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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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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

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

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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86 Brilliant Things to do in London You Really Shouldn’t Miss

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From the classics to the downright quirky. Discover 86 of the best things you should not miss in London with this handy guide. 

First of all, let’s start this feature by acknowledging the cold, hard truth: It’s pretty tough to pick the best things to do in London. 

Even as a team of avid London chroniclers, our calendar is full of new spots that are opening, obscure gems and places we love so much they warrant going time and time again. 

In other words, there are so many places to see in London that you could write an encyclopaedia on it and barely even scratch the surface. 

That said, there are some landmarks, locations and activities that are so iconic or straight-up awesome that you simply have to give them a try. 

First time in London? Grab an eyeful of Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge and the London Eye. Live in London but not made time to see the exuberant Changing of the Guard ceremony or Roman worship at the Mithraeum? Shame on you. 

These places and activities are the things that we recommend everyone do in London. No matter how many times you’ve been or how long you’ve lived here, you’d be surprised by the things that fall through the cracks. 

You won’t find all of these destinations in the guidebooks – some are secret gems, others are some of the city’s biggest icons – they all offer a unique view of London that you have to experience.  

Ready to explore? Let’s roll. 

Unmissable Things to Do in London 

Snap pics at buckingham palace .

If you don’t snap a picture out the front of Buckingham Palace, have you really even visited London?

The chances of actually seeing royalty are pretty low, but it’s definitely a London must-see. 

Those iconic gates also make quite the backdrop for your snapping spree, but did you know that you can actually step inside and explore parts of the palace yourself if the season is right ? 

How to go? When they open the State Rooms during summer check availability and book your ticket .

Ride The London Eye

The London Eye has long cast off its rather dated name The Millennium Wheel – but it still has the great views and wow factor it did when it opened in the year 2000. 

Let’s face it – you can’t not feature The London Eye in a guide to the top places to you ought to see in London. 

Glide serenely around the 25-minute circuit and take in the views. You can see the entire city unfolding beneath you, even as far away as Windsor on a clear day. 

How to Go : Book your tickets in advance

Visit Westminster Abbey

You may recognise Westminster Abbey as the backdrop for several elaborate royal weddings that were beamed around the world. You know, like Charles & Diana, and Kate and Wills.

If it’s fit for a royal wedding then you just know it’s going to be pretty spectacular – and it sure is. 

It’s also the final resting place of some of Britain’s most famous folk. That list is too long to recreate here but includes a slew of kings and queens, eight prime ministers, Charles Dickens, Geoffrey Chaucer, Henry Purcell, William Wilberforce and Laurence Olivier, among others. 

No wonder it’s one of the main things to do in the capital.

How to Go: Buy skip-the-line tickets with an audio guide

Visit the Kyoto Garden

We doubt you expected to find a Japanese Garden in London, but then again why should you be surprised? This is one of the most multicultural places in the world after all. 

The Kyoto Garden was given as a gift by the people of Japan with a very special sentiment in mind – to honour the friendship between our two nations. 

Its a delightful place for a stroll and has some truly stunning features, a many-tiered waterfall and a collection of Japanese stone lamps just the tip of the iceberg. 

How to go : Visit Holland Park. Opening times can be found here . 

See Immersive Art at Frameless

London has some of the world’s finest art galleries but if you’d like something new you should pop down to Frameless. 

They take what you’ll find on the walls of The Tate and The National Gallery and blow it up to lager than life sizes, warping it and animating it so that it seems like you’re actually walking through the masterworks of art history. 

Let us tell you, it’s impressive. It will also look excellent on your Instagram. 

How to go: Book a ticket right here .

Try the Duelling Bagels of Brick Lane

For many years there’s been a divide among Londoners. It involves two famed bagel houses on Brick Lane. They’ve become so entrenched in our collective imagination that you need only refer to them as “The Yellow One” and “The White One”. 

Beigel Bake (the white one) has the perks of running 24/7, while The Bagel Shop (the yellow one) offers the charm of history – it’s the first and oldest bagel shop in London having been founded in 1855.

How to go : If you want to join the debate, grab a pastrami from both and choose your side. 

Catch Views at Sky Garden 

There are a few impressive gardens in London, but perhaps the most unique is the Sky Garden .

As the name suggests, it’s a green space that sits near the top of the “Walkie Talkie” building. Extra pluses? It’s England’s highest public garden, and it’s totally free. Win.

How to Go : Book a free visit here or pop in for breakfast when there are zero queues. 

It’s also worth noting that they throw some pretty wild parties up here for the big nights of the year ( New Year’s Eve , Halloween etc.) – if you fancy yourself a very fancy party animal, check on their site nearer the time.  

Take a CityDays London Treasure Hunt

When it comes to London landmarks, there’s no better way to explore than via an immersive scavenger hunt. And that’s where City Days comes in.

They’ve curated an epic selection of hunts that see you follow clues around the city. Captivating stories challenge you to experience London’s coolest spots and hidden locations – and there are discounts in numerous pubs along the way so that you can decipher the clues over a pint or two.

Whether you like the sound of fleeing from witches in Greenwich, twisting your way through Kensington’s mysterious mews, or even taking on mediaeval south London, there’s certain to be a London scavenger hunt that tickles your fancy.Better yet, tickets start at just £15 per person – so get the gang together for an immersive afternoon in London and get ready to discover the city we love so much.

Book Your Tickets for CityDays Here

Witness Roman Worship at the London Mithraeum

London has had a long and storied past. We can trace this city all the way back to the Romans. In fact, some of the roman rituals are still happening today. 

That’s right. At The London Mithraeum , they recreate an ancient Roman ritual for all to see. It’s in honour of the god Mithras who was once worshipped on this very site many thousands of years ago. 

The museum also holds some interesting artefacts that were found on the dig site – one that was only discovered in the 50s. 

How to go : Check the times on their website here and visit accordingly.

Hear the PM Speak at The Houses of Parliament and See Big Ben 

Say what you like about politicians, you’ve got to admit they’ve got a pretty incredible home base in London. The intricate Gothic architecture is seriously top-notch. 

You can tour the insides when they’re not busy you know, running the country. You can also attend the famed shouting match that is Prime Minister’s Questions or PMQs, as well as other debates taking place – so long as there’s space, they’ll let you in. 

You’ll also be able to snap pics in front of Big Ben ( top marks if you can tell us what it’s real name is ). 

How to Go : Get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Houses and Westminster

Look Around the London Transport Museum 

Not all of London’s museums hold items that date back across the millenniums. In fact one we think you really should see while in London covers a few hundred years of groundbreaking innovation in London’s transport. 

At the London Transport Museum , you’ll see vintage vehicles from the days when busses were just hitting the road, tube posters from the days when the tube only ran one line and heaps of other weird and wonderful things you didn’t know you wanted to see until you stumbled across them here. 

Walk Across Tower Bridge 

Pretty close to the list of top things to see in London is Tower Bridge (not be confused with the far less pretty London Bridge further upriver).

Impressive. Majestic. Imposing. We could think of lots of superlatives to use here – but we recommend you just check it out for yourself.

Don’t miss out on the chance to walk across the glass platform on the top deck and watch the ant people crossing beneath you, if you dare that is…

How to Go : Buy an advanced ticket for a discount online

Take a Gin Distillery Tour 

In recent years London has undergone a bit of a gin revolution. The botanical spirit has gone from being the gut-rot drunk during the Victorian ages to the drink of yummy mummies and, now, a spirit of noble standing among hipster distilleries that are pushing the drink to entirely new levels. 

You can tour many of these distilleries and sample their finest liquor as you go. Many of them will also offer masterclasses on things like how to mix the correct flavours of gin with the correct tonics so you can take your G&T game to a whole new level. 

How to go : Here’s a guide to the best gin distillery tours in the capital.

Get into London’s Grizzly History at The Tower of London 

The clearest example of London’s dramatic and sometimes devilish history is the Tower of London . Centuries ago, it was the place for notorious prisoners (generally of the political variety).

Today, it’s a kind of grim attraction – with the added bonus of being home to the impressive Crown Jewels and a tradition that has happened daily for the past 700 years . 

How to Go: Get a skip-the-line ticket

Take a High-Speed Tour of the Thames 

You could, should you choose, to cruise the Thames on a Thames Clipper, putting along at a stable and comfortable speed, idly waiting for the next big landmark to pop up. Then again you could whiz down the river at break-neck speeds on the back of a speedboat. 

Just imagine how Big Ben looks as you zip by it at high speed, or the adrenaline you’ll feel at narrowly missing one of the struts holding up Tower Bridge. You can find a couple of companies that offer this sort of service, if you’re bold enough to give it a try. We’d recommend the Thames Tigers or the Thames Rockets . 

How to go : book in advance on one of the above links

Dine at The Shard 

If you’re looking for the best things to see in London, you won’t need to work hard to spot The Shard.

Europe’s tallest building is immediately recognisable as the most glittering part of the London skyline.

There’s a super impressive observation deck, as well as several bars and restaurants (including one of our favourites – Aqua Shard ) if you want to get inside.

How to Go : Free just to look, or book a table at one of the restaurants, but prepare to spend big bucks to eat here – imagining the tableside views might give you some sense of why.

Get Lost in the Lights of Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is one of those totally overwhelming and totally awesome places that remind you that you’re standing in one of the world’s great cities.

A road junction in London’s West End, it’s a central point for shopping, nightlife and dining – as well as a bright attraction in its own right. There’s no doubt it’s one of the places you really can’t miss visiting when you’re in the capital.

Don’t just look at the big screens though. Make sure to look out for the Eros Statue for a good slice of an older side of London. 

Be Wowed by St Paul’s Cathedral 

Wondering what to see in London? St Paul’s Cathedral should go straight to the top of your list. Arguably Sir Christopher Wren ’s most beautiful work (and he had a fair few beautiful works), St Paul’s Cathedral is an utter delight.

The Baroque beauty is free to enter if you are worshipping, or grab yourself a ticket so you can explore it all – including the Dome.

Don’t forget to descend into the crypt where you can find the graves of some truly fascinating people including Sir Alexander Fleming (the man who discovered penicillin), Lord Nelson and the greatest British painter to have lived, Turner. 

How to Go : Get a discounted skip-the-line ticket in advance

Spend Time on Trafalgar Square 

London’s most famous public square was originally named to commemorate Britain’s victory over France in the Napoleonic Wars.

Today, it’s a bustling hub in central London. As well as lots and lots of people, you can also expect to see various art installations and buskers as well.

There’s also the Fourth Plinth , an art installation that changes every few years and the faces of the bizarre-looking lions to take a good look at – trust us, when you know what we mean you really can’t unsee it . 

Just don’t feed the pigeons. It’s against the rules. 

Check out the Waxworkds at Madame Tussauds London

If you ask us, there’s nothing quite as fun as pulling silly poses next to your favourite celebrity, and Madame Tussauds is the global attraction that allows you to do just that.

We might be biased, but we think London has the best Madame Tussauds. From your favourite Marvel heroes and singers (we always head straight for Queen Bey) to Star Wars characters and even a couple of Royal faces, these wax figures are as close as you’re going to get to the real thing.

How to go: Book your tickets in advance

Shop in Covent Garden 

Exploring one of the city’s most iconic and bustling neighbourhoods is definitely one of the things you have to do in London.

We’re talking about Covent Garden , with its plethora of fabulous shopping, dining and nightlife options. Prepare your credit card for a rinsing if you do go shopping, otherwise just gawk at the talented (and not-so-talented) performers that throng around the market. 

The area is also full of great pubs and more than its fair share of great restaurants if you should need somewhere to recharge after your shopping spree. 

See The Smallest Listed Buildings in London

With history in such abundance as we have it here, London boasts hundreds of protected buildings. It’s two of the smallest that are among our faves – and guess what, they’re not even buildings. 

They’re actually phone boxes. The prototypes that went on to be the K2 phone boxes (the really iconic ones). They stand in the entrance to the Royal Academy and are well worth a little poke around and a snap of. 

How to go : visit during the RA’s opening hours . You can see the boxes in the grand gateway. They’re bright red, you can’t miss them. 

Have a Wild Night in Soho

Long associated with the more salacious side of life, Soho has been London’s nightlife hotspot for decades thanks to its proximity to the city’s theatres . 

It’s also been a hangout for London’s famous artists and writers, Bacon, Burroughs and Freud all spent their time milling about the cafes and bars of Soho’s seedy streets. 

While it’s cleaned up its act a little in the present day, it’s still got that decadent vibe. The naughty neon signage certainly helps with that. It’s also another part of what makes the area a pretty stunning place for a night out – well that and the awesome spread of bars on offer. 

Watch a Football Game

Football is a way of life in The UK and London is home to some of the world’s most famous clubs. We’ll let you into a secret though. We’re not even massive footie fans. What we will say is, though, that seeing a game is an experience you will never forget. 

The energy is electric, the passion unrivalled. London on match day is something else. In that respect, we think its one of those things you sort of have to do in this city, up there with the London Eye and drinking pints in a famous boozer. 

How to go : best to pick a team you want to see play and book tickets via their website. You’ll have to book in advance though

Get an eye for Archaeology at The British Museum 

If you could only visit one museum in your entire life, The British Museum would be a pretty good shout.

The history under its roof is truly astonishing – particularly its Egyptian collection, one that includes the famed Rosetta Stone and some stunning sculptures. Though if its sculpture you want, The Greek Section will also have you covered. 

Our favourite item in the collection isn’t in either of these areas though. It’s found upstairs and it’s the Sutton Hoo Mask. A stunning Anglo-Saxon helmet found while excavating a ship burial, and a stunning modern replica. 

Best of all? Entrance to the permanent exhibitions is free.

How to Go : Entry is free, so just turn up. You can also book a guided tour .

See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (Or Horse Guards Parade)

Us Brits love a bit of pomp and pageantry, especially if it involves the Royal Family. And it doesn’t get more pageant-y or pompous (in a good way) than the Changing of the Guard.

That’s the well-known ceremony where the Palace Guards do an elaborate handover ceremony between the Old Guard and the New Guard. Can’t get enough? You can also see the parade at Horse Guards Parade too.

How to Go : It’s free to watch (be sure to get there early) or get a tour guide , or read our guide on the best places see it and times to visit . 

Explore Chinatown 

Walking around Chinatown is probably our second favourite thing to do in this city after eating our way around Chinatown. 

The area can be overlooked for the heaving crowds of tourists and abundance of choice in restaurants but if you know where to look you’ll find some seriously good places to eat . Beijing Dumpling is one of those spots, and the ever-fantastic Four Seasons is another. 

When you step back out into the street, belly full and the area’s lanterns hanging above, you kind of can’t help but feel the magic. 

Be a Culture Vulture on the South Bank 

The South Bank is one of London’s most bustling spots and a real must-do in London. The name might give you a clue, but it’s a stretch along the south bank of the Thames – and one of London’s most important cultural hubs to boot. 

The South Bank Centre, BFI South Bank, Royal Festival Hall, The National Theatre – let’s just say that if you’re looking for musical performances, art exhibitions, theatre and film shows – it’s a great place to start.  

Add to that a pretty fab second-hand book market, street food market and some brilliant restaurants and you’re onto a winner.

How to Go : See what’s on at the South Bank Centre website . Read Next: The South Bank Area Guide

See Churchill’s War Rooms

You can actually go and visit the very rooms where Winston Churchill conducted the Second World War. The Churchill War Rooms are a spin through some of this city’s most recent major history and one that will provide plenty of visceral insight into the running of the world’s greatest conflict. 

They’ve kept the rooms much as they were back in the 40s, but have added bits of information for context. Its a real hands-on experience, as much about feeling the threat of the day as learning about it. 

How to go: turn up, book a ticket online or take this tour that comes with entry into the war rooms . 

Drink at London’s Old Pubs 

If there’s one thing both local Londoners and visitors love equally, it’s visiting London’s old pubs . They’re definitely contenders for London’s most important cultural icons.

London’s pubs range from kooky and quirky through to modern foodie haunts (with plenty of crossover).

There’s even a few that are said to be haunted , so be sure to keep your wits about you as you sip a pint (of ale, of course).

If you only hit one, make it the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street. The place might just be the oldest of the bunch, is said to have been haunted and was once the watering hole of Mark Twain and Charles Dickens. Can you get much cooler than that? 

How to Go : Try one of many pub tours or explore solo.

See the Pelicans and Relax on the Lawn at St James’s Park 

Ah, to be the Queen. Adoring subjects (well, some at least). Adorable corgis. And one seriously epic front lawn.

We’re talking about St James’s Park, the 23-hectare green space that sits out the front of Buckingham Palace. There’s ample green space for a picnic, a gorgeous lake as well as playground equipment for the kids. 

On top of that you’ll find lots of squirrels and some pretty spectacular birds. Did you ever expect you’d catch pelican feeding time at a park in London ? 

How to Go : Get more information at the Royal Parks website .

See Great Art and Soak in the History at Somerset House 

Somerset House is one of central London’s most vibrant spots. An old historic mansion – the last of the Thameside palaces that used to line this part of the river, it’s been transformed into a cultural hotspot. 

These days it doubles up as an art gallery, event space, cafe, restaurant as well as entrepreneurial hub – there’s always plenty to explore. 

That art gallery, The Courtauld , is a goodun too, boasting some excellent renaissance and modern art, including none other than Van Gough’s Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear. 

How to Go : See what’s on at the Somerset House website  

Find London’s Harry Potter Filming Locations 

There is something about stepping foot in London that makes you suddenly go a little bit (or maybe a lot) Potter mad. No, really – it happens to everyone.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get your HP fix. There are many Harry Potter filming locations in London , making it easy to do a DIY whip around a few spots. Alternatively make a day of it with our very own Harry Potter self-guided walking tour , as curated by a team of London experts and major Potter heads. 

Plus, the places you’ll visit are scattered between many of the must-see things in London, so it’s a good way to take in the sights.

How to Go : Do it yourself or join a walking tour like this one

Go Indoor Skydiving

Adrenaline junkies gather around. London recently gained an activity that you really don’t want to miss. It’s an indoor skydiving tunnel where you can go and simulate the effects of falling from the sky at extreme speed. 

We’ve been down there and can confirm that it’s hella good fun. You’ll also be amazed by the skill of the people who operate the thing. Oh, and just so you know, you can take your jump in VR and watch a simulated skyline pass you by as you simulate your jump. 

How to go : Book tickets here , and make sure you do it in advance

Live the Life Aquatic at the Sea Life London Aquarium 

Did you have a fish tank as a kid? Now imagine that times by about fifty thousand – and you’ve come some of the way to imagining the Sea Life London Aquarium.

As well as one giant tank with all sorts of cool sea creatures, there are also numerous other exhibits with marine animals including penguins and sea turtles.

Our favourite part? The shark tunnel and the section at the beginning where you can actually walk over the top of the tank and see what’s going on below. The jellyfish are nothing short of amazing either…

How to Go : Get your ticket in advance

Enjoy an Afternoon Tea 

If there’s one must-try signature dish in London, it’s an afternoon tea. Complete with scones, sandwiches and – most importantly – tea. 

The city presents plenty of options. You can just stop off for a simple, quick one – or, as we suggest, head for somewhere a little more fancy and enjoy the whole experience in style. 

We’ve got a guide to all the best ones here . We’ve even got a guide to places you can go for a vegan afternoon tea.  

How to Go : Book one of the city’s famous afternoon teas (The Ritz, Claridge’s, The Dorchester and The Goring are classics) or try afternoon tea on the Thames

Discover The History of The Knights Templar at Temple Church 

This peculiar church located just off Fleet Street is one of the oldest buildings in London. The experts can date it all the way back to the reign of King John (1199–1216). 

Why does it have the name Temple? Because it was originally owned by the Knights Templar – that’s how old this place is. 

You can have a good look around. Much of what you’ll see in the church has been renovated over the centuries, but there are some truly ancient bits to see. You can read all about the history in our article here . 

How to go : Check the opening times for any given day here (they do vary slightly) and head down when they’re open.

Walk Millennium Bridge (If You Dare)

One of the most interesting things about London is the juxtaposition of historic old buildings and brand-spanking new ones.

Take for instance the Millennium Bridge : a glitzy and new (well, as much as 2000 is new) bridge spanning the Thames. 

It seems everyone in London has an opinion on it (love it or hate it, very few people are ambivalent about it), so why not add yours?

Oh, but beware: it has been known to wobble…

Climb the O2 Arena 

We used to call it the Millennium Dome, now it’s known as the O2 Arena. Either way its one of London’s most iconic buildings. 

But did you know that you can actually climb up to the top of it in a daring afternoon of fun? That’s right, Up at the O2, you’ll strap in and ascend to one of the best viewing points in the city. 

You’ll be harnessed in and with a professional at all times so there’s nothing to worry about. Just wear a jacket because it gets cold up there. 

How to go : make sure you book ahead, you can do that here .

Soak Up the Finest in Modern Art at The Tate Modern 

The Tate Modern is the younger and more rebellious sister of the stately Tate Britain.

