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Fantasy, history and shopping in London
When visiting London for the first time, the mandatory sights would be places like Tower of London, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Oxford Street, the British Museum and London Eye, among others. But there’s really so much more to the energetic city; during a familiarization tour facilitated by Visit Britain, media members had a chance to explore beyond the expected stops.
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Bond Street is brightly lit for Christmas. Some of the best shopping can be had here.
(The Star/Patsy Kam)
When visiting London for the first time, the mandatory sights would be places like Tower of London, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Oxford Street, the British Museum and London Eye, among others.
But there’s really so much more to the energetic city; during a familiarization tour facilitated by Visit Britain, media members had a chance to explore beyond the expected stops.
Warner Bros studio tour – The making of Harry Potter
A little late into the Harry Potter mania, I must say a quick trip to WB certainly cured me of that. And even if you’re not into Hogwarts, if you’ve any remote interest in film-making, then you’ll be bowled over by the magic of Harry Potter movies.
Visitors get to see the Great Hall, built for Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone, and marvel at the detail and scale that went into every one of the eight movies, as well as other attractions such as Dumbledore’s office, Ministry of Magic, Diagon Alley and Gryffindor common room, not to mention the sets, props, costumes, animatronic, special effects and the entire paraphernalia that is behind the scenes of Harry Potter.
The films were shot at Leavesden, but they now have a permanent and authentic home at WB.
The tour weaves through the aforementioned sections as well as gives visitors a chance to immerse themselves in some movie magic via the green screen area, Hogwarts Express locomotive, the iconic Hogwarts bridge and Knight Bus.
It’s a little hard to fathom all the incredible work and craftsmanship that’s involved unless you actually see (and touch) the sets and props. For example, the work done on Hogwarts castle is equivalent to 74 years if you add up all the man hours! And while you’re there, be sure to drink a mug of Butterbeer, or two. The taste of the (non-alcoholic) beverage is quite surprising and yummy!
From now until Jan 29 next year, the sets are Christmas-themed and there will be special “Hogwarts in the Snow” programs and events, including “falling snow”. Tickets to WB must be booked in advance as it’s not available for purchase on site.
ArcelorMittal Orbit
Love it or hate it, the ArcelorMittal Orbit is here to stay as plans are underway to build large-scale development projects around the area surrounding Westfield Stadium (formerly the Olympic Stadium) and the landmark. The West Ham United football club won the bid to move into the stadium after the 2012 Games. As it is, the neighboring Westfield London shopping center already attracts a steady flow of shoppers.
Created by award-winning British-Indian sculptor Anish Kapoor in collaboration with Sri Lankan-British designer and artist Cecil Balmond, the ArcelorMittal Orbit was a result of a conversation between London’s Mayor and Lakshmi Mittal, chairman and CEO of the world’s largest steel company.
What began as a vision for “something extra” for the Olympic Park is today Britain’s largest piece of public art, at 114.5m high. Built from 2,000 tonnes of steel, of which 60% is recycled, the structure has two observation platforms – at the 76m and 80m levels, and on a clear day, you can see up to 32km away for an amazing view of London’s horizon.
It also hosts the world’s longest tunnel slide at 178m, and while it’s only a 35-second ride, it may be the longest few seconds in your life. I’m proud that I’ve earned bragging rights, though it felt like suicide then.
There are two other ways to go down besides the lift and slide – you can either walk down the 455 steps or the thrill-seeker can try abseiling. Separate tickets are available for entry to ArcelorMittal Orbit and the slide.
(Read also: Natural sites in Edinburgh that you shouldn't miss)
Warwick Castle
Few can resist the charm and enchantment of a medieval castle, especially children. When in London, it’s that easy to drop by the ancient Warwick Castle in Warwick – a drive about an hour and a half from the city center – which has all the rich history, captivating stories and opulence to enthrall you.
Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, part of the east side was eroded by River Avon which runs below the castle, but most of it is still intact or has been restored.
Henry de Beaumont, the son of a powerful Norman family, was appointed by William to be the constable of the castle, but through the centuries and various battles, the castle changed hands numerous times.
Today, Warwick Castle has been bought over by an entertainment company and garnered accolades such as one of Britain’s “Top 10 historic houses and monuments” and “Britain’s Best Castle”.
Not to be missed here is the Great Hall and State Rooms, massive armory collection, ostentatious interiors, Time Tower, dungeon and adventure maze.
Shopping in London
Some of the best shopping can be had at Regent Street, Bond Street and Knightsbridge. But if you’re looking for bargains and quaint stores, there are plenty of eclectic stalls and stores at Covent Garden, Camden Town and Portobello Road Market as well.
For fashion and lifestyle brands that are a little more upmarket or unique concept stores, Carnaby Street offers 150 international and British labels, independent boutiques and bespoke jewellery specialists along 13 streets. Not to mention there are over 60 F&B outlets, hip cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs around the area where you can satiate your hunger pangs.
The pedestrian-friendly shopping district is home to well-known British brands such as Ben Sherman, Paul Smith Soho and Baracuta as well as young and upcoming names like Urban Decay, True Religion and Scalpers. Within the three-storey food and dining heart, Kingly Court itself has 21 British and international F&B outlets set up around an open air courtyard.
That’s not all, there are pop-up shops, events and even live performances from time to time. Carnaby Street is five minutes away from Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus Tube stations on foot, and great for a visit to get the vibes there even if you’re not buying.
Serious shoppers might prefer to head out to Bicester Village, 45 minutes out of London, where some 130 boutiques boast savings of up to 60% or more off retail prices. An entire “village” dedicated to luxury, the five-star experience includes services such as Hands Free Shopping, Personal Shopper, Tax Refund, Luggage Drop and even Frequent Flyer Rewards.
Expect to find quintessential British brands such as Mulberry, Burberry and Clarks as well as international designers like Jimmy Choo and Marc Jacobs.
One last thing: when in London, surely you must stop for tea! Afternoon Pret-a-Portea at The Berkeley is divine, as the cakes are inspired by the fashion runway and designers. The collection for Autumn/Winter 2016/17 showcases the greatest hits from the past by Chef Mourad Khiat, with designer Jason Wu’s shocking pink skirt created as a cherry compote taking center stage.
This article appeared on The Star newspaper website, which is a member of Asia News Network and a media partner of The Jakarta Post
