free travel guide for london

The Ultimate FREE London Tourist Map (Things to Do, Photo Spots & More!)

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Looking for a London tourist map that covers all the main sights?

Great news! Hi – I’m Christina, a shameless travel nerd who has already made one. WITH cute stamp icons… that are colour coded.

So yes, below, you’ll find a handy Google Map that you can use on your phone that includes…

• Top London museums & sights
• The prettiest photo spots and views in London
• The nicest parks in London
• London food, drink & pub recommendations
• Fun shopping spots to visit in London

I hope you find it helpful!

Save this Free London Map for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

My Free London Tourist Map

On mobile? Click this link here and the map should automatically open on your Google Maps app.

NOTE: Free sights are marked with a green background – be sure to expand the Map Legend to see the different layers and categories I’ve included!

London Travel Tips Video

First time in London? Here’s a video that explains some of the important must-knows to keep in mind before your trip.

More London Travel Resources

Finally, if you’re a bit more old school, then here are some articles and blog posts to help you out with your London planning!

• London Travel Tips
• How to Spend Three Days in London
• The Best Historic & Unique Pubs in London
• The Best Christmas Things to do in London
• London Mistakes to Avoid
• London Harry Potter Bucket List
• England Travel Tips
• The Best Places to Visit in England (Besides London)
• How to Take Trains in the UK (Step by Step)

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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12 of the best free things to do in London in 2024

Mar 12, 2024 • 7 min read

Some of London's best experiences are completely free © Bonfanti Diego / Getty Images

The UK capital is known for its wealth of culture, world-class attractions and... budget-busting prices. But travelers on a tight budget need not despair – there are plenty of free things to in London if you know where to look.

You can walk through two millennia of history, delve into a cornucopia of treasures, go on a music and art odyssey, and soak in some of the most iconic views on earth – all without spending a single penny. Here’s where to start.

1. Learn about the world's natural wonders

The Natural History Museum houses some 80 million specimens within a spectacular Grade-I-listed Gothic structure. From a full blue whale skeleton – the world's largest mammal – dangling from the ceiling to ancient bones of dinosaurs that once roamed the earth, this magnificent collection of things from the natural world began more than 200 years ago and is entirely free to visit.

Planning tip:  You don't need to book tickets in advance , but those that do get to skip the line. Check the museum’s website for regular free guided tours and workshops.

2. Get lost in London’s historic streets

One of the best ways to get a grasp of London’s immense history and diverse neighborhoods  is to set off on two feet. The whole city center is walkable and its winding, twisting, turning streets are an adventure in themselves. Dozens of free walking guides are available online, pointing out notable landmarks and offering facts about the areas you find yourself in. When walking anywhere in London, don’t forget to look up; ancient gargoyles, detailed facades and old signage can be found at every turn.

Local tip: Movie fans should seek out filming locations, everything from James Bond ( Skyfall , Spectre and No Time To Die ) and The Bourne Ultimatum to Love Actually , 28 Days Later and Les Miserables has been filmed in London.

3. See modern art greats at London's free galleries

London’s has many superb free galleries to choose from. Smaller spaces include the Serpentine Gallery – which has showcased big guns in the modern art world including Henry Moore, Andy Warhol, Louise Bourgeois, Damien Hirst and Tomoko Takahashi – and the Saatchi Gallery , which celebrates contemporary artists on the way up.

Then there’s the art-world Goliath that is the Tate Modern , housed in the striking old Bankside Power Station, with hundreds of works displayed over seven large gallery floors. Look out for pieces by Pablo Picasso, Mark Rothko, Nan Goldin and Tracey Emin.

Local tip: Roam a neon wonderland at God’s Own Junkyard , a salvage yard in Walthamstow that's home to hundreds of electric signs that have been created into pieces of art.

4. Lounge around in London’s many parks

In summer Londoners head for the city’s 3000 free parks . These glorious green social spaces are the places to get away from the bustle of the city, read a book, nature watch, picnic or lounge in a deckchair, but they also host numerous events – look out for free outdoor theater shows, guided nature walks, live music, movie screenings, sports tournaments, festivals and more on park websites.

Local tip: Visit Greenwich Park to stand at longitude zero (0° 0' 0”), from which every place on earth is measured. Step over the Prime Meridian line to transport yourself into the east or west of the world in one step.

5. Watch street artists at work in Leake Street Tunnel

Leake Street Tunnel , tucked away in Waterloo, is a vibrant 200m (656ft) outdoor gallery of murals, graffiti and stencil art. It has been legally designated a “free wall” meaning anyone can come and create a piece of art here. The standard is world-class, and passersby can view everything from giant portraits and political pieces to those in the image of New York 1960s subway graffiti. Famous street artist Banksy has been known to leave his mark here too. On most days you can watch artists live in action.

Local tip:  Explore other street art hot spots in East London's Brick Lane and Hackney Wick on a self-guided walking tour.

6. Catch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony

This iconic tradition at Buckingham Palace , dating back to the reign of King Henry VII, is free to watch. It’s essentially the formal changeover of guards protecting the King’s palace (complete with red and black uniforms and tall bear-skin hats – worn to make them look intimidating in battle) and is full of pomp and in-sync marching.

Planning tip: It usually takes place at 11am on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, and lasts for around 45 minutes. Times can shift slightly, so be sure to check the online schedule before you go. If you want to see the guards within the Palace, get to the gates early for a good view as the area swells with crowds before the ceremony, but there are many of other viewing points along the parade route.

7. Be entertained by a Covent Garden street performance

Entertainers have been delighting outdoor crowds in Covent Garden’s cobbled Piazza since the 1660s. Street performers here range from acrobats to magicians and comedians. Just look for the crowds forming a circle and join them to watch classic circus-style performances, from knife throwing on a unicycle to stilt walking on a wire. You never know what you’re going to get but there’s sure to be plenty of humor and some peril.

Local tip: While it’s not required, it is courteous to tip your performers, even if it’s just a small amount of change – it’s how they make a living.

8. View thousands of pickled specimens

Fans of the peculiar and macabre should pay a visit to one of London’s most curious museums – the Hunterian Museum , named after 18th century surgeon and anatomist John Hunter. It’s stacked with more than 2000 preserved animals, plants, bones and body parts from eyeballs and organs to monkeys, birds, lizards and other creatures frozen in time in glass jars.

Planning tip: Note that the museum is closed on Mondays and Sundays.

9. Step inside a historic manor house

See how the other half lived more than a century ago at one of London’s impressive manor houses. Arts and crafts celebrity William Morris lived with his family in a stunning 19th century Georgian mansion house next to Lloyd’s Park in Walthamstow, now the William Morris Gallery . Visitors can wander the rooms in the formerly named Water House, and learn about his life’s works.

In Hampstead Heath, meanwhile, the grand 17th-century Kenwood House is an impressive stately home with painstakingly maintained features, including ornate pastel-pink plasterwork in the Great Library, 112 acres of manicured gardens, and a seriously impressive art collection – spot works by George Romney, Rembrandt and Johannes Vermeer.

10. Take in the city’s glorious views

Climb up the 90m (300ft) bluff on Hampstead’s rugged heath to Parliament Hill for soaring views over London and see if you can spot the Palace of Westminster in the distance. Take a wander uphill to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park for awesome scenes of Canary Wharf’s modern financial district with the 17th-century Old Royal Naval College in the foreground.

Want to stay indoors? No problem, the foliage-filled atrium of London’s Sky Garden , on the 43rd floor of the famous “Walkie Talkie” building (at 20 Fenchurch St) is completely free to visit and has floor-to-ceiling glass windows with 360-degree views. Book timed tickets online in advance for that and London's newest and highest free viewing deck, the 58th-floor  Horizon 22  at 22 Bishopsgate.

11. Visit the gateway to the Wizarding World

North London’s King’s Cross Station is home to the gateway to Harry Potter’s Wizarding World, otherwise known as Platform 9¾. In tribute to the hit book and movie series, a sign is permanently hung above a trolley stacked with suitcases and an owl cage, as it half disappears into the wall. Potterheads can line up with other fans to snap a picture of them holding on to the trolley dressed in a Hogwarts scarf and holding a wand (graciously provided by the Harry Potter Shop next door).

Local tip: For more magic vibes, step inside the adjacent Gothic St Pancras Renaissance Hotel , which could double as Hogwarts. Snap a picture of the grand three-tiered staircase, the setting of the Spice Girls "Wannabe" music video, before heading to Leadenhall Market , which featured as Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone  (2001).

12. Explore a fine collection of treasures at the V&A

The Victoria & Albert Museum is a wonderful cavernous place with 60,000 arts, crafts and decorative pieces created by human hands. Items range from century-old dresses to furniture and household objects. Take a free  V&A highlights of 2024 tour  at 10:30am to learn more about some of the museum's most impressive pieces.

Local tip: Don’t miss a visit to the museum's three opulent refreshment rooms, each elaborately decorated with features like gold, high-painted ceilings and stained glass windows.

This article was first published Jan 1, 2019 and updated Mar 12, 2024.

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London, England   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Doug Armand | Getty Images

Free Things To Do in London, England

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

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. 

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.  

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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 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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27 of the best free things to do in London

London isn't the world's cheapest destination, but there are still plenty of inexpensive ways to experience the U.K. capital.

From enjoying green spaces and natural wonders to stocking up on knowledge at free museums and art galleries, you can easily create a jam-packed London itinerary without shelling out hard cash. This will help keep your travel costs low or allow you to save money for a specific paid excursion.

Let's take a look at some of London's best freebies.

Related: The complete guide to flying to London on points and miles

Watch the iconic 'changing of the guard'

Peeking at Buckingham Palace through its gates is completely free (alas, touring inside is not). The changing of the guard ceremony takes place on the palace forecourt outside each day.

Weather permitting, you'll get to witness a bit of the pomp and circumstance the British royal family is known for. There's a musical accompaniment to The King's Guard coming off duty as the new soldiers take their place. Obviously, it's a popular activity for London visitors, so arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.

Opening times: Usually Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from 10:45 a.m. See schedule . Nearest Tube station: St. James's Park, Green Park or Knightsbridge. Learn more: The Household Division website.

Reach new heights at the Sky Garden 

It's totally free to take in the 360-degree views of the capital from its highest public garden. It sits inside the "Walkie-Talkie" building on 20 Fenchurch Street.

To enjoy the viewing terrace and the gardens themselves (which feature an array of Mediterranean and South African plants), book tickets in advance. If you want to keep the activity completely free, you'll have to swerve Sky Garden's restaurant and bar offerings.

After, there are a few more free attractions within walking distance: Monument to the Great Fire of London, St. Dunstan-in-the-East Church Garden designed by Christopher Wren, Leadenhall Market and the iconic Gherkin building.

Opening times: Weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., weekends from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Nearest Tube station : Monument. Learn more: Sky Garden's official website.

Walk along the Tower Bridge

When you picture London, surely Tower Bridge comes to mind. Built in the late 1800s, the famous suspension bridge is truly an icon of the capital. If you want to go inside said towers or stroll along its glass walkways, you'll have to pay to enter. However, it's free to marvel at the bridge's height and beauty just by walking across it.

You'll see plenty of landmarks en route, including the Tower of London and the (slightly murky) River Thames that the bridge crosses. The Tower Bridge also makes an excellent backdrop for any wish-you-were-here photos you might post on Instagram.

Opening times: Always open. Nearest Tube station: Tower Hill or London Bridge. Learn more: Tower Bridge's official website.

Find a gem at Portobello Road market

There is almost always something exciting happening at Portobello Road market. Busy Saturdays are easily the best time to visit the stalls specializing in antiques, vintage and secondhand finds, as well as a few edible treats. To keep things free of charge, you'll have to stick to browsing, not buying.

If you can't make it on a Saturday but want to shop for clothes, there are plenty of stores dotting Notting Hill's standout street. They include antique treasure troves, retro clothing spots and gems such as The Portobello Print and Map Shop. Since the 1940s, this area has been known as a hub for antiquing.

Opening times: Monday to Saturday. Times vary from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday), 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Thursday) and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Friday and Saturday). Nearest Tube station: Ladbroke Grove. Learn more: Portobello Road's official website.

Admire art in The National Gallery

Want to see masterpieces from the likes of Vermeer, Cezanne, Da Vinci, Monet and Van Gogh for free? Head to London's iconic Trafalgar Square and step inside The National Gallery to admire a sensational collection of European art spanning multiple centuries.

Expand your knowledge by perusing a range of free temporary exhibitions, too. Examples of past exhibitions include Turner on Tour, Discover Manet and Eva Gonzales, and Gainsborough's Blue Boy. Note a select few temporary exhibitions do charge.

Opening times: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Extended hours until 9 p.m. on Fridays. Nearest Tube station: Charing Cross or Leicester Square. Learn more: The National Gallery's official website.

See street art in Shoreditch 

Shoreditch, a trendy neighborhood in East London, offers a different kind of art: street art. Look around, and you'll find colorful murals on the sides of buildings, crazy collages on billboards and unexpected designs along the walls. It's completely free to admire this art, though some companies also offer walking tours around the area.

Once in Shoreditch, you won't be far from Brick Lane — a narrow street stretching through Bethnal Green and Spitalfields, famous for its curry houses and vintage shops. Brick Lane offers plenty of things to do, such as sampling street food truck offerings, playing junkyard golf and visiting the record shop Rough Trade East. Of course, those activities will cost you, but it's still worth looking around.

Opening times: Always open. Nearest Tube station: Liverpool Street or Shoreditch High Street Overground.

Related: The best hotels in London

Visit the Natural History Museum

Admission is free to the Natural History Museum, one of London's most fascinating museums. Booking a time slot in advance is essential during busy periods. Once inside, you can explore its vast collection of skeletons and rare artifacts that chart the course of the Earth's history, from prehistoric dinosaurs and giant sloths to modern mammals and marine life.

The building itself, in South Kensington, is also a point of interest. If you've never been before, expect to spend up to several hours here poring over the different displays.

Opening times: Daily from 10 a.m. to 5:50 p.m. Nearest Tube station: South Kensington. Learn more: Natural History Museum's official website.

Get out in nature at Walthamstow Wetlands

Think there's no way you could visit a nature reserve in the middle of London? Think again. OK, it's not quite in the middle of London, but it's on the edge of Walthamstow in East London, not far from Tottenham.

Free to walk through, the wetlands comprise several walking (or running) trails overlooking the water. It provides a gorgeously green escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city, especially during the warmer months. It's a year-round haven for birds, with species including grey herons, kingfishers, peregrine falcons and tufted ducks. The on-site Victorian Engine House is now a visitor center and cafe.

Opening times: Daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Nearest Tube station: Blackhorse Road or Tottenham Hale. Learn more: London Wildlife Trust's official website.

Go landmark and statue-spotting

Jaunt around central London long enough, and you'll see plenty of statues and landmarks. However, if you're looking for ways to keep yourself entertained without pulling out the credit card, challenge yourself to a scavenger hunt of the city's most iconic landmarks and its more unusual or whimsical figures.

Just a few examples you could go looking for include:

• Marble Arch.
• Wellington Arch.
• Boadicea and Her Daughters statue on Victoria Embankment.
• Queen Alexandra Memorial on Marlborough Road.
• Sherlock Holmes statue on Marylebone (near the supposed site of Baker Street).
• Peter Pan statue in Kensington Gardens.
• Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens.
• Amy Winehouse statue on Chalk Farm Road.

Opening times: Varies (some always open). Nearest Tube station: Varies, depending on which you'd like to see.

Feel stylish at the V&A Museum

Expect to find exhibitions and displays devoted to art, design, fashion, textiles and all things creative at the beloved Victoria & Albert Museum in South Kensington (commonly known as the V&A).

Its offerings vary from The Raphael Cartoons tapestry designs on display to a photography exhibit of Julia Margaret Cameron's work. There's also an ongoing metalwork exhibition containing gold, silver and Bronze Age items. To see what's on display during your visit, take a look at the official website. Or, poke your head in and check it out — it is free, after all.

Opening times: Daily from 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., with a late close at 10 p.m. on Fridays. Nearest Tube station: South Kensington. Learn more: V&A Museum's official website.

Try the Tate Modern or Tate Britain

Two Tate galleries, two very different types of art. Luckily, admission is free for both. As its name suggests, Tate Modern focuses on modern art and unusual materials as well as film, video and performance.

Tate Britain has several collections, including a walkthrough of British works by artist J.M.W. Turner and others ordered by date and an exhibition.

Opening times: Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nearest Tube station: Southwark (Tate Modern) and Pimlico or Vauxhall (Tate Britain). Learn more: Websites for Tate Modern and Tate Britain.

Check out the Barbican

The Barbican complex is a must-visit if you're interested in the residential Barbican Estate's world-famous Brutalist architecture. Luckily, you can admire it for free. Or, you can enjoy the Barbican Centre, which houses a library, cinema, cafe, restaurant, shop and various art and design exhibitions or installations — some of which are free.

There's even a free Squish Space where children five years and under can play. It's ideal for families looking for ways to keep busy. You may need to book a time slot in advance, though.

Opening times: Daily from 9:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., though the estate itself is always open. Nearest Tube station: Barbican. Learn more: Barbican's official website.

Mosey along the Parkland Walk

You can find the Parkland Walk, one of London's longest nature reserves, along what was once a railway track. As you stroll the 4.5-mile trail (which is broken into sections), you'll pass Muswell Hill and Crouch End through to Stroud Green and Finsbury Park — areas you may not usually get to visit.

There are plenty of trees and wildflowers on this stroll, as well as local art, the Spriggan sculpture peering down at you from an archway and picturesque views over North London neighborhoods. It is especially lovely in the sunshine.

Opening times: Always open. Nearest Tube station: Highgate or Finsbury Park. Learn more: Friends of Parkland Walk's website (for useful maps and directions).

Climb to the top of Primrose Hill

Once you climb the short (but steep) grassy route up to the top of Primrose Hill in Regent's Park, you can enjoy great views over the city. Again, you'll likely get the best views on a clear or sunny day, but it's even worth the tiny trek when the skies are gray.

The neighboring residential area of Primrose Hill is very pleasant and peaceful — think candy-colored townhouses, with a high street of on-trend cafes, boutiques and upscale grocery shops. Over the decades, Primrose Hill has been home to plenty of British stars and A-list actors, so it's no surprise that it's a pretty nice place.

Opening times: Daily from 5 a.m. until dusk. Nearest Tube station: Chalk Farm.

Learn at the Science Museum

Interested in space? The history of aviation? Medicine? Math? Mechanics? Look no further than the Science Museum. Spending a day here will entertain and, hopefully, teach you a thing or two about how all of that works.

Near the Natural History Museum and V&A, the Science Museum is also free to explore. Check out numerous galleries (Exploring Space, about humanity's journeys beyond Earth, is a must-see), some temporary galleries (recent examples include a COVID-19 vaccine exhibition, a tour related to clockmaking, and an area devoted to science fiction), as well as some of the interactive galleries (alas, not the Wonder Lab).

Opening times: Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nearest Tube station: South Kensington. Learn more: Science Museum's official website.

Chill out in Hyde Park

Parks are plentiful in the city, so you won't struggle to find some green space. Hyde Park, however, is ideally located between Buckingham Palace and Kensington Gardens. It's a convenient place to stop, sit and enjoy some people-watching before ticking more attractions off your London bucket list.

There are some points of interest in the park, too, including several statues, the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain — a trickling, meandering tribute to the late Diana, Princess of Wales, first unveiled in 2004 — and the Rose Garden, which is best seen blooming in early summer. There's also an adventure playground if you're traveling with children.

Opening times: Daily from 5 a.m. until midnight. Nearest Tube station: Hyde Park Corner, Knightsbridge, Marble Arch and Lancaster Gate all surround the park. Learn more: Hyde Park's official website.

Step back in time at the British Museum

The British Museum takes visitors on a journey through two million years of human history, art and culture — not just in Britain but all around the globe. Galleries showcase histories and artifacts from Greece, Egypt, Mesopotamia, China, South Asia, Africa and Europe across the centuries.

The museum is free, though you must book a ticket to secure a slot. As with the Natural History Museum, you'll want to set aside a good chunk of time to fully take in the exhibits on display.

Opening times: Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Extended hours until 8:30 p.m. on Fridays. Nearest Tube station: Holborn, Tottenham Court Road, Goodge Street or Russell Square. Learn more: British Museum's official website.

Follow the footpaths along Regent's Canal 

Step aside, Amsterdam — London has a canal, too. The nearly-9-mile-long Regent's Canal stretches through a huge swathe of the city. It's ideal for travelers who want to save money by exploring the city on foot.

A stroll along the canal will take you from Paddington's "Little Venice" area past Regent's Park, Camden Market, Islington and the King's Cross area. There's even a London Canal Museum in the King's Cross area. Admission is 6 British pounds (about $7.50). The path will take you all the way to Hackney and Victoria Park, then finally down to the Limehouse Basin and River Thames.

Opening times: Always open. Nearest Tube station: Paddington is a possible starting point for the route, as is Camden Town, King's Cross St. Pancras, or Limehouse DLR stop. Learn more: Canal & River Trust's website.

Wander around Hampstead Heath 

Head to North London to visit one of the city's most idyllic green spaces and one of its highest points. Check out the cityscape from Parliament Hill viewpoint, or enjoy a leisurely walk past nature ponds and through woods. There are also dedicated walking trails.

