Pack in the Fun This Summer
Oh London. Where to start? Where does it end? London is undoubtedly one of the finest cities in the world. There is so much to do in our fair capital that it’s impossible to get bored. But it can be hard to navigate the smorgasbord of distractions on offer. That’s where Huckle the Barber comes in.
We’ve put together a little guide to help you get the most from the city this summer. It’s a suggested itinerary for a cracking, jam-packed day out in central London. There are two options for each part of the day, to cater for all tastes. This is the first of a few Huckle guides we’ll be publishing over the coming months. Stay tuned.
First Thing
Lively
A drink at the Fox & Anchor
Start the day stag do style. This famous boozer just off Smithfield Marketplace thrums with workers finishing their night shifts. And those embarking on one of the most fun days out in central London. They serve English wines, Bloody Marys, and ales from 7.30am. They do an epic breakfast too, featuring FIVE types of meat.
Chilled
An early dip in Hampstead Ponds
Swim with the ducks surrounded by nature. No lanes, no chlorine, no crowds. Just unbridled al fresco splashing pleasure. The men’s pond is larger and good for a long swim. The mixed pond gets busy on fine days with lots of sun worshippers. The showers are cold, and there are no lockers, but it’s well worth it.
Brunch
Healthy
The Black Penny
Get your famished self to this lovely Covent Garden eatery. The prices are reasonable and the portions generous. It’s good to go early as it does get busy. Try the scrambled eggs with harissa. Or one of the three types of oats: bircher muesli, toasted granola, porridge. Never fear, there are meatier options too.
Decadent
Bad Egg
Deliciously sinful dining. This City-based former pop-up is run by self-proclaimed barbecue king Neil Rankin. Here’s a flavour of what’s on offer: cheeseburger hash, pork belly and slaw, scrambled egg and guacamole tacos. And they do pancakes too. Weekends means bottomless brunch: unlimited booze or soft drinks, and two plates each.
Early Afternoon
Lively
Zip Now
This 225-metre zip line is no trifling matter. It’s the biggest and fastest city line in the world. You have to climb ten flights of stairs to get to the 35m-high starting platform. Then once you’ve taken in the views of Battersea Power Station and the Houses of Parliament, launch yourself into the ether and accelerate up to 31mph.
Chilled
Lee Bul at the Hayward Gallery
A major exhibition that brings together a collection of the 54-year-old Korean artist’s most provocative work. She has transformed the Hayward Gallery into a dream-like (or nightmare-like) space. The show features more than 100 works, from the late 80s to the present day.
Haircut Interlude
You’re in town already so it would be wrong not to get a trim. We won’t go so far as to say Huckle is the best thing in central London, or even Bloomsbury, but maybe it is the best barber’s. How incredibly arrogant. But it would be unwise for us not to sing our own praises, wouldn’t it? Come and relax with a coffee or a beer and get a world-class haircut. Now you’re ready for the rest of the day.
Late Afternoon
Lively
Rooftop drink at Bird of Smithfield
Classy. That sums up this joint in a word. Perhaps don’t bring your bag of soggy swimming kit. Head to the rooftop bar at the summit of the five-storey Georgian townhouse for an open-air drink overlooking Smithfield Market. Whatever your poison, set yourself up for the journey home, a meal on the lower floors, or a big night out.
Chilled
Regent’s Park Rose Garden
End the day in a tranquil manner by stoping to smell the roses. 12,000 of them. June is the best time of year to visit as most of the blooms will be, well, blooming. The beautiful sights and scents will bring some calm after all the fun you’ve had in central London. Regent’s Park Rose Garden is open till 9.30pm in June and July.
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Phew. What a packed schedule. Of course this short guide doesn’t even scratch the surface of what London has to offer. But we hope it’s inspired you to plan your next day out. We’re sure you have ideas of your own too. Next time you get your hair cut at Huckle, let your barber know what one of your best days out in London would look like.
We love you, London. Don’t go changing.
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Huckle the Barber provides superior grooming services, including haircuts and wet shaves, for discerning London gents. Visit us in Shoreditch (Old Street) or Holborn (Lamb’s Conduit Street). Book your Huckle appointment online.