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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.

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

CNT Editors

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.

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Posted on Published: 21st December 2023  - Last updated: 13th February 2024 Categories Things to do

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

86 Brilliant Things to do in London You Really Shouldn’t Miss

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From the classics to the downright quirky. Discover 86 of the best things you should not miss in London with this handy guide. 

First of all, let’s start this feature by acknowledging the cold, hard truth: It’s pretty tough to pick the best things to do in London. 

Even as a team of avid London chroniclers, our calendar is full of new spots that are opening, obscure gems and places we love so much they warrant going time and time again. 

In other words, there are so many places to see in London that you could write an encyclopaedia on it and barely even scratch the surface. 

That said, there are some landmarks, locations and activities that are so iconic or straight-up awesome that you simply have to give them a try. 

First time in London? Grab an eyeful of Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge and the London Eye. Live in London but not made time to see the exuberant Changing of the Guard ceremony or Roman worship at the Mithraeum? Shame on you. 

These places and activities are the things that we recommend everyone do in London. No matter how many times you’ve been or how long you’ve lived here, you’d be surprised by the things that fall through the cracks. 

You won’t find all of these destinations in the guidebooks – some are secret gems, others are some of the city’s biggest icons – they all offer a unique view of London that you have to experience.  

Ready to explore? Let’s roll. 

Unmissable Things to Do in London 

Snap pics at buckingham palace .

If you don’t snap a picture out the front of Buckingham Palace, have you really even visited London?

The chances of actually seeing royalty are pretty low, but it’s definitely a London must-see. 

Those iconic gates also make quite the backdrop for your snapping spree, but did you know that you can actually step inside and explore parts of the palace yourself if the season is right ? 

How to go? When they open the State Rooms during summer check availability and book your ticket .

Ride The London Eye

The London Eye has long cast off its rather dated name The Millennium Wheel – but it still has the great views and wow factor it did when it opened in the year 2000. 

Let’s face it – you can’t not feature The London Eye in a guide to the top places to you ought to see in London. 

Glide serenely around the 25-minute circuit and take in the views. You can see the entire city unfolding beneath you, even as far away as Windsor on a clear day. 

How to Go : Book your tickets in advance

Visit Westminster Abbey

You may recognise Westminster Abbey as the backdrop for several elaborate royal weddings that were beamed around the world. You know, like Charles & Diana, and Kate and Wills.

If it’s fit for a royal wedding then you just know it’s going to be pretty spectacular – and it sure is. 

It’s also the final resting place of some of Britain’s most famous folk. That list is too long to recreate here but includes a slew of kings and queens, eight prime ministers, Charles Dickens, Geoffrey Chaucer, Henry Purcell, William Wilberforce and Laurence Olivier, among others. 

No wonder it’s one of the main things to do in the capital.

How to Go: Buy skip-the-line tickets with an audio guide

Visit the Kyoto Garden

We doubt you expected to find a Japanese Garden in London, but then again why should you be surprised? This is one of the most multicultural places in the world after all. 

The Kyoto Garden was given as a gift by the people of Japan with a very special sentiment in mind – to honour the friendship between our two nations. 

Its a delightful place for a stroll and has some truly stunning features, a many-tiered waterfall and a collection of Japanese stone lamps just the tip of the iceberg. 

How to go : Visit Holland Park. Opening times can be found here . 

See Immersive Art at Frameless

London has some of the world’s finest art galleries but if you’d like something new you should pop down to Frameless. 

They take what you’ll find on the walls of The Tate and The National Gallery and blow it up to lager than life sizes, warping it and animating it so that it seems like you’re actually walking through the masterworks of art history. 

Let us tell you, it’s impressive. It will also look excellent on your Instagram. 

How to go: Book a ticket right here .

Try the Duelling Bagels of Brick Lane

For many years there’s been a divide among Londoners. It involves two famed bagel houses on Brick Lane. They’ve become so entrenched in our collective imagination that you need only refer to them as “The Yellow One” and “The White One”. 

Beigel Bake (the white one) has the perks of running 24/7, while The Bagel Shop (the yellow one) offers the charm of history – it’s the first and oldest bagel shop in London having been founded in 1855.

How to go : If you want to join the debate, grab a pastrami from both and choose your side. 

Catch Views at Sky Garden 

There are a few impressive gardens in London, but perhaps the most unique is the Sky Garden .

As the name suggests, it’s a green space that sits near the top of the “Walkie Talkie” building. Extra pluses? It’s England’s highest public garden, and it’s totally free. Win.

How to Go : Book a free visit here or pop in for breakfast when there are zero queues. 

It’s also worth noting that they throw some pretty wild parties up here for the big nights of the year ( New Year’s Eve , Halloween etc.) – if you fancy yourself a very fancy party animal, check on their site nearer the time.  

Take a CityDays London Treasure Hunt

When it comes to London landmarks, there’s no better way to explore than via an immersive scavenger hunt. And that’s where City Days comes in.

They’ve curated an epic selection of hunts that see you follow clues around the city. Captivating stories challenge you to experience London’s coolest spots and hidden locations – and there are discounts in numerous pubs along the way so that you can decipher the clues over a pint or two.

Whether you like the sound of fleeing from witches in Greenwich, twisting your way through Kensington’s mysterious mews, or even taking on mediaeval south London, there’s certain to be a London scavenger hunt that tickles your fancy.Better yet, tickets start at just £15 per person – so get the gang together for an immersive afternoon in London and get ready to discover the city we love so much.

Book Your Tickets for CityDays Here

Witness Roman Worship at the London Mithraeum

London has had a long and storied past. We can trace this city all the way back to the Romans. In fact, some of the roman rituals are still happening today. 

That’s right. At The London Mithraeum , they recreate an ancient Roman ritual for all to see. It’s in honour of the god Mithras who was once worshipped on this very site many thousands of years ago. 

The museum also holds some interesting artefacts that were found on the dig site – one that was only discovered in the 50s. 

How to go : Check the times on their website here and visit accordingly.

Hear the PM Speak at The Houses of Parliament and See Big Ben 

Say what you like about politicians, you’ve got to admit they’ve got a pretty incredible home base in London. The intricate Gothic architecture is seriously top-notch. 

You can tour the insides when they’re not busy you know, running the country. You can also attend the famed shouting match that is Prime Minister’s Questions or PMQs, as well as other debates taking place – so long as there’s space, they’ll let you in. 

You’ll also be able to snap pics in front of Big Ben ( top marks if you can tell us what it’s real name is ). 

How to Go : Get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Houses and Westminster

Look Around the London Transport Museum 

Not all of London’s museums hold items that date back across the millenniums. In fact one we think you really should see while in London covers a few hundred years of groundbreaking innovation in London’s transport. 

At the London Transport Museum , you’ll see vintage vehicles from the days when busses were just hitting the road, tube posters from the days when the tube only ran one line and heaps of other weird and wonderful things you didn’t know you wanted to see until you stumbled across them here. 

Walk Across Tower Bridge 

Pretty close to the list of top things to see in London is Tower Bridge (not be confused with the far less pretty London Bridge further upriver).

Impressive. Majestic. Imposing. We could think of lots of superlatives to use here – but we recommend you just check it out for yourself.

Don’t miss out on the chance to walk across the glass platform on the top deck and watch the ant people crossing beneath you, if you dare that is…

How to Go : Buy an advanced ticket for a discount online

Take a Gin Distillery Tour 

In recent years London has undergone a bit of a gin revolution. The botanical spirit has gone from being the gut-rot drunk during the Victorian ages to the drink of yummy mummies and, now, a spirit of noble standing among hipster distilleries that are pushing the drink to entirely new levels. 

You can tour many of these distilleries and sample their finest liquor as you go. Many of them will also offer masterclasses on things like how to mix the correct flavours of gin with the correct tonics so you can take your G&T game to a whole new level. 

How to go : Here’s a guide to the best gin distillery tours in the capital.

Get into London’s Grizzly History at The Tower of London 

The clearest example of London’s dramatic and sometimes devilish history is the Tower of London . Centuries ago, it was the place for notorious prisoners (generally of the political variety).

Today, it’s a kind of grim attraction – with the added bonus of being home to the impressive Crown Jewels and a tradition that has happened daily for the past 700 years . 

How to Go: Get a skip-the-line ticket

Take a High-Speed Tour of the Thames 

You could, should you choose, to cruise the Thames on a Thames Clipper, putting along at a stable and comfortable speed, idly waiting for the next big landmark to pop up. Then again you could whiz down the river at break-neck speeds on the back of a speedboat. 

Just imagine how Big Ben looks as you zip by it at high speed, or the adrenaline you’ll feel at narrowly missing one of the struts holding up Tower Bridge. You can find a couple of companies that offer this sort of service, if you’re bold enough to give it a try. We’d recommend the Thames Tigers or the Thames Rockets . 

How to go : book in advance on one of the above links

Dine at The Shard 

If you’re looking for the best things to see in London, you won’t need to work hard to spot The Shard.

Europe’s tallest building is immediately recognisable as the most glittering part of the London skyline.

There’s a super impressive observation deck, as well as several bars and restaurants (including one of our favourites – Aqua Shard ) if you want to get inside.

How to Go : Free just to look, or book a table at one of the restaurants, but prepare to spend big bucks to eat here – imagining the tableside views might give you some sense of why.

Get Lost in the Lights of Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is one of those totally overwhelming and totally awesome places that remind you that you’re standing in one of the world’s great cities.

A road junction in London’s West End, it’s a central point for shopping, nightlife and dining – as well as a bright attraction in its own right. There’s no doubt it’s one of the places you really can’t miss visiting when you’re in the capital.

Don’t just look at the big screens though. Make sure to look out for the Eros Statue for a good slice of an older side of London. 

Be Wowed by St Paul’s Cathedral 

Wondering what to see in London? St Paul’s Cathedral should go straight to the top of your list. Arguably Sir Christopher Wren ’s most beautiful work (and he had a fair few beautiful works), St Paul’s Cathedral is an utter delight.

The Baroque beauty is free to enter if you are worshipping, or grab yourself a ticket so you can explore it all – including the Dome.

Don’t forget to descend into the crypt where you can find the graves of some truly fascinating people including Sir Alexander Fleming (the man who discovered penicillin), Lord Nelson and the greatest British painter to have lived, Turner. 

How to Go : Get a discounted skip-the-line ticket in advance

Spend Time on Trafalgar Square 

London’s most famous public square was originally named to commemorate Britain’s victory over France in the Napoleonic Wars.

Today, it’s a bustling hub in central London. As well as lots and lots of people, you can also expect to see various art installations and buskers as well.

There’s also the Fourth Plinth , an art installation that changes every few years and the faces of the bizarre-looking lions to take a good look at – trust us, when you know what we mean you really can’t unsee it . 

Just don’t feed the pigeons. It’s against the rules. 

Check out the Waxworkds at Madame Tussauds London

If you ask us, there’s nothing quite as fun as pulling silly poses next to your favourite celebrity, and Madame Tussauds is the global attraction that allows you to do just that.

We might be biased, but we think London has the best Madame Tussauds. From your favourite Marvel heroes and singers (we always head straight for Queen Bey) to Star Wars characters and even a couple of Royal faces, these wax figures are as close as you’re going to get to the real thing.

How to go: Book your tickets in advance

Shop in Covent Garden 

Exploring one of the city’s most iconic and bustling neighbourhoods is definitely one of the things you have to do in London.

We’re talking about Covent Garden , with its plethora of fabulous shopping, dining and nightlife options. Prepare your credit card for a rinsing if you do go shopping, otherwise just gawk at the talented (and not-so-talented) performers that throng around the market. 

The area is also full of great pubs and more than its fair share of great restaurants if you should need somewhere to recharge after your shopping spree. 

See The Smallest Listed Buildings in London

With history in such abundance as we have it here, London boasts hundreds of protected buildings. It’s two of the smallest that are among our faves – and guess what, they’re not even buildings. 

They’re actually phone boxes. The prototypes that went on to be the K2 phone boxes (the really iconic ones). They stand in the entrance to the Royal Academy and are well worth a little poke around and a snap of. 

How to go : visit during the RA’s opening hours . You can see the boxes in the grand gateway. They’re bright red, you can’t miss them. 

Have a Wild Night in Soho

Long associated with the more salacious side of life, Soho has been London’s nightlife hotspot for decades thanks to its proximity to the city’s theatres . 

It’s also been a hangout for London’s famous artists and writers, Bacon, Burroughs and Freud all spent their time milling about the cafes and bars of Soho’s seedy streets. 

While it’s cleaned up its act a little in the present day, it’s still got that decadent vibe. The naughty neon signage certainly helps with that. It’s also another part of what makes the area a pretty stunning place for a night out – well that and the awesome spread of bars on offer. 

Watch a Football Game

Football is a way of life in The UK and London is home to some of the world’s most famous clubs. We’ll let you into a secret though. We’re not even massive footie fans. What we will say is, though, that seeing a game is an experience you will never forget. 

The energy is electric, the passion unrivalled. London on match day is something else. In that respect, we think its one of those things you sort of have to do in this city, up there with the London Eye and drinking pints in a famous boozer. 

How to go : best to pick a team you want to see play and book tickets via their website. You’ll have to book in advance though

Get an eye for Archaeology at The British Museum 

If you could only visit one museum in your entire life, The British Museum would be a pretty good shout.

The history under its roof is truly astonishing – particularly its Egyptian collection, one that includes the famed Rosetta Stone and some stunning sculptures. Though if its sculpture you want, The Greek Section will also have you covered. 

Our favourite item in the collection isn’t in either of these areas though. It’s found upstairs and it’s the Sutton Hoo Mask. A stunning Anglo-Saxon helmet found while excavating a ship burial, and a stunning modern replica. 

Best of all? Entrance to the permanent exhibitions is free.

How to Go : Entry is free, so just turn up. You can also book a guided tour .

See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (Or Horse Guards Parade)

Us Brits love a bit of pomp and pageantry, especially if it involves the Royal Family. And it doesn’t get more pageant-y or pompous (in a good way) than the Changing of the Guard.

