It’s no secret that Taylor Swift likes London with the UK capital featuring in several of her songs, most notably in “London Boy” from her 2019 album, Lover. There, she lists all their favourite London hang-outs – from Brixton to Hampstead Heath. With new London dates added to her Eras Tour in August 2024, visitors and fans alike can follow in her footsteps and explore the capital with this round-up of all the destinations featured in the song, complete with exciting things to experience along the way…
‘I enjoy walking Camden Market in the afternoon…’
Camden Market
Nestled by the Regent’s Canal in the heart of Camden Town, Camden Market sits in one of London’s most vibrant and eclectic neighbourhoods, famous for its alternative nightlife scene and boho chic. Visitors can browse a colourful mix of stores and stalls selling vintage fashion, hand-made leather goods and unusual gifts, while sampling street food from all over the world. Camden’s musical heritage is just as varied, and it is the home of some of London’s most famous music venues and clubs, from the legendary Roundhouse, which hosted performances from Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd during the 1960s and 1970s, to the iconic Jazz Café. Another Camden music institution to visit is The Good Mixer, with the pub a favourite hang-out for many bands and celebrities, including Amy Winehouse. Catch live music and performances from grassroots musicians here all week.
‘Took me back to Highgate, met all of his best mates…’
Highgate
Only a short bus-ride from Camden Town, leafy Highgate seems a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The small village with its elegant Georgian houses and quaint cottages is brimming with history, culture and atmospheric pubs – as well as famous residents. The late George Michael, Kate Moss and Sting have all owned houses in The Grove, a tree-lined street opposite The Flask. This historic pub – a reputed former haunt of 18th-century highwayman, Dick Turpin – is now a popular spot for a traditional Sunday roast after a stroll on nearby Hampstead Heath. As small as it may be, culture abounds in Highgate. Visitors can catch a circus performance at Jacksons Lane or head to Upstairs at the Gatehouse for acclaimed Off West End Theatre. For afternoon tea, the elegant Lauderdale House in Waterlow Park offers a range of options and is only a short walk from Highgate Cemetery, a Victorian burial ground allegedly haunted by the ‘Highgate Vampire’. The original West Cemetery can only be accessed via a guided tour, but visitors can stroll through the East Cemetery at their leisure. Both sides contain famous occupants, including philosopher Karl Marx and novelist George Elliot. To round off the day, The Disappearing Dining Club at The Dartmouth Arms offers a memorable culinary experience.
‘And now I love high tea, stories from uni, and the West End…’
The West End
The busy West End, in the heart of the city, is a vibrant hub for high-end shopping, Michelin-star dining, world-leading museums and a plethora of theatres. Visitors can browse goods at flagship shops and department stores along Oxford Street, Bond Street and Regent Street. Alternatively, head to Carnaby Street, once the birthplace of ‘Swinging London’ and now home to independent fashion boutiques and concept stores. Covent Garden is another must-visit destination for shopping as well as dining. Visitors can browse the stalls inside the historic East Colonnade Market selling antiques, hand-made jewellery and curiosities, then grab lunch at nearby Seven Dials, a chic multi-level food court. Head over to the entertainment district around Leicester Square and Covent Garden, also known as ‘Theatreland’, home to London’s top theatres. From award-winning musicals to the latest theatre premieres – there is something for everyone!
‘I enjoy nights in Brixton, …’
Brixton
With a strong Afro-Caribbean heritage, this vibrant south London neighbourhood – and birthplace of David Bowie – boasts buzzing nightlife and a vibrant foodie scene. Brixton Village is one of London’s most diverse and dynamic markets, with more than 100 vendors representing more than 50 nationalities. From modern Taiwanese street food to traditional Jamaican dishes, the options are endless! For a truly soulful night out, visitors can head to the Blues Kitchen for one of Gospeloke’s ‘singathons’, a unique karaoke night backed by a live gospel choir featuring classics such as Madonna’s ‘Like A Prayer’ or Bruno Mars’ ‘Uptown Funk’. Catch more live music at the historic O2 Academy Brixton or unwind at The Ritzy cinema while taking in the latest movie releases.
