best visit places in london

London, England   Travel Guide

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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

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Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

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

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

Tower of London Tower of London

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

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

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

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

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

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Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

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

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

British Museum British Museum free

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

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

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

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

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

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

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

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

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

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

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

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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

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

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

The London Eye The London Eye

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

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

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

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

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

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

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

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

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

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

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

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

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

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

National Gallery National Gallery free

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

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

Borough Market Borough Market free

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

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

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

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

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

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

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

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

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Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

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

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

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

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

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

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

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

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

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

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

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

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

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

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

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Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

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

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

Camden Market Camden Market free

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

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area. The market is open daily from 10 a.m. until roughly 6 p.m. (though different businesses may open and close at different times). For more information about the vendors at the market, visit its official website .

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

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

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

Greenwich Greenwich free

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

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

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

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

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

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Up at The O2 Up at The O2

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

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

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

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

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

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

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

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

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

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

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

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

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

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

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Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

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

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

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The 21 top London attractions for 2024

By Connor Sturges

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

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

What should you not miss when visiting London?

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

Where should I start sightseeing in London?

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

What's worth visiting in London?

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

What’s the most popular thing in London?

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

The top London attractions

1. Notting Hill and Portobello Road Market

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

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

Address:  Notting Hill, London

2. Borough Market

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

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

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

3. British Museum

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

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

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

4. Buckingham Palace

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

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

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

5. Camden Market

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

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

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

6. Hampton Court Palace

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

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

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

7. Hyde Park

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

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

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

8. Kensington Palace

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

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

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

CNT Editors

Cass Farrar

Sophie Heawood

Sophie Prideaux

9. Kew Gardens

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

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

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

10. London Transport Museum

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

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

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

11. The Houses of Parliament

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

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

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

12. National Gallery

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

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

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

13. Natural History Museum

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

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

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

14. Shakespeare’s Globe

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

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

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

15. St Paul’s Cathedral

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

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

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

16. Tate Britain

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

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

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

17. The London Eye

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

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

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

18. The Shard

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

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

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

19. The Tower of London

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

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

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

20. Tower Bridge

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

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

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

21. Victoria and Albert Museum

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

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

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

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 March 2019 and updated February 2024

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » England » London

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

Are you on the London underground, frantically attempting to convince your wife that you’ve planned things in advance?

Then QUICK, come on in!

For your maniacal googling is about to pay off…

I have collected an EPIC list of the best places to visit in London, and you will soon find yourself without opposition to your sensational planning skills.

This post contains the juiciest of locations, and will answer your most valid questions, such as “where do I find the majority of Chinese tourists?”, “How quickly can I max out my credit card?”, and the eternal “where the fuck am I?”.

More brilliant advice awaits…

What are the Best Places to Visit in London?

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

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

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1. Buckingham Palace

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Covent Garden

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

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

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

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

3. St. Paul’s Cathedral

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

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

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

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

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

4. Westminster Abbey

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

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

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

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

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

5. The London Eye

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

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

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

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

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

6. The Tower of London

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

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

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

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

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

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7. The Shard

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

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

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

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

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

8. Thames Cruise

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

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

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

9. British Museum

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

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

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

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

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

10. The Royal Botanic Gardens

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

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

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

11. Hyde Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Houses of Parliament

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

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

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

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

14. London Dungeon

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

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

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

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

15. Leicester Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Piccadilly Circus

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

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

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

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

18. Davenport’s Magic

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

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

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

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

19. Knightsbridge

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

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

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

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

20. Shoreditch

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

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

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

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

21. Chislehurst Caves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. Brick Lane Market

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

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

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

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

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

24. The Tate

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

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

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

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

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

25. Camden Town

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

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

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

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

26. O2 Arena

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

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

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

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

27. Stonehenge

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

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

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

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

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

28. Baker Street

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

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

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

29. Electric Avenue

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

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

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

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

30. Museum of Brands

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

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

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

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

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

31. Oxford Street

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

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

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

32. Richmond Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are the Best Tourist Attractions in London?

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

What are the Top tourist Things in London?

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

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

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

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

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

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

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The 50 most iconic places in London

Looking for London’s most iconic cultural hotspots? Bow down to worship the 50 best cultural spots, venues, museums, theatres, parks, pubs and markets that make the city what it is today

To celebrate Time Out’s 50th anniversary, we’ve pulled together a list of 50 iconic London addresses, but this is not just a list of buildings. These are the cultural spots that help make London… London. The ones we love, that resonate with us, that draw us back. Whether you’re searching for nightlife in a former printing press, a unique shopping experience at the UK’s first gay and lesbian bookshop or drinks in a world-renowned cocktail bar, these awe-inspiring spots are not to be missed.

If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, check out our list of 101 things to do in London, as well as what’s happening in London today , this week and this weekend .

An email you’ll actually love

50 of London’s most iconic places

1.  Barbican

• Music venues

Three concrete tower blocks, maze-like walkways  and  a gorgeous conservatory – the Barbican estate is a stunning brutalist structure, but it’s also much more. Built in the ’60s, it’s a symbol of what housing in London could have been: a utopian sky city with affordable homes rubbing up beside grander ones. Now even the pokiest Barbican flat seems like a mansion (with a price tag to match). But the buildings are still open to all – as is the Barbican Centre. It serves up some of the city’s best culture from its concrete box. 

2.  Postman's Park

• Parks and gardens

We may all tut at people standing on the wrong side of escalators, but Londoners are a selfless bunch at heart. The biggest reminder of this is the ‘Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice’ in Postman’s Park, which remembers city dwellers who ran back into fires, gave up their life jackets or otherwise ended up giving their lives to save others. Tributes date back to the 1800s, but the most recent was added in 2009: a thank-you to Leigh Pitt, who died two years earlier while saving a drowning boy in Thamesmead.

3.  The Mail Rail

• Clerkenwell

It says something about Londoners that despite spending half our lives commuting on trains underground, we still get excited at the prospect of going on a train underground. The train in question? The Mail Rail. Up until 2003 it ran six and a half miles under our city, between Whitechapel and Paddington, transporting 4 million items of post a day at its peak. Now, the public can ride on it as part of the new Postal Museum. It already feels like a classic London activity. 

4.  Union Chapel

We may be a city of sinners but we do love a good trip to church. As long as that trip involves hot chocolate and a spine-tinglingly amazing music and/or comedy performance. Islington’s stunning Union Chapel moonlights as a gig venue, specialising in intimate, goosebump-inducing one-offs. Proper legends Amy Winehouse, David Byrne and Patti Smith have all played in its nineteenth-century gothic, stained-glass surroundings. Pass the hymn book. 

5.  Wilton's Music Hall

• Performing arts space

Wilton’s is a nice place to visit. It does well-curated, intimate theatre and cabaret. But there’s more to this fantastically atmospheric Victorian music hall. Wilton’s is a palimpsest: there’s a story about the shifting tides of London in its ravaged brickwork and wonky floors. It’s a last vestige of working-class East End entertainment, in an area that has suffered poverty, The Blitz, unsympathetic redevelopment and neglect. It was a base for anti-fascists in the 1930s. It’s a survivor, and proof that the spirit of London can be encapsulated in bricks and mortar. It also proves that Londoners will always want places to come together. At a time when our city’s nightlife is under threat, that feels important. Chris Waywell

6.  Somerset House

Far be it from us to endorse the building that was home to the Inland Revenue (shudder) for 150 years, but Somerset House’s programme of cultural events and scintillating exhibitions more than redeems it. Shaking off the stuffy air associated with grandiose buildings, the courtyard alone is one minute hosting London Fashion Week events, the next blaring out rock gigs, projecting a thoughtful season of films or covered in a sheen of ice for the Christmas skating season. 

7.  Liberty

Who’d have thought a shop made out of the timbers from two old ships would become the most glamorous department store in our city? Liberty is where Londoners shop when they’re feeling fancy. The mock-Tudor façade has been tempting us in since 1924, though the iconic fabrics were around decades before Oscar Wilde was a sucker for them: he took a wardrobe stocked with the prints on a trip to America. Other department stores could never. 

8.  National Theatre

• Public and national theatres

9.  Gay's the Word

When it first opened in 1979, Gay’s the Word was the UK’s first shop dedicated to gay and lesbian books. Since then it’s stocked everything from erotic fiction to queer theory, but it’s the activism born here that has really left a mark on London. It was the meeting place for Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners during the strikes of the ’80s and it’s still a thriving hub for LGBT+ meet-ups – but the community have had to fight to keep things that way. In 1984 the shop’s directors were charged with conspiracy to import indecent books. The public rallied around the bookshop, raising a £55,000 defence fund. Donations also piled in when a brick was thrown through the window this year. Thank God this grassroots fighter is still going strong.  Isabelle Aron

10.  Young Vic

• Private theatres

Built on the site of a bakery that was destroyed during WWII, the Young Vic was meant to be around for a mere five years. But here we are almost 50 years later and it’s still providing high art at low prices. Everyone from Helen Mirren to John Malkovich has trodden its boards and London’s cultural tapestry has gained a thread of neon thanks to its ambitious but accessible productions. 

11.  Highgate Cemetery

Trust us morbid Londoners to be proud of a graveyard. Opened in 1839, its list of people buried and commemorated here reads like top of the funeral pops: Karl Marx, George Michael, Christina Rossetti, Jeremy Beadle, Queen Victoria’s midwife and a man who went down with the Titanic make up just some of the VIPs. And if big-name graves aren’t your bag, you’ll surely be into the fact that in the ’70s the graveyard was a hotspot for vampire hunters. 

12.  180 the Strand

Originally home to a stuffy accounting firm, 180 The Strand now hosts London Fashion Week and loads of cooler-than-you creative companies, the most exciting of which is arguably The Vinyl Factory – its amazing AV shows have reinvigorated London’s appetite for exhibitions. From exhibits by Kanye West and Beyoncé collaborators to free video art exhibition ‘The Infinite Mix’, this is where pop culture and art intersect thrillingly in London. 

13.  National Gallery

• Trafalgar Square

Everything about Trafalgar Square is iconic, from Nelson and his huge column to the pigeons that divebomb tourists. Presiding over it all is the National Gallery, a palatial monument to high art. You’d be hard pressed to find a greater collection of masterpieces. Works by Vincent van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci draw such big crowds that it’s officially one of the five most-visited art museums in the world. In fact, the art here’s so vital that it even got evacuated to Wales before WWII.

14.  Wellcome Collection

• Science and technology

Sir Henry Wellcome wrote in his will that he wanted his assets to be used to ‘improve mankind’s wellbeing’. It sounds like an extra move, but while he’d been alive he’d already funded research into tetanus, diphtheria and antihistamines. The Wellcome Trust continues his work by supporting groundbreaking medical research. The associated collection has been educating Londoners about health and biology ever since. It also houses the funnest library you’ll find this side of ‘Indiana Jones’. 

15.  Royal Court Theatre

• Sloane Square

The Royal Court theatre is where playwrights go to get experimental. Known in the ’50s for its kitchen-sink dramas, the Sloane Square auditorium has blossomed into a playground for The Next Big Thing. Both Laura Wade’s ‘Posh’ and Jez Butterworth’s ‘Jerusalem’ were first produced here. Its creative emphasis on international voices and new and often challenging writing have given it unparalleled influence on London’s arts scene. 

16.  Science Museum

• South Kensington

The most impressive – and, let’s face it, fun – school-trip destination London has to offer, the Science Museum is more than just an attention trap for kids. A hangover from the Great Exhibition, it was once part of the same museum as the V&A. Now it’s consciously uncoupled from its neighbour, so whether you’re looking for a full-sized model of the European Space Agency’s first ever spacecraft to explore Mercury or live experiments at a Chemistry Bar – this spot is a reminder of the march of progress and sarnies scoffed on a coach. 