That’s the well-known ceremony where the Palace Guards do an elaborate handover ceremony between the Old Guard and the New Guard. Can’t get enough? You can also see the parade at Horse Guards Parade too.

How to Go : It’s free to watch (be sure to get there early) or get a tour guide , or read our guide on the best places see it and times to visit . 

Explore Chinatown 

Walking around Chinatown is probably our second favourite thing to do in this city after eating our way around Chinatown. 

The area can be overlooked for the heaving crowds of tourists and abundance of choice in restaurants but if you know where to look you’ll find some seriously good places to eat . Beijing Dumpling is one of those spots, and the ever-fantastic Four Seasons is another. 

When you step back out into the street, belly full and the area’s lanterns hanging above, you kind of can’t help but feel the magic. 

Be a Culture Vulture on the South Bank 

The South Bank is one of London’s most bustling spots and a real must-do in London. The name might give you a clue, but it’s a stretch along the south bank of the Thames – and one of London’s most important cultural hubs to boot. 

The South Bank Centre, BFI South Bank, Royal Festival Hall, The National Theatre – let’s just say that if you’re looking for musical performances, art exhibitions, theatre and film shows – it’s a great place to start.  

Add to that a pretty fab second-hand book market, street food market and some brilliant restaurants and you’re onto a winner.

How to Go : See what’s on at the South Bank Centre website . Read Next: The South Bank Area Guide

See Churchill’s War Rooms

You can actually go and visit the very rooms where Winston Churchill conducted the Second World War. The Churchill War Rooms are a spin through some of this city’s most recent major history and one that will provide plenty of visceral insight into the running of the world’s greatest conflict. 

They’ve kept the rooms much as they were back in the 40s, but have added bits of information for context. Its a real hands-on experience, as much about feeling the threat of the day as learning about it. 

How to go: turn up, book a ticket online or take this tour that comes with entry into the war rooms . 

Drink at London’s Old Pubs 

If there’s one thing both local Londoners and visitors love equally, it’s visiting London’s old pubs . They’re definitely contenders for London’s most important cultural icons.

London’s pubs range from kooky and quirky through to modern foodie haunts (with plenty of crossover).

There’s even a few that are said to be haunted , so be sure to keep your wits about you as you sip a pint (of ale, of course).

If you only hit one, make it the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street. The place might just be the oldest of the bunch, is said to have been haunted and was once the watering hole of Mark Twain and Charles Dickens. Can you get much cooler than that? 

How to Go : Try one of many pub tours or explore solo.

See the Pelicans and Relax on the Lawn at St James’s Park 

Ah, to be the Queen. Adoring subjects (well, some at least). Adorable corgis. And one seriously epic front lawn.

We’re talking about St James’s Park, the 23-hectare green space that sits out the front of Buckingham Palace. There’s ample green space for a picnic, a gorgeous lake as well as playground equipment for the kids. 

On top of that you’ll find lots of squirrels and some pretty spectacular birds. Did you ever expect you’d catch pelican feeding time at a park in London ? 

How to Go : Get more information at the Royal Parks website .

See Great Art and Soak in the History at Somerset House 

Somerset House is one of central London’s most vibrant spots. An old historic mansion – the last of the Thameside palaces that used to line this part of the river, it’s been transformed into a cultural hotspot. 

These days it doubles up as an art gallery, event space, cafe, restaurant as well as entrepreneurial hub – there’s always plenty to explore. 

That art gallery, The Courtauld , is a goodun too, boasting some excellent renaissance and modern art, including none other than Van Gough’s Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear. 

How to Go : See what’s on at the Somerset House website  

Find London’s Harry Potter Filming Locations 

There is something about stepping foot in London that makes you suddenly go a little bit (or maybe a lot) Potter mad. No, really – it happens to everyone.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get your HP fix. There are many Harry Potter filming locations in London , making it easy to do a DIY whip around a few spots. Alternatively make a day of it with our very own Harry Potter self-guided walking tour , as curated by a team of London experts and major Potter heads. 

Plus, the places you’ll visit are scattered between many of the must-see things in London, so it’s a good way to take in the sights.

How to Go : Do it yourself or join a walking tour like this one

Go Indoor Skydiving

Adrenaline junkies gather around. London recently gained an activity that you really don’t want to miss. It’s an indoor skydiving tunnel where you can go and simulate the effects of falling from the sky at extreme speed. 

We’ve been down there and can confirm that it’s hella good fun. You’ll also be amazed by the skill of the people who operate the thing. Oh, and just so you know, you can take your jump in VR and watch a simulated skyline pass you by as you simulate your jump. 

How to go : Book tickets here , and make sure you do it in advance

Live the Life Aquatic at the Sea Life London Aquarium 

Did you have a fish tank as a kid? Now imagine that times by about fifty thousand – and you’ve come some of the way to imagining the Sea Life London Aquarium.

As well as one giant tank with all sorts of cool sea creatures, there are also numerous other exhibits with marine animals including penguins and sea turtles.

Our favourite part? The shark tunnel and the section at the beginning where you can actually walk over the top of the tank and see what’s going on below. The jellyfish are nothing short of amazing either…

How to Go : Get your ticket in advance

Enjoy an Afternoon Tea 

If there’s one must-try signature dish in London, it’s an afternoon tea. Complete with scones, sandwiches and – most importantly – tea. 

The city presents plenty of options. You can just stop off for a simple, quick one – or, as we suggest, head for somewhere a little more fancy and enjoy the whole experience in style. 

We’ve got a guide to all the best ones here . We’ve even got a guide to places you can go for a vegan afternoon tea.  

How to Go : Book one of the city’s famous afternoon teas (The Ritz, Claridge’s, The Dorchester and The Goring are classics) or try afternoon tea on the Thames

Discover The History of The Knights Templar at Temple Church 

This peculiar church located just off Fleet Street is one of the oldest buildings in London. The experts can date it all the way back to the reign of King John (1199–1216). 

Why does it have the name Temple? Because it was originally owned by the Knights Templar – that’s how old this place is. 

You can have a good look around. Much of what you’ll see in the church has been renovated over the centuries, but there are some truly ancient bits to see. You can read all about the history in our article here . 

How to go : Check the opening times for any given day here (they do vary slightly) and head down when they’re open.

Walk Millennium Bridge (If You Dare)

One of the most interesting things about London is the juxtaposition of historic old buildings and brand-spanking new ones.

Take for instance the Millennium Bridge : a glitzy and new (well, as much as 2000 is new) bridge spanning the Thames. 

It seems everyone in London has an opinion on it (love it or hate it, very few people are ambivalent about it), so why not add yours?

Oh, but beware: it has been known to wobble…

Climb the O2 Arena 

We used to call it the Millennium Dome, now it’s known as the O2 Arena. Either way its one of London’s most iconic buildings. 

But did you know that you can actually climb up to the top of it in a daring afternoon of fun? That’s right, Up at the O2, you’ll strap in and ascend to one of the best viewing points in the city. 

You’ll be harnessed in and with a professional at all times so there’s nothing to worry about. Just wear a jacket because it gets cold up there. 

How to go : make sure you book ahead, you can do that here .

Soak Up the Finest in Modern Art at The Tate Modern 

The Tate Modern is the younger and more rebellious sister of the stately Tate Britain.

Devoted to modern art, it’s the best place to go in London if you’ve got any interest in contemporary art. The collection is a who’s who of Modern Art. Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst, Roy Lichtenstein, Pablo Picasso – you name it, the Tate Modern has got it. 

How to Go : Plan your visit on the Tate Modern’s website . You can even cross Millennium Bridge to get there, ticking off two of these entries in one. 

Or Soak Up some Art History at The National Gallery & National Portrait Gallery 

Sitting side by side, the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery house two of Europe’s most important art collections.

The National Gallery features works by many of the world’s great artists, from the 12th to 20th Century.

On the other hand, works in the National Portrait Gallery are selected due to the significance of the subject.

How to Go : Entrance to both museums is free. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour of the National Gallery . The National Gallery also offers late-night art classes from time to time. Making art among the greatest collection of art in London? Yes please.  

Visit Dickens’ House

Few people have impacted the English language like Dickens . And few people have captured the London they lived in like him either. 

Whether you’re an avid reader or just curious as to what Dickensian London was really like, you’ll get a kick out of the Dickens Museum . 

It’s based out of his old house and the people behind the museum have preserved it well. You can see the desk he wrote some of his finest works from, and see the podium where he gave his renowned readings. 

Naturally the staff there are the highest of Dickens fans and happy to talk your ear off about the man and his work. 

Stroll in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Sure London’s got some very old parks to explore, but there’s also a pretty special new one. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park boasts some lovely waterside walks and heaps of nature to be seen along the way. 

You’ll also be able to check out the Olympic Stadium and art trails while you explore. Our favourite part of the day? Finishing off the walk with a pint in one of Hackney Wick’s fantastic craft breweries . There’s nothing like a well-deserved beer…

How to go: Check the park’s website for the latest opening times .

See The Monument 

It’s hard to understate the impact that the Great Fire of London had on the city back in 1666. Not only did several Londoners lose their lives, but it razed much of the city to the ground.

There’s no starker reminder of this than The Monument, an impressive column that was erected to memorialise this tragic and dramatic event.

How to Go : You walk right up and around The Monument but to go inside and climb to the top you’ll need to buy advance tickets from The Monument’s website

Eat Your way Around Borough Market 

Borough Market is a food lover’s dream come true. Located under a railway line not far from London Bridge, it’s totally enticing.

There’s food from all over the world, from British scotch eggs to Argentinian street food and so much in between. Prepare to be amazed (and to leave very full).

If you fancy yourself a foodie then you don’t want to miss this spot. But what should you be eating when you’re there? We’ve got you covered on that one . 

How to Go : Find out more information and opening hours on Borough Market’s site

Ride The Thames Clipper

Don’t just take in the Thames from the riverside – get on it with the Thames Clipper.

The Thames Clipper is one of those London secrets that is hidden in plain sight –  a public transport service that plies its way along the river. What’s more, a jaunt along the Thames that won’t break the bank. It’s a great way to take in another view of London.

How to Go : Get tickets from the Thames Clipper website or just tap in with a contactless card at the pier.

Check out The Barbican Centre

The Barbican is one of the capital’s most controversial buildings (it was built in the Brutalist style – think lots and lots and lots of concrete and clean lines) – so much so that it was once voted the ugliest building in London. 

We strongly disagree – it’s one of the city’s most striking examples of 20th-century architecture  – and that’s before you get inside. Sure, it’s a bit of a maze, but there’s a theatre, cinema, concert hall – not to mention a large-scale conservatory that’s filled with all kinds of flora from around the world. 

And for all the above reasons, it totally gets our pick as one of the most interesting places you can see in this fine city.

How to Go : Visit the Barbican’s website to see what’s on

Learn About This City’s History at The Museum of London 

So, London has a lot of great museums – but what about one that is totally devoted to the capital itself?

Enter: The Museum of London . 

As proud Londoners, we totally love this museum. The exhibitions span the major eras of London from the Romans to the present day. It’s a great way to learn about the fascinating and often dramatic history of the English capital.

How to Go : It’s free to visit but check the Museum of London’s website for opening times.

Note: The Museum of London will be closed until 2026.  

See a Play at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre 

Sadly, the original Shakespeare’s famous Globe Theatre is no longer with us – however, we do have this very sympathetic replica to enjoy. It’s not too far from where the original would have stood, and full of interesting history.  

The program, of course, includes plenty of Shakespeare as well as some other shows. Best of all, tickets can be very affordable, especially if you book last minute and aren’t too picky.

Another top tip of ours: book standing tickets. If you can handle watching a play on your feet they’re a great way to save money. That’s also how most people would have taken in Shakespeare back in the day. 

How to Go : Book a guided tour to get a closer look or book online at The Globe’s website to see a play

Or See a West End Play or National Theatre 

There’s no doubt that one of the top things to do in London is to catch a show. You can head for the bright lights of the West End , or perhaps the more high-brow National Theatre .

Whichever you choose, you’re in for a treat. London attracts many of the world’s best shows, and there’s always something cool happening. We keep an up-to-date guide of everything on the stage right here.  

And of course, a night in the West End is nothing without a bit of dinner.  

How to Go : There are a few ways to book tickets – either directly with the individual theatres or using a booking portal such as London Theatre .

Relax in Hyde Park

Arguably the world’s most famous park (take that, New York), a visit to Hyde Park is definitely one of the main things to do in London.

Covering 142 hectares, it’s the largest of London’s Royal Parks and the perfect place to escape London’s sprawling concrete jungle.

There’s no end of life to see and plenty to keep you entertained for a day, from riding pedalos on the Serpentine Lake to perusing art at the Serpentine Galleries , or just chilling on the grass with a good book of course.   

How to Go : Visit the Royal Parks’ Website  

Get Your Detective On at The Sherlock Holmes Museum 

More than a century after the original book was penned, the Sherlock Holmes  detective stories (and their various screen adaptations) still delight audiences around the world.  

The Sherlock Holmes Museum takes you on a jaunt through the world of Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective as well as giving you insight into the author and what inspired him to create the most famous detective stories of all time. 

How to Go : Purchase tickets on arrival ( check the museum’s website for more info)

Stroll in Regent’s Park 

Another Royal Park – Regent’s Park is tucked between Baker Street and Camden – offering a gloriously green escape from the hustle and bustle just north of the centre of London. 

Sure, London has a lot of parks, but there’s a lot to love here. For starters, the Isabella Plantation – a gorgeous woodland full of shady copses and pretty azaleas, not to mention Queen Mary’s Rose Garden which bursts into bloom each summer. 

Have more time? Head to ZSL London Zoo (below) which is also in the park.  

How to Go : Check the Royal Parks website for info and opening times

Check out Animals at ZSL London Zoo

ZSL London Zoo is one of the oldest in the world. More importantly than that, it is also at the forefront of animal welfare and conservation work.

It’s pretty amazing to see so many animals from all over the world. You might even forget you’re right in the middle of London!

Although everyone can enjoy the zoo, it’s one of our picks for the best things to do in the capital if you’re with kids . Adults – keep an eye open for the cool Zoo Lates that take place throughout the year. 

