london city to visit

London, England   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Doug Armand | Getty Images

34 Best Things to Do in London, England

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

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

Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

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

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

Tower of London Tower of London

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

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

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

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

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

Popular Tours

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London

(12053 reviews)

from $ 125.39

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath with Pub Lunch in Lacock

(4927 reviews)

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

(8773 reviews)

from $ 55.73

Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

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

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

British Museum British Museum free

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

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

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

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

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

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

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

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

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

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

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

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

(1161 reviews)

from $ 480.04

Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio with Luxury Transport from London

(2623 reviews)

from $ 163.39

Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

(2562 reviews)

from $ 107.66

Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

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

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

The London Eye The London Eye

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

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

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

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

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

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

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

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

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

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

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

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

(2110 reviews)

from $ 143.12

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford Day Trip from London

(2750 reviews)

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London + Admission

(2867 reviews)

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

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

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

National Gallery National Gallery free

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

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

Borough Market Borough Market free

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

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

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

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

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

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

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

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

Best of London: Tower of London, Thames & Changing of the Guard

(596 reviews)

from $ 93.73

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

(526 reviews)

from $ 307.78

Tower of London: Entry Ticket, Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour

(4365 reviews)

from $ 44.08

Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

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

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

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

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

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

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

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

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

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

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

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

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

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

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

Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London

(348 reviews)

from $ 158.32

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

(1536 reviews)

from $ 378.71

Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

(791 reviews)

from $ 100.06

Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

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

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

Camden Market Camden Market free

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

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area. The market is open daily from 10 a.m. until roughly 6 p.m. (though different businesses may open and close at different times). For more information about the vendors at the market, visit its official website .

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

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

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

Greenwich Greenwich free

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

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

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

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

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

London in a Day with Tower, Westminster & River Cruise

(256 reviews)

from $ 161.10

VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels Tour with Private Beefeater Meet & Greet

(222 reviews)

from $ 141.86

Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day Trip from London with Guided Cathedral Tour

(1754 reviews)

from $ 132.99

Up at The O2 Up at The O2

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

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

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

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

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

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

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

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

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

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

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

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

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

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

Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London

(1854 reviews)

from $ 18.87

Inner Circle Access of Stonehenge including Bath and Lacock Day Tour from London

(1442 reviews)

from $ 193.79

Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

(63 reviews)

from $ 87.39

Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

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

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

Things to Do in London, England FAQs

Explore more of london, england.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

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

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

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

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

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

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of London for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy London without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 50 best attractions in London

Discover London’s best attractions, landmarks and sightseeing spots that you’d be mad to miss, even if you‘re a local

London landmarks are iconic for a reason.  You’ve got your London Eye, your Hyde Park, your Big Ben, and even if you’ve lived here for years and have steadfastly been avoiding ‘tourist traps’, you really ought to check these places out at least once.  Whether you’re a day-tripper or a local, marvelling at the capital’s museums , galleries , monuments and  parks  is a London rite of passage – and they’re all really bloody great.  But where to begin? We’ve pulled together a list of the best attractions in London for you to start ticking off your bucket list. And the best news? Loads of these must-see London attractions are free, and for those that aren’t, you can book below.

Still after some sightseeing inspiration? Check out our list of  101 things to do  in London, and find out what’s happening in London  today ,  this week , and  this weekend .

RECOMMENDED: the best hotels in London   RECOMMENDED: the best alternative attractions in London RECOMMENDED: the best London bus tours

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our   affiliate   guidelines .

An email you’ll actually love

Time Out promotion

There's a massive discount on some of London’s top attractions

What do you like to get up to on Sundays? If it’s not bagging a total bargain at one of London’s finest attractions, then we reckon you’re missing a trick. And as luck would have it, that’s exactly what those excellent people at Merlin are offering, with 40 percent off Sunday tickets at some of their most popular properties.

London’s top attractions

1.  The London Eye

• Things to do
• Event spaces

What is it? Much like the Millenium Dome – or, as it's known to those who don’t remember the twentieth century, the O2 Arena – the London Eye was built to celebrate the year 2000. Since then, the Eye has been a resounding success and it’s hard to picture London’s skyline without it. It rarely ever comes to a stop, so you won’t be standing on the ceremony when you get on. Before you know it, you’re halfway into the sky and taking in sweeping vistas of the city.

Why go? The view, obviously. 

2.  Shrek’s Adventure! London

• Theme parks

What is it? An interactive tour that starts with a breathtaking 4D ride through the sky before you crash-land near a certain ogre’s swamp and find yourself having to flee from the wicked Rumpelstiltskin. You’ll encounter a few favourite characters while you take on different missions, such as liberating Pinocchio from the Wheel of Torture and cooking up some spells with the Muffin Man. 

Why go? To have a giggle on a whirlwind trip to Far, Far Away.

3.  Madame Tussauds

What is it? In 1802 Marie Tussaud made her waxwork debut in the capital (32 years after she founded the show in Paris). By 1884 she decided to lay down permanent roots in Marylebone and she’s been there ever since (well, her legacy at least). Visitors to Madame Tussauds today will find over 150 lifelike models including contemporary stars like Drake and Dua Lipa and historic icons like Einstein and Marilyn Monroe. Elsewhere The King stands proudly on the Royal Balcony and stars like the Marvel cast have their own Hall of Heroes.

Why go? To snap a selfie with all the famous faces. Instagram, incoming.

4.  The View from the Shard

• Towers and viewpoints
• London Bridge

What is it?  The capital's tallest tower, having joined London's skyline in 2012.  Measuring 310 metres, The Shard was built with everything in mind: offices, homes, hotels, bars, restaurants and, of course, the alluring viewing platform. From the highest point, the public are allowed access (floors 69-72) you get stunning 360-degree views of the city. There’s a silent disco on selected Saturday nights and other events, such as gigs and gin tastings throughout the year.

Why go? The floor-to-ceiling windows allow exceptional views out across the capital, especially on a clear day.

5.  The London Dungeon

What is it?  A tour of London’s nastiest historical moments, with gory stories retold with humour, gooey props and gruesomely costumed actors. You can board a traitor’s boat to the Tower of London, dash through the streets of Whitechapel in pursuit of Jack the Ripper and glimpse plague London. 

Why go?   Gore-seekers can ride a recreation of The Death Express, a line which carried the deceased to their final resting place in Surrey. 

6.  Up at The O2

• Sightseeing
• Greenwich Peninsula

What is it? Ever wondered what London looks like from 53 metres above North Greenwich? Find out with a ticket for Up at The O2 where you can choose from Daytime, Sunset and Twilight climbs. The ultimate AAA pass gains you access to the roof, where you’ll be able to see across the capital, spotting famous sites like the Olympic Park, Thames Barrier, The Shard and Canary Wharf.

Why go? For an incredible 360-degree view – and that adorable climbing onesie.

7.  Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

• Sport and fitness
• Parks and gardens
• Olympic Park

Remember the London Olympics in 2012? Feels like a lifetime ago – and a very different time – but we were promised a legacy and, if the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is the yardstick, we got one. The buildings and all that parkland are now one of London’s best attractions, drawing swathes of tourists and Londoners every year. The  London Stadium  (host to big concerts with headliners like The Weeknd and West Ham FC as well as various athletics championships). The southern section of the park is home to all the stunning parkland, including children's play areas, four walking trails, a couple of dozen public artworks, plus the attraction of ascending the remarkable  ArcelorMittal Orbit . Make sure you check out foodie hot spots like  Hackney Bridge food market  and the award-winning floating restaurant  Barge East . It continues to honour its reputation for state-of-the-art sporting venues – from the  Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre  as well as the Zaha Hadid-designed  London Aquatics Centre , which is open for public swimming and diving sessions, followed by the VeloPark, home to road, track, BMX and mountain biking. There’s more to come too. Heard of East Bank? Set to be London’s newest cultural quarter with world-class experiences from BBC, Sadler’s Wells, UAL’s London College of Fashion, University College London and the V&A East. In short: a lot of great stuff to explore.

8.  Westminster Abbey

• Religious buildings and sites
• Westminster

What is it? Like the Pantheon Crypt in Paris, where you can see the tombs and memorials of great figures from history, Westminster Abbey is a popular attraction to peruse the graves, tablets, busts and stone dedications. In fact, seventeen monarchs are buried here, along with dukes, countesses and history’s ‘celebs’ (Think Darwin, Dickens and Hardy). Founded by Benedictine monks in 960 AD, there have also been 16 royal weddings here and every single British coronation has taken place within the Abbey's walls since 1066.

Why go? To see Gothic grandeur in all its splendour.

9.  Buckingham Palace

What is it? A chance to see world-famous art, glimpse regal opulence and get inside HM’s headquarters. Tourists and locals alike know the façade of Buckingham Palace, which stands at the end of The Mall. But it was only in 1913 that this addition was made, by King George V and Queen Mary. Before that, in 1633, the palace wasn’t even royal – it belonged to Lord Goring, who was forced to hand over ownership to the Royal Family (under King George III) due to a flaw in his contract. Poor chap. 

Why go? To snoop around the most famous royal residence in the world.

10.  Hampton Court Palace

• Historic buildings and sites

What is it? A resplendent palace with plush grounds on the edge of south west London. From the Tudor indoor tennis court to the Royal Maze, from the King’s private loo to the Magic Garden adventure playground, there’s something here for all ages. History buffs and art enthusiasts should purchase a ticket for the Palace and Gardens; those with little ones in tow will appreciate the Magic Garden and Maze ticket. Make sure you keep an eye on the site for their seasonal opening times.

Why go? To get lost in the Royal Maze.

11.  The Houses of Parliament

What is it? The seat of British democracy. Take an audio tour through the House of Lords and House of Commons to bring the building to life. It takes around 90 minutes and features leading parliamentary figures such as Mr Speaker and Black Rod. 

Why go? For a dazzling combo of history, politics and architecture.

12.  St Paul’s Cathedral

What is it? Iconic as St Paul’s may be, the cathedral as we know it today is in fact version six, at least. Mark five was razed to the ground by the Great Fire of London in 1666, mark three was also destroyed by fire, in 1087, and mark four fell to ruins under Henry VIII’s leadership. Thankfully Sir Christopher Wren’s design, which was completed in 1708, survived 12 monarchs and two world wars, notably the German Blitz of WWII. If you’ve paid for the main admission you’ll be treated to an introductory talk before being taken on a 90-minute tour.

Why go? To test your hearing in the Whispering Gallery.

13.  Afternoon tea at the Ritz

• Restaurants
• price 3 of 4

What is it? An occasion to enjoy finely cut sandwiches, fresh cakes and the tinkling of shiny silver teapots in the gold and white splendour of the Ritz Hotel’s former Ballroom. It’s so popular that you can book sittings from 11.30am to 7.30pm every day – sure, it’s not strictly the afternoon, but it’s all accompanied by the delicate sounds of a pianist, harpist or string quartet.

Why go?  For the unlimited scones and sandwiches.

14.  Tower Bridge

• Tower Bridge

What is it? There’s more to this ornate Victorian bridge than something cool to look at: you can actually venture inside. Check out the engine rooms with their whirring wheels and pistons, then head up to the glass-floored viewing platform above the draw bridge, where you can delve into this magnificent structure's story.