Devoted to modern art, it’s the best place to go in London if you’ve got any interest in contemporary art. The collection is a who’s who of Modern Art. Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst, Roy Lichtenstein, Pablo Picasso – you name it, the Tate Modern has got it. 

How to Go : Plan your visit on the Tate Modern’s website . You can even cross Millennium Bridge to get there, ticking off two of these entries in one. 

Or Soak Up some Art History at The National Gallery & National Portrait Gallery 

Sitting side by side, the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery house two of Europe’s most important art collections.

The National Gallery features works by many of the world’s great artists, from the 12th to 20th Century.

On the other hand, works in the National Portrait Gallery are selected due to the significance of the subject.

How to Go : Entrance to both museums is free. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour of the National Gallery . The National Gallery also offers late-night art classes from time to time. Making art among the greatest collection of art in London? Yes please.  

Visit Dickens’ House

Few people have impacted the English language like Dickens . And few people have captured the London they lived in like him either. 

Whether you’re an avid reader or just curious as to what Dickensian London was really like, you’ll get a kick out of the Dickens Museum . 

It’s based out of his old house and the people behind the museum have preserved it well. You can see the desk he wrote some of his finest works from, and see the podium where he gave his renowned readings. 

Naturally the staff there are the highest of Dickens fans and happy to talk your ear off about the man and his work. 

Stroll in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Sure London’s got some very old parks to explore, but there’s also a pretty special new one. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park boasts some lovely waterside walks and heaps of nature to be seen along the way. 

You’ll also be able to check out the Olympic Stadium and art trails while you explore. Our favourite part of the day? Finishing off the walk with a pint in one of Hackney Wick’s fantastic craft breweries . There’s nothing like a well-deserved beer…

How to go: Check the park’s website for the latest opening times .

See The Monument 

It’s hard to understate the impact that the Great Fire of London had on the city back in 1666. Not only did several Londoners lose their lives, but it razed much of the city to the ground.

There’s no starker reminder of this than The Monument, an impressive column that was erected to memorialise this tragic and dramatic event.

How to Go : You walk right up and around The Monument but to go inside and climb to the top you’ll need to buy advance tickets from The Monument’s website

Eat Your way Around Borough Market 

Borough Market is a food lover’s dream come true. Located under a railway line not far from London Bridge, it’s totally enticing.

There’s food from all over the world, from British scotch eggs to Argentinian street food and so much in between. Prepare to be amazed (and to leave very full).

If you fancy yourself a foodie then you don’t want to miss this spot. But what should you be eating when you’re there? We’ve got you covered on that one . 

How to Go : Find out more information and opening hours on Borough Market’s site

Ride The Thames Clipper

Don’t just take in the Thames from the riverside – get on it with the Thames Clipper.

The Thames Clipper is one of those London secrets that is hidden in plain sight –  a public transport service that plies its way along the river. What’s more, a jaunt along the Thames that won’t break the bank. It’s a great way to take in another view of London.

How to Go : Get tickets from the Thames Clipper website or just tap in with a contactless card at the pier.

Check out The Barbican Centre

The Barbican is one of the capital’s most controversial buildings (it was built in the Brutalist style – think lots and lots and lots of concrete and clean lines) – so much so that it was once voted the ugliest building in London. 

We strongly disagree – it’s one of the city’s most striking examples of 20th-century architecture  – and that’s before you get inside. Sure, it’s a bit of a maze, but there’s a theatre, cinema, concert hall – not to mention a large-scale conservatory that’s filled with all kinds of flora from around the world. 

And for all the above reasons, it totally gets our pick as one of the most interesting places you can see in this fine city.

How to Go : Visit the Barbican’s website to see what’s on

Learn About This City’s History at The Museum of London 

So, London has a lot of great museums – but what about one that is totally devoted to the capital itself?

Enter: The Museum of London . 

As proud Londoners, we totally love this museum. The exhibitions span the major eras of London from the Romans to the present day. It’s a great way to learn about the fascinating and often dramatic history of the English capital.

How to Go : It’s free to visit but check the Museum of London’s website for opening times.

Note: The Museum of London will be closed until 2026.  

See a Play at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre 

Sadly, the original Shakespeare’s famous Globe Theatre is no longer with us – however, we do have this very sympathetic replica to enjoy. It’s not too far from where the original would have stood, and full of interesting history.  

The program, of course, includes plenty of Shakespeare as well as some other shows. Best of all, tickets can be very affordable, especially if you book last minute and aren’t too picky.

Another top tip of ours: book standing tickets. If you can handle watching a play on your feet they’re a great way to save money. That’s also how most people would have taken in Shakespeare back in the day. 

How to Go : Book a guided tour to get a closer look or book online at The Globe’s website to see a play

Or See a West End Play or National Theatre 

There’s no doubt that one of the top things to do in London is to catch a show. You can head for the bright lights of the West End , or perhaps the more high-brow National Theatre .

Whichever you choose, you’re in for a treat. London attracts many of the world’s best shows, and there’s always something cool happening. We keep an up-to-date guide of everything on the stage right here.  

And of course, a night in the West End is nothing without a bit of dinner.  

How to Go : There are a few ways to book tickets – either directly with the individual theatres or using a booking portal such as London Theatre .

Relax in Hyde Park

Arguably the world’s most famous park (take that, New York), a visit to Hyde Park is definitely one of the main things to do in London.

Covering 142 hectares, it’s the largest of London’s Royal Parks and the perfect place to escape London’s sprawling concrete jungle.

There’s no end of life to see and plenty to keep you entertained for a day, from riding pedalos on the Serpentine Lake to perusing art at the Serpentine Galleries , or just chilling on the grass with a good book of course.   

How to Go : Visit the Royal Parks’ Website  

Get Your Detective On at The Sherlock Holmes Museum 

More than a century after the original book was penned, the Sherlock Holmes  detective stories (and their various screen adaptations) still delight audiences around the world.  

The Sherlock Holmes Museum takes you on a jaunt through the world of Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective as well as giving you insight into the author and what inspired him to create the most famous detective stories of all time. 

How to Go : Purchase tickets on arrival ( check the museum’s website for more info)

Stroll in Regent’s Park 

Another Royal Park – Regent’s Park is tucked between Baker Street and Camden – offering a gloriously green escape from the hustle and bustle just north of the centre of London. 

Sure, London has a lot of parks, but there’s a lot to love here. For starters, the Isabella Plantation – a gorgeous woodland full of shady copses and pretty azaleas, not to mention Queen Mary’s Rose Garden which bursts into bloom each summer. 

Have more time? Head to ZSL London Zoo (below) which is also in the park.  

How to Go : Check the Royal Parks website for info and opening times

Check out Animals at ZSL London Zoo

ZSL London Zoo is one of the oldest in the world. More importantly than that, it is also at the forefront of animal welfare and conservation work.

It’s pretty amazing to see so many animals from all over the world. You might even forget you’re right in the middle of London!

Although everyone can enjoy the zoo, it’s one of our picks for the best things to do in the capital if you’re with kids . Adults – keep an eye open for the cool Zoo Lates that take place throughout the year. 

How to Go : Book skip-the-line tickets

Shop in Camden Market 

There’s no denying that London is seriously cool. Fashion, art, theatre – we’re at the forefront of it all.

If you’re looking to replicate it and up your own style stakes, head on over to Camden Market and pick up some very chic souvenirs.

The several markets that together make up Camden Market are some of London’s most iconic shopping spots . While the shopping scene isn’t quite as cool as it used to be, it’s still a must-see spot – there are still plenty of quirky and rather brilliant pieces to take home with you. 

How to Go : Check the website for more information and opening hours  

Visit the Grave of Marx in Highgate Cemetery

If you end up buried in Highgate Cemetery , then you just know you’ve made it. Possibly not for a great reason, but made it nonetheless.

It may be a bit of an unusual choice but we do highly recommend going for a stroll amongst the graves. The overgrown cemetery is really quite something. Not least because it’s the final resting place of many notable people. 

Make sure you pick up a map so you can find the most famous ones like Karl Marx.

How to Go : Check Highgate Cemetery’s site for opening times  

Take a Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour and See All the Sights in a Day

If you want to see all the London sights and you’re feeling impatient about getting it done, let us introduce you to a novel idea: the hop-on-hop-off bus tour. 

The concept is simple. You get on a bus that whips you around all the must-see places in London and you listen to a guide as you go. You can then jump off the bus at the most interesting points and hop back on when you’re ready. 

How to go: Book yourself onto a tour here

Swim on Hampstead Heath 

A sprawling green space, Hampstead Heath is one of London’s largest and oldest public parks. It’s perfect for a walk or a picnic.

Perhaps the most popular and unique attraction, however, are the three outdoor swimming pools on offer. They’re especially perfect for a warm summer’s day, although the chills don’t deter plucky Londoners in the colder months either.

Walk the Canals of Little Venice

Tucked away in a quiet but beautiful part of London, Little Venice feels like an escape to a different city. 

No, there aren’t as many canals as in Venice but the combination of colourful boats (some of which are home to cafes, restaurants and even a theatre) and pretty canals is a winning one. 

You can even take a ride on a gondola if you like, or hire out your own boat and make a day of it. 

Eat Curry and Shop Vintage on Brick Lane 

Everyone’s heard of Brick Lane . Carving its way from Shoreditch to Whitechapel, Brick Lane is just as cool as it ever was thanks to an energetic vibe and appealing mix of markets, restaurants, vintage shops , street art and more. 

Famous for the curry houses that once lined large parts of it, there are still a few gems still standing – where better to go for a curry and some BYO drinks on a Friday night? And where better to pick up some vintage threads if you’re a fashionista? 

Ride The Famous Cable Cars

How does a cable car ride over the Thames sound? Great, but it’s going to be hella expensive right? Wrong. These badboys are not only one of the most unique ways to catch a glimpse of the city from above, it’s also one of the most affordable too. 

The route runs between North Greenwich and Excel, but we wouldn’t blame you if you took a return and just hopped on it for the ride. 

How to Go : Combine your ticket with the Thames Clipper

Discover Some Great Street Art in Shoreditch 

Shoreditch was covered in street art way before it was cool. Today, it’s one of the world’s best street art locations. Fact.

Pieces range from the politically charged to the world-renowned (including a piece by THE Banksy). The scene is ever-changing and no two visits will ever be the same. We go back time and time again and we’re never anything less than buzzed by what we see. 

If you like street art then you have to add this to your list of best stuff to do in London.

How to Go : Do a DIY tour or join a guided walking tour like this one

Take a Jack The Ripper Tour of the East End

The Story of Jack the Ripper, with his spate of violent and gruesome murders of women in the East End is one of the most gripping cold cases in history – and still continues to intrigue. 

Much of the area he stalked is still about, and still hung with the dark past he left behind. 

You can delve into the grisly world of Jack the Ripper’s London on a tour of the East End. Who were the victims? Where were they killed and who, who could have been the culprit? 

Maybe not ideal for young children.

How to Go : Do it yourself or join a guided walking tour like this one

Witness Geezers Flogging Flowers at Columbia Road Flower Market 

Onto far more lighthearted things but still staying in London’s East End – we just love the gorgeous Columbia Road Flower Market.

Visiting Columbia Road is definitely one of our favourite things to do around this city – here’s why. 

Every Sunday, this market springs to life with an amazingly colourful selection of cut and potted flowers. Many are sold by vendors who’ve been at it for decades, and it has a great atmosphere.

How to go: Turn up on a Sunday morning when the market is running. Our top tip? If you arrive at around 1-2pm when the market is closing you can snag some killer deals on the plants. 

Be Stunned by God’s Own Junkyard 

If there’s one thing this quirky art store-come-gallery has never said it is ‘I think that might be too much neon.’

This kaleidoscope of colour is stacked full of it, thanks to the effort of the late collector and neon artist Chris Bracey with very memorable and colourful results. If you’re looking for a seriously cool souvenir of your time in London – this is a good shout.

You might also be interested to know that celebrities and people hunting out props for the movie industry are not uncommon sightings here too.

How to Go : No booking necessary. For more information visit the website .

Learn About the Cutty Sark

Once at the cutting edge of engineering, today the old ship, the Cutty Sark, is an artefact of the maritime past.

It’s seriously cool to look around and imagine the days it would have spent sailing the high seas in the late 19th century.

And sail it did. It was one of the fastest ships of its time, used for getting tea around the empire as quickly as possible. 

How to Go : Book advance tickets  

Rollerskate at Flippers

Flippers is a new hangout in London. It came here by way of New York, and to New York by way of 1980s Hollywood . 

Its basically a giant roller skating disco where you can glide to your heart’s content listening to vintage bangers and the best of the recent decades. 

They have an American diner there that turns out some pretty banging food which means you can really make a trip of it if you want, something we advise you do – this place at its best can be a real good laugh. 

How to go : Book yourself a slot here .

Stand on the Meridian Line at The Royal Observatory & Greenwich Meridian 

Greenwich is home to many of the capital’s most interesting attractions – few more so than the Royal Observatory and the Greenwich Meridian. 

It’s pretty incredible to stand on the Greenwich Meridian – the point where time is measured from, aka longitude 0 degrees.

It’s tucked inside the grounds of the Royal Observatory, which has been at the forefront of astronomy and physics for centuries. You can even visit the planetarium and learn about the night sky. 

How to Go : Book tickets with a free audio guide tour  

Embrace Your Inner Kid at a Ball Pit Cocktail Bar London

This new addition to the London bar scene is a curious one but we love it for a chance to blast your way down memory lane. It’s essentially a bar with a bunch of ball pits (and no small amount of puns about their balls)

You get sloshed. You jump around. It’s all a whole load of fun. Simple. 

How to go: Book yourself in here .

Be Moved by The Painted Hall 

The Painted Hall is another case of Sir Christopher Wren totally smashing it out of the park. The architect (who also designed St Paul’s Cathedral), designed this incredible Baroque hall alongside Nicholas Hawksmoor. 

To give you an idea of what we’re talking about, we should probably tell you that The Painted Hall is often nicknamed “London’s Sistine Chapel” and no, that’s not overhyping it at all. 

How to Go : Book your ticket online to secure entry

Watch a Candlelight Concert 

In recent years London has undergone a candlelit concert craze . There’s not a weekend that goes by in this city anymore without some kind of candlelit event to attend. 

How does it work? Well, you basically see a concert that can range to anything from orchestral versions of your favourite pop music or film scores to renditions of grand classical suites. 

They perform it all in stunning locations like churches and town halls that are lit by thousands of candles. It. Is. Stunning. 

How to go : You can find a list of upcoming concerts here

Dig into Military History at The Imperial War Museum 

The Horniman Museum rarely makes it onto visitors’ lists of must-see museums in London – more’s the shame as this kooky museum is one of our favourites. 

It was started by a collector who, let’s be honest, seemed like a bit of an oddball. The end result is a truly unique museum that’s unlike any other in London. 

From taxidermy to hands-on exhibits, and temporary shows that pop-up on an ad-hoc basis there’s plenty to keep you entertained. You’ll also find some great historic artefacts on display. 

You should also note that The Horniman Museum was also the first to break rank and start sending Benin Bronzes back to Nigeria . We think that’s very admirable.  

How to Go : No booking required and free entry. 

Go on an Immersive Cocktail Experience 

Immersive is a buzzword we’ve been hearing a little bit too much of over recent years, but when it comes to the cocktail experiences this city does so well, we’re willing to give it a pass. 

So what are these experiences? Well, basically places you go to get dressed up and take part in a little immersive theatre, with cocktails along the way. 

You can visit the salons of the Wild West, smuggle booze into Alcatraz and take a trip into a mock Avatar world . 

It’s never anything less than a good laugh, and quite unlike anything else you can experience in London.

How to go : Follow the links in above to book tickets.

Expand Your Waistline at Brixton Village 

Brixton Village is one of the earliest spots to put Brixton firmly on London’s hipster map. What was a sad market, full of empty shops and more than a little run down, it was transformed into a haven of pop-ups, cool restaurants and independent boutiques around a decade ago and has been blazing strong ever since. 

Don’t fret – many of the old market and shop traders are still there, but they sit alongside some of Brixton’s best-known restaurants and bars – including the original (and we’d still argue the best) locations of Franco Manca’s and Honest Burgers. 

How to Go : Just turn up, but bring an appetite.

See Dinos at Crystal Palace Park

Things weren’t all grim and glum in Victorian London – we sometimes forget that a number of “pleasure parks” were opened up throughout the capital in the period.

One of these was Crystal Palace Park – a lovely park that is the perfect spot for a summer picnic. Find the weird Victorian dinosaur installations dotted around the park (the beady-eyed will notice that they’re horribly inaccurate but pretty cool nonetheless) or head down for one of the many cultural events that appear on the park’s event calendar. 

How to Go: Chack the Crystal Palace Park website for the latest opening times.

Go to Outer Space at The Science Museum 

Learning is cool, okay?

No, seriously, it is at The Science Museum in South Kensington’s Museum Mile. With tons of fun and interactive exhibits, it’s always on our list of great places for an inspiring afternoon.

The museum’s exhibits are as fascinating as they are diverse. One minute you’re learning about the Space Race, the next – what really makes our brains work. It’s mind-boggling and very entertaining stuff. 

How to Go : Entry is free and bookings are not required. Find out more at the website . 

Dive into High Culture at the Victoria & Albert Museum 

A cultured day out in London doesn’t come much better than a visit to the opulent Victoria & Albert Museum. 

The subject of this excellent collection? Anything really… It’s a museum of applied design (which might sound a little dull but don’t be fooled). 

You’ll be perusing everything from large-scale Greek and Roman statues alongside decadent interiors, Asian ceramics and persian rugs. There’s also and the chance to take a jaunt through the history of fashion. In other words, it’s weird, it’s wonderful and you should wear some comfortable shoes.

How to Go : Entry is free, bookings not required. Check the Victoria & Albert Museum’s site for more info .  

Shop on Portobello Road

Portobello Road is one of London’s most famous shopping areas. It’s not all about the malls and high street brands like you might find on Oxford Street. 

What you’ll find are collections of antique shops and vintage stores selling everything from vintage fashion that the city’s clothing-obsessed come early to snap up, to trinkets from every corner of the world. 

You can also swing by some of Notting Hill’s pastel-coloured houses – easily one of the most photogenic parts of the city. 

Learn About Our Animals of the Past at the Natural History Museum 

Walking a fine line between kind of creepy and utterly awesome, the Natural History Museum is one of the most iconic places you can visit in the capital.

There’s a truly incredible amount of taxidermy here, as the museum once acted as a kind of encyclopaedia of living creatures.

However, there’s way more to it, including exhibitions devoted to our solar system and a giant animatronic T-Rex that’s been scaring the life out of little kids since our first visit many many years ago.  

How to Go : Entry is free, bookings not required. Visit the website for more info

Take a Ride on The Mail Rail

London’s underground is world famous but there’s another subterranean railway you ought not to miss. It’s The Mail Rail – an old (and cutesy small) train that they used to use to transport mail around the city. 

These days it’s open for people who don’t deliver mail to have a spin on and riding it provides no end of curiosity. You’ll be passing right under the heart of London in a tiny, capsule-like carriage while you hear all about the history behind the train. 

How to go : Book tickets here

Spot Royals at Kensington Palace & Gardens 

If you’re hoping to spot a young royal (and let’s be honest, aren’t we all), then your best bet is Kensington Palace & Gardens.

It’s been the London home of certain branches of British royalty since the 17th century and has plenty of history to go with it. 

Even if you don’t spot Kate, Wills and their brood of adorable offspring, the palace and gardens are still pretty spectacular.

How to Go : Book your ticket and tour in advance to secure entry

Stroll the Stunning Kew Gardens 

Calling Kew a “garden” kind of seems like a mammoth understatement but its full name – The Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew is a bit of a mouthful. It’s the largest botanical garden in the world, and it’s seriously sprawling.

It’s divided up into various subsections, including the Diana Memorial Garden. It’s also worth checking the website to see if there are any special events happening as Kew never shy away from a chance to lay on an interesting evening or two. 

How to Go : Book your ticket to Kew Gardens online

Visit the Home of Henry VIII at Hampton Court Palace 

We’ve all heard the tales of Henry VIII, England’s most infamous king (and rather dreadful husband) – why not visit one of his favourite palaces? 

Beautiful in an imposing way, Hampton Court’s elaborate Baroque and Tudor architecture is half-fortress, half OTT palace.

It’s also home to a surprisingly beautiful garden, tennis courts, the world’s largest grapevine and a rather intriguing maze that is 100% more difficult than it looks. If you go in the winter you can also take a spin on their ice rink , one of the biggest in London. 

How to Go : Book your tickets and skip the line

See Deer at Richmond Park 

London has lots of parks, but this one has a special place in our hearts. 

The main reason that it’s one of the best places to go in London is its abundance of rather adorable deer (don’t get too close though – they are wild animals).

Even without the deer, Richmond Park is one of the most striking parks in London. It’s (you’ve guessed it) a Royal Park – the deer a throwback to the days when Henry VIII used to go hunting here. 

There’s even a rather complex history to the hunting ground, and a certain location within it. You can read all about that here. 