How to Go : Book skip-the-line tickets

Shop in Camden Market 

There’s no denying that London is seriously cool. Fashion, art, theatre – we’re at the forefront of it all.

If you’re looking to replicate it and up your own style stakes, head on over to Camden Market and pick up some very chic souvenirs.

The several markets that together make up Camden Market are some of London’s most iconic shopping spots . While the shopping scene isn’t quite as cool as it used to be, it’s still a must-see spot – there are still plenty of quirky and rather brilliant pieces to take home with you. 

How to Go : Check the website for more information and opening hours  

Visit the Grave of Marx in Highgate Cemetery

If you end up buried in Highgate Cemetery , then you just know you’ve made it. Possibly not for a great reason, but made it nonetheless.

It may be a bit of an unusual choice but we do highly recommend going for a stroll amongst the graves. The overgrown cemetery is really quite something. Not least because it’s the final resting place of many notable people. 

Make sure you pick up a map so you can find the most famous ones like Karl Marx.

How to Go : Check Highgate Cemetery’s site for opening times  

Take a Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour and See All the Sights in a Day

If you want to see all the London sights and you’re feeling impatient about getting it done, let us introduce you to a novel idea: the hop-on-hop-off bus tour. 

The concept is simple. You get on a bus that whips you around all the must-see places in London and you listen to a guide as you go. You can then jump off the bus at the most interesting points and hop back on when you’re ready. 

How to go: Book yourself onto a tour here

Swim on Hampstead Heath 

A sprawling green space, Hampstead Heath is one of London’s largest and oldest public parks. It’s perfect for a walk or a picnic.

Perhaps the most popular and unique attraction, however, are the three outdoor swimming pools on offer. They’re especially perfect for a warm summer’s day, although the chills don’t deter plucky Londoners in the colder months either.

Walk the Canals of Little Venice

Tucked away in a quiet but beautiful part of London, Little Venice feels like an escape to a different city. 

No, there aren’t as many canals as in Venice but the combination of colourful boats (some of which are home to cafes, restaurants and even a theatre) and pretty canals is a winning one. 

You can even take a ride on a gondola if you like, or hire out your own boat and make a day of it. 

Eat Curry and Shop Vintage on Brick Lane 

Everyone’s heard of Brick Lane . Carving its way from Shoreditch to Whitechapel, Brick Lane is just as cool as it ever was thanks to an energetic vibe and appealing mix of markets, restaurants, vintage shops , street art and more. 

Famous for the curry houses that once lined large parts of it, there are still a few gems still standing – where better to go for a curry and some BYO drinks on a Friday night? And where better to pick up some vintage threads if you’re a fashionista? 

Ride The Famous Cable Cars

How does a cable car ride over the Thames sound? Great, but it’s going to be hella expensive right? Wrong. These badboys are not only one of the most unique ways to catch a glimpse of the city from above, it’s also one of the most affordable too. 

The route runs between North Greenwich and Excel, but we wouldn’t blame you if you took a return and just hopped on it for the ride. 

How to Go : Combine your ticket with the Thames Clipper

Discover Some Great Street Art in Shoreditch 

Shoreditch was covered in street art way before it was cool. Today, it’s one of the world’s best street art locations. Fact.

Pieces range from the politically charged to the world-renowned (including a piece by THE Banksy). The scene is ever-changing and no two visits will ever be the same. We go back time and time again and we’re never anything less than buzzed by what we see. 

If you like street art then you have to add this to your list of best stuff to do in London.

How to Go : Do a DIY tour or join a guided walking tour like this one

Take a Jack The Ripper Tour of the East End

The Story of Jack the Ripper, with his spate of violent and gruesome murders of women in the East End is one of the most gripping cold cases in history – and still continues to intrigue. 

Much of the area he stalked is still about, and still hung with the dark past he left behind. 

You can delve into the grisly world of Jack the Ripper’s London on a tour of the East End. Who were the victims? Where were they killed and who, who could have been the culprit? 

Maybe not ideal for young children.

How to Go : Do it yourself or join a guided walking tour like this one

Witness Geezers Flogging Flowers at Columbia Road Flower Market 

Onto far more lighthearted things but still staying in London’s East End – we just love the gorgeous Columbia Road Flower Market.

Visiting Columbia Road is definitely one of our favourite things to do around this city – here’s why. 

Every Sunday, this market springs to life with an amazingly colourful selection of cut and potted flowers. Many are sold by vendors who’ve been at it for decades, and it has a great atmosphere.

How to go: Turn up on a Sunday morning when the market is running. Our top tip? If you arrive at around 1-2pm when the market is closing you can snag some killer deals on the plants. 

Be Stunned by God’s Own Junkyard 

If there’s one thing this quirky art store-come-gallery has never said it is ‘I think that might be too much neon.’

This kaleidoscope of colour is stacked full of it, thanks to the effort of the late collector and neon artist Chris Bracey with very memorable and colourful results. If you’re looking for a seriously cool souvenir of your time in London – this is a good shout.

You might also be interested to know that celebrities and people hunting out props for the movie industry are not uncommon sightings here too.

How to Go : No booking necessary. For more information visit the website .

Learn About the Cutty Sark

Once at the cutting edge of engineering, today the old ship, the Cutty Sark, is an artefact of the maritime past.

It’s seriously cool to look around and imagine the days it would have spent sailing the high seas in the late 19th century.

And sail it did. It was one of the fastest ships of its time, used for getting tea around the empire as quickly as possible. 

How to Go : Book advance tickets  

Rollerskate at Flippers

Flippers is a new hangout in London. It came here by way of New York, and to New York by way of 1980s Hollywood . 

Its basically a giant roller skating disco where you can glide to your heart’s content listening to vintage bangers and the best of the recent decades. 

They have an American diner there that turns out some pretty banging food which means you can really make a trip of it if you want, something we advise you do – this place at its best can be a real good laugh. 

How to go : Book yourself a slot here .

Stand on the Meridian Line at The Royal Observatory & Greenwich Meridian 

Greenwich is home to many of the capital’s most interesting attractions – few more so than the Royal Observatory and the Greenwich Meridian. 

It’s pretty incredible to stand on the Greenwich Meridian – the point where time is measured from, aka longitude 0 degrees.

It’s tucked inside the grounds of the Royal Observatory, which has been at the forefront of astronomy and physics for centuries. You can even visit the planetarium and learn about the night sky. 

How to Go : Book tickets with a free audio guide tour  

Embrace Your Inner Kid at a Ball Pit Cocktail Bar London

This new addition to the London bar scene is a curious one but we love it for a chance to blast your way down memory lane. It’s essentially a bar with a bunch of ball pits (and no small amount of puns about their balls)

You get sloshed. You jump around. It’s all a whole load of fun. Simple. 

How to go: Book yourself in here .

Be Moved by The Painted Hall 

The Painted Hall is another case of Sir Christopher Wren totally smashing it out of the park. The architect (who also designed St Paul’s Cathedral), designed this incredible Baroque hall alongside Nicholas Hawksmoor. 

To give you an idea of what we’re talking about, we should probably tell you that The Painted Hall is often nicknamed “London’s Sistine Chapel” and no, that’s not overhyping it at all. 

How to Go : Book your ticket online to secure entry

Watch a Candlelight Concert 

In recent years London has undergone a candlelit concert craze . There’s not a weekend that goes by in this city anymore without some kind of candlelit event to attend. 

How does it work? Well, you basically see a concert that can range to anything from orchestral versions of your favourite pop music or film scores to renditions of grand classical suites. 

They perform it all in stunning locations like churches and town halls that are lit by thousands of candles. It. Is. Stunning. 

How to go : You can find a list of upcoming concerts here

Dig into Military History at The Imperial War Museum 

The Horniman Museum rarely makes it onto visitors’ lists of must-see museums in London – more’s the shame as this kooky museum is one of our favourites. 

It was started by a collector who, let’s be honest, seemed like a bit of an oddball. The end result is a truly unique museum that’s unlike any other in London. 

From taxidermy to hands-on exhibits, and temporary shows that pop-up on an ad-hoc basis there’s plenty to keep you entertained. You’ll also find some great historic artefacts on display. 

You should also note that The Horniman Museum was also the first to break rank and start sending Benin Bronzes back to Nigeria . We think that’s very admirable.  

How to Go : No booking required and free entry. 

Go on an Immersive Cocktail Experience 

Immersive is a buzzword we’ve been hearing a little bit too much of over recent years, but when it comes to the cocktail experiences this city does so well, we’re willing to give it a pass. 

So what are these experiences? Well, basically places you go to get dressed up and take part in a little immersive theatre, with cocktails along the way. 

You can visit the salons of the Wild West, smuggle booze into Alcatraz and take a trip into a mock Avatar world . 

It’s never anything less than a good laugh, and quite unlike anything else you can experience in London.

How to go : Follow the links in above to book tickets.

Expand Your Waistline at Brixton Village 

Brixton Village is one of the earliest spots to put Brixton firmly on London’s hipster map. What was a sad market, full of empty shops and more than a little run down, it was transformed into a haven of pop-ups, cool restaurants and independent boutiques around a decade ago and has been blazing strong ever since. 

Don’t fret – many of the old market and shop traders are still there, but they sit alongside some of Brixton’s best-known restaurants and bars – including the original (and we’d still argue the best) locations of Franco Manca’s and Honest Burgers. 

How to Go : Just turn up, but bring an appetite.

See Dinos at Crystal Palace Park

Things weren’t all grim and glum in Victorian London – we sometimes forget that a number of “pleasure parks” were opened up throughout the capital in the period.

One of these was Crystal Palace Park – a lovely park that is the perfect spot for a summer picnic. Find the weird Victorian dinosaur installations dotted around the park (the beady-eyed will notice that they’re horribly inaccurate but pretty cool nonetheless) or head down for one of the many cultural events that appear on the park’s event calendar. 

How to Go: Chack the Crystal Palace Park website for the latest opening times.

Go to Outer Space at The Science Museum 

Learning is cool, okay?

No, seriously, it is at The Science Museum in South Kensington’s Museum Mile. With tons of fun and interactive exhibits, it’s always on our list of great places for an inspiring afternoon.

The museum’s exhibits are as fascinating as they are diverse. One minute you’re learning about the Space Race, the next – what really makes our brains work. It’s mind-boggling and very entertaining stuff. 

How to Go : Entry is free and bookings are not required. Find out more at the website . 

Dive into High Culture at the Victoria & Albert Museum 

A cultured day out in London doesn’t come much better than a visit to the opulent Victoria & Albert Museum. 

The subject of this excellent collection? Anything really… It’s a museum of applied design (which might sound a little dull but don’t be fooled). 

You’ll be perusing everything from large-scale Greek and Roman statues alongside decadent interiors, Asian ceramics and persian rugs. There’s also and the chance to take a jaunt through the history of fashion. In other words, it’s weird, it’s wonderful and you should wear some comfortable shoes.

How to Go : Entry is free, bookings not required. Check the Victoria & Albert Museum’s site for more info .  

Shop on Portobello Road

Portobello Road is one of London’s most famous shopping areas. It’s not all about the malls and high street brands like you might find on Oxford Street. 

What you’ll find are collections of antique shops and vintage stores selling everything from vintage fashion that the city’s clothing-obsessed come early to snap up, to trinkets from every corner of the world. 

You can also swing by some of Notting Hill’s pastel-coloured houses – easily one of the most photogenic parts of the city. 

Learn About Our Animals of the Past at the Natural History Museum 

Walking a fine line between kind of creepy and utterly awesome, the Natural History Museum is one of the most iconic places you can visit in the capital.

There’s a truly incredible amount of taxidermy here, as the museum once acted as a kind of encyclopaedia of living creatures.

However, there’s way more to it, including exhibitions devoted to our solar system and a giant animatronic T-Rex that’s been scaring the life out of little kids since our first visit many many years ago.  

How to Go : Entry is free, bookings not required. Visit the website for more info

Take a Ride on The Mail Rail

London’s underground is world famous but there’s another subterranean railway you ought not to miss. It’s The Mail Rail – an old (and cutesy small) train that they used to use to transport mail around the city. 

These days it’s open for people who don’t deliver mail to have a spin on and riding it provides no end of curiosity. You’ll be passing right under the heart of London in a tiny, capsule-like carriage while you hear all about the history behind the train. 

How to go : Book tickets here

Spot Royals at Kensington Palace & Gardens 

If you’re hoping to spot a young royal (and let’s be honest, aren’t we all), then your best bet is Kensington Palace & Gardens.

It’s been the London home of certain branches of British royalty since the 17th century and has plenty of history to go with it. 

Even if you don’t spot Kate, Wills and their brood of adorable offspring, the palace and gardens are still pretty spectacular.

How to Go : Book your ticket and tour in advance to secure entry

Stroll the Stunning Kew Gardens 

Calling Kew a “garden” kind of seems like a mammoth understatement but its full name – The Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew is a bit of a mouthful. It’s the largest botanical garden in the world, and it’s seriously sprawling.

It’s divided up into various subsections, including the Diana Memorial Garden. It’s also worth checking the website to see if there are any special events happening as Kew never shy away from a chance to lay on an interesting evening or two. 

How to Go : Book your ticket to Kew Gardens online

Visit the Home of Henry VIII at Hampton Court Palace 

We’ve all heard the tales of Henry VIII, England’s most infamous king (and rather dreadful husband) – why not visit one of his favourite palaces? 

Beautiful in an imposing way, Hampton Court’s elaborate Baroque and Tudor architecture is half-fortress, half OTT palace.

It’s also home to a surprisingly beautiful garden, tennis courts, the world’s largest grapevine and a rather intriguing maze that is 100% more difficult than it looks. If you go in the winter you can also take a spin on their ice rink , one of the biggest in London. 

How to Go : Book your tickets and skip the line

See Deer at Richmond Park 

London has lots of parks, but this one has a special place in our hearts. 

The main reason that it’s one of the best places to go in London is its abundance of rather adorable deer (don’t get too close though – they are wild animals).

Even without the deer, Richmond Park is one of the most striking parks in London. It’s (you’ve guessed it) a Royal Park – the deer a throwback to the days when Henry VIII used to go hunting here. 