Why go?  Time it right and you'll see the bridge rising up to let paddle steamers and barges through. Want to know a fun fact? A full schedule of bridge lift times is available on their website . 

15.  Kensington Palace

What is it? Where William, Kate and the kids hang their hats. This tourist attraction has a chic style: it played host to the most fashionable salons in Georgian times, was home to Queen Victoria in her youth, then sassy Princess Margaret and then classy Princess Diana. Now the main palace is a pretty visitor magnet with tranquil gardens to wander.

Why go? To be blown away by the outfits in the ‘Royal Style in the Making’ exhibition.

16.  Big Ben

TOURS SUSPENDED TEMPORARILY

What is it?  Big Ben is the nickname of the Great Bell inside Westminster’s iconic clock tower, but even locals think ‘Big Ben’ when they see the Elizabeth Tower. You can’t get inside for a tour due to maintenance work but you’re a minute away from the river, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey here, so it’s an easy visit.

Why go?  To see the world's most celebrated clock face to face.

17.  Wembley Stadium

What is it? The venue where England won the World Cup in 1966, and the Lionesses won the Euros in 2022. Wembley still has a magic about it, even when you don’t have a ticket for a match or a rock concert. Take the tour and you’ll get to walk down the players’ tunnel and climb the 107 Trophy Winner’s steps, plus, with the use of 360-degree video, experience the electric atmosphere at some of the stadium’s biggest events.

Why go?  To peek  behind the scenes and sense that Cup Final magic.

18.  The National Gallery

• Trafalgar Square

What is it? A huge art museum right on Trafalgar Square that’s free to enter. Perfect, whether you’ve got ten minutes in your lunch break to check out Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’ or time to wander the entire collection of Western European paintings from the thirteenth to the nineteenth centuries. Check out the Friday Lates for after-hours access to exhibitions, creative workshops and life drawing sessions.

Why go? To be swaddled in artistic greatness.

19.  Churchill War Rooms

What is it? A secret, secure bunker, tucked behind Downing Street and Parliament Square, where Churchill and his cabinet could monitor how World War II was going, receive intelligence and give orders. It’s the little details that give the biggest impression, from a daily-updated weather noticeboard to the scratch marks on Churchill’s chair (caused by his ring on a stressed day).

Why go? For history lovers to see the rooms just as they were left after 1945.

20.  National Portrait Gallery

• Charing Cross Road

What is it? Just around the corner from The National Gallery, this is the home of a stunning collection of portraits, from paintings to photography, capturing the essence of notable royalty, celebrities and our enduring fascination with the human face. The permanent collection is free to visit, with ticketed special exhibitions.

Why go? To wander among the great and good.

21.  Thames RIB Experience

• Victoria Embankment

What is it? A high-speed ‘rigid inflatable boat’ that will have you zooming up and down the river. If you want to ramp up the excitement on the Thames – the kind that would make 007 proud – hop aboard the RIB to travel at speeds of around 35 knots (roughly 40 mph).  

Why go? Because it’s the most thrilling way for adrenaline junkies to see the sights.

22.  National Theatre

• Public and national theatres

What is it? Only the greatest theatre in the world (well, we would argue so, anyway). Take your pick of entertainment from the three theatres, and if you’ve got time to kill pre- or post-performance, take a seat at one of the various bars or restaurants. 

Why go?  To witness shows that champion rising talents and showcase big-name stars.

23.  Royal Albert Hall

• Music venues
• South Kensington

What is it?  Across the road from the ornate golden memorial statue of Prince Albert is another dedication. The construction of Royal Albert Hall was ordered by Queen Victoria and named after her late husband. Since its completion, the hall has hosted music and theatre and continues to do so to this day – most famously the Proms.

Why go? To experience the dazzling Victorian opulence.

24.  Tower of London

What is it? O ne of the capital’s best and most well-known historical attractions.  The Tower of London offers wonderful architecture, gruesome stories, hands-on activities for younger visitors, costumed actors and guides, and worryingly confident ravens.

Why go? To get an eyeful of the Crown Jewels.

25.  Royal Opera House

• Classical and opera
• Covent Garden

What is it? Covent Garden’s grand old opera house. You don’t have to be super-rich to get in on the action – there are reductions for students, senior citizens and those on credits, plus regular ticket offers for all. Alternatively, take a backstage tour, where you can sometimes spot the Royal Ballet practising their moves. 

Why go? To see a right royal opera or ballet performance.

26.  Kew Gardens

What is it? Budding horticulturalists will have a field day here. There are over 300 acres to explore filled with indigenous flora and fauna, as well as exotic greenhouses and nature trails. There’s also a treetop walkway and the Grade I-listed Temperate House recently reopened after a five-year refurb. It’s the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world and quite a sight to behold.

Why go? For a breath of fresh air in the busy city.

27.  Shakespeare’s Globe

• Shakespeare

What is it? A painstakingly accurate recreation of the kind of theatre Shakespeare would have written all his plays for. If you’ve never been, book groundling tickets and stand in the open-air pit like you’re at a rock festival. It makes Bard’s poetry seem a lot less like homework and a lot more like first-rate drama.

Why go? For a raucous, interactive take on  theatre.

28.  Somerset House

What is it? An elegant eighteenth-century landmark and cultural hub on the north side of Waterloo Bridge that hosts several art exhibitions and events at a time, incorporating the Courtauld Gallery and temporary exhibitions in the Embankment Galleries. Hell, even the courtyard (once an Inland Revenue car park) makes itself useful, with gigs, alfresco cinema and fountains in summer.

Why go? For music and movies under the stars.

29.  Tate Modern

What is it?  A riverside icon dedicated to modern and contemporary art, based in what was the Bankside power station. You can discover works by the likes of Warhol, Dalí and Hockney, as well as unusual, eye-grabbing installations, as part of its free-to-visit permanent collection.

Why go?  For some of the best art and architecture London has to offer. 

30.  Kew Palace

What is it? The favoured residence of George III looks more like a massive, ornate biscuit tin than the glittering home of a royal. In the gardens, there is a wonderful little cottage built for Queen Charlotte that trumps any garden shed. You can only visit the palace via Kew Gardens (it’s free with entry to Kew).

Why go? To discover an often-forgotten treasure.

31.  Cutty Sark

• Ships and boats

What is it?  Experience life aboard the world’s last surviving tea clipper in Greenwich. See the intricate craftsmanship used in its creation and find out how the crew lived. Thanks to a million-pound refurbishment after a fire in 2007, you can now walk underneath the hull.

Why go?  To get a taste of life at sea without leaving the dock. 

32.  HMS Belfast

What is it? A grey warship, with its guns tilted high, moored close to Tower Bridge, that’ s a museum nowadays. Open daily, with scenes set to show you what life was like on board a working WWII warship, HMS Belfast is a lively visitor space. You can scoot around the lower levels, exploring the engine room, the kitchens and the dentist’s office, and the action stations up on deck.

Why go? To play life-sized battleships.

33.  London Transport Museum

What is it? A vast museum full of real relics of the bygone ages of London transport, where there’s always a bus or a train to hop on. Find out why tube stations were used as wartime shelters, see decades of beautiful poster artwork and discover how the latest technology will run our services in the future. The LTM always hosts a fabulous Friday Late themed around its newest exhibition.

Why go?  To discover a treasure trove of retro design. 

34.  London Zoo

• Zoos and aquariums
• Regent’s Park

What is it?  The Regent’s Park landmark has come a long way since the days when zoos were full of homesick wildlife. London Zoo does a lot of world-class animal welfare work, creating carefully designed settings in which beautiful creatures from gorillas to lizards, penguins to tigers now reside. There’s a dedicated area for small kids and daily shows for nature fans of all ages.

Why go?  To take a walk on the wild side.

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

• Hertfordshire

What is it? The Warner Bros Studio, a short trek north of London, where you can set foot inside the Great Hall, Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley. See film sets, costumes, props and exhibits that take you behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films. Changing exhibitions are included in the ticket and you get the chance to discover the secrets of the movie’s special effects.

Why go? To finally get your mitts on a flagon of Butterbeer.

36.  Royal Observatory

What is it? For centuries, the location for the scientific study of the stars and of timekeeping – originally for the benefit of sea navigation. This is where you’ll see the Greenwich Meridian Line marked out, from which point the world’s time zones are measured. You can also see the incredible instruments with which astronomers made discoveries about our universe, long before the digital age, or go stargazing at a planetarium show.

Why go? To give Brian Cox a run for his money. 

37.  The South Bank

What is it? A buzzing open space and cultural nucleus of the capital, lined with some of the city’s most exciting galleries, theatres and attractions. Start at the Southbank Centre, for free art and live shows, lunch at one of the many restaurants, watch the skateboarders and then wander east past the artists’ enclave at Gabriel’s Wharf and on to Tate Modern and the Globe.

Why go? For riverside adventures and ace views. 

38.  SEA LIFE London Aquarium

What is it?  The home of sea creatures from all over the world, from Pacific nurse sharks to Antarctic penguins (with a glimpse of what’s swimming past you in the Thames, too). It can get busy, but go off-peak to get some one-one-one time with the crocs

Why go? To immerse yourself in the life aquatic.

39.  British Library

• Libraries, archives and foundations
• King’s Cross

What is it? A working resource for printed and sound archives that’s open to all. If you nip into the free entrance hall exhibitions you might get to see a scribbled page of Beatles songwriting or a Leonardo da Vinci notebook. There are some stunning illuminated scripts and landmark scientific items too, including very early photographs. Don’t expect silence to be enforced when a Late at the Library event kicks off.

Why go? For studious research or to geek out on paper-based artefacts.

40.  The British Museum

What is it? Since it opened in 1759 – the first-ever national museum for the public – the British Museum has been displaying global artefacts discovered by British explorers. Must-see gems include the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures.

Why go? The museum has more than eight million objects in its collection, 50,000 of which are on display. That’s a lot of bang for your buck, considering entrance to the main areas is free.

41.  Hyde Park

What is it? A massive central London park that’s easy to take for granted. Wander into Hyde Park’s vast greenery and eventually, you get to the Serpentine lake, where you can take a dip, go boating, board a solar-powered ferry (in summer) or eat pizza by the water. You can also take guided tours of the gardens and a secret pet cemetery – visit the park's website to book the latter. 

Why go? Because life’s more fun if you stop for a stroll, a bike ride or a picnic.

42.  Highgate Cemetery

What is it?  A beautiful, crumbling north London cemetery full of overgrown paths that will lead you to several Grade II-listed catacombs and a number of famous remains, including poet Christina Rossetti, architect Sir Lawrence Weaver and philosopher Karl Marx. On a sunny day, it even feels a little less morbid.

Why go?  To try to find Karl Marx’s hidden-away grave.

43.  Museum of London

What is it?  A museum that traces the capital’s history from its beginnings to the present day – you can even see part of the city’s original Roman Wall from its windows. Sense the drama of the Great Fire of London, walk through a Victorian shopping arcade, see the stunning London 2012 Olympic cauldron and get an eyeful of part of the fatberg found lurking in a Whitechapel sewer. Yuck!

Why go? To find out what life was really like in Londinium – for free.

44.  V&A Museum

• Art and design

What is it? One of the greatest collections of decorative art, design, fashion and textiles in the world. The Fashion galleries run from 18th-century court dress right up to contemporary chiffon numbers; the Architecture gallery has videos, models, plans and descriptions of various styles; and the famous Photography collection holds more than 500,000 images. Admission is free.

