best places to visit in the city of london

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27 Best Things to Do in London

By Sonya Barber and Ramsay Short

London: the city that has anything and everything you could possibly want in a vibrant, world-class capital. Your only real problem is working out what you can miss. With over 170 museums, 3,000 parks, 3,500 pubs and an ever-changing number of restaurants, there’s almost too much to see, do and eat—even for a life-long Londoner.

Truly, the city is too large, and too rich in options, for you to get to it all in one visit; you'll have to make some hard choices. Which incredible food or clothing-market to browse? Tate Modern or the British Museum? Where should you pick for a perfect, full-English breakfast? Where's the best afternoon tea ? How do you pick from all the abundant pubs ? And don't get us started here on the best restaurants . Thankfully, our locally led list of the best things to do in London is here to help you decide—just don’t try to do it all in one day.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Tower of London Arrow

Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, this uncompromising slab of a building has been many things—including the site where Henry VIII ordered the execution of two of his wives. Now the Tower is most famous as the home of the Crown Jewels. Come, take a tour from one of the Beefeaters (offered every half hour), and gawp at the sparkling and the frightening alike.

Kew Gardens Arrow

A spectacular 500 acre garden in west London, Kew boasts one of the biggest and most diverse botanical collections in the whole world. There’s been a botanic garden here since the 18th century when it was a royal palace; today it’s not only a UNESCO World Heritage site with over a whopping 50,000 plants, it’s also just a really lovely place to visit. You can spend a whole day gently wandering along the winding paths through the lawns, trees, lake, Japanese garden, rhododendron dell, rose garden and kid’s play area, as well as popping in and out of the grand glasshouses. It’s a calming and tranquil place (as long as you avoid the playground on a school holiday) but you can also learn plenty about plants along the way.

Tate Modern Arrow

This former oil-fired power station sits smugly in the center of the South Bank, knowing that you’re interested in what’s going on inside. It’s filled to the rafters with paintings and sculptures by the likes of Picasso, Dali, Warhol, and Rothko, all set off perfectly by that gritty industrial interior. It’s rare that any exhibition at Tate Modern is awaited with anything less than bated breath, whether they’re the paid shows across the mid-levels of the institution or the vast and clever commissions to take over the massive space that is the Turbine Hall. You’re pretty much bound to be blown away. 

Shakespeare’s Globe Arrow

In London, every building and street has history. And Shakespeare's Globe, although a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre—where many of William Shakespeare's plays were first staged and which burned down in 1613 during a performance of 'Henry VIII'—is no exception. The theater was rebuilt not far from its original site, using construction methods and materials as close to the original as possible, and to watch a performance here is to step back in time with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Coal Drops Yard Arrow

Ever since the Eurostar undersea rail link between Paris and London rolled into Kings Cross St. Pancras station, the formerly down-and-out neighborhood of Kings Cross has experienced a total transformation. Abandoned railway land with disused gas tanks now has been turned into new offices, shopping areas, fountains, apartments, green spaces, and more. There are posh supermarkets in converted train sheds, the coveted Central St. Martins London School of Art and Fashion, artisan restaurants like Hicce, and trendy ice cream shops like Ruby Violet. Granary Square, north of the station and surrounded by restored warehouses, has a 1,000-jet fountain that's great for kids, as well as canal-side, amphitheater-style seating. There’s also the gorgeous revamped Camley Street Natural Park, which is packed with stunning wildflowers and urban biodiversity. Google is building their London headquarters here, an office complex that is supposed to be so state-of-the-art it will reinvent everything we know about workplaces. Add starchitect Thomas Heatherwick's stunningly designed Coal Drops Yard, former coal sheds that are now a super desirable luxury shopping and eating indoor and outdoor destination space, and you no doubt want to hang out at this development in what was once a dark and dusty neighborhood.

South Bank Arrow

The South Bank is one of the London’s best bits. Generally located between the Westminster and London bridges, it offers about two-miles of excellent, largely state-funded arts and entertainment venues alongside breezy, traffic-free views of a succession of city landmarks (Big Ben, St. Paul's, the Tower of London) that lie on the north bank. No wonder it attracts over 14 million people per year. If you have limited time in the capital, South Bank is great because it has everything, including a selection of good restaurants and street food offerings.

Victoria and Albert Museum Arrow

South Kensington’s V&A is one of the world’s largest art and design museums, and it's arguably London’s most glamorous. (Just the building itself is well worth the visit: a glorious red-brick palace filled with sculptural details, extravagant tiling, and frescos.) The collection is helpfully broken down into topics—fashion, theatre, furniture, architecture—and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit, and do check out the seasonal exhibition. The collection is helpfully broken down into topics such as fashion, jewelry, theater and performance, furniture, architecture, ceramics etc and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit.

E Pellicci Arrow

Chances are there will be a queue for this beloved British ‘greasy spoon’ cafe. The Pellicci family has been feeding east Londoners since 1900 and still make some of the best fry ups in town. Stepping inside is like entering a time warp: there’s beautiful ornate art deco wooden paneling, stained glass windows, formica tables and a huge steaming tea urn. In fact, it’s such an icon that English heritage has awarded it grade-II listed status. It’s lively, chaotic, and always great fun. Whatever food you choose, always order a cup of strong "builder’s" tea. There’s coffee, milkshakes, beer, wine, and even limoncello on the menu but nothing goes better with a breakfast than a perfectly brewed cuppa.

Sir John Soane's Museum Arrow

This is, without a doubt, the city’s most atmospheric museum, packed to the rafters with hundreds of interesting and impressive artworks and artifacts. The collection is pretty much whatever took Sir John Soane's eye, positioned in the place it looked best—so don’t go looking for order. Instead, go curious, as the walls give way to secret rooms the unobservant might miss. It's not the unknown it once was though, so unless you go first thing in the morning you'll probably have to wait in line.

Columbia Road Flower Market Arrow

Weekly on Sundays, Columbia Road in East London's hip Shoreditch/Hackney neighborhood, transforms into a multicolored frenzy of stalls and flowers. This otherwise unassuming East End street is transformed into a swath of magnificent plant life, the air fragrant with blooms and the shouts of historic London's famous Cockney stallholders. It's as eccentric as it gets around here. You'll hear rushed deals and offers for a 'tenner' or 'fiver' (ten or five pounds) and because everything is so fresh, it's all gotta be gone by 2 p.m. 

Dennis Severs' House Arrow

Fancy a trip back through time? Just around the corner from buzzy Spitalfields Market, there’s a beautiful old four story house in Spitalfields that is essentially a wonderful time warp. Eccentric American Dennis Severs bought the crumbling derelict building in 1979 and turned the whole thing into an amazing work of art, evocatively recreating the home life of different generations of a Huguenot family living from 1724 to 1919 (and living there himself at the same time!). Severs died in 1999 but the house is perfectly preserved and is one of the most incredible museums in London. This is quite a niche museum: one for history fans, interior enthusiasts and those into theatrical spaces, but truly anyone visiting will be instantly immersed into the bewitching experience. There’s only a small number of people allowed in at one time and everyone is respectfully tip-toeing around peering into chamber pots and studying the ghostly paintings.

Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason Arrow

This historic spot for afternoon tea has been an upper crust British favorite since it began importing leaves from Asia in 1707. It's no wonder the beloved tearoom was reopened in 2012 by the Queen after a sensitive refit. The room retains a fittingly regal affect, decorated in the store’s trademark eau de nil (take that, Tiffany). There’s often a pianist tinkling away in the corner of the airy elegant room in the afternoon. The tea itself will leave even the most discerning of tea snobs with their mouths open. There are 50 different blends and tea sommeliers to help you chose which one is for you.

St. Paul's Cathedral Arrow

One of the most famous cathedrals in the world, St. Paul's (finished in 1708) is the masterpiece of architect Sir Christopher Wren, and its towering dome is probably second on the definitive list of symbols of London after Big Ben. It's awe-inspiring, magical yet somber and reflective, a place for prayer whether you're religious or not. 

Royal Academy of Arts Arrow

The Royal Academy of Arts, or the R.A., as it's more fondly known, has been around for 250 years run by artists, and is home to an incredible collection of global art. The R.A.'s collection is vast, including sculpture, drawing, painting and architecture. There are numerous classic works on show as well as themed exhibitions from the collection, and varied and regular temporary shows that sell out quickly. Annually there is the annual Summer Exhibition featuring plenty of new work from up and coming R.A. students and alumni, and major icons in the art world; it's well worth seeing. You can come for a short visit and still get plenty out of the R.A.—the buildings themselves are worth checking out alone if you like seeing 19th-century and modern 21st-century architecture blended together.

Liberty London Arrow

This is truly one of the most beautiful shops in London. A Grade II-listed boutique department store with an iconic mock-tudor façade constructed from the timbers of two ships, it’s well worth a visit for the shop itself. Founded by Arthur Lasenby Liberty in 1875 who wanted an emporium to show off the treasures from his travels, today the wood-paneled light-filled atriums and cozy side rooms are stuffed full of goodies, new and old. It’s atmospheric, eclectic and unlike any other department store we’ve ever visited. A visit to the store must include a peruse of the impressive fabric department: the rolls and rolls of colorful, intricate and fabulous prints that will make you wish you’d paid more attention in home economics. If sewing isn’t your thing, you can get ready-made bags, cushions, bedding and even chess boards adorned with the delicate Liberty patterns.

The Shard Arrow

Western Europe's tallest building at 309.6 metres, or 1,016 feet, high, The Shard houses London's first Shangri-la hotel , private apartments, offices and three high-end restaurants—Aqua Shard, Hutong and Oblix. All good reasons to visit of course but arguably the main one is the viewing gallery aka The View. Located on floors 68-72 and 244 meters above London, you have an unobstructed 360-degree, 40-mile view across the city.

West End Theatreland Arrow

London's answer to New York's Broadway cuts across a swathe of the West End of the city in Covent Garden, Soho, and Picadilly.  From Shakespeare to contemporary comedies and dramas like Hamilton, as well as countless famous musicals of old and many new, London's West End has it all. Who doesn't want to feel again the infectious glee of musical theatre choreography and the sweating happiness of curtain calls. With the shows coming back after a long closure due to coronavirus, the Criterion Theater is offering a wonderfully quirky musical version of Amelie—the popular French movie of the same name—for more affordable prices than the big-name shows.

National Gallery Arrow

Set in London’s busiest open space, Trafalgar Square, this is the grandmother of galleries with more than 2,300 paintings spanning the 13th to the 19th centuries: Heavyweights include Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Velazquez's Rokeby Venus, and Constable’s six-foot long The Hay Wain . It gets packed at weekends, but its so large that you can usually find a quiet corner. You can download an audio tour covering the museum's highlights, but you can also curate your own by selecting the paintings you want to see before you arrive. The seasonal exhibitions are the only ones you’ll pay for, and as you'd expect, most are spectacular ranging from Lucian Freud to Titian.

Borough Market Arrow

The food hound's favorite London market (and the city's most atmospheric) occupies a sprawling site near London Bridge, both in a large covered area and spreading into the smaller maze of streets that surround it. Records show there’s been a market here since 1276 when it apparently caused traffic jams on London Bridge. What’s on offer? Gourmet goodies run the gamut and you’d be hard pressed not to find something you can’t get enough of and simply spend all day stuffing your face.

Highgate Cemetery Arrow

A graveyard is always a somber place, but Highgate is also a celebratory one. You’ll recognize parts of it if you’ve seen Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Dracula,’ and you'll find the final resting place of writers like George Eliot and Douglas Adams, science pioneers like Michael Faraday and pop culture icons like George Michael (although his grave isn't named as such;  his Panayiotou family plot is in the West Cemetery next to Lucien Freud). And believe it or not, for somewhere with so many legendary men and women buried in it, Highgate Cemetery is one of the least visited of London’s landmarks. But those who come do it for both the ghostly mystery of the place itself, as well as the celebrity dead.

British Museum Arrow

You could spend several lifetimes in the British Museum, Britain’s largest museum, without running out of artifacts to ponder. The collection is one of the largest in the world, arranged by location (Ancient Egypt, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Greece and Rome), and the list of big hitters includes the Rosetta Stone and other finds from Ancient Egypt, Asia and the Middle East. Come early on a weekday for a less crowded experience, pick one gallery and stick to it, or go for a guided “eye-opener” tour.

Hampstead Heath Arrow

Forget the perfect lawns of London's Royal Parks, Hampstead Heath, the vast and, in places wonderfully overgrown, tract of countryside just north of the rock ‘n’ roll neighborhood of Camden Town is the wild heart of the city and an undisputed highlight, so much so it's said to have inspired CS Lewis’s Narnia. The Heath covers 791 acres of woodland, playing fields, swimming ponds and meadows of tall grass perfect both for picnickers and couples in search of privacy. It’s truly beautiful.

Portobello Market Arrow

Running through the center of the ever-fashionable Notting Hill neighborhood in West London, Portobello Road is know for everything from sixties models, photographers, artists and rockstars to rows of antiques stalls, hip pubs and Hugh Grant, but what we’re talking about is Portobello Market when the street is closed off Friday to Sunday and packed with people from far and wide. It’s that famous. Portobello is actually several markets rolled into one: There are antique and bric-a-brac shops, loads of food stalls and further up next to the Portebello Green arcade, emerging designers and vintage clothing shops.

Hyde Park Arrow

Hyde Park is big. At one and a half miles long and a mile or so wide, it's one of London's largest Royal Parks, originally appropriated from the monks at Westminster Abbey by Henry VIII to hunt deer, but now the sort of space where anything goes. Think gangs of roller-bladers on the paths, mad swimmers and chill boaters in the Serpentine Lake, rowdy protestors at Speaker’s Corner and kids aplenty riding horses and tipping their toes into the Diana Memorial Fountain.

Tayyabs Arrow

Most nights you’ll be waiting for at least half an hour before entering this famous, BYOB Punjabi diner in Whitechapel. Tayyabs is loud (and no one’s on a romantic date) but what you’re there for are the sizzling plates of meat. The main attraction is the lamb chops, served up spicy and marinated in a kadai masala with coriander, sliced onions, and chillies, and everything must be paired with freshly baked rotis, parathas, and naans. It’s a great spot for meat eaters and large groups looking for an affordable way to dine on exceptional Punjabi food.

Churchill War Rooms Arrow

This underground lair, just around the corner from 10 Downing Street, is where Churchill spent endless hours plotting Allied victory during the Second World War. Come for the Map Room, which looks exactly as it did when the members of the War Cabinet abandoned it at the end of the war, and the Transatlantic Telephone Room, where Churchill had secret conversations with U.S. officials. Entry is currently timed so you won't be crowded, and there are some pandemic restrictions still in place in terms of social distancing, but it's easy to get around and see everything. The audio guide comes with your ticket and provides an extra insight into the operations that went on during the war, including sounds and speeches of the time. The museum is also fully wheelchair accessible.

Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club Arrow

Nightlife institutions are institutions for a reason. And Ronnie Scott's, Soho’s premier jazz venue on Frith Street, never, ever disappoints. One rule: book your ticket in advance. Ronnie's is a concert venue, generally hosts two sittings a night—everyone from Nina Simone to Pharaoh Sanders has played here—and gigs get booked out quickly by tourists, aficionados and fellow musicians. You can, however, usually get into Ronnie’s Bar, a smaller more dance oriented venue upstairs, without advance notice, as well as into the 'late late' shows. The place itself is everything a jazz venue should be: dark, loud and enticing, romantic even, and so very Soho—you’ll probably feel like drinking whisky but Champagne always goes down better. When the music ends, and you fall out buzzing into the street, finish up with a bite at the legendary late-night favorite Bar Italia across the road. It’s just what's done.

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London, England   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Doug Armand | Getty Images

34 Best Things to Do in London, England

Whether you're keen to brush up on your history knowledge at the Tower of London , tour the home of the monarchy at Buckingham Palace or check out one of the city's many art galleries, London isn't short on things to do. Thespians will

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Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

Tower of London Tower of London

Although its exterior might be grim and even unimpressive (especially when compared to stately  Buckingham Palace ), the Tower of London's interior is always bustling with activity. Despite its name, the large complex has a long history as a palace, a fortress and a prison. Each exhibition and activity here explores this history.

If you're enchanted with the monarchy, don't miss the famous crown jewels exhibition. Among the items you'll see is the Imperial State Crown – which is still worn by the queen for each State Opening of Parliament – and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. In 2020, Prince of Wales' Investiture Coronet joined the display in the Jewel House. For an oral history, take an entertaining tour led by the Yeoman Warders (tower guards). During the hourlong excursion (included in your admission ticket), the guards will regale you with tales of the tower's bloody past. The White Tower is one of the world's most famous castles and a recognizable London landmark. Inside, you'll find the 350-year-old exhibition, "Line of Kings," which includes suits of armor worn by Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Keep an eye out for the Tower's famous ravens, who are said to guard the structure.

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

Step through halls where history was made time and again by visiting the British Parliament. Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate, which is more than 900 years old), the House of Commons Chamber and the House of Lords. If you're not interested in perusing the corridors that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London. 

If you're one of many looking to snap your own photo of one of the most photographed buildings in the world, the best vantage point is from Westminster Bridge. But if you want a truly smashing shot, head on over to Lambeth Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridges on the South Bank for a view of Parliament and the London Eye together. Keep in mind that Westminster Bridge connects two of the city's most popular attractions ( London Eye  and Parliament), and as a result is almost always very crowded.

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Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history. Westminster Abbey is generally busy – and the staff keeps you moving at a pretty swift pace – so do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding the British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor.

If you prefer to see the abbey at your own pace, but still want a little guidance on the history you're encountering, take advantage of the multimedia guides, which are included in the price of admission and available in 14 languages. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour (led by the abbey's vergers) and see special places inaccessible to the public, including the tomb containing Saint Edward the Confessor. If you decide to take this tour, you'll pay 10 pounds (around $14) on top of the general admission price.

British Museum British Museum free

The British Museum is both an architectural beauty and a trove of some of the world's most noted antiquities. In fact, many travelers say it's the best museum in all of London. What's more, it's free to visit. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures to Mesopotamian objects, the British Museum is a history buff's dream containing artifacts in the millions. The immense collection can make an initial museum visit seem overwhelming: Pick the exhibits that most interest you, and plan return trips if you feel so inclined.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's exhibits – the approximately 80,000 objects on display out of its collection totaling 8 million items – consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and the LBGTQ-themed "Desire, Love, Identity" tour and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book an "Around the World in 60 Minutes" tour for 14 pounds (around $20). Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (about $10), are also available to rent daily.

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

Though called a garden, Covent Garden isn't all about plants and flowers. Rather, it's a piazza and a collection of urban streets boasting numerous upscale stores as well as bars, restaurants, art installations and more. In other words, it's a bustling neighborhood within London's West End. Shops range from famous trademarks like Ralph Lauren and Mulberry to independent brands. In addition to conventional shops and boutiques, Covent Garden has a covered market area where vendors sell everything from antiques to crafts. Similarly, dining options range from foodie destinations like Sushi Samba and Balthazar to casual pubs. Given Covent Garden's open-air orientation, there are appropriately more than 1,000 seats for al fresco dining.

Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House. Even if you're unable (or disinclined) to see an opera, you can tour the lavishly appointed Royal Opera House. Architecture-enthusiasts find the building, especially its glass atrium, stunning and the tours informative. General admission tickets are 19 pounds (about $24) for adults and 16.75 pounds (about $21) for anyone younger than 16. (Check the opera house’s website for dates and times.)

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander over to nearby Chinatown to sample its slew of Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops, and continue on into Soho for some of the city's best LGBT-friendly bars. – Laura French

Regularly compared to  New York 's  Times Square , Piccadilly Circus is the meeting place of five busy roads and is the center of London's hustle and bustle. Whether it's people on their way to work in the morning, shoppers en route to the chain store-lined Oxford Street (just a few blocks north) or lively club and bar hoppers passing through at night, Piccadilly is always thrumming with activity. 

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a fun night out, buy tickets for a showing of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," which is the longest-running play in history. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Catching a show in London's West End theater district is just as necessary as watching a play on  Broadway  during a trip to  New York City . The quality is some of the best in the U.K., and the constant mix of new and classic productions with local and world-renowned talent (think: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Angela Lansbury, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benedict Cumberbatch) excites both visitors and locals alike. Even if you don't consider yourself much of a theater devotee, recent travelers said the atmosphere, specifically near the lively Leicester Square, where many of the theaters are concentrated, is worth a late-night wander.

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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A short stroll from Hyde Park Corner will take you to The Grenadier – a tiny pub hidden down a cobbled alley. It opened in 1818 as an officers' mess and now serves beers and classic pub fare in atmospheric, wood-strewn surroundings. – Laura French

Just north of the Royal Albert Hall and northwest of Buckingham Palace  sit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: a stretch of green bisected by West Carriage Drive. Hyde Park was once the recreational stomping grounds for King Henry VIII, but now this 350-acre swath of land is open to the public and a must-visit for travelers looking for a relaxing moment away from the city's hustle and bustle. Among Hyde Park's meandering foot and bike paths and flourishing flora and fauna, you'll find a few standout attractions that are worth exploring. Watch the swans and boats glide over the serene Serpentine Lake (or rent a vessel yourself), visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or stop by the Speakers' Corner, a site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century (previously used by George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin, among others). For the sporting set, Hyde Park has tennis courts, football pitches (remember: football means soccer here) and a horse-riding arena.  

The London Eye The London Eye

The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

For nearly 200 years, Trafalgar square has been a London institution. Flanked by the National Gallery , the square features two fountains, several busts and bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column. The column, which honors Admiral Horatio Nelson for his success at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, stands 16 feet tall. At its base, bronze panels detail some of Nelson's battles and the two lions are there to protect the monument.

Recent travelers appreciated this famous London locale, noting that it's a great spot for photos and people-watching. However, know that aside from the National Gallery and surrounding shops and restaurants, there isn't much to do at the square itself.

St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is arguably the second must-see church in London (the first, of course, being Westminster Abbey ). With its imposing dome – one of the largest in the world – St. Paul's forms a predominant spot along London's skyline. It's also a survivor: Although an older incarnation burnt during the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current dome (designed by Sir Christopher Wren and officially completed in 1711) survived numerous World War II bombings.

To make the most of your visit, reviewers highly recommended climbing to the top of the dome to the Golden Gallery. You'll have to hike up 528 steps, but after catching your breath you'll enjoy far-reaching views of the River Thames, the  Tate Modern , and Shakespeare's Globe . And once you've seen the top, head below ground to the crypt (the largest in Europe), where the tombs of notable figures such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington as well as Wren are housed. Though some reviewers are put off by the pricey admission, most agree that a peek inside is well worth the extra coin.

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after your visit, head next door to the Science Museum to browse interactive exhibits and live science shows, and catch a film at the IMAX, one of the UK's biggest screens (entry to the museum itself is free, though some exhibitions are extra). – Laura French

Located in South Kensington, this museum brims with data from 70,000 different species (from animals to tiny protozoa) and exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur bones to simulated earthquakes. The Natural History Museum is also a favorite among families, so you'll find it crawling with kids.

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St. James's Park St. James's Park free

One of London's eight Royal Parks, St. James's Park is nearly 57 acres. It's surrounded by three palaces: its namesake St. James’s Palace, Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament ) and Buckingham Palace . The park's semi-circular flower beds – the Memorial Gardens – which sit beside Buckingham are one of its major attractions. The park is flanked one side by the Mall, a route for royal processions that bisects the gardens and on another by the Horse Guards Parade, a parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour is held. Other notable buildings nearby include No. 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence) and the Churchill War Rooms . The park also features a portion of the 7-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk and provides habitat for various animal species, including foxes and ducks as well as its famed pelicans. Additionally, runners race through St. James's park as the final leg of the annual London Marathon.

Visitors invariably find the park to be quite stunning and well-maintained. It’s deemed an excellent place for walking while admiring the many historical structures nearby.

National Gallery National Gallery free

Sitting in Trafalgar Square, London's National Gallery features a labyrinth interior so large that it requires a color-coded map to navigate. The museum features paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works. Among its 2,300 in-house pieces, visitors will find famed paintings, such as Botticelli's "Venus and Mars," Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait at the Age of 34” and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers." 