There’s even a rather complex history to the hunting ground, and a certain location within it. You can read all about that here. 

Unmissable Places in London: Map

Looking for More Places to See in London? Read These 

• Sightseeing in London – 39 Spots that Should be on Every Visitor’s (and Londoner’s) London Bucket List
• 20+ Free Museums in London – All the Entertainment without the Expense
• Fantastic London Sightseeing Tours To Help You Discover The Best of The City
• The Most Instagrammable Places in London – 39+ Photography Spots You Won’t Want to Miss
• 56 Quirky and Unusual Things to do in London

Robert Bergland

Wednesday 18th of September 2019

I am fascinated with some aspects of WW2, including the way the British kept Hitler at bay during the early years of the war. I noticed that there is an RAF museum covering 5 buildings, including a history of the Battle of Britain. What is your opinion? Do we need to set aside an entire day to do it justice? Also, are there other London attractions bearing on WW2 that should not be missed, in your opinion? Thanks so much for the information you presented, and thanks in advance for the follow up question.

Julianna Barnaby

Sunday 1st of March 2020

Hi Robert, I would recommend setting aside at least half a day for the RAF museum - you could definitely spend a whole day there though. The other WWII destinations I'd recommend are the Churchill War Rooms and the Imperial War Museum, both of which provide some really interesting insights.

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The 21 top London attractions for 2024

By Connor Sturges

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

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

What should you not miss when visiting London?

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

Where should I start sightseeing in London?

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

What's worth visiting in London?

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

What’s the most popular thing in London?

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

The top London attractions

1. Notting Hill and Portobello Road Market

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

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

Address:  Notting Hill, London

2. Borough Market

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

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

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

3. British Museum

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

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

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

4. Buckingham Palace

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

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

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

5. Camden Market

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

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

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

6. Hampton Court Palace

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

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

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

7. Hyde Park

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

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

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

8. Kensington Palace

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

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

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

Marti Buckley

Sarah James

Jessica Puckett

Eleanor Aldridge

9. Kew Gardens

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

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

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

10. London Transport Museum

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

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

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

11. The Houses of Parliament

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

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

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

12. National Gallery

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

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

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

13. Natural History Museum

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

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

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

14. Shakespeare’s Globe

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

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

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

15. St Paul’s Cathedral

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

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

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

16. Tate Britain

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

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

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

17. The London Eye

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

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

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

18. The Shard

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

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

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

19. The Tower of London

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

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

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

20. Tower Bridge

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

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

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

21. Victoria and Albert Museum

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

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

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

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

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » England » London

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

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What are the Best Places to Visit in London?

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

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

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1. Buckingham Palace

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Covent Garden

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

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

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

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

3. St. Paul’s Cathedral

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

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

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

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

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

4. Westminster Abbey

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

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

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

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

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

5. The London Eye

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

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

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

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

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

6. The Tower of London

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

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

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

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

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

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7. The Shard

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

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

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

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

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

8. Thames Cruise

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

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

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

9. British Museum

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

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

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

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

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

10. The Royal Botanic Gardens

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

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

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

11. Hyde Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Houses of Parliament

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

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

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

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

14. London Dungeon

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

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

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

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

15. Leicester Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Piccadilly Circus

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

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

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

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

18. Davenport’s Magic

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

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

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

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

19. Knightsbridge

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

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

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

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

20. Shoreditch

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

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

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

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

21. Chislehurst Caves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. Brick Lane Market

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

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

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

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

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

24. The Tate

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

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

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

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

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

25. Camden Town

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

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

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

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

26. O2 Arena

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

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

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

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

27. Stonehenge

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

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

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

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

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

28. Baker Street

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

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

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

29. Electric Avenue

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

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

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

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

30. Museum of Brands

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

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

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

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

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

31. Oxford Street

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

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

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

32. Richmond Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are the Best Tourist Attractions in London?

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

What are the Top tourist Things in London?

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

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

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

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

Sophie Steinebach

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

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An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture, green spaces and an international crowd that spills into every delicious corner of its cuisine.  From the unique vintage markets of Portobello Road or Camden to the huge highstreet shops of Oxford Street, Regent Street and Westfield, food lovers will be spoilt for every kind of cuisine - check out trendy trendy Shoreditch and Brick Lane to colourful Chinatown.

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Warner Bros. Studio Tours, The Making of Harry Potter / Marc Sethi

London Rock Tour

A musical journey through the sounds of rock music, from 1950s beatnik coffee houses in Soho, to Freddie Mercury and Queen’s very own playground in Kensington.

David Bowie Walking Tour

Get to know the man behind Ziggy Stardust as you uncover the stories and sounds of a musical legend in Brixton and Soho.

Brit Music Tours

West End Silent Disco Walking Tour

Party, parade and prance through the dazzling streets of London’s West End, taking in the city’s theatres while listening to their musical sounds.

Silent Disco Walking Tours

Thames Rockets

Scream if you want to go faster! Part sightseeing cruise, part rollercoaster ride, this speedboat is an epic way to explore London.

VisitBritain/Thames Rockets

Secret Adventures - Kayak

Join this small-group kayaking tour on the River Thames and see London from a whole new perspective.

The Dare Skywalk

Do you dare walk on the roof of London’s mighty Tottenham Hotspur Stadium? Its London views are incredible…

Tottenham Hotspur

Up at the O2

The O2 is one of the capital’s top entertainment venues – but did you know you can also climb up to its roof?

Museum of London

Full of spine-tingling stories, archive photos and curious artefacts, this museum explores the capital’s past.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)

The epicentre of all-things art and design, the V&A explores everything from high-art sculptures to vintage fashions.

Tate Modern

Discover modern art and captivating exhibitions on the bank of the River Thames.

Somerset House

From outdoor movie screenings to vibrant art exhibitions, Somerset House is packed with fun things to do.

Kevin Meredith

Tally Ho Gin Safari

Discover the entertaining history of London’s favourite spirit on this gin-fuelled bike tour of Southwark and Bermondsey.

©VisitBritain/Jacob Niblett

Supperclub Tube

On a 1967 former Victorian Line carriage, you’ll enjoy a six-course Latin American menu in this truly unique combination.

Jess Rose Photography

Taste of London

Immerse yourself in cooking masterclasses, watch live demonstrations from Michelin star chefs or tee off for a round of crazy golf.

VisitBritain/Jacob Niblett

London in the Sky

Taking dining to new heights, this open-air table is suspended high over Greenwich: an epic spot for dinner and drinks.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum

Step back in time to the Victorian world of one of the greatest literary detectives, Sherlock Holmes, at his ‘real life’ address.

VisitBritain/Emmanuel Teikirisi

The British Library

From Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks to priceless artworks, Britain’s biggest library is rammed full of treasures…

British Library

Imperial War Museum

Revealing the human side of Britain’s conflicts, the world’s largest war museum is both poignant and fascinating.

Imperial War Museums

St Paul's Cathedral

Open to visitors of all faiths and none, London’s iconic cathedral hosts guided tours, live music and art exhibitions.

VisitBritain/Matador Network

Houses of Parliament

Westminster Palace is the spectacular home of the British Government – see it for yourself on a guided tour.

London Pride

Britain’s biggest Pride celebration takes over the capital every summer – with spin-off events year-round.

Tristan Fewings

Camden Market

This eclectic collection of punk-like fashion and clothes for every subculture, includes vintage shops and bric-a-brac emporia is firmly a favourite with visitors.

VisitBritain/Sam Barker

UK Black Pride

Dive into Europe’s largest celebration for African, Asian, Middle Easter, Latin American and Caribbean LGBTQIA+ people in London.

All Points East

August 2024 Big names hit up the capital for two weekends of music extravaganza from the likes of Gorillaz, Tame Impala and The Chemical Brothers.

Louise Morris/ All Points East

Wireless Festival

12 – 14 July 2024 The place to be for rap and R&B music in the UK with previous headliners including Kanye West and Jay-Z.

Festival Republic

DJ and clubbing royalty headline this annual fiesta of electronic music, in East London’s Victoria Park.

Outside Org/Eric Aydin

Mighty Hoopla

This flamboyant festival of pop and queer culture has featured the likes of Steps, Cheryl and Chaka Khan.

Forage London

These foraging tours reveal the edible herbs, flowers and berries hidden in the capital’s parks and gardens.

Little Venice

Though it’s just steps from Paddington, this waterside area is famed for its tranquil walks and charming pubs.

VisitBritain/Francesco Stile

Skuna Boats

Hop on board a floating hot tub or barbecue boat, for a tour of Canary Wharf you’ll never forget.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Connect with nature at London’s 300-acre Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, founded by King George III’s mother in 1759.

VisitBritain/J Baxter

Richmond Park

One of London’s eight royal parks, this wildlife-filled nature reserve is a haven for solitude-seekers.

At this state-of-the-art spa, Eastern traditions meet Western technologies, for an exhilarating full-body experience.

Kensington Palace, London

The home to many a royal, including Queen Victoria, William III and Queen Anne.

Â? visitlondon.com/Jon Reid

Westminster Abbey, London

Step into more than 1,000 years of history at the setting of every coronation since 1066.

Hampton Court Palace

Once the home of King Henry VIII, it now hosts vibrant festivals, outdoor movies, historic tours – and the odd ghost.

VisitBritain/Historic Royal Palaces

Oxford Street

This retail heaven boasts almost 1.5 miles (2.4km) of flagship boutiques – for fashion, beauty, souvenirs and more.

Kevin Lamport

Portobello Road

Find the world-famous antiques market spilling over with fascinating wares.

Â? visitlondon/Antoine Buchet

This East London street is famous for its vintage fashions, bustling stalls and authentic Bangladeshi cuisine.

Gauthier Soho

One of the world’s first fine-dining restaurants to go 100% vegan, this acclaimed spot is inspired by fine French cuisine.

Silo, Hackney

A zero waste restaurant choosing local ingredients that generate no waste.

AlternativeLDN

Learn about street art through AlternativeLDN’s London tour, then have a go yourself.

The Culpeper, Shoreditch

Housed in Shoreditch, surround yourself with colourful flora, indulge in homegrown veggies, and take in the impressive London skyline from this rooftop oasis.

The Culpeper

Explore a Great British icon of luxury at Harrods, and discover more than 330 departments over seven floors.

Battersea Power Station

A one stop destination for shopping, food and drink, entertainment and views over the River Thames.

Vogue Fabrics

With film screenings, stand-up comedy, club nights and cabaret, this Dalston venue celebrates all things LGBTQIA+.

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Colours Hoxton

Located in vibrant Shoreditch, this cocktail bar and live music venue hosts a fun-filled ‘drag brunch’ every Saturday.

The Crown Tour of London

You’ve admired London’s royal landmarks on screen – now explore them in person on this Crown-based walking tour.

VisitBritain/Aurélie Four/@LeCorgi

Leave the real world behind, and immerse yourself in a mind-clearing, tension-soothing soak in a weightlessness pool.

Float Works

Featured things to do

A sleepover at London Zoo

Stay overnight with the animals, get a private evening tour of your favourite wild beasts, eat dinner within a whisker of a lion and sleep among the cacophony of baboons and parrots.

Discover London’s Pride festival as it retraces its original route from 1972 through Hyde Park, Piccadilly and Trafalgar Square.

Secret Adventures

Kayak the Thames by moonlight

Kayak on the Thames and see London’s iconic landmarks - quite literally in a different light. See landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s, Bank Side and Tower Bridge all light up.

Christmas festivities

London glows with twinkling Christmas lights, bustling shops, ice rinks and seasonal theatre performances each Christmas. Visit the capital city to get a taste for the festivities.

Places to stay in London

Notting hill.

Stroll along the brightly painted houses, the buzzing cafés and pubs and visit its famous market in this, the home to one of the world’s most iconic festivals - The Notting Hill Carnival.

Explore the super central, trendy, all night buzz to Soho, find cafes, bars, restaurants and ice cream parlour here. It’s a playful and buzzing spot all the time, and shoulders China Town.

Stay in this leafy and affluent part of London that has a great bars and delis, restaurants and its home to London’s green lungs - Hampstead Heath. And of course, you can grab one of best views here - Primrose Hill.

Explore nearby

From ice-cream parlours to sea food festivals, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery.

VisitBritain/Dipyourtoesin

South Downs

Discover epic trails, rivers to kayak, castles to conquer and wild woods to explore.

VisitBritain/Nadir Khan

A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

VisitBritain/i360

Just an hour by train from London and you’re in the city of dreaming spires.

VisitBritain/Jess Barfield

Lovers of The Crown can wrap themselves in royalty as this town is about as regal as it gets.

Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2022

Getting to London

The capital is served by six international airports , including London Heathrow and Gatwick, with direct and connecting routes to destinations all over the world (shop for Heathrow Express tickets and Stansted Express tickets here). Travelling by train is an eco-friendlier option and the capital offers 12 major stations , including Waterloo, Euston and Paddington. St Pancras International is the city’s Eurostar hub, with multiple direct connections to Europe.

Getting around

London is incredibly well served by public transport, much of which runs late and through the night. Take your pick from the Tube  (shop for a London visitor Oyster card , London Day Travelcard or a Group Day London Travelcard ), trams , buses and boats, or the IFS Cloud Cable Car  for a different perspective of London’s skyline. All services and numerous stations are wheelchair accessible. Alternatively, grab a Santander Cycle from one of hundreds of docking stations around the capital – you can bike around the city from as little as £2.

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London's Top Attractions

Top 10 London Attractions

TripSavvy / Gautier Houba

In a city as massive (602 square miles / 1,560 square kilometers) and as old as London , there are enough culturally significant attractions to fill a lifetime. However, there are some London attractions that should be at the top of every traveler's list. Here are the 10 sights you need to see while in town, with background information and everything you'll need to know to visit.

The London Eye is 135 meters high, which makes it one the world's tallest observation wheels. It has 32 capsules and carries around 10,000 visitors every day. The London Eye has become the most popular paid-for UK visitor attraction, visited by over 3.5 million people a year. While traveling in complete safety you can see up to 40 kilometers away in all directions from each capsule.