Unmissable Places in London: Map

Looking for More Places to See in London? Read These 

• Sightseeing in London – 39 Spots that Should be on Every Visitor’s (and Londoner’s) London Bucket List
• 20+ Free Museums in London – All the Entertainment without the Expense
• Fantastic London Sightseeing Tours To Help You Discover The Best of The City
• The Most Instagrammable Places in London – 39+ Photography Spots You Won’t Want to Miss
• 56 Quirky and Unusual Things to do in London

Robert Bergland

Wednesday 18th of September 2019

I am fascinated with some aspects of WW2, including the way the British kept Hitler at bay during the early years of the war. I noticed that there is an RAF museum covering 5 buildings, including a history of the Battle of Britain. What is your opinion? Do we need to set aside an entire day to do it justice? Also, are there other London attractions bearing on WW2 that should not be missed, in your opinion? Thanks so much for the information you presented, and thanks in advance for the follow up question.

Julianna Barnaby

Sunday 1st of March 2020

Hi Robert, I would recommend setting aside at least half a day for the RAF museum - you could definitely spend a whole day there though. The other WWII destinations I'd recommend are the Churchill War Rooms and the Imperial War Museum, both of which provide some really interesting insights.

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Seize the Spring: May and June Festivals You Don't Want to Miss

• Author Sean Murray
• Date May 1, 2024
• Categories #ExploreLdnOnt, Arts & Culture, Breweries, Distilleries & Wineries, Events, Family Fun, Food & Drink, London Music Office, Music, Things To Do

As the temperature rises and nature blooms, London, Ontario, comes alive with the spirit of spring.

Get ready to sway to the rhythm of live music, indulge in culinary delights from around the world and immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of cultural celebrations. With so much to see, do and taste, London's spring festivals are the ultimate playground for fun-seekers and foodies alike.

The Great Canadian Caeser Fest: May 3, 2024

Experience the ultimate celebration of Canada's iconic cocktail - the Caesar! Complete with complimentary samples, giveaways, live draws and exciting entertainment, this Caesar celebration will have you clamming on about how much fun you had.  The Great Canadian Caeser Fest  is a great way to kick of your festival season!

The London Pickle Fiesta: May 11, 2024

If you’re in a pickle trying to figure out how to celebrate spring, then The London Pickle Festa at RBC Place London is not one to be missed. Take part in the pickle revolution with innovative creations like pickle ice cream, pickles on a stick, pickle/tequila shots, pickle beer, dill pickle deeps, dill pickle pizza, pickle margaritas, Reuben pickles, spicy pickle Caesars and more. Pair all that with a live DJ and this event is sure to be a big dill you won’t want to miss. 

Art Comp at 100 Kellogg Lane: Begins May 23, 2024

Experience the vibrant art scene with Art Comp at 100 Kellogg Lane this spring! The complex will come alive with 100 works from both local and international artists adorning its walls. Starting May 23, vote for your favourite pieces and help decide this year’s winners with prizes totaling $100,000! Don't miss this exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in creativity at 100 Kellogg Lane.  

poutine feast: may 23-26, 2024

Dive into the delicious world of Poutine Feast ! With over fifty mouthwatering poutine varieties to explore and heaps of mini donuts for that sweet finish, this gastronomic gala promises fun for all. With free admission and plenty of thrilling activities, it's the perfect outing for foodies and families alike. 

City of Music Concerts: Begins June 6, 2024

Mark your calendars, the City of Music Concerts are back every Thursday night starting June 6th at the Good Foundation Theatre in Market Lane! Grab some friends and enjoy amazing live music featuring local, national and even international artists, in Canada’s UNESCO City of Music. The series runs until the end of August. Who knows, maybe you’ll discover your new favourite artist here!  

London multicultural festival: June 9, 2024

Dive into a world of diversity and inclusion at the London Multicultural Festival . This free, outdoor celebration features mesmerizing cultural performances, aromatic ethnic foods and engaging activities for kids. Join in and discover the rich tapestry of cultures that makes London unique!

Forest City London Music Week: June 9-16, 2024

Calling all music lovers! The 22nd Annual Forest City London Music Week will fill the air with sweets sounds of music this June. Celebrate London’s amazing local talent at various venues and locations. From street parties, to showcases and the annual awards show, this is a week you’re not going to want to miss!  

Aeolian hall jazz & musical arts festival: June 10-16, 2024

Get ready to swoon the week away at the Aeolian Hall Jazz and Musical Arts Festival . Get in tune with amazing live performances featuring Sarah Smith, Alex Cuba, Carol Welsman, Holly Cole, Heather Bambrick and Big Bandemic with Sonja Gustafson, Rick Kish and Denise Pelley! More performances and workshops to be announced!

The London Beer Fest: June 14-15, 2024  

The London Beer Fest returns to Dundas Place with some spectacular suds. Their mission? To celebrate the vibrant beer culture of Southwestern Ontario while treating taste buds to mouthwatering food pairings. With over 20 craft brewers on board and counting, Dundas Place will be the ultimate craft brewery hotspot. Plus, groove to the tunes of three rocking music artists each day. It's a beer bonanza you won't want to miss!  

London Childrens Festival: June 14-16, 2024

For the young and the young at heart, the London Children's Festival will be an exhilarating experience with an array of towering carnival rides, fun performers and exciting free activities. Kids are in for a day filled with laughter, joy and unforgettable memories against the vibrant backdrop of Victoria Park's greenery and charm.  

International Food & Drink Festival: June 21-23, 2024

Prepare for a global gastronomic journey as the London International Food & Drink Festival brings together cuisines from around the world. From savoury street food delights to delectable desserts, there's something to satisfy every craving. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, with live music, cultural performances and activities for all ages. Join in at Victoria Park for a mouthwatering celebration of food, where flavours unite and memories are made!  

Gluten-Free Fest: June 23, 2024

The Gluten-Free Fest at Centennial Hall in London, Ontario, is a must-visit spring festival for anyone interested in gluten-free living. Attendees can enjoy a variety of gluten-free foods, connect with local businesses, and learn about gluten-free diets through informative workshops

London Burger Fest: June 29, 2024

Statistics say that burgers are the most popular option when eating out. London Burger Fest seeks to celebrate the people's champion with an exciting selection of local chefs and businesses that are grilling up a savoury selection of burgers. Of course, no burger is complete without a drink. The craft beer garden, artisan cocktails and live music will make an unforgettable atmosphere as you enjoy the sweet scent of barbecue.  

Farmers Markets: Every Weekend 

Explore London, Ontario's vibrant Farmers' Markets this spring!  Covent Garden Market hosts its market on Saturdays, while the Market at Western Fair District offers its market on both Saturdays and Sundays. Immerse yourself in the taste of local with fresh produce, meats, cheeses and more sourced from across Southwestern Ontario. At these markets, you'll have the opportunity to meet the farmers and artisans behind the products, allowing you to ask questions and connect with the community's food producers. 

As the curtain falls on our exploration of spring festivals in London, Ontario, it's time to go out and seize the season. Embrace the aroma of blooming roses, savour diverse flavours and immerse yourself in the vibrant community spirit that defines London. Remember, as the warmth of summer approaches, London's energy will only intensify. You don’t want to miss out on the excitement that lies ahead! Share your spring adventures with us by tagging @tourismlondon and using our hashtag #ExploreLdnOnt for a chance to be featured on our social media channels. Until next time, happy exploring!

Read more in this series

• 7 Spring Activities for Sports Enthusiasts in London
• Spring Road Tripping in London, Ontario

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13 of the best things to do in London

Feb 25, 2024 • 13 min read

Make the most of your time in London with these top things to do © franckreporter / Getty Images

Fast-paced, fabulous and fun, London is packed with world-class things to see, do and experience.

You probably already have a checklist of London sights to visit, but don't forget to pause and soak up the vibe of a city that has been at the forefront of world culture for at least two millennia.

Whether you're a first-time visitor  or coming back for more, London serves up so many options that it can be hard to know where to start. It's easy to fill days or even weeks taking advantage of free entry at the city's top art galleries and museums, learning about the rich and complex history, and seeing live bands and captivating West End shows.

If you have the time – and budget – almost anything is possible in London. To help you whittle down the options, here are the top experiences in London that you won't want to miss.

1. Step back in time at the Tower of London

A world of English eccentricity enclosed within the sturdy walls of an imposing 11th-century fortress, the Tower of London is the perfect place to start a visit to London. As well as taking visitors on a remarkable architectural and historical journey, the castle is home to the world's largest diamond (the controversial Cullinan diamond, part of the famous Crown Jewels), as well as a dazzling array of armor and weaponry. A palpable sense of history and heritage will greet you at every turn.

Planning tip: It’s well worth getting to the Tower early – you'll need at least half a day to explore the sprawling chambers, courtyards and jail cells, and hear about its gruesome history. Arrive as the doors are unlocked and head straight to the Crown Jewels to avoid a long wait in line. To learn more about the Tower's back story, join a Yeoman Warder’s tour for a fascinating and personal introduction to the life and grisly times of this fortress-palace.

Explore the Tower of London effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

2. Be wowed by contemporary art at Tate Modern

A vast shrine to modern and contemporary art, the much-loved Tate Modern enjoys a triumphant position right on the River Thames. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, the gallery is a vigorous statement of modernity, architectural renewal and accessibility. Enter via Holland Street to experience the vast Turbine Hall, which used to house the power station’s electricity generators, and is now home to large-scale art installations. Upstairs exhibition spaces are pushing the conceptual envelope, too, with interesting temporary shows, installations and performance art.

Local tip: Level 10, the viewing platform atop the Blavatnik Building, has been the subject of some controversy regarding privacy because it's possible to look into the adjacent apartment buildings. There are many signs politely requesting no photography on the south side (and not as much to see there anyway). There are also great views from the coffee shop and bar in the main building. If the tide is out, there's good mudlarking – an evocative term for looking for historic junk on the exposed mud at low tide – right in front of the gallery.

3. Explore London’s Black history 

London’s Black history is rich and fascinating and stretches back across centuries. All over London, you'll sense a growing enthusiasm for acknowledging, owning and celebrating this once-overlooked part of London's story. Begin your journey by joining one of the 16 walking tours in central London run by Black History Walks , then head down to the Docklands to learn about the capital’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade at the Musem of London Docklands before meandering south to marvel at the vast Black archives at Brixton’s Black Cultural Archives . Next, indulge in some delicious Caribbean cuisine and take in many of the city’s best Black artists at 198 Contemporary Arts and Learning .

Planning tip:  Notting Hill Carnival , held over the August Bank Holiday weekend, is a colossal street party celebrating Black, Caribbean and African cultures. Join the dancing, parties and parades that fill the neighborhoods around Ladbroke Grove. The official website publishes routes and events in advance.

4. Imagine the royal weddings of yesteryear at Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey has been the heart of the country’s royal and religious life for centuries. This Gothic wonder was founded more than a thousand years ago and today it displays a mix of architectural styles, with the bulk of its structure dating back to the 13th century. As a result, almost every nook and cranny has a story attached to it.

London's great abbey has served as the venue for many showstopper funerals and weddings – 30 monarchs are buried here, and 16 royal weddings have been hosted here, the most recent being that of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011. Among the highlights, you will find the oldest door in the UK, the collection of memorials to great poets and writers known as Poets’ Corner, the Coronation Chair, 14th-century cloisters, a 900-year-old garden, royal tombs and much, much more.

Planning tip: Be warned that the crowds are almost as solid as the abbey’s unshakeable stonework, so aim to join the line first thing in the morning.

Explore Westminster Abbey effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

5. Stroll the sights of the South Bank

A great way to get your bearings and take in a slew of sights at the same time is to take a west-to-east walk along the Thames, through the cultural quarter known as the South Bank. Getting off the Tube at Westminster will deposit you right by Big Ben , the legendary bell atop the clocktower of the Houses of Parliament . From there, cross Westminster Bridge for stellar views back toward the seat of British democracy. 

Once on the Queen's Walk, as this pathway is known, stroll east with the river to your left. Although it’s inescapably touristy, a rotation on the London Eye  is a must for any first-time visitor to the capital. This futuristic Ferris wheel takes 30 minutes to complete a full turn, reaching 135m (443ft) at its highest point, and providing spectacular views of iconic landmarks from its glass capsules. Book tickets in advance to avoid the lines.

The Southbank Centre offers up a roll call of top-draw icons and entertainment; it's a great place to go if you're traveling with kids , with lots of free activities and events in summer. Once you leave the Brutalist concrete architecture of the Southbank Centre behind, you'll find other eclectic London sights, including Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre , the Tate Modern art gallery (with views across the river to  St Paul’s Cathedral ), and the Shard , Britain's tallest building. As you walk, look across the river towards the City of London, and try to pick out its curiously nicknamed skyscrapers – such as the Gherkin, the Cheesegrater and the Walkie-Talkie.

Detour: When hunger calls, take a snack break at legendary Borough Market close to London Bridge, where there are pubs, restaurants, dairies, bakers and more than 100 gourmet food stalls.

Transform your visit to London's Eye by  booking with GetYourGuide.

6. Delve into Muslim London

London was once the capital of an empire that ruled over more than half the world’s Muslims, so it should come as no surprise that the city is home to a wide range of Muslim communities and rich in Islamic heritage. Start with the amazing Islamic collections in the Victoria & Albert Museum ’s Jameel Gallery or the British Museum ’s Albukhary Gallery  – between them, these former imperial institutes hold over 115,000 Islamic items. 

To learn where Arabic was taught in 17th century London, take an eye-opening Muslim History Tour , then treat yourself to some of the capital’s most delicious Muslim cuisine. Try a fiery curry along East London’s Brick Lane (or great Punjabi-style kebabs nearby at Tayyabs ), head north to Green Lanes for London’s most authentic Anatolian dishes, or go west along Edgware Road for varied Middle Eastern cuisine.

7. Dive deep into history at the South Kensington museums

A trio of world-class museums lie within yards of each other in the well-to-do neighborhood of South Kensington , their grand edifices proving an equal draw to the glories within. With seven floors of interactive, educational and eye-opening exhibits, the spellbinding collection of models, machines and inventions at the Science Museum mesmerizes adults and children in equal measure. 

You could spend days in the huge Victoria & Albert Museum , which houses the world’s leading collection of decorative art objects, and still be astounded at its variety and depth. With its animatronic Tyrannosaurus rex , riveting displays about planet Earth, the research-oriented Darwin Centre and architecture straight out of a Gothic fairy tale, the Natural History Museum is an astonishing melding of science and imagination. Start in the iconic Hintze Hall, where the skeleton of a blue whale dives down from the ceiling.

Local tip: To see a more unusual side to the museums, and mingle with some Londoners, check in advance to see if any “Lates” are running; the museums periodically open their doors into the evening for special events with music and food. There are even occasional sleepover events called Dino Snores  at the Natural History Museum.

8. See a world-class theater show in the West End – and beyond

London is one of the best places in the world to catch a show, so take the opportunity while visiting the capital. For the most famous faces and well-known productions, head to the West End . This area is synonymous with musicals; look out for classics like  Les Misérables or Mamma Mia! , family favorites such as Matilda,   The Lion King  or Wicked, and offbeat hits such as The Book of Mormon (definitely not family viewing!) .

If musicals are not your thing, get onto TodayTix and see what else is playing. Be sure to check out the edgy, small-cast shows at independent theaters such as the Donmar Warehouse and Soho Theatre , to catch up-and-coming talent for not much more than the price of a pint of beer.

Detour: If Shakespeare is more your thing, attend an Elizabethan-style performance at Shakespeare's Globe . You'll need to book ahead for a standing ticket as one of the all-weather "groundlings" who watch from the open-air yard in front of the stage (or you can pay extra for a seat in the gallery). Despite being the brainchild of American actor, Sam Wanamaker, the facsimile theater is a triumph of authenticity, right down to the nail-less construction, English-oak beams, original joinery and thatched roof (the sprinklers are a modern touch).

9. Relax in gloriously green Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

London’s impressive array of urban parks is second to none and the city's eight Royal Parks are the place to see locals at ease and in their element. Hyde Park alone covers 142 hectares; throw in Kensington Gardens , and you have even more space to roam. Here, you'll find everything you could want from a London park: a central setting, a royal palace , deck chairs, boating lakes, open-air concerts, art galleries, towering centuries-old trees, a tasteful granite memorial to Princess Diana, and a magnificently overblown memorial to Prince Albert facing the iconic Albert Hall .

10. Watch the guards change at Buckingham Palace 

No trip to the capital would be complete without a glimpse of what the Royals are up to. The simplest way to see a bit of sovereign ceremony is to watch the Changing of the Guard , a generations-old ritual in which soldiers in iconic bearskin hats swap shifts outside Buckingham Palace . Arrive early for a good view; the show starts at 11am, and it’s best to arrive by 10:15am (unless you happen to be very tall). If you hanker after more, you can tour the palace itself from July through September (the State Rooms are open for guided tours in the winter and spring, and for 10 weeks every summer).

Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham and then purchased by King George III, Buckingham Palace has been the Royal Family’s official London lodging since 1837, when Queen Victoria abandoned the old royal residence at St James's Palace . On a tour, visitors can get a peek at the State Rooms – a mere 19 of the palace's 775 rooms – and wander through the stunning gardens.

11. Drink a pint at a historic English pub

London minus its pubs would be like Paris sans cafes. Pub culture is a part of London's DNA, and the pub is the best place to see local people in their hop-scented element. Some London pubs – such as the character-filled, centuries-old  Lamb & Flag  and Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese – have been fixtures on the social scene for centuries, and a pub pint is the cornerstone of a good night out across the capital. They're also favorite stops for long, family-friendly weekend lunches; gastropubs dot London’s culinary cosmos, many rivaling the best restaurants. 

Local tip: If you have to choose one place in London for an evening out, make it Soho , a densely packed warren of after-dark delights. For centuries a bohemian quarter, Soho was once a seedy red-light district, but these days, it's better known as the hub for London’s LGBTIQ+ community . For an old-school pint or four, drop into the French House , Bar Termini , Yard or the White Horse .

12. See the world’s treasures at the British Museum

With almost six million visitors trooping through its doors annually, the British Museum in Bloomsbury is Britain’s most-visited attraction. It is crammed with such an array of treasures (many of which, controversially, were obtained from other countries by force or political sleight of hand) that you could probably spend your whole trip navigating the vast and hallowed collection of artifacts, art and age-old antiquity, and still not be done.

In fact, the collection was once even bigger, but some objects have been returned to their home countries (and others, unbelievably, were stolen by a light-fingered curator). Free eye-opener tours allow you to focus on specific parts of the vast collection, or you can take in the highlights by wandering through the Great Court, with its stunning glass-and-steel roof designed by Norman Foster, and checking out the closest exhibition halls. Don’t leave before you’ve seen the Rosetta Stone, the key to deciphering hieroglyphics, and the fascinatingly macabre Egyptian mummies (including mummified calves, birds and cats).

13. Sit down to a traditional afternoon tea 

The quintessentially English indulgence of whiling away an afternoon eating dainty sandwiches and cakes and drinking tea may give you the feeling you're being observed by Lady Whistledown herself. Venues serving afternoon tea abound, and despite looking like sets from a Bridgerton party, these establishments are perfectly welcoming to all sorts of travelers. There's no need to dress to the nines; smart casual attire is fine (in other words, no trainers, joggers or sweatshirts). 

For the classic experience, head to Claridge’s or the Ritz , or in the summer try the terrace at The Goring or the stately Orangery  at Kensington Palace. It's called afternoon tea, but you can have your tea at almost any time of the day. Pre-booking is highly recommended as slots can book out, especially on weekends and in the peak season.

Planning tip: Make sure you arrive suitably hungry. The spread might not look much in the pictures, but all those plates of delicate treats really do add up to a mini feast. 

This article was first published Mar 19, 2019 and updated Feb 25, 2024.

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Hidden Gems of London That Most Tourists Never See (+ Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

Even people who have never been to London can tell you what the main highlights of the city are. Who hasn’t heard of the London Eye, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, or Buckingham Palace… But if you are looking for a more unique and local experience and want to discover a different side of London off the beaten path, you may like this selection of some of the less visited secret places  – the hidden gems of London.

Recently we’ve had such a great time exploring London with kids and we had been to London several times in the past, but I am in no way an expert on the secret places in London. Therefore, in addition to our cool finds in London, I also asked my fellow travel bloggers to share their favorite hidden gems of London .

Some of these places are suggested by the locals who live (or lived) in London for many years. Some others – by people who live nearby and consider London their second home. Other suggestions are from tourists like you and I, who found some really cool places that made their visit to London more memorable.

UPDATE: Inspired by all the hidden gems of London in this article, I went to explore these and many other secret places of London that most tourists never see. This article started with a few secret spots in London and has been updated over the years to highlight more interesting lesser known places in London.

Unfortunately, some places also closed down and had to be removed from our selection. At the moment of the last update, this guide contains 33 amazing places that will show you a different side of London and make your visit so much more special.

London is an incredible city hiding countless hidden gems and there is no way to see them all. So each of these hidden gems is carefully selected and we include only the most special, cool, unique places that are truly worth your time.

