Everyone knows that the early bird catches the worm. But in a city as busy and bustling as London, said bird can catch a lot more if they fly the nest in good time. So we’ve partnered with LEON to inspire you with new ways to maximise your time before work. From bountiful markets and breathtaking views, to the best place for a delicious breakfast, these early morning activities are guaranteed to have you starting the working day with a spring in your step.
1. Wake up and smell the roses
As the supplier of three quarters of London’s florists, New Covent Garden Flower Market is arguably the beating heart of the capital’s botanicals. In this floral paradise you can find flowers, foliage, plants and more across twenty wholesalers. Depending on where you draw the line between ‘morning’ and ‘middle of the night’, you can start your shopping as early as 4am. And even if you’re window shopping, the sight and smell of those gorgeous blooms alone is more than enough to leave you feeling uplifted. Nine Elms Ln, Nine Elms SW8 5BH
Open 4am-10am Monday-Friday and 4am-9am on Saturday.
2. Find your zen at sunrise yoga
Getting up earlier for a morning yoga class is, without doubt, a fantastic way to boost your mood. But throw in a glowing sunrise, and you’ll be walking on air until bedtime. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or just starting out, Sky Garden’s sunrise yoga classes are suitable for all. What’s more, classes take place on the 35th floor, so you’ll be surrounded by luscious greenery, soaking in the London skyline. Now, that’s starting the day on a high. 1, Sky Garden Walk EC3M 8AF
Open Tuesday and Wednesday at 7am or Saturday and Sunday 8am.
3. Grab a nutritious breakfast
All early morning activities should be fuelled with some sustenance, and when it’s time for yours, there’s only one place for it. The LEON breakfast menu has an abundance of freshly made options that’ll set you up for the day perfectly. From the Smashed Avocado and Halloumi Muffin to Ruby Red Porridge, there’s a mouth watering option for every mood. Grab a LEON coffee alongside, and you can enjoy breakfast knowing you’ve helped to preserve the rainforest in Western Peru – all in a morning’s work. Various locations
Opening hours dependant on location, LEON breakfast menu served until 11am.
4. Savour every bite a-top St Paul’s Cathedral
If yours is a brekkie to-go, why not enjoy it whilst admiring a gorgeous view? Towering at a whopping 366 ft high, St Paul’s Cathedral boasts one of the world’s biggest domes. You may have to climb several hundred stairs to reach them, but the panoramic vistas you’ll find at the top are guaranteed to elevate any LEON breakfast. St. Paul’s Churchyard EC4M 8AD
Open 8.30am-4.30pm Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat, 10am-4.30pm Weds and 8am-6pm Sun.
5. Have a browse in Brixton Village Market
Those who have experienced the thrill of any early morning market venture can vouch for the unmatched levels of satisfaction it provides. Open since the 1960s, Brixton Village Market is brimming with local independent traders for you to peruse. Whether you’re hunting for fabrics, jewellery or just fancy a browse, this vibrant arcade is a wonderful place for a morning mooch. Unit 74 Coldharbour Ln. SW9 8PS
Open 6am-8pm daily.
6. Take a cold water dip
Ask any regular cold water swimmer about its benefits, and they’ll wax lyrical for the next ten minutes (with good reason). Aside from starting your morning with a tidal wave of endorphins, it’s also reported to have an attractive selection of health benefits. But even the most fearless of swimmers know that short and sweet is the best approach here, making it one of the most perfect early morning activities. There are plenty of places to enjoy a bracing dip in London. But Hampstead Heath Ponds and Brockwell Lido are great options for brisker temperatures and year-round availability.
Hampstead Heath Ponds is open 7am-5.15pm daily
Brockwell Lido is open 6.30am-9pm Monday-Thursday, 6.30am-7pm Friday and 7.30am-6.30pm Saturday and Sunday.