17.  Borough Market

• Things to do

You’d struggle to find anywhere that captures the spirit of London better than this street food rabbit warren. The earliest mention of the market dates back to 1014. Since then it has operated under many guises: a semi-illegal medieval trading hotspot; a bustling wholesalers; a declining relic; and, now, a national institution. But each incarnation has had a strong sense of community. In 1756, it was Southwark parishioners who raised £6,000 to save the market from closure; and in 1906, 21 trustees from the local community were picked to manage it. After the terror attack in June 2017, it was this sense of community that led to a global outpouring of support for the victims and the traders whose livelihoods were threatened. A year on, it’s thriving.  Alexandra Sims

18.  Bussey Building

• Cultural centres

As cultural spaces become rarer, Peckham’s Bussey Building is a shining reminder of what’s possible when industrial units get a local makeover. This former cricket-bat factory was saved from demolition by community group Peckham Vision & The Chronic Love Foundation (CLF) in 2007. Now it’s a top arts venue during the day and home to some of London’s best parties at night. Known for championing a line-up of musical styles from afrobeat to disco at its legendary Soul Train nights, it’s truly the pride of Peckham.

19.  Southbank Centre

This is the epicentre of London’s biggest cultural events. It’s here that MIA, Bowie and Robert Smith curated line-ups for Meltdown and where Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Malala Yousafzai have given talks as part of ‘WOW – Women of the World’. Wander around the Royal Festival Hall and you’re as likely to bump into an avant-garde harmonica troupe as a freelancer piggybacking the wi-fi. 

20.  Photographers' Gallery

We’re all photographers now, with our phones and various app-based embellishments. Standards at The Photographers’ Gallery are perhaps a little higher. This was the first public gallery in the UK devoted solely to photography when it opened in 1971. It’s still a safeguard of the vital art of photography beyond the screen in your pocket. 

21.  BFI Southbank

• Independent

Along the cinematic sweep of the Thames and in the dramatic dinginess under Waterloo Bridge is where London keeps its highest-brow cinema: a cultural mecca and the heart of the London Film Festival. Londoners gather here to watch, then discuss with academic precision, everything from the mise-en-scène of ‘Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion’ to the great cosmic joke that is ‘Citizen Kane’.

22.  Sir John Soane's Museum

Usually the bizarre homes of architects who died 200 years ago are bloody miles away, in Yorkshire or somewhere. But Sir John Soane was always immersed in London, and his house is mere minutes from the West End. A contender for most eccentric interior in the capital, chez Soane is a taster menu of his architecture: a mix of styles, influences and tricks (such as indirect lighting) lend it a sombre yet playful atmosphere. It’s both domestic and monumental, theatrical and severe. Soane designed many significant London buildings, from the Bank of England to Dulwich Picture Gallery, and his work inspired the design of the red phone box. But his own home is his greatest legacy: the personal statement of a London genius. Chris Waywell

23.  Natural History Museum

• Natural history

This David Attenborough of museums feeds Londoners’ endless fascination with all creatures great and small via taxidermied animals, bionic dinosaurs and the recently added four-and-a-half-ton blue whale skeleton in the foyer. It keeps us from forgetting our place in the world, and that nature exists beyong our window boxes and parks. 

24.  Hayward Gallery

• Performance art

25.  Royal Albert Hall

Going to the Royal Albert Hall is incredibly special. You can actually feel your heart swelling as you walk up those iconic steps outside, then gaze up into the breathtaking dome as your favourite band, orchestra or speaker gets to it on stage. With awesome acoustics and space for 5,000 while somehow always making you feel part of an intimate crowd, the RAH is like no other venue. And, of course, it’s the home of the legendary Proms. 

26.  Shakespeare's Globe

• Shakespeare

The original Globe may have burned down centuries ago, but this reconstruction opened in 1997 – so we can party like it’s 1599. Run with the eternal optimism of an outdoor theatre in London, the building may be traditional but its performances aren’t. Inventive new approaches to Shakespeare’s plays keep audiences on their toes – literally, since you mostly watch them standing up. It’s an almighty tribute to London’s most famous playwright.

27.  British Museum

Just the first national public museum in the world, no big deal. Opened in 1759, the British Museum is technically older than the USA and home to some of the world’s most important artefacts, including the Rosetta Stone (key to deciphering Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics) and ab-rippling Ancient Greek sculptures from the 1,500-year-old Parthenon Temple. Proof that the ‘Love Island’ cast didn’t invent the chiselled torso. 

28.  Battersea Arts Centre

• Experimental

Three years ago, on a particularly unlucky Friday the 13th, this much-loved arts centre went up in smoke. Thankfully, after a lengthy renovation, it will officially reopen this month. But it won’t be all shiny and new – the walls charred by the fire will remain as they were to serve as a reminder of the blaze. That might seem like a maverick move, but this cultural hub, which inhabits the old Battersea Town Hall, doesn’t play by the rules. From encouraging experimentation through ‘scratch’ (work-in-progress) performances to offering a space for theatre-makers to make their big break (it played host to Punchdrunk’s breakthrough show ‘Masque of the Red Death’), it’s where new ideas are born. Isabelle Aron

29.  God's Own Junkyard

• Walthamstow

‘‘Alright, sausage?’. ‘Are you getting enough?’. ‘I’m a mess’. These are just a few of the choice phrases you’ll find up in lights at Walthamstow’s neon wonderland. Its was founded by artist and designer Chris Bracey, who made his mark on Soho’s bars and strip clubs in the ’70s and ’80s with his neon masterpieces. He sadly died in 2014, but his love of being lit in the city lives on in this museum of sorts. It’s not just signs, either. You’ll also find a statue of Jesus brandishing a couple of neon guns and a downsized replica of the Statue of Liberty with pink neon lettering that reads, ‘I’m waiting for my man’. Hidden away in an unlikely spot on an industrial estate in E17, there’s nowhere else quite like God’s Own Junkyard. It’s decades of seedy Soho history distilled into a few square metres. As the hand-painted sign outside proudly declares, this is ‘heavenly junk in a hell of a location’. Isabelle Aron

30.  Brick Lane Beigel Bake

• Restaurants

You’ve not truly visited east London if you’ve not had a Beigel Bake bagel. This 24-hour institution produces around 7,000 bagels a day. In business since 1974, it’s still beloved by shoppers, clubbers and cabbies. We dare you to walk down Brick Lane without being enticed by its bready aroma and salt-beef fillings. And why not? Those holey rolls are a tasty piece of London history and just a few pence a pop.

31.  Black Cultural Archives

• Community centres

32.  Horniman Museum

• Forest Hill

What is the Horniman? A museum? An aquarium? A town hall? Its roots lie with Victorian tea trader Frederick John Horniman, who brought home so many curiosities that apparently his wife said: ‘Either the collection goes or I do.’ So he did the decent thing and opened a museum. More than 100 years later, his desire to bring the world to Forest Hill is still going strong. Look out for the giant stuffed walrus. 

33.  Rivoli Ballroom

Scour London for as long as you like and you won’t find anything quite like this place. Step in to this pristinely preserved 1950s-style dance hall – the only one left in the UK! – and it feels like time has stood still. There’s an air of ‘The Shining’ about it when it’s empty, but ghosts seem less of an issue when it’s jumping to the sounds of swing music, intimate gigs or music video shoots (Tina Turner’s ‘Private Dancer’ to be exact).

34.  Prince Charles Cinema

• Leicester Square

35.  French House

• Bars and pubs
• price 1 of 4

In some ways Soho’s tiny, winding French House is a typical London boozer: there used to be tens of thousands like it all over the city. But these days it’s also atypical: no music, TV or phones. No gastro grub or pizza oven. It was a haven for artistic types and the exiled French in WWII, hence its eccentric half-pint-only policy and unusually high sales of Ricard. London’s pubs are under pressure: celebrate their greatness at The French House.

36.  Royal Vauxhall Tavern

What do Paul O’Grady and Princess Diana have in common? They’ve both got ties to iconic LGBT+ venue the Royal Vauxhall Tavern. O’Grady spent years performing at the south London pub in his drag persona Lily Savage. As for Lady Di, she apparently spent an evening there dressed as a male model alongside pals Freddie Mercury, Cleo Rocos and Kenny Everett (#squad). The RVT’s appeal goes way beyond its celeb fanbase, though. As one of London’s oldest LGBT+ venues, it was given Grade II-listed status in 2015 after a campaign from regulars fought to save the space from regeneration. It’s the first UK building to be listed because of its significance to LGBT+ history and heritage. Long live the RVT! Isabelle Aron

37.  Imperial War Museum

• Military and maritime

London is a city scarred by war and our unflinching Imperial War Museum weaves powerful stories of it, with nearly 11 million big guns, fighter jets and other artefacts. First opened in Crystal Palace in 1917 as a way to record the (then ongoing) experiences of the Great War, the collection now resides in Elephant & Castle’s most imposing building. Its importance lies in both remembrance of the horrors and the overarching message that we should strive for peace – something that feels worryingly relevant right now.

38.  Sky Garden

• Fenchurch Street

39.  Dandelyan

• price 2 of 4

Off the lobby of the swanky Mondrian Hotel you’ll find the best cocktail bar in the world. We’re not just saying that, it’s official. Dandelyan – second venture of Ryan Chetiyawardana, aka booze superhero Mr Lyan – has won more awards than Meryl Streep (although she’s never been up for World’s Best Cocktail Bar as far as we know), thanks to its gloriously inventive cocktails which perfectly represent London’s amazing, protean bar scene. Chalk bitters, crystal peach nectar and dandelion capillaire for all! 

40.  Printworks London

• Canada Water

41.  Brixton Village

42.  Royal Observatory

• Towers and viewpoints

The home of time itself, and if that’s not iconic, we don’t know what is. Where else can you have one foot in the Western hemisphere and one in the Eastern? Nowhere officially recognised by the ’Gram, that’s for sure. Astronomer Royal John Flamsteed recorded 50,000 observations trying to work out  longitude back in 1675, and even then he didn’t crack it. Another guy solved the problem after Flamsteed’s death. Your Instas are his legacy.

43.  Tate Modern

The Tate Modern’s former power station chimney and architecturally befuddling Switch House are as off-kilter yet recognisable as the (sometimes challenging) modern art housed inside. The vast Turbine Hall is the building’s heart: there isn’t a secular space like it in London. Its 3,300 square-metres have played host to huge (and hugely memorable) installations, starting with Louise Bourgeois’s giant spider, ‘Maman’, back in 1999. Come and be awed.

44.  Museum of London

You don’t get to be one of the world’s greatest cosmopolitan metropolises without creating a bit of a history. The Museum of London is where we go to remember where it all came from – every twist and turn that makes our city what it is, is here, from prehistoric flint tools to our most prized artefact: a bit of the famed Fatberg. 

45.  V&A

• Art and design

When the Queen demands a museum be named after her, you don’t say no. Victoria laid the first stone in the foundations of this west London treasure trove. Now it traces 5,000 years of fashion, art and craftsmanship: an eccentric mix of old and new, beautiful and useful, modern and classic that feels stupidly and wonderfully British. It’s a place to deep-dive into the significance of everything, from a Constable painting to Elizabethan ruffs – and it was host to that sold-out Alexander McQueen retrospective. 

46.  Old Vic

If the Young Vic represents the future of theatre, the Old Vic reps London’s magnificent heritage and turbulent present. For 200 years it has been expanding London’s world views with an eclectic programme of traditional and cutting edge performance. Without it we wouldn’t have the National Theatre or half of the thrillingly inventive companies keeping London cultured today. 

