Travel: 48 hours in London

Friday, midday

Check into the St James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, London (doubles from £195, www.stjamescourthotel.co.uk). The location of this luxury hotel is unbeatable, just around the corner from Buckingham Palace and it boasts a spa too.

1:30pm

The Roof Gardens (www.virginlimitededition.com/en/the-roof-gardens) offers far more than epic views out across the city and pink flamingos. This unique space also conjures up bright Modern British cooking.

3pm

Cruise London’s once neglected river. A range of vessels operate from the Thames piers by the landmark London Eye, which itself offers an unbeatable view of the city.

8pm

The Dining Room at The Goring (www.thegoring.com) won a well-deserved Michelin star in September. Mercurial chef Shay Cooper does all the British classics, such as Beef Wellington, immaculately, as well as creating some surprises.

Saturday, 9am

Enjoy the DLR ride through the rapidly re-developing Docklands to Greenwich, where the Observatory (the ‘Home of Time’) awaits with the chance to walk across the official Meridian. The surrounding park is ideal for a stroll too.

1pm

It’s not often you can enjoy a lunch menu in London dreamed up by a chef at the helm of a Parisian three star Michelin restaurant. Celeste (www.lanesborough.com) is that restaurant and Eric Frechon that chef.

4pm

St James Park is the top green lung for many Londoners and it is close to the hotel so enjoy a stroll around its pond, admiring views of Buckingham Palace.

7pm

The Taj offers the chance to savour eclectic experiences in their various eateries with their ‘Around the World in 80 Tastes’. It kicks off with a champagne flight. The highlight is the seafood at Michelin starred Quilon.

Sunday, 11am

Sunday brunch at Bar Boloud in the ultra luxurious Mandarin Oriental (www.barboulud.com) is legendary. Kick off with a glass of bubbly before an indulgent main course like Eggs Benedict and dessert.

• Virgin East Coast (www.virgintrainseastcoast.com) run the fastest rail route from Edinburgh to London, with returns from £50.60.