Recent visitors loved the variety of paintings at the National Gallery, saying that travelers may need more than a day to get a glimpse at all the masterpieces that grace its never-ending halls. They also commend the gallery's cafe.

Borough Market Borough Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across from Borough Market sits the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garrett: a tiny museum housed in an 18th-century attic of that's the oldest surviving operating theatre (think: operating room) in Europe. It displays intriguing artifacts about the gruesome medical practices of the past. – Laura French

The food-focused Borough Market is effectively three markets in one (with restaurants, bars and shops interspersed throughout). Three Crown Square features large producers and merchants while Green Market has smaller, specialty ones. You'll find everything from cheese to wine to pastries to produce. Borough Market Kitchen provides a platform for street-food vendors. The roughly 1,000-year-old market regularly hosts cooking demonstrations and classes.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick an early tour time and explore slowly. There is so much to see that you may miss small details if you go too quickly. And don't worry about time. Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Located at the studios where all eight of the "Harry Potter" films were produced, this is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizarding World. Visitors can view original film sets – from the Great Hall to Gringotts, Diagon Alley to the Gryffindor Common Room – with hundreds of original props and costumes to browse. Glimpse the model used for Hogwarts Castle, learn about Hagrid's animatronic head, visit Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express; this is a comprehensive, interactive tour for the whole family that's well worth adding to your London bucket list.

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

Home to more than 40 British monarchs and in use since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is a spectacular daytrip from London. Visitors can wander the elaborate state rooms, observe the famous Changing the Guard and admire the many artworks and collectibles on display. Should time allow, take a stroll along the Long Walk: a nearly 3-mile-long tree-lined road that is part of the castle's park. Though you'll find a cafe and souvenir shop on-site, Windsor (the town) offers a bevy of dining and shopping options.

Though always crowded, a visit to Windsor should not be missed. Time and again, travelers say that it is a wonderful place to see while in London, and many were repeat visitors. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues said they had little trouble exploring the castle.

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Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're able, opt for a standing ticket at the performance. You'll get a more authentic experience, plus your proximity to the actors lets you admire their facial expressions and costumes. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

This is not the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's time. The original Globe Theatre – which staged Shakespeare's plays and where the Bard wrote "Twelfth Night," "King Lear," and several others – opened in 1599 and burned down in 1613. The second Globe was erected in 1614 but was then torn down in 1644, after all theaters where shuttered by Parliament. The current incarnation – referred to as the Globe Theatre by its staff – has been in operation since 1997 and it is a celebrated performing arts venue dedicated to staging the Bard's plays. In a nod to its much older namesake, today's open-air theater has a thatched roof – the only one in the city – that does not cover the central yard. Seating is in the round. Or, for a truly memorable experience, you can choose to stand in the yard just below the stage to watch a performance (as many did in Shakespeare's time).  

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in December to see Carols at the Royal Albert Hall; it's a spectacular, sing-along show guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. – Laura French

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall where musicians of all genres perform. It also hosts special non-concert events, including sporting events and dance performances. The building's famed 20,000-square-foot iron roof was the largest unsupported dome in the world when it was installed in 1869 (two years before the hall officially opened). An 800-foot long, 5,200-square-foot mosaic frieze dubbed "The Triumph of Arts and Letters" encircles the structure's exterior. The hall can accommodate 5,900 people.

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th-century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form – the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as sculptures, Chinese artifacts, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free weekly public lectures.

Recent travelers praised the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. Many described its permanent collection as surprise around every corner. If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consult the building's map before you go; a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit.

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

Along with Parliament and Big Ben, Tower Bridge is London's next must-see architectural marvel, not to mention the most famous bridge that crosses the Thames. Construction on the bridge started in 1886, which means it's practically modern by London standards, but Tower Bridge stands out for its stunning detail and moveable roadways that lift up when large ships need to pass through. The views from the bridge are an added bonus. From the elevated sidewalks visitors get a prime view of the  Tower of London ,  St. Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome, the London Eye and The Monument.

If you're interested in viewing the city from a higher vantage point (about 137 feet above the Thames), consider a visit inside Tower Bridge, during which you go to the top of the bridge – equipped with a glass floor – as well as to the bottom to the engine rooms. However, recent visitors say that those who are afraid of heights might want to forgo walking across the glass floor.

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, which Henry VIII acquired in the 1520s and subsequently expanded, features the Grand Hall (with Anne Boleyn's coat of arms carved in the ceiling and antique tapestries on the walls) and the largest kitchens in Tudor England (capable of producing 800 meals a day). Its grounds include 60 acres of formal gardens complete with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country as well as the largest grape vine in the world.

Past visitors observe that there’s a lot to see and that the huge palace necessitates a lot of walking. They also recommend the audio tour, which is included in the ticket price. The gardens are frequently singled out as worthy of attention.

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Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

Meandering just shy of 9 miles from Paddington in the west to the Limehouse Basin in the east, this charming river walk offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. It passes several postcard-pretty spots, including Little Venice, where quaint cafes, pubs and restaurants sit on the waterfront; Regent's Park, one of London's most popular green spaces and the home of London Zoo; and Camden Lock, famous for its markets, street food stalls and antique shops. You'll also get to see the East End, including trendy Dalston, Victoria Park (home to a farmers market every Sunday) and Mile End.

There's history behind it, too; the canal opened in the early 19th century to transport coal, building materials and other goods from northern industrial cities to King's Cross – a long-standing center for trade – and operated for more than 140 years.

Camden Market Camden Market free

Londoners and out-of-towners alike enjoy spending a morning (or afternoon) at the Camden Market. Camden Market is actually multiple markets spread out in the neighborhood of Camden. It sprawls with more than 1,000 stalls, shops, bars and cafes carrying close to everything, from furniture to food and lots of fashion. Looking for cheap graphic T-shirts and dresses? Head over to the first set of Camden Market stalls located closest to the Tube station. If you're looking for more of a mix of items, walk over the bridge to the lock market, situated on the peaceful Camden Lock. You'll find stalls filled with antiques, clothing, souvenirs and a variety of food stalls. Food on offer ranges from traditional fish and chips to Middle Eastern fare, hot dogs and Portuguese tarts. This area gives way to the long and winding stables market, consisting of vendors selling vintage home decor, leather goods and clothing.

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area.

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

Located on the South Bank along the Thames, the Tate Modern is part of a group of four museums (all named Tate) which house the 70,000 artworks that comprise the national collection of British art. As its name suggest, this Tate holds the more contemporary-style pieces than its three other counterparts, making it more of a hit or miss among travelers. Dalí and Picasso, as well as many British artists, are represented inside this repurposed power plant – but you'll find the works are scattered. Art is grouped by theme rather than by artist.

Recent visitors said if you're a fan of contemporary and modern art, you'll enjoy the Tate Modern. If you're partial to antiquities or the more traditional works of art, you'll probably be better served at the  British Museum  or the  National Gallery . Art aside, the eateries located within the museum may be enough of a reason for travelers to visit. Both the Espresso Bar and Kitchen and Bar at Tate Modern afford stunning views of  St. Paul's Cathedral , which is situated on the other side of the river. At the very least, take a stroll along the Thames to view the museum's impressive exterior.

Greenwich Greenwich free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Skip the tube and hop on an Uber Boat to arrive in Greenwich by water – they depart from various stops along the Thames, including Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster and the London Eye, with single fares from £5.20. – Laura French

Sitting southeast of central London, Greenwich is a great daytrip within city limits and well worth the trek. Greenwich's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Royal Observatory, where the prime meridian bisects the institution and travelers can stand on both the eastern and western hemispheres. Other favorite museums and attractions include the Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Market. 

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

Famous for its waxworks, this was the first Madame Tussauds museum in the world, established in 1884 on Marylebone Road to display works by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. During the French Revolution, Tussaud was forced craft works of executed nobles – including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette – to prove she was loyal to the crown. Following the end of the revolution, she left France and traveled to Britain, bringing the waxworks with her, in the early 1800s. Today, the museum upholds the waxwork tradition, with more than 150 realistic-looking figures displayed across 11 zones – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt to Harry Styles and Barack Obama to King Charles III.

Recent visitors were impressed and said they enjoyed exploring the different themed areas – from "Star Wars" to "Marvel" – as well as the new Chamber of Horrors room, which explores London's historic criminals. The taxi-themed ride and Marvel 4D show were also a hit, and many recommended it for families, especially those with teenagers. Several commented that lines can be long, even with pre-booked tickets, and it can get crowded inside.

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Up at The O2 Up at The O2

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for crisp air and fewer crowds. Afterwards, head southwest to Greenwich for some food and shopping at Greenwich Market. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Climb over the roof of The O2 – London's arena for major musical and sporting events – for unparalleled views of the city. The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf are among the sights observable from the 170-foot apex. Excursions generally take about 90 minutes, with an hour of walking that travelers typically find rewarding.

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

Locals and tourists alike tend to adore Portobello Road Market. Located in the posh Notting Hill neighborhood (made famous by the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie of the same name), the market stretches down the long Portobello Road, which is considered to be the area's high street (or main street). The market is filled with hundreds of merchants of all kinds selling a variety of common flea market items including antiques, art, jewelry, clothing and food. But what stands out about Portobello Market (aside from its adorably colorful location) is its collection of antiques and quintessentially English items. In just a few blocks, visitors can find a wellie shop, scores of vintage tea sets, quality London souvenirs and Banksy recreations. The market is also billed as being the largest antiques market in the world. If you have a penchant for fashion, the best sampling is found at the end of the market near the Ladbroke Grove Tube stop. There, visitors will not only find the greatest concentration of locals but a great selection of vintage attire as well.

Recent visitors loved Portobello Market for its lively atmosphere, wide selection of items and cheap food stalls. Although many lauded the quality found at the food stalls, some urged visitors to check out nearby restaurants, as many serve exceptional British and international fare. Others also advised visitors to pay close attention to their belongings. Portobello Market is not only very crowded, but concentrated on a narrow street, creating an easy opportunity for pickpockets to strike. 

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

Delve into London's macabre past at this interactive attraction, which explores the history of Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd and other criminals through live actors, exhibits and rides. Smell, see and hear the city of yesteryear as you wander through the underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, exploring a darker side to this bustling city.

Travelers said the London Dungeon was a great way to get a glimpse into the history of the city and were impressed with the quality of acting and special effects. Many enjoyed the rides and other surprises, although some noted it can be frightening for younger children (a minimum age of 12 is recommended). Some also said it was expensive, but discounts are available when tickets are combined with entry to nearby attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

Step inside the London Transport Museum to explore the history of getting around London. Exhibits detail the first London Underground, how the city expanded, Victorian-era transport and much more. Plus, there are multiple hands-on exhibits to keep young ones entertained.

Overall, travelers were pleased with their visits to the museum and found the history fascinating. Others note it's very family-friendly, so you should expect tons of kids during a visit (unless you visit in the late afternoon, when the museum says it's a bit quieter). 

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

The collection here includes works by renowned artists such as Titian, Velazquez and Van Dyck as well as various medieval and Renaissance objects. The collection was assembled in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace and then donated to Great Britain. The permanent collection centers on European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries and includes notable French paintings and decorative arts from the 18th century. Special exhibits tend to focus on individual artists, such as Frans Hals and Peter Paul Rubens. Before going to see the fine and decorative arts on display in person, you can explore more than 400 items using a free digital guide available from the museum's website .

Art lovers generally find much to enjoy here, and many suggest it merits repeat visits. Some opine that the signs could provide more information about the items on view.

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Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunker that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his war cabinet used to shelter from bomb raids and plot their steps during World War II. The maze-like corridors tell the story of this volatile time period, centering on the larger-than-life leader that Churchill was.

Travelers describe the Churchill War Rooms as fascinating, and more than one traveler calls it a favorite London attraction. Some say that the rooms are much bigger than they had imagined and that people tend to spend a lot of time soaking in the exhibits and information. Others say that the exhibits have a strange layout, which can lead to confusion when trying to follow the sequence of events. Additionally, this popular spot gets crowded, so most museumgoers recommend that visitors get to the Churchill War Rooms early to avoid a long wait.

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The 21 top London attractions for 2024

By Connor Sturges

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Searching for the top London attractions can often be overwhelming. In a city with so many  things to do each weekend , hot new restaurants  and  bars  opening left, right and centre, and even several places that  don’t feel like they’re in London  at all, it can be an arduous task creating a relevant itinerary. There are thousands of years of history to be uncovered across the city – hundreds of millions of years worth if you factor in the Natural History Museum’s collections. The Romans were among the first to truly urbanise this patch of  England ; you can still see some of their handiwork today. Otherwise, many of London’s landmarks are associated with the Royal Family – think The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, etc.

Looking for a culture-filled afternoon? The V&A and Science Museum are among some of  London’s best museums  and are close enough together to warrant a double-up. Hungry? Head to  London’s food markets , from Borough Market to Camden’s finest. There’s something for everyone in this beautiful city we call home.

What should you not miss when visiting London?

Experiencing a variety of top London attractions. A little bit of research can go a long way, and mean you get a taste of the capital’s food scene, nightlife, culture and history, all in accordance with your tastes and how you like to travel.

Where should I start sightseeing in London?

It’s best to start in the heart of London for sightseeing and travel further out from there, depending on the priorities of an itinerary. Longer stays are rewarded with adventures further out, to areas like Kew and Richmond. Extended trips, however, call for an exciting day trip from London .

What's worth visiting in London?

In a city with something for everyone, this truly depends on the experience you want in London. Travellers fascinated by history should prioritise London attractions like the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and The Palace of Westminster, while culture vultures have lots of museums to discover, from the Science Museum to the Natural History Museum.

What’s the most popular thing in London?

The most popular free thing to do in London is The British Museum, one of the London attractions frequently visited by both Londoners and tourists. Kew Gardens, The Tower of London and The London Eye are among the most popular paid-for attractions.

The top London attractions

1. Notting Hill and Portobello Road Market

It may be best known for its starring role in the eponymous movie starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, but aside from the (real) bookshop, the neighbourhood of  Notting Hill  is a London attraction in its own right. Start by exploring Portobello Market, where rows of gems, vintage sunglasses, rare books and pre-loved wares take up much of the street. Notting Hill is home to some of the  best bakeries in London  (morning bakes from Buns From Home and cupcakes from Hummingbird Bakery) and super-cute pubs (look on pub blackboards for signs of  secret gardens  and terraces). On rainier days, head to the Museum of Brands for an insight into the history of advertising – it’s more fun than it sounds, trust us. Alternatively, visit the Electric Cinema for plush seats, Champagne and an extensive menu.

Top tip: The streets here come alive during the August bank holiday thanks to  Notting Hill Carnival – a colourful celebration of  Caribbean culture, food and music. Year-round, it’s also one of the best places in London for charity shopping.

Address:  Notting Hill, London

2. Borough Market

Borough Market  is regarded by many as one of London’s best and oldest food markets, largely thanks to the diversity of produce and traders dotted around the site. There are more than 100 stalls selling everything from East Sussex cheeses to South Tyrol charcuterie and pots of the juiciest olives outside of the Mediterranean. While many eager-to-please dinner party hosts peruse the deli stalls for last-minute inspiration, Borough Market is also great for on-the-go grub. Expect boxes of Iraqi-inspired street food, bowls of Malaysian slow-cooked curries and some of the  best doughnuts  in town from the Bread Ahead crew.

Top Tip:  Borough Market is best experienced on the weekend. Visit early morning if weekday trips are a must. Midweek afternoons between 12 and 3 are the time to avoid – suited workers spilling out of the surrounding skyscrapers at lunchtime, snapping up on-the-go goods before shuffling back to their desks.

Address: Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, London, SE1 1TL Website:   boroughmarket.org.uk

3. British Museum

If travellers know the neighbourhood of  Bloomsbury , it’s probably because they’re familiar with the fascinating artefacts on display at the British Museum. The museum was established in 1753 and opened to the public in 1759; the museum we know today resulted from centuries of extensions and renovations required to house all the displays. The British Museum is one London attraction you can never quite ‘complete’, as touring exhibitions and collections frequently pop up in the halls and galleries – expect to see ancient Egyptian sarcophagus alongside glittering jewels worn by Persian civilizations. Artefacts permanently on display include a collection of sculptures that once adorned the Acropolis in  Athens  and the rosetta stone – a decree in three ancient languages that was the key to deciphering hieroglyphics.

Top Tip: Explore the collection in your own time with fascinating and exclusive commentary and content when you download the free British Museum app.

Address:  The British Museum, Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG Website:   britishmuseum.org

4. Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has long been recognised as a symbol of the British monarchy. It is the King’s official residence and a working royal palace year-round. Over the  summer , the gardens are a hub of activity as special guests are invited to picnic and mingle in aid of charity events close to the monarch’s heart. It is one of the London attractions on many a bucket list, but to experience all the royal residence has to offer, a trip to the capital needs to be carefully timed. Each summer, the doors open for ten weeks between  July  and  October  for guided tours of the grand halls and staterooms. This is a chance to go behind the scenes and peek inside the historic throne room, the white drawing room with its spectacular chandelier, and the ballroom where many important figures have been hosted over the centuries.

Top Tip: Haven’t got time to experience all Buckingham Palace offers in one day? Ask the booking team to convert your ticket into an annual pass and enjoy free readmission for a year free of charge.

Address: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA Website:   rct.uk

5. Camden Market

Few London food markets cater to as wide a range of taste buds as Camden Market. Colourful Pakistani street food, fresh crepes stuffed with an assortment of fillings, classic American  burgers , Venezuelan arepas and even Yorkshire pudding burritos stuffed with roast dinner items – the market is a saviour for large groups and fussy families. Not only are the foodie possibilities endless, but there are lots to explore in this quirky corner of  North London . Explore the stalls selling curious wares, hop on a canal boat cruise through the legendary lock or eat on Primrose Hill and enjoy  views of the capital late into the summer evenings.

Top Tip:  Live music is a big thing in  Camden . The Dublin Castle, The Devonshire Arms and The Lock Tavern are some of the area's most popular  live music venues , attracting the likes of Franz Ferdinand and Adele early on in their careers.

Address:  Camden Market, Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8AA Website:   camdenmarket.com

6. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace was once a home away from home for  the royals  and aristocracy. Many of its famous residents (Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII) are rumoured to still roam the halls in spectral form, but today it’s a taste of country grandeur just a short  train journey  out of central London. Experience how the Tudors conducted their private lives in the decorative staterooms and partied under the hammer beam roof of the Great Hall. Once used for garden parties designed to impress and jousting tournaments, the grounds of the palace now encompass 60 acres of formal, manicured gardens and 750 acres of parkland.

Top Tip: Hampton Court Palace is a magical site during the winter months. Shorter visiting hours mean less time to explore the interiors, but twinkling fairy lights illuminate the ice rink outside, and glittering sculptures are often placed around the grounds.

Address: Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU Website:   hrp.org.uk

7. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of eight Royal Parks dotted across London and is a hub of activity year-round. Bracing  winter walks  or laps on Santander bicycles are best rewarded with a visit to the Serpentine Bar and Kitchen or Lido Bar and Café – nurse a hot drink and tuck into an indulgent slice of  cake  while watching the world go by through the floor-to-ceiling windows. In the lead-up to  Christmas , Hyde Park becomes a playground for children and adults thanks to Winter Wonderland, the dazzling festive fair complete with ice bars, funfair rides, Bavarian beer tents and German-style  Christmas markets . In summer, several  festivals  take over the park, from foodie fairs to musical ones with superstar headliners like Adele and Elton John. Large groups use the green expanses to gather, unpack picnics and uncork bottles from local delis. Others take to the water on boats that can be hired by the hour and pedalled around The Serpentine Lake.

Top Tip: On Sundays, Speakers' Corner is taken over by public speakers sharing their views – often political ones. Hyde Park has been known as a meeting place for the opinionated for many centuries; Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin and George Orwell are among the historical figures who once spoke here.

Address: Hyde Park, London Website:   royalparks.org.uk

8. Kensington Palace

While the ruling Monarchs of recent history have used Buckingham Palace as their official royal residence, Kensington Palace is associated with the younger members of the institution. Kensington Palace was originally a Jacobean mansion built by Sir George Coppin in 1605, before William III and his wife Mary requested Sir Christopher Wren to redesign and expand the property in 1689 as they sought respite from the fog and floods along the banks of the River Thames. Today, Kensington Palace is best known for being the official residence of the  Prince and Princess of Wales , William and Catherine. Visit London exhibitions on topics like Georgian society and royal fashion through the ages and long springtime lunches in Kensington Palace Pavilion.

Top Tip:  Kensington Palace Pavilion is the only place in London where you can enjoy traditional  afternoon tea on the grounds of a royal palace. Coat freshly-baked scones in jam and cream and savour decorative sweet treats before a stroll around the manicured lawns of Kensington Gardens.

Address:  Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX Website:   hrp.org.uk

9. Kew Gardens

For a London attraction that feels a world away from the chaos of the city, look no further than Kew Gardens. Royal residences in this area of southwest London have influenced the layout. Still, the enclosed site, now visited by millions of visitors annually, dates to 1840, when the gardens were collectively deemed one national botanical garden of 75 acres by the Royal Horticultural Society. UNESCO put the gardens on its list of  World Heritage Sites  in 2003, and today there are 300 acres to explore. The complex has over 50,000 living plants, including rare and threatened species in Temperate House, the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse. Check the website for the latest seasonal exhibitions, installations and green-leaved arrivals. The long summer evenings see  pop-up cinema nights  and foodie events while thousands of twinkling lights and glowing sculptures in the lead-up to Christmas illuminate the paths.

Top Tip: With 300 acres to explore, visiting Kew Gardens is the perfect excuse to shun the crowded attractions elsewhere in London. Pair a visit with a trip to Richmond, one of the most village-like spots within easy reach of central London. There are quirky  brunch spots , fine dining restaurants and some of the cosiest pubs outside of  the Cotswolds .

Address: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond Website:   kew.org

10. London Transport Museum

London Transport Museum is one of the  best attractions for kids in London , documenting over 200 years of the city’s transport history. Discover how the capital’s cobbled streets were navigated by early Victorians, from the horse and carriage options available to the middle and upper classes to the boats used to transport workers across the River Thames – there were just two bridges crossing the waterway in the early 1800s. Highlights include the only surviving 1860s steam engine and permanent exhibitions explaining how  villages  were gradually incorporated into the 21st-century London we know due to the ever-expanding underground network.

Top Tip: Avoid midweek visits; the museum is a popular London attraction for school groups, which can often be found interacting with the attractions and tucking into packed lunches close by.

Address: London Transport Museum, The Piazza, London WC2E 7BB Website:   ltmuseum.co.uk

11. The Houses of Parliament

The Palace of Westminster, or the Houses of Parliament as it’s better known, has been the meeting point for the UK’s highest-ranking decision-makers for centuries. However, the building on the banks of the River Thames today is by no means the original – the last palace was destroyed in 1834 by a disastrous fire. When the House of Commons and House of Lords aren’t bustling with political figures, guided tours are available led by experts on the storied property. Following the largest conservation project in Big Ben’s 160-year history – or the Elizabeth Tower to give it its official title – visitors will soon be welcomed back to the iconic clock tower.

Top Tip: Security is tight, demand is high, and capacity is limited – so ensure you book a guided tour well in advance. Visits can be booked several months prior by phone or online.

Address: Palace of Westminster, London SW1A 0AA Website:   parliament.uk

12. National Gallery

Another of  London’s best free attractions  is the National Gallery. The National Gallery was established in 1824, first as a collection at 100 Pall Mall, before moving to its current Trafalgar Square home in 1838. Entry is free, and millions of visitors pass through the grand halls each year to get a closer look at more than 2,000 regular collection exhibits. Some of the most iconic paintings in the gallery include  Sunflowers  by Vincent van Gogh,  The Water-Lily Pond  by Claude Monet, and  Venus and Mars , Sandro Botticelli’s 15th-century masterpiece. Regular touring exhibitions cost a small fee to access.

Top Tip:  The size of the National Gallery can be a little overwhelming. Get a feel for the collection’s highlights on guided tours when visiting between Tuesday and Thursday.

