Editorial & Affiliate Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone. Since I share great London activities with awesome people like you, naturally, my content may contain affiliate links for products, shows, tours, and other activities I do and love. Take action (i.e., subscribe, make a purchase); after clicking one of these links, I’ll earn some coffee money I promise to drink while creating more helpful content like this.

Good day, good day, listeners! This is Sascha, your trusty tour guide through the bustling streets and hidden gems of our beloved city. Welcome back to the fourth episode of ‘London Asked and Answered.’ I’m here to make your London experience as rich as a plate of fish and chips, minus the calories, of course! 

Get ready, dear listeners, because today we’re boarding our time machine, first stop, Madame Tussauds! We’ll rub shoulders, metaphorically, of course, with legends from history and modern celebrities.

Next, we step into the serene world of Regents Park. Ever wondered what to do in this vast expanse of green in the heart of the city? Wonder no more! We’ll sniff out the roses, chase the squirrels and perhaps even spot a unicorn… or two!

But wait, the game is afoot! We’re hot on the heels of the legendary Sherlock Holmes as we explore the mysteries of the Sherlock Holmes Museum. Deerstalkers are optional, but a flair for detective work is a must!

Just when you thought things couldn’t get any more interesting, we leap from Baker Street to Gotham City at Park Row, the DC Universe-themed restaurant. Imagine munching on your entrée as the Bat-Signal lights up the sky! Who knew that food and superheroes made such a delicious combo?

Of course, what’s a London adventure without answering your burning questions? We’ll ponder when exactly you should pay the King a visit at Buckingham Palace, dive into the art of securing the perfect hotel room, guide you through the rules of bringing controlled medicines to the U.K., and chat about cycling around town.

Buckle up, folks! We’re about to hit warp speed on this fun London adventure!

Discover the Magic of Madame Tussauds London: An Unforgettable Adventure Awaits!

Get ready for an exhilarating experience like no other as you step into the enchanting world of Madame Tussauds* London. Brace yourself to come face-to-face with an array of iconic figures from around the globe. From dazzling musicians to captivating film stars, regal royalty to legendary sports icons, this star-studded venue promises an extraordinary encounter with the crème de la crème of the celebrity realm. Prepare to be amazed as you explore three fascinating floors and immerse yourself in eight captivating zones boasting over 150 exquisitely crafted wax figures, each capturing the essence of their real-life counterparts in awe-inspiring detail. 

A kaleidoscope of celebrities greets you with open arms as you pass through the grand entrance. Unleash your inner diva and strike a pose with the incomparable Queen B, the electrifying Lady Gaga, and a host of other music legends in the vibrant music zone. Feel the rhythm pulsating through your veins as you share the spotlight with these iconic stars, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. 

Seeking an out-of-this-world adventure? Look no further than the phenomenal Star Wars section, a collaboration between Madame Tussauds London, Disney, and Lucasfilm. You’ll find yourself amid the Star Wars saga, surrounded by uncanny wax figures that bring your favorite heroes and villains from Episodes I-IX to life. Join forces with Luke Skywalker, duel with Darth Vader, or plot alongside Princess Leia as you explore this intergalactic universe filled with wonder and excitement.

But wait, the excitement doesn’t end there! Prepare to be transformed into a hero or villain as you enter the thrilling Marvel Universe 4D movie. Brace yourself for an immersive cinematic experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Feel the rush of wind through your hair, the splash of water on your face, and the reflexive flinch as you encounter mind-blowing special effects that transport you into an epic battle against the mischievous Loki. Join forces with Captain Marvel, unleash your inner godliness with Thor, channel your inner panther with Black Panther, swing into action with Spider-Man, or shrink down with Ant-Man and the Wasp. In this thrilling adventure, the world’s fate rests in your hands!