47.  Tate Britain

48.  National Portrait Gallery

• Charing Cross Road

Each portrait you see here is more than a nice picture: it’s a snapshot of a life and a time. Want to see the most famous painting that may or may not be of William Shakespeare? Or perhaps a video of David Beckham sleeping? The NPG is your go-to. Plus there are 326 portraits of Her Maj Queen Elizabeth II to examine, in case you need a refresher on what she looks like. 

49.  Barts Pathology Museum

Want proof that Londoners have always been suckers for all things morbid? This Victorian museum is it. The 5,000 human specimens in jars here include gout-affected hands and a chimney sweep’s scrotal tumour. Londoners turn up in droves for rare open days where they can marvel at the maladies that have plagued us through the ages, and thank their lucky stars for the NHS.

50.  Crystal Palace Dinosaurs

• Crystal Palace

Take a stroll through Crystal Palace and you might be forgiven for thinking you’ve stumbled into London’s very own Jurassic Park, except, wait… everything’s slightly off. The 30 dinosaurs here have humps on their backs, legs like lions and chubby torsos. They were created by natural history artist Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins in 1852, six years before Darwin’s Theory of Evolution, so they’re a mish-mash of the limited research available and a lot of imagination. While the big fellas might not be the most accurate prehistoric sculptures in the world, they still have huge importance in our city. Not only were they the very first dinosaur sculptures ever made, they’re now a representation of Londoners’ love of the underdog (underdino?). Time Out readers voted the beasts their favourite sculpture in London. Let the haters hate, the Crystal Palace dinos will never become extinct. Isabelle Aron

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 25 Best Things To Do In London (England)

25 Best Things To Do In London (England)

Attracting 27 million visitors every year, London is the most visited city in Europe. It’s no surprise that London is top of so many people’s travel plans: the city was founded by the Romans and has thrived over the centuries.

Today, London is one of the most diverse cities in the world, with a rich history and some of the most outstanding culture on the planet.

The City of London is the ancient center of London but is actually the smallest city in England . The London that we’re familiar with covers a much wider metropolitan area and is home to almost 9 million people.

Split into the vibrant and distinctive areas of North, West, South and East London – as well as the commercial and tourist hub of Central London – every district has its own recognizable neighborhoods. There is always something to see and do in London. With some of the world’s best art, entertainment, shopping, dining, and history, it’s impossible to be bored in London.

Let’s explore the best things to do in London :

1. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is possibly the most famous park in London, and it is one of the largest. The park has historical significance, having hosted a number of demonstrations and protests including protests by the Suffragettes.

The park’s famous Speaker’s Corner is still occupied by debates, protests, and performance artists every week. The park is home to several memorial features, as well as two bodies of water, the most famous being the Serpentine. Here you can go paddle-boating, see a number of swans, and take in a breath of fresh air in the center of the city. A must-visit.

Want to see it from above? Try the London: Helicopter Flight Experience

2. Westminster

Westminster is considered the political hub of London and is home to the Houses of Parliament and the world-famous Big Ben. Big Ben is the name of the bell housed within the iconic clock tower, and it still chimes every hour.

You can also find Westminster Abbey here, which is open to the public most days. Whilst visiting these landmarks, be sure to rest your feet in Parliament Square which features statues of important political individuals including Nelson Mandela and Winston Churchill.

Book online : Westminster Abbey Entrance Ticket

Camden is a well-known cultural neighborhood in north London. Known for its alternative culture, the crowds here are filled with goths, punks, rockabillies and tourists alike. Camden has a vibrant body mod community and you will find a number of piercing and tattoo shops in this part of town.

Camden Market is eclectic and diverse, featuring street food from international cuisines, and lots of stalls selling trinkets and unique artwork to take home. Rummage through vintage clothing racks, find a used book to take on your travels, or visit one of the city’s best vegan bakeries at Cookies And Scream.

After your shopping spree, stroll down to Camden Lock to relax by Regent’s Canal or walk along the water all the way to King’s Cross.

Related tour : Regent’s Canal Waterbus Little Venice & Camden Town

4. London Eye

A trip to London isn’t complete without a visit to the iconic London Eye. Originally constructed to celebrate the millennium, the Eye is a giant ferris wheel offering gorgeous views across the city. At night, the wheel is lit up in seasonal colors and is the centerpiece of London’s annual New Year’s fireworks display.

You can share one of the spacious pods with other keen visitors, or splurge on a private pod for you and someone special. Team your visit to the Eye with a trip to the adjacent London Aquarium to see aquatic creatures from around the world, including jellyfish, seahorses and crocodiles.

Book online : The London Eye Tickets

Soho has long been known as the base of London’s sex industry. The area is now the most popular nightlife spot although there are still some sex shops dotted here and there, giving Soho a delightfully risqué vibe. Soho is often considered the center of the city’s LGBTQ* community with plenty of gay and lesbian bars to check out after the sun goes down.

In addition to bars and clubs, Soho has a number of theaters, jazz bars and restaurants to explore, making it a cultural hotspot. Its close proximity to Leicester Square means it’s also a great place to go for a few drinks after a play or stage show.

During the day, Soho loses none of its charm. Here you’ll find lots of music shops, small cafes and quaint bakeries. Stop for a coffee and pastry on Old Compton Street for perfect people-watching.

Take a tour : Piccadilly and Soho Beer Bike Tour

6. Shoreditch

Shoreditch is one of the trendiest areas of London having recently undergone extensive regeneration. It is now one of the hottest nightlife spots in the city and one of the coolest places to stay in London.

Packed full of bars and eateries, it’s the perfect place to spend a day and an evening. Check out Trapeze, a circus-themed bar that serves endlessly inventive drinks out of popcorn tub-style cups.

For pop culture lovers, there’s Far Rockaway, a chilled bar and restaurant filled with comic books, band posters and a regular 90s night. Or visit the Blues Kitchen for a blues night accompanied by sticky ribs and other American staples.

Available tour : Jack the Ripper walking tour

7. Hampstead Heath

Hampstead Heath is one of the largest parks in London, covering a massive 790 acres. It sits atop of one of the highest points in London, offering excellent views of the city from Parliament Hill.

The Heath features grassy fields, wooded areas, and a number of large ponds. It is the best place to experience nature in London with plenty of wildlife around and small woods in which to get lost.

There are swimming lidos for those feeling brave enough to swim outdoors in the great British weather. For history buffs, visit Kenwood House, a historical stately home that is known for its curated art collection.

Interactive tour : Hampstead Self-Guided Walking Discovery Game

The BFI – or British Film Institute – is a must-see for film lovers. The BFI is situated on the ever-popular Southbank and is the perfect spot to relax after a stroll along the waterfront taking in the culture and atmosphere of this vibrant part of the city.

The BFI show films every day, from mainstream blockbusters to reshowings of cult classics to one-off screenings of indie hits. There is also a library and shop for those who like to take their cinema seriously. The BFI also houses its own bar and riverfront restaurant for a delicious meal or to chat about the latest film releases over some drinks.

9. Thames Cruise

The Thames is the lifeblood of London, bringing industry to the city for centuries. It is England’s longest river, leading into the North Sea at its end. It has been the base for settlements since prehistoric times, and was a strategic importance to the Romans and English Kings, as well as during both World Wars.

There are a number of companies in London offering cruises across the Thames. Cruises run as regularly as every 30 minutes from several key locations. The cruises pass several key sightseeing locations, including Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye.

Some cruises run at night so you can see the sights all lit up, whilst others are served with a meal or afternoon tea. This is a lovely and unique way to view the city, traveling along the historic Thames.

Check out this list of cruises you can book online.

10. Baker Street

One of the cultural staples of London is Baker Street, best known as the street that Arthur Conan Doyle’s infamous detective Sherlock Holmes lived on.

Today you can find a Sherlock Holmes museum near the Underground station, especially popular after the BBC revival ‘Sherlock’.

Madame Tussauds is just around the corner, the internationally-famous wax museum where you can pose with your favorite celebrities.

Afterwards, escape the crowds of Baker Street in the nearby Regent’s Park, or by climbing Primrose Hill for London’s most spectacular view of the city.

11. Brixton Academy

For those on a hunt for live music, London has thousands of unique venues to offer. Venues span every niche or you can just go to an open night at a local pub and see some up-and-coming musicians. One of the best venues in town, though, is Brixton Academy in south London.

The Academy was originally a theater and cinema called the Astoria, opened in 1929. Fifty years later, the venue became the Academy and now hosts some of the biggest rock and pop acts in the world.

Some acts that have played at Brixton Academy include The Clash, Sex Pistols, New Order and Madonna. The Smiths played their final ever performance at Brixton Academy. This is the go-to music venue if you want to catch some live music in London.

The O2 Arena was originally constructed in celebration of the millennium, under the name of ‘the Millennium Dome’. It once acted as exhibition center with various exhibits and hands-on activities aimed primarily at children.

Today, it is a premier destination for live music and stage shows, hosting the biggest names in entertainment on a regular basis. It also houses a cinema as well as various bars and restaurants featuring cuisines from all over the world.

The O2 is an ideal spot to hang out with friends. If you’re seeking some adventure, try climbing to the top of the O2. On these guided walks, you can climb along the dome to the roof where you will witness beautiful views of the city. Afterwards, take the Emirates Air Line across the water. The Air Line is a cable car link offering an exciting and unique view of the city.

Top rated (most booked) tour: Climb The Roof of The O2 Arena

Another great way to explore the nightlife of London is this top rated London Pub Crawl and Nightlife Tour

13. Brick Lane

Brick Lane was made famous by the book and film adaptation of the same title. As the book’s narrative made clear, Brick Lane is the heart of London’s Bangladeshi community. An incredibly diverse neighborhood, Brick Lane features road signs in both English and Bengali, and is well-known for its abundance of curry houses.

This is the perfect spot to find something spicy to eat but be sure to go to one of the many sweet shops for some authentic South Asian desserts. The area also features a number of trendy bars as well as regular marketplaces, attracting a young and fashionable crowd.

For an art fix, head around the corner to find Whitechapel Gallery – or hunt down the many pieces of street art on Brick Lane and its neighboring streets.

14. Chinatown

London’s Chinatown can be found around Gerrard Street, sandwiched between Soho and Leicester Square. With its Chinese lanterns and eye-catching red arches, it’s difficult to miss this vibrant neighborhood. Filled with authentic Asian restaurants as well as supermarkets and secret bars, there is always something new to explore in Chinatown. For a slice of genuine Asian cuisine, try the HK Diner for delicious roast duck, good service, and big portions. They also serve bubble tea, an Asian trend that has recently swept across the city!

15. Electric Avenue

Electric Avenue is a street in Brixton, south London, famous because it was the first market street in London to be lit by electricity. It spawned the #1 song by Eddy Grant and has been the center of some parts of London history, including the Brixton race riots in 1981. Today, Electric Avenue is home to Brixton Market, a diverse and eclectic food market.

Afterwards, check out the rest of the neighborhood. Brixton features a multitude of small businesses selling unique, quirky and handmade items. This is one of the most diverse areas of London and an excellent spot to do some shopping or catch some live music.

16. Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is instantly recognizable, a square filled with bright lights and big electronic screens. Piccadilly Circus has been a busy London spot since the 17th century when it was a commercial hub.

Today it is still the heart of the West End, with easy access from Piccadilly Circus to some of London’s biggest theaters and nightclubs, including the Criterion Theatre. The Statue of Eros in the center of the circus is itself a popular meeting point and tourist destination.

Pay a visit to Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum at Piccadilly Circus to learn some new facts and see the world’s weirdest things. The Trocadero houses a games arcade and some niche shops to satisfy any pop culture cravings.

17. Oxford Street

Oxford Street is not only London’s top spot for shopping but is Europe’s busiest shopping street. It has 300 shops and receives over 500,000 visitors every day.

Shop ‘til you drop in designer stores and internationally-famous department stores like Debenhams and House of Fraser. Selfridges features intricate and beautiful window displays that change with the seasons. These frequently feature interactive windows and work by acclaimed artists.