Why go? To drool over amazing designs and gobble up cake in the sunny courtyard. Bliss.

45.  Natural History Museum

• Natural history

What is it? The magnificent South Kensington home of around 80 million plant, animal, fossil, rock and mineral specimens. This fascinating museum, which is also a world-class research institution, is full of natural wonders and admission is free.

Why go? To marvel at a  25.2-metre-long  blue whale skeleton, a piece of Mars rock,  Mary Anning's  ichthyosaur fossil and lots more.  

46.  Science Museum

• Science and technology

What is it? An incredible, free-to-enter, hands-on museum that features seven floors of entertaining and educational exhibits, including the Apollo 10 command module, a virtual reality space-descent experience and a 16th-century artificial arm.

Why go? To experience the incredible Information Age gallery, from where the Queen sent her first tweet, signed Elizabeth R.

47.  Regent’s Park

What is it?  A verdant 410 acres of lush, open space, just a short stroll north of Oxford Circus. Featuring a pretty rose garden, the elegant Open Air Theatre (open throughout the summer – check the  website for exact dates) and tree-lined avenues for jogging, it’s a slice of horticultural heaven and a much-needed respite from the rest of the whirring city. 

Why go? To escape the Oxford Street crowds.

48.  St James’s Park

What is it? London’s oldest Royal Park and, essentially, Buckingham Palace’s front garden. St James’s Park runs alongside The Mall and offers a handy escape from the traffic noise of Trafalgar Square. The two islands in its lake are home to wildlife and there’s the Princess Diana Memorial Walk to follow if you fancy some gentle exercise.

Why go? To watch the pelicans (which were introduced to the park more than 400 years ago) being fed at 2.30pm daily.

49.  Trafalgar Square

What is it?  When it comes to London’s top attractions, Trafalgar Square can’t be overlooked. Bring your selfie stick because posing for pics is a must. Get the lions and fountains in shot (no paddling in the fountains, please) and check out the latest modern art installation adorning the Fourth Plinth, as London’s red buses circle on the busy roads around you.

Why go? To take the archetypal, cheesy, London tourist selfie.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Time Out Offers FAQ
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Offers
• Time Out Worldwide

24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Shandley McMurray Updated Mar 20, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley has visited London many times, most recently on an extensive tour of England in the spring of 2022. Author Shandley McMurray lived in London and always enjoys returning.

London is one of the world's most mesmerizing cities . Modern architectural marvels like the Shard line medieval laneways peppered with historic monuments, high-end shops, and award-winning theaters. Picturesque streets and avenues connect renowned attractions like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul's Cathedral, causing visitors to gape at their beauty and exhaust their phone's photo storage.

With so many impressive tourist attractions and captivating things to do, it's no wonder London is one of the most popular places to visit in the world , attracting over 20 million tourists each year. Britain's bustling capital offers something for everyone, including shopaholics, foodies, adventurists, historians, and kids, making it tough to choose what to do first.

Should you hit one of the top museums, many of which are free to enter, or enjoy a picnic in one of the city's expansive parks ? Maybe tour a royal palace, or wander around a breathtaking garden? Perhaps you'd prefer to take in a show; enjoy a horseback ride; see the city views from atop the London Eye; or enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in Harrods, the world's poshest department store?

Use our list of the best attractions and things to do in London to help decide what to see and do in this phenomenal city you'll want to visit again and again.

See also: Where to Stay in London

1. Visit Buckingham Palace and Watch the Changing of the Guard

2. see the crown jewels at the tower of london, 3. beat the crowds: take a morning stroll across tower bridge, 4. get cultured at the british museum, 5. big ben and the houses of parliament, 6. get creative at the national gallery, 7. tour the art displays at the victoria and albert museum, 8. wander around piccadilly circus and trafalgar square, 9. journey to the top of the shard, 10. get your art fix at tate britain and tate modern, 11. walk the hallowed halls of westminster abbey, 12. head underground to the churchill war rooms, 13. walk with dinosaurs at the natural history museum, 14. enjoy a picnic in hyde park, 15. climb the dome of st. paul's cathedral, 16. shop at london's best markets, 17. be entertained by buskers at covent garden, 18. take flight on the london eye, 19. meet henry viii at hampton court palace, 20. straddle the meridian line at greenwich, 21. the imperial war museum & hms belfast, 22. explore the london docklands & canary wharf, 23. visit picturesque richmond park, 24. ogle the flora and fauna at kew gardens, where to stay in london for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to london, map of tourist attractions & things to do in london, best time to visit london, england.

One of Britain's most iconic buildings, Buckingham Palace is also the scene of London's most popular display of pomp and ceremony: the Changing of the Guard.

Drawing crowds at 11:30am most days regardless of the season, this colorful display of precision marching and music also takes place at St. James's Palace . One of the top free things to do in London , you can then follow the band along The Mall as they march between sites.

Buckingham Palace was built in 1837 and has been the London residence of the Royal Family since Queen Victoria's accession. If you're wondering whether the King is in, look at the flagpole atop the building: if the royal standard is flying day and night, he's at home. On special state occasions, he and members of the Royal Family may even emerge on the central balcony.

When the King's away at the Royal Family's summer residence in Balmoral Castle, Scotland , visitors can purchase tickets for tours of the State Rooms, the Queen's Gallery, and the Royal Mews.

From prison to palace, treasure vault to private zoo, the magnificent Tower of London has fulfilled many different roles over the centuries. One of Britain's most iconic structures, this spectacular World Heritage Site offers hours of fascination for visitors curious about the country's rich history, so much of which happened here.

Inside the massive White Tower, built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, is the 17th-century Line of Kings with its remarkable displays of royal armaments and armor. Other highlights include the famous Crown Jewels exhibition, the Beefeaters, the Royal Mint, and gruesome exhibits about the executions that took place on the grounds.

The Bloody Tower is also worthy of a visit. Here you'll find stories of ancient torture, and you can learn about the mystery of two princes who disappeared many years ago.

For the best use of your time, especially during the busy summer season, purchase the Tower of London Entrance Ticket Including Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour in advance, to bypass the ticket office lines. This pass guarantees the lowest price, helps avoid the crowds, and saves time and hassle.

Located adjacent the Tower of London, Tower Bridge features two huge towers rising 200 feet above the River Thames.

This is one of London's best-known and most photographed landmarks. While fascinating behind-the-scenes tours are available, you can easily walk across the bridge from the Tower of London.

For the best Tower views, as well as a glimpse of HMS Belfast and London Bridge (which many mistakenly believe Tower Bridge to be), find a spot mid-way across. While it can be crowded, especially around sunset, an early morning arrival before the throngs of tourists get there is well worth the effort.

Afterwards, head over to the renovated Butlers Wharf district on the bridge's south end for a unique twist on the classic "full English" breakfast at WatchHouse Tower Bridge. This now ritzy area is fun to wander and is home to a funky selection of restaurants, luxury housing, and shops.

Address: Tower Bridge Road, London

Official site: www.towerbridge.org.uk

Displaying one of the world's finest collections of antiquities, the British Museum contains more than 13 million artifacts from the ancient world. With priceless objects from Assyria, Babylonia, China, Europe, and elsewhere, it's hard to know where to begin in this expansive attraction.

Most tourists head first for the museum's most famous exhibits: the controversial Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon, the Rosetta Stone , the colossal bust of Ramesses II, the Egyptian mummies, and the spectacular hoard of 4th-century Roman silver known as the Mildenhall Treasure .

In addition to a well-stocked, on-site bookshop boasting an exhaustive array of titles on ancient history, archaeology and art history, there's a shop selling kids' games and souvenirs, along with one that sells replica sculptures and jewelry.

For those able to linger longer, the museum offers a variety of lectures and workshops, plus a restaurant and café.

Address: Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London

Official site: www.britishmuseum.org

Nothing screams "London" more emphatically than the 318-foot tower housing the giant clock and its resounding bell known as Big Ben. It's as iconic a landmark as Tower Bridge , and the tolling of Big Ben is known throughout the world as the time signal of the BBC.

Below it, stretching along the Thames, are the Houses of Parliament . The seat of Britain's government for many centuries, it was also once the site of the royal Westminster Palace occupied by William the Conqueror.

The best view of the parliament buildings can be had by crossing Westminster Bridge and looking back. Or, turn left after crossing the bridge and walk along the path towards the SEA LIFE London Aquarium (a fun spot to take kids). Gather your crew along the wall for a perfect photo with Big Ben in the background.

Tours of the Houses of Parliament offer a unique chance to see real-time debates and lively political discussions. From Parliament Square, Whitehall is lined by so many government buildings that its name has become synonymous with the British government.

Official site: www.parliament.uk/bigben

It's almost impossible to visit London without catching a glimpse of the impressive National Gallery. This iconic, columned museum is set at the edge of Trafalgar Square , home to incredible masterpieces that make it one of the best attractions in London.

Ranking among the top art museums in the world, London's National Gallery represents an almost complete survey of European painting from 1260 until 1920. The museum's greatest strengths are in its collections of Dutch Masters and Italian Schools of the 15th and 16th centuries.

Among its highlights are a cartoon (preliminary sketch) of the Madonna and Child by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo's The Entombment , Botticelli's Venus and Mars , van Gogh's Sunflowers , and The Water-Lily Pond by Monet.

Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London

Official site: www.nationalgallery.org.uk

The Victoria and Albert Museum (aka the V&A) is part of a South Kensington-based group of museums that includes the Natural History Museum and Science Museum . Founded in 1852, the V&A covers close to 13 acres and contains 145 galleries spanning some 5,000 years of art and related artifacts.

Exhibits include ceramics and glass, textiles and costumes, silver and jewelry, ironwork, sculpture, prints, and photos, and are conveniently arranged into four main categories: Asia; Furniture, Textiles, and Fashion; Sculpture, Metalwork, Ceramics, and Glass; and Word and Image.

It's impossible to get around this vast museum in a single visit, so the best plan to tackle it is to decide in advance which sections you most want to see. Taking a V&A tour is highly recommended, and often free, with options including everything from daily introductory tours to specific gallery or themed tours.

The Main and Garden Cafés are more impressive than any museum eatery you've seen. The intricate detailing on everything from the floor to the columns to the ceiling make them worthy pieces of art themselves. Plus, the food is quite tasty. Also, don't miss an opportunity to luxuriate in the John Madejski Garden , which is so beautiful and serene, you'll forget you're in the center of one of the world's largest cities.

If you're around, check into one of the fun "Friday Late" programs held on the last Friday of the month (except for March and December). These fun events are popular for their food and drink experiences, along with late-night exhibition openings.

Address: Cromwell Road, Knightsbridge, London

Official site: www.vam.ac.uk

Two of London's best-known tourist spots, Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square lie not far apart and mark the gateway to Soho , London's lively theater and entertainment district. The walk from one to the other is truly enjoyable, lined with eclectic boutiques, tasty cafés, ice-cream shops, and winding laneways evoking a bygone era when only horses and buggies traipsed through these historic streets.

Trafalgar Square was built to commemorate Lord Horatio Nelson's victory over the French and Spanish fleets at Trafalgar in 1805. Nelson's Column , a 183-foot granite monument, overlooks the square's fountains and bronze reliefs, which were cast from French cannons. Admiralty Arch, St. Martin-in-the-Fields , and the National Gallery surround the square.