The London Eye really has to be included in a trip to London. Because of the way the capsules are suspended it allows for a full 360-degree panorama when you're at the top of the wheel. Tickets can be booked online, which really is the right thing to do as it saves a lot of time. The queues look long when you arrive, but they move quickly as everyone is issued with a timed ticket. Don't forget your camera!

In 2009, the London Eye 4D Film Experience opened and is included in the London Eye ticket price. It is a fantastic 4D film to entertain you before your trip. The 4D effects are superb and this short film has the only 3D aerial footage of London.

You can also take the London Eye River Cruise , which is a circular route river cruise starting from next to the London Eye. Nearby you'll find a popular Harry Potter Film Location in London .

An alternative way to see London from a high-level is to head to Greenwich in southeast London and try the London cable car / Emirates Air Line which connects The O2 to Royal Docks across The Thames. You won't have the central London views but it's still an exciting way to see London from up high.

If you enjoy these high views you might like to also consider Up at The O2, The Monument and the St Paul's Cathedral Galleries .

Tower of London

The Tower of London is where the Crown Jewels are housed, and they're quite spectacular. It's also where you can stand on the execution site of three English queens!

The Tower of London was home to the kings and queens of England for many years. ( Buckingham Palace has been the official London residence of Britain's sovereign since 1837.)

The Tower of London was a prison and many famous prisoners were held there, including Sir Walter Ralegh: he was held in the Bloody Tower for 13 years, but made use of his time by writing "The History of the World" (published in 1614) and growing tobacco on Tower Green. The Tower of London held prisoners from the middle and upper classes, so there are no dungeons.

Public executions were held on Tower Green, including two of Henry VIII's wives: Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard.

The Tower Bridge Exhibition is also worth seeing and is only a short walk away. Tower Bridge's architect, Horace Jones, and engineer, John Wolfe Barry, took 8 years to complete the bridge, which opened on 30 June 1894. It remained the only river crossing east of London Bridge till the Dartford Crossing (a tunnel) opened in 1991.

Buckingham Palace

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Buckingham Palace is Queen Elizabeth II's official residence and has been the official London residence of Britain's sovereign since 1837. It was once a townhouse owned by the Dukes of Buckingham back in the eighteenth century. George III bought Buckingham House in 1761 for his wife Queen Charlotte to use as a family home near to St James's Palace, where many court functions were held.

The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace have been opened to the public for the Annual Summer opening, in August and September, since 1993, after the fire at Windsor Castle in November 1992. Initially, the Summer Opening was considered a way to pay for the damage at Windsor Castle, but it became so popular that The Queen has continued to allow visitors every summer. The Queen is not at Buckingham Palace when it is open to the public — she goes to one of her country residences.

If you are visiting at a different time of the year, go along to see the Changing of the Guard. It happens on scheduled days, so check before setting off and arrive early to get a good position to watch the action!

Trafalgar Square

How could you miss one of the capital's most iconic areas? Come and marvel at Nelson's Column and the four huge lion statues. Feeding the pigeons is now discouraged (due to the spread of diseases), so please don't bring them any treats.

On the north side of Trafalgar Square , you can visit the National Gallery  and just around the corner on St. Martin's Lane is the National Portrait Gallery . Both have free permanent displays and regular special exhibitions.

Trafalgar Square was designed by John Nash in the 1820s and constructed in the 1830s. It is both a tourist attraction and the main focus for political demonstrations. Look out for the George Washington Statue and the World's Smallest Police Box , as well as the London Nose.

Within walking distance of Trafalgar Square, you can easily go shopping in Covent Garden, have a meal in Chinatown, walk down Whitehall to Parliament Square and see the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, or walk down the Mall to Buckingham Palace.

Tate Modern

 TripSavvy / Gautier Houba

Tate Modern is the national gallery of international modern and contemporary art from 1900 onwards. The gallery opened in 2000 in a converted power station on the south bank of the Thames in an imposing position opposite St. Paul's Cathedral . You can visit again and again as it's free and the modern art displays change quite frequently. You'll often find enormous installations in the Turbine Hall on the ground floor.

Right outside is the Millennium Bridge (the one that was 'wobbly' when it first opened). Don't forget, that the Tate Britain is also in London and you can take the Tate Boat between the two Tates and the London Eye .

Museum of London

 TripSavvy / Gautier Houba 

This is the place to visit if you're interested in London's history. The Museum of London documents the history of London from prehistoric times right up to today. It's about Londoners as much as the city as the people have made the city what it is today.

Learn about London from the days when the whole population would fit on one double-decker bus! Make sure you see the Lord Mayor's Coach, which was built in 1757 and is still used every year for the Lord Mayor's Show .

British Museum

The British Museum opened in 1753 and prides itself on remaining free ever since then. The British Museum houses more than an incredible 7 million objects, and it would probably take a week to see everything.

Don't be fooled into thinking the British Museum is full of artifacts from old England. No, in days gone by the English were incredible warriors and the British Museum is full of the treasures the soldiers brought back from distant shores. Those treasures include the Rosetta Stone, an Easter Island statue , and the earliest known image of Christ.

The collection of Egyptian and Greek antiquities are without a doubt amongst the largest and best known in the world. Part of the collection consists of the controversial Elgin Marbles, brought back from the Parthenon in Athens by Lord Elgin whilst he was serving as Ambassador to Constantinople at the beginning of the nineteenth century, and subsequently bought for the museum by the English government.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is all about discovering the natural world around us and appeals to all age groups. I remember seeing the dinosaurs when I was five years old, and seeing them now still gives me the same tingle down my spine. The Blue Whale is outrageous to see as you really can't imagine how big a life-size model has to be until you walk underneath it. Don't miss 'The Power Within', where you can experience what an earthquake feels like!

The Natural History Museum is one of the big three museums in South Kensington. It's a wonderful Victorian building housing the weird and wonderful of the natural world, and every winter there is an ice rink on the east lawn: Natural History Museum Ice Rink .

Houses of Parliament

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

The Houses of Parliament are only a short walk down Whitehall from Trafalgar Square to Parliament Square. The building is stunning from Parliament Square, but it's worth taking a walk over Westminster Bridge and getting the view from the South Bank. Note, Big Ben is actually the name of the bell in the clock tower (St. Stephen's Tower), which chimes every 15 minutes.

The UK Parliament is one of the oldest representative assemblies in the world. The site of the Houses of Parliament is the Palace of Westminster, a royal palace and former residence of kings. Edward the Confessor had the original palace built in the eleventh century. The layout of the Palace is intricate, with its existing buildings containing nearly 1200 rooms, 100 staircases, and well over 3 kilometers (2 miles) of passages. Among the original historic buildings is Westminster Hall, used nowadays for major public ceremonial events.

Tours inside the Houses of Parliament for overseas visitors are available on Saturdays throughout the year, and weekdays too during the summer recess.

Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

TripSavvy / Gautier Houba 

Near the Natural History Museum and Science Museum in South Kensington, the V&A, as it's known to the locals, is a great museum of art and design and holds over 3,000 years worth of artifacts from many of the world's richest cultures, including the most comprehensive collection of British design and art from 1500 to 1900. There's furniture, ceramics, photography, sculpture, and much more.

Make sure you stop for tea in the cafe, which is located in the V&A's original refreshment rooms, the Morris, Gamble, and Poynter Rooms. These three rooms formed the first museum restaurant in the world and were intended as a showpiece of modern design, craftsmanship, and manufacturing.

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19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK) has long been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. For most travelers, like me, the country's appeal has as much to do with its diverse scenery as it does its rich cultural heritage. In fact, the best places to visit in the UK include everything from beautifully preserved country estates and picturesque castles to its many big city art galleries and museums.

You'll find one of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation, however, is just how easy it is for you to explore this fascinating, diverse, and relatively small country. The UK could easily fit into the state of Texas with room to spare, so you can base yourself in a couple of cities and simply take a train, bus, or ferry to explore other areas.

One of my favorite day trips from London , for example, is to take the 90-minute train ride to beautiful Salisbury . Once there, you're only a short bus ride or tour away from one of the country's most recognizable attractions, Stonehenge. Want to hop between the Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow ? A one-hour train ride will deposit you in the heart of either city.

Sure, the UK can seem like a very busy travel destination. But plan your sightseeing adventures carefully with my list of the best places to visit in the UK and you'll have no problem making the most of your time.

1. London: The UK's All-in-One Destination

2. edinburgh: scotland's capital, 3. roman-era bath, 4. ancient stonehenge and medieval salisbury, 5. royal windsor, 6. idyllic england: the cotswolds, 7. the magical lake district, 8. medieval york and its minster, 9. the university towns of cambridge & oxford, 10. england's pilgrimage city: canterbury, 11. loch ness and inverness, 12. northern ireland's giant's causeway, 13. liverpool: home of the beatles, 14. manchester: england's football mad city, 15. cardiff: the capital of wales, 16. the channel islands, 17. glasgow & loch lomond, 18. snowdonia: wales' biggest mountains, 19. belfast.

While it's possible to plan a trip to the UK without actually visiting London, it's certainly not a recommendation I'd make. I typically begin my UK visits by spending a few days in the nation's sprawling capital while getting over my jet lag before venturing out to my planned final destination (or destinations).

There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy. Want to learn more about the UK's rich history? You're literally spoiled for choice here as London boasts more than 200 world-class museums and art galleries to explore.

In the City of London, the heart of the old Roman city, you'll find evidence of pretty much every period in history ever since. Some of the top attractions in London are located here, including the Tower of London .

Located beside the spectacular Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames , this former palace and prison includes highlights such as the iconic 1,000-year-old White Tower, with its fascinating displays of armor and weaponry, and the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. I always make a return visit at sunrise or sunset to grab an iconic photo of the Tower of London framed by Tower Bridge.

If you're a fan of Britain's Royal Family, you'll want to head to Buckingham Palace , London's Royal home since Queen Victoria's reign. Here, you can enjoy the colorful pomp of the Changing of the Guard or even take a tour of the Palace's State Rooms. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance as they're only open for a few weeks each year.

From here you can wander along the Thames to the city's Whitehall Road area. Here you'll find Big Ben and the Parliament Buildings , as well as Westminster Abbey, the scene of many a royal wedding.

Another area to visit in London is South Kensington, home to the city's best museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum , as well as the famous Harrods department store. Also check out Trafalgar Square , home to the iconic Nelson's Column and the National Portrait Gallery.

And be sure to make the most of London's excellent transport system. Whether you go by bus or by underground, the system's now so good that you can simply use a debit or credit card to tap in and out as you go. It really is very easy, and once you've mastered that famous map of the city's "Tube" network you'll be traveling like a Londoner.

One of the UK's most attractive cities, the capital city of Edinburgh is also one of the UK's most visited destinations. Popular for its many well-preserved historic buildings, Edinburgh is perhaps best known as the home of the majestic Edinburgh Castle .

Perched high above the old city on a rocky promontory, this 13th-century royal fortress includes highlights such as the famous One O'Clock Salute, held daily at Half Moon Battery, as well as the Scottish Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace . Also worth seeing are the Scottish National War Memorial and the famous Stone of Destiny , the Stone of Scone, which only returned to Scotland after being held for 700 years in London.

From the castle, I always find it easy to explore the other most important historic sites in the city. Follow your nose downhill from the castle to the Old Town via the famous Royal Mile , a delightful medieval cobbled street that's immensely fun to walk. Sure, there are plenty of the usual tacky tourist and souvenir shops, but skip these and look out for the area's fine old architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as trendy art galleries and studios.

Edinburgh Old Town is also where you'll find the splendid old Palace of Holyroodhouse . From here, I usually make my way to Princes Street and New Town before looping back around to the castle. This broad, more modern avenue was planned in the late 18th century and is extremely popular for its shopping and dining opportunities. It's also where you'll find attractions such as the Royal Botanical Garden and the National Gallery of Scotland.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Although one of the UK's smaller cities, Bath more than makes up for its diminutive size with a multitude of things to see and do . Named after its famous Roman Baths, this beautiful city has been luring visitors like you and me to its healing waters for more than 2,000 years.

Gushing from three hot springs, the water-known to consist of 43 different minerals, hence its curative properties-travels upwards some 3,048 meters at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day, before spilling out at a consistent 46.5 degrees Celsius. It's a truly awesome sight, and also a little eerie to think that you're standing just feet away from the very hot springs that Romans and early Britons enjoyed some 2,000 years before you got here.

While it's not possible to bathe in the original Roman Baths (try it and you'll be arrested!), a number of nearby spas, most notably the modern Thermae Bath Spa , offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's famous waters. This must-do experience features a stunning rooftop pool using the same waters as the Roman Baths, and all with incredible views of city landmarks such as Bath Abbey .

In addition to its ancient history, Bath is also famous for its lovely Georgian architecture. The best examples can be seen along the magnificent, curved Royal Crescent, with its palatial townhomes. One of them, No.1 Royal Crescent , is now a museum that offers a fascinating peek into life during Georgian times.

While Bath is served by the same London rail service as the neighboring port city of Bristol , it's one of those increasingly forward-thinking cities that makes it easy for car drivers, too. My most recent visit in the summer of 2022 was via car, and I avoided traffic and hassle by parking at the extremely affordable Landsdowne Park and Ride facility on the outskirts of the city. Not only is it inexpensive with plenty of availability, but regular bus services will also whisk you away to the heart of the city in just 10 minutes.

Read More: From London to Bath: Best Ways to Get There

One of the planet's oldest World Heritage Sites , Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. It was believed to have been erected as a place of worship, but these days, the crowds consist of tourists drawn by the sheer scale of this magnificent monument to mankind's ingenuity.

It's a sprawling site, covering an area of more than 20 square kilometers and boasting a state-of-the-art visitor center. Here, you can catch a fascinating glimpse not only into the construction of Stonehenge but also its history since then.

But it does get busy, so be sure to plan well ahead and purchase a timed ticket for the day of your visit. Better still, splurge a little on one of the attraction's new VIP admission packages . This unforgettable experience guarantees your spot on a fun "Stone Circle Experience" that includes free time to wander the site on your own. The verdict? It's a must-do.