Address:  The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN Website:   nationalgallery.org.uk

13. Natural History Museum

Few museums in the world have condensed hundreds of millions of years of history so successfully and superbly into a series of exhibitions and galleries than the Natural History Museum in South Kensington. There is a rare first edition of Charles Darwin’s  On the Origin of Species  – arguably the most essential book in the history of biology – plus a sample of moon rock collected on one of the USA Apollo missions that were gifted to the UK by President Nixon. However, the museum’s best exhibits are those documenting the history of the animal kingdom. There is the most scientifically significant fossil of one of the earliest known birds to navigate the planet, 65-million-year-old ammonites, and a barbary lion skull retrieved from the site of the early mediaeval Royal Zoo at the Tower of London.

Top Tip: Enjoy a night of fun, science, movies and music with a sleepover in the museum, or keep an eye out for morning yoga sessions. Peckish? Squeeze in lunch at one of the  best restaurants in South Kensington .

Address:  Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD Website:   nhm.ac.uk

14. Shakespeare’s Globe

Shakespeare’s Globe has been a staple of London’s riverside for centuries – but not always in the location or form we know now. The modern theatre is an interpretation of the original Globe Theatre that burnt down in 1613 before being rebuilt and forced to close due to the First English Civil War. Today's Globe holds 1,300 spectators compared to the 3,000 theatre-goers the original catered for and was established by American actor and director Sam Wanamaker. Since it opened in 1997, the stage has welcomed stars in plays from William Shakespeare's catalogue, including Gemma Arterton and Jonathan Pryce. During the chillier months, Shakespeare’s Globe closes its doors, and the adjacent Sam Wanamaker Playhouse opens its doors for its seasonal run of sheltered performances.

Top Tip:   West End theatre shows  aren’t known for being particularly cheap. Thankfully, standing tickets at Shakespeare’s Globe cost just £5 during summer.

Address: Shakespeare's Globe, 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT Website:   shakespearesglobe.com

15. St Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral captivates and shapes London as few religious buildings outside of Rome manage to. There has been a structure on the site since at least the fifth century, but the cathedral we see now is the work of celebrated architect Sir Christopher Wren. Wren had been advising on the necessary repairs to the old cathedral – a 585-foot-long wooden structure originally constructed in the 11th century – since 1661. However, the Great Fire of London in 1666 left this iteration gutted, and it was decided to rebuild in a more modern style. Admire the decorative ceilings, winding staircases and spectacular view of the cathedral’s length from the nave – this is one of the best places for  photo opportunities . The crypt is the final resting place of Nelson, Wellington and Sir Alexander Fleming, among others, but the brave are rewarded by journeying upwards; the golden gallery is reached by more than 500 steps from ground level and is a viewing platform circling the highest point of the outer dome – find some of the best, and scariest, views of London here.

Top Tip: Priced tickets allow access to all of the accessible galleries, viewing platforms and exhibitions, and there are regular guided tours for curious visitors keen to get under the skin of the cathedral. However, should a glimpse inside its glittering interiors suffice, free entry is granted to visitors attending the daily mass sessions. So get in line at least half an hour before Sunday mass for a unique experience in one of the world’s most famous buildings.

Address: St. Paul's Cathedral, St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD Website:   stpauls.co.uk

16. Tate Britain

There’s no doubt about it – it’s not always easy to have an  affordable day out in London . Thankfully, some of London's best galleries and  museums  are free to enter such as Tate Britain. Explore 500 years of British art across 20 rooms, from the intricate portraits of 16th-century notability to the snapshots of 1970s  Brixton  captured by celebrated photographer Neil Kenlock. In addition to the free-to-see collections, there are regular exhibitions. Luckily, entry to these doesn’t break the bank either. Previous displays have included celebrations of JMW Turner and his contemporaries and substantial loans of Van Gogh’s work uncovering his relationship with Britain.

Top Tip: Pair an art-filled trip to London with a stay at Artist Residence, a unique hotel where each of the 10 bedrooms is packed with bespoke art. There's also a neighbourhood hangout on the ground floor, serving coffee through to late-night cocktails.

Address: Tate Britain, Millbank, London SW1P 4RG Website:   tate.org.uk

17. The London Eye

When the London Eye was constructed to celebrate the turn of the millennium, it became the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. While its height and scale have now been outdone many times, the London Eye remains an iconic part of the capital’s skyline. Thirty-two sealed pods hold a collective capacity of 1,600 passengers, and a full rotation takes 30 minutes, provided it does not stop rotating. As a result, it is one of the most visited paid-for attractions in the United Kingdom, welcoming upwards of three million visitors a year.

Top Tip: In London for a few days? A ride on the London Eye can be done as part of a multi-attraction ticket. Pair your sky-high adventure with a visit to Madame Tussauds or a cruise down the River Thames (among other things) and save some serious money.

Address:  London Eye, Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB Website:   londoneye.com

18. The Shard

The Shard is the tallest building in western Europe and offers some of the best views of London. Ascend to floors 68, 69 and 72 for panoramic views for up to 40 miles as part of ‘The View from The Shard’; the official experience includes a Champagne reception and access to the open-air sky deck. Then, book a table in one of The Shard’s restaurants for a splash-out supper. Modern British cuisine and afternoon teas are served in Aqua Shard, upscale Asian fare in Hutong and classic grill dishes in a fine dining setting at Oblix. There are also bars and restaurants in the  Shangri-La Hotel ; rooms here offer the city's best views, plus access to the highest hotel infinity pool in London.

Top Tip:  Are you worried about the British weather getting in the way of fabulous views? ‘The View from The Shard’ tickets include a weather guarantee, granting access to another date if clouds dampen the experience.

Address:  The Shard, London Website:   the-shard.com

19. The Tower of London

The Tower of London has kept watch over the capital since William the Conqueror ordered it be constructed in the 1070s. Kings, Queens and aristocrats used the fortress as a pleasure palace over the centuries, while others have spent their final days locked up in the draughty rooms – Anne Boleyn was held here before her execution beside the White Tower in May 1536. Explore the countless rooms, where  exhibitions  display iconic relics collected over many centuries, and save time for the crown jewels presided over by a garrison of armed soldiers.

Top Tip:  A family-friendly guided tour from the yeoman warders is an unforgettable experience. Hear the ‘beefeaters’ unravel 1,000 years of history in a matter of hours as they bring the stories and gruesome details of the attraction to life. Tours run every half hour – find the next meeting point ahead of time to get up close and fire questions at the experts.

Address: Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB Website:   hrp.org.uk

20. Tower Bridge

It’s often confused with London Bridge but, put frankly, Tower Bridge is distinguishable for being the (much) prettier of the two. The Grade-I-listed suspension bridge is a glittering example of late Victorian architecture, designed by Sir Horace Jones and masterfully engineered by John Wolfe Barry. Inside, brave the high-level walkways, peek through the glass floor at the pedestrians below, and learn how one of the world’s most famous bridges operates, letting larger boats pass under as traffic stops.

Top Tip: Maltby Street Market is a short walk away, one of the tastiest food markets. Grab  brunch  before exploring Tower Bridge for delicious takes on the classic British sausage sarnie and juices blitzed to order.

Address:  Tower Bridge, Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 2UP Website:   towerbridge.org.uk

21. Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum is the world's largest applied arts, decorative arts and design museum. Its permanent collection dwarfs that of other London museums – more than two million objects are in the galleries and vaults. Entry is free, and 12.5 acres of combined exhibit space are split into 145 galleries. Permanent highlights span from the oldest dated carpet in the world, woven over 400 years ago for an Iranian shrine, and sculptures from Renaissance Italy, like Giovanni Bologna’s  Samson Slaying a Philistine .

Top Tip: After a visit to the museum, take a trip to Kynance Mews, one of the prettiest places in London . Bell Cottage is the home of Julie Andrews's character in Star!, while other movies that used this spot as a filming location include Twinky, The Big Sleep and Crooks Anonymous.

Address:  Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL Website:   vam.ac.uk

24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Shandley McMurray Updated Mar 20, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley has visited London many times, most recently on an extensive tour of England in the spring of 2022. Author Shandley McMurray lived in London and always enjoys returning.

London is one of the world's most mesmerizing cities . Modern architectural marvels like the Shard line medieval laneways peppered with historic monuments, high-end shops, and award-winning theaters. Picturesque streets and avenues connect renowned attractions like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul's Cathedral, causing visitors to gape at their beauty and exhaust their phone's photo storage.

With so many impressive tourist attractions and captivating things to do, it's no wonder London is one of the most popular places to visit in the world , attracting over 20 million tourists each year. Britain's bustling capital offers something for everyone, including shopaholics, foodies, adventurists, historians, and kids, making it tough to choose what to do first.

Should you hit one of the top museums, many of which are free to enter, or enjoy a picnic in one of the city's expansive parks ? Maybe tour a royal palace, or wander around a breathtaking garden? Perhaps you'd prefer to take in a show; enjoy a horseback ride; see the city views from atop the London Eye; or enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in Harrods, the world's poshest department store?

Use our list of the best attractions and things to do in London to help decide what to see and do in this phenomenal city you'll want to visit again and again.

See also: Where to Stay in London

1. Visit Buckingham Palace and Watch the Changing of the Guard

2. see the crown jewels at the tower of london, 3. beat the crowds: take a morning stroll across tower bridge, 4. get cultured at the british museum, 5. big ben and the houses of parliament, 6. get creative at the national gallery, 7. tour the art displays at the victoria and albert museum, 8. wander around piccadilly circus and trafalgar square, 9. journey to the top of the shard, 10. get your art fix at tate britain and tate modern, 11. walk the hallowed halls of westminster abbey, 12. head underground to the churchill war rooms, 13. walk with dinosaurs at the natural history museum, 14. enjoy a picnic in hyde park, 15. climb the dome of st. paul's cathedral, 16. shop at london's best markets, 17. be entertained by buskers at covent garden, 18. take flight on the london eye, 19. meet henry viii at hampton court palace, 20. straddle the meridian line at greenwich, 21. the imperial war museum & hms belfast, 22. explore the london docklands & canary wharf, 23. visit picturesque richmond park, 24. ogle the flora and fauna at kew gardens, where to stay in london for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to london, map of tourist attractions & things to do in london, best time to visit london, england.

One of Britain's most iconic buildings, Buckingham Palace is also the scene of London's most popular display of pomp and ceremony: the Changing of the Guard.

Drawing crowds at 11:30am most days regardless of the season, this colorful display of precision marching and music also takes place at St. James's Palace . One of the top free things to do in London , you can then follow the band along The Mall as they march between sites.

Buckingham Palace was built in 1837 and has been the London residence of the Royal Family since Queen Victoria's accession. If you're wondering whether the King is in, look at the flagpole atop the building: if the royal standard is flying day and night, he's at home. On special state occasions, he and members of the Royal Family may even emerge on the central balcony.

When the King's away at the Royal Family's summer residence in Balmoral Castle, Scotland , visitors can purchase tickets for tours of the State Rooms, the Queen's Gallery, and the Royal Mews.

From prison to palace, treasure vault to private zoo, the magnificent Tower of London has fulfilled many different roles over the centuries. One of Britain's most iconic structures, this spectacular World Heritage Site offers hours of fascination for visitors curious about the country's rich history, so much of which happened here.

Inside the massive White Tower, built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, is the 17th-century Line of Kings with its remarkable displays of royal armaments and armor. Other highlights include the famous Crown Jewels exhibition, the Beefeaters, the Royal Mint, and gruesome exhibits about the executions that took place on the grounds.

The Bloody Tower is also worthy of a visit. Here you'll find stories of ancient torture, and you can learn about the mystery of two princes who disappeared many years ago.

For the best use of your time, especially during the busy summer season, purchase the Tower of London Entrance Ticket Including Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour in advance, to bypass the ticket office lines. This pass guarantees the lowest price, helps avoid the crowds, and saves time and hassle.

Located adjacent the Tower of London, Tower Bridge features two huge towers rising 200 feet above the River Thames.

This is one of London's best-known and most photographed landmarks. While fascinating behind-the-scenes tours are available, you can easily walk across the bridge from the Tower of London.

For the best Tower views, as well as a glimpse of HMS Belfast and London Bridge (which many mistakenly believe Tower Bridge to be), find a spot mid-way across. While it can be crowded, especially around sunset, an early morning arrival before the throngs of tourists get there is well worth the effort.

Afterwards, head over to the renovated Butlers Wharf district on the bridge's south end for a unique twist on the classic "full English" breakfast at WatchHouse Tower Bridge. This now ritzy area is fun to wander and is home to a funky selection of restaurants, luxury housing, and shops.

Address: Tower Bridge Road, London

Official site: www.towerbridge.org.uk

Displaying one of the world's finest collections of antiquities, the British Museum contains more than 13 million artifacts from the ancient world. With priceless objects from Assyria, Babylonia, China, Europe, and elsewhere, it's hard to know where to begin in this expansive attraction.

Most tourists head first for the museum's most famous exhibits: the controversial Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon, the Rosetta Stone , the colossal bust of Ramesses II, the Egyptian mummies, and the spectacular hoard of 4th-century Roman silver known as the Mildenhall Treasure .

In addition to a well-stocked, on-site bookshop boasting an exhaustive array of titles on ancient history, archaeology and art history, there's a shop selling kids' games and souvenirs, along with one that sells replica sculptures and jewelry.

For those able to linger longer, the museum offers a variety of lectures and workshops, plus a restaurant and café.

Address: Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London

Official site: www.britishmuseum.org

Nothing screams "London" more emphatically than the 318-foot tower housing the giant clock and its resounding bell known as Big Ben. It's as iconic a landmark as Tower Bridge , and the tolling of Big Ben is known throughout the world as the time signal of the BBC.

Below it, stretching along the Thames, are the Houses of Parliament . The seat of Britain's government for many centuries, it was also once the site of the royal Westminster Palace occupied by William the Conqueror.

The best view of the parliament buildings can be had by crossing Westminster Bridge and looking back. Or, turn left after crossing the bridge and walk along the path towards the SEA LIFE London Aquarium (a fun spot to take kids). Gather your crew along the wall for a perfect photo with Big Ben in the background.

Tours of the Houses of Parliament offer a unique chance to see real-time debates and lively political discussions. From Parliament Square, Whitehall is lined by so many government buildings that its name has become synonymous with the British government.

Official site: www.parliament.uk/bigben

It's almost impossible to visit London without catching a glimpse of the impressive National Gallery. This iconic, columned museum is set at the edge of Trafalgar Square , home to incredible masterpieces that make it one of the best attractions in London.

Ranking among the top art museums in the world, London's National Gallery represents an almost complete survey of European painting from 1260 until 1920. The museum's greatest strengths are in its collections of Dutch Masters and Italian Schools of the 15th and 16th centuries.

Among its highlights are a cartoon (preliminary sketch) of the Madonna and Child by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo's The Entombment , Botticelli's Venus and Mars , van Gogh's Sunflowers , and The Water-Lily Pond by Monet.

Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London

Official site: www.nationalgallery.org.uk

The Victoria and Albert Museum (aka the V&A) is part of a South Kensington-based group of museums that includes the Natural History Museum and Science Museum . Founded in 1852, the V&A covers close to 13 acres and contains 145 galleries spanning some 5,000 years of art and related artifacts.

Exhibits include ceramics and glass, textiles and costumes, silver and jewelry, ironwork, sculpture, prints, and photos, and are conveniently arranged into four main categories: Asia; Furniture, Textiles, and Fashion; Sculpture, Metalwork, Ceramics, and Glass; and Word and Image.

It's impossible to get around this vast museum in a single visit, so the best plan to tackle it is to decide in advance which sections you most want to see. Taking a V&A tour is highly recommended, and often free, with options including everything from daily introductory tours to specific gallery or themed tours.

The Main and Garden Cafés are more impressive than any museum eatery you've seen. The intricate detailing on everything from the floor to the columns to the ceiling make them worthy pieces of art themselves. Plus, the food is quite tasty. Also, don't miss an opportunity to luxuriate in the John Madejski Garden , which is so beautiful and serene, you'll forget you're in the center of one of the world's largest cities.

If you're around, check into one of the fun "Friday Late" programs held on the last Friday of the month (except for March and December). These fun events are popular for their food and drink experiences, along with late-night exhibition openings.

Address: Cromwell Road, Knightsbridge, London

Official site: www.vam.ac.uk

Two of London's best-known tourist spots, Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square lie not far apart and mark the gateway to Soho , London's lively theater and entertainment district. The walk from one to the other is truly enjoyable, lined with eclectic boutiques, tasty cafés, ice-cream shops, and winding laneways evoking a bygone era when only horses and buggies traipsed through these historic streets.

Trafalgar Square was built to commemorate Lord Horatio Nelson's victory over the French and Spanish fleets at Trafalgar in 1805. Nelson's Column , a 183-foot granite monument, overlooks the square's fountains and bronze reliefs, which were cast from French cannons. Admiralty Arch, St. Martin-in-the-Fields , and the National Gallery surround the square.

Piccadilly Circus marks the irregular intersection of several busy streets, including Piccadilly, Regent, Haymarket, and Shaftesbury Avenue. Overlooking this somewhat untidy snarl of traffic stands London's best-known sculpture, the winged Eros delicately balanced on one foot, bow poised.

"It's like Piccadilly Circus" is a common expression among Londoners to describe a busy and confusing scene.

Since it opened in 2012, The Shard has taken its place as one of the most-recognizable and most-visited landmarks in London.

Standing 1,016 feet tall and encompassing some 95 stories, this remarkable structure is so-named for its resemblance to a shard of glass. Yet, while it dominates the skyline south of the River Thames, its pleasing design doesn't seem at all out of place when seen next to neighbors such as Tower Bridge.

In addition to its office space on the lower levels, The Shard is home to a stunning Shangri-La Hotel and three superb restaurants, all boasting some of the most incredible views over London. For those not staying here, the upper-most levels consist of a choice of viewing platforms: indoor and outdoor.

Another London skyscraper that's worth a visit is the "Walkie Talkie" with its popular Sky Garden attraction. Located around the corner from the Tower of London and set on the building's 34th to 37th floors, the garden's terraces offer some of the best views over the city. If you've got the time, reserve a table at one of the restaurants here in order to enjoy the views while you dine.

Address: 32 London Bridge Street, London

Official site: www.the-shard.com

Art lovers cannot visit London without touring its most impressive art museums: the two Tates. Located on opposite sides of the Thames, Tate Britain and Tate Modern together comprise one of the world's most important art collections .

The original gallery opened in 1897 as the basis of a national collection of significant British art, and continued to make acquisitions, needing more space to properly display its collections. The end result was the establishment of Tate Britain, in Millbank on the north side of the Thames, as home to its permanent collection of historic British paintings.

A superbly transformed power station across the Thames became home to the modern art collections. Art lovers can spend a whole day viewing both sites, conveniently connected by high-speed ferry. Better still, walk across the Millennium Bridge , a footbridge that connects the two banks of the river close to the Tate Modern. The views are spectacular.

Tate Britain

• Address: Millbank, London
• www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-britain

Tate Modern

• Address: Bankside, London
• www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern

Another location with a long association with British royalty, Westminster Abbey stands on a site that's been associated with Christianity since the early 7th century. Officially known as the Collegiate Church of St. Peter in Westminster, Westminster Abbey was founded by Edward the Confessor in 1065 as his place of interment.

From his burial in 1066 until that of George II almost 700 years later, most sovereigns were not only crowned here but were buried here, too. More recently, it's become famous as the preferred location for Royal Weddings.

This masterpiece of Gothic architecture not only has the highest Gothic nave in England (102 feet), it's also one of London's most popular tourist attractions, drawing well over a million visitors each year.

Highlights of a visit include seeing the more than 600 memorials in the Nave, including the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior; Poet's Corner in the Transepts , with its memorials to the likes of Shakespeare, Chaucer, and Dickens; the Westminster Abbey Museum; and the attractive gardens.

Address: 20 Dean's Yard, Westminster, London

Official site: www.westminster-abbey.org

Among the most fascinating and evocative of London's historic sites are the perfectly preserved Churchill War Rooms.

The nerve-center from which Prime Minister Winston Churchill directed British military campaigns and the defense of his homeland throughout World War II, their simplicity and cramped conditions underline the desperate position of England as the Nazi grip tightened across Europe.

You'll see the tiny cubicle where Churchill slept and the improvised radio studio where he broadcast his famous wartime speeches. Simple details, such as Clementine Churchill's knitting wool marking the front lines on a map of Europe, bring the era to life as no other museum could possibly do.

Audio guides are available (a thorough self-guided tour takes about 90 minutes), and a café and bookshop are located on the premises.

Address: Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London

Official site: www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms

Established in 1754, London's spectacular Natural History Museum remains one of the most-visited such attractions on the planet. It's easy to spot for its huge Romanesque façade, and a visit is something you'll not want to rush. Arrive early as it can get quite crowded.

Many of the museum's original exhibits are still on display centuries later, and together comprise a massive collection of more than 80 million items showcasing everything from botany to zoology, plus pretty much everything in between. A highlight of a visit is seeing the preserved specimens that Charles Darwin collected on his epic journeys.

If you're not in a hurry, start your visit by joining one of the formal guided tours on offer, ranging from 30 to 50 minutes. You'll be introduced to highlights you may wish to return to at a later date to explore in greater detail.

A variety of fun events are held regularly, from workshops for kids to late night openings. Shopping opportunities are located on-site, along with a number of dining options.

Address: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London

Official site: www.nhm.ac.uk

Covering 350 acres, Hyde Park is London's largest open space and has been a destination for sightseers since 1635. One of the park's highlights is the Serpentine, an 18th-century man-made lake popular for boating and swimming. Hyde Park is also where you'll find Speakers' Corner , a traditional forum for free speech—and heckling.

Another Hyde Park landmark is Apsley House , former home of the first Duke of Wellington and purchased after his famous victory at Waterloo. Now a museum, it houses Wellington's magnificent collections of paintings, including Velázquez's The Waterseller of Seville , along with gifts presented by grateful European kings and emperors. England's greatest hero is also commemorated at the Wellington Arch.

Another lovely London green space to explore is Regent's Park . Just a short walk away from Westminster, this 410-acre attraction is a delight to stroll around. If you're traveling with kids, be sure to visit London Zoo , located within the grounds of the park and one of the most popular things to do for families visiting the city.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions around Hyde Park

The largest and most famous of London's many churches, and undoubtedly one of the most spectacular cathedrals in the world, St. Paul's Cathedral sits atop the site of a Roman temple. The previous church structure was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666, and Sir Christopher Wren designed the rebuild .

Today, the twin Baroque towers and magnificent 365-foot dome of St. Paul's are a masterpiece of English architecture. If you're up to it, be sure to walk the stairs with their spectacular views of the dome's interior, including the Whispering Gallery , undoubtedly one of the top things to do in London.

• Read More: Exploring London's St. Paul's Cathedral: A Visitor's Guide

Whether you're a fan of food, flowers, art, or clothes, you'll find something to love in London's best markets . While most open only on weekends (Fridays included), some of the most eclectic venues, like the vibrant Camden Market in North London, welcome shoppers daily.

Camden Market is home to over 100 stalls, shops, and eateries offering everything from gluten-free goodies to hand-made jewels to bohemian clothing. If you're looking for a distinct urban feel, you'll find it here.

Borough Market is a must-visit for foodies in central London. This popular venue, which is situated near London Bridge, is so busy on weekends, you'll have to fight your way through crowds to nab the best produce or mouthwateringly good sample of giant paella.

Arrive early (we'd suggest no later than 10am) to enjoy a little more elbow room. The line for coffee can extend for blocks, so head there first. While some stalls are open during the week, most don't unveil their goods until Friday morning.

Old Spitalfields Market is another beloved spot offering some of the city's most gorgeous flowers, interesting antiques, art, jewelry, and more. Built in 1876, this is one of the best examples of a Victorian Market Hall.

Other popular markets include, Maltby Street Market , Brick Lane Market , and Portobello Road.

Read More: Best Places to Shop in London

The market halls of Covent Garden are only the beginning of the neighborhood, which encompasses the shops and restaurants of Long Acre and other adjacent streets, those of Neal's Yard and Seven Dials, as well as the Central Square with its incredibly talented, and unique, street performers.

The halls and arcades of Covent Garden Market are lined with specialty shops and kiosks selling everything from teas to fine handcrafts to tacky souvenirs. A few restaurants are sprinkled in as well, some offering patios for you to enjoy a tasty treat while people-watching.