Piccadilly Circus marks the irregular intersection of several busy streets, including Piccadilly, Regent, Haymarket, and Shaftesbury Avenue. Overlooking this somewhat untidy snarl of traffic stands London's best-known sculpture, the winged Eros delicately balanced on one foot, bow poised.

"It's like Piccadilly Circus" is a common expression among Londoners to describe a busy and confusing scene.

Since it opened in 2012, The Shard has taken its place as one of the most-recognizable and most-visited landmarks in London.

Standing 1,016 feet tall and encompassing some 95 stories, this remarkable structure is so-named for its resemblance to a shard of glass. Yet, while it dominates the skyline south of the River Thames, its pleasing design doesn't seem at all out of place when seen next to neighbors such as Tower Bridge.

In addition to its office space on the lower levels, The Shard is home to a stunning Shangri-La Hotel and three superb restaurants, all boasting some of the most incredible views over London. For those not staying here, the upper-most levels consist of a choice of viewing platforms: indoor and outdoor.

Another London skyscraper that's worth a visit is the "Walkie Talkie" with its popular Sky Garden attraction. Located around the corner from the Tower of London and set on the building's 34th to 37th floors, the garden's terraces offer some of the best views over the city. If you've got the time, reserve a table at one of the restaurants here in order to enjoy the views while you dine.

Address: 32 London Bridge Street, London

Official site: www.the-shard.com

Art lovers cannot visit London without touring its most impressive art museums: the two Tates. Located on opposite sides of the Thames, Tate Britain and Tate Modern together comprise one of the world's most important art collections .

The original gallery opened in 1897 as the basis of a national collection of significant British art, and continued to make acquisitions, needing more space to properly display its collections. The end result was the establishment of Tate Britain, in Millbank on the north side of the Thames, as home to its permanent collection of historic British paintings.

A superbly transformed power station across the Thames became home to the modern art collections. Art lovers can spend a whole day viewing both sites, conveniently connected by high-speed ferry. Better still, walk across the Millennium Bridge , a footbridge that connects the two banks of the river close to the Tate Modern. The views are spectacular.

Tate Britain

• Address: Millbank, London
• www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-britain

Tate Modern

• Address: Bankside, London
• www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern

Another location with a long association with British royalty, Westminster Abbey stands on a site that's been associated with Christianity since the early 7th century. Officially known as the Collegiate Church of St. Peter in Westminster, Westminster Abbey was founded by Edward the Confessor in 1065 as his place of interment.

From his burial in 1066 until that of George II almost 700 years later, most sovereigns were not only crowned here but were buried here, too. More recently, it's become famous as the preferred location for Royal Weddings.

This masterpiece of Gothic architecture not only has the highest Gothic nave in England (102 feet), it's also one of London's most popular tourist attractions, drawing well over a million visitors each year.

Highlights of a visit include seeing the more than 600 memorials in the Nave, including the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior; Poet's Corner in the Transepts , with its memorials to the likes of Shakespeare, Chaucer, and Dickens; the Westminster Abbey Museum; and the attractive gardens.

Address: 20 Dean's Yard, Westminster, London

Official site: www.westminster-abbey.org

Among the most fascinating and evocative of London's historic sites are the perfectly preserved Churchill War Rooms.

The nerve-center from which Prime Minister Winston Churchill directed British military campaigns and the defense of his homeland throughout World War II, their simplicity and cramped conditions underline the desperate position of England as the Nazi grip tightened across Europe.

You'll see the tiny cubicle where Churchill slept and the improvised radio studio where he broadcast his famous wartime speeches. Simple details, such as Clementine Churchill's knitting wool marking the front lines on a map of Europe, bring the era to life as no other museum could possibly do.

Audio guides are available (a thorough self-guided tour takes about 90 minutes), and a café and bookshop are located on the premises.

Address: Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London

Official site: www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms

Established in 1754, London's spectacular Natural History Museum remains one of the most-visited such attractions on the planet. It's easy to spot for its huge Romanesque façade, and a visit is something you'll not want to rush. Arrive early as it can get quite crowded.

Many of the museum's original exhibits are still on display centuries later, and together comprise a massive collection of more than 80 million items showcasing everything from botany to zoology, plus pretty much everything in between. A highlight of a visit is seeing the preserved specimens that Charles Darwin collected on his epic journeys.

If you're not in a hurry, start your visit by joining one of the formal guided tours on offer, ranging from 30 to 50 minutes. You'll be introduced to highlights you may wish to return to at a later date to explore in greater detail.

A variety of fun events are held regularly, from workshops for kids to late night openings. Shopping opportunities are located on-site, along with a number of dining options.

Address: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London

Official site: www.nhm.ac.uk

Covering 350 acres, Hyde Park is London's largest open space and has been a destination for sightseers since 1635. One of the park's highlights is the Serpentine, an 18th-century man-made lake popular for boating and swimming. Hyde Park is also where you'll find Speakers' Corner , a traditional forum for free speech—and heckling.

Another Hyde Park landmark is Apsley House , former home of the first Duke of Wellington and purchased after his famous victory at Waterloo. Now a museum, it houses Wellington's magnificent collections of paintings, including Velázquez's The Waterseller of Seville , along with gifts presented by grateful European kings and emperors. England's greatest hero is also commemorated at the Wellington Arch.

Another lovely London green space to explore is Regent's Park . Just a short walk away from Westminster, this 410-acre attraction is a delight to stroll around. If you're traveling with kids, be sure to visit London Zoo , located within the grounds of the park and one of the most popular things to do for families visiting the city.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions around Hyde Park

The largest and most famous of London's many churches, and undoubtedly one of the most spectacular cathedrals in the world, St. Paul's Cathedral sits atop the site of a Roman temple. The previous church structure was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666, and Sir Christopher Wren designed the rebuild .

Today, the twin Baroque towers and magnificent 365-foot dome of St. Paul's are a masterpiece of English architecture. If you're up to it, be sure to walk the stairs with their spectacular views of the dome's interior, including the Whispering Gallery , undoubtedly one of the top things to do in London.

• Read More: Exploring London's St. Paul's Cathedral: A Visitor's Guide

Whether you're a fan of food, flowers, art, or clothes, you'll find something to love in London's best markets . While most open only on weekends (Fridays included), some of the most eclectic venues, like the vibrant Camden Market in North London, welcome shoppers daily.

Camden Market is home to over 100 stalls, shops, and eateries offering everything from gluten-free goodies to hand-made jewels to bohemian clothing. If you're looking for a distinct urban feel, you'll find it here.

Borough Market is a must-visit for foodies in central London. This popular venue, which is situated near London Bridge, is so busy on weekends, you'll have to fight your way through crowds to nab the best produce or mouthwateringly good sample of giant paella.

Arrive early (we'd suggest no later than 10am) to enjoy a little more elbow room. The line for coffee can extend for blocks, so head there first. While some stalls are open during the week, most don't unveil their goods until Friday morning.

Old Spitalfields Market is another beloved spot offering some of the city's most gorgeous flowers, interesting antiques, art, jewelry, and more. Built in 1876, this is one of the best examples of a Victorian Market Hall.

Other popular markets include, Maltby Street Market , Brick Lane Market , and Portobello Road.

Read More: Best Places to Shop in London

The market halls of Covent Garden are only the beginning of the neighborhood, which encompasses the shops and restaurants of Long Acre and other adjacent streets, those of Neal's Yard and Seven Dials, as well as the Central Square with its incredibly talented, and unique, street performers.

The halls and arcades of Covent Garden Market are lined with specialty shops and kiosks selling everything from teas to fine handcrafts to tacky souvenirs. A few restaurants are sprinkled in as well, some offering patios for you to enjoy a tasty treat while people-watching.

Housed in the former flower market, you'll find the London Transport Museum , a kid-centric haven for those who love all things vehicular. Filled with historic buses, trolleys, and trams, children and adults alike will love this interactive transportation hub. "Drive" a London bus, pilot a tube train, or sit on an ancient trolley.

This area is also where you'll find the Royal Opera House and a variety of other leading London theaters.

Built to mark London's millennium celebrations in 2000, the London Eye is one of the world's largest observation wheels. Its individual glass capsules offer the most spectacular views of the city as you embark on a circular tour rising 443 feet above the Thames. The journey lasts close to 30 minutes, often quicker than the time spent lining up for your turn.

If you can, reserve your time in advance. Better still, skip the line completely with a London Eye: Skip-the-Line Ticket . This advance ticket allows you to take a flight at any time on the day you plan to visit. If you can afford it, rent one of the private capsules and share the experience with friends and family.

Another fun way to view London for above is aboard the Emirates Air Line , a cable car system that crosses the Thames between Greenwich and the Royal Victoria Dock. The journey travels one kilometer and lasts 10 minutes, long enough to enjoy spectacular views and grab a few memorable selfies.

Official site: www.londoneye.com

Another great Thames-side attraction, Hampton Court is one of the world's most famous and grandest of royal palaces, and a truly remarkable place to visit in London. Its Great Hall dates from Henry VIII's time (two of his six wives supposedly haunt the palace), and it's where Elizabeth I learned of the defeat of the Spanish Armada .

Meet Henry VIII himself or have a chat with Anne Boleyn, both of whom wander the grounds and involve guests in their interesting antics at random points throughout the day. Depending on the time and date you visit, you may even be asked to participate in a session in court.

Grab an audio guide upon your arrival and choose a velvet cloak to wear as you tour the grounds, if you're hoping to feel a bit more authentic. Get lost in the palace's famous Maze , or grab a bite in the on-site café,

Other interesting features include the Clock Court with its fascinating astronomical clock dating from 1540, the State Apartments with their Haunted Gallery, the Chapel , the King's Apartments , and the Tudor tennis court. Don't miss the Tudor Kitchens and their massive fireplaces.

The gardens are also worth visiting, especially in mid-May when in full bloom. Highlights include the Privy Garden, the Pond Garden, the Elizabethan Knot Garden, the Broad Walk, and an area known as the Wilderness.

Although a little farther outside the city center, Hampton Court is a must-do sightseeing trip when visiting London. It's a bit of a haul on the tube, but taking a taxi, renting a car, or even grabbing a car service will make this trip more than worthwhile.

• Read More: Visiting Hampton Court Palace: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

For centuries the hub of Britain's naval power, Greenwich is best known to tourists as the home of the Cutty Sark , the last of the 19th-century tea clippers to sail between Britain and China. The ship is located adjacent to the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre with its exhibits showcasing more than 500 years of maritime history, and the Palladian mansion known as Queen's House .

The impressive collections of the National Maritime Museum , the largest of its kind in the world, illustrate the history of the Royal Navy. And one of the most unusual things to do in London is standing with one foot in each hemisphere, astride the Meridian Line in the Meridian Building in the Royal Observatory.

Read More: Top Attractions in Greenwich & Docklands Districts, London

If you've time in your travel itinerary, two other military attractions related to the Churchill War rooms are also worth visiting: The Imperial War Museum and HMS Belfast .

Located a short distance from the popular Southbank cultural district, the Imperial War Museum London can easily occupy the best part of a day with its fascinating exhibits and collections of military vehicles, weapons, and aircraft.