For those with a taste for the macabre, prepare to venture into the chilling Chamber of Horrors. Initially introduced in 1818 by the renowned Marie Tussaud herself, this spine-tingling exhibit shines a haunting light on some of London’s most infamous criminals. Brace yourself as you step uncomfortably close to the scenes of their heinous crimes, surrounded by historical artifacts that bear witness to the city’s darkest moments. Dare to uncover the secrets of Jack the Ripper and the notorious Kray twins as you explore this sinister underworld of crime and mystery.

Feeling regal? Indulge your inner King or Queen as you enter the magnificent Royals zone. Experience the pomp and pageantry of British royalty as you rub shoulders with the most famous family in the world. Take a seat on the throne, adorn yourself with a crown, and let your imagination run wild as you bask in the splendor of this majestic exhibit. And if you crave an extra dose of glitz and glamour, don’t miss the dazzling Awards Party. Step onto the red carpet, pose for the paparazzi, and revel in the spotlight as you become an A-list celebrity for a day. Afterward, get ready to party like a rockstar at the most sizzling after-party in town, where you can mingle with your favorite stars and create memories that will envy all your friends.

Madame Tussauds* has earned its reputation as a must-visit attraction for visitors from far and wide. Reviews consistently praise the museum for its interactive and entertaining exhibits, appealing to individuals of all ages. Whether you’re a history buff, a movie fanatic, a music lover, or simply seeking a day of fun-filled adventure, Madame Tussauds* offers something for everyone.

To enhance your experience and make your visit truly unforgettable, consider upgrading to a Fast Track Ticket. With this exclusive pass, you’ll gain access to a dedicated entrance, bypassing the queues and diving headfirst into the excitement. Get up close and personal with your favorite celebrities even faster, ensuring maximum enjoyment throughout your visit.

Ready to embark on a magical journey through the enchanting world of Madame Tussauds London? Don’t miss out on their latest offer, a remarkable opportunity to save up to £22 per person. For the incredible price of just £25, you can explore Madame Tussauds London from Monday to Thursday and revel in the wonders that await you. This extraordinary discount is calculated based on the maximum on-the-day price and is exclusively available from 19/06 to 15/07/2023. Take advantage of this incredible offer and book today as you prepare to enter a realm of fame, adventure, and sheer excitement.

Madame Tussauds in London, the world’s most famous wax museum, opens its doors to visitors at different times during the week. The museum operates from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm from Monday to Friday. At the same time, on weekends, it opens earlier at 9:00 am and closes later at 6:00 pm.

Yet, these hours can vary on public holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Therefore, it’s recommended to check the official website if you’re planning to visit on a particular day. This way, you can ensure you have the most accurate information and can plan your visit accordingly.

Regent’s Park

Located in the heart of bustling London, Regent’s Park is a verdant oasis offering visitors many attractions that appeal to diverse tastes and interests. Whether you’re a culture vulture, a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a history buff, you’ll find something captivating within the Park’s expansive grounds. Here are some highlights you would want to take advantage of during your visit.

Let’s begin with the Open Air Theatre…

Let’s set the stage with the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, Britain’s largest permanent outdoor theatre. This enchanting venue, nestled amongst the thick greenery of the Park, dates back to 1932 and has since been a cherished cultural landmark in London.

The theatre has a remarkable calendar of events from May to September each year. It hosts many performances, from soul-stirring Shakespearean tragedies to toe-tapping West End musicals. Watching a performance under the starry London sky, surrounded by the lush foliage of Regent’s Park, is an experience that resonates with both locals and tourists alike.

Primrose Hill

Next on our itinerary is Primrose Hill, one of London’s best free viewpoints. Sitting 63 meters above sea level on the northern edge of Regent’s Park, it offers a stunning panorama of the city’s skyline. 

Imagine sprawling on the lush green grass, having a picnic with loved ones, or sipping alfresco evening drinks as the setting sun bathes London in a warm, golden hue. Primrose Hill is not just a viewpoint; it’s a vantage point for creating unforgettable memories.

