fun tourist things to do in london

Trending Post : Halal Fine Dining In London

The London Local

The Insider's Guide To Visiting London

20+ Crazy Fun Things to Do in London in 2023 (Curious, Quirky & Cool!)

I know there are many people who talk about fun things to do in London . Yet, my goal today is not to talk about famous London attractions . I’ve written quite a few articles about the best things to do in Central London already. For instance, I’ve written about the best free things to do in London when you’re absolutely broke. I also focus a lot on things to do in London by area on The London Local, including Bethnal Green , Brick L a ne , Shoreditch , or even lately Hampstead Heath . In this article, I’m going to be focusing on cool things to do in London in 2023. 

That includes some exhibitions , some absolutely tremendous cemeteries, and some very fashionable museums and art collections. Of course, I know you are looking for the best things to do in London at night and cheap activities . I mean, we are not all very rich when we live in London – far from it.

20+ Crazy Fun Things to Do in London in 2023 (Curious, Quirky & Cool!)

When I talk about cool things to do in London, I have a very specific idea of what cool, quirky, and curious mean.  It is not enough to look for the best free things to do in London if you’re going to be finding yourself at the Tate Modern and the usual walk around Covent Garden and Regent Street up to Oxford Circus. There’s so much more that I want to share with you, even amazing things to do in London tomorrow, during the weekend, or at night. Before we get started, you might like to take a look at these guides I’ve written for you to find them the top things to do in London:

• the best things to do in London for free (when you’re broke af),
•  and the best cheap things to do in London alone

If you’re just feeling like shopping a different way, how about discovering the best Japanese shops in London ? I’ve broken them down for you so you can find the coolest Japanese stationery, makeup brands, snacks, and much more!

City Exploration Games by CityDays

The ultimate London experience for urban adventurers If you’re looking for an immersive day out in London full of fun challenges, then a CityDays exploration game could be just the thing! Not only do you get to explore some of London’s hidden secrets and historic landmarks whilst solving an array of riddles and clues, you also get to stop in top-rated cafes, pubs and bars along the way (some of which will give you a discount if you let them know that you’re on a CityDays hunt!). CityDays have 8 different treasure and scavenger hunts to choose from – The City, Greenwich Guile, A Forbidden Fayre, Secrets of the Squares, Mysterious Mews, A Rift In Time, All Gone South and Shoreditch Shuffle.

The Secret City offers 8 different treasure and scavenger hunts to choose from – The City, Greenwich Guile, A Forbidden Fayre, Secrets of the Squares, Mysterious Mews, A Rift In Time, All Gone South and Shoreditch Shuffle.

CityDays – Mystery Walks of London

Location: Various starting locations depending on which experience you book Price: From £15 per person

🐣 Visiting London for Easter?

Check out our guide for the best things to do in London this Easter ! Including Easter Egg hunts for the kids, tasty themed afternoon teas and classic London Easter traditions .

Have a Harry Potter Themed Afternoon Tea

Interactive afternoon tea for two at wands and wizards exploratorium.

Indulge in a magical and interactive afternoon tea at the Wizard Exploratorium in Soho. You’ll be invited to select a magic wand and then lead to an interactive work station where you’ll brew your teas. The magic wand also controls your afternoon tea stand which is filled with a carefully curated selection of delicious sandwiches, desserts and a traditional English scone for each ‘wizard’.

The main Wizards afternoon tea is aimed at adults and older children from ages 12+. If you are looking to take younger children, you can book in for a Little Wizards Afternoon Tea designed for ages 5-11. University students can get a 20% discount on specific dates and times.

Arcane Afternoon Tea for Two – Wands and Wizard Exploratorium

Location: 26 Greek Street, London, W1D 5DE View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Leicester Square Price: £42 per adult (ages 12+), £32 per child (ages 5-11), £33.60 University Students

DISCOUNT CODE – 10% OFF Potion Making Experience

Use code Magical_Potions to get 10% off all Potion Making experiences booked in March 2023 *End Date: 31st March 2023*

Birdies Battersea

If you are looking for really fun things to do in London, I think you should take a look at Battersea. I feel like this is one of the most underrated areas of London, and under the tunnel, at Battersea Power Station, you can find Birdies.  This is a totally undescribable mini-golf course focused on the most unforgettable features that a golf course in London could have.

I’m talking great menu for food, I’m talking 9 holes, I’m talking super instagrammable golf course.  I’ve never been that much of a golf lover, to be honest. That is not one of the things in London I would choose to do when with friends. However, Birdies is so instagrammable, so actually absurd… I still recommend it to you as one of the fun things to do in London this weekend, or during the week . If you want to eat great street food in London far from the famous London attractions and landmarks,  Birdies in Battersea will definitely make for a good time.

Location: 6 Arches Lane, Nine Elms, SW11 8AB View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Battersea Power Station Price: Adult Peak £12 | Adult Off Peak £8 | Children £6

Fun Things to do in London: Monopoly Lifesized

I spotted the Monopoly Lifesized game while walking from Fitzrovia to Tottenham Court Road one day. This is not one of the cheap things to do in London, far from it, actually. However, when you get the chance to play Monopoly in real life, can you really look at the price?  You could definitely spend a day in London shopping in one of the cheap shopping centers , for instance, or going to one of the amazing art galleries. You could go to one of the famous London parks and visit instagrammable bridges like Albert Bridge or Tower Bridge.  But then, if you really want to have some good fun, Monopoly Lifesized is your immersive destination.

If you’ve played Monopoly before, you already know what the deal is. You’re going to play on your feet, buying properties, solving mysteries, and competing against the clock. In 80 minutes, you need to have won the game. There are 4 life-sized boards to choose from and they will cost you from £49 per adult and from £25 for a junior. Forget about the usual London sightseeing because Monopoly Lifesized is one of your ultimate top things to do in London this weekend. 

Monopoly Lifesized

Location: 213-215 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7PS View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Goodge Street Price: From £49 per person

Fun Things to do in London: Visit Roller Nation

The reason why I don’t like golf that much is the same reason I don’t really like roller skating.  It’s not that much of a matter of not liking , it’s more that I suck at roller skating. However, Roller Nation, a roller-skating nightclub in Tottenham , is one of the best things to do in London in 2023. It goes beyond any fun you could have in the city if you just don’t mind going all the way to Tottenham.

This is one of the most amazing venues for cheap date ideas in London, for instance . To be fair, when you can have that much fun, you don’t really mind spending a few more stations on the tube. You can either meet with friends there, plan a hen party, or just go solo, you know.  If you’re looking for the best things to do in London at night , for sure, Roller Nation is one of them. Basically, it is described as a nightclub on skates. Yet, I’d like to highlight the fact that if you’re looking for the best street food in London , Roller Nation is it .

Roller Nation

Location: 117 Bruce Grove, N17 6UR View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Bruce Grove Price: From £10 per person

Otherworld: Virtual Reality in London

Otherworld is one of the other amazing things to do in London this weekend, during the week, or in the evening. It was mentioned in many famous publications, such as BBC, The Times, The Evening Standard, or even Vogue.  We don’t often talk about cool things to do in East London other than going out in Hackney or going to dinner in one of the best halal restaurants in East London, for instance. But I’ve always been an East London girl, even when I was living in Seven Sisters, up north.

Otherworld is one of the London attractions that focuses on virtual reality . I think I speak for many of us when I say that when we’re looking for fun things to do in London, we’re looking for something that’s gonna knock us off our feet . The London crowd is a demanding one, and that’s definitely the place where you can have an otherworldly experience. You can go on your own or with friends, turn yourselves into avatars, and just ride the wave of the adventure stream in London. I’m talking immersion, I’m talking virtual, and extreme relaxation and fun in the midst of the city.

Location: 336 Acton Mews, E8 4EA View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Haggerston Price: From £14

God’s Own Junkyard

I remember the first time I ever visited God’s Own Junkyard near Walthamstow. This full neon gallery and shop is one of the best free London attractions . I was a make-up artist when I first visited it, and just so you know, you cannot take a professional camera or a reflex when you go visit God’s Own Junkyard. Only phone pictures are allowed. We’re not talking about the best free things to do in Central London as Walthamstow is located far East. However, if you don’t go, you’re going to regret it big time. Especially since it’s free, folks. God’s Own Junkyard is full of neon signs, movie props, controversial objects, and amazing neon lights. Basically, Chris Bracey, God’s Own Junkyard’s owner has been creating art for the likes of David Lachapelle and Martin Creed for almost 40 years. The place is absolutely one of the most aesthetic places in London. There’s even a small independent coffee shop inside, where the cakes are decadent.

Location: Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall St, London E17 9HQ View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Wood Street Price: FREE ENTRY!

Luna Cinema: Outdoor Cinema in London

Luna Cinema is a company that provides an amazing open-air cinema experience in London. They focus on drive-in and open-air cinema , which means you can even watch a movie outdoors in London. Without a doubt, it’s one of the top things to do in London at night with you r other half or with friends after work. It’s not only a company that works in London since Luna Cinema is a moving attraction across the UK. At the moment, of course, since it’s cold, the Luna Cinema is closed. However, you can still follow them on social media or see straight on their website when they’re going to reopen and what kind of movies are going to be screened.  These are mostly classic movies showing in this open air cinema in London , including Dirty dancing and the likes of Pretty Woman. Not only will you pay £15 for a great classic movie but the setting is bound to be exceptional , like the Geffrye Museum and Kensington Gardens. The Luna Cinema tops all London attractions when you want to create memories with your best friends or with the city of London herself .

Location: Various locations across London Nearest Station: Various locations across London Price: Prices start from £19.50 per person

Swingers Crazy Golf – Fun things to do in Londons West End

If you’re looking for unique date ideas in London, I would suggest passing by the Swingers Crazy Golf. Basically, each game lasts about 30 minutes and this is one of the most instagrammable places in London . Also, if you are a sucker for the best street food in London, you will find Patty & Bun, Pizza Pilgrims, and Crosstown Doughnuts at Swingers Crazy Golf.  That’s a true London experience, given how quirky it is and how blown off you’re going to be when you spend time there. It is true that London has always been an aesthetic place, with its skyscrapers and mix of the old and the new. But now, it seems that most of the cool things to do in London are based on Instagram . I would say that spending date night at the Swingers Crazy Golf (which has since then moved away from its Shoreditch warehouse) is one of the most fun things to do in London. Not only are you going to spend an amazing evening, but you’re going to eat well and you’re going to go to sleep with amazing memories.  Much like any of the best London attractions, right?  So if you’ve never gone mini-golfing before, that’s a place you should visit.

Swingers Crazy Golf

Location: 15 John Prince’s Street, W1G 0AB Nearest Station: Oxford Circus Price: £13.50 per person

Fun Things to do in London: Upside Down House

If you’re looking for amazing things to do in London, then one of the best activities I can recommend this year is visiting the Upside Down House at Westfield White City. The Upside Down house arrived in London last year, and it’s the exact replica of a home flipped upside down. There are already Upside Down houses in other United Kingdom cities like Manchester, Bristol, and another city I adore – Brighton. Aside from very overrated famous London attractions, it’s great to know that you can live street art and entertainment another way in the city. I don’t know if you are familiar with Westfield White City: it’s one of the most famous shopping centers in London. There, you can find great brands like Inglot, M&S, and even high-end brands to shop for clothes, perfume, makeup, electronics, and much, much more. 

It seems that more and more activities and installations in London are made for Instagram. To be honest, the Upside Down House is one of the most instagrammable places in London . It is not one of the free things to do in London as the ticket costs £5 per person, while kids under 3 go for free.  However, it is indeed one of the cheap things to do in London at the moment. If you pay attention to your Instagram feed, that’s one of the aesthetic places in London you are going to want to regram . For sure, you’re going to capture some crazy good pictures at the Upside Down House. It makes for an amazing cheap date idea in London whether you’re a student, a freelancer, or a couple.

Upside Down House – Westfield

Location: Westfield Square, Ariel Way, W12 7GF View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Wood Lane Price: £5 per person

Go to a Pancake Art Cafe – Fun things to do in London with the Kids

The first time I came across the Pancake Art Cafe was actually last year. I know that when I talk to you about it, and if you have children or a child, you’re going to want to visit straight away. If you’re ever around Camden ( which, if you like aesthetic places in London, you’re bound to be ),  the Pancake Art Cafe is one of the independent coffee shops in London you’ll want to spend an afternoon at. No one is telling you to actually make pancake art if you don’t want to. But you can definitely get one of the best hot chocolates in London in this cafe. However, I have come to put more value in things I do by myself rather than things prepared by other people for me. If you’re like me, creating your own colorful pancake is something you’re gonna love to do . A few days ago, I wrote about the best instagrammable cafes in London to get your pink latte fix. Although that’s not a coffee shop where you can get a pink latte , you can definitely get an aesthetic matcha latte at the Pancake Art Cafe. That makes for one of the best date ideas in London, and one of the best things to do in London tomorrow, during the week, or this weekend. I would recommend you to go see the Camden street art, go shopping at the best charity shops , and finish the afternoon with a break at the Pancake Art Cafe . For sure, you’re going to go back home with great memories.

Pancake Art Café – Camden

Location: 3 Water Lane Arch, NW1 8NZ7 View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Camden Road Price: £25.00 per person

Go on a London rooftop

One of the best things to do in London will always be to go on a rooftop. There are quite a few rooftops that I’ve talked about. From some of them, you can see the view and from others, you will just enjoy the presence of the city in the background as you’re having drinks and eating the best street food in London . It’s not all about sightseeing when I talk about the best things to do in London, actually. It’s about being able to share evenings with friends, and family experiences with the best backgrounds in the city. When I’m talking rooftops in London, I can give you a few examples that will leave you dumbfounded, including:

• The famous Sky Garden in the Walkie-Talkie building
• The Greenwich Observatory
• The top of the Tate Modern 
• The Fen Court Rooftop at Monument (pictured above)
• The rooftop garden at New Change

I will dedicate a full article to London rooftops and you best believe that is one of the best free things to do in London . The best part is you don’t even need to pay for most of them, whether it’s a garden or one of the skyscrapers in London. 

Fun Things to do in London: Harbour Quay Gardens

I know that when we live in the city, one of the things that we miss the most is the fact that there are not that many beaches in London . There are water points, there are lakes – artificial and natural, there are natural reserves… but I often miss the feeling of a real beach in London.  Well, I’m here today to tell you about Harbour Quay Gardens. Located in Wood Wharf, Harbour Quay Gardens is a long boardwalk built along the water. When it’s spring and summer, taking a walk in this very clean piece of quiet is one of the best free things in London you can do with your other half or with your family.  I actually feel very inspired whenever I am near the water, and I cannot recommend enough ditching the famous London attractions for an afternoon at Harbour Quay Gardens . You can even have a picnic there, read the book or just chill while other people are passing by. There is also fitness equipment right on the Harbour Quay Gardens, and many people come to train here when it gets all sunny and warm. 

Harbour Quay Gardens – Canary Wharf

Location: Harbour Quay, E14 9ZX View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Canary Wharf

Go to the decadent Wallace Museum

If you’re looking for the best free things to do in London and you’re getting kind of tired of all the famous museums , I would recommend visiting the Wallace Museum. The Wallace Collection was built between the 18th and 19th centuries and it is all about fine arts, fine furniture, armor and arms, and everything paintings and sculpture dating back to those centuries. This is even one of the cool things to do in London tomorrow if you have a day off . It used to be a private collection owned by the marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, and it was transferred to the British nation in 1897.  There are countless exhibitions and events held at the Wallace Museum, and to be fair, it might very well be one of the most instagrammable museums in London . If you like aesthetic places and are keen on being brought back in time, this all golden and burgundy gallery is one of the too underrated London attractions.

Wallace Museum London Art Gallery

Location: Hertford House, Manchester Square, W1U 3BN View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Bond Street Price: FREE ENTRY!

Visit The Chocolate Factory

It always gets better in the city when it comes to cool things to do in London. Next up on my list is visiting the Chocolate Factory in Westfield . I bet you didn’t even know there was a Chocolate Factory in London, right? It is definitely one of the best London attractions in 2023, and it is to tally built on Instagram fame. You can go with friends, solo, or with your family and visit various rooms that revolve around sweetness, cakes, and lollipops all blended together. What is super cool is that the Chocolate Factory is one of the London attractions that run challenges and competitions on their social media and allows you to win various prizes. If you’re looking for fun things to do in London this weekend and you don’t want to go sightseeing, spend an hour at this wonderland.  Rooms there are called Chocolate Town, Lollipop Forest, or the likes of Cupcake Room.   Everything around you is built for you to take amazing selfies. If you were planning in going to Westfield Shepherd’s Bush this weekend or tomorrow, why not book a ticket for the Chocolate Factory as well?  Not only will you be able to experience one of the best cheap things to do in London, but you will also be able to eat sweets and chocolate in this ethereal space . It might very well be one of the best things to do with kids in London in 2023 and I would recommend not to miss the opportunity. It’s fun, family-friendly, and everything you’d expect from the city’s curiosity.

The Chocolate Factory

Location: 1st Floor Westfield London, Ariel Way, W12 7GF View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Wood Lane

Visit the Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition

For some reason, the top things to do in central London often seem to revolve around Covent Garden . Many times I have walked around the area and found amazing independent coffee shops, bakeries, and even skincare brands that I really love like The Ordinary. Covent Garden is also home to some of the best stationery shops in London like Kikki K.  Just a few minutes’ walk from Covent Garden, on Wellington Street, is one of your best things to do in London this weekend, namely t he Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition .  Although I am a die-hard Potterhead and a Ravenclaw at that, I too have gotten a bit tired of Harry Potter. Above all of the messy fame that the Harry Potter franchise has garnered over the last years, starting with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. The Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition is somewhat a different type of London attraction. If you would like to learn Harry Potter film facts, that’s a journey you’re going to want to take.  It’s not going to be one of the cheap things to do in London, since a ticket for an adult retails for £20 online. However, you’re going to be able to ride a broom, go home with a Harry Potter-style ID, and even go to a Butterbeer Bar.  I have been to the Harry Potter Warner Bros studios in Leavesden more than once, and I have always enjoyed the experience very much. This might very well be your chance to live the Harry Potter craze one more time without having to go all the way to the studios – straight in the heart of London.

Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition at The London Film Museum

Location: London Film Museum, 45 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7BN View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Covent Garden Price: £20 Adult, £14 Child (discounts available on family tickets)

Go full-on kid at Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch

If you are into fun things to do in London such as a crazy golf background or neon exhibitions,  then you will love Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch.  This is a London experience that is totally built on quirkiness and reflects the colorful area of Shoreditch . Ballie Ballerson is about colorful ball pits like the ones we used to jump in when we were kids. The goal is to give adults amazing things to do in London at night, and what’s better than jumping around in a colorful ball pool without the fear to be judged ? No one’s telling you that you can’t go London sightseeing during the day but during the night, you can get amazing street food at Ballie Ballerson and enjoy a colorful venue. Plus, if you are an Instagram freak and love finding aesthetic places in London, Ballie Ballerson provides the energy you need to go through the night with your friends or your partner.   That’s definitely one of the best cheap date ideas in London since a ticket is £7.50. I’ve written about the best coffee shops in Shoreditch to work, relax, or study a few days ago. I would totally recommend spending the day working or cramming your exams in one of these London cafes, especially Powerhouse Coffee on Curtain Road since Ballie Ballerson is located on the same street. One of the best fun things to do in London tomorrow, or this weekend.

Ballie Ballerson – Shoreditch

Location: 97-113 Curtain Road, EC2A 3BS View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Shoreditch High Street Price: From £4 per person

Fun Things to do in London: Go to a rooftop park

Among the best things to do in London, I don’t know how I could leave out spending time at a rooftop in London. There are many more than you could ever imagine. Actually, London rooftops will be the topic of an upcoming guide on The London Local. Can you imagine that a lot of them are actually free London attractions?  One of the best-known rooftops in London is – of course – Skygarden. Located at the top of the Walkie Talkie building, it garners immense popularity because of its free access. Yet, another one of the great rooftops in London is the Crossrail Place Roof Garden in Canary Wharf.  Canary Wharf has always been one of my favorite areas in London. To think that you can spend time at this free rooftop garden is breathtaking. Not only is the pathway there decorated with greenery and plants from all around the world, but it’s also quiet . Plus, it’s a very romantic place if you’re looking for cheap date ideas in London. The Crossrail Place Roof Garden is located at the top of the Canary Wharf shopping center. This one I already mentioned in my guide about the best places for cheap shopping in London . If you want to know where to go shopping on the cheap in London, that’s one of the spots.  This roof garden might be one of the most instagrammable places in London. There are lots of hidden pathways and corners in the Crossrail Place roof garden. Opening times? It’s open every day until 9 pm (until sunset during the summer). The plus? If you’re looking for fun things to do in London, lots of events and shows take place at the Crossrail Place roof garden all year round . One of the best secret London attractions. 

Go to an instagrammable cafe in London

You guys have really enjoyed my guide to the most instagrammable cafes in London for your pink latte fix. I mean, who doesn’t love colorful latte? Soon enough, I’ll write about the most instagrammable cafes in London. We’re talking pink cafes like El&n Cafe, flowers everywhere like Saints Aymes…  For me, a freelance writer , spending time at one of the best cafes in London to work and study is one of the best things to do in London. It’s not free, but when you go to an instagrammable cafe, you’re actually very happy to pay the price. Because they’re picture-perfect, the prices usually follow.  However, as in many parts of London, a latte shouldn’t cost more than £4 or £5. Which is expensive but still worth it. And balanced when you compare those cafes to non-IG-friendly cafes in Central London . So, you know. If you’re looking for the best things to do in London, I would recommend one of those instagrammable cafes. El&n Cafe probably being the first.

Saint Aymes – Instagrammable cafe

Location: 59 Connaught St, St George’s Fields, W2 2BB View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Marble Arch

Visit the cemetery parks in London

Back when I used to live in Mile End, I was literally 5 minutes away from the Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park. In France, we have a very different cemetery culture than the United Kingdom has. For instance, we wouldn’t consider mixing the words cemetery and park . It’s just not a thing. Except maybe for the Père Lachaise cemetery in Paris where lots of famous people are buried.  Well, I’ve found that one of the best free things to do in London is to visit the cemetery parks. To be fair, it makes for a nice walk and a quiet moment, although I wouldn’t recommend it in a list of cheap date ideas in London. Just a bit creepy, innit?  The Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park is one of the “Magnificent Seven” cemeteries in London. It’s completely free to access, huge, beautiful, and there are even some colorful benches there. I’d say the best thing to do is to spot the names and dates on the tombs. Since it’s a cemetery park, the fauna and flora remain untouched. They’re pure and green, with great trees towering over the tombs and the occasional ray of sunlight breaking through. Absolutely worthy of any plan for your day of London sightseeing, if you’re looking for free things to do in London.   In case you’re wondering, the other cemetery parks in London are:

• Nunhead Cemetery
• Brompton Cemetery
• Abney Park Cemetery
• Kensal Green Cemetery
• West Norwood Cemetery
• And the very famous Highgate Cemetery

All these cemetery parks in London look a bit alike, but actually – no, they don’t . They all feature that beautiful nature in London, that’s for sure. However, they all have their own personality. Some look more like city cemeteries, while others are true natural attractions in London. 

Do a tour of fun statues in London

I love finding new fun statues in London. That’s one of the coolest free things to do in London, no doubt about it. When I talk about the most famous statues in London, of course, I’d include memorial statues and sculptures. But unless you’re a history freak , that’s not the kind of London attraction I want to recommend.  I’m talking about fun statues in London that represent movie or cartoon characters, for instance . So that would be Leicester Square statues, implemented a few years ago in one of the most famous areas of London. Just a stone’s throw away from Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden, you can find statues of famous people and characters, including:

• A Mary Poppins statue
• A Harry Potter statue
• A Mr. Bean statue
• A Batman statue
• A Paddington bear statue, 
• And a Charlie Chaplin statue, among others.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in London at night, that’s one of them. At night, the Leicester Square statues get all lit up . That makes them very unusual and quirky characters to have in your Instagram feed, for instance. And that’s definitely one of the fun things to do in London with kids too.  If you’re with kids, you might love Holland Park (inside which is nestled the famous secret Kyoto Garden ). There, you’ll find several statues and sculptures. That includes a giant wrinkled yellow apple , a sculpture of a walking man, and a giant chessboard built right on the ground. How’s that for London sightseeing?

See the London views from secret places

I know that when you look for London attractions, one thing you’re expecting to see is the beautiful London views. There are quite a few places in London where you can spot amazing views. I’d start with the famous Primrose Hill sunset , for instance. You can also spot the amazing view at Hampstead Heath , still in the London parks register. If you’d like to spot the London views closer to the center, these are some places I can recommend:

• At the top of the Garden Museum
• The Crossrail Place Roof Garden in Canary Wharf
• The Madison Bar
• Ratcliff Beach in Bermondsey

Those are all great spots to see the London views. FYI, Ratcliff Beach in Bermondsey is not really a beach, but it does provide amazing views of Canary Wharf. Going to this secret beach in London is one of the best things to do in the summer. It doesn’t matter that the actual “beach” isn’t that pretty – nor sandy. But this place, like the whole Bermondsey, Wapping, and Limehouse seashores is amazing. Especially when you can spot the London skyline under the burning sunset sky. 

Visit an ethnic market – Brixton Market

There’s nothing I like doing more than learning about other cultures. One of the cool things to do in London, since it’s such a melting pot , is to learn and taste other cultures. I mean, what is the best way to discover a new mindset, other than through food?  The ethnic market you should definitely include in your London sightseeing plans is Brixton Market . That’s one of the very best markets in London , if I may say so. There, you can buy absolutely pure shea butter in London, for instance, along with other great hair products and ethnic food. Since Brixton is such a young and lively place, there is lots of street art all around the station , and lots of cool things to do in London at night in this area of South London. I’m talking about some of the best street food in London, some amazing independent shops and brands for hair, fashion, and many events scattered all throughout the year.  Brixton Market, in Brixton Village, is an African slash Caribbean market. There, you’ll find all the necessary fresh and pantry ingredients to make jerk chicken, for instance, or mafe – both incredible dishes. You don’t even need to buy anything if you want to keep it one of the best free things to do in London. But I guarantee you’ll want to taste some of that amazing street food.   Unlike many other activities you’ll do while London sightseeing, Brixton Market is a breath of fresh air in the hustle and bustle of the super structured London life. It’s lively, colorful, tasty, and culturally richer than any other area of the city. I’d even go as far as saying it might be cooler to spend an afternoon there than in most famous London attractions.

Brixton Market

Location: Electric Ave, SW9 8JX View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Clapham Common

Go see the cherry blossom (from March)

I will write a post about the best places in London to see the cherry blossom, come spring. There are countless areas where you can take super instagrammable photos with cherry trees blossoming all around London . It’s actually one of the best free things to do in London when the weather is warming up nicely and to be honest, I look forward to this season every year. Among the best places to see cherry blossom in London, I can list quite a few. That includes Notting Hill, Hampstead Heath, and Battersea Park. Stanley Crescent is one very famous street in West London to see the cherry blossom too. There, plenty of influencers take cherry blossoms pictures that you then see on social media. If you’re located in East London, you can see the cherry blossom at Aldgate Square , for instance. I would recommend going to get a filling breakfast at Grounded or Dolce Coffee. Then, start walking down towards Whitechapel and Fenchurch Street.  There, on the right, you will see an amazing little square with a church and very fairytale-like cherry blossom trees . Mark it down as it’s going to be one of the best things to do in London in 2023. You would not want to miss the beautiful flowers in bloom .

So there you have them, the best things to do in London in 2023. I’ve included quite a big chunk of free things to do in London . Yet, I do know that some amazing activities that the city brings to us have to be paid for. To be honest, I’m very much okay with paying for London attractions that do not break the bank . And for activities that are really different from anything we’ve ever seen in London . I’ve never agreed with the fact that paying for the London Eye was a thing. And I think I never will .  I’ve tried to include some cool things to do in London at night. Most you can do without having a big budget at hand . Whether you’re looking for places to chill this weekend or during the week after work, those are my best bets. That should help you make the most of your London sightseeing experience. It’s all about learning about history, monuments, and famous landmarks. But London is much more than that . It’s about reaching out to other populations and cultures, to the past and the present, and broadening your horizons.  If you’d like to learn more about other cultures, I’d suggest taking a look at the best halal Malaysian restaurants in London . Or, why not, the best vegan bakeries for cakes and cupcakes , or the cutest cat cafes in London ! Those are definitely some of the best things to do in London, and I know you’ll enjoy the ride!

• Latest Posts

• London on a Budget: What to do in London with £10? - 12 May 2023
• 20+ Crazy Fun Things to Do in London in 2023 (Curious, Quirky & Cool!) - 9 February 2023
• 29 Ultimately Best Halal Breakfast in London (2023) - 4 January 2023

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

London, England   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Doug Armand | Getty Images

34 Best Things to Do in London, England

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

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

Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

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

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

Tower of London Tower of London

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

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

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

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

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

Popular Tours

Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Transport from London

(2805 reviews)

from $ 166.06

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London

(12847 reviews)

from $ 127.45

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath with Pub Lunch in Lacock

(5281 reviews)

Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

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

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

British Museum British Museum free

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

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

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

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

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

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

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

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

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

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

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

Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

(9176 reviews)

from $ 56.64

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

(1467 reviews)

from $ 487.90

Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

(2698 reviews)

from $ 109.42

Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

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

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

The London Eye The London Eye

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

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

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

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

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

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

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

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

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

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

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

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London & Admissions

(3105 reviews)

Best of London Tour inc Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

(2246 reviews)

from $ 145.47

Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket

(4760 reviews)

from $ 44.80

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

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

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

National Gallery National Gallery free

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

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

Borough Market Borough Market free

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

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

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

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

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

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

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

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

London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River

(1122 reviews)

from $ 112.00

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford Day Trip from London

(3117 reviews)

Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London

(2021 reviews)

from $ 20.34

Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

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

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

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

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

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

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

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

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

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

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

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

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

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

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

Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

(197 reviews)

Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip with Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower

(1738 reviews)

from $ 384.91

Oxford, Stratford, Cotswolds and Warwick Castle Day Trip

(2135 reviews)

from $ 101.70

Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

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

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

Camden Market Camden Market free

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

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

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

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

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

Greenwich Greenwich free

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

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

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

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

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

Stonehenge Half-Day Tour from London with Admission

(732 reviews)

from $ 88.83

Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour

(837 reviews)

from $ 92.69

Fully Guided Tour of Warner Bros Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

(556 reviews)

from $ 249.74

Up at The O2 Up at The O2

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

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

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

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

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

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

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

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

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

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

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

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

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

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

Stonehenge and Windsor from London

(237 reviews)

from $ 128.73

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London The Making of Harry Potter with return transfers

(65 reviews)

Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

(929 reviews)

Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

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

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

Things to Do in London, England FAQs

Explore more of london, england.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

Europe Chevron

United Kingdom Chevron

England Chevron

London Chevron

27 Best Things to Do in London

By Sonya Barber and Ramsay Short

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

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

Read our complete London travel guide here .

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

Tower of London Arrow

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

Kew Gardens Arrow

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

Tate Modern Arrow

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

Shakespeare’s Globe Arrow

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

Coal Drops Yard Arrow

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

South Bank Arrow

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

Victoria and Albert Museum Arrow

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

E Pellicci Arrow

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

Sir John Soane's Museum Arrow

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

Columbia Road Flower Market Arrow

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

Dennis Severs' House Arrow

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

Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason Arrow

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

St. Paul's Cathedral Arrow

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

Royal Academy of Arts Arrow

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

Liberty London Arrow

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

The Shard Arrow

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

West End Theatreland Arrow

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

National Gallery Arrow

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

Borough Market Arrow

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

Highgate Cemetery Arrow

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

British Museum Arrow

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

Hampstead Heath Arrow

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

Portobello Market Arrow

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

Hyde Park Arrow

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

Tayyabs Arrow

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

Churchill War Rooms Arrow

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

Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club Arrow

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

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

13 of the best things to do in London

Feb 25, 2024 • 13 min read

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

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

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

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

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

1. Step back in time at the Tower of London

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

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

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

2. Be wowed by contemporary art at Tate Modern

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

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

3. Explore London’s Black history 

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

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

4. Imagine the royal weddings of yesteryear at Westminster Abbey

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

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

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

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

5. Stroll the sights of the South Bank

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

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

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

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

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

6. Delve into Muslim London

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

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

7. Dive deep into history at the South Kensington museums

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Relax in gloriously green Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

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

10. Watch the guards change at Buckingham Palace 

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

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

11. Drink a pint at a historic English pub

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

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

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

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

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

13. Sit down to a traditional afternoon tea 

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

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

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

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

Explore related stories

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Experience the best of England with these top things to do, from city museums to seaside escapes.

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 5 min read

Oct 6, 2023 • 15 min read

Feb 1, 2023 • 3 min read

Jan 31, 2023 • 4 min read

Jan 2, 2023 • 12 min read

Sep 14, 2022 • 8 min read

Aug 15, 2022 • 7 min read

Jul 28, 2022 • 7 min read

54 Things To Do In London You Need To Try Before You Die

From whiling away the hours in Covent Garden to strolling through the picturesque Highgate Cemetery, London is packed full of activities to try at least once in your life. Here’s our rundown of the best of them.

In a city as full to the brim of excitement and activities as ours, it’s not exactly easy to choose the best things to do. After all, we’ve got a population of around nine million people, and you could probably do something different every day of your life and still not cover everything there is to do here.  Still, we’re nothing if not ambitious here at Secret London, so we rallied up the team’s suggestions and have put them all here in this article for you to peruse at your leisure. So, without further ado, here’s a roundup of 54 of the best things to do in London you’ve got to try at least once in your life.

Of course, we’re always open to suggestions, so if you think we haven’t covered your favourite bucket-list activity, then give us a shout on socials or via our website! 

1. Soak up the city views from Primrose Hill

Now, we couldn’t kick off this list of the best things to do in London without mentioning this one. After all, Primrose Hill has been crowned the most scenic view in the whole of the capital, and it’s also the place where poet William Blake uttered the words: “ I have conversed with the spiritual sun. I saw him on Primrose Hill. ” Some compliment then…

You can see everything from the landmark London Eye all the way across to Canary Wharf from here, so it’s a great (and romantic) spot to come when the sun is beginning to set . Pop a bottle of prosecco and enjoy!

2. Experience the magic of a West End show

London is famous around the world for being one of the best places to see plays, musicals and West End shows. With a constantly evolving lineup of performances of all different kinds, you’re always in for a good time here, so see what takes your fancy and settle in! Current standouts include Disney’s The Lion King , Moulin Rouge! The Musical and Stranger Things: The First Shadow but there’s a whole host of exciting productions in the pipeline too.

Even better, many restaurants surrounding Theatreland do cheap, pre-theatre dinners so you can save a bit of cash before you experience the show. Neat hey?

3. Get a head for heights at the iconic Tower Bridge Experience

Now, when it comes to iconic buildings, we’re not exactly lacking in our beloved capital. After all, this is the city where you’ve got Buckingham Palace, The Shard , Big Ben and the Tower of London (more on that later). But if push comes to shove, we’d have to argue that Tower Bridge is the most iconic of them all.

