Even though being away from London can feel refreshing at first with its slower pace, there always comes a time when you crave the lively atmosphere of the city. Let’s check out what some celebrities have to say about what they truly miss when they find themselves outside London during the festive season.
Helen Mirren reflects on the stunning architecture: “It’s not until you experience another city that you realize just how beautiful London really is.”
Emma Bunton, on the other hand, longs for the freedom of driving in London: “I miss simply hopping into my car and cruising over to Covent Garden or visiting a friend across the river, especially those river nighttime drives. They’re the best.”
Joan Bakewell talks about the glamour she loves in London evenings, observing people getting dressed up to hit the wine bars.
“I miss everything! I even love being stuck in a traffic jam since the city inspires me so much.”
Then there are the conveniences that only London can provide.
Mel C highlights how easy it is to find organic food and alternative therapies in London: “Things are much tougher to come by up North.”
Ronan Keating and Jo Brand both agree on the convenience factor of the city: “In London, you can find pretty much anything you need at any time, like theaters, 24-hour garages, you name it!”
Tess Daly chimed in, missing the ability to grab snacks at 1 AM: “Nothing beats being able to fetch bread or milk at that hour.”
Catherine Walker appreciates the array of activities available in such a compact area of the city.
“The feeling that there’s always something happening, making you feel like anything is possible. Only New York can rival London’s energy.”
When it comes to food, #London has a reputation that’s hard to beat.
Amelia Warner states that good breakfast spots are hard to find outside London and that LA pancake and smoothie culture doesn’t compare. Johnny Vegas also yearns for authentic freshly baked bagels, while Liberty Ross falls in love with the quintessential British tea, which she believes is utterly unavailable elsewhere.
“The vibe! I adore going out to the countryside, but I always seek to return to London. I even miss the pavements!”
Denise van Outen appreciates London quality not just in food, but also in shopping for fashion. She even mentioned that there’s a certain alluring charm about the weather that enhances the city’s mood.
Remember Joan Rivers’s famous remark about the weather? She once cheekily asked, “Am I the only one who thinks it’s perfect for the skin? Just look at the women here!”
For Liz Jagger, the London weather, despite its unpredictability, is fondly remembered along with her friends, family, and comforting traditional British dishes.
“you’re never truly without value until you have something as simple as a 26-year-old Mercedes that’s worthy of being broken into.”
But what truly keeps people drawn to London, according to many stars, is its vibrant community.
Jake Chapman admires how much more alive London’s people feel compared to anywhere else, while Mariah Carey misses her close friends and devoted British fans and even loves imitating the local accent: “It seems so charming and unique!”
Also weighing in, Lionel Richie noted the connections made in the UK last a lifetime, contrasting it with the US, where interests often shift just after your last performance. He, too, admires the city’s spectacular architecture.
“Sometimes it’s the little things like road rage and gloomy people that draw me back—there’s something heartwarmingly familiar about London.”
Meanwhile, Julian Clary reflects on Londoners’ charming indifference, which acts like a foil to the energized atmosphere in places like Brighton. Finally, Tilda Swinton shared her gratitude for her friends who often visit her.
Jerry Hall, thrilled about the vibrant social scene, reminisces about the dinner parties and get-togethers she used to enjoy before moving to the U.S., appreciating London’s unique bohemian flair and openness.
