Are you planning a trip to London and want to explore the city while minimizing your carbon footprint? In this guide, I will cover all major points about sustainable travel in London: green accommodations, ethical dining choices, green spaces and activities, and sustainable ways to get around London. In addition, I will share a 2-day itinerary for your sustainable trip to London.
- Sustainable Transportation Options in London
- Sustainable Accommodations
- Ethical Dining
- Explore Green Spaces
- A 2-day itinerary to London, UK
Sustainable Transportation Options in London
London has a vast, sustainable transportation system, so you can easily reach any destination within the city in one of its trains or buses. Cycling and walking can be a great alternative to public transport in London, allowing you to combine sightseeing, working out, and caring for the environment.
The section below explores eco-friendly ways to get around in Britain’s capital without breaking the bank in more detail.
Public Transport
London boasts an extensive public transport network, including the London Underground, buses, trams, and overground trains. If you want to travel fast or reach outer London, consider using an underground train to avoid congestion.
One of the best ways to navigate the city, in my experience, is by hopping on one of its famous double-decker red buses. The ride would cost you less than 2 euros and allow you to enjoy views of the city. It’s also a great way to explore the city when you have limited time but want to see all the major sights and get a feeling of the city.
Consider trying the Oyster card system to conveniently use public transport if you plan to do it more than once. Contactless payment also helps minimize paper waste and is leading the way in sustainable travel.
Cycling
Cycling is an eco-friendly mode of transportation that cares for the environment and allows you to better explore the area. Cycling in London is easy, as there are many cycle lanes available. It is also quite affordable, for example, with Santander Cycles, you will only pay about 3-4 euros for a 30-minute ride.
Walking
London is a pedestrian-friendly city with numerous parks, green spaces, and picturesque neighborhoods waiting to be explored on foot. Walking might be the most eco-friendly way to explore the area, and it helps you to increase your physical activity in a fun way.
Sustainable Accommodations
There are more and more hotels, hostels, and eco-lodges that allow guests to reduce air pollution and their carbon emissions through the use of renewable energy and other sustainable practices.
Eco-Friendly Hotels
Look for accommodations that prioritize sustainability initiatives such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water conservation.
Look for certifications, such as Green Tourism Certification, Green Key, Green Globe, GSTC, and more. Getting such a label usually requires adhering to strict environmental practices and ensures the hotel is truly an eco-friendly option for your stay.
Hostels and Guesthouses
Consider staying in a hostel or guesthouse that is committed to sustainability. These accommodations are cheaper and provide some kind of community for your stay.
Alternative Lodging
Explore alternative lodging options such as eco-lodges, homestays, or eco-conscious bed and breakfasts. For example, you can explore home stays on Airbnb and make a new friend if you get along well with your host.
Ethical Dining
To travel more sustainably, explore restaurants that source products locally and implement green initiatives in their business operations. Below are just a few examples how to find such places.
Farm-to-Table Restaurants
These restaurants source products directly from nearby farms, reducing the need for transportation and carbon emissions in the environment. Organic products are also fresher than ones from the supermarket, taste better, and are generally healthier.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Consider dining at vegetarian or vegan restaurants that focus on plant-based cuisine if you haven’t yet.
Explore Green Spaces
London offers a range of parks and spaces to escape from the crowds. It can be a great idea to meet with local people in a park or just relax after sightseeing.
Royal Parks
Take advantage of London’s lush green spaces, including the famous Royal Parks such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Greenwich Park. Some of them are so big that at some point, you only see greenery and might even forget you’re in one of the world’s busiest cities.
Community Gardens
Discover London’s vibrant community garden scene, where locals come together to cultivate plants, grow organic produce, and be part of a bigger community. Join a guided tour or volunteer for a gardening project to connect with nature and support urban sustainability efforts.
Botanical Gardens
Another great idea is to visit botanical gardens such as Kew Gardens or Chelsea Physic Garden. These botanical havens showcase diverse plant species from around the world and promote conservation and environmental education.
By incorporating these sustainable practices into your travel itinerary, you can experience the best of London while minimizing your environmental footprint and supporting eco-conscious businesses. Let’s explore London together, responsibly and sustainably!
A 2-day itinerary to London, UK
Below is a 2-day sustainable itinerary to explore London’s sights, parks, and cuisine. You can learn about the city’s hidden gems and get some hands-on travel tips from the local on the Londonaire blog.
Day 1: Exploring London’s Green Spaces and Markets
Morning
Hyde Park Walk: Begin your day with a refreshing stroll through Hyde Park. Contemplate the tranquil beauty of the park’s meadows, lakes, and iconic landmarks.
Locally Roasted Coffee: Fuel up with a cup of coffee from a local roastery. Savor the aroma and flavor of sustainably sourced beans while supporting independent coffee producers.
Midday
Natural History Museum: Discover the wonders of the Natural History Museum. You will learn about the diversity of life on Earth and conservation efforts to protect our planet for future generations.
(Photo by Claudio Testa on Unsplash)
Borough Market: Head to Borough Market for a gourmet lunch. You will find cuisines from all over the world, hidden just below one of the city bridges, on the riverside. You can sample artisanal and organic produce from local farmers and discover the city’s diverse cultural scene.
Afternoon
High-Speed Boat Tour: Embark on a thrilling high-speed boat tour along the River Thames. Feel the wind in your hair as you glide past iconic landmarks, bridges, and historic sites, all while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline.
Evening
Riverbank Sunset Walk: Wind down your day with a leisurely stroll along the riverbank at sunset. Marvel at the golden hues illuminating the water and skyline as you soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the Thames.
Live Music Pub: Conclude your evening at a cozy pub with live music. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, local brews, and toe-tapping tunes as you mingle with fellow travelers and locals alike.
Day 2: Cultural Excursions and Iconic Landmarks
Morning
English Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty English breakfast at a local cafe or restaurant. A classical breakfast includes eggs, bacon, sausages, and baked beans.
Buckingham Palace and National Gallery: Explore the regal surroundings of Buckingham Palace before immersing yourself in the National Gallery. Admire masterpieces by renowned artists from around the world.
Organic Lunch: Refuel with a delicious organic lunch at a nearby restaurant. Choose from a selection of seasonal dishes made with locally sourced, organic ingredients, and savor the flavors of sustainable cuisine.
Walking Tour: Embark on a themed walking tour, such as the Harry Potter Tour, to uncover the magic and mysteries of London’s storied streets. Follow in the footsteps of your favorite characters as you visit filming locations and iconic landmarks from the beloved series. Most tours start from the Palace Theatre and include Platform 9 3/4. You can also buy peculiar accessories at one of several Harry Potter stores.
London Eye: Conclude your day with a bird’s-eye view of the city from the London Eye. Step into one of the iconic glass capsules and ascend to the top for panoramic vistas of London’s skyline, landmarks, and winding river below.
This two-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, culinary delights, and outdoor adventures, allowing you to experience the best of London while staying true to your commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious travel. Enjoy your green journey through this dynamic and vibrant city!
You can also download the itinerary as a PDF file.
My Green Trips 
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