Visit the free Golders Hill Park Zoo or enjoy playgrounds and sports facilities. There are also natural swimming pools for both men and women (though they charge a fee for entry, and there are specific opening times).

Opening times: Always open. Nearest Tube station: Hampstead, Golders Green, Hampstead Heath Overground or Gospel Oak Overground. Learn more: Hampstead Heath's website.

Browse Covent Garden

If you can resist the urge to splurge on clothes, jewelry, technology, books and other treats, then roaming around the famous Covent Garden is free of charge.

Expect Covent Garden to be buzzing with both locals and visitors, as it's one of London's best-known shopping destinations. Keep an eye out for the beautiful Royal Opera House and the colorful alleyway Neal's Yard. If you do want to spend on something to eat, stop at the street food hotspot Seven Dials Market.

Opening times: Always open (but shop/market opening times will vary). Nearest Tube station: Covent Garden. Learn more: Covent Garden's website.

Smell the flowers at Columbia Road Market

Market fans will find plenty of stalls to peruse in all corners of London, but for one of the city's prettiest and most fragrant markets, head to Columbia Road in East London.

Within walking distance from Hackney and Shoreditch, Columbia Road is a narrow street lined with independent shops (selling records, vintage ware, quirky gifts and even outfits for dogs), cafes and pubs. The area blossoms on Sundays as florists gather to sell bouquets, unusual succulents, houseplants and herbs. Arrive early, though, as it is pretty much guaranteed to be packed.

Opening times: Sundays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nearest Tube station: Hoxton Overground or Bethnal Green. Learn more: Columbia Road's website.

Explore the Horniman Museum and Gardens

South London's Horniman Museum and Gardens is an excellent free activity if you've already hit up London's major free museums. You'll need to take a train to reach it, but it's a nice escape from the well-trodden tourist areas.

Known for its anthropological and natural history exhibits and a vast collection of musical instruments, the museum is certainly eclectic. The gardens are gorgeous, spanning 16 acres, complete with a picturesque Victorian conservatory and a dedicated nature trail. The Horniman is also home to the Butterfly House and an aquarium, though both require a small entry fee.

Opening times: Daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (museum) and 7:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (gardens). Nearest Tube station: Forest Hill Overground. Learn more: Horniman Museum's official website.

Go neon in God's Own Junkyard

In Walthamstow, East London, is an art gallery and shop called God's Own Junkyard. Practically every inch of it is completely covered by huge, glowing neon signs emanating a vibrant pink hue throughout the room. A museum of sorts for all things neon, it's an Instagrammer's dream and just as eye-catching as it looks on social media. Signs are for sale, too, and there's a cafe/bar.

If you fancy more art, take a short bus trip or a 20-minute walk down the road to the free-to-browse William Morris Gallery. It's devoted to 1800s textile designer William Morris and his dainty floral designs. Also, look out for the lengthy outdoor market along Walthamstow High Street.

Opening times: Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., though opening times may vary. Nearest Tube station: Walthamstow Central. Learn more: God's Own Junkyard official website.

Admire the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park

Holland Park in West London is full of serene areas, and the Kyoto Garden is one of the best. It's a perfect spot for when you want a moment away from London's hustle and bustle.

Expect green space, colorful Japanese maple trees, a tranquil waterfall and a koi pond in this peaceful part of the park, which was gifted to London by the Japanese city in the early 1990s. Visit during springtime, ideally April, to see cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Opening times: Daily from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nearest Tube station: Holland Park.

See the Crystal Palace dinosaurs

South London's Crystal Palace Park is a must for dinosaur-mad youngsters or anyone with a penchant for historic curiosities. It's home to some very special sculptures of dinosaurs and extinct animals, which are on display on mini islands around the park.

According to the Friends of Crystal Palace Dinosaurs , these statues date back to the mid-1800s and were the first attempt at recreating full-scale models of the prehistoric creatures. Naturally, they were seen as pioneering at the time. They don't look like dinosaurs as we know them today, but that is ultimately part of their charm.

Opening times: Open daily from 7:30 a.m. (9 a.m. on weekends) to 8:30 p.m. Nearest Tube station: Penge West Overground or Crystal Palace Overground. Learn more: Friends of Crystal Palace Dinosaurs.

Ascend to Alexandra Palace

For an excellent panoramic view over London — with The Shard and Gherkin jutting into the distant skyline — walk up to the stunning Alexandra Palace in North London. "Ally Pally" itself is an entertainment venue, with a newly renovated East Court installation space free to enjoy. It also boasts a surrounding park, a garden center and an ice rink (not free, sadly) and plenty of places to eat or drink.

Although it was named for Queen Alexandra (then Princess of Wales) when it was first built in the 1870s, Alexandra Palace was originally intended to be an entertainment space rather than a royal residence. It's served other uses over the years, including in 1936, when the BBC broadcast the world's first regular high-definition TV service from the site.

Opening times: Park is always open. East Court is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nearest Tube station: Wood Green. Learn more: Alexandra Palace's official website.

Spot London's best blue plaques

If you plan to keep costs low by exploring on foot, look out for blue plaques as you walk. You'll spot them on buildings and houses all over Greater London. They highlight the birthplaces and former residences of historically significant people.

There are almost 1,000 plaques across the entire city. Search for any figures that might interest you on English Heritage's website. A handful of notable plaques include:

• Charlie Chaplin at 15 Glenshaw Mansions, Brixton Road.
• Jimi Hendrix at 23 Brook Street, Mayfair.
• Diana, Princess of Wales, at Flat 60, Coleherne Court, Old Brompton Road.
• Mary Seacole at 14 Soho Square, Soho.
• Agatha Christie at 58 Sheffield Terrace, Holland Park.
• Emmeline and Christabel Pankhurst at 50 Clarendon Road, Notting Hill.
• Oscar Wilde at 34 Tite Street, Chelsea.
• Bob Marley at 42 Oakley Street, Chelsea.

Opening times: Always open. Nearest Tube station: Varies. Learn more: English Heritage's website.

Bonus: Try street food at Borough Market, Camden Market or Broadway Market

London's many glorious street food markets sometimes pop up on lists of "free things" to do. Indeed, it's free to browse the stalls at Borough Market, take in the aromas at tourist hotspot Camden Market or enjoy the Saturday bustle at Broadway Market in London Fields.

You can take in the atmosphere and see what's on offer. You may even find a free sample or two. However, if you're a foodie (or it's just lunchtime and you're hungry), opening your wallet may be hard to resist. Expect an array of cuisines, junk food creations and even homemade sweet treats.

Opening times: Varies. See individual market opening times. Nearest Tube stations: London Bridge (Borough Market), Camden Town (Camden Market), Bethnal Green or London Fields Overground (Broadway Market). Learn more: Websites for Borough Market , Camden Market and Broadway Market.

Bonus: Play games at Novelty Automation

This hidden-away gem in Holborn is technically free. However, it might be difficult to walk inside the arcade, take a mere look at its undeniably unique and satirical gaming machines — all designed by engineer Tim Hunkin — and leave without buying a single token to pop into one of the slots. After all, a token only costs 1 British pound (about $1.25).

Opening times: Varies from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday), 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Thursday), 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. (Sunday). Nearest Tube station: Holborn or Chancery Lane. Learn more: Novelty Automation's official website.

The best free things to do in London

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written by Andy Turner

updated 04.05.2023

Visiting London , it’s hard to imagine the UK is staggering its way out of a recession. Lamborghinis continue to roar down Bond Street, new restaurants pop up each week and in the hip East End, one can find many drinking 5 quid espresso drinks. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly things to do in London. Here is our guide to the best free things to do in London.

1. Hit the museums

2. marvel at world-class art.

• 3. Witness the capital's enviable live music

4. Get your sides split for nothing

5. pedal for free, 6. seek out some real wildlife.

• 7. Behold London's pomp and ceremony
• 8. Forage for the city's best free food

9. Exploit the numerous 2 for 1 ticket offers

10. observe the ceremony of the keys at the tower of london, 11. discover street art in shoreditch.

• 12. Walk around London's Parks for free

13. Get amazing views of London

• 14. See the iconic neons at God's Own Junkyard
• 15. Follow Harry Potter's steps

16. Feel the unique atmosphere of Little Venice

• 17. Take a free walking tour through London's markets

18. Cross the Thames underground — one of the best free things to do in London

Where to stay in london.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to England , your essential guide for travelling to England.

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Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

Thanks to those philanthropic Victorians, there are a great collection of free museums in London. Most of them double as architectural marvels. The Natural History Museum, V&A Museum of London and the Science Museum are great places to start. Also worth seeing is the British Museum, the Museum of London, and the Grant Museum of Zoology.

Most of London’s wonderful permanent art collections are free to all (stick that in your pipe Musée du Louvre!). As well as the National Gallery and the two Tates, try the Whitechapel Gallery or the newly revamped Photographers' Gallery. Or check out the art collection at the Queen's House.

3. Witness the capital's enviable live music

Apart from buskers murdering Coldplay on the tube, you’ll find free music across the capital. Camden pubs such as the Lock Tavern regularly host free gigs while Rough Trade record stores put on in-store performances by surprisingly big names.

For some free Bach or Beethoven try a student performance at the Royal Academy of Music or an evening concert at St Martin’s in the Fields. If you’re under 26 you can also enjoy a huge range of free events at the Barbican arts centre.

A smile costs nothing so they say, especially on Tuesdays at the Camden Head Pub or Wednesdays at the Comedy Café. Each venue hosts free nights where comics try out new material (be gentle!).

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For a couple of quid, you can access the capital’s network of bulky-but-brilliant “Boris bikes” for 24hrs. Hiring the bikes is then free if you limit each ride to 30min (a range of apps help you find the docking points).

Ready to see the city via bike? Don't miss our guide to cycling in London .

The Rough Guides to England and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

With London Zoo costing a staggering £63 for a family of four, it’s worth knowing you can see wildlife for free in the capital. Richmond Park is famous for its herds of deer while the Lee Valley provides everything from butterflies to swooping peregrine falcons. An afternoon here is one of the best free things to do in London.

7. Behold London's pomp and ceremony

Pageantry breaks out regularly across London from the Changing the Guard outside of Buckingham Palace — which is free to view. For something less stuffy don’t miss the Notting Hill Carnival held each August bank holiday.

8. Forage for the city's best free food

It's a wee bit cheeky but you can sample plenty of free titbits at London’s wonderful food markets. Try Borough for the widest range or its smaller, cooler, rival Maltby Street. Even Harrod’s food hall hands out the odd morsel.

Visiting the UK with your animal companion? Check out our guide to dog-friendly spots in the United Kingdom .

Both Visit London and National Rail’s Day’s Out Guide offer a range of 2-for-1 deals for those travelling by tube or train. If you simply must go to Madame Tussauds this is probably the cheapest way to do it.

Every night, the gates to the Tower of London are ceremoniously locked. This traditional ritual has occurred since the middle ages and is a great thing to do in London for free.

Brick Lane Street in Shoreditch is a great place to see London's cutting-edge street art. There are plenty of massive and intricate murals to stroll by. A walking tour to see the graffiti in the area is one of the best free things to do in London.

12. Walk around London's Parks for free

For a break from the bustle of the city, try a free walk through a park. London is home to many iconic parks. The most well-known parks are St James Park and Hyde Park. But also worth visiting are Regent's Park, Greenwich Park, Holland Park and Battersea Park.

Dreaming of taking your dream trip to the UK? With our tailor-made trip service, you can go on your trip without the stress of planning and booking. Our Refreshing English Countryside Break trip features the best of the patchwork hills and charming villages of England. Our tailor-made trips are created by local travel experts and are completely customisable.

London is a huge sprawling city and it's worth going up to see it from above. Primrose Hill in Regent's Park is a popular place to take in the view. Equally gorgeous but lesser known, Parliament Hill also offers great views. London's Sky Garden is a glass dome located on the top of a hill and is one of the most beautiful places in London. It is free on weekdays.

14. See the iconic neons at God's Own Junkyard

God's Own Junkyard is a dizzying collection of neon signs and is a great place to visit in the city. The establishment is part store, part art gallery, and part museum and is one of London's great attractions for those who are budget conscious.

15. Follow Harry Potter's steps

There are plenty of sights to see for Harry Potter fans in London. Visit Kings Cross station to visit platform 9 3/4, or take a walk through Leadenhall Market also known as Diagon Alley.

Looking for inspiration for your trip to London? Take a unique trip and read our guide to London off the tourist trail .

This district in west London features a lovely canal built in the 1800s. This area is covered in beautiful green foliage and is worth a visit. A boat ride is included for free if you have a London Pass.

17. Take a free walking tour through London's markets

Although many may visit to spend money, many of London's markets are worth visiting for window shopping. Covent Garden, on London's west end, might be known for its luxury shopping — but it's worth a visit just to see this district's architecture. Borough Market, known for its food stalls, is one of the oldest food markets in London and is worth a visit.

For an eery but unique site, don't miss the opportunity to take the Greenwich foot tunnel. This tunnel is built directly under the Thames and is one of the best free things to do in London. Over 4,000 people come to crosswalk this path every day.

London is known for its expensive housing. Although it's unlikely to stay in London for free (unless you happen to have a good friend with a couch), there are some options available for the budget conscious.

• For a lively stay: Clink 78 . This party hostel is a great time for those who are feeling social. Lively DJ bar and affordable dorms.
• For a budget-friendly hostel: Safestay Holland Park . This hostel is bright, clean and with good beds. This hostel is family-friendly and even has a pool.
• Or search for your perfect accommodation in London .

For more about where to stay, check out our guide to the best places to stay in London .

If you're planning your trip to London you won't want to miss our Rough Guide to England .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to England without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image: River view of Big Ben and-Houses of parliament in London, England, United Kingdom © S.Borisov/Shutterstock

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London Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 5, 2024

London is one of the most popular cities in the world. It’s home to charming pubs, world-class (and often free) museums, tons of history, some of the best theater performances in the world, a diverse population, incredible food, and a wild nightlife.

I know it’s cliche to say there’s something for everyone but, in this sprawling metropolis, there really is!

I’ve been visiting London since 2008 and, with every subsequent visit, the city has grown on me. The more I go, the more awesome stuff I see, the more I fall in love with it. There’s always something new to do here and there’s an energetic vibe to the city.

Unfortunately, it’s also an expensive destination. A visit here can eat a hole in any budget if you aren’t careful.

Luckily, there are tons of free and cheap things to do in London . While budget travelers need to be frugal here, you can still visit London on a budget and have an amazing time.

This London travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this cosmopolitan capital!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on London

Top 5 Things to See and Do in London

1. Visit Big Ben and the House of Parliament

Although you can’t go up the tower, you can view this Gothic structure from the street and hear its chimes four times an hour. Big Ben is actually the name of the Great Bell of the Great Clock of Westminster which can be found inside Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, but is often used to refer to the clock and the tower as well. To learn about the UK government, take a tour of Parliament, founded in 1801, while you’re here (get there early or reserve tickets online) . Guided tours cost 29 GBP while self-guided multimedia tours are 22.50 GBP. The best view of the tower is from the opposite side of the river on the South Bank, near the London Eye.

2. See the Tower of London and Tower Bridge

Built in 1070, the Tower of London has expanded many times over the years. It was built as a double-leaf bascule bridge in the middle (both sides lift up) to maintain river access to the Pool of London docks while easing congestion on each side of the river. You can visit inside the tower and walk along the glass walkways. Weapons, armor, and coins were made here until 1810 and today you can view the famous crown jewels, walk the battlements, wander recreated medieval palace rooms, see the iconic Yeoman Warders (known as the Beefeaters as they were allowed to eat as much beef as they wanted from King Henry VII’s table), and spot the legendary black ravens that live in the tower. Skip-the-line tickets are 29.90 GBP.

3. Admire Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is only open to the public for 10 weeks during the summer, but you can join the crowds and watch the changing of the guard at 11am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday throughout the year (get there in good time to find a good place to stand). Admission to the palace isn’t cheap, with tickets costing 30 GBP online (33 GBP on the day), while exclusive guided tours are 90 GBP. Check the Royal Collection Trust website for details on other events happening throughout the year.

4. See Westminster Abbey

A working royal church, the Gothic Westminster Abbey was founded by Benedictine monks in 960 CE. More than 3,300 people are buried here including 17 monarchs and numerous royal funerals have been held here over the centuries. It’s the traditional coronation site for British monarchs and has been the setting for every coronation since 1066, as well as for many other royal occasions, including 16 weddings. Other famous British figures buried here include Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton, Aphra Behn, and Charles Dickens. Tickets cost 27 GBP , but you can visit for free if you go during a service. Just make sure to dress (and act) appropriately as it is a place of worship.

5. Hang out in Trafalgar Square

Stroll around and admire the fountains and the famous monuments, such as the four bronze lion statues and Nelson’s Column (which honors Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805). It is bordered on all sides by a number of museums, galleries, cultural spaces and historic buildings so there’s plenty to do as well. Trafalgar Square is also known to be a center of national democracy and protest so peaceful rallies and demonstrations are frequently held (usually at weekends). Even if there aren’t any official events, lots of people still hang out here so it makes for a good place to people-watch.

Other Things to See and Do in London

1. take a free walking tour.

London has tons of different walking tours on offer. From free tours to specialty tours to paid tours to literary tours to quirky tea tours, London has it all. Free London Walking Tours and New Europe Walking Tours are two of my favorite companies to go with when it comes to free tours. They’re the best way to see the sights and learn about the city on a budget. Just remember to tip at the end!

If you’re looking for more in-depth and specific tours, check out Take Walks. They offer affordable tours that go into a lot of detail. And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, Get Your Guide runs an awesome Harry Potter tour around the city for 15 GBP.

2. Go museum hopping

London has more museums than you could see in a single visit, and many of them are free. You can spend days visiting world-class museums like the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum, and many others — all without spending a penny. One of my favorites is the Natural History Museum, a beautiful Romanesque building that contains over 80 million items, including specimens collected by Charles Darwin. It also has an expansive collection of fossils, making it a fun and educational stop. The Victoria and Albert Museum (named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert) is another favorite of mine. It’s home to over 2,000 works of art covering over 3,000 years of human history.

3. Grab some food in Borough Market

Established in 1756, London’s Borough Market has something for every foodie. It’s home to some of the best British and international produce and dishes. Come here hungry and leave satisfied. It’s great for people-watching too. The market is open daily but the crowds are terrible on Saturdays so be sure to get there early.

4. Enjoy some theater

London is known for its famous theater scene. Attend a show while you’re here and see some of the incredible performances that make London famous. Tickets can be pretty cheap, and something is playing every night (check out TKTS for discounted tickets to shows in the West End). Otherwise, catch a Shakespeare show at The Globe in South London — tickets range from 5-62 GBP depending on the show and seat you choose.

5. Stroll along Brick Lane

Known for vintage clothing, cheap eats, and art, this East London street is a local favorite. Sunday is the best day to come, as this is when the outdoor street market takes place, though the restaurants and shops lining the street are open daily. Brick Lane has some of the best (and cheapest) food in London, especially when it comes to curry, as this is the hub of London’s Bangladeshi community. This street is also a great place to bring a camera, as its walls are basically a gallery for London’s best street artists, including Banksy, D*Face, and Ben Eine.

6. Ride the London Eye

The London Eye is a 152-meter (500-foot tall) Ferris wheel. While a little cheesy, it’s nevertheless one of the most popular attractions in London. It’s across the street from Parliament and provides excellent views of London and the city’s most iconic buildings, especially on a clear day. Tickets are 32.50 GBP , but if you want to play tourist and take in the view, it might be worth it. The ride lasts 30 minutes and tickets start at 32.50 GBP.

7. Visit the London Dungeon

The London Dungeon calls itself “the world’s most chillingly famous horror attraction.” It covers 2,000 years of London’s gruesome history and is a morbid but interesting museum. Although you can learn about popular torture methods in England, this place has turned into more of an “amusement park” type attraction. But if you like things like escape rooms and scary boat rides, it’s enjoyable. Tickets cost 29 GBP when you book online (32 GBP in person).

8. See St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s is a striking English Baroque cathedral with a world-famous dome. Architect Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, the iconic building dates from the 17th century. Inside, you can visit the crypt to see the resting places of famous figures including The Duke of Wellington, Christopher Wren, and Admiral Nelson, or just enjoy the cathedral’s glittering mosaics and elaborate stone carvings. If you don’t mind climbing some stairs, a highlight is to climb to the Stone Gallery or Golden Gallery for panoramic views over surrounding London. Admission costs from 18 GBP when you buy online , which is cheaper than the London Eye and offers similarly breathtaking views.

9. Explore Covent Garden

Covent Garden, a popular West End neighborhood, is a fun place to hang out for an afternoon. It’s home to lots of quirky stalls, busking musicians, an artsy market, and a selection of unusual pubs and coffee shops. Covent Garden is also within walking distance of all the big musical theater shows, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours before catching a performance. Make sure to visit Covent Garden Market, which has been open since the 1830s. It’s a good place to grab a bite to eat or shop at some of the artisan craft stalls. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 8am-6pm, with an outdoor farmer’s market on Saturdays between April and December.

10. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe

An integral part of England’s history, Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre, the venue for which the famous playwright wrote his plays. It’s a must-see for lovers of Shakespeare, with performances embracing near-perfect replicas of Elizabethan staging practices. You can even sit in front where the groundlings did, for shouting and heckling! The theater is open-roofed, so bundle up in the winter. Tickets cost 5-62 GBP depending on the production and the seat (you can stand just as they did in Elizabethan times). You can also take a guided tour for 17 GBP to learn more about the history of the theater (more specialized ones such as the Ghosts and Ghouls tour or the Pride tour cost 20 GBP).

11. Explore Camden Market

A long-time counter-culture haven, Camden Market is home to over 1,000 independent shops, stalls, cafes, restaurants, bars, buskers, and everything in between. It’s enormously popular and busiest on the weekends (it sees over 250,000 visitors each week). Camden Market is actually a series of six separate markets, so you can literally wander the labyrinth of alleyways for hours and not see it all.

12. See the Royal Observatory

Since its founding in the late 17th century, the Royal Observatory at Greenwich has played an important role in astronomy and navigation. The observatory is divided into two sections, with one half focusing on time while the other half is devoted to astronomy. In the Meridian Courtyard, you can stand on either side of the Prime Meridian, which separates the Earth’s eastern and western hemispheres. The Peter Harrison Planetarium is also housed here, where you can see a show for 10 GBP. The Royal Observatory itself costs 16 GBP .

13. Walk around the Strand

In the 12th century, rich noblemen built elegant homes and gardens along the shore (the strand) of the Thames, making it one of the most prestigious places to live (a fact that remains true to this day). Walk down this thoroughfare and be treated to a grand display of wealth and beauty. It was dubbed “the finest street in Europe” by Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in the 19th century. The Strand, which runs from Trafalgar Square to Temple Bar, is home to numerous shops, pubs, landmark buildings, and classic hotels.

14. Drink beer at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

This historic pub has been around since the great fire of 1666 (and there has been a pub at this location since 1538). It’s surprisingly large inside, and in the winter, fireplaces keep pub-goers warm. The wood paneling, atmospheric lack of natural lighting, and vaulted cellars make stepping inside feel like stepping back in time. Famous literary figures like Charles Dickens, R.L. Stevenson, Mark Twain, Oliver Goldsmith, and others used to frequent (and write about) this particular pub.

15. See the Churchill War Rooms

Located beneath the Treasury Building in the Whitehall area of Westminster, the Churchill War Rooms include the government’s command center during World War II and a museum about the life of Winston Churchill. The centerpiece of the whole place is an interactive table that enables visitors to access digitized material from the Churchill archives. If you are like me and a huge history nerd, this is one of the best attractions in the city. I highly, highly encourage you to visit. It’s worth the price! Admission is 29 GBP.

16. Relax in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens for some reprieve. Both parks, which are (conveniently for the visitor) right next to each other, are designated as Royal Parks of London. Hyde Park is the most famous park in London. Originally the private hunting grounds of Henry VII, it opened to the public in 1637 and is a great place to stroll, picnic, or catch one of the many events that are hosted here throughout the year. Kensington Gardens are home to the Serpentine Galleries as well as Kensington Palace. The park and the gardens cover almost 250 acres!

17. Take a Jack the Ripper tour

Jack the Ripper is one of London’s most infamous killers — and his true identity was never figured out. Every night, there are tons of people in the East End learning about Jack the Ripper on a ridiculous number of similar tours. The tour guides you through dark alleyways, stopping at historic locations connected with the infamous serial killer. Tickets cost 15 GBP .

For more information on other cities in England, check out these guides:

• Bath Travel Guide
• Brighton Travel Guide
• Bristol Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• Manchester Travel Guide
• Oxford Travel Guide

London Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-8 beds costs 16-25 GBP per night while a bed in a dorm with 10-18 beds costs 13-16 GBP. A private room with a shared bathroom costs 50-90 GBP per night. If you want to stay closer to the center of the city expect to double these prices and expect prices to be at least 10 GBP higher in peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels offer free breakfast and self-catering facilities.

Budget hotel prices – A budget hotel room costs 70-100 GBP per night. Prices are higher in the center and in peak season. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and a coffee/tea maker.

There are lots of Airbnb options in London. A private room costs 45-60 GBP per night (80-100 GBP in the center), while an entire home/apartment starts around 90-150 GBP per night (more in high season).

Food – While British cuisine has evolved in leaps and bounds due to immigration (and colonialism), it’s still very much a meat and potatoes country. Fish and chips remain a popular staple for both lunch and dinner while roasted and stewed meats, sausages, meat pies, and the quintessential Yorkshire pudding are all common options as well. Curry (and other Indian dishes, such as tikka masala), are super popular too.

You can eat cheap in London if you stick to street eats and food vendors (plus many of the hostels have free breakfast). You can find fish and chips or a kebab for about 7 GBP each. Indian food can be purchased for between 8-10 GBP for lunch entrees. You can buy pizza for 8-12 GBP or burritos and sandwiches for 5-9 GBP. Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 13 GBP for a combo meal.

For a mid-range meal of traditional British cuisine at a pub or restaurant, expect to pay 14-16 GBP. A pint of beer can cost up to 6-8 GBP while a glass of wine costs around 7-10 GBP.

You can find tons of high-end dining in London, but be prepared to spend a lot. Expect to pay at least 30-35 GBP for a three-course menu with a drink in a mid-range restaurant and upwards of 70 GBP in a higher-range establishment.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 50-60 GBP. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, veggies, and some meat. The best places to buy cheap groceries are Lidl and Aldi, Sainsbury’s and Tesco are more mid-range, while Marks & Spencer and Waitrose are higher-end.

A great way to save money is to get the Taste Card. This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on tons of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have. You can only live on fish and chips for so long!

Backpacking London Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking London, expect to spend about 60 GBP per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, taking public transit, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free activities like parks, free walking tours, and museums. If you plan on drinking, add another 10 GBP to your daily budget.

A mid-range budget of 150 GBP per day covers staying in a private Airbnb room, eating out for most of your meals, having a drink or two, taking public transit and the occasional taxi, and doing some paid activities such as Tower Bridge or Westminster Abbey.

On a “luxury” budget of about 300 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever activities and tours you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

London Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world. But thanks to its free museums, cheap pubs, and numerous hostels, there are a lot of ways to cut your costs and save money here. Here are my top tips for saving money in London:

• Visit all the free museums – Most of the museums in London are free, including the Museum of London, the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum. The National Gallery and the Tate Modern are also free and are two of my favorites.
• Buy an Oyster Card – This prepaid transit card saves you about 50% on each tube, bus and tram ride. If you plan on using the tube a lot, get this card! You can get a refund for the balance left on the card at the end of your trip. If you aren’t charged international transaction fees and have a contactless credit or debit card, you can also use this for travel and the system automatically caps your travel so you never pay more than you would have if you had bought a travel card. Just make sure to tap in and out and the beginning and end of each ride to make sure you’re charged the right fare.
• People watch at the markets – Sunday is market day in London, with Camden Market, the Portobello Market, the Flower Market, being some of the more popular options. People watch, snap some photos, and enjoy local London life without spending a dime.
• Watch the changing of the guards – Both the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace (4 times a week) and the changing of the horse guards (daily) at Whitehall take place at 11am (10am at Whitehall on Sundays). Take in true British flare with these interesting and free ceremonies.
• Just walk and explore – London is a huge city and beautiful, historic buildings abound. I once walked for four hours and barely made a dent in the route I was going to take (hence the need to get the Oyster Card.) However, once you get out of the tourist area around the Thames, you get to see London the way the locals do. You can pick up free maps of showing walking routes around the capital from any of London’s tourist information shops.
• Snag last-minute theater tickets – You can get last-minute tickets to the theater from the official booth in Leicester Square. Availability varies every day, so be sure to get there early. And if you don’t want to shell out a lot of money to see The Lion King or Les Misérables , check out smaller shows and comedy nights at theaters like Leicester Square Theater, where prices start at about 17 GBP.
• Skip the cabs – Taxis are incredibly expensive in London and can destroy your budget. I stayed out past when the tube closed one night and the taxi to my hotel was 31 GBP! If you start taking taxis everywhere, you’ll end up spending hundreds of dollars per day, so keep this in mind.
• Master the night bus – In London, the tube closes around 12:30am (the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines do run all night on Friday and Saturday nights). To avoid taking expensive taxis, make sure you get a map of the night bus routes so you can get back to your hotel/hostel on the cheap. These buses go all over the city and into the suburbs.
• Take a free walking tour – London, like most big cities in Europe, has a wide array of free walking tours given throughout the city. For a historical view of the city, try New Europe , and for off-the-beaten-path tours, try Free Tours by Foot .
• Get the Taste Card – This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on thousands of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have.
• Get the London Pass – If you get the London Pass, you can enjoy access to over 80 London attractions, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. A one-day pass is 89 GBP, a two-day pass is 115 GBP, and a three-day pass is 135 GBP. You can get all the way up to a ten-day pass for 199 GBP although they often have deals on giving discounts to this. This pass makes for good savings if you’re planning on doing a ton of sightseeing! Other passes available include the London City Pass from Turbopass which includes an option to add transport costs, and the London Sightseeing Pass.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in London

While the city may be expensive, its popularity means there are lots of hostels here. I’ve stayed at dozens of hostels over the years. Here are some of my favorites:

• Astor Hyde Park
• St. Christopher’s
• Clink261 Hostel
• Generator London
• Onefam Notting Hill

For more hostel suggestions be sure to check out my list of the best hostels in London.

How to Get Around London

Public transportation – London has excellent public transportation and is the cheapest way to get around. A one-way fare on the tube in Zone 1 costs 6.30 GBP, but getting a Visitor Oyster Card reduces tariffs to 2.50 GBP per ride. No matter how many trips you take per day, your Oyster Card caps your travel at 7.70 GBP for travel in Zones 1 and 2. This is applicable across all public transit, including buses and trams, saving you a ton of money.

The Visitor Oyster Card costs 5 GBP, and then you choose how much credit to add to your card. Remember that you can get back any remaining balance at the end of your trip.

The bus system in London also uses the Oyster Card and costs 1.65 GBP per ride. However, a day of unlimited bus- and tram-only travel costs a maximum of 4.95 GBP. Buses do not accept cash; you must use either an Oyster card, a Travelcard, or your own contactless payment card.

The tram system in London works the same way as the bus system, with rides costing the same.

Bicycle – London’s public bike-sharing program is Santander Cycles. With 750 docking stations and 11,500 bikes, they’re available all over the city. Renting a bike costs 1.65 GBP for up to half an hour and 1.65 GBP for each additional 30 minutes, though you can always dock a bike and take out another one to restart the free timer.

Keep in mind, however, that London isn’t a super bike-friendly city, especially if you’re used to biking with cars driving on the other side of the road!

Taxis – Taxis are readily available, with prices starting at 3.80 GBP and going up around 3 GBP per mile (the tariff is more expensive at night). Given how expensive they are, I wouldn’t take one unless absolutely necessary.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in London but it still costs an arm and a leg if you use it a lot. Stick to public transportation.

Car rental – Cars can be rented for 20-30 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. However, traffic is terrible in the city so I wouldn’t rent a car here unless you are heading out on some day trips. Remember that driving is on the left and that most cars have manual transmissions. There’s also a 15 GBP daily Congestion Charge for driving in the center (7am-6pm Mon-Fri and noon-6pm Sat/Sun/public holidays) and parking is expensive too. Drivers need to be 21 to rent a car as well.

When to Go to London

London doesn’t get too cold, but it’s notoriously foggy and rainy. Summer is peak tourism season, and temperatures are the warmest during this time — but rarely are they ever above 30°C (86°F ). London is bursting at the seams during the summer, but the city has a fun, lively atmosphere. People make the most of the warm weather and there are constantly tons of events and festivals happening.

Spring (late March-June) and autumn (September-October) are also fantastic times to visit, as temperatures are mild and the city isn’t as packed.

Winter lasts from December to February, and tourism crowds thin out dramatically during this time. Temperatures can dip below 5°C (41°F), and prices are slightly lower as well. Expect grey weather and be sure to dress warmly.

Since it is frequently rainy here, pack a light rain jacket or an umbrella no matter when you visit.

How to Stay Safe in London

London is a safe city and the risk of violent crime here is low. Scams and pick-pocketing can occur around high-traffic areas, especially around tourist attractions like London Tower and on crowded public transit. Pick-pockets tend to work in teams, so stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach at all times just to be safe.

Solo travelers, including solo female travelers, should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Although there are no super seedy neighborhoods in London, avoid wandering around late at night alone — especially if you’ve had a pint or two. As an extra precaution, only bring the money you need when you go to the bar. Leave the rest of your cards and cash in your accommodation.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you do experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Thanks to a few high-profile terrorist attacks and riots across Europe (including London), I frequently get emails inquiring whether or not Europe is safe to visit. The short answer: yes! I wrote a whole post about why Europe is safe to visit.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

London Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Fat Tire Tours – For bike tours, use this company! They have fun, interactive tours led by expert local guides. You’ll get to see all the main sights without breaking the bank!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of England.

London Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling England and continue planning your trip:

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

20 FREE THINGS TO DO IN LONDON

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: February 13, 2024

There are so many free things to do in London and with the expensive hotels and restaurants around the city, it is worth taking advantage of those free gems. Here are some of our favorite picks that don’t cost a thing!

P.S. If you are heading to London, we have this comprehensive London Travel Guide and our friends share the unusual things to do in London or the 10 Super Awesome London experiences here. 

THINGS TO DO IN LONDON THAT ARE FREE

1. VISIT TRAFALGAR SQUARE

Take a selfie with Nelson’s Column, the iconic stone lions, and the Fourth Plinth along with some pretty fountains – perfect for those London photography shots. Trafalgar Square should be on your free London bucket list!

Getting to Trafalgar Square: Catch the tube to Charing Cross (using the Bakerloo or Northern lines) and take the Trafalgar Square exit to find yourself on the square itself. 

2. WATCH STREET ENTERTAINMENT AT COVENT GARDENS

Full of street performers and quirky shops, Covent Garden is a great place to spend some time having a wander around and some window browsing. It is also home to plenty of restaurants and food stalls, the Royal Opera House, and the Transport of London Museum which offers free tickets for children.

Covent Garden is a district in London between St. Martin’s Lane and Drury Lane. It is located in the West End so makes for the perfect place for dinner before a West End Show. 

If you prefer some indoor entertainment you can  catch a comedy show at Big Belly Comedy Club . They have a free drink included with the tickets Monday – Thursday! 

Explore the independent stores, browse the craft markets and enjoy a pint at one of the quirky pubs in the area. 

3. EXPLORE THE FREE MUSEUMS

The great museums of London are all free; explore dinosaurs in the Natural History Museum , learn about British and world history at the British Museum and wander around the beautiful exhibitions at the Victoria and Albert Museum . The Science Museum is also a great choice for those with children.

Some may prefer to explore the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich or the Imperial War Museum to admire the 400 exhibits of World War artifacts. Art lovers head to Tate Modern – an incredible building full of art displays and sculptures from around the world. On a 5-day trip in London , we recommend trying to visit at least one of these each day!

Natural History Museum – Located on Crowell Road, the gorgeous Hintze Hall houses a massive T.rex dinosaur fossil along with 36 galleries sharing the history of living things through exhibitions and artifacts. This museum is open from 10 am to 5.30 pm and you either arrive early or visit after 3 pm to avoid the crowds and school trips. 

Victoria and Albert Museum – This is arguably the most unique museum in London, with a changing exhibition standing alongside a treasure trove of decorated art and design history spanning thousands of years. This museum is also located on Crowell Road and is open from 10 a.m. to 5.45 p.m. but stays open until 10 p.m. on Fridays.

Museum of London – There are lots of museums in London to choose from and most are free.  The Museum of London shares the history of the capital city through galleries, exhibitions, and displays. The museum can be reached by stairs, escalators, or lift from Aldersgate Street, London Wall, or St Martin’s-le-Grand; just a 5-minute walk from Barbican or St Paul’s underground stop or a short walk from Liverpool Street train station. The museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm. 

Imperial War Museum – Capturing the war stories from the First and Second World Wars, the Imperial War Museum is an impressive free thing to do in London. It is located on Lambeth Road (catch the train or underground to Elephant and Castle or Lambeth North) and is open from 10 am to 6 pm .

The British Museum – This is the world’s oldest national public museum, displaying art, literature, and artifacts showcasing the story of human history. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm and is located in Great Russell Street, a short walk from Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, Russell Square, and Goodge Street underground stations. 

National Gallery – A world-class art museum with some of the best paintings in the world on display from a range of famous painters .  Located in Trafalgar Square and is open from 10am to 6pm . 

Science museum – There are lots of scientific discoveries to be had in this Science museum, with many attractions for both children and adults. The museum can be found on Exhibition Road and is open from 10am to 6pm.  

Tate Britain – Located at Millbank , Tate Britain is open from 10am to 6pm, offering sculptors from Henry Moore and diverse paintings. 

National Portrait Gallery – Open from 10am to 6pm but staying open until 9pm on Thursdays and Fridays, this gallery is a great free thing to do in London at night . The museum displays portraits of important figures in history with over 11,000 original works. The gallery is in St. Martin’s Place so get the underground to Charing Cross or Leicester Square for a short walk. 

Wallace Collection – Located in Hertford House and open from 10am – 5pm, this museum offers a collection of fine and decorate art pieces dating backing to 18th century.

Saatchi Gallery – This lesser-town art gallery shares contemporary works from international artists. The gallery is at the Duke of York’s Head Quarter near Sloane Square underground station and is open from 10am – 6pm.

TIP: If you’re interested in becoming part of the cultural scene, you might also want to keep an eye out for  part-time museum jobs in London .

4. VISIT THE HARRY POTTER FILM LOCATIONS

As a fan of Harry Potter, this is high up on my list. You can visit various film locations around London including platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross Station, Leadenhall Market; the film location for Diagon Alley, and Australia House – where the interior shots of Gringotts were filmed.

Have plenty of time? Take the free Harry Potter Tour of London by Strawberry Tours. This is an informative journey that takes you around locations such as Picadilly Circus and Trafalgar Avenue whilst the tour guide explains the filmmaking techniques and location areas from the movies. 

5. THE ICONIC BRIDGES OF LONDON

Perfect for photographers, London is home to a host of fascinating bridges that can be photographed and admired across the city. The Millennium Bridge and the Tower of London Bridge are popular choices for tourists visiting London.

The landmarks around the city make for the perfect Instagram spots in London so make sure you take full advantage of the free landmarks, sites, and museums!

6. RECREATE THE ABBEY ROAD BEATLES PHOTO

Fans of The Beatles may wish to head to Abbey Road and take a photo of themselves crossing the iconic Beatles Album walking on a Zebra crossing.

Getting to Abbey Road: The nearest station to Abbey Road is St John’s Wood tube station (northern line). Exit the station and head along Grove End Road and then turn right around 500 m to find yourself on Abbey Road. The recording studios and crossing are just after the junction. 

7. WATCH THE CHANGING OF THE GUARD AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE

A must whilst in London, head to the famous Buckingham Palace

and watch the daily changing of the guard. This is a traditional ceremony of the guards, in their elaborate attire with feathered long hats and bright red jackets, changing over shifts. The ceremony lasts for 45 minutes and the stern, unison movement of the guards is fantastic to watch. 

After being suspended through 2020, the Changing of the Guard will return at 11am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. 

8. VISIT PICCADILLY CIRCUS

Piccadilly Circus is a road junction in the West End of London, where Regent Street meets Piccadilly but expect lots of traffic. Visit here by foot rather than drive. 

As one of London’s busiest Squares, it is easy to rush straight through Piccadilly Circus. Take some time to admire the neon signs and the Statue of Eros. Grab a coffee in one of the many cafes nearby and watch the world pass by through the window.

9. TAKE A STROLL AROUND A FLOWER MARKET

For those who love some color in their life, head to one of London’s many flower markets. Columbia Road Flower Market in Shoreditch can be found between Bethnal Green and Old Street, offering beautiful exotic flowers. This historic and busy rose is also worth wandering around with its independent boutique shops and homes lined with hanging plants and pots. 

Alternatively, head to the New Covent Flower Market; ideal for florists or flower arrangers. It is the place to go for wholesalers and there its a variety of flowers to choose from in this market. 

You can find flowers at Borough Market too or the Flower Warehouse is a lesser-known warehouse in Bethnal Green. 

10. TAKE A WALK IN A PARK

Although busy and cramped, there are some beautiful parks to be found in London. A favorite of mine is visiting Kensington Gardens which holds the popular Peter Pan statue or Richmond Park which is home to free-roaming deer. Hyde Park is a famous choice for many; particularly over the Christmas holidays when it is transformed into Winter Wonderland, a free attraction with various gift and food markets along with fairground rides, ice skating rinks, a Christmas Circus, and the Ice Kingdom.

Greenwich Park offers some stunning views across the River Thames. Regent’s Park provides a beautiful rose garden, open-air theatre, sporting areas, and the London Zoo. There are some beautiful gardens to visit in the UK – take a picnic in the summer months and enjoy.

11. BROWSE STREET MARKETS

Enjoy wandering around and trying some delicious food at Borough Market , bring cash if you want more than just a taster sample. Head to Brick Lane Market on Sunday mornings which sells a bit of everything, whilst Camden market is a good choice when you’re looking for some unique fashion. Camden is also home to some of the best hostels in London so check this neighborhood out if you are on a budget.