The Historic ZSL London Zoo

A stone’s throw away from Primrose Hill, on the northern fringe of the Park, lies the ZSL London Zoo*. As the world’s oldest scientific zoo, it opened its doors for scientific study in 1828 and now houses nearly 20,000 animals spanning over 700 species.

The zoo* offers a unique glimpse into the animal kingdom, from the majestic lions and giraffes to the fascinating Galápagos giant tortoises and Humboldt penguins. It is an ideal destination for families, offering both education and entertainment. It equally appeals to animal lovers and casual visitors looking for a fun day in the capital.

The Blossoming Queen Mary’s Gardens

Within the Park’s inner circle, you’ll find the charming Queen Mary’s Garden. This fragrant haven is home to London’s most extensive collection of roses, boasting approximately 12,000 roses across 85 beds. And that’s not all – the garden also houses stunning delphiniums and over 9,000 begonias. 

Named after the wife of King George V, Queen Mary’s Garden is an oasis of beautiful colors and smells. As you explore the garden, you’ll find a stunning palette of roses of every conceivable variety and color. Don’t forget to bring your camera – these blooms are irresistibly photogenic.

The Elegant Avenue Gardens

Our journey continues to the Victorian-style Avenue Gardens, located near the Broad Walk in the southeast corner of Regent’s Park. As you stroll down the central promenade, you’ll be transported to another era, surrounded by ornamental planting beds, evergreen hedges, and tiered fountains.

The Avenue Gardens, dating back to the 1800s, are reminiscent of the private gardens of an English stately manor. The Lion Tazza, a large circular stone flower bowl supported by four winged stone lions, stands as the centerpiece, adding to the gardens’ grandeur. The rich history and meticulously maintained greenery make the Avenue Gardens a must-visit spot in Regent’s Park.

The Majestic Ready Money Drinking Fountain

Further down the Broad Walk, you’ll encounter the Ready Money Drinking Fountain, one of the largest drinking fountains in London. This Grade II listed structure, crafted from granite and marble, adds a touch of Gothic majesty to the Park.

The fountain dates back to 1869, a gift from Sir Cowasji Jehangir Readymoney, a wealthy Parsee from Bombay. He donated the fountain as a token of gratitude to the English people for protecting the Parsees during British rule in India. Although the fountain no longer runs with water, it remains a cherished landmark in Regent’s Park, speaking volumes about its rich past.

The Serene Regent’s Park Boating Lake

Venture to the Park’s western edge and find the Regent’s Park Boating Lake. You can hire rowing boats and pedalos from the boathouse from late March to the end of October. Nestled next to the large lake is a smaller one, perfect for children who wish to pedal around during the school holidays.

Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a summer activity with friends, or a day out with the family, exploring Regent’s Park from the water offers a refreshing perspective. It’s an activity that always satisfies, regardless of age or interests.

The Adventurous Regent’s Canal

If you’re a fan of water sports or simply looking for a bit of adventure, head to the Regent’s Canal. This scenic waterway stretches across the northern edge of Regent’s Park, originating from Little Venice in the west, then heading northeast to Camden Lock.

You can hire a kayak or paddleboard and traverse the tranquil waters of the canal, taking in the picturesque views of the Park and beyond. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the canal’s banks, soaking in the serene atmosphere and the beautiful surroundings.

The area surrounding Regent’s Park is brimming with fascinating attractions that promise to deliver a blend of cultural enrichment, natural beauty, historical insights, and recreational fun. Each of these spots has its unique charm, contributing to the distinct appeal of Regent’s Park. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, take the time to explore these gems. You may discover a new favorite spot in the city’s verdant heart.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum 

Is a popular attraction located on Baker Street in London, near Regent’s Park. It is the world’s first museum dedicated to the legendary fictional detective Sherlock Holmes, created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. This privately run museum opened in 1990 and is situated in a Georgian townhouse built in 1815, bearing the number 221B, the famous address in the Sherlock Holmes stories.

