bt tower london visit

You Can Visit The Top Of The BT Tower For Free Next Weekend (And Even Sleep In It!)

Every seen the view from the BT Tower? For two days only, it will be open to visits from the public!

Before the Shard , before the Gherkin, before Centre Point, was the BT Tower: the tallest building to be built in central London for 250 years. Believe it or not, when it was built in 1962, only St. Paul’s Cathedral stood taller. [Photo: Robert Pittman ]

Once the home of a nifty rotating restaurant, this utilitarian, lightsaber-lookin’ edifice has been closed to the public since the 1980s, and now mostly interacts through Londoners by broadcasting chipper little messages from its two-storey display screen:

Fortunately, the landlords keep the uppermost floors in good nick for the occasional public event… and next weekend (July 14–15), the owners are inviting a few thousand Londoners to check out this lesser-seen view for themselves!

Aside from the uninterrupted 360° views of the surrounding area, you’ll also find some bonus summer-themed pop-uppery with Mr Whippy ice creams, a ‘beer garden’, a picnic zone and other ‘immersive’ shenanigans 500ft above Bloomsbury.

Meanwhile, one lucky visitor will be offered the chance to spend the night ‘glamping’ at the tower, although hopefully not, as pictured below, toasting marshmallows over a real campfire.

It’s free to visit but due to the popularity of the event, tickets are only available by ballot: and applications close tonight (Sunday, July 8) at midnight, so apply here !

Alternatively, find more places with beautiful views of London .

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Visible from virtually everywhere in central London, the 189m-tall BT Tower was the highest structure in the city when it opened in 1966 (St Paul's Cathedral was the second-highest at the time). It was closed to the public in the early 1980s because of terrorist threats. Incongruously for such a conspicuous structure, the building was officially a ‘secret’ and didn’t appear on official maps until 1993, when Member of Parliament Kate Hoey used her parliamentary privilege to ‘confirm’ its existence.

The tower is still a major communications hub and doubles as an air-pollution monitor. It is also a listed building, which meant getting special permission to remove the defunct circular antennas in 2011. It is occasionally opened to the public for one day as part of the Open House London , when lucky ballot winners can secure tickets for a guided tour.

60 Cleveland St. W1

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60 Cleveland St, London W1T 4JZ

The BT Communication Tower is a grade II listed communications tower located in Fitzrovia, London, owned by BT Group. Originally named the Museum Radio Tower, it became better known by its unofficial name, the Post Office Tower. It was later officially renamed the Telecom Tower.

Located in the heart of London, the BT Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. This towering structure was once the tallest building in London and still remains an important part of the city's skyline. From a tourist perspective, the BT Tower offers an unforgettable experience with panoramic views of London, delicious food, and a rich history. Standing at 191 meters, the BT Tower was completed in 1964 and was designed by Eric Bedford. It served as the main communication hub for the British Telecom (BT) until 1980, when a bomb threat forced it to be closed to the public. However, it reopened in 1984 as a tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to experience the stunning views of London from its observation deck. One of the main attractions of the BT Tower is the revolving restaurant, which is situated 170 meters above the ground. The restaurant takes 22 minutes to complete a full rotation, offering diners a chance to see the entire city from different angles. The restaurant offers a wide variety of food options and is an excellent spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. In addition to the observation deck and the restaurant, the BT Tower also offers a fascinating exhibition on the history of telecommunications in the UK. The exhibition showcases the evolution of communication technology from the early days of telegraphs to the modern era of mobile phones and the internet. It's a great opportunity for visitors to learn about the fascinating history of communication in the UK. The views from the BT Tower are simply breathtaking. From the observation deck, visitors can see some of London's most famous landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and the Shard. The views are particularly stunning at night when the city is lit up, and visitors can see the glittering lights of the city spread out before them. Visiting the BT Tower is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting London. The tower is easily accessible by public transport, and tickets for the observation deck and the restaurant can be purchased online. The tower is open from Thursday to Sunday, so visitors should plan their trip accordingly. In conclusion, the BT Tower is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting London. It offers a unique perspective on the city and its history, as well as stunning views and delicious food. Whether you're visiting for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or just want to experience the city from a different angle, the BT Tower is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Things to do nearby