I’m not telling you to skip the highlights of London – they are all well worth visiting, especially if you are traveling to London for the first time . But if you want to travel deeper and experience the local side of this beautiful city, then this list of hidden gems will give you plenty of ideas for more unusual places to see in London.

If you make an effort to visit at least a few places mentioned in this article, it will make your trip to London even more special and truly unforgettable. These hidden gems will show you a very different side of London and will make you fall in love with this incredible city even more. London is truly one of a kind.

From the most colorful neighborhoods, quirky pubs and cafes, a variety of gardens and parks, to some of the best views or unexpected activities – here you’ll find plenty of ideas on how to experience London off the beaten path. Find out!

Good to know: To make your travel planning a bit easier, I made a map featuring all of the locations mentioned in this post . You can find it at the bottom of this post. It should help you to combine visiting the main landmarks with some of the hidden gems of London, and create your own itinerary including some of these less known places to visit in London.

TIP: Before we continue to the best hidden gems of London, I want to share a few highly-rated guided tours that take you a bit off the beaten path in the city . If you are looking for even more cool, unusual, and secret places in London and don’t want to spend hours researching where to go, check them out via the links below.

Top 4 Secret London Tours:

• Secret London Bike Tour .
• Secret British Food Tour .
• Street Art & Graffiti Tour .
• Secrets of London Walking Tour .

Without further ado, these are some of the best hidden gems of London :

1. Saint Dunstan in the East

Originally built in the 11-12th centuries and refurbished several times after that, Saint Dunstan in the East is my personal favorite of the hidden gems of London. 

This medieval church was partially destroyed during WWII and the Anglican church decided not to rebuild it.

What’s left is an incredibly successful architectural project where the remaining walls of the church have been incorporated into a pretty little garden. It’s a green quiet oasis and one of the absolute best secret finds during my most recent trip to London.

The Church of Saint Dunstan is located in between the Tower of London and London Bridge. Despite being so close to some of the major London attractions, it’s an incredibly peaceful and tranquil place where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This hidden gem is just 10 minutes walk from Tower Bridge – don’t miss it when in London!

2. Little Venice

Sleepy Little Venice is a series of tree-lined canals that many tourists miss during their London trip. Spanning from Hyde Park to Warwick Avenue, it’s near enough to the city center that you can squeeze it in between other attractions.

What makes Little Venice unique is that it’s completely unlike anywhere else in the city: colorful canal boats roam the waterways, and many serve as tearooms and cafes. Afternoon tea or brunch on a London canal boat – does it get more memorable than that?

Visit any location between Paddington and Camden Town to see Little Venice for yourself. The popular cafe boats, Darcie & May Green and Waterside Cafe, are located near Paddington, while Camden is a great place to wander the locks and board a water bus boat trip (these are very nice and a great way to see more of the area!).

TIP: One of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon in London is to walk the whole Little Venice towpath which takes about an hour (set your route on Google Maps between Paddington and Camden Lock Market or vice versa, and select ‘walking’). You’ll see some animals as you pass behind the London zoo, and admire funky-painted houseboats the whole way.

Little Venice is recommended by Rose from Where Goes Rose .

3. The Painted Hall

I have to say that I wasn’t sure if the Painted Hall belongs on the list of  the best places to see in London or the secret places of London. However, since it took me years and several trips to London to find out about it, I assume that it’s still not very widely known. So I think it deserves a mention as one of the absolute-best hidden gems of London.

Located inside The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich (and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Painted Hall has just recently been restored to all its previous glory. It’s been its 10th and most successful renovation so far. The moment you catch the first glimpse of it, it will take your breath away.

Painted by James Thornhill between 1707 and 1726, this spectacular ceremonial dining room is a real masterpiece of English Baroque art. The entire hall, covering over 3700 sq. meters is painted by hand. This incredible piece of art displays the power and prestige of Britain to the rest of the world. Even today it looks absolutely impressive; I can just try to imagine what kind of an impression it left on people back in the 18th century…

The Painted Hall is one of the most incredible places I have visited in London and I can thoroughly recommend that you take a trip to Greenwich just to see this. It will be absolutely worth it! You can just get tickets and visit on your own, but a guided tour is very affordable too and gives you a better appreciation of this unique place.

TIP: London hop-on hop-off bus ticket of 48 hours or longer includes a river cruise to Greenwich as well. It’s a great way to see the highlights and the hidden gems of London in just a few days.

LEARN MORE: Visiting the Painted Hall

4. Spitalfields and Brick Lane

Spitalfields and Brick Lane is an area of London that I often find myself feeling too conspicuously uncool for. The rawness of Brick Lane, coupled with the exotic smells from the infamous curry houses is like nowhere else in London.

You won’t be able to stop yourself from lingering. Grab a salted beef bagel from one of the Jewish delis at the top (people queue for these!) and slowly wander down Brick Lane taking the occasional side street or alleyway to check out some world-famous street art, eclectic vintage stores, and the best chocolate shop (Dark Sugars) in London.

You’re in Jack The Ripper territory now. And there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about the serial killer by visiting some of the old English pubs he frequented in Victorian times: slightly scary but equally fascinating!

Finish off with a little shopping trip to Spitalfields Market and treat yourself to some of London’s finest handcrafted wares. I’m telling you – Spitalfields and Brick Lane area has it all!

TIP: This area is well-known as Jack the Ripper territory. A unique way to explore the dark side of London is by taking a Jack the Ripper interactive tour with a local guide . Walk in the footsteps of Jack the Ripper and inspect the murder sites (and try to solve the unsolved murders on this immersive experience). See The Old Bailey, where the Elephant Man lived and where Braveheart was tortured, and hear stories that will show you a very different side of London, one that most tourists never see or hear of…

If you rather explore this quirky part of London in daylight and with more colors, check out this highly-rated street art tour . It ends at the Spitalfields Market where you’ll find plenty of great food options.

This quirky neighborhood in London was chosen as one of the best hidden gems by Alex from My Life Long Holiday. You can read more about Spitalfields and Brick Lane on her blog.

5. Neal’s Yard

If you love walking around aimlessly looking for colorful streets, pretty corners, secret bookstores, and quiet tea shops, then you will love discovering London.

One of the best secret finds in London is a small alley called Neal’s Yard . It opens into a courtyard defined by colorful facades housing health food shops and cafés, just a few minutes walk from the Covent Garden train station. Just walk up Neal Street until Short Gardens and turn left, you will enter a little gem tucked away from the usual modern setting.

The place may seem small, but being there separates you away from the busy atmosphere of London. You can have a snack, coffee, even lunch quietly while admiring the surroundings and watching people just go by. There are wooden chairs around the courtyard you can sit on to take a perfect selfie with the quaint features as your background.

Neal’s Yard is also known for its values-driven retailers, you can buy organic soaps and beauty products, organic cheese, as well as homecoming gifts for friends and family from the various shops.

Good to know: Neal’s Yard is located next to Covent Garden, close to Trafalgar Square and many other top attractions. So it’s really easy to include this hidden gem in your London itinerary, even if you have just one or two days in London .

This hidden gem of London was selected by Marie from Our City Travels .

6. The Vaults

The Vaults , sometimes also called Waterloo Vaults are hidden underground tunnels deep under the famous Waterloo Station in Central London. It’s a fascinating place that hides many more secrets than you’d think at first sight.

Located at Leake Street at the back side of Waterloo Station, the Vaults can be found inside a colorful graffiti tunnel. Despite all the associations with darkness, underground, and alternative lifestyle, it actually feels like a very safe and welcoming place.

If you love street art and quirky different things, then you should definitely not miss this secret place in London. It’s an ever-changing sight and when we visited there were many artists painting and repainting the walls and the ceilings of the main tunnel. This tunnel, located on Leake Street, is open to the public and you can visit any time. If you bring some paint, you could easily add your own masterpiece as well.

Inside the colorful Leake Street tunnel, you can also find Waterloo Vaults. It’s a sort of event venue for anything and everything unusual. Waterloo Vaults is a place for concerts, theater performances, parties, and so much more. Private events are also possible. On their website, you can find the most recent event calendar .

The nearby pub, Vaulty Towers, also has a very unique decor and is a great place if you fancy a drink or a quick meal. The pub is open daily (except for some public holidays), from noon on.

Good to know: Because of its very central location, just a short walk from the London Eye, you can easily include this colorful graffiti tunnel in pretty much any London itinerary. For example, take a look at our 1-day London itinerary for inspiration on how you could plan your time and make even a short visit to the city a bit more special.

TIP: If you enjoy street art and graffiti , consider taking a guided tour with a local . There are so many amazing street art locations in London, plus, you visit some local neighborhoods that you wouldn’t see otherwise. There are also tours with workshops – may you want to try some graffiti art yourself!

7. Tulip Stairs

The Tulip Stairs are probably the most aesthetically pleasing of all the hidden gems of London mentioned in this article. Located inside the 17th-century Queen’s House in Greenwich, the sweeping staircase is considered one of the most beautiful spiral staircases in the world.

What makes the Tulip Staircase unique is that these are the first centrally unsupported stairs built in England. The blue wrought-iron railing has flowers in it and for a long time, they were described as tulips, which also gave the name to the Tulip Staircase.

However, it is now believed that the flowers are actually lilies, the royal flowers of France, and were used in compliment to Henrietta Maria of France. She took charge of completing the construction of the Queen’s House after the passing of the previous queen. 

The entrance to the Queen’s House is free of charge, so if you are visiting Greenwich and have a few minutes to spare, don’t miss this incredible gem.

TIP: Combine the visit to the Tulip Stairs with the other hidden gems of London located in Greenwich – the Painted Hall and the Greenwich Foot Tunnel.

LEARN MORE: Tulip Stairs & Queen’s House in Greenwich

8. Sky Garden

Sky Garden’s free and amazing views of London is one of my favorite London gems. It is a public space with landscaped gardens, observation decks, and an open-air terrace located at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street, the building known as ‘The Walkie-Talkie’.

Sky Garden might be a hidden gem not known to most London visitors, but it’s still a very popular place, with locals and tourists alike.

The bird’s eye views of London are gorgeous. Sky Garden is a great place for dinner, or you can just grab a drink at the rooftop bar. There is also a botanical garden that you can explore while you take in the views of the city. When you peer through the windows, there are super helpful decals with the names of the major buildings that can be seen from here.

PRO TIP: Walk-in spaces are limited, so it’s best to get a ticket. The free tickets are released online a week in advance, are very sought-after, and you have to be really quick to get one! For more practical information and booking check the Sky Garden website .

This free hidden gem of London was chosen by Constance from  The Adventures of Panda Bear .

READ ALSO: Best Views in London

9. Sir John Soane’s Museum

Cool, crazy, incredible, extravagant, fascinating… There are no words to fully describe one of the most unusual places in London – Sir John Soane’s Museum . What a museum!

Sir John Soane (1753-1837) was an architect and art collector, who used his own house in order to test all kinds of architectural ideas. After his death, his house became a museum and it’s said to house over 45000 art objects, all collected by its extravagant owner.

From the moment you enter the house of Sir John Soane, you’ll be awe-struck by this crazy labyrinth of narrow corridors and rooms. It looks as if every single square inch is in use one way or another and even the ceilings are covered with sculptures, paintings, and other decorative objects.

The spaces are so narrow that you aren’t allowed to bring any big objects with you and will be asked to put your purse or a small backpack in a plastic bag, just to avoid damaging something by coincidence. Please note that photography is not allowed inside, but you can find nice images on the website of the museum. The image featured here is courtesy of the museum and is a good representation of what you can expect to find inside.

If you are looking for something different to do in London, Sir John Soane’s Museum won’t disappoint. The entrance to the museum is free. It’s open daily from Wednesday to Sunday. You can find all the practical information here .

10. Silver Vaults

Silver Vaults was another very unique find on my recent trip in search of London’s hidden gems. This secret place in London was recommended to me by one of our followers on Facebook. Since I was just nearby, I decided to check it out without having the slightest idea of what to expect. It completely blew me away…

Literally hidden deep under the ground beneath Chancery Lane, the Silver Vaults are exactly what the name suggests – a series of highly secured vaults filled with silver. The Silver Vaults of London host the world’s largest retail selection of silver. It’s a sort of underground market for the rich and the famous.

Built back in 1876 as a storage place for jewelry, documents, and household silver, it is now home to over 30 shops selling all kinds of silver artifacts. You’ll discover more silver items than you ever thought possible – everything from silverware, silver trays, silver dining sets to silver jewelry, and even bigger household items like lamps, mirrors, or even a BBQ set…

Some of the silver you’ll see here is antique, some – recent modern design. They all have one thing in common, though – high price tags. We were told that Hollywood stars and other VIPs are regular customers, but everyone is just as welcome.

We talked to a couple of salesmen there and they all seem to be doing it for generations. One guy told us that his grandma was among the first people who started trading in silver at the London Silver Vaults. It really feels like a place with a unique history. Such an interesting find in London. 

The Silver Vaults are open every day except on Sunday and bank holidays, from 9 till 5. 30 PM (till 1 PM on Saturday). The entrance is free of charge.

11. The Churchill Arms

One of our favorite places to visit in London that not many people know about has to be The Churchill Arms. Located in the Notting Hill area of the city, Churchill Arms is a pub with a beautiful array of floral decorations.

Spring is one of the best times to visit as you can see the flowers in full bloom, although the pub is incredibly beautiful at any time of year. In fact, at Christmas, the festive spirit is in full swing with Christmas Trees and lights having their moment to shine.

The Churchill Arms is probably one of the most photographed pubs in London, and when you see it for yourself, it is easy to understand why. Originally there were only a few hanging baskets and I guess you could say it has since blossomed into a lot more.

To get here, you will need to get the tube to Notting Hill Gate Station, and it is a short 5-minute walk from there. The Churchill Arms really is a special place to visit in London and we highly recommend you make the time for it if you like unusual places.

This picturesque pub was selected as one of the hidden gems of London by Lizzie & Dave from Wanderlust And Life .

12. Hidden bar – The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

Secret bars are apparently very popular in London and are springing up like mushrooms. However, if you don’t know they exist or where exactly to find them, chances are you’ll just pass by and will never know.

My blogger friend Alex from MyLifeLongHoliday  who was exploring the hidden gems of London together with me, had done some previous research and so we set on a quest to find one of the hidden bars of London. She had marked a bar called ‘The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town’ on Google Maps , but when we arrived there, we found just a regular diner called ‘The Breakfast Club’.

We decided to ask the waiter if he had heard of this hidden bar and if he could guide us to it. The friendly waiter said to follow along and took us inside the restaurant. Then all of a sudden, he stopped by an old fridge and opened the door. And indeed – the opening at the back of the fridge was an entrance to a hidden bar in the basement.

The bar itself is just a regular bar with drinks and some small snacks, but the people working there are incredibly friendly. When we came back to the bar in the evening, they met us with a smile and a hug – as if we were old friends. You should have seen the faces of the people dining in the restaurant when we disappeared inside that huge fridge…

The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town is obviously not the only hidden bar in London. But it’s quite close to some other hidden gems of London in the Spitalfields area and is therefore easy to combine with a visit to many other hidden gems of London. If you find yourself in the area, don’t miss it.

Alternatively, look for another Breakfast Club in the area close to where you are staying in London. From what I understood, there seem to be a few of these restaurants in London and rumor has it that they are hiding some other bars as well.

TIP: They might ask you for a password to enter this hidden bar. It’s best to ask to ‘see the Mayor’ or something along those lines. Make sure to also familiarize yourself with the rules as to how to exit the bar – it’s a hilarious read.

13. Columbia Road Flower Market

Columbia Road Flower Market is one of the real hidden gems of London. Only a ten-minute walk from the buzzing Brick Lane (see above), this flower market is tucked away in the East End of London, behind a housing estate. The only clue you have that there’s anything to see is the occasional large potted plant struggling down the street with a person hiding somewhere behind it.

The market is held every Sunday morning between 8 am and around 3 pm. There are around 50 stalls selling every kind of flower and plant you could imagine. There are also around 60 small independent shops including several cafes. Add in some busking musicians and you have a great atmosphere.

TIP: Most of the best flowers tend to sell out in the first hour or two. We’ve found that the best time to pick up a bargain is around 1 pm, when things are starting to quiet down and stallholders are looking to offload their remaining stock.

This different way to spend a Sunday morning in London is suggested by David from Delve Into Europe .

14. Royal Exchange

If you like places where modern life blends in with history, then don’t miss the Royal Exchange in London . Established in 1566 as London’s first place for trading stocks, this iconic building has a long history. It’s one of the places where, traditionally, the reign of the new monarch is announced to the public.

The Royal Exchange building has been destroyed by fire twice and was in danger of collapse at the end of the 20th century. The building as we see it today dates from the 1840s but has been extensively remodeled in 2001.

Located halfway between St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London, the Royal Exchange is impressive both from the outside as well as inside. Nowadays it is mostly known for boutique shopping and fine dining, with the upper floors being used as offices. 

TIP: Combine your visit to the Royal Exchange with that of the nearby Leadenhall Market and many other hidden gems in the Spitalfields area.

15. Leadenhall Market

London has no shortage of markets to visit, but I’d argue that Leadenhall Market is one of the most beautiful. It’s also a bit hidden away, so it isn’t as well visited as others, such as the popular Borough Market.

Leadenhall Market is a covered market, with a beautiful ornate roof that features glass windows and curved beams. It dates from the 19th century, although there has been a market on this location from the 14th century, making it one of the oldest markets in London. It’s brightly colored and incredibly photogenic. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera along!

Leadenhall Market is found in the City of London, on Gracechurch Street, and most visitors on foot will access it via one of the narrow pedestrian alleyways. It can be hard to spot, so having a map or an app with the location saved will help.

Film buffs will recognize the Leadenhall market as one of the Harry Potter filming locations in London. The market was the location for one of the entrances to Diagon Alley.

TIP: Harry Potter fans will love Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour . It’s a tour with exceptional guides, masters of storytelling, that has been selected as one of the best tours in London by GetYourGuide.

If you have a day to spare, you may like to consider a day trip to the Harry Potter: Warner Bros. Studios as well. It’s been one of the most popular day trips from London for years.

This literally hidden gem of London is suggested by Laurence from Finding The Universe, where you can find more  Harry Potter filming locations in London .

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from London

16. Monster Supply Store

Did you know that there are monsters living in London? Well, there are and they are hungry. Fortunately, they can get the snacks that they need at the Hoxton Street Monster Supplies Store .

This cool little spot is located on Hoxton Street in northern Shoreditch. They offer “service with a snarl” and assorted snacks for feeding your monster. You can find goofy products like “salt made from tears of anger” (smoked salt), “night terrors” (rainbow candies) or “impacted earwax” (caramels…I hope).

What’s really going on at Monster Supply is a brilliant literacy program started by the author Dave Eggers in the US and expanded to the UK by author Nick Hornsby. The organization inspires kids to become storytellers and writers through literacy workshops. The store, also known as Ministry of Stories, helps to bring awareness of the program and supports nonprofits.

TIP: You can load up on Monster supplies Thur/Fri 1 pm-5 pm and Saturday 11 am-5 pm.

This cute monstrous find is suggested by Carol from Wayfaring Views. On her blog, you can find more information about this and other great things to do in Shoreditch .

17. The Postal Museum & Mail Rail

The Postal Museum also deserves a mention on this list of true hidden gems in London! Not only it’s a great place to learn more about Britain’s postal service and communications history over the past 500 years, but you can also take a trip back in time via underground railway tunnels under the city!

Mail Rail is an underground railway of Royal Mail and one of the best-kept secrets in London. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century and remained in operation until 2003. It is now open to the public and is one of the most unique experiences in London.

There are several ways to explore this underground railway system. Mail Rail experience takes you on a ride on a miniature train through some of the original tunnels. Whereas Tunnel Walks allow you to explore other parts of the railway on foot. This tour gives you exclusive access to platforms, tracks, and tunnels that you don’t see on the ride.

This museum is great for young and old. It’s also one of the coolest places to visit in London with kids!

Good to know: The Postal Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday. Depending on the activities you choose, count 1.5-3 hours for a visit. See here for more information and tickets .

18. Primrose Hill

Head to Primrose Hill for some of the best views of London and a quirky neighborhood to explore.

One of six protected viewpoints in London, from the peak of Primrose Hill you can see the entire city laid out before you. When it is clear, it is easy to spot landmarks like the London Eye, The Shard, and BT Tower in the distance.

Take a picnic to Primrose Hill on a sunny day and join Londoners enjoying one of their favorite neighborhoods, famous for its colorful houses and resident celebrities.

When you have finished admiring the views, wander down the hill until you reach the Regent’s Canal. From there it is a short stroll along the canal to the bustling markets and bars of Camden Town.

Primrose Hill is one of the favorite choices of less known places in London by Katy from Untold Morsels .

19. Greenwich Foot Tunnel

As you walk along the Greenwich riverside, you may notice a small red brick circular building with a glass dome. It is right next to the imposing Cutty Sark, so being overshadowed by this impressive structure there is a chance that you may even miss it. In fact, so many people do! Greenwich has so many things to do in such a small area that it’s easy to miss things.