‘… Shoreditch in the afternoon…’
Shoreditch
This hip East London neighbourhood is a hotbed of creativity, boasting cutting-edge galleries, independent shops and food markets galore, as well as a prolific street art scene. During the day, visitors can explore the graffiti trails of London’s so-called ‘outdoor art gallery’ on a Shoreditch Street Art Tour. Alternatively, browse the various stalls and boutiques around Brick Lane selling everything from unique vintage gems to designer jewellery. With new bars popping up in unique venues all over the neighbourhood, from converted warehouse spaces to cavernous basements, Shoreditch is also a top nightlife destination. East End institutions like Village Underground draw crowds with hypnotic DJ sets and live entertainment, while popular activity bars like Bounce in Old Street offer late-night dining experiences with a difference – in this case, ping-pong.
‘So please show me Hackney…’
Hackney
Like its East End neighbour, Shoreditch, Hackney boasts plenty of hip bars and art spaces, along with traditional pubs and Turkish restaurants lining the high street. London Fields, in the centre of the neighbourhood, is an idyllic spot for people-watching in summer. The trendy cafes around nearby Broadway Market offer plenty of lunch-options, while the artisan food market happening every Saturday is packed with choice. For summer 2024, Woodburner are putting on regular live events at the Dalston Curve Garden, an urban community garden complete with bar and outdoor pizza oven. For a local night out with a difference, visitors can head to Dabbers Hackney for their fortnightly ‘Karaoke Lotto’ (every other Friday) – a karaoke night with bingo!
‘Doesn’t have to be Louis V up on Bond Street…’
Bond Street
Located in the heart of the West End, Bond Street is one of London’s top luxury shopping destinations. From Louis Vuitton to Cartier, visitors can find the latest designer fashion and shop for high-end accessories and jewellery. For afternoon tea, head to Sketch near Oxford Circus, a stylish 18th-century townhouse tearoom and restaurant that transforms into a cocktail lounge at night. Hyde Park offers space for some post-shopping downtime and to soak up some sunrays. Visitors can watch the world go buy from a deck chair or enjoy boating on the Serpentine.
‘Like a Tennessee Stella McCartney on the Heath…’
(Hampstead) Heath
Hampstead Heath, a wild park of ancient woodland and meadows, is a much-loved beauty spot in North London, with its highest point, Parliament Hill, offering some of the best views over the city. Visitors can take a splash in the swimming ponds which are open all year round or visit Kenwood House – a Georgian country estate surrounded by stunning landscaped gardens. As well as being a popular picnic spot, regular events are held in the Kenwood grounds during the summer months, including music concerts and outdoor cinema screenings. Also nestled on the edge of the Heath is the Freud Museum – the former home of the renowned Austrian psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud and his family house offers a unique collection of antiquities.
‘I enjoy walking Soho, drinking in the afternoon…’
Soho
Set in the heart of London, this vibrant neighbourhood is renowned for its lively atmosphere and diverse nightlife. From cabaret to cocktail bars – Soho won’t disappoint. Visitors can enjoy top-notch entertainment at The Comedy Store, a legendary venue featuring stand-up comedy and improvised shows. For dining, Milk Beach offers a delightful culinary experience with its Australian-inspired menu and relaxed ambience. After a meal, indulge in artisan gelato at Gelupo, an ice cream café renowned for its inventive flavours and high-quality ingredients.
Themed events and exhibitions
With Taylor Swift returning to London in August, plenty of venues are getting in on the action with themed events and special deals. On 16 August, the Hard Rock Café in Piccadilly Circus offers a Swifties Breakfast including a complimentary mocktail on arrival, followed by brunch and two hours of Swift’s greatest hits. There will also be a chance to make friendship bracelets and decorate sunglasses.
Over in South Kensington, the V&A is curating a free Taylor Swift Songbook Trail across the museum, showcasing a range of Swift’s iconic looks including costumes and accessories from her personal archive.