The museum’s location, a Georgian townhouse dating back to 1815, was formerly used as a boarding house from 1860 to 1936. It now serves as a tribute to the world of Sherlock Holmes*, replicating the Victorian era during which the stories were set. The museum features a range of exhibits that include items from several different adaptations of Sherlock Holmes and recreations of scenes from the 1984 Granada Television series. It covers the period from 1881 to 1904, when the stories describe Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson residing there as tenants of Mrs. Hudson.

Interestingly, the museum was involved in a dispute over address 221B with the nearby Abbey National building. Since the 1930s, the Royal Mail had been delivering mail to Sherlock Holmes to the Abbey National Bank. The museum argued that it should receive such mail since it was the most appropriate organization to respond to it. The issue was resolved in 2002 when the Abbey National vacated its headquarters, and the mail is currently delivered to the museum.

The museum’s existence has been subject to controversy. Jean Conan Doyle, the daughter of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, expressed a lack of enthusiasm for the museum. She was against the idea of suggesting that her father’s creation was a natural person. Despite her reservations, she supported the Sherlock Holmes Museum in Switzerland by attending its opening in 1991. However, she declined the offer to create a room in the London Museum dedicated to her father.

Visiting the museum offers a unique experience. A traditional London ‘Bobby’ in uniform greets visitors at the door, and knowledgeable guides in period costume guide them through the rooms. The museum recreates the gas-lit world of London’s iconic detective, complete with authentic Victorian furniture and curiosities and a collection of items belonging to Sherlock, his friends, and adversaries.

In addition to the museum exhibits, the Sherlock Holmes Museum boasts the world’s largest collection of gifts and memorabilia. Visitors can browse a range of unique and exclusive Sherlock-related items in the gift shop, including handcrafted deerstalker hats made in England, puzzles, beautifully bound books, and much more.

The museum is open seven days a week from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm. Tickets are priced at £16 for adults, £14 for concessions, £11 for children under 16, and free for children under 6.

Park Row: A Dive into the D.C. Universe in the Heart of London

Park Row, London’s first DC-inspired restaurant experience, is the realization of a unique partnership between Warner Bros. Consumer Products, DC, and the Wonderland Restaurant group. This venture, a product of the world’s most creative minds from food, film, and magic, aims to evoke curiosity and wonderment, transforming dining into an immersive experience surrounded by iconic brands, stories, and characters.

Situated at 77 Brewer Street, in the vibrant neighborhood of Soho, London, Park Row replaces the former Mash Steakhouse, adding a new thematic facet to the city’s dining scene. The restaurant, much like the city it resides in, is a melting pot of imaginative presentation and everyday luxury.

The menu at Park Row, crafted by esteemed chefs Karl O’Dell and Kim Woodward, formerly of Michelin-starred Texture and 100 Wardour and The Savoy Grill, respectively, is a theatrical extravaganza divided into two “acts” spread over three hours. The culinary journey begins in the Monarch Room, a 20-seater theatre dedicated to exploring the world of Batman, the Joker, Harley Quinn, and other legends from the D.C. universe. The dining experience in the Monarch Room is heightened by floor-to-ceiling screens and projection mapping, immersing patrons in the D.C. universe as they dine.

The Monarch Room is merely one aspect of Park Row. The venue is bolstered by four additional spaces, each contributing its unique elements to the grand narrative of the restaurant. Offering a £195 tasting menu, the restaurant presents dishes featuring wagyu and truffle, scallops with oysters and caviar, and even edible jewelry that goes beyond mere gold leaf. The unique blend of experiential dining with a twist of visual trickery and outsized food makes Park Row a standout addition to London’s dining scene.

Park Row is open from Monday to Thursday, 5 pm to 12 pm; Friday, from 12 pm to 1 am; Saturday, from 11.30 am to 1 am; and Sunday, from 11.30 am to 10 pm, welcoming patrons to indulge in an immersive dining experience throughout the week.

