London Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in London, Ontario, Canada.


Introduction to London

Located in Western Ontario, London is situated in the heart of Southwestern Ontario, Canada. Known for its vibrant culture, diverse architecture, and natural beauty, London offers an array of experiences for travelers of all types.

List of Places to Visit in London

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

London has a rich history, and visitors can learn about it by visiting one of the city’s many museums and historical sites. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

  • Museum London showcases the history and culture of the city with exhibitions and programs. Visitors can see local art, historical artifacts, and learn about the city’s growth.
  • Eldon House is the oldest surviving residence in London, built in 1834, and located in downtown London. This historic house museum offers tours, exhibits, and a lovely garden.
  • Banting House National Historic Site was the home of Sir Frederick Banting, the co-discoverer of insulin. It is now a museum dedicated to the discovery of insulin, featuring exhibits and guided tours.

Natural Attractions of London: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

London is also home to many natural attractions, including parks, gardens, and waterways. Here are some popular outdoor destinations:

  • Thames Valley Parkway is a great destination for hikers and bikers. This 40-kilometer trail system winds its way through parks, wildlife habitats, and other urban green spaces. Rent a bike or hike this trail to see the city’s natural beauty.
  • Springbank Park is one of London’s largest parks, with more than 300 acres of pathways, gardens, and rivers. Popular activities at this park include bird-watching, picnicking, fishing, and hiking.
  • Fanshawe Conservation Area is a beautiful nature park located just outside London. The park features a variety of wildlife and water activities like paddling, kayaking, and boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of London

Numerous bike and hiking trails make London an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some great options for biking and hiking in London:

  • Thames Valley Parkway is the ultimate biking and hiking route for exploring London’s beauty. The trail system winds its way through the city, connecting the most popular parks and natural areas.
  • Komoka Provincial Park offers several trails, including the 12 kilometer-long Kains Woods Trail, which offers a combination of easy and moderate terrain with excellent views of the Thames River.
  • Fanshawe Conservation Area has 20 kilometers of hiking trails winding through towering trees along the lake and Fanshawe Reservoir. It’s also an excellent location for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Best Things to Do in London: Activities and Tours

London provides plenty of activities and tours for those who are looking to explore the city’s culture and attractions. Here are some must-try activities to experience in London:

  • Visit Covent Garden Market if you’re looking for an excellent food market and an immersive local shopping experience. This Farmers Market has vendors selling meats and cheeses, fresh produce, and local crafts.
  • Take a Brewery Tour and learn about the beer-making process, sample craft beers, and connect with other beer enthusiasts. Labatt’s Brewing Company and Railway City Brewery offer excellent options for beer lovers.
  • London Ice Cream Trail is a self-guided tour across various ice cream shops in London, including the famous Black Walnut Bakery and Palasad Social Bowl. Dairy Capital Cheese Shoppe and Chocomotive Chocolates are other excellent stops for sweet treats.

Week-Long Itinerary for London

If you have a week to spend in London, here is an itinerary that will help you explore the best attractions of the city.

Day Activities
Day 1 Covent Garden Farmers Market, Museum London, and go for a Thames River walk.
Day 2 Eldon House, Banting House National Historic Site, and then grab lunch at a local craft brewery.
Day 3 Take a hike on the Fanshawe Conservation Area trail, then head to the Labatt’s Brewery Tour and enjoy some craft beers.
Day 4 Take a day trip to nearby Bayfield, a charming harbor village on the beautiful Lake Huron.
Day 5 Visit the Fanshawe Pioneer Village and explore the history of the area’s settlers.
Day 6 Check out the London Ice Cream Trail, and grab dinner at the locally sourced Root Cellar Cafe.
Day 7 Take a trip to the Thames River for a paddling or kayaking tour and end the day with a film at a historic drive-in theatre.

Food and Drink Scene of London

London offers an abundance of excellent dining options for foodies and travelers. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks in the area:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Peameal Bacon Sandwich: An Ontario classic, this sandwich is made with Canadian bacon, eggs, cheese, and a Kaiser roll. Try variations at Billy’s Deli & Piccola Cucina and The Early Bird.
  • Volcano Tacos: Enjoy these famous tacos stuffed with crispy fried chicken, pickled veggies, and spicy mayo at Tasting Room London.
  • London Hot Dog: A grilled hot dog with chili, onions, mustard, and cheese, this dish is a local favorite. Get it at Palasad’s Kingpin Grill or Tony’s Famous Hot Dogs.