As one of London's most iconic landmarks, the BT Tower is a must-visit destination for tourists. Standing tall at 620 feet, it provides visitors with breathtaking views of the city's skyline. The tower's location also puts it in close proximity to some of London's most popular attractions. Here are some places and things to do nearby the BT Tower, from a tourist perspective. 1. Visit the British Museum Located just a short distance from the BT Tower, the British Museum is one of the world's most famous museums. With its vast collection of artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, it is a must-see for any visitor to London. The museum is open daily and admission is free, although some exhibitions may require a fee. 2. Explore Regent's Park Another nearby attraction is Regent's Park, one of London's largest and most beautiful parks. Visitors can take a stroll through the park's stunning gardens, enjoy a picnic on the lawns, or rent a boat to paddle around the lake. The park is also home to the London Zoo, which is perfect for families with children. 3. Take a tour of Camden Market Camden Market is a bustling marketplace that offers visitors a unique shopping experience. The market is home to over 1,000 stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts. Visitors can also enjoy a wide variety of food and drink from around the world, including street food from Mexico, India, and the Middle East. 4. Enjoy the view from the Sky Garden Located just a short walk from the BT Tower, the Sky Garden offers visitors stunning views of London's skyline from 35 floors up. The garden is free to visit, although visitors must book a ticket in advance. Once inside, visitors can take in the panoramic views while enjoying a meal or a drink at the garden's restaurant or bar. 5. Shop on Oxford Street Oxford Street is one of London's most famous shopping destinations, and it is just a short distance from the BT Tower. Visitors can browse through the many high street stores, luxury boutiques, and department stores that line the street. Oxford Street is also home to several historic landmarks, including Selfridges department store and the Marble Arch. 6. Visit the West End The West End is London's theater district and is home to some of the world's most famous shows. Visitors can catch a matinee or an evening performance of a musical, play, or opera at one of the district's many theaters. The West End is also home to some of London's best restaurants and bars, making it the perfect place for a night out. In conclusion, the BT Tower is a fantastic starting point for exploring some of London's most popular attractions. From the British Museum to Regent's Park, visitors will find plenty to do and see in the area. Whether you are looking to shop, dine, or take in some culture, there is something for everyone nearby the BT Tower.

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BT Tower: a history of the London landmark – in pictures

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The Grade II-listed building, once the tallest structure in the capital and famous for its revolving restaurant, has been sold to a US hotel group for £275m

• BT Tower to become hotel as London landmark sold
• Share your memories of the BT Tower

Dugald Baird and Guy Lane

Wed 21 Feb 2024 13.00 GMT Last modified on Wed 21 Feb 2024 14.39 GMT

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Built in the early 1960s as a telecommunications tower, the BT Tower was opened in 1964 and the public was (temporarily) granted access to the building in 1966. At 620 feet (189m) high, its unique cylindrical shape allows it to pick up microwave signals at wind speeds of up to 95mph.

Initially, in addition to telecoms equipment, the tower housed offices, a souvenir shop, viewing galleries and a top-floor, rotating restaurant called Top of the Tower . In 1971, the IRA set off a bomb in the restaurant’s men’s toilet at the restaurant, and these days BT only uses Top of the Tower (still the only rotating restaurant in the city) for corporate hospitality events. The building’s lease changed hands in 198o, and the entire building has since been closed to general public access.

However, in September 2010, the Tower was opened to the public for one day, during the city’s popular Open House weekend. Rumors had been circulating for some time that Top of the Tower would re-open in time for the 2012 Olympics, but this has been officially denied by BT.

Despite being one of London’s most locally recognizable buildings, the BT Tower was an official UK secret for about 30 years. Because of its use as a relay for microwave communications, the British government kept the Tower unlisted from its Ordnance Survey maps until the mid-1990s, and photographing the building was in violation of the Official Secrets Act.

As you travel around the West End, you can use the BT Tower as a navigational landmark; if it’s in front of you,  you’re heading north.-  Map

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Visit to bt tower, london, february 2003.

The BT Tower, surrounded by Maple Street, Cleveland Street, Cleveland Mews and Howland Street, is located in Fitzrovia in Central London. At a height of 189 metres it towers above many of the surrounding buildings.

Work on the Post Office Tower, as it was originally named, began on 4th April 1961 and was declared opened for operations on 8th October 1965 by former Prime Minister Harold Wilson OBE.

On Friday 14th February 2003 I was one of around seventy THG members that were fortunate enough to be able to visit the BT Tower which is closed to the general public, except by special invitation, since a bomb exploded within the tower on 31st October 1971.

Below are a few of the pictures that I took of the views from the 34th floor which is 158 metres from the ground. Unfortunately it was rather a hazy day so the pictures weren’t quite as clear as I was hoping, but they nevertheless show the fantastic view of London.

BT Tower, Birmingham

The BT Tower in Birmingham is located in Lionel Street. Construction started in July 1963 and completed in September 1966.