Set in chronological order, displays portray the very real experiences of participants and victims in the world's major conflicts, with many hands-on exhibits allowing unique incites into their place in history. The Holocaust Galleries are particularly sobering.

A shop and café are located on-site, and before leaving, grab a selfie standing next to the huge shells and guns located out front.

The other must-see under the Imperial War Museum umbrella, HMS Belfast is a well-preserved WWII-era cruiser that served during D-Day. Located on the River Thames opposite the Tower of London, this historic vessel can be explored as part of a guided or self-guided tour.

For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a fun family tour. A gift shop is located on the premises.

The revitalized Docklands area of East London has been transformed into an international place of business and recreation, filled with some of London's smartest new restaurants and entertainment experiences.

The revitalized Docklands area also includes Canary Wharf. This important financial and business hub offers a variety of fun things to do, including shopping and dining.

The excellent Museum of London Docklands is the place to visit to learn more about the area. Located in a series of old Georgian warehouses on Canary Wharf, it brings to life the river, port, and its people from Roman times to the present through hands-on displays that are especially interesting for children.

A little closer to the Tower of London, St. Katherine Docks is fun to explore, too. Redeveloped as a mixed commercial and residential area, here you can spend time wandering the marina or enjoying a great meal or respite while watching the world go by.

It's hard to believe you're in London (well, technically just outside London) when on a visit to Richmond Park. One of the most captivating of the eight Royal Parks, this lavish natural wonderland has everything you'd look for in an English park: winding paths, verdant woodland, sparkling lakes, horse stables and trails, bike lanes, and multiple picnic spots.

Enjoy unparalleled views of St. Paul's Cathedral from King Henry's Mound , a picturesque hilltop surrounded by wild deer. Luxuriate in a warm tea and traditional scones at the Pembroke Lodge Tea Room , or rent a bike and cycle through this spectacular 2,500-acre nature reserve.

If visiting during spring, particularly late April or early May, make your way to the Isabella Plantation , a remarkable Victorian woodland garden set within the park. Its vibrant 40 acres are filled with colorful rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias so resplendent, you'll think you're walking through a fairy tale.

Official site: https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/richmond-park

Spending at day at Kew Gardens is one of the best things to do in London. A UNESCO Heritage Site , this phenomenal spot is home to over 50,000 living plants and some of the most majestically manicured gardens in England.

Officially called the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is situated in southwest London on the south bank of the Thames and offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of central London, and a welcome breath of fresh air. Located on a flight path, you'll spot multiple jumbo jets, but these add to the allure for little ones.

Also family-friendly is the expansive indoor and outdoor playground, which comes complete with a zipline. Visit on a sunny day, and you should prepare to jostle for a picnic spot on the lush lawns, as this is a popular spot for families to enjoy a lunch out. Didn't pack snacks? Visit one of the on-site restaurants for a tasty treat-they even offer dairy and gluten-free options.

Laid out in 1759, the gardens became government property in 1841. In 1897, Queen Victoria added Queen's Cottage and the adjoining woodland. A variety of tours are available free with admission, and many musical and cultural events are held here throughout the year.

Don't miss the towering Pagoda ; Japanese gardens ; Treetop Walkway ; and the remarkable Palm House , an indoor rainforest with an aquarium in the basement. The impressive Rhododendron Dell is a breathtaking treat popping with vibrant blooms during spring.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of London's Kew Gardens

London's top tourist attractions are spread out over several different areas of the city. If you want to spend time sightseeing, it's a good idea to base yourself in a central location and use the city's excellent public transport system to travel between the sites. Here are some highly rated hotels in Central London:

Luxury Hotels:

• When it comes to posh hotels, the grande dames still grace the list of London's best. Pampering guests for more than a century are The Goring , a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace.
• The Langham , in the heart of the West End, has played host to royals and celebrities for more than 150 years.
• A few steps from Trafalgar Square is the Corinthia London , with a rooftop terrace and luxurious afternoon teas.
• The Ritz London , also known for teas, is handy to the posh shops of Mayfair.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Fielding Hotel , a popular boutique property, places you right near Covent Garden, one of the city's most touristy areas. Handy for those arriving by train from Heathrow or Gatwick airports,
• The Clermont, Victoria is right over Victoria Station.
• About a 15-minute stroll from Covent Garden, Bloomsbury was once London's literary hub and is now home to one of the city's top attractions, the British Museum, as well as highly rated mid-range hotels such as The Montague on the Gardens and The Bloomsbury . Both are also a short stroll from Oxford Street shopping.

Budget Hotels:

• If you're watching your wallet, the Premier Inn London Kensington (Earl's Court) Hotel is an affordable option minutes from museums and Earls Court tube station.
• You can also head north and try The Alhambra Hotel or Jesmond Dene Hotel , both near busy King's Cross tube station, a major transport hub.
• In-depth tours. It's hard to choose the best sights to see in London; there are so many awesome spots on offer. This nine-hour, Best of London Sightseeing Tour makes sure you don't miss anything essential. In addition to taking you to some of the city's top spots like Westminster Cathedral and Buckingham Palace, guests receive pre-arranged tickets for a boat cruise, as well as comprehensive tours of the Tower of London and St. Paul's Cathedral, plus a stop to watch the Changing of the Guard. Upgrade to receive a cream tea at Harrods or a flight on the London Eye.
• Seeing the Sights . One of the best ways to see the sights of London is on a traditional, double-decker Hop-On Hop-Off London Sightseeing Tour . This has been the classic sightseeing tour for years, and it's popular for good reason: it's easy, convenient, informative, and ensures you see the most important attractions. Tickets are flexible, with open dates, and are valid for a 24-hour period. Even if you are in London for several days, this is a great way to spend a day getting oriented, especially for first-time visitors to the city.
• Day Trips . Beyond the city, there are some excellent sightseeing opportunities that can be easily undertaken on a day trip tour from London. The Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath Day Trip from London is an 11-hour guided trip that takes visitors to these must-see places to visit. It's a great way to see the surroundings without the hassle of driving, navigating, and parking.
• Harry Potter Experience. Fans of Harry Potter will definitely want to take the Warner Brother's Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter for a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the movie and a walk through the incredible sets where the film was made. Visitors can explore the site on their own, see the costumes and props, wander through the Great Hall, and learn about the whole experience of filming. The tour includes transportation to and from the studios from central London and an entrance ticket.

Let's be honest: no one travels to London for its weather. Frequented by cloudy skies that release smatterings of mist and rain, the UK's epic capital city is best visited with an umbrella in hand.

That said, London receives less annual rainfall than its tarnished reputation would have us believe, and less than many European cities . And rather than heavy rainfalls, the norm is "little and often." Yes, you'll likely run into a sprinkle or two during your visit, but a little rain never ruined a vacation, especially when touring a historic metropolis with so much to offer.

When those beautiful, bright sunny days do appear, visitors receive front row seats to the city's remarkable transformation. Locals smile more easily, the city's best parks and gardens fill with sun worshippers and picnickers, and a sparkling hue adds another level of magic to the city's most magnificent buildings. There's nothing better!

London is a tourist hot spot throughout the year. In other words, there's never a bad time to visit. If you're looking for a better chance of glimpsing the sun and avoiding masses of tourists, however, the best time to visit London is from March through May . That said, if you don't mind rubbing elbows with a zillion other tourists, a good time of year to travel to London is during the summer months from June to September.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Other English City Destinations : Given its relatively small size, it's easy to travel from London to other great English cities, including lovely Liverpool , famous as the birthplace of The Beatles. The industrial city of Manchester is also within easy reach and is popular for its historic canal network and fine museums. Birmingham is another northern city worth visiting and celebrates both its rich industrial past along with modern museums, art galleries, and other cultural attractions.

Easy Escapes : From London, you're only a short train ride away from the idyllic countryside of the Lake District , a popular walking destination and known for the stunning scenery around Lake Windermere. The historic city of Bath , named after its well-preserved Roman baths, is another great escape, whether for a weekend or a week. So, too, is the cathedral city of Durham , which is also home to one of the most-visited castles in England.

Top UK Vacation Ideas : Scotland makes for an excellent UK vacation, and is where you'll find the spectacularly beautiful city of Edinburgh , recognizable the world over for its lovely castle. The tiny nation of Wales , too, is worth exploring, especially its capital city of Cardiff and the stunning scenery of Snowdonia in North Wales .

More on England

• United Kingdom
• Best Things To Do In...

The 41 Best Things to Do in London

If you’re planning an unforgettable adventure in the capital, some things shouldn’t be missed. From retracing the steps of English kings and queens to cruising down the Thames river in a floating hot tub, Culture Trip has curated a list of things to do on an epic trip to London.

The city of London is a vibrant hub of culture teeming with things to see and do. It boasts over 170 fascinating museums (some of the best on the planet), as well as countless galleries home to a medley of world-renowned art. With so much on your doorstep, knowing where to go and what to do can be tricky, so here’s Culture Trip’s pick of the best things you can do to make the most of your time in London.

1. Take a historical walking tour of London

Building, Cathedral, Church

2. Guided tour of the British Museum

The British Museum has so many artefacts that even they don’t know exactly how many they have. There are treasures from around the world and you’ll need a good few hours to see even a fraction of what is on display. Take the stress out of the process and book a private guided tour with an expert to help you find the relics you’re most interested in.

4. A Jack the Ripper walking tour

Historical Landmark

Jack the Ripper terrorised the streets of London, killing and mutilating women in the most chilling of ways. To this day, the identity of this person and the motives behind their actions remain a total mystery. Take a walking tour of Whitechapel to retrace the steps of London’s most notorious serial killer, using handheld projectors help to envision how the streets looked all those many years ago in 1888, as well as receiving a detailed insight into Jack the Ripper’s exact movements.

5. Visit the Tower of London and the dazzling Crown Jewels

The Tower of London dates back to 1066 as a palace and a safe place of defence. It remains one of the world’s last-standing Medieval buildings and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander back through a rich timeline of history, and visit the grounds where many gruesome executions took place. See where the Crown Jewels are kept – estimated to be worth several billion pounds – and reimagine how life would have been all those years ago.

6. Take in a performance at Shakespeare's Globe

The Globe Theatre is a beautiful Elizabethan building that provided a base for top-notch entertainment during William Shakespeare’s time. Although the original structure burnt down in 1613, the existing venue is a perfect reconstruction and even uses some of the old timbers as part of the new theatre. It’s also the only building with a thatched roof in the city – these types of roofs have been banned since the Great Fire of London swept through in 1666. Opt for an informative tour of the theatre for insight on how shows were produced, or snap up tickets to one of Shakespeare’s transformational works of art.

7. Soak up nature at Kew Gardens

Botanical Garden

Kew Gardens is London’s biggest UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s also home to the most diverse collection of flora on the planet. Get lost in one of the jungle-like glasshouses, showcasing a range of different plants from different climates, and retrace the steps of King George III at Kew Palace. It’s easy to forget that you’re only a stone’s throw away from Central London.

8. Visit the Natural History Museum

Building, Museum

The Natural History Museum is an absolute must-visit when in London. While it houses the planet’s most significant natural history collection, the museum’s architecture alone is worth a visit. See real dinosaur bones and a life-size blue whale figurine, and explore the intricate timeline of evolution.

