A panoramic view of modernized London from the Wagtail Rooftop Bar. Seen here is The Shard (r) and Canary Wharf(l). (All Photos: Vansh A. Gupta/Siliconeer)

The list of tourist spots is endless in the London tourism bucket. Vansh Gupta shares the contemporary setting of London within the otherwise timeless city.

Situated in Holborn and a stone’s throw away from Covent Garden, the modernity of London was juxtaposed against the timeless tapestry of Victorian London. One side was oozing with skyscrapers and glass windows, the other consisted of cobblestone roads and elegant architecture. Both areas are brimmed with boutique shops and restaurants.

This is the vibe throughout all of London, whether it is St. Paul’s, the City of London, or the nightlife area of Piccadilly. Our focus will be on the modern side of London.

Working the way Southeast from Holborn, the areas of St Paul’s, the City of London, Bank, and Canary Wharf showcase modern-day London. Bustling financial districts, glass storefronts, skyscrapers, modern eateries, and rooftop bars litter these boroughs of London.

The historic St. Paul’s Cathedral is surrounded by modern architecture. South of the Cathedral is the infamous Millennium Bridge. Known for its architectural prowess, the bridge overlooks the River Thames, St. Paul’s, and Tate Modern depending on where your head turns.

Roasted Cod at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen - St. Paul’s
Roasted Cod at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen – St. Paul’s

St. Paul’s is home to two of Gordon Ramsay’s eateries: Bread Street Kitchen and Street Pizza. The eateries are surrounded by multiple stores and activities for locals – Mini golfing or Barcade anyone? Anyway, as much as I want to harp my experience at Bread Street Kitchen, I think London has plenty of delectable eateries that feed you happily at a smaller dent to the wallet.

Follow along on Cannon Street and eventually ‘City of London’ props up. My first stop was Wagtail Rooftop Bar. Open till midnight, the rooftop bar provided a trailer view of what’s to come. I treated myself to an old-fashioned while setting my sights on The Shard and Canary Wharf. 

A glass of pinot overlooking the city of London at The Shard.
A glass of pinot overlooking the city of London at The Shard.

Actual City of London hosts many known tourist attractions: The Shard, Sky Garden, Borough Market, and “London Bridge,” to name a few. Sky Garden, although I couldn’t go, many raved about the majestic view and the bar. I ended up going to The Shard and I think that fared better. 

Crossing the London Bridge and to the left lays The Shard. On the right lies Borough Market.  The Shard is the tallest tower in the UK, and it overlooks all of London. With a panoramic view of the magnificent city and a bar serving smooth European wines, I was on Cloud Nine. 

Craving a bite? Borough Market is the perfect spot to peruse food options. One of the largest food markets in London, the aromas drive one insane with indecisiveness. 

Blazing eastward, the Tower Bridge and Tower of London come into sight. This is the most beautiful bridge to be seen during the day or the night.

Tandoori Chicken Chop at Gunpowder Restaurant near Tower Bridge.
Tandoori Chicken Chop at Gunpowder Restaurant near Tower Bridge.
A night time shot of Tower Bridge located closer to the eastern side of London City
A night time shot of Tower Bridge located closer to the eastern side of London City

At this point, a choice arises. Take the Underground towards London’s bustling financial district or take an Uber boat through the Thames. James Bond at heart? There are speedboat tours available as well.

Canary Wharf can be seen as the urban face of London. It’s a bustling business district surrounded by water, modern living, new restaurants, and yachts. Yes, yachts. Canary Wharf gave me hints of San Francisco snob. Being at the east end of London, Canary Wharf tends to be concealed for many tourists. It’s more of an escape for city locals.

Chicken Tikka Naan at Chai Ki - Canary Wharf
Chicken Tikka Naan at Chai Ki – Canary Wharf

These activities can take place in any order. My recommendation for this ‘Modern London’ tour would be to start in St. Paul’s and work your way east. I would go to the Borough Market around lunchtime to grab a bite. Then, I would make my way to Canary Wharf with a boat. Stroll around Canary Wharf and get a whiff of the money flowing around. There are plenty of amazing dinner options in Canary Wharf. Finally, I would head to the Tower Bridge and walk over to The Shard for a glass of wine over the view of London.

The next adventure will unfold in our next print issue. Stay tuned for my two months in the UK. Cheers!