Portobello Road and Market are home to antique stalls with a variety of galleries and arcades scattered amongst them.

12. READ A BOOK AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY

Those who enjoy a bit of history can head to the Library and view the Magna Carta and original Beatles lyrics.

Open from 9.30am to 8pm Monday to Thursday then closing at 6pm on Fridays and 5pm on the weekends, the British Library is one of the unique free things to do in London in the evening. 

The main entrance is on Euston Road, just a very short walk from Kings Cross and St Pancras International and Euston train stations as well as Euston Square underground. However, there is no onsite parking so stick to public transport or catch an Uber. 

13. A RED PHONE BOX

Although not used as much nowadays, I still can’t resist a photo inside a red phone booth. These are dotted around London whilst a blue Police Phone Box can be found outside Earl’s Court Tube Station – used in the famous BBC series, Doctor Who.

14. VISIT LEICESTER SQUARE

A bustling square that always reminds me of a British Times Square. Here you can explore the expansive M&M store and various souvenir stores. It also hosts many movie premieres and an array of eateries.

15. CATCH A PERFORMANCE AT THE SCOOP

Enjoy free music and performances at The Scoop; the outdoor amphitheater near city hall.

This is a large outdoor amphitheater, fitting up to 1000 people for their entertainment shows. Arrive early as seating is limited, especially for the film showings. 

16. GET A GREAT VIEW OF LONDON AT THE SKY GARDEN

Book your free tickets for  The Sky Garden  in advance from the official website . The Sky garden offers sweeping views of London along with some bustling greenery high up in the sky.

The garden is located from floors 34 to 37 of the Walkie Talkie building and gives you unobstructed views across London. With clear skies, you can expect to see the London Eye, the Share, St Paul’s, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf. 

Get some shots from the outdoor observatory deck, take in a glass of wine from the bar or stroll around the leveled greenery that gives this place its name Sky Garden.

17. VISIT SOMERSET HOUSE

Famous for its courtyard and expansive Georgian architecture, Somerset House is a great way to spend a hot summer day in London. Enjoy the dancing courtyard fountains during the summer which then turn into an ice rink during the winter.

18. VISIT WESTMINSTER ABBEY

Everyone is welcome to attend the services for free so visit the Abbey on a Sunday.

Head to the church for an Evensong service of beautiful choir singing – this is held on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 5pm and at 3pm on both weekend days.

Expect to see stunning interiors in this historic church which has been the coronation church since 1066 and is the final resting place of 17 monarchs.

19. WINDOW SHOP AT OXFORD STREET

Browse the stores of famous Oxford Street; which is particularly magical during the winter months when the Christmas lights make the street sparkle.

20. BIG BEN AND THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT

A favorite London landmark, Big Ben and its surrounding areas is a top choice for tourists in London. Across the river from Big Ben is the famous London Eye and the surrounding streets offer some great London pubs where you may even bump into an MP on their lunch break.

FREE THINGS TO DO IN LONDON AT NIGHT

• Landmarks at night – Tour the city’s famous landmarks to capture some great shots at night. Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament, Piccadilly Circus, and Harrods are some great places that light up at night. 
• The Museums – Many of the museums offer a late-night opening at least one day a week. Visit the British Museum, Tate Modern, National Gallery, and the Natural History Museum in the evening to get a quieter experience. 
• Hampstead Observatory – From Hampstead Heath, you can enjoy great views of the London skyline. Head here on a Friday or Saturday evening when the Observatory opens its telescopes for public use from 8 – 10pm. 
• Angel Comedy Club – Open 7 nights a week, the Angel Comedy Club is a free comedy venue at the Camden Head in Islington. However, you will be expected to buy a drink during your visit. 
• Free Harry Potter Tour – On Mondays, there’s a free tour of Harry Potter London film locations including St. Paul’s, Horseguards Avenue used as the Ministry of Magic entrance and Godwin’s Court; used for Knockturn Alley. 
• Hootannay Brixton – This bar is home to some great reggae, folk and ska gigs that run throughout the year for free. 
• Hamley’s Toy Store – The store stays open until 9pm and is a great place to visit in London with children, even in the evening. 
• Winter Wonderland – If you are visiting London at Christmas time, head to Hyde Park in the evenings for a free, festive event. Take in the many lights and decorations, browse the shops.

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Family Day Out in London on the River - Mini Travellers - Family Travel & Family Holiday Tips

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[…] fares and stayed overnight in a room booked last minute. We also took the opportunity to do some free things in London. We woke happy and refreshed ready to meet the team at the London Eye for the start of our day […]

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You have to pay to get into Westminster Abbey and Big Ben and the houses of Parliament.

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[…] London is a vibrant city with plenty of things to see and do, making it a popular destination for all types of travelers. Business travelers can experience the hustle and bustle culture, couples can enjoy some of the more romantic things to do in London whilst budget travelers can take advantage of the many free things to do in London. […]

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London Travel Guide

Ah, London — home to world-class restaurants, an unparalleled music scene, fantastic hotels, and some seriously rich history. Plus, tea. Who could forget the tea? London is a beautiful city to visit, and with England's fantastic public transportation, it's a breeze to get from point A to point B. You could easily spend a week or more exploring all that each London neighborhood has to offer and still have things left over for your next visit.

With sites and cultural hubs like the National Portrait Gallery, Trafalgar Square, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Kensington Gardens, and all manner of food, drink, shopping, history, and culture, it's no wonder why the 'Big Smoke' is a top travel destination.

Greenwich Mean Time during the winter, British Summer Time during the rest of the year (starting at Daylight Saving Time).

Best Time to Go

England experiences relatively mild and somewhat rainy weather year-round, and when you should go depends on what you'd most like to experience. Spring, summer, and fall allow for taking in the parks and getting the most out of how walkable London is, while winter is beautiful and festive for those looking to get their fill of Christmas markets and traditional cheer.

Things to Know

London is filled with neighborhoods brimming with great things to do, and England's exceptional public transportation makes it simple and stress-free to travel between them.

Londoners, and English people in general, have a much different manner of interacting with one another than Americans do. While an American might think nothing of smiling at a stranger they pass on the sidewalk or asking about work in the first few minutes of a conversation, etiquette in London errs on the more private, respectful, and more distant. Don't mistake this for aloofness or consider those you meet unfriendly; it's just a difference in cultural norms. Instead, talk about things like movies, TV shows, books, your travels, and the like, instead of work or family.

A fun and somewhat reassuring fact is that London has much better takeaway sandwiches than the U.S. If your day is too packed to have a sit-down lunch, a sandwich from a chain will be legitimately delicious. Most importantly, almost all British museums are free , meaning anyone can wander to their heart's content, no matter their budget.

How to Get Around

Getting around London is unbelievably easy thanks to the well-maintained and extensive Underground (also known as the Tube). Tickets for riding the Underground, unlike American transportation systems, which often pay per ride or per trip length, are paid in zones. Fare also varies based on the time of day and the method you use to pay. It's worth getting an Oyster card — the Underground's MetroCard or SmarTrip Card — to simplify your vacation.

There are 11 Underground lines servicing all nine zones. Maps of these zones are in every Tube station. Most of the popular sites in London are in Zone 1, which covers central London. The Tube runs daily from 5 am to midnight and with reduced hours on Sunday. Some late-night services are available on the weekend, but generally, you'll want to be prepared to take one of the easily-found London taxis or use a rideshare app if you're out and about after midnight.

Best Hotels

Address: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ, United Kingdom Phone:+44 20 7836 4343 Book Now

The only luxury hotel on the River Thames, The Savoy is a five-star experience known worldwide for its luxurious and beautiful accommodations. As the first hotel built for the purpose of being a luxe hotel in all of London, it has a rich and storied history; seeing its beautiful architecture and dramatic decor is worth doing even if you don't end up staying here.

The Connaught

Address: Carlos Place, Mayfair, London W1K 2AL, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7499 7070 Book Now

The Connaught has known a few names and owners over the course of its more than 200-year history, but its main throughline has always been luxury. Chef Hélène Darroze runs a restaurant with the distinction of two Michelin stars, and the bar was awarded Europe's Best in 2019. For a spectacular experience in the heart of London, The Connaught can't be beat.

Address: 27 Poultry, London EC2R 8AJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3828 2000 Book Now

Once an abandoned bank building, The Ned found new life in 2012 as a five-star luxury hotel. Outfitted in a style reminiscent of the 1920s and with ten restaurants under its roof, The Ned is an experience unto itself — much less a great retreat from your London adventure. In addition, The Ned features a spa with treatments from massages to vitamin IV drips. Trendier than other 5-star hotels but certainly with style, The Ned is a great choice for a young couple or friends traveling in style.

Chiltern Firehouse

Address: 1 Chiltern Street London W1U 7PA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7073 7676 Website

Originally a fire station, the Chiltern Firehouse is small and cozy. Each of the 26 rooms features at least one working fireplace and range from standard rooms to lofts and suites. The Chiltern Firehouse restaurant is a Michelin-starred eatery with seasonal offerings. A unique and domestic experience, the Chiltern Firehouse truly does feel like a home away from home.

Address: 15 Beeston Place, London SW1W 0JW, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7396 9000 Book Now

The Goring is a century-old, family-owned luxury hotel with 69 uniquely decorated rooms. Along the same road as Buckingham Palace, The Goring is the last word in having a truly royal stay. The Goring offers an excellent restaurant and bar and several packages that let you tailor your trip to exactly what makes you happiest.

11 Cadogan Gardens

Address: 11 Cadogan Gardens, London SW3 2RJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7730 7000 Book Now

Built in the late 19th century as four separate townhouses, 11 Cadogan Gardens has a resulting unique and eclectic interior of winding corridors and staircases. Located in upscale Chelsea, the hotel is within walking distance from Harrods, the Saatchi Gallery, Hyde Park, and many other can't-miss tourist spots.

Address: 252 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EN Phone: +44 20 7781 8888 Book Now

Near the British Museum and Covent Garden, the Rosewood is a centrally located luxury hotel boasting lush, classic decor. The five-star hotel has carefully renovated its Edwardian architecture, melding the historic and modern seamlessly. Enjoy contemporary afternoon tea modeled after the art of British sculptor Antony Gormley in the intimate Mirror Room, then step out into the bustling heart of London. During busy times there is a minimum stay required to book, so be sure to check early and often if you have your heart set on staying at the Rosewood.

The Lanesborough

Address: 2 Lanesborough Place SW 1, London, SW1X 7TA Phone: +44 20 7259 5599 Book Now

Once an elegant country house, The Lanesborough is now a five-star hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant, private spa and fitness club, cognac lounge, and award-winning afternoon tea service. With elegant and warm decor, The Lanesborough is an iconic and world-class option for travelers looking to stay somewhere in style.

Best Restaurants

Address: 593 High Road Leytonstone, Leytonstone, London E11 4PA Phone: +44 020 8281 4801 Website

Singburi is a gem of a Thai restaurant, beloved for its rotating menu of delicious and authentic curries, noodles, and seafood. Try something new here — don't stick to your usual takeout Pad Thai order (as delicious as Pad Thai is). A crispy omelette, like their delectable Kai Jeow (a crispy omelette with oysters), should do the trick.

Westerns Laundry

Address: 34 Drayton Park, Highbury East, London N5 1PB Phone: +44 020 7700 3700 Website

This beloved, sustainably-focused restaurant focuses on fresh seafood and small plates — and bread. So, so much bread, some of the best you'll ever eat. Stop in for a pastry or a sandwich, enjoy their small plates, or order a loaf of bread ahead of time to set yourself up with delicious breakfast for a week.

The Palomar

Address: 34 Rupert Street, Soho, London W1D 6DN, United Kingdom Phone: +44 020 7439 8777 Website

The Palomar is walking distance from Trafalgar Square and some of the most enjoyable museum-going in London, so chances are you'll have the opportunity to enjoy their modern-day Jerusalem menu in a beautiful, mosaic-scattered space. Try the octopus glazed with harissa oil or the Bayt al Maqdis Chicken just for the artichoke crisps.

Address: 51 Lamb's Conduit Street, Holborn, London WC1N 3NB, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7242 8963 Website

A seasonal wine bar with a classic British menu, this flashy restaurant puts the "British food is boring" rumor to rest. There's a wine for every dish, and more — their list is outstanding, and the bold and unique twists on classic British dishes make this a must-taste spot even for folks for which (gasp) wine isn't that exciting.

Address: Tea Building, 56 Shoreditch, High Street, Shoreditch, London E1 6JJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3011 5911 Website

Lunch is a la carte at Lyle's, meaning you have the opportunity to order and share a few dishes between yourself and your friends and get the best of all worlds. The dinner menu is set, offering a prix fixe three-course meal with a few options for your appetizer, entree, and dessert. The space is beautiful and minimalist — a calm, understated place to focus entirely on your incredible food.

Address: 39 Endell Street, West End, London WC2H 9BA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3422 0221 Website

A small, sustainable seafood restaurant in Covent Garden, Parsons has an unpretentious, always-fresh menu. Parsons has mastered the art of updating classic British flavors, like smoked eel, for the modern palette. Their fish pie is heavenly, and you'd be remiss not to enjoy a sticky toffee pudding if you've got room for it.

Black Axe Mangal

Address: 156 Canonbury Road, Highbury, London N1 2UP, United Kingdom Phone: No phone number, email only: [email protected] Website

What this Turkish restaurant lacks in size, it makes up for in personality — up to and including their occult buns (which are hot cross buns, but with pentacles on them). It's loud, but most importantly, it's fun: nothing about Black Axe Mangal takes itself too seriously, from the hard rock soundtrack to the delicious food. Edible glitter, tongue-in-cheek dish names, and an excellent beer list all make Black Axe a top spot for a good time.

Address: 40 Doric Way, Somers Town, London NW1 1LH, United Kingdom Phone: +44 020 4580 1282 Website

Roti King is in a basement — this is just something to know because otherwise, it might be a touch difficult to find. "Hidden gem" isn't a metaphor here: you're going to have some of the best Malaysian food you've had in some time, possibly ever. If you're having trouble finding the entrance, just look for the line; there's almost always at least a short one of people waiting for their chicken murtabak and char kuey teow.

Dishoom Shoreditch

Address: 7 Boundary Street, London, E2 7JE Phone: +44 020 7420 9324 Website

London restaurant recommendations wouldn't be complete without at least one Indian food recommendation, and to be fair, most places are going to be incredible. Dishoom is something special, though — its airy, Bombay-style decor, beautiful views from the veranda, and house recipes have earned it a dedicated following. As a reminder, chicken tikka masala is sweet in England, so if you want something savory, try a new dish — like gunpowder potatoes or the marsala prawns.

Things to Do

Tower of london & tower bridge.

Address: St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7403 3761 Website

The bridge most associated with London isn't actually the London Bridge, it's Tower Bridge — this is the bridge you almost certainly have in your mind's eye when imagining London. The Tower of London has an infamous reputation, but its history is even more interesting than most know. Tudor buffs will love tracing the steps of Queen Elizabeth I, and there are free tours given throughout the day.

St. Dunstan in the East

Address: St Dunstan's Hill, Billingsgate, London EC3R 5DD, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7374 4127 Website

Built in 1698, St. Dunstan in the East was once a church. It was firebombed during World War II, and the ruins were converted into a public park — certainly one of the most unique and beautiful. Though small, stepping into the park feels like stepping into another world. Bring a camera; you won't want to miss snapping shots of the ivy-covered ruins.

National Gallery

Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London WC2N 5DN, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7747 2885 Website

The National Gallery has one of the most incredible collections in the world, including pieces by Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, Rubens, Rembrandt, Cézanne, Monet, Van Gogh, and many, many more. Their 2,300-piece collection is frequently rotated, so be sure to see what sometimes-stored pieces are on display when you go.

St. James' Park

Address: London SW1A 2BJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 300 061 2350 Website

Not to be confused with the football (aka soccer) stadium in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, St. James' Park in London is one of its most famous, right alongside Buckingham Palace and perfect for a rest during a busy day of sightseeing. It is known for its waterfowl — ducks, specifically, but also a small flock of pelicans.

Address: Hyde Park has several entrances, convenient to the neighborhoods surrounding it. Phone: +44 300 061 2000 Website

Hyde Park is a massive 350 acres, nestled smack dab in the middle of London, and worth a day's focus all on its own. With events, historical monuments, walking tours, and gardens, it is a truly stunning and fun place to be. It's famous for its Speakers Corner, which has been a stage for free speech and debate since 1872.

Shakespeare's Globe Theater

Address: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7902 1400 Website

Shakespeare's Globe is a reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse for which Shakespeare wrote his plays, and his entire body of work is rotationally performed. The Globe's performances are heavily influenced by what is known historically as the experience of seeing them in Shakespeare's day, for an immersive experience impossible to find elsewhere.

Highgate Cemetery

Address: Swain's Ln, Highgate, London N6 6PJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 8340 1834 Website

Ghost-chasers and history buffs alike will love to walk around Highgate Cemetery, where 170,000 people are buried. It is also a nature reserve, and the entire grounds are lush, beautiful, and feel a bit out-of-time. Notable graves to pay your respects at include Douglas Adams, George Eliot, Karl Marx, Leslie Hutchinson, and many more.

Buckingham Palace

Address: Westminster, London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 303 123 7300 Website

In the heart of Westminster, Buckingham Palace is a beautiful and awesome (in the traditional sense of the word) piece of architecture and history. You can actually go inside the famed Buckingham Palace — tours of certain rooms in the palace are available.

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, South Bank, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7967 8021 Website

Also known as the Millennium Wheel, the London Eye is the best view of London — it was literally built to be exactly that, and its construction is known as an observation wheel, not a Ferris wheel. It's a touch expensive, but visited by millions of tourists for a reason: the view from the top is absolutely stunning.

St. Paul's Cathedral

Address: St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7246 8350 Website

One of the most recognizable sites in London, St. Paul's Cathedral dates from 1690 and still has most of its original stained glass. It's known for its extensive and stunning mosaics, soaring Gothic architecture, and large, beautiful Cathedral library.

Address: Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7219 4272 Website

Everyone's must-stop for a classic London Insta snap, the iconic clock is nearby to other points of interest and featured in most driving and walking tours. Tours of the tower itself are limited to UK residents.

British Museum

Address: Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7323 8299 Website

The British Museum differs from the National Gallery in that it is as much an anthropological museum as an art museum. Collections are organized by era and country of origin, and frequent exhibitions are curated around themes to explore human experiences across ages. Their total collection is estimated to be around 8 million pieces, with many taken out only for specific reasons, so it's worth seeing what special exhibitions are on display.

Westminster Abbey

Address: 20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7222 5152 Website

Even people for whom history is not necessarily a thrill, gothic Westminster Abbey is an overwhelming, stunning experience. Every coronation of an English monarch since 1066 has happened here, and the Abbey is the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth I, Elizabeth of York, Geoffrey Chaucer, The Unknown Warrior, and dozens of others. Westminster Abbey also pays homage to great poets, artists, and writers with a series of beautiful memorials.

Best Shopping

Covent garden.

Address: 14 James Street, London WC2E 8BU, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7420 5856 Website

Covent Garden is both a neighborhood and a famed market, first established in 1694. The center is the beautiful Piazza, where walking is made easier and more pleasant by the lack of cars. In addition to an array of unique shops, Covent Garden is home to the London Transport Museum, St. Paul's Cathedral, and several high-end restaurants.

Borough Market

Address: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7407 1002 Website

The motto of London markets is: if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Borough Market is large and primarily focused on food, and is one of the longest-running in the city. Officially established in the 19th century, there is one area that dates back to at least the 12th — so definitely buy yourself a sandwich and think how pleased your ancestors would be at your bounty.

Address: 107 Charing Cross Road, Soho, London WC2H 0DT, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7437 5660 Website

There are a few equally-convenient locations for the famed, enormous bookstore Foyles, but the flagship — and most impressive — store is in Soho, at Charing Cross. Even folks who wouldn't describe themselves as readers travel to visit Foyles for the sheer scale of it, including the gorgeous architecture and the vast collection of books.

Camden Market

Address: Camden Lock Place, London NW1 8AF, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3763 9900 Website

Camden Market was established in 1791 and has been charming London and travelers ever since. Near enough to Regent's Park and the London Zoo to walk, Camden Market is full of shops, cafes, nightlife, and live music.

Oxford Street

Address: From Tottenham Court Road to Marble Arch Website

Oxford Street is one of the busiest shopping areas in Europe, greeting about half a million visitors every day across its 300-plus shops. Whatever you're looking for, Oxford Street probably has it. Notable shops include Topshop, Dr. Martens, Flying Tiger, Muji, and Selfridges.

Regent Street

Address: From Piccadilly Circus to Park Crescent Website

Intersecting with Oxford Street is the equally impressive Regent Street, home to the flagship stores for Burberry, Kate Spade, Tory Burch, and more. Regent Street was built to be London's dedicated shopping street, a place for Londoners to get anything and everything they might need. There might be a few more now, but Regent Street is the original — and some might say the best.

Carnaby Street

Address: From Beak Street to Great Marlborough Street Website

The third in the shopping street trifecta is Carnaby Street. A few streets over from Regent Street, Carnaby is much shorter and largely fashion-focused, especially vintage shops specializing in threads from the '60s. Shorter doesn't mean less diverse, though — Carnaby Street is home to over 100 shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Seven Dials

Address: Center of St. Giles District Website

Seven Dials, sometimes considered part of Covent Garden, is truly unique: a circular road junction that has a slower, calmer pace than the rest of London. Seven Dials is named for the seven sundials at its center and is surrounded by about 90 shops and restaurants.

