudding big enough to double as a hat. Pubs like The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead or The Harwood Arms in Fulham serve roasts that can make even the fussiest eater swoon.
For something more exotic, check out the street food markets. Borough Market is arguably the most famous, but it’s always teeming with visitors. Venture out to Maltby Street Market near Bermondsey or Broadway Market in Hackney for artisanal treats, global flavours, and a side of people-watching you won’t soon forget. And if you fancy a night out that feels a bit more local, skip the West End cocktail bars and try a neighbourhood pub—somewhere like The Southampton Arms in Kentish Town, where you’ll find real ales, minimal fuss, and conversations sparked among strangers.
Get Lost in the Parks and Commons
One of London’s best-kept secrets (though you could argue it’s not so secret) is just how green the city can be. Hyde Park and Regent’s Park might draw the crowds, but locals often retreat to slightly less touristy spots like Battersea Park or Victoria Park. If you’re in the mood for a wander that feels a million miles from the city bustle, take a stroll through Richmond Park, famous for its herds of deer and vast open spaces. Keen walkers might even venture up to Epping Forest, an ancient woodland spanning thousands of acres just on the city’s outskirts. It’s a world away from the frantic pace of central London, and yet you can get there on the Tube. That’s the real beauty of living here: one minute you’re in a jam-packed station, the next you’re exploring a centuries-old forest path.
Explore Beyond Zone 1
Tourists often assume that if you can’t walk to Big Ben from your hotel, you’re too far out. But some of London’s most colourful pockets hide just beyond Zone 1. Shoreditch has gone from edgy to trendy, with street art that changes weekly and pop-up eateries that keep locals on their toes. Brixton’s multicultural vibe has turned it into a foodie’s paradise, and Camden’s alternative scene still draws people seeking all things quirky. Hop on the Tube for a few extra stops, and you’ll find neighbourhoods teeming with local flair—a stark contrast to the well-trodden pavements of Westminster.
Take Croydon, for instance. Once the butt of many jokes, it’s emerged as a hub for street art, independent coffee shops, and even some emerging tech industries. You won’t find swarms of camera-wielding tourists here, but you will find a lively local community that’s happy to introduce you to a different slice of London life.
Love London like a local!
Pic: Pexels - CCO Licence