How To Be a Culture Seeker in London

Venture into Hyde Park to find this leading contemporary art gallery. Spread between two buildings less than five minutes’ walk from each other, the Serpentine Gallery has been putting on thought-provoking exhibitions of new and established artists since opening in 1970. As well as organising great shows throughout the year, each summer it commissions a designer or architect to create a large pavilion to sit in its grounds and be enjoyed by the public.

This contemporary art oasis in an ex-Victorian furniture factory sits quietly behind the bustle of Old Street roundabout. Representing heavyweight artists including Yayoi Kusama, Grayson Perry, Chris Ofili, Doug Aitken, Conrad Shawcross and many more, the exhibitions here are always worth a look. Discover work from emerging artists or new stuff from the big names and be sure to pay a visit to their tranquil garden out the back.

After soaking up the cultural sights of the city, enjoy a stylish and creative hotel. Effortlessly edgy, The Curtain slots perfectly into its artistic Shoreditch surroundings with its warehouse design, exposed brick walls and custom artwork by Mick Rock. Try its range of bars and tempting food, then relax in the marble bathrooms and supremely comfy kingsize beds. More surprises await in the basement: a members’ club, screening room, 24-hour gym and a spa that operates a pop-up-style rotation of the newest pampering treatments. For a mid-range option, The Queen’s Gate Hotel, with its intimate and elegant atmosphere and Kensington location, makes a great choice. If exploring London on a budget, the Holiday Inn London Kensington High Street is a good place from which to discover the sights.