So, now that you know what to look out for, I’ll tell you that this little building is the entrance to one of the most astounding feats of Victorian engineering, the Greenwich Foot Tunnel . It is a pedestrian tunnel built under the Thames River to connect Greenwich with Island Gardens on the Isle of Dogs.

Greenwich Foot Tunnel was opened in 1902 and its purpose was to provide access to the docks on the north of the river for dockworkers that lived in the south of the river. It has been recently refurbished and it is now a pedestrian highway and free for everyone to walk through.

It amazes me that such a structure is still in use, and walking through it is quite an experience – cold, damp, and very echo-y. Certainly not for claustrophobics!

This hidden gem was chosen by Teresa from Brogan Abroad, where you can read about more  places to see in Greenwich .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Greenwich

20. The Dickens Inn

One of my favorite pubs to take visitors in London is The Dickens Inn . Not only is it a beautiful-looking building, but it is also full of history.

This former 18th-century three-story warehouse was thought to have housed tea or be owned by a brewery. It has a long and intriguing history intertwined with Charles Dickens and East London heritage.

With a slanted roofline that is higher on one side than the other and 2 huge balconies covered in flowers, you definitely cannot miss The Dickens Inn when you enter St Katharine Docks.

The best bit is that it is only 5 minutes walk away from both Tower Bridge and the Tower of London , making it a great spot for a drink or something to eat. Children are allowed into the pub during the daytime as well. Also, there is also a pizza and a grill restaurant inside, if you want a nice sit-down meal.

TIP: The best time to visit is during the spring season when all the flowers are blooming on the outside walls.

Recommendation by a London resident Melissa from MelB Travel . 

21. Kayaking under the Tower Bridge

You’ve probably all heard of Tower Bridge and seen lots of pictures of it, so it is not exactly a secret place in London. But did you know you can go on an organized kayak tour which goes past the best London landmarks and the highlight is paddling under Tower Bridge ?! Now that is one unique experience to have in London!

The Thames can be quite busy with traffic from riverboats, but thanks to our four guides we felt completely safe during the whole journey! It took us about 3 hours to cover the 17 km from Battersea to Greenwich. We used double kayaks, which were very stable and easy to handle, so beginners were also welcome. If you want to explore London in a truly special way, this trip is for you!

This unique experience in London is recommended by Krix from Travel Hacker Girl. On her blog, you can find more information about kayaking in London .

TIP: If you would like to see the River Thames and London in this unique way, but are short on time and/or not interested in kayaking, you may want to consider this  highly-rated speed boat tour that also goes under the Tower Bridge .

22. Kyoto Garden

If you are looking for a beautiful hidden gem in London, then head to Kyoto Garden.  The gardens are easily accessible from central London.

Kyoto Gardens are over 20 hectares and are located around Holland House, which used to be an old castle where many famous families have lived in. It was originally built in 1605 but was destroyed in the Second World War.

The Kyoto Gardens was officially opened in 1991 to mark the friendship between Japan and the United Kingdom.

The gardens have been beautifully landscaped and designed to reflect how Japanese gardens look. It is a truly peaceful and picturesque place a bit off the beaten path in London. You will find stone carvings in Japanese style, peacocks and herons roaming around, numerous varieties of flowers and trees, waterfalls, and even the beautiful koi carp fish.

The gardens can be visited in any season. In spring you will find a big variety of magnificent flowers in full bloom, it’s also the season for the famous Japanese cherry blossom. In summer you will see the bright colors of flowers and trees. In autumn – golden rusty vibrant leaves on the huge oak- and maple trees surrounding the area. In winter you will find incredible views over the gardens; it’s truly magical if covered in snow.

Kyoto Garden is open daily and is free to visit. This is a great location for photography so don’t forget your camera.

This beautiful park was chosen as one of the best secret places in London by a local resident Eliza.

23. Postman’s Park

In the shadow of St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most poignant parts of central London.  Postman’s Park – so called as it was popular with postal workers from the local central sorting office – is host to George Frederic Watts’s Memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice, a memorial to ordinary people who died while saving the lives of others.

It consists of a long wall housing ceramic memorial tablets featuring the likes of “G Garnish, A young clergyman, Who lost his life in endeavoring to rescue a stranger from drowning at Putney” or “John Clinton, Aged 10, Who was drowned near London Bridge in trying to save a companion younger than himself”.

The fact that this small park, with its sad little plaques, is in the center of one of the great world cities, surrounded by skyscrapers and other important buildings, makes this quiet place even more poignant. It’s a secret place in London that many tourists never visit. Postman’s Park is a must see, if only for a few moments of peace in the hustle and bustle of London life…

Contributed by Chris Young from England Explore .

24. Battersea Park and Children’s Zoo

Nestled on the southern banks of the Thames, you will find one of London’s better kept secrets, Battersea Park . With a real community feel to it, the 200-acre park has been home to many fairs, playgrounds, and attractions over the years.

One of the more recognizable landmarks of Battersea Park is the Peace Pagoda, erected in 1985. It’s a beautiful place to reflect and watch life roll by on the Thames.

Whilst the funfairs of the past are now gone, there’s still a lot going on in this park – sporting fields aplenty, a miniature zoo, the historic Pump House gallery, Putt in the Park mini-golf with pizzeria, a nature reserve, a playground with a miniature train, and in the heart of the park, an ornamental lake where on weekends and holidays you can hire mini rowing or paddle boats.

Our favorite part of the park is the hidden gem Battersea Park Children’s Zoo . Far cheaper to enter than its more famous north London counterpart (and with far less or an urban, concrete feel), it’s the perfect size zoo for little explorers. All their mammals, reptiles, and birds are little and in keeping with the zoo’s size.

There are plenty of hands-on activities scheduled throughout the week for children to be involved in, including feeding times and education programs. To finish things off there’s a magnificent adventure playground, complete with its own fire truck!

This little-known gem of London is suggested by Keri from Little City Trips .

25. MI6 Building

A few minutes after Skyfall begins, M is shown driving to her office building when an explosion rips apart one side of the building forcing the agency to relocate to an underground bunker. That building is the actual MI6 headquarters called the SIS Building in Vauxhall , London.

The MI6 building is situated on an embankment and has prongs along its roof to prevent unauthorized networks from catching the digital transmissions inside the building. That’s the closest you’ll come to seeing any sort of geekery about the Secret Service from ground level.

It looks somber and foreboding from the outside and could easily be mistaken for a drab office building if you don’t know what you’re looking at. But for James Bond fans like me, the place is particularly important for all the special moments it has given us in the movies.

The SIS Building was featured in GoldenEye way back in 1995, The World is Not Enough, Skyfall, and its follow-up Spectre. In case you’re wondering how the real MI6 staff feels about their building showing up so prominently, an established anecdote says that the staff actually cheered when the model SIS building created on a film set was blown off in Skyfall. That’s three cheers for attitude right there!

The MI6 building is actually a pretty popular place to see in London among James Bond fans. James Bond tours will take you here, some on foot and some others by a (mini) bus, because it is located a bit outside the city center.

MI6 building is recommended to all James Bond fans by Priyanko from Constant Traveller .

26. Pop Brixton

Pop Brixton is home to some of London’s tastiest food stands, hipster cocktail bars, pop-up vintage clothing shops, art galleries, quirky exercise classes and even a co-working space.

Their mantra is all about supporting small local businesses, so the space is always buzzing with creative people and unique startups milling around.

It’s the perfect place to go for casual food or drinks on any afternoon or evening. Or check out their special events like photography exhibitions, wine tasting, tai-chi, or urban gardening.

Pop Brixton is a place where you can experience London as and with the locals, a secret find not many tourists know about.

This hidden gem is recommended by a London local Harriet.

27. Short walk through the centuries in the City of London

The City of London has a rich history and in just a few steps you can be transported through the centuries.

Starting at the London Mithraeum the immersive experience gives you a taster of worshiping at the cult of Mithras in the recreated Roman temple. Artifacts are displayed to give you an insight into the lives of the first Londoners.

One minute down the road you’ll fast forward to the 17th century as you reach St Stephen Walbrook . Destroyed by the Great Fire of London, the church was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren. The green dome is thought to be the precursor for the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral. Find the Rothschild Building to get a great view of the dome framed by the building.

You’ll find yourself back in Roman London when you reach St Magnus the Martyr . The arch on the western side of the church is where people crossing the old London Bridge entered the city. Pop into the church to see a model of what the bridge looked like. Other remnants include a piece of timber dated AD 75 and stones from the medieval bridge. The walk between these hidden gems will take just 10-15 minutes, however, you should build in some time at each stop.

TIP: If you like history and want to learn more about London’s secret past, take a look at this ‘old London’ walking tour . You’ll discover the back streets, execution sites, ancient churches, and other historic places that most people don’t even realize exist… This tour is like taking a trip centuries back in time!

This short walk covering several of London’s hidden gems is suggested by Emma from Emma Online. On her blog, you can find more details about this historic walk in London .

28. Alexandra Palace

If you are visiting London and you’ve picked a hotel in the Northern part near Muswell Hill or Wood Green, then you may enjoy visiting Alexandra Palace . Sure, it’s not a typical place you would visit when you go to London. However, Alexandra Palace, also called Ally Pally, can be a fun getaway especially if you are visiting London with kids.

Built in 1873, the palace is stunning to look at. You can relax on the green lawns of the palace while admiring the Rose window or take a boat ride on the lake behind the palace. You don’t have to wait for winter to do some ice skating. The ice rink at Alexandra Palace is open all year round.

There are other things you can enjoy as well such as tree climbing, a small golf course, Farmer’s market, a segway rally, and an adventure course. It’s a full day of fun at Alexandra Palace!

Submission by Pari from Traveling Pari .

29. Hampstead Heath

Hyde, Regent, and Kensington Gardens are perennial favorites for parks to visit while in London. They are all beautiful, but for a less manicured bucolic setting, none compare to the wild beauty of the Heath in Hampstead Village .

Located about half an hour from Central London, Hampstead is a posh community that has a historically artsy past. The likes of D.H. Lawrence, Sigmund Freud, Robert Louis Stevenson, and countless creative luminaries have resided there.

At some point or another, all have been known to have taken their contemplative strolls through Hampstead Park . There are riding lanes for horses, many ponds where one can find people and swans swimming alongside. There are also private mansions, such as the Kenwood House which has been a backdrop for countless period films.

Of all things, the beauty of this park is its ability to make one think and appreciate both the simple and the complex while taking a stroll. There is something inherently English about the place and it almost can’t be helped that your creative self comes alive. Hampstead Heath is certainly worth a day trip from Central London.

30. Kew Gardens – Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is home to the largest and most diverse collection of living plants, anywhere in the world.

Although it’s not necessarily very hidden, most tourists seem to skip this beautiful part of London. Perhaps because it’s a bit out of the way of other popular tourist attractions. But trust me when I say that Kew Gardens are well worth a visit!

Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers unique landscapes and iconic architecture from every stage of the Gardens’ history. There are more than 100 world-class attractions at Kew Gardens such as iconic buildings, art collections, vistas, and glasshouses. There are also various temporary exhibitions at Kew Gardens that might be worth your time. The glasshouse is not to be missed and is a perfect place to shoot some amazing photos (whether it’s for your Instagram page or traditional photo album).

TIP:  Kew Gardens are really big, so you definitely need time to properly explore this less known gem of London. It’s recommended to do some research to decide what you want to see upfront, or take a full day and explore this beautiful place to the fullest. You can buy admission tickets in advance and save some time.

Kew Gardens are recommended to visitors looking to explore some less known places in London by Lisanne from Chapter Travel .

31. Chelsea Physic Garden

Tucked away in a hidden corner of London between the upscale shopping of the King’s Road and close to the Chelsea Embankment and the Albert Bridge across the Thames is the capital’s original secret garden. Dating back to the late 17th Century, the Chelsea Physic Garden remains the second oldest botanical garden in the UK (after the gardens at Oxford University). It has been at the forefront in the cultivation of medicinal plants.

Home to the tallest standing olive tree in Britain, the layout of different sections of the garden is very admirable. The Dicotyledon Order Beds (so named as the plants here are grown with two seed leaves) and Monocotyledon (one seed leaf) are a testament to this with over 800 organized according to their groups. Some are indeed quite rare. In between these and the statue of Sir Hans Sloane is the tranquil pond rockery.

Various glasshouses are located in these gardens, the largest of which is known as the Tropical Corridor. Ideal for storing all year round many exotic plants from the Atlantic that would otherwise not survive the harsh winters. Also, one of the smaller glasshouses has a little exhibit of desert cacti. A great anomaly in London!

An afternoon strolling in this peaceful oasis makes you forget that you are in the heart of a big, noisy city. With a cafe that provides outdoor seating too, what better way to take it in slowly and appreciate this green space in the heart of one of London’s most well-heeled districts.

This unusual little garden in London is suggested by Jonathan from  Journey Maxx .

32. Climb The O2 Arena

The O2 Arena in London was originally built for the millennium and has become the world’s most popular entertainment venue.

Not many people can say they climbed over The O2 Arena. With the Up at The O2 Experience, visitors can walk on a path suspended 2 meters above the roof of The O2. On the viewing platform at the top, 52 meters high, you have time to take in 360-degree views of London and even enjoy a glass of champagne if you like. On a clear day, you can see landmarks up to 15 miles away.

Your guide will provide you with all the climbing gear you need including a safety harness. At the beginning of the climb, you are going up at a 28-degree incline, then it levels off as you approach the top.

In a way, going down is more difficult than going up. The incline is slightly steeper at 30 degrees. If you are worried about looking down, you might want to try going down backward. Don’t let your fears stop you, it’s such a unique and memorable experience!

TIP: If you want to climb the O2 Arena, you have to book it in advance. Here you can find prices and check availability for the climb .

This unique London activity is suggested by Anisa from 2 Traveling Texans. You can find more information about The O2 Experience on their blog.

33. Thames Barrier Park

The Thames Barrier is an iconic structure in London, built in the 80s in order to solve the centuries-long problem of flooding in central London. You can visit the visitor center on the southern side of the river (not too far from Greenwich), or simply see this impressive movable dam from the  Barrier Park (opposite side of the river). This little park is a real hidden gem in London!

Barrier Park with carefully landscaped gardens was designed with tranquillity in mind and also to frame the imposing barrier. The gardens have a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the year and are a haven for pollinators and wild birds.

While wandering through the park, you get nice views of the barrier. Between the park and the river, there is a nice waterfront promenade with benches to enjoy the view. There is also a coffee shop on-site for refreshments and a play area for children.

TIP: Barrier Park is in the Royal Docks area and is easily accessible via the Docklands Light Railway. The nearest stop is Pontoon Dock. However, if you are feeling adventurous, the river bus and then the cable car across the river makes a delightful journey there or back.

This special place to see in London is recommended by Rich from RJOnTour. On his blog, you can read about visiting Barrier Park .

The Hidden Gems of London on the Map

As promised, here is a map showing all the hidden gems of London that are mentioned in this post. You can click on the little arrow to see the index, alternatively just click on any of the locations to see which place it is.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, these are some of the nicest local finds and less known places in London for your travel list. I am certain that visiting at least some of these gems will make your trip to London even more special and more memorable. In addition, you may want to check out some of the best London views (many of them are free to visit).

And, of course, don’t miss the must-see tourist attractions in London ! But even if you visit just a few of the hidden gems, it will make your trip so much more special!

Do you know any amazing secret places in London that you’re willing to share? Please leave a reply below!

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in London: Best Areas & Hotels

More inspiration & info for your trip to London:

• Tips for visiting London for the first time
• London in 1 day
• London 2-day itinerary
• Camden Market in London
• Things to do in Greenwich
• Things to do in London with kids
• Best Day Trips Near London
• Liverpool from London: Day Trip Itinerary

Travel guides for the UK:

• Food: British Food – Traditional UK Dishes to Try
• Cities: Best UK Cities to Visit
• Manchester: Best Things to Do in Manchester & 1 Day in Manchester
• Liverpool: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & The Beatles Attractions in Liverpool
• Edinburgh: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh & Edinburgh in One Day
• Glasgow: How to See the Best of Glasgow in One Day
• Scotland: Isle of Skye Itinerary & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Yorkshire: Best Things to Do in Yorkshire
• Cornwall: Best Things to Do in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall

If you enjoyed reading this post, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Monday 6th of May 2024

WOW. Amazing stuff here. I will save it and use it.

Hope to have inspired you to visit London, Michael ;). In the meantime, have a great summer!

Shari Cassel

Tuesday 30th of April 2024

I just finished reading the hidden gems and it was amazing! We were able to go with a Trafalgar group last May to Europe for a 17 day whirl. The only place we got to spend much time in London and we went to the Dickens Inn to eat 3 times. It was wonderful. Thank you for all of your amazing knowledge and writing and tips!!!

Thursday 2nd of May 2024

Thank you for your kind feedback, Shari. Happy travels!

Monday 29th of April 2024

Well done, nice photos; been to London a number of times.

I personally liked Westminster Cathedral as well.

Ha ha, Westminster Abbey is not exactly a hidden gem, but one of the must-sees for sure! Happy travels, Julius!

Tuesday 23rd of April 2024

Will visit London in August this year, for the first time. Thank you for the wonderful list of hidden gems!!!

Wednesday 24th of April 2024

Glad to help, Mirela. If visiting for the first time, you may want to check out our tips for visiting London as well. Have a great trip!

Jeff Petrillo

Tuesday 2nd of April 2024

Kudos. What an amazing list of amazing places and sites. I have read many blog posts and guides--but you have topped the list. This is a definite go-to guide for the curious and interested traveler. Thank you for putting this together.

Thursday 4th of April 2024

Thank you for your kind feedback. Enjoy London!

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The 50 best attractions in London

Discover London’s best attractions, landmarks and sightseeing spots that you’d be mad to miss, even if you‘re a local

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London landmarks are iconic for a reason.  You’ve got your London Eye, your Hyde Park, your Big Ben, and even if you’ve lived here for years and have steadfastly been avoiding ‘tourist traps’, you really ought to check these places out at least once.  Whether you’re a day-tripper or a local, marvelling at the capital’s museums , galleries , monuments and  parks  is a London rite of passage – and they’re all really bloody great.  But where to begin? We’ve pulled together a list of the best attractions in London for you to start ticking off your bucket list. And the best news? Loads of these must-see London attractions won’t cost you a penny. For those that aren’t, you can book below.

Still after some sightseeing inspiration? Check out our list of  101 things to do  in London, and find out what’s happening in London  today ,  this week , and  this weekend .

RECOMMENDED: the best hotels in London   RECOMMENDED: the best alternative attractions in London RECOMMENDED: the best London bus tours

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our   affiliate   guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

London’s top attractions

1.  tower of london.

• Historic buildings and sites

What is it? O ne of the capital’s best and most well-known historical attractions.  The Tower of London offers wonderful architecture, gruesome stories, hands-on activities for younger visitors, costumed actors and guides, and worryingly confident ravens.

Why go? To get an eyeful of the Crown Jewels.

2.  The London Eye

• Things to do
• Event spaces

What is it? Much like the Millenium Dome – or, as it's known to those who don’t remember the twentieth century, the O2 Arena – the London Eye was built to celebrate the year 2000. Since then, the Eye has been a resounding success, and it’s hard to picture London’s skyline without it. Step into one of its spaceship-like pods, and before you know it, you’re halfway into the sky and taking in sweeping vistas of the city.

Why go? The view, obviously. 

3.  The National Gallery

• Trafalgar Square

What is it? A huge art museum right on Trafalgar Square that’s free to enter. Perfect, whether you’ve got ten minutes in your lunch break to check out Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’ or time to wander the entire collection of Western European paintings from the thirteenth to the nineteenth centuries. Check out the Friday Lates for after-hours access to exhibitions, creative workshops and life drawing sessions, or drop in for one of the themed tours of the collection to get a different perspective on the work.

Why go? To be swaddled in artistic greatness.

4.  Buckingham Palace

• Sightseeing

What is it? A chance to see world-famous art, glimpse regal opulence and get inside HM’s headquarters. In the summer, the palace opens to the public for tours, letting you go behind the keyhole of what’s one of the most – if not the most – famous buildings in London. Inside, you’ll learn about the monarchs and the big, ornate palace itself.  

Why go? To snoop around the most famous royal residence in the world.

5.  St Paul’s Cathedral

• Religious buildings and sites

What is it? Iconic as St Paul’s may be, the cathedral as we know it today is in fact version six, at least. The last was infamously razed to the ground by the Great Fire of London in 1666, but thankfully Sir Christopher Wren’s design, which was completed in 1708, has survived 12 monarchs and two world wars. The admission fee here comes with an introductory talk before you're taken on a 90-minute tour.

Why go? To test your hearing in the Whispering Gallery.

6.  Westminster Abbey

• Westminster

What is it? Like the Pantheon Crypt in Paris, where you can see the tombs and memorials of great figures from history, Westminster Abbey is a popular attraction to peruse the graves, tablets, busts and stone dedications. Seventeen monarchs are buried here, along with dukes, countesses and history’s ‘celebs’ (Think Darwin, Dickens and Hardy). It's also played host to 16 royal weddings and every single British coronation has taken place within the Abbey's walls since 1066.