A Visitor's Guide to the Tower of London

TripSavvy / Gautier Houba

The Tower of London is a must-see attraction that will take at least several hours to visit. This isn't just a single tower! Get ready for acres of towers, ramparts, Queen's house buildings, armories, Crown Jewels displays, and more.

Here Are Some Planning Tips

• Visit the Tower of London site, for the latest info about visiting, and for helpful tips like Top Ten Things to See.
• Tickets can be purchased online at the Tower of London site.
• The Tower of London is stroller-friendly and has baby-changing facilities
• The Tower of London is easily reached by the London Underground and is a short walk from the Tower Hill station on the Circle/District lines.
• Check at the Welcome Center for brochures for visitors with kids, such as "family trails" with quizzes and activities, facts and illustrations designed for family visits.
• Allow two to three hours for a visit. Better still, allow extra time to take a Yeoman Warder's tour (Beefeater's tour.) These hour-long tours by the Tower's special guards are usually offered every half-hour during the day.
• The Yeoman Warders also give Short Talks about the history of the Tower of London. Inquire when you visit or check at the Lower Lanthorn Tower
• Recorded audio tours are available, as are Tower Guide Books (at several shops).
• The Tower of London (no surprise) has a great gift shop if you're interested in anything about knights
• Itinerary suggestion: After your visit to the Tower of London, step onto one of the tour boats that are an excellent way to view the historic buildings on the banks of the Thames. You can disembark near the Houses of Parliament and London Eye.
• Itinerary suggestion : the " Ceremony of the Keys " -- the traditional lock-up of the Tower of London at night-- takes place nightly, at seven minutes to ten. The Chief Warder emerges from the Byward Tower in colorful dress, carrying a lantern and the Queen's Keys, for a brief ceremony that's been much the same for 700 years.

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Visit the ArcelorMittal Orbit to explore the UK’s tallest sculpture, Ride The Slide and see London differently.

Your visit starts at the base of the sculpture, exploring Anish Kapoor’s red lattice tower as it twists and turns above you. The lifts will whisk you 80m up to the viewing platforms and their distinctive panorama of London. You can then challenge your friends and family to the world’s tallest and longest slide – a hair-raising experience, not for the faint-hearted.

There’s so much to see and do at the ArcelorMittal Orbit, you won’t want to leave! Don’t forget, that once you’ve ridden the world’s longest tunnel Slide, you can go back to the top of the attraction and take in the stunning skyline views, turn the world upside down in the incredible concave mirrors and enjoy the soundscape if you choose to make your way down the stairs.

Just ask the Visitor Experience hosts for an Experiences leaflet when you arrive or download it below and get planning an unforgettable visit to the ArcelorMittal Orbit

  EXPERIENCES LEAFLET

LOOKING BEYOND THE PARK

At the summit, there is an amazing 360-degree view of London and the waterways, green spaces and iconic sporting arenas that make up Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Memories of 2012 come flooding back as you look down on the undulating roof of Zaha Hadid’s London Aquatics Centre, the Lee Valley Velopark and the stunning London Stadium, new home of West Ham United FC.

You’ll see a host of the most iconic buildings on the city’s skyline – the Shard, the Gherkin, Big Ben, the BT Tower, Canary Wharf and the O2 Arena as well as new additions to the landscape including the Walkie Talkie and the Cheesegrater. With views of up to 20 miles, from here London’s horizon takes in Alexandra Palace to the north, Wembley Stadium to the west, the Crystal Palace transmitter to the south and Epping Forest to the east. Football fans can see five of London’s finest football grounds.

Interpret the views with interactive screens that tell the story of the ArcelorMittal Orbit and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and provide up-close information about the cityscape in front of you. Anish Kapoor’s polished concave mirrors play with your perspective and turn the horizon on its head.

AND WHEN IT’S TIME TO GO HOME

You can take the lifts down to ground level, or come down the 455 stairs with their specially designed soundscape soundtrack of London echoing around you.

A visit to the ArcelorMittal Orbit is a reminder that the spirit of 2012 is still well and truly alive – and only a short journey away.

FLY OVER THE ARCELORMITTAL ORBIT

Check out our brand new drone footage of a flight over the ArcelorMittal Orbit –

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The BT Tower, a Once-Futuristic London Landmark, Will Become a Hotel

The tower, once used to send telecom traffic, has been sold and will be transformed by the company that turned the TWA terminal at Kennedy Airport into a hotel.

By Victor Mather

St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and the London Eye are all important landmarks in Britain’s capital. Yet you can’t spend the night in any of them.

