Sip a cuppa tea

There's no better way to whet your appetite than through a tour of the world-famous Borough Market, a maze of colorful produce, fine meats and fish and specialty products. Cheese-lovers simply must drop by Neals Yard Dairy or La Fromagerie for raw-milk cheeses you just can't find in the U.S. Charbonnel et Walker and Demarquette are two specialty shops that will prompt rapturous sighs from chocoholics. Taste offerings of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay at his newest pub, the Narrow, in London, where no entrée is over £14. Get a taste of tradition during tea time at The Ritz at 100 Piccadilly, Mayfair. There the proper English cuppa is served with sandwiches and scones with clotted cream. More about eating out in London.

Be king (or queen) for a day in London

Tracing its roots back more than a thousand years, the monarchy is still very a much a part of British life. And you can experience a hint of the royal life in London. Buckingham Palace, of course, is the Queen's royal residence while she's in the capital city. Don't miss the Queen's Gallery while there—it's a treasure trove of furniture and priceless items held in trust. Friends Jim & Sylvia show you a personal tour of Hampton Court Palace. See the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London, and check out a carriage fit for Cinderella at the Royal Mews stables. Finish your royal day with high tea at Fortnum and Mason—this glittering department store bears the stamp of approval of the Queen herself.