Why go? To see Gothic grandeur in all its splendour.

7.  Hampton Court Palace

What is it? A resplendent palace with plush grounds on the edge of southwest London. From the Tudor indoor tennis court to the Royal Maze, the King’s private loo to the Magic Garden adventure playground, there’s something here for all ages. History buffs and art enthusiasts should purchase a ticket for the Palace and Gardens; those with little ones in tow will appreciate the Magic Garden and Maze ticket. 

Why go? To get lost in the Royal Maze.

8.  Tower Bridge

• Tower Bridge

What is it? There’s more to this ornate Victorian bridge than something cool to look at: you can actually venture inside. Check out the engine rooms with their whirring wheels and pistons, then head up to the glass-floored viewing platform above the draw bridge, where you can delve into this magnificent structure's story.

Why go?  Time it right and you'll see the bridge rising up to let paddle steamers and barges through. Want to know a fun fact? A full schedule of bridge lift times is available on their website . 

9.  The London Dungeon

What is it?  A tour of London’s nastiest historical moments, with gory stories retold with humour, gooey props and gruesomely costumed actors. You can board a traitor’s boat to the Tower of London, dash through the streets of Whitechapel in pursuit of Jack the Ripper and get a glimpse of plague London. 

Why go?   Gore-seekers can ride a recreation of The Death Express, a line which carried the deceased to their final resting place in Surrey. 

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

• Hertfordshire

What is it? The Warner Bros Studio, a short trek north of London, where you can set foot inside the Great Hall, Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley. See film sets, costumes, props and exhibits that take you behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films. Changing exhibitions are included in the ticket and you get the chance to discover the secrets of the movies’ special effects.

Why go? To finally get your mitts on a flagon of Butterbeer.

11.  The View from the Shard

• Towers and viewpoints
• London Bridge

What is it?  The capital's tallest tower, having joined London's skyline in 2012.  Measuring 310 metres, The Shard was built with everything in mind: offices, homes, hotels, bars, restaurants and, of course, the alluring viewing platform. From the highest point that the public are allowed access to (floors 69-72), you get stunning 360-degree views of the city. There’s a silent disco on selected Saturday nights and other events, such as gigs and gin tastings throughout the year.

Why go? The floor-to-ceiling windows allow exceptional views out across the capital, especially on a clear day.

12.  Wembley Stadium

• Sport and fitness

What is it? The venue where England won the World Cup in 1966, and the Lionesses won the Euros in 2022. Wembley still has a magic about it, even when you don’t have a ticket for a match or a rock concert. Take the tour and you’ll feel the atmosphere in the players’ tunnel and climb the 107 Trophy Winner’s steps. With the use of 360-degree video, you can also experience what it’s like to be at some of the stadium’s biggest events.

Why go?  To peek  behind the scenes and sense that Cup Final magic.

13.  Up at The O2

• Greenwich Peninsula

What is it? Ever wondered what London looks like from 53 metres above North Greenwich? Find out with a ticket for Up at The O2 where you can choose from Daytime, Sunset and Twilight climbs. The ultimate AAA pass gains you access to the roof, where you’ll be able to see across the capital, spotting famous sites like the Olympic Park, Thames Barrier, The Shard and Canary Wharf.

Why go? For an incredible 360-degree view – and that adorable climbing onesie.

14.  Kew Gardens

• Parks and gardens

What is it? Budding horticulturalists will have a field day here. There are over 300 acres to explore filled with indigenous flora and fauna, as well as exotic greenhouses and nature trails. What sets Kew Gardens apart from other botanical gardens? Well, the treetop walkway and the beautiful Grade I-listed Temperate House, for two. The latter is the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world and quite a sight to behold.

Why go? For a breath of fresh air in the busy city.

15.  Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

• Olympic Park

What is it? The huge park created in Stratford for the London Olympics in 2012. As well as swathes of parkland, it’s home to London Stadium (host to big concerts with headliners like The Weeknd and West Ham FC as well as various athletics championships), children’s play areas, walking trails, the remarkable ArcerlorMittal Orbit , and more state-of-the-art sporting venues.

Why go? For whatever exercise takes your fancy – a swim at the Zaha Hadid-designed London Aquatics Centre , BMXing at the Velo Park, or just strolling through the beautiful park.

16.  The Houses of Parliament

What is it? The seat of British democracy. Take an audio tour through the House of Lords and House of Commons to bring the building to life. It takes around 90 minutes and features leading parliamentary figures such as Mr Speaker and Black Rod. 

Why go? For a dazzling combo of history, politics and architecture.

17.  Kensington Palace

What is it? Where William, Kate and the kids hang their hats. This tourist attraction has a chic style: it played host to the most fashionable salons in Georgian times, was home to Queen Victoria in her youth, then sassy Princess Margaret and then classy Princess Diana. Now the main palace is a pretty visitor magnet with tranquil gardens to wander.

Why go? To be blown away by the outfits in the ‘Royal Style in the Making’ exhibition.

18.  Big Ben

What is it?  Big Ben is the nickname of the Great Bell inside Westminster’s iconic clock tower, but even locals think ‘Big Ben’ when they see the Elizabeth Tower. If you’re ready and willing to climb up the narrow 334-step spiral staircase, you can pay a visit to Ben himself – and stand next to him when the hour strikes. Now is a good time to visit, too – renovations on the tower were recently completed, meaning it’s in better nick than ever.

Why go?  To see the world's most celebrated clock – and bell – face to face.

19.  Madame Tussauds

What is it? In 1802, Marie Tussaud made her waxwork debut in the capital (32 years after she founded the show in Paris). By 1884, she decided to lay down permanent roots in Marylebone, and she’s been there ever since (well, her legacy, at least). If you head down to Madame Tussauds today, you’ll come face-to-wax-face with over 150 lifelike models including contemporary stars like Drake and Dua Lipa and historic icons like Albert Einstein and Marilyn Monroe. 

Why go? To snap a selfie with all the famous faces. Instagram, incoming.

20.  Churchill War Rooms

What is it? A secret, secure bunker, tucked behind Downing Street and Parliament Square, where Churchill and his cabinet could monitor how World War II was going, receive intelligence and give orders. It’s the little details that give the biggest impression, from a daily-updated weather noticeboard to the scratch marks on Churchill’s chair (caused by his ring on a stressed day).

Why go? For history lovers to see the rooms just as they were left after 1945.

21.  Royal Opera House

• Classical and opera
• Covent Garden

What is it? Covent Garden’s grand old opera house. Visiting for a performance doesn’t have to set you back a ton of cash – there are discounts for students, senior citizens and those on credits, plus regular ticket offers for all. Alternatively, take a backstage tour, where you can sometimes spot the Royal Ballet practising their moves. 

Why go? To see a right royal opera or ballet performance.

22.  Thames RIB Experience

• Victoria Embankment

What is it? A high-speed ‘rigid inflatable boat’ that will have you zooming up and down the river. Unleash your inner 007 and hop aboard the RIB to travel at speeds of around 35 knots (roughly 40 mph) – it’s almost definitely the fastest, most thrilling way to see some of London’s riverside attractions, from the Tower of London to the Cutty Sark.

Why go? Because it’s the most thrilling way for adrenaline junkies to see the sights.

23.  National Theatre

• Public and national theatres

What is it? Only the greatest theatre in the world (well, we would argue so, anyway). Take your pick of entertainment from the three theatres, and if you’ve got time to kill pre- or post-performance, there are plenty of bars and restaurants in the vicinity to gab about your expectations or dissect the show in afterwards.

Why go?  To witness shows that champion rising talents and showcase big-name stars.

24.  Royal Albert Hall

• Music venues
• South Kensington

What is it?  Across the road from the ornate golden memorial statue of Prince Albert is another dedication. The construction of Royal Albert Hall was ordered by Queen Victoria and named after her late husband. Although the venue is most famously associated with the Proms, its prestigious hall has played host to all kinds of music, theatre and comedy – and continues to do so to this day.

Why go? To experience the dazzling Victorian opulence.

25.  The British Museum

What is it?  The first-ever national museum for the public. Since it first opened in 1759, the British Museum has been displaying global artefacts discovered by British explorers, and it aims to document human culture from its very beginnings. Must-see gems in its permanent collection include the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures.

Why go? The museum has more than eight million objects in its collection, 50,000 of which are on display. That’s a lot of bang for your buck, considering entrance to the main areas is free.

26.  Shakespeare’s Globe

• Shakespeare

What is it? A painstakingly accurate recreation of the kind of theatre Shakespeare would have written all his plays for. If you’ve never been, book groundling tickets and stand in the open-air pit like you’re at a rock festival. It will shake the perception of the Bard’s poetry as stuffy memories of English homework and make it feel how it should – like first-rate drama.

Why go? For a raucous, interactive take on  theatre.

27.  Somerset House

What is it? An elegant eighteenth-century landmark and cultural hub on the north side of Waterloo Bridge that hosts several art exhibitions and events at a time, incorporating the Courtauld Gallery and temporary exhibitions in the Embankment Galleries. The courtyard was once an Inland Revenue car park, but now plays host to a variety of gigs, alfresco cinema and fountains in the summer.

Why go? For music and movies under the stars.

28.  Tate Modern

What is it?  A riverside icon dedicated to modern and contemporary art, based in what was the Bankside power station. The permanent collection is always free, and features work by big names like Warhol, Dalí and Hockney, while the gallery’s programme of special exhibitions delves deeper into the lives and careers of important artists.

Why go?  For some of the best art and architecture London has to offer. 

29.  Kew Palace

What is it? The favoured residence of George III looks more like a massive, ornate biscuit tin than the glittering home of a royal. In the gardens, there is a wonderful little cottage built for Queen Charlotte that trumps any garden shed. You can only visit the palace via Kew Gardens (it’s included in the entry ticket to Kew) so make save time to pop inside during your botanical outing. 

Why go? To discover an often-forgotten treasure.

30.  Cutty Sark

• Ships and boats

What is it? T he world’s last surviving tea clipper. Experience life on board, see the intricate craftsmanship used in its creation and find out how the crew lived. The historic ship caught fire in 2007, but was thankfully repaired. Since its post-blaze refurbishment, visitors have been able to walk underneath the hull. 

Why go?  To get a taste of life at sea without leaving the dock. 

31.  London Transport Museum

What is it? A vast museum full of real relics of the bygone ages of London transport, where there’s always a bus or a train to hop on. While you can swot up on the history of the city’s transport network – including why tube stations were used as war shelters – you can also learn about its future and how the latest technology will run our services in the future. The LTM always hosts a fabulous Friday Late, themed around its newest exhibition.

Why go?  To discover a treasure trove of retro design. 

32.  Highgate Cemetery

What is it?  A beautiful, crumbling north London cemetery. It’s full of overgrown paths that will lead you to several Grade II-listed catacombs and a number of famous remains, including poet Christina Rossetti, architect Sir Lawrence Weaver and philosopher Karl Marx. On a sunny day, it even feels a little less morbid.

Why go?  To try to find Karl Marx’s hidden-away grave.

33.  London Zoo

• Zoos and aquariums
• Regent’s Park

What is it?  The Regent’s Park landmark has come a long way since the days when zoos were full of homesick wildlife. London Zoo does a lot of world-class animal welfare work, creating carefully designed settings in which beautiful creatures from gorillas to lizards, penguins to tigers now reside. There’s a dedicated area for small kids and daily shows for nature fans of all ages.

Why go?  To take a walk on the wild side.

34.  V&A Museum

• Art and design

What is it? One of the greatest collections of decorative art, design, fashion and textiles in the world. The Fashion galleries run from 18th-century court dress right up to contemporary chiffon numbers; the Architecture gallery has videos, models, plans and descriptions of various styles; and the famous Photography collection holds more than 500,000 images. Admission is free, expect for special exhibitions.

Why go? To drool over amazing designs and gobble up cake in the sunny courtyard. Bliss.

35.  The South Bank

What is it? A buzzing open space and cultural nucleus of the capital, lined with some of the city’s most exciting galleries, theatres and attractions. Start at the Southbank Centre, for free art and live shows, lunch at one of the many restaurants, watch the skateboarders and then wander east past the artists’ enclave at Gabriel’s Wharf and on to Tate Modern and the Globe.

Why go? For riverside adventures and ace views. 

36.  SEA LIFE London Aquarium

What is it?  The home of sea creatures from all over the world, from Pacific nurse sharks to Antarctic penguins (with a glimpse of what’s swimming past you in the Thames, too). There are different themed areas to explore, too, like the Coral Kingdom and Open Oceans. It can get busy but go off-peak to get some one-on-one time with the crocs.

Why go? To immerse yourself in the life aquatic.

37.  British Library

• Libraries, archives and foundations
• King’s Cross

What is it? A working resource for printed and sound archives that’s open to all. If you nip into the free entrance hall exhibitions you might get to see a scribbled page of Beatles songwriting or a Leonardo da Vinci notebook. There are some stunning illuminated scripts and landmark scientific items too, including very early photographs. While it’s usually a hushed venue, don’t expect silence to be enforced when a Late at the Library event kicks off.

Why go? For studious research or to geek out on paper-based artefacts.

38.  Science Museum

• Science and technology

What is it? An incredible, free-to-enter, hands-on museum. Over seven floors of entertaining and educational exhibits, you can get up close to the Apollo 10 command module, a virtual reality space-descent experience and a 16th-century artificial arm. Interactivity is a focus here, so this is one museum guaranteed to keep the attention of kids big and small.

Why go? To experience the incredible Information Age gallery, from where the Queen sent her first tweet, signed Elizabeth R.

39.  Trafalgar Square

What is it?  When it comes to London’s top attractions, Trafalgar Square can’t be overlooked. Bring your selfie stick because posing for pics is a must. Get the lions, fountains and red buses and black cabs circling the busy roads around you in shot, and check out the latest modern art installation adorning the Fourth Plinth. Don’t be tempted to get in those fountains, though – paddling is forbidden.

Why go? To take the archetypal, cheesy, London tourist selfie.

40.  Natural History Museum

• Natural history

What is it? The magnificent South Kensington home of around 80 million plant, animal, fossil, rock and mineral specimens. This fascinating museum, which is also a world-class research institution, is full of natural wonders and admission is free. In winter, you’ll find an ice rink in the grounds, while this summer a new garden will open that will let you follow in the footsteps of the story of evolution.

Why go? To marvel at a  25.2-metre-long  blue whale skeleton, a piece of Mars rock,  Mary Anning's  ichthyosaur fossil and lots more.  

41.  Borough Market

What is it? Located just around the corner from London Bridge station, Borough Market is an upmarket foodie heaven of markets, restaurants, bars and pubs. Go on an empty stomach and take a tour around its environs while sampling the dishes and flavours that have kept Londoner’s bellies full for generations... and then wash it all down with a few glugs of craft beer at a local pub.

Why go? To taste food so good you (almost) won’t have time to photograph it first.

42.  Hyde Park

What is it? A massive central London park that’s easy to take for granted. Wander into Hyde Park’s vast greenery, and eventually, you get to the Serpentine Lake, where you can take a dip, go boating, board a solar-powered ferry (in summer) or eat pizza by the water. You can also take guided tours of the gardens and a secret pet cemetery – visit the park's website to book the latter. 

Why go? Because life’s more fun if you stop for a stroll, a bike ride or a picnic.

43.  Royal Observatory

What is it? For centuries, the location for the scientific study of the stars and of timekeeping – originally for the benefit of sea navigation. This is where you’ll see the Greenwich Meridian Line marked out, from which point the world’s time zones are measured. You can also see the incredible instruments that helped astronomers make discoveries about our universe, or go stargazing at a planetarium show.

Why go? To give Brian Cox a run for his money. 

44.  HMS Belfast

What is it? A grey warship, with its guns tilted high, moored close to Tower Bridge, that’ s a museum nowadays. Open daily, with scenes set to show you what life was like on board a working WWII warship, HMS Belfast is a lively visitor space. You can explore all levels of the boat, from the bowels of the vessel to the engine room, the kitchens and even the dentist’s office. And don’t forget the action stations up on the deck.

Why go? To play life-sized battleships.

45.  Regent’s Park

What is it?  A verdant 410 acres of lush, open space, just a short stroll north of Oxford Circus. Featuring a pretty rose garden, the elegant Open Air Theatre (open throughout the summer – check the  website for exact dates) and tree-lined avenues for jogging, it’s a slice of horticultural heaven and a much-needed respite from the rest of the whirring city. 

Why go? To escape the Oxford Street crowds.

46.  Young V&A

• Bethnal Green
• 4 out of 5 stars
• Recommended

What is it? The Bethnal Green museum previously known as the V&A Museum of Childhood. It’s since undergone a £13 million refurbishment project to make it shine brighter, but is still home to one of the world’s finest collections of children’s toys, dolls’ houses, games and costumes.

Why go? To see kids' toys over the ages, including bonkers 1970s puppets, Barbie Dolls and Victorian praxinoscopes.

47.  St James’s Park

What is it? London’s oldest Royal Park and, essentially, Buckingham Palace’s front garden. St James’s Park runs alongside The Mall and offers a handy escape from the traffic noise of Trafalgar Square. The two islands in its lake are home to wildlife and there’s the Princess Diana Memorial Walk to follow if you fancy some gentle exercise.

Why go? To watch the pelicans (which were introduced to the park more than 400 years ago) being fed at 2.30pm daily.

48.  Design Museum

What is it? A trove of the world’s finest design. Relocated in 2016 from its former home on the side of the Thames near Tower Bridge, the new-and-improved building in Kensington is an awe-inspiring presence that covers design over a wealth of disciplines, from architecture and fashion to graphics and products.

Why go? To be wowed by eye-pleasing works and by how design has evolved over the decades.

49.  Hamilton

• Victoria Open run
• 5 out of 5 stars

What is it? The award-winning musical from Lin-Manuel Miranda about US founding father Alexander Hamilton. The show modernises the history of America, pulling from hip-hop, R&B and soul in its songbook, and has won huge acclaim since it first premiered off-Broadway in New York in 2015.

Why go? For the most entertaining – and catchy – history class around.

50.  Shrek’s Adventure! London

• Theme parks

What is it? An interactive tour that starts with a breathtaking 4D ride through the sky before you crash-land near a certain ogre’s swamp and find yourself having to flee from the wicked Rumpelstiltskin. Different missions will give you the chance to meet, help, or even rescue some favourite characters, such as liberating Pinocchio from the Wheel of Torture and cooking up some spells with the Muffin Man. 

Why go? To have a giggle on a whirlwind trip to Far, Far Away.

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Sotheby’s London Auctions Begin, Albertinum Exhibition Abruptly Closes, and More: Morning Links for June 25, 2024

By The Editors of ARTnews

The Editors of ARTnews

The Headlines

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Sotheby's relocates french headquarters to former home of famed paris gallery, the market for south asian modern and contemporary art keeps growing.

ASPEN FAIR DEBUT . The  Aspen Art Fair  is launching its inaugural edition in late July, and taking along with it a chunk of exhibitors from the previously existing  Intersect Aspen Art and Design Fair , including  Perrotin  and  Gmurzynska  galleries,  Harrison Jacobs  and  Sarah Douglas  report in  ARTnews . Cofounded by  Becca Hoffman  and  Bob Chase , respectively the former director of the   Outsider Art Fair  and current owner of Aspen’s  Hexton Gallery , the new fair will take place in the historic, red brick  Hotel Jerome . Some of the 30 participating exhibitors will take over rooms in the Victorian hotel, and others will set up booths in the building’s public spaces. The program will also include talks, performances, and screenings, and will coincide with  Aspen Art Week .

An exhibition about colonialism at the  Albertinum   in Dresdenwas canceled hours before it was due to open June 18, after its curator and author,  Zoé Samudzi , refused to open the show. Samudzi later stated her reasons were related to “actions by the institution that felt repressive and did not allow me to speak freely about genocide denial without qualification.” She also noted that “Germany continues to deny the genocide of the  Ovaherero  and  Nama ” people, in what is now Namibia, between 1904 and 1908, and claimed that the institution had said that was only her opinion. [ Der Spiegel ]

The  National Coalition Against Censorship  has criticized the cancelation and postponement of  Kehinde Wiley  exhibitions following allegations of sexual assault which the artist has denied. The group said the accusations were serious, but museums were “not equipped or mandated to be enforcers of moral orthodoxy.” [ Artnet News ]

A tourist was caught carving the name “Ali” into the wall of an archaeological site in  Pompeii . Italian authorities said the unnamed man, who is reportedly from Kazakhstan, will be required to pay for restoring the rare plaster wall in the 2nd-century BCE villa, known as the  House of the Ceii . [ The Daily Mail ]

Saudi Arabia has revealed plans for a tech-focused performing arts center in Qiddiya, outside Riyadh. The 500,000-square-meter  Qiddiya Performing Arts Center  will host over 260 yearly performances, plus gaming and e-sports, in a complex that is set to welcome some 10 million annual visitors by 2030. [ The National ]

The  Paris Olympic Games  opening ceremony on July 26 will feature sustainably designed costumes, with looks by  Louis Vuitton  and  Dior , as well as emerging designers. This will be the first time the outfits for the event are designed to reduce their carbon emissions, said  Daphné Bürki , the styling and costumes director for the event. [ WWD ]

EXHIBITION SLOWDOWN . How many times have you realized you were about to miss another great exhibition that was about to close? Julia Halperin has lost count, she writes in an  Art Newspaper   report. “Over the past two decades, the art world has expanded dramatically, and museum programming has ballooned along with it,” she notes. But some museums are rethinking the art world’s fast pace, particularly when they rely on tourism, and are instead embracing a slower, more seasonal model hinged on vacation periods, while attempting to offer a deeper experience overall. The idea is to also encourage multiple visits. “It’s not just the pursuit of the new,” said  Eric Crosby , director of the  Carnegie Museum of Art  in Pittsburgh. There are also working conditions to consider, rising shipping and storage costs, and environmental concerns. Crosby asked: “Why close an exhibition that took three years to put together after just three months?” Many of us have been wondering the same thing.