Around Christmas, the Oxford Street Christmas lights illuminate your shopping sprees and add some glitter to the evenings.

18. Leicester Square

Walk in the footsteps of Hollywood stars by paying a visit to Leicester Square. The square is most famous for hosting film premieres to some of the biggest blockbusters. In fact, the square has been a London hotspot since 1670 and an entertainment center since the 19th century.

The square is surrounded by a number of cinemas with some of the city’s biggest screens, as well as a variety of restaurants. The garden in the center of the square is perfect for cooling off in during the summer or resting your feet after a long day of exploring London.

Visit the Prince Charles Cinema for cult films, singalong screenings, and epic marathon nights. Leicester Square also hosts celebrations for the Chinese New Year where you can see traditional dancing dragons and get lost in the crowds.

19. Galleries

London is an ideal city for art lovers with so many galleries to visit, featuring the best in classic and contemporary art. Most of the city’s galleries are free to visitors, including the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. The National Gallery has something for everyone with work by da Vinci, Turner, van Gogh and Rembrandt on display.

For prolific modern art, visit the Tate Modern on the Southbank. The building itself is a piece of art, towering above the waterfront. Inside, find pieces by Picasso, Klee and Delauney. The gallery also features exciting temporary exhibits on every level of the building making it the perfect place for an art fix.

20. Harrods

Harrods is one of London’s most famous department stores, known particularly for serving the elite and the super-rich. Since opening in 1824, Harrods’ patrons have included Oscar Wilde, Laurence Olivier and the Royal Family.

The luxury is spread across a number of floors, laid out in style through Harrods’ themed halls. The food hall sells indulgent delicacies from fresh meat and cheese to superior marmalades and pates. The Egyptian hall sells fashion in opulent style to make you feel like a pharaoh as you pass through.

At Christmas, Harrods puts together a number of luxury Christmas hampers filled with goodies to make the festivities even more special. Explore the building and get lost while shopping for lavish perfumes, children’s toys, and even pets in London’s most exclusive department store.

21. Platform 9 ¾

King’s Cross is one of the city’s busiest locations with a train station that has been open since 1852 serving much of the country. Recent renovations have given a sleek, modern look to the station – try to find the hidden tunnel with walls that light up with art.

But for many people around the world, King’s Cross is known best for something else: the station that Harry Potter uses to journey to Hogwarts. Now you can visit Platform 9 ¾ in real life, in King’s Cross railway station.

Pose besides a luggage trolley disappearing magically into the wall and have your photo taken to commemorate your wizarding journey forever! Don’t forget to wear house colors.

22. Museums

London is one of the best cities in the world for culture with a number of free museums to enjoy. On Exhibition Road in South Kensington, you can find many museums close together.

Start with the Natural History Museum and pose for a photo with the infamous Diplodocus skeleton in the main hall. Explore the museum and find ancient fossils and stuffed animals including a dodo replica.

Afterwards, go to the Science Museum next door for hands-on activities and to investigate scientific progress throughout the ages.

A short stroll to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) will shift focus to cultural history.

The V&A Museum has artwork on show alongside fashion and living tools from around the world. Here you will find art students diligently sketching the classical statues and ironwork.

Finally, pay a visit to the British Museum where you can see the Rosetta Stone, mummified remains and explore centuries of archaeological discoveries.

The Samsung Digital Discovery Centre is perfect for children, with hundreds of free activities to explore history and culture through modern technology.

23. Bond Street

Bond Street connects to Oxford Street and is a popular shopping district in its own right. Bond Street differs to Oxford Street in its selection of stores, with a much greater focus on the exclusive and the designer. Bond Street is one of the most expensive shopping streets in London and is worth visiting for a taste of the indulgent.

Doormen stand patiently outside many shop entrances. Diamonds glitter in the windows of watchmakers, jeweller’s, and even handbag stores. On this street you will find Tiffany’s, as well as the flagship stores for Cartier and Ralph Lauren.

After a spot of window shopping – or flashing the cash – pose with the ‘Allies’ statue of Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt sitting on a bench. Finish your trip to Bond Street by seeking out London’s oldest outdoor sculpture above the entrance to Sotheby’s. This sculpture is from Ancient Egypt and is over 3,000 years old.

24. Buckingham Palace

A trip to London is incomplete without strolling through Green Park to catch a glimpse of Buckingham Palace. The palace has been home to the British Royal Family since 1837. It features 775 rooms and the largest private garden in London.

Some of the palace is open to visitors so you can see a little piece of the royal lifestyle. From outside, watch the world-famous Changing of the Guard. This procedure happens a few times every day and is a great opportunity to witness a historic tradition and the utmost discipline of the Royal Guard – who are all wearing the iconic London bearskin.

25. Explore at Night

London is a vibrant metropolis both during the day and throughout the night. There is always something happening even after dark, from one-off events to club nights. As the sun sets, London’s lights switch on providing the city with a magical illumination.

There are free walking tours that explore the city at night or hop on a night tour bus. See St Paul’s Cathedral lit up after dark or visit the Gothic architecture of Big Ben and Westminster Cathedral. Go to Soho and the West End for buzzing nightlife amongst the big neon signs.

Travel a little further out to Hampstead Heath for a spot of stargazing or see Hyde Park at night where bats are frequently sighted. Finally, after a long day and night exploring one of the best cities in the world, visit Polo Bar at Liverpool Street for 24/7 greasy spoon dining.

25 Best Things To Do In London (England):

• Westminster
• Hampstead Heath
• Thames Cruise
• Baker Street
• Brixton Academy
• Electric Avenue
• Piccadilly Circus
• Oxford Street
• Leicester Square
• Platform 9 ¾
• Bond Street
• Buckingham Palace
• Explore at Night

Visit London: Top 20 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in london: the 20 best places to visit (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit London during your next trip and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 20 best things to do in London , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

Buckingham Palace, Soho, the Tower of London, Big Ben … there are so many iconic places and monuments in the capital of England!

In addition to my list of things to do and activities, I will also give you optimized itineraries to visit London in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even 1 week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in London? Where to stay?

1. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

2. big ben/the palace of westminster/westminster abbey, 3. party in soho, 4. tower bridge, 5. the tower of london, 6. the london eye, 7. take a stroll in hyde park, 8. piccadilly circus, 9. covent garden, 10. shopping on oxford street, 11. visit the london national gallery museum, 12. take a walk or a cruise on the thames, 13. notting hill, 14. visit camden town and its market, 15. regent’s park, 16. the tate britain and tate modern museums, 17. chelsea district, 18. the british museum, 19. see a musical in london, 20. madame tussauds, 21. go on a pub crawl (bonus, perfect if you’re travelling with friends), other places to visit in london, other activities to do in london, harry potter studios, stratford-upon-avon, westminster, the city of london, soho/covent garden, camden town, chelsea/kensington, notting hill, best things to do in london with kids, 1 day in london, 2 days: a weekend in london, 3 days in london, 4 days in london, 5 days in london, 1 week in london, where to stay in london, you’re traveling to england these articles will help you .

If I had to pick just one iconic tourist attraction in London , it would definitely be the Changing of the Guard, at Buckingham Palace!

Join the crowd and watch dozens of royal guards wearing red coats and bearskin hats march to the beat of the band in front of the Queen of England’s royal palace.

Some are on foot, others on horseback, and they are going from Wellington Barracks (around 500 meters from the Palace) to the Palace forecourt.

The Changing of the Guard takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 11.00am and lasts for around 40 minutes.

The best way to learn everything about the Changing of the Guard is for sure to take a guided tour.

The best one is the small group tour organized by Chris and Matt, they are amazing guides! You need to book it by clicking right here.

It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of the British monarchy!

The Changing of the Guard is sometimes cancelled in case of bad weather (and the bad weather in London is no joke!).

Fortunately, a calendar is published on the internet, so you can check whether the Changing of the Guard is taking place by clicking there.

While you’re there, you can visit Buckingham Palace.

However, it’s only open to the public 2 months of the year (usually in August/September).

If you have the chance to visit London at this time of year, you still need to book your tickets well in advance to have a chance of getting in.

Here are the different tickets you can buy to visit the palace (click on the orange links for details):

• Ticket for the State Rooms with audio guide: discover the reception chambers where official ceremonies take place
• Entrance to the Queen’s Gallery and its large art collection
• Entrance to the Royal Mews (Stables) (with audio guide), where you can also see the Royal Family’s carriages.

During tour visit to London, you also probably want to see one of the city’s most iconic monument: Big Ben !

It’s for sure one of the most striking symbols of London and even of the whole of England : Big Ben* enjoys a long-held reputation.

* Big Ben isn’t actually the name of the clock tower : it’s in fact the name given to the huge bell – around 14 tonnes – located inside the tower, which chimes every hour.

Built in 1858, this enormous clock tower (known as the Elizabeth Tower) is part of the Palace of Westminster , perhaps better known as the Houses of Parliament.

At the top of the 106-metre high Elizabeth Tower, you will find 4 enormous clocks, each measuring 7 metres in diameter.

You of course have to see Big Ben and the magnificent Palace of Westminster when you’re in London!

Unfortunately, most of you will only be able to admire them from the outside, as only UK residents are permitted to visit the interior of the Elizabeth Tower.

And even if you are a UK resident, you will need to apply months in advance!

However, just a few steps away from Big Ben, you can visit Westminster Abbey.

It’s especially famous for being the place where the coronations of kings and queens of England take place, including that of Queen Elizabeth II.

Many of them are also buried here, along with famous writers, poets and politicians.

In order to avoid waiting in line to get in, you should really book your skip the line tickets for the Palace of Westminster in advance by clicking on the green button below:

You can also book a 2-hour guided tour by clicking here!

If you’re visiting London , you should purchase the London Pass .

It’s valid for between 1 and 10 days (depending on what you choose when booking), and gives you access to more than 80 London tourist attractions.

It works by giving you tourist credits that are deducted whenever you visit an attraction:

For example the 3-day London Pass comes with 430 credits, which corresponds to 430€ in entrance fees even though the pass costs only 114€ to buy!!

It’s really the best way to save money during your trip!

Most of London’s must-see attractions are included in the London Pass: Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, a river boat cruise, the hop-on hop-off bus , Kensington Palace , and much more .

To buy your London Pass, simply click on the green button below:

As an alternative, there’s also the London Go City Explorer Pass , that works differently.

For this city pass, you need to purchase a pass based on the number of attractions you want to visit. So you can buy a pass for 2, 3, 4, 5 or 7 attractions.

You need to book it here:

Let’s continue this tourist guide to London and talk a bit about Soho district.

Soho is one of the smallest districts of London , but it’s probably the liveliest !

As the hub of London’s night-life , Soho is packed with the trendiest pubs, theatres, restaurants, cinemas and clubs .

Soho is also a great place to visit in London, with several points of interest such as Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden, Chinatown and Oxford Street.

This district always attracts an evening crowd. So if you like to party and you’re wondering where to go out in London, you’ve probably guessed that Soho is your best bet!

If you’re looking for something special to do in London, you should take the Harry Potter-themed guided tour .

Departing from Soho, your guide will take you to the iconic locations from the movies including Diagon Alley, Gringotts, platform 9 3/4, Knockturn Alley and much more.

I really loved that tour, it’s great and the guide was super friendly!

And guess what, this tour is so good that it’s certified GetYourGuide Originals , which means you get a full refund if you’re not completely satisfied.

If you like the Harry Potter universe or if you’re visiting London with your kids, it’s the perfect activity to do.

To book your Harry Potter guided tour, simply click on the button below:

You’ll for sure recognize the Tower Bridge from afar : it’s two Gothic towers and its sky blue ironwork are pretty unique!