Housed in the former flower market, you'll find the London Transport Museum , a kid-centric haven for those who love all things vehicular. Filled with historic buses, trolleys, and trams, children and adults alike will love this interactive transportation hub. "Drive" a London bus, pilot a tube train, or sit on an ancient trolley.

This area is also where you'll find the Royal Opera House and a variety of other leading London theaters.

Built to mark London's millennium celebrations in 2000, the London Eye is one of the world's largest observation wheels. Its individual glass capsules offer the most spectacular views of the city as you embark on a circular tour rising 443 feet above the Thames. The journey lasts close to 30 minutes, often quicker than the time spent lining up for your turn.

If you can, reserve your time in advance. Better still, skip the line completely with a London Eye: Skip-the-Line Ticket . This advance ticket allows you to take a flight at any time on the day you plan to visit. If you can afford it, rent one of the private capsules and share the experience with friends and family.

Another fun way to view London for above is aboard the Emirates Air Line , a cable car system that crosses the Thames between Greenwich and the Royal Victoria Dock. The journey travels one kilometer and lasts 10 minutes, long enough to enjoy spectacular views and grab a few memorable selfies.

Official site: www.londoneye.com

Another great Thames-side attraction, Hampton Court is one of the world's most famous and grandest of royal palaces, and a truly remarkable place to visit in London. Its Great Hall dates from Henry VIII's time (two of his six wives supposedly haunt the palace), and it's where Elizabeth I learned of the defeat of the Spanish Armada .

Meet Henry VIII himself or have a chat with Anne Boleyn, both of whom wander the grounds and involve guests in their interesting antics at random points throughout the day. Depending on the time and date you visit, you may even be asked to participate in a session in court.

Grab an audio guide upon your arrival and choose a velvet cloak to wear as you tour the grounds, if you're hoping to feel a bit more authentic. Get lost in the palace's famous Maze , or grab a bite in the on-site café,

Other interesting features include the Clock Court with its fascinating astronomical clock dating from 1540, the State Apartments with their Haunted Gallery, the Chapel , the King's Apartments , and the Tudor tennis court. Don't miss the Tudor Kitchens and their massive fireplaces.

The gardens are also worth visiting, especially in mid-May when in full bloom. Highlights include the Privy Garden, the Pond Garden, the Elizabethan Knot Garden, the Broad Walk, and an area known as the Wilderness.

Although a little farther outside the city center, Hampton Court is a must-do sightseeing trip when visiting London. It's a bit of a haul on the tube, but taking a taxi, renting a car, or even grabbing a car service will make this trip more than worthwhile.

• Read More: Visiting Hampton Court Palace: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

For centuries the hub of Britain's naval power, Greenwich is best known to tourists as the home of the Cutty Sark , the last of the 19th-century tea clippers to sail between Britain and China. The ship is located adjacent to the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre with its exhibits showcasing more than 500 years of maritime history, and the Palladian mansion known as Queen's House .

The impressive collections of the National Maritime Museum , the largest of its kind in the world, illustrate the history of the Royal Navy. And one of the most unusual things to do in London is standing with one foot in each hemisphere, astride the Meridian Line in the Meridian Building in the Royal Observatory.

Read More: Top Attractions in Greenwich & Docklands Districts, London

If you've time in your travel itinerary, two other military attractions related to the Churchill War rooms are also worth visiting: The Imperial War Museum and HMS Belfast .

Located a short distance from the popular Southbank cultural district, the Imperial War Museum London can easily occupy the best part of a day with its fascinating exhibits and collections of military vehicles, weapons, and aircraft.

Set in chronological order, displays portray the very real experiences of participants and victims in the world's major conflicts, with many hands-on exhibits allowing unique incites into their place in history. The Holocaust Galleries are particularly sobering.

A shop and café are located on-site, and before leaving, grab a selfie standing next to the huge shells and guns located out front.

The other must-see under the Imperial War Museum umbrella, HMS Belfast is a well-preserved WWII-era cruiser that served during D-Day. Located on the River Thames opposite the Tower of London, this historic vessel can be explored as part of a guided or self-guided tour.

For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a fun family tour. A gift shop is located on the premises.

The revitalized Docklands area of East London has been transformed into an international place of business and recreation, filled with some of London's smartest new restaurants and entertainment experiences.

The revitalized Docklands area also includes Canary Wharf. This important financial and business hub offers a variety of fun things to do, including shopping and dining.

The excellent Museum of London Docklands is the place to visit to learn more about the area. Located in a series of old Georgian warehouses on Canary Wharf, it brings to life the river, port, and its people from Roman times to the present through hands-on displays that are especially interesting for children.

A little closer to the Tower of London, St. Katherine Docks is fun to explore, too. Redeveloped as a mixed commercial and residential area, here you can spend time wandering the marina or enjoying a great meal or respite while watching the world go by.

It's hard to believe you're in London (well, technically just outside London) when on a visit to Richmond Park. One of the most captivating of the eight Royal Parks, this lavish natural wonderland has everything you'd look for in an English park: winding paths, verdant woodland, sparkling lakes, horse stables and trails, bike lanes, and multiple picnic spots.

Enjoy unparalleled views of St. Paul's Cathedral from King Henry's Mound , a picturesque hilltop surrounded by wild deer. Luxuriate in a warm tea and traditional scones at the Pembroke Lodge Tea Room , or rent a bike and cycle through this spectacular 2,500-acre nature reserve.

If visiting during spring, particularly late April or early May, make your way to the Isabella Plantation , a remarkable Victorian woodland garden set within the park. Its vibrant 40 acres are filled with colorful rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias so resplendent, you'll think you're walking through a fairy tale.

Official site: https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/richmond-park

Spending at day at Kew Gardens is one of the best things to do in London. A UNESCO Heritage Site , this phenomenal spot is home to over 50,000 living plants and some of the most majestically manicured gardens in England.

Officially called the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is situated in southwest London on the south bank of the Thames and offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of central London, and a welcome breath of fresh air. Located on a flight path, you'll spot multiple jumbo jets, but these add to the allure for little ones.

Also family-friendly is the expansive indoor and outdoor playground, which comes complete with a zipline. Visit on a sunny day, and you should prepare to jostle for a picnic spot on the lush lawns, as this is a popular spot for families to enjoy a lunch out. Didn't pack snacks? Visit one of the on-site restaurants for a tasty treat-they even offer dairy and gluten-free options.

Laid out in 1759, the gardens became government property in 1841. In 1897, Queen Victoria added Queen's Cottage and the adjoining woodland. A variety of tours are available free with admission, and many musical and cultural events are held here throughout the year.

Don't miss the towering Pagoda ; Japanese gardens ; Treetop Walkway ; and the remarkable Palm House , an indoor rainforest with an aquarium in the basement. The impressive Rhododendron Dell is a breathtaking treat popping with vibrant blooms during spring.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of London's Kew Gardens

London's top tourist attractions are spread out over several different areas of the city. If you want to spend time sightseeing, it's a good idea to base yourself in a central location and use the city's excellent public transport system to travel between the sites. Here are some highly rated hotels in Central London:

Luxury Hotels:

• When it comes to posh hotels, the grande dames still grace the list of London's best. Pampering guests for more than a century are The Goring , a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace.
• The Langham , in the heart of the West End, has played host to royals and celebrities for more than 150 years.
• A few steps from Trafalgar Square is the Corinthia London , with a rooftop terrace and luxurious afternoon teas.
• The Ritz London , also known for teas, is handy to the posh shops of Mayfair.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Fielding Hotel , a popular boutique property, places you right near Covent Garden, one of the city's most touristy areas. Handy for those arriving by train from Heathrow or Gatwick airports,
• The Clermont, Victoria is right over Victoria Station.
• About a 15-minute stroll from Covent Garden, Bloomsbury was once London's literary hub and is now home to one of the city's top attractions, the British Museum, as well as highly rated mid-range hotels such as The Montague on the Gardens and The Bloomsbury . Both are also a short stroll from Oxford Street shopping.

Budget Hotels:

• If you're watching your wallet, the Premier Inn London Kensington (Earl's Court) Hotel is an affordable option minutes from museums and Earls Court tube station.
• You can also head north and try The Alhambra Hotel or Jesmond Dene Hotel , both near busy King's Cross tube station, a major transport hub.
• In-depth tours. It's hard to choose the best sights to see in London; there are so many awesome spots on offer. This nine-hour, Best of London Sightseeing Tour makes sure you don't miss anything essential. In addition to taking you to some of the city's top spots like Westminster Cathedral and Buckingham Palace, guests receive pre-arranged tickets for a boat cruise, as well as comprehensive tours of the Tower of London and St. Paul's Cathedral, plus a stop to watch the Changing of the Guard. Upgrade to receive a cream tea at Harrods or a flight on the London Eye.
• Seeing the Sights . One of the best ways to see the sights of London is on a traditional, double-decker Hop-On Hop-Off London Sightseeing Tour . This has been the classic sightseeing tour for years, and it's popular for good reason: it's easy, convenient, informative, and ensures you see the most important attractions. Tickets are flexible, with open dates, and are valid for a 24-hour period. Even if you are in London for several days, this is a great way to spend a day getting oriented, especially for first-time visitors to the city.
• Day Trips . Beyond the city, there are some excellent sightseeing opportunities that can be easily undertaken on a day trip tour from London. The Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath Day Trip from London is an 11-hour guided trip that takes visitors to these must-see places to visit. It's a great way to see the surroundings without the hassle of driving, navigating, and parking.
• Harry Potter Experience. Fans of Harry Potter will definitely want to take the Warner Brother's Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter for a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the movie and a walk through the incredible sets where the film was made. Visitors can explore the site on their own, see the costumes and props, wander through the Great Hall, and learn about the whole experience of filming. The tour includes transportation to and from the studios from central London and an entrance ticket.

Let's be honest: no one travels to London for its weather. Frequented by cloudy skies that release smatterings of mist and rain, the UK's epic capital city is best visited with an umbrella in hand.

That said, London receives less annual rainfall than its tarnished reputation would have us believe, and less than many European cities . And rather than heavy rainfalls, the norm is "little and often." Yes, you'll likely run into a sprinkle or two during your visit, but a little rain never ruined a vacation, especially when touring a historic metropolis with so much to offer.

When those beautiful, bright sunny days do appear, visitors receive front row seats to the city's remarkable transformation. Locals smile more easily, the city's best parks and gardens fill with sun worshippers and picnickers, and a sparkling hue adds another level of magic to the city's most magnificent buildings. There's nothing better!

London is a tourist hot spot throughout the year. In other words, there's never a bad time to visit. If you're looking for a better chance of glimpsing the sun and avoiding masses of tourists, however, the best time to visit London is from March through May . That said, if you don't mind rubbing elbows with a zillion other tourists, a good time of year to travel to London is during the summer months from June to September.

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Other English City Destinations : Given its relatively small size, it's easy to travel from London to other great English cities, including lovely Liverpool , famous as the birthplace of The Beatles. The industrial city of Manchester is also within easy reach and is popular for its historic canal network and fine museums. Birmingham is another northern city worth visiting and celebrates both its rich industrial past along with modern museums, art galleries, and other cultural attractions.

Easy Escapes : From London, you're only a short train ride away from the idyllic countryside of the Lake District , a popular walking destination and known for the stunning scenery around Lake Windermere. The historic city of Bath , named after its well-preserved Roman baths, is another great escape, whether for a weekend or a week. So, too, is the cathedral city of Durham , which is also home to one of the most-visited castles in England.

Top UK Vacation Ideas : Scotland makes for an excellent UK vacation, and is where you'll find the spectacularly beautiful city of Edinburgh , recognizable the world over for its lovely castle. The tiny nation of Wales , too, is worth exploring, especially its capital city of Cardiff and the stunning scenery of Snowdonia in North Wales .

More on England

19 Things to do in City of London

One of the oldest parts of London, The City is where the Romans founded Londinium. The City is still the main banking and finance district in London so unlike the rest of London, it is generally quieter at the weekends than during the week.

Enjoy the contrast – the hyperactive weekday City streets contrast with the ghost town of the weekends, just as the contemporary architecture of the new City skyline contrasts with the historic buildings.

Monument Tower Walk up Monument Tower

The City is full of Sir Christopher Wren churches. Monument, though, was built as a reminder of the Great Fire of London and is a 202ft column designed by Wren and Dr Robert Hooke to celebrate the City rising from the ashes!

It’s a great place to visit if you want a panoramic view of London. You can climb up 311 steps and get nearly to the top, where there’s a 360 degree viewing platform. Look out for nearby Pudding Lane, where the Great Fire is said to have started.

Tower Bridge Walk across Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is often mistakenly called ‘London Bridge’. But, the original London Bridge was actually sold to an American, shipped there and replaced with a rather boring concrete structure.

Tower Bridge dates from 1894 but is still a working bridge – for an amazing sight, you can check the times when the bascules are lifted to let larger river traffic pass through.

Millennium Bridge Take a selfie on the Wobbly Bridge

The proper name for the wobbly bridge is the Millennium Bridge.

Designed by Arup Group, Foster and Partners, and Sir Anthony Caro, when it was first opened in June 2000 it wobbled from side to side in high winds.

Pedestrian only, it’s a great place for a selfie – it lines up perfectly with the Dome of St Pauls behind.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Take a pint in Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

One of the oldest pubs in London, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese was rebuilt shortly after the great fire of London in 1666.

It is known for its literary connections and appears in novels by Dickens, Agatha Christie and Anthony Trollope.

Royal Exchange Shop till you drop at the Royal Exchange

Whether or not you get your credit cards out or just window shop till you drop, the Royal Exchange is home to some exclusive brands – from Aspinal of London to Hermes and Georg Jensen, it’s somewhere you’ll find luxurious and stunning goods to buy.

Originally a stock exchange which opened in 1566, the current building was constructed in 1844 after two fires destroyed the original exchange buildings.

Silver Vaults Explore the Silver Vaults on Chancery Lane

London’s Silver Vaults were originally built as strong rooms to hold household silver, jewellery and documents. Over the years it evolved to its current day form, secure premises for silver dealers who both store and trade from the shops in the vaults.

Although the building above was completely destroyed during the second world war, the vaults themselves were undamaged. There are over 30 traders and all the shops have been owned by the same families for at least 50 years passed down from generation to generation.

Visitors are welcome to browse an astonishing collection of antique and contemporary silver, most of which is for sale.

Guildhall Art Gallery Spend time browsing the collection of art at the Guildhall Art Gallery

The Art Gallery has a huge collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings and a collection of art documenting the history of London together with special exhibitions from time to time.

Housed in the historic Guildhall buildings, entry is free though you may have to pay for special exhibitions.

Hidden away in the basement are the remains of a Roman Amphitheatre dating back to when the Romans established Londinium around AD43.

The remains were not discovered until the Guildhall Art Gallery was refurbished. Free to visit.

Mansion House Explore the grandeur of the City at Mansion House

Mansion House is the official residence of the Mayor of London.

Built in the Palladian style between 1739 and 1752 it is home to a fine collection of Dutch and Flemish 17th century paintings.

Open to the public on Tuesday afternoons only, you’ll need to time your visit carefully if you want to see inside.

St Dunstan’s in the East Explore the greenery at St Dunstan’s in the East

The pretty gardens at St Dunstan’s in the East were originally part of an 11th Century Church.

Sir Christopher Wren extended the Church which was sadly destroyed in the Second World War and is now a public garden.

Insider tip – nearby you can visit the Billingsgate Roman Bathhouse for a 45 minute guided tour.

Bank of England Dream about unlimited wealth at the Bank of England

Founded in 1694, The Bank of England began as a private bank that would act as a banker to the Government to help fund war efforts.

It moved to Threadneedle Street in the City in 1734 into a building designed by Sir John Soane.

The current building was the result of Victorian ‘modernisation’. There’s a free to enter museum where you can learn more about the history of finance in the City.

Barbican See performing arts at the Barbican

One of London’s best examples of Brutalist architecture, the Barbican is home to a famous Arts Centre in addition to a complex of luxury flats and maisonettes. This part of London was badly damaged during the Second World War and as a result the whole site was redeveloped.

Built in the 1960s and 1980s on the site of a Roman fort, the Arts Centre is the largest of its kind in Europe and home to the LSO and to the RSC. Insider tip – there’s often free entertainment here in the evenings before shows so you can come for a drink and a bit of live music.

Roman Walls Check out the Roman Walls

You’ll find small traces of Londinium’s original Roman walls around the City.

Tower Hill is a good place to start, but there are also portions of walls scattered around the City, notably near the Museum of London.

St Bartholomew the Great ‘Get married’ at St Bartholomew the Great

Perhaps best-known today for featuring in films, this Church was used for Four Weddings and a Funeral, Shakespeare in Love and The Other Boleyn Girl.

It’s one of London’s oldest, founded in 1123 and with a 13th century arch. It houses a number of important works of art including a statue of St Bartholomew by Damien Hirst entitled ‘Exquisite Pain’.

Museum of London Discover the history of London at the Museum of London

he Museum of London focusses on the History of London from prehistoric times to present day.

Opened in 1976 it’s on the edge of the Barbican Estate and is a modern museum with a collection that includes the Lord Mayor’s stagecoach and the London 2012 Olympic cauldron.

There’s a fee to enter, but plenty to make it worth your while doing so.

River Bus Take a river bus from Temple to Tower Bridge

The best way to reach the Tower of London and Tower Bridge is by River Bus.

This is a hop on, hop off service which will take you all the way along the Thames and although not officially a guided tour, you’ll get a unique view of the City from the river.

And, arrive at Tower Bridge in exactly the same way that the original prisoners in the Tower would have done.

Tower of London Find the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

An iconic London sight, even if you don’t want to pay the fee to go into the grounds, it’s well worth a visit.

You can see the crown jewels on display at the Tower, take a tour or just wander round the grounds and take selfies with the Beefeaters – the strikingly dressed guards you’ll find there.

St Paul’s Cathedral Marvel at the magnificence of St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral was designed and rebuilt by Christopher Wren. Visit as a tourist for access to the whole Cathedral and climb 528 steps to the Golden Gallery in the Dome of the building.

You can even go outside at this level where you’ll enjoy panoramic views across London. St Pauls was built on the highest point in London and the Golden Gallery is a further 85 metres above the Cathedral floor.

There are two other galleries in the Dome, the stone gallery which is about halfway up and the whispering gallery. Send your friend to the other side of the dome and whisper something into the wall – the curious acoustic means they will hear every word.

Sky Garden Enjoy a free view at the Sky Garden

While most of London’s skyscrapers are not open to the public or charge an admission fee, the Sky Garden in the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building is free to those who book in advance.

There are landscaped gardens, observation decks and an open-air terrace – it’s London’s highest public garden. You must book in advance through their website.

Leadenhall Market Explore the cobbled streets of Leadenhall Market

One of the prettiest covered markets in London, Leadenhall Market dates from 1321 although the current structure is Victorian It is home to stalls selling flowers, cheese, meat and other fresh food.

There are also shops, pubs and restaurants in the market building. Scenes from Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone were filmed here.

Best Things to do in the City of London: An Insider’s Area Guide

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This is where it all began. London’s oldest area, The City of London ranges from the base of Tower Hill to Temple Bar – in it you’ll find Roman ruins, age-old churches and mediaeval guilds but also gleaming skyscrapers and classy cocktail bars. 

In other words, there’s so much more to The City than just being London’s financial district.

Never is the history of London clearer than on a walk through the city. A simple stroll will take you from the ruins of the Roman sections of London wall , to historic churches built in the aftermath of The Great Fire of London standing shoulder to shoulder with glassy sky-high contemporary constructions. 

It’s a fascinating jumble of London throughout the ages, restricted to an area a little over a square mile. 

Don’t think The City of London’s appeal is confined to poking into the past – not only is this the hub of London’s financial sector, it’s where you’ll find some of the city’s best bars and restaurants too. 

It’s easy to think of The City as a bit fuddy duddy – but scratch beneath the surface and you’ll discover independent distilleries, local theatres, art galleries and an area that very much has its finger on the pulse, as well as some incredible history .

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Things to do in the city of london.

Delving into the unmissable spots in The Square Mile.

St Paul’s Cathedral 

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most important landmarks – that much is a given, but that doesn’t do it justice. 

Famously designed by Christopher Wren after the old cathedral was burnt down in The Great Fire of London, the spire of St Paul’s seems to pop up wherever you are in The City. 

Inside, it’s just as spectacular – a riot of gilt and soaring archways that will etch itself on your brain. 

Buy your ticket

Barbican 

Love or hate the architecture (for the record, I’m on the love side), there’s no doubt that The Barbican is one of the city’s cultural hubs. 

Theatre? Check. Cinemas? Check? Concert halls? Check. Art gallery…. I could go on. 

That’s all before you get to the architecture – Brutalist, beautiful and best explored on one of their specific architecture tours. 

Pop into the Conservatory (open specific Sundays) to see its striking collision of Amazon rainforest and concrete structures.

London Mithraeum 

It’s no secret that I love the London Mithraeum . 

It says everything you need to know about The City that there’s a secret Roman temple buried underneath the shiny Bloomberg offices. 

Book a (free) ticket for the immersive temple experience. I won’t give the game away but there’s moody lighting, chanting and it’s all a bit bonkers and wonderful. 

St Dunstan in the East 

St Dunstan in the East is one of London’s most unusual (and beautiful) gardens . 

Set in the ruins of a medieval church that was destroyed by The Blitz, it’s a peaceful haven in the centre of the Square Mile. 

Sky Garden 

The towering glass garden at the top of the Walkie Talkie building, Sky Garden is one heck of a beautiful spot. Though the garden itself is a sight, you’re really here for the views, which are some of London’s best. 

Shame it can be so tough to get in – though it’s free, access tickets book out well in advance, though I do drop you some hints for beating the system in my Guide to Visiting the Sky Garden . 

Leadenhall Market 

The poulters and fishmongers of the 14th century Leadenhall Market have long been replaced with upmarket shops and restaurants, but it still retains something special that keeps visitors coming back again and again. 

The ornate wrought-iron structure plays a large part: built in the Victorian times, the red and gold construction is one of The City’s finest.

Postman’s Park

One of London’s quirkier spots, there’s nothing particularly interesting about Postman’s Park at first glance…that is until you glance at the tiled shelter hidden in one corner of the park. 

This is the Watt’s Memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice, filled with plaques commemorating the lives of Londoners who died doing heroic deeds. 

It’s a quiet, contemplative piece of greenery surrounded by the concrete jungle of the city and well worth a visit. 

London Wall 

We all know that the Romans loved a wall, and London (then Londinium) was no exception. The Romans built a wall around the City of London that was maintained until the 18th century. Remarkably, you can still see sections of the wall that date back to Roman times – head to Cooper’s Row for one such fragment. 

The Old Bailey 

Want to listen to something hair-raising? Go and listen to the trials at The Old Bailey, the Central Criminal Court of England and Wales. 

Many of the country’s most serious crimes are heard here – including that of the Kray Twins, The Yorkshire Ripper and Jeremy Thorpe – the former Liberal leader who was accused (but acquitted) of conspiracy to murder.  

Smithfield Market

You’ll need to get up early to catch Smithfield Market – London’s largest meat market – at its liveliest. By 8am the action has already dwindled to nearly nothing. 

Either way, the grand Victorian construction is worth gawping at.  

What you see today is just the tip of the iceberg of Horace Jones’ cathedral of iron and stone with many of the cavernous halls and a now defunct underground station closed to the public.  

Even more excitingly, West Smithfield is soon to become the new venue for the Museum of London. 

Museum of London 

As a city with so much history, it’s difficult to get a true sense of the narrative that saw London evolve from a sleepy backwater to the contemporary metropolis that we see today. Showcasing that narrative is exactly what the Museum of London sets out to do. 

Permanent exhibitions take you on a jaunt through time from the neolithic tools used in the area that was to become London, to London today. There’s even a full row of Victorian shops for you to explore. 

Walk the Old London Wall 

Did you know that in its earliest days, London was a walled city and that you can still see bits of the old London Wall in the City of London today? Well, you can. Even though the London Wall dates back to Roman times, it was maintained in part until the 18th century. Do the London Wall Walk and discover more.

The Monument 

The Monument to The Great Fire of London no longer soars above the rooftops of the surrounding area, but that doesn’t mean it’s not still worth a visit. 