But after another staple of the city’s skyline, the BT Tower, was sold to an American group on Wednesday, plans are afoot to turn it into a hotel: one that rises 581 feet (177 meters) above the ground.

“We will take our time to carefully develop proposals that respect the London landmark’s rich history and open the building for everyone to enjoy,” Tyler Morse, the chief executive of MCR Hotels, which bought the tower, said in a statement. The sale price was 275 million pounds ($346 million), the seller, BT Group, said in a statement .

MCR owns several notable hotels, including the TWA Hotel , which occupies the Eero Saarinen-designed former TWA terminal at Kennedy Airport, and the High Line Hotel in New York City, which was formerly a dormitory for the General Theological Seminary.

“We see many parallels between the TWA Hotel and the BT Tower,” Mr. Morse said. “Both are world-renowned, groundbreaking pieces of architecture.”

The structure, initially known as the Post Office Tower, was completed in 1964 in central London, just south of Regent’s Park. Standing 620 feet including its spire, it surpassed the Milbank Tower as the tallest building in London, though it was overtaken in 1980 by the NatWest Tower. (The Shard, at 1,016 feet, currently holds that title.)

It was designed to hold microwave aerials to carry telecommunications traffic between London and the rest of the country. The public could also visit Britain’s first revolving restaurant at the top.

The tower was the target of a suspected I.R.A. bombing in 1971, although no one was hurt. It was closed to the public for security reasons starting in 1981.

Advances in technology eventually began to make elements of the tower obsolete. In 2011, the microwave dishes at the top, a distinctive aspect of the tower’s look, were removed.

“A number of network operations that were traditionally provided from BT Tower are now delivered via BT Group’s fixed and mobile networks,” BT Group said in its statement.

Don’t book a room just yet. “BT Group will take a number of years to vacate the premises, due to the scale and complexity of the work to move technical equipment, and there will be significant time for design development and engagement with local communities before proposals are revealed,” MCR said in a statement.

Although immediately recognizable to Londoners as well as frequent visitors, the tower was not necessarily a favorite for many. It was cited as one of the world’s “most hated buildings” alongside the Tour Montparnasse in Paris and the Empire State Plaza in Albany, N.Y., in a 2015 T Magazine article .

But the architect Amanda Levete defended it, saying: “It was the first building with an observation deck — that way of engaging with the city was actually pioneered by the tower. It had a restaurant that wasn’t particularly expensive. High rises today are about exploiting the skyline for private gain.”

“It holds so much meaning in an elegant slender cylinder.”

Victor Mather covers sports as well as breaking news for The Times. More about Victor Mather

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Time Out says

The BT Tower has been the tallest thing on the north London skyline for 50 years in 2015, holding its straggly spike of antennae at a lofty 191 metres above Fitzrovia's pavements. The building (which at this point was known as the Post Office Tower) housed a revolving restaurant on from 1966 until 1980, and to celebrate its golden anniversary guests will be able to dine on level 34 once more, enjoying a spectacular, 360 ° view of London as they tuck into either a four-course lunch (£49.95) or seven-course dinner (£67.95). As demand for the two-week opening is likely going to outstrip places at tables, the spaces will be allocated in two ballots; one for the first week, open Jun 22-29, and one for the second, open Jun 30-Jul 7. Those who are not lucky in the restaurant ballot will be entered into a draw for autumn events on the 34th floor at which guests will be served free drinks and snacks. All profits from the event will go to ChildLine.

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Open House Festival

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Eric Bedford and G. R. Yeats, 1965

45 Maple Street, W1T 4BG

An enduring, distinctive feature of the London skyline for the last 54 years, this is a rare opportunity for members of the public to visit the famous revolving floor, 158m above the capital. After the flight the guests can watch a history of the BT Tower film in our auditorium.

Getting there

Warren Street, Great Portland Street, Euston Square

29, 73, 18, 24, 88, 453

The BT Tower was designed by the Ministry of Public Works under the direction of Chief Architect Eric Bedford. The senior architect involved in the project was Mr G R Yeats and the main contractors were Peter Lind & Co Ltd.

Construction began in April1961 and was completed some four years later, opening for operations on 8th October 1965 by the then Prime Minister Harold Wilson.

Construction problems

As construction began a borehole survey of the site revealed a tricky problem. There was hard chalk – suitable for supporting the foundations – beneath the blue London clay, but it was 53 metres down and therefore an alternative way of supporting the 13,000 tonne structure was needed.

