Insider: Where to go in London?

A new travel web site offers insider tips on where to go and eat, and what to see in the capital city. This month I interviewed celebrity and royal florist, Simon Lycett, who has lived in London since he moved there in his 20’s from his home town of Warwick with the aim of acquiring some “sophisticated London ways”.

Simon has been in love with flowers and all things floristry since he was seven years old. He now runs his own flower business creating stunning designs for royal venues The Historic Royal Palaces and the Royal Opera House, as well as floral decorations for HRH Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank’s wedding.

Simon has written two books The Flower Market Year: 12 months at New Covent Garden Flower Market and People of the Flower Market. In 2020, he became one of the judges on Full Bloom a new floral-design reality HBO Max TV show and has just finished filming a second series in Los Angeles with The Society of American Florists.

Simon Lycett, florist extraordinaire. Post feature image flower tree, photo Simon Lycett Ltd.

In London Voices Simon talks about some of the differences between spending time in Hollywood and LA, and London and what he misses most when he’s away, as well as his top tips for getting the most from a visit to the city.

One of Simon’s recommendations to visit. Kensington Palace. L to R: the palace from the grounds; The Orangery. Photos Historic Royal Palaces.

The Covid-19 Pandemic had a huge impact on the events industry and in an earlier journal entry Simon was open and honest about the impact upon his business and the people who work with him. “… I and my Team felt lost, without work, revenue, purpose or validity. And so my garden became my Safe Space.” More… Garden Day UK.

Guerilla flower bombing

Happily life is picking up and the events industry is once again open for business. In celebration of summer, Simon has been sharing images of a new project on his Instagram page where he has teamed up with Lewis Miller to bring Miller’s ‘Flower Flashes TM’ from New York to London. Overnight magnificent flower installations appeared this week at three distinct sites in London, including the iconic statue of Eros in Piccadilly Circus. See more @simonlycett and Simon J Lycett Ltd.

Discover Simon’s recommendations for exploring London, including his favourite place to eat and people watch. London Voices: Simon Lycett at London Begins At 40.

Happy summer!