This bridge, considered as another iconic London landmark , was built across the Thames in the 19th century and was the most sophisticated bascule bridge in the world at the time .

Today, it allows thousands of drivers and pedestrians to cross between the north and the south bank every day. If you’re there at the right time, you might even see it open up to allow tall boats to pass through!

The Tower Bridge is even more spectacular in the evening, when the bridge is fully lit.

To see it up close, you should really book a Thames cruise right here:

You can also cross the bridge on foot, and if you’re interested, you can visit the old engine rooms inside the towers.

The old hydraulic system that lifted the bridge until 1976 is especially interesting. At the highest level, you can also walk on a glass walkway, which feels like you’re floating above the Thames.

Entry to the Tower Bridge is included in the London Pass.

Located close to the Tower Bridge, the Tower of London stands on the north bank of the River Thames.

The foundations of this fortress date back to 1066 and it has served as a royal residence, prison and place of execution.

Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a museum of medieval history, and most notably houses the famous Crown Jewels. The Tower’s aesthetically pleasing exterior is also worth a look.

It’s a great family activity to do in London and the kids are sure to love it. You’re not visiting a castle every day!

Remember to book your tickets in advance by clicking on the button below – It’s the best way to save time!

If possible, try to be at the Tower of London in the morning for the opening and start your visit with the Crown Jewels, before everyone else gets there. There’s huge queues by late morning.

Entry is also included in the London Pass.

The London Eye is the biggest Ferris wheel in Europe, with each capsule capable of carrying up to 25 people.

It’s located on the banks of the Thames , close to Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster.

To get on the London Eye, you have to book your seat in advance.

The wheel turns very slowly, and the full ride takes 30 minutes. You will for sure love the panoramic view over London!

You need to book your skip the line ticket to the London Eye by clicking on the button below:

To save money, you can also get this combined ticket: London Eye + Thames Cruise + Hop-on Hop-off Bus.

Hyde Park is the largest green space in the city .

Along with Central Park in New York and the Mont Royal Park in Montreal ( Canada ), it’s one of the most beautiful city parks in the world.

While you’re in London, you should definitely take some time for a stroll in Hyde Park. It’s also the perfect spot for a picnic in summer, or a lunch on a terrace by the water!

At the end of the year, you’ll also find a large Christmas market in the park. And if you’re visiting London as a family , your kids will love the Winter Wonderland fair and the biggest outdoor skating rink in the United Kingdom!

In summer, lots of concerts and festivals are held in the park.

You also shouldn’t miss a famous London oddity: The Speakers’ Corner . Every Sunday, in the north-east edge of the park, anonymous speakers give a speech to passers-by , often with a touch of humour.

You’re going to London?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in major tourist cities like London 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Tens of thousands of people will be visiting London on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in London.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in London, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in London!

Piccadilly Circus is for sure the most famous road junction of the city, the icon of modern London .

This busy square with its huge billboards broadcasting advertisements 24 hours a day and 7 days a week can be described as the Times Square of London , on a smaller scale.

This square connects Soho to the shopping areas of Regent Street, Shaftesbury Avenue and Covent Street, among others.

In the center of Piccadilly Circus, the angel on top of the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain appears to be watching over the place.

During your trip to London , don’t miss going there after your walk in Soho, preferably at night as it’s even more impressive!

Of all the things to do in London , you really have to see Covent Garden.

Covent Garden was once the site of London’s covered market, but it outgrew the location and was relocated in the 1970s.

Covent Garden fortunately retained the beautiful glass roof that makes the place so charming. Today, it’s home to several shops, artisan studios and restaurants.

There’s even a museum: the London Transport Museum. It’s a great place to learn about the history of transports in the capital and see some of the famous red double-deckers buses!

Don’t forget to book your tickets for the London Transport Museum by clicking here.

With its lively shopping streets , the area around Covent Garden is perfect to wander around. And if you’re there on a Saturday morning, you should go to the crafts market !

If you’re wondering where to go shopping at affordable prices in London , you should go to Oxford Street !

Hundreds of fashion, interior design and other stores line the 2.5 kilometre long street. You’ll find all the best known British chains stores here, such as Marks & Spencer, Primark, TopShop, River Island, Lush, The Body Shop and more.

It’s the perfect place for window-shopping or to indulge yourself during an enjoyable afternoon!

This art museum has one of the largest collections of works in Western Europe .

The London National Gallery houses over 2,300 paintings dating from the 13th to the 20th century, including the famous Sunflowers by Van Gogh!

Founded in 1824, the National Gallery is located in Trafalgar Square, the famous square guarded by 4 big black lions. As one of London’s most beautiful museums, it’s perfect for a cultural interlude in the middle of your stay.

Like all the national museums in London, entry to the National Gallery is free of charge all year round. Another good reason to go there!

The museum is open every day from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm , and as late as 9.00 pm on Fridays.

Find out more on the museum’s official website .

If the weather permits, it’s really lovely to take a stroll along the landscaped banks of the Thames.

You can choose several routes, but I would suggest you to start from Big Ben , cross Westminster bridge and walk up to Butler’s Wharf .

That’s about 1h walk (well, you can probably double the time if you add the photos breaks!) and on the way, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks such as the London Eye, the Tate Modern Museum, the Globe Theatre and the Millennium Bridge.

The walk will take you to the Tower Bridge. You can then cross it to reach the Tower of London.

It’s a great walk for seeing some of the most emblematic monuments of London in an afternoon whether you’re travelling as a couple or as a family.

And if you just want to enjoy a Thames cruise and see the majority of London’s tourist attractions by boat, that’s also possible!

In London, you can do a river Thames Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise. It’s the same idea as the hop on/hop off bus: you can get on and off the boat as many times as you want during the cruise.

The great thing is that the tickets are valid for 24 hours!

You need to book your river Thames Hop on Hop Off Cruise by clicking here:

You’re looking for the best places and districts to visit in London?

Then, you should go to Notting Hill, one of the most exclusive areas of London.

Take some time to stroll in the district, discover its elegant pastel-coloured homes and enjoy its more “village like” ambiance.

Made famous by the film of the same name, you’ll be able to follow in the footsteps of Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, the stars of “Notting Hill” . If you’re a fan, you will probably want to check out the film’s locations.

While you’re in Notting Hill, don’t miss the flea market on Portobello Road (open every morning). It’s a great opportunity to browse through the many antiques , second-hand clothes and other unusual items on offer at the stalls.

You can also try a few culinary specialities, as Notting Hill is considered one of the best foodie destinations of the city.

Notting Hill district is also famous for its annual carnival, held on the last weekend of August .

If you’re there at the right time, you shouldn’t miss this 5 kilometre long parade with Caribbean music! A great moment to enjoy with family or friends.

To learn everything about the neighbourhood and visit the must-see attractions , you should book a guided tour of Notting Hill.

The best guided visit is done by Jordan (an awesome guide!) and needs to be booked by clicking on the button below:

Camden Town is another place to visit during your stay in London

Located at the far north of London, Camden Town is a trendy and atypical borough , home to punks, Goths and alter-globalists.

All along the main street, you will find eccentric clothing shops, piercing and tattoo parlours and second-hand shops. The mood is very unique there!

The shop fronts are all very originally decorated with giant shoes, frescoes and other figurines in psychedelic shapes and colours. This is the place to really see British eccentricity in all its splendour!

Camden town is a really vibrant area, especially around Camden Lock Market, which is open every day from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm. This is another flea market you shouldn’t miss, especially if it’s your first trip to London.

Each stall is more crazy than the last, and it’s a great place to find some hidden treasures!

There, you can also take a stroll by Regent’s Canal , taste street food from all over the world, listen to live music and simply enjoy the atmosphere of the district.

And if you’re up for it, you can also opt for a short boat trip on the canal. Find out more by clicking here!

Situated in the north of London, Regent’s Park is one of the 8 “green lungs” of the city.

This 166-hectare park is the most flower-filled in London, and certainly one of the most beautiful.

Once known as Marylebone Park, it was a hunting estate belonging to the royal family. In 1811, George IV commissioned the architect Josh Nash to design the park and build magnificent properties, including a palace.

A lack of funds meant the project was never completed, and in 1930, the park became a public space. Nash nevertheless managed to construct the beautiful neo-classical mansions that you will see around the park.

Regent’s Park is the perfect place in London if you want to go running, enjoy a romantic picnic or take a stroll among greenery.

In the park, there is a lake where you can rent pedalos and rowing boats.

You can also find children playgrounds, sports fields, cafés and restaurants.

And in summer, don’t miss the magnificent collection of roses in Queen Mary’s Gardens!

London is truly the city of museums. Here are 2 more you shouldn’t miss, and that are also free of charge.

The Tate Britain Museum is located on the banks of the Thames, south of Westminster.

It’s dedicated to 5 centuries of British art and celebrates several iconic artists including Turner, Hogarth, Francis Bacon, William Blake and many more.

There, you can also admire a very rich collection of paintings, photographs and sculptures dating from the 16th century to the present day.

Whereas the Tate Britain focuses on 100% British art, the Tate Modern gallery is more broadly dedicated to modern art in general.

It sits on the south bank of the Thames, opposite St Paul’s Paul’s Cathedral.

You can check the official website to plan your visit.

The Tate Boat connects the two galleries by river and operates every day, departing every 40 minutes. You can thus easily visit the two museums during a single afternoon.

Where should you go in London if you love luxury?

Chelsea district!

Central London’s upmarket borough of Chelsea is especially known for its luxury shops and designer boutiques lining the King’s Road (the district’s main street).

And if you want to have a drink or lunch, you should head to the bars and restaurant around Duke of York Square.

On the square, you can also find the Saatchi Gallery , a contemporary art museum.

But what visitors don’t always realize is that Chelsea also has a quite different face to offer to the discerning tourist: nice , quiet small streets punctuated by pretty and brightly coloured houses.

So don’t miss a look around Burnsall Street, Godfrey Street or Bywater Street, a cul-de-sac lined with attractive terraced houses with colourful façades.

Bywater Street is actually quite famous for fashion shoots and as a film set !

Let’s now talk about another must-see museum in London: the famous British Museum, one of the most visited attractions in the whole of Great Britain.

Opened to the public in 1759, it traces human history and culture.

The British Museum began by displaying the collections of Dr Hans Sloane, gradually expanding to include over 7 million objects from all over the world that you can see today.

If you’re interested in archaeology, you will for sure love the visit! The British Museum is known for its many relics, mummies and mythical objects such as the Rosetta Stone.

In addition to the collections on display, the museum building itself is a masterpiece of architecture : the entrance known as The Great Court , with its central rotunda and glass and steel roof is simply magnificent!

Entry to the museum is free of charge for everyone and it’s open every day from 10.00 am to 5.30 pm.

Guided tours of the museum are also available. It’s the best way to see all the main exhibits in just 2 hours with a specialist guide!

Book your guided tour of the British Museum by clicking on the button below:

You can’t leave London without seeing a musical at a West End theatre.

It’s for sure one of the best things to do when visiting the English capital for the first time. London is known for its outstanding musicals, and there’s loads to choose from all year-round.

From the legendary musicals to more intimate productions in smaller venues, you definitely should spend an evening at the theatre.

If you want to see the famous musical “Les Misérables” at the Sondheim Theatre in London, make sure you buy your tickets in advance here.

And if you prefer to see the no less famous “Phantom of the Opera”, you can book it by clicking there!

Madame Tussauds is one of the most famous and most visited museums in London . It’s the British equivalent of Paris’ Grévin Museum, only bigger and better!

There, you will be able to get a photo of yourself on the arm of the latest singers or actors , the entire royal family, British sovereigns, or great artists such as Picasso, Oscar Wilde or the Beatles. The wax statues are amazingly realistic!