An Italian firm came to the rescue, laying a concrete raft on the clay, some eight metres below ground level. The raft measures around 27 metres square, is one metre thick and reinforced with six layers of steel cables. On it sits a seven metre tall reinforced concrete pyramid with a flat top. The raft and pyramid together provide the foundations and, on top of them, a hollow reinforced concrete shaft runs from near enough ground level, right up through the centre of the tower. This is the backbone of the whole structure which, together with a collar connecting it to the adjacent four-storey building, gives the Tower its stability.

A climbing crane was used to build the Tower; this was later dismantled and lowered from the top by its own winch.

As with other tall buildings, the structure expands and contracts as the temperature changes. This means that in winter the Tower can be as much as 23cm shorter than it is in the summer.

The revolving floor

The revolving floor had to be prefabricated and hoisted up in sections, there is a three millimetre clearance between the revolving and stationary sections of the floor and yes, it still revolves today. Two high-speed lifts transport visitors to the upper levels of the Tower, taking just over 30 seconds to reach the top.

Amazingly the Tower was – until 1993 – classified as an ‘official secret’ despite its obvious presence on the London skyline. In November 2001 English Heritage declared the Tower a national monument and in 2003 it became a Grade II listed building.

British Cardiovascular Society

scientific, offices, institution/profession, health, museum

9 Fitzroy Square is the home of the British Cardiovascular Society. In addition to original architectural features, visitors will be able to view the BCS collection of objects illustrating the history of cardiology. Last entry 3.30 pm.

Robert Adam, 1794

T J Boulting

Red brick and Portland stone corner building with three prominent signs in Arts & Craft style lettering in green and gold mosaic for the company 'TJ Boulting & Sons'.

Herbert Fuller Clarke, 1903

Fitzrovia Chapel

religious, recreational, historical house, community/cultural, gallery, concert/performance space, mixed use

Loughborough Pearson's red brick building is unimposing from the outside, but inside is a riot of Gothic Revival design. Golden mosaics reveal the character of the Grade II* listed chapel, built as part of the Middlesex Hospital.

J. L. Pearson, 1891

Guided tour

373 Euston Road, Birkbeck College

The refurbishment and roof extension of 7-storey building at 373 Euston Road to accommodates a 180-person lecture theatre, high-quality classrooms, as well as formal and informal co-learning spaces.

Penoyre & Prasad, 2020

institution/profession, gallery, library, museum

Fine example of Grade II* listed 1930s architecture with many original features and fittings and home to the world-class British Architectural Library collections.

George Grey Wornum, 1934

The Soho Poly

From 1972 to 1990, the Soho Poly was London’s leading Fringe theatre venue - dedicated to widening access to the arts giving voice to underrepresented playwrights and actors, particularly women and those from BAME and LGBTQ+ communities.

Lyons, Israel, Ellis, Gray, 1929

Guided tour / Talk

Embassy of the Republic of Poland

government, embassy/high commission

Georgian townhouse built by Robert and James Adam in the years 1776-1780 is a fine example of the Adam style of Neoclassical interior design. Seat of the Polish Embassy in London since 1921, it also houses a collection of Polish artworks.

James and Robert Adam , 1776

University of Westminster

The University of Westminster was one of the first polytechnics in the UK. Founded in 1838 as the Royal Polytechnic Institution, it was established to educate the working people of London, regardless of background or financial status.

George Mitchell, 1912

The Association of Anaesthetists and Anaesthesia Heritage Centre

historical house, institution/profession, museum

Grade II* listed building with neoclassical portico. Highly decorated meeting rooms throughout the building with ceiling and wall mouldings, and artwork featuring Venus the Goddess of Love and the Greek Muses.

Robert and James Adam, 1776

The Cartoon Museum

Underground museum. Interior design by Sam Jacobs Studio. Design concept influenced by cartoon and comic narrative techniques.

Sam Jacob Studio, 2019

Tour of Princes Circus and Alfred Place Gardens

public realm/landscape

Big change can happen. Princes Circus and Alfred Place Gardens are the last two spaces to complete in Camden Council's award-winning West End Project. Both involve reclaiming road for people and for nature. Join for more on the journey.

LDA Design - Landscape Architect, 2023

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Avoid These Tourist Traps In London And Visit These Destinations Instead

O ne of the world's greatest cities, London is packed with tourist attractions so impressive that you'll want to add them all to your itinerary. From the Tower of London to Buckingham Palace to the Churchill War Rooms, the list of unmissable landmarks seems endless. Don't worry, though -- it's possible to visit most of them in just a two-day trip . When you're on a tight schedule, it's important to avoid time- and money-wasting tourist traps in favor of visiting sites that are worthy of your attention. 