Climb the 311 steps to the top for stellar views of the Thames, Shard and The City. 

Bank of England 

There’s not much to see inside the Bank of England, save for a relatively interesting museum with virtual tours and the chance to see every note issued by the Royal Mint since its formation.

Temple Bar Gate 

With a history that stretches back to the early days of The Square Mile and has been involved in numerous Royal ceremonies over the years, The Temple Bar Gate is one of the most interesting pieces of London’s history. 

That’s only compounded by the fact that where you’ll find it today in Paternoster Square isn’t the place you would have found it 150 years ago, and even its Victorian location was just temporary. 

The Wren-designed gate has been painstakingly shifted all over London. Today it seems to have found a more permanent home (we hope). Wherever it is, it’s definitely worth a look. 

Eating & Drinking in The City 

My favourite places to eat and drink in The Square Mile.

Oriole 

Oriole might not get as much press as it’s older sister Nightjar in Shoreditch – but you should take that as a good thing as it makes the possibility of nabbing a table that much higher. Art Deco and Fin de Siecle style come together with some of the best cocktails in town. Highly recommended. 

Whether you go for the views or the food, you won’t be disappointed – SUSHISAMBA has long been one of the capital’s hottest dining spots and there are no signs it will be giving up that mantle any time soon.

Perched on the 38th and 39th floors of the Salesforce Tower (previously the Heron Tower), it boasts some of the best views in the city.

That’s all before you indulge in the food – a unique mix of Brazilian, Peruvian and Japanese – which is as delicious as it is unusual. Kick things off with some Plantain Chips, segue onto a Salmon Ceviche or something sizzling from the Robata menu… but whatever you do, don’t miss the sushi.

City of London Distillery Bar

When it opened, the City of London Distillery was the first gin distillery to open in almost 200 years. To say that they’re passionate about gin is something of an understatement. I’d highly recommend their gin-making classes if that’s your thing, but their chic subterranean bar is lure enough. Expect the best G&T’s you can get your hands on, with other gin-based cocktails thrown in for good measure. 

Enoteca Rabezzana 

The City of London isn’t short on great wine bars – so when Enoteca Rabbezaana opened in 2015, some questioned what it could really bring to the table. 

Turns out the answer was… a lot. The extensive collection of over 120 wines is paired with some of the best Italian charcuterie and cheese you can get your hands on in London. 

Hawksmoor Guildhall 

During the noughties, Hawksmoor set about establishing itself as a shrine to which all London meat lovers should pay homage, a reputation that lasts to this day. What’s the big attraction? Grass-fed, dry aged beef and sustainably sourced seafood for starters – not to mention a cocktail list that always tempts you to have just one more. 

Duck & Waffle 

It’s difficult to remember a time when Duck & Waffle didn’t dominate The City of London’s dining scene – quite literally – it’s on the 40th floor after all. The menu is contemporary British with European touches, the view is fabulous and it all comes with the prices to match. 

Brigadiers 

There’s no quite putting your finger on Brigadiers . Inspired by the Indian mess bars where the army would socialise in days past, it’s an Indian barbecue restaurant, whisky bar and sports venue rolled up into one – and more elegant than any of those descriptions would suggest. Go with a fat wallet and an empty stomach. 

Sweetings 

Sweetings is the place you go when you want traditional British seafood with lashings of conservatism and not a hum of fusion food in sight. It’s a City classic for a reason – and, while it could be stuffy, isn’t. Go, if only to say you’ve dined in one of London’s classic eateries.

Club Gascon

If you want cooking that really strives for perfection, book yourself in for a meal at Michelin-starred Club Gascon . Their menu of contemporary French cooking takes the best of a very traditional cuisine and brings it shining into the modern age, then serves it up at the hands of a team of waiters commanding impeccable service. 

Shiro 

New (ish) kid on the City of London dining scene, Shiro comes to London as part of the Aqua Group and by way of Hong Kong. It was there they made a name for themselves serving up artful plates of crystal sushi – the japanese classic topped or wrapped in a chinese jelly that looks as pretty as can be

Angler 

If it’s seafood you’ve got on your mind, Shiro’s sushi is rivalled by one of the top fish restaurants in the City: Angler . Another Michelin-awarded restaurant, these guys serve up the very finest sustainable seafood from an ever changing menu and a top-floor spot at the luxury South Palace Hotel. Angler’s pricey, but worth every penny. 

Read Next: The Best Restaurants in the City of London

Top Shopping Spots

Pretty as the structure of Leadenhall Market is, that doesn’t stop it from being one of The City’s top shopping spots. The relatively extensive range of shops includes Barbour, wine merchants Bedales and Reiss. 

One New Change 

By far the largest shopping centre in The City of London, One New Change offers a diverse (if rather uninspiring) range of high street shops geared towards the upper end of the market. There’s a Friday Food Market to jazz things up and the Roof Terrace offers spectacular views of St Paul’s. 

Royal Exchange

Shopping centre is not the first thing that would spring to mind when you look at the grand edifice of the Royal Exchange – but they did things a little differently in the Victorian times when the current version of the building was designed. 

Inside, you’ll find a select variety of designer shops and a Fortnum & Mason Restaurant and Bar in the heart of the imposing building.

Places to Stay in the City of London 

The andaz london liverpool street.

Chic and Centrally Located

Located next to Liverpool Street Station, The Andaz is a stone’s throw from Shoreditch and The City’s best spots.

Check Availability

City Opulence

Five star opulence and city-boy chic meet at The Ned. There are ten restaurants and several more bars to keep you entertained.

Pan Pacific 

A touch of luxury 

With grand views, swimming pools and service to top the list of the best in London, you don’t get much more luxurious than a night at the Pan Pacific. 

Practical Tips for Exploring

• The City boasts plenty of history, but it is also home to some of London’s most iconic architecture from the past few decades. Check out The Gherkin, The Walkie Talkie and The Cheesegrater for a different take on things. 
• If you only drink in one bar, make it Oriole. Ensconced underneath Smithfield Market, it’s one of The City’s not so hidden gems. 
• Don’t venture into The City of London at the weekend – it’s dead and a lot of places are shut. Weekdays are hands-down the best time to explore. 

Map of The City of London

Read more london guides.

• The Ultimate Shoreditch Street Art Guide: 18 Unmissable Spots + Map
• 24 Cool Sunday Markets in London
• 2 Days in London Itinerary – The Insider’s Guide
• The Best Bars in London: The Dilettante’s Guide to Where to Drink in London Right Now

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » England » London

The BEST Places to Visit in London (2024 • Updated)

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What are the Best Places to Visit in London?

Faqs on the best places to visit in london, final thoughts on the best places to visit in london.

While I wouldn’t go so far as to say travelling in London is an intrepid occupation, it is undoubtedly one that should be engaged with at least once in a lifetime. These are the top attractions in London !

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1. Buckingham Palace

• Superb standing skills on display
• Ceremonial splendour
• Beautiful architecture
• Iconic London landmark

Why it’s awesome: Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most iconic attractions. The official home of Queen Elizabeth II and the British Royal Family, the splendid royal palace is used for many royal functions. Guarded by a smartly dressed royal soldier, clad in black and red with unmistakable bearskin hats, the original parts of the palace were built in the early 1700s.

An impressive building from the outside, the lavish interiors are equally as awe-inspiring. Of the royal palaces 770-plus rooms, the stunning staterooms are open to visitors in the summer months. We don’t really have to say that Buckingham Palace is one of the most famous places in London – it’s quite a no-brainer and definitely worth the visit!

Remember, if the Royal Sovereign flag is flying, it means there’s a member of the royal family present in the building.

What to do there: Walk along the wide and stretching Mall, the ceremonial route that leads to Buckingham Palace from Trafalgar Square through Admiralty Arch. Snap pictures of the grand building from the outside and see the Queen’s Guard standing to attention. Try and time your visit for the Changing of the Guard ceremony (held each Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday) and witness a fine British tradition as the soldiers switch places. It’s one of the coolest things to do in London !

If you visit Buckingham Palace in the summer you can take a tour of the staterooms to experience the inner regal splendour and feel like royalty for a fleeting moment.

2. Covent Garden

• Based on the historic Covent Garden Market
• Great range of shops, boutiques and attractions
• Super fashionable
• Great connections to the Opera Quarter

Why it’s awesome: Covent Garden is pretty unmissable if you plan to visit London. It makes a break from the sightseeing stuff and gives you an insight into modern London existence, so stop off at a cafe or grab some lunch, and check out some of the most exciting shopping in the city!

It’s the heart of London’s West End and sprawls across 9 streets and a historic piazza. Marketed as London’s experiential playground, it is one of the most fashionable London districts to be seen in.

What to do there: It’s a shopping and dining hub! Head to Buns & Buns for some sensational upmarket burgers, or stop in at Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for afternoon tea. Every boutique here is classy, stylish, and gives the opportunity to experience some of the best cuisine and hospitality in the world. Mind you, it does come with a bit of a price tag.

3. St. Paul’s Cathedral

• Historic Baroque-style church
• The professional choir sings at services
• One of the biggest churches in the UK
• Photogenic landmark

Why it’s awesome: St. Paul’s Cathedral is located at the highest point of the City of London and is considered to be another famous place to visit in London. A listed building, it has a beautiful dome flanked by spires. Sitting on the site of an earlier church, the present church dates back to the 17th century. It has hosted the funerals of several famous people and also been used to celebrate a number of special occasions, including the Queen’s landmark birthdays and Silver, Gold, and Diamond Jubilees.

An active place of worship, the interiors of St. Paul’s Cathedral are opulent with lots of detailed religious art, a huge organ, memorials, and tombs.

What to do there: Gaze up at the mighty cross-topped dome and admire the stunning St. Paul’s Cathedral from the outside, taking time to admire the Roman-like decorative features, grand columns, clock, towers, and overall splendour. A sweeping nave leads to an ornate altar, the walls and ceiling embellished with splendid mosaics and carved wood panelling.

Don’t miss the mighty statue of the Duke of Wellington sitting on the back of his trusty steed, Copenhagen. Descend into the crypt and you can pay your respects at the tombs and memorials. It’s not just one of the most famous monuments, St. Paul’s Cathedral also one of the most interesting places to visit in London.

4. Westminster Abbey

• Traditional site of coronations and burials of British monarchs
• Common venue for royal weddings
• Splendid Gothic architecture
• Famous choir

Why it’s awesome: Westminster Abbey is a marvellous architectural gem. Once a Benedictine monastery church, this historic building dates back to the 1200s. The coronations of British kings and queens take place here, and it’s the setting for most royal weddings and funerals. A number of history’s influential people, including past prime ministers, scientists, and actors, are buried there, along with many late monarchs.

The Gothic masterpiece has many glorious details inside and out. It’s one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations and definitely a must-visit in London.

What to do there: Photograph the impressive Gothic building from the outside, taking note of the stained glass windows, arches, carvings, clock, towers, and all the finer details that help to make the building so attractive. Look above the main door and you’ll see statues dedicated to modern-day martyrs, including Martin Luther King, Janani Luwum, Esther John, and Wang Zhiming.

Pass through the main entrance to admire the beautiful interiors, complete with grand pillars, religious art and sculptures, tombs, memorials, and various antiquities, such as the Chair of King Edward and the Coronation Chair. See the striking murals in the Chapter House, be wowed by the colour and details of the Lady Chapel, visit Poet’s Corner, and walk through the Cloisters. Take a moment for some serene reflection in the pretty gardens and pick up souvenirs in the gift shop.

5. The London Eye

• Terrific city views
• Spot major London landmarks
• One of the biggest observation wheels in the world
• Romantic experience

Why it’s awesome: Sitting on the South Bank of the Thames River, the soaring London Eye stands 135 metres (443 feet) high. It might actually be THE most famous place to visit in London – if you’re travelling to London, there might not be a way around exploring this site. At the time of its opening in the year 2000, it was the biggest Ferris wheel in the world. Today, it is still one of the tallest observation wheels on the planet. A full revolution takes half an hour, during which time you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of many of London’s most famous attractions in central London.

Rides are available during the day and when it’s dark, letting you enjoy different views of the city. Illuminated at nighttime, the London Eye is usually used for spectacular firework displays on New Year’s Eve.

What to do there: Board one of the 32 capsules and take a ride high over London’s streets with your beloved. Admire the panoramic views through the glass walls, spotting places like Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, the Shard, the Tower of London, and the River Thames. Although a basic ride is romantic in the right company, you can really ramp up the loving vibes and impress your significant other with the Champagne Experience, which gives you fast-track admission and a chilled glass of bubbly.

If you really want to splash the cash and be fancy, it’s also possible to book a private capsule for just you and your sweetheart. It’s definitely a cool way to experience one of the best places in London.

6. The Tower of London

• Impressive architecture
• Home to the Crown Jewels
• Important historical site
• Steeped in rich traditions and interesting legends

Why it’s awesome: Sitting on the banks of the River Thames, the mighty Tower of London was established in the 1000s as part of the Norman Conquest. The White Tower was built on the orders of William the Conqueror. Over the years, it has been used as a fortress, royal home, prison, royal mint, treasury, and even a zoo! There are many sections of the tower to explore, with interesting nooks and crannies to poke about in. Rumoured to be haunted, there are plenty of intriguing tales to be heard about the Tower of London.

It is said that the ghost of the ill-fated Anne Boleyn roams the grounds. The Tower of London is home to the Crown Jewels, which are guarded by the ceremonial Yeomen Warders, often referred to as Beefeaters. Local lore says that the tower will collapse if the resident ravens ever leave.

What to do there: Take a self-guided audio tour of the Tower of London to uncover its history and darkest secrets or get a special ticket that allows you to see the Crown Jewels Exhibition. Hear gruesome tales of imprisonment and execution and feel a shudder down your spine as you look up at the Traitors’ Gate. See where Anne Boleyn was imprisoned and peek inside other cells.

Dare to visit in the dark for an even bigger thrill. Snap pictures of the Beefeaters and meet the ravens—the other guardians of the Tower of London. Admire the views from the high vantage points and be dazzled by the gleaming Crown Jewels. You can refresh and refuel in one of the onsite eateries and purchase souvenirs in the gift shop.

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7. The Shard

• Tallest building in the UK
• Awesome views
• Dazzling piece of modern architecture
• Featured in films and TV shows

Why it’s awesome: The Shard is almost 310 metres (1,016 feet) tall and is made from gleaming metal and lots of angled glass. Seemingly rising up from the River Thames, the iconic landmark was inspired by sleek spires. Completed in 2012, it’s not only the tallest building in the UK but is also one of the top five tallest buildings in Europe. It’s pretty impressive to see, even from afar, and we’d consider it a must-visit in London.

Featured in movies and TV shows, the building is also celebrated for its environmentally-friendly features like its onsite combined heat and power plant that creates electricity and hot water for the building. The Shard truly is among the best places to visit in London.

What to do there: Admire the striking building from afar and take plenty of pictures before going to London’s highest viewing platform to soak up the spectacular panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see for as far as 65 kilometres (40 miles). Enjoy a meal in one of the Shard’s exclusive restaurants and bars, such as Gong, Hutong, and Ting, all of which offer superb views of London and beyond.

Give your credit cards a workout in the high-class retail arcade before leaving one of London’s most emblematic buildings. It’s one of the best spots in London, even at nighttime when the magnificent structure is brightly illuminated.

8. Thames Cruise

• Best place to see the London bridges
• A romantic setting for a dinner date
• A leisurely activity in London
• Great attraction for those with reduced mobility

Why it’s awesome: The Thames is the river that divides London and is the second-largest river in England. It is the best way to see all the historical monuments that line the banks of central London and all truly get a glimpse of incredible architecture, from centuries ago and modern times. This is also one of the best things to do in London at night because the city center is all lit up at night, creating a really magical atmosphere.

What to do there: take a river cruise from Westminster to Greenwich and admire the sights. You’ll pass London Bridge, Tower Bridge, the Tate Modern and of course the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the London Eye.

9. British Museum

• Free admission
• Items from different time periods and from all over the world
• One of the biggest museum collections in the world, with around 8 million permanent exhibits
• Family-friendly activities

Why it’s awesome: The British Museum was established in the 1750s and it has grown to become one of the biggest museums in the world. It’s considered to be one of the most interesting places to visit in London. There are several million exhibits related to history, culture, anthropology, and other themes in the British Museum.

The museum covers all time ages from pre-history up to the current day. It houses items from all around the world as well as from within the UK. There’s something to appeal to varied tastes, and there are displays and activities specifically aimed at younger visitors.

What to do there: Plan to spend at least a couple of hours discovering the British Museum’s diverse collections. Because the museum is so large and the collections are so broad, you might be wise to decide which areas interest you the most and focus your attention accordingly. Another option is to explore the Museum with a guide – they’ll tell you everything you need to know about the Museum.

The different departments to visit include the Departments of Ancient Egypt and Sudan, Middle East, Greece and Rome, Asia, Britain, Europe, and Pre-History, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas, Coins and Medals, and Prints and Drawings. Join a tour to make the most of your visit and let kids have fun at diverse workshops and demonstrations. If you want to take a break and think about what you’ve already seen, visit the café or restaurant or stay somewhere nearby.

10. The Royal Botanic Gardens

• Home to over 500 acres of woodland
• You help support biodiversity by visiting!
• Stunningly beautiful
• World’s largest seed conservation project

Why it’s awesome: The Royal Botanical Gardens make for a great break from city claustrophobia. Nature is reinvigorating, and with large grounds to wander, and an awesome greenhouse, it’s a super cool place to visit if you get the chance. You will also be given the chance to explore the science behind their seed conservation project, which aims to preserve biodiversity, fearing a loss due to development and global warming.

What to do there: Take a walk around the grounds, check out some of the craziest plants on the planet, and enjoy 500 acres of forest! If you need a break from central London, you’re going to want to include this on your London itinerary .

11. Hyde Park

• One of London’s Royal Parks
• Known for being a place for free speech
• Beautiful green space in the heart of the city
• Interesting water features and statues

Why it’s awesome: Hyde Park is the biggest of the eight royal parks in the city and another very famous place to visit in London. Hyde Park is a pleasant place for a stroll, to escape the busy streets and enjoy being outdoors.

It’s a top place for families, with lots of open space for kids to run and play. Old and young alike can cool down with a paddle in the Serpentine, a large recreational lake. There are diverse recreational facilities too, and there are several places where you can buy refreshments. The park sometimes hosts concerts at the bandstand and it has long associations with freedom of speech and debates.

What to do there: Relax in the green surroundings of Hyde Park, admire the fragrant flowers, and see diverse monuments and statues, including the snaking Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial, the Cavalry Memorial, the Holocaust Memorial, and the unusual Jelly Baby Family. If you can time it with London’s festivals in Hyde park, you’ll be well rewarded.

See the large Standing Stone, a gigantic monolith that some people say was once part of Stonehenge. If you’re more of an active traveller, join a 3.5 hour bike ride tour around the park and other attractions with a local guide.

In the summer, plunge into the Serpentine for a swim, feed the ducks, and go boating on the shimmering lake. You can also enjoy tennis, jogging, and horse riding in the park, or simply sit and watch the world go by from a charming waterside café – visiting this park is one of the best things to do in London!

12. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

• Enter the magical realm of Harry Potter
• See how movies are made
• Great family-friendly attraction
• Fun for people of all ages

Why it’s awesome: Housed within an old aircraft factory, Warner Bros. Studio is one of just a couple of places in the UK where large-scale productions can be made. Many movies have used the studios, including The Invisible Woman, GoldenEye, The Mummy, Tomb Raider, and Inception. Located in Hereford, just outside of London, the studios have a popular attraction: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter.

Each Harry Potter film was made at the studios, and several other productions (including Sweeney Todd and Sherlock Holmes) made use of the olde-worlde Harry Potter sets. Visitors can see incredible sets, learn more about how the movie was made, and have lots of fun and unusual (some may say magical!) experiences.

What to do there: Leave the real world behind for a few hours and suspend reality as you enter the magical world of Harry Potter. You’ll see an array of fabulous sets, including Hagrid’s hut, Gryffindor common room, Potion’s classroom, and the male dormitory, and you’re sure to be impressed as you stand inside Dumbledore’s office and the expansive Great Hall.

Walk along Diagon Alley, passing the shop fronts of Gringotts Wizarding Bank, Ollivanders Wand Shop, and Eeylops Owl Emporium, and see various props and costumes used in the making of the hugely popular film series.

Insider Tip: Warner Bros. Studio is roughly two hours from the city center. If you’re not keen on driving yourself, book a transfer that’ll pick you up, drop you off and take you back home as well. It also includes the entry ticket.

13. Houses of Parliament

• Photogenic architecture
• Home to the UK parliament
• See the iconic Big Ben clock tower
• Learn about the inner workings of parliament and watch debates

Why it’s awesome: The Houses of Parliament, officially called the Palace of Westminster, is a stunning Gothic Revival building that was built in the mid-1800s. Sitting on the banks of the River Thames, the large building has more than 1,000 rooms. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Houses of Parliament is a glorious sight to behold, with its three main towers, many windows, spires, and turrets. There’s plenty of splendour inside too, with frescoes, carvings, fine architectural details, and lavish furnishings. It’s free to walk through the grounds and admire the building from the outside, and there are also several ways that you can enter the building for free too.

What to do there: Take plenty of pictures of the iconic building from the outside and walk through the pleasant grounds. Stop by Cromwell Green to see a bronze statue of Oliver Cromwell, a rather unusual sight given that Cromwell is a controversial figure in British history. Check the schedules and visit parliamentary debates for free, or book free tickets to attend question time with the prime minister (only available for UK residents).

There are various free talks and events in the Houses of Parliament that are free for members of the public, though you should arrange your spot in advance to avoid disappointment. If you want to see more of the interiors and get an even greater in-depth understanding of parliament there are several paid tours that you can join too, including self-guided audio tours and guide-led tours.

14. London Dungeon

• Spooky and scary thrills
• Experience London’s darker history and learn secrets from the past
• Come face to face with some of London’s most nefarious, notorious, and fearsome characters
• Exhilarating rides

Why it’s awesome: The original London Dungeon opened its doors in the 1970s. It has been through several changes and expansions over subsequent years and is today one of London’s most exciting attractions. There are 19 shows and two rides, with gruesome past events, brought to life by convincing actors and actresses. Awesome sets, dramatic costumes, and special effects add to the chilling and scary ambience. It’s definitely a place that will send a shiver down your spine and get the blood pumping through your veins!

What to do there: Follow the jester to descend underground into the cavernous depths below London’s busy streets. Ride on the Tyrant Boat and feel the fury of King Henry XIII, pass through the City Gates, and find yourself in a rat-infested tunnel right in the middle of the Gunpowder Plot with Guy Fawkes. Next, shudder in the Torture of Chambers before experiencing London in the times of the plague, or Black Death. All of this and more! One of the more interesting places to visit in London if you want history bringing graphically to life.

Insider Tip: The Dungeons can be seriously scary so we wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for kids or families. There are different shows and attractions on offer as well, which are all very popular, so make sure you book your tickets well in advance.

15. Leicester Square

• Best place in London to see a musical
• Top place for nightlife
• A great place for star spotting
• One of the most historical attractions in London

Why it’s awesome: Leicester Square is located in the bustling West End and is the ideal place to find cheap tickets to a musical or theatrical production. The pedestrianised square was built in 1670 and was named after the 2nd Earl of Leicester. This is one of the oldest and most historical monuments in London and is often used as the location for film premieres at the nearby Odeon cinema. 

What to do there: Wander around the park or try and do some star-spotting when a movie premiere is happening. You can also pick up cheap tickets for the West End shows here.

16. Natural History Museum and The Science Museum in South Kensington

• The top London Museums
• A family-friendly activity
• Opposite the Victoria and Albert Museum
• Interactive exhibits

Why it’s awesome: Of all of the London Museums, the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum are my absolute favourite things to do with the family. The interactive exhibits provide a world of fun for the kids as well as showcase interesting facts in an easy way for them to understand. Across the street is the Victoria and Albert Museum which has some of the best of British Art on display. And best of all? These museums are absolutely FREE!

What to do there: take a trip back in time to the land of the dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum and explore 4.5 billion years worth of history. The museum is incredibly popular, but you can skip the line with a guided tour which is definitely worthwhile. You can learn in an interactive way about space, how toilets work and how electricity is made at the Science Museum. When you’ve immersed yourself in enough education for one day, take a stroll around the affluent South Kensington and enjoy a delicious meal in one of the many fine restaurants.