While this feat of engineering is impressive from all angles, we’d argue that seeing it from above walking across its high-flyin’ glass walkway is the way to do it. Set 42 metres above the River Thames, it’s certainly not one for those with vertigo – but it’s not an experience you’ll forget in a hurry!

4. Embark on a riverside pub crawl

Speaking of the Thames, The Thames Path allows Londoners to walk along the river, more-or-less uninterrupted from estuary to source. As luck would have it, there are also a whole ton of pubs and restaurants along the way, and lots of them are frothing over with salty, maritime history. While there are wayyyyyy too many to mention here, we’d argue that Greenwich’s Trafalgar Tavern, The Anchor Bankside and Rotherite’s The Mayflower are top-tier boozers which are well worth a visit. Better yet – why not see how far you get on a riverside pub crawl?

5. Explore a fascinating art exhibition

London is a major player in the global art scene, with over a hundred different galleries to visit dotted about town showcasing everything from classic works to cutting-edge modern pieces. Our essential guide to London’s art exhibitions will help you find the latest and greatest shows to drop in on, but if you’re running short on time, we’d suggest you head to the Tate Modern – which holds the coveted title of being the ‘ most popular modern art gallery in the world ’!

Other art galleries of note include the Royal Academy of Arts – which is famous for its popular Summer Exhibition – The National Gallery and the Dulwich Gallery – the oldest public gallery in the whole of the UK. Don’t miss the Monet immersive experience either in East London’s Boiler House, which will take you on a mesmerising multi-sensory journey that will plunges you in the painted world of the famous French impressionist artist. Get a hold of your tickets here.

6. Take a step back in time at the Tower of London

If you’re wanting to unearth some of our capital’s intriguing history, then the imposing Tower of London is really the place to head. One of the city’s oldest and most recognisable tourist attractions, the imposing Tower of London has stood since William the Conqueror decided the capital needed a fortress to remind Londoners of his conquest. Nearly 1000 years later, it’s still standing, famously housing the Crown Jewels and a flock of ravens, who are billed as the ‘Guardians of the Tower’. It’s also reputed to be one of the most haunted spots in the Big Smoke… scary stuff!

The infamous prison where many lost their lives (and their heads), the Tower also doubles as a Historic Royal Palace and you can join numerous guided tours here throughout the year – including by the famous Yeoman Warders (AKA ‘Beefeaters’). You can explore it further by getting tickets here.

7. Amp up the spook factor on a city ghost tour

In a city as ancient as London, it stands to reason that there would be one or two ghosts and ghouls knocking about – if you believe in that sort of thing of course. From haunted hotels to spooky subterranean spots, there are ample places here where you can give yourself a scare. Heck – there’s even a pet cemetery in Hyde Park (look out for mad moggies)!

But to get a real insight into the haunted history of the capital, why not join a guided tour? From Jack the Ripper tours to moonlit walks to the ‘bucket of blood’ pub (!), there’s something for everything here – as long as you’re not scared to death of course…

8. Dance the night away at one of London’s nightclubs

It’s no secret that London plays host to some of the coolest nightclubs on the planet, from sweaty, rave-filled warehouses to long-established legends of the London nightlife scene.

On the one hand you’ve got fabric – which burst onto the scene back in 1999 and  has its own ‘bodysonic’ vibrating dancefloor. On the other, you’ve got The Pickle Factory – an intimate little spot in Hackney that only has a capacity of 150 and often has ‘all night long’ techno raves which run until the wee hours. That’s not even mentioning LGBTQ+ powerhouse Heaven, alternative spot Electrowerkz or  new-kid-on-the-block Drumsheds in an old Ikea in Tottenham.  Phew!

9. Come face to face with a mighty dinosaur at the Natural History Museum

This gorgeous museum – currently London’s most visited attraction – is most famous for the stunning Hintze Hall, dominated by the suspended skeleton of Hope the Whale. It’s dedicated to the flora, fauna and geology of the planet we call home, with exhibits on dinosaurs, earthquakes, venomous insects and other bad-ass features of the natural world.

10. Enjoy an afternoon stroll through Highgate Cemetery

Ok we’re biassed we know, but we think London does a lot of things better than everywhere else. And that includes cemeteries! The jewel in the crown is arguably the astonishing Highgate Cemetery – a beautiful, serene spot in North London which also doubles as a nature reserve too. The graves and mausoleums found here are really where funeral architects let their imagination run wild.

In the West Cemetery, Victorian fascination with the Egyptians resulted in the stunning Egyptian Avenue, as well as numerous impressive tombs. Meanwhile, the equally impressive Lebanon Circle has appeared in many a ‘gram over the years. Plus, don’t miss a visit to the celeb graves of literary heroes George Eliot and Douglas Adams as well as Karl Marx too.

11. Class it up with a spot of afternoon tea

Well deserving of its spot on this roundup of London activities you’ve got to try at least once in your life is indulging in a spot of high tea. But of course darlinggggg. From freshly-baked scones and warming cups of tea to egg and cress sarnies and classy flutes of bubbly, we like to think we’ve got the whole afternoon tea thing down here.

So, whether you’re after a flamboyantly-fancy day out at a five-star hotel or are wanting something a bit more quirky and out-of-the-box, then our beloved capital has got you covered.

12. Visit the UK’s first museum dedicated to LGBTQ+ people

Charity Queer Britain secured their first physical home in Granary Square back in 2022, with the aim to give London a much-needed space to celebrate Britain’s rich and varied queer history. With four galleries, a workshop, an education space, a gift shop, and buckets of office space too, there’s plenty to keep you occupied here, and you can’t miss the award-winning ‘We Are Queer Britain!’ exhibition, which marks the 50th anniversary of the UK’s first Pride March.

It’s described as ‘ a diverse and rich array of artefacts that culminates voices, objects and images from the worlds of activism, art, culture and social history covering over 100 years of queer life ‘. Plus it’s completely free to enter!

13. While away the hours in Covent Garden

Arguably one of the most popular areas of London, Covent Garden is practically dripping with bougie restaurants, bars, boutique stores and pubs – meaning there’s plenty to keep you busy! If you can tear yourself away from all of that hubbub, then we’d recommend paying Neal’s Yard a visit. It’s not only incredibly photogenic due to the bright colours decking all the walls, windows and doors – but it’s also a great spot to grab a glass of vino and get some peace and quiet.

Other things of note include the Royal Opera House and the London Transport Museum – the world’s leading museum of urban transport. Alternatively, you could just spend your time watching the mime artists and contortionists performing in the picturesque piazza.

14. Queue for a doughnut at Bread Ahead

London bakeries don’t come much more cult than Bread Ahead, who’ve conquered far and wide with their incredible, cream-filled doughnuts. Getting your hands on one of these mouthfuls of heaven is, admittedly, something of a quest, and they’re often completely sold out before midday.

But with delectable flavours including velvet chocolate, lemon curd and sea salted caramel and honeycomb, and you can see why it’s worth the effort. There are now six different branches across the city, but word of warning, you’ll likely have to queue. But trust us – it’s worth it.

15. Discover the UNESCO-listed Old Royal Naval College

Greenwich ain’t exactly short of beautiful buildings it has to be said, though the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College is arguably the jewel in the borough’s crown. Billed as the ‘Sistine Chapel of England’,  this extraordinary hall is an artistic masterpiece which is an ode to Baroque design. Designed in the early 18th century by  Sir James Thornhill, it features 40,000 square feet of walls and ceilings – all of which are covered in striking images depicting 200 figures including kings, queens and mythological creatures too.

As you wander around the rest of the college, you might be able to recognise scenes from some blistering Hollywood blockbusters and TV shows, including ‘ The Dark Knight Rises ’, ‘ The King’s Speech ’, ‘ Pirates of the Caribbean ’, ‘ The Crown ’ and the upcoming ‘ Napoleon ’. 

16. Saunter your way through the city by foot

Despite the tempestuous nature of the British weather, London is a wonderful place to stroll through, whether you’ve got a destination in mind or are just out for an aimless meander. So breathe some fresh(ish) air into your lungs, and take in the beautiful scenery surrounding you wherever you go. There are a whole host of routes you can take, but we’d recommend the Parkland Walk – which follows an old railway line through graffiti-covered tunnels and secluded wooded groves – and ‘The Line’ – London’s first dedicated modern and contemporary art walk. You’ll discover nine different artworks on this one, including pieces by Damien Hirst and Anthony Gormley.

17. See the roller skaters do their thing in Hyde Park

Smack-bang in the centre of the capital, you’d find it pretty hard to avoid Hyde Park if you’re visiting London. But then, why on earth would you want to? Grade I-listed, it was originally established as a hunting ground back in 1536 by none other than King Henry VIII, and has since become a beloved spot characterised by rolling green open spaces, manicured gardens and wide, tree-lined boulevards.

Said boulevards are often used by squads of roller skaters practising their skills – and they’re pretty impressive it has to be said. Head to the area right by the Serpentine to see them do their thing. 

18. Gorge yourself silly in Chinatown

Offering lots of pretty darn delectable food options, all the saucy (and soupy) dumplings you could ever want and some Chinese supermarkets to inspire you to get cooking at home, London’s Chinatown is practically bursting with foodie wonders and delicious delights. Taking a wander through here is definitely one of the best things to do in London, as you’re sure to stumble across some bloody good restaurants whipping up some of the best Chinese food you can find outside of actual China.

Our top picks are ‘Four Seasons’ – who rustle up the ‘ best roast duck in the world ’ according to the Financial Times – and ‘Bun House’ – a laid-back throwback to 1960’s Hong Kong, serving up some of the city’s best steamed bao buns in a colonially-decorated interior.

19. Get the beers in at the Bermondsey Beer Mile

Many of us have spent a perfectly good Saturday afternoon in the pub, sinking plenty of pints and chinwagging until the sun goes down. Still, if you prefer your drinking sessions to have more of a direction or more of a challenge about them, then London Town is only too happy to oblige. The Bermondsey Beer Mile is a challenge worthy of any self-respecting beer fiend, stretching a whopping 1.4 miles through the streets and railway arches of South London.

There are a whole host of bangin’ breweries here – from The Kernel Brewery to Affinity Brew Co., and FourPure Brewing to Hiver Beers – so you’ve got plenty of scope for one big old crawl. If you’re North London based, then check out the capital’s newest drinking ‘route’ – the Blackhorse Beer Mile .

20. Scope out the capital’s many food trucks for a street food feast

There’s nothing better than a food truck right? Quick, street food -style food for under a tenner – what’s not to love? We’re blessed in the big smoke to have a whole shedload of trucks handing out the goods, rustling up everything from meatballs and dumplings to chicken wings and even mac’n’cheese. Sign us up!

21. Catch a gig or concert at one of the capital’s celebrated live music venues

We’re pretty spoiled here in London, it’s got to be said. Not only do we have some of the best live music anywhere in the world, but we’ve also got some of the coolest music venues in which to see it being played. So whether you’re looking to see a legendary rock band like The Who play the gargantuan Wembley Stadium or are wanting to see up-and-coming talent in a venue like LaFayette – London Town’s got you covered.

For an up to date list of what’s on the bill throughout town, check out our monthly gig guide . You can also catch a candlelight concert in mesmerising spots like the Southwark Cathedral – dreamy!

22. Find one of London’s infamous hidden bars

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Call Me Mr Lucky (@callmemrlucky)

It’s been all the rage for a while now to open cocktail bars that are notoriously ‘difficult’ to find. But there’s something to be said about a bar that forces you to seek it out, as if it’s playing hard to get. We’ve got loads of ‘em here in London, hidden behind shopfronts, phone booths, fridges, unmarked doors, and even in bloody toilets too! Don’t miss a visit to ‘Happiness Forgets’ – an unassuming joint in Hoxton Square who regularly find themselves on the ‘World’s 50 Best Cocktail Bars’ list.

23. Channel your inner Royal at one of London’s palaces

Lords and ladies! We’re of magnificent buildings here in London it has to be said. In fact, in a city as old as ours, you won’t go far before you stumble upon some historic gem, age-old boozer or towering skyscraper which practically defies feats of engineering. But when it comes to Royal Palaces ? Now that’s where we really come into our own.

We’ve already mentioned the Tower of London, but we’ve also got Kensington Palace – the home of HRH The Prince and Princess of Wales – St. James’, Hampton Court and the ever-so-stately Buckingham Palace – best tied in with watching the Changing of the Guard. But perhaps our favourite one of all is Eltham Palace – part mediaeval palace, part kooky, Art Deco-style mansion. 

24. Have an award-winning feast

London’s culinary reputation has transformed in the past two decades, and the city boasts a gut-busting smorgasbord of award-winning eateries – not least of which are 60+ Michelin-star winning restaurants   – two of which are in the top three. We’ve got everything here from Le Gavroche – which is owned by none other than legendary chef and skinny-one-off-Masterchef, Michel Roux Jr – to Veeraswamy – which claims to be the oldest Indian restaurant in the entire country. So dig deep into your paycheque, friend, and treat yourself to one of these high-end tasting menus.

25. Surprise your eyes with a place you won’t believe is in the capital

Our city isn’t all concrete and chaos. Believe it or not, we also have castles , caves and calm – and all of this is within the confines of the M25. Seriously! Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a beautiful, traditional Hindu temple carved entirely out of stone, and it lays claim to being the largest Hindu temple outside of actual India.

Likewise, Painshill Park is a gorgeous, landscaped garden that dates back to the 1730s, and it’s even got a bloomin’ crystal grotto within it! These two are just merely scratching the surface – you can discover more in our roundup here .

26. Escape into the world of photography

When it comes to art galleries and museums in London Town, we’re more than spoiled for choice. In fact, we’d go as far to say that our dear city has some of the best museums in the world. But we’d also argue that we’re not doing too badly on the photography exhibitions front either. From portraits capturing the diverse lives of those living on the African continent to photos chronicling the floods and fires which are ravaging out planet, there’s plenty to see here, with numerous different exhibitions on throughout the year at different spots.

Keep your eyes peeled on our photographic exhibition guide , which regularly gets updated throughout the year.

27. Enjoy a tipple or two at a historic boozer

With well over 3,500 boozers to choose from, we’re pretty well-stocked with pubs in our beloved capital city. From ones dating all the way back to the 16th century to ones which are supposedly haunted by spooky spectres, there’s a whole gamut of pubs for you to choose from all across town. To see where best to go, check out our guide to the 50 best pubs in London .

28. Let loose at one of London’s many festivals

Summer ‘tis the season of music festivals in London, and we’re well and truly set once again this year. From Christine and the Queens curating Meltdown Festival to Stormzy storming the stage at All Points East (sorry), there was plenty to get excited about in 2023. So, get ready to crack open the cans of beer, slap on the suncream, lather yourself in glitter and prepare to let loose and show off your moves for 2024! Tickets are already on sale for many of next year’s instalments, so see which one takes your fancy!

29. Tuck into waffles at all hours of the night

The esteemed Duck & Waffle is pretty notorious for their 24/7 dining . They’re often mentioned in the same breath as Beigel Bake and Polo Shop when pub conversations swing around to the legendary London institutions that stay open around the clock.

After a break during the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021, they’ve brought back their all-around-the-clock dining once again, meaning you can tuck into waffles and other goodies at all hours of the night while savouring views of the city below. Sounds like a real winner to us!

30. Roam around Richmond Park

A rambling, wild-feeling deer park on the outskirts of south-west London, Richmond Park is the second largest park in London, and it’s positively overflowing with wildlife and all that nature stuff too. Designated a special conservation area, it’s well worth exploring, with open grasslands and woodland trails with year-round appeal.

Add in herds of deer, fantastic panoramic views of the city, the pretty Isabella Plantation and the National Trust property Ham House and you can see why this is one of the things to do in London you’ve got to try at least once in your life.

31. See some of the capital’s eclectic street art

Our beloved capital is fit to bursting with plenty of eclectic street art to brighten your day (or to cheer up your Instagram feed). From murals of the legend that is David Bowie to intricate cranes that are three stories high, London is chock-a-block full of some pretty fine street art. From Camden to Brick Lane and East Dulwich to Hackney Wick , there are numerous spots around town where you can see some of these incredible pieces of art.

32. Wander around a weekend market

From flower markets to farmer’s markets, and vintage markets to delectable street food markets , we’re not exactly lacking when it comes to weekend markets in London. So, even if you’re nursing a hangover, it’s well worth getting out there and seeing what goodies you can get your mitts on.

Greenwich, Bermondsey , Walthamstow , Brixton ,  Clapton – almost every corner of the city has its own version, so get out and discover them!

33. Take to two wheels and see where you end up

London has more than its fair share of bike hire services , and you can pick up a bike using just a mobile app, Apple pay or a debit card – it’s simple! So, if the weather is playing ball and you’re wanting to get a bit of exercise in, then we’d recommend seeing the city from the comfort of two wheels. Make your way down the scenic Thames Path, explore the tree-lined boulevards of Regent’s Park or hit up the 8,000 or so acres of woodland in the vast Epping Forest . You can also hire yourself an e-scooter – and what could be funner than that right?!

34. Have a giggle at some live comedy

London is full to the brim with some of the best comedy clubs in the world – taking place everywhere from large arena-style venues to snug pub basements – and for most of them, you can grab a ticket for under a tenner. They’re places where you can drink cocktails or sink a few pints, have a laugh, and forget about what’s going on in the world for an hour or two – which we can all do with sometimes given all that’s going on!

35. Go for a swim in a London lido

Al fresco swimming first became a trend back in the 1930s, and it became majorly popular in the big smoke in the decades that followed. From heated ones like London Fields to the largest freshwater swimming pool in the UK, there are a whole host of lidos for you to choose from. It should be noted that in the Summer, they get very busy on sunny weekends – so it’s best to get there early (or book ahead) if you want to avoid the queues.

36. Explore brilliant Bankside

Head East along the river from the Southbank and you’ll come across some gorgeous medieval streets, with hidden gems located around each and every corner. You’ve got everything here from The Globe to the mighty HMS Belfast and the bars and restaurants of Gabriel’s Wharf to the critically-acclaimed cocktail joint Lyaness . Let’s also not forget the Golden Hinde – ​​an authentic reconstruction of the ship Sir Francis Drake used to circumnavigate the globe in the late 1500’s.

37. Get lost in the Sky Garden’s urban jungle

If you’re looking for some pretty swanky views over London for free, look no further than the Sky Garden; the 43rd floor paradise with sights across the Thames. Definitely one of the best things to do in London, it’s a place from where you’ll be able to see The Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral , Tower Bridge and The Gherkin, and you’ll also be able to get lost in its leafy, foliage-filled indoor rooftop garden . There are also an array of different restaurants and bars up here too – cheers!

38. Watch a flick at one of the capital’s very best cinemas

There’s nothing quite like the experi ence of watching a film at a cinema in London. From mighty establishments like the ODEON IMAX in Waterloo to tiny independent gems in Hackney , there’s a whole roster of different ones here, so check out our list of the best cinemas in London and see where takes your fancy!

39. Be blown away by some cabaret 

You don’t have to travel all the way to Paris to be entertained by cabaret and burlesque . From breathtaking dance shows to Vegas-style glamour and plenty of bare skin, there’s loads here to keep you well and truly entertained, so have a gander at this list and see where takes your fancy!

40. Do things by the book

London is a dreamy spot for bookworms, boasting so many bookshops that you’re guaranteed to find one that ticks all the right boxes. From the UK’s oldest LGBTQ+ bookshop – Gay’s The Word – to Alice Through The Looking Glass – which is entirely dedicated to all things Lewis Carroll, see where you you’re wanting to end up with our London bookshop guide here .

41. Amble your way down Regent’s Canal

This walk will give you the chance to follow the course of a 200-year-old canal, which will take you on a diverse journey through the city, all the way from Paddington Basin to Limehouse Basin. You’ll wander leisurely through Little Venice , taking in the adorable houseboats; pass through Regent’s Park, where the canal is overlooked by London Zoo’s huge aviary; or check out the quirky craft stalls and street food in Camden Market. 

42. Bring your own bottle…

Eating out can be particularly expensive, especially in a cost of living crisis, so what better way to save some money than by saving on the drinks front at a BYOB restaurant? We’ve got a whole variety here, from Thai and Moroccan to Ethiopian and Vietnamese – all you’ve got to take care of is the vino and beers. Now that we can certainly get on board with…

43. Catch a game of some live sport 

Footie, rugby, cricket, tennis – we’re famous for our live sports here in the UK. Whether you’re wanting to catch a game or match in a mighty stadium or hang out with some mates in a sports bar , you’re in the right place in our capital. Both offer a major experience – especially if you’re having a cold frosty one or two. So game, set and match!

44. Add to your wardrobe with some vintage threads

London’s array of vintage shops are as stylish as they are sustainable, and there are plenty knocking about town if you’re wanting to dive back into the past, find forgotten gems and revitalise your wardrobe while you’re at it. From larger chains like Beyond Retro to gargantuan warehouses near Brick Lane, there’s plenty for you to rifle through, so get out there and see what treasures you can find!

45. Satiate your appetite with a bagel on Brick Lane

Speaking of Brick Lane, it’s hard not to fall in love with this thoroughfare, which snakes its way from Bethnal Green down to Whitechapel. A diverse melting pot of vintage fashion boutiques, authentic curry houses, tasty street-food spots and lively bars, it’s also a great spot if you’re wanting to grab a bagel. Beigel Bake is a pioneer in the 24 hour beigel game , and it’s stood the test of time for good reason. The star of the show is their hot salt beef bagel, which arguably is one of the best street eats you’ll find in town.

46. Appreciate the city skyline from a rooftop bar

We’d argue that a weekend isn’t quite complete if you can’t pair a drink with some pretty intoxicating views of the city. Luckily for us, our beloved capital is full to the brim with rooftop spots where you can enjoy a pint or cocktail while surveying the city’s gleaming skyscrapers. From bars overlooking St. Paul’s to some in glitzy five-star hotels , we’re fit to bursting in our city, so have a read of our trusty guide here and see where takes your fancy!

47. Delve into London’s history on a guided walking tour 

It is memorably said that “ when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life ”; effectively, you’ll never be done exploring our capital. And certainly one of the best things to do in London is explore the city via walking tour. From ones uncovering the city’s secret alleys, ancient pubs, old bookshops and lost societies, to those visiting  the ominous sounding ‘Temple of the Occult’, there’s plenty of history to learn as you wander across the capital. Find out more with our alternative walking tours roundup here .

48. Pootle down the Thames aboard a boat

London is famous for its waterways, and some of the best views in town come from the network of canals, reservoirs and one certain big old river. The best way to see them is via boat, and there are a whole range of options here in London Town. From leisurely cruises along the Thames to speedboat rides, and canoe hire to white water rafting – yep, really – there are all sorts of ways to take to the water in London. Some of them you can even take your pooch on! So raise the flag, hoist the mainsail and anchors away!

49. Make some time for some wine

If you’re looking for a grape night out (sorry), London’s superb wine bars are the place to go, providing classic vintages from around the world along with natural , biodynamic wines, English varieties, and orange and green wines too. From candlelit venues like Gordon’s Wine Bar to delicatessens that moonlight as a wine bar, they’re all incredibly vibey spots and well worth a visit for a glass/carafe/bottle.

50. Find things to do for under 20 quid

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Secret London (@secret.london)

Yep – we’re all aware of it right? Things are bloody expensive right now across the board, and there seems to be no let-up in the near future (sigh). Well, if you’ve headed onto our Instagram page , you’ll be able to see our very own videographer Phoebe, who has been on the hunt for the best deals and steals in London that are all under the £20 budget. From bagging yourself a steaming bowl of ramen for under a tenner to indulging in a three-course Lebanese feast, there’s plenty on offer here so make sure you stay tuned to bag yourself some deals going forward!

51. Eat your way through our capital’s vast array of vegan restaurants

London is officially the most vegan-friendly city in the world  according to HappyCow, with an increasing number of us adopting a plant-based lifestyle. In fact, we’ve actually got over 400 vegan restaurants, eateries and foodie spots in our city now, so if you haven’t sampled any of them yet – then what are you doing? From Sri Lankan curries at Mildred’s to wild mushroom risotto cake at The Gate, there’s plenty of tasty options to try, so what are you waiting for?!  Get out and explore!

52. Get a head for heights at Europe’s highest viewing platform

Now it should come as no shock to you dear reader that London recently has become home to Europe’s highest viewing platform, Horizon 22, and the best part of all? It’s completely free to enter! Standing at a whopping 254 metres tall, this is the second tallest building after The Shard , and you’ll be able to soak up some pretty incredible panoramic views from up here! Tickets are completely free and they give you access to the platform itself as well as the lift, which takes around 41 seconds to get up there. But hurry, as you’ll likely be fighting for a ticket…

53. Take a trip to the outer zones

Our final entry on this list of the best things to do in London is, well, leaving it. Push your Oyster card to its limits and make your way out to the outer zones, where you’ll be able to stumble across such delights like Eel Pie Island – an old hippie commune that saw the likes of Pink Floyd, Eric Clapton and The Who play – the magnificent Morden Hall in South London and the River Colne out in Rickmansworth. As well as many others of course…

54. Let your stress out at one of these rage rooms

You’re dealing with expensive living costs and a work routine that feels like it never ends. It’s no wonder we Londoners are dying for a way to let off some steam , right?

Enter rage rooms, your own personal stress-free zone where you can let loose and break stuff without any consequences. Feel like smashing a huge TV, for absolutely no reason? Well you can actually make it happen at one of these rage rooms near London !

So there you have it – a roundup of 54 fun things to do in London you’ve got to try at least once in your life. From exploring world-class museums to perusing some markets at the weekend , there’s something for everyone here. See how many you can tick off the list!

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

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

25 Best Things To Do In London (England)

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

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

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

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

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

1. Hyde Park

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

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

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

2. Westminster

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

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

Book online : Westminster Abbey Entrance Ticket

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

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

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

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

4. London Eye

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

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

Book online : The London Eye Tickets

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

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

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

Take a tour : Piccadilly and Soho Beer Bike Tour

6. Shoreditch

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

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

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

Available tour : Jack the Ripper walking tour

7. Hampstead Heath

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

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

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

Interactive tour : Hampstead Self-Guided Walking Discovery Game

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

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

9. Thames Cruise

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

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

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

Check out this list of cruises you can book online.

10. Baker Street

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

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

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

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

11. Brixton Academy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Brick Lane

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

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

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

14. Chinatown

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

15. Electric Avenue

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

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

16. Piccadilly Circus

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

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

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

17. Oxford Street

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

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

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

18. Leicester Square

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

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

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

19. Galleries

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

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

20. Harrods

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

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

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

21. Platform 9 ¾

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

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

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

22. Museums

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. Bond Street

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

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

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

24. Buckingham Palace

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

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

25. Explore at Night

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

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

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

25 Best Things To Do In London (England):

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

Posted on 13th December 2023 Categories Things to do

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

56 Quirky and Unusual Things to do in London

Love This? Save and Share!

Think it’s all “been there, done that” when it comes to London? Think again. London is full of secret spots for you to explore. Need inspiration? Check out these 56 quirky, weird and unusual things to do in the capital.

London has a lot going for it. There are the big attractions, the museums , the galleries… basically the stuff that everyone talks about.

But sometimes, well, we’re a bit over the obvious stuff right? We’ve done all the big things to do around the city and are looking for something a little quirkier to occupy our time.

We hear you – we’ve all been through phases where we feel totally “over” London. Somehow, we think that because we grew up here, or have spent years writing about London, that we’ve seen it all. Incorrect.

So we set out to discover some of the more unusual places to visit in London, the quirky spots and obscure pastimes. From stunning cathedrals of sewage (yes, that’s a real thing) to ghostly tube stations, and from off-the-beaten-track museums to hidden Roman temples, this is what we found.

Quirky & Unusual Things to do in London

Worship a roman god at the london mithraeum.

The City of London 

The Mithraeum is a gem of a find. Looking for an unusual way to spend an afternoon? How about an immersive experience based around the ancient Roman Temple of Mithras underneath the Bloomberg Offices slap-bang in the heart of the city? Thought so.

We’d never even heard of the Mithraeum before stumbling on it while visiting St Stephen’s a few doors down the road, but it was a revelation.

The Mithraeum is set over three floors – one showcasing the Roman artefacts found on the site, the second explaining who Mithras was (the deity of loyalty to the emperor) and how people worshipped him and the third the temple itself.

The temple dates from the 3rd century AD – the ruins are part of a short sensory experience that plunges you into the mystery of worshipping in a Roman temple. Totally weird, very memorable and completely wonderful.

Check out the Fake Houses of 23 and 24 Leinster Gardens

Paddington 

These houses look completely normal right? Nothing to see here.

Look again.

The fake houses of Leinster Gardens in Bayswater are one of the more obscure things to see in London – largely because they’re so difficult to spot.

The story goes that two houses were demolished to create an air vent for the Metropolitan Line, which was being constructed at the time.

As you can imagine, the local residents were furious. They demanded that two fake facades were built to cover up the unsightly gap.. and so the fake houses were born.

Over the years, the houses have seen more than their fair share of scandal – in the 1930s a con man sold tickets to a ball in the houses, and it was only when the guests turned up that they realised they’d been duped. 

The houses also pop up in much-loved detective drama Sherlock.

Go Wild in a Ball Pit Cocktail Bar London 

Shoreditch 

We used to think we were the only ones who looked back with a touch of nostalgia and longing for those heady hours spent in the ball pit during our childhoods. Apparently not – ball-pit bars are one of the quirky London crazes du jour.

While there are many bars scattered around the capital where you can drink alcohol and throw yourself with gleeful abandon into a pit of plastic balls – Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch is the original and the best.

You can buy tickets in advance on their website (which, incidentally is smattered with tongue-in-cheek references to playing with their balls). Naughty.

Take an Urban Adventure 

Looking to explore London? CityDays offers a pretty unique way of discovering London’s fun side. It’s probably best described as an interactive treasure hunt crossed with an outdoor escape room. What does that look like? 

Well, they’ll line up an interactive mystery walk for you, shooting clues to your phone as you run around London trying to solve puzzles and discover hidden sides to the city. It doesn’t require any prior knowledge but it does require a little teamwork. 

Whether it’s just two of you, a bunch of your pals or a day out for an office team building you’ve got ten different routes to choose from, each focussed on discovering a different area of London and telling a different story about the city’s past and present. 

Each route is about 5km long and should take about two and a half hours to complete. In one you’ll explore Kensington’s beautiful and mysterious mews, in another you’ll follow in the footsteps of Jack the Ripper. Fancy tracing the City of London right back to the Romans. You can do that too. 

More information and booking here

Or Visit Leighton House

The Narcissus Hall © Leighton House Museum, RBKC.

Image Courtesy of Will Pryce

Fabulous, opulent and verging on the bizarre, Leighton House is one of those places that could have only belonged to a grand old British eccentric. 

That eccentric was Frederick Lord Leighton and Leighton House, built in 1866, his private studio-cum-home.

Lord Leighton was an artist – at the time the house was built he was an associate of the Royal Academy, and he rose to become its president before his death.

He wanted Leighton House to be both somewhere he could work and somewhere he could showcase his extensive art collection, curated from the work of his contemporaries.

The result is a stunning palace of art and design – resplendent in rich colours, created from materials sourced from all over the world – and one of London’s most beautiful interiors.

Read more: 150+ Things to do in London: The Ultimate London Bucket List

Be Enchanted by Brixton Windmill

Brixton 

Once upon a time, South London was a rural area – a patchwork of farms, woods and clean, wholesome air. While those days are long gone, finding and visiting the bits that remain is one of the more unusual things you can do in London.

Did you know that there’s a windmill in Brixton ? The windmill – an old flour mill dating from 1816 – sits in the shadow of Brixton Prison. 

Recent restorations mean that the mill is fully functioning – you can even take tours during certain times of the year, depending on the mill’s open days.

Read Next: Unmissable Things to do in Brixton

Adventure On The Dare Skywalk

Ready for an ultra-fun adventure in London? Tackle The Dare Skywalk and climb to the very top of Tottenham Hotspur’s Stadium. It’s one of the most unusual things to do in London and the views from above are well worth it.

Once you’re clipped in, you’ll be led up 100 steps towards the glass apex – a whopping 46.8 metres above the pitch. From here you’ll be greeted with views of the London cityscape and the stadium bowl below.

Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the famous Golden Cockerel that overlooks the city – he’s even more magnificent up close!

Tickets start from £31 with discounts available for club members and kids – book yours here .

Take a Backstage Tour of the National Theatre

The Southbank

We’ve all heard of The National Theatre right? We’ve snuggled into the comfy seats and watched the plays (if you haven’t, you should – The National puts on some of the best plays in town and tickets are totally reasonable), then toddled off home.

But what if you could do more… What if you could take a peek behind the scenes to learn about the history of the theatre and learn about how a play actually gets onto the stage?

Well, turns out that you can. The National Theatre’s backstage tours are the perfect way to get an insider’s look at the stages, sets, props and costumes that make each play what it is.

Watch the Archives in the British Film Institute’s Mediatheque

Got a few hours to spare and want to settle in and watch something a bit different?

Head to the BFI’s cool little Mediatheque at the BFI Southbank.

The BFI is one of our favourite places to visit on the South Bank . The Mediatheque contains a number of private booths, each with its own screen, headphone jack and speakers, where you can access all of the digitised BFI National Archive.

As you’d imagine, the archive is vast – you can feast on Dracula film after Dracula film, through period dramas, old classics, silent films – all for free.

Last time we went down there we plumped for an old version of Wuthering Heights with Timothy Dalton – because vintage 70s period dramas is where it’s at. 

To find the mediatheque, just pop into the BFI and it’s right behind the ticket desk.  

Visit the Bascule Chamber in Tower Bridge

Tower Hamlets

Tower Bridge. We can literally feel you rolling your eyes. It’s safe to say that Tower Bridge is not at all off the beaten track in London. It’s at the top of any tourist itinerary for the city and is one of the most photographed spots in town.

But deep within the bridge’s bowels, there’s a secret chamber. A secret chamber! It’s one of the many facts and stories about Tower Bridge that few people know about.

The Bascule Chamber is a cavernous space that is situated beneath the bridge’s towers – the huge counterweights swing into the chamber when the bridge opens, but the rest of the time this cave beneath the river sits empty.

Sounds incredible! Sign us up! Unfortunately, the Bascule Chamber can only be accessed as part of the Tower Bridge Behind the Scenes Tour (which costs an eye-watering £75) or as part of the Bascule Chamber Concerts (these tend to be held in the summer – keep an eye on the website for details when summer approaches).

Peek at the Street Art in Croydon

A slow revolution has been taking place in Croydon in the past few years.

An area once known for ugly architecture, the riots and the Croydon facelift (a hairstyle where your hair is scraped back so tightly that your face retreats at least 2 cm upwards), has been quietly creating its own little scene of cool and quirky things to do in London.

We’ll be upfront, we’ve got a Croydon gal on our team and so there might be a touch of bias here, but we reckon Croydon might be one of the most underrated spots to explore London’s street art scene.

Much of the neighbourhood’s street art revolution has come about since Rise Gallery’s RISEfestival in 2018 which saw huge international names such as Otto Schade, Dotmasters, Hayley Welsh and David Hollier adorn Croydon’s walls. 

Since then the collection has grown and much has changed with some of our new favourite street art pieces taking pride of place on Croydon’s walls. It’s well worth checking out. To do so just head into the centre of town to take a look on the fly, you can’t miss the works, many of them take up the side of whole buildings. 