Whether it's an overrated and overpriced wax museum, a kitschy dungeon experience, or a super crowded viewpoint, there are many places to avoid visiting in the U.K.'s heady capital. The confusing part? Some of them top multiple lists of must-see attractions. That's where we come in. 

As someone who lived in this captivating English city for six years, I have first-hand knowledge of the biggest tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London. Plus, I can offer more impressive (and often less costly) destinations to visit instead. Don't want to take my word for it? No problem. I combined my first-hand knowledge with reviews and suggestions from other locals to create this list.

Read more: 50 Underrated Tourist Destinations Around The World

Skip Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours And Ride A London Bus

While hop-on hop-off bus tours can be a convenient way to explore a big city, they often come with a hefty price tag. If the tour is based in London, you can expect to pay over $50 per adult for a one-day pass. Instead, board a London bus, which will cost less than $7 for a day of travel. Bus fare for one ride is about $2 and the daily cap is under $7. To pay for their ride, visitors must use a contactless card or an Oyster Card, the visitor's version of which can be purchased online and mailed to your home before you leave.

Double-decker London buses offer spectacular city views, with many routes passing right by London's landmark attractions. One of our faves is the historic Routemaster Bus 15, which we suggest boarding at the Tower of London. Hop on at Great Tower Street (Stop TT) and ride west to Charing Cross Station. Be sure to sit up top for the best views along this heritage route -– you can't miss St. Paul's Cathedral and Trafalgar Square. 

Bus 24 is another great option for sightseers. Hop on at Victoria Station and ride it to Camden High Street. Along the way, you'll pass Westminster Abbey, the Horse Guard's Parade, Trafalgar Square, and Downing Street. Grab a bite at Camden Market when you disembark or stay on until you reach Hampstead Heath where you can catch unbeatable views of the city.

Skip Madame Tussauds And Visit Buckingham Palace

It may tout itself as a top London attraction, but Madame Tussauds would be more honest if they said they were the top rip-off site. Booking in advance will save some money -- the standard online rate for an adult begins at just over $47 versus the walk-up price, which begins at almost $60. But that's still a lot of quid to dish out for wandering around an overcrowded and noisy space filled with okay-ish wax replicas of A- and B-list celebs. Yes, it's fun to take photos with the royal family and fool friends into thinking you met them IRL, but is it worth it? We don't think so.

Instead, we suggest visiting Buckingham Palace for a potential King Charles III sighting. Realistically, you probably won't spy a royal outside the palace, but at least you'll see a historic monument up close. Celebrities more your thing? Book a reservation at one of the city's most popular restaurants. Chiltern Firehouse has hosted acting greats Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper as well as soccer superstar David Beckham. 34 Mayfair is another good bet for great food and celeb spotting. Imelda Staunton and royal family members have all eaten here.

Skip Changing Of The Guard And Visit The Queen's Gallery

While you should add Buckingham Palace to your list of must-see London tourist attractions, you may want to avoid a visit during the Changing of the Guard. This formal ceremony marks the change between the old guard (on-duty soldiers) and new guard (soldiers taking over duty) for the royal palaces. Marching with a band from Wellington Barracks to the Palace, the new guard will arrive at the palace at about 10:45 a.m. A well-known event, this is a big tourist draw, which means you can expect hefty crowds queuing up an hour or more in advance, as well as pickpockets who arrive to take advantage of the chaotic atmosphere. This tourist trap, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, is one you'll be happy to miss. Sadly, watching this famed ceremony these days feels more like witnessing an overhyped marching band than it does an esteemed historic ritual.

Instead, ditch the crowds and glimpse art from the Royal Collection in the Queen's Gallery or visit the Royal Mews , where you can see the royal stables and the 260-year-old Gold State Coach used at King Charles III's Coronation. The Mews are open Thursday through Monday from early March to early November. Neighboring St. James Park is another interesting place to visit. One of London's famed Royal Parks, it is bordered by three palaces and boasts a fabulous view of Buckingham Palace in particular.

Skip Platform 9 ¾ At King's Cross Station And Visit Warner Brothers Studio Tour London

If you're traveling with a Harry Potter-obsessed kid, you may want to visit Platform 9 ¾ at King's Cross Station. But if you're alone, or with other adults who couldn't care less, we advise you to skip this overrated tourist trap. If you're already planning to be in King's Cross Station and have time to scope out this attraction, that's one thing; but if you're traveling there with the sole purpose of visiting this site, think twice. 

Set between platforms 9 and 10 (obvs) this point of interest includes nothing but a brick wall denoted with a sign. Stuck into the wall is part of a trolley loaded with fake suitcases and an empty owl cage. Those hoping for a quick photo and to score some Potter swag will be pleased;  the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is open daily, even on bank holidays, and it sells everything from wands to clothes to makeup. 