17. Piccadilly Circus

• The busiest roundabout in London
• Near Trafalgar Square
• An important cultural landmark in London
• A great place to get photos of the advertisements in London

Why it’s awesome: Piccadilly Circus is probably the most famous junction in the whole of the UK, as well as London. The roundabout also has a public space where you can marvel at the craziness of London’s West End. It was built in 1819 and was named circus which is actually the Latin word meaning “circle”. 

Whenever I think of London, I think of postcard images of this junction and the iconic red double-decker buses that circle here. It’s truly an iconic landmark in London.

What to do there: marvel at the traffic and take some photos of the advertisements on the buildings, catch a theatre production or musical nearby or hang out and feed the pigeons in nearby Trafalgar Square. There is a reason the Brits like to say “it’s like Piccadilly Circus around here” whenever they are faced with a busy place – it’s awesome to see, but you won’t want to hang around too long. 

18. Davenport’s Magic

• Unique attraction
• Magic school and shop
• Great for people of all ages

Why it’s awesome: Long before Harry Potter took the world by storm, Davenport’s Magic was meeting London’s magical needs. Established in the late 1890s, the shop still remains in the same family. Currently located underneath Charing Cross Station, the whimsical store is a hidden gem in the UK . One of the great places in London for any budding magicians to learn more and be inspired.

Spellbooks line the shelves and there are also instructional DVDs, cards, potions, and a wide range of other items that any self-respecting magician, sorcerer, sorceress, witch, or wizard may need. It’s like entering a completely different world! More than just a shop, the establishment also runs various workshops, demonstrations, and events, and is a place where magicians go to network and practice.

What to do there: Browse the fascinating collection of magical items and books and perhaps pick up a few unusual items as gifts or unique souvenirs. Learn more about the art (some might say science) of magic and soak up the sense of history. Take part in a magic class to keep some tricks up your sleeve to impress your friends with. There are workshops for both children and adults and you can learn things like card magic, coin magic, close-up magic, and mental magic.

19. Knightsbridge

• London’s most exclusive shopping area
• Home to luxury department stores
• Fashionable with a sophisticated and elite air
• Perfect place to treat yourself

Why it’s awesome: Knightsbridge is one of London’s premium retail areas and it’s a must-visit for serious shopaholics, fashionistas, people who want to splash the cash, and also if you simply want to daydream and indulge in a little window shopping.

There are many luxury stores in Knightsbridge, including the world-famous Harrods, Harvey Nichols, and flagship stores such as those of Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo. The area also boasts a number of esteemed restaurants, high-class hotels with hot tubs , and top-quality beauty salons. It’s definitely a place to feel fancy!

What to do there: Admire the stylish shop fronts and displays before entering chic stores to browse and buy a huge selection of designer and luxury goods. Whether you’re looking for apparel, footwear, jewellery, perfumes, cosmetics, gadgets, artisan chocolates, or something else, you’ll find the best of the best in Knightsbridge. This is the best place to visit in London to max out your credit cards.

20. Shoreditch

• Lots of cool street art
• Offbeat part of the capital
• Youthful, creative, and hipster vibe
• Plenty of unusual leisure activities

Why it’s awesome: Shoreditch is a cool neighbourhood in London’s East End. An entertainment area since the 17th century, it has seen much gentrification over the years, though it still has a somewhat edgy vibe. It’s one of the best places around London to see interesting public art, and walking around seeing the art and sights and soaking up the atmosphere won’t cost you a single penny. There are tons of eateries with affordable prices and you can browse in quirky stores, vintage shops, thrift stores, and other unusual retail outlets. If you are visiting London on a budget stay in one of London’s best hostels

What to do there: One of the best things to do in Shoreditch is to simply wander the streets (ideally with a guide for even more insights) and find the abundance of cool street art. The art is constantly changing and evolving, so you’ll always find something new to admire. Start at Redchurch Street and Brick Street before moving into other parts of the neighbourhood. Take time to look in vintage shops and markets and sample some of the area’s delicious food. Brick Lane Market is a top place for foodies to satisfy their hunger.

The Old Spitalfields Market is another top market to check out in Shoreditch. Pay a visit to the hipster favourite of Boxpark, where all stores are within shipping containers, pause to smell the roses (literally!) at Columbia Road Flower Market, and enjoy cheap drinks of an evening in a cool bar. This is THE London place to visit for you hipsters.

21. Chislehurst Caves

• Away from the typical tourist trail
• Huge stretch of caves and tunnels
• Featured in TV productions, films, and music videos
• Underground history and legends

Why it’s awesome: Located in nearby Kent, Chislehurst Caves stretch for 22 miles (35 kilometres) underground. The tunnels and caverns are manmade, created between the 13th and 19th centuries by mining activities. The subterranean chambers were used to store ammunition during World War One and were also used as an air-raid shelter. At their peak, the caves housed some 15,000 people fleeing bombing and had toilets, bathing facilities, lighting, a hospital, and a chapel. The caves have also been used as a cool music venue, with artists and bands like Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, and the Rolling Stones having performed there.

What to do there: Access to the cave system is by guided tour only. Grab your lamp and descend underground as part of a group tour to explore the huge network of tunnels and underground rooms. Hear tales about the caves’ past and imagine what it would have been like to spend substantial periods of time in the gloomy underground. Feel a chill as you hear about the ghosts who are said to haunt the caves. You can enjoy a pleasant stroll in nature in the woodlands above when you exit the caves and re-enter the sunshine.

• Historic entertainment district
• Fashionable part of London
• Fun nightlife area and great for dining
• Gay-friendly venues

Why it’s awesome: If you are wondering where to stay in London , I would say Soho takes the cake! London’s Soho has been a major entertainment area since the 19th century. Once a royal park, landmarks throughout the area today include St. Anne’s Church and St. Patrick’s Church.

London’s thriving gay community can be found in Soho around Old Compton Street. There are many top-class restaurants as well as diverse bars and clubs. It’s definitely one of the best places in London for a top night out.

What to do there: By day, discover the quirky, hip, and trendy independent stores around Soho, including record shops, art, musical instruments, confectioners, clothes, and retro kitsch. Look out for the Seven Noses of Soho—random noses on walls and buildings that were originally placed in protest against CCTV surveillance. Get dressed up in the evening and have a fun night out in Soho.

23. Brick Lane Market

• Excellent market for global cuisine
• Great for bargain hunting
• Affordable prices
• Historical roots

Why it’s awesome: Brick Lane Market opens on Sundays when many other markets around the capital are firmly shuttered up and empty. A market has operated in the same spot since at least the 17th century, and it developed a reputation for vintage goods, delicious food, and bargain curiosities. It’s also a great place for photography and for watching the hustle and bustle of everyday market life.

What to do there: Stroll around the atmospheric market and browse the wide assortment of goods on offer. You’ll find plenty of whimsies and unusual souvenirs if you wish to buy anything, but the market is also well worth visiting simply to look around and soak up the ambiance. Foodies are sure to be delighted with the tempting food options and you can sample delicious fare from various parts of the globe. The market is especially known for its Asian goodies.

I nsider tips: There are loads of other amazing markets around the city and trying to see all of them can get overwhelming. If you join a walking tour with a guide, you’ll get a scoop of everything without having to miss out on all of the hidden gems.

Make sure you bring a good rain jacket when wandering around London’s markets. A rain jacket or an umbrella should definitely be on your London packing list !

24. The Tate

• One of the top art collections in London
• Is this really art?
• Two galleries- modern and historic
• Great day out

Why it’s awesome: Two of the four Tate institutions are located in London: the Tate Britain and the Tate Modern. The Tate Britain dates back to 1897 and is one of the biggest museums in England. Housed within a beautiful Grade II listed building, the gallery has a large collection of British art spanning from the Tudor era to the present day. It is the home of the Turner Prize.

The Tate Modern is housed in a former power station. It opened in 2000 and is the UK’s national gallery of international modern art. It features temporary exhibitions as well as permanent collections.

What to do there: A top pick of the best places to see in London for art fans. See pieces by famous national artists in Tate Britain. Works include those by J.M.W. Turner, Constable, William Blake, and Hogarth.

Some rooms are dedicated to one particular artist, such as rooms for Tacita Dean, Tracey Emin, and Douglas Gordan. Take a free tour of the museum for greater insights (available on the hour each day). Visit the Tate Modern to admire diverse contemporary pieces by artists like Robert Delaunay, Paul Klee, and Picasso.

25. Camden Town

• Famous for being home to musicians
• Cool street art and a quirky market
• Best place to see live music
• Great place for Insta-worthy photos

Why it’s awesome: Camden Town is a lively and hipster area known for its quirky market and abundance of street art and music venues. Camden is famously known as the home to the late Amy Winehouse and is where many musicians have made history in the many live music venues in the area. 

The high street in Camden is one of the trendiest areas in London. There is an impressive array of goth and rock shops, with murals on the front of their buildings, making it a key place to grab some Insta-worthy shots. Camden Market is just a short 5-minute walk from the underground and is the best place to pick up some quirky antiques and souvenirs.

What to do there: Walk along the wide and artistically decorated high street, or shop for antiques in the market there. If you’re looking for something awesome to do in London at night, then head to one of the many music venues for some live music. The Roundhouse has many up-and-coming indie artists performing each week, and who knows, maybe you’ll see some new artists performing at the Electric Ballroom before they’re famous!

26. O2 Arena

• World’s most iconic music and entertainment venue
• See incredible views of the London skyline
• Become an urban mountaineer
• Unique thing to do in London

Why it’s awesome: The O2 Arena, or the millennium dome, is one of the most architecturally striking landmarks in London. Inside, there is a 20,000 seater arena where you can catch some of the biggest names performing, including stand-up comics and musicians. There’s also the BME (British Music Experience), a museum that showcases the best memorabilia and exhibits on famous British artists such as The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, The Spice Girls, and many more. You’ll also find some shops and restaurants inside the dome too.

It was built to mark the year 2000 and when it was constructed it was the eighth largest building in the world by usable volume. 

What to do there: one of the best things to do in London is climbing the O2 arena and walk across the 52-meter high dome. The summit of the dome offers a 360 degree, panoramic view overlooking Greenwich, the Olympic Park, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Canary Wharf, and The Shard. This 90-minute activity is one of the most unique things to do in London and the perfect activity for couples or small groups.

27. Stonehenge

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Surrounded in legends
• Prehistoric site
• Spiritual site

Why it’s awesome: 88 miles away from London is Stonehenge, one of the most famous places near London (and in the whole of the UK) and a fabulous place to go for a trip from the capital. Located in Wiltshire, the iconic monument is thought to date back to around 2,400 BC. Gigantic monoliths stand in a circular formation and, while nobody quite knows for sure why the site was created, how it was made, and who made it, there are many fascinating theories and stories.

Some people believe that the site was used for religious worship, while others believe that it had an astronomical function. There are also some people who think the site is connected with extraterrestrial beings or supernatural bodies. Whatever you believe yourself, it truly is one of the UK’s most astonishing places.

What to do there: Take a break from exploring London, hop on a train or car instead , and make your way towards Stonehenge. Marvel at the sheer size of the individual standing stones, letting your imagination run wild as you think about what would have been needed to transport the stones to the site and then stand them up and arrange them information. Walk in the footsteps of ancient peoples and wander across Neolithic landscapes.

Learn more about modern human’s distant ancestors in the Neolithic Houses as you see a variety of tools and other items from the Neolithic age. You can also see the skeletal remains of a man who lived some 5,500 years ago. To make sure you learn everything there is to know about the mysterious monument, you can book a tour right here. Transportation and an excellent audio guide are included.

28. Baker Street

• The world-famous street known as the home of fictional detective Sherlock Holmes
• Immerse yourself in the crimes of London’s past
• See some beautiful architecture
• Visit some vintage shops

Why it’s awesome: Baker Street is most famous for being the home to iconic fictional detective, Sherlock Holmes. But 221B Baker Street is not a fictional place, in fact, it’s the Sherlock Holmes Museum, a place dedicated to showcasing the crimes of London’s past. 

What to do there: Baker Street is also a cool place to visit for vintage and retro lovers as the historic street is home to many vintage shops where you can buy old gadgets and clothing. It’s also a bustling street lined with gorgeous architectural buildings.

29. Electric Avenue

• The best place to get a bargain
• Best place to buy electronics
• You finally get to sing the Eddie Grant song outside of a karaoke club

Why it’s awesome: If you’re a bargain hunter looking for some cheap souvenirs then you need to rock down to Electric Avenue (as Eddie Grant once sang). As the first street market in London and is where you can buy some cheap stuff. 

If you are ever looking for something in particular, you’ll likely find it here. Electric Avenue is famous for being a mecca for cameras, computers, and hi-tech electrical gadgets, so if you need some new electronics, you now know where to find them.

What to do there: shop until you drop and pick up some bargain clothes, souvenirs, and various random bits and bobs.

30. Museum of Brands

• Unknown attraction
• Historical view of retail and advertising
• Large collection of old items and packaging
• Quirky and unusual museum

Why it’s awesome: The Museum of Brands, located in Notting Hill, offers a fascinating journey back in time through its large collection of diverse items. Covering the present day back to Victorian Times, the museum contains more than 12,000 exhibits related to everyday life. Visitors walk through time, seeing how items, logos, and slogans have evolved over time, changing from being fairly simple to today’s sleek sophistication to target consumers.

You’ll realise that sometimes, the most interesting aspects are the most mundane! There are packages from numerous well-known and smaller brands, as well as posters, games, toys, and more.

What to do there: Walk through time with the time tunnel experience, seeing how brands have changed over the years to appeal to an ever-evolving society and remain competitive in a world full of multiple options. Notice how shopping habits have changed over the years and see the effects of major wars, the growth in women’s rights, and transportation on people’s shopping options and preferences. Some items are sure to inspire a twinge of nostalgia.

It is one of those hidden gems in London . The quirky museum offers an alternative view of history, focusing on the day-to-day life of people of the past. You’ll find an onsite café to beat any pangs of hunger or thirst.

31. Oxford Street

• Best place to visit for shopping
• Get awesome photos of the famous red double decker buses
• Near the best nightlife spots
• One of the busiest areas in London

Why it’s awesome: For those who love to shop, Oxford Street is a shoppers paradise and it’s right in the city center so you’ll always be close to where the action is. It has every high street brand imaginable and it’s also where you’ll find the biggest stores. If you are looking for nightlife, there’s a ton of clubs nearby too.

What to do there: shop until you drop in many of the UK’s top high street branded stores. The theatres are also just a short walk around the corner and there are many top clubs and restaurants in the area. For those visiting London and looking for nightlife, you’ll find this place comes alive at night.

32. Richmond Park

• Famous for its resident deer
• Enjoy nature and the outdoors
• Historic buildings throughout the pretty park

Why it’s awesome: Richmond Park was established as a royal reserve and hunting park in the 17th century. Now open to the public, the large 3.69-square-mile (9.6-square-kilometre) park is home to many friendly deer along with other interesting fauna and flora. A major place for wildlife conservation, there are woods, gardens, lawns, flowerbeds, ponds, trees, and other features. Visitors can enjoy various leisure activities and there are several historic structures dotted throughout the park. Peaceful and pretty, the park is an ideal place for families and couples to spend a couple of hours.

What to do there: One of the good places to visit in London for some exercise and air. Stroll through the pretty gardens and wider park area, come face to face with the deer, spot an array of wildlife, and soak up stunning views. The 7.2-mile-long (11.6-kilometre-long) looped Tamsin Trail is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists, and bikes are available to rent within the park.

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Here’s what people usually ask us about the best attractions and locations in London.

What are the Best Places to Visit in London, UK?

The Best Places to Visit in London, UK are: 1. Buckingham Palace 2. Covent Garden 3. St. Paul’s Cathedral 4. Westminster Abbey 5. The London Eye 6. The Tower of London 7. The Shard 8. The British Museum 9. The Royal Botanical Gardens 10. Hyde Park

What are the Best Places to Visit in London for Free?

Amongst the top free places to visit in London, we find the unbelievable (but slightly questionable) British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Tate Modern Art Gallery. People enjoy checking out the choral evensong at Westminster Abbey, and the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. You are also able to enter the Houses of Parliament for free by watching a debate.

What are the Best Tourist Attractions in London?

Among the obvious attractions, we have Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and the Shard. However, much more worthy of your time (and much cheaper) are the range of museums and art galleries which are on offer. The British Museum, the Tate Modern, and the Natural History Museum are amongst some of the top cultural attractions in the city. And they’re free!

What are the Top tourist Things in London?

The top tourist things are; the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, experiencing the London Dungeon, shopping at Covent Gardens and witnessing a debate at Westminster. If you fancy ascending the shard, or whirling around the London Eye, those aren’t bad choices either.

From popular tourist attractions to hidden gems, London has so much to see and do for people of all ages and with diverse interests.

Visiting London needn’t break the bank when you include some of our recommended budget places to visit, and you’ll also find plenty of ways to splash the cash and treat yourself if that’s what you want. There’s something for romance seekers, friends, and families travelling with young children.

Covering history, culture, shopping, entertainment, art, nightlife, and more, add these best places to visit in London to your bucket list for a memorable time in the exciting British capital.

Sophie Steinebach

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Waiting for this pandemic to end soon, so that we can travel again. We have cancelled the 2020 London Tour now we are vaccinated and ready to travel Europe again.

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Hidden London – 10 of the city's lesser known delights

Dec 12, 2018 • 4 min read

One of London's many hidden and unusual sights, Brixton Windmill © Davide Cioffi / Getty Images

London has plenty in the way of must-see sights and instantly recognisable landmarks, but hidden down the side streets and tucked away in urban backwaters is a scattered collection of equally fascinating, lesser-known highlights. Delve beyond the London of the postcards and discover an excitingly unfamiliar side to this great city.

St Etheldreda’s Church

Hidden in plain sight down a gated road of neat terraced houses, St Etheldreda’s Church is as beautiful as it is incongruous. It dates back to the mid-13 th Century and was the seat of the Bishops of Ely for its first 200 years. Nowadays it’s open every day and free to visit, and it’s usually a place of tranquillity, due to most tourists being oblivious to its presence. The stained glass east window is sublime.

Ye Olde Mitre

For a post-church pint, seek out Ye Olde Mitre , a minute's walk from St Etheldreda's. Located at the confluence of two alleyways so narrow you almost need to walk down them sideways, this  is one of London’s oldest pubs, dating to 1546 (though remodelled in the 18th century). Even if you have been before, it still feels like a new discovery every time you visit. It’s especially great in colder months, with its open fire, beamed ceilings and maze of cosy little rooms. A proper London pub.

Chelsea Physic Garden

London’s oldest botanical garden (established in 1673) is a secret delight, with its four acres enclosed by high brick walls. Originally named Apothecaries Garden and now known as Chelsea Physic Garden , it’s a captivating spot, full of rare trees and pharmaceutical plants used in contemporary Western medicine.

Barbican Conservatory

Many have heard about the Barbican Estate, the enormous confusing complex of homes and public spaces in the City of London, built in the Brutalist style. But few are aware of its biggest secret: a gargantuan tropical oasis in the form of a steamy conservatory , where over 2000 species of plants thrive. It’s a truly spectacular environment, also home to terrapins, fish and birds. 

18 Stafford Terrace

There’s practically nothing from the outside to suggest this terraced house on a quiet residential street is any different from its neighbours. But step inside and you’ll find  18 Stafford Terrace is actually stuck in a time warp – an untouched Victorian family home, complete with Turkish rugs and William Morris wallpaper. It was the residence of illustrator Edward Linley Sambourne, and after his death in 1910 passed through the hands of various family members, who didn’t change anything and ultimately opened it to the public.

Dennis Severs’ House

Dennis Severs’ House is an incredible attraction, part museum, part theatre. It’s the brainchild of its namesake, an American artist who lived here (1979-99) and aimed to produce ‘still-life drama’ throughout the house’s ten rooms. Imagining the occupants to be a family of Huguenot silk weavers, he fashioned each room to provide glimpses of domestic life in Spitalfields from the early 18 th to early 20 th century. Candle-lit evening openings are particularly atmospheric.

Phoenix Garden

Possibly the unlikeliest pocket of wilderness anywhere in the world, Phoenix Garden sits smack bang in the heart of London’s glittering West End, and somehow manages to be secret and secluded at the same time. Its grassy patches, shrubbery, ponds and benches provide a sanctuary for wildlife and people alike. Look out for the frogs – you won’t find them anywhere else in this part of London. Amazing.

St Dunstan-in-the-East

Another urban garden, this time mixed with architectural remains,  St Dunstan-in-the-East is a beautiful, tranquil, and little-known green space in the heart of the City. It’s framed by the ruins of St Dunstan Church, which was destroyed by the Great Fire of 1666, and then again during the Blitz, and surrounded by the steel and glass architecture of modernity.

St Bartholomew-the-Great

The arched gatehouse on the approach to St Bartholomew-the-Great  is an extremely rare survivor of Tudor architecture in London, almost all of which was destroyed by the Great Fire of 1666. Once you’ve walked through the arch and entered the church itself, you're in a beautiful space that's an equally rare example of Norman architecture, one of very few such buildings still standing in the city. Keep an eye out for the tomb (and also, allegedly, the ghost) of the church's 12th-century founder, Rahere.

Brixton Windmill

A glorious, and gloriously unexpected, sight, the superbly restored Brixton Windmill is an eye-catching, 200-year-old reminder that London grew from a mosaic of once pastoral villages. You can visit on selected days between April and October on free tours, and the location is also used for various events, including a beer festival in May.

Check out adventure tours for every traveller from our trusted partners.

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Where to Stay in London for a first time visit? An insider’s guide 2024

Where to stay in London England, for a first time visit (or even second/third)? This is a question we receive many times. Therefore, we created this guide.

We wanted to make it very easy to understand. This London city guide includes the best areas for first-time visitors, families and couples.

We even included a big map with all neighborhoods and handpicked hotels for couples, families, and friends.

(This guide is always up to date, the last updated June 2024.)

But, let’s go to the most important question first. After, we will explain the answer in detail:

Question: Where to stay in London for a first-time visit?

Answer: Central London (Zone 1-2)

Why do I recommend to stay in Central London?

Sticking to Central London for a first-time visit makes it easy to get to know the transport links and move around the city quickly and painlessly.

Make sure you read my guides to one week in London as well as best places to eat in London . All my guides are handwritten and from my own experience.

For the even more curious, here is another fun guide to 37 unique experiences in London .

Please scroll down for our handpicked hotels and hostels , for the ones on a budget.

To help you identify the best neighborhood to stay in London based on your preferences, our recommended areas (as well as the top sights) are highlighted in this map below:

• Shoreditch (in purple)
• West End (in blue)
• Mayfair (in red)

Please note: those are not the exact district borders. I just tried to simplify this information.

Why these areas?

As well as being central areas of London, these are extremely easy to access via the main train stations and airports.

In this article, we wanted to give you all the information you need for your London trip whether you stay in London for 3 days, 5 days, or more.

We cover many things, from the best locations to what to see in London.

Skip to your interest point or keep reading to be fully prepared for your London trip:

• Luxury Traveler
• Design Lover
• Solo Traveler
• Nightlife-seeking traveler
• Budget Traveler
• Top London sights
• Things to do in London
• London neighborhood Guide
• Safest area to stay in London
• How to move around

1. Best areas and handpicked hotels for …

As we delve into the best London neighborhoods to stay, it’s worth noting that the city center is an ideal choice for first-time visitors.

I also understand that different travel styles match different needs.

You will notice some areas are excluded or added to the previous recommendation depending on what kind of traveler you are. It is not the same going with the family than partying with friends, right?

Let’s see which are the best areas to stay in London depending on which way you are traveling and my handpicked hotels.

Continue scrolling or pick your travel type on the menu:

1.1 Families 1.2 Couples 1.3 Luxury Traveler 1.4 Design Lover 1.5 Groups 1.6 Solo Traveler 1.7 Nightlife-seeking traveler 1.8 Budget Traveler

1.1 Families

Discovering the best place to stay in London for families. While London is often bustling – whether its traffic or party-goers there’s always a bit of background noise – however, there are areas of London that suit a family stay.