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ARTnews is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Art Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Home » Destinations » Europe » England » 27 Classic London Tourist Attractions That You Cannot Miss

27 Classic London Tourist Attractions That You Cannot Miss

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Looking for the best London tourist attractions? Well, you certainly have a few to choose from! Having lived and worked in the UK (both of us), we know a thing or two about London.

When Eric lived in Edinburgh , he would visit London quite often on the weekends. His favourite attractions to visit are definitely the View from The Shard and Tower Bridge (he has a thing for beautiful views from high places).

That said, there are famous attractions for all interests in every corner of the city. The great thing about London is that there are lots of places to visit for free – and we will tell you which ones in this article.

Pur detailed guide walks you through the classic tourist attractions – from museums to palaces, monuments and more – to help you plan your trip to London and explore it like a pro.

London Quick Guide

Best Time to Visit:  Summer for nice weather (but busy), spring and fall are best as the shoulder season is more relaxed. Just remember to bring your jacket!

Getting Around:  The city is relatively flat and walkable – but very large and sprawling. Use Transport for London for transit (London Underground, buses, water ferries, etc.)

Top Things to Do:  Tower of London & Crown Jewels Exhibition , The London Eye , Westminster Abbey , View from The Shard

Where to Stay:   The Z Hotel Covent Garden for a popular, central location, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge for attractions and views, Blue Bells Hotel for budget, and Page8, Page Hotels for a boutique option by Trafalgar Square.

Table of Contents

Top London Tourist Attractions to Visit

Let’s dive into the top London attractions across the city.

Of course, this is not everything – but we wanted to include the most popular and a few different attractions for all different interests and budgets.

The Go City London Explorer Pass may be worth it if you plan to visit several paid attractions during your visit.

Also, these are in no particular order, so don’t feel that they are more important if they are listed higher up. London is a city with – dare we say – too many top attractions for all interests, so there’s no right or wrong answer!

Buckingham Palace & Victoria Memorial

Address: 51°30’05.3″N 0°08’29.3″W

Of course, we felt like we had to start off the list strong with Buckingham Palace. As the former royal residence of Queen Elizabeth II (rest in peace), it’s a building that needs little introduction.

Fun fact: Buckingham Palace is one of the only fully-functioning palaces (that still carries out administrative business and serves as a royal residence) in the world.

It’s located in Westminster – surrounded by lovely green spaces and connected to The Mall, a royal roadway that leads to the heart of London at Trafalgar Square.

The Palace is open to tours during the summer. You can tour the Palace and the State Rooms and check out how lavishly decorated the interior is.

There are also pieces of art by famous painters such as Rembrandt. You can get an audio guide in a bunch of different languages which is nice for visitors from afar.

The famous reason to visit the palace is for the “Changing of the Guard” – a ceremony that takes place once a day – on certain days – starting at 11:00 am at Buckingham Palace.

The Changing of the Guard happens only on certain days of the week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday), so keep that in mind.

Consider a Changing of the Guard tour with a local guide who will tell you all the little details of the famous ceremony!

The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes – and if it’s raining it’s likely to be cancelled so it’s kind of hard to plan ahead. That said, if you want to see it, go early for a good viewing spot.

The Palace of Westminster & “Big Ben”

Location: 51°30’00.1″N 0°07’32.4″W

Again, one of the most iconic and photographed buildings in the United Kingdom – and arguably the world – is the Palace of Westminster and the clock tower “Big Ben”.

Before we go on, let’s set the record straight: Big Ben is the name of the largest of the 5 bells inside the tower.

The tower itself is called the Elizabeth Tower, and it is all connected to the Palace of Westminster. Got it? Great!

The Palace, located right on the River Thames next to Westminster Bridge, is where the UK Parliament is located.

You can actually get a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament (House of Commons, House of Lords) if you’re interested in learning about democracy in historic Britain.

The London Eye

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom

As for touristy things in London, few can beat a spin on the London Eye. Opened in 2000, this massive Ferris wheel stands 135 metres tall.

It was once the world’s tallest Ferris wheel – but sadly it’s been passed. Regardless of its height, this iconic structure is always a draw for visitors to London.

Once you’re on, one rotation takes about 30 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of time to take in the beautiful views.

Our Tip: Get your  London Eye tickets here in advance – the price changes depending on whether you want a line-skip ticket or an off-peak timeslot ticket.

You can book a time slot and entry in advance for as opposed to just showing up. If you just show up, you might get passed by people who have tickets already and might have to wait for a while.

Eric has been on it and liked it. It’s certainly an experience to do at least once.

The Eye is located close to Westminster and other top attractions which makes it a good stop along the South Bank even if just for a photograph.

Tower Bridge

Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, UK

Built in 1886 and completed in 1894, Tower Bridge over the River Thames is arguably one of the most iconic bridges in the world. 

It’s funny because Tower Bridge is often confused to be “London Bridge” from the famous children’s song.

That bridge is actually only a few hundred metres away – and admittedly not as grand or exciting as Tower Bridge!

These days, you can walk across the bridge at street level (which is cool enough), but you should look into the Tower Bridge Museum and Tour to see the exhibits, the museum, and even walk across the top!

Get your Tower Bridge entry ticket here .

There’s a glass floor where you can see the cars below as you walk across – it’s pretty cool. Eric visited the inside of the bridge exhibit years ago and loved it!

While you are there, you can even visit the engine room, which helps you appreciate the scale of the mechanisms at work behind raising and lowering the middle section.

There were videos about the construction, life in London back in the day, and much more.

Overall, the Tower Bridge was fascinating to see and experience. The museum was really interesting and you can learn a lot! We would definitely recommend a visit to Tower Bridge.

River Thames

Location: Through Central London

Of course, you cannot talk about all these attractions in London without mentioning the famous river that snakes its way through the city: the Thames.

The Thames has played a huge role in shaping the city from its early days until now as a commercial and cultural hub of the world.

The river is also very functional, serving as a way to get around the city and as a way to see the city from a different perspective!

You can cross over the Thames using one of the many bridges across the city entre. You could walk along its banks for ages taking in the nice weather – but until you actually get out on the water, you haven’t experienced all the unique sides of London.

Luckily, there are so many ways to explore the famous waterway, from themed boat cruises to speedboat adventures. Check out some of the top Thames experiences below:

Popular River Thames Tours

• Thames Afternoon Tea Cruise
• River Thames Speed Boat Tour
• Thames Evening Cruise w/ Bubbly !
• Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Thames River Cruise

Westminster Abbey

Address: 20 Deans Yard, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, UK

Located in Westminster, close to many of the other important buildings (such as Big Ben), you’ll find the iconic church known as Westminster Abbey . 

The first church was founded over 1000 years ago – and since William the Conqueror in 1066, all English and British monarchs have had their coronations there!

The current abbey was built in 1245, has been rebuilt and restored a bunch of times, and is now considered one of the most important Gothic structures in the whole of the UK.

Book your Westminster Abbey entrance ticket in advance if you know you’ll be visiting.

As such, the Abbey is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also been the site of 16 royal weddings (yes, William and Kate, too) – and over 3,000 important British people (heads of state, poets, etc) are buried there.

It’s a popular place to visit in London, so if you’re planning to go, plan ahead.

Address: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, UK

If you are already in London, you may have seen a very tall glass structure that seems to pierce the sky. That’s The Shard – and you should definitely go up there!

Built in 2010, the Shard has the highest observation deck in London on the 72nd floor.

The building is also home to a few restaurants, bars/cafes, and even a hotel – the Shangri-La ! Imagine waking up to views like that!

Eric has been up there and honestly, he loved it. He generally loves high places where you can get a really great view, so the Shard fits the bill pretty well.

The Shard actually has different events and packages like champagne at sunset or even yoga. They even have a weather guarantee where if the weather is bad during your visit you can come back for free!

We’d recommend booking your View from The Shard ticket in advance to reserve your elevator/viewing time if you know you want to go up.

This way, you can make sure you get the time slot you want – because the sunset hours are a popular choice!

Don’t worry – once you are up there, you can stay as long as you like. We like that about the Shard – you can visit at your own pace.

Oh, and if you’re in the area, check out Borough Market – it’s a popular place to explore through your stomach!

Kensington Palace

Address: Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX, UK

As far as royal palaces go, Kensington Palace just had to make the list.

It serves as the official royal residence for some important younger royals (the Prince and Princess of Wales – aka William and Kate).

Located in Kensington Gardens – the green space just west of Hyde Park – it’s quite central and easy to get to if you are already in central London.

The grounds themselves have seen massive overhaul and restoration works over the decades and are now open to visitors.

Check out Kensington Palace with your entrance ticket .

The Tower of London

Address: Tower of London, London, EC3N 4AB

London has no shortage of historic buildings – so why not visit a 900-year-old castle? The Tower of London is just that!

Located very close to where Tower Bridge connects to the north side of the Thames, this famous fortress has a lot to offer visitors.

Over the years it has served as a royal residence, military barracks, an armoury, a notorious prison, and now a museum. Oh, and can’t forget the fortified home of the “Crown Jewels”!

Eric visited the Tower of London a few years ago – and it was pretty cool. The exhibits were great, but there were quite a few people given how popular of an attraction it is. 

Seeing and learning about the Crown Jewels was fascinating.

Our Tip: Book your regular Tower of London ticket in advance or get an early access Tower of London & Tower Bridge ticket to help avoid the mid-day crowds when you see the Crown Jewels.

The Sky Garden at The Walkie Talkie

Address: 20 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 8AF, UK

If taking to the skies is your thing but you also want to experience some green space, you can have the best of both worlds at the Sky Garden .

Located on the 35th floor of “The Walkie Talkie” building (officially 20 Fenchurch is the name and address), this “urban jungle” is a very cool space with restaurants, bars/cafes, and even events.

As a visitor just having a look, it’s free to go up – but you have to reserve a time slot online. Free tickets are released on Mondays up to three weeks in advance.

They do accept walk-ups but it’s definitely worth booking in advance if you know you want to visit.

If you want to eat or drink, that’s a separate reservation for the bars or restaurants up there.

With views of London’s famous buildings all around you, it’s also a popular place to watch the sunset!

Trafalgar Square

Address: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN, United Kingdom

A visit to London wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Trafalgar Square. This large open-air public square is located in the heart of the city, just a short walk north of the river.

Here you’ll find the iconic Nelson’s Column (which commemorates the win in the Battle of Trafalgar during the Napoleonic Wars). Around the column you’ll find the famous lions keeping watch.

The square is also known for its large fountains and “The Fourth Plinth”, a large stone pillar that gets decorated with modern art every year.

At Christmas time, you’ll find the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, which Norway gifts the UK every year (since 1947) as thanks for their support during World War II.

Generally, Trafalgar is a gathering place for tours and groups, locals and visitors alike. The National Gallery (mentioned next) is also located here.

For Canadian readers, you’ll also find the High Commission of Canada here – just look for the Canadian flags.

The National Gallery

Are art galleries more your thing? Then the National Gallery in the heart of London is for you!

The National Gallery is located right on Trafalgar Square – which is why we mentioned it above.

The Gallery was founded back in 1824 and focuses on European art. In fact, the collection boasts over 2,000 paintings from as far back as the 13th century!

The nice thing about most museums (the publicly funded ones) in London is that they are generally free to visit.

This makes experiencing these fantastic collections accessible, which is nice if you are on a budget.

The same rule goes for the National Gallery – although special/rotating exhibits usually cost money to see. There is also a charge for guided tours of the gallery.

Explore the National Gallery on the official highlights guided tour .

St. Paul’s Cathedral

Address: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, UK

Want to visit one of the most famous religious sites in the country? The iconic dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral never disappoints!

St. Paul’s is easy to find. It’s located just north of the Thames, with the Millennium Bridge connecting the sidewalk from the building directly across the river to the front of the Tate Modern Museum. You can see that in the photo above!

The original church on the site dates from 604 and was built on this point at Ludgate Hill – the highest point in the City of London. The old cathedral was originally built in 1256 but burnt down in the Great Fire of London.

The new building (the current one) was rebuilt in 1675. The iconic dome stood as the highest point on the skyline for over 3 centuries until the 1960s and is still one of the highest domes in the world today!

If you’re planning to visit the cathedral,  a St. Paul’s Cathedral ticket with an audio guide  might be worth your time considering it’s a top attraction.

Also, keep in mind that the cathedral is a fully-operational parish with separate daily services and visiting hours.

The Tate Modern

Address: Bankside, London SE1 9TG, United Kingdom

If you are interested in international and contemporary art, the  Tate Modern  is for you.

The Tate is one of two Tate museums in the city – the other is the Tate Britain near Westminster on the other side of the river. We will talk about it right below this one!

In any case, the Tate Modern was named the most visited attraction in the UK a few years ago – passing the British Museum (also on this list).

It’s probably a good idea to check it out. Of course, admission to the museum is free, but special exhibits might have a small cost attached.

The Tate Modern is easy to find – just look for the massive red brick tower/building exterior on the South Bank of the Thames.

Still lost? The entrance is just across the river from St. Paul’s Cathedral – and connecting the two is the “Harry Potter” bridge.

That’s what the Millennium bridge is sometimes called, because it’s the one destroyed in one of the later Harry Potter films!

The Tate Britain

Address: Millbank, London SW1P 4RG, United Kingdom

As for the other Tate Museum in the city, the Tate Britain has a slightly different feel to it.

More focused on displaying British art – including paintings, sculptures, and more – the Tate Britain also features a stunning staircase which is worth the photo.

Located on the north side of the Thames, it’s just south of the Palace of Westminster on the river bank – close to the Vauxhall Bridge and Pimlico Tube Station. 

As with the other museums, admission is free – but you pay to enter special exhibitions.

The Monument to the Great Fire of London

Address: Fish St Hill, London EC3R 8AH, United Kingdom

Want some great views of the city and a bit of exercise? Check out the Monument to the Great Fire of London .

Located on the north bank of the river close to the base of London Bridge, this 62 metre tall tower was built in 1671 to commemorate the Great Fire of London in 1666.

In case you haven’t heard, that fire destroyed 1/3 of the city – including over 13,000 homes. These days, London is much more fire safe as not everything is timber frames!

The monument itself has significance. It was placed near Pudding Lane – the street with the bakery where the fire first broke out.

Climbing the spiral staircase inside involves 311 steps – but you get great views of the city from this vantage point just north of the river.

The Natural History Museum

Address: Cromwell Rd, Kensington, London SW7 5BD, UK

Did you come to London to have a look at over 80 million specimens available in one museum? Oh, perfect – because that’s how many the Natural History Museum has!

Okay, not ALL of them are on display at once – that would take up way too much space.

Located in South Kensington (close to the southwest end of Hyde Park), the Natural History Museum is one of three major museums on the famous “Exhibition Road” (the other two are also on this list: The Victoria and Albert Museum and the Science Museum).

The museum is significant for its contributions to life and earth science – some specimens were even collected by Charles Darwin himself!

The entrance lobby is iconic because there used to be a dinosaur – a plaster cast of the Diplodocus “Dippy” – which has now been replaced by a full skeleton of a blue whale (which is also quite a sight).

As with most publicly funded museums in London, general admission is free with special exhibits costing a a small fee.

Shakespeare’s Globe

Address: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT, UK

Are you a fan of Shakespeare? How about the history behind his famous “Globe Theatre”?

Well, there’s a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe in London on the South Bank (very close to the Tate Modern) – and you watch Shakespeare done right just like it was experienced centuries ago!

Eric has been to the Globe and had a true Globe experience, standing on the ground (called floor seats) and drinking an ale that they sell, which is apparently similar to what was available at the time.

He saw A Midsummer Night’s Dream and the overall experience of the performance was just awesome.

The best part is that while there are balcony seats around the stage, floor tickets are only £5 – but they sell out fast and in advance!

Warner Brothers Studio Tour for Harry Potter

Address: Warner Drive, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LP, United Kingdom

If you are a die-hard Harry Potter fan, then London is a great place to visit! There are many places around London that you can visit to experience scenes from the movies:

• Leadenhall Market was used as Diagon Alley in the first film
• A version of Platform 9 and 3/4 is located in King’s Cross Station
• The Millennium Bridge – which crosses the Thames near St. Paul’s Cathedral – was taken down by Death Eaters

A Harry Potter Walking Tour is a great way to get your fan-fill without leaving the city.

If you really want to immerse yourself in the world of Harry Potter, a tour of the Warner Brothers Studios is a must-do.

The studios themselves are located outside the city centre in Leavesden. This is the only attraction we have listed that is truly located outside the city.

However, we wanted to include it as it is so popular that people might be looking for it.

In what has become a major tourist draw, the studios have opened their doors to movie sets such as Diagon Alley, the Great Hall, Gringotts Wizarding Bank, and more. You can tour the sets, and see costumes and iconic props used in the films.

Our Tip: If you want to visit the Studios, hop on a Warner Bros. London Studio Tour with transportation included to make the trip easy and memorable!

Remember to book your tickets in advance since it’s a popular attraction to visit. In fact, tickets must be booked in advance.

Greenwich Park & National Maritime Museum

Address: Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF, United Kingdom

Speaking of attractions in London that are not directly in the city centre: Greenwich Park is one of them!

Located to the east of central London at the southern end of the Isle of Dogs (on the opposite side of the Thames), this famous green space is where you find the Prime Meridian.

You can stand where the eastern and western hemispheres meet and learn all about time at the Royal Observatory Greenwich .

From the top of the park’s hill, you get great views of Canary Wharf and the rest of the city. The whole area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architecture and historical/cultural significance.

There are other things to explore in the park to keep you busy. You can head towards the Queen’s House, the nearbly National Maritime Museum , and the Royal Naval College down by the river.

You can spend an hour cruising the Thames from Westminster to Greenwich , taking in the sights along the way!

You can take transit – either a Tube and train combination or a Tube and DLR combination to get there. The other great way to get there is by boat ( Thames Clipper ) on the Thames!

The Victoria and Albert Museum

Address: Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL, United Kingdom

If you want to visit the world’s largest museum dedicated to decorative arts and sculptures, then the Victoria and Albert Museum is for you.

Sometimes referred to as the V&A, the museum is located in South Kensington and is one of the three major museums on “Exhibition Road” (along with the Natural History Museum and Science Museum). Admission to the V&A is also free!

The V&A has over 2 million objects in its collection – as it’s been collecting since 1852, this makes sense.

Inside, you will find works from all over the world, spanning 5,000 years of “creatives” – art, print, textiles, patterned objects, furniture, photos, and more!

In fact, the museum has the largest collection of objects from the Italian Renaissance era located outside of Italy.

London Dungeons

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom

Of course, you can’t write a post about tourist attractions in London without mentioning the London Dungeons. This attraction is located near Westminster Bridge, basically right next to the London Eye.

If you want to learn about London’s dark past in a more “theatrical” way, then the Dungeons are for you.

This creepy attraction gets many visitors each year who are eager to learn a bit of history while being taken on an entertaining journey by live actors, effects, and rides.

Get your tickets for the London Dungeon here , if you dare!

We’ve never been, but apparently the one in London is quite good. You can find these Dungeon attractions in other larger cities – like Edinburgh – so if you miss it in London you might get a visit elsewhere!

The British Museum

Address: Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG, UK

As one of the largest museums in the world dedicated to “human history”, the British Museum is a pretty important place to visit.

Founded in 1753, the British Museum has since grown and expanded into the mammoth building it is today.

In fact, the Natural History Museum (listed above) is actually technically a branch of the British Museum’s collection.

Today, the British Museum holds over 8 million pieces – only 1% of which are currently on display. There are even a few controversial objects – like the Rosetta Stone – on display in the museum. 

Our Tip: The British Museum is huge – so a guided tour experience might help you get the most out of your visit.

This popular attraction used to be the most visited in the UK – until the Tate Modern overtook it in 2019. However, it’s still a great place to check out since it’s centrally located near Russell Square.

Admission to the British Museum is free – but you can pay extra for special exhibits going on at the time you visit. Donations are always welcomed if you visit, though!