9. Take a spin on the London Eye

Architectural Landmark

10. Warner Bros. Studio tour: the making of Harry Potter

Amusement Park

Harry Potter fans are invited to leave the land of the muggles and be transported behind the scenes to explore the spellbinding film sets, props and enchanting costumes on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Walk in the footsteps of Harry, Hermione and Ron down the cobblestoned Diagon Alley, tour the impressive Great Hall, and hang out in the Gryffindor common room. It’s also the chance to discover the wizardry behind the special effects and animatronics – you can even have a go at riding a broomstick. The studios are just over half an hour away from Euston station, with a 20-minute train journey and 15-minute shuttle bus. There are new additions every year for those who have been before, with Discovering Hogwarts, a brand-new feature for 2023 now officially open. Other enchanting additions include 400 floating candles in the Great Hall and Professor Flitwick’s Charms Class.

11. Visit Buckingham Palace

12. Climb the Shard

13. Day trip to Stonehenge

14. Black cab tour of London

Jumping in a black cab and getting shown around by a local is something of a quaint activity nowadays in the age of Uber but a dedicated tour like this is very special. Officially all ‘cabbies’ have to learn every inch of road in London to get a permit and as such they really do have the knowledge to get you around town.

15. Walk on the wild side at London Zoo

16. Slide down ArcelorMittal Orbit

This eye-catching structure designed by Anish Kapoor was built in 2012 to mark the Olympics, which took place mostly in East London. The ArcelorMittal Orbit sculpture and observation tower sits in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford and is the UK’s tallest sculpture. It’s also now the world’s longest and tallest tunnel slide, thanks to the slide’s addition in 2016 – and, all in all, it’s a great spot to see a sweeping panorama of the city.

17. Pose with the stars at Madame Tussauds

The global museum chain for life-size replicas of celebrities and historical icons, London’s Madame Tussauds waxwork museum is one of the most popular on the planet – possibly because of the quick rate it gets new celebs up and posing. You can have your picture taken with the King, meet Meghan Markle or take a selfie with Benedict Cumberbatch.

18. Enjoy art and architecture at Tate Modern

Art Gallery, Bridge, Building, Museum

19. Find out why Tower Bridge is London's 'real' bridge

20. Visit Sea Life London Aquarium

Right next door to the London Eye is the Sea Life London Aquarium, home to one of Europe’s largest collections of global marine life. Great for kids, the large tanks and varied species ranging from sharks to penguins will keep everyone amused, especially on a rainy London day. It even boasts the UK’s largest jellyfish experience – sting free, of course.

21. Imperial War Museum

22. Experience the Royal Albert Hall

Building, Concert Hall, School

23. Discover the home of punk in Soho

Soho conjures up romantic thoughts of the Swinging Sixties, seedy nights out and progressive music. It might be a cleaner version of its former self, but the small quadrant in the heart of the city is still a destination you have to experience for yourself. Some tours take you back to the thrilling era of the Sex Pistols and punk rock.

24. Admire the best street art in London

Building, Art Gallery

The East End is like a living art gallery, which means you should take of a couple of hours to pound the pavements in search of the best street art in Shoreditch. Head to Rivington Street to see an original Banksy or Shoreditch High Street to see the sculptured faces of Gregos Art. Better yet, forge your own path and see what you can discover.

25. Go on a historical pub crawl

Pub, British

26. Cruise the Thames

Like all great cities, London has a river coursing through it. The Thames might not be as important to the lives of locals as it once was, but its still a big part in what shapes the city. There are multiple ways of crossing it and Londoners will undoubtably have an opinion on which side is best, but you can avoid that conversation by simply taking a cruise through the middle.

27. Head up the O2

28. Enjoy a walking street food tour

Bakery, Sandwich Shop, Pastry Shop, Dessert

29. Experience a unique dining experience

There are classic theatre shows you can enjoy in London, and we certainly recommend those too, but the immersive theatre scene here is thriving at the moment. The Faulty Towers Dining Experience takes a quintessentially British sitcom from the 1970s and turns it into a raucous dinner which has has audiences in stitches.

30. Take in a West End show

Of course, you might be in the mood for something more classical, and that’s where a trip to the West End comes in. Theatreland is in central London and similar to New York’s Broadway houses some of the best productions in a tightly packed area. Book in advance for the big shows and plan for the rush for dinner beforehand… Brits like to eat much earlier than other parts of the world.

31. Sightseeing bus tour

Memorial, Building

32. See the Thames Barrier

This one is more of a personal choice, but if you really want to see what Londoners did for entertainment in the 1980s then head to the London Barrier. This gargantuan structure is designed to protect the city from the raising tides that flow through the Thames and is an exhibit we all visited when we were younger.

33. Afternoon tea at a royal palace

There are hundreds of afternoon tea experiences in the city. Brits love to break up their afternoons with a quick bite and ‘cuppa’ between lunch and dinner. You don’t have to get fancy, but every now and then we do like to treat ourselves. Just remember its jam first on scones… or is it cream first?

34. London E-bike tours

Cycling has gone from a niche fad to a very serious affair in London in recent years. Dedicated bike lanes and countless scenic routes have popped up all over the city and its now a joy to ride around for leisure or as part of your daily commute. Join thousands of Londoners and take on the city on two wheels, and why not experience it all on an e-bike for extra comfort?

35. Feel the power at the Houses of Parliament

36. explore winston churchill's london.

Architectural Landmark, Museum

A big part of everything the UK did in the last century, Winston Churchill led the Allied Forces against Germany in WWII. The reputation of the man has been revised in recent years, but his achievements are undeniable. There are statues, state rooms and exhibitions to discover across the city and the iconic figure is still visible everywhere today.

37. The best of maritime Greenwich

Greenwich is an overlooked part of London with a remarkable heritage. The Cutty Sark, a preserved clipper sailing vessel, is one of the best examples of a sailing ship from the days when the British ruled the seas. You can visit it and other great points of interest in the neighbourhood just south of the Thames. This was the naval hub of all sailing operations and is the point where Greenwich Meantime Time (GMT) was standardised.

38. Explore the East End

39. Race around London in Minis

Alright, not so much ‘race’ as obediently observe the speed limits of the city of London and see some of the best landmarks from the comfort of your won vehicle, but its still a treat. To be fair, the Mini Cooper is as much a British icon as red telephone boxes and Paddington Bear so you can’t complain too much if you take a leisurely drive with a guide around town. Sit back and enjoy!

40. Discover the secret gardens of the city

London actually has a lot of green space for a capital city. The Royal Parks are vast and are packed with locals and tourists whenever the sun comes out. There are lesser known areas too, however, a guide will take you to hidden churchyards, secret ruins and other spots only those in the know talk about. This is a great way to discover more about the history of the city too, as all of these spaces were created for a reason.

41. Take an elementary tour

Sherlock Holmes once cut a dashing figure in the pages of Sir Author Conan Doyle’s detective novels. Aided by the erstwhile Doctor Watson, the sleuth covered many parts of the city in search of hoodlums and lost treasure. Interestingly enough, many of the places mentioned in the books, from Sherlock’s home in Baker Street to the famous Langham Hotel off Oxford Circus, are all real places. You can visit them, and many more besides on this investigative tour.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

A high-rollers guide to a london staycation.

Food & Drink

The best international afternoon teas in london.

Places to Stay

A west end performer’s guide to london with sam harrison.

Pillow Talk: Between the Sheets of the Mondrian Hotel, Shoreditch

Five London Hotels to Familiarise Yourself With

Bars & Cafes

The best bars in london for stylish nights out.

Top European Cities for a Plant-Based Foodie Fix

Pillow Talk: Between the Sheets of the Beaumont, Mayfair

The Coolest Hotels in London

How the Metaverse can help you plan your next trip

Must-Visit Attractions in London

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1002253143
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

23 TOP London Sights & Tourist Attractions (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

Looking for the best things to do in London and feeling overwhelmed? Deciding which of the most popular London attractions to see is indeed not easy, especially if you are visiting for the first time and your time in the city is limited…

So to help you figure out where to go and what to see in London, in this guide we share only the VERY BEST sights and TOP tourist attractions in London that are worth your time the most . For each attraction, we also include our top tips and tricks for your visit. And finally, we also created a map of London attractions that should help you plan your sightseeing itinerary. Find out!

London is not just one of the most beautiful UK cities , but it’s also one of the most beautiful and most unique cities in the world. With centuries-old history, royal heritage, a mix of ancient and modern architecture, world-class museums, shopping, and entertainment, it has so much to offer to all types of visitors.

However, with so much to see and do in London, it’s often overwhelming for the first-time visitor to even know where to start. So if you are wondering what are the absolute best things to do in London for tourists , this guide will give you a good overview of the best London attractions.

In this London sightseeing guide, we only list top tourist attractions, the most popular places to see, and the absolute best things to do in London that are considered a must-see and are worth your time the most.

Good to know: In order to help you plan your trip, we also created a map of all the top places in London . You can find it at the bottom of this article. In addition, for every sight, we include some practical tips that will help you make the most of your visit. Take a look!

These are the main landmarks, best sights, and top tourist attractions in London:

1. Big Ben & The Houses of Parliament

The most iconic landmarks of London, the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben Tower , are now known as the Houses of Parliament and Elizabeth Tower. No matter what you call it, this is one of the must-see places in London!

The Houses of Parliament have been used for political meetings since the Norman conquest in 1066. Today, they are the center of the British government, where the House of Commons (elected MPs) and the House of Lords assemble.

The oldest part of the Houses of Parliament in existence is Westminster Hall, which was built in 1097. There are tours available where you can view the magnificent architecture of the stunning Neo-Gothic building and learn more about Parliament’s fascinating history.

Perhaps the most famous part of the Houses of Parliament is Elizabeth Tower – commonly known as Big Ben . Completed in 1869, this is the most recognizable clock in the world. The name ‘Big Ben’ actually refers to the clock’s 13th – and largest – bell. This bell, weighing 13,76 tons (30,000 lbs) tolls on the hour, every hour.

The clock tower itself is 96 m (105 yards) tall and has 399 steps inside, leading all the way up to the ‘Ayrton Light’ at the top. Sadly, you can’t take a look inside the tower, but Big Ben is impressive enough when viewed from the outside.

TIP: For the very best photo angle, head to either the southern sidewalk of the Westminster Bridge or to the other side of the river. Look out for a light illuminated at the top of all four clock faces – that indicates that the Parliament is in session. The clock faces are always illuminated at night when they look particularly spectacular.

2. London Eye

No trip to London would be complete without a visit to the London Eye , the UK’s most popular paid tourist attraction. It is also the highest observation wheel in Europe, offering easy access to some of the best views in London .

This mighty structure – first known as the Millennium Wheel – was installed on the South Bank of the River Thames to mark the start of a new century. It was officially opened just before New Year 2000. It was later known as Coca-Cola London Eye and is now called lastminute.com London Eye .

London Eye is 135 m (443 ft) tall and has a diameter of 120 m (394 ft). But despite its giant size, it was initially only meant to be a temporary attraction. More than 20 years later, the London Eye is still turning and is more popular than ever!

The Eye has 32 fully enclosed glass capsules or ‘pods’ that are in constant motion, although they move very slowly and you have plenty of time to safely get on and off. A ticket buys you a ride on one complete revolution of the wheel, which takes around 30 minutes.

