Timeline
16:21
Walk to the north bank of the Thames at Chelsea to view Battersea Power Station. The late afternoon sun from the WSW highlights the Art Deco brickwork and four chimneys. This is the best vantage point to appreciate the industrial design before it was redeveloped.
16:36
Head back toward the station area to grab a vegan burger from No Cruel Burgers. It is a takeaway spot, so you can enjoy a warm meal while walking. The shop is open until 22:00, so it is fully operational during your afternoon visit.
17:06
Take the short walk to Burlington Arcade near the Royal Academy of Arts. This Regency-era shopping arcade is open until 19:00 on weekdays. Even if you do not buy anything, the atmosphere and the luxury boutiques offer a pleasant change of pace from the riverside.
17:21
Arrive at The Royal Academy of Arts as the golden light begins. While the RA itself hosts temporary exhibitions, the surrounding area in Piccadilly comes alive. Use this time to rest and observe the architecture. The golden hour light here is soft and flattering, perfect for a final look at the city's historic center before the evening crowds fully arrive.
Local tip
Battersea Power Station is best viewed from a distance on the north side of the Thames. Do not try to walk up to it from the south bank if you want the classic postcard view. For the food stop, No Cruel Burgers is takeaway only, so have your order ready to go. Burlington Arcade is open until 19:00, giving you plenty of time to stroll through before the evening rush.
Check before you go
- No Cruel Burgers is open Mo-Su 12:00-22:00.
- Burlington Arcade is open Mo-Sa 09:30-19:00; Su 11:00-18:00.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to London (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).