Since the museum is clearly one of the must-see attractions in London , you need to buy your tickets in advance by clicking here:

You’ll find Madame Tussauds museum on Baker Street, and it’s open every day from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm. The visit takes about 3 hours.

You want to have a good time in London with your friends?

You should thus definitely go on a pub crawl !

It’s a great way to discover some of the traditional pubs and the best clubs in town.

And if you don’t know where to go, you should opt for a tour.

The guide will take you and other tourists who want to have fun around the best pubs and clubs of the city!

You need to book your London pub crawl right here or there.

There are so many things to see and do in London that it wasn’t easy deciding what to include in this top 20.

So to give you a fuller picture, here are more ideas of places to visit in the English capital .

To save time and avoid queuing, simply click on the orange links to get tickets:

• St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London most visited religious sites, and the second biggest cathedral in the world, just after St Peter’s Basilica in Rome . To give you a bit of background, it’s where Prince Charles and Lady Di were married. Buy your fast track ticket with audio guide here! Entry is included in the London Pass.
• The Shard (get tickets here!) , where you can enjoy a 360° view across the whole city from the panoramic platform 245 metres above the ground! Entry is also included in the London Pass.
• Kensington Palace , to see the State Rooms of the Stuart dynasty. Entry is also included in the London Pass.
• The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, or simply Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 30 hectares of superbly maintained gardens. It’s included in the London Pass.
• The Royal Observatory Greenwich , home of the famous Greenwich Meridian, the centre of the entire world’s time zones
• Visit the Tottenham Hotspur football ground
• Visit the Emirates Stadium, where the legendary Arsenal football team trains
• Jack the Ripper Museum , to learn everything about the infamous serial killer who ran rampage in London in 1888
• Hampstead Village: an old-fashioned neighbourhood with beautiful Georgian houses
• National Maritime Museum: one of the most important maritime museums in the world, where you can also see items salvaged from the wreck of the Titanic. Free entry.
• The Natural History Museum of London: don’t miss the room with the dinosaurs and the other room with the whale skeleton on display. Free entry.
• Borough Market , London’s oldest food market
• Victoria and Albert Museum, the biggest museum of art and design in the world
• Shakespeare Globe’s Theatre, the reconstruction of the Globe Theatre where Shakespeare’s plays were performed
• The Millennium Bridge , which links St Paul’s Cathedral located in the City of London district with the Tate Modern museum on the opposite bank of the Thames
• Trafalgar Square , one of the most famous squares of London.

If you want to try out more unusual activities during your trip to London, I’ve picked out a few for you. Simply click on the orange links for prices and information:

• Hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus or night-time double-decker bus ride to see all the most beautiful spots in London
• Guided tour in the footsteps of Jack the Ripper – This is a certified GetYourGuide Originals, that means you get a full refund if you’re not completely satisfied!
• Guided tour in the footsteps of Sherlock Holmes
• James Bond-themed guided walking tour
• Guided tour about Doctor Who TV series
• Climb the roof of the O2 Arena and its walkway suspended 50 metres above ground – panoramic view guaranteed, plus a decent dose of adrenaline!
• Thames Cruise including lunch or dinner
• Luxury dinner cruise with live music
• The London Dungeon , where actors in period costume tell you the scariest stories about the city, with sound and light effects.
• ArcelorMittal Orbit: the world’s highest and longest tunnel slide!
• Ghost Bus Tour: A comedy horror show that will allow you to learn about the creepier side of London.

The 6 Best things to do around London

Located a few kilometres outside of the capital, Harry Potter Studios is the place were the 8 movies of the franchise were shot.

The Harry Potter Studios are now a real museum, displaying a collection of sets, costumes, objects and artefacts used in the films.

If you want to visit Harry Potter Studios, you really need to book your tour in advance.

The best tour to Harry Potter Studios includes transfers from London, which is a great bonus.

Book your ticket for the Harry Potter Studios, including transport from London, by clicking on the green button below:

Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, is just an hour’s drive from London.

This delightful country town with a mediaeval feel is home to beautiful English cottages , endless fields, and half-timbered houses.

There, you can discover the house where Shakespeare was born as well as the cottage where he lived before heading to London.

The tour to Stratford-upon-Avon also include a trip to the University of Oxford.

You need to book this day trip here:

Oxford is a famous university city located only an hour away by train from London.

You can easily visit the town on foot in a day.

You will love Oxford’s gorgeous architecture, its countless remarkable landmarks, including Christ Church Cathedral, and of course its internationally renowned university!

The trip I just mentioned above (click here) includes a visit to Oxford.

If you don’t want to take an organized tour from London to visit the city, here are a few activities that will allow you to discover the best of Oxford:

• Guided walking tour of the university and the city with an Oxford student
• Private guided tour of the city and the university
• Harry Potter Oxford tour , to discover the movies filming locations
• Take the hop-on hop-off bus.

Windsor, located west of London, is another very pretty town just 45 minutes by train from the capital.

In the city, the main attractions is for sure Windsor Castle : you will really enjoy your visit to this residence of the royal family!

To go to Windsor, you have 2 options:

1) Opt for an organized excursion from London that will allow you to discover Windsor, Oxford and Stonehenge. It’s a brilliant trip if you’re short on time and want to see these 3 iconic places!

And because it’s a guided tour , you’ll learn lots of things along the way. You need to book your tour to Windsor by clicking right here .

2) Your other option to visit Windsor is to get there on your own, by train. In that case, you need to book your entrance tickets for Windsor Castle in advance by clicking on the button below:

From London’s King’s Cross station, you can also get to Cambridge with a 45 minute train ride.

Cambridge is simply one of the most beautiful cities outside of London!

With its Gothic architecture and world-renowned university , it’s reminiscent of Oxford.

To visit Cambridge , you have the choice between:

• A Guided walking tour of the city + river cruise
• A Guided tour of the university with entrance to King’s College
• The hop-on hop-off bus

This attractive coastal city is less than an hour by train from London Victoria or from Clapham Junction.

Brighton is famous for its very beautiful pebble beach , pretty cobbled streets and endless choice of seaside restaurants.

While in Brighton, you can also take the opportunity to visit the British Airways i360 viewing tower. A glass viewing pod will take you up to a height of 138 metres to enjoy the view over the whole coastline.

You need to purchase your tickets by clicking here.

The London districts you should visit

To help you find your way around London, here’s a recap of the different districts and what you shouldn’t miss in each of them.

The iconic district of London, the heart of the UK’s history and politics. Things to see in Westminster:

• The Palace of Westminster
• Westminster Abbey
• The London Eye
• Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard
• St James Park
• The Tate Britain Museum
• Trafalgar Square
• The National Gallery

The business district and the geographical centre of London. Must-see sites in The City:

• Tower Bridge
• The Tower of London
• St Paul’s Cathedral
• The skyscraper nicknamed “The Gherkin” (or “the suppository” depending on who you ask!)

London’s unmissable party and tourist district if you want a night out. What to do in Soho:

• Piccadilly Circus
• Oxford Street
• Covent Garden Market
• London Transport Museum

The trendy and very unique district of London, the kingdom of street art and alternative cultures.

You really need to go to Camden Lock Market!

This area of south London is home to Caribbean, African and Jamaican communities. Brixton points of interest:

• Brixton Academy, to see a jazz concert
• Brixton Village covered market

The exclusive boroughs of London, featuring magnificent pristine white Victorian houses , upmarket boutiques and beautiful green spaces.

Places to visit and things to do in Chelsea and Kensington:

• Holland Park
• The botanical garden at the Chelsea Physic Garden
• The Science Museum
• The Natural History Museum
• The Victoria and Albert Museum
• Kensington Palace

The fashionable and cosmopolitan district of London, with its pastel-coloured façades made famous by the film of the same name – “Notting Hill”.

There, you can also discover:

• The flea and antiques market at Portobello Road
• Notting Hill Carnival, which takes place every year in August
• The colourful streets of Hillgate Place, Callcott Street, Colville Terrace, Lancaster Road and Westbourne Grove

A small, out-of-the-way borough of London known for its remarkable architecture, Victorian and Georgian landmarks , large tree-lined parks and beautiful walks you can take along the Thames.

The best way to get there is by boat.

Here are the best places to visit in Greenwich:

• The Cutty Sark , a huge sailing ship built in 1869. One of the most robust and fastest vessels of the time, it has now been converted into a museum.
• The Greenwich Meridian , at the Royal Observatory
• The National Maritime Museum
• Greenwich Market
• The magnificent view over London from the observatory

A luxury residential and commercial area of London with grand residences , top hotels, exclusive boutiques and expensive fashion stores.

London is a great destination for a familly trip!

Here are a few ideas of things to do with your kids in London:

• Take them to Kidzania , where they can have a go at jobs they want to do when they grow up, whether that’s an airline pilot, doctor, chef or fireman – and that’s just for starters!
• The Sea Life aquarium , with its 500 different species
• Ticket for the Shrek’s Adventure Tour at Dreamworks : You’ll go in search for Shrek in an amazing highly interactive 4D world
• Speedboat trip on the Thames , specially designed for families
• Ticket for Legoland theme park, including transport from London
• Walks in Hyde Park, Regent’s Park or St Paul’s James Park . Your children are sure to enjoy a picnic on the lawn, and meeting the grey squirrels.
• Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster , followed by Buckingham Palace are definitely must-see attractions during a family holiday in London. They are close to one an other and can easily be visited on foot.
• A stroll along the banks of the Thames is also a lovely thing to do with kids.
• Spend at least one evening in Soho, to see the gigantic screens at Piccadilly Circus, have dinner as a family in a restaurant, before going to see a family musical if your budget allows.

If your kids are old enough to appreciate museums, that’s great because most of London’s museums are free of charge !

Here’s a few to get you started: the British Museum for archaeology buffs, the National Gallery for art-lovers or the Natural History Museum to learn everything about dinosaurs, the history of evolution, volcanoes and much much more!

How many days in London?

London is a huge city and you can’t see everything in one trip, unless you spend several weeks there.

A few days will give you enough time to discover the most iconic attractions, but remember that even in a week, you’ll still be a long way off knowing London inside out.

In order for you to make the most of your stay, here are my suggested itineraries for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days or even 1 week in London.

Of course you’ll need to adapt these itineraries to your own preferences and to the time of year. In winter, if it’s raining (which, I’ll be honest, happens quite a lot in London), you’ll be spending more time in museums than in the parks for example.

If you’re visiting London, you should really buy “The London Pass”.

It’s valid for between 1 and 10 days (depending on the duration you choose when booking), and allows you to enjoy more than 80 tourist attractions free of charge, plus you get fast track entry to some of them.

You also get one day’s use of the hop-on hop-off bus as well as a tourist guide to London.

You can get the London Pass by clicking here:

One day in London isn’t very long, but it’s enough to see some of the city’s main attractions. You’ll have to stick to the must-see sites and stay in the city centre where the most iconic landmarks are located.

For your day in London, you should:

• Walk to the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben
• Visit Westminster Abbey
• Watch the Changing of the Guard at 11.00 am on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace
• See Trafalgar Square
• Spend an hour or two at the National Gallery
• Take a trip on the London Eye and view the city from up high
• Visit the Tate Britain and/or the Tate Modern (connected by a shuttle boat)

If you’ve decided to spend 2 days in London , you can follow the itinerary above for the first day and add for your 2nd day:

• A morning in Camden Town to explore the market
• A stroll in Regent’s Park
• If you love mummies and hieroglyphics, spend a few hours discovering the collections of the British Museum
• Visit the Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels and more
• Walk across Tower Bridge
• Go to the top of “ The Shard ” panoramic tower.

You’ll find all the details you need to plan your 2-day trip to London in my article: 2 days in London.

You have the chance to spend 3 days in London?

