If you want advice on London, Anne Golden can help. Golden serves as the regional vice president of Operations for the U.K. and North America and the general manager of Pan Pacific London, one of the hottest new hotels in the city and a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star winner.
The 33-year London resident says she loves the city. “It feels as if you are part of a global community, and there’s always something new to explore and experience,” she says.
To help your explorations in the U.K. capital, we quizzed Golden on her picks on everything from where to find awe-inspiring city views to the essential British pub.
What are London’s must-visit attractions?
The South Bank. Between Shad Thames and the Houses of Parliament, you walk past one of the largest concentrations of cultural institutions in the world, from 1,000-plus-year-old Borough Market, Shakespeare’s Globe and London Dungeons to the London Eye, Sea Life London Aquarium and Royal Festival Hall.
I also love Brick Lane for a curry and a vintage bargain, and [virtual concert series] ABBA Voyage is an incredible experience.
What are the best under-the-radar activities in London?
The City of London — also known as the Square Mile — conjures up business and tall modern buildings for many people, however, there are so many historical influences and stories to uncover, not just the “tourist” elements, such as the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.
The city has its own government, mayor and police force, William Shakespeare lived in the city for a time and a Roman amphitheater was uncovered at the Guildhall in 1988 — it’s not just about financial institutions but more about the historical buildings that are still in use. Taking a guided walk opens your eyes to times gone by.
What are your favorite London museums?
The London Museum is amazing, also the Science Museum and the beautiful V&A.
What’s an unusual activity that visitors may not know about?
London isn’t all about what happens above ground — there are fascinating secret underground tunnels, disused stations, abandoned platforms and wartime shelters to be discovered, as well as traveling on the secret tube that used to ferry posts beneath the streets of London.
What culinary experiences do you recommend in London?
Every city has great restaurants, however, if you want a taste of London, head to Bermondsey for some street food in Maltby Street Market, or try the fresh seafood from Electric Avenue, Brixton. You can’t go wrong with a trip to The Devonshire in Soho for great food in an authentic old pub atmosphere — quintessential London.
What’s one dish everyone should try in London?
Sausage roll.
What’s your favorite London pub and what should we order?
The Holly Bush in Hampstead Village, and you should order the Sunday roast — the lamb is delicious, and it has authentic Yorkshire puddings.
Where do you go to relax in London?
Anywhere in North London — Muswell Hill, Hampstead, Highgate, so many lovely neighborhood pubs and restaurants and so dog-friendly.
What’s the best way to experience London’s rich culture?
Just walk around. It’s one of the best cities for walking and seeing things you may not have noticed before. There are some really fun walking tours, ghost walks, history tours, etcetera. Or wander along the river — so much of London is free.
The City of London itself is very cool, steeped in history and home to some of the world’s top cocktail bars hidden down side streets. Spitalfields Market, Shoreditch and Hoxton are all great areas to experience London’s diverse culture.
Where’s the best place to enjoy London’s art scene?
On the streets. Street art is phenomenal in London, like Brick Lane and Waterloo tunnels, to name but a few.
Where can you find the hottest nightlife in London?
Wherever there’s a queue outside a club!
What adventures would you recommend in London?
I love a boat ride along the Thames in either direction — to Kew Gardens and Hampton Court, or to Canary Wharf and the Thames Barrier. It’s great to be able to hop on and off to explore and see the city from the river perspective.
And there’s always London’s fantastic tube and bus network to navigate the city and create your own adventures.
What are the best souvenirs to bring home from London?
Something that will always bring a smile and a memory. There’s an array of art, fashion and design that sums up London style.
Where’s the best place to go shopping in London?
There is such a broad choice for shopping — from thrifting for vintage and pre-loved in Shoreditch to designer labels and boutiques in Bond Street. There is something for everyone, some of the well-established markets are also a great place to bag a unique find.
What are the hottest neighborhoods in London?
Close to Pan Pacific London are the very popular Hoxton and Shoreditch neighborhoods, which offer a great introduction to East London.
Where can you find the best views in the city?
There are various viewing platforms, including the Shard and the recently opened Horizon 22 at 22 Bishopsgate, which offer spectacular views. For the walkers, there are rewarding views from Primrose Hill and Parliament Hill.
What are London’s best green spaces?
According to the United Nations, London has over eight million trees, making it the world’s largest urban forest.
Every park and green space offers a different perspective and history. As a North Londoner, my favorite is Hampstead Heath. Just four miles out of central London, its 800 acres of wild park and woodland boasts some of the most spectacular views of the city. There are swimming ponds, walking trails and Kenwood House, which has been featured in many period dramas. Londoners come to walk their dogs, picnic or fly a kite with their children. Famously, it’s the place that inspired C.S. Lewis to write The Chronicles of Narnia.
Share an insider tip about your city.
Climb 257 steps within the great dome of St Paul’s Cathedral and you will find yourself in The Whispering Gallery. This sits 98 feet above the nave of the church and is a circular walkway that hugs the base of the dome structure. If you whisper anywhere along the curved wall, someone standing on the other side of the room will be able to hear you because of a quirk with the acoustics.
What’s your go-to room service order?
Chicken noodle soup — ultimate soul food.
What’s your favorite hotel amenity?
It’s our Singa lion cub [mascot] for our younger visitors. We have a wonderful seamstress who makes new outfits for all occasions, so there’s always the opportunity to update Singa’s wardrobe on return visits.
When you’re traveling, what are a few essentials that are always in your luggage?
Definitely my hair straighteners.
What’s an overrated hospitality fad?
The club sandwich. It’s so hard to eat. Champagne as an amenity is overdone and not to everyone’s taste. Hospitality excellence is personalizing the guest’s experience, so amenities tailored to the individual show more care and creativity in my humble opinion.