Also, you need an area that is easily accessible and close by to family-friendly attractions.

Therefore, the answer to where to stay in London for families is primarily West London. 

In particular, the best area to stay in London with family is West London, which includes neighborhoods like Chelsea, and Notting Hill. These areas are not only quieter but also offer easy access to family-friendly attractions, parks, and museums, making them ideal for a family visit.

However, we have also found some excellent options below:

This map shows you the areas, recommended for families:

Handpicked London places to stay for families

It is very important to be flexible and comfortable while traveling with a family group. That is why the best option would be to look centrally located hotels offering great quality service. For budget options, there are also some amazing hostels in London for families with Family Rooms.

The Ampersand

Within a few minutes of the family favorite Natural History Museum and Science Museum, The Ampersand Hotel has a large selection of family rooms that include:

• complimentary cots and extra beds,
• small kitchenettes,
• free soft drinks,
• children’s toiletries and bathrobes,
• activity packs

The hotel also offers discounted family menus including a kids Sci-Fi (science) afternoon tea! Have a look at the photo below. You see the beautiful, tent with the bed on the left for the little ones.

This is our definitive answer to where to stay in London with kids!

St. James Hotel and Club

The St. James Hotel also offers a ‘kids stay for free’ deal for a minimum of two nights as well as a dedicated children’s concierge service whilst being in a fantastic location and providing a luxurious stay for the parents.

It is very close to the Buckingham palace, approximately 5-minute walk.

In a walking distance, you have:

• London Eye, and
• Victoria Station

The inner garden of the hotel is an additional benefit, great to sit there and have a glass of wine in the evening.

The Kensington Hotel

Each of The Doyle Collection’s hotels in London are simply beautiful but The Kensington Hotel is perhaps the most romantic.

Set in a 19th century West London townhouse, the hotel combines grand decor with a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of corners to cozy up in.

The rooms are beautifully furnished and the hotel restaurant offers one of the best afternoon teas in the city.

Gir Lion Lodge, London Zoo

For a London hotel with a difference, treat the family to Gir Lion Lodge where guests can sleep over at London Zoo.

Yes, you can overnight at the London Zoo!

As well as after-hours tours, a two-course dinner, and free zoo entry, families will wake in the land of the lions to the sound of the big cats’ roar!

1.2 Couples

London can be an extremely romantic city, perfect for a couple’s city break. If you’re wondering where to stay in London for couples, the city offers a variety of charming and intimate spots.

There isn’t particularly one set area of London more suited to couples. Below is a selection of hotels best suited to a romantic getaway, each offering a cozy night’s stay.

This map shows you the best area to stay in London for couples:

Handpicked accommodations for couples

When traveling as a couple it is very important to spend time together.

Look for a more intimate accommodation.

That is why staying at hotels during your trip is perfect. You won’t have to worry about cleaning or cooking… just enjoying your time in London!

Shangri-La at The Shard

What could be more romantic than waking up to one of the best views the city has to offer?

Stay at the Shangri-La Hotel at the top of London’s tallest building and you’ll be treated to sunrises, sunsets and a night’s sleep above the clouds.

Rooms come with skyline panoramas (book an iconic view room for the famous bathtub view) whilst the 52nd floor Gong Bar and infinity pool are not to be missed.

The Rookery

Minutes from the design hub of Clerkenwell and Farringdon, The Rookery is a romantic hideaway in an era gone by.

Dark wooden furnishings, open fires and four-poster beds make you feel that you’ve stepped back in time at this boutique hotel.

The Blackbird Hotel

A flawless pub hotel in Central London made with great care, taste, and creativity.

The quirkiness and small scale of The Blackbird are a welcome difference from the usual chain and business hotel.

That is why it is a great option for couples willing to visit the city.

The rooms are not very spacious but big enough to have a comfortable stay. The room comes with some free supplies in the fridge.

Blackbird is located nearby Earl’s court road.

You will find in a walking distance:

• Natural History Museum
• Albert Museum
• Royal Albert Hall
• Olympia Exhibition Centre
• Stanford Bridge

Despite the busy area, the nights are quiet. Ideal for visiting the city!

Grab a bite to eat in the restaurant or a drink at the bar. Of course, WiFi is free.

Tip: make sure you take the breakfast at the hotel (which is included with the room rate) at least one day.

They offer a generous breakfast selection including:

• fruit cereals,
• pastries and
• fruit juice

As well as hot menu and hot drinks.

1.3 Luxury Traveler

London is jam-packed with some of the world’s best restaurants, designer shops and luxury hotels from boutique properties hidden down a narrow street, to renowned 5* names.

So where to stay in London for the luxury traveler?

Most areas of the city have a handful of impressive hotels but you’ll more likely find traditional luxury in the following districts:

• Kensington and Chelsea

This map shows you the areas, recommended for the luxury traveler:

Handpicked accommodations for luxury traveler

Luxury in London means not only a stunning hotel but many services that will make you feel great.

High-end restaurants, swimming pools, and concierges that will help you take a cab, plan your day or suggest great restaurants in the city. Below you find my personal best luxury London Hotels. The website lesboutiquehotels.com lists the absolute best boutique hotels London has to offer.

The London Edition

Thanks to our users Maria, I needed to update this guide with this absolute amazing Luxury Hotel: the London Edition !

I would go with The Limited Edition, for basically three reasons:

• Location: SOHO! You are downtown, and you have everything around you, including the famous British Museum (which I recommend; it takes at least 3 hours to visit). The district is Fitzrovia, with famous Oxford Street, Theatreland and Piccadilly Circus just 10 minutes walk away
• Elegance and Design Personally, I am a fan of classic meets modern, and The London EDITION combines it perfectly, in my opinion.
• Roof top terrace and Balcony with views I adore beautiful city views and from many of the rooms you have great views over a part of London. I just love this!

Just in case you are still not convinced, The London Edition is home as well to a Michelin starred restaurant and 2 fantastic cocktail bars.

When you think of the most luxurious hotel, nothing quite springs to mind like London’s Claridges Hotel .

The famous residence has been home to everyone from royals to A-listers for over 150 years and its glamour never goes out of style.

Located in the heart of Mayfair its famous British service is a must for the luxury traveler.

• The Langham

For a West End location, luxury travelers are invited to The Langham , a London icon on Regent Street.

The truly British hotel is famous for its beauty as well as a collection of opulent dining options including Roux at the Landau.

Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square

The Four Season’s Ten Trinity Square , the most recent London opening, is located in the heart of the City, overlooking main attractions:

• Tower Bridge,
• Shakespeare’s Globe and the
• Tower of London

The magnificent building is as classic inside, with an impressive lobby that speaks elegance.

Number Sixteen

With contemporary design and luxurious fabrics and furnishings, Number Sixteen is a top choice for the luxury traveler who wants to stay central in London.

It is located in a quiet street, yet maximum of 2 minutes from a metro stop.

The attention to every detail is impeccable: from common areas designed for lingering, to RikRak linen spray to support restful sleep.

They do have a restaurant and a lovely garden are lovely with great food.

1.4 Design Lover

With various districts for architecture, art, and culture, London is a hub for design both old and new.

Personally, I love a great design-led hostel. It can be anything from Hipster to Boutique Hotel. Below I share with you my favorite design hotels in London too.

Over the years different areas of the city have grown in terms of hotel openings and popularity.

Therefore the best places to stay for design travelers are:

• Clerkenwell

This map shows you the areas, recommended for the design-led traveler:

Handpicked accommodations for the design traveler

Yet again, I admit it, I love design hotels. I have looked all over the place and tested several central design hotels in London. Here’s the verdict.

The Curtain

One of East London’s newest residencies, The Curtain is a characterful hotel not dissimilar to those of New York and New Orleans.

The dark, woody interiors are met by indoor gardens as well as a private members-only club and rooftop pool.

Southern vibes come into play at Red Rooster, a vibrant chicken and waffles restaurant.

Zetter Townhouse

Possibly London’s best boutique hotel, Zetter Townhouse is located in Clerkenwell, one of the city’s most thriving design districts.

Eccentricity is Zetter’s vibe – you’ll find bizarre decor around every corner as well as cocktail bars and games rooms.

The hip Ace Hotel in the heart of Shoreditch attracts many trendy travelers.

Complete with co-working spaces, an underground comedy club, sauna and extremely popular restaurant Hoi Polloi, it’s a firm favorite among designers.

Groups can have an abundance of fun in London – as well as there being plenty of bars and restaurants to hang out in, there’s so much to do for stag dos, families, friends and parties.

Whilst there isn’t a particular area of London best suited for groups to stay in, there are some recommended hotels perfect for over 4 people near the best areas to stay in London:

This map shows you the areas, recommended for groups:

Handpicked accommodations for groups

Apartments work always best for groups, as they need flexibility and space. I mention also some hotels for those groups seeking more individual spaces.

Wilde Aparthotel

Suitable for both long and short stay, the Wilde Aparthotel is perfect for groups located in the center of Covent Garden.

Inspired by Oscar Wilde, the hotel rooms and apartments are simply stylish and are walking distance from many London attractions.

Ravensbourne House

For groups who want a home away from home, head to one of Ravensbourne House , a self-catering apartment located very near central London.

It is a one-bedroom apartment that can cater up to 6 adults.

There is a kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, a washing machine and a bathroom with air dryer.

Hyde Park is just 10 minutes walk from Ravensbourne House and there is a metro stop very near the apartment.

Novotel London West

If you want the hotel experience and are looking for where to stay in London for one night then the Novotel brand is a great choice for groups.

The Novotel London West hotel located next to Hammersmith station offers personalized service for bookings of 10 or more rooms including private dining and even your own entrance!

1.6 Solo-Traveler

London is a city that can easily be explored by a solo traveler!

Wander around a museum, picnic in the park or shop til you drop – there’s plenty to do.

For hostels we share our top recommendations below for “ budget traveler ” but if you want a single room in one of London’s cool hotels, we recommend three of our favorites below.

And for those wondering where to stay in London on a budget, the following sections will guide you to affordable yet comfortable options that won’t break the bank.

This map shows our favorite areas to stay when traveling alone in London. Here is the list of where to stay in London England.

Handpicked accommodations for solo travelers

Traveling solo does not mean feeling solo. You can enjoy your time in your room and join tours, visit museums or meet up with more people on a bar.

Looking to find friends easily and cheap rooms? Then here you have the 3 best hostels in London .

If you prefer a more intimate room here are the hotels I suggest.

The Hoxton, Holborn

The hip Hoxton hotel brand is perfect for a solo traveler. We recommend the Holborn location minutes from the West End, which offers ‘shoebox’ rooms perfect for short stays and solo trips.

As well as a guaranteed good night’s sleep, The Hoxton includes a free breakfast bag with each stay, supermarket price drinks, and free WiFi.

Z Hotel Gloucester Palace

Spread over 6 townhouses in Marylebone, the Gloucester Palace Z Hotel is a favorite for solo travelers.

The cozy rooms are super stylish and excellent value.

Strand Palace

In the heart of the West End, the Strand Palace offers single rooms for each category.

The 4 Star Hotel also offers an onsite gym, restaurants and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage

Boasting charm, comfort, and creativity in a  beautiful Victorian Grade II building is the Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage .

Aside from its eco-friendly efforts and the super cool décor the property also offers fascinating history and design of the building.

Moreover, the hostel is very perfect for those traveling solo since they provide dormitories and private rooms. Each unit comes with its own privacy curtain and free beddings. Also, the smaller shared dorms have their very own tea and coffee station to add to that super cozy feeling.

And if you’re up for fun and adventure then you should look forward to their organized pub on-site and regular gigs of live music.

1.7 Nightlife-seeking traveler

If you’re wondering where to stay in London for nightlife, you’ll be pleased to know that the capital city is famous for its vibrant scene, ranging from top DJ’s to underground bars and all-night raves.

For those wondering where to stay in London for the best nightlife experience, we’ve identified some key districts where the night truly comes alive.

If you want to stay in the heart of the nightlife areas, we recommended the following districts:

Located in Central London in between Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, and Leicester Square, Soho is packed with bars and clubs.

Streets such as Old Compton Street and Wardour Street were the original destinations for gay nightlife and so many clubs are now aimed at gay culture including the famous G-A-Y .

The East London neighborhood is lively well into the night and is a favorite for its quirky bars and clubs such as Callooh Callay and Nightjar .

Expect creative, theatrical cocktails, themed bars and dancing all night in Shoreditch.

Located South of the River Thames, Brixton attracts and an edgy young crowd who like to party into the early hours.

The Prince of Wales is a multi-floor club with a terrace month perfect for summer nights.

Handpicked accommodations for nightlife-seeking travelers

If you are going to a party, you will need some time to recover.

Not having to worry to inform about your plans, or what time you have to get up, the best option is to get a room at a cool hotel or a party hostel.

For nightlife with a side of luxury, there’s no better place to stay than the cool party hotel, The Ned , located in the heart of the City of London.

The 5 Star Hotel has its own members club as well as 9 restaurants and an indoor spa to relax the next day!

The Dictionary Hostel

For a late night in Shoreditch, sleepover at The Dictionary Hoste l in the midst of East London’s nightlife scene.

As well as its key location, the hostel has its own events, games rooms, bar crawls and discounts on London attractions.

Compare prices and read reviews at : Booking.com | Hostelworld

One of London’s most fabulous party locations is Radio Rooftop, the 360 degree rooftop bar atop the ME London Hotel .

For those who want to party into the early hours, book a room at this fabulous Strand location.

1.8 Budget Traveler

London isn’t just for the rich and famous – there is plenty of free activities and budget attractions as well as plenty of cool hotels and hostels to stay in.

Like many cities, the further out of the center you stay, the less you’ll pay so areas such as:

• Walthamstow, and

However if you’re keen on staying in Zone 1-2, we recommend some options below:

Handpicked accommodations for budget travelers

I also have a few on my own recommendations. Here are the best places to stay in London on a budget.

Z Hotel Soho

The Z Hotel brand pride themselves on affordable luxury and that’s why we think the Soho location is a perfect pick.

In the middle of the city, this hotel is a characterful hotel with compact stylish rooms minutes from the West End.

Located by Kings Cross, the favorite backpacker hostel Clink78 is great value and set in an incredible old courthouse where The Clash band once stood trial!

Clink78 is one of the best budget places to stay in London.

Their own onsite club, the Clash Bar, is a popular pick and the rooms even have old prison features.

In the vibrant East London neighborhood of Dalston, the Luxury Inn is a highly rated bed and breakfast with family-run service and historical charm.

It is a great place to stay in London for a family on budget.

Self-service breakfast, a help-yourself kitchen and courtyard garden make you feel right at home.

2. Top Sights (and their locations)

There are so many things to do in London for every kind of traveler.

As well as the famous sights such as Buckingham Palace and the London Eye, there’s plenty of hidden gems and classic favorites. We share here our top 10 sights not to miss!

Top 10 sights in London

The top ten sights in London are:

• The tower of London
• A West End Show
• an Afternoon tea
• Brick Lane and Shoreditch
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Borough Market

More great sights to see in London are:

• The National Gallery
• Tate Modern
• Shakespeare’s Globe
• Westminster Abbey
• The London Dungeon
• Trafalgar Square
• Oxford Street
• The View from the Shard

You see, the major sights in London are dotted all around the city. It is almost impossible to visit all these sights just by walking.

Good news, getting around London is very easy. Below we talk about moving around London.

2.1 The Tower of London

You can’t come to London without a trip to the famous Tower of London .

As well as exploring the royal fortress, make sure to book a tour of the Tower Bridge where you can walk over the adrenaline racing glass walkway and watch the bridge open for passing ships.

2.2 A West End Show

You can’t go wrong without seeing a West End show in London.

There are so many to choose from and whilst it might be daunting looking at tickets, we promise it’s easy to book!

If you want a bargain and are happy to wait till the last minute, head to Leicester Square in the morning and queue at the TKTs box, or download the TodayTix app for a chance to win £20 rush tickets.

As well as seasonal shows, all-time favorites are:

• Les Miserables
• The Lion King

2.3 Afternoon Tea

For a truly British experience, drink tea and eat cake at one of London’s best afternoon teas.

You’ll find it on every corner in cafes and hotels however for those who want to feel rather royal there’s nothing like afternoon tea at Claridges Hotel .

For extra glamour, choose the champagne tea – just book in advance!

2.4 Brick Lane and Shoreditch

Whilst there’s endless things to do in central London, we highly recommend going east to explore Shoreditch, the hip and happening neighborhood of London.

As well as being a favourite destination for restaurants and bars, Brick Lane is famous for its vintage shopping, tasty curries and graffiti culture –

you might even spot a Banksy piece on your visit!

2.5 A Picnic in Hyde Park

There are so many large parks to choose from in London:

• Victoria Park for East London markets
• Holland Park for West London’s peacocks
• Japanese gardens
• St James’s Park for the famous pelicans

But if you want a classic London experience, we recommend taking a picnic to Hyde Park, London’s biggest green space.

Go on a sunny day for a walk, relax and even canoe around the lake – although get there early to avoid long queues!

Why not rent a bike and cycle around?

2.6 St Paul’s Cathedral

Don’t miss one of London’s most beautiful buildings – St Paul’s Cathedral.

As striking as it is on the outside, save time to go inside too either on a self-tour or by attending one of many events held at the Cathedral.

If you are visiting in the winter season, we highly recommend booking to see a Christmas concert, a truly festive experience.

Tickets are booked for free online and released at 10am on various days – check online to make sure you don’t miss out.

If you want a full visit for the Paul’s cathedral ( including a panoramic view from the Dome) with no queues, then the skip the line ticket will be your friend.

2.7 Sky Garden

One of our favorite free attractions is London’s Sky Garden, an indoor paradise on the top of the 20 Fenchurch Street building in the City.

We recommend booking your free tickets online about 1 month before your trip to ensure entry although walk-ins are sometimes allowed.

Or if you wish to combine your visit with a meal or drink, simply book a table at one of the garden’s restaurants or bars.

It’s also worth going at sunrise or sunset for even more of a beautiful view!

2.8 Southbank

The River Thames is what brings London together, so come rain or shine it’s worth a visit.

The best place to start is at Southbank where you’ll find:

• the National Theatre,
• a summer/winter market,
• Somerset House,
• the London Eye and
• various riverside restaurants

On a sunny day, walk east past Shakespeare’s Globe and onto Tower Bridge.

2.9 Borough Market

Foodies won’t want to miss a visit to a market and whilst there are plenty to choose from nothing quite beats Borough Market.

You’ll find everything from fresh oysters to burgers and beer among the home of London produce.

Visit Wednesday – Saturday to make sure each stall is open and be prepared to queue for favourite dishes such as pasta from Padella.

2.10 The Kensington Museums

London is home to hundreds of museums covering everything from cartoons to zoology, but nothing quite beats the Kensington collection.

Start at the Natural History Museum where you’ll see Hope the whale among hundreds of other creatures, before having fun in the Science Museum and then checking out an exhibition at the V&A.

Make sure to get there early, especially on a weekend, and check out what’s on

There’s plenty of exhibitions!

Of course there is plenty more to see in London than the above.

Here you have our favorite things to do in London that you should not miss.

3. Things to do in London

Of course London is plenty of things to do, but if you are looking for some alternative things, here is our fav list:

3.1 A Junkyard Gallery

Explore the neon treasure trove at God’s Own Junkyard , a gallery in Walthamstow with its own Rolling Stone’s Cafe.

Important: There is an entrance free.

3.2 Flower market

Buy cheap flowers and plants at Columbia Road Flower Market, taking place on a Sunday (go later between 2-4pm for discounts and a quieter crowd).

For families, crossover Hackney Road to the City Farm where you can feed the ducks, donkeys and sheep!

3.3 Enter to Harry Potter’s world

Or at leat pose at Platform 9 and ¾ at Kings Cross Station.

Better yet, take the train from Euston Station to Watford to visit the Warner Brothers’ Studio Tour .

3.4 Walk over Greenwich

Walk over the O2 Arena in Greenwich where you’ll see 360 degree views over the City.

It can also be done at sunset and twilight for a twinkling climb.

3.5 Visit the Magnificent Seven

London’s collection of famous cemeteries that are surprisingly more beautiful than spook.

Don’t miss the Highgate Cemetery where Karl Marx can be found.

3.6 Go back to Childhood

Explore Pollock’s Toy Museum in Fitzrovia, a quirky gallery that contains six tiny rooms packed with vintage board games, dolls, the world’s oldest teddy and a 4,000 year old mouse!

3.7 Mooch around The House of Minalima

House of Minalima is a graphic design print shop created by the artists behind the design for the Harry Potter movies.

You have a free exhibition space with Harry potter themed rooms, framed prints and actual props of the paper art from Harry Potter.

You can even grab a limited edition!

3.8 Discover London’s Graffiti

The only legal graffiti in London is Leake Street, a tunnel running under Waterloo Station which is an ever-changing canvas.

Nevertheless, remember there are more Graffiti around the city which are worth to spot, including a Bansky.

3.9 Find the seven noses of Soho

A collection of sculpted noses stuck on random streets and walls in Soho originally for an artist’s project.

3.10 Join a Hip Society

Have a cocktail at The Last Tuesday Society , a museum/bar in Hackney complete with the strangest collection of curiosities including a lion in a top hat and two-headed lamb.

4. London Neighborhood guide (to understand the differences)

So when it comes to the question on where to stay in London as a tourist, the areas place a big role. In this section, we walk you through the different neighborhoods in London.

This will give you a pretty good idea on what’s the best choice for you and good areas to stay in London.

London is primarily divided into the North, South, West and East, each with their own style.

Within these areas are then the different zones which are shown on the London Underground.

Zone 1 and 2 being central London – and key neighborhoods which are detailed below.

We already revealed the best neighborhoods to stay in London during your trip, but here we wanted to go in detail to the rest of the section so you can have a better understanding of the city.

Just as a reminder here you have our recommended areas on the map (with the Top sights of London):

But let’s check all the other quarters in London.

4.1 East London

East London is regarded as the more artistic, young and hipster area of London.

Here you’ll find famous graffiti from the likes of Banksy, vintage shopping, quirky cafes and boutique stores.

The most popular areas are Shoreditch, Liverpool Street and Hackney which have great places to see including:

• Spitalfields Market,
• Victoria Park,
• Brick Lane and

4.2 West London

Opposite to the East, the West of London is seen as more opulent with big terrace houses, fancy hotels and lots of green space.

Kensington and Chelsea are where you’ll find the museums, the Saatchi Gallery and Hyde Park whilst Notting Hill is home to the famous carnival and plenty of boutique shops.

Closer to the river, Hammersmith and Putney are also lovely areas to explore with plenty of riverside pubs for a Sunday lunch.

4.3 North London

North London varies in style, from the rock and roll streets of Camden to the beautiful Regents Park.

Here is where Euston and Kings Cross meet whilst London Zoo and Camden Market are popular attractions.

Highbury and Islington is a great area for bars and nightlife, whilst further North, Hampstead and Alexandra Palace offer lovely parks and events throughout the year.

4.4 South London

Similarly the South offers something for everyone from below the river.

Most popular is Brixton which is home to a large Caribbean population, offering a young and fun nightlife with lots of festivals and clubs.

Clapham is also a favourite among many for its bars and pubs, whilst Greenwich is more family friendly – don’t miss Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory.

More central is Waterloo and London Bridge where you can explore the sights along the River Thames including the London Eye and Tower Bridge.

4.5 The West End

The centre of London, known as the West End, covers areas such as Soho, Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square and Charing Cross.

This is where the most popular attractions are including:

• the National Portrait Gallery,
• Covent Garden Market,
• Regent Street shopping and the
• West End theatres.

There is plenty to do here with restaurants, bars, cafes and pubs around every corner for every budget.

5. Safest area to stay in London

London is predominantly a safe place to visit and stay, but like all big cities there are pickpockets to watch out for.

Some basic tips to avoid being pick-pocketed:

1. Don’t keep anything valuable in your backpack. 2. Limit what you carry. 3. Put locks on your zippers. 4. Don’t put anything in the back pocket. 5. Keep bags in front of you when on public transit. 6. Do not leave your belongings unattended.

The safest places to stay in London are predominantly the more affluent areas:

Of course these are also the more expensive areas and busy neighborhoods in North and East London are also safe to stay in.