Neighborhoods to Know

Shoreditch : A trendy neighborhood chock full of vintage shops, cafes, art galleries, and clubs. The neighborhood skews young and boasts everything from artisan coffee shops and fine dining to chain restaurants. Wander around here for some of the best shopping in London.

Notting Hill : Yes, that Notting Hill. It's as charming as you imagine it to be. Famed for Portobello Road Market and the antiques and vintage stores that line it, Notting Hill is also home to high-end restaurants, the Ladbroke Square Garden, and some of the most charming and beautiful residential streets in London.

Covent Garden : Synonymous with the Covent Garden Market, this much-loved neighborhood is filled with odd little gems like tiny toy stores, bookstores, clothing boutiques, and more — plus an array of restaurants and eateries. Covent Garden is not a mall; it is, truly, a garden, and a lively and beautiful place to sit, have a coffee, and people-watch.

Camden : Also known as Camden Town, though no one really calls it that anymore. Home to Camden Market and the famed venue Electric Ballroom, it abuts The Regent with easy walking access to the London Zoo and a bit of a longer walk to Queen Mary's Rose Gardens.

Kings Cross : Not only a rail station but a neighborhood, too! Historic Kings Cross Station is a big draw, though, with a photo area for Platform 9 ¾ and a "Harry Potter" gift shop right nearby. Kings Cross was once heavily industrial but has been made over with gardens and small green sitting areas.

Soho : Lively, theater-dotted Soho in the West End is the place to go for nightlife of all stripes. Take in a show, go dancing, enjoy a late-night movie or dinner, or a few of the above. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in London, being an easy walk from Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery.

The West End : The West End is London's Broadway. But don't be fooled — it's not just international stagings of Broadway shows. The West End is a thriving theater scene with original work going up regularly.

On one hand, the weather in London does not tend to fluctuate between highs and lows, no matter the season. On the other, it rains in London — a lot. About nine to 10 days a month , on average. No matter when you go, pack some waterproof layers; odds are you'll be glad you brought them.

Spring: Spring in London, and England as a whole, is beautiful. London is a very green city, and spring brings the parks and gardens to blooming, fragrant life. Early spring can be a little chilly, but it might be worth going then to beat the tourist boom from late spring through summer.

Summer: Summer in England is mild and lovely, and London is no exception. Temperatures rarely climb above 75°F. For this reason, it is by far the most popular season for travel, and hotel and flight prices tend to reflect that — however, it's also inherently a bit more lively, with a lot going on.

Fall: Again, fall is temperate, with a little more rain than summer. If you want to beat the summer rush but still want warmer weather, you might want to wait until fall for your trip.

Winter: Winter can get cold, but not bitterly so; average temperatures rarely fall below 30°F. England is big on Christmas, and holiday markets and cheer abound. If you love the winter holidays, London might be a perfect choice for you — it's hard not to feel festive in the land of A Christmas Carol.

Apps to Download

London Tube Live : Up-to-date info on delays, updates, departure information, and routes. iOS | Android

The Pub Finder : Crowdsourced app for pubs and bars, including reviews and tips. iOS | Android

London Pass : Free interactive London guidebook. iOS | Android

Related Articles

London Travel Guide

Welcome to our London Travel Guide . London is one of the most popular cities for visitors in the world. Every year an estimated 18 million people flock to sample the culture and history which make it so special.

Nearly 9 million people call London home and it is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world.

It is also where you will find some of the world’s most iconic buildings – Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London as well as 170 museums, numerous parks, restaurants and shops.

With so much to see and do what are you waiting for?

Below you will find links to all the information you need to plan your visit to London.

For general planning advice take a look at our UK travel planning page and guide to the best booking websites for UK travel.

Check out our new London Travel Planning website too which is totally dedicated to London!

LONDON PODCAST EPISODES

London travel guide – itineraries, london sights, landmarks & attractions, london with kids, london tours & tickets, london tips, london in winter, london in spring, getting around london, food & drink, where to stay in london, harry potter, london tv & movies, london sport, london events, day trips from london, beyond london, london packing, london travel books, when is the best time to visit london, how much time do i need in london, how can i get around london, how can i get from the airport to my hotel, how much money should i budget for london, what should i pack for london.

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15 Best things to do in London at night

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If you are unsure about what to pack for your London trip I recommend including the following items.

You can find a detailed packing list (including a free printable) in this packing guide for London in winter or this all-seasons packing guide for the UK.

VISITING LONDON – FAQ’s

Below you will find the answers to frequently asked questions about planning your London trip.

London is busy pretty much all year round so deciding when to visit can be tricky if you are hoping to avoid the crowds!

London is particularly busy in July and August during the UK summer school holidays and again in December during the festive season.

To help you plan your visit to London read my guide to “When is the best time of year to visit the UK?” which looks at every season as well as detailing a month by month guide to events and festivals occurring throughout the year in London and the UK.

I recommend planning to spend at least 3 to 4 days in London to see some of the main sights and attractions.

Tip – If you are jet lagged on day one why not take a hop-on hop-off bus tour to get your bearings of the city.

Don’t underestimate how tiring visiting London can be especially if you pack a lot of attractions into a short period of time.

Public transportation is excellent in London with a choice of the Tube, buses, trains, riverboats, trams and even bicycles to get around.

The cheapest way to get around London is with an Oyster Card which allows you to travel between all parts of London using public transport.

Read more about London transportation in our guide.

There are various options to travel from Heathrow into London including the Tube, cab, bus or Heathrow Express train.

You can read more in our guide which details the various options including costs, time and availability.

Plan at least £120 per day per person in London. This will cover food, transportation, and accommodation costs. Consider the time of year that you plan to visit as prices for accommodation will be substantially higher during those times.

Whilst London is not a cheap city to visit there are ways to save money including purchasing an Oyster Card, visiting free attractions, and buying lunch from supermarkets. Read my guide to visiting London on a budget.

Pack layers! Even in winter it can be hot in shops and on the Tube so take clothes that you can layer off and on.

An absolute must are comfortable shoes. London is a walkable city so be prepared with sneakers or boots. Don’t wear heels!

Assume it will rain whatever time of year you are visiting and pack a waterproof.

Read more in my UK packing list.

> CLICK HERE FOR MY STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO PLANNING YOUR UK TRIP !

What to budget

What to pack

2024 London Travel Guide (+ Free Download)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

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This iconic city is fascinating: its skyline is instantly recognizable, its neighborhoods are diverse, and its history dates back to the Romans. There is no shortage of things to do and see in London. Whether you’re visiting for a quick few days on a great European adventure or you’re planning to plant yourself here for weeks at a time, you’ll never tire of London. 

Free Download!

1 day in london itinerary.

If you have limited time in this capital city, don’t miss out. Our one day itinerary takes you to great spots on an easy walking tour of London.

Download to your phone and take it on the go.

London Travel Guide: Facts 

We love a good London fact and we bet you will too. If nothing else, you can impress your seatmate with these on the flight over. 

• There are over 300 languages spoken in London — more than any other city in the world
• The real city of London is only 1 square mile and has a population of 10,000. You can tell you’re in the city by the bollards on the street. The Greater London area is what you think of when someone refers to “London”
• A black cab driver has to pass a knowledge test, which requires them to memorize over 25,000 roads and 400 routes
• London’s Underground was the world’s first underground railway, which opened in 1863 with the Metropolitan line. 
• And over half of London’s underground runs above ground!
• Big Ben is just a nickname! What we know as Big Ben was originally named Clock Tower but was changed to Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to commemorate Elizabeth II in her Diamond Jubilee.
• The city of London dates back to AD 43 when it was settled by the Romans and called Londinium .
• “Pub” is short for Public House. The name is relatively new, as Public Houses opened in the 19th century. Explore our London Pub Guide for more facts and pub history.

London Travel Guide: Geography

London is a sprawling metropolis, but as a visitor, you are likely going to base your activities in central London. To help you get your bearings, we’ll cover what you can find in North, East, South, and West London. If you’re looking for where to stay, we have that below!

London is located in southeast England and is situated on the River Thames, a tidal river that has been a major part of the history of the city’s development. The Thames runs right through the city and you’ll likely spend a lot of time along both sides of the river.

North London

In north London, you’ll find the neighborhoods of Camden, Primrose Hill, Islington, and Hampstead, as well as the popular train stations of Euston and Kings Cross. North London is residential with charming high streets and neighborhood restaurants and pubs. 

Some favorite experiences here include:

• Walking through the leafy neighborhood of Hampstead and taking a stroll through Hampstead Heath
• Strolling the Primrose Hill high street, taking in the views from the top of Primrose Hill
• Scouring the markets in Camden before walking through Regent’s Park

The City of London is fascinating. This history, the architecture, and the current-day bustle make it a place we enjoy exploring. The city, also known as the Square Mile because it’s 1.12 square miles, is the ancient city center established by the Romans in AD 43. Today it’s a major financial hub and it is busy during the work day, but extremely quiet at night and on the weekends. 

Fun fact: you can tell you’re in the City by the red and white-top bollards located on the street. 

In the City, you can:

• Visit Leadenhall Market, a covered retail and food market and was a filming location featured in the first Harry Potter movie
• Find one of our favorite hidden gems: St. Dunstan in the East Church Garden
• Take a tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral and see inside the dome that plays a dominant part in London’s city skyline

The West End

This is where you’ll probably find yourself for a good amount of your time in London. The West End encompasses neighborhoods like Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Soho, Chinatown, Mayfair, Marylebone, Fitzrovia, and the theater area. 

These areas can be crowded, but vibrant. Touristy, but alive. And there are so many good reasons to spend at least a portion of your trip exploring this area. 

Whether you choose to:

• Take in a world-class performance
• Shop on Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Bond Street
• Watch the very entertaining street performers in Covent Garden
• Dip in for Dim Sum in Chinatown

West London

West London is home to some of the most beautiful and affluent neighborhoods in the city. Neighborhoods include Notting Hill, Chelsea, Kensington, South Kensington, Earl’s Court, Chiswick, and Fulham. 

This area is significantly less crowded than what you’ll find in the West End but is still very much central to all of the sights you want to see. Plus, there are some wonderful experiences that you’ll want to enjoy in this part of the city:

• Find some antiques at the famed (and busy) Portobello market in Notting Hill
• Bike through Kensington Garden and Hyde Park
• Visit the South Kensington museums: The Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Science Museum. They made our list of the 12 Best Museums in London .
• Take in a game at the Chelsea Football Club, which is located in Fulham!

Westminster

The city of Westminster is small but it packs in the sights and history. Located on the Thames River, here you’ll find the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. 

You should plan to spend a good part of a day in Westminster because there is plenty to do and see there:

• Tour Westminster Abbey or stop in for their Evensong
• In the summer take a tour of Buckingham Palace — a real treat!
• Stroll along the river Thames and stare up at the iconic Big Ben (fun fact: Big Ben is the bell inside of the tower that you can’t see — you’re looking at Queen Elizabeth Tower)
• Grab a glass of wine on the embankment at Gordon’s Wine Bar

East London

Once a less desirable part of the city to live in, East London is now a vibrant, diverse, and trendy area, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and hotels for visitors to enjoy. 

Some of the neighborhoods in East London are Shoreditch, Hoxton, Hackney, and Stratford. Most of the hotels are in and around Shoreditch. Some things in East London you’ll want to experience are:

• Columbia Road flower market on Sunday from 8 to 3 (ish)
• Grab a bite to eat at one of the Indian restaurants on Brick Lane
• Spend the day shopping at Old Spitalfields Market

South London

There is a lot south of the river, but we’ll focus on the things you’ll most likely enjoy experiencing as a visitor with a limited amount of time in the city. Here you’ll find Waterloo and Southwark, which includes sights like the Southbank Centre and Borough Market, as well as Battersea and Clapham, home to Clapham Junction which claims to be the busiest station in Europe!

Some sights to include on your itinerary are:

• Borough Market, a historic food market which is one of the largest and oldest food markets in Europe
• The Tate Modern, an art gallery focusing on contemporary art, which is free to enter
• Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, where you can see one of Shakespeare’s plays
• The London Eye, where you can take in London from above

Getting around London is super easy, you don’t need to rent a car , so get all you need to know about taking the Tube in London . Even if you’re short on time, spending just one day in London can be a blast!

London Travel Guide: Fast FAQs

Let’s get some quick faqs out of the way before we dive into London trip planning details. 

What’s the currency?

The UK uses the pound sterling (the GPB, Great British Pound). It’s the official currency of the UK. Casually you may hear it referred to as just the “pound” or “quid”. The change is called pence. So if you’re purchasing something for £5.10, that will be five pounds and 10 pence (or ‘p’). 

Do I need cash in London?

London is nearly a cashless city, so don’t dash for the ATM upon arrival. You can use your card nearly everywhere (check on those foreign transaction fees before you travel). And to make things easy, make sure your credit card is contactless so you can just tap and go. This is especially helpful when taking public transport.

In case you’re wondering what else you don’t need on your trip to London, check out our London Packing List .

Can I use my electronics in London?

This gets tricky. Your US electronics run on 110-120 volts, while Europe uses 220-240 volts. Most of the small electronics that we travel with (phones, tablets, and computers) can be used with both voltages by using a cheap and light plug adapter. 

The outlets in the UK have three rectangular plugs and are different from what you’ll find in continental Europe. So if you’re planning to travel to places other than the UK, grab a full adapter set like this one. 

Hair tools, like a hair dryer or curling iron, are tricker and not as easy to use abroad. They would require a convertor but even then might not work well, or may break. So it’s best to not use them abroad!

Is a visa needed to visit London and the UK?

If you are visiting the UK as a citizen of the US, you can stay in the UK for up to 6 months without a visa as a standard visitor. 

You can use this UK government website to check your country-specific visa requirements . 

What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit London?

While we love visiting London year-round, some months are dreary while others are crammed and crowded. Visiting during the best months can make your vacation that much better as well as save you a significant amount of money. 

The best time of year to visit London is in May, June, September and October. During those months you’ll find fewer crowds but you still have a great chance for some wonderful weather. 

Unfortunately, the summer months of July and August aren’t the best for visiting the capital city. Crowds are larger, accommodations are more expensive, and you can get hit with a very unpleasant heat wave (most accommodations in the city don’t have air conditioning). If that’s the only time you can go, the heat doesn’t bother you, or you want to experience something fun (like Wimbledon!), those months are great. But they just don’t make the list as our favorite months.

In May and June, the weather is usually getting quite warm and sunny and you haven’t hit peak visitor levels yet. You can still find some deals on hotels if you plan and it’s one of our favorite times to enjoy the city. 

September and October are excellent months as London weather is pretty pleasant in the fall, the crowds have dissipated, and the fall foliage is beautiful, especially if you’re heading outside of the city, like to the Cotswolds .

For details on the weather, costs, and crowd, see our Worst Time to Visit London .

How Many Days Should You Spend in London?

We recommend spending a minimum of three full days in London to get started. While you could easily spend a lifetime there and never get bored, with a minimum of three days you can see some of the interesting sights, enjoy a few pints in a pub, and start to see what makes this city so special.

An ideal trip to London would be at least five days so you can see different areas of the city and have a slightly more leisurely pace. 

If you’re hoping to fit in a day trip outside of the city, save that for a trip that lasts for more than five days. 

How Much Does a Trip to London Cost?

London trip costs can vary widely depending on when you go and how you like to travel. But we calculated that the average cost of a week-long trip to London for two people is $5,980 , which includes airfare, hotel, transportation, admission to sights, and food. 

Have no fear: you can adjust this up or down, depending on the type of trip you want to have. We give you a full rundown of how we calculated this as well as different prices for a budget trip as well as a luxury trip. 

Read: How much does a trip to London cost in 2024?

Getting to London

London has six major airports and only one of them is located in London. If you’re flying into London, you’ll find yourself at one of these:

• London Heathrow: located 20 miles west of central London, Heathrow is the busiest airport in the UK and the most likely airport to arrive at if you’re flying in from a location outside of Europe. 
• London Gatwick: the second busiest airport in London, Gatwick is located 28 miles south of London. 
• London Stansted: Stanstead is located 40 miles northeast of London and can be reached via the Stanstead Express train (a 47-minute journey from London Liverpool Street).
• London Luton: London Luton is located 35 miles northwest of London and you can reach central London via a shuttle bus and train in 45 minutes. 
• London City: the most convenient airport that is located IN London, the City Airport is just 6 miles east of central London. It’s a small airport with limited flights. 
• London Southend: located 40 miles east of London, Southend Airport offers a small number of flights to limited locations in continental Europe. 

Related article: Paris Travel Guide

Getting to London from Heathrow

Getting to London from Heathrow airport is easy and you have a lot of different options available. But it’s helpful to know where you’re headed in London to help find the best transportation option. 

Black Cab from Heathrow to London

All of the arrivals halls at Heathrow have a taxi desk and taxi rank where you can find black cabs queueing for customers. The trip will take approximately 1 hour, though this can vary depending on traffic. Expect to pay £60-£90 for a taxi ride into London. 

Private Car Service from Heathrow to London

You can pre-book a private car into London through various companies, including Addison Lee, Chauffeurit, WeKnow, Majestic Taxis , and Blackberry Cars . 

Heathrow Express (train) to London

The Heathrow Express offers a train from Heathrow to Paddington Station, which takes 15 minutes and tickets can be purchased in advance for £16.50. While this is fast, if you’re not staying near Paddington, you’ll still need to take the tube or a taxi to your final destination. 

Elizabeth Line (tube) to London

The newest addition to the transportation list is the Elizabeth Line, which runs from Heathrow Airport to stations in central London including Paddington, Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon, and Liverpool Street. Tickets are £13.30 per person and you can use your contactless card or an Oyster card for payment. 

Piccadilly Line (tube) to London

This is the best budget option. Travel from Heathrow to central London in 45 minutes and you can use your Oyster card or contactless card to purchase a ticket. A ticket costs £5.60 per person. The train can get crowded during rush hour, but Heathrow is the first stop so you’ll be able to get a seat before it gets crowded closer to London. 

Coach (Bus) to London

National Express runs bus services from Heathrow to Victoria Coach Station. The trip can take up to an hour and a half, depending on traffic, and costs around £10 per person. 

If you’re flying into Gatwick check out this helpful article on getting to London from Gatwick. 

If you’re heading to London from Paris, this guide has you covered! 

Getting around London

One of my favorite things about living in London was how easy it was to get around the city. London is huge (607 square miles) so getting from one side to the other can take some time. But thankfully, public transport, taxis, bikes, and your own two feet are all you need to see the city. 

Some helpful tips for getting around London:

• Download the Citymapper app : Don’t rely on another map app to help you get from point A to point B. Citymapper is our first pick for navigating the city. When you punch in your destination, it gives you all options (tube, car, bus, bike, walking), real-time arrival information, and tracks your progress on your trip. It is excellent. 
• Pay for public transport with an Oyster card or Contactless Card: If you’re going to use public transportation, the easiest way to do that is with your credit card as long as you can make contactless payments. Check for the contactless symbol on your card. If you don’t have one, an Oyster card can be “topped up” with money and then used each time you ride the tube, bus, or Thamesclipper ferry. One card is required per rider ( and kids under 11 ride for free).
• Busses are underrated: the tube is often praised for being fast and efficient — and it is! We love the tube. But sometimes a ride on the top of a double-decker bus can be great. It might take a little longer thanks to London traffic, but you’ll get to see more of the city. And that’s what you’re there to do!
• Taxis can be helpful: London traffic can be brutal, but in the right situations taking a taxi can be helpful. While we’ll never hop in a cab to head to congested locations in central London (like Covent Garden and Soho), we find them especially helpful if we’re carrying quite a bit of luggage or dragging around tired kids.
• Not all stations have step-free access: if you need extra assistance, are in a wheelchair, or are pushing a stroller, finding a tube station that works for you can be challenging. The TFL has a map here to help you identify which stations have step-free access. But there aren’t many of them. Often, a bus will be your best bet to have an easier journey. 

If you’re on the fence about renting a car in London, see our Should I Rent a Car in London?

Where to Stay in London

We’ve stayed all over London and in many different neighborhoods. We’ve listed some of our favorite places to stay below:

West Central London is where you’ll find a majority of the hotels. This area is bustling and is a center of activity, so it can be a pro if you like to be in the center of it all. 

• Great Scotland Yard Hotel: located in Westminster near Charing Cross and Embankment and just a quick walk to Big Ben. This is my favorite hotel for using Hyatt points. 
• Henrietta Hotel: while this hotel is pricey, Covent Garden is right on your doorstep here
• Treehouse Hotel: Excellent location in the north part of central London between Marylebone and Soho with a rooftop bar. It has a nice vibe but it can be a louder spot to stay. 
• Dorset Square Hotel (West Central London): Townhome style hotel that is just a quick walk to Regent’s Park 
• Sydney House Hotel (West London): small, boutique hotel located in the residential area of Chelsea, just off Fulham Road and a short walk to the infamous shopping on King’s Road.
• Kensington Hotel (West London): a high-end hotel located in the heart of South Kensington, just a short walk from the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Victoria and Albert Museum.
• Georgian House Hotel (West London): small rooms but each uniquely styled in a slightly quieter location that is still just a quick walk to the main sights.
• Ruby Lucy (South London): a South London hotel that is close to Waterloo station and reasonably priced. And there’s a daily street food market so you’ll never go hungry. 
• Mama Shelter (East London): well-designed and well-priced mini chain hotel located in east London, just a five-minute walk from the Columbia Road Flower Market. 
• For more options, check out our article on where to stay in London .

