There are plenty of reasons why one should visit London. The city is home to some of the most famous tourist attractions in the world, including Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. It also boasts a lively nightlife and a diverse culture that is sure to please everyone.
London is an incredibly historic city that has been at the heart of British culture for centuries. It is full of beautiful architecture and historical sites that are well worth exploring. The city is also buzzing with energy and excitement, making it a great place to explore on your own or with friends.
No matter what your interests are, you can find something to do in London. In this article, we explore 27 must-do things to do in London.
1. Ride the London Eye
The London Eye is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and it’s easy to see why. The ferris wheel offers stunning views of some of the most iconic landmarks in London, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
In addition, the ride is relatively short, so it’s perfect for travelers who don’t have a lot of time to spare. I would highly recommend riding the London Eye if you’re ever in the city. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
2. Visit Buckingham Palace
I had the opportunity to visit Buckingham Palace last year, and it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Palace is enormous, and there are so many beautiful rooms to explore. I was especially fascinated by the Throne Room, where the Queen sat during official ceremonies.
The Palace is open to the public during certain times of the year, and I would highly recommend taking advantage of this opportunity. It’s an incredible place to learn about British history and culture, and you’ll definitely be impressed by the grandeur of the Palace.
3. Take a tour of Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is one of the most famous Gothic cathedrals in the world. Located in London, this historic building has been the site of many important events, including the coronation of British monarchs and the burial of some of the country’s most revered figures.
A tour of Westminster Abbey provides a unique opportunity to view centuries of history firsthand. The building itself is an architectural marvel, and its stained glass windows are some of the most beautiful in England.
Visitors can also explore the neighboring royal palace, which is home to many artifacts from the country’s rich past. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about one of England’s most iconic landmarks, a tour of Westminster Abbey is sure to be an enlightening experience.
4. Explore Hyde Park
I love exploring Hyde Park! It’s such a large urban park and there’s so much to see. I always enjoy going for a walk or bike ride here. There’s something very calming about being surrounded by nature in such a big city, and it’s also great to get some exercise.
I think it would be great to pack a picnic lunch and spend a leisurely afternoon in the park with friends or family.
5. Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in London. The cathedral is English Baroque in style and was designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Construction began in 1675 and took 35 years to complete.
The cathedral is home to many tombs and memorials, including those of Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. The cathedral also has a magnificent dome, which is one of the largest in the world. Visitors can climb to the top of the dome for stunning views of the city. St. Paul’s Cathedral is a must-see for any visitor to London.
6. Shop on Oxford Street
Looking for a place to do some serious shopping? Then head to Oxford Street, one of the busiest and most popular shopping streets in London. This street is home to a number of high-end stores and department stores, as well as smaller independent shops.
Whether you’re looking for designer clothing, cosmetics, or just about anything else, you’re sure to find it on Oxford Street. And if you get tired of shopping, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby where you can take a break and refuel. So next time you’re in London, be sure to make a stop at Oxford Street.
7- Catch a play at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is a replica of the Elizabethan theatre where Shakespeare’s plays were first performed. The original Globe Theatre was built in 1599 and was destroyed by fire in 1613. The modern-day Globe Theatre was built in 1997 and is located on the South Bank of the River Thames in London, England.
The theatre seats about 1,500 people and has three levels of seating: the ground floor, the galleries, and the lords’ rooms. The theatre is open to the sky, which allows for natural lighting and ventilation. The Globe Theatre is a great place to see a play or performance. I highly recommend catching a play here. You will not be disappointed!
8- Go for afternoon tea at Claridge’s Hotel
If you’re looking for a truly iconic afternoon tea experience, look no further than Claridge’s Hotel. This luxurious hotel has been serving up its famous afternoon tea service since the 19th century, and it’s easy to see why it’s become such a beloved institution.
The tea service includes an assortment of sandwiches, pastries, and scones, all of which are served with clotted cream and jam. The whole experience is sure to leave you feeling like royalty. Plus, Claridge’s is located in the heart of London, so you can explore the city before or after your tea time.
9- See Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are two of the most iconic British landmarks. Standing on the banks of the River Thames, they are often the first image that comes to mind when thinking of London.
Both buildings are open to the public, and a visit is definitely worth your time. Big Ben, also known as the Elizabeth Tower, is home to the world-famous clockface.
The Houses of Parliament, on the other hand, is where UK laws are made. You can take a tour of both buildings to learn more about their history and significance.
Or simply admire them from the outside – they’re definitely worth a photo or two!
10- Walk across Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Spanning the River Thames, it has been a vital part of the city’s infrastructure for over 130 years. Today, it is also one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, welcoming millions of visitors each year.