For those planning a visit, the nearest tube station is Piccadilly Circus, located a mere 0.18 miles away, making it a convenient destination for locals and tourists alike. Several bus lines also pass near the area, including 139, 14, 19, 38, 453, 6, and 88, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.

Alan from Los Angeles asks: What is the best day to visit Buckingham Palace?

The best day to visit Buckingham Palace depends on the season and your personal preferences:

During summer (from Friday, July 14th to Sunday, September 24th, 2023), the State Rooms are open to visitors for 10 weeks. However, they are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The opening times are as follows:

– From July 14th to August 31st, the Palace is open from 09:30am to 7:30pm, with the last admission at 5:15pm.

– From 1 to September 24th, the Palace is open from 09:30am to 6:30pm, with the last admission at 4:15pm.

Exclusive Guided Tours might also become available on selected dates like the one from last November 2022 to May 2023. These tours were offered on Fridays and on Saturdays & Sundays. Each tour lasted around 90 minutes.

Keep a watchful eye on seeyouin.london or sign up for my Newsletter and be the first to know when the Palace is offering exclusive Guided Tours again.

Since Buckingham Palace is such a unique Visit, which is only available for access some year long, there is not really the best day to visit Buckingham Palace. During summer, you have the flexibility to visit anytime between 09:30 to 19:30 (July to August) or 09:30 to 18:30 (September). During winter and spring, you maybe can opt for the Exclusive Guided Tours. But keep in mind that the opening of Buckingham Palace is not guaranteed or very limited during winter and spring.

Rashid from Delhi asks: Our flight is booked, and we are coming to London in December at 10 am and returning flight on January 01st, 2024. To book a Hotel room, do I need to book from December 22nd to December 31st or January 01st? This check-in check-out policy confuses me. Can you please explain?

Of course, Rashid. In most hotels, the booking dates are based on nights, not days. When you book a hotel room, check-in is usually in the afternoon of the day you arrive (typically around 2 pm or 3 pm). The check-out time is in the morning of the day you depart (typically around 11 am or 12 pm).

In your case, you’re landing on December 22nd, and your return flight is on January 01st. Therefore, you should book your hotel from December 22nd to January 01st, which means your stay will include the night of December 31st. 

On December 22nd, after your arrival, you will check into your hotel. On January 01st, you will check out of your hotel in the morning before your flight.

Remember, these times can vary slightly depending on the hotel, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific check-in and check-out times with your chosen hotel. Suppose your flight lands early in the morning or leaves late at night. In that case, some hotels can accommodate an early check-in or late check-out, but this often depends on availability and may involve additional fees.

Gloria from Fort Myers asks: I’m bummed out. I’m coming to London very soon and was checking what I can bring. Valium is not allowed, so I can’t bring Diazepam; I don’t know what I’m going to do.

I’m sorry to hear that you’re feeling stressed about this. It’s important to carefully navigate these situations as they involve health and legal considerations. 

Diazepam (Valium) is a controlled substance in many countries, including the U.K. It may be illegal or require special permission to bring it into the country. However, if you have a prescription for it, you may be able to bring it with you.

The U.K. government provides guidance for visitors who need to bring medication with them. You may be allowed to bring controlled medication like Diazepam into the U.K. if you can provide the necessary documentation. This typically includes:

– A letter from your prescriber detailing the medicine, how much you’ll be taking, and that it’s for your personal use.

– A copy of your prescription.

You may also need to apply for a personal license to bring controlled medication into the U.K., depending on how long your visit will be.

You must check the U.K. government’s official guidelines and potentially consult with a legal professional to ensure you’re complying with the law. Don’t risk trying to bring the medication without the proper authorizations, as it could lead to severe consequences.

Lastly, please consult with your healthcare provider. They may be able to suggest alternative medications that are legal to bring into the U.K. or other coping strategies to help manage your condition while you’re traveling.

Please consult a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication. They can provide guidance based on your personal medical history and current health status.

Remember, addressing this issue well before your trip is crucial to ensure you have time to get everything in order.