Read more: Street Art in Shoreditch

Visit London’s Smallest Listed Buildings

Piccadilly 

London has heaps of listed buildings. It’s kind of to be expected when you have a city as old as this. It’s the city’s smallest listed buildings that we love best though. 

They come in the form of a pair of K2 Telephone Boxes tucked into the grand entrance to the Royal Academy. They’re the original prototypes of the phone box that went on to be a true British icon. 

One is made of wood and the other cast iron and together they won designer Gilbert Scott the competition organised to find the new model. That was all the way back in 1924 and now there aren’t many K2 boxes left in London, which also makes this a good place to get a blast from the past.  

Visit the Marx Memorial Library

Clerkenwell 

Contemporary London isn’t exactly a bastion of communism. It’s safe to say that anywhere you have to pay £5 for a small coffee has strayed far from the communist manifesto. But there are small pockets that continue to pay tribute to the resistance if you know where to look.

The Marx Memorial Library , in leafy Clerkenwell, is one such place. The library pays tribute to the city’s past affinity for political rebels with a collection of over 150,000 pieces of left-wing literature.

They also hold semi-regular talks (called symposiums here) and events like book launches if that tickles your fancy. You can find more information about those on their website. 

Visit the Cinema Museum

Elephant and Castle 

Tucked away in South London, the Cinema Museum is one of those unusual places in London you’ll wish that you had discovered sooner. Put simply, the Cinema Museum is a treasure trove of images and items from the film world.

Any and everything relating to the cinema makes an appearance – thanks to collector and founder Robert Grant’s tireless passion for film.

Over the years, Grant has built his collection into the quirky emporium that we see today: corridor after corridor of film reels, scores, props and stills. Visiting is one of those quirky experiences that isn’t quite what you expected – but so much better.

See the Perfect Modernist Show Home 

Hampstead 

2 Willow Road is famed for being the modernist masterpiece of master architect Ernö Goldfinger. It’s not some grand structure, more like a humble, paired-back bit of red-brick building. 

It does, however, represent a bit of a revolution in British architecture, pushing the boundaries of Modernist design in ways that were quite shocking to people of the time. Interestingly enough, Ian Flemming hated Goldfinger’s work, the reason he lifted the man’s name and gave it to Bond’s nemesis in Goldfinger. 

We’re thoroughly on board with the style of this place though. It seems to us to be incredibly sophisticated, even decades later. We’ll let you be your own judge though. 

Visit the Ghost Stations of the London Underground

Mutliple location (But especially Aldwych)

Given that the tube was constructed in the 19th century it makes sense that there have been a few changes to the network over the years.

As time has passed, stations have been closed or repurposed – meaning that if you keep your eyes open, you can spot more than a few of the so-called “Ghost Stations” of the London Underground .

Of these unusual London attractions, the most central is the former Aldwych Underground Station at the end of The Strand. The station sits forlornly, a few paces away from Somerset House .

London Transport Museum host tours of the station from time to time – giving visitors a look at the historic (and slightly creepy) interiors.

Head to the Spot where the Brownings had their Illicit Marriage

Marylebone 

It was the love affair of the century. She was a Romantic poet, an invalid and a recluse, housebound and governed by a tyrannical father. He was an up-and-coming poet (later to become one of the most eminent poets of the Victorian period ).

They fell in love, her father banned the relationship, so they eloped, getting married in St Marylebone Church near to her house and then running away to Italy. The story of Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Robert Browning sounds like something straight out of a fairytale.

You can visit the room in the church where the two married by appointment. There’s a stained glass window commemorating the event and a copy of their marriage certificate too.

Read More: Romantic Things to do in London

Be Charmed by a Sewage Pumping Station (Yes, Really)

We’re well aware that a sewage pumping station doesn’t sound like the kind of place you might be charmed, but that’s because you’ve not seen the inside of Crossness Pumping Station .

The building was designed in the Victorian era (you know how the Victorians were for flare) and boasts an incredibly ornate design of wrought iron and vivid colouring. No kidding, the word ‘cathedral’ gets thrown around a lot in relation to this place. It’s very grand. 

You can visit the pumping station on a guided tour that runs a couple of times a month. Check their calendar here for the next outings. 

Take a Good Look at the Lions of Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square 

There’s barely a person who has visited London that hasn’t been to Trafalgar Square .

The four lions, sitting towards the front of the square are pretty famous in themselves – not to mention subject to a never-ending stream of prancing, posing airheads seemingly incapable of obeying the sign telling them not to climb on them.

So why have we included the Trafalgar Square lions in our guide? Because for all their fame, few people ever really look closely at the lions. If they did, they’d start to think they looked a bit strange.

No wonder, when you hear the story behind them.

The lions were created by Sir Edwin Landseer, a painter who, prior to starting the lions, had never sculpted in his life.

Landseer requested a dead lion from London Zoo to use a study for the sculptures – unfortunately, it started to rot away before he’d finished them. That’s why they have the paws of a cat – in truth, their faces look a bit odd too. Take a close look the next time you visit.

Marvel at an Art Deco Palace

Eltham  

When you think of the palaces of London you tend to think of the ornate rococo of places like Buckingham Palace, or the grandeur of Hampton Court. 

Eltham Palace offers something totally different. It has been the site of royal courts since the 1400s but fell into disrepair after the kings of England fell out of love with Eltham and started hanging out elsewhere. 

Then, in 1933, the palace came into the hands of a pair of wealthy socialites, Stephen and Virginia Courtauld. They gave it an entirely new facelift in the style of the day: Art Deco. The result is stunning. We thoroughly recommend you give it a look. 

Walk Alongside the Old London Wall

Barbican 

First built by the Romans around the settlement of Londinium and maintained until the 18th century, you can still spot parts of the old London Wall popping up in various parts of the City of London between the Barbican and Tower Hill.

The section between what was the Museum of London and the Barbican is our favourite – thanks to the small patch of parkland and gardens surrounding it – it’s a rare quiet spot in the heart of the city.

Read More: Cool (and Free!) Museums in London

Visit God’s Own Junkyard

Walthamstow

Neon, neon everywhere. In deepest, darkest Walthamstow lies a quirky place that’s bound to light up your day – God’s Own Junkyard .

A private collection of all things neon – curated by the late Christopher Bracey, it’s like walking into a film set.

Bracey, otherwise known as the Neon Man, was a second-generation neon signmaker who collected pieces throughout the decades.

The result is one hell of a quirky experience. Once you’ve finished admiring all the work, be sure to settle in for a cuppa at the stellar on-site cafe.

Explore the Museum of Brands 

Notting Hill 

London’s got more quirky museums than you’d imagine. One that really took us by surprise is the Museum of Brands . 

It’s pretty much exactly what it says on the tin, a museum that showcases branding throughout the ages. It’s sort of a time warp. They have loads to see and they dress it all up with a good bit of historical context. 

We’d highly recommend this for anyone that’s got an eye for design or perhaps a job in advertising. 

Visit the Institute of Making

Bloomsbury 

A research club and makerspace run by UCL, The Institute of Making offers all kinds of unique things to do in London.

While the space is reserved for UCL’s students and staff, the Institute of Making runs a programme of maker workshops that are open to the public.

Dabble at making your own Christmas decorations or create your own Roman mosaic – check the listings and book well ahead.

Catch a Show at Wilton’s Music Hall

Shadwell 

Wilton’s Music Hall first opened in 1859 with the goal of providing the glamour and showmanship of the West End stage to the people of the East End. 

It’s still going strong on exactly those principles, providing shows that are well worth catching. They don’t run a massive budget like their West End competitors so the stuff they get on stage has a charmingly grassroots feel – it also means the tickets won’t break the bank. 

Go Stargazing at the Royal Observatory

Greenwich 

There’s nothing like a trip to outer space for something unusual to do… You can find quite the astrological journey at Greenwich’s Royal Observatory . 

The place dates back to 1675 and was built under the order of Charles II. A lot has changed since then, mainly the addition of a planetarium – the object of your visit. 

With daily shows ranging from trips across the surface of Mars to understanding the night sky as it is on the day you’re visiting, it’s nothing if not fascinating, and we’ll throw in pretty beautiful too. 

Step Back in Time at the Dennis Severs’ House

Spitalfields 

Ever so slightly wacky, visiting the Dennis Severs House is one of the more unusual ways to spend a day out in London.

The house is an artistic recreation of the life of a Huguenot weavers family from the 18th to the 20th centuries.

A series of still-life recreations, each meticulously brought to life in the rooms of 18 Folgate Street – you walk through the house and through the lives of generation after generation of the fictional family.

The place is a feast for the eyes, with period furniture and a baffling array of trinkets and Huguenot floral patterns on pretty much every wall. We doubt you’ll have seen anything like it before.  

Take a Turn Around the Streatham Rookery

Streatham 

If you’re looking to find a hidden slither of peace in the busy city, how about a stroll around a secret garden? 

Streatham Rookery offers exactly that. It’s a series of gardens that’ve been lovingly tended to for over a hundred years. Its site was once (believe it or not) a spa. 

Strolling through the charming gardens you’ll even be walking in the footsteps of royalty. Queen Mary, consort of George V, is said to have loved the gardens dearly and often came here for her walks. 

Visit a Country House in the City

We love a day exploring London’s National Trust properties for something a bit different to do. Hampstead’s Fenton House would be one of our top picks if you’re thinking the same way. 

The grand house resembles something closer to a stately country home than it does a London residence, but then again it was owned by the 2nd Earl of Haddington – someone we’re sure wasn’t short a quid or two. 

His wife, Lady Binning left a charming touch on the house and its gardens and then handed it over to the National Trust in her will. They’ve kept it almost exactly how she left it. 

Walking the corridors is like stepping into another world. We’re not going to pretend we didn’t imagine ourselves as a set of earls, dukes and duchesses when we visited. 

Visit The Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology

The Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology is another UCL gem tucked away in Bloomsbury.

With over 80,000 objects displayed within its rather small space – it’s a full-blown immersion into the world of the ancient Egyptians .

From the world’s oldest dress to pyramid texts and beautifully engraved ceramics, The Petrie offers a glimpse into a civilisation past (and on a much more manageable scale than the nearby British Museum too).

Read More: Visiting the Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology

Go to a Magic Show and Visit the Magic Circle Museum

Euston 

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a magic show. Sadly, these days good magic shows are few and far between.. Until you head to The Magic Circle that is. The circle is a society of some of the world’s best magicians and illusionists.

You’ll be happy to hear that they frequently host top-class shows that make for a much cooler alternative to a night in the pub.

There’s even a museum – though it’s only accessible with a ticket to one of the shows. It’s well worth a visit. There’s also no public access to the building at other times so buckle up and prepare to have your mind blown. 

Take the Parkland Walk 

Finsbury Park, Muswell Hill  

Living in the concrete jungle can get a bit much sometimes. It’s good to take in a little nature once in a while. Parkland Walk makes the perfect place for exactly a bit of that. 

It’s London’s longest nature trail, stretching a mild 3.1 miles from Finsbury Park to Muswell Hill. The walk follows the route of an old rail line that ran from the two parts of London and has now been removed and left as a space for nature to flourish. 

It boasts some lovely views, plenty of scenic spots and no end of quirky elements – creepy railway arches and spriggans included. 

See the Jean Cocteau Murals in the Notre Dame de France

Covent Garden 

French novelist and director Jean Cocteau is best known for his writing (Les Enfants Terribles) and avant-garde films (Beauty and the Beast, and Orpheus, among others). However, Cocteau also blessed London with a unique series of murals.

Hidden in plain sight in a church on the corner of Chinatown in the West End, the murals are dedicated to the Virgin Mary and show the religious celebrations of the Annunciation, the Crucifixion and the Assumption. (And no, that’s not the one in Paris)

Bold and striking, the murals are one of London’s quirkier sights. You’ll find them in the Church of Notre Dame de France (And no, that’s not the one in Paris).

Ride the Mail Rail

Mount Pleasant

Quite a few Londoners will have heard of the Mail Rail but most people are hazy about what and where it is.

In its former life, the Mail Rail was the lifeblood of the Royal Mail postal service. Ferrying thousands of letters to and from the sorting office on Mount Pleasant, the railway operated from 1927 until 2003.

Today, you can hop aboard the railway as part of a visit to the Postal Museum . A train ride through a tiny tunnel in an immersive railway experience – certainly one of the more unusual ways to explore London’s subterranean world.

Feast at Bob Bob Ricard

It’s no secret that Bob Bob Ricard is one of our favourite restaurants. Not only is the menu totally decadent – it’s the perfect spot for a splashy night out where all you want is good food, great cocktails and even better champagne.

Bob Bob’s appeal is that it lies a world away from the bland cookie-cutter restaurants that seem to dominate the city’s dining scene.

Cosily ensconced in your banquette booth, you are encouraged to ring the bell discreetly labelled “Press for Champagne” as you feast on lobster, truffled fries, souffles and other such indulgences. Dinner at Bob Bob is an unforgettable London experience – book ahead at weekends.

Read more: Bob Bob Ricard Review

Step into the World of Harry Potter at The House of Minalima

Who else is a raging Harry Potter fan? We’ll freely admit that even years after the final film, we still sit down with the box set every Christmas, drawn into the world of The Boy Who Lived.

If you can relate, you should totally get yourself down to The House of Minalima – one of our fave quirky places in the capital (and one of London’s top Harry Potter sights).

The House of Minalima is the brainchild of Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, the creators of the graphic universe in the Harry Potter films. The store features all kinds of graphic works that appear in the film – including some that have come straight from the Harry Potter Studios .

From wanted posters of escaped Azkaban inmates (Bellatrix Lestrange still frightens us to this day), to books adorned with Gilderoy Lockhart’s’ simpering face and copies of the Quibbler and The Daily Prophet, it’s part-shop-part immersion into the world of wizarding.

What’s more? There’s a whole floor dedicated to Fantastic Beasts too ( hello Eddie Redmayne..)

Read More: Step into the World of Harry Potter in Soho – The House of Minalima

Take a Snap Running Through to Platform 9 ¾

King’s Cross

There’s no shortage of Harry Potter finds in London – but a trip to Platform 9 ¾ to take a picture of you pretending to run through the wall is pretty much mandatory. You’ll find it in Kings Cross Railway Station.

Just head to the back of the station and look for the crowds of people wearing Hogwarts scarfs and brandishing HP merch. You can’t miss it. 

Get Street at Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel

It’s no secret that London is a street art lover’s dream .

Shoreditch , Camden , Walthamstow, Croydon and Brixton are great places to go if you’re looking to spot some cool murals. If there’s one spot that’s always packed with awesome works from a diverse range of artists it is Leake Street Tunnel .

The tunnel is just behind Waterloo Station and constantly features an ever-changing rotation of street art. The tunnel first rose to fame when Banksy organised Cans Festival in 2008, which saw 30 artists transform the bleak tunnel into a multi-faceted and colourful canvas.

Whenever you visit, you’re bound to see a new piece in the making, not to mention hundreds of others sprayed on every single inch of the tunnel’s walls.

The tunnel is also surrounded by (and filled with) great bars and restaurants for a bit of a recharge should you need it. 

Read more: Street Art in Camden

Visit the London Transport Museum’s Depot

Acton 

A trip to the London Transport Museum is one of the more unusual days out in London – but if you want to go the full hog, you should travel out to Acton to visit the museum’s vast depot .

The depot is packed with the transportation of times past. Ever wondered what trains looked like on the Metropolitan Line in the 30s? Now’s your chance to find out. The place is packed with literally hundreds of thousands of vintage vehicles and transport-related items, including some uber-cool vintage tube posters.

The depot only opens to the public for special events – check the London Transport Museum’s website for more details.

Play Bingo in a Beautiful Grade I Listed Cinema

Tooting 

Billed as the most spectacular cinema in Britain, the former Granada Cinema in Tooting was one of a handful of Art Deco cinemas built in the thirties.

These days it’s a Buzz Bingo and without a doubt, it’s the most beautiful space you’ll ever play bingo in – and one of the most unusual places to visit in London to boot.

The interior was inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain – that will explain the soaring arches and intricate carvings inside then. It can be a bit distracting – all that beauty when you’re simply trying to play a game of bingo, but we’re sure you will struggle through.

Check Out Severndroog Castle

Woolwich 

Eltham is one of those surprise places that you never think to visit – but when you do, you find out it’s home to some of London’s weirdest spots – Severndroog Castle being a case in point.

The unusual London castle was built as a memorial to naval commander Sir William James by his wife in the 18th century. 

An architectural oddity, the triangular castle is made of three rooms, each atop the other and crowned with a viewing platform that boasts some of the best views in South London.

You can visit from Thursday to Sunday 9am – 3.30pm and see what this obscure place is all about. 

Visit London’s Smallest Police Station

Trafalgar Square

Have you ever wondered what the small Tardis-like box perched on the corner of Trafalgar Square is? The answer is London’s smallest police station.

The box (which, in truth isn’t a police station but an observation post made from a hollowed-out lamppost), gives the officer inside a view across the whole of the square – an important as Trafalgar Square is used as a frequent spot for protesters.

In the day and age of modern surveillance, the boxlike station is no longer used, but that shouldn’t stop you from striking a pose outside anyway.

See the Views from Westminster Cathedral’s Bell Tower

Westminster

Westminster Cathedral makes for an interesting visit on any day of the week, but did you know it also makes for one of the best viewing platforms in London? 

Yep, you can actually climb to the top of the cathedral’s tower and soak in views of the city right from its heart, 64 metres up in the air. It’s not often you get a chance to see the capital from that angle. 

The tower is open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 3.30pm. 

Get Wet at Lee Valley White Water Centre

Waltham Cross 

The Olympics may have brought a new sense of pride to London, but even though the events are long-finished, their legacy lives on.

The Lee Valley White Water Centre may technically be in Herefordshire, but it’s close enough that you can get there without breaking a sweat. Believe us when we say that it is worth the effort.

Where else are you going to get the chance to tackle white water rapids, go canoeing, kayaking or tubing less than an hour from the centre of town?

Wrap Up and Visit the Hampstead Observatory

If you want to see something that will really impress, you can actually go and look at the planets and stars at an observatory in London. 

Hampstead Observatory opens to the public from mid September to mid April and gives you a chance to gaze through some astronomically large (geddit?) telescopes. The sessions do depend on the alignment of the planets so you have to be flexible. 

They also happen in winter because you’ll have less light which is better for seeing the planets with, so remember to bring a warm coat. 

See the York House Watergate – A Testament to the Banking of the Thames

Embankment 

The banking of the Thames was a feat of Victorian engineering. The Thames is a tidal river, and prior to the banking project, its shores extended way beyond the river we see today.

The York House Watergate is one of the few remaining watergates that used to provide entry to the riverside mansions that lined the shores of the river.

Tucked away down a narrow alley that begins about halfway up Villiers Street, the gate shows just how much the Thames was narrowed when it was banked- it stands just under 144 metres from the bank of the Thames today.

Read More: Cool Things to See in and Around Covent Garden

Check out the Christopher Wren Architecture at St Stephen Walbrook

Christopher Wren basically re-designed London after the Great Fire of 1666. Most famous for his work on St Paul’s Cathedral, he actually created the designs for a number of buildings in central London, St Stephen Walbrook among them.

The church is an unusual place – particularly for architectural buffs to see Wren’s work on a much smaller scale. It’s also just rather beautiful. The knave is bright and airy in a way that stands in direct contrast to other more gothic places of worship.

Don’t forget to pop into the Mithraeum (featured above) a few doors down once you’re done.

Visit the Clown’s Gallery and Museum

Dalston 

If you’re after an afternoon of clowning around (harr harr) you probably can’t do better than The Clown’s Gallery and Museum . Established in 1959, the museum has been building a collection of items that illustrate the fine art of the clown. 

We’re guessing some of you might be getting the spooks just thinking about it, but if you’re interested (or just looking for something different to do) this place will provide plenty of laughs. 

Highlights include the Egg Gallery, where you can see the individual face painting patterns of clowns painted on eggs. Funnily enough this was originally a practice to protect your pattern against plagiarism, the eggs making a perfect shape to represent a human head. 

Get Spooked at Crossbones Burial Ground

Southwark 

Make your way through the maze of streets in Southwark to find the rather strange and eerie Crossbones Burial Ground .

A lot of weird things to see and do in London revolve around bodies and death, and Crossbones is no exception.

The burial ground once sat within London’s poorest slum and many of the city’s paupers and prostitutes are buried within its grounds. The graveyard closed in the 1850s, by which time it’s estimated that over 15,000 people were buried within it.

Today, people use the site to commemorate loved ones who have passed away – the ground’s boundaries are covered in flowers, ribbons and wreaths in varying stages of decay.

You can also attend the monthly Vigil for the Outcasts – a service meant to remember outcasts living and dead.

See Giro’s Grave

St James’

What’s so weird about some guy’s grave we hear you ask. Well, first off it’s not a guy, it’s a dog, and what’s more that dog was a nazi. 

Giro was a pet terrier. He came to London with his owner, German ambassador Leopold von Hoesch, in 1932. Von Hoesch would go on to represent the Nazi Party after they seized power a few years later. 

He’d also go on to create a memorial for his beloved pet, who strangely enough died of electrocution after chewing through an electrical cable. That memorial is the only one you can find in Britain that commemorates a nazi. 

You can find it at Carlton House Terrace, St. James’s, London SW1Y 5AJ. 

Pull Some Teeth at The British Dental Association Museum 

Housed in a tiny (and we mean tiny) room in the British Dental Association , this museum charts the history of the British dental profession.

Modern dentistry, with its white rooms and concerns about hygiene, is a very recent thing – the museum has a few (pretty horrifying) images of blacksmiths pulling out people’s teeth, as well as some of the crude items used to do the job.

Though it’s small, there are a couple of fun interactive exhibits – you can test your skills at pulling people’s teeth, or using a treadle-powered drill to drill into a tooth (don’t put it in your mouth, it’s sharp enough to do damage).

Hopefully you’ll time your visit to coincide with the hours of the ebullient guide, who talked us through the exhibits and really brought the museum to life.

Freak Yourself Out at The Old Operating Theatre

Borough 

If you’ve got the stomach for it, The Old Operating Theatre never fails to make for a curious day of exploration. 

The place was actually lost for many years, then rediscovered when an adventurous researcher decided to climb to the attic of St Thomas’ Hospital in Southwark. 

The space used to be an operating theatre, primarily used for female surgery cases. The space has been restored to a worryingly accurate degree. What’s the worrying part? The fact that you can see where people used to gather round to watch the operations. 

Given the quality of surgery back in the 1800s when the space was in use, it creeps us out no end. 

Knock Yourself Out at the Anaesthesia Heritage Centre

Another quirky quease-inducing museum in a small room – the Anaesthesia Heritage Centre showcases the curious and interesting history of the use of anaesthetics in medicine.

While the history is relatively tame, the implements used in the past were not – you can’t help but shudder at the drawers of gigantic needles and syringes. Ring the bell at the Association of Anaesthetists and they’ll show you down.

Peek at the Hyde Park Pet Cemetery

Hyde Park 

A sad and wobegon spot on the edge of Hyde Park, the Hyde Park Pet Cemetery was an unofficial pet cemetery in the then-parkkeeper Mr Windbridge’s back garden. After the first burial in 1880, over 300 pets were buried by Mr Windbridge until he closed it in 1915 due to a lack of space.

You can’t get inside the garden itself, but you can see it through the railings from the pavement outside the park.

Visit Postman’s Park

Postman’s Park is both touching and tragic – it was built to memorialise Londoners who died doing heroic deeds. You can read about their sad and sometimes grisly deaths – there are several drownings, tales of people who caught fire trying to put out one another and more strange tales you can’t help but marvel at.

If you’re thinking that it sounds a bit familiar – the park actually features in the film Closer . Natalie Portman’s character takes her pseudonym from a plaque on the memorial at the beginning of the film.

Read More: Postman’s Park – London’s Memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice

Check out the Golden Boy of Pye Corner – The Alternative Monument to the Great Fire of London

Everyone knows about The Monument that was erected as a memorial of the Great Fire of London… but there’s another, much smaller and more random memorial to the fire on the corner of Cock Lane (seriously, that’s its name).

Stand on the corner, look up and you’ll see a small statue of a fat, golden boy set into the wall on a spot marking the outer limit of the Great Fire. He stands as a reminder of the true cause of the great fire (it started in a bakery on Pudding Lane and finished on Pye Corner) – gluttony.  Be warned.

Weird and Unusual Things to do in London: Map

Looking for More Unusual London Guides?

• 30 Hidden Gems in London – Secret Spots You Have to Discover
• 18 Weird Museums in London: Discover The City’s Small, Quirky and Unusual Museums
• 64 Fun and Interesting Facts about London You’ll Absolutely Love
• Famous Blue Plaques in London To Look Out For
• The History of London’s Roman Amphitheatre and the Unlikely Story of How it was Discovered

LET'S GET SOCIAL!

London x London is the insider’s guide to discovering the best of London.

We delve into the cool, interesting and quirky spots that make London such a dynamic city, telling you the best things to do, eat and drink along the way. 

Tired of the same old dull suggestions? Want to know where to find London’s secret bars, tastiest eats and weirdest finds? We provide practical guides that help you do just that.

Find Out More

Recently Published

• Eltham Palace: Discovering South London’s Gorgeous Art Deco Secret
• Staying At: The Laslett, Notting Hill Review
• Carreras Cigarette Factory: A Curious Reminder of London’s Egyptian Art Deco Craze

73 Unique & Fun Things to do in London, England (for First Timers!)

Last Updated: April 26, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

I have to be honest: when it comes to things to do in London, you will inevitably be faced with weird and difficult decisions. After all, this is a city where you can wake up and ask questions like “should I go watch a musical today or float around the river in a BBQ boat?”

All to say – England’s exciting capital has something for everyone , no matter how niche your interests, whether they be Victorian packaging, centuries-old ships, mail trains, or drinking in pubs that are (almost certainly) haunted.

This stunning versatility is precisely what makes London a nightmare to plan for… that is, unless you have a weird friend who has already done all the leg work and research for you.

… Which you do, because – hi, I’m Christina! After visiting London extensively for the past decade, for varying stints as long as 2.5 months, I’ve finally gotten to a place where I feel like I can write about it… a strange blip of confidence you must now endure through a lengthy post that details London’s top must-dos with the fervour of a rabid stalker.

As you’ll soon see, there’s a lot more to do in this city than just stare at Big Ben and the London Eye. So, read on for a thorough roundup of things to do in London, separated by neighbourhood for ease of exploration, with honest opinions on which activities are worth the time and money…. along with the many that aren’t.

I hope you find it helpful!

Save this list of Things to Do in London for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

The Best Things to do in London (By Borough)

This post is a loooong one, so feel free to skip to the relevant sections below to help make the process easier:

• Quintessential London Experiences
• Things to do in the City of Westminster
• Things to do in the City of London
• Things to do in Tower Hamlets
• Things to do in Southwark
• Things to do in Camden
• Things to do in Kensington & Chelsea
• Other Fun Things to Do Outside of Central London

My Free Map of Things to Do in London

For a free map that includes all the activities below (plus recommendations for food, drink, etc.), head to my  VIP Zone!

1. Go on a sightseeing tour of all the major landmarks

Now, to start, even if it’s your first visit to London, I guarantee it’s not the first time you’ve seen it… because whether it was on the silver screen or haunting you from an IKEA canvas, I’m positive the sight of London’s most iconic landmarks has been seared into your brain at some point..

Which is a good thing, because just seeing these sights in real life is enough to make a fangirl out of any visitor. Yes, even mundane things like Tube signs or red telephone boxes… as we tourists are strangely simple creatures.

This is why for first timers to London, my first recommendation would be to do a little tour of all the major landmarks, from Big Ben and the London Eye to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

My personal favourite way is on foot (actually walking between these would take about an hour), but there’s also no shame in hopping on a sightseeing bus or boat tour (the Uber Boat is a great affordable option) to give your legs a rest. Just make sure you get a nice overview of the city’s top landmarks, especially if you’re short on time.

NOTE: If you opt to go by bus, I’d recommend booking a sightseeing tour like this one rather than a hop on hop off ticket, since London’s normal bus system is better suited for actually getting around, and much cheaper too. By sitting at the top, you can even use these local buses to DIY your own cheap sightseeing tour. You can learn more in my list of London travel tips.

2. Get an epic view

Another great way to see London’s landmarks is from a scenic viewpoint. Luckily, London is packed with unfairly good looking views, many of which cost nothing at all.

The London Eye and the Shard are probably two of the most famous viewpoints in the city, but honestly, I think your money is better spent elsewhere given how many free alternatives there are.

I’ll be sharing more recommendations below as we move through each borough, but some of my favourite FREE views in London include…

• Sky Garden : An aptly named beautiful garden in the sky! Free, but must be booked in advance. Usually tickets are released every Monday up to a week in advance.  Click here to book.
• Garden at 120: A gorgeous free view and rooftop garden that doesn’t take bookings, so great for a last minute option
• Horizon 22: Now officially the highest view in London (even higher than the Shard), and free! Tickets must be booked in advance. Click here to book.
• One New Change Rooftop: Home to a rooftop bar but also a free viewing area with a great view over St Paul’s
• Tate Modern : The museum is great but the view from their Level 10 Terrace is a knockout, with excellent views of the Thames and its main landmarks.
• Primrose Hill : A farther away view of the skyline in a very pretty park/colourful neighbourhood!
• Greenwich Park (up by the observatory): Again, a great farther away view of the skyline but glorious at sunset

Alternatively, you can take those pricey entry fees and book yourself in at a nice rooftop bar or restaurant, so you’re at least getting some extra stuff for your money. Duck & Waffle is one I can recommend for brunch. Say it’s a special occasion to maximize your chance at a window table.

3. Enjoy a beautiful pub

Now, once you’ve enjoyed the sights, another quintessential London activity to check off your list a visit to a classic pub, of which there are literally thousands in London.

Some of my favourite unique and historic ones include…

• The Old Bank of England: Absolutely stunning pub w/ dramatic chandeliers and an ornate ceiling
• Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese: Around since 1667 – creaky, old, cavernous, vaguely creepy. Very fun!
• The George: The oldest galleried inn still standing in London, with a nice outdoor seating area
• The Churchill Arms: Epic facade decked with flowers (or Christmas trees and lights during the holidays) – has a nice Thai restaurant hiding inside with surprisingly good food
• Trafalgar Tavern: Out in Greenwich, but really nicely decorated inside; one of (surprisingly) few pubs in the city with a good view of the Thames

Check out my list of the most unique & historic pubs in London for more recommendations.

PS : Even if you’re not a huge drinker, all pubs offer non-alcoholic options, as well as food, so don’t skip out on this London must-do!

4. Watch a live show

The theatre and culture scene in London is truly one of the most dazzling perks of the city, so make sure you watch at least a show or two during your visit.

The most popular place to do this is of course London’s world-famous West End. If you’re on a budget, many shows run lotteries and rush tickets through TodayTix, which is how I managed to get front row Hamilton tickets for only £10.

But there’s many more options beyond the West End! Catching a performance at Shakespeare’s (reconstructed) Globe Theatre is of course a nerdy delight, but there’s also venues all around the city putting on diverse programming at all times. This site is a great resource to browse for tickets.

NOTE: Be sure to consider the venue too when picking a show. Half of the fun of the West End for me is getting a chance to peek at London’s incredible historic theatres, which are worthy sights themselves.

5. Gorge at a food market

Now, before we launch into things to do in London separated by borough, the final London experience to make sure you enjoy is a visit to a food hall or food market. With multiple stalls offering diverse cuisines under one roof, these are a great way to sample London’s global food culture in a stress-free and unpretentious setting.

Luckily, London has loads! Most guides will recommend Borough Market as a must-do, but there are many other possibilities like…

• Seven Dials Market near Covent Garden (home to a conveyer belt cheese restaurant!)
• Mercato Metropolitano in Southwark
• Maltby Street Market in Southwark
• Market Halls Victoria near Victoria Station
• Greenwich Market in Greenwich

6. Say hi to Big Ben

Alright, now let’s dive into London’s top must-dos broken down by borough, starting with the historic City of Westminster, packed with some of the city’s most famous sights, including the most famous clock tower in the world, Big Ben.

Although technically speaking, Big Ben refers to a bell inside of this famous tower (officially named Elizabeth Tower), these days the name is synonymous with the entire structure itself, which is hands down one of the most iconic sights in London.

Construction on this beauty first begin in 1843, and although the tower’s bells didn’t ring for the first time until s ixteen years later, the lengthy efforts were worth it, if tourist enthusiasm is anything to go by.

A photo here is a must although if you want to get up close and personal, you can actually book a tour to reach the top and listen to the bells up close. .. a must if you’re looking for one of the more exclusive and unique experiences that the city has to offer. Do note that tickets sell out very quickly though, so be sure to check the official tickets page for details on the next drop.

NOTE: UK residents can even book this tour for free by writing to their MP!

7. Tour the Houses of Parliament 

Now of course, Big Ben doesn’t just stand on its own. It’s actually part of the Palace of Westminster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is today home to the UK’s Houses of Parliament. 

As hinted by its name, this magnificent structure was a royal residence once upon a time, but the present structure is (in the grand scheme of London) relatively young, starting construction in 1840 after a brutal fire destroyed much of the palace.

Today, a photo of the gorgeous neo-Gothic exterior is a must but if you want to see the inside (which I can definitely recommend for any history or architecture nerds), then you can book a tour of the inside… another activity that happens to be free for UK residents by writing to their MP, if you’re so inclined.

8. Visit Westminster Abbey

Buy Tickets | Included in the London Pass

Another must-see in the area is Westminster Abbey, which you’ve probably seen in the news for one reason or another.

With its present structure dating back almost 800 years, this magnificent Gothic church has hosted countless royal weddings, coronations, and state funerals, acting as the final resting place of so many notable figures that reading the placards here is almost like studying for a history exam, with 30+ kings and queens interred here, along with notable figures like Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin and Stephen Hawking.

Again, admiring the abbey’s iconic facade from the outside is a must, and I enjoyed seeing the inside as well… though beware that while attending services is free, the entry ticket for sightseeing doesn’t come cheap, and it’s usually very crowded.

So, if you have a short time in London, I wouldn’t necessarily prioritize it. 

9. Head to Westminster Cathedral

If you’re looking for a more cost-effective church to see, a commonly missed sight is the impressive Westminster Cathedral a ten minute walk away.

It baffles me how few people visit, since it’s free to enter and actually really cool to look at, with a unique Byzantine style made of 12.5 million bricks.

Psst – it’s also casually the largest Catholic church in England, so worth checking out in its own right.

10. See Buckingham Palace

Originally built in 1703, Buckingham Palace is of course the official residence of the British monarch, which means (before you get your hopes up) you’ll mostly just be staring at the palace and its 775 rooms from behind tall, highly secure fencing… but it’s still one of the most iconic sights of the city so worth a quick stop!

A popular activity here is of course watching the Changing of the Guards,  a centuries-old tradition that takes place outside Buckingham Palace and other royal residences in the UK.

This elaborate ritual of music and marching signals the handover of duties between the old and new guard, and is one of the most ceremonial traditions you can witness first hand in London. Contrary to popular belief though, it doesn’t actually happen every day so be sure to check the official schedule. 