Be sure to also spend time exploring the nearby medieval city of Salisbury , located just 16 kilometers south of Stonehenge. You'll be rewarded with a chance to visit one of the country's most famous cathedrals, dating back to 1220 and home to an original Magna Carta .

Afterward, spend time wandering the old city center with its many fine churches and historic medieval architecture. Not only are there a number of first-rate places to stay here (I'm partial to the Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel for its central location and 4-star quality and cleanliness), but great little intimate eateries like the Cosy Club on Crane Street. The food here is home-cooked, locally sourced, tasty... and served in an extremely patriotic British setting.

Read More: From London to Stonehenge: Best Ways to Get There

The historic town of Windsor, conveniently located a short train ride west of Central London, offers plenty of fun attractions for tourists . In addition to its lovely Thames-side setting and the many medieval half-timbered buildings along its quaint old cobblestone laneways, it's also home to spectacular Windsor Castle , the most famous of the UK's royal castles.

This grand old castle has served as the summer residence of British royalty for more than a millennium. It was started by William the Conqueror in 1078 and is the world's largest inhabited castle. Highlights include the splendid State Apartments containing the Queen's Gallery and dining hall, each with magnificently painted ceilings and woodcarvings, and St. George's Chapel, famous as the home of the Knights and Ladies of the ancient Order of the Garter.

When you've had your fill of these historic buildings, be sure to also spend time exploring the castle's large and beautiful grounds, almost 10 kilometers long. You'll enjoy some truly memorable panoramic views over Windsor and its castle, and a number of picnic areas, some with barbecue grills, are available if you want to stop awhile.

Traveling with kids? Another area attraction worth visiting is Legoland Windsor . This fun family resort, set on 150 acres of parkland and just a short bus ride from Windsor town center, even boats a modern Lego-themed hotel if you're looking to make a weekend of it.

Also worth seeing is Royal Ascot , the UK's most famous horse-racing venue. While you might want to try to time your trip to coincide with the Royal Meeting held each June, you'll find yourself fighting often huge crowds, all dressed to the nines, here for what is after all one of the most important events on the country's social calendar.

Read More: From London to Windsor: Best Ways to Get There

Covering almost 1,287 square kilometers of charming countryside, the beautiful Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of the most photographed corners of England. Its unrivaled pastoral scenery has earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful places in the UK, ranking highly on many a traveler's bucket list.

Easy to get to from London and close to the popular tourist attractions of Bath and Bristol , the Cotswolds includes some of the best parts of the counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

Why visit? Well, if you're anything like me, you're here to experience a true taste of rural English life and explore its many quaint villages . You'll want to include the idyllic village of Bourton-on-the-Water on your Cotswolds itinerary. Nicknamed the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this popular vacation spot boasts a charming river setting and countless well-preserved cottages, some dating back to the 15th century, and all just begging to be photographed.

One of the most popular ways to do this is via the area's extensive trail network, including the excellent 164-kilometer-long Cotswold Way. Other fun things to do include horseback riding and biking, or simply soaking up the history of popular market towns such as Castle Combe or Tetbury.

Located in the northeast of England not far from the border with Scotland , the spectacular Lake District in Cumbria covers an area of 1,448 square kilometers. Not only is it considered one of the most magical places to visit in the UK for its beautiful scenery, its reputation as a place of romance and great culture will forever be associated with its most famous former resident, Beatrix Potter.

It was Potter who in fact led the way with the conservation efforts that have preserved so much of the Lake District when she bequeathed her estate to the National Trust. Her one-time home near Sawrey, Hill Top , can and should be visited for its exhibits and artifacts.

Her legacy also set the stage for the establishment of Lake District National Park . Encompassing 12 of the country's largest lakes including Windermere and Ullswater, the two biggest and best known, this beautiful region is another famous place in the UK that's great to explore on foot. All told the park boasts more than 3,218 kilometers of hiking and walking trails, so be sure to pack your hiking boots.

Other things to do in the Lake District include visiting Scafell Pike , at 978 meters the highest mountain in England. And, of course, there is no end of picturesque towns and villages to explore, including Grasmere .

Read More: From London to the Lake District: Best Ways to Get There

One of northern England's most popular tourist destinations, the medieval city of York, long the ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England, boasts one of the country's most magnificent cathedrals. The country's largest medieval church, York Minster can trace its roots back to the spread of Christianity in the 3rd century, although the splendid present Gothic structure was built almost 1,000 years later.

One of the best ways to get to see this historic landmark is via an official guided tour . I recommend you book in advance, and spend a little time reviewing the available choices to find one best suited to your interests. I opted for the fascinating "Tower Trip" option, a little more expensive but well worth the cost for the magnificent city views.

Other highlights of a visit to York Minster include seeing its spectacular 14th-century stained glass windows, plus the richly decorated interiors of the choir and north transept. You'll also want to visit the crypt, which contains parts of the original 11th-century church the cathedral now stands on.

Another York landmark worth exploring is the historic City Walls . I make a point of strolling this nearly five-kilometer-long structure each and every time I visit the city. Not only is it good exercise, but it's also a fun way to circle around the old medieval city center without the crowds.

Along the way, you'll enjoy excellent views over The Shambles , a narrow 14th-century roadway that's famous for its fine old timber-framed buildings, many of which hang over the street below. It's also an area known for its many restaurants and tearooms, as well as its many boutique shops and galleries.

York also boasts a number of major museums, the most popular being the National Railway Museum . Highlights of this museum's vast collection include many fine old steam engines dating as far back as 1820, plus a unique collection of Royal Trains. The museum also offers an excellent afternoon tea experience in the historic Countess of York railway carriage, bookable in advance.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England
• From London to York: Best Ways to Get There

The UK has long been a center of learning, with two of its most famous university towns also ranking highly as tourist destinations. An easy commute north of London and just 128 kilometers apart, Cambridge and Oxford have for centuries been rivals for the title of the country's top academic establishment, a rivalry celebrated during the famous rowing event, The Boat Race , which takes place each spring on the River Thames .

Despite this generally good-spirited rivalry, each location offers plenty of attractions to make them worthwhile additions to your UK travel itinerary. Highlights of a visit to Cambridge include the chance to wander the UK's largest collection of preserved historic buildings, many of them located within an easy walk of Cambridge University ' s 31 colleges, the oldest of which was founded in 1284.

In addition to touring the stunning college grounds (only a handful of the university's buildings offer tours), you should also take a punt along the River Cam. This must-do activity is something of a Cambridge ritual, and chances are you'll even be "punted" along by a university student willing to share a little of their college experiences.

As with most popular tourist destinations, however, a little advance planning will ensure you find a reputable company for your punting tour. Licensed operators to consider include Cambridge Punt Company , which also offers a private romantic evening tour; and Scholars Punting , which features a fun picnic hamper package worth considering. In both cases, you can keep the cost down by joining a shared tour.

Oxford University's 38 colleges are equally fun to explore. These historic old places of learning are each set around a quadrangle and several inner courtyards along with chapels, dining halls, libraries, and student residences, some of which offer unique tourist accommodation packages, too. Like most UK tourist sites, they do get extremely busy in summer so be sure to book your visit in advance if you can to avoid disappointment.

Other Oxford highlights include the Carfax Tower, with its fine views over the city center, and the many fine old buildings of the town's High Street .

Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK.

An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries. The first visitors were religious pilgrims who have in fact been visiting for more than 1,500 years, ever since St. Augustine first started converting pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity here in AD 597.

The city's most famous attraction is Canterbury Cathedral , the home church of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral offers plenty to see, from the intricately carved masonry of its exterior to its magnificent interior, a highlight of which is the beautiful choir with its statues of six English kings. Also of note are the exquisite Miracle Windows, dating from the 12th century and depicting scenes from the life of murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket .

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the pedestrianized area of Old City Canterbury with its many preserved, historic timber-framed buildings, particularly along Mercery Lane. Be sure to include the excellent Canterbury Roman Museum on your itinerary. It was built around the remains of an original Roman townhouse and its unique mosaic.

Read More: From London to Canterbury: Best Ways to Get There

Despite the fact that the legends of mythical monsters have largely been debunked (just don't tell the locals), spectacular Loch Ness remains an extremely popular tourist attraction for travelers heading to Scotland. While it's unlikely you'll encounter any monsters, you will, however, be rewarded with seeing some of the UK's most beautiful scenery.

Highlights of Loch Ness include the ruins of Urquhart Castle . Set overlooking the loch, it's one of Scotland's largest fortifications, with the current structure dating from the 14th century. For those wanting to learn more about the area's many legends, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition recounts its history, along with that of its monster, including details of ongoing searches for the elusive creature.

A little farther north is Inverness. This lovely city boasts numerous excellent attractions, including Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the late 19th-century St. Andrew's Cathedral.

History buffs should also check out the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was in Culloden in 1746 that the English and Scots fought their last battle and where the fate of Scotland as a British dominion was determined. Also of interest are the gravestones of warriors from the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle.

• From Glasgow to Loch Ness: Best Way to Get There
• From Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Best Ways to Get There

It's sometimes a little too easy to forget that the UK includes a tiny little piece of Ireland . Northern Ireland, consisting of the northeast corner of the "Emerald Isle," can easily be included on a trip to either country and is well worth taking the time to explore.

My favorite among the many Northern Ireland attractions worth visiting is the magnificent Giant's Causeway, a stunningly beautiful natural feature that looks anything but natural. Just a short drive from the capital of Belfast , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of unusual columns of layered basalt that jut upwards out of the sea and shoreline like some giant's staircase, hence their name.

All told, there are some 4,000 of these polygonal-shaped steps to see and clamber over. Formed over 60 million years ago during a period of intense volcanic activity, it's a truly impressive sight, and easy to see how local legends of giants could so easily have sprung up as a result.

A modern visitor center has been opened here and provides fascinating details about the reality and the myths behind this bucket-list attraction. Guided tours can be arranged, and be sure to make use of the audio guides that are provided with admission. Tickets can be booked online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Liverpool , under three hours away from London by rail, offers plenty of cultural excitement for the curious traveler. It's also well-known for its role in giving rise to the English music legacy, not least because of its association with the Beatles .

Music fans are drawn here first and foremost for "Fab Four"-related attractions, such as The Beatles Story located in the renovated Albert Docks area. Also worth seeing are the famous Cavern Club, where the band made its debut in 1961, as well as the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Numerous walking tours and bus tours of Beatles sites are also readily available.

Other great reasons to visit Liverpool include its many historic buildings, lovely gardens, and parks, as well as great museums such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum , the Museum of Liverpool , and world-class art galleries like the Walker Art Gallery and the Tate Gallery . These are all located in the city's revitalized Royal Albert Dock area, an historic area enjoyed exploring on foot.

Thanks to its international airport, Manchester is often the first stop for many visitors from North America planning to explore northern England, Scotland, or Wales. It's especially popular for fans of the sport of football (that's soccer to those from the US, including Ted Lasso!).

Manchester is, in fact, home to two top football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both are well represented in the must-visit National Football Museum , as are other popular teams from around the UK. Along with displays of memorabilia, trophies, and clothing, fun short movies explain the history of the sport and capture many of its defining moments.

Be sure to also visit at least one Manchester club's stadium, too. The best known is Manchester United's Old Trafford grounds, though Manchester City's Etihad Stadium is also worth seeing. Both offer fascinating tours and behind-the-scenes access. Better still, try to visit when there's a game on!

Other notable places to visit in Manchester include Castlefield , popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins. It's also popular to explore on foot for its many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants.

If you've got time left in your Manchester itinerary, be sure to include Manchester Cathedral and the historic Town Hall. There's also a rich cultural scene that includes museums (Museum of Science and Industry), galleries (Manchester Art Gallery), and entertainment (Chinatown).

Despite being much smaller than both Scotland and England, Wales is home to some of the UK's top attractions. Interesting things to do here range from exploring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying outdoor adventures in its national parks to visiting its historic castles.

One of the best places to sample a little of everything that Wales has to offer is the country's capital, Cardiff , with most travelers beginning their visit at Cardiff Castle . Located in the middle of the city and built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, parts of the current structure date as far back as 1090, with much of it restored in the 1800s. Highlights include the State Apartments, the Clock Tower, the Chapel, and a spectacular Banqueting Hall with its fine murals.

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the city's many old Victorian shopping arcades, the best of which can be found around The Hayes. You'll find everything from second-hand record stores to boutique clothing shops and custom jewelers to browse.

Also worth checking out is Cardiff Bay. One of the UK's largest redevelopment projects, this vast area is now home to numerous fine restaurants, theaters, galleries, and shopping opportunities, many of them housed in former warehouses on lovely Mermaid Quay.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

Although just 14 miles away from mainland France , the Channel Islands have been a British territory since 1066. One of the most picture-perfect destinations in the country, these attractive small islands not only boast a milder climate but offer great places to visit that don't get the large crowds like other parts of the country.

The Channel Islands comprise Jersey (the largest island), Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm (the smallest), along with numerous even tinier islands. The intrepid traveler will also be rewarded with everything from quaint seaside towns and villages to explore, historic castles and ruins (sometimes one and the same), as well as outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.

As for getting here, the Channel Islands are well served by ferries from mainland England, as well as short flights from most major British airports.

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

The Scottish city of Glasgow is a great place to visit for those who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions and the great outdoors. Once you've had your fix of historic sites such as Glasgow Cathedral and the museums of the University of Glasgow, among others, head out to explore nearby Loch Lomond .

Loch Lomond was dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by famed writer Walter Scott, and it's here you'll see Ben Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs countryside. Trossachs National Park now includes Loch Lomond itself and covers some 720 square miles of prime hiking and biking country.

It's also popular for its fishing and boating, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. For true outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond is the perfect spot for a "wild camping" adventure. Not only is it safe, you're never too far away from people if you need them. And, of course, you'll agree that the scenery here is even more beautiful when you have it all to yourself.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Glasgow

Not only does the Snowdonia region of Wales boast some of the country's most remarkable scenery — and that's saying something, as it really is a beautiful country — it's also home to the UK's second largest national park: Snowdonia National Park. Spread across nearly 830 square miles, the park is as big a draw for adventurers as it is for those seeking a pleasant and not-too-exhausting day trip.