The views across the capital are stunning, taking in many of the popular sights of London, including some of the best views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Even on a cloudy day, you can still get some breathtaking shots!

PRO TIP: London Eye is extremely popular and waiting times can be very long. For the best experience, get your tickets online in advance . It’s cheaper if booked at least a day upfront AND it will save you time not having to queue at the ticket office (you’ll still have to queue at the London Eye itself unless you get fast-track tickets – see below).

To save time for that too, consider fast-track tickets that give you immediate access. On a busy day, this can easily save you 2-3 hours. It’s totally worth it, especially if you are only in London for a few days and want to see as many of the popular sights as possible.

3. Buckingham Palace

Your London bucket list wouldn’t be complete without seeing one of its most important places – Buckingham Palace . Built in 1703, this is one of only a few working royal palaces in the world. It has been the London home of the British Royal family since 1837.

When Queen Elizabeth II lived here, you could tell whether or not she was at home by taking a look at the flag flying above the Palace. If she was in residence, then the Royal Standard was raised. When she was away, you saw the Union flag flying instead.

When the royals are on yearly holidays (usually from the last week of July to the end of September/first week of October), you can visit the inside of Buckingham Palace ( more info and tickets here – only in season).

As you would expect for a home befitting a royal family, it is lavishly decorated, with stunning rooms and halls, sweeping staircases, and examples of fine art throughout. You can even visit part of the Royal Gardens with wildflowers and lakes, right in the very heart of London!

Good to know: When the Palace is closed to visitors, you can still see it from the outside.

Additional recommendation. Make sure to also visit Royal Mews . This site is open to the public even when the Palace is closed ( more info and tickets here ). Here, you can see the impressive collection of royal carriages and vehicles. It’s especially great for families visiting London with kids .

4. Changing of the Guard

Almost every London postcard will feature a photograph of the Queen’s Guards (now King’s Guards) in their distinctive bearskin caps. At Buckingham Palace, you can see them for yourself!

When sightseeing in London, don’t miss the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony! This happens almost every morning when the Old Guard (the guards already on duty) is replaced by the New Guard.

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace takes place daily in June and July. During the rest of the year, you can see it on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. It starts at around 10.45 am and lasts about an hour. The official start time is 11 am; that’s when St James’s Palace relief leaves Buckingham Palace.

The ceremony is accompanied by music from the military marching band. But don’t expect to hear JUST military marches – you’ll often be treated to show tunes and maybe even one or two of the latest pop songs!

TIP: This is one of London’s most popular tourist attractions, so make sure you arrive early and secure a place right by the Palace gates for the best view. Alternatively, join a walking tour ; they know just the right places and the best times to be there.

Good to know: This is not the only place where you can see the Royal Guard in London. More info further below.

5. Westminster Abbey

A visit to Westminster Abbey gives you the opportunity to step back in time, at the site of many of Britain’s most important moments in history. The building was consecrated in 1065 and every British monarch has been crowned there since 1066. It has also been the venue for 16 royal weddings.

The Abbey is open for regular worship, although it is not a normal parish church or a cathedral. Instead, Westminster Abbey is known as a ‘Royal Peculiar’, which means it isn’t subject to a bishop or archbishop – only to the reigning Sovereign.

There is a lot to see and appreciate at Westminster Abbey besides its beautiful Gothic architecture!

Most fascinating is the ancient Coronation chair in St. George’s Chapel . This is the magnificent oak seat where British kings and queens have received their crowns throughout the centuries. You can also see the Grave of the Unknown Warrior , where the body of a soldier was buried after being brought from France in 1920. This is a place of pilgrimage and the site to which many visiting heads of state come to lay a wreath when in England.

There are also over 600 wall tablets and monuments commemorating important figures in science, battle, music, and more. If you are a fan of literature, be sure to visit Poet’s Corner , which is devoted to notable Brits such as William Shakespeare, CS Lewis, and Charles Dickens.

Alternatively, listen to the beautiful and atmospheric sound of the practicing choir as you tour the tombs of British monarchs. You can even visit the 950-year-old Pyx Chamber , which still has its medieval tiled floor. Indeed, nowhere brings history to life quite as much as Westminster Abbey!

PRO TIP: If you want to visit Westminster Abbey inside, it’s best to book your tickets online in advance . Otherwise, you’ll easily waste a few hours in line. Alternatively, visit with a guided tour that includes a visit inside – not only will it save you time, but you’ll also be sure not to miss any of the most important sights and get a good introduction to the place. If going without a guide, we recommend hiring an audio tour!

6. Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is another must-see landmark of London. An integral part of the London skyline, it’s probably the most recognized bridge in the world!

Tower Bridge may appear to be very old, but the construction was only started in 1886, and the bridge was opened in 1894. It was designed to look older than it is so that it would blend in with historic buildings like the Tower of London, just nearby (see below).

Not to be confused with London Bridge, Tower Bridge opens to let tall ships pass by, which is why some people refer to it as a drawbridge. But it is actually a double-leafed ‘bascule’ bridge. The word bascule comes from the French word for seesaw, which is the best way to describe how the lifting mechanism works.

Of course, seeing the bridge in action is part of the fun of visiting it. As it is raised between 700 and 1000 times a year, the chances of watching it happen are pretty good! You can even view (and feel) the raising of Tower Bridge from the walkway at the top if you book tickets to take an official tour.

If you go on top of the Tower Bridge, you’ll also get to see the inside of the North and South Towers, along with the engine room. This contains the steam engines that were originally used to power the lift mechanism. The walkway gives you a fantastic, panoramic view across London. There’s also a glass section so you can look down at the city directly beneath you.

TIP: Just as with all the main tourist attractions in London, it’s best to book your visit online in advance . On the other hand, if you are short on time, don’t worry about going on top. Seeing the bridge from walkways near the river is impressive enough, and you can walk across as many times as you want as well.

7. Tower of London

No other place in London has a history quite so varied and captivating as the iconic Tower of London . If you visit just one museum in London, make it this one. The Tower of London is one of the most iconic London attractions that you really have to see!

Surrounded by modern city buildings and on the banks of the River Thames, this London landmark was originally built as a fortress. It was also designed to show off the power of British royalty and doubled up as a royal palace, with luxuriously furnished apartments and staterooms. In fact, it is still the official palace of the reigning monarch.

But the Tower has a grim and grisly past!

It was used as a prison for many years, with unfortunate convicts entering through the Traitor’s Gate and some later being executed on Tower Green. During a tour of its walls, you can learn all about the fiendish devices used to torture prisoners during the 16th and 17th centuries. You’ll also hear some of the dark stories associated with the Bloody Tower, where 12-year old Edward V and his brother Richard were believed to have been murdered in 1483.

It’s not all doom and gloom though – the Tower is also home to the Crown Jewels and a vast collection of over 23,000 gemstones. Plus, you can meet the Yeoman Guards – popularly known as the Beefeaters – who are the ceremonial guards of the Tower.

Since they are no longer required to guard prisoners, they act as tour guides and can tell you all about the Tower’s famous ravens. Legend has it that if the six resident ravens ever leave, both the Tower of London – and the kingdom – will fall! There are actually seven ravens living at the Tower now – which includes a spare one, just in case!

Good to know: The Tower of London is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London. So expect big crowds! Also here, it’s advisable to book your ticket online in advance . Alternatively, join a guided tour that already includes skip-the-line tickets.

8. Thames Cruise

Another must-do in London is taking a cruise on River Thames . Cruising along the Thames allows you to view the city from a whole new perspective! It’s a unique way to see London and some of its most iconic sights from another angle.

There are lots of companies offering different types of experiences for London sightseeing on the Thames River. The most popular option among tourists is taking a cruise between the London Eye/Westminster Bridge and Tower Bridge/Tower of London. It is also often included with hop-on-hop-off bus tickets . Taking a boat on the river is also a popular way to get to Greenwich.

If you have more time, you can opt for hop-on-hop-off cruises that allow you to disembark and rejoin another cruise when you’re ready. It’s a great way to see London sights that are close to the river.

For a more luxurious experience, you might prefer a luxury dining cruise. There are afternoon tea cruises , lunch cruises , or dinner cruises . Or perhaps you are a thrill-seeker, in which case you might prefer a speedboat experience . Some operators even offer to accompany your trip with a James Bond soundtrack – definitely the coolest way to enjoy the Thames!

No matter how you choose to do it, a boat ride on the River Thames is not to be missed in London!

Alternative: If a regular boat isn’t quite your style, you can also join a guided kayak tour to explore the river and waterways, or a barge cruise along the Regent’s Canal north of the Thames.

9. Trafalgar Square

Established in the early 19th century, Trafalgar Square was named to commemorate the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar, when Horatio Nelson and the British navy defeated Napoleon. Right in the middle of the square sits the 52m (169 ft) Nelson’s Column, on top of which is a statue of Nelson himself.

On either side of the Column are two large fountains and four large lion statues. You can also see other commemorative statues, along with various contemporary works of art displayed on the Fourth Plinth. The National Gallery , one of the best museums in London, is also located here.

But perhaps the main reason to visit Trafalgar Square is simply to sit awhile, soak up the lively atmosphere, and watch the world go by!

The Square is always filled with groups of tourists taking photos of the monuments, or London city workers relaxing and enjoying their lunch. Indeed, Trafalgar Square has long been a public gathering place and you may even come across some type of demonstration or celebration taking place there when you visit.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during the festive season, look out for the huge Norway spruce or fir Christmas tree. A tree is given as a gift every year by the citizens of Oslo, as a thank you for Britain’s help during WW2. Trafalgar Square is also a popular place for revelers to meet on New Year’s Eve.

Good to know: You don’t need much time to visit Trafalgar Square, but it’s one of the must-see places in London. So don’t miss it! This area is also one of the best places to stay for sightseeing in London – see the ‘ where to stay for sightseeing’ section below for more info and hotel suggestions.

10. Downing Street & Horse Guards

No visit to London would be complete without taking a glimpse of 10 Downing Street , the official residence of the UK’s Prime Minister. Another must-do is seeing the Horse Guards at the nearby Household Cavalry Museum.

We list these two places together because they are so close by to each other. You’ll pass them both if you walk between Westminster/ Big Ben and Trafalgar Square.

Downing Street is closed to the public, so you can only see the famous no. 10 from a distance. There’s a big gate at the crossing of Whitehall and Downing Street – this is usually as close as you can get to it. We indicated the location on our map of London sights at the end of this article.

Whereas the Horse Guards can be admired from close-by and there are always tourists taking pictures here. In addition to the hourly guard changes, there are also daily morning guard changes and daily afternoon Garrison Inspections. At the Household Cavalry Museum , you can learn more about HM The Queen’s Mounted Bodyguard and take a peek at the working stables, etc.

Good to know: For the daily Changing of the Guard, be here at 11 am. On Sundays – 10 am. This is not the same ceremony as the one at Buckingham Palace. There is also a daily parade that takes place on the courtyard in front of Horse Guards at 4 pm. It’s also known as The 4 o’Clock Parade.

11. Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is another of the must-see places in London. This hip and happening attraction in the heart of London isn’t actually a circus at all. It’s a road junction, connecting London’s Regent Street with Piccadilly. The ‘Circus’ part of its name comes from the Latin word for circle and refers to the round open space it occupies.