… And beware that it does get very very crowded, so arrive early if you want to get a good view at all.

Now if you’re nosy and want to see the inside of the palace, I have some good news: this actually is possible between July and the end of September, with some special tours in the off season, when members of the public can buy a ticket to explore the State Rooms. 

Visitors will often combine this with a Royal Day Out ticket which also includes access to the King’s Gallery which displays items from the Royal Collection, along with the Royal Mews, where you and get up close and personal with Royal carriages and coaches in the palace’s working stables.

NOTE: These attractions can be pricey though, so do know that the palace is surrounded by a number of free parks as well that are lovely to wander through, like St James Park.

11. Admire the many important buildings of Westminster

Now with Westminster’s main sights out of the way, I’d like to raise you… more main sights!

Like I said, this borough is packed with cool must-sees. My personal favourite is a walk along Parliament St and Whitehall, where you pass by iconic sights like…

• The red phone booth which is probably the most famous photo opp in London 
• 10 Downing St, visible only just through sealed gates, which is of course home to the UK prime minister 
• The Royal Horse Guards, who you can learn more about in the nearby Household Cavalry Museum (included in the London Pass )

… And a number of important memorials and statues, like the Memorial Gates, erected in 2002 to honour the sacrifices of soldiers from the Indian subcontinent, Africa, and the Caribbean during the First and Second World Wars, a poignant reminder of the contributions and sacrifices made by colonial troops in defense of Britain and its empire!

Around here you’ll also encounter some attractions ideal for history buffs, including the Churchill War Rooms, an underground bunker that served as a secret strategy centre for Britain’s wartime efforts during WWII.

And for those interested in learning more about the iconic British Foot Guards, they have a small museum of their own, the Guards Museum that details their history and traditions (included in the London Pass ).

12. Check out Trafalgar Square

Now, if you follow Whitehall all the way along, you’ll reach the ever popular Trafalgar Square, the centrepiece of which is the imposing Nelson’s Column, erected in 1843 to commemorate Admiral Horatio Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, 

These days, the square is a lively public space that hosts several performances and celebrations throughout the year, like at Christmas time when it’s home to its own little Christmas market. See my guide to Christmas in London for more.

13. See the National Gallery

Of course, on and around Trafalgar Square, you’ll also find a number of important buildings like the High Commission of Canada and the National Gallery. 

This free museum is home to a vast collection of over 2500 paintings from famous artists like Da Vinci and Van Gogh, with works dating from the mid-13th century to the 1900s – a must see for art lovers!

14. See the National Portrait Gallery

Close by there’s also the National Portrait Gallery, which as you probably guessed from the name is home to numerous portraits of prominent figures who have shaped British history and culture, from monarchs and political leaders to writers and artists!

15. Check Leicester Square Off Your List

A short walk from here, you’ll find one of London’s most famous and most hated squares – Leicester Square, dismissed by many locals as the biggest tourist trap in town.

Granted, the restaurants here are tremendously overpriced, and there’s not a lot to do in the square itself, but there are some fun statues of British icons to admire, a cute  Swiss Glockenspiel that puts on a show a few times a day, and two of my London guilty pleasures: M&M World and the LEGO Store.

Sure, M&Ms have absolutely nothing to do with London and it’s definitely an overpriced place to get candy, but there’s a lot of very cute Londonny photo opps inside so I say it’s worth a look. Same goes for the LEGO store, where you’ll find many of the city’s top landmarks in LEGO form.

16. Explore Covent Garden

Now, from here, you’re a short walk away from another main tourist hub – Covent Garden.

This bustling district is renowned for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, pubs, street performers, and cultural attractions.

It’s almost always crowded here, but there’s a ton of things to do including…

• Watching entertainers in the Piazza
• A walk through Covent Garden Market
• A visit to colourful Neal’s Yard

… And one of my personal favourites , the London Transport Museum, which is a dream for transport nerds like me filled with tons of cool displays about the evolution of London’s iconic public transport system.

There’s many food options around here too, though you can expect to pay a premium given the buzzy location.

My recommendation? If you’re having trouble choosing a cuisine, just around the corner is the Seven Dials Market, a food hall with 20 independent vendors, and tons of tasty options… including the world’s first cheese conveyor belt restaurant which is indeed as amazing as it sounds.

17. Eat Your Way Around London’s Chinatown

Alternatively, if you’re craving Asian cuisine, then Chinatown is just around the corner.

London’s Chinatown has served as an epicentre of London’s Chinese community since the 1950s, and today this bustling district is filled with tons of East Asian restaurants, bakeries, and shops, with the aesthetic addition of colourful lanterns and its photogenic entry gate, which was actually only completed in 2016.

This is definitely a place to come while hungry, so be prepared!

18. Get your mandatory photo at Picadilly Circus

From here, you can walk over to get your mandatory photo at Picadilly Circus, a famous junction known for its illuminated billboards.

Somehow, this place has become known as London’s Time Square, which I feel like is a generous comparison, but it’s nonetheless an okay spot for a photo en route to some of London’s most iconic shopping streets like Regent Street and Picadilly, which is home to the flagship Fortnum and Mason department store, built in the 1920s. The inside is really beautiful, so I’d recommend you stop inside!

Plus, across the street is a fun hidden gem that most visitors miss – in the arched entryway of the Royal Academy of Arts, you’ll find the wooden original prototype of the iconic red phone booth now seen all around the city. 

19. Explore Soho

Now if you’re looking for things to do in London at night, be sure to explore Soho, a buzzy entertainment district known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping opportunities.

There’s of course the iconic Carnaby Street and Liberty London Department Store, but you’ll also find a number of West End Theatres here and fun bars. For a really unique experience, I can recommend heading to Cahoots, a 1940s themed bar set in an abandoned train station.

20. Explore Marylebone

Another neighbourhood to visit here is picturesque Marylebone – known for its beautiful Georgian architecture, boutique shops, and leafy streets. 

This neighbourhood is full of beautiful finds, perfect if you’re hoping to escape London’s main tourist circuit.

Some spots to check out include… 

• Daunt Books: Popular and crowded as it may be, visiting this bookstore is still one of favourite things to do in Marylebone, with colourful shelves stacked with books telling tales from every corner of the globe. For the ultimate “London” souvenir, consider picking up one of their iconic canvas tote bags. These are a London classic, with many a bookish Londoner lugging them around as their tote of choice.
• The Wallace Collection: An elegant art museum set in a fancy townhouse with a beautiful cafe in the center, and a very cool armoury on the ground floor, with a key highlight being centuries old horse armour, including one of only three sets that predate the year 1500.
• 221B Baker St for Sherlock Holmes fans: A fun photo with the door seems like a must, though I’ve heard questionable things about the quality of the museum itself

NOTE: One of London’s most famous attractions, Madame Tussauds can be found in Marylebone as well. While there’s nothing wrong with wax museums, I don’t necessarily think this is the best use of your time in London, especially given the eye-watering price tag, but having said that, I know that posing with wax figures can be a lot of fun, so don’t let me stop you.

21. Explore Mayfair

Looking for something even swankier? Another fun thing to do in the City of Westminster is frolicking around Mayfair, one of London’s most exclusive and affluent neighborhoods. 

This prestigious area is renowned for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, fine dining establishments, and elegant architecture. 

Needless to say, even breathing here feels expensive, so one of the best things to do is just stroll around and window shop. A walk through beautiful Burlington Arcade is a must, as well as a stop at Mercato Mayfair, a beautiful food hall housed in a former church. While the food here is kind of overpriced and just okay, getting a drink in this setting is a great way to unwind after all that frenzied sightseeing.

22. Enjoy Hyde Park

Speaking of places to unwind, another highlight in the City of Westminster is Hyde Park, one of the largest and most famous parks in the city!

Stretching 350 acres, this park was actually established by our favourite controversial King, Henry VIII all the way back in 1536 as hunting grounds. Today, it’s a beautiful place for a stroll, with highlights including…

• The Serpentine Lake
• Various memorials and monuments ( here is a list )

I wouldn’t necessarily go out of my way to visit Hyde Park if you’re short on time, given that it really is just a massive park, but if you’re looking for a wide green space to soak in some sun and maybe have a picnic, keep this one in mind!

It’s especially pretty in the Fall:

23. See the inside of the Wellington Arch

Right by the Hyde Park Corner Tube station is the Wellington Arch, a nice landmark to check out while you’re in the area.

Oft photographed from the outside, it’s a surprise to many that this famous arch is actually hollow on the inside, even once housing a tiny police station.

These days, a (relatively cheap) ticket allows you to climb up its stairs, peruse small exhibits, see an art gallery, and ultimately check out its unique view up top.

If you’re looking for something a little different to do in London, this is a fun stop I enjoyed while making the most of my London Pass ! Almost worth it just to see the look of confusion on people’s faces when you’re up there, but just know there’s not a ton to see (there’s only so much you can fit in an arch, after all!)

24. Stop by Apsley House

More exciting than the Wellington Arch is Apsley House right across the street, once home to the Duke of Wellington and today (what I consider to be) one of THE most underrated things to do in London.

For the uninitiated, the 1st Duke of Wellington, Arthur Wellesley, is one of the most celebrated names in British war history, with many important monuments and things named after him… thanks largely to his instrumental role in defeating Napoleon at the famous Battle of Waterloo in 1815.

… and this swanky house is where he (and his descendants) lived, with a portion of it open to the public today for some Grade A snooping.

Photos aren’t allowed inside but trust me when I say the interiors are stunningly lavish. Plus, the audio guide is really good at succinctly explaining the significance of the rooms and the objects inside.

Overall a very enjoyable experience with a fraction of the crowds of London’s other main attractions. I actually enjoyed my visit here more than Kensington Palace (which can be found across the park).

Speaking of… Hyde Park is also connected to the Kensington Gardens which are absolutely gorgeous, and home to a cool contemporary art gallery – the Serpentine Galleries that’s free and well worth checking out.

25. Explore Little Venice

Now before we move onto our next borough, it’s worth noting that the City of Westminster is also home to London’s own Little Venice, a charming neighbourhood that’s so named for its picturesque canals and houseboats.

This is the perfect place for a peaceful stroll if you need some time away from the tourist crowds. I can definitely recommend the walk from Warwick Bridge over towards Paddington. There’s even the possibility of renting a self-drive boat through GoBoat from here to explore further, which I’ve heard great things about!

26. See St Paul’s Cathedral 

Alright, now it’s time to tackle things to do in the City of London (which refers to the square mile historical heart of the city).

We’ll start with Saint Paul’s, which may well be one of the most photographed churches in the world… at least from the outside. 

Thanks to its somewhat eye watering entry fee however (especially compared to the free appeal of other globally famous houses or worship, and other free attractions in London), seeing the inside isn’t often a huge priority for visitors. It personally took me over a dozen visits to London before I ever set foot inside, but let me tell you: this is one incredibly good looking church.

Perched on the highest point in the City of London (Ludgate Hill), St Paul’s is perhaps as much a symbol of London as Big Ben, the London Eye, or sweaty rush hour commutes on the Tube.

Although its origins can be traced back to the early 7th century, the St Paul’s we see today is the work of Sir Christopher Wren, much like many other buildings in the area which were engulfed by the Great Fire of London. Unlike the other buildings though, St Paul’s has a special Wren honour none other can boast – his body is interred here in the crypt… along with other very famous figures like Admiral Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. 

With a height of 366 feet, the dome here is the 2nd highest of its kind in the world, a fact which you can put into perspective yourself by climbing up each of the 528 steps to the top. Your sweat-filled endeavours will be rewarded with sublime views and leg cramps for the rest of the week.

Ask any red sashed volunteer (or join a tour) and you can also sneak a peek at the Geometric Stairs, which may seem familiar thanks to their quick guest appearance in Harry Potter. 

27. Visit Postman’s Park

Named after its location by the original General Post Office for London, this leafy mini-park in the center of the City is possibly one of my favourite gardens to visit. Sure, it’s tiny, but it holds one of the most moving and unique memorials that London has to offer: George Frederic Watts’s Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice, which is dedicated to ordinary people who sacrificed their lives to save others.

Shielded under a wooden roof, each of the 50+ ceramic tablets lists the name of the individual who sacrificed themselves, along with the circumstances around their death. As the memorial opened in 1900, most of the tablets recognize heroic deaths from the late 19th/early 20th century, so the majority of deaths revolve around heroic rescues from fires or drownings.

Of course, there’s quite a lot more to the park than just this moving memorial (which plays an important role in the fantastic film and play Closer, by the way, if you want to really get into it).

Look a little closer (heh) and you’ll also find a spot several gravestones moodily hidden behind bits of foliage. This is a legacy left behind from the park’s former function as a graveyard, before its conversion into a park began in 1880.

28. Check out the view at One New Change

As previously mentioned, London has no shortage of viewpoints, ranging from the (London) Eye-gougingly pricey, to the freest of free.

One of the latest lesser known viewpoints to join the latter category is the rooftop terrace at One New Change, which yes does partially include a swanky rooftop restaurant/bar, but also includes a free section that offers close-up views of Saint Paul’s, along with (farther away) views of London’s other prominent skyline regulars, from the London Eye and Big Ben to the newly renovated Battersea Power Station… if you squint hard enough, that is. 

To get here, simply head to One New Change, and find the glass elevator in the center of the complex, and take it up to the top (6th floor). Turn left at the elevator, past the restaurant and cafe then left again towards St Paul’s. It’ll be impossible to miss!

29. Climb up the Monument to Great the Fire of London

Tickets available on-site | Included in the London Pass

And if you’re looking for another one of London’s coolest views, with a bonus leg workout, then I can actually really recommend going up the soaring Monument to the Great Fire of London.

Built near the very spot where the Great Fire of London of 1666 supposedly began, this epic monument offers some of the best views in the city, and you even get a cute certificate once you finish the climb!

At less than 6GBP per person, it’s a lot cheaper than most paid viewpoints in London and (at least during my visit) quiet enough that you could actually enjoy it.

30. Visit St Dunstan in the East

Close to the monument is another one of my favourite quiet spots in the City, St Dunstan in the East, a ruined church that has been transformed into a peaceful public garden, with ivy-clad arches and ancient stone walls that make for perfect photos.

Originally built at the start of the 12th century, what you see today is all that remains after the Great Fire of London and the Blitz… but it’s still a gorgeous place to wander around.

While I can’t quite call it a hidden gem anymore thanks to its popularity among photographers, it’s still a nice contemplative space in the heart of the city to check out, especially if you want to rest your legs after all that sightseeing!

31. Visit Sky Garden

Book Free Tickets

Now, the Great Monument of London might offer good value in terms of paid views, but on the cost front, one view does have it beat, and that’s the very beautiful and very free Sky Garden.

Located atop the iconic Walkie Talkie building at 20 Fenchurch Street, this iconic London viewpoint opened in 2015, offering a unique public space with lush gardens, observation decks, and restaurants.

Be sure to book a ticket in advance though, or pay a little bit for an early morning ticket which includes coffee and a pastry, so you can enter before they open to the public.

If you want to get higher up, another free view in the City is the newly opened Horizon 22, which has dethroned the Shard as London’s highest view. I haven’t had a chance to go yet, but do make sure you book tickets in advance, and let me know how it is!

32. Scope out the views from the Garden at 120

Finally, there’s also the gorgeous free view from the Garden at 120, a great pick if you don’t manage to get tickets to the other two I just mentioned, because there’s no booking required.

Opened in 2019, this elevated green space offers panoramic vistas of iconic landmarks such as the Shard, the Gherkin, and Tower Bridge, and what’s cool is you can even check the capacity online.

33. See the Mithraeum

Now going from high to low, let’s talk about a very cool and free hidden gem of the City known as the Mithraeum, concealed underground amidst a sea of glassy skyscrapers.

This Roman temple can be found beneath an office block, a relic from the centuries that London was under Roman rule, during which it was known as Londinium.

Dating back to the 3rd century AD, this mysterious Roman temple is dedicated to the god Mithras, and was uncovered in the 1950s during excavations, before being reconstructed for visitors to snoop around today.

Inside, visitors will find an exhibition space with some changing displays, as well as Roman relics and of course, a visit to the temple itself, which is a really cool immersive experience they’ve put together. I can definitely recommend this as a unique must-do in London!

34. Check out the Old City Wall

Speaking of Roman London, another thing you can do in the City is trace the remnants of the former City Wall that once stretched for two miles around the ancient city.

Granted, these days there’s not a lot left, but if you’re a history nerd it could be worth checking out. Once upon a time, the City of London Museum (THE place to go if your goal is to learn more about the history of the city… from prehistoric times to present day) was located here, but it’s now in the process of moving to a new location. Stay tuned for its reopening in 2026!

35. Visit Leadenhall Market

Another beautiful place to see in the City is Leadenhall Market, one of London’s oldest markets that is today best known for its gorgeous Victorian design made of wrought iron and glass. 

There’s a few shops, restaurants and pubs to be found in here, but honestly the architecture is the star of the show. I mean… look at it!

36. See the Barbican Conservatory

Join their list for ticket notifications

Another fun free spot to see in the City is the Barbican Conservatory, a lush botanical garden with exotic plants and tranquil ponds, that feels worlds away from the bustling city just outside.

Again, you need to reserve tickets for this one, but it is free, so definitely give it a look!

37. Enjoy a drink somewhere gorgeous or historic

Lastly, it’s worth noting that the City is home to some of the most beautiful venues for a drink in London.

If you want coffee, there’s Host Cafe, housed in a beautiful Gothic Church.

If you want tea or fizz, there’s the Royal Exchange, known for its elegant Fortnum and Mason in the center.

And, honestly WAY too many beautiful and historic pubs to count. Be sure to consult my full list of historic and unique London pubs for recommendations but here are some cool pubs in the area to check out:

• The Old Bank of England: One of the most beautiful pubs in London, housed in a former bank building
• The Old Cheshire Cheese: A cavernous historic pub that has been around since 1667 (when it was rebuilt), made up of a confusing tangle of rooms and floors. Perfect for a cozy, old school maze-like feel
• The Hoop and Grapes: While you chug down your pint, take a moment to imagine what it must have been like here 500 years ago, when the Great Fire of London, an event that destroyed a third of the city, came to an abrupt end just 50 yards away 

NOTE: Ye Olde Cock offers a very cute narrow facade and chuckle-worthy name, but the interior is a fairly standard Greene King.

38. Stroll along the South Bank

Now, onwards to things to do in the borough of Southwark, starting with a classic stroll along the South Bank of the Thames.

This is by far one of my favourite walks to do in the city, with stunning views of London’s skyline and iconic landmarks along the way. I love the walk between Tower Bridge and the London Eye, which takes about an hour. If you’re looking for a good ‘value for money’ walk, this is it.

Along the way, you do encounter most of the top must-dos in Southwark, so let’s go through them now, starting with the London Eye.

39. See the London Eye

Standing at 135 meters tall, this giant observation wheel offers panoramic views of the city’s most iconic landmarks… but at a fairly costly price tag.

I’ll be honest, after so many visits to London I still haven’t been up there, and think there are many other great views in the city that cost way less. But hey, it’s iconic, so definitely worth at least seeing from the outside.

40. See the Tate Modern

As you continue your walk along the river, you’ll pass a bunch of other nice spots, including the National Theatre which has a nice terrace, the Southbank Book Market under Waterloo Bridge and of course the Tate Modern, home to an extensive collection of modern and contemporary artwork from around the world.

This massive museum is housed in a converted power station and is free to visit, but my top tip is to not miss the rooftop terrace at Level 10!

41. Ogle Millennium Bridge

This is one of the most unique and most photographed bridges along the Thames, thanks largely to its perfect position by St Paul’s, its unique steely design, and…… perhaps also its prominence as a Harry Potter filming location in London.

True to its name, the Millennium Bridge was officially opened in the year 2000, though the large volume of pedestrian traffic caused it to sway (yikes).

While the bridge did have to shut down shortly after, the problem has luckily now been rectified… and you are free to frolic across as you please, which I’d highly recommend since it’s just so ridiculously photogenic:

42. Take a tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

Book Tour | Included in the London Pass

Soon after you pass the Millennium Bridge, you’ll encounter Shakespeare’s famous Globe Theatre.

While today’s iteration of the Globe dates back only to the 90s, the care with which they’ve replicated the original is absolutely incredible. 

Of course, the best way to experience the famous Globe Theatre is by enjoying a show there, but if for some reason that’s not possible, fans of the Bard (or those forced to read him incessantly in high school) shouldn’t miss at least doing a tour.

And if you get lucky like me, you may even see some actors rehearsing on stage! 

43. Visit Borough Market (or Other Nice Food Markets in the Area)

If you head slightly south from here you’ll also find one of London’s most famous food markets, Borough Market, which is filled with food and produce vendors, with tons of enticing options for a slightly inflated price tag. The market is beautiful, and well worth seeing, but try to avoid peak meal times because it’s honestly not very enjoyable when it’s overcrowded.

Right by the market there’s also Southwark Cathedral, which is free to visit and has some unique features like its Great Screen and the ornate Altar Piece, as well as a monument and window dedicated to Shakespeare.

Now, if you’re looking for other food markets to explore, there are a few less touristy options in Southwark as well, including the Mercato Metropolitano, and the Maltby Street Market which is filled with unique food vendors on the weekend – both definitely worth checking out.

44. Marvel at iconic ships

Heading back and along the river, you’ll encounter a few more classic London attractions, like the Golden Hinde, an interactive replica of the galleon used by Francis Drake to circumnavigate the world in the 1500s, and the HMS Belfast a Royal Navy warship-turned-museum.

45. Check out London Bridge

Between the two is where you’ll find London Bridge, one of the city’s oldest river crossings and a historic landmark dating back to Roman times…

Those who know the bridge and assume it’s this incredible grand structure thanks to the famous nursery rhyme, I have some bad news – the real London Bridge (not Tower Bridge, which is often mistaken for London Bridge) is fairly plain and unremarkable.

… It’s also not even very historic, given that the current structure was only built in the late 60s and early 70s.

Nonetheless, you’ll pass by it on your walk so you might as well grab a quick photo!

46. Admire/Head up Tower Bridge

And finally, you’ll soon reach the bridge that everyone thinks is London Bridge, AKA Tower Bridge.

Officially opened in 1894, this iconic bridge is a must-see on most London itineraries, but many visitors don’t realize it’s actually possible to climb up and walk on its iconic walkways for unique views.

They even have a few sections with a glass floor so you can test your bravery and wave at the unknowing onlookers below. For that reason, I would not recommend wearing a dress or skirt here!

47. Visit the Imperial War Museum

Of course, it’s worth noting that there’s several other things to do in Southwark further south from the river, like the free Imperial War Museum, which features extensive collections of military artifacts, vehicles, and exhibitions.

48. Check out Leake Street

And if you’re looking for something a bit more alternative to do in Southwark, don’t miss the incredible 300m long Leake Street Tunnel underneath Waterloo Station, today a haven for graffiti artists and small restaurants/bars.

If you’re craving Polish food at all (which, let’s be honest, there’s nothing pierogi can’t fix) then I can highly recommend checking out Mamuśka here.

49. See the Tower of London

Now, we’re onto things to do in Tower Hamlets. While this is mostly a residential borough, there are still some pockets of sights that are interesting to tourists, including of course the Tower of London.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 11th century, this historic fortress has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury, with highlights like the Crown Jewels to ogle at, along with a bunch of cool things to see including the White Tower, which is home to an impressive armoury. If you’re a history buff, this is definitely a London must-see!

One of the very unique and cool experience here that I don’t hear people talk about though is the Ceremony of the Keys , a   secretive, centuries-old ceremony at the Tower of London where they lock up for the night… a ritual you can watch for only 5 GBP.

Though tickets can be hard to come by, so be sure to book on the 1st working day of the month at noon, for the next month, which is when tickets are released. 

50. See the Columbia Road Flower Market

North of here, you’ll find a classic Sunday tradition in East London – the Columbia Road Flower Market.

While realistically, most tourists don’t have reason to buy fresh flowers during their trip, this is one of the most beautiful markets in London, with gorgeous stalls crammed with fresh flowers and plants at affordable prices. 

If you have longer to spend, this might be a nice Sunday morning activity to consider, though be sure to come early to avoid the crowds!

51. Go to Spitalfields Market

Speaking of markets, a more sensical choice might be a visit to the vibrant Spitalfields Market, which dates back to the 17th century and today offers a diverse array of stalls selling fashion, crafts, and most importantly, food from around the world.

This is a great, though somewhat pricey place for lunch, and a nice jumping point for visiting other areas nearby, like the eclectic and lively Shoreditch.

52. Explore Shoreditch

While once known as a hipster paradise, it’s safe to say that Shoreditch is fairly mainstream these days, though it’s still a very fun neighbourhood that feels worlds away from the classic London landmarks in Westminster, with striking street art, fun markets, unique entertainment, and many, many cool bars.

While it’s not necessarily a sightseeing neighbourhood with attractions to tick off your list, it is a very fun place to spend an evening, so be sure to come by if you’re looking to experience another side of London.

Here are some ideas for things to do in and around Shoreditch:

• (Sunday only) Visit Shoreditch’s famous Brick Lane Sunday Upmarket
• (Weekends only) Explore the Truman Brewery Markets
• Seek out some of the area’s famous street art and murals
• Visit  Libreria , a unique bookstore where “they curate to maximize serendipity”, with books organized around themes and not genres, such as ‘Wanderlust’, ‘Enchantment for Disenchanted’ and ‘The City’ (Closed Mondays)
• Grab a bite and enjoy the vibes at Ely’s Yard, a service yard turned oasis for food trucks, shops, and bars

53. Explore Canary Wharf

If you’re into big city vibes, another interesting place to visit is the thriving financial district of Canary Wharf, home to sleek skyscrapers, bustling shopping malls, and waterfront promenades. 

While for a long time, this was considered mainly as a business zone with not much to see, they’ve put a lot of work into making Canary Wharf an appealing destination, with lots of options for restaurants and entertainment, including BBQ and hot tub boat rentals on the canal.

There are some sightseeing opportunities as well, like at the Crossrail Place Roof Garden as well as the free Museum of London Docklands which has some really interesting displays about the history of the Docklands area.

If you’re looking to explore a little farther away from the tourist center, this could be a fun option, though I wouldn’t necessarily go out of my way to come here on a first visit.

54. Go to the Camden Market

Now we’re onto things to do in the lively borough of Camden.

The first and most obvious is to visit Camden Market, one of London’s most iconic shopping destinations. Dating back to the 1970s, this sprawling market offers a diverse range of stalls selling everything from vintage clothing and handmade crafts to international street food and… robotic rave clothing?

Truth be told, these days the market is known for being fairly touristy and overpriced, but it’s still a neat spot in the city to check out, especially given its proximity to one of the nicest parks and views in the city, Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill. 

55. Visit Regent’s Park & Primrose Hill

Regent’s Park is one of London’s most beloved green spaces, with lush gardens, scenic walking paths, and of course, the famous London Zoo.

The main highlight for me though is Primrose Hill, where you get a gorgeous view of the skyline from afar, and when you visit early in the summer, Queen Mary’s Rose Garden, the largest rose garden in London, is a colourful delight. 

56. Sir John Soane Museum 

Another cool spot to visit in this borough is the Sir John Soane Museum, which is a very unique and free attraction left behind by  knight-architect Sir John Soane, who wanted his house to become a free space for the public to visit, under the condition that it remained untouched from the moment he died. 

So even today, it’s filled with his crazy collection of stuff as he left it 200 years ago. 

This is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in London, and less than 10 minutes away from one of my favourite recent finds, the very quirky Novelty Automation, which is home to several satirical home-made arcade machines that you can buy tokens to play. Hard to describe, but fantastically weird, and great if you’re looking for a more offbeat thing to do.

57. Hop on the MailRail at the Postal Museum

Speaking of offbeat, a museum just north of here is the London Postal Museum, an admittedly very nerdy attraction that is dedicated to – you guessed it, the history of British postal communication.

I know that doesn’t sound super thrilling, but a special highlight of your visit here is you get to hop on the Mail Rail, an immersive 15 minute ride through the original tunnels of the historic Mail Rail network, offering insights into the city’s Victorian-era postal service and the transportation of mail beneath the streets of London. I recognize that this is a super nerdy London activity, but I honestly had a great time.

58. Visit the British Museum (and Many Other Museums)

If you’re a different kind of nerdy, this neighbourhood is also home to a bunch of other museums, including the Charles Dickens Museum, Foundling Museum and of course, the British Museum.

This is considered by some these days to be a controversial attraction, so let’s get this out of the way: the British Museum is a fascinating museum filled to the brim with amazing artifacts from around the world…

But there’s no denying the obvious: many of these artifacts were stolen, and procured for the museum in questionable ways.

Still, it’s a unique museum with lots to see, and with free entry, it still remains one of the most popular things to do in London.

59. Explore King’s Cross

Speaking of popular, another part of Camden that’s all the rage these days is King’s Cross, of course best known for its train station where yes you can indeed get a cheesy photo opp of you jumping into Platform 9 3/4.

But there’s more to this neighbourhood now than just the train station!

There’s for instance the Coal’s Dropyard, a former industrial area that has been transformed into a vibrant retail and dining destination, as well as London’s prettiest floating bookshop, Word on the Water, which is moored along the Regent’s Canal. 

Housed within a charming 1920s Dutch barge, this quirky bookstore offers a cozy and atmospheric setting to browse books or, as I luckily did, get stranded during a thunderstorm!

60. Pose on Abbey Road

A must-do for Beatles fans, another interesting thing to do in Camden is a walk across the iconic zebra crossing pictured on the cover art for Beatles mega-album, Abbey Road.

NOTE: Be mindful that it is (really) just a regular crossing, so don’t disrupt traffic too much by taking a million photos. If you want a laugh, you can actually see a live web cam of the crossing here and there’s almost always people getting their photos taken.

61. Explore Hampstead

Finally, if you’re looking for a quieter day of exploration, venture northward towards leafy Hampstead, a charming village-like enclave nestled in the northwest of London. 

The picturesque streets here lined with elegant Georgian and Victorian homes, and there’s some beautiful spots to visit like the Hill Garden and Pergola, as well as Hampstead Heath and a few nice house museums like the Burgh House and Kenwood House.

Not far from here is also Highgate Cemetery where you’ll find the tomb of Karl Marx and many other notable historic figures.

62. Visit the V&A

Now let’s move west again to tackle some things to do in the famously well-to do borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

The first is a visit the Victoria & Albert Museum, also know as the V&A.

This is probably my favourite free museum in London. 

Founded in 1852, the V&A is the largest museum of applied arts, decorative arts and design in the entire world, with a permanent collection containing over two million objects.

Inside, you’ll find a stunning collection of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, fashion pieces and more… all housed in a gorgeous building, with an opulent cafe that makes the perfect place for a break.

63. Or visit many of the other nearby free museums

Nearby are also several other excellent free museums including the Science Museum, which is dedicated to the history of scientific advancements with over 15,000 objects on display.

And the strikingly beautiful Natural History Museum, which is dedicated to the diversity of life on Earth, as well as the processes and forces that shape our planet. 

I’d say these two options are definitely better with kids in tow but if you’re interested in the topics then they are amazing and comprehensive museums well worth checking out.

64. Stop by the Royal Albert Hall

In this area is another London icon, the legendary Royal Albert Hall.

The best way to experience this venue is of course by booking tickets to see a show but if the timing doesn’t align they do also offer paid tours as well which include access to special spaces not typically open to the public, including the separate entrance and lounge facilities used by the Royal Family.

65. Visit Kensington Palace

Thanks to its status as the current home of Prince William & Kate, Kensington Palace is a London attraction that dazzles with outstanding name recognition.

Unfortunately, as you can imagine, your £20 entry ticket here does not include a visit to their home… as they live on site at (understandably) private apartments. 

They often have cool exhibitions here which would make a visit worthwhile, but to be honest palace-wise, I think some of the others outside London like Hampton Court Palace offer a much better experience.

66. Admire one of London’s Prettiest Pubs

Now, a short walk away from here is one of the most beautiful pubs in London: the Churchill Arms, known for its facade which is decked in flowers in warmer months, and decked in trees for the holidays.

While admiring the outside is fun, the inside is actually really nice and cozy, plus there’s a great Thai restaurant hidden in the back!

67. Visit Holland Park

This gorgeous park is home to some very pretty Japanese gardens as well as a few museums surrounding it including the free Design Museum and Leighton House.

Definitely worth a look if you want a quieter, more relaxing thing to do in London!

68. Explore Notting Hill

Forever tourist central thanks to Instagram and the 90s rom com of the same name, charming Notting Hill is a picturesque piece of London known for its colourful houses, leafy squares and bustling markets, including the Portobello Road Market whose main day is Saturday.

I’ll admit, Notting Hill is one of the prettiest areas of London to explore, though definitely avoid weekends because it can get ridiculously busy.

Besides just capturing photos of the neighbourhood’s pretty streets like on Lancaster Road and St Luke’s Mews, on the culture front, there’s also the Museum of Brands which is a really cool museum if you’re an advertising and marketing nerd like me. 

With a vast collection of over 12,000 items, this unique museum chronicles the story and evolution of consumer culture through the lens of branding and packaging, dating back to the Victorian era. Definitely worth a look if you’re interested in branding.

69. Wander around Knightsbridge

And if you’re into shopping and the finer things, another neighbourhood to explore in this borough is Knightsbridge, with its most iconic spot being Harrods, one of the world’s most famous department stores. 

With over 300 departments and a massive food hall, this swanky department store is a haven for luxury shopping, though there are some architectural highlights too like the gorgeous Egyptian escalator.

70. Explore Chelsea

Just like Knightsbridge, this neighbourhood is known as one of the wealthiest in the city, with gorgeous streets to explore, beautiful restaurants and pubs to enjoy, plus a handful of tourist-friendly sights like the Saatachi Gallery, a bright and airy gallery with rotating art exhibits, and the Chelsea Physic Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in Britain.

Of course, one of the best ways to enjoy Chelsea is to just walk around and explore for yourself – there’s beautiful corners pretty much all over.

71. Scope out Battersea Power Station

And, right across the water over the Chelsea Bridge, you’ll find the newly reopened Battersea Power Station, one of London’s most recognizable landmarks and a symbol of the city’s industrial heritage. 

These days, it’s a shopping and dining destination, along with its own special viewpoint, Lift 109.

NOTE: If you don’t mind a detour, the London Peace Pagoda in Battersea Park is worth a look, and from here you can take the beautiful Albert Bridge across to Chelsea.

72. Explore Greenwich

Now, moving outside of central London, one must-do I  recommend for those with the time is to explore Greenwich.

With extensive maritime history, Greenwich was once home to a royal palace known as the Palace of Placentia and was actually where many of the most famous royals, the Tudors, were born… including both Henry VIII and Elizabeth I.

Today, it’s an idyllic wonderland of museums, monuments, and amazing views. You could easily spend a full day here (and discover why it’s one of my favourite boroughs in London to explore!)

Highlights include…

• The Old Royal Naval College and its pretty painted hall 
• The Royal Observatory, the home of Greenwich Mean Time where you can walk on the Prime Meridian and watch the red Time Ball drop at 1pm every day 
• the National Maritime Museum, the largest museum of its kind in the world full of ships, boats and educational displays
• Greenwich Market, filled with lots of great food stalls and shopping options
• Cutty Sark, the world’s last surviving tea clipper
• Queen’s House, a beautiful and free art gallery
• Greenwich Park, a massive park with great views up near the Observatory

BONUS: You can also hop on the Emirates Air Line cable car, which seems like a fun ride but honestly the areas on either side aren’t the most exciting, so I wouldn’t go out of my way just to ride it.