Things to Do in London – classic experiences

There is honestly so much to do in London it is difficult to narrow it down. But you’re here for some of the top ideas, so let’s give it a go:

Explore London’s Markets

You can find a market to enjoy every single day of the week in London. From antiques to food to crafts, there’s something for everyone. Even if you’re not a marketperson, you might enjoy a quick stroll through one on your way to something else. Pick one of the markets from the video below and enjoy!

Take in the history

The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral. You can’t see every important historical site in London, but you can see so many great ones in our 1 day London itinerary. Our free download takes you on a day tour through some of London’s most iconic sights and is easy to use on the go with our links to directions. Download before you go!

Enjoy Afternoon Tea

One special dining experience that we love is going to afternoon tea. Not to be confused with high tea, which was a supper eaten between 5pm and 7 pm. Afternoon tea started in 1840 when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford would get hungry between lunch and dinner. The tradition caught on and now it’s a special meal for London locals and visitors alike. 

Afternoon tea includes finger sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, and an assortment of small pastries and cakes. 

If you’re looking for fancy tea, consider Claridges, the Ritz London, and Fortnum and Mason. If you’re in the mood for something unique, consider tea at Sketch. My personal favorite is afternoon tea at the Goring as it’s very cozy. 

And if you’d like afternoon tea that isn’t quite such an event, the Ivy Restaurant offers a great and better-priced afternoon tea option. 

Visit a museum

If you enjoy museums, London has plenty for you to choose from. Science enthusiasts and kids will love the Science Museum. Modern art fans should plan to make a stop at the Tate Modern. Design enthusiasts will love exploring the Victoria and Albert Museum. History buffs will love spending hours at the Churchill War Rooms. And I really can’t forget the Natural History Museum. 

Check out our full list of the 12 Best London Museums .

Walk the streets

Part of what makes London so special is the beautiful neighborhoods. The best way to see these neighborhoods is to get lost in the small streets. Get off the tube at Hampstead, Notting Hill, or Chelsea, and get lost in the beautiful streets, stop in at the charming cafes, duck into a pub for a pint, and just sit and enjoy. There’s something so special about just taking the time to enjoy London away from the main sights. 

Don’t miss London’s hidden gems !

Make time for the parks

From Hyde Park to Battersea Park, London is made up of 40% public green space . There are eight royal parks plus small garden squares that are perfect for a quick break. We love going to Regent’s Park in the spring because the flowers in the garden are impressive. Biking through Hyde Park is such a fun activity (there are plenty of rental bikes to be found in the park). St James Park has a lovely cafe and offers great views of Buckingham Palace.

Our favorite parks in London are Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. They are seamlessly connected, making for a giant, central park in London. See our Is Hyde Park Worth Visiting? for details.

Where to Eat in London

The people who claim food in London is bad just aren’t eating at the right places. We love eating out in the city and there is a range of cuisines to choose from. 

Pub food has also gotten a lot better, so we have been told. Explore our London Pub Guide for our favorite gastropubs and the history of London pubs.

Check out our video on the 9 food experiences you don’t want to miss in London for some great places to eat: 

Heading Out of London

While there is so much to keep you busy for a lifetime in London, there is still a lot to explore outside of the city. 

Take a day trip to Bath

Jump a train early in the morning and you can be in Bath before the crowds arrive. Tour the 2,000-year-old Roman-built baths, stop into No. 1 Royal Crescent (a museum), and enjoy a meal at the Elder. 

Bath is a walkable city, so no need for a car! 

If you’d prefer to combine Bath and Stonehenge on a tour, this is a great option. 

Go punting in Cambridge

Another easy day trip from London is to explore Cambridge. While it’s a charming town to walk around and explore, you can tour King’s College Chapel, shop in the market square, take a stroll through St. John’s College, and go punting down the River Cam.

Tour Windsor Castle

An easy day trip that doesn’t take all day is to head out to Windsor. You can tour Windsor Castle, and then take a stroll through the long walk and deer park.

Take a direct train from London Waterloo to Windsor and Eaton Riverside station and walk 5 minutes up to Windsor Castle. Or for an easier walk, take the train from Paddington to Windsor Central Station with a change at Slough station. 

Explore Greenwich

Technically part of London, but it feels worlds away. Cruise down the Thames on the Thames Clipper or a sightseeing tour and depart the boat in Greenwich. From there you can hike up to the Royal Observatory, learn more history at the National Maritime Museum, and explore the Cutty Sark tea clipper. 

Want to see more? This is a great day out in Greenwich itinerary: 

Enjoy the Cotswolds Countryside

We think that the Cotswolds are worth more than just a day trip, but if you only have a day and you want to see this picturesque countryside, there are options! Rather than renting a car, you can take a train to Moreton in Marsh. There you can explore the charming town and head out for a walk if you’re up to it. There’s a 7-mile circular walk that explores the open countryside. 

If a walk isn’t high on your list, you can also catch a bus from Moreton-in-Marsh to Stow-on-the-wold, another charming Cotswolds town. Explore our FREE Cotswold Travel Guide for more Cotswold information. And don’t miss our favorite things to do in the Cotswolds . If you’re not quite sold, be sure to also check out our comparison of the Cotswolds vs Bath .

THE BEST 1-DAY LONDON ITINERARY

If you have limited time in this capital city, don’t miss out. Our one day itinerary takes you to great spots on an easy walking tour of London. Download to your phone and take it on the go.

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London 101: Ultimate FREE London Guide & Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors

With  London  being named the  best city in the World in 2023 , there is no doubt that more people than ever will be visiting London for the first time this year!  London  is one of the most amazing cities in the entire world. The whole place vibrates with beauty and excitement. Hidden in plain sight are pieces of the city’s rich history for you to behold at every corner. The stunning architecture and endless attractions make this city such a draw for residents and tourists alike.

However, London is  HUGE and  busy .  Even without tourists, London has a population of 8.9 million people. And tourists add another  50 million  visitors per year to the metropolis. But rather than let this overwhelm you,  try to embrace it . People are here  for a reason . And you’d be remiss to skip travelling to this wonderful city just because it’s all a bit much. Especially if you’re a first-time visitor having a good plan and knowing what to expect in advance is key to having the best trip possible. And with this  London 101 Guide , you’ll be prepped and ready to hit the town running!

About this London 101 Guide

Having lived in London last year, I wanted to put this blog post together to help others learn from all the essential tips I picked up during my stay. This  London 101 Guide  covers everything from where to stay to how to get around and the best things to see, do  and eat ! As well as practical tips like packing information, safety guides and more! After reading through, you’ll be able to roll into town like a local and tackle all there is to good ol’ London Town. This post is a  doozy   with  tons of information . If you’re looking for anything specific, head to the table of content, where you can jump to any section of the blog to get the information you’re after directly! 

UK Sim Cards

Getting an oyster card, where to find public washrooms in london, supermarket meal deals.

When is the Best Time to Come to London?

One of the first things to tackle when planning your trip to London is determining when you’d like to visit. London is truly a great city to visit any time of year. But the best time to go depends on what you want to do and see. While there are some months when the level of tourists can skyrocket, it’s difficult to find any time of year when the city is practically free of tourists. So best to just expect some level of crowds and plan accordingly.

Spring (March-May) 

Probably one of the most scenic times of year to visit London is during the Spring . Springtime offers milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices than summer. And London’s springtime blooms are absolutely stunning. One of my favourite times of year is in the early Spring, just after the winter thaw, when the Magnolia trees start to bloom. Contrary to popular belief, Springtime in London isn’t actually the rainiest time of year. March and April have some of the lowest rainy days on the calendar.

Springtime is also when the famous  Chelsea Flower Show  takes place. This event is a huge draw to many horticulturists from the UK and worldwide. And if you’re lucky enough to be in town, you should absolutely check it out if you have any inkling of a green thumb. Avoid the two weeks before and after Easter. British schools have two weeks off for Easter, and many families choose to do some travelling during this time. And certain businesses and shops will remain closed for these stat holidays. Be aware you may see a bump in airfare and accommodation prices during these events.

Summer (June – August)

Without a doubt, because kids and teachers are out of school, Summer is the busiest time of year to travel to London. Because of the high level of tourists, this is also the most expensive time of year to stay. For any popular restaurants or attractions, book anything you can well in advance. This way, you won’t miss out on bucket-list activities.

But the trade-off for the crowds is long daylight hours and deliciously warm temperatures. Summer is also brimming with activities, events, festivals and more. It’s when the city feels most alive. And if something is sold out or booked up, finding an alternative isn’t hard! There’s just that much going on.

Despite, or perhaps due to, the summer heat, August is one of the  heaviest months for rain.  So be sure you plan accordingly. But never let the rain put you off. London is a city that can deal with rain, and there are hundreds of rainy-day activities to while away the time waiting for the rain to stop.

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn  is when London’s parks and gardens are transformed by the stunning fall foliage. From the famous  Hyde Park  to  St. James’s , there are plenty of outdoor spaces where you enjoy the beauty of nature during this season. Autumn in London is generally very mild and comfortable in terms of temperature. But as you head into October and November, you start to see a real spike in the rainy days.

Autumn is the quietest month in terms of events and festivals, but the benefit of this means fewer crowds. And prices start to decrease from the summer. Although the UK doesn’t celebrate Halloween as we do in North America, they have an even more important celebration called  Bonfire Night . Also known as  Guy Fawkes Night.  It is celebrated on November 5th and commemorates the failed plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament, dubbed the “Gunpowder Plot of 1605.” All over Britain, there are firework displays and bonfires with models of Guy Fawkes filled with newspapers. These are then set alight on the fire. It’s a wonderfully unique British tradition that is a joy to experience if you find yourself in London on that day.

Winter (January – February)

London can be chilly and damp in the  Winter  from January to February .  While February is one of the lightest months in the year in terms of rainfall, January is one of the heaviest, with December falling somewhere in between. And only on rare occasions does London get a dusting of snow. Although this year, we got a beautiful cover of snow just a week before Christmas, and it was pretty magical to see.

Winter is a great time to enjoy indoor activities like museums, theatres, and shopping. One of the biggest downsides I found on visiting in the Winter was the shorter days. Winter means there is less daylight to explore the city’s outdoor attractions. So just keep that in mind, and you may need to adjust your schedule accordingly. 

But outside of the weeks just before and during Christmas, there are much  fewer crowds  and  much lower accommodation prices . As the holidays rolled out, the city seemed to open up, and everyone could breathe again. 

With these reduced levels of tourism come reduced opening hours. Many big attractions and museums have winter hours when they open and close much later and earlier, respectively. It’s important to check the hours of operation in advance, so you can plan your itinerary accordingly. 

Christmas in London

Despite the rain and the cold, Christmastime in London is one of the most, if not  the most , magical times of year to visit the city! And London never really gets  that  cold (coming from a Canadian, at least.) It rarely falls below 0°, and so long as you’re dressed for the weather, you can still get out there and enjoy walking around for short periods. 

London goes ALL OUT for the holidays! Dozens of entire city blocks are decorated to the nines with Christmas lights. And all big department stores transform their facades during the festive season. There are also many special Christmas events like ice skating rinks, carol concerts, festive food menus and, best of all,  Christmas Markets ! The entire city is a veritable winter wonderland, and you’ll be so lucky to experience the seasonal delights that come only once a year!

Be Aware of Winter Cold & Flu Season

Probably the worst part of travelling during the winter is the increase in cold and flu bugs. Being sick can really put a damper on your trip. And when you’re pushing yourself to see and do it all, it can weaken your immune system. It’s important to take precautions when travelling during cold and flu season. Get lots of sleep, take some vitamin C, wash your hands frequently, and consider wearing a mask in confined spaces.

Advanced Planning

Buy popular attraction tickets in advance.

Once you’ve decided what time of year you plan on coming to London, it’s time to look into booking those big ticket attractions you have your heart set on. Booking your tickets in advance means you can avoid long queues. Or, you might consider avoiding certain attractions that aren’t worth the line. Some of the most popular attractions requiring booking tickets in advance are the  Tower of London , Tours of the Houses of Parliament , the London Eye , Buckingham Palace   and   the Winston Churchill War Rooms.  

Harry Potter Studio Tour

One of the most popular attractions in London is the  Harry Potter Studio Tour . But the studio is actually located in  Leavesden , 45 minutes outside the centre of London. This tour offers fans of the franchise the chance to visit the same studio where all eight movies were filmed. You get the opportunity to explore behind the scenes and see everything from the actual sets, props, costumes and animatronics. All the elements used to create the incredible magic in these movies. Tickets to the studio book up FAST. If you have your heart set on going, you should look into booking at least  two months in advance . But I’d recommend even earlier during the busy months. 

At Christmas time, the studio is transformed for the holidays, and you can experience “Hogwarts in the Snow.” I ended up booking my Christmas ticket about four months in advance, and even when I did, entry times were going quickly. Be sure to book through the  official website . Other resellers and tour companies also offer Harry Potter Studio tour tickets. But often, these are sold at huge markups. Or they will be combined with a bus trip from London that costs about 10x what going there on the train own would cost you. And they take about the same amount of time. 

Don’t Be Pressured by Popularity

Don’t ever feel like you  have  to see something just because it’s popular or famous. If something like the Tower of London doesn’t interest you, the price and the time it takes up in the schedule absolutely isn’t worth it! But for history buffs, they might be utterly gutted not to be able to visit. Make those decisions accordingly to ensure you have the best trip possible.

Check Royal Palace Openings

If you have your heart set on visiting one of the many Royal Palaces and residences, you’ll want to check when they are closed. Especially during the summer, the royal family still uses many of these locations. This means they will be inaccessible to tourists. So pick one or two spots you want to see the most and ensure your timeline aligns with when those residences are open to the public. Buckingham Palace for example, is only open during Winter and Spring and for ten weeks each summer.

How do I get from the Airport to my Hotel in London?

London Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of travellers each year. And getting from the airport to the city center can seem overwhelming. But there are plenty of options for incoming travellers without resorting to expensive taxis or Uber rides. 

Is the Heathrow Express Worth it?

One of the things you’ll hear repeatedly is the advice to book the Heathrow Express from the airport into the city. And honestly, the Heathrow Express is a big rip-off unless you can book an advanced ticket more than 90 days in advance. Yes, you heard me right; now let me explain.

The Heathrow Express is a non-stop train service between Heathrow Airport and Paddington Station in central London. The journey takes just 15 minutes, and trains run every 15 minutes during peak hours. If you buy a  Fixed Date Saver Ticket  90 days in advance, the one-way fare costs only  £5.50 !   Which is cheaper than the Tube. If you book two months in advance, your ticket will cost  £16.50.  And anything less than that will cost a whopping  £25 for one person, one way .  In fact, the Heathrow Express is considered the most expensive per-minute train journey in the world. If you pay the regular price.

Add onto this the considerations of travelling with more than one person. If you’re travelling with four people, you’ll find that even a taxi or Uber into the city might be cheaper when you add it all up. Depending on traffic, of course. So if you can book your tickets in advance, sure go for the Heathrow Express option. But if you can’t commit to advanced bookings, consider some alternatives.

Consider Taking the London Underground

Even if you do take the Heathrow Express, most likely, your journey won’t end at  Paddington Station , where the Heathrow Express train ends. This is only one part of your transit to your final destination. And you’ll probably need to hop onto the  London Underground  one way or another. The London Underground , also known as the Tube , is the fastest and most efficient way to get from Heathrow to anywhere in London. Not just Paddington Station.

Take the New Elizabeth Line

As of 2023, the Underground finished construction on the new Elizabet h Line that (just like the Heathrow Express) runs from Heathrow to Paddington Station . The journey on the Tube only takes approximately 35 minutes. And will cost you just £12.80 with an Oyster Card or with Contactless payment. (I’ll go into all the details about Oyster Cards and Contactless payment later in this post.) The Elizabeth line will also continue on into Central and East London. This way, you might even be able to get directly to your hotel.

The Picadilly Line

It’s always worth checking the official London Underground Website’s Journey Planner to see if you can take the Picadilly Line from the airport to your hotel. I stayed near Victoria Station, and I found that taking the Picadilly Line to Earl’s Court and switching to the District Line got me to my door in under 40 minutes. And for just £5.60 for Oyster Card holders or with contactless payment. It otherwise costs £6.30 if you pay in cash. It’s always worth checking the journey planner, but make sure you edit the preferences to include only the Underground only. See below.

Travelling from Gatwick Airport

If, on the other hand, you are arriving via Gatwick airport , we run into the same issue here with their “express” airport train service. The Gatwick Express one-way ticket costs £20 and takes 30 minutes to arrive at Victoria Station . But you can also take the Southern Railway from Gatwick Airport to the very same station. This ticket costs as little as £9.50 with an Oyster Card or Contactless payment. And takes a shocking 33 minutes, only 3 minutes more than the express train!

Where to Stay in London | A Neighbourhood Guide

Staying in the  right area can be a make-or-break decision on your first trip to any new city. The first time I came to New York , we stayed close to Times Square and found the entire experience chaotic and too touristy. But on my second visit, we stayed in Greenwich Village . And I felt like I was visiting a different city altogether.

There are 32 different boroughs in the Greater London area. But let’s just go over a few of the most popular places to stay in London and what makes them unique. See what appeals to you and feels like the right choice for your trip. Or what’s close by to the major sights you are interested in spending the most time in.

Westminster and St. James

The neighbourhood of Westminster and St. James is located just opposite the Thames River, bordered by Green Park to the north and Vauxhall Bridge Road to the Southwest. The area was named after the great Westminster Abbey , which was the center of religious and political power at the time.

  Houses of Parliament , Big Ben, the Jewel Tower,  Buckingham Palace  and its amazing  Palace Shop ,  Tate Britain ,  Westminster Cathedral, Churchill’s War Rooms, 10 Downing Street,  and the iconic  Westminster Abbey. Westminster and St. James’s architecture is a mix of styles from different periods, reflecting the area’s long and varied history. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to never be too far from anywhere a tourist wants to go in London!

To the west of Westminster is the affluent and fashionable neighbourhood of Belgravia . The area of Belgravia was developed in the early 19th century by the Grosvenor family, who owned the surrounding estates. During this period, it drew in many wealthy families who built elegant, white townhouses featuring ornate balconies, Roman-inspired columns, and fabulous garden terraces. The houses all face several lush garden squares, including Belgrave Square, Eaton Square , and Chester Square . Each of these is a fabulous place to visit for a picnic if you want a peaceful outdoor spot to relax.

Boutiques, high-end department stores, and Michelin-starred restaurants all seem to congregate around here. This isn’t the spot to come if you’re on a budget. But it is a fantastic spot for awe-inspiring eating, wandering the Georgian and Victorian architecture, and window shopping. Since it is such an affluent neighbourhood, Belgravia is considered one of the safest places to stay in London, great for solo female travellers. But, obviously, it isn’t the cheapest.

Just southwest of Belgravia is the trendy neighbourhood of  Chelsea . Chelsea  is an upscale neighbourhood known for its trendy shops, restaurants, and bars. Chelsea has long had a reputation as one of the most fashionable areas in London thanks to being home to the famous  King’s Road . The old King’s Road is lined with high-end boutiques and designer stores. But my favourite place to come to in Chelsea is  Pavillion Road . This amazing pedestrianized street is home to sweet food shops and quirky boutiques. The perfect place to relax and enjoy a coffee or tea under the buntings that stretch along the roadway.

The old Royal Hospital Chelsea is on the south edge of Chelsea, along the banks of the Thames River. This historic building is home to the famous  Chelsea Pensioners , revered retired soldiers. One of the most popular events held inside the hospital is the  Chelsea Flower Show .  The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious flowers shows in the world and attracts visitors from all over the globe. The show is held in late May or early June and showcases various garden designs and horticultural displays from some of the industry’s top garden designers and landscapers.

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The Royal Borough of  Kensington  is replete with elegant Victorian architecture, leafy parks and world-renowned museums. It is located west of the city centre, and while it is home to these big-name attractions, it is mainly a luxury residential neighbourhood that is peaceful and quiet. Old townhomes have been transformed into hotels that give you the feeling of living inside a piece of London’s history. You’ll also be steps from the  Victoria and Albert Museum ,  Natural History Museum , and the Design Museum.

Most impressively, it is home to  Kensington Palace , which was once the residence of  Princess Diana  and is now a museum open to the public. Kensington Palace borders the great Hyde Park and adjoining Kensington Gardens. These large public parks are the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.

This upscale neighbourhood of Marylebone is a great option for first-time travellers to London who want to be close to the action without feeling like they’re in Times Square. The neighbourhood’s name comes from the old parish of St. Mary, which sat beside the river Tyburn. Mary-le-Bow, or “bourne,” meant St. Mary’s on the river. Although the river is now under your feet, its original pathway carved out the grid for the streets above. So if you notice some odd twists and turns of roads, you know you are following the old river.

