Can I Visit London After the Coronavirus Pandemic?

In these uncertain times, with the world being faced with the coronavirus pandemic, people are looking for more and more information on how to plan their future trips, and more so – their trips to London.

The short answer is, yes, you can visit London after the pandemic. As of now, for non-UK nationals, travel to England is still not allowed unless you have a legally permitted reason for it and are able to present that reason upon arrival in the country.

You will also have to take a few additional safety and health measures like fill out a mandatory Passenger Locator Form – a form that you must fill out up to 48 hours before you travel to the UK with details such as where you are coming from, how long your trip will be and other contact details. You may also need to provide evidence that you have booked an approved test package prior to travel.

The UK Quarantine Policy

Upon arrival at a UK airport, you will be required to take a COVID-19 PCR test and self-isolate for 10 days, which is in line with the UK quarantine policy. This means that if you decide to visit London, you will need to self-isolate at your place of residence.

Therefore, it is advisable to plan your visit strictly keeping into consideration not just the quarantine policy but also the local situation in regards to the coronavirus. Furthermore, if you are coming from a country classified as “high risk’ or “very high risk’ by the UK authorities, you may also be subject to additional safety measures such as being subject to mandatory hotel quarantine for 10 days, so it is best to check with the UK government website for the most up-to-date information about travel advice.

London’s Safety Measures

The good news is though, that since London is one of the most visited cities in the world and a must-see destination for tourists, it is going the extra mile to ensure Londoners and visitors alike stay safe by taking all the necessary health and safety measures. This includes health screenings at the borders, mandatory masks in enclosed public spaces including shops and restaurants, contact tracing apps and closures of prominent tourist attractions.

Overall London is doing its best to slow down the spread of COVID-19 while making sure tourists are still able to see everything there is to experience in this beautiful city without having to worry about their safety.

Visiting London post-pandemic will be an experience like no other and if done responsibly can be both an unforgettable experience as well as an act of responsible travel. As always it is important to do your research on which attractions are open and which attractions need prior booking before visiting them and it’s always best to stay updated on the UK Travel Advice here on the UK government website.

Hope this article has been helpful in answering your question – can I visit London after the coronavirus pandemic? And that this has given you some good insight into what measures need to be taken before planning a trip. Have a safe journey and an awesome trip!

An Insider’s Guide to Visiting London After the Coronavirus Pandemic

London, the capital of England, is a city of contrasts: modern and traditional, fast-paced and leisurely, brimming with history and innovation. As the world continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic, London eagerly awaits travelers’ return. When you’re ready, here’s an inside guide on what to see, do, and eat in London.

Local Attractions

London is home to some of the most famous attractions in the world. The city’s iconic landmarks are filled with a rich history and culture that makes every visit a unique experience. Here are some must-see attractions:

– The Tower of London: home to the Crown Jewels and one of the oldest tourist attractions in the city.
– The British Museum: display some of the most important artifacts in history.
– The London Eye: offers breathtaking views of the city from its 135-meter height.
– Buckingham Palace: the official residence of the monarch.
– Westminster Abbey: the coronation church of the British monarchy.
– Shakespeare Globe Theater: a reconstruction of the original 16th-century theater, where visitors can watch Shakespeare’s plays in their original setting.
– The Natural History Museum: has one of the world’s most significant collections of specimens, including over 80 million specimens and artifacts.
– The Tate Modern: a modern and contemporary art museum and one of the most popular art museums in London.

Dining Spots

From traditional pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants, London offers a vibrant culinary scene. Here are some must-try foodie spots:

– Dishoom: an Indian-inspired restaurant that serves delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes. Don’t skip the naan.
– Blacklock: a meat-centric restaurant that specializes in chops and steaks.
– Berber & Q: a Middle Eastern grill restaurant that offers small plates meant for sharing.
– Lina Stores: a traditional Italian restaurant famous for its homemade pasta.
– Hawksmoor: a steakhouse that focuses on quality cuts of meat cooked to perfection.
– Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese: a historic pub that has been around since the 17th century.
– Borough Market: a bustling food market that houses various food vendors.

Cultural Experiences

London is a city with culture written all over it. From street performers to world-renowned galleries, here are some cultural experiences that will make your trip that much more memorable:

– West End shows: a visit to London would be incomplete without seeing a show in the West End. London’s West End Theatre district produces some of the most incredible performances in the world.
– Street Performers: Various buskers around the city entertain pedestrians with their music and accordion shows. One of the best places to watch such performances is at Covent Garden.
– Camden Market: a hub of fashion, music, and street food, Camden Market offers an experience like no other.
– National Gallery: houses a collection of over 2,300 paintings from across Europe, ranging from the 13th to 19th century.
– British Film Institute (BFI): showcases the best of British and international cinema, including talks, exhibitions, and workshops.
– Harry Potter Studio Tour: where you can explore the sets, costumes, and props used in the Harry Potter movies.

Local History & Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

London’s history is almost as rich as the city itself. Here are some unique historical experiences and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that are worth exploring:

– Churchill War Rooms: preserved as they were at the end of the World War II, these underground rooms create an immersive experience of life during wartime.
– Thames Boat Trip: take a river cruise to learn about the city’s fascinating history and take in the breathtaking views from a different perspective.
– Highgate Cemetery: the final resting place of notable figures such as Karl Marx and George Eliot is as beautiful as it is eerie.
– Street Art: London has some of the best street art in the world. Take a stroll through Shoreditch and Brick Lane to see some examples.

Conclusion

London is a historical, cultural, and culinary gem that is worth visiting after the Coronavirus pandemic. With an abundance of local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, you’re sure to have a memorable vacation in London.