73. Go to a TV show taping

Another really fun thing to do in London if you have the time is to go to a TV show taping.

From popular game shows and talk shows to comedy panel shows and talent competitions, there are tons of free opportunities to be part of a studio audience in London – I’ve personally been to the Graham Norton Show twice and really enjoyed it, though it can a be a time consuming activity that’s not close to the main sights, so only do this if you have lots of time.

This website is a great resource for requesting tickets.

73. Take an epic day trip

Now, after this very long post I feel like you’d be surprised to hear that I’ve really just scratched the surface with what there is to do in London.

For those with more time, I can highly recommend taking a day trip further out, with tons of amazing options including…

• Kew Gardens: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most famous botanical gardens.
• Richmond: A charming riverside town nestled along the banks of the River Thames in southwest London – ideal for Ted Lasso fans
• Hampton Court Palace: The former royal residence of Henry VIII
• Hever Castle: The childhood home of Anne Boleyn that has been beautifully restored and maintained
• The Warner Bros Studio Tour: Where you can step into the real life sets used in all the Harry Potter films

Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in London?

Let me know in the comments so I can add more of the best London activities to the list. Happy and safe travels! 🙂

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

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best of London for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy London without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Unique things to do in London

Take a walk on the weird side in London at these out-there exhibitions, attractions and events

House of Dreams © Rob Greig

London is so stuffed full of world-class theatres , museums , attractions , music venues and parks that you’d have to live here for aeons before you’d be able to tick them all off your bucket list. A noble pursuit, for sure, what if you want to take a walk on this city's wilder side?

Venture down dank tunnels, marvel at medical oddities, or take to the canals in a cow-print canoe with our guide to London's unique things to do. There's a pretty much limitless array of ways to stretch your legs, brain and wallet in the city's more esoteric corners. Finally, something actually good to tell your work mates about on Monday morning.

RECOMMENDED:  101 things to do in London RECOMMENDED: Time Out Offers

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

The best unusual things to do in London

1.  do glow-in-the-dark drawing.

It looks more like a psytrance rave, but a  Neon Naked  life drawing session is actually an experiment in light, texture and movement. Expect models adorned in glorious neon accessories and body paint, throwing different poses for you to capture. Keen drawers – and there’s no experience necessary btw – are encouraged to experiment with different techniques, like line-drawing and pointillism using neon paint. Trippy. 

2.  Give yourself a scare

• 4 out of 5 stars
• Recommended

Ready for tales of murder, torture and other foul deeds? They're all brought to life on a tour of London’s horrible past in scary but seriously funny style. There's a  stonking variety of scenery, smells, rides and atmospheric lighting to make you feel like you’ve left the twenty-first century behind.

3.  Sleep over at the zoo

• Zoos and aquariums
• Regent’s Park

The appeal of a sleepover in (well, next to) the lion enclosure is obvious: it’ll be like living in the real-life ‘Jungle Book’.  Hire a lodge, enjoy private guided tours around and get exclusive access to animal enclosures after hours. A two-course dinner and buffet breakfast are included, so you won’t have to worry about your rumbling stomach waking up the neighbours. 

4.  Explore a little-known arty island

The stretch of the Thames between Putney and Hampton Court contains several strange surprises, one of which is a number of small islands dotted along the watercourse. One of the best-known (and biggest) of these is Eel Pie Island . First finding fame as the site of blues gigs in the ’60s, and then for its recording studio, it’s now got its own nature reserve and a collection of artists’ studios. Keep your eyes peeled for Eel Pie’s open days when you’ll get the chance to visit this privately owned Thames delight.

5.  Get your 1980s groove on at Little Nan’s

• Cocktail bars
• price 2 of 4

Welcome to full-throttle ’80s front-room fetishism, with cocktail menus hidden inside Charles ’n’ Diana memorabilia books, mocktails served in leopard-print mugs, soap stars in photo frames and cat-covered cushions galore. Little Nan’s Bar  was set up in honour of owner Tristan’s late grandmother, who made it to 104. Expect leopard print, china and Pat references aplenty.

6.  Discover a kitsch treasure trove

• East Dulwich

Down a perfectly normal-looking street in East Dulwich you'll find a perfectly not-normal-looking abode. Taking the concept of one man's trash being another man’s treasure, artist Stephen Wright is in the process of covering every available surface of this home in his kitschy mosaics. Everything here comes together in a magical hideaway that’s periodically open to the public, generally on the last Saturday of the month.

7.  Meet some highly unusual robots

• Things to do
• Games and hobbies

Want a divorce? Fancy a cheap holiday? Need to launder money or lose weight? All these things and many others can be achieved for the modest outlay of a pound (sometimes two) at the nutty slot machines of Novelty Automation in a small shabby space behind a Bloomsbury shopfront. Once displayed in Covent Garden’s Apple Market, these lovingly crafted moving sculptures are almost all the work of cartoonist Tim Hunkin. 

8.  Splash down white-water rapids

• Sport and fitness
• Waltham Cross

This London 2012 Olympic Games venue is open to the public for adrenaline-fuelled white-water rafting, canoeing and kayaking sessions – riding the rapids that challenged the world’s best makes for an action-packed experience. On the centre’s raft adventure, you’ll be high-siding, spinning and nose-dunking on the Olympic Standard Competition course before you know it.

9.  Take selfies at an OTT neon gallery

• Walthamstow

God’s Own Junkyard showcases neon artist Chris Bracey’s personal collection of work in a salvage yard in Walthamstow. It contains everything from his signage for Soho sex clubs in the ’60s to his work for the movie industry, including pieces that were used in ‘Captain America’, ‘Eyes Wide Shut’, ‘Byzantium’ and more. Once you’re done being dazzled, you can grab drinks and snacks at the yard’s Rolling Scones Cafe (lolz).

10.  Explore a riverside creek

• Walks and tours

Take a guided walk at low tide around Deptford Creek , one of the last natural creeks to survive in the UK. The post-industrial area is a haven for freshwater and saltwater plants and animals including birds and butterflies, and a huge range of wild flowers. Walks last two hours, cost £15, and booking is essential. 

11.  Have dinner on a vintage tube carriage

The Grade II-listed former Victorian waste water pumping station Walthamstow Pumphouse stopped sloshing around sewage a while ago and is now home to something far more palatable. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, it's home to Latin American supper clubs where you can feast on a six-course tasting menu in a vintage tube carriage. Dimmed lights, an atmospheric soundtrack, and dishes from Mexico to Patagonia set the tone for a memorable night on the rails.

12.  Visit a secret sewing machine museum

This tiny family-run Battersea museum is a neat-as-a-pin tribute to the sewing machine, which opens on the first Saturday of each month. It houses the collection of Ray Rushton, which includes a replica of his father's sewing machine shop, and 600 gleaming examples of his wares, dating from 1829 to 1950. Look out for the star exhibit: a machine which belonged to Queen Victoria's daughter.

13.  Experience eighteenth-century London life

• Historic buildings and sites
• Spitalfields

The ten rooms of this ornate Huguenot house have been decked out to recreate snapshots of life in Spitalfields between 1724 and 1914. A tour through the ‘still-life drama’, as American creator Dennis Severs put it, takes you through the cellar, kitchen, dining room, smoking room and upstairs to the bedrooms. Tours take place four days a week: opt for one of the silent candlelit visits on Friday nights for maximum historic atmosphere.

14.  Get lost in Sir John Soane’s Museum

When he wasn’t designing notable buildings (among them the original Bank of England), Sir John Soane (1753-1837) obsessively collected art, furniture and architectural ornamentation. In the nineteenth century, he turned his house into a museum to which, he said, ‘amateurs and students’ should have access. That’ll be us then. The result is this amazing place in central London , open Wednesday through Sunday, which is completely free to visit. 

15.  Paddle along London's canals in a canoe

Kayak down the Thames in a bovine boat as part of Moo's Canoes's watery sightseeing tours. A two- or three-person vessel decorated with a black-and-white cow print will be your mode of transport. There are several waterway routes you can pick from, including Hackney Wick or around Limehouse Basin, and some come with meal stops for hungry canoers. 

16.  Visit London’s weirdest museum

• Art and design

This tiny  Mare Street curiosity shop is both on the art circuit and determinedly off any beaten track. Peek through the windows of the Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities and you’ll see a world in which velvet-cloaked Victorians, or perhaps The Mighty Boosh, might reside. Entering the shop, which is also the spiritual home of the esoterically minded Last Tuesday Society, reveals a plethora of shells, skulls, taxidermy specimens and assorted oddities. 

17.  Fly through the air at a trapeze school

• Classes and workshops

Gorilla Circus's  flying trapeze school  sets up camp on the north-west side of Regent’s Park for the summer with expert acrobats teaching all sorts of fancy tricks on the highly strung bars.  Even beginners aim to be ‘caught’ by the hands of a (trustworthy) instructor by the end of a two-hour session. 

18.  Dine in the dark

• Clerkenwell

Are you a sucker for a pretty plate decked out with delicate herbs or dabs of coulis? Learn to focus on what really matters at Dans le Noir? , an Islington restaurant where you eat in complete darkness, putting all the focus on the taste, smell and texture of the food. Before being led into the pitch-black basement by the restaurant’s blind waiters, you select one of four colour-coded mystery menus. The best part? If you spill anything down your top, no one’s going to notice. 

19.  Get all coquettish at the Fan Museum

An entire museum dedicated to a coquettish cooling method ? We are a fan. This beautiful building is the world’s first museum dedicated to the history of handheld fans and the craft of fan-making. Housed in a pair of newly restored Georgian townhouses, it holds more than 3,000 specimens from all over the world, some dating back to the eleventh century. Entry costs just £5, and it's just on the edge of Greenwich Park for a picturesque stroll afterwards.

20.  Have cocktails in a public toilet

The proposition of a drink in a public loo has never been a very appealing one. That was until WC opened up inside an old toilet in Clapham. But don’t be put off your Martini: not only is it surprisingly beautiful, it’s – dare we say it – romantic. Spend a penny on a well-curated wine list and a selection of cheese and charcuterie. WC, geddit?

21.  Go back in time at a hidden Roman temple

There’s a wonderful world to discover below ground level, and we’re not talking about the tube. The Roman Temple of Mithras lay hidden for around 2,000 years before it was rediscovered in central London. Now, it’s preserved in a state-of-the-art museum, where visitors can ogle some of the exquisite artefacts that were left or lost by the very first Londoners. Look out for the ancient Oyster cards carved in marble… kidding.   

22.  Eat cheese from a conveyor belt

A few years back, The Cheese Bar made all our dreams come true when it opened a cheese conveyor belt restaurant in the West End, and we are forever thankful for it. It’s just as you hope it’ll be and more: an unending supply of quality, artisan cheese dishes gliding around a shared dining table. Plates start from around £3.95 – you’re in for gouda times. 

23.  Explore Euston’s lost tube tunnels

Know the Burger King at Euston like the back of your hand? Maybe it’s time to explore what lies beneath it with one of London Transport Museum's special tours. There is a labyrinth of dark passageways that have been concealed for more than 50 years – many of them with perfectly preserved mid-century design.  Book on to a tour and fall in love with these dank and grimy relics of old London. 

24.  Take in the sights at London’s longest graffiti wall

The dimly lit tunnels of  Leake Street  link the South Bank area to Lower Marsh, creating an edgy subterranean gallery of street art. Look closely and you might spot a Banksy. Or just soak up the atmosphere and get mildly, enjoyably high off the fug of aerosol fumes.  

25.  Check out this crazy collection of kidney stones

• Science and technology
• South Kensington

Imagine passing a kidney stone the size of a mango. Not only did it really happen, but the folks at the Science Museum got their hands on it to show in their Medicine gallery . The speckled display wall looks rather beautiful from afar. Then you get up close and realise it's made up of hundreds of urinary and gall   stones   which have been removed from the human body. Nice. 

26.  Learn to shuck oysters

Ah, oysters. The height of sophistication, right? Well, they were considered peasant food in London in ye olde days, served up on street corners as snacks. Today, they’re enjoying a renaissance thanks to a foodie boom and their fab sustainability credentials. With that in mind, there’s no need to be intimidated. Bentley’s Oyster Masterclass is one of the best in the biz: eat a load of oysters and master shucking for £75, which includes a glass of champers. That’s worth shelling out for. 

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Time Out Offers FAQ
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Offers
• Time Out Worldwide

49 Quirky And Unusual Things To Do In London – Unique London Activities

From afternoon tea with a twist, to solving mysterious crimes and playing captain for the day, this is the definitive guide to the unique, crazy and downright unusual things to do in London.

When it comes to putting together a list of amazing London activities, it’s hard to know where to start! I started brainstorming, and the list just got longer and longer. I kept thinking of random things I’d seen, places I’d visited and bizarre activities I’d tried my hand at.

There’s the time I navigated London’s canals on my own private boat, clambered over one of London’s most iconic buildings, channelled my inner Bond girl with a helicopter flight over London, oh and the day I cracked puzzles faster than Sherlock.

There are so many unique things to do in London – from checking out the incredible foodie gems at Borough Market, to flying through the air at trapeze school, to wandering the Burlington Arcade (England’s oldest and longest shopping arcade) and trying ice climbing, skiing and parkour. It also seems to be THE place for weird and wonderful immersive experiences like The Murder Express .

While you might come across a few of these activities dotted around the United Kingdom… or the rest of the world, I don’t think any other city offers this concentration of quirky activities.

London might be my home, but it’s also my playground. I travel for a living, but I spend more time each year in this city than anywhere else on the planet. So, let ME be your tour guide and share with you some of the amazing London activities on offer.

When Is The Best Time To Visit London?

England is a country obsessed with weather. Don’t know what to say? Comment on the weather! We talk about it a lot, but contrary to what you may have heard, we don’t have awful weather in England. It’s just a little unpredictable and varies from region to region.

You can expect average lows of around 5 °C in London in January / February, and highs around 25°C in July / August.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit London, I’d suggest planning a trip in May or June. The weather tends to be warm and sunny, rain is at a minimum and it’s out of peak season, so you shouldn’t be battling any big crowds either. The longest day is around 20th June every year, so it’s a time you can enjoy maximum daylight hours exploring!

I’ve never been a fan of November in England. It’s the wettest month of the year, and while December can be pretty cold, there’s a Christmas magic around the country which always puts a smile on my face!

Planning your trip to London? Here are a few quick highlights:

Fun, Quirky and Unusual Things To Do In London

Based in a certain area? Look for places near you on this handy map…  

See London’s Sights On An Afternoon Tea River Cruise

This has to be one of the best combinations of sightseeing and food around! Spend the afternoon on board a lovely river cruise in London while tucking into a quintessentially British afternoon tea. I’m talking mini triangular sandwiches with egg mayonnaise and cress, delicate strawberry tarts, micro Victoria sponges and even scones with clotted cream and jam!

This gorgeous experience begins right by the historic Tower of London and takes you past sights including the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge. There’s even an entertaining commentary that’ll give you a brief history as you cruise.

If you’re short on time in London but want to pack a lot in, this is a great experience to try. Although I’ll admit, I’m a Londoner and still absolutely loved it! It’s a great value treat. You can read my full review of this activity here .

Climb A London Icon

Climbing The O2 is definitely one of the most fun and unusual things to do in London! I’ve actually done this activity three times now as it’s one of my favourite quirky things to do in the city! There’s something so special about seeing the city from on top of the famous Millennium Dome.

The climb itself starts off a little challenging with a steep 28% incline, but after that it’s pretty easy. You’re clipped onto a safety system all the way. On my last climb there were people from teenagers right up to 80 year olds!

The entire experience, including the safety briefing, getting kitted out and the climb itself takes around an hour and a half. If you get a sunny day in London, the views are absolutely amazing too.

Slide Down A London Landmark

Looking for daredevil things to do in London? Over in Stratford’s Olympic Park is The ArcelorMittal Orbit – a 114m high sculpture and viewpoint. It’s a bizarre structure and definitely one of the more unusual London landmarks you’ll see in the city.

Once you’ve enjoyed the impressive views from the top, it’s time for an adrenaline-filled trip down! The Slide at the ArcelorMittal Orbit is the world’s tallest and longest tunnel slide. It twists and turns 12 times, takes around 40 seconds, and reaches speeds of around 15mph!

Solve Mysteries While You Drink Cocktails At The Grid

Escape rooms are all the rage right now, but The Grid is the perfect combo of cocktail making and escape room puzzles. Once you’ve registered at the ‘Neosight HQ’ you’ll be taken to the first room, where there are some complex puzzles to crack.

Thankfully, one of them involves mixing up a tasty cocktail (I think better after those!) Then it’s on to a second room filled with codes and puzzles, before celebrating with a bubbling concoction you create yourself. If you think this sounds fun, be sure to check out my guide to the Best Escape Rooms In London .

Hire A GoBoat And Explore London’s Canals

Be the captain of your own ship in London! Well sort of… Head to Paddington Basin and you can hire a GoBoat for an hour or two. The boats are self-drive and super easy to get the hang of. Then it’s time to explore Little Venice, Regents Park and even Camden as you venture along the Grand Union Canal.

I honestly think this is an amazing London activity! The boats seat up to eight people, and you can take you own food and drink on board, so it’s a great idea for a small gettogether or birthday activity in London.

Take A Refreshing Dip In London’s Ponds Or Lakes

When there’s a heatwave in London, everyone scrambles to Hampstead Ponds and The Serpentine in Hyde Park for a spot of al fresco swimming. It’s amazing to immerse yourself in nature, and one of those London bucket list activities. Plus it’s one of the cheapest things to do in London – win win!

Take To The Skies With A Helicopter Flight Over London

I did this a couple of years ago ( you can read my review here ) and loved it! It’s one of my favourite London activities on this list. After taking off from the heliport in Battersea, it’s time to take to the skies for a totally unique view of London.

You get so close to major landmarks like the Shard and Canary Wharf, you’ll feel like you can reach out and touch them! On the way back, spot the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus.

Have A Coffee In A Victorian Toilet

Definitely one of the most unusual places to visit in London – how do you fancy sipping your morning cappuccino in a former toilet, dating back to the 1890s? The Attendant is now a lovely café, serving great coffee, brunch and sweet treats, but if you want to eat in, you might find yourself sitting on one of the old porcelain urinals!

Enjoy One Of The Best Free Views Of London

I lived in Camden for several years and can honestly say, the view from the top of Primrose Hill is one of my favourite views of London. From up there you get an amazing panorama of the city skyline, with landmarks like Canary Wharf, The Gherkin The Shard and The London Eye all visible. Plus, you get the contrast of with the grassy hill and Regent’s Park ahead of you.

Top Tip: No plans for Bonfire night? Head up to the top of Primrose Hill and you’ll be treated to a free display as you watch the city skyline illuminated with beautiful fireworks.

Light Up Your World At God’s Own Junkyard

Walthamstow’s surprising and brightly-lit den is one of the coolest places to go for a coffee in London! Inside are hundreds of neon signs, so think of it as a light museum, but with a sense of humour (I love the Sex, Drugs and Bacon Rolls sign!!) It’s free to enter, open Fri-Sun, and while Walthamstow might feel like a bit of a trek, it’s worth it!

Challenge Yourself At The Official Sherlock Live Experience

You don’t need to be a fan of Sherlock to enjoy hi-tech escape game, Sherlock The Game Is Now. Along with seriously impressive sets, you can live out your dreams of life at 221B Baker Street, while enjoying a few video cameos from the stars of the show.

The interactive experience involves playing detective as you solve a case using mental challenges and puzzles. We escaped in 55 minutes, and ended the night with a celebratory cocktail in the Mind Palace Bar. If you think this sounds fun, be sure to check out my guide to the Best Escape Rooms In London .

Enjoy Brunch On A Colourful Canal Boat

Around the back of Paddington Station are Darcie & May Green – two colourfully decorated canal boats designed by British pop artist, Sir Peter Blake. Specialising in Aussie brunches (totally amazing!!) it’s a great spot for catching up with friends, sipping on cocktails or enjoying a strong coffee after a stroll along the canal.  I’d recommend their bottomless brunch too – available at weekends it’s a great option if you fancy a boozy weekend!

Drink While You Play  

Oh quirky quirky London. London’s competitive sports / drinking scene is growing fast! First came Bounce – a ping pong themed bar. But these days there are so many other fun London activities to add into the mix. There’s Flight Club – a fun group of bars where you play interactive games involving darts.

There’s The London Shuffle Club for fans of shuffleboard. There’s Puttshack, Shepherd’s Bush ‘s high-tech crazy golf experience. Basically, lots of fun activities for adults (who are still big kids at heart!) I heard one of the next experiences set to be reinvented for a younger crowd is bingo. Watch this space!

Go White Water Rafting In London

Another quirky London activity for you, yes, you can actually go white water rafting! Well technically this is Hertfordshire, but it’s close enough. Lee Valley White Water Centre is home to the London 2012 Olympic course, plus there’s a lake where you can take things a little easier.

If you’re looking for a great activity for a stag do in London, this would be one of my top picks – it has it all: adventure, adrenaline, teamwork and fun. Along with rafting, you can also take on the rapids kayaking, hydrospeeding (where you hold onto a small board), tubing or enjoy stand up paddleboarding, canoeing and open water swimming in the lake area.

Teamwork Makes The Dream Work At The Crystal Maze Live Experience

I grew up watching this TV show in the 90s, and can’t believe there’s now a live experience in London. I haven’t been yet but several friends have recommended it. Once inside your funky boiler suit uniform, you’ll play games to test your skill and agility and win those all-important crystals, before heading to the dome to collect money against the clock!

Try Some Of London’s Most Incredible Insta-Worthy Desserts

London’s best desserts right now include insane chocolate bar encrusted freakshakes, ice cream served with its very own cloud of candy floss, bubble waffles stuffed with cream, and colourful ice cream macaroons. I challenge you to eat your way through my guide to the best London desserts , and report back on your favourites! Oh and if you’re heading stateside anytime soon, you could compare the offerings in London with New York’s Desserts .

Kayak Or Paddleboard On The Thames

See London from a unique perspective as you get out on the water in a kayak or on a paddleboard. There are quite a few companies offering tours and trips, so take a look at the routes. I’ve always liked the look of Secret Adventures ‘ kayak tours, which go from Battersea to Greenwich. For SUP, check out Active 360 who have options in Richmond and Kew. 

Go On A Harry Potter Walking Tour

Looking for a magical way to spend a day in London? Walk in the footsteps of your favourite wizards, find out which house you belong in, then wander London’s Diagon Alley (Leadenhall Market), see the outside of The Leaky Cauldron, and snap a pic on Platform 9 ¾. There are plenty more exciting stops along the way too, and a special quiz to test your Harry Potter knowledge!

Try A Futuristic Gaming Experience

If you’ve grown up loving gaming or arcades, it’s time to whizz you into the 21st Century. Electric Gamebox uses projection mapping, touch screens, motion tracking, and surround sound to create a truly immersive gaming experience. Once you arrive you’ll be given a visor with a tracker on the top. When you step inside the game room, your location in the room will relate to your position on the screen.

We played the alien aptitude test which had four different games in it. My favourite was a Pacman-style game which involved moving around the space to collect points in a short amount of time. This is a great test of co-ordination and agility… it’s also really good fun!

Explore London’s Ghost Stations

These spooky, abandoned stations are definitely among the most unusual places to visit in London. Hidden beneath London are several tube stations which are no longer in use. Along with seeing the abandoned platforms and tunnels at stations like Aldwych, you’ll hear stories of their use during the Blitz and more recently as film locations for the Bond films and Sherlock.

The ghost station tours are just a few of the interesting tours run by the London Transport as part of Hidden London . When I last looked, I saw they also had some thought-provoking architecture and history tours.

Stay In London Zoo

Ever wondered what it would be like to have a sleepover at the Zoo? Nope, don’t worry – you’re not being put in an enclosure! The ZSL London Zoo Lodges are luxury lodges hidden away in the heart of Land of the Lions. If you book to stay you’ll enjoy after-hours tours, a two-course dinner and entry to the zoo. If you’ve always dreamed of waking up to the sounds of elephants, parrots and lions, then this unique London experience is for you!

Help Tackle Food Waste Problems (And Bag A Cheap Deal)

If you’re visiting London on a budget, download the app Too Good To Go . It’s helping tackle the food wastage problems among London’s restaurants, cafes and hotels. Each day the app lists local establishments offering discounted food, just before they close. I used it recently and bagged £12 of delicious sushi for just £3.50!

Sing Your Way Around London On A West End Musicals Tour

Luvvies listen up! This weekend tour takes you past London’s top theatres, but rather than just listening to a tour guide, on this trip you wear silent disco style headphones. You’ll listen to show tunes as you pass the theatres, and literally sing and dance your way around the West End! The tour guide will give you some fascinating facts and anecdotes along the way too. 

Visit The House Of Dreams

Artist Stephen Wright has spent years transforming his home and garden into a magical space packed full of unique and colourful creations. There are intriguing mosaics made from old crockery, a garden archway featuring dolls’ heads and plenty of fascinating items indoors too. It’s located in East Dulwich (South London), and only open once a month, so check Stephen’s website and book a slot if you’re interested in seeing the space for yourself.  

Imagine You’re On The Great British Bake Off

The Big London Bake in Tooting is the closest you’ll come to feeling like you’re cooking for Paul Hollywood! With a bake off style tent, a challenging creative yet technical challenge, it’s a seriously fun afternoon activity in London. The tent can hold ten teams of two, but only one team can win… so it’s perfect for a birthday or team building day! 

When I visited we made dome cloud cakes – something I’d never seen before, let alone baked! We made flavoured sponge cakes, fruity jams, an aerated Italian meringue dome and then decorated in our own unique style, all in just one hour and twenty minutes. We rushed to finish, and really felt the pressure at the end, still attaching fondant decorations in the last seconds. We went for a tropical flavour and look and thankfully received some great comments from the judge! 

Start Your Day With A Rave

If you’re the sort of person who likes to jump out of bed at the weekend, then this is for you! Morning Gloryville started in 2013 and has been a huge success. The raves run from 6.30am to 10.30am and feature DJs, great tunes, visuals and food and drink – basically everything you need to start your day. Brightly coloured rave costumes are encouraged!

Tour London’s Street Art Scene Then Create Your Own Masterpiece

Shoreditch is covered in gritty, urban street art, and the best way to get to grips with it is on a tour. While there are plenty of street art tours of London, this one takes things to the next level.

Yep, after checking out street art and graffiti by the likes of Banksy, ROA, Shepherd Fairy, Jimmy C and Invader, you head to a workshop to try your hand at creating your own masterpiece. How’s that for a unique thing to do in London?

Go Ice Climbing In London

Fancy trying an extreme activity? At Vertical Chill you can give ice climbing a go – an exhilarating and challenging activity, which I tried on a frozen waterfall in Canada ! Once you’ve been kitted out with all the necessary equipment, including ice picks, crampons and a harness, it’s time to start your frosty vertical climb. 

Singalong To Your Favourite Musical Films

Moments from Leicester Square, The Prince Charles Cinema is famous for hosting singalong movie experiences. From the Sound of Music and Grease, to Mamma Mia, Moulin rouge and The Greatest Showman, it’s great fun belting out the hits while you enjoy your favourite film on the big screen. Check out the quote-alongs too. When I last checked they were advertising a Mean Girls quote-along!

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth On A London Chocolate Tour

Mmmm, how does a day of tasting London’s best chocolate sound? DELICIOUS! On this three-hour tour you’ll learn all about the history of chocolate, how it’s made and obviously, TRY LOTS! The tour is based in the Mayfair area, and stops by some great artisan chocolatiers, where you’ll try everything from ganache to Marmite truffles (you’ll either love them or you’ll hate them!)

Go For Drinks In A Ball Pit

Going for cocktails at Ballie Ballerson   is one of the most unusual things to do in London. It’s an adult ball pit bar – yep, you read that correctly! With a long list of cocktails, a dance floor, VIP section and several ball pits, you’ll be snapping pics quicker than you can upload to Instagram!

Parkour Your Way Across London

We’ve all heard of parkour, and no doubt seen pulse-raising videos of daredevils running off high ledges before jumping between two skyscrapers and landing with a smooth forward roll. It looks like a crazy activity, but now you can learn the skills for parkour in London. The classes at Parkour Generations include strength, acrobatics, flexibility, and of course some outdoor practice too.

Catch Some Zzzzzs In A Capsule

Welcome to the UK’s first capsule hostel at St Christopher’s Inn Village. Straight from Tokyo to my home city, and while these rooms might not be to everyone’s taste, it’s certainly a unique London experience!

The Japanese-style capsules are hi-tech, with USB ports, ventilation and mood lighting. Prices start around £25 per night, which is a bargain considering how central this is.

Fly Through The Air At Trapeze School

Ever fancied yourself as a circus performer? Or just want to try something new? At Gorilla Circus Flying Trapeze School in Regent’s Park and Kensington Gardens you’ll learn the basic skills before progressing to the high trapeze for a unique flying lesson. Try a one-off class or book a series and perfect your technique.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea With A Twist

Going for afternoon tea in London is one of the most quintessential British experiences, but rather than munching your way through some dry cucumber sandwiches and boring scones, try one of these quirky afternoon teas:

• Chemistry meets gastronomy at the Ampersand Hotel’s science afternoon tea
• Tour the London sights on an afternoon tea bus 
• Enjoy a little magic with Aqua Shard’s Mary Poppins afternoon tea
• Channel your inner health goddess with Farmacy’s plant based high tea
• Feast on a carrot cake Shard, white chocolate Gherkin and a lemon curd Big Ben at the Town House Kensington’s London landmarks afternoon tea
• Indulge your sweet tooth with the Chesterfield Mayfair’s sweet shop afternoon tea
• Treat your pup with The Egerton House Hotel’s doggy afternoon tea (complete with pawsecco!)

Neon Naked Life Drawing

If you’re looking for one of the most unique activities in London (and a great London date night idea )… errr, I think this might be it! At Neon Naked Life Drawing classes, the models are decorated with neon paint, and clutching a few neon props.

The UV lights illuminate them, then the artists create their masterpieces using brightly-coloured neon pastels and paints. If the street art workshop wasn’t appealing to your artistic side, perhaps this will.

Take An Alternative Bike Tour Around London’s Secret Spots

One of London’s top-rated bike tours, this tour brings some of London’s weird and wonderful tales to life. Cycling around the City and East End, you’ll explore hidden gems, see surprising landmarks and learn some gritty secrets about London. Highlights include learning the gory tales of Jack The Ripper, passing some real life Harry Potter spots, and cycling over Tower Bridge.

Dine In A London Prison

Did you know you can go for breakfast, lunch or dinner at HMP Brixton? What a quirky London activity this is! Inside the prison is The Clink Restaurant , where meals are cooked and served by inmates working towards gaining cooking qualifications.

The restaurant itself is located in the historic Old Governor’s House and the food gets great reviews. It’s amazing that there’s an opportunity to help those working towards a new life, and the latest stats have revealed that people following this course were less likely to reoffend. In order to visit, you’ll need to book 72 hours in advance, and go through security checks on arrival.

Stay In A Prison Cell

After dining at The Clink in Brixton, how about staying overnight at Clink78 Hostel in King’s Cross? Ok so it might sound like a creepy thing to do in London, but bear with me.

The building used to be a courthouse, and the building retains a few elements from its former use. You can sleep in n old prison cell or take a seat on one of the old courtroom pews in the TV area. It’s the perfect way to finish a prison-themed day in London, if that’s what you’re in to!

Visit An Old Curiosity Shop 

It’s hard to explain what The Last Tuesday Society in Hackney is. It’s kind of a shop mixed with a gallery and museum, and houses all sorts of weird and wonderful items. It was set up by eccentric Viktor Wynd, who created the old-fashioned ‘curiosity shop’ as a bit of a joke in 2009.

The East London haunt is still going strong, and receives plenty of visitors each week, who want to look at everything from taxidermy and erotic toys to totally pointless inventions. There’s also a bar, plus you can take the madness to new levels with one of the tours run by character actors.

Belt Out Bohemian Rhapsody On A Queen Walking Tour Of London

Queen fans listen up – this Queen tour takes you on a walk down Freddie Mercury’s memory lane. After checking out some of the band’s concert venues, you’ll head to the studio, where ‘Who Wants to Live Forever’ was recorded. Plus, you’ll see Freddie’s former house and the iconic pub where Freddie met Brian and Roger. The stories are fascinating and there are plenty of details which only the biggest Queen fans will know.

Feast On London’s Best Indian Food

Brick Lane is famous for its curry houses, but even though I’ve eaten there lots of times, I never know which is the best place to visit. I’ve heard this Indian food tour is amazing .

Over three hours you’ll visit several different restaurants, sampling everything from tasty pakoras and sizzling chicken tikka, to fluffy naans and sweet gulaab jamuns. It’s a great intro to Indian food in London, and a chance to taste the best of the best.

Flyboard In Docklands

Flyboarding has to be one of the most unusual things to do in London right now! It’s something I’ve seen in countless beach destinations from Miami to Thailand, but never in my home city. During the 30-minute session , you’ll learn how to taxi, levitate and turn the flyboard. After that, it’s up to you to practice your tricks (and try not to sample that Thames water!)

Learn The Gory Tales Of Jack The Ripper

A tour all about a serial killer might sound like a pretty unusual thing to do in London, but I went on a Jack The Ripper tour when a friend was visiting from Oz, and can genuinely say it’s one of the best London tours I’ve been on! Turn back the clock to Victorian times and take a spooky walk around East London, listening to stories of Jack The Ripper’s many murders. See the spots where alleged attacks happened, and learn all about the conspiracies surrounding his identity. You might end the tour with more questions than answers, but that’s the beauty of an intriguing tour like this.

Stay On London’s Most Stylish Floating Hotel

This chic floating hotel (or boatel) is moored at Royal Victoria Dock. Forget tiny cabins, on Sunborn Yacht Hotel you’ll enjoy large rooms with river views.

For the ultimate in relaxation, you can take a trip to the onboard spa or relax with a gourmet dinner in the restaurant. This has to be one of the most unique places to stay in London.

Go Skiing In London

So I’ve already covered white water rafting, paddle boarding, ice climbing and kayaking in London, but did you know you can also ski in London? Chel-Ski claims to be London’s largest indoor ski centre (or only!)

There’s a small slope which acts like a big treadmill so you can practice your skills, whether you’re a skier or a snowboarder. After your time on the slopes, it’s time for the après-ski, with St Moritz Alpine Bar serving up fondues, raclettes and other cheesy goodness, to make you feel like you’re truly in the mountains.

Drink In An Abandoned London Underground Station… Kinda! 

Popular cocktail bar Cahoots has a 1940s theme, and as your venture down to its location beneath Kingly Court, you’ll definitely feel like you’ve gone back in time. With retro music, creative décor (which includes part of an old tube carriage and station), and a menu of nostalgic cocktails, this is one of the most unusual bars in London.

