Book a trip from Auckland to London with Cathay Pacific , fares from NZD2,131

After landing in London, the most convenient way to get into the city centre is by taxi, which takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, the Heathrow Express train takes approximately 20 minutes to arrive at the centrally-located Paddington station. The airport terminals are also served by the Piccadilly underground line, offering direct access to various destinations across London’s sprawling city centre.

Start your holiday by diving into the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum. Housed in a grand Victorian building in South Kensington, the museum is free to enter and showcases an extensive collection of over 80 million specimens, including fossils, minerals, meteorites, and diverse life forms. Must-see exhibits include the awe-inspiring blue whale skeleton named Hope suspended in Hintze Hall, the impressive Dinosaurs Gallery featuring a towering Tyrannosaurus and a Triceratops skull, and the Earth Hall, home to the most complete Stegosaurus skeleton ever found. Visitors can explore a variety of themed zones displaying mammals, birds, marine reptiles, minerals, and an evolution gallery that traces humanity’s origins.

Known for its lively atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, Covent Garden offers a variety of activities and attractions that cater to diverse interests. One of the highlights is the historic Market Building and Piazza, bustling with street performers, artisan stalls, unique shops, and quaint cafés, providing a quintessential London experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in theatrical culture by catching a show in nearby West End theatres or visiting the Royal Opera House for world-class ballet and opera performances. The London Transport Museum, located in Covent Garden, offers engaging exhibits on the city’s transport history, ideal for families and history enthusiasts.

If you’re travelling with children, consider a tour around the Warner Bros. Studio. Located 20 miles northwest of central London in Leavesden, the studio lets visitors step into authentic sets such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, the Forbidden Forest, and the Hogwarts Express platform. Fans can admire original costumes, intricate props, and detailed creature effects, making it a magical experience for all ages. Visitors can stroll through the shop-lined Diagon Alley featuring Ollivanders Wand Shop, explore the grandeur of Gringotts Wizarding Bank, and encounter magical creatures like Aragog the giant spider. The tour also includes popular exterior sets such as Privet Drive and the Knight Bus. For refreshment, the Backlot Café offers the famous non-alcoholic Butterbeer.

Make your trip from Auckland to London one to remember by booking luxury accommodation with Cathay Holidays. With us, you’ll discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and lounge access. The Novotel London West in Hammersmith offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. This contemporary hotel boasts spacious rooms, making it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant city. The friendly, multilingual staff are dedicated to ensuring a relaxing stay, whether you’re on a family holiday or a weekend city break. The hotel is strategically located near key attractions. Just a short walk away, you can explore the picturesque Ravenscourt Park, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. For shopping enthusiasts, Westfield London is nearby, offering a plethora of shops, dining options, and entertainment. For a budget-friendly alternative, Chelsea Cloisters offers a charming home away from home in the heart of Chelsea. Set within two acres in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, this accommodation features serviced apartments, ranging from cosy studios to spacious two-bedroom options, perfect for both short and long stays. The location is ideal for exploring the vibrant Chelsea neighbourhood. Just a short walk away, you can visit the iconic King’s Road, known for its chic boutiques, trendy cafes, and restaurants. For art lovers, the Saatchi Gallery is nearby, showcasing contemporary art exhibitions. The picturesque Chelsea Embankment along the River Thames is great for leisurely strolls, offering beautiful views and serene green spaces. By booking a holiday package or hotel through Cathay Holidays, you will be able to earn additional miles for your stay.

London entices food enthusiasts with its wide selection of restaurants, where culinary traditions from across the world converge to create an exquisite gastronomic experience. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on select days, Café Cecilia creates a warm, inviting atmosphere along the Regent's Canal, making it perfect for any meal. Signature breakfast items include the comforting bacon sandwich and vibrant marinated tomatoes on toast, both known for their fresh, robust flavours. For lunch or dinner, the Onglet with peppercorn sauce is a standout, showcasing tender beef served with crispy chips and a rich, peppery sauce that highlights the kitchen’s dedication to quality and simplicity. The confit duck leg is another hearty favourite, offering a sumptuous and satisfying choice. Café Cecilia is especially famous for its Guinness bread, which appears in multiple dishes, including a remarkable Guinness bread ice cream and a deep-fried bread-and-butter pudding served with cold custard, elevating traditional desserts with creative flair. If you’re looking for a healthy dining alternative, Tofu Vegan offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Sichuan, Cantonese, and Dongbei regions, all crafted without meat and bursting with taste and texture. Key dishes to try include the Sizzling Tofu, a standout item drizzled with a unique special sauce that elevates its bold flavours. The Vegan Dim Sum, expertly crafted and full of vibrant tastes, is ideal for sharing and sampling a variety of savoury bites. The Sichuan-style Fried Noodles deliver a rich, spicy kick with smoky wok flavours and tender tofu pieces mimicking meat textures, perfect for those craving a heartier meal.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to London.

• Currency: Pound Sterling (£, GBP). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 230V Type G
• Time zone: GMT+0. Daylight Saving pushes this forward 1 hour from March to November.
• Language: English