Walking across Tower Bridge is a must-do for any first-time visitor to London. And it’s not just because of its history or its views. There’s something special about crossing the Thames on foot, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot a boat passing underneath as you make your way across. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, walking across Tower Bridge is an experience you won’t soon forget.
11- Explore Kensington Palace and Gardens
Kensington Palace is one of the most iconic royal residences in London, and it’s easy to see why. The palace itself is stunning, with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. But it’s the gardens that really make Kensington Palace special.
Visitors can explore more than 10 acres of picturesque gardens, including the Sunken Garden, the Spanish Garden, and the Albert Memorial Fountain. The gardens are beautifully maintained and offer a peaceful oasis in the heart of London.
What’s more, admission to the gardens is free, making Kensington Palace an ideal destination for a summertime stroll. So whether you’re interested in royalty or simply looking for a beautiful place to relax, be sure to add Kensington Palace to your list of must-see attractions in London.
12- Browse the stalls at Camden Market
Camden Market is one of the most popular tourist destinations in London. This large market features everything from vintage clothes to souvenirs to street food vendors selling international cuisine.
The market is located in the Camden Town district, which is known for its alternative culture and edgy vibes. visitors can browse the stalls, enjoy the entertainment, and soak up the unique atmosphere.
Camden Market is open every day of the week, so there is always something going on. Whether you’re looking for a new outfit or a quick bite to eat, Camden Market is definitely worth a visit.
13- Visit Covent Garden Market
Covent Garden Market is one of my favorite places to visit in London. The market dates back to the 16th century, and today it is filled with stalls selling fresh food, flowers, and artisanal goods. I always enjoy browsing the stalls and finding new things to try.
Covent Garden market is also a great place to people watch. There are always diverse groups of people milling about, from tourists to local workers. I would highly recommend a visit to Covent Garden Market if you are looking for a unique shopping experience in London.
14- Ride a double-decker bus
One of the best ways to see London is to take a ride on a double-decker bus. From the top deck, you can get a panoramic view of the city as you travel from one attraction to another.
You can also hop on and off at any stop, making it easy to explore different parts of the city at your own pace.
Best of all, riding a double-decker bus is an affordable way to sightsee in London. So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see the sights, be sure to take a ride on one of London’s famous red buses.
15- Visit Hyde Park – one more time! – to feed the ducks
It’s been a long week. You’re tired, you’re stressed, and all you want to do is relax. But instead of vegging out on the couch, you decide to go for a walk in the park.
As you enter Hyde Park, you see the ducks swimming in the pond and immediately feel your stress melting away. You buy a bag of bread from a nearby vendor and make your way to the water’s edge.
The ducks’ swarm around you, quacking eagerly as you tear off pieces of bread and toss them into the water. For a few minutes, you forget all about your troubles as you watch the ducks gobble up their lunch. And then, as if by magic, you feel refreshed and rejuvenated, ready to take on whatever the rest of the day has in store.
So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that a quick visit to Hyde Park – and a little duck-feeding – might be just what you need.
16- Go for a walk along Regent’s Canal
Regent’s Canal is a great place to take a walk, especially if you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of London. The canal is fairly quiet, and there’s plenty of opportunities to admire the boats and wildlife.
However, there are a few things to bear in mind if you’re planning on taking a stroll along the canal. First of all, it’s important to stay on the path – the towpath is soft and can be slippery, so it’s easy to lose your footing if you stray too far. Secondly, it’s advisable to only walk on the canal during the day.
17- Check out Liverpool Street Station – one of London’s busiest railway stations
Liverpool Street Station is one of London’s busiest railway stations, handling over 100 million passengers each year. And it’s not just the sheer number of people that makes it so chaotic – the station is also huge, with over 30 platforms and a bewildering array of shops and restaurants. So if you’re planning a visit, be sure to allow plenty of time to explore. And watch out for the pickpockets – Liverpool Street is notorious for them!
But despite the crowds and the chaos, there’s a certain charm to the place. The Victorian architecture is impressive, and the bustle of the station always seems to be infused with a sense of excitement.
So if you can brave the crowds, Liverpool Street is definitely worth a visit.
18- Have lunch in Chinatown
If you’re looking for a delicious and affordable lunch option in London, then head to Chinatown. There are numerous excellent Chinese restaurants to choose from, all of which serve up hearty portions of authentic food.
Plus, Chinatown is a great place to people-watch and soak up the unique atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Chinatown is the perfect place to enjoy some delicious Chinese cuisine.