Hit The Beach At Ruislip Lido

This is my most recent discovery. A few weekends ago I went to Ruislip Lido for the first time and was AMAZED at the fact there’s a sandy beach right here in London! Ok so it’s a little way out of the centre, but on a sunny day it’s the place to be. Kids will love playing on the sand, getting wet in the splash play area and taking a ride on the old railway that weaves its way around the lido to the car park. There’s a cafe too, and plenty of space to relax and enjoy a picnic in the sunshine.

I hope my guide to the most unusual things to do in London has given you inspiration for a weird and wonderful day in the capital! I’ll be continuing to add to the list, so let me know if you have any suggestions. 

Looking for other great things to do in London? Don’t miss my guide to the best Escape Games In London , find out my favourite Unique Restaurants In London , my guide to  11 Quirky Hotels In London , and my top 5 fun London date night ideas ! 

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later…

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

2 thoughts on “49 Quirky And Unusual Things To Do In London – Unique London Activities”

The Crystal Maze brings back memories. A commando roll that I did in one of the rooms featured on the ads for the television show on Channel 4 (series five, I think).

Your Quirky things to do in London is incredible. Years of fun and entertainment if you tried everything.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• United Kingdom

101 Fun Things To Do in London – The Ultimate Bucket List

• 57 Pinterest

One of the world’s most enviable and vibrant cities — London is a melting pot of food, culture, art, and entertainment; a beacon of history and European sport, and a bucket-list destination for nine out of ten travelers. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture vulture, an architecture buff, or a partygoing pubcrawler, the diverse English capital has everything you’d want in a city and more.

With world-class museums, theme parks, West End theaters , glamorous royal palaces, quirky street art, and more bars and restaurants than any traveler could count, the list of things to do in London is as long as the Tube itself.

From the sprawling Hyde Park to centuries-old Westminster Abbey, there’s no shortage of iconic landmarks to visit in London. But the city is also constantly evolving, with new neighborhoods and attractions popping up all the time – think hipster Shoreditch or the famed markets of Camden Town.

Hungry travelers, meanwhile, will be in heaven with London’s incredible culinary scene, which runs the gamut from Michelin-starred dining to traditional pubs serving up a perfect pint of English ale.

Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fiftieth, our insider’s guide to London has everything you need to know – from the city’s best hotels and restaurants to the top attractions and insider tips.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip!

1 – Start your trip at the world-famous London Eye

For a view that encapsulates the entire essence of this metropolis, there’s no better spot than atop the infamous London Eye — one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world that reaches dizzying heights of 135 meters!

One trip around takes about 30 minutes, and lines can get long, so tourists are advised to book tickets in advance.

Romantics, take note; there are also special proposal packages available for those looking to pop the question.

You’ll find the iconic London Eye smack-bang in the middle of the South Bank, just across the River Thames from Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and right next door to the SEA LIFE Centre London Aquarium, making it an easy addition to any day of riverside sightseeing.

• London Eye tickets deals

Learn how to book cheap London Eye tickets .

2 – Battle dementors at Warner Bros.’ Studios

Whether you’re a Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, or a Slytherin, spending the day exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of the most sought-after things to do in London. A crowd favorite for voyaging families, this is the ultimate Harry Potter experience.

At Warner Bros. Studios, you can come face-to-face with some of the magical creatures from the films, step inside Hogwarts Castle, and explore iconic sets like Diagon Alley and Platform 9 ¾. And for those looking to add a touch of magic to their vacation, there’s also a studio tour where you can learn about the filmmaking process from start to finish.

Visitors can see first-hand the recreated sets of the Great Hall, The Forbidden Forest, and Diagon Alley; there’s also a wonderful collection of props from the movies, including the sorting hat and the original costumes.

Keep an eye out for festive events around Halloween and Christmas, and, for something a little more unique, consider the optional afternoon tea add-on, where indulgent sweets, treats, fresh pastries, and a pop of champagne will make you feel like you’re dining in the Great Hall itself.

• Harry Potter Studio tickets

Sold out? Learn more about last-minute Harry Potter Studio tickets .

3 – Witness the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

This world-famous castle boasts quite the decadent history, serving as a prison, royal palace, armory, and public record office over the years; now, of course, it’s home to the illustrious Crown Jewels.

The ‘Yeomen Warders’ or ‘Beefeaters’, as they popularly go by, are situated outside the Tower itself, with lucky tourists able to see the changing of the guard every two hours.

An enchanting selection of exhibitions and displays await inside, but the most famous attraction is undoubtedly the Crown Jewels. These include some of the world’s largest diamonds, sapphires, and rubies (including the Black Prince’s Ruby), as well as the Coronation Regalia – all fit (as the name suggests) for a king or queen.

You can purchase an audio guide with your ticket – an affordable addition that helps it brings the story of the Tower (which has housed the jewels since the 1600s) to life.

• Tower of London tickets & tours

Read more about Tower of London tickets price .

4 – Wander the aisles of Westminster Abbey

Constantly finding itself slapped on postcards and Instagram posts, Westminster Abbey is one of London’s oldest buildings, dating back over a millennia to 960AD.

As the spot where royals have been crowned since 1066, and the final resting place for over 17 monarchs, it’s a history buff’s delight.

And while the history of this World Heritage Site is fascinating, its architecture is even more so. The Gothic-style building is a true work of art, with intricate details and lavish stained glass windows at every turn.

Even if you’re not religious, it’s worth visiting for the royal church’s awe-inspiring architecture alone – just don’t forget to take plenty of photos.

For something quintessentially London, opt for the Abbey-hosted afternoon tea.

• Westminster Abbey tickets & tours

5 – Listen to the bells ring at St Paul’s Cathedral

A short stroll from the modern Millenium Bridges on the River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral has long stood as one of London’s most iconic buildings.

The magnificent structure, which took 35 years to build, was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th century and is considered one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Britain.

With up to 1.5 million people visiting this historic cathedral every year, St Paul’s is one of the most important places for worship and prayer not only in London, but the whole UK.

The architecture is one-of-a-kind (highlighted by one of the biggest domes in the world, towering a staggering 366 ft high), while the stained glass windows are intricate and beautiful.

Experience the beauty of the cathedral for yourself by opting for a tour that includes access to the famous Whispering Gallery, or simply enjoy the views of London from the Golden Gallery (528 steps from the cathedral floor – so wear comfy shoes!).

• St Paul’s Cathedral tickets & tours

Sponsored placement

Explore London’s secret sights with a CityDays treasure hunt

An immersive treasure hunt through the streets of London. Solve location-based clues that lead you to secret locations, fantastic pub/cafe stops and get you smiling from ear to ear! Similar to an escape room, but outdoors!

Favourite haunts of Dickens, ancient Roman ruins, medieval London’s criminal underbelly, trendy modern markets and more, CityDays turn highlights and hidden secrets into puzzle-filled urban playgrounds full of things to see, facts to be thrilled by and fascinating stories to explore.

Compete in teams to top the leaderboard or take your time soaking in all the wonderful places you explore. Perfect for friends, families, colleagues, visitors and locals!

Available every day, sign-up and play within 5 minutes of booking. Corporate team days available .

Pssst…! Fancy 10% off your tickets?

TourScanner readers use the code LDN-TOURSCANNER for a cheeky little discount.

• London Treasure Hunts

6 – Eat dinner in the clouds at The Shard

One of London’s more modern attractions, the 95-story-tall, all-glass Shard wields the title as the tallest building in all of Europe (excluding Russia), at a whopping 310 meters tall — a height guaranteeing that visitors get the best views in all of London!

With a total of six mouth-watering restaurants and bars on offer (Aqua Shard, Oblix, Hutong, Bar 31, TĪNG, and GŎNG), it’s the ideal spot to transition from sparkling sunset to dinner delight with a glass of bubbly in hand.

You’ll find the observation deck on the 68th-72nd floors, with the open-air outdoor viewing gallery on the 72nd floor being the highest open-air observation deck in Western Europe.

If you’re feeling extra fancy, book a window table at one of the restaurants and enjoy picture-perfect panoramic views of London for up to 40 miles on a clear day as you dine. With floor-to-ceiling glass windows, Aqua Shard is considered the prime eatery, while Cantonese restaurant Hutong promises excellent food to match the views.

• The Shard tickets deals

Read more:  Romantic things to do in London for couples

7 – Take a stroll through the Kew Gardens

Get ready to be immersed in all the different diverse habitats that the UK has to offer!

Remarkably, these lush ecosystems are actually large-scale art installations that were created by Vaughn Bell — with some of the crowd favorites being walk-throughs of meadows, moorlands, coastal cliffs, and more.

A formidable destination to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the world’s largest collection of living plants, with no less than 16,900 unique plant species across its sprawling grounds.

The best time to explore these beautiful gardens is in springtime, when tens of thousands of blooming tulips paint the grounds in myriad colors. However, there’s something to see year-round, with constant events and workshops (check the website in advance to see what’s on during your visit).

Even though it’s a little out of the city center, it’s easily reached by hopping on the Tube’s District line.

• Kew Gardens tickets

Read more about Kew Gardens tickets price .

8 – Feel the fright of the London Dungeon

Who’s ready for a spine-tingling adventure?

At the famous London Dungeon, brave guests can go back in time and learn all about the city’s bone-chilling history; experience what London was like all the way back in Victorian times; and discover the famous, unsavory characters that once walked the streets through a humorous take on a macabre past.

Heavily interactive, the London Dungeon is made up of 19 different shows and rides, all of which are designed to leave you feeling scared out of your wits.

With a mixture of nearly two-dozen live actors, special effects, and stage show performances, this is the perfect activity for anyone who loves all things spooky — just don’t be surprised if the live actors, unique props, and special effects cause you to jump out of your skin a few times.

• London Dungeon tickets

9 – Check out at the luxurious Kensington Palace

A symbol of opulence, Kensington Palace has a rich history and is just one of many residences owned by the royal family.

Today, it’s where you can see an array of regal apartments that have been opened to the public — with each one providing an insight into a different period in Kensington Palace’s storied past.

You can explore beautiful State Apartments that were once home to some of the most famous monarchs in British history – rooms that were homes to kings and queens of old, and rooms in which Prince Harry and Prince William were raised. As you walk through these lavishly decorated halls, it’s easy to imagine what life was like for the royals – including Queen Victoria – who called Kensington Palace home.

In addition to the stunning State Apartments, don’t miss out on seeing the beautiful Sunken Garden, which is one of the largest private gardens in London and is home to a stunning collection of blooming wildflowers alongside the ever-popular Cradle Walk (a nature tunnel that makes for a wonderful photo-op).

• Kensington Palace tickets & tours

10 – Walk through the stands on a Stadium tour

In what is arguably the most football-obsessed city in the world, there’s no better place to walk in the shoes of legends than here, home of the EPL.

No matter where your allegiances lie, the opportunity to go behind the scenes and discover the locker rooms, the press room, and the player’s tunnel is an experience that all football (or soccer, depending on where you’re from!) fans will love.

Led by expert guides, you can join an insightful tour of Stamford Bridge (home to Chelsea FC), Arsenal Stadium , Wembley Stadium , or Tottenham Hotspur Stadium , to name the most famous ones.

Of course, while a stadium tour is a must, nothing beats the roar and electric atmosphere of being in the stands for a live match.

11 – Educate yourself about British democracy at the Houses of Parliament

A stone’s throw from Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament is a must for any tourists visiting Central London , eager to learn more about the nation’s political history (and simultaneously admire brilliant architecture).

Walk the halls where Winston Churchill and Henry VIII once led; check out the Commons Chamber and the Lords Chamber, learn the ins and outs of the British empire, and enjoy a spot of afternoon tea in the stunning 900-year-old Palace of Westminster.

Tours typically last around 90 minutes (unless combined with another nearby activity), diving into the intriguing history of the Houses of Parliament, and are led by expert guides whose knowledge extends far beyond the basics.

Just beware that photography isn’t allowed.

• Houses of Parliament tickets & tours

12 – Pay a visit to the one and only Buckingham Palace!

Known near and far, Buckingham Palace is the most famous and most visited attraction in all of London — home to the reigning monarch of the U.K, the elegant palace attracts over 50,000 tourists every day!

Designed by John Nash, the spectacular palace has been enlarged and altered numerous times since its construction in 1703, and now spans over 39 acres with 775 rooms, the largest private garden in London, and no less than 52 royal and guest bedrooms – all decked out in pure elegance, of course.

Eager visitors can either opt to stay outside and catch the changing of the guards in action (which takes place every day at 11:30 am), or buy a ticket to go inside and explore the lavish State Rooms, gardens, and the Queen’s Gallery which are open to the public.

If that’s not enough to scratch your royal itch, several tours are available of The Royal Mews too.

• Buckingham Palace tickets & tours

Sold out? Learn how to book Buckingham Palace last-minute tickets .

13 – Marvel at the Tower Bridge

As postcard-worthy as they come, Tower Bridge is one of the most beloved and most iconic landmarks in all of London.

The bridge, which crosses the River Thames (and is often wrongly dubbed “London Bridge”), was built between 1886 and 1894 and stands tall as a true feat of Victorian engineering

Considered to be one of the most photographed bridges in the world, it’s undoubtedly one of the essential things to see in London. Rather than just walking across it, a popular, new activity is the upper level’s glass walkway, where tourists can find some of the best river views in the area.

A plethora of Tower Bridge tours are available – take your pick from walking tours, boat cruises, or private excursions – all providing in-depth information about the construction of the bridge as well as panoramic views from the top.

• Tower Bridge tickets & tours

14 – Revel in luxury fit for royalty at Hampton Court Palace

Often overlooked in favor of places like Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace, Hampton Court Palace is a magnificent royal residence located in the borough of Richmond upon Thames, in southwest London.

The palace has quite the eventful history, having been built in 1515 for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey (a man who was once second in power to King Henry VIII), before eventually becoming one of the main residences of King Henry VIII and his six wives.

Nowadays, Hampton Court Palace is open to the public and boasts over 60 acres of beautiful gardens (home to 6 acres worth of Baroque-style buildings), as well as a handful of stunningly preserved rooms inside the palace itself.

While fascinating rooms and details are hidden behind every corner, the popular highlights include the awe-inspiring Great Hall (with its spectacular hammerbeam roof) where Shakespeare once hosted shows for the king, the opulent State Apartments, and the kitchens.

• Hampton Court tickets & tours

15 – See where the magic happened at Shakespeare’s Globe

Literary fans, take note: Shakespeare’s Globe is a faithful reconstruction of the iconic Globe Theatre where the one and only William Shakespeare himself once staged his plays.

The original theatre was built in 1599 and was used for performances until it was destroyed by fire in 1613 – today’s version, which stands just 750 feet from the original site, was built in 1997 and is an exact replica of the Globe Theatre, right down to the smallest details.

With a leisurely tour, guests can see how the open-air theatre was constructed and catch a reenactment of one of Shakespeare’s many famous plays.

And, thanks to its convenient location on the bank of the River Thames, not too far from the Tate Modern, it’s easily worked into any typical tourist itinerary.

• Shakespeare’s Globe tours

16 – Get your adrenaline fix on the O2 Climb

Having hosted A-listers for decades, with names like Tina Turner, Robbie Williams, Swedish House Mafia, Christina Aguilera, the Rolling Stones, and Andrea Bocelli gracing its stage, not to mention UFC fights, tennis tournaments, comedy shows, and even Cirque du Soleil, The O2 roster is full of headline talent.

So, as you can tell, the 20,000-seat O2 arena is definitely one of the more well-known entertainment venues in the nation.

But did you know that you can actually climb to the top of this massive complex? Besides its array of shows, the modern entertainment Mecca is now open to adventurous tourists! Climbers are outfitted with a harness and given a briefing before beginning their ascent up 52 vertical meters of steel staircase, burning some 450 calories along the way.

Once at the top, climbers are rewarded with unbeatable 360-degree views of Greater London – on a clear day, you can even see as far as Windsor Castle!

The climb takes about 90 minutes, with bungee jumping available for the more daring guests. So whether you visit for a rock concert, a sporting event, or a unique outdoor adventure, this Greenwich venue is a must-add to the bucket list.

• O2 Climb tickets

17 – Keep your eyes peeled on a Jack the Ripper tour

Sublime architecture and royal associations aside, London is also home to a more sinister side, a side synonymous with the name Jack the Ripper.

The infamous serial killer who terrorized the East End of London in 1888 has never been caught – making him all the more intriguing – and his gruesome crimes have been cemented in British folklore ever since.

For an immersive experience on the streets of London, these eerie tours transport visitors back to the late 19th century when the infamous and mysterious criminal tore his way through the town.

Follow in his footsteps to the locations of where his victims were found; learn all about the heinous crimes and weapons, and delve into the mystery surrounding each one.

While not recommended for youngsters, this spine-tingling tour is perfect for any horror fan or history buff looking to add a little excitement to their London itinerary.

• Jack the Ripper tours

18 – Hop on the Knight Bus for a Harry Potter locations tour

Calling all budding purebloods, mudbloods, and muggles alike!

Led by a witch or wizard prefect (your tour guide), a Harry Potter locations tour takes fans behind the scenes, exploring a handful of real London-based places that are featured in the iconic and beloved franchise.

Step onto platform 9¾ at King’s Cross station; wander Shaftesbury Avenue (visited by the gang in The Deathly Hallows Part One); meander through Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square (in which the Death Eaters attack Harry, Hermione, and Ron), head right into the Ministry of Magic (including the red phone booth muggle entrance), and check out Diagon Alley, The Leaky Cauldron, Downing Street, and much more.

Take your pick from the handful of walking, bus, or private cab tours on offer, some of which also include a stop at the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studios – located in Leavesden, a short drive outside of London proper.

No matter how you experience the magic, a Harry Potter experience in quintessential London for superfans.

• Harry Potter film locations tours

Read more about the best Harry Potter places to visit in London .

19 – Check off all the main attractions on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour

Short on time or just want to tick off the big guns?

London’s double-decker buses are not just a means of transport – they’re also one of the most popular ways to sightsee in the city (so long as you jump on the right one, of course)!

A great way to see all the main London attractions in a whisker of what it would take on foot (or by Tube), a hop-on-hop-off bus tour is perfect for those who want to make the most of their time in the city.

There are plenty of different companies offering similar services, with varying routes covering all the major landmarks – each with its own quirks and added extras (hello, free river cruise!).

While there are different options tourists have to choose from, the original visits over 80 landmarks, stopping at places like Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, and much more.

Choose your stops wisely and you could be hitting up sights like Westminster Abbey, The Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Kensington Palace all in one day – not bad going!

Plus, with onboard audio guides to wax all about the history, architecture, and culture as you zip by, you might even learn something new along the way.

• see prices & reviews

Check out our complete guide about London hop-on hop-off bus tours and discover the best bus tours in London

20 – Put on your detective hat for a Sherlock Holmes tour

Forget about Harry Potter for a minute – the most iconic detective in British literature calls London home (or, at least, he did in the books).

One of the more unique things to do in London, a Sherlock Holmes tour is the perfect activity for any budding sleuths or super fans of Arthur Conan Doyle’s novels.

After starting at the spot where Holmes and Watson first meet, patrons will stop at gentlemen’s clubs and grand hotels, and venture down foggy alleyways, in search of the fictional detective’s haunts.

You’ll even get to visit the very real Scotland Yard – London’s police headquarters – which served as the inspiration for Conan Doyle’s stories (and, of course, countless others since).

Depending on your preference and budget, take your pick from a walking tour, bus tour, or black cab tour – either way, you’re guaranteed a fun-filled day of mystery and intrigue.

• Sherlock Holmes tours

Fuel your curiosity at the McLaren Technology Centre

Go behind the scenes at McLaren Technology Centre and discover the illustrious 60-year history of one of the most successful F1 teams.

Some of the world’s most innovative and fastest cars are born at this state-of-the-art facility in the town of Woking just outside central London. Under the guidance of an expert, gain insight into the top-secret assembly lines that make these amazing machines.

Experience the captivating story of McLaren’s championship wins with anecdotes from legends such as Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna and Lewis Hamilton. Admire authentic race memorabilia, legendary F1 cars and stylish McLaren team jerseys.

This rare, immersive experience is sure to thrill both motor enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.

• see price & reviews

21 – Climb aboard the Cutty Sark ship

Calling all seafarers, sailors, and general adventure-seekers!

Make your way down to Greenwich to hop on board an oceanic icon, and learn about what life was like on this legendary ship. First built in 1869, the historical Cutty Sark ship’s purpose was for the China tea trade — and at the time, it was renowned near and far for being the fastest ship ever built.

A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grade I listed vessel welcomes visitors onboard to explore its three decks, learn about its sea-faring history from the on-site guides, and get a feel for what life was like on board all those years ago.

Besides the globe-trotting voyages history lesson, you can also admire the panoramic views from the bow – a great backdrop for any enviable social media post.

• Cutty Sark tickets

22 – Plan a stop at Greenwich’s Royal Observatory

Ask any local and they’ll yell it from the rooftops: one of the best things to see in London is the Royal Observatory in Greenwich.

Perched atop a hill in Greenwich Park, this world-famous landmark is the home of London’s Planetarium, dates all the way back to the 19th century, and is the significant geographical point of Longitude 0.

Not only is it home to the Prime Meridian line (the imaginary line that divides the globe into east and west), but it also offers incredible views over the city – making it one of the best spots for snapping that all-important London photo.

Far more than just a metaphorical line in the sand, the Royal Observatory is an educational beacon, dishing up all kinds of exhibitions, galleries, and workshops on the vastness of space, the stars in our Milky Way, and astronomy in general.

• Royal Observatory Greenwich tickets

23 – Pop into the National Maritime Museum

A beloved spot to while away an hour or two on a rainy day (and in London, you’ll find no shortage of these), The National Maritime Museum is home to over 2000 years of British history and sells itself as a must-see for those who want to learn more about the nation’s seaborne antics.

Throughout the sprawling museum, you’ll uncover more than 2 million maritime-themed objects, from paintings and maps to historic figureheads, ship models, and navigational instruments. When you’re ready to refuel, The Parkside Café boasts wonderful expansive views over the lush Greenwich Royal Park – a solid spot for a coffee or tea – while the on-site gift shop showcases a handful of unique maritime souvenirs, from books and maps to model boats and family-friendly games.

If you consider yourself a savvy traveler, it’s best to purchase the Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass — it grants access to all temporary exhibits as well as access to the Queen’s House (home of the royal art collection).

24 – Get a little spooked on a ghost tour

So long as you’ve got nerves of steel, ghost tour guests will get to venture into haunted houses, paranormal parks, and the array of other sinister sites that dot this melting pot of a city.

With a range of options available including walking tours, boat tours, and even a ghost bus tour (each one with its own unique stops and tales), there’s a spook suitable for everyone.

And while each adventure differs slightly, you can expect to venture to the edge of your comfort zone as you listen to tales of famous London murders, executions, and other grizzly goings-on from centuries past.

Common haunts include the Clink Prison Museum, the abandoned train lines at The Parkland Walk Spriggan, the Old Operating Theatre Museum, and The Ten Bells pub (formerly known as the Jack the Ripper pub… you’ll soon find out why).

• London ghost tours

25 – Get into the wizarding world at The Cauldron London

Welcome to The Cauldron London, where you can finally live out your childhood dreams of being a wizard, without actually having to study at Hogwarts!

Experience a magical world of science and technology at The Cauldron London with their immersive class, Potion Making. With a working magic wand, you can cast spells and interact with the space around you, receiving a welcome drink from a magical creature!

Immerse yourself in a mixology class, brewing drinkable elixirs that change color, bubble, and smoke! Perfect for birthdays, team-building events, and fantasy-themed celebrations, this is an unforgettable experience where magic and science intermingle.

Book your event now and let the magic (and the drinks) flow!

• See price & reviews

Step into a Century of Magic with Disney100!

Put on those mouse ears and start your magical journey with the Disney100: Exhibition in London! Immerse yourself in a century of Disney stories, from the classic Snow White to the recent Encanto. Marvel at rare artifacts, costumes, and treasures from Pixar Studios and the iconic Star Wars films among others.

• See price and reviews

26 – Race against the clock in an Escape Room

Are you good at cracking clues? Fancy yourself somewhat of a Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot in the making? Then muster up all the wit, teamwork, and outside-of-the-box thinking; grab your closest friends or family; and book an Escape Room challenge.

A relatively new concept that’s taken the world by storm, an Escape Room is essentially a physical adventure game in which players are locked in a room (or series of rooms) and have to use elements within the space to solve a series of puzzles, find clues, and – you guessed it – space before the clock runs out!

With everything from zombie-themed escape rooms to outdoor James Bond adventures and even a VR escape challenge that fuses classic code-cracking with modern technology, there’s no shortage of options to choose from.

• Escape Rooms in London

Read more: Best indoor activities in London when it rains

27 – Take a day trip to iconic Stonehenge!

Just under two hours west of London, this iconic, prehistoric stone circle is one of the most mysterious yet frequented tourist sites in England, and scientists still don’t understand how it’s stood the test of time.

Standing in the middle of a vast green field in Wiltshire, this enigmatic UNESCO site is believed to have been constructed sometime between 3000 and 2000 BCE, though the exact purpose of the monument (beyond its religious significance, of course) remains unknown.

If you’re not renting your own car (or just don’t want to drive), the best way to get there from London is by tour bus, which will whisk you out of the city and straight to the 5,000-year-old site.

On the way, you’ll learn about the history and construction of Stonehenge from your knowledgeable tour guide while enjoying some picturesque English countryside scenery – and, depending on your tour, a spot of lunch.

For a truly unforgettable day out, consider booking one of the adventures that also visit Bath , Lacock , and Salisbury – three of England’s most charming medieval towns.

Read more about Stonehenge tours from London .

28 – Admire ancient architecture in the city of Bath

Located about 90 minutes west of London by train, the city of Bath is most famous for its Roman-built baths, which are still in use today.

But it’s not just the baths that make this English city so special – there’s also a wealth of well-preserved Georgian architecture lining its streets, as well as medieval buildings such as the magnificent Bath Abbey.

A popular day trip from London, Bath is also home to a number of museums and art galleries, as well as the Jane Austen Centre, which celebrates the life and work of one of England’s most beloved authors.

If you’re feeling active, you can even hike up to the top of Bath’s hilltop Sham Castle for some stunning views of the region.

Despite tours being the premier option, you can also take the train from London Paddington to Bath Spa for about 12 pounds.

• Bath tours from London

29 – Visit the Queen’s weekend getaway on a Windsor Castle day trip

Officially the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle has been a royal home and fortress for British monarchs for almost 1,000 years.

Located just outside of London in the town of Windsor (about an hour away by train), this imposing structure is one of the Queen’s official residences (she spends most weekends here) and is also where many royal ceremonies and events are held throughout the year.

At nearly 1000 acres, straddling the banks of the River Thames, the Castle’s gardens and seemingly endless; and as you’d expect, the pristine staterooms are richly decorated, and the architecture is nothing short of sublime.

Art-lovers, take note; Windsor Castle also boasts a range of priceless works by the likes of Rembrandt and Da Vinci – many of which are viewable on guided walking tours of the royal apartments.

Tours of Windsor Castle typically include round-trip transportation from London, making it a convenient day trip option.

Read more about Windsor Castle tickets price .

30 – Embark on a Latin American food journey aboard an old tube carriage

This is a fusion of culture and history unlike any other. Dine on a six-course meal inspired by Latin American cuisine, all aboard a decommissioned tube carriage in central London.

The supperclub.tube experience brings the flavors and traditions of Latin America to your plate, served up in an untouched 1967 carriage. This tube once operated on the Victoria line, the world’s first automatic underground railway.

Three nights a week, the carriage is transformed with music and lighting into an ambient restaurant. Since it first opened in 2018, the supperclub.tube has welcomed over 5,000 diners.

Feasting on delicacies such as Sopa de Mote and Cachete de Res, you’ll gain a new appreciation for multiple countries in one evening.

Laugh like a little kid inside Bubble Planet

Bubble Planet is an immersive virtual reality journey that invites guests to cut loose and laugh like never before. Find yourself playing with bubbles, as you walk deeper into the different rooms, to find yourself surrounded by changing different landscapes, while you fly on a bubble, or splash around in a giant tub of bubbles!

31 – See the world’s oldest university: Oxford

Historians, literary lovers, and Harry Potter fanatics will all find something to love in Oxford – a medieval university city located about an hour away from London by train.

As the home of the English-speaking world’s oldest university (which just so happens to be one of the most prestigious on the planet), it’s no surprise that Oxford is dripping with history and culture.

With centuries of stories to tell, Oxford’s stunning sights are a dime a dozen: from the 12-million-book Bodleian Library, to the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, and the Bridge of Sighs (officially called Hertford Bridge) – a popular photo spot that was used as a filming location in the Harry Potter movies. You might also recognize the elongated Christ Church College hall as Hogwarts’ Great Hall – just one of several Harry Potter film locations in Oxford.

Blenheim Palace is also nearby – the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and a locale certainly worth adding to the itinerary.

And if all that wasn’t enough, the city is also home to a number of incredible museums, including the Museum of Natural History, and the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology.

To make the most of your time, consider joining a walking tour that covers all of Oxford’s highlights (and some hidden gems too). Tours typically last around 2 to 3 hours, and many include round-trip transportation from the big smoke of London.

• Oxford tours from London

Read more about fun things to do in Oxford .

32 – Spend the day at Cambridge

Continuing on the theme of university towns, another can’t-miss day trip option from London is Cambridgeshire – home to the University of Cambridge, one of the world’s most prestigious institutions of higher education.

Like Oxford, Cambridge is oozing with history and culture, and is unsurprisingly home to a number of impressive sights.

But you don’t have to be a student to wander the campus; simply join a guided tour to learn about the 13th-century university’s rich history, see the senate-house, and walk through the stunning botanical gardens.

A handful of extra highlights include the beautiful Kings College Chapel (one of the largest in the world which took over a century to build), the Fitzwilliam Museum (boasting an impressive collection of paintings, manuscripts, and sculptures), and punting down the River Cam (a quintessentially British activity – England’s version of the gondolas in Venice).

• Cambridge tours from London

Read more about fun things to do in Cambridge .

33 – Stare in awe at the foreboding Warwick Castle

Get lost in the grandeur of Warwick Castle, a fortress that was built all the way back in 1068!

With a rich and bloody history that began with William the Conqueror, the castle has been through a lot over the centuries, but remains one of England’s most popular tourist attractions to this day – still in terrific condition.

And it’s not hard to see why: as you explore its towering walls and grandiose halls, it’s easy to feel like you’ve been transported back in time.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the dungeon, try your hand at archery, or meet one of the resident birds of prey at The Falconer’s Quest.

Wear comfortable shoes — after walking through the Great Hall, State Rooms, Kingmaker, and the original Gaol, there are over 64 acres worth of stunning gardens to explore!

• Warwick Castle tickets & tours

34 – Learn all about Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon

If you consider yourself somewhat of a bookworm or literature enthusiast, this is easily one of the best things to do in London (well, outside of London, technically).

Get inspired to write a sonnet like William Shakespeare by visiting the quaint town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the very place where the great playwright was born! As the city’s main drawcard you can expect any tour to pop into the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage (read: Shakespeare’s wife, not the actress.)

Old mate William aside, this small market town boasts over 800 years of history and offers plenty of sights and restaurants. Start your day of walkabout on Henley Street before meandering down the River Avon. With family-friendly attractions like Magic Alley, The MAD Museum, the Bancroft Gardens, and the Butterfly Farm, there really is something for everyone.

Stratford-upon-Avon is located around 100 miles northwest of London, but there are plenty of day tours that include round-trip transportation from the city.

• Stratford-upon-Avon tours

35 – Go to the beautiful White Cliffs of Dover

Towering above the ocean at a dizzying height of 350 feet, the aptly-named White Cliffs of Dover are a wonder to behold.

This chalk cliff face runs for an impressive eight miles along the English coastline and has been a symbol of hope and freedom for centuries. The cliffs have been used as a defensive point since Roman times, having continuously helped the English fight off seaborne invasion attempts, and you can still see the remains of the 11th century Dover Castle, which was once the largest castle in England.

Far from the only landmark in the area, Dover – and the region of Kent, more generally – is also home to the famous Canterbury Tales and Canterbury Cathedral, Leeds Castle , and the breathtaking Hever Castle, so why not combine them all and make a day of it.

• White Cliffs of Dover tours

Sip and paint in the dark at this unique workshop!

This retro-futuristic experience combines the thrill of painting with a fluorescent twist, offering a brush in one hand and a choice of drink in the other. The musical backdrop adds to the atmosphere, making it a perfect outing for friends. By the end of the night, not only will you have had an unforgettable experience, but you’ll also leave with a personal masterpiece to proudly display at home.

36 – Set sail on a charming Thames sightseeing cruise!

Arguably the world’s most famous river (the Hudson and the Seine might have something to say about that though), the Thames stretches all the way from the Cotswolds in rural England to the bustling metropolis of London.

And what better way to see it than on a leisurely cruise? You’ll get first-hand views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament, as well as getting a different perspective of more modern sights like the O2 Arena and Canary Wharf.

Whether you want to take a traditional sightseeing cruise, enjoy a spot of afternoon tea on the river, or see the city light up after dark both starboard and port-side on a nighttime cruise, there’s sure to be a Thames cruise that’s perfect for you!

Chill on the open-air deck and snap a few selfies at sunset, or sit back and relax undercover on one of many dinner-inclusive evening cruises. Some cruises also offer smartphone-based audio guides, allowing passengers to hear all about the places they’re gliding past, while others include live music, wine tastings, or even London-themed quiz nights!

• boat tours in London

Hot tip: The best London Thames River cruises are a must-do for visitors and locals alike, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.

37 – Hold on tight for a wild speedboat ride!

If slow and steady isn’t what you’re looking for in a holiday, then a hair-raising speedboat tour is the way to go!

While you powerslide across the River Thames through the heart of the city, water splashing in every direction and the wind firmly flying through your hair, you’ll also be blessed with unobstructed views of riverside sights like the London Eye, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, and O2 Arena and you zoom your way toward Embankment Pier.

With multiple companies offering this unique way to see the city – lasting anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour – there’s bound to be a tour that suits you and your budget. Just make sure to hold on tight!

• speedboat tours in London

38 – Discover lovely London on two wheels!

Forget about the slow busses getting stuck in traffic or the sore feet from a day’s worth of walking – instead, get off the beaten track and explore London on two wheels with a guided bike tour!

From leisurely rides through Hyde Park to more energetic jaunts past Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, or food tours or pub crawls, you’re sure to find a two-wheeled adventure that’s up your alley.

Besides hitting up the main attractions, the in-the-know local guides will make sure you tip up a handful of hidden attractions too, away from the obnoxious crowds and overwhelming foot traffic. With some tours lasting up to 4 hours, be sure to bring a bottle of water!

On sunny days, it’s a fantastic way to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time and, best of all, you don’t even have to be particularly sporty or fit to join in – most tours will give you the option to ride an electric bike if you’re not feeling confident.

• bike tours in London

39 – Soar over the sky on a helicopter tour

If you thought the views from the London Eye or the Shard’s viewing deck were special, you’ve got another thing coming — a helicopter tour gives tourists the chance to see London from a new, incredible perspective!

As you take to the skies, escorted by a friendly pilot who’ll happily wax lyrical about all the sights you’re seeing, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of some of the city’s most beloved landmarks.

