There’s something about Easter holidays which make them so great. Perhaps it’s because it lasts longer than just one day like Christmas. Or maybe it’s because there’s just so much chocolate to enjoy, they have been in the shops since the Christmas period finished after all. The best way to begin is to find some hotels near Osterly tube station and then you’ll be in a great position to explore what London has to offer for Easter this year.
Begin with chocolate
Despite what everybody says about Easter, there’s no denying that chocolate plays a pivotal role in it. When you come to London, you don’t have to settle for your average supermarket chocolate eggs either, there are lots of chocolate shops that are just as unique as the Park Grand Hotel Heathrow. For instance, Fortnum & Mason have a luxurious Easter Chocolate Egg Bar situated in its front window on most Easters. So if you plan on taking something back to your hotel, then you should explore the shop and treat yourself to a hamper you’ll never forget. Home to some of the finest chocolatiers in the world, there are many more places for you to explore and indulge your taste buds. Charbonnel et Walker is one of the oldest chocolatiers in the country, having been founded in 1875. It even holds a Royal Warrant from the Queen so if it’s a must-see place if you want to enjoy royal-inspired truffles! Another great place to head to is Artisan du Chocolat, founded by Gerard Coleman who specialises in Belgain chocolate. With various stores in West London, his signature O’s are popular to everyone who comes to visit London. Alternatively you can create your own Easter chocolate at the Selfridges concession.
Then move on to afternoon tea
Afternoon tea is quintessentially British. It’s something that everybody loves to try, whether it’s tourists flying in from abroad or people born and bred in the UK. Afternoon tea is a treat. And it’s something that’s particularly enjoyable around Easter time when cafes and restaurants are exploring different menus and holding special offers. Visitors who fly in and search for accommodations near Heathrow Airport all look to make the journey via the underground and try out various afternoon tea places. And why wouldn’t they? In itself, afternoon tea is a culinary delight, with a range of sandwiches, cakes and coffee and tea and it can be enjoyed in many places. But this is London. So you could have your afternoon tea high up in the Shard, taking in the views of London. Or you could splash out and go to the Harrods Tea Room for a real high end experience. There are also different types of afternoon tea, from champagne afternoon teas to specific Easter ones. There are even experiences such as ‘make your own afternoon tea’ where you can create the meal from scratch. Before you sit down and enjoy it of course.
Explore Easter experiences
This year the Easter period falls on 10 April, when Good Friday begins. But it doesn’t just end on Easter Sunday, especially with the school holidays kicking in too. Good news, there are loads of things to do in London this Easter, and lots for the whole family to enjoy. So whether you’re looking for special Heathrow hotel deals to stay in the capital, or planning on commuting in, there’s something for everyone. You can get started on Good Friday by taking in a performance of the Passion of Jesus in Trafalgar Square. It’s an epic theatrical experience, with over 100 performers and even better, it’s completely free. There are also other weekend services should you wish to attend. The ones held in the iconic London churches and cathedrals, such as Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral or Southwark Cathedral are always popular so make sure you get there early if you plan on visiting them.
One thing that’s synonymous nowadays with Easter is the Easter Egg hunt and you can find them in abundance in London. The Bank of England Museum in Threadneedle Street is holding an ‘Easter eggs-pedition’, free for all the family. THough it’s worth noting that it’s actually closed on the bank holidays (Good Friday to Easter Sunday – 10 to 13 April) but is open from Monday 6 April to Friday 17 April otherwise. There’s a fun trail to follow around the museum and if you complete it, you’ll win a small prize! If you want a more royal-inspired egg hunt, there’s the annual Easter extravaganza at the Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace on Saturday 11 April. Traverse the trail, win a choccie and take part in some arts and crafts activities. We’d also recommend Shoreditch Town Hall’s egg hunt, open over the bank holiday weekend, as well as many other hunts in London’s parks. More details will be available on them the closer we get to Easter, so keep your eyes peeled.
Don’t forget about the animals
It’s not all about chocolate. The fluffy ducks and cute rabbits are also essential to any good Easter experience. And London has plenty to offer. Just check out London City Farm or Battersea Park Children’s Zoo to get up close and personal with the animals. Obviously there will be more than ducks and rabbits, with various farmlife to see and possibly interact with too! Then there’s London Zoo in North London which is always popular to visit and if you book early you might be able to get some special discounts over the Easter period.
Use your time wisely
Once you’ve found somewhere to stay, there’s plenty to see and do in London over the Easter period. With school holidays in flow, it’s good to book in advance for any tourist attractions you might head to. But don’t worry, you’ll always find something to do. Whether it’s taking crafty kids to the Burgh House & Hampstead Museum or exploring Cutty Sark in Greenwich or beating the clock in the treasure hunt at the Victoria & Albert Museum – you won’t run out of things to do! Enjoy yourself…and don’t forget to treat yourself to some chocolate too.