You should do the 2-day programme mentioned above and add these activities for your 3rd day:

• Spend the morning in Notting Hill to discover Portobello Road Market , then take a stroll through the streets
• Visit the magnificent Natural History Museum
• A picnic in Hyde Park
• A bit of shopping on Oxford Street
• A stroll around Soho
• Take a look at Piccadilly Circus
• End the day at Covent Garden

Spending 3 days in London? You can find detailed information in my guide: 3 days in London.

If you have 4 days in London , you can start to take your time and really soak up the ambience and beauty of the city.

Take a look at the must-see attractions for 3 days and add these ideas for your 4th day.

• Take a walk in Hampstead Village
• Beatles fans should not miss a trip to Abbey Road and its legendary pedestrian crossing
• Go to Madame Tussauds museum and its ultra-realistic wax statues
• Visit St Paul’s Cathedral
• Walk around the City to discover London’s business district

You can find a detailed itinerary with all the best places to visit in London in 4 days in my article: 4 days in London.

What a great opportunity if you have 5 whole days to spend in London!

You can follow my suggestions for the 4-day itinerary and add the following for your 5th day:

• Explore the borough of Chelsea, the London of artists
• Take a cruise on the Thames , to discover London from another angle
• Head to Greenwich for a change of atmosphere and a stroll in the magnificent park
• Visit the Maritime Museum, then enjoy a photo opportunity with one foot on each side of the Greenwich Meridian

You’ll find all the details you need to organize your 5-day trip to London in my article: How to spend 5 days in London.

One week in London means you’ll be able to visit the 20 must-see attractions I talk about in this guide!

And you’ll even have time to go on a day trip around London .

If you like Harry Potter’s universe of magic, you should definitely visit the Harry Potter Studios ! You need to book your day trip to the studios by clicking on the button below:

Another really nice excursion you can do from London takes you to the town of Stratford-upon-Avon , that you can easily visit in a day. You can book it right here.

And if you have one more day left, you can for example visit Windsor Castle or the cities of Oxford , Cambridge or Brighton. These 4 cities are very easy to visit from London, as you can get there in less than an hour by train.

As you can see, there’s plenty of things to do in and around London in a week!

You can find all the details you need for your 7 days in London in my dedicated article: 1 week in London.

As you’d expect in a major tourist city, the prices charged by hotels in central London are pretty high. You thus really need to book in advance to get the best rates.

If you already know your travel dates, you should book your accommodation now!

• The Chamberlain: Close to Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and the banks of the Thames. This British-style hotel offers cosy, comfortable double rooms from 120€ per night, breakfast 12€. Strong points: a smartphone is made available, excellent locations, the welcoming staff and the comfortable bed linen. It’s my favourite for its excellent value for money!
• Hotel Indigo London – Kensington: This hotel is in the borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and very close to a tube station. Well-equipped, quiet and warm double room from 200€, breakfast from 19€. Strong points: the quiet area, cosy ambience cosy, the smiling and efficient staff.
• Haymarket Hotel, Firmdale Hotels: 5* hotel close to London’s “theatreland”, minutes on foot from St James Park and 15 minutes from Buckingham Palace. Really comfortable, spacious and quiet double room from 390€ per night, breakfast 20€. Strong points: perfect location, charming staff and excellent bed linen. The best choice for a romantic stay in London!
• The Soho Hotel, Firmdale Hotels: A luxury hotel right in the heart of London, 5 minutes from Oxford Street and Soho, and just 10 minutes from Piccadilly Circus. Really spacious designer and magnificently decorated double room from 500€ per night, breakfast 29€. Strong points: the perfect geographical location, magnificent bedrooms, the sumptuous breakfast. The best hotel in London for a luxury stay!

If you prefer a London hotel that isn’t too expensive, you should check out the “Z Hotel” chain. You can find them in lots of different areas of London, and prices start of 60€ per night. They’re the best bet for budget accommodation in London.

• The Z Hotel Shoreditch
• The Z Hotel Gloucester Place
• The Z Hotel City
• The Z Hotel Victoria
• The Z Hotel Piccadilly
• The Z Hotel Soho

And you, what do you plan to do in London?

Discover all my articles about London : All my articles to help you plan your trip to England are listed there.

• London: Top 20 best things to do
• 2 days in London – The perfect itinerary for 48h!
• 3 Days in London – The best 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in London – The defitinive guide to plan your trip
• 5 Days in London – How to plan your itinerary + My best tips!
• One week in London – The perfect 7-day itinerary
• Where to stay in London? My guide of the best places to stay for all budgets

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 13 London Villages That Will Give You a Taste of the English Countryside in the City

Today I want to share my guide to the best London villages with you. People always ask me about the prettiest neighborhoods in London , and there are a lot of good ones. From north to south, east to west, I’ll show you urban villages that will make you feel like you’ve escaped to the English countryside without leaving the city. I’ve included a map, too.

London Villages

One of my favorite things about London is that the city feels like a collection of villages. Each neighborhood has its own personality and style, from fashionable Chelsea to hip Hackney and colorful Notting Hill .

In reality, some parts of London really were villages before the UK capital expanded to incorporate them. From leafy Hampstead to dreamy Dulwich, these places still retain their intimate feel and charm.

Whether you’re looking to explore a new-to-you part of the city, choose where to stay on an upcoming visit, or decide where to live in London , this post will give you an idea of what the best London villages have to offer.

1. Hampstead

Since it was the first place I lived in London and it’s still my favorite part of the city, I’ll start my list of London villages with Hampstead . This north London neighborhood is a true gem, and it’s often considered the most beautiful part of the UK capital.

Hampstead village is known for its historic streets, elegant houses, hidden pubs , and the sprawling expanse of Hampstead Heath . They make it one of the most charming places to see in London.

From Hampstead High Street to Heath Street, Flask Walk to Church Row, this part of London is full of picturesque shops, heritage houses, and great details.

Hidden spaces like the Hill Garden and Pergola add great greenery to the neighborhood, too. With its raised walkway and wisteria-laden pergola, this place feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.

There are great small museums in Hampstead , too. From the National Trust’s Fenton House with its beautiful garden to Burgh House, Keats House, and 2 Willow Road, there are a lot of good ones to discover.

If you want to see the highlights of this part of north west London , my self-guided Hampstead walk and Hampstead Heath walks can help.

If you want to live like a local, you can stay in the area. There are lots of options in Hampstead. La Gaffe is conveniently located on Heath Street. It’s my favorite local hotel in the area. I love its cozy ambiance and delicious cappuccinos. You can book a room here .

If you prefer your own place, the Mirabilis Apartments in Wells Court on Oriel Place are perfect. These elegant flats are right in the heart of the village between Hampstead High Street and Heath Street. You can book one here .

You can see a range of other accommodation options and hotels in Hampstead here . You’re sure to find a place in the area that fits your style.

Next on my list of the best London villages is Dulwich . This leafy enclave in the south of the city is one of the prettiest London neighborhoods to live in, and there are a lot of great things to do in Dulwich .

With a world-class picture gallery, a famous boys’ school, pretty houses, a high street full of pubs and cafes, loads of parks, and unique wooden street signs with fingers pointing in every direction, there’s a lot to love about Dulwich.

East Dulwich is right next to Dulwich village, and it’s known for having one of the best high streets in London , the vibrant North Cross Road market , street art, and pretty parks and squares.

From the independent shops on Lordship Lane to the adorable dogs on Goose Green and abundance of local pubs, East Dulwich has a lot going for it as well.

If you want to see more of the area, you can follow the route of my free self-guided walk in Dulwich . It will show you everything from the high street to the parks and hidden lanes.

If this part of the city appeals, you can stay here. There are plenty of good places in Dulwich. My top pick is The Crown & Greyhound . A charming pub with rooms, it’s in a great location on the high street. You can book a room here .

If you’re looking for a different kind of place, you can see a range of other options and find accommodation that suits your preferences here . There are lots of good choices.

3. Marylebone

In the center of the city , Marylebone is another of my favorite London villages. The restaurants and shops here are some of the best in the UK capital.

Marylebone High Street alone could keep me busy all day. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s also packed with stylish boutiques and cafes. It’s one of the best shopping streets in London .

Elsewhere in the neighborhood, Chiltern Street is full of heritage buildings, and Marylebone Lane and St Christopher’s Place are packed with gems.

Add to that museums like the Wallace Collection, fun weekly markets, charming side streets, and the area’s proximity to Regent’s Park, and Marylebone is hard to beat.

If you want to see more of the neighborhood, you can follow the route of my free self-guided walk in Marylebone . It will show you everything from the high street to the gardens, markets, and hidden mews.

If this part of the city appeals, you can stay in it. There are plenty of good places in Marylebone. My top pick is The Langham . A landmark hotel in the heart of London, it’s a great place to call home-away-from-home. You can book a room here .

If you’re looking for something different, you can see a range of other options and find accommodation that fits your style here . There are lots of good choices.

4. Little Venice

Next on my guide to London villages is Little Venice . This area near Maida Vale and Paddington is famous for its canals, but there are pretty streets and houses galore, too.

Little Venice is great if you love Canal walks in London and being by the water. It’s a residential area, so it offers a nice break from the bustle of the city center without being too far from it.

If you want to see the best of the neighborhood, you can follow the route of my free self-guided Little Venice walk . It will show you everything from the canal to the gardens, local pubs, and side streets.

If this part of the city appeals, you can stay here. There are plenty of places to choose from in Little Venice. My top pick is Boutique Barges . A unique canal boat property, it’s a fun place to stay on the water. You can book it here .

5. Richmond

My guide to London villages continues with Richmond . Out in the south west, this affluent area is known for its scenic riverfront, huge park, buzzing high street, and pretty side streets.

Stately homes like Ham House add a nice cultural element to the area, and historic alleys like Brewers Lane are charming. That’s to say nothing of Petersham Nurseries, which is a destination in its own right.

Richmond Green has fun pubs, and it’s the perfect place catch a glimpse of a local cricket match. It’s also a filming location for Ted Lasso , so you can walk around and see if you can spot your favorite places from the TV show .

If you want to see the best of the area, you can follow the route of my free self-guided Richmond walk . It will show you everything from the river to the gardens, filming locations, parks, and side streets. It’s a great thing to do on a day out in Richmond .

If that all appeals, you can stay locally. There are plenty of places to choose from in Richmond. My top pick is The Petersham . A local hotel with a good afternoon tea , it’s in a great location near the Thames. You can book a room here .

If you’re looking for something a bit different, you can see a number of other options and find accommodation that suits your style here . There are lots of good choices.

6. Highgate

My guide to the best London villages continues with Highgate . Home of the famous Highgate Cemetery and lots of charming streets and squares, this is one of the most beautiful parts of north London.

There are loads of green spaces, including Highgate Wood, Waterlow Park, and Hampstead Heath. The shops around the high street have colorful facades, and Holly Village is a true London gem.

Highgate is blessed with beautiful houses and great views, too. The hilly side streets are atmospheric, and it’s worth getting off the beaten path and exploring the little lanes while you’re here.

If you want to explore the best of this part of London, my free self-guided Highgate walk will take you around and show you the highlights.

If this part of the city appeals, you can stay here. There are plenty of good places in Highgate. My top pick is The Bull & Last . A charming pub with rooms, it’s in a great location right by Hampstead Heath. You can book a room here .

7. Stoke Newington

Stoke Newington is next on my list of London villages. This area in east London has a great local feel.

Stoke Newington is famous for its high street. It features a variety of independent restaurants, cafes, and shops. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or some retail therapy, it has something for you.

The neighborhood is also home to two beautiful green spaces. Walking through them is one of the many exciting things to do in Stoke Newington .

Clissold Park is a classic green space packed with everything from expansive lawns to a small zoo with fallow deer, goats, and and birds. Between them lie flower beds, fountains, lakes, tennis courts, and views of the steeple of St Mary’s Church.