For those who'd rather have an unforgettable and truly magical Harry Potter experience, though, head to Warner Brothers Studio Tour London -- The Making of Harry Potter in nearby Leavesden. Instead of merely looking at a wall, visitors can board the Hogwarts Express, "fly" on a broomstick, walk through the Great Hall, and explore the Forbidden Forest. Step foot in Diagon Alley, try a Butterbeer, or check out some of the film's famous props and costumes. You won't be sorry you visited.

Skip London Dungeon And Visit The Tower Of London

No matter how much the kids beg you to visit the London Dungeon, stay strong and just say "no." This kitschy tourist trap is a waste of your hard-earned money (tickets start at over $37 for adults) and it's so hokey you'll roll your eyes more times than you can count on both hands. This pitiful attraction is peppered with costume-clad actors who like to scream and cackle and its two rides (the Drop Dead: Drop Ride and the Tyrant Boat Ride) will make you wish you were at Walt Disney World; even "It's a Small World" would be more enjoyable. An escape room has also been added to increase the venue's income stream –- it costs $153 for a private game for six people.

Want a historic experience with a side of chills? Head to the Tower of London instead. There, you can tour the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, where you can get up close and personal with the stretching machine (a.k.a. the rack) and other ancient torture devices in the Lower Wakefield Tower. The Bloody Tower is another point of interest you won't want to miss. The most infamous prison on the grounds, this is where you'll learn about the alleged murder of two young princes -– Edward V and his little brother Richard –- by their uncle, Richard III.

Skip The London Bridge Experience And Visit Churchill War Rooms

Looking for a good spooking? Do yourself a favor and skip The London Bridge Experience. A tourist trap designed to bring the city's macabre history to life with the help of actors with a penchant for jump scares, you can expect to meet zombie-like versions of ghastly heavyweights Jack the Ripper and William Wallace during your visit. Tickets cost about $37 for the experience, which takes anywhere between 35 and 50 minutes. That means you could be spending more than $1 a minute. Entry fees also include a trip to the London Tombs, deemed the U.K.'s "best scare attraction," according to their site . Zombified dentists, doctors, and creepy clowns await visitors in the lower vaults of this venue, ready to pounce and scream in your face.

Instead, we suggest visiting the Churchill War Rooms. Also located underground, this fascinating historic facility is part of the Imperial War Museums. Located in the basement of Whitehall, this once-secret complex was used by former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, top government ministers, and military planners to conduct meetings and develop plans during the country's war effort during World War II. Known as the Cabinet War Rooms, this clandestine spot was used daily during the war, until August 16, 1945. Or experience that stomach drop feeling by walking the glass floors at Tower Bridge. Set nearly 138 feet above the Thames, the views are both terrifying and impressive. Tickets cost under $16 per adult. 

Skip The Sherlock Holmes Museum And Visit The Sherlock Holmes Pub

We don't recommend visiting the Sherlock Holmes Museum unless you have a detective-obsessed kid who doesn't realize that the famed character is fictional. Set inside a Georgian townhouse at 221B Baker Street in Marylebone, this four-story museum has been open since 1990. Inside lie antique furnishings mentioned in the books and pretty creepy-looking mannequins. Tickets cost over $21 which isn't exorbitant, especially for London, but considering you won't be there long (the museum's quite small), this seems a bit of a waste.

Instead, head to The Sherlock Holmes  in St James. Self-described as a "Victorian-themed public house," this watering hole features a recreated version of the famed fictional detective's apartment upstairs. The entire pub is dotted with references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved books, making it easy to feel as if you're within the pages. Plus, there's a beer garden –- the museum certainly doesn't have one of those.

Skip The SEA Life London Aquarium And Visit The London Zoo

You'll find everything you'd expect to see at the SEA Life London Aquarium. From penguins to sharks to turtles, they're all there. And as far as aquariums go, this is a pretty good one. But when you're in one of the world's greatest cities that lies on the banks of a river, not an ocean, there are plenty of better things to see. Standard tickets to the Sea Life London Aquarium cost $24 online or $51 at the door. Again, that's pretty on par for London attractions, however, it's a steep price to pay for a tourist trap. 