If you're a hiker you can choose from a variety of trails that wind their way up (and down) Mount Snowdon itself, spending a full day tackling as difficult a route to the top as you desire. And those like me who want to see the spectacular views from the top without all the hard work can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway .

Considered one of the world's top scenic railways, the journey starts in Llanberis before tackling steep inclines up to the "Eryri" visitor center at the top of Snowdon.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Snowdonia

Once omitted from the itineraries of most travelers to the UK, Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, has in recent years become something of a must-see destination. Not only are there numerous historic attractions and cultural experiences to enjoy, but the city's people have the same welcoming attitude that the European nation of Ireland to the south is known for.

One of the city's top claims to fame was its role in the building of the ill-fated ocean liner, RMS Titanic . This connection is celebrated and memorialized in the city's Titanic Quarter , home to the impressive Titanic Belfast attraction. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits that deal not only with the vessel, but the thousands of people involved in its construction and, ultimately, its sinking.

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Covent Garden

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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.)

Visitors report enjoying not only the area's shopping but also the live entertainment that regularly occurs there. Travelers also appreciate Covent Garden's proximity to many of London's must-see destinations .

Covent Garden is available for anyone to explore, though you'll likely want to be prepared to spend some money at its tempting establishments. The area can be reached via an eponymous Underground stop on the Piccadilly Line. Leicester Square, Charing Cross and Embankment Tube stops are short walks away. There are several bike racks. In addition to the opera house, there are several theaters and museums nearby, making it easy to combine a visit to Covent Garden with trips to other attractions. Learn more about the area – and find a detailed list of its shops and restaurants – at its official website .

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#1 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.

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17 day trips from London to escape the city

Whether you’re after a seaside jaunt or a country retreat, here are the best trips from London we’re planning right now

As much as we love London here at Time Out, we’re also partial to the odd daydream about a leisurely getaway to somewhere that’s not quite so big and busy. Microdose on that holiday vibe by taking a day trip to one of the many laidback, joy-inducing destinations just a few hours away from London, which pack in plenty; from historic cities and cute villages to sandy beaches and rolling countryside.

If you’re wanting a quick getaway, here are 17 of the Time Out team’s favourite day trips from London, complete with our recommendations of cute pubs and ace restaurants – all close enough to the city to get there and back in one sweet day. 

RECOMMENDED: ✨The best day trips from London 👪 The best  family day trips from London ☀️ The best  weekend trips from London 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs near London 🌳 The best  quirky Airbnbs in the UK

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Dreamy day trips from London

1.  St Leonards-on-Sea

Famed for how many Londoners moved here during lockdown (it’s even been referred to as Dalston-on-Sea, which is cringe, we’ll admit), St Leonards-On-Sea is a cracking day out from the Big Smoke for beachside drinks and a tonne of great food spots. Head to food market Heist  (basically a much nicer version of Boxpark) for orange wine and street food, then sink pints at Goat Ledge , a vibesy, colourful shack right on the beach. If you fancy splashing out a little, book dinner at the fabulously old-school  St Clement’s for white tablecloths and delicious seafood. Plus you've got easy access to the rest of Hastings for its Old Town, pier and the Norman castle ruins.

How far? 58 miles

How to get there: A one hour 18 minute train from London Charing Cross

2.  Dungeness

Dungeness’s shingly, shipwreck-dotted beach is so spookily empty that it’s been described as Britain’s only desert (though the Met Office refuses to technically recognise it as such, the party poopers). It’s a beautifully eerie landscape, with the (disused) nuclear power station and two lighthouses looming over a motley mixture of weathered shacks, beached fishing boats and sleek, modernist bungalows – all clustered along a single in-and-out road.

But despite all that emptiness, there’s a surprising amount to do here. You could catch the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch steam train down the coast, and hop off in Dungeness for a walk and a pint at the lonely Britannia Inn. Grab a freshly-caught lunch at the famous Snack Shack: specialities include lobster or crab rolls and smoked cod chowder. And check out the galleries and open houses showcasing the work of the (surprisingly) many artists who have moved down here, including the shingle garden of the experimental filmmaker Derek Jarman, whose yellow-windowed Prospect Cottage is a major landmark here. Book in advance for a 40-minute tour inside.

If you’ve got time, head over to RSPB Dungeness nature reserve for a chance to glimpse glossy ibises and marsh harriers – plus the huge concrete ‘sound mirrors’, pre-radar experiments from WW1 that were designed to listen out for planes. (Look out on the RSPB site for news of the rare open days when you can get up close.) Finish off your day with dinner at the Pilot Inn; I’m willing to back the quality of their famous fish and chips, which were the thing that brought Derek Jarman here in the first place.

How far? 86 miles

Get there O ne hour  by train from St Pancras International to Folkestone, with a one-hour 30-minute bus ride to Dungeness. Or take a bus or taxi from Folkestone to Hythe station to board the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway. Alternatively, Dungeness is  around two hours from London by car.

3.  Stratford-upon-Avon

As a born-and-bred Midlander, I’ve spent many Saturdays traipsing around Stratford-upon-Avon’s lovely streets. With its half-timbered houses and canalside pubs, Stratford’s got just enough of the  small-town charm you’re craving on an escape from the Big Smoke, but unlike a small town, there’s actually loads to see and do.  

The Bard, of course, is the big draw here, and Shakespeare’s house, his wife Anne Hathaway’s cottage and the RSC’s famous theatre are all must-sees. But Stratford is more than just a Tudor Disneyland, we promise. Take a boat tour of the canal basin to find out more about the West Midlands waterways, refresh yourselves in the Grade II-listed Old Thatch Tavern and stop for a scoop of Eton mess ice cream at Hooray’s British Gelato Kitchen. 

How far? 104 miles

Get there T wo hours 15 minutes  by train from Marylebone; around two hours by car. 

4.  Whitstable

Don’t even think about thinking about it: Whitstable is far from overhyped. Sure, the secret is most definitely out about this fabulous little seaside town, but the vibes here are as great as they were 20 years ago. Grab brunch at Farm & Harper , fish and chips at Ossie’s and a glorious pint of craft at the Twelve Taps , and treat yourself to a dozen oysters to go at Wheelers Oyster Bar on the high street. Once you’ve walked the length of the beach and admired the beach huts, settle in at the famous pub-on-the-beach Old Neptune for a pint and wait for sunset to fall. Plus, Whitstable is so near, you’ll be back home before you can say ‘ another   bank holiday?’. But that’s if you don’t miss the last train.

How far? 50 miles

Get there One hour 15 minutes from St Pancras International, around two hours by car.

5.  Brighton

With its pebble beach, wall-to-wall live music venues and buzzing LGBTQ+ scene, there’s nowhere better for topping up your Vitamin Sea levels than Brighton . Start your day by dodging seagulls on the Palace Pier, then shop up a storm in the Lanes, which are packed with independent boutiques, record stores and vegan eateries. Sit down with a couple of pints in the Brighton Beer Dispensary, which champions small Sussex breweries like the Hand Brew Co.

How far?  A little over 50 miles

Get there One hour by train from Victoria, Blackfriars or London Bridge; around two hours by car. 

6.  The New Forest

A trip to the New Forest is about as close as you can get to going on safari without buying a plane ticket. As you make your way down dappled lanes and across the heather-covered heath you’ll be watched the famous ponies, which have grazed there for thousands of years, plus free-ranging Highland cattle and pigs hoovering up fallen acorns. Don’t fancy being stuck in the car all day? Hire a two-seater electric Twizzy buggy to explore in, or book a beginners’ hack at one of the stables. Don’t forget to make time for a proper ploughman’s lunch at the Royal Oak in Fritham.

How far? 90 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Waterloo to Brockenhurst; around two hours by car. Just remember that animals, not drivers, have right of way here.

7.  Rye

The antique shops and higgledy-piggledy cobbled lanes of Rye make it feel like a little slice of the Cotswolds on the coast. After you’ve satisfactorily browsed around the accurately named Tiny Book Store, treat yourself to a seafood lunch surrounded by lobster pots at Globe Inn Marsh, followed by Sussex real ale or a glass of local wine at The George. The Chapel Down vineyard is just up the road and well worth a visit if you want to know the ins and outs of wine-making – or simply enjoy a tipple with their signature wine tasting. Ten minutes away are the pillowy dunes of Camber Sands: roll your trousers up and splash through the shallows, take a kite for a spin or just park your towel and stretch out.

How far? 79 miles.

Get there  One hour 10 minutes by train from St Pancras International (with a change at Ashford); around two hours by car. 

8.  Box Hill

Biking to green and pleasant Surrey is a wheely nice way to spend a Sunday (sorry) – plus, Box Hill was part of the 2012 Olympic road-cycling route. Start in Richmond Park and pedal down past Hampton Court – it should take you about two hours. After a 1.6 mile climb and some hairpin bends (easier than it sounds!), you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the North Downs from the top of Box Hill. Grab a slice of cake from the National Trust café, and save space for lunch at The Tree, which serves homemade pies and crumbles. Your last stop is Box Hill and Westhumble station, where you can load your bikes on to a train back to Waterloo. Whew!

How far? 30 miles

Get there  Two hours by bike (obviously). Plan the route carefully before you set out, and take a map and a puncture repair kit, plus water and snacks.

9.  Bath

A glorious water-themed day awaits you in the city of Bath . Start as you mean to go on with a tour of the Romans baths (no paddling allowed, you’ve been warned), before making a splash in the Thermae Bath Spa – the rooftop pool has stunning views of the city. Once you’ve dried off, make like Jane Austen and stroll along the Royal Crescent. Peckish? Sally Lunn’s teahouse is home to the Sally Lunn Bun, a kind of sweet brioche bap – for a Bath take on the cream tea, order one toasted and spread with strawberry jam and clotted cream.

How far? 115 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Paddington; two hours 30 minutes by car. 

10.  Mersea Island

Attached to the mainland by a causeway that floods (and pub quizzers, take note: this is the UK’s most easterly inhabited island), Mersea feels properly remote at high tide. The big draw is The Company Shed, which serves seafood platters that pull in crowds from all over the country every weekend. It’s BYOB – bring your own bread – and they don’t take bookings, so get there before noon to make sure you can feast on prawns, smoked fish, oysters and dressed crab. Speaking of which, catch-and-release crabbing is encouraged – there are specially marked areas near the water, and shops selling the kit. Or you can book a boat trip around the bay.

How far? 69 miles

Get there  One hour by train from Liverpool Street to Colchester, then a 45-minute bus to Mersea Island; around two hours by car. D on’t forget to check the tide timetable before you set off...

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The 15 most fun things to do in Birmingham

Jan 28, 2022 • 8 min read

Birmingham offers green space, Michelin-starred restaurants, engaging street art and much more © Mike Kemp / In Pictures via Getty Images

Once a smoky industrial powerhouse known as the “City of 1000 Trades,” Birmingham in the 21st century is vibrant, diverse city that’s home to a plethora of distinctly local attractions. 

Whether you’re exploring Digbeth’s jaunty street art, sampling some of the country’s most unique gastronomy or strolling the city’s colorful canals, it’s the creativity and warmth of its people that brings out the best of Birmingham. 

Conveniently located smack-dab in the center of the UK , Birmingham is easy to reach – but much harder to leave. Here’s how to make the most of your time in Britain’s second city.

Stroll Birmingham’s finest stretch of canal

Birmingham was built around its vast network of canals, but if you want to see them at their finest then take a stroll along the meandering 45-minute stretch between Gas Street Basin and the University of Birmingham. 

The lively waterside bars, bistros and restaurants of Brindley Place and The Mailbox are ideal for refreshments but once you walk down the Old Line canal past Five Ways, the towpath turns into a bucolic cornucopia of overhanging foliage and sudden tranquility. The elegant university grounds are a treat to explore too, as is the underrated Barber Institute of Fine Arts . 

Stay at a Grand institution

Once host to the likes of Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin, the Grand Hotel was the most opulent of Victorian Birmingham’s hotels, later falling into disrepair before closing for good in 2000. After a 20-year slumber, this local institution on Colmore Row re-opened in May 2021 following a £45m facelift. 

Originally opened in 1879, this Grade II-listed building still retains some of its wonderful period features, including the famous grand staircase furnished by gilded marble columns and the extraordinary Louis IV-style grand ballroom. The hotel’s stylish rooms also offer impressive views of the St Phillips Cathedral grounds (known locally as Pigeon Park).  

Uncover Digbeth’s street art

Digbeth sprawls out from the city center’s southwestern fringes and is crammed with some of Birmingham’s liveliest bars – and it’s impossible not to be struck by the quality and volume of the neighborhood’s extensive street art and graffiti. The rough-and-ready industrial streets around the Custard Factory form a perfect canvas for the city’s talented creatives to display their work. 

The scene is driven by superb local artists such as Annatomix and gent48 . Make sure to head to Floodgate Street, Gibb Street and Lower Trinity Street for some of Birmingham’s boldest street art.

Experience Victorian Birmingham at the Back to Backs

Talking in dramatic terms about Birmingham’s industrial past is easy; conjuring the feel of daily life from this era is hard. Except, that is, at one corner of the city center where you can get a vivid sense of working-class Birmingham’s living conditions over 100 years ago. 

Located on lively Hurst Street, the Birmingham Back to Backs are the last remaining example of the city’s 19th-century back-to-back terraced houses. Today, you can take guided tours led by passionate locals who will evoke the challenges – and joys – of life in these dense buildings. Make sure to book ahead of time – and don’t miss the 1930s-era sweets shop on the corner.

Enjoy the view from the secret garden

With curvaceous oddities like the Bullring and the Rotunda giving Birmingham one of the UK’s more distinct skylines, it’s worth finding a spot to take it all in from above. The best viewing platform in the city isn’t in a skyscraper, but rather humbly located on the 7th floor of the Library of Birmingham in Centenary Square. 

What the library’s Secret Garden lacks in towering height, it more than makes up for with genuinely panoramic outdoor views, plenty of room to wander and a beautiful elevated green space for summertime relaxing above the hum of the city.

