When you think of exciting global cities, London, England is right up there with Paris, New York, and Tokyo. This English capital was the home of Dickens, the birthplace of Chaplin and other literary legends, and not to mention the home of the Royal Family. London is filled with unforgettable things to do, so check out this guide for your next trip.
To see what all the fuss is about, you’ll want to visit the top London attractions and check off all these landmarks and things to do in London from your itinerary. From famous London points of interest to must-see sights along the way. these are the very best things to do in the capital.
Unforgettable Things to Do in London
1. Visit Buckingham Palace – one of London’s most famous attractions
Nearest underground stations: Victoria on the Circle, District and Victoria Lines Hyde Park Corner or Green Park stations both on the Piccadilly Line.
A trip to London wouldn’t be complete without paying a visit to one of its royal residences. In London, you are spoiled for choice with four official royal homes including the magnificent Buckingham Palace. There are plenty of things to do here, including exploring the Garden at Buckingham Palace.
Be sure to catch the Changing of the Guards, one of the most popular events at the palace. The Changing of the Guards takes place every day during the summer months and on alternate days the rest of the year. Then head inside to see the opulence of one of the world’s last working palaces for yourself. Choose to listen to the audio guide and you’ll learn about the Queen’s secret way of moving about the palace!
Finish your visit with a pot of tea and a cake enjoyed in the Queen’s gardens.
Check out these fun London experiences to have with your friends, including taking a traditional afternoon tea.
2. See the city from the top of the London Eye
Nearest underground station: Waterloo on the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo and City lines.
Getting a birds-eye view of the whole city at a height of 153 metres from the top of the Coco-Cola London Eye is an amazing way to spot London attractions from above. It’s a great thing to do in London with kids or on a vacation with your friends. This London attraction is open from 10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Buy tickets online or purchase a Combination Pass to get discounts on other popular London attractions.
For special occasions, you can even rent a private capsule all to yourselves with luxury add-ons like champagne and canapes. There are different options available for families, groups and even a surprise wedding proposal package!
3. Browse London’s many markets
Check out the official Transport for London website to plan your journey on buses, the underground and rail and to search for ticket prices.
From delicious artisan foods to vintage clothing and everything in between, London’s thriving street markets are one of the best tourist attractions in the city. Depending on what you are shopping for, you’ll find a different bustling outdoor community of vendors trading their wares in every corner of the city. Stock up on souvenirs and mementos of your trip at these top London markets:
London’s best markets
- Borough Market – for gourmet food samples and trendy restaurants.
- Camden Locks Market – for eclectic street fashion and art.
- Old Spitalfields Market – expect a changing schedule featuring antiques and vintage clothing days.
- Portobello Road Market – One of London’s best markets for street food, antiques, clothes, books and more.
- Greenwich Market – best for unique gifts and handmade jewellery.
- Covent Garden Market – a haven for rare books and a venue for street performers.
- Columbia Road Flower Market – for gardening supplies and blooms.
4. Admire the Tower of London
Nearest underground station: Tower Hill on the District and Circle lines.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses 1,000 years of British history. Meet the Beefeaters, or the Yeoman Wardens, as they are officially known. These men and women who wear ceremonial uniforms were once the monarchs bodyguards and now act as tour guides and guardians of the tower.
Stick around for the ancient ceremony of the keys where you will hear a cry of “Halt, who comes there?” before the fortress is locked up for the night.
Make sure you go inside to take a peek at the crown jewels, including the coronation regalia, which has been used since 1661 to crown new monarchs.
5. Take some solace at London churches
Travelling can be exhausting and sometimes it’s nice to pay a visit to a place of contemplation and spirituality. Churches, Abbeys and Cathedrals are also fascinating examples of architecture and history. Some of the best to visit in London include St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey.
Climb up the steps at the top of St Paul’s to visit the whispering gallery where sound travels almost magically around the domed roof. You can also learn all about the great fire of London which destroyed the building back in 1666.
Westminster Abbey is a royal church and the scene of royal weddings, christenings, coronations and funerals. It has welcomed new reigning sovereigns since 1066 and is the final resting place for 3000 famous Britons.
6. Learn something new at a London museum
Unusually for a major city, many of London’s museums are completely free to visit, making them excellent and cost-effective attractions. Stop by at any of these world-class museums which are all admission free:
- The Natural History Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- The British Museum
- The Science Museum
- Tate London
- The Imperial War Museum
- The National Gallery
- The Museum of London and many more.
Check our guide for more free things to do in London.
7. Walk across London’s Tower Bridge
Nearest underground station: Tower Hill on the District and Circle lines.
Made famous by the children’s song many visitors to London feel a little underwhelmed when they reach London Bridge. Head further along the Thames river to Tower Bridge, which is a suspension bridge built in 1894 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can follow in the footsteps of the 40,000 people who cross the bridge by foot or wheels every day, by walking across the bridge for free which offers great views of the city and the river below.
If you want to learn more about the history of the bridge you can purchase a ticket to the London Tower Bridge Experience.
8. Enjoy a night at the theatre
Nearest underground station: Leicester Square on the Northern and Piccadilly lines.
London’s west end theatre district rivals Broadway and puts on world-famous shows making it one of the best places to visit in London. You’ll need to book your tickets ahead of time to get the seats and shows you desire but if you’re feeling lucky you can always try the Hamilton lottery! From musicals, comedies, dramas, and obscure fringe productions every taste can be catered.
There are simply so many top London attractions and landmarks to discover during your British vacation, you’ll certainly never get bored. Check below to find the cheapest flights to London, and start planning your next getaway!