Instead, visit London Zoo in Regent's Park. The oldest scientific zoo in the world, this family-friendly attraction was opened in 1828 for fellows of the Zoological Society of London. In 1847, the public was invited to visit. Today, the zoo is home to 14,0000 animals including a giant, 425-pound silverback gorilla, Sumatran tigers, and Linne's two-toed sloths. While tickets aren't cheap (an adult will cost about $40 to visit on a weekday), it's easy to spend a whole day here. Or, if you aren't willing to part with that much cash, visit the smaller, and lesser-known, Battersea Park Children's Zoo . Adult tickets are more reasonably priced, at $16. There are over 100 animals at this little zoo, including wallabies, meerkats, otters, and lemurs, and plenty of opportunities to interact with animals like coatis, donkeys, and goats.

Skip The Shard And Visit Level 10 At The Tate Modern

There's no denying that The Shard is impressive. In fact, it's one of the most spectacular buildings in the world . The viewing platform was opened by the queen on February 1, 2013, with the main restaurants (Aqua, Oblix, and Hutong) following suit that summer. Set across the Thames from another bucket-list-worthy London building, the Gherkin, this engineering masterpiece towers 1,016 feet above the city and boasts 11,000 glass panels. 

Dubbed a "vertical city," there's plenty to do inside, like spend serious coin on a meal with a view, or zip up one of the 44 elevators to the viewing platform. That 360-degree view will cost you, though -- about $36, or more if you add a glass of champagne. And if you visit on a day that's rainy or misty (honestly, London is often both of those things), you're basically paying for a ride in a lift.

Instead, head to Level 10 at Tate Modern, where you can enjoy a drink or snack (including sandwiches and salads) while ogling the impressive view of the Thames, St. Paul's Cathedral, the BT Tower, and Blackfriar's Bridge. You won't have to pay a thing unless you choose to grab a bite or a warm cuppa. The Skygarden at 20 Fenchurch Street is another must-visit for a free skyline vista. The highest public garden in London, this leafy space is as stunning as its views are remarkable.

Skip The London Eye And Visit Hamstead Heath

We are well aware that some of you will disagree with this addition to our list of tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London, but hear us out. Yes, the London Eye is iconic. Yes, it offers fantastic views of the city. And yes, it's deemed a top London attraction you won't want to miss . That said, visiting this popular landmark can cause more headaches than enjoyment. First created as a temporary point of interest, this 443-foot-tall, "cantilevered observation wheel" is the largest of its kind in the world, according to its website . And if you catch a ride on one of its 32 pods on a sunny day, you can see up to 25 miles in all directions. The problem is that thousands of others have the same idea, which means you could stand in line for more than two hours on a particularly busy day. Standard tickets start at over $32 online or more than $57 for a walk-up.

Instead, visit Hampstead Heath for a unique city view you probably never knew existed. Parliament Hill stands over 321 feet tall, making it one of the highest natural points in the city. If the weather is ideal, you can see to the Gherkin, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament. Speaking of the Gherkin, it's another great spot to enjoy unparalleled views. Grab a drink and snack at Iris Bar at Searcys at the Gherkin , then relax with a side order of stunning vistas.

Skip Harrods And Visit Peter Jones And Liberty

Harrods is to London as the Colosseum is to Rome -– a historic icon that's become synonymous with the city. The world's most famous luxury department store, this Knightsbridge institution is impossible to miss -– it's eight floors tall and an entire block long, not to mention over one million square feet in size. Inside, you'll find 20 restaurants, a beauty salon, a bank, and 300 separate departments selling over 5,000 brands. You'll also see price tags so high you might suffer sticker shock. Due to its notoriety, Harrods is often packed with tourists, making it difficult to enjoy the plush interior.

If you're hoping to shop during your London holiday, there are plenty of excellent places to visit instead. Sloane Square is home to the Peter Jones & Partners department store. Owned by John Lewis, this vast shop is filled with enough enticing merchandise that you'll find it tough to leave empty-handed. Grab a bite at The Top Floor Restaurant (on the 6 th floor) for captivating views of Chelsea and beyond.

Liberty is another recognizable landmark located on Regent Street. A heritage-listed building; this stunning Tudor-style store is as beautiful outside as it is indoors. Built between 1922 and 1924, it is worth a visit, if only to admire the impressive architectural features (the price tags here are also quite shocking).

Our Ranking Methodology

Having lived in London for six years with two young children, I visited pretty much every tourist attraction the city has. From renowned points of interest like the Tower of London to remarkable museums, I've seen the top sightseeing destinations multiple times, including many kitschy tourist traps I wish I'd skipped. To create this list, I used my experiences at these attractions to determine which locales are tourist traps that should be avoided and I included alternatives that are more than worthy of your time and money. I also consulted reviews from other locals and travelers, as well as their tips, to ensure the list is solid.

Read the original article on Explore .