Local Beverages

  • Labatt Blue: Labatt is a local brewer, and Labatt Blue, a refreshing Canadian beer, is a must-try in London.
  • Two-Gun Rum: A local rum, distilled in London, this spirit combines vanilla, caramel, and tobacco-flavored notes. Try them at The London Distillery Co.
  • Cider: London is home to several artisanal cider manufacturers, including Twin Pines Orchards. Try different flavors like peach and apple and sweet honey cider with local cheese.

Where to Stay in London: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

London has a wide range of accommodation options for travelers, including affordable hostels, cozy bed and breakfasts, and luxurious hotels. Here are some popular places to stay in London:

  • Hotel Metro: This eco-friendly boutique hotel offers stylish rooms with plush beds, organic bedding, and high-end amenities.
  • Ivey Spencer Leadership Centre: Escape to the townhouse for this lodging, situated on a park with its own restaurant and conference center.
  • London Executive Suites: Perfect for extended stays, these serviced apartments equipped with full kitchens, laundry, and spacious living areas.

What to Buy in London: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in London, make sure you shop at local boutiques and craft stores to buy souvenirs and local produce. Here are some excellent stores that sell unique products and gifts:

  • Connoisseur Chocolate Boutique: This boutique combines artisanal chocolates with wines and teas sourced from local farms.
  • Fischer’s Shoes & Orthotics: Fischer’s has been a London institution for more than 70 years, offering comfortable, well-crafted shoes that cater to nearly every foot size and shape.
  • Tea Haus: London’s premier tea emporium boasts 200 different teas and house-made baked goods to enjoy on-site or take home.

Local Culture and Customs of London

London prides itself on its ‘Forest City’ nickname and celebrates nature. It is also has a strong arts and culture scene, with theater, music, film, and art festivals throughout the year. These are some common practices and customs in London:

  • Recycling and eco-friendliness are part of London’s culture, so follow the guidelines to maintain the environment.
  • Londoners have a polite etiquette emphasizing please and thank you. Engage with people, and don’t be afraid to say hi to locals as they are more than willing to help.
  • London’s fairs and festivals are the best way to explore the city’s culture. There is a festival for every season like London Fringe Theatre Festival, Sunfest, and London Ribfest.

Best Time to Visit London

The best time to visit London is from May to September as the weather is mild. Late August to early September is the best time for outdoor activities outside the city, and Spring is the best time to enjoy nature’s beauty when flowers bloom in the parks.

Do’s and Don’ts of London

Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts to abide by in London:

Do:

  • Embrace the outdoors by hiking, cycling, or kayaking.
  • Try Canadian food and local drinks.
  • Explore the local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or smoke in public areas.
  • Forget to bring a jacket, especially for winter months.
  • Be loud and disruptive in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in London

London is generally safe with a low crime rate. Keep your belongings safe, lock your car, and stay alert at night.

Health in London

Ontario has a healthcare system, and London’s hospitals offer quality health care and facilities. Keep emergency numbers handy and carry essential medication and medical insurance.

Getting to London: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to London is easy and seamless, with several transportation options available. Here are some of the most convenient ways to get to London:

Airports Near London

  • London International Airport: Located just 10 kilometers from downtown London, this airport offers direct and connecting flights to major cities and tourist destinations.

Bus Stations Near London

  • Greyhound Bus Terminal: Located in downtown London, it offers convenient bus service to neighboring cities and destinations, as well as to Toronto, Canada’s largest city.

Other Options

  • Train Travel: Via Rail Canada is the best way to travel to London from cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.
  • Car Rental: You can rent cars from major car rental companies at the London International Airport and several locations throughout the city.

How to Get Around in London

Driving is the easiest way to get around London, but the city also has several public transportation options for visitors, including buses and taxis. You can also rent bikes or ride-share services like Uber.

Where to Go Next from London: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

London is an excellent base to explore nearby towns and attractions. Here are some exciting excursions you can take from London:

  • Stratford: Located an hour’s drive from London, Stratford boasts world-renowned theatre, charming shops, and excellent restaurants.
  • Grand Bend: Spend the day on the beach, shopping, or eating out at the many restaurants on the Main Street.
  • Bayfield: This charming harbor village on Lake Huron is less than an hour’s drive from London, offering great beaches, restaurants, and boutiques.

Conclusion

London, Ontario, is a mesmerizing city that offers a mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and history for everyone to enjoy. With intriguing natural amenities, excellent dining options, and immersive cultural experiences, London is a perfect destination for a vacation. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to explore the spectacular city of London!

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