Summer is all about taking the time to do what makes you happy. Whether that’s exploring the capital’s phenomenal restaurant scene, treating yourself to some well-deserved retail therapy, or spending an afternoon in one of London’s beautiful parks.
You can find all of this and so much more in Regent Street and St James’s. Found in the heart of London, these iconic neighbourhoods are brimming with outstanding restaurants, world-class flagship stores and galleries, and stunning green spaces. Not to mention the gorgeous architecture!
Whether you’re catching up with friends or indulging in some ‘you time’, Regent Street and St James’s offer a perfect spot for every occasion. Keep reading for some inspiration on your ideal summer outing…
Start the day with a healthy endorphin hit
Nothing beats that endorphin rush after an early morning work out. And you can hop on the early-bird band wagon with a class at Regent Street’s Psycle. Ease yourself in with a 15 minute ‘Wake Up Stretch’ or get the blood pumping with a ‘Deep Burn’ Barre session. You’ll feel great after, we promise!
And why not kit yourself out beforehand with some super-stylish activewear from Fabletics? Pop into their UK flagship on Regent Street and browse their incredible range.
Replenish your energy with a nutritious breakfast
Many are of the belief that breakfast is king, and Regent Street is full of lovely spots to enjoy your first meal of the day. Using fresh, seasonal produce to create brunch classics with an Aussie twist, Ziggy Green is a Heddon Street favourite. You can even level-up with free-flowing bubbles! Or for a special occasion, visit The Wolseley in St James’s for wonderfully elegant takes on British breakfast classics.
Indulge in some retail therapy
Every fashionista’s heaven, Regent Street is the holy grail when it comes to shopping. Home to flagship stores of some of the world’s biggest brands like Burberry and Mulberry, it’s the perfect place to treat yourself. Shop ‘til you drop in the likes of Liberty, Theory, Beyond Retro and many, many more.
Tap into Regent Street’s exceptional restaurant scene
Worked up an appetite after some successful shopping? Take a break and enjoy lunch in one of Regent Street’s world-renowned restaurants. Visit Brasserie Zédel, serving up sophisticated French fare in an art deco setting or indulge in contemporary Japanese dishes and cocktails at Aqua Kyoto. Then round off your meal with a cheeky tipple at The Starman. For a truly unforgettable dining experience, book a table at Michelin-starred Spanish restaurant Sabor.
Take a leisurely walk in nearby parks
Make the most of the summer sunshine in one of St James’s beautiful garden squares or stunning St James’s Park. Just a stone’s throw away from both neighbourhoods, this 23-hectare green oasis is surrounded by historic and working Royal palaces, St James’s Palace and Buckingham Palace. Whether you’re enjoying a stroll or settling down by the lake with the book, it’s the perfect place to find a moment of zen.
Explore fascinating exhibitions in St James’s art galleries
Immerse yourself in St James’s rich cultural history and visit an exhibition in one of its many galleries. Explore the Institute of Contemporary Arts, showcasing avante-garde exhibitions and performances across cinema, theatre, art and more. Or discover the neighbourhood’s secrets in a three-dimensional interactive exhibit in the St James’s Market Pavilion. Until July 31 you can also visit an enthralling photo installation by Jennifer Abessira, commemorating the pivotal historical moment of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Pick up some special gifts
With an unparalleled reputation for quality and expertise, St James’s is the perfect place to find inspiration for a special gift, or to treat yourself of course! Pop into Princes Arcade, home to world famous Prestat chocolates, before browsing independent boutiques such as Luca Faloni, Emma Willis and Harvie Hudson. Or discover top of the range leather goods from Aspinal of London. And where better to find some irresistible treats for your cupboard than in the matchless department store, Fortnum & Mason?
Enjoy a show stopping dinner in London’s West End
Round off your day of impeccable dining in one of St James’s fantastic restaurants. Serving up the best in world cuisine, you are sure to find a mouth-watering meal to satisfy any craving. Visit Angela Hartnett’s Cafe Murano for classic Northern Italian fare or visit Papa L’s Kitchen for a fresh, exciting take on fusion African food.