Marylebone borders Regent’s Park to the north and busy Oxford Street to the south. But instead of feeling overwhelmingly full of tourists, it instead manages to walk a fine line between iconic sights and quiet, charming houses. The streets are decorated with charming Georgian architecture. The high street is replete with some of my favourite stylish boutiques and independent restaurants, including Daunt Books , Chiltern Firehouse , Perfumer H and Boxcar Baker & Deli.

Notting Hill

Perhaps most famous for the film of the same name, Notting Hill is a charming neighbourhood in west London. Although it’s not super centrally located, this tucked-away borough makes up for that with a dazzling array of pastel-hued colourful houses which have become an iconic part of the area. Notting Hill is home to the world-famous Portobello Road Market , which features a wide range of antiques, vintage clothing, and artisanal foods. The quiet streets come alive on Saturdays, but there is always something for sale in the market throughout the week.

Also hidden in Notting Hill is one of my favourite alternative museums, the Museum of Brands . This quirky museum displays a wonderful collection of historical branding and packaging that tracks the trajectory of advertising throughout Britain’s history. If you are staying in the area, make sure you come on an empty stomach to check out spots like the Cheeky Scone , and the vibrant Sun In Splendour pub, which serves up one of my favourite Sunday Roasts.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden  is an excellent alternative to staying in  Soho  (which I find far too touristy.) It is still centrally located and mere steps from London’s vibrant theatreland. Many people might think Covent Garden is only the covered market of the same name, but the entirety of Covent Garden actually covers the entire neighbourhood, stretching from Charing Cross Road to the west and Drury Lane to the east. It is bordered on the north and south by the amazingly colourful  Seven Dials  and historic  Strand,  respectively.

As mentioned, the biggest attraction in the Covent Garden area is the  Covent Garden  covered market. This market dates back to the 17th century and is today home to a wide range of vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce. But for me, the best area to explore is Neal’s Yard and the Seven Dials district. Neal’s Yard is a small alleyway which leads into a darling courtyard famous for the colourful and eclectic mix of buildings, bright murals and joyful flower boxes hanging off the walls.

Just to the north of Neal’s Yard is the bustling Seven Dials historic junction. The striking column adorned with sundials marks the spot where seven of the most important streets in London once converged. Making this spot the veritable beating heart of London. While the area certainly has a sordid history, today, the area is bursting with excitement, boutiques, galleries, chic shops, and restaurants!

Spitalfields and Shoreditch

Too often overlooked,  Spitalfields and Shoreditch  are my second favourite areas in London. This trendy and vibrant neighbourhood is located in the East End of London and is hipster central. Everywhere you look, there is street art decorating the alleys and storefronts. It feels like living inside an outdoor art gallery. East London was historically where the poorer class of Londoners lived, meaning it was a hub for bohemian artists creating this passionate atmosphere for art everywhere you look. You’ll find fabulous vintage boutiques, artisanal coffee, trendy restaurants and delicious street food! 

You can uncover historical landmarks by heading into the neighbourhood of  Whitechapel and Spitalfields  to the south. This includes the Christ Church Spitalfields, a Georgian-style church, and the Old Spitalfields Market, a covered market dating back to the 17th century. Whitechapel was home to the infamous Jack the Ripper killings. Walking these streets, you’ll find many have barely changed since 1888, and you truly do feel like you have stepped back in time, keeping your eye open for hidden secrets Jack might have left behind…

The City of London

In the centre of London, you’ll find an area called, perhaps confusingly enough, the  City of London.  Also known as the  Square Mile , this small but mighty part of town is now considered the city’s financial and business center. Modern skyscrapers hide in plain sight the parts of London that date back to the Roman era when it was founded as Londinium. These Roman ruins are such a peak into the earliest beginnings of the creation of what is now one of the most important cities in the world. Another of the oldest landmarks standing on the edge of the City of London is the  Tower of London.  This historic castle, located on the north bank of the River Thames, was built in the 11th century and has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a fortress.

The  City of London  neighbourhood was devastated by the  Great Fire of London  in 1666. Despite efforts to contain the fire, the Great Fire burned for several days, eventually consuming over 13,000 homes, 87 churches, and many other public buildings. But from the ashes of the fire rose new constructions, some of the most famous landmarks, including  St. Paul’s Cathedral, Mansion House, the Guildhall, the Bank of England  and  the Monument.

South Bank & Southwark

South Bank  and  Southwark  is an often overlooked part of town for tourists, located on the south side of the Thames River. But sitting on the south side of the River means you are just a bridge across from the most popular tourist sites, and you get this stunning view of the iconic London skyline every time you wake up! I love the Southbank for its more relaxed atmosphere. It feels like there is just a different type of energy on this side of the city. 

The heart of the action has to be the famous Borough Market . A market has stood on this side of London Bridge since medieval times, and today, it is a lively marketplace where you can find some of the best street food in the entire city. The neighbourhood is also home to Tate Modern, Southwark Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and Hay’s Galleria shopping mall.

What to Pack for London

Packing for a trip to London is similar to your general packing plan with important additions. When you start to pack for your trip, consider that the weather in London can be very unpredictable! Even if you check the forecast before you leave, you should expect things to change.

Waterproof Footwear

Waterproof shoes are going to be your best friend in London. If you have the space and know you’ll be travelling in the rainy season, a pair of chic, short rain boots is a great investment. But any time of year, expect some rain. Even if you don’t need full-on rainboots, bring a waterproof or resistant pair of shoes. And no matter what shoes you decide on bringing, make sure they are very comfortable! London is huge, and you’ll be walking a lot daily! Break your shoes well in advance. Nothing is worse than a beautiful pair of shoes that feels like walking on stone because you didn’t break them in before.

Should I Bring an Umbrella?

You’ll also want to have an umbrella if you expect rain. But I always advise against bringing one with you. A lot of the time, hotels will provide umbrellas for their guest to use throughout their stay. You can call in advance to check to see if your hotel offers this. And most Airbnbs are well stocked with umbrellas for their guests.

If the property where you’re staying doesn’t provide them, there are plenty of shops like Primark that offer inexpensive umbrellas for sale. These are often cheap enough to use while you’re in London but leave them there after you’re done. This way, you save precious space in your luggage. Which can be better used for souvenirs!

Jackets and Coats

In the summer, you should bring a light jacket or sweater, as the evenings can be chilly. Even though London in the Winter doesn’t get as cold as countries like Sweden or Norway, it can still be pretty cold. If you’re travelling in the winter, always pack a warm coat, hat, scarves and gloves. Layering will be your best friend. Remember, there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!

Unlike the rest of Europe, the currency used in the United Kingdom is the pound sterling , not the euro . If you have any euros, they will be utterly useless in London. But honestly, so might any physical pounds you take out from the cash machine. The entire city of London has started to go cashless. While it might be good to keep a £10 note on you just in case of emergency, you’ll mainly be using your credit and debit cards. Make sure you call your bank in advance to ensure your card can be used in London and won’t be blocked from any transactions.

Electronic Adapters

The power outlets in London use a three-pin plug specific to the UK. Just like the euro situation, a European adapter won’t work in London. You must get a British power adapter to use your electronic devices. It is important to note that the voltage in the UK is 220-240V, which is higher than in some other countries. Even if you have a plug adapter, electronics like hair dryers and flat irons are prone to overheat. Leave those at home or buy a special travel flat iron. Most hotels have hair dryers in the bathroom, or you can request one at check-in.

Offline Maps

Many people will purchase a data plan to ensure they can use mobile data overseason. But you always have the option to do everything old school and leave your phone on airplane mode. This means navigating using offline maps or printed physical maps. Google makes it super easy to download an offline map of the specific areas you plan on visiting. But you won’t be able to get step-by-step directions. Just the overall map. If you plan on using a paper map, I advise buying a good one in advance. Rather than getting one at tourist information. These are often too simple and don’t always get detailed enough.

Many people will prefer to have access to the internet while travelling and choose to purchase a UK SIM Card. If you have a phone where you can insert a new sim card, you can purchase these sim cards at the airport upon arrival. Or at various cell phone stores in London. But the option I prefer over the physical sim card is an eSIM. Most newer smartphone models will be set up to support eSIM technology. You’ll need to select an eSIM retailer and purchase the best data plan for you. I use Nomad for my global SIMs. They have competitive pricing and easy-to-follow instructions. Follow the directions on each individual provider’s FAQ to install the eSim.

How do I get around in London?

Now that you’ve landed in London and settled into your hotel, it’s time to explore the streets. No matter where you’re heading in London, you’ll be able to get there in no time and with ease by using London’s phenomenal  Underground metro system . The   London Underground  is one of the world’s oldest and largest underground railway networks, with 11 lines and 270 stations. The various rail lines are each designated in a different colour. Making reading the otherwise massive map easy to navigate.

The London Underground Zones

The London Underground, or ‘Tube’ for short, is a system divided into nine zones. Starting with  Zone 1 , which is centred around the main area of London. With each subsequent zone spreading outwards from this central point. Ending in  Zone 9 , which covers the outermost areas of Greater London. The fare for a Tube journey depends on the zones you travel through. Most major tourist sights are located in Zone 1 and 2, where the fares are the lowest. The fare will be calculated by the station in which you enter and the station you exit.

Tickets & Payment

Inside each station are ticket machines and offices where you can purchase single tickets and reload your Oyster card. Tourists must know that buying a single paper ticket will always be vastly more expensive than paying with your Oyster Card or Contactless payment. A zone 1 fare using an Oyster card or Contactless payment is only £2.50, but purchasing a single ticket in cash would cost you a whopping £6.30!

Ok, so what is this business of Oyster Cards? An  Oyster Card  is a smart card used for travel on public transport in London. Oyster cards work by pre-loading money onto the card, which is deducted automatically when you use it. The card can be used on the London Underground, all London buses, trams, the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), the London Overground, River Buses, and some National Rail services. Using an Oyster card gives you a discounted fare on every ride you take vs cash tickets.

Using your Oyster Card

To use your Oyster card, you must tap on and off when you pass through the turnstiles entering and exiting tube stations. When using the oyster card on the bus, you only need to tap on. There is no need to tap off. The Visitor Oyster card costs  £5 . You then add money to the card to pay for your travel. You will not get this £5 back, nor will it be added to the balance of your card. To load your card with the money, you need to find a ticket machine inside any Tube station. Here you can select how much you want to add to your card. I would start with £20 and reload as needed. You can’t get the money left over on the card back at the end of your trip, so load wisely.

Contactless Payment

In 2022, the Tube introduced the contactless payment option when using transport around London. If you have a debit or credit card with a chip that can be read wirelessly and is enabled for contactless use, you can use this method to pay for your journey directly at the turnstile. Just as you would with an Oyster card. This also works with your phone using Apple Pay. Simply touch the contactless payment method to the yellow card reader on the turnstile, and you’ll be let right on through. And do the same thing when you exit the station. You will be charged at the same discounted rate as Oyster card users. This will save you buying the £5 Visitor Oyster card and prevent you from losing any unused money you don’t spend. Plus, you’ve never needed to worry about queueing in lines to reload your card. 

But remember, whether you use your Oyster card or contactless payment, you must use the same one when tapping in and out. Otherwise, the fare reader won’t be able to tell where you came from. Upon leaving, you’ll either be denied the ability to exit or will be charged the highest fare option. Even if you only took a short journey. So be sure to remember how you tapped on.

Oyster Cards vs. Contactless Payment

The biggest downside of using Contactless Payment is  foreign transaction fees . All payments on the Tube will be made in GBP. Before you travel, check with your card issuer to ensure you are not charged expensive transaction fees for foreign currency when using contactless payments. These fees could become more costly than your contactless payment savings. 

The other issue with Contactless Payment is that it doesn’t support  concessions , such as senior, student, and children fares. Using contactless payment, you’ll automatically be charged the standard price for transport on the Tube. If you fall into any of those age categories, buying yourself the proper concession Oyster card for your age is much more important as you’ll receive the correct fare pricing.

Daily Transport Cap

No matter how much you travel throughout the day, there is a maximum fare cap of £7.70 (for zones 1-2) if you pay with your Oyster Card or Contactless payment. If you’ve already passed your fare cap, any additional trips will be free! As tourists, running around from place to place can be super handy!

Avoid Rush Hour

Be aware that, like all big cities, various popular Tube lines can get extremely crowded during peak hours. This might mean you might have to wait for a few trains to arrive before finding a spot, even to stand inside. You’ll easily miss these crowded trains if you avoid travelling on the Tube during rush hour. So plan around this if possible.

Take a Ride on the #11 Bus

While those iconic red double-decker buses are something all tourists need to get a picture of, many miss taking a ride inside! The tube is often the fastest and most direct method of getting around the city. But the bus shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s a unique London experience. Make sure to go to the upper level and you’ll get a scenic view as you ride.

If you ride any double-decker bus in London, make sure it’s the #11! This bus is often dubbed the “ Sightseeing Route, ” as it passes many of the city’s major landmarks and tourist attractions. The route passes through popular areas such as Chelsea, Kensington, and Westminster before ending on Liverpool Street. Some of the major landmarks and attractions that the #11 bus passes by include: Hyde Park, Marble Arch, Oxford Street, Trafalgar Square, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Victoria and Albert Museum and Harrods.

Avoid Hop-On Hop-Off

Many first-time tourists in London book tickets onto those Hop-On Hop-Off buses. These are considered special as they have open-top decks that provide some photo opportunities of iconic landmarks. And easily takes you from sight to sight around the city. But since London is prone to rain, you often end up paying £40 to sit inside on the lower level and miss out on all those sights. But on the public bus, you can always sit upstairs as they are all covered. And on the #11 route, you’ll get to see all those same iconic landmarks. The route runs every 6-7 minutes during the day, making it a convenient and affordable way for visitors to see many of London’s top sights. Without the huge price tag. Bus fares are set at £1.75 per journey.

Accessibility

Hop-On Hop-Off buses are exceptional in the fact that they offer accessibility services. But London’s bus system is one of the world’s best for people with disabilities. More than 9,000 buses are wheelchair accessible. And Wheelchair users are not expected to pay to ride the city buses. To learn more about London’s Public Transport accessibility, check out this website .

How to Flag Down a London Bus

Unlike bus services elsewhere I’ve travelled, just because you’re standing at a bus stop doesn’t immediately mean the incoming bus will stop for you. Since there are so many different routes that often service that same stop, you need to flag them down to indicate you would like to get on the incoming bus. When you see the bus approaching, raise your arm to signal the driver to stop. Once the bus has stopped, you can board it. If you have a contactless or Oyster card, tap it on the reader by the driver and find your seat! To get off the bus at your intended stop, press the bell button to alert the driver when you hear your stop announced on the system.

Don’t be Afraid to Explore the City on Foot

While London has an excellent public transport system, there’s nothing like exploring the city on foot. London is a very walkable city. Many of the top sights are centred around the same area. Walking, you can discover some of London’s hidden gems and secret passageways. And get a feel atmosphere of the city, which you’ll miss if you only travel by car or public transport. Don’t be afraid to get a little lost; it’s a great way to find something for yourself you would otherwise have never known was there!

What are the Must-See Attractions in London?

London is chock-a-block with so-called “ must-see attractions. ” But with so much to see and do, I always advise people to think about what they are genuinely interested in doing. Don’t get overwhelmed by the hype. No one should feel like they haven’t seen the “real London” just because they see a particular attraction.

A part of visiting a new city is just exploring it. And if you try to hop from sight to sight, you’ll miss the real London hidden between and behind these attractions. That said, I want to give you a loose idea of what’s worth your precious time and money. So here is my list of the most essential sights in London. Not just the most popular but the places that really help tell the city’s life story. Pick and choose two-three that call out to you and your sensibilities. Don’t try to see it all; leave some room for your own unique discoveries.

#1 The Tower of London

Perhaps the most historic of all the landmarks in London is the great Tower of London. This castle has stood here for centuries; it has seen the crownings and passings of England’s Kings and Queens. It held prisoners and traitors, including Anne Boleyn, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Guy Fawkes. All the while silently watching, unchanged, as the rest of the city grew and transformed around it.

The fortress dates all the way back to the 11th century! Inside you will see a showcase of England’s rich history. You can explore prisoner cells, see the precious Crown Jewels, and visit the intimate Chapel of St. Peter ad Vincula where Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard are buried. And sit in the King and Queen’s private bed chambers. But the best part is the  Beef Eater guided tours . These are led by the Yeoman wardens, who are incredible, learned storytellers. They take you on a journey back in time. Bringing history alive all around you. Don’t miss it!

#2 Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

There is no doubt that when you picture London, the first image that comes to mind is the great golden bell tower called  Big Ben!  And the adjoining  Houses of Parliament  stand on the edge of the Thames River. These buildings have greeted visitors to the city since the 11th century. And today still serves as the heart of British democracy. Here, bills and laws are debated, and the people’s will is brought to light.

Exploring the Houses of Parliament

Although visitors can take guided tours of the Houses of Parliament to learn about its history and see debates in action, I prefer to enjoy its beauty from the exterior for free. Start from the opposite side of the river to take in the impressive size and stature of the whole building along the banks of the Thames. Then, walk across Westminster Bridge . And watch as the building grows and grows in size and detail as you approach. Finish up by wandering through the Victoria Tower Gardens to the south. Here, you can have a unique view of the buildings that not many people get the chance to see. 

#3 The National Portrait Gallery

While many people might put the British Museum at the top of their list, for me, it’s all about the National Galleries . While the British Museum has the word “British” in its name, it is filled with objects they’ve “acquired” from around the world. Many of which have an intensely contested ownership.

When you come all the way to Britain, it seems only fitting to look at some works of art that portray the country’s history and English artists. And you can find all that inside the National Portrait Gallery . Their collection features hundreds of portraits of famous Britain throughout history. In the curves of a person’s face, you can learn more about the person who shaped British history and culture over the centuries. There are monarchs, politicians, writers, and musicians. As well as self-portraits from artists who captured these historical figures’ most intimate details and expressions. Etched in oil and veneer for eternity.

Joyofmuseums, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons | Joyofmuseums, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons | Marco d’Oggiono, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

#4 westminster abbey.

One of the most powerful buildings in the city is Westminster Abbey . While we might view the Houses of Parliament, right next door, as the current powerhouse of the city, in ages past, the power lay in the hands of the church. Just walking past, I always feel like you can sense the dense and storied histories that have taken place inside. This building has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years and is the most important religious and cultural landmark in the United Kingdom.

As such, the abbey has been the site of many royal coronations, weddings, and funerals. Queen Elizabeth II had her coronation and was married here in the abbey. After her death, as a full circle moment, it was also here where her final funerary ceremony took place. And it will be here inside Westminster Abbey, where King Charles will be crowned monarch in 2023. There have been so many televised moments in history that have taken place here. Exploring the building for yourself feels like being a part of that history.

Visiting the Church

Although Westminster Abbey requires a hefty  admission fee  to enter, I really find that if you’re interested in history and architecture, this place is a worthwhile way to spend your time and money. If you really have your heart on seeing the interior but can’t budget for the admission cost, you can always visit the abbey during one of their church services. Services are free and welcome to all. You won’t be able to explore or take pictures, but you will get a unique experience inside.

#5 Borough Market

Across the river, in Southwark, is where you can find one of London’s most vibrant communities. Since the 13th century, traders and shoppers have been making the journey across London Bridge to shop inside the walls of one of the most popular foodie destinations;  Borough Market .  The market offers visitors a friendly and bustling atmosphere where you can buy fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, meats, seafood and baked goods. In addition to the fresh food, dozens of street food stalls sell everything from British classics to international fare. The market is open every day but Monday, although some traders only open their stalls on the weekends.

As such a big attraction, the market does garner large crowds. But instead of being put off, just lean into the action and try to join in on the energetic ambiance inside! Borough Market is committed to sustainability and ethical food practices, with many of its vendors using only locally-sourced and organic ingredients. As well as incorporating environmentally-friendly packaging and techniques into their best practices. This kind of commitment to ethical consumption is unique to this market and makes you feel good about the food you’re putting into your body and the vendors you get to support! Check out our guided tour for a complete guide to exploring the market!

#6 Monument of Great Fire of London

One of the events that changed the entire history of London, and even perhaps the British Empire, was  the Great Fire of 1666 . On September 2nd, 1666, a small kitchen fire broke out in a bakery on Pudding Lane in the early morning hours. All the odds seemed to be against London when the fire broke out. Winds were especially strong that morning, and the fire began to get out of control in mere minutes. The fire raged for four days, and over that time, it destroyed over 400 acres of London. Burning down over 13,00 homes and leaving over 100,000 people homeless. Many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the old medieval St. Paul’s Cathedral, were destroyed in the blaze.

Monument to the Great Fire

To memorialize this fire, an enormous monument was commissioned. The Monument to the Great Fire of London is a stone column, 202 feet tall. It was built at this exact height, as from this spot, if you laid the column on its side, it is 202 feet to the point where the great fire of London started. While the Monument looks very narrow, it actually contains a narrow spiral staircase. Inside, visitors can climb to a viewing platform at the top. From the platform, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

The column is decorated with various carvings and inscriptions that describe the history of the Great Fire and the construction of the Monument itself. The Monument offers visitors a unique perspective on the city and its history. It is a reminder of the devastating fire that shaped London’s development for centuries to come.

#7 V&A Museum

My favourite museum in the entire city has got to be the  Victoria and Albert Museum , more commonly known as the V&A. Founded in 1852 by  Queen Victoria  and  Prince Albert , the aim of the museum was to create a “schoolroom for everyone.” Britain was falling behind in the world of arts and culture at the time. Queen Victoria felt that creating this hub of artistic ingenuity it would help inspire the future of British arts and sciences.

