The Bank-Monument Station is one big interchange which connects the lines like Central, Circle, District, Northern, Waterloo and City, and DLR. Therefore often known to the locals as the most horrible tube station in London with maze-like levels and platforms. Hence, the Bank-Monument Station is definitely one to avoid during rush hour – we reached here after 10 am. While the underground is chaotic, above it are some of the nicest architectural buildings around.
The classic examples would be Mansion House, a government office, and Royal Exchange being an upscale shopping mall.
And for something modern would be Lloyd’s of London, the Gherkin and Leadenhall Building (it was under construction when I was there). Their unique design definitely stands out against other office buildings.
The Fryer’s Delight
The Fryer’s Delight is a well-known fish and chips place in Holborn according to my research, amid garnering a rather mixed review. What better way to find out than trying it then? The tastiest fish & chips in town read the signboard and I certainly hope so. The dated interior with Formica-topped tables and old-school menu up on the wall has a genuine retro feel.
As for the taste of this classic British fare at The Fryer’s Delight, I personally find it to be rather bland and not to my liking. Perhaps I am too used to the taste of Fish & Chips served at those western food stalls back home…
Oxford Street shopping
Next up is to check out London’s major shopping streets. Oxford Street is often considered as the busiest street with major department stores like Selfridges, John Lewis, Primark etc. Not forgetting numerous flagship stores of major brands as well as many smaller shops. The wide ranges of choice from local to international designers are amazing. The shops on Oxford Street are geared to lighten any shoppers’ wallet. Hence, keep a sane mind when shopping around here ya!
If that is not enough, the upmarket Bond Street is not too far walk away. Here‘s where all the prestigious high-end brands congregate, catering to deep wallets and extravagant tastes.
Dinner at Ponti’s Italian Kitchen
After what seems like an eternity waiting for wifey and her shopping, it is finally time for dinner, and Italian it will be. Literally a stone’s throw from Oxford Circus station, this modern family-run restaurant serves some great Italian food, like the wonderful pasta we had.
Piccadilly Circus and Chinatown
Thereafter, we made our way to Piccadilly Circus, one of the famous sites in London. And there is no performing circus anywhere nearby too. The word ‘circus’ is being used in reference to the Latin Circle if anybody is puzzled by its name. It is more of a street junction with bright illuminated advertisements. But the whole place is bustling with traffic, pedestrians, and tourists alike. The somewhat chaotic scene is perhaps the reason for a local phrase, “It’s like Piccadilly Circusâ€.
We went on to check out London’s buzzing Chinatown and the happening Leicester Square before it started to pour like crazy. So we decided to head back to the hotel and conclude the last night in London.
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What are your thoughts on Oxford Street shopping and Piccadilly Circus? Leave a comment and share it with me.
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