But whilst a road junction may sound uninteresting, Piccadilly Circus is quite the opposite!

Surrounded by bars, restaurants, and designer stores, the area is lively day and night. It lies in the center of theaterland, with the Criterion, Plaza, and Piccadilly Theaters all close at hand.

The Circus is perhaps most famous for its enormous digital billboards which cover the upper stories of the corner building on the north side. They look especially captivating at night, as does the entire area, with its performing street artists and its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. If anything, you could probably compare it a bit to Times Square in New York.

Piccadilly Circus is also very well known for the bronze Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain at its center. This fountain is often described as the ‘Eros’ fountain because of the statue of a winged archer that sits atop it. But the archer actually represents a sibling of Eros – Anteros, the ancient Greek god of requited love and the avenger of the unrequited!

12. Hyde Park

When you step into London’s beautiful Hyde Park , it’s hard to remember that you are actually in the middle of a bustling city! Covering an immense 350 acres, it is filled with a wide variety of interesting things to see and do. There are also many cafes throughout the park, so it’s a great place to come for lunch as well.

Of course, the main reason to visit Hyde Park is to connect with nature. And with its ornamental flower gardens, meadow, and 40-acre Serpentine Lake , it’s very easy to do. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see a red squirrel darting between the trees – a species native to Britain but becoming increasingly rare.

If you’re feeling active, there are plenty of opportunities to expend a little energy, from swimming or cycling to roller-skating along the wide tree-lined paths. In summer, you can hire a (paddle) boat on The Serpentine. In winter, there’s usually an outdoor ice skating rink at the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

There are also various monuments and statues scattered throughout the park, including the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain and the Holocaust Memorial.

But one of the most interesting aspects of Hyde Park is its history as a protest site, with many marches and rallies being held there over the years. Hyde Park was, in fact, the meeting place of the suffragette movement as it campaigned for votes for women.

Head to Speaker’s Corner on any Sunday morning, and you can listen to various members of the public sharing their opinions on any (legal) subject they choose. Notable past speakers have included Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin, and George Orwell!

13. St. Paul’s Cathedral

Instantly recognizable by its world-famous dome, St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the iconic London landmarks that you should try to visit as well. As a minimum, try to see it from the outside.

The current St Paul’s Cathedral was designed by the architect Sir Christopher Wren and built from 1675 to 1710. Its predecessor was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Still an active place of worship, St Paul’s has been central to some of Britain’s most important events, including the 1981 marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana. It has also hosted the funerals of key figures in history, including Lord Nelson, Winston Churchill, and Margaret Thatcher, Britain’s first female Prime Minister.

There is an incredible amount to see in the Cathedral and you can easily while away an afternoon admiring its various chapels, beautiful frescoed ceilings, and religious artwork.

As impressive as the church is, the real highlight of a visit to St Paul’s is the walk up into its dome !

Not for the faint-hearted, the walk starts with 259 steps up to the Whispering Gallery , from where you’ll get the most incredible views of the inside of the Cathedral. The dome’s excellent acoustics mean that the slightest whisper will be heard right across the other side of the Gallery – hence its name.

Another 117 steps will take you up to the Stone Gallery . But for exceptional, panoramic views across London, take the extra 150 steps up to the Golden Gallery at the very top.

Good to know: If you want to visit inside and climb the dome, it’s best to book your tickets online in advance. For opening times and tickets, see here .

TIP: For a great view of the Cathedral from the outside, head to the rooftop terrace of the One New Change shopping center, right across the street. It offers some of the best views in London .

14. Greenwich

The London borough of Greenwich sits on the banks of the River Thames (and can be easily reached from the center by Thames cruise , which is something nice to do in itself). This fascinating part of the city with strong royal connections and rich maritime history, has something to offer everyone.

Even though it’s located a bit further away from the main sights in London city center, this is also one of the most visited areas of London. And it is well worth your time even if you are traveling from the other side of the world and have to be selective with how you spend your time.

The tranquil Greenwich Royal Park is home to the Royal Observatory , which played a huge part in the history of astronomy and navigation. Here, you can view its incredible collection of timepieces and astronomical equipment. You can also take an incredible journey through the stars at the Planetarium , where digital lasers project views of the heavens!

Something you MUST do when visiting Greenwich is stand astride the Prime Meridian Line. This line represents 0° longitude, dividing the planet into eastern and western hemispheres and running all the way from the North Pole to the South. The Line passes through the Royal Observatory ( get tickets here ) and provides the unique opportunity of being photographed with one foot in the east and one foot in the west!

The architecture in Greenwich demonstrates its royal connections, with the stunning Queen’s House and its famous Tulip Staircase . If you’re interested in maritime history then you could easily spend a couple of days exploring the stunning Old Royal Naval College and National Maritime Museum . As a minimum, check out the Painted Hall !

One of Greenwich’s most popular attractions is the Cutty Sark – a restored British clipper ship that now stands proudly on a glass pedestal. The whole family will enjoy exploring everything from the rigging on deck to the crew’s quarters and engine rooms.

The bustling and popular Greenwich market provides a great place to shop and eat, with some of the best street food in town.

And as the sun starts to set at the end of the day, be sure to take a walk through the Greenwich foot tunnel , which takes you from one side of the River Thames to the other. Not only is the experience of walking underneath the river a pretty cool one, but the views back across to the Greenwich skyline glowing in the setting sun are quite unforgettable.

Good to know: There is so much to see and do in Greenwich that you could easily spend at least one full day here! As an absolute minimum, you’ll need to plan half a day for a visit here. See our complete guide to Greenwich attractions via the link above.

15. London Museums

No list of the top London attractions would be complete without mentioning at least some of its museums. Indeed, London has some of the finest museums in the world, covering all fields of interest.

The British Museum is the largest and one of the most visited. It houses over 8 million objects representing human history, culture, and art. These include the controversial Elgin Marbles and the Rosetta Stone, which helped scholars decipher Egyptian hieroglyphics.

South Kensington is home to both, the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum . A leading center for scientific research, the Natural History Museum houses a vast number of exhibits related to all aspects of the natural world. The Victoria and Albert Museum, however, is devoted to human creativity. Here you can see over 4 million examples of decorative art and design from all over the globe.

Also on an artistic theme is the Tate Modern – one of the four Tate galleries in the UK. It features both modern and contemporary work from artists worldwide and is made all the more impressive by its Turbine Hall. This vast space runs the whole length of the building and is capable of displaying very large sculptures and installations. This gives you the chance to appreciate art on a scale you may never have experienced before.

Good to know: Many London museums can be visited free of charge. However, they do require quite some of your time. Depending on your interests and how many days you have in London, try to visit at least one or two museums. But if you want to truly explore them, you’d need several days for the main museums alone.

READ ALSO: Free Things to Do in London for Families

16. London Theaters & Musicals

One of the very best things to do in London is to see a theater performance . With so many theaters, concert halls, world-class shows, and musicals, there’s always something going on in London that will suit your interests.

TIP: For the best seats and the most popular shows, it’s best to book your tickets well in advance . It’s very hard to get tickets for the show and the time that suits you on the day itself, especially if you are traveling in the high season.

If you are not that particular about which show to watch or where to sit, you can usually find some last-minute tickets as well. There are some last-minute ticket booths in the city center (Leicester Square is a good place for that) and also tourism offices and even hotels can usually help you arrange this. But, ideally, you do it at least a few days upfront.

17. The View from The Shard

The Shard is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in London. The View from The Shard is one of the absolute best viewpoints in the city that can definitely compete with the views you get from the London Eye.

The Shard has several viewing platforms, both indoors (66th and 69th floors) and in the open air (72nd floor). The open-air sky deck on the 72nd floor is the highest viewing platform in Western Europe. The Shard also has several bars and restaurants. The bars normally work on a ‘walk-in’ basis with no admission charge (but very pricey drinks).

But the main reason to come here are, of course, the viewing decks which offer 360° views that you won’t get from any bar or restaurant. From the top, you get unparalleled views over the entire city of London and its wide surroundings. It’s also really nice to visit here at sunset or in the dark.

Good to know: The Shard is located relatively close to the Tower area (just 10 minutes walk from Tower Bridge). So it’s really easy to include a visit here in your itinerary.

TIP: The View from The Shard is one of the most popular things to do in London and they operate with timed-entry slots. So if you want to visit, be sure to book your tickets in advance !

18. Madame Tussauds

If you’ve ever wanted to get up close and personal with the stars, then be sure to visit Madame Tussauds wax museum . For several decennia already, Madame Tussauds has been on all the top lists of London’s must-see attractions.

It contains more than 250 wax figures of celebrities from the worlds of history, glamour, music, popular culture, and more. Best of all, there are no ropes separating you from the exhibits, so if you’ve ever felt like taking a selfie with James Bond or the Queen of England, this is your chance!

But there’s more to Madame Tussauds than simply walking around and looking at the incredibly lifelike figures. Various interactive displays and immersive experiences really bring all the characters to life, and you can even get a backstage look at how they are created.

The host of celebrities on display is constantly changing, so it’s easy to see who’s hot in popular culture – and who’s not! Although… there’s always a place for The Beatles here!

TIP: Madame Tussauds is another extremely popular tourist attraction in London and it’s always very busy here. So make sure to book your tickets online in advance ! This is not only cheaper than buying tickets on the same day, but it can also save you from wasting a few hours waiting in line as well!

Also here, fast-track tickets are available and they are well worth it if your time in London is limited.

19. Covent Garden

Located in London’s west end, Covent Garden is a fun and lively mixture of trendy bars, restaurants, upscale shops, and cultural attractions, all centered around its historic market. Even if you don’t feel like shopping, a visit to Covent Garden Market is a must, if only to admire its 19th-century glass roof and fantastic architecture!

Step away from the market and into the fully pedestrianized 17th-century Piazza. Here, you can enjoy the eclectic (and free!) street entertainment whilst sipping a glass of wine at one of the many bars that surround the square.

If you’re a fan of opera or ballet, then you’re in the perfect spot – Covent Garden is home to the Royal Opera House . And the nearby London Transport Museum is a great place to visit if you’d like to see some of England’s historic vehicles and iconic London transport signage.

The most surprising part of Covent Garden is Neal’s Yard , one of the hidden gems of London . Maybe the prettiest street in London, its winding alleys are lined by buildings painted in all colors of the rainbow. These are home to independent and ethical businesses selling everything from pizza to natural remedies.

TIP: Before you leave, be sure to check out the Infinity Chamber in Conduit Court. Made with hundreds of colored LED bulbs, it’s open 24 hours a day and guarantees you the perfect shot to remember your visit to this part of the city.

20. Oxford Street

If you want to do some serious shopping in London, then make sure Oxford Street is on your London sightseeing itinerary. But even if you don’t plan to buy anything, a visit here is a great way to experience yet another facet of the city.

This 1.9 km (1.4 mi) road in the city’s west end is the most popular (and therefore busiest) shopping street in Europe. It features all kinds of stores from affordable high street fashion chains to exclusive designer names, sometimes with lower prices than you’ll find elsewhere.

There are plenty of eateries and pubs to keep you fortified and much of the architecture is interesting too, with some stores occupying listed buildings.

Not for the faint-hearted, Oxford Street