Try a Balti in its hometown

Birmingham has more Michelin-star restaurants than any other city in the UK outside of London, yet the dish at the heart of the city’s character is a humble one-pot stew: the Balti. Devised by Birmingham’s Pakistani community in the early 1970s, the Balti is a fiery curry cooked quickly with the freshest ingredients over a searing hot flame. 

While you can now find Baltis on menus across the city, the Balti Triangle neighborhood a couple of miles south of the city center is the dish’s spiritual home. Head to original pioneer restaurant Adil’s or modern favorite Shababs on the Ladypool Road for a taste of the Balti at its best. 

Get outdoors in the Lickey Hills

With more than 8000 acres of award-winning green spaces and parks, Birmingham is one of the greenest cities in Europe. But if you want to combine that green space with gorgeous panoramic views and charming woodland trails then head out to the Lickey Hills Country Park.

Just 10 miles southwest of Birmingham city center, the hills are easily reached by train, bus or car and are ideal to walk at any time of year. Make sure to head up to the almost 300m-high summit of Beacon Hill, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of Birmingham’s skyline to the north and the distant Malvern Hills to the south.  

Drink the Stirchley beer mile

Stirchley’s rise as craft-beer haven has been as pleasant as it is unexpected. With several splendid pubs and taprooms conveniently spaced apart, intrepid craft-beer aficionados can take on Stirchley Beer Mile and sample the finest this south Birmingham neighborhood has to offer. 

From Cork and Cage at the north end to GlassHouse in the south, with stops at vibrant taprooms Attic Brew Co and Birmingham Brewing Company  (to name but a few) along the way, there are a plethora of spots to enjoy IPAs to your heart’s content. 

Trace Birmingham’s diverse musical heritage

From the reggae beats of UB40 to Black Sabbath’s pioneering heavy-metal sound and Duran Duran’s bouncy new-wave pop, few cities in the UK have produced music as diverse as Birmingham. 

Whether locals know it or not, every neighborhood has contributed to the richness of the city’s music heritage.  Musical Routes aims to bring that to life with their gorgeous 3D wooden relief maps located at 30 train stations across Birmingham. Whether it’s artists, record shops, venues or recording studios, these unique artworks enumerate each depicted area’s special cultural contribution. 

Enter Paradise

If you want to spark an always-feisty debate in Birmingham, ask a local their opinion of the now-demolished Central Library. But whether you thought the city’s famous brutalist building was iconic or not, what took its place at Chamberlain Square makes an impression, too:  Paradise Birmingham . 

Amid gleaming new office towers, the cleaned-up square boasts a pleasant white sheen and has attracted quality restaurants such as Dishoom and Rosa’s Thai Cafe. The volume and color have now been turned up further with the fresh addition of Albert’s Schloss , a boisterous Bavarian-style bar and restaurant set across two floors.

Learn about how Birmingham became a jewelry capital

As a manufacturing powerhouse during the Industrial Revolution, Birmingham had many strings to its bow – with one of the most enduring bring the jewelry trade. Much of that was centered around the Jewellery Quarter, a handsome neighborhood that to this day produces 40% of the UK’s jewelry. 

With its immaculately preserved workshops and live demonstrations, the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter is a fascinating time capsule into Birmingham’s heritage. Make sure to explore the quirky bars and restaurants of the area too, including the aptly titled 1000 Trades and the enigmatic The Wilderness .

Hit the arcades

Birmingham isn’t a city short on shops, with the Bullring , Grand Central and The Mailbox offering a veritable smorgasbord of brands and boutiques. For a more evocative shopping experience, take a stroll through the city’s historic arcades.

Located across from Snow Hill Station, the Great Western Arcade is an ornate Victorian delight filled with independent sellers, while the Piccadilly Arcade across from New St Station has an even more interesting story. Dating back to 1925 and containing a lavishly painted ceiling fresco, this arcade was once an Edwardian cinema – which explains the sloping floor.

See an epic cathedral

Just a short 14-mile train ride north of the city in the nearby town of Lichfield lies one of the most unique cathedrals in the entire country. 

Dating back to the 14th century and soaring over 250ft above the town’s skyline, Lichfield Cathedral is one of only three three-spired cathedrals in the UK and is the only one that dates back to the Middle Ages. Spend time touring the charming cathedral grounds before finishing at award-winning chef Tom Shepherd’s sublime new restaurant Upstairs . 

Escape the city by kayak

Sitting quietly on Sheepcote Street and backing onto the Birmingham Canal Old Line, The Roundhouse has been a fixture on the canal towpath since 1874 and once housed stables and stores. Derelict for many years and now freshly renovated, the Grade II-listed building runs sustainable guided city and canal tours. 

Take the Green Escape Kayak Tour to get a new and eco-friendly perspective on Birmingham’s waterways and green spaces. 

See a real “Peaky Blinders” set

Led by the indomitable Tommy Shelby, the popular BBC crime drama Peaky Blinders has brought Birmingham (and its memorable local accent) to a global audience. Even though the show isn’t shot on location in the city, you can see an authentic historic Peaky Blinders set at the Black Country Living Museum . 

As well as seeing the famous canal-side and yard filming locations, visitors can explore a painstakingly recreated 19th-century industrial landscape. Fans of the show should try to time their visits with the regular Peaky Blinders Nights .

You might also like: The 6 best day trips from Birmingham A Peaky Blinders guide to Birmingham 10 reasons to visit Birmingham, Britain's second city

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Map shows where the warmest place in UK could be this bank holiday

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The UK will finally be enjoying some sunnier weather this Bank Holiday weekend after days of thunderstorms and rain.

After days of wet weather and three yellow weather warnings issued, Brits can look forward to warm and bright weather as we approach the summer months.

But there will still be some periods of rain, particularly in the north of England.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Mark Sidaway said: ‘The Bank Holiday weekend will see some sunny spells and it will feel quite pleasant in the sunshine for many on Saturday in particular.

‘Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday will likely see a return to sunshine and showers. Low pressure to the west is likely to push fronts into the UK on Sunday, these tending to break up and turn more showery in nature as they do so.

‘We are likely to see some heavy, possibly thundery showers on both days, but there should still be some dry spells in between, and in any sunshine it will feel pleasantly warm.’

But this may not last into June, with the Met Office ’s long-range forecast making for a disappointing read if you are hoping for more heat and sun.

The forecast reads: ‘Relatively weak signals for conditions to be markedly different from climatology through to the middle of June.

‘That said, both temperatures and rainfall are more-likely to be a little above average overall, with further rain or showers, possibly heavy/thundery at times, and possibly slightly more likely in the southern half of the UK, but also some spells of warm sunshine.’

Longer term forecasts only look at the UK as a whole, rather than providing more detail for specific areas.

This is due to the ‘chaotic nature of the atmosphere’ which can suddenly see small weather events over the Atlantic causing major issues in the UK days later.

The weather over the last month has been a mixed bag to say the least, with Brits seeing the hottest day of the year so far as well as yellow weather warnings for rain.

Amber and red flood alerts were issued for  London , southeast and southwest England, east and northeast, and the Midlands.

Even the aurora borealis made an appearance across the UK for the first time in 20 years.

The striking ribbons of pink and green light appeared thanks to an ‘extreme’ geomagnetic  storm .

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It may be the last time they are visible at least for the next few weeks, as the Met Office says ‘no significant enhancements to the auroral oval are likely in the coming days’.

But the sunspot cluster, which hurled gas and energy towards the Earth, will rotate to us in a fortnight.

If the cluster is large and complex enough, it will generate more explosions which creates the aurora borealis as it hits the Earth’s magnetic field.

MORE : ‘We walked the Jurassic Coast cliffs during a torrential thunderstorm, but it was worth every soggy mile’

MORE : Girl, 10, killed in mudslide while on school trip dreamed of playing for the Lionesses

MORE : UK absolutely saturated yet again after heavy rain stubbornly refuses to budge

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England's Euro 2024 fixtures, dates and potential route for tournament in Germany

Euro 2024 starts in Munich on Friday, June 14 and runs to Sunday, July 14; semi-finals take place in Munich and Dortmund on July 9 and 10; Euro 2024 final is in Berlin; England in Group C with Slovenia, Denmark and Serbia; Serbia vs England first up on June 16

Wednesday 5 June 2024 16:03, UK

Track England's Euro 2024 fixtures, as well as their potential route through the knockout stages of the tournament in Germany.

England will face Denmark, Slovenia and Serbia in their Euro 2024 group.

Their first game on Sunday June 16 sees them travel to Gelsenkirchen to take on Serbia , who finished second in qualifying Group G behind Hungary, and whom they have not faced since the country's split with Montenegro in 2006.

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• Euro 2024 fixtures in full
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Gareth Southgate's side take on Denmark - whom they beat in the Euro 2020 semi-finals, before losing to Italy - four days later in Frankfurt.

They then round off their group on Tuesday June 25 in Cologne against Slovenia , whom they previously beat in a must-win final group game at World Cup 2010 to reach the knockout stages.

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How far will England go this time? Here's how their tournament could play out - and which heavyweight opponents could lie in wait...

Euro 2024 groups in full

• Group A: Germany, Scotland, Hungary, Switzerland
• Group B: Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania
• Group C: Slovenia, Denmark, Serbia, England
• Group D: Poland, Netherlands, Austria, France
• Group E: Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine
• Group F: Turkey, Georgia, Portugal, Czech Republic

England's potential Euro 2024 route

Group stage.

The top two in each group plus the four best third-placed teams go through

Euro 2024: England drawn with Denmark; Scotland face Germany in opener

Euro 2024 latest news

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Sunday June 16 - Group C: Serbia vs England (Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen - kick-off 8pm UK time)

Thursday June 20 - Group C: Denmark vs England (Waldstadion, Frankfurt - kick-off 5pm UK time)

Tuesday June 25 - Group C: England vs Slovenia (RheinEnergieStadion, Cologne - kick-off 8pm UK time)

What if teams finish level on points in group stage?

UEFA rules say that if two or more teams in the same group are equal on points, the following criteria are applied in given order: - Higher number of points obtained in the matches played among teams in question - Superior goal difference from matches played among teams in question - Higher number of goals scored in matches played among teams in question

Round of 16

If England finish first in Group C:

Sunday June 30 - Group C winners vs third-placed side in Group D/E/F (Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen - kick-off 5pm UK time)

If England finish second in Group C:

Saturday June 29 - Group A winners vs Group C runners-up (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund - kick-off 8pm UK time)

If England finish as one of four best third-place teams:

Monday July 1 - Group F winner vs third-placed side from Group A/B/C (Waldstadion, Frankfurt)

Tuesday July 2 - Group E winners vs third-placed side from Group A/B/C/D (Allianz Arena, Munich)

How are four best third-placed teams decided?

According to UEFA regulations, the following criteria are applied, in the order given: - Higher number of points - Superior goal difference - Higher number of goals scored - Higher number of wins - Lower disciplinary points total based on yellow and red cards received by players and team officials in group matches (red card = 3 points, yellow card = 1 point, expulsion for two yellow cards in one match = 3 points) - Position in the overall European Qualifiers rankings or, if hosts Germany involved, drawing of lots

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Quarter-finals

If England finish first in Group C and win round of 16 game:

Saturday July 6 - England vs Winner of 2A vs 2B (Merkur Spiel-Arena, Dusseldorf - kick-off 5pm UK time)

If England finish second in Group C and win round of 16 game:

Friday July 5 - England vs Winner of 1B vs 3A/D/E/F (MHPArena, Stuttgart - kick-off 5pm UK time)

If England finish as one of four best third-place teams and win round of 16 game:

Friday July 5 - England vs Winner of 2D vs 2E (Volksparkstadion, Hamburg - kick-off 8pm UK time)

Saturday July 6 - England vs Winner of 1D vs 2F (Olympiastadion, Berlin - kick-off 8pm UK time)

Semi-finals

If England finish first in Group C, win round of 16 game and win quarter-final:

Wednesday July 10 - Berlin semi-final winner vs Dusseldorf semi-final winner (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund - kick-off 8pm UK time)

If England finish second in Group C, win round of 16 game and win quarter-final:

Tuesday July 9 - Stuttgart semi-final winner vs Hamburg semi-final winner (Allianz Arena, Munich - kick-off 8pm UK time)

If England finish as one of four best third-place teams, win round of 16 game and win quarter-final:

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And finally, the Euro 2024 final...

Sunday July 14 - Munich semi-final winner vs Dortmund semi-final winner (Olympiastadion, Berlin - kick-off 8pm UK time)

Which route is best for England?

England might be favourites with Opta's 'supercomputer' but they will have to overcome several European heavyweights whichever way they qualify, if they are to go all the way.

Using the current FIFA world rankings to plot a possible route, England would have a seemingly easier route to the quarter-finals were they to win their group.

But Euro 2020 conquerors Italy could be a formidable last-eight hurdle, with France - who knocked them out of the last World Cup in Qatar - likely to stand in their way again in the semi-finals.

England’s potential route to the final as group winners…

If all results at Euro 2024 go with the world rankings England’s opponents in the knockout rounds would be… Round of 16: Sunday June 30 - England vs Austria/Romania/Turkey (Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen) Quarter-final: Saturday July 6 – England vs Italy (Merkur Spiel-Arena, Dusseldorf) Semi-final: Wednesday July 10 – France vs England; kick-off 8pm (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund) Final: Sunday July 14 – Spain vs England; kick-off 8pm (Olympiastadion, Berlin)

Should England finish second in their group, they could delay meeting Kylian Mbappe's World Cup finalists until the very last hurdle, but a sterner round-of-16 test would likely await in the shape of hosts Germany .

England’s potential route to the final as group runners-up…

If England finish second in Group C but all other results at Euro 2024 go with the world rankings, the Three Lions’ opponents in the knockout rounds would be… Round of 16: Saturday June 29 - Germany vs England (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund) Quarter-final: Friday July 5 – Spain vs England (MHPArena, Stuttgart) Semi-final: Tuesday July 9 – England vs Netherlands; kick-off 8pm (Allianz Arena, Munich) Final: Sunday July 14 – England vs France; kick-off 8pm (Olympiastadion, Berlin)

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