Here you have the hand-picked accommodations in the safest areas in London:

6. Traveling around London

Traveling around London via public transportation is particularly easy once you get to grips with the Underground Map .

The underground is split into a variety of lines, the main ones being:

• Circle Lines

Each has its own colour and shows how each station can connect to another.

You can also pay for travel in London with a contact-less card so there is no need to buy an Oyster card or travel card which can often be more expensive.

You can also travel by bus, black cab taxi or even Uber.

Looking for something convenient and easy to move around the main city sights?

Then the hop-on hop-off bus will be your best (transport) friend.

To check how to move around the app Citymapper comes highly recommended.

Type in your destination and it will show a variety of ways to get there complete with journey time and cost.

It’s also worth noting that children under 11 years old travel free in the city.

Below we list frequently asked questions. Check them out.

As always, you can ask us directly as well. please use the comment section below. This way we can answer in public and all readers can benefit from your question. In fact, your question helps you, us and other readers.

What is the best area to stay in London?

Our recommended areas (as well as the top sights) are highlighted in this map below:

• Central London (Zone 1-2)

Please check our map for best area to stay in London. We also included our favorite hotels and apartments.

Where should I avoid staying in London?

It is better to stay central in Zone 1-2 as well as Shoreditch, West End and Mayfair. According to Churchill Security, the most dangerous areas in London are:

• Westminster
• Hammersmith and Fulham

Please check our map for safest areas to stay in London.

Where to stay in London for the luxury traveler?

The best Luxury Hotels in london are:

• the London Edition
• London’s Claridges Hotel
• Four Season’s Ten Trinity Square

8. Summary Where to stay in London for first-timers

There you have all the information about the best accommodations in London and the best London area to stay for tourists.

Are you traveling around Europe? Then check:

• Where to stay in Amsterdam
• Paris, the best places to stay
• Best Coffee Shops in Barcelona
• Where to stay in Florence, Italy

Please also check out our detailed guides to:

• London Itinerary for 7 days
• Unique things to do in London
• Where to eat in London

Are you planning to go to UK? Check the best UK attractions for families to visit.

Any Questions?

Do you have questions? Doubts?

Please please please drop me a comment below or directly an email here.

In fact, your questions help me to make this article better. So I help you to help me.

Therefore, bother me!

Safe travels!

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We’re taking a family trip to England for the holiday and looking for the perfect place to spend our last night. Flying into LHR from Edinburgh on Sunday @ 1 PM, departing out of LHR the next day at 4 PM. This will be the last stop on a 10 day vacation with my husband and 2 adult kids. My first inclination was to stay somewhere near the airport, but as we’ll have nearly 24 hours, I’m re-thinking this, especially because there doesn’t seem to be a great option for a luxury hotel (or any hotel). So I’m back to square one. I want to stay somewhere nice, but don’t want to hassle with public transport with our luggage unless its a one-stop situation. Looking for something easy to and from the airport, nice accommodations, preferably with spa, with some sights nearby.

Sorry that was long. Appreciate any ideas & your time.

All the best, Kimberly

Hi Kimberley (Love that name btw!!),

this is a great, no, a fantastic question. Thanks for reaching out. So, I think it is a good idea that you will go downtown. 24 Hours is a good time, and you can see a few sights! However, the transport to the Airport London LHR can be tricky and time-consuming. Here you should take the Heathrow Express – and NOT a taxi or bus! With the bus or taxi you may be missing the flight. I once went to LHR with a backup of 4 hours and I reached my flight only because it was delayed 20 minutes. The traffic jam was ridiculous! Therefore, take the Heathrow Express.

The Express leaves from “London Paddington”. So we want to find you a nice place close to Paddington. Now, that should be easy! The beautiful Claridge’s is just a 15 minutes walk or 5 minutes cab ride from Paddington away. Family rooms are available, as well as Spa and wellness center.

Ever closer to the train station at Paddington is Royal Lancaster London , 5 Star Hotel. It does not have a Spa though, but GORGEOUS views! I would go with Royal Lancaster and enjoy sightseeing from here. The location gives you more time to see the city.

Sightseeing: I see two options for you and your family. You can take the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and see as much as you can. Depending on the time of year, this is 100% worth it since it is a covered bus. The 2nd option for you would be to make a simple list of sights you want to see and go to visit them straight away. This could be anything from Big Ben to London Eye, Tower of London or British Museum. The British Museum is free and you can “quickly” visit in about 2 hours.

Sorry, that was long too 🙂 Matt

Hello, I’m a 49 year old woman looking to book my first solo vacation soon (January / February) and am looking for any suggestions for nice places to dine where I won’t stick out like a sore thumb as a solo traveler. Also, any other tips or suggestions would be fabulous!

Thank you! Shannon

Hi Shannon,

this is fabulous! You will love London! You can find all our tips for spending one week in london here . As for restaurants, we have this specific guide on best places to eat in London .

If you want to stay in a place to meet people, you might consider the Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage or Hillspring. Especially in the Hillspring you have families and groups. At Swiss Cottage there is more solo-travellers of all ages usually. Other hostels are typically more for backpackers and may be more party-oriented.

Hope that helps 🙂 Matt

Thank you for the great information you have provided. My husband and I are returning to London in March. He will be working at Excel London, so I will be on my own during the day. I want to stay close to shopping for gifts, clothing and antiques- anything I will not see at home in US. Could you recommend the best area to stay? A good (clean) hotel that won’t break the bank? I had rather spend my money shopping! Thank you, Dawn

awesome and fair enough!

So there is a few best places for shopping London: 1. Oxford Street is considered the heart of the city’s shopping. This is the more pricey area though with many 4 and 5 Star Hotels. I like the Z hotel Tottenham , it is reasonably priced!

2. Knightsbridge Area (south of Hyde Park) I love that area, and you should check it out too. Yet, the hotels here are pricey. A hotel can be around 1000$ per night. There is The Capital which starts from 350$.

My tip for you: If you really just want a good, clean hotel that is cheap, I recommend the Meininger Hotel London Hyde Park . It is a simple, casual hotel, clean and good location!

It is very well connected to the rest of London too.

I hope that helps 🙂 Matt

We’re 4 US seniors traveling to London for two days … first visit. We prefer a queen or king bed but have heard that some hotels mean a queen when listed as a double. Is this true?

yes, this is absolutely true! Please check the exact description when booking any hotel in London. It will state if the room is one or two. And what the size is. King and Queen Beds are sizes of a bed, but always double beds. I am sending you now an email!

Hope that helps! Matt

My family and I are flying into London-Gatwick for the Cubs game which is being played at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Our flight gets in at 10:50am and they moved the game up from 6:10pm to 3:00pm. Is four hours enough time to get to my hotel (i have not booked yet but I plan on staying in West End) and over to the stadium. Also, I will be in London for three nights, would you recommend I stay in West End? It will be my wife and I along with our 17 year old daughter. Thank you in advance for your help.

Hey Brandon,

I sent you an email =)

Greetings from Pennsylvania, USA! My husband and I will be visiting London from June 19 through 24 prior to a transatlantic crossing on the Queen Mary 2. We are Marriott loyalists and have points for an award stay. I’m wondering which of the following Marriott properties would be the best to stay at for the 5 nights prior to the voyage. We will be 67 and 72 respectively at the time of this vacation. Thank you for your help.

The Knightsbridge Luxury Hotel The Limited Edition JW Marriott Grosvenor House

or any other Marriott’s in London.

Your help and suggestions are very much appreciated!

Thank you so much for your wonderful questions, this is a fantastic one!

I would go with The Limited Edition , for basically three reasons: 1. Location: SOHO! You are downtown, and you have everything around you, including the famous British Museum (which I recommend; it takes at least 3 hours to visit)

2. Elegance and Design! I am a fan of classic meets modern, and The London EDITION combines it perfectly, in my opinion.

3. Roof top terrace and Balcony with views I adore beautiful city views and from many of the rooms you have great views over a part of London. I just love this!

You can book The London EDITION directly at Booking.com here .

Your Queen Mary 2 transatlantic crossing sounds absolutely amazing, enjoy it!

I am sending you as well an email right now!

Safe travels and take care, Matt

Hello, we have a all day event in Finsbury Park, we are in town for a week. Should we just stay near Finsbury Park? Should we stay somewhere else and commute to Finsbury Park? We are traveling next July and it is just the two of us. This will also be our first time to London.

Finsbury Park is in North London and it is only a 20 minutes metro ride from The British Museum, for instance. London-speaking: it is close!

If you only go to Finsbury Park for one full day, I would stay around SOHO and around The London EDITION Hotel . For me personally, this is the absolute best location in London.

You can then take the metro from Piccadilly Heathrow and in 20 minutes you are there. It is easy, cheap and fast.

Hope that helps 🙂

Please have a look as well on the map I have created. It helps you planning!

Safe travels, Matt

Hello and thank you for the helpful information. Next June 2022 I will be returning to London since my first time in 1991. I loved it then. This time I will be in London for two days prior to a cruise out of Stockholm. My traveling companion has never been to London. I know that two days is very limited so we would like to make the most of it.

I am having a little bit of trouble deciding between two hotels in which I have reserved. First, I reserved at the Park Grand London Kensington. My other reservation is at Hotel H10 London Waterloo. They both seem like nice hotels with great upgraded rooms.

Please help me decide. What are your thoughts? I have read a lot about Kensington as a nice/safe area to stay, however, I have read relatively little reference areas south of the Thames.

Thank you very much.

Personally, I would go for the Hotel H10 London. Why? Because of the location! Then you can walk at night around The London Eye and you can east at the Borough Market, one of my favorite places.

Hope that helps 🙂 Enjoy London! Matt

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17 day trips from London to escape the city

Whether you’re after a seaside jaunt or a country retreat, here are the best trips from London we’re planning right now

Photograph: CBCK/Shutterstock.com

As much as we love London here at Time Out, we’re also partial to the odd daydream about a leisurely getaway to somewhere that’s not quite so big and busy. Microdose on that holiday vibe by taking a day trip to one of the many laidback, joy-inducing destinations just a few hours away from London, which pack in plenty; from historic cities and cute villages to sandy beaches and rolling countryside.

If you’re wanting a quick getaway, here are 17 of the Time Out team’s favourite day trips from London, complete with our recommendations of cute pubs and ace restaurants – all close enough to the city to get there and back in one sweet day. 

RECOMMENDED: ✨The best day trips from London 👪 The best  family day trips from London ☀️ The best  weekend trips from London 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs near London 🌳 The best  quirky Airbnbs in the UK

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Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Dreamy day trips from London

1.  st leonards-on-sea.

Famed for how many Londoners moved here during lockdown (it’s even been referred to as Dalston-on-Sea, which is cringe, we’ll admit), St Leonards-On-Sea is a cracking day out from the Big Smoke for beachside drinks and a tonne of great food spots. Head to food market Heist  (basically a much nicer version of Boxpark) for orange wine and street food, then sink pints at Goat Ledge , a vibesy, colourful shack right on the beach. If you fancy splashing out a little, book dinner at the fabulously old-school  St Clement’s for white tablecloths and delicious seafood. Plus you've got easy access to the rest of Hastings for its Old Town, pier and the Norman castle ruins.

How far? 58 miles

How to get there: A one hour 18 minute train from London Charing Cross

2.  Dungeness

Dungeness’s shingly, shipwreck-dotted beach is so spookily empty that it’s been described as Britain’s only desert (though the Met Office refuses to technically recognise it as such, the party poopers). It’s a beautifully eerie landscape, with the (disused) nuclear power station and two lighthouses looming over a motley mixture of weathered shacks, beached fishing boats and sleek, modernist bungalows – all clustered along a single in-and-out road.

But despite all that emptiness, there’s a surprising amount to do here. You could catch the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch steam train down the coast, and hop off in Dungeness for a walk and a pint at the lonely Britannia Inn. Grab a freshly-caught lunch at the famous Snack Shack: specialities include lobster or crab rolls and smoked cod chowder. And check out the galleries and open houses showcasing the work of the (surprisingly) many artists who have moved down here, including the shingle garden of the experimental filmmaker Derek Jarman, whose yellow-windowed Prospect Cottage is a major landmark here. Book in advance for a 40-minute tour inside.

If you’ve got time, head over to RSPB Dungeness nature reserve for a chance to glimpse glossy ibises and marsh harriers – plus the huge concrete ‘sound mirrors’, pre-radar experiments from WW1 that were designed to listen out for planes. (Look out on the RSPB site for news of the rare open days when you can get up close.) Finish off your day with dinner at the Pilot Inn; I’m willing to back the quality of their famous fish and chips, which were the thing that brought Derek Jarman here in the first place.

How far? 86 miles

Get there O ne hour  by train from St Pancras International to Folkestone, with a one-hour 30-minute bus ride to Dungeness. Or take a bus or taxi from Folkestone to Hythe station to board the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway. Alternatively, Dungeness is  around two hours from London by car.

3.  Stratford-upon-Avon

As a born-and-bred Midlander, I’ve spent many Saturdays traipsing around Stratford-upon-Avon’s lovely streets. With its half-timbered houses and canalside pubs, Stratford’s got just enough of the  small-town charm you’re craving on an escape from the Big Smoke, but unlike a small town, there’s actually loads to see and do.  

The Bard, of course, is the big draw here, and Shakespeare’s house, his wife Anne Hathaway’s cottage and the RSC’s famous theatre are all must-sees. But Stratford is more than just a Tudor Disneyland, we promise. Take a boat tour of the canal basin to find out more about the West Midlands waterways, refresh yourselves in the Grade II-listed Old Thatch Tavern and stop for a scoop of Eton mess ice cream at Hooray’s British Gelato Kitchen. 

How far? 104 miles

Get there T wo hours 15 minutes  by train from Marylebone; around two hours by car. 

4.  Whitstable

Don’t even think about thinking about it: Whitstable is far from overhyped. Sure, the secret is most definitely out about this fabulous little seaside town, but the vibes here are as great as they were 20 years ago. Grab brunch at Farm & Harper , fish and chips at Ossie’s and a glorious pint of craft at the Twelve Taps , and treat yourself to a dozen oysters to go at Wheelers Oyster Bar on the high street. Once you’ve walked the length of the beach and admired the beach huts, settle in at the famous pub-on-the-beach Old Neptune for a pint and wait for sunset to fall. Plus, Whitstable is so near, you’ll be back home before you can say ‘ another   bank holiday?’. But that’s if you don’t miss the last train.

How far? 50 miles

Get there One hour 15 minutes from St Pancras International, around two hours by car.

5.  Brighton

With its pebble beach, wall-to-wall live music venues and buzzing LGBTQ+ scene, there’s nowhere better for topping up your Vitamin Sea levels than Brighton . Start your day by dodging seagulls on the Palace Pier, then shop up a storm in the Lanes, which are packed with independent boutiques, record stores and vegan eateries. Sit down with a couple of pints in the Brighton Beer Dispensary, which champions small Sussex breweries like the Hand Brew Co.

How far?  A little over 50 miles

Get there One hour by train from Victoria, Blackfriars or London Bridge; around two hours by car. 

6.  The New Forest

A trip to the New Forest is about as close as you can get to going on safari without buying a plane ticket. As you make your way down dappled lanes and across the heather-covered heath you’ll be watched the famous ponies, which have grazed there for thousands of years, plus free-ranging Highland cattle and pigs hoovering up fallen acorns. Don’t fancy being stuck in the car all day? Hire a two-seater electric Twizzy buggy to explore in, or book a beginners’ hack at one of the stables. Don’t forget to make time for a proper ploughman’s lunch at the Royal Oak in Fritham.

How far? 90 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Waterloo to Brockenhurst; around two hours by car. Just remember that animals, not drivers, have right of way here.

7.  Rye

The antique shops and higgledy-piggledy cobbled lanes of Rye make it feel like a little slice of the Cotswolds on the coast. After you’ve satisfactorily browsed around the accurately named Tiny Book Store, treat yourself to a seafood lunch surrounded by lobster pots at Globe Inn Marsh, followed by Sussex real ale or a glass of local wine at The George. The Chapel Down vineyard is just up the road and well worth a visit if you want to know the ins and outs of wine-making – or simply enjoy a tipple with their signature wine tasting. Ten minutes away are the pillowy dunes of Camber Sands: roll your trousers up and splash through the shallows, take a kite for a spin or just park your towel and stretch out.

How far? 79 miles.

Get there  One hour 10 minutes by train from St Pancras International (with a change at Ashford); around two hours by car. 

8.  Box Hill

Biking to green and pleasant Surrey is a wheely nice way to spend a Sunday (sorry) – plus, Box Hill was part of the 2012 Olympic road-cycling route. Start in Richmond Park and pedal down past Hampton Court – it should take you about two hours. After a 1.6 mile climb and some hairpin bends (easier than it sounds!), you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the North Downs from the top of Box Hill. Grab a slice of cake from the National Trust café, and save space for lunch at The Tree, which serves homemade pies and crumbles. Your last stop is Box Hill and Westhumble station, where you can load your bikes on to a train back to Waterloo. Whew!

How far? 30 miles

Get there  Two hours by bike (obviously). Plan the route carefully before you set out, and take a map and a puncture repair kit, plus water and snacks.

9.  Bath

A glorious water-themed day awaits you in the city of Bath . Start as you mean to go on with a tour of the Romans baths (no paddling allowed, you’ve been warned), before making a splash in the Thermae Bath Spa – the rooftop pool has stunning views of the city. Once you’ve dried off, make like Jane Austen and stroll along the Royal Crescent. Peckish? Sally Lunn’s teahouse is home to the Sally Lunn Bun, a kind of sweet brioche bap – for a Bath take on the cream tea, order one toasted and spread with strawberry jam and clotted cream.

How far? 115 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Paddington; two hours 30 minutes by car. 

10.  Mersea Island

Attached to the mainland by a causeway that floods (and pub quizzers, take note: this is the UK’s most easterly inhabited island), Mersea feels properly remote at high tide. The big draw is The Company Shed, which serves seafood platters that pull in crowds from all over the country every weekend. It’s BYOB – bring your own bread – and they don’t take bookings, so get there before noon to make sure you can feast on prawns, smoked fish, oysters and dressed crab. Speaking of which, catch-and-release crabbing is encouraged – there are specially marked areas near the water, and shops selling the kit. Or you can book a boat trip around the bay.

How far? 69 miles

Get there  One hour by train from Liverpool Street to Colchester, then a 45-minute bus to Mersea Island; around two hours by car. D on’t forget to check the tide timetable before you set off...

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

‘Friendly’ and ‘walkable’ city named one of the best UK destinations

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Looking for your next day trip destination? A ‘friendly’ and ‘walkable’ city has been named one of the UK’s best destinations .

Leicester – the final resting place of Richard III – has been shortlisted for best UK destination at the Group Leisure & Travel Awards.

Home to historic buildings, famous Indian restaurants and Leicester City football club, this East Midlands city is often overlooked in favour of its larger sibling Nottingham .

Locals and tourists alike, however, are raving about Leicester’s wow factor.

‘Walkable and the people are pretty friendly. Only an hour and half train ride from London, but there’s already a good amount of stuff to do. Amazing food and restaurants as well,’ Reddit user @tillybilly89, who moved to the city to study, wrote.

‘Leicester is the most affordable place I have lived in England yet only 2 hours or less from big cities,’ added @Travelin2017, whilst @summa-awilum, who used to live in Los Angeles, praised the East Midlands gem for being ‘multicultural.’

‘It’s multicultural, it’s a good size, it has a nice central location, it’s affordable, and it has a good arts scene. There’s a lot of history in Leicester, too, and it’s a fun place to show off to family and friends when they visit.’

Things to do in Leicester

Into history? Leicester is one of the UK’s oldest cities, and, perhaps most famously, the Battle of Bosworth – the last battle in the War of the Roses – took place in the county.

Visitors should take a trip to the King Richard III Visitor Centre to learn the story of how the famous King of England, who was slain in 1485, was found underneath a city centre carpark in September 2012.

Now, after a state funeral, his body lies in the Leicester Cathedral – making Leicester one of the few places in the UK where a British monarch is laid to rest.

And, if you want even more War of the Roses info, head over to Market Bosworth, a picturesque town with a market square, lined with cute tea rooms and independent shops. Afternoon tea at Softley’s is delicious, try the Turkish fayre at Istanbul BBQ Kitchen, or have slap up pub meal at The Black Horse.

The nearby Battlefield is thought to be where Henry Tudor and King Richard fought for the crown – recent research found the battle actually happened about a mile away, but the place is still worth a visit to learn more about the battle – and for the stunning countryside views.

Back in the city, The Guildhall Museum is the oldest building still in use in Leicester, with the earliest part dating back to 1390.

It acted as the town hall, and was famously the centre of celebrations after Elizabeth I’s navy defeated the Spanish Armada in 1588.

There’s also the National Space Centre, the only museum in the world that houses upright space rockets indoors, and anyone who went to school in Leicester will be familiar with New Walk museum (New Walk, the street that leads to the museum, is an original Georgian Promenade, and has only ever been for pedestrians). Its Egyptian and Dinosaur galleries are always popular with little ones, making it a family friendly day out.

The best bars in Leicester

• Audrey Bar is an instagrammable bar that serves up bottomless brunch, great cocktails – on the weekends it comes with the soundtrack of RnB, garage and hip hop bops.
• For great music and cocktails – with a dance floor space – head to Fat Cat .
• 33CankStreet bills themselves as Leicester’s first and best table service cocktail bar. Book a table here for creative drinks you don’t get anywhere else.
• Lane 7 has 12 bowling venues around the UK, and the Leicester spot is definitely worth a visit. There’s bowling, karaoke, darts, pool, crazy golf and, of course, booze.
• For fancy wines, Veeno has a huge range, plus you can get wine flights. They start at £10 per person for three.

If museums aren’t your thing, Leicester has a vibrant arts scene – famous musical exports include Kasabian and Mahalia.

The Shed , in the cultural quarter, is the place to go to discover new talent, with live music and DJs every weekend.

If film and theatre takes your fancy, the Curve plays host to touring West End shows – and you can even catch performances here before they make it to London. The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ premiered here (based on the book written by Leicester legend, Sue Townsend), before going to the capital.

For independent cinema the Phoenix Theatre shows everything from major Hollywood releases to tiny independent films. There’s also a cafe and rooftop bar, The Nest, making it perfect for a date or special night out.

And if sport is more your idea of theatre, the city has a number of teams for you to support – Leicester City Football Club and the Leicester Tigers rugby team both have huge followings.

You can also watch the Leicester Riders play basketball, or head to Grace Road to watch some cricket.

@taliathefoodie Leicester’s hidden gem – the University of Leicester botanical garden🌸 #PlacesToVisit #taliathefoodie #leicester ad ♬ Wildest Dreams – Duomo

Leicester has its fair share of green spaces and waterways too, with the Grand Union Canal running from London to Birmingham and, subsequently, straight through the city centre.

There’s also the University of Leicester’s beautiful Botanic Gardens, where you can see and learn about a wide range of plants.

Abbey Park, Fosse Meadows and Beacon Hill also offer up a quiet spot for an afternoon stroll.

@roxxxi_19 Am I in Disney movie 🤔 #leicester #bradgatepark #fyp #foryou #england #nature #views ♬ Disney-style fanfare-style BGM – harryfaoki

And there’s also Bradgate Park – another spot for the historians as it’s where Lady Jane Grey – who was Queen for just nine days – lived. But it’s also stunning, be sure to keep an eye out for the deer.

And when it comes to food, Leicester is famous for its Indian restaurants. The city is proud of its diversity, and it’s often said Leicester has the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C4dFNcMOF9x

Along the Golden Mile, you can find authentic food, spices and clothing. Popular restaurants include Bobby’s, which serves up vegetarian Indian food, and Paddy’s Marten Inn.

How to get to Leicester

The best way to get to Leicester is by train. It’s just over an hour away from London, and trains go direct from St Pancras International.

Alternatively, you can get a train to Nuneaton from London Euston, which tend to be cheaper, and slightly quicker. You can either grab a cab into Leicester, or get another train. Altogether, this route takes between 1 hour 35 minutes and 2 hours 19 minutes.

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Book wisely, and you can get a return train to Nuneaton for around £40 – the service to Leicester can be more expensive though, with a return fare costing around £70.

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