Address: 51°30’30.2″N 0°09’50.4″W

If you want to enjoy some peace and quiet while wandering around the bustling city, head for one of the green spaces – there are plenty to choose from.

Close to Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace are four interconnected “Royal Parks”. The largest one is Hyde Park (there are actually 8 Royal Parks total all over the city).

The park is full of smaller monuments (such as the Wellington Arch), cafes, gardens and paths leading in all directions.

You might want to check out Speakers’ Corner – an area that members of the public have used to protest, speak, and debate since the 1800s.

You can even swim in The Serpentine – a small lake in the middle! Eric has walked through it many times – but never swam.

A Royal Parks and Royal Palaces tour might interest you if you like exploring history and green spaces!

Harrods Department Store

Address: 87-135 Brompton Rd, London SW1X 7XL, United Kingdom

Some would put this on the list of top attractions in London – and others would leave it off. Whatever camp you fall into, a list of top attractions in London just doesn’t feel complete without Harrods Department Store .

Founded in 1849 and located in the lively area of Knightsbridge, Harrods is arguably one of the most famous department stores in the world.

With a Latin motto that translates to “all things for all people, everywhere”, it’s a hectic place famous for its high-end items, its Christmas displays, food halls, and more.

Fun Fact: Harrods had one of the world’s first escalators in 1898. It was actually a sewn leather walkway that moved people – and people at the time were not keen to ride it. The store offered customers brandy at the top of the escalator to help calm their nerves (seriously).

Personally, we don’t know what all the hype is about, but we know friends who have made a trip to Harrods like a pilgrimage while in London. We guess being the largest department store in Europe is pretty neat.

Visit Harrods on a vintage bus tour with a cream tea experience!

The Science Museum

Address: Exhibition Rd, Kensington, London SW7 2DD, UK

If science is your thing, then why not visit the Science Museum?

Founded back in 1857, the Science Museum in London is the final of the three major museums we keep talking about on “Exhibition Road” (the other two being the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum).

They are all located in South Kensington.

Inside the museum, the collection houses over 300,000 items from all facets of science – from astronomy to steam-powered engines.

With interactive exhibits, the Science Museum is a great place to take kids when visiting London. They have also added an IMAX cinema with rotating films on display.

Not to sound like a broken record in this post, but admission to the Science Museum is free – but donations are always welcome.

The Churchhill War Rooms

Address: Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London, SW1A 2AQ

London has a long and important place in European history – and so it should come as no surprise that wartime history is very popular in London.

The city was bombed by the Germans in 1940 and 1941 in what is known as the Blitz – a series of air raids.

Many people and important objects were moved to bunkers around the city (or out of the city completely). One of these people was the Prime Minister at the time – Winston Churchill.

So, if you want to know what his bunker looked like (with the ability to carry on running the country and the war effort), then head to Churchill’s Bunker/War Rooms!

Located very close to the Palace of Westminster, the War Rooms are a very popular attraction in the city since they have been preserved for future generations with meticulous detail.

If you want to learn more about wartime in London and visit the War Rooms, you can do both on a guided walking tour of Westminster and the famous War Rooms !

Things to Consider When Visiting London

If you are planning a visit to London, there are a few things you should think about before you go.

We thought it might be helpful to briefly talk about what you need to know before visiting: like general information, currency, weather, transport, and more!

General Information About London

London is a diverse metropolitan centre made up of over 8 million people. The city is the capital of England – and also the United Kingdom.

It’s also one of the most visited cities in the world! The language spoken is English – but the city is quite diverse so don’t be surprised to hear several languages when you visit.

London is divided into two halves by the Thames – a winding river that snakes its way through the centre of the city.

There is a north side of the river and a south bank – and each has different neighbourhoods, attractions, and things to do!

The currency used in London is the British Pound – so make sure you take some out before you leave, or be prepared to take out cash when you land.

You can basically use cards everywhere in London, but it’s always good to have some cash on you. Also, the Pound is different from the Euro – so if you carry on through Europe, you will need another currency!

Best Time to Visit London

Determining the best time to visit London is complicated – since the UK is known for its cloudy weather. That said, spring might be a little wet but not as wet as the winter months.

Summer has a good chance of being warm – but the city can get VERY busy. So, we recommend visiting in the fall when the weather is likely to still be nice and only a bit cooler.

Whichever time of year you visit, there is always a chance of rain in the United Kingdom.

Joking aside, you can absolutely enjoy London in the rain since there is lots to do indoors and a good rain jacket is all you need to survive!

Read More: Check out our Packing List for Europe !

Getting Around London

As for getting around London, you have options when it comes to one of the world’s most famous transit systems – made up of buses, the Tube (London Underground), DLR (London Light Rail), the Overground (basically just trains), river trains (ferries), and more.

The subway is famously known as the London Underground – or the Tube – and you can take it to many of the top attractions across the city.

As a visitor, you should check out the official Transport for London website .

When it comes to paying your fare, you have a few options. You could buy individual tickets to travel with paper tickets from vending machines.

Another – more likely and very convenient – option is to pay for transit fares using a contactless debit or credit card. This is super handy. The gates also accept Apple and Google Pay.

Then there are also tap cards used for the transit system, which are called Oyster Cards. You can get a Visitor Oyster Card, which is a prepaid Oyster Card that also comes with discounts on restaurants, museums, and more.

You can also just get a regular Oyster Card – which is a regular refillable tap card. As of late 2022, Oyster cards are 7 pounds and that is not refundable. They used to be 5 pounds and you could return them and get your money back.

The Transport system also has Visitor Passes and Travel cards, which you can read about here .

Popular London Tours

There are lots of great ways to get around London on tours, which are also a great way to see the sights and learn as you explore the city!

• Classic 3.5-Hour London Bike Tour
• Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Ticket

Where to Stay in London

Being London, there are so many places to stay – both accommodation options and also great areas/neighbourhoods. We have a detailed guide on where to stay in London if you are planning a trip and want to know more.

Get started searching for Accommodations in London .

For the purposes of this post, we’ll give you our spark notes to get you started.

If you are looking for a popular option in a great location, The Z Hotel Covent Garden is located in Covent Garden, which puts it within walking distance of many top areas and attractions.

For views of “Big Ben” and a location right beside the Thames, the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London is located at one end of Westminster Bridge and close to transit (Waterloo Station).

London can be expensive, so a nice budget option is the Blue Bells Hotel up near Paddington Station (close to Hyde Park/Kensington Gardens).

Lastly, a really nice boutique hotel option is the Page8, Page Hotels which is located just steps from Trafalgar Square.

Tip: Staying in an area of central London – such as Soho, for example – will have you close to many of the top sights. However, it may be noisier compared to a location on the river (like Lambeth) a little further from the action.

Related Articles

If you are planning a trip to London (or to the UK in general), here are some more posts that you may find helpful:

• One Day in London Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
• Where to Stay in London: Neighbourhood & Accommodation Guide
• Day Trips From London (& How to Get There)
• 3 Days in London Itinerary
• Our Experience (+Tips) for Visiting Stonehenge

And there you have it – a very comprehensive list of the top tourist attractions in London! Now, this isn’t everything – but it should be more than enough to keep you busy during your visit.

In any case, these are some of our favourite attractions – and a few that we haven’t been to yet, but have had on our list for ages!

London is a massive city with tons to see and do – so let us know what you get up to. Have fun!

As always, Happy Waddlin’, -L&E

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Avoid These Tourist Traps In London And Visit These Destinations Instead

O ne of the world's greatest cities, London is packed with tourist attractions so impressive that you'll want to add them all to your itinerary. From the Tower of London to Buckingham Palace to the Churchill War Rooms, the list of unmissable landmarks seems endless. Don't worry, though -- it's possible to visit most of them in just a two-day trip . When you're on a tight schedule, it's important to avoid time- and money-wasting tourist traps in favor of visiting sites that are worthy of your attention. 

Whether it's an overrated and overpriced wax museum, a kitschy dungeon experience, or a super crowded viewpoint, there are many places to avoid visiting in the U.K.'s heady capital. The confusing part? Some of them top multiple lists of must-see attractions. That's where we come in. 

As someone who lived in this captivating English city for six years, I have first-hand knowledge of the biggest tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London. Plus, I can offer more impressive (and often less costly) destinations to visit instead. Don't want to take my word for it? No problem. I combined my first-hand knowledge with reviews and suggestions from other locals to create this list.

Read more: 50 Underrated Tourist Destinations Around The World

Skip Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours And Ride A London Bus

While hop-on hop-off bus tours can be a convenient way to explore a big city, they often come with a hefty price tag. If the tour is based in London, you can expect to pay over $50 per adult for a one-day pass. Instead, board a London bus, which will cost less than $7 for a day of travel. Bus fare for one ride is about $2 and the daily cap is under $7. To pay for their ride, visitors must use a contactless card or an Oyster Card, the visitor's version of which can be purchased online and mailed to your home before you leave.

Double-decker London buses offer spectacular city views, with many routes passing right by London's landmark attractions. One of our faves is the historic Routemaster Bus 15, which we suggest boarding at the Tower of London. Hop on at Great Tower Street (Stop TT) and ride west to Charing Cross Station. Be sure to sit up top for the best views along this heritage route -– you can't miss St. Paul's Cathedral and Trafalgar Square. 

Bus 24 is another great option for sightseers. Hop on at Victoria Station and ride it to Camden High Street. Along the way, you'll pass Westminster Abbey, the Horse Guard's Parade, Trafalgar Square, and Downing Street. Grab a bite at Camden Market when you disembark or stay on until you reach Hampstead Heath where you can catch unbeatable views of the city.

Skip Madame Tussauds And Visit Buckingham Palace

It may tout itself as a top London attraction, but Madame Tussauds would be more honest if they said they were the top rip-off site. Booking in advance will save some money -- the standard online rate for an adult begins at just over $47 versus the walk-up price, which begins at almost $60. But that's still a lot of quid to dish out for wandering around an overcrowded and noisy space filled with okay-ish wax replicas of A- and B-list celebs. Yes, it's fun to take photos with the royal family and fool friends into thinking you met them IRL, but is it worth it? We don't think so.

Instead, we suggest visiting Buckingham Palace for a potential King Charles III sighting. Realistically, you probably won't spy a royal outside the palace, but at least you'll see a historic monument up close. Celebrities more your thing? Book a reservation at one of the city's most popular restaurants. Chiltern Firehouse has hosted acting greats Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper as well as soccer superstar David Beckham. 34 Mayfair is another good bet for great food and celeb spotting. Imelda Staunton and royal family members have all eaten here.

Skip Changing Of The Guard And Visit The Queen's Gallery

While you should add Buckingham Palace to your list of must-see London tourist attractions, you may want to avoid a visit during the Changing of the Guard. This formal ceremony marks the change between the old guard (on-duty soldiers) and new guard (soldiers taking over duty) for the royal palaces. Marching with a band from Wellington Barracks to the Palace, the new guard will arrive at the palace at about 10:45 a.m. A well-known event, this is a big tourist draw, which means you can expect hefty crowds queuing up an hour or more in advance, as well as pickpockets who arrive to take advantage of the chaotic atmosphere. This tourist trap, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, is one you'll be happy to miss. Sadly, watching this famed ceremony these days feels more like witnessing an overhyped marching band than it does an esteemed historic ritual.

Instead, ditch the crowds and glimpse art from the Royal Collection in the Queen's Gallery or visit the Royal Mews , where you can see the royal stables and the 260-year-old Gold State Coach used at King Charles III's Coronation. The Mews are open Thursday through Monday from early March to early November. Neighboring St. James Park is another interesting place to visit. One of London's famed Royal Parks, it is bordered by three palaces and boasts a fabulous view of Buckingham Palace in particular.

Skip Platform 9 ¾ At King's Cross Station And Visit Warner Brothers Studio Tour London

If you're traveling with a Harry Potter-obsessed kid, you may want to visit Platform 9 ¾ at King's Cross Station. But if you're alone, or with other adults who couldn't care less, we advise you to skip this overrated tourist trap. If you're already planning to be in King's Cross Station and have time to scope out this attraction, that's one thing; but if you're traveling there with the sole purpose of visiting this site, think twice. 

Set between platforms 9 and 10 (obvs) this point of interest includes nothing but a brick wall denoted with a sign. Stuck into the wall is part of a trolley loaded with fake suitcases and an empty owl cage. Those hoping for a quick photo and to score some Potter swag will be pleased;  the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is open daily, even on bank holidays, and it sells everything from wands to clothes to makeup. 

For those who'd rather have an unforgettable and truly magical Harry Potter experience, though, head to Warner Brothers Studio Tour London -- The Making of Harry Potter in nearby Leavesden. Instead of merely looking at a wall, visitors can board the Hogwarts Express, "fly" on a broomstick, walk through the Great Hall, and explore the Forbidden Forest. Step foot in Diagon Alley, try a Butterbeer, or check out some of the film's famous props and costumes. You won't be sorry you visited.

Skip London Dungeon And Visit The Tower Of London

No matter how much the kids beg you to visit the London Dungeon, stay strong and just say "no." This kitschy tourist trap is a waste of your hard-earned money (tickets start at over $37 for adults) and it's so hokey you'll roll your eyes more times than you can count on both hands. This pitiful attraction is peppered with costume-clad actors who like to scream and cackle and its two rides (the Drop Dead: Drop Ride and the Tyrant Boat Ride) will make you wish you were at Walt Disney World; even "It's a Small World" would be more enjoyable. An escape room has also been added to increase the venue's income stream –- it costs $153 for a private game for six people.

Want a historic experience with a side of chills? Head to the Tower of London instead. There, you can tour the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, where you can get up close and personal with the stretching machine (a.k.a. the rack) and other ancient torture devices in the Lower Wakefield Tower. The Bloody Tower is another point of interest you won't want to miss. The most infamous prison on the grounds, this is where you'll learn about the alleged murder of two young princes -– Edward V and his little brother Richard –- by their uncle, Richard III.

Skip The London Bridge Experience And Visit Churchill War Rooms

Looking for a good spooking? Do yourself a favor and skip The London Bridge Experience. A tourist trap designed to bring the city's macabre history to life with the help of actors with a penchant for jump scares, you can expect to meet zombie-like versions of ghastly heavyweights Jack the Ripper and William Wallace during your visit. Tickets cost about $37 for the experience, which takes anywhere between 35 and 50 minutes. That means you could be spending more than $1 a minute. Entry fees also include a trip to the London Tombs, deemed the U.K.'s "best scare attraction," according to their site . Zombified dentists, doctors, and creepy clowns await visitors in the lower vaults of this venue, ready to pounce and scream in your face.

Instead, we suggest visiting the Churchill War Rooms. Also located underground, this fascinating historic facility is part of the Imperial War Museums. Located in the basement of Whitehall, this once-secret complex was used by former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, top government ministers, and military planners to conduct meetings and develop plans during the country's war effort during World War II. Known as the Cabinet War Rooms, this clandestine spot was used daily during the war, until August 16, 1945. Or experience that stomach drop feeling by walking the glass floors at Tower Bridge. Set nearly 138 feet above the Thames, the views are both terrifying and impressive. Tickets cost under $16 per adult. 

Skip The Sherlock Holmes Museum And Visit The Sherlock Holmes Pub

We don't recommend visiting the Sherlock Holmes Museum unless you have a detective-obsessed kid who doesn't realize that the famed character is fictional. Set inside a Georgian townhouse at 221B Baker Street in Marylebone, this four-story museum has been open since 1990. Inside lie antique furnishings mentioned in the books and pretty creepy-looking mannequins. Tickets cost over $21 which isn't exorbitant, especially for London, but considering you won't be there long (the museum's quite small), this seems a bit of a waste.

Instead, head to The Sherlock Holmes  in St James. Self-described as a "Victorian-themed public house," this watering hole features a recreated version of the famed fictional detective's apartment upstairs. The entire pub is dotted with references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved books, making it easy to feel as if you're within the pages. Plus, there's a beer garden –- the museum certainly doesn't have one of those.

Skip The SEA Life London Aquarium And Visit The London Zoo

You'll find everything you'd expect to see at the SEA Life London Aquarium. From penguins to sharks to turtles, they're all there. And as far as aquariums go, this is a pretty good one. But when you're in one of the world's greatest cities that lies on the banks of a river, not an ocean, there are plenty of better things to see. Standard tickets to the Sea Life London Aquarium cost $24 online or $51 at the door. Again, that's pretty on par for London attractions, however, it's a steep price to pay for a tourist trap. 

Instead, visit London Zoo in Regent's Park. The oldest scientific zoo in the world, this family-friendly attraction was opened in 1828 for fellows of the Zoological Society of London. In 1847, the public was invited to visit. Today, the zoo is home to 14,0000 animals including a giant, 425-pound silverback gorilla, Sumatran tigers, and Linne's two-toed sloths. While tickets aren't cheap (an adult will cost about $40 to visit on a weekday), it's easy to spend a whole day here. Or, if you aren't willing to part with that much cash, visit the smaller, and lesser-known, Battersea Park Children's Zoo . Adult tickets are more reasonably priced, at $16. There are over 100 animals at this little zoo, including wallabies, meerkats, otters, and lemurs, and plenty of opportunities to interact with animals like coatis, donkeys, and goats.

Skip The Shard And Visit Level 10 At The Tate Modern

There's no denying that The Shard is impressive. In fact, it's one of the most spectacular buildings in the world . The viewing platform was opened by the queen on February 1, 2013, with the main restaurants (Aqua, Oblix, and Hutong) following suit that summer. Set across the Thames from another bucket-list-worthy London building, the Gherkin, this engineering masterpiece towers 1,016 feet above the city and boasts 11,000 glass panels. 

Dubbed a "vertical city," there's plenty to do inside, like spend serious coin on a meal with a view, or zip up one of the 44 elevators to the viewing platform. That 360-degree view will cost you, though -- about $36, or more if you add a glass of champagne. And if you visit on a day that's rainy or misty (honestly, London is often both of those things), you're basically paying for a ride in a lift.

Instead, head to Level 10 at Tate Modern, where you can enjoy a drink or snack (including sandwiches and salads) while ogling the impressive view of the Thames, St. Paul's Cathedral, the BT Tower, and Blackfriar's Bridge. You won't have to pay a thing unless you choose to grab a bite or a warm cuppa. The Skygarden at 20 Fenchurch Street is another must-visit for a free skyline vista. The highest public garden in London, this leafy space is as stunning as its views are remarkable.

Skip The London Eye And Visit Hamstead Heath

We are well aware that some of you will disagree with this addition to our list of tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London, but hear us out. Yes, the London Eye is iconic. Yes, it offers fantastic views of the city. And yes, it's deemed a top London attraction you won't want to miss . That said, visiting this popular landmark can cause more headaches than enjoyment. First created as a temporary point of interest, this 443-foot-tall, "cantilevered observation wheel" is the largest of its kind in the world, according to its website . And if you catch a ride on one of its 32 pods on a sunny day, you can see up to 25 miles in all directions. The problem is that thousands of others have the same idea, which means you could stand in line for more than two hours on a particularly busy day. Standard tickets start at over $32 online or more than $57 for a walk-up.

Instead, visit Hampstead Heath for a unique city view you probably never knew existed. Parliament Hill stands over 321 feet tall, making it one of the highest natural points in the city. If the weather is ideal, you can see to the Gherkin, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament. Speaking of the Gherkin, it's another great spot to enjoy unparalleled views. Grab a drink and snack at Iris Bar at Searcys at the Gherkin , then relax with a side order of stunning vistas.

Skip Harrods And Visit Peter Jones And Liberty

Harrods is to London as the Colosseum is to Rome -– a historic icon that's become synonymous with the city. The world's most famous luxury department store, this Knightsbridge institution is impossible to miss -– it's eight floors tall and an entire block long, not to mention over one million square feet in size. Inside, you'll find 20 restaurants, a beauty salon, a bank, and 300 separate departments selling over 5,000 brands. You'll also see price tags so high you might suffer sticker shock. Due to its notoriety, Harrods is often packed with tourists, making it difficult to enjoy the plush interior.

If you're hoping to shop during your London holiday, there are plenty of excellent places to visit instead. Sloane Square is home to the Peter Jones & Partners department store. Owned by John Lewis, this vast shop is filled with enough enticing merchandise that you'll find it tough to leave empty-handed. Grab a bite at The Top Floor Restaurant (on the 6 th floor) for captivating views of Chelsea and beyond.

Liberty is another recognizable landmark located on Regent Street. A heritage-listed building; this stunning Tudor-style store is as beautiful outside as it is indoors. Built between 1922 and 1924, it is worth a visit, if only to admire the impressive architectural features (the price tags here are also quite shocking).

Our Ranking Methodology

Having lived in London for six years with two young children, I visited pretty much every tourist attraction the city has. From renowned points of interest like the Tower of London to remarkable museums, I've seen the top sightseeing destinations multiple times, including many kitschy tourist traps I wish I'd skipped. To create this list, I used my experiences at these attractions to determine which locales are tourist traps that should be avoided and I included alternatives that are more than worthy of your time and money. I also consulted reviews from other locals and travelers, as well as their tips, to ensure the list is solid.

Read the original article on Explore .