19- Take a leisurely stroll through St James’s Park
St James’s Park is one of the oldest and most cherished of London’s royal parks. Laid out in the 16th century by Henry VIII, it has been a favorite spot for strolling and taking in the sights for centuries. Today, the park is still a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, with its magnificent lake, tranquil gardens, and herds of wild deer.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of London life or simply want to enjoy some of the finest views in the city, a leisurely stroll through St James’s Park is always a delight.
20- Admire Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square
Nelson’s column is located in Trafalgar Square and was built to commemorate Admiral Lord Nelson who died at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The column is made from granite and is topped with a statue of Nelson.
It stands over 51m tall and is one of the most iconic landmarks in London. Visitors can admire the column up close, or enjoy views of it from across the city.
If you’re lucky, you might even see one of the many pigeons that roost on the statue! Whether you’re a visitor to London or a local, Nelson’s Column is definitely worth admiring.
21- window shop on Bond Street
Bond Street is one of the most famous shopping streets in London, and for good reason. The street is home to some of the most prestigious shops and boutiques in the city, selling everything from designer clothes to luxury watches.
Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, it’s well worth spending an afternoon window shopping on Bond Street. You’ll be able to see some of the latest fashion trends and get a taste of what it’s like to shop like a millionaire!
22- marvel at The Gherkin, The Shard, and The Walkie Talkie – three of London’s most famous skyscrapers!
Be sure to marvel at The Gherkin, The Shard, and The Walkie Talkie – three of the city’s most famous skyscrapers!
Completed in 2003, The Gherkin was one of the first buildings to put London on the map as a destination for architecture lovers. Standing at 180 meters tall, it’s an impressive sight.
The Shard, completed in 2012, is even taller at 306 meters, and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
And finally, The Walkie Talkie, completed in 2014, is perhaps the most distinctive of the three with its unique shape. At just under 200 meters tall, it’s not the tallest building in London, but it’s certainly one of the most eye-catching!
Whether you’re an architecture buff or just looking for something different to see on your travels, be sure to add these three skyscrapers to your list.
23- Check out the harry potter platform at Kings Cross
For Harry Potter fans, a visit to Kings Cross Station in London is a must. The station is home to Platform 9 3/4, which is where Harry and his Hogwarts Express depart for school.
While the train platform is unfortunately not open to the public, there is a Harry Potter-themed shop next to it where you can buy all kinds of merchandise.
The shop also has a photo op area where you can pretend to push your luggage through the wall to catch the train. It’s a fun spot for any fan of the series, and it makes for some great photos.
24 – Climb up Primrose hill for a panoramic view of London
No trip to London is complete without a visit to Primrose Hill. This picturesque spot offers stunning views of the cityscape, and is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the skyline.
Located just a short walk from Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill is easy to reach and well worth the effort.
Once you arrive at the top of the hill, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks. From the Houses of Parliament to Big Ben and beyond, there’s plenty to see from this vantage point. So whether you’re a first-time visitor to London or a seasoned traveler, be sure to add Primrose Hill to your list of must-see attractions.
25- Visit one of London’s newest neighborhoods: Coal Drops Yard
Coal Drops Yard is one of London’s newest neighborhoods, and it’s already attracting attention for its unique mix of shops and restaurants. The area is located near Kings Cross station, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the city. And it’s not just the convenient location that makes Coal Drops Yard worth visiting; the neighborhood also has a lot to offer in terms of food, fashion, and culture. The streets are lined with trendy cafes and boutiques, and there’s even a rooftop bar where you can enjoy stunning views of the city.
Whether you’re looking for a new place to eat or shop, or just want to explore a rapidly changing part of London, Coal Drops Yard is definitely worth a visit.
26 – Get lost in Hamstead Heath
I love exploring new places, and there’s no better feeling than getting lost in a sea of green. Hamstead Heath is the perfect place to lose yourself for an afternoon. With over 800 acres of parkland to explore, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. The Heath is home to numerous hiking trails, ponds, and even a wildflower meadow. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife. So if you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of London, head to Hamstead Heath and get lost in nature.
27 – Visit Box Park in Shoreditch
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, be sure to visit Box Park in Shoreditch. This hipster haven is made up of a series of shipping containers that have been repurposed into trendy boutiques, cafes, and bars. You’ll find everything from vintage clothing to locally made artisan goods. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of food options to choose from. Whether you’re looking to shop or just people-watch, Box Park is definitely worth a visit.
Conclusion:
There you have it! These are just a few of the many reasons why London is one of my favorite cities in the world. From its rich history and culture to its trend-setting fashion and food scene, there’s something for everyone in London. So whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, be sure to add these must-see attractions to your list.