With no shortage of photo opportunities on the 10, 20, or 30-minute flights – from aerial shots of Big Ben to the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge – your social media feed is guaranteed to light up.

• helicopter tours in London

40 – Have a blast at the ArcelorMittal Orbit

Built for the 2012 Olympic Games, this foreboding observation tower in Stratford has quickly become one of London’s most popular tourist attractions, thanks to its dizzying heights and sweeping views of the cityscape.

Towering at over 114.5 meters tall, this place dishes up spectacular views of London — and all its iconic monuments: the Shard, the Gherkin, Big Ben, the BT Tower, and Canary Wharf — from its rooftop observatory, made all the more fun by the world’s tallest and longest tunnel slide that twists and turns all the way to the ground.

If you consider yourself an adrenaline junkie, abseiling is offered too.

You’ll find this thrillseeker paradise inside Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, within arm’s reach of London Stadium (the home of West Ham United FC) and a slew of tranquil locks and waterside walkways.

Discover brick wonders at this LEGO exhibition

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of The Art of the Brick, the world-famous LEGO exhibition. The show features millions of LEGO bricks turned into more than 100 awe-inspiring masterpieces! Experience LEGO T-Rex, musical instruments and even Van Gogh’s Starry Night on an unforgettable creative journey.

41 – Immerse yourself in British culture at the British Museum

One for the culture vultures, the British Museum is an awe-inspiring attraction that should be at the top of any rainy day London itinerary.

Housing over 8 million ancient artifacts and historical curiosities from across the globe, spanning two million years of history, it’s one of the largest museums in the world and covers an impressive array of topics, from Roman Britain and Egyptian mummies to the history of the UK, Ancient Greece, and a range of contemporary exhibitions both permanent and rotating (so no two visits are the same).

No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something that piques your curiosity. And the best part? It’s completely free to enter!

Looking for something a little more insightful? Consider joining a private tour to make the most of your visit.

• British Museum tours

42 – Snap selfies with celebrities at Madame Tussauds London

Always wanted to meet Beyonce? Consider yourself a bit of a Taylor Swift or David Beckham fan?

With over 250 wax figures (good enough to fool all of your friends), Madame Tussauds is always a fun day out — it’s been a tourist favorite ever since it opened in London over 200 years ago.

But it’s not just about wax figures: beyond the pop stars, sporting icons, and royal family, there are a number of interactive experiences on offer too, from the Marvel Universe 4D Experience (where you can team up with Spider-Man and co to save the day) to the new Spirit of London black cab ride, which whisks visitors through 400 years of London history in just a few short minutes.

• Madame Tussauds tickets

43 – Plan a visit to the National Gallery

Calling all art-lovers! if you’re looking for the best museums in London then the National Gallery, home to over 2,300 priceless paintings, is an absolute must!

With an astonishing collection spanning the Impressionist era to the Renaissance era, and everything in between, it’s easy for hours to fly within these walls.

You’ll discover names like da Vinci, Rembrandt, and van Gogh, as well as a range of contemporary pieces from both international and British artists – over 2,600 diverse paintings on show all up.

Several temporary exhibitions rotate through the calendar, and you’ll also find an onsite restaurant and cafe for when you need to refuel. For the ultimate experience, definitely consider booking one of the private tour guides.

• National Gallery tickets & tours

44 – Spend the morning at the National History Museum!

Since it opened all the way back in the 19th century, the highly-esteemed National History Museum has been entertaining locals and tourists alike with its array of fascinating exhibits.

Gaze in awe at the huge dinosaur remains, learn about glistening gemstones on display, see the volcanic casts of people from Pompeii, and much more!

With some eight million exhibits across four zones, seeing everything is a near-impossible feat – instead, consider an expert-led highlights package that ticks off essential displays like Guy the gorilla, Hans Sloane’s nautilus shell, the Great auk, and the Barbary lion skull, to name but a few.

• Natural History Museum tours

45 – Be captivated by new art at the Tate Modern

Chock-full of thought-provoking artwork from the likes of Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Claude Monet (and that’s just scraping the surface), Tate Modern is one of the best contemporary art museums in all of Europe.

Rotating exhibitions cover a wide range of mediums – from painting and sculpture to photography and installation – making it impossible to get bored here.

And, what’s more, entry to the museum proper is free! You will, however, need to purchase tickets for special exhibitions.

You’ll find this contemporary art powerhouse on the banks of the River Thames, just across the Millennium Bridge from St Paul’s Cathedral, and a short walk from Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

• Tate Modern tours

Journey into the past with Stranger Things: The First Shadow

“Stranger Things: The First Shadow” playing at the Phoenix Theatre brings the untold tale of Hawkins to life. Written by Kate Trefry and based on an original story by the Duffer Brothers, this gripping West End play reveals the origins of characters like Joyce, Hopper, and Henry Creel before their world turned upside down. Performed in the heart of London’s West End, the play is a masterpiece of theatrical storytelling, offering a unique prequel experience for fans of the iconic series.

46 – Join a food tour!

Because who doesn’t love food, right? Especially in what is undeniably one of the world’s greatest cultural melting pots.

On a local foodie adventure, guests are shown through Borough Market, East End, London Bridge, and plenty more stops along the way.

Expect to sample some bakery delights, a classic market stall curry, fish and chips at a local pub, and some delicious cider or beer (or three) to wash it all down.

You’ll find a variety of different tours available to book, each with their own unique spin – take your pick from bike tours, wine and cheese tastings, market adventures, your classic walking tour, or hidden gem wanders through hipsters locales like Shoreditch, Soho, Camden or East End.

Not only is it a tantalizing way to eat some delicious grub, but you’ll also uncover hidden corners of the city you may not have otherwise found.

• food tours in London

Hot tip: Experience the best food tours in London , where you can explore historic markets like Borough Market and sample a variety of gourmet delicacies.

47 – Sit front row at a musical

Move over, Broadway! In the UK, it’s all about West End – London’s beating heart of live theater and musicals, centered around the ever-lively Leicester Square.

From classics like Phantom of the Opera , The Lion King , Mamma Mia , Matilda , Wicked , and Les Miserables , to newer shows like Hamilton, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child , and Frozen The Musical , there’s a performance to suit every taste.

Admittedly, while tickets can be expensive, it’s definitely worth splurging on at least one show while in the city – after all, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! And with countless bars and restaurants around, it makes for the ideal date night.

Hot tip: You can often find last-minute tickets at a fraction of the cost if you’re willing to be spontaneous, or alternatively, try your luck with one of the popular lotteries held for each show. Of course, to avoid disappointment, lock in tickets well in advance.

• shows & concerts in London

Read more about the best shows and musicals in West End, London .

48 – Discover the marine life at the SEA LIFE Aquarium

A delight for travelers of all ages, SEA LIFE is home to one of the largest collections of marine life in all of Europe (with over 500 different species calling this coveted attraction home).

Spread across five different zones, the aquarium takes you on an underwater journey from the shores of England all the way to the depths of the Pacific Ocean, with a variety of mammals, fish, reptiles, and amphibians to marvel at along the way.

Particularly popular among younger travelers are the hands-on experiences, where kids can touch starfish and stingrays; likewise the educational staff talks and the always-interest live feedings.

Watch penguins play and try not to shiver as sharks swim beneath your feet — it’s an experience no visitor will forget!

• SEA Life London Aquarium tickets

49 – Enter the world of animation on a DreamWorks Shrek’s Adventure tour

A magical journey to Far Far Away awaits on this walkthrough experience, based on the ever-popular DreamWorks movie franchise. A hilarious adventure, the DreamWorks tour takes guests through 10 fairytale-themed live shows where you as the audience become part of the live-action.

Suitable for travelers of all ages (though perhaps most enjoyed by the kids at heart who grew up with Shrek and the gang), this immersive attraction not only puts you in the middle of the action, but lets you meet all your favorite characters from the movies – Fiona, Donkey, Prince Charming, Puss in Boots, and of course the grumpy but lovable Shrek himself.

• Shrek’s adventure tickets

Explore the dreamlike world of Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition

Immerse yourself in “Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition”, a visual feast inspired by Wes Anderson’s iconic filmography. This Instagram hit and best-selling book comes to life as a photography exhibition, featuring unique global settings with surreal symmetry and enchanting hues. Highlights include captivating photographs, explorations of diverse themes and intriguing stories behind each location.

50 – Take the kids to LEGOLAND Windsor

A short train ride away from London’s Paddington station, LEGOLAND Windsor Resort is a must-see for any traveler with young kids in tow (though big kids will enjoy it just as much).

As the name suggests, this attraction is based entirely on the popular toy building blocks, with over 55 rides and attractions to keep the kiddos entertained all day long.

There are themed lands to explore, such as LEGO Ninjago World, The Magical Forest Lego Reef, and Duplo Valley; live shows to watch; and an array of colorful LEGO sculptures to marvel at. Plus, if you time your visit right you can even meet some of the iconic LEGO characters.

Arguably the highlight of the entire park, Miniland is up of over 42 million LEGO® bricks and showcases some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, from Big Ben and Tower Bridge to the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pyramids of Giza.

The beloved theme park is sprawled across over 150 acres, so wear your walking shoes, arrive early, and (if you like) book a skip-the-line ticket for a hassle-free day out.

• LEGOLAND Windsor tickets

Read more: Best things to do in London with teens

51 – Let the youngsters play make-believe at Kidzania

If you’re looking for things to see in London for kids aged 4 to 14., Kidzania should sit at the top of the list! A family favorite, this indoor City offers youngsters the opportunity to role-play over 60 different careers, from being a doctor, pilot, or police officer to trying their hand at journalism, firefighting, DJing, or acting.

A unique concept with its own fake currency, Kidzania is essentially a miniature city where kids can learn about various professions while also having stacks of fun along the way. With plenty of interactive games and activities, it’s the perfect combination of education and entertainment.

Plus, with The Grown Ups Garden Shed (with books and board games) and a cafe on-site, there’s plenty to keep the parents entertained while the kids are busy exploring.

• Kidzania London tickets

52 – Be surrounded by wild animals at the London Zoo

Spread across 15 hectares of land, the famous London Zoo boasts a wide selection of animals of all shapes and sizes, hailing from all over the world!

At what’s considered one of the premier and oldest zoos in England (opening its doors way back in 1828), guests can get up close and personal with gorillas, lions, reptiles, penguins, beautiful butterflies, and slimy snakes, to name but a few.

In addition to the animal enclosures, there are also daily talks and feeding times, VIP meet and greet experiences with penguins, meerkats, monkeys, and komodo dragons, and an amazing rainforest exhibit.

Hot tip: For the best bang for your buck (and a skip-the-line bonus), grab a London Pass. And if traveling in July, be sure to check out the Twilight at London Zoo event.

• London Zoo tickets

Learn how to book cheap London Zoo tickets and save up to 30%.

53 – Ride the coasters at Chessington World of Adventures Resort

About an hour southwest of London, Chessington World of Adventures Resort is a hot spot for travelers who’re eager for an adrenaline-pumping day out – with bucketloads of rollercoasters, rides, and attractions to choose from.

This enormous theme park is divided into 10 themed lands, each with its own unique activities. There’s the Chessington Zoo, where over 1,000 exotic animals await; the Forbidden Kingdom, where you can explore an ancient lost city; Mexicana – complete with Wild West scenery; Land of the Dragons and The Rainforest for little ones; and Shipwreck Coast, home to the park’s water rides, to name a few.

Across the various lands, you’ll uncover no less than 40 diverse and exciting rides and attractions (definitely check out ‘The Vampire’ and ‘Dragon’s Fury’) — but be warned, these hair-raising coasters aren’t for the faint of heart.

• Chessington World of Adventures tickets

54 – Experience incredible thrills at Thorpe Park

Ideal for a sizzling summer day, Thorpe park has both heart-racing thrills rides and a refreshing water park, making it a great escape from the beating inner-city heat for the whole family. As the home of some of the steepest, fastest, and highest rides in England, adrenaline junkies should take note.

Situated in Surrey (just outside of London), this world-renowned theme park is home to over 30 rides and attractions, as well as some big-name rollercoasters like The Swarm, Saw (a 4.7 g-force awaits), the inverted Nemesis Inferno, Stealth (which soars 62.5m into the air), and the 10-loop Colossus (hold on to your breakfast!).

If you’re not a fan of heights or adrenalin-pumping activities, there are still plenty of low-key options like happy swings, carousels, and an arcade center.

• Thorpe Park tickets

Journey to Egypt with The Horizon of Khufu VR experience

The Horizon of Khufu has arrived in London, offering an unparalleled journey back to the golden age of ancient Egypt. This is your chance to immerse yourself in the era of King Khufu and explore the iconic pyramids as they stood 4,500 years ago. A journey through time, offering education, entertainment, and the thrill of discovery all in one.

55 – Find some bargains on a Bicester Village Shopping tour

Love shopping but don’t know where to start? Then a Bicester Village Shopping tour is the answer to your problems!

Known as the UK’s number-one shopping destination, this precinct offers year-round sales (including up to 60% off designer items like Dior and Ralph Lauren) and retail stores for every budget. With over 160 luxury brands to choose from, this is the place to go for a serious retail therapy session.

During your full-day tour, you’ll get to enjoy a comfortable round-trip coach journey from London, allowing you to sit back, relax, and plan your spending spree. Plus, with a professional guide leading the way, you can learn all about the history and culture of Bicester Village as you make your way through the shopaholic paradise.

For something a little different, consider a sustainability-themed shopping tour too.

• shopping tours in London

56 – See the actual Notting Hill on a walking tour

As the host of the second-largest carnival in the world; home of the Portobello Road Market, and the set for that famous Julia Roberts movie (you know the one), it goes without saying that Notting Hill – the beloved district in West London – is renowned across the globe

Take a romcom-themed walking tour, embark on a tastebud-tastic foodie tour where a smorgasbord of flavors awaits, or join one of the area’s many celeb-spotting excursions — either way, a wander around this high-end colorful suburb makes for an awesome afternoon.

After wrapping up the walk, you’ll find no shortage of trendy boutiques to window-shop, and lovely cafes and bakeries to find a snack. Not sure where to start? Daylesford is all about organic farm eats; Fabrique is a Stockholm-inspired eaterie with Cinnamon Buns that are to die for, and The Butter Bakery fuses Persian and French flavors in a charming setting.

• walking tours in London

Hot tip: Our guide highlights the best walking tours in London  for your perfect city exploration.

57 – Check out the iconic painted hall at the Old Royal Naval College

Much like the Sistine Chapel, the dazzling painted hall at the Old Royal Naval College is covered from ceiling to floor in stunning art that leaves its guests breathless.

Filled with baroque-style furniture and decorations, it’s an essential activity for the art-lovers among us.

The building itself – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is also fascinating, and you can explore the grounds and gardens too. If you want to learn more about the hall’s incredible history since its 1873 founding, join one of the college’s many guided tours.

58 – Discover London’s hidden street art scene!

While London is known for its high-quality museums, if you look beneath the surface, you’ll quickly discover a treasure trove of off-beat art and interesting murals hiding in the city’s nooks and crannies.

Indeed, London is now considered one of the street art capitals of the world, with world-famous artists like Banksy, Stik, and Shepard Fairey having all left their mark on the cityscape.

To explore this lesser-known side of London, make your way to (or follow a guide to) Brick Lane, which is considered to be the heart of the street art scene. You’ll pass by dozens of world-famous murals, as well as countless smaller pieces that are equally as impressive and shed a different light on the underground London culture.

Hot tip: if your tour doesn’t already visit this 300-meter tunnel, make sure to add Leake Street – the city’s largest legal art wall – to the list.

• street art tours in London

59 – Explore London’s backstreets on a Classic Mini Cooper tour

Made famous by the bank robbery scene in ‘The Italian Job’, riding around in a classic Mini Cooper is now a sought-after tourist activity.

With stops all over the city, covering the likes of Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, and Buckingham Palace, this is a great way to see some of London’s most iconic landmarks, and certainly a far more stylish way to get around town.

Fancy yourself a bit of a drinker? Then take note of the gin-themed Cooper tour – another popular choice among thirsty travelers.

• Mini Cooper tours in London

Play Your Part In The Gunpowder Plot Immersive Experience

Travel back to 1605 London with The Gunpowder Plot at the Tower of London, where live theatre, VR, and multisensory tech bring history to life. Become part of the infamous conspiracy, navigating the perilous streets, meeting key figures, and engaging in covert missions. This immersive experience places you in the shoes of a conspirator, challenging you to outwit history itself in a daring adventure.

60 – Get a little groovy with a silent disco!

See all the famous landmarks that London is known for… all while singing and dancing your heart out! That, folks, is a silent disco tour.

With a range of themed experiences available, including musical theatre, drag, and even Christmas, you’ll be tapping your postcard-worthy of the city’s most postcard-worthy sights in no time.

It’s as easy as popping on a pair of headphones and off you go!

• silent disco tours

61 – Travel to the London Transport Museum

Beyond the New York subway, London’s transport system – with its double-decker red busses and expansive Tube network – is one of the most iconic in the world.

And what better way to learn about its rich transportation history than by visiting the London Transport Museum?

From horse-drawn carriages to the world’s first underground subway (yes, the famous ‘Tube’), and no shortage of old-school photographs, equipment, vehicles, and memorabilia, guests can learn all about London’s dramatic transformation since the 1800s.

• London Transport Museum tickets

62 – Relive musical history on a Rock ‘n’ Roll music tour

London was a hub for rock music ever since The Beatles became famous, so a music-themed tour should sit high atop the bucket list.

Led by expert music aficionados, guided walking tours will escort you around town to see places that rock stars made famous (think Abbey Road), locales where stars like Jimi Hendrix lived, and venues that legends such as David Bowie played at — all combined, it’s the ultimate experience for rock n roll fans.

And with plenty of tidbits en route between destinations, you’ll walk away with the inside scoop on how some of music’s most famous names changed the face of rock ‘n’ roll through the decades.

• Rock ‘n’ Roll Music tours in London

63 – Take a stroll through Camden Town

Always full of life and charm, Camden Town is one of the best places to people-watch in London.

An eclectic mix of tourists, locals, and street performers congregate in this vibrant district, which is known for its alternative culture, markets, and nightlife.

During the day, explore the many stalls at Camden Market, which sell everything from vintage clothes to handmade jewelry, and in the evening, enjoy a pint at one of the many pubs dotting the area (or, better yet, join a pub crawl of the area).

While easily accessible by Tube, why not jump on a canal cruise instead?

64 – Cruise down the little-known Regent’s Canal

Connecting the popular tourist hubs of Camden Town and Little Venice, the Regent’s  Canal is a little-known sliver of the river that is often swept under the rug in favor of its more famous cousin, the Thames.

But what this canal lacks in size, it makes up for in charm, with plenty of cute bridges and houseboats to snap pictures of as you meander down the river – culminating in a peaceful change from the busy streets above.

Simply grab a spot on deck, float past the London Zoo, and soak in all the unique architecture, beautiful gardens, and urban graffiti — it’s a wonderful way to experience the juxtaposition of modern and traditional, and the perfect activity for a sunny day.

• Regent’s Canal tours

A Thrilling Journey Through The War of The Worlds: Immersive Experience

Immerse yourself in a Martian invasion at “Jeff Wayne’s The War of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience”. Blending Jeff Wayne’s iconic music with live actors, VR, and multi-sensory effects, this London event transforms you from spectator to participant in a thrilling narrative. It’s more than just an outing; it’s a journey into a meticulously crafted world where every sense is engaged!

65 – Meet Peppa Pig at Paultons Park!

Traveling with kids in tow? Then make a note to head to Paultons Park – about an hour outside of London – for a day of family-friendly fun.

While the park itself is full of greenery and open spaces to explore, the real draw is the amusement park, which includes everything from roller coasters to costumed characters, all themed around our beloved oinking TV show character.

With 9 Peppa Pig-themed rides, including Peppa’s Big Balloon Ride, Miss Rabbit’s Helicopter Flight, Grandpa’s Little Train, and many more, the little ones are sure to be entertained for hours.

• Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig World tours from London

66 – Understanding how advertising works at the Museum of Brands

Fascinated by the world of marketing? Want to dive into the inner workings of consumer psychology – and, on the flip side, how advertisers play into our deepest desires and fears?

Then the Museum of Brands is a must-visit during your time in London. With displays of retro advertising and packaging belonging to brands that date all the way back to the Victorian era, this is a one-of-a-kind museum that you won’t find anywhere else.

As one of the more unique things to see in London, it’s a surefire hit for anyone interested in media, marketing, design, or advertising.

• Museum of Brands tickets

67 – Find some hidden gems at Covent Garden

Spread across seven streets, Covent Garden is London’s beating heart for all things shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Famed for its Apple Market, where you can find everything from souvenirs to hand-crafted goods, as well as its central location near many of London’s top attractions, Covent Garden is a top-tier locale for any first-time visitor.

On a dedicated Covent Garden walking tour, travelers can explore the vibrant streets, grab a drink at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area, wander into St. Paul’s Church, and learn all about the area’s fascinating history.

With so much to see in the neighborhood, it’s a great suburb to spend the day simply wandering.

• Covent Garden tours

68 – Make learning interactive at the Science Museum

Calling all science geeks! One of the most interesting things to do in London, without a doubt, is to visit its world-class Science Museum .

Not only does it rock its own IMAX theatre, where you can catch a good mix of the latest Hollywood blockbusters and educational documentaries, but it also has a ton of interactive exhibits that are perfect for both kids and adults intended to make learning a stack of fun.

With content focused on everything from mathematics to fuel, medicine, engineering, technology, space, and much more, there’s something to suit every interest.

69 – Spend an hour at The Postal Museum

A quirky museum indeed, here, guests can learn all about Britain’s postal history in an immersive, exciting way.

Discover the fascinating Mail Rail Tunnels that haven’t been opened in 100 years; check out the 150-year-old postcard exhibit, learn about the role the postal service played during wartime, and more.

With a play area for kids, an on-site cafe, and a shop selling all kinds of quirky knick-knacks to add to your stamp collection, this underrated institution regularly surprises you.

70 – See what’s on at the Royal Albert Hall

Originally built in 1871 by Queen Victoria (and later renamed to honor Prince Albert), these days the famous theatre has become an iconic landmark, hosting some of the biggest names in the music business. From classical concerts and operas to rock, pop, and jazz performances, the 5,000-plus-seat Royal Albert Hall has pretty much seen it all.

Even if you don’t have time to squeeze in a show, the beautiful architecture alone is worth a quick visit.

Located in South Kensington, the hall is just a stone’s throw away from some of London’s other top attractions like the Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, Hyde Park, and of course Kensington Palace – making it the perfect place to stop by if you find yourself in the area.

71 – Step back in time at The Household Cavalry Museum

Fascinated by history? Or have you always wondered what it would be like to be a cavalryman? Either way, The Household Cavalry has got you covered.

At this popular (albeit quirky) attraction, visitors have a chance to peek inside the working stables, see a regiment in action, and pull on a real uniform.

Dating back to the mid-18th century, the historic building houses an impressive collection of paintings, uniforms, weapons, and more – giving you a real insight into what life was (and still is) like for the British cavalry over the year.

72 – Learn about WWII at the Churchill War Rooms

On this trip back in time, guests can venture into the secret war rooms that Winston Churchill used in the mid-20th century.

The Churchill Museum is a treat for history-savvy visitors, likewise the maze of secret underground rooms that were used to plot combat strategies during WWII.

Remarkably, the rooms have been preserved to a tee, so they remain almost exactly the same as they were in 1945.

With a multilingual audio guide leading you through exhibits on Churchill’s life, the Blitz, and more, this is one of the best things to do in London if you’re looking for an educational activity with a difference.

• Churchill War’s Room tours

73 – Catch a game of cricket at Kia Oval

A beloved British sporting pastime, a day at the cricket (whether a test match against the Aussies or other longstanding rivals, a One Day International, or a fast-paced Twenty20) is a must-do for any true sports fanatics – and few places are better equipped to deliver a spectacle the historic Kia Oval.

As the home of the Surrey County Cricket Club since 1845, the Kia Oval has long been one of the top places in the UK to catch a game of cricket, along with Lord’s.

While matches are regularly held here, you can also sign up for 45-minute behind-the-scenes tours of the ground, which offer access to areas that are usually off-limits to the public.

74 – Learn about history through art at the Victoria and Albert Museum

Queen Victoria and Prince Albert personally established this museum — and their eclectically displayed art collection spans some 2000 years of history.

From medieval armor to statues by Rodin, paintings by Van Gogh and Monet, and galleries upon galleries of furniture, fashion, ceramics, textiles, and more, not to mention over 2,000 miniatures, the Victoria and Albert Museum is an embarrassment of riches.

Discover Leonardo Da Vinci’s notebooks, marvel at where royalty once sat at the Chinese Qing Dynasty Imperial Throne, and much more.

• Victoria and Albert Museum tours

75 – Indulge in a British national pastime with afternoon tea!

Consisting of tea, sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, a traditional afternoon high tea is something that, albeit certainly a little cliche, every tourist needs to check off the to-do list.

You’ll be spoiled for choices when it comes to places around London that offer afternoon tea services (Notting Hill is flush with choices; you can dine and cruise on the Thames, or even grab a table on a double-decker bus as you scoot past some of the city’s major landmarks!).

Whatever your jive, make sure to book in advance as most places have limited spots available.

• afternoon tea experiences in London

76 – Sip on a cold brew (or 5) with a beer-tasting tour

Home to over 7000 pubs (!) and more beer-tasting tour options than we could count, there’s no better city to wet your whistle.

Choose from craft beer tours, historical pub tours, West End pub tours, or wild pub crawls, all of which offer a different kind of experience sure to leave you stumbling back to the hotel in good spirits.

For those looking for a more refined experience, keep an eye out for the variety of London beer festivals that are held throughout the year – the Great British Beer Festival being an annual beer-lover magnet.

Hot tip: don’t miss out on tasting Fuller’s Vintage Ale, a local favorite.

• beer tastings in London

77 – Be 007 for a day on a James Bond tour

Whether you’re team Connery or team Craig, there’s no denying that James Bond is a household name. Now, on the streets of London, visitors can be shown some of the film franchise’s most recognizable sets.

Not only will guests get to tour close to a dozen of the film locations (depending on your tour of choice) – like Somerset House (featured in Tomorrow Never Dies), Whitehall (several films), The Reform Club (Quantum of Solace), and the actual MI6 building in Vauxhall – but you’ll also learn about the real British intelligence agency, as well as juicy behind-the-scenes gossip on the films and the Ian Flemming inspiration.

• James Bond tours

78 – Snap the perfect picture on a photography tour

As a city overflowing with postcard-perfect landmarks, decorated architecture, colorful streets, and picturesque parks, it’s no wonder that London is a photographer’s dream.

So, for the creative-minded among us, it should come as no surprise that a dedicated photography tour – one which ventures off the beaten track and away from the buzzing crowds – is one of the most sought-after things to do in London.

Take your pick from a nighttime photography tour, a historical sightseeing tour, discovery walks through Shoreditch (and Brick Lane), and more.

Unless you want to join one of the professional photography classes, no fancy-schmancy equipment is required; friendly guides will help you get the perfect shot with your phone!

• photo tours in London

79 – Go behind the scenes with a Downton Abbey locations tour

For those who just can’t get enough of the Crawley family and their fascinating lives, Downton Abbey fans will rejoice at the idea of a tour that takes you behind the scenes of one of Britain’s most beloved shows!

Led by superfans, these insightful tours whisk guests away on short trips from London out to the heavenly Oxfordshire Village (otherwise known as Downton Village).

Camera in hand, you’ll be able to snap selfies in front of the local church, the village pub, Downton hospital, and, of course, the beautiful Highclere Castle. Spread across some 5,000 acres, this stunning piece of architecture dates back to the 17th century, boasts 300 rooms, and was used as the main filming location for Downton Abbey (at a cost of $1.5 million per year to rent!).

80 – Glide across the River Thames on a dinner cruise!

Looking for fun things to do in London at night , with amazing food AND amazing views? Where do we sign? For the epitome of romance (or a great night out with friends), there’s nothing quite like a dinner cruise down the River Thames.

As you float leisurely down one of the world’s most famous waterways, you’ll get to feast on a delicious three-course meal, enjoy complimentary drinks, take in the twinkling nighttime sights of the city, and maybe even dance the night away to some live music.

Most relaxing Thames cruises last 3 to 4 hours and, to cap it off, the boats offer live entertainment (which changes depending on the cruise) ranging from jazz to cabaret, classical music, pop, and funk. What’s not to love?

• dinner cruises in London

81 – Witness the legendary ‘Changing of the Guard’ ceremony

In the main courtyard of Buckingham Palace, the ceremonial ‘changing of the guard’ is a non-negotiable for first-time visitors to London.

Every day at 11:30 am (10:00 am on Sundays), the Queen’s Guard hands over the keys to the New Guard in a centuries-old tradition that’s as much theater as it is security.

The world-famous ceremonial tradition at the extravagant Buckingham Palace is the pinnacle, however, there are a few more spots around the city that offer prime viewing of their own, without the huge crowds — namely St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks, best accessed on a dedicated walking tour.

For the ultimate day out, opt for a tour that also includes an official afternoon tea and a visit to Westminster Abbey.

• Changing of the Guards tours

82 – Get tipsy at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery

You’re on vacation, so why not let your hair down and indulge in some local libations?

The Bombay Sapphire Distillery in Whitchurch is the prime place to do exactly that, with a setting and backstory that’s sure to impress

The on-site tour showcases the secret botanicals used to create the fabulous gin; provides a unique tasting experience, and includes a gin cocktail based on the results of your taste test.

83 – Spend a day in the park!

Despite being a bustling metropolis, London has no shortage of greenery. No matter which part of the city you find yourself in, there’s bound to be a park within walking distance.

In fact, with over 3,000 parks, green is – to most people’s surprise – one of the most defining features of London!

Go for a jog at Hyde Park , feed the pelicans at St James’s Park , smell the flowers at Regent’s Park , or take in the spectacular views at Hampstead Heath , just to name a few.

84 – Dine in the sky at Sky Garden

With floor-to-ceiling glass windows and a menu that falls nothing short of impeccable, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more wonderful eatery than Sky Garden .

Even if you’re already well-fed, guests are still welcome for the view alone. You’ll find the popular eatery in The Fenchurch Building (The Walkie-Talkie), right next to Monument station.

Hot tip: as expected, sunset is the most popular time of day for them, so a reservation is a must.

85 – Head to the beautiful English countryside with a Cotswolds day trip

If the hustle and bustle of London is taking its toll and you’re after a breath of fresh air, the gorgeous countryside town of Cotswolds makes for a welcome reprieve!

Sitting about 3 hours outside of London by train or 2 hours by car (give or take depending on which town you start at), the Cotswolds region spans over 800 square miles (2,000 square kilometers) and is famous for its rolling hills, quaint villages, and picturesque English countryside scenery.

Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (yes, that’s a real thing), the Cotswolds is unsurprisingly home to several charming medieval towns and villages, each with its own unique history and personality.

Wander through the towns’ (Cirencester, Castle Combe, Bourton-on-the-Water, or Painswick, to name a few) magical cobblestone streets, bask in the beauty of the sleepy villages, and hike through along the rolling hills — and, if there’s time for a detour, make a stop at Stratford-Upon-Avon, the place that William Shakespeare once called home.

To make the most of your time, consider joining a small group tour that will whisk you around to all the highlights in just one day – leaving you with plenty of free time to explore at your own pace.

• Cotswolds tours from London

86 – Scratch the art itch at The Wallace Collection

Considered one of the most phenomenal collections worldwide, The Wallace Collection boasts paintings, sculptures, furniture, ornaments, and more, dating from the fourteenth to the late nineteenth century.

As just the tip of the iceberg, expect to see pieces by famous artists including Van Dyck, Valazquez, Rubens, and Titian. Complementing the art is an exquisite array of furniture from around the same timeframe, in the old Hertford House – a work of art in its own right.

87 – See old-school weapons at the Imperial War Museum London

At the war-and-military-oriented Imperial War Museum , visitors can dive deep into WWI and WWII, uncovering a range of objects that were used back in those times – from letters and diaries to uniforms, weaponry, photographs, and even vehicles.

Besides the relics and artifacts, IWM also provides insights into topics like refugees and POWs, with the refugee camp exhibit noted to be particularly sobering.

Five sites are scattered around the city, however, the main branch sits inside Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park – home to the Tibetan Peace Garden and a wonderful spot for a post-visit picnic.

88 – Pay a visit to the Royal Air Force Museum

With a simple stroll through the Royal Air Force Museum , budding pilots and aviation enthusiasts can witness historic aircraft first-hand (some of which date back to over 100 years ago), as well as a fine collection of photographs, art, medals, and uniforms.

Despite being out of the city, it’s easily accessible by the Northern line (Colindale Underground station) on the Tube.

Spread across five buildings and hangars, the museum is home to over 80 aircraft, from fighter jets to carriers and everything in between.

89 – Don’t miss the Museum of London

While art museums are a dime a dozen in Europe, the Museum of London is truly unique, as it dives strictly into how London has changed over the years.

A popular stop for history buffs, the insightful museum showcases a handful of collections that depict the city’s first settlers, the Roman period, the Great Fire of London, and more.

Throw in a selection of rotating exhibitions covering themes like reggae music, refugees, and everything in between, and you’ve got yourself a well-rounded educational afternoon.

90 – Spend an afternoon at the National Portrait Gallery

Art lovers, take note! Renowned for its extensive portrait collection, this place (as you’d expect from the name) is a treasure trove of paintings, photographs, and sculptures of some of the world’s most celebrated people.

The collection spans a broad range of time periods, but its true claim to fame? It holds the most portraits in the world (over 215,000!), some of which date back to the 16th century.

If you’re an art fan, a history fan, or both, you won’t regret working the National Portrait Gallery into your London itinerary.

91 – Turn some pages at the British Library

With a remarkable collection of over 170 million items, the literary heaven that is the British Library holds its own as one of the biggest libraries not just in the UK, but worldwide.

Spread across 14 stories, the library is a dream for bookworms, as it boasts not only an impressive selection of printed material – with 400 miles of shelves –, but also manuscripts, maps, drawings, and a slew of artifacts from every age of written civilization (including handwritten Beatles lyrics!).

Their collection is ever-growing, and with regular events like poetry readings and author talks, there’s always something worth checking out.

92 – Appreciate the serenity at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir temple

Popularly known as the ‘Neasden Temple’, this traditional Hindu temple holds the claim to fame of being the first of its kind in England. A magnificent feat of architecture, the building was constructed almost entirely out of hand-carved limestone and marble, and it took over 1,000 craftsmen two years to complete.

It was built entirely from roof to floor using traditional methods, without any iron or steel, making it quite the sight to behold. And with an interior just as glorious as its facade, it’s the perfect place to find some peace.

Although it may seem out of the way, the temple is within walking distance (about 15-20 minutes) from the Neasden Underground.

93 – Sports fans, head to the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum

Sports fanatics, take note!

At this one-of-a-kind museum , tennis lovers can admire championship trophies, see how tennis fashion has changed since Victorian times, test their own skills on a Batak wall, and learn about how the sport has changed and developed since its inception.