Abney Park dates back to the early 18th century. A former graveyard, it was one of the Magnificent Seven garden cemeteries in London. Today this place is a woodland memorial park and peaceful local nature reserve.

If this part of the city appeals, you can stay locally. There are plenty of good places in Stoke Newington. My top pick is The Brownswood . A beautiful pub with boutique rooms, it’s in a great location near Clissold Park. You can book a room here .

8. Primrose Hill

Next on my list of the best London villages is Primrose Hill . This is one of the sweetest neighborhoods in the city, not least because of its pastel houses and pretty shops.

Primrose Hill is known for its colorful Regency townhouses, local pubs, and famous green space with a view of Regent’s Park and the city skyline.

There are food markets and fun shops on Regent’s Park Road, the Victorian terraces are picture-pretty, and the stretch of Regent’s Canal that runs through the area is beautiful. Which is to say nothing of the view from the top of Primrose Hill itself.

Most people visit this part of London to take in the view from the top of Primrose Hill, but it’s worth spending time exploring side streets like Chalcot Crescent and Chalcot Square. Their pastel facades are stunning.

If you want to discover this part of London, my free self-guided Primrose Hill walk will take you around and show you the highlights.

If you’d like to live like a local, you can stay here. There are plenty of good options in Primrose Hill. My top pick is this studio apartment . Cozy and quiet, it’s in a great location right by the high street. You can book a stay here .

If you want something different, you can see a range of other options and find a place that fits your style here . There are plenty of choices.

9. Greenwich

Greenwich is another of the best London villages. This part of south east London is known for its historic architecture, world-class museums, park, observatory, and maritime history.

From the Queen’s House to the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich Park, and the Royal Observatory, Greenwich has heritage galore. Add to that pretty streets and a vibrant market, and there are lots of exciting things to do in Greenwich .

If you’re feeling adventurous, it’s fun to take a day trip to Greenwich on a boat from central London. You can book tickets here .

If you want to see the best of this part of the UK capital, my free self-guided walk in Greenwich will take you around and show you both the historic highlights and the local ones.

If you want to stay for more than just a day, there are plenty of good options for accommodation in Greenwich. My top pick is the Admiral Hardy . A stylish local pub, it’s in a great location right in the historic heart of the area. You can book a stay here .

If you’re after something a bit different, you can see a range of other options and find a place that fits your style here . There are lots of good choices.

10. Wimbledon

Wimbledon is next on my list of my favorite London villages. While it’s best known for the annual Wimbledon Tennis Championships , the village is worth visiting outside the sporting event.

Wimbledon village has a high street with pubs, independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a fun place to wander around, window shop, have tea, or enjoy lunch.

Wimbledon Common is a huge green space that’s great for getting into nature in the city, too. Whether you want to take a walk, play a round of golf, or ride a horse, there’s something for everyone here.

It’s fun to explore the side streets and gardens, too. From Cannizaro Park to the elegant homes leading to the famous All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC), there’s a lot to see in the area.

If you’d like to stay a night or two, there are plenty of good options in Wimbledon. My top pick is the Dog & Fox . A fun local pub, it’s in an ideal location right on the village high street. You can book a room here .

If you’re looking for something different, you can see a range of additional options and find a place that suits your preferences here . There are lots of good choices.

11. Clapham Old Town

Next on my guide to the best London villages is Clapham Old Town. With its pretty historic heart, expansive common, and independent shops, it’s no wonder so many people like to call this part of south London home.

Clapham Old Town is full of charming side streets and houses, and there are great restaurants and cafes in the area. The bars and pubs on and around the high street are lively every night, too.

If you want a leg stretch, Clapham Common is a great place to walk. This expansive green space is home to everything from a historic bandstand to sports fields and wooded areas.

Local markets like Venn Street Market round out the scene. Taking place every Saturday, it’s a great produce and artisan market with a variety of street food vendors. It’s one of my favorite south London markets .

There are places to call home-away-from home here, too. Clapham Old Town has a number of good options, and my top pick is the The Windmill on the Common . A local pub and hotel, it’s in an ideal location right on the park. You can book a room here .

If you’re after something different, you can take a look at a range of options and find a place that fits your preferences here . There are lots of good ones to choose from.

12. Chiswick

Chiswick is another London village that’s worthy of a spot on my list. This residential area on the Thames in west London is packed with beautiful streets and historic houses.

The high street in Chiswick has great restaurants and shops, and I love browsing the treasure troves full of antiques. There are fun bookshops and clothing stores along the road as well.

It’s fun to spend an afternoon taking in the stunning houses and gardens along the Thames Path between Hammersmith and Chiswick, too.

Add to that Chiswick House, Hogarth’s House, and the Fuller’s Brewery, and there are a lot of unique attractions in the area as well.

If that appeals, there are great places to stay for a night or two in Chiswick. My top pick is the room2 Chiswick Hometel . Located in the heart of the area, it has modern studios and a cafe cocktail bar. You can book one here .

Right on the Thames opposite Fulham and next to Putney, Barnes is another London village that’s worth a special trip. This local area fills a bend in the river, and it’s known for its pretty green spaces, elegant buildings, and good pubs.

The London Wetland Centre is here, too. Comprised of four disused Victorian reservoirs, this place focuses on the restoration and preservation of wetland nature areas. It’s a popular place with visitors, especially families with children.

Barnes is home to cultural attractions as well. Local galleries offer rotating displays of contemporary fine art, and The OSO Centre is the perfect place to check out exhibitions and plays.

There are great pubs here, too. The Sun Inn is a fun spot to have lunch or a drink. It’s right on Barnes Green, a pretty park with a pond.

If that sounds good, there are lots of places to stay in Barnes. My top pick is the The Bridge Pub & Rooms . Located near the Thames, this local pub has a handful of classically designed guest rooms. You can book one here .

If you’re looking for something a bit different, you can view a number of other options and find a place that fits your style here . There are plenty of good ones to choose from.

Map of Villages in London

As promised, I’ve created an interactive map of all the London villages on my list. You can see it here . If you click on the pins, you can find my blog posts about each one.

If you want to see everything in one place, my map of London neighborhoods can help.

Best London Villages

I hope you’ve enjoyed this overview of London villages and that it’s inspired you get out and discover more of the UK capital. Happy exploring!

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Seven unusual places to visit in London for free

W ith the cost of living crisis continuing to affect us all, it’s no surprise that people are looking for more and more opportunities to cut costs on days out and other activities.

The good news, if you live in or near London, is that there’s no shortage of things to do for nothing – with many of the capital’s biggest museums, galleries and parks free of charge – while taking in many of the famous sights on a walk won’t cost you a penny.

But if you fancy something a little more off the beaten track, there are plenty of hidden gems in London you might not have come across before, from more unusual museums and stately homes to gorgeous parks further afield in the city.

And many of those are also completely free to visit – meaning it won’t cost you any more than the price of a Tube fare.

So if you’re looking for somewhere a bit different for a day out, consider giving some of these a go. The trip out of the centre will be worth it…

Richmond Park/Isabella Plantation

One of London’s eight Royal Parks, Richmond Park is often overlooked in favour of the more centrally located parks – but it’s a must-visit for fans of unusual wildlife as well as those looking for a haven away from the centre of town.

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As well as being home to rare species of flowers, fungi, deer and other wildlife, for true tranquillity head straight to the Isabella Plantation, a stunning 40-acre woodland garden tucked away in a corner of the park that houses all manner of unusual trees and shrubs.

It’s particularly known for its rare Kurume azaleas, which were introduced to the UK from Japan in the 1920s and which still blossom every spring.

Tube: Richmond (District Line/Overground/National Rail)

London Mithraeum

If you’re fascinated by ancient history then get yourself to the City Of London to check out this cultural hub, situated on the site of the ancient Roman temple of Mithras.

The site lies over the Walbrook, one of the city’s lost rivers, dating back to the 3rd Century AD and dedicated to the cult of Mithras, which was founded in ancient Rome and spread across the Empire over the next couple of centuries.

Its remains were discovered during an archaeological dig in London in 1954, and have since been turned into a multi-sensory experience featuring artefacts, immersive installations and more.

12 Walbrook, London, EC4N 8AA

Nearest Tube: Bank (Central Line, Northern Line, DLR), St Paul’s (Central Line), Mansion House (Circle and District Line)

The Horniman Museum

It’s worth making the trip out to South London for this quirky museum, which houses a huge collection of natural history, anthropology and other unusual exhibits.

The majority of the museum, and the gardens, are free – which means you can gaze all you want at the giant stuffed walrus which takes pride of place in its midst – but there is a charge for the aquarium, the butterfly house and some of the exhibitions – check the website for more details of the cost.

As an added bonus if you go on a Sunday you can visit the Horniman Market and pick up some local produce, organic fruit and veg or artisan cheese – or visit one of the many craft, design and body care stalls there.

100 London Road, Forest Hill London SE23 3PQ

Overground: Forest Hill

Aldenham Country Park/Winnie The Pooh trail

This one’s all the way out near Elstree, but if you have young kids who love Winnie The Pooh then it’s well worth the effort.

The park is a not-for-profit venture based across 100 acres of land, featuring nature trails, wide open green spaces and 100 Aker Wood – where you can explore Winnie The Pooh’s world, locate his and his friend’s houses and even play a game of Pooh Sticks on the bridge.

Other attractions include a farm and adventure playground, for which there is a small charge – you can even go camping in the park grounds.

Aldenham Road,  Elstree,  Hertfordshire , WD6 3BA

Thameslink: Elstree and Borehamwood

Tucked away in a corner of north-west London, discover the history of the RAF, from its formation in 1918 through to its involvement in conflicts over the past century, and how it’s adapting to the technological changes of the future.

The displays of planes and marine craft, as well as other artefacts, are free to visit but there’s a small charge for the museum’s 4D theatre, allowing audiences to experience a pilot’s eye view of soaring through the skies, and its flight simulator.

Grahame Park Way, London, NW9 5LL

Tube: Colindale (Northern Line)

God’s Own Junkyard

A gallery with a difference, it’s worth venturing out to Walthamstow to visit this warehouse filled to the brim with neon signs.

The brainchild of Chris Bracey, who’s made props and signs for Hollywood movies and worked with the likes of Tim Burton and Christopher Nolan, it features everything from old movie props to those specially created for other events – and it’s visually stunning, not to mention highly Instagrammable.

You can even rent or buy some of the signs on display – although be warned that doesn’t come cheap.

Unit 12 Ravenswood Ind Estate, Shernhall Street, London, E17 9HQ

Overground: Wood Street

Hackney City Farm

You might not expect to find a farm in the midst of the city, but if you want to escape from life for a bit and spend it petting goats and donkeys you don’t have to go too far to find it.

Hackney City Farm offers the chance for you to get up close to the animals and see them in their habitat – as well as visit the orchard and vegetable gardens and learn more about how to lower your environmental impact.

It’s free to enter but you can make a donation in lieu of an entry fee – while the farm also offers paid-for classes in pottery, woodworking, using herbs and bike maintenance, among others – you can find out more at the website.

1a Goldsmiths Row, London E2 8QA

Overground: Cambridge Heath

Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

Aka the ‘Neasden temple’, this stunning place of Hindu worship offers a haven of peace and tranquility just a stone’s throw from the North Circular – and it’s completely free to visit.

The interior is just as spectacular as the outside, with its intricate carvings, marble columns and the Cantilever dome at the heart of the building. Depending on when you go you might also get the chance to see a traditional arti ceremony, involving waving lighted wicks before sacred images as a form of greeting and thanksgiving.

The temple also houses a permanent exhibition explaining the traditions and values of Hinduism, as well as offering visitors the chance for meditation and reflection while under the dome.

Pramukh Swami Rd, Neasden, London NW10 8HW

Tube: Neasden (Jubilee Line)

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