For guidelines, go to https://www.gov.uk/travelling-controlled-drugs. You’ll find the link also in the show notes.

Doortje from Amsterdam asks: Hello, are Rental Bicycles readily available in London?

Yes, rental bicycles are widely available in London. The city has a public bicycle hire scheme known as Santander Cycles, often referred to as “Boris Bikes” after Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, when the scheme was introduced. 

Santander Cycles allows you to hire a bike for as little as £2. Go to any docking station with your bank card and touch the screen to get started. There’s no need to book – hire a bike, ride it where you like, then return it to any docking station. 

In addition to Santander Cycles, several other private companies rent bicycles in London, including Lime and Mobike, which offer dockless bike-sharing systems where you can pick up and leave bikes at designated areas throughout the city.

Moreover, many local bike shops in London offer daily or weekly bike rentals, including helmets and locks. This might be a good option if you’re looking for a specific type of bike, like a road bike or a child’s bike.

Always follow local laws and regulations when cycling in London, including using bike lanes where available and following all traffic signals and signs. Cycling can be a fantastic way to see the city, but safety should always be your top priority.

An important point you should consider: While cycling can be a great way to see London, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks, particularly for those unfamiliar with the city’s traffic or not used to driving on the left side of the road, which is standard in the U.K. London streets can be very busy, and navigating them on a bicycle can be challenging if you’re not accustomed to it. 

For those reasons, especially if you’re a visitor and not used to cycling in a large, busy city like London, it may be a safer and more enjoyable experience to join a guided bicycle tour*. These tours are led by experienced guides who know the city well, understand the traffic patterns, and can lead you along safer, less congested routes. Additionally, they can provide valuable insights about the places you see, enhancing your sightseeing experience.

So, while bike rentals are readily available and can offer a unique perspective on the city, please always prioritize your safety and consider whether this mode of transport aligns with your comfort and skill level in urban cycling. Opting for a guided tour can be a great alternative if in doubt.

You will find a link to guided bicycle tours* around London in the show notes.

Alright, my lovely listeners, we’ve reached the end of our journey through the heart of London for today. You’ve navigated the celebrity-filled corridors of Madame Tussauds, basked in the tranquillity of Regent’s Park, and solved some mysteries at the Sherlock Holmes Museum, all while having a good laugh and learning a thing or two!

I hope you’ve found the answers to your questions as satisfying as a cup of tea on a foggy London morning. And remember, if you’ve got more questions brewing, don’t hesitate to send them my way! I’m here to unravel the mysteries of London, one quirky fact at a time.

Now, remember, dear listeners, this journey isn’t a one-way street. I want to hear from you! Got a London-related conundrum? An amusing anecdote to share? A secret spot you’ve discovered? You can send me your questions on social media at @londonasked or by email at hello@londonasked.com. Or if you’re feeling a bit old school, you can even shoot me a text via WhatsApp at 00447700182299. I’m always excited to hear from you, even if your question is, ‘Why does London rain have a unique smell?’ 

If you loved this rollercoaster of an episode, show me some love! Drop a review, smash that like button, and follow my podcast. Each like, comment, and share fuels my virtual London bus for future adventures.

And here’s some exciting news! My travel guide, ‘London Asked and Answered: Your Comprehensive Travel Guide to the Big Smoke,’ is now available as an eBook! That’s right, all the tips, tricks, and insights you need to navigate London like a local are packed into one handy guide. And if you’re a fan of flipping through pages, the paperback edition will be hitting the shelves on June 27th. You can snag your copy everywhere books are sold – that’s right, even that quirky bookstore that also sells vintage records.

That’s all from me today, folks. I’m Sascha, your ever-enthusiastic guide through the bustling streets of London. This has been ‘London Asked and Answered,’ the podcast that tries to make your London trip as smooth as a ride on the Tube during off-peak hours. Until next time, keep those questions coming, stay curious, and remember: when in London, don’t just see the sights; live the experience. Cheerio!”