Native Places

Native Aparthotels & Apartments In London

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London city break

Where to Cool Down in London

Hamstead Heath Swimming Ponds

A beauty spot for London and a life saver for cooling off. Originally dammed off clay pits, the three pools are open to women, men and mixed groups. Even in the height of summer, the water is still chilly so you’re guaranteed a refreshing dip.

London Fields Lido

Located in the heart of hipster central, Hackney, London Fields can get busy but it’s worth a visit. Unlike the Swimming Ponds, the lido is heated – it might not be as cool but there’ll be no shock to the system and you can enjoy it on cooler days too.

Tooting Bec Lido

This is lido is nothing short of fantastic. It’s over 100 years old and spans 90 metres of water. The beauty of this spot is that even on sunny days, with lots of people poolside, there’s still always plenty of room to swim.

Serpentine Lido – Hyde Park

Perfect for a solo cool off, couples, families, you name it. It’s open from 10am until 6pm, with a sun terrace and sun bathing area for catching rays too. The Serpentine is a natural, no chlorine, no heat spot and the water is checked weekly to ensure quality. There’s also a separate heated, chlorinated kids pool too.

The Berkeley Hotel

If lidos aren’t your thing, The Berkeley is the place for you. Its stunning rooftop pool is available to non hotel guests for a daily fee and it’s truly a refreshing gem on a hot summer’s day. The seventh floor pool is what tranquil dreams are made of and it even boasts panoramic views of London too. You can also enjoy the secret garden, where sun loungers are among green leaves and fragrant flowers.

The Best Free Views in London

Here’s our pick of the best London views.

Primrose Hill

Once you see the panoramic views of London from the top of Primrose Hill, you’ll forget about the hustle and bustle of city life. Initially, climbing to the top of a hill might not sound like your idea of fun, or a holiday, but we absolutely back this one and guarantee it’ll be worth it. Afterwards, take a stroll around pretty Primrose Hill and enjoy the surrounding streets.

Sky Garden

The real deal. Enjoy spectacular views of London from the capitals highest garden. It’s free to go up, you must just book a ticket first. There are two destination bars and two restaurants up there, so you can make a good day of it. It could be difficult tearing yourself away from the three stories of 360 degree views though…

The Monument

Built to commemorate the Great Fire of London, this beauty is one of London’s loved attractions and you’ll see why. Climb 311 steps for panoramic views of the city and learn a bit about London’s fascinating history too. Tickets are £4.50 per adult. You can stay in our aparthotel just nearby; Native Cannon Street too.

One Tree Hill – Honor Oak

A hilly, diverse beauty spot with great history and amazing views. Rising to about 300 feet, you’ll see why the views from here are out of this world (or London). It’s home to what was the world’s largest underground reservoir when it was finished in 1909 and is still the largest in Europe today.

Tate Modern

When contemporary art and beautiful views collide. A visit to Tate Modern is well worth a visit anyway but we can assure you it’s way more than just a gallery. Behold breathtaking 360 degree views of the London skyline from high above the River Thames. Access is free and you can enjoy drinks and snacks while you’re up there too.

Alexandra Palace (Ally Pally)

Alexandra Palace is an iconic London spot with some of the best panoramic views of the city. Ally Pally, as it’s lovingly known, has a history of incredible milestones, after first opening in 1863. Alexandra Park is beautiful and boasts even more beautiful views.

Guide to London’s Street Markets

Portobello Road

It’s been here since the 1800s and is one of the oldest markets in London. It’s in full swing on Saturdays but you can soak up the amazing atmosphere there any day from Monday – Saturday. It’s famous for antiques but now you find handmade items, food, vintage clothes and bric-a-brac.

Opening times:
Monday – Wednesday: 09:00 – 18:00
Thursday: 09:00 – 13:00
Friday & Saturday: 09:00 – 19:00

Camden

Camden is the place to be. With over 100 stalls and shops, you’ll be spoilt for choice perusing here. You can find cool one-offs, designer clothes, workshops, pieces of art and furnishings, alongside good bars, cafés and restaurants too.

Opening times:
Camden Lock is open seven days a week, every day, apart from Christmas Day

Old Spitalfields Market

Explore this brilliant covered market in East London. You’ll find a bit of everything, from smaller boutiques and handmade clothes, to designer brands and cutting edge fashion. It’s brilliant for jewellery, artwork and food too. Thursday is antique day, on Friday’s you’ll spot the best clothes and art, while weekends have a bit of everything.

Opening times:
Restaurants open daily – hours vary.
Shops open daily – hours varying but generally 11.00 – 19.00

Brick Lane

The best spot to find both junk and gems. What true street markets are all about right? This East London street market spreads across several streets and is perfect for picking up bric-a-brac, vintage clothes, second hand furniture, shoes and one-off finds. You can also find a colour selection of exotic spices and beautiful saris.

Opening times:
Sundays, 10am-5pm

Borough Market

A foodies paradise. For any food lover, there really is no better spot. It’s near London Bridge and is full to the brim of fresh and organic produce, baked treats and street food. You’ll find every cheese worth tasting and more bread than you can shake a French stick at. Try amazing seafood, salt beef bagels and dreamy street food. There’s lots of bars and restaurants and aparthotels in the surrounding area too.

Opening times:
Open for lunch:
Monday – Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Full Market:
Wednesday – Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
Saturday: 08:00 – 17:00
Sunday: closed

Columbia Road Flowers

The clue is in the name but this really is a must see for any flower lover, or just anyone appreciating things of fine beauty and scents. It’s a must visit for super fragrant blooms and colourful displays. You can pick up plants, bulbs, shrubs, trees and gorgeous cut flowers.

Opening times:
Sunday 08:00 – 15:00

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay whilst exploring the city’s intriguing markets, search our holiday apartments in London, which make the perfect base for a weekend away.