4 Days, 3 Nights, and So Many Memories

Spring Break gave us just enough time to do something we love most—travel together. Kyle, Colin, and I packed our bags and headed to London for a 3-night, 4-day whirlwind trip that somehow felt both full and unrushed. It was one of those itineraries where every day held something iconic, yet there was still space to soak it all in as a family.

Here’s how our London adventure unfolded.

Where We Stayed: London Marriott Hotel County Hall

Our home base could not have been more perfect. We stayed in an Executive Level King Suite with sweeping views of the Thames River and the Queen Elizabeth Clock Tower (Big Ben)—a view that honestly never got old.

Even with a busy itinerary, the Executive Level experience made the trip feel calm and comfortable. Each morning began with breakfast in The Library, and each evening ended with snacks and drinks in the Executive Lounge, where we could catch up with our friends who were traveling with us to hear about the day’s adventures. Those bookend moments—coffee while looking out at the Thames or unwinding together after a full day—were some of our favorite parts of the stay.

Day 1: Arrival + A Classic London Welcome

After arriving in London and checking into the hotel, we took time to walk the surrounding area and shake off travel fatigue before our afternoon tour.

That afternoon, we jumped into a Black Cab Tour, which turned out to be the perfect introduction to the city. We covered so much ground without feeling rushed, including:

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
Abbey Road Crossing
221B Baker Street
Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel

It was a fun mix of history, pop culture, and modern London—and a great way to ease into the trip.

Day 2: Castles, Colleges & Stone Circles

Day two was all about seeing beyond the city. We booked a full-day excursion through Viator that took us to three unforgettable places:

Windsor Castle
Oxford
Stonehenge

It was a long day—but absolutely worth it. Each stop felt distinct, and having transportation and logistics handled made it easy to just enjoy the experience.

That evening, we walked over to Buckingham Palace before heading back to the hotel, ending the day with a peaceful nighttime stroll through London.

Day 3: History, Views & Timeless Traditions

Our third day brought together so many of the experiences London does best.

We started with a tour of the Tower of London—one of those places that truly lives up to its reputation.

Lunch followed at the Sky Garden, where city views stretch endlessly in every direction.

In the afternoon, we slowed things down with Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason, a quintessential London experience that felt special and celebratory.

That evening, we closed the day with a West End classic—The Mousetrap—a perfect nod to London’s theater tradition.

Day 4: A Meaningful Farewell

On our final morning, we toured Westminster Abbey, taking in centuries of history before heading to the train station.

From there, we boarded the Eurostar and continued on to Paris—grateful for the memories we’d already made and excited for what came next.

Why This Trip Worked So Well

London proved to be the perfect Spring Break destination for traveling with our college-age son. The city is walkable, layered with history, and filled with experiences that appeal across generations. Even with a short stay, we were able to see so much without feeling overwhelmed.

It was quick. It was full. And it reminded us how meaningful even short trips can be when they’re thoughtfully planned—and shared together.

If London has been on your family’s travel radar, this kind of itinerary shows just how much you can experience in just a few days.

A Quick but Unforgettable Spring Break in London