And, of course, if you’re lucky enough to be in town during the Wimbledon tournament (June and July), make sure to snag tickets to one of the matches,

94 – Hear about the infamous author at the Charles Dickens Museum

One of history’s most celebrated authors, Charles Dickens was known for his incredible stories, which often depicted the struggles of poverty-stricken Londoners. So if you’re a fan of his work, a visit to the Charles Dickens Museum – which you can easily tag on to the Postal Museum around the corner – comes highly recommended.

Housed in what was once Dickens’ family home, the museum contains original furniture and artifacts, as well as a rotating selection of exhibitions that focus on different aspects of his life and work.

Besides the chance to explore some of his greatest works (including Oliver Twist and A Christmas Carol), visitors can also learn a lot about the author himself, his interests, and life outside of writing.

95 – Catch a show at the Royal Opera House

Fancy a night out on the town? Oozing glamour and luxury, the Royal Opera House plays host to one of the greatest ballet and opera companies in the world, so if you’re given the chance to see a show here, promptly do so!

The in-house orchestra has been providing music for both ballet and opera ever since 1946 — it’s quite literally music to your ears and is an experience not to be missed.

96 – Get a bit wild on a pub crawl!

For partygoers and social butterflies, a lively pub crawl (with shots included!) is one of the best things to do in London.

On top of the chance to spend a night out on the town, visiting all the most happening places in London (like the Tiger Tiger nightclub or a handful of hidden speakeasies), it’s also a great way for tourists to sit, drink, and mingle with the locals.

While each crawl is a little different, you can expect to hit up at least four different pubs, meandering through lively nightlife suburbs like Soho, Camden, or Shoreditch.

• pub crawls in London

97 – Pick up some souvenirs at Portobello Road Market

Overflowing with antiques, vintage finds, and bric-a-brac galore, Portobello Road Market is one of the best places in London to pick up souvenirs (and it’s a lot more affordable than most other markets).

Whether you’re on the hunt for some bargain second-hand clothes, or just a quirky trinket to take home with you, chances are you’ll find something here that takes your fancy. And with plenty of fresh produce and tasty hot food to choose from, you won’t leave on an empty stomach either.

98 – Shop till you drop at Harrods!

Synonymous with luxury and high-end fashion, a visit to the iconic Harrods department store – even if just for a browse – is quintessential London. For those unfamiliar, Harrods is a department store, but not like one you’re ever seen before.

Truly enormous, at over one million square feet, making it the biggest department store in Europe, the expansive store contains pretty much everything you could ever want or need — from clothes and electronics to giant teddy bears. Throw in food, drinks, home goods, furniture, (seriously expensive) jewelry, and a huge selection of cosmetics, and you’ll see why it’s near-impossible to walk away empty-handed.

Even if the credit card is already maxed out, it’s worth a visit just to admire the sheer grandeur of the building.

99 – Discover next-generation artists at the Royal Academy of Arts

Winding the clock back to 1768, the coveted Royal Academy of Arts is the longest-established art school in all of England, and each year hosts the world’s largest open-submission art exhibition (and has been doing so for centuries).

Hundreds of thousands of people take the time to visit annually, discovering all kinds of new and promising talent.

You’ll find the diverse exhibitions tucked away inside Burlington House in the Piccadilly neighborhood, a building that oozes history and beauty even without the works which line its walls.

100 – Grab the popcorn for an outdoor cinema screening

Calling all movie-lovers!

The outdoor cinema scene in London is as broad and wonderful as any, with drive-ins, rooftops, open park spaces, and more — all thriving within summer, of course.

Whether you head to Hideaway Cinema , the Rooftop Film Club , or The Luna Cinema at Regents Park, a flick under the stars is a beloved way to kick back, breathe in the night air, and watch your favorite movie. With both cult classics and newly-released films on offer, and no shortage of cinemas, you’re bound to find something in your preferred genre.

101 – Sleep in a beautiful and historic palace

As a city renowned for its history and architecture, it’s no wonder that some of the most iconic buildings in London have been turned into hotels, giving visitors the opportunity to sleep in abodes so luxurious, and so opulent, to the point where they’re practically palaces.

The Langham London, for instance, is a beautifully-restored Victorian building just a 5-minute walk from buzzing Oxford Street. Some of the more formidable names include Brown’s Hotel, Claridge’s, the Great Northern Hotel, the Grosvenor Hotel, and the Savoy — each boasting its own unique charm and flair, with amenities and services that will make your stay truly special.

With a night in one of these historic palaces, you’re bound to feel like royalty.

Check out the best hotels in London .

Save some money with the London Pass

If you’re planning on doing at least a handful of the tours mentioned in this guide, then a London Pass is a no-brainer. The city-wide tourist program grants access to over 70 of the best tourist attractions and landmarks including Windsor Castle, the ZSL London Zoo, Kew Gardens, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, and plenty more.

On top of that, it also includes free Thames River cruises and hop-on hop-off bus tickets.

While short-term travelers (one or two days) might not get much value from the London Pass, anyone staying for five or more days is recommended to check it out.

Avoid the hassle — get a pre-arranged airport transfer

There’s nothing worse than groggily hopping off a plane, heavy suitcase in hand, trying to navigate the enormous and complicated London transport system.

Start your holiday the right way: stress-free and in style! With a pre-arranged pickup available from all of the major metropolitan London airports, at comparable prices to last-minute taxis, it’s certainly worth considering (especially if traveling as a family).

Check out airport transfers in London .

Where to next?

While London is the epicenter of the UK, it’s far from the only notable tourist destination. After you’ve checked off the city’s main haunts, check out our list of the best places to visit in the UK and make your way over to any of Liverpool , Manchester , or Brighton ; or if you fancy a quick flight, the Irish capital of Dublin is just a short jaunt away too!

We hope you’ve enjoyed our selection of fun things to do in London, England! With new attractions popping up every day, if you have any other suggestions, feel free to let us know in the comments!

As always, happy travels!

35 Fun Things To Do In London This Weekend

I t’s finally the weekend! How will you be spending it? Whether you’re in the mood for secret bars or exclusive pizzas, immersive exhibitions or pop-up experiences, there’s plenty going on in London to accommodate your desires. From new exhibitions to new activities ( pasta making anyone?), here’s what to do in London this weekend.

Love to be first in the know? Sign up to our weekly What’s On newsletter to get ahead of the crowd

What To Do In London This Weekend: 21–23 June 2024

1. cool off in a lido.

Summer has finally arrived in London – and what better way to celebrate than with a dip in one of the city’s lidos? If you’re a nature lover, try and nab a spot in Hampstead Ponds; if you’re keen to do some proper lengths Brockwell Lido will do the trick. Find our full list of suggestions here .

2. Have Drinks At Scott’s Secret Garden

On that note, sunshine calls for an al fresco drink or two. There are beer gardens everywhere you turn in the capital, but for something a bit fancier, head to the new summer terrace at Scott’s Richmond, perched by the riverside. Enjoy cocktails from Silent Pool Gin alongside the restaurant’s signature fish dishes amid a pretty floral setting.

Details: Book at scotts-richmond.com

Taran Wilkhu

3. AllBright’s Live Well Festival

Female-focused members’ club AllBright is hosting its inaugural Live Well Festival, taking place at its Mayfair townhouse this weekend. Spread across two days, the event will involve panel talks, pop-ups, fitness classes, workshops and more, with highlights including a talk from Africa Brooke on self-expression and authenticity. The ultimate enriching girls day out.

Details: 22 and 23 June 2024, book at eventbrite.co.uk

4. Making Connections At Peckham Rye Station

Peckham’s community arts festival is back in the Old Waiting Room, following the success of its debut back in December. A brand new series of free and affordable events are running until 14 July, including film screenings, large scale art installations, site specific theatre, talks, workshops and more – all injecting much needed love and life into a disused, closed-to-the-public space hidden above Peckham Rye station.

Details: 1 June–14 July at Peckham Rye Station (Station Way, London SE15 4RX). See the full lineup of events at losttextfoundspace.com

5. Visit The Bridgerton & Liberty Fabrics Experience

Bridgerton obsessed? So are we. If you’re fit to burst with excitement for part two of season three, quench your thirst at the new Bridgerton & Liberty Fabrics Experience, brimming with  Regency romance, whispers and scandal of the ‘Ton. Located on the Fourth Floor, browse the exclusive new botanical fabrics collection as well as iconic props and costumes from the series.

Details: The Bridgerton & Liberty Fabrics Experience runs 17 May–2 July 2024 at Liberty London (Fourth Floor, Regent St., Carnaby, London W1B 5AH). It’s totally free to visit and tickets are not required.

6. Try A Fully Edible Cocktail

Tony’s Chocolonely, Discarded Spirits Co. and The Alchemist have teamed up to present a delicious, 100 percent zero-waste Banana Split Cocktail, perfect for chocolate and rum lovers to have a taste of this weekend. Blending Discarded Spirits Co.’s award-winning Banana Peel Rum with Banana Liqueur, Strawberry Puree and Tony’s Chocolate Housemade Oat Milk, the cocktail is served in an edible Stroodle Cup and topped with vanilla cream foam, sea salt, a cherry and a banana-shaped Tony’s chocolate garnish made from broken chocolate segments.

Details: The cocktail is available at all 23 of The Alchemist’s sites until 30 June: Battersea, St Martin’s Lane, Victoria, Aldgate, Old Street and Canary Wharf. thealchemistbars.com

7. Livat Hammersmith Summer Market

Featuring everything from emerging artists and up-and-coming designers to sumptuous snacks and artisanal crafts, the Livat Hammersmith market is back for the summer following a successful Spring edition. Visit to shop a rotating roster of local traders, alongside pre-loved goodies and pop-up fun.

Details: 13 June–7 July 2024 at Livat Hammersmith (King St, London W6 9HW). livat.com

8. Immersive Scent Exhibition

Outernet’s first ever immersive scent immersion experience is kicking off this weekend, featuring digital floral displays, Insta-worthy photo moments and bespoke mood-boosting music, including fragrances from Comfort’s new Scent Booster Elixir range, inspired by high-end perfume notes such as rose and sandalwood.

Details: Botanical Bursts: A Next Level Fresh Experience runs 9–23 June 2024 at Outernet (Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 8LH). outernet.com

9. Nibble In The Heart Of Chelsea

Summer in Sloane Square has landed, and it’s the perfect spot for a nibble beneath the sun this weekend. Created in partnership with The Royal Court Theatre, The Botanist, Côte and Azzurra, surrounded by festoon lighting, guests are invited to tuck into a selection of delicious summer plates, sharing nibbles and exquisite cocktails in the heart of Chelsea.

Details: All summer at Sloane Square.

10. Visit The Goring’s Newly Refurbished Restaurant

The flagship Michelin starred restaurant at refined Belgravia hotel The Goring has finally reopened this week – so the weekend certainly begs a visit. Both the restaurant and the kitchen have had an overhaul at The Dining Room, with brand new interiors by Russell Sage Studio accompanied by a fresh seasonal menu for an all-round revived dining experience

Details: Open everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner at 15 Beeston Pl, London SW1W 0JW. Book your table at thegoring.com

A New Lease Of Life For The Dining Room At The Goring

11. Visit A New Food Market

The latest street food market to hit London is Vauxhall’s Metropolis London, with 11 of the city’s best street food vendors taking over one of Albert Embankment’s railway arches, spanning loaded fries, Cal-Mex tacos and Sri Lankan food inspired by family recipes. The expansive space will also play host to up and coming talent, comedy nights, music and sports, open everyday from lunchtime until late.

Details: Metropolis London is now open at Albert Embankment Railway Arches (SE1 7TP) everyday of the week from 11am. metropolislondon.co.uk

12. See Bluets

Margaret Perry’s adaptation of Bluets by Maggie Nelson is now being performed at the Royal Court Jerwood Theatre Downstairs for a limited time. A story about depression and desire, pleasure and pain, and a person possessed by a lifelong obsession with the colour blue, directed by Katie Mitchell, House of the Dragon star Emma D’Arcy leads the cast, with Ben Whishaw and Kayla Meikle rounding out the trio.

Details: 17 May–29 June 2024 at the Royal Court Jerwood Theatre Downstairs. Performances start at 2.30pm and 7.30pm Monday–Friday and 1.30pm and 6.30pm on Saturdays. Tickets can be purchased at royalcourttheatre.com

© Rusne Draz

13. INKO NITO DJ Nights

Fancy starting the weekend with a bang? Every Friday, tucked away on Soho’s Broadwick Street, INKO NITO hosts vibrant and bustling DJ nights offering a mix of funk, soul, hip hop and deep house music alongside the unconventional Japanese robatayaki and sushi dishes that the restaurant is known for. Special dishes bespoke for DJ Nights will also be available, including Portobello mushrooms with smoked butter, sea bream with salsa rosa, Salmon teriyaki, and Kimchi rice.

Details: Every Friday at INKO NITO (55 Broadwick St, Carnaby, London W1F 9QS). inkonitorestaurant.com

14. Tuck Into West London’s Best Roast

Big words, but the Sunday roast at Chelsea’s No. 50 Cheyne is (rightly) the stuff of legend. Tucked away on Cheyne Walk – a stone’s throw from the River Thames and Albert Bridge with the King’s Road to the north – this light-filled brasserie is brimming with pretty flowers, bright interiors, and a buzzy atmosphere. Begin with a glass of fizz or treat yourself to a cocktail, before tucking into the legendary roast, choosing between 40 Day Aged Beef Sirloin, Roasted Cauliflower Heritage, Cumbrian Chicken or the restaurant’s prized 100 Day-Aged Belted Galloway Beef Rib Roast, with a limited quantity available. With Executive Chef Iain Smith inspired by a desire to first find and then cook London’s best roast, you’ll find all accompanied with perfectly roasted classic sides: roast potatoes (super crispy yet buttery soft in the middle, just as they should be), Yorkshire pudding (with a surprise stuffing ball nestled inside), huge glazed carrots and hispi cabbage, with a generous serving of gravy to boot. Divine. Best of all, this well-priced, in-demand roast is available on Saturdays as well as Sundays – but you’ll still need to be quick to cinch your table.

Details: Roasts are available every Saturday and Sunday at No. Fifty Cheyne (50 Cheyne Walk, London SW3 5LR), with prices starting at £25 on Saturdays and £28.30 on Sundays. Book your table at fiftycheyne.com

London’s Very Best Roasts

© Emma Pharaoh

15. Eat Viral Pancakes

Apple Butter is a buzzy all-day dining spot and home to some viral pancakes that are worth going out of your way for. There’s the original branch in Seven Dials, or head to the newly opened venue on Langham Place – a stone’s throw away from Oxford Circus – for all the goodness in a slightly more tranquil spot. There’s a full menu of delicious, middle eastern inspired plates, plus an extensive menu of hot and cold coffees and speciality lattes; the cinnamon roll latte is a real treat. But the moment we’ve all been waiting for: the pancakes. There’s a daily special flavour of uber fluffy pancakes, spanning the likes of strawberry cheesecake, lotus and white chocolate, hazelnut praline and, if you’re lucky, sticky toffee pudding – a rich, gooey marvel with dates and a sprinkling of sesame seeds. Divine.

Details: Find Apple Butter in Seven Dials (32-34 Monmouth St, London WC2H 9HA) and Langham Place (4-5 Langham Pl, London W1B 3DG). Tables are walk-in only. Good luck! applebuttercafe.com

Legless by James D Kelly

16. See A Secret Photography Exhibition

Tucked away in the speakeasy bar of Chelsea’s chic …At Sloane is an exclusive exhibition of 12 hedonistic black and white photographs by James D Kelly, hung in tandem with Photo London. While you’re there, sip on a delicious cocktail in cool surroundings, or rest your head in one of 30 bedrooms tucked away in art-filled corridors.

Details: Find the Bar …At Sloane at 2 Holbein Pl, London SW1W 8NP.

Roof East © Owen Billcliffe

17. Visit A Playground For Grownups

This is how Roof East is best described, featuring vibrant colours and sparkles that really shine when the sun finally shows up. Shoot up the elevator – or climb the many stairs – to the rooftop carpark, transformed into a fun haven featuring a beloved rooftop cinema, street food vendors, a Birdies mini golf course, Sluggers batting cages, Arrows archery and Glitter Bowls. Enjoy ice-cold cocktails, tuck into delicious street food, and challenge your friends to a round of giant jenga before snuggling up with a blanket for a movie.

Details: Roof East is officially open for 2024 at 7 & 8 Stratford Multi Storey Car Park, Great Eastern Rd, London E15 1XE. roofeast.com

18. Natural Face Lift, Anyone?

This is how HarSPA Richmond’s brand new HIIT Facial and Stretch Treatment is best described. A truly rejuvenating experience, enter the spa at Harbour Hotel Richmond’s den of tranquillity, and emerge renewed. Created with UK-based sustainable skin and body care brand, Proverb, this facial is less about layers of serums and more about energising the skin and facial muscles for natural brightness and lift – all elevated with Proverb’s  gender-neutral, clean and natural skincare. Launched by former pro rugby player Luke Sheriff and his partner Kirstie, Proverb draws on athletic performance, and this facial really is a workout. Thanks to proven facial techniques to lift, contour and tone the skin, your circulation will be boosted bringing nutrients to the surface, and you will also benefit from lymphatic drainage, removing any toxic and waste. (Gua sha fans, this is your dream come true.) Afterwards, wind down from your workout (yes) in HarSPA’s idyllic facilities: luscious relaxation rooms, bubbly Scandi hot tubs in the garden, and a wellbeing juice bar to fuel your skin with lots of nutrients. For more fuel, Harbour Hotel’s laid back restaurant, The Gate, is the perfect pitstop – and the carrot salad is perfect (and very delicious) for any health-conscious visitors.

Details: The Proverb HIIT Facial and Stretch Treatment is available at HarSPA (Richmond Hill, Richmond TW10 6RP). The treatment is £68, with an exclusive gift when you book your first treatment. The Gate is located in Harbour Hotel (152–158 Richmond Hill, Richmond TW10 6RP). harbourhotels.co.uk

19. Islington Square Saturday Market

Every Saturday, Islington Square is overtaken by a carefully curated weekly market in partnership with Urban Food Fest. Visit for mouth watering street food, unforgettable desserts and artisanal products alongside creative crafts for all the family.

Details: Every Saturday from 11am–5pm at Islington Square (116 Upper St, London N1 1AB).

20. Build A Terrarium

Bring some brightness to your living space with your very own beautiful (and low maintenance) terrarium. If you fancy making your own, join Katie and Lucas in Tottenham for guidance and all the materials you need to craft your very own oasis.

Details: Sessions take place on Saturdays in Tottenham, priced at £70 per person. See all of the details at wecandoo.uk

© David Parry/PA Wire.

21. See A Sculpture

With only 13 percent of known sculptures in London attributed to women, Brookfield Properties and its new partner, The Association of Women in the Arts (AWITA), has unveiled the first of two consecutive exhibitions by women sculptors, curated through a female lens and timed to coincide with Womens’ History Month. ‘Creating visibility for female artists and valuing them through a commissioning and exhibition platform is vital to continue progress towards gender equity,’ explains Sigrid Kirk, co-founder of AWITA. Crafted by Jodie Carey and curated by Eve Miller, Beyond the Matrix is on display now.

Details: ‘Beyond the Matrix’ can be seen at 100 Bishopsgate (London EC2M 1GT) until September 2024.

22. Learn To Make Gelato

Say hello to warmer days with a gelato making session. Join Elisa and Fabiano in Wandsworth to learn all about the art of gelato and sorbet making, before tucking into your creation – 500g of it, no less.

Details: Sessions take place on Wednesdays and Sundays in Wandsworth, priced at £65 per person. See all of the details at wecandoo.uk

23. Watch A Rooftop Film

Film lovers rejoice: Rooftop Film Club is back for 2024, herading rooftop season with it. Both the Peckham and Stratford venues will be screening a mixture of new releases and cult classics throughout Spring and Summer, from Anatomy of a Fall to About Time, Poor Things to Notting Hill. Meanwhile, nibble on pizza, popcorn and desserts, and sip on cocktails from the bar.

Details: Roof East (Rooftop Film Club Roof East, Great Eastern Rd, London E15 1BB) will be open from 18 April, while the Peckham venue (Roof A, Bussey Building, 133 Rye Ln, London SE15 4ST) will open on 25 April. Book your tickets at rooftopfilmclub.com

Sgroppino cocktail

24. Celebrate Aperitivo Hour At Swift

With lighter evenings finally the norm once again, celebrate the weekend off in style with Aperitivo Hour cocktails at Swift. Order any cocktail before 6pm and get it for only £7.

Details: £7 cocktails are available everyday before 6pm at Swift Borough (66 Borough High St, London SE1 1XF; open from 3pm on Friday, 1pm on Saturday and close on Sundays) and Swift Shoreditch (91-93 Great Eastern St, London EC2A 3HZ; open from 3pm Friday–Sunday). Walk ins are very welcome, or secure your table at barswift.com

25. Skin Refresh For The Weekend

Skincare lover wondering what to do in London this weekend? Cult skin clinic Skin Laundry is pioneering the non-invasive laser facial, and we’d highly recommend it. With a limited number of services available, expect high quality, clinically proven treatments delivered by warm clinicians, many with no down time at all and some with instant glowy results. Unsure what to go for? Book a consultation and step into the calming studio ready for a candid conversation with one of the friendly clinicians regarding your skincare goals. They’ll guide you through the whole process, explaining why the lasers work, and what results you can expect. And even though ‘laser’ might sound daunting, don’t worry: it doesn’t hurt in the slightest. Already sold? Join the Skin Laundry club for multiple monthly facials and exclusive discounts on all services and products.

Details: Skin Laundry is open everyday in Chelsea (69A King’s Rd, London SW3 4NX), Soho (9 Newburgh St, Carnaby, London W1F 7RL) and Hampstead (68 Heath St, London NW3 1DN), 10am–8pm with reduced hours on Sundays. Book your appointment at skinlaundry.uk

Yoko Ono with Half-A-Room 1967 from HALF-A-WIND SHOW, Lisson Gallery, London, 1967. Photo © Clay Perry

26. See The Yoko Ono Exhibition

She may be best known for being married to John Lennon, but there’s a lot more to Yoko Ono than her Beatles connection. The Japanese musician and performance artist, now 90, has a fascinating body of work that spans over seven decades – which is being explored in an landmark exhibition at Tate Modern. The largest show Yoko Ono’s work yet, Music of the Mind will delve into some of the most talked about works of her career, from the 1950s to the modern day. Naturally, her London years (1966 – 1971) will be a point of intrigue: the period she became intertwined with a nonconformist network of artists and musicians, including Lennon. Her banned Film No. 4 (Bottoms) will be shown, and visitors will have the chance to participate in White Chess Set, a game with solely white chess pieces believed to symbolise Ono’s anti-war stance.

Details: 15 February–1 September at the Tate Modern (Bankside, London SE1 9TG). tate.org.uk

27. Visit The Immersive David Attenborough Experience

Nature fan looking for a new immersive experience in London? We’ve found the perfect thing for you to try this weekend in London: OTHERWORLD’s David Attenborough Immersive Anthology. A three-part immersive journey narrated by David Attenborough, this stunning 8K virtual reality casts nature’s beasts and beauties into sharp relief, featuring carnivorous flytraps, majestic butterflies and towering pterosaurs, all brought to life by state-of-the-art 3D cinematography and computer graphics, spatial audio and tactile bass technology.

Details: OTHERWORLD has two London venues: Victoria (85 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0QJ) and Hackney (336 Acton Mews, Haggerston, London E8 4EA). Tickets are £35 per person for the 70 minute experience, including a 15 minute interval, and can be purchased at other.world

28. Sip Cocktails In A Secret Bar

Sotto is London’s latest speakeasy bar opening, hidden beneath Soho’s buzzy Bocconcino. It’s all about classic Italian elegance, expressed through chic interiors, soft lighting, and a cool menu of unique savoury cocktails. Everything has an Italian twist: think an Old Fashioned infused with wild mushrooms, or the Avocado Amore blending the favourite fruit with Italian lemons, Calabrian chilli and basil foam, or the Velvet Corvina mixing corvina wine with peach purée, wine cordial, crème de cassis and blood orange. Enjoy alongside a selection of small plates for the perfect intimate date night spot. Cheers!

Details: Sotto is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 7pm–2am at Bocconcino Soho (59 Great Marlborough Street, London W1F 7JY). Book at bocconcinorestaurant.co.uk

29. Sound Healing At The Mandrake

Seeking some serenity? Experience the transformative combination of Reiki and Sound Healing every Saturday at The Mandrake Hotel, guided by skilled sound healer Maria Lodetoft. Expect Reiki healing amid the soothing soundscape of alchemy crystal singing bowls, producing tones and frequencies thought to align the chakras, calm the mind, and open the heart.

Details: Every Saturday at 11am at The Mandrake Hotel (20-21 Newman St, London W1T 1PG). Places cost £40 per person and can be booked at themandrake.com

30. The Leo Green Experience

Live music and jazz fans should flock to QT this weekend, where The Leo Green Experience celebrates the best sax solos centre stage, putting a high-energy sax twist on the biggest hits of the last 30 years. Featuring table service delivering an array of small plates and cocktails, there’s an old school vibe with an easy breezy air: think drinking, dancing and eating while Leo and his band raise the roof.

Details: Every Friday and Saturday evening from 7.30–9.15pm and 9.45pm–1am at QT (Middle Eight Hotel, 66 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5BX). Tickets are £25 for general admission, or £35 for seated table service. Book at middleeight.com

31. Dinner Break From Shopping

Going shopping in London this weekend? If you’re looking for a chic spot to fuel up after a busy day on your feet, Bar des Prés is the perfect answer. From acclaimed French chef Cyril Lignac, expect a thrilling blend of Franco-East Asian cuisines across meticulously crafted dishes, from California rolls to sashimi, gyoza to the signature Crunchy crab & avocado galette (you’ll see everyone ordering this; it tastes as beautiful as it looks). Sit barside for a front row seat to the cold kitchen show, plus watch the mixologists shaking up a storm, with a concise cocktail list catering to all tastes – the signatures are all delightful. There are some seasonal specials evoking perfect cosy vibes, from Beef Gyoza with Ginger and Soy to Miso Caramelised Aubergine to Roast Scallops with Potimarron Squash. But the signature dishes remain stunning as ever, including ever-delicious Black cod caramelised with miso, served with baby spinach (who knew spinach could be so delicious), plus perfect cubes of Wagyu and the ever-intriguing Vanilla wash (weird and wonderful). All this amid sophisticated, moody, intimate surrounds; if it’s just a cocktail you seek, venture downstairs for a subtly chic subterranean space.

Details: Bar des Prés (16 Albemarle St, London W1S 4HW) is open for dinner everyday from 6pm, closing at 11pm Monday–Saturday and 10pm on Sundays. bardespres.com

© Sam Harris

32. Live Music Bars

There’s only one thing better than live music: live music with a glass of something in your hand. London’s live music bar scene is thriving – it always has been – and from jazz clubs to hi-fi DJ venues, there are plenty to choose from. Our favourite this winter is Brilliant Corners, a vibrant yet moody spot tucked away in Dalston, serving natural wine, zingy cocktails and a delicious seasonal five-course set menu inspired by the izakaya of Japan.

Details: Brilliant Corners is open 5pm–1.30am on Fridays and Saturdays and 4pm–midnight on Sundays at 470 Kingsland Rd, London E8 4AE. Book your table at brilliantcornerslondon.co.uk

London’s Best Bars For Live Music

33. Columbia Road Flower Market

Brighten the gloomy winter days with a trip to London’s premiere flower market this weekend: Columbia Road. Taking place every Sunday between Bethnal Green and Hoxton, it attracts people from far and wide in droves and for good reason, offering a glorious slice of unchanging London life, with reasonable prices across flowers and bulbs, succulents and houseplants. With a rainbow of vibrant colours, it’s hard to resist succumbing to the classic Instagram shots. Afterwards, head into Shoreditch, or grab a bagel on the ever-popular Brick Lane.

Details: Sundays, 8am–2pm at Columbia Road, Bethnal Green E2 7RG. columbiaroad.info

More Of London’s Gorgeous Flower Markets To Visit

34. Go Bowling

OK, OK, a generic weekend suggestion – but London’s bowling alleys are some of the nation’s best. Whether you’re looking to host a big birthday blowout, make plans with friends or you’re in need of new date ideas, you’ll bowl everyone over with these spots .

35. Learn To Make Pasta

Wondering what to do in London next weekend? Try your hand at the Italian art of pasta making at Pasta Evangelists’ Pasta Academy in Farringdon. Expect to learn all about the best ingredients and techniques, and eat your creation at the end, too. Read our review of the Beginners’ Class here .

Details: Pasta Evangelists’ Pasta Academy (62-63 Long Lane, Barbican, London EC1A 9EJ). These classes are extremely high-demand, so your weekend activity will inevitably be booking ahead for a future weekend. pastaevangelists.com

Still wondering what to do in London this weekend? Sign up to the C&TH What’s On newsletter for the hottest ideas delivered directly to your inbox

• About Tourism London
• Culture & Entertainment Tourism
• London Music Office
• Sport Tourism
• View us on Facebook
• View us on Twitter
• View us on Instagram
• View us on YouTube
• View us on Linkedin

Things to Do in London

• Arts & Culture
• Breweries, Distilleries & Wineries
• Music & Entertainment
• Parks & Nature
• Shopping & Retail
• Spas & Wellness
• Sports & Recreation
• Tours, Experiences & Workshops

Jump into July: London, Ontario Festivals You Don't Want to Miss

The Best Vegan Restaurants in London, Ontario

Must Visit Food Trucks in London, Ontario

Pet-Friendly Fun: Paw-fect Places in London, Ontario

Events in london.

• Search for Events
• Featured Events
• Events this Week
• See All Events
• Submit Your Event

Steve Miller Band

Budweiser Gardens

DJ Sekhar & FEJO w/ Adarsh Adj

Anthony Gomes - High Voltage Bluesman

Decades of Bond ~ Live at the Grand Theatre, London

• Food & Drink
• Places to Stay
• City of London
• UNESCO City of Music
• Accessibility
• Tourism London's Welcome Centres
• Getting To & Around London
• Maps & Guides
• Getaway Packages
• Search our site:

Popular Searches:

• london music hall
• food trucks
• Wedding Expo
• Disney on ice
• London Knights
• Search Menu
• Search our site: Reset

• Date June 20, 2024
• Category #ExploreLdnOnt
• Categories Breweries, Distilleries & Wineries, Parks & Nature, #ExploreLdnOnt, Music & Entertainment, Family Fun, Food & Drink, Spa & Wellness, Things To Do

No need to look for doggy daycare - now the entire family can enjoy the perks of fun in the Forest City!

It can be hard spending time away from our furry friends - they really are members of our family! Luckily, London, Ontario is host to many pet-friendly locations. When planning your next adventure in London, bring along your sidekick and explore these paw-fect places!

Pet-Friendly Stays

The Park Hotel London

Your furry friend's ticket to a tail-wagging adventure right in the heart of the Forest City.  Kick back and relax in style at the Park Hotel  with you four-legged companion.

Delta Hotels by Marriott London Armouries

A piece of Canadian history transformed into a cozy retreat for you and pet. Let's not forget about The Delta 's awarding winning Sunday brunch at the Armouries Grille – where humans can indulge in delicious treats!

Four Points by Sheraton London

Looking for a quiet retreat on the south end of the city? Four Points by Sheraton has got you covered, offering an escape where you and your pet can unwind and recharge. There is a fee, but the peace of mind is priceless.

Hotel Metro

Hotel Metro isn't just about modern accommodations – it's about being right next door to one of London's must-visit spots, Covent Garden Market . After a nice morning walk you can leave your pup at the hotel and stroll over to pick up some special snacks from their variety of local vendors.  

Patios for Puppies

Molly Bloom's Irish Pub

Savour a Guinness on Molly Bloom's  dog-friendly patio. If you’re there on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday, enjoy karaoke all night long!

Powerhouse Brewing

At Powerhouse Brewing , they’re not just about crafting exceptional brews; they’re also about creating a welcoming atmosphere for you and your furry friend. Leash up your best bud and enjoy their spacious outdoor area!

Jack Astor's

The side patio at Jack Astor's north location is the place to be with your pup! Jack Astor’s provides a doggy bowl with water, so your pup can be refreshed. Enjoy some cheesy pan bread relaxing in the warm weather.

The Morrissey House

Enjoy delicious food in a friendly atmosphere while your pup stays hydrated with handy water bowls on the Morrissey House side patio – just keep them leashed and connected to the outside of the patio fencing.

Sweet Onion Bistro

With two locations, Sweet Onion Bistro invites you to dine with your dog on their friendly patios for a delightful lunch or dinner experience.

Sweet Treats

Black walnut bakery and café.

At Black Walnut Bakery and Café , bask in the sunshine on their patio while sipping coffee and indulging in their famous cruffin. While your pup can't join you indoors, they're more than welcome to relax alongside you on the patio.

Haven’s Creamery

Haven’s Creamery invites you to bring your furry friend on a leash to treat them to some goodies, including a pup cup of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy the treats outdoors to ensure all patrons can enjoy their experience, whether furry or not!

Roli Poli Ice Cream

Savour handcrafted, rolled ice cream topped with all the perfect fixings at this delightful shop. Roli Poli is an entire experience! Plus, feel free to bring your furry companion along for the fun.

District Ice Cream

Rounding out our list of Pup-friendly scoop shops is District Ice Cream . With easy access to the Thames Valley Parkway, it makes for a great stop during an afternoon walk! Enjoy locally made small batch ice cream, fresh waffle cones and pup cups for your little guy!  

Pet-friendly Shops

Heeman’s

Take your furry friend to Heeman’s for a cozy walk in the greenhouse, regardless of the weather outside. It's the perfect spot for both of you to enjoy some warmth and greenery together!

Blooming Tails

At Blooming Tails , a family-owned pet boutique, you'll find everything you need for your beloved pet. With two locations in London, it's your one-stop shop for all things pet-related.

Off-Leash Areas

Looking for  off-leash areas where your pup can burn off some energy? Look no further, there are the five spaces located across London that are fenced off or equipped with signs for this purpose. Four of them have a special area fenced off for smaller dogs.

There is no doubt that Londoners and visitors alike love their pets! No matter which area of the city you’re in, there’s a patio or coffee shop with dog bowls waiting. 

Are we missing any spots not mentioned here that you and your pup love to visit? Let us know at @tourismlondon ! Plus send a puppy picture and we'll include you in the blog!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab that leash, get outside and enjoy the weather in the Forest City!

Read more in this series

• Summer Road Tripping in London, Ontario
• Family Farm Fun
• London's Unique Natural Areas

Stay in the loop with the Tourism London newsletter

Get your monthly guide to London's latest events, attractions and offers sent to your inbox.

What to See On Your First Visit to London, Ontario

Explore londons surrounding region, most instagrammable restaurants in london, ontario, top spots for pizza in london, ontario, on our doorstep: sand and sun near london, ontario.

Back to listings

You Might Also Like…

Top Spots for Fine Dining in London, Ontario

Fall in Love with Fall in London, Ontario

Patio Season in London, Ontario: Hidden Gems

Best Ice Cream Spots to Beat the Heat in London, Ontario

Treats & Treasures in London, Ontario: Downtown London Trails

Sweet Treats: Best Donuts in London, Ontario

Spring Road Tripping in London, Ontario

Top 5 Spots for Fried Chicken in London, Ontario