Today, the V&A’s collection spans over 5,000 years of human creativity. No matter your interest, you can find something for yourself in these walls. Everything from fine art to fashion, furniture, ceramics, sculpture, textiles, and more has a home here at the V&A. Entrance the museum is free, so you can pop in and out as you like without having to commit to spending the entire day here because you paid so much for admission. Although, you can easily spend a whole week within the ever-expansive galleries. 

V&A Collection Highlights

Highlights from the 2023 collection include an exhibition featuring the glittering world of musical theatre! The museum pulled items from its fashion collection to explore the world of craftmanship of iconic musicals, from My Fair Lady, Miss Saigon and Wicked! The Cast Courts are one of the most awe-inspiring parts of the museum. These galleries are a collection of casts of the world’s most famous sculptures, including Michelangelo’s David and Trajan’s Column. It feels like travelling around the world in just one part of the building! Lastly, if you love sparkling things, head to the Jewellery collection. Here you’ll find one of the world’s most renowned jewellery collections that span over 3,000 years. Over 6,000 pieces, from ancient Egyptian amulets to contemporary designer jewellery, record the world’s history in fashion accessories!

#8 Columbia Road Flower Market

For a slice of East London, one of the most vibrant parts of the city, head over to the  Columbia Road Flower Market .  The best-smelling market in the town.  The history of the Columbia Road Flower Market dates back to the mid-19th century. For over 100 years, this market has drawn in locals and tourists alike looking to buy fresh flowers or just explore the beautiful local flora for sale. The market is open every Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm. If you want to see the full extent of the vendor’s wares before they sell out, get there early in the morning. 

Seasons of the Market

Different traders line the entire Columbia Road from  Gosset Street  to  Barnet Grove . Some of these growers have been selling here for generations, representing an important part of the community. From Spring to Winter, there is always a selection of seasonal flowers on sale. I love how the flower selection changes throughout the year. 

In the springtime, the rainbow of tulips excites everyone for the warm weather that begins to arrive. In the summer, the smell of freshly cut roses welcomes you into the market. When fall comes, giant sunflowers combat the incoming cold weather with their sunny disposition. In the winter, the market is awash with Christmas cheer. Christmas trees are for sale on every corner. And holly, dried berries and bright green ivy are ready to deck the halls! 

In addition to the vendors, you can also explore the areas around the market. Little alleys that branch off in different directions sell everything from iced coffees (or mulled wine in the winter) to vintage clothing and handicrafts from the local artisans.

#9 Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

For anyone interested in theatre, history or even architecture, a visit to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is such an immensely powerful experience. The Globe Theatre that stands on the banks of the Thames was where William Shakespeare’s productions took place back when it was first built in 1599. Sadly, the original building burnt down in 1613 during a performance of Henry VIII. But in 1994, a modern reconstruction of the theatre began to be built. Using only materials and techniques available during the 16th century. The “new” theatre is designed to resemble the original Elizabethan theatre, with open-air seating and a thatched roof. Giving visitors a glimpse into what theatre-going would have been like in Shakespeare’s time.

Tickets for Plays at the Globe

Every year a different series of Shakespeare’s plays are held inside, allowing visitors to watch these performances in the same space they were first performed. You can opt for a seat in one of the upper levels or buy a ticket for “the yard,” where they still offer standing-room tickets. While standing the entire show can be taxing, it’s an experience unlike any other. Tickets in the yard cost as little as £5 – £10. But for those who prefer to get seated tickets in the gallery, this costs anywhere from £25 – £65.

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#10 Hyde Park

A peaceful walk in Hyde Park is a relaxing activity almost all year round. Hyde Park is one of London’s largest parks, covering an area of 350 acres! The park has been host to the city’s social and political history for centuries. And today, it is still one of the most important places for locals to come to relax and get away from it all.

My favourite part of Hyde Park is the Italian Gardens located in the northwest corner. The beautiful and serene oasis is decorated with intricate fountains, sculptures, and ornate flower beds designed in the 1860s. Although Italian gardens might seem an odd choice for an English park, the gardens and surrounding buildings were inspired by those found in Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s stately home on the Isle of Wight.

London Sightseeing Tips & Advice

What are those blue plaques.

As you walk around London, you’ll start to notice a trend of these large blue plaques . You’ll see them popping up on the outside of various historic buildings. These Blue plaques are there to commemorate a certain building’s heritage and connection to a famous individual. The first blue plaque was erected in 1867 at the birthplace of Lord Byron on Holles Street . Since then, over 900 plaques have been installed across London. And spotting them can become somewhat of a mini-game as you explore the city. It is so interesting to simply happen upon one and perhaps be surprised to find this is where Sir Winston Churchill, Virginia Woolf or Charles Darwin once lived.

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Those “Free” Walking Tours  aren’t really free

Free Walking Tours , organized by various tour companies, are something you’ll see advertised on the streets, in blogs and in guide books. And many times, budget-conscious travellers will view them as the perfect opportunity to do something completely free on their days out in London. And while they tout themselves as “free,” they are more accurately provided on a “pay what you can” basis. The tour guides are all unpaid and make their living on tips. And they often do a fantastic job, sometimes better than the paid tours I’ve been on before. 

I absolutely recommend you go on one or two of these on your trip to London. But it’s just good to be aware that it is customary to leave a tip of £10-£20 for their services. Even more, if you were completely blown away! If you’re looking for a 100% free walking tour of London, you can check out some of our self-guided tours online that you can take at your leisure.

Take Advantage of FREE Museums & Art Gallery

While those “free” walking tours might not be free, there are plenty of attractions in London that are completely free. And some of them might really surprise you. Many museums, including some of the top named attractions in London, are totally free to visit. In 2001 British Parliament established the “National Heritage Act” program. This required national museums and galleries to provide free admission to their permanent collections. Temporary exhibitions can cost extra, but most of the things you’ll want to see are in the permanent collection anyways.

You can visit museums like the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Wallace Collection, National History Museum, the Tate Modern, the V&A and more! You could spend an entire week just visiting these free museums and never run out of things to do.

Plan Your Days Around One Borough

While London is easy to travel around on the Tube, you should always plan your days in and around the same general neighbourhood. This will prevent having to go back and forth across the entire city, which can take away precious time from your no doubt, already full, schedule. People often underestimate just how big the city is. And you can easily find many things to do in one area at a time.

Self-Guided Harry Potter Walking Tour

Tickets to the Harry Potter Studio Tour are very expensive! An adult ticket starts at £51. And ticket spots sell out months in advance. If you miss out on booking your tickets or can’t afford to go, don’t fret. We have a self-guided and FREE Harry Potter Walking Tour ! This tour takes you around the city to view different locations that either inspired parts of the Wizarding World or were used in the actual filming of the movies. This is a great option for fans who might not want to financially support the author or are looking for budget-friendly options for HP enthusiasts.

I spent countless hours in London walking from end to end, almost 7-days a week, while researching these guides. And one question that came up almost immediately was, “ Where can I go to the bathroom? ” You often run into this issue if you’re a tourist exploring on foot. And in London, unlike in North America, public washrooms aren’t as visible. I would default to going into a cafe, but most of the time, they were either out of order or didn’t have any for the public. And you often don’t want to have to go and sit down at a restaurant simply to find a washroom. Many “public toilets” require a fee of 50p, and you often won’t have any change since London has gone almost cashless in recent years.

Don’t be Afraid to Dip inside a Pub

Luckily I have some tried and tested alternatives for you. The first was given to me by a local guide and is a tip I will never forget. And that is simply walking into any busy pub and heading straight to the washroom. Pubs have so much foot traffic coming in and out of their doors, often customers heading in and out for a smoke. And a pub will always have a washroom, generally easy enough to find without asking anyone. Only once did I see a sign saying “for customers only” in a very touristy part of town. I cannot count the number of pubs I’ve visited simply to use the washroom. And sometimes I even discovered a hidden gem in the process!

Another great place to find public toilets is inside museums and art galleries. Even the ones requiring admission often have a washroom outside the main admission area that you can dip into quickly. And since most of the national museums in London are free to enter, there are always lots of washrooms easily located on the first floor.

Department Stores & Rail Stations

Large departments and bigger grocery stores are another great options for washrooms. In the fancier stores like Harrods and Fortnum and Mason , the signage won’t be very obvious. They do this on purpose. I had to ask around, but they are there for you if you look. But in places like Selfridges, Marks and Spencer and John Lewis, I always found a washroom easily located on most floors.

Check out the  Great British Toilet Map  for an interactive map of facilities around London.

Eating Out in London

London, and British food in general, has gotten a bad reputation for years. But today, nothing could be further from the truth. London is a melting pot of cultures, and there is such a wide range of food you can find all across the city. From traditional British dishes to international cuisine, some of the best chefs worldwide have transformed this city into one of the best foodie hotspots anywhere in Europe.

British Specialties

If you want to try authentic British cuisine, you’ll be happy to learn that most iconic dishes are very affordable and don’t require booking restaurants months in advance to secure a spot inside.

Full English Breakfast

There is no better way to start your day than with a  Full English breakfast.  This hearty meal includes eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms and toast. Served with coffee or builders’ tea, and you’re ready to face a long day of touring with this in your belly!

Fish and Chips

Fish and chips is probably the dish everyone thinks of eating when they come to the UK. This classic British dish consists of deep-fried fish (usually cod or haddock) served with thick-cut chips (aka fries). Fish and chip shops are absolutely everywhere! And typically, a take-away fish and chips will cost about £10. Ensure you get it served with a side of pushy peas, another specialty.

Sunday Roast

Another popular dish you can find in pretty much every pub on a Sunday afternoon is a Sunday roast . A traditional Sunday roast would have been cooked in the family home, but today many people love to relax with their friends inside their local pub to enjoy a filling meal. A Sunday roast typically includes roast beef or lamb, crispy potatoes, vegetables, gravy, and the best part is the Yorkshire pudding . Yorkshire pudding is a traditional English pastry with a light, fluffy texture and a slightly crispy outer layer. Made by the fact it is cooked in hot oil in just a few minutes. These flaky pastries are the perfect accompaniment for the meaty gravy served with the roast.

Pub Favourites

Other pub food favourites are Bangers and mash, Shepherd’s pie and Scotch eggs . Bangers and mash consist of sausages (bangers) served with mashed potatoes and gravy. Shepherd’s pie is made with ground beef or lamb and stewed vegetables which are covered in mashed potatoes. Scotch eggs are made from a hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried. Traditional British food might not be  healthy , but it sure is  hardy !

Desserts and Sweets

In terms of desserts, you can’t get anything more delicious than sticky toffee pudding . This sweet dessert is made with crushed dates inside a sponge cake topped with toffee sauce. If you want to try some unique British desserts, head to a bakery and see if they have Victoria Sponge, Bakewell Tarts, Banoffee Pie, Eton Mess or Trifle. 

Indian Food

Britain’s obsession with Indian cuisine dates back more than a hundred years. And a good takeaway curry feels almost as British as any other item on our list. One of the main reasons for its popularity is the historical and cultural connections between India and the UK. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, many people from India came to the UK as migrant workers. And as they immigrated to the country, they brought with them their cuisine and all-important spices. Something is desperately lacking in many traditional British dishes.

Indian food also gained popularity in the UK during the 1960s and 70s, when there was a growing interest in international cuisine. There were even several now classic Indian takeaway dishes that were invented in the UK. The most famous of these is probably Chicken Tikka Masala, a creamy and flavorful dish of marinated chicken in a tomato-based sauce. The dish was thought to be invented to cater to British tastes by creating a milder and creamier version of traditional Indian curry. Be sure you give this a try when you’re in London, as it feels like the best of both worlds!

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition. And if you’ve never been to the UK before, this is an experience you really can’t miss out on. Afternoon Tea is a meal that involves enjoying a selection of teas served with a tiered tray filled with finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats. As the name implies, it was enjoyed in the afternoon as a nice midday pick-me-up. It is typically served between 3 pm and 5 pm.

While it sounds simple enough, the experience is an indulgent foodie adventure. We have a whole post dedicated to my favourite   Afternoon Tea spots in London at every price point . So no matter your budget, you’ll be able to find something perfect for your trip!

If you don’t have the time for a full afternoon tea, consider a “ cream tea .” British cream tea is a variation on afternoon tea. Instead of being served as a leisurely experience, it is a shorter, simpler meal made to be eaten more quickly. With cream tea, you only receive scones, jam, clotted cream, and a cup of tea. You can almost always find cream tea at any cafe or bakery. And the drink and pastry combo usually only costs a couple of quid. Perfect for those on a budget and on a tight schedule!

London Restaurants

Recommending restaurants is such a difficult task as food is such a subjective experience. Some people would choose hole-in-the-wall or retro diner over fine dining any day.  And vice versa.  But after living in London last year, I came up with my own personal list of the most memorable restaurants I visited. Hopefully, this list gives you a great starting point to consider where you might want to visit on your trip!

If you can book reservations in advance, I highly recommend it. Often some of the best restaurants in the city are pretty small, and bookings go fast in a city as popular as London!

Advice on Tipping

In the UK, tipping is considered a discretionary reward for good service. It is not mandatory and is up to the individual to tip or not. However, it is customary to leave a tip in restaurants, cafes, and pubs if the service is good. This is typically around 10-15%. But many restaurants I frequented added this service charge to the bill, typically around 12.5%. This is becoming more common these days. Make sure you look at your bill to see if this is the case, as an additional tip is unnecessary if so.

Coffee & Cafes

I’m pretty passionate about my coffee and have an entire post dedicated to finding the coziest coffee shops in the city ! Check it out if you’re looking to get a caffeine fix.

For brunch with a view, check out Duck and Waffle . Nestled on the 40th floor, this luxury and leisurely hangout provides a stunning panoramic view of London. The restaurant is billed as a “gastro diner” and is open 24/7! But my favourite time to come is around dawn to catch the sunrise with a plate of delectable breakfast food on the table. While it’s a bit pricey for brunch, you are paying for the view, and that’s more than worth the price!

If you want a whole authentic diner experience, check out the  Regency Cafe . This retro diner has been serving classic British breakfasts since 1946. The interior is practically unchanged from the 40s. Bright red linoleum floors, Formica tables, red and white gingham curtains and, of course, photographs of Tottenham Hotspur football players decorate the nostalgic interior. But what really sets the Regency Cafe apart is the food quality. The portions are more than generous, the ingredients are fresh, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. It’s the perfect spot for a hearty breakfast before exploring the city.

For the full luxury breakfast experience, you must head to the  Wolseley  in London. Located just steps from the Ritz in Piccadilly, this restaurant provides a luxurious and memorable breakfast dining experience. Set inside their Grade II-listed building with an interior inspired by the grand cafes of Europe, you can indulge in continental delights, classic British dishes and French pastries! All while being served by sophisticated waitstaff on crispt while linens!

Casual Dining

My favourite spot for fish and chips in the entire city is the Laughing Halibut . This was my local spot in Westminster, so perhaps I am biased. But the fish and chips are absolutely incredible. They are known for their crispy, flavorful fish and mouthwatering thick-cut chips. Plus, the down-to-earth atmosphere and retro interior make you feel like you can bank on this place, as it has been keeping you happy for years and years.

If you’re looking for a unique way to try a selection of British cheese, you must get down to   Pick and Cheese ! This is the world’s first conveyor belt cheese restaurant located in the  Seven Dials market . You sit along this cute counter featuring a rotating conveyor belt where different glass domes hide within various kinds of cheese of perfectly paired accoutrements. It’s a blast whether you’re with friends or just on your own. The best way to try out some amazingly inventive flavour combinations and British specialties.

Ottolenghi   is one of the most famous chefs to come out of London. And in London, you can find their cooking at more than half a dozen locations around the city! From sit-down to casual lunch spots, this creative chef serves up Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and bold flavours will amaze and wow your palette. The interior of any Ottolenghi joint is bright and modern, with large windows and high ceilings. The interior aims to highlight the vibrancy of the food itself! Not the other way around. My favourite spot is their location on Pavillion Road in Chelsea. Inside you’ll find their largest deli, where you can choose from the rainbow of colourful salads and mouthwatering pastries in the window that always draw me in from the street!

International Cuisine

If you want to experience one of the most unique types of cuisine, you must visit  Dishoom . They serve up traditional Iranian food in one of the most stylish interiors. The restaurants are inspired by the old Irani cafes of Mumbai, and the decor blends vintage and modern designs. The menu features Indian and Iranian cuisine with a contemporary twist, offering dishes such as their house biryani, black Daal, gunpowder potatoes and (my favourite) their okra fries!

Located in the heart of Spitalfields,  Gunpowder  is one of the most popular restaurants in the city, but you’d never know it behind its unassuming exterior. Even inside, the cozy restaurant only has a capacity for 20 diners. So if you can get a table, you feel exceptional about being here. The restaurant serves up small sharing plates with its unique and inventive take on Indian flavours. This isn’t your typical Indian restaurant. Every dish from the kitchen is something completely new to try, everything from a spicy venison vermicelli doughnut ( yes, you read that right, and it was my favourite thing I ate! ) to Indian spiced soft-shell crab and Goan-style grilled prawns.

High-End Dining

In the heart of Chelsea and South Kensington, you’ll find  Daphne’s  tucked away, ready to surprise. Despite being in London, you’ll be transported into an Italian villa as you step inside. Their intimate conservatory dining room, complete with Murano glass chandeliers, vivid paintings and vintage upholstery combined with friendly waiters, makes you feel like you are dining with friends and family. Their menu completes the experience with authentic Italian dishes that will always wow you!

If you want a modern take on traditional British cuisine, head over to  Lorne .  Located off the main road in the peaceful Victoria neighbourhood, this restaurant is known for its innovative cooking and minimalist setting. Even just walking inside feels like a breath of fresh air. This place focuses on fresh produce, highlighting what’s in the season with a vibrant, ever-changing menu. If you  ever  see their banoffee pie on the menu, order it immediately! You won’t regret it.

There is no escaping the fact that dining out in London can be pretty expensive. But one element of budget eating I found many travellers missed was meal deals . These are ready-made food combos offered inside supermarkets. While I know this might not sound all that appetizing, British supermarkets were an absolute treasure trove of quick meals that were always surprisingly delicious! Meal deals in Britain have long been a staple for workers looking for a cheap, quick and easy bite at lunchtime.

Cost of Meal Deals

Meal deals generally cost £3-£5 depending on where you go. They consist of a sandwich or salad, drink and snack. Luckily for tourists, a plethora of British specialty sandwiches allow you to try something exclusively British while on a budget! Just stop into any grocery chain like Waitrose, Sainsburys, Marks & Spencer, Tesco or even Boots to grab yourself one of these budget but scrumptious meals!

The  prawn and mayo sandwich  was devine from  Marks and Spencer ! M&S was always my favourite grocery stop for meal deals. You can also find the popular  ploughman’s lunch  sandwich, which consists of sharp British cheddar cheese, tomatoes, and pickles (Branston pickle is the king of spreads in the UK), usually served on malted bread.

Another popular option is coronation chicken . Coronation chicken is a classic British dish created to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953. It is a cold chicken salad mixed with mayonnaise and a blend of spices, primarily curry powder, turmeric, and cumin. During the holidays, there are often specialty varieties of sandwiches like Christmas stuffing and pigs in a blanket !

To pair with your sandwich, you can choose your snack option. While you can always go for the classic bag of crisps (chips), you’ll be surprised to find that you can also get anything from a sausage roll, cornish pasty and fibre bars! Read more about how to get the best bang for your buck (or quid) here .

Safety and Security

Be aware of pickpockets.

Like any large city, there are areas in London where you might run into pickpockets. While the vast majority of visitors won’t experience any problems with theft, you should always try your best to take sensible precautions. It’s always advisable to avoid carrying large amounts of cash and leave your valuables, like your passport, at the hotel.

Pickpockets often target crowded areas, and the Tube is a common place for theft. Just be alert. In crowded areas, keep your bag or backpack in front of you, and hold your phone securely. While many people find money belts helpful in feeling more secure, I often simply opt to keep my wallet or money inside an inner zippered pocket in my bag or purse. This way, pickpockets cannot easily just slip their hands to grab anything. You don’t need to go overboard, but it’s a good idea to stay vigilant.

Solo Female Traveller Advice

London is generally a safe city, but exercising extra caution is always important if you are a solo female traveller. One of the most important pieces of advice I had when living in the city alone was to stay in well-lit and busy areas at night. I always avoided dark alleys or quiet streets in favour of brighter, busier areas, even if it meant taking the long way home.

Especially at night, if you feel like the area you’re in doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to call a hire an official taxi or grab an Uber. Always trust your gut.

Another really important tip is to keep your phone well-charged. There’s nothing worse than being uncomfortable and realizing you don’t have any phone battery left to call an Uber.

Well, there we have it! You’ve made it to the end of this guide, and if you’ve come this far, you’re more than prepared for your next adventure! Throughout this  London Guide , I hope you found everything you wanted to know about visiting London for the first time. If I missed anything or if you have any burning questions, don’t hesitate to post a comment, and I will be sure to reply. London is such an incredible city, and with a bit of preparation, you’ll be ready to take on everything it has to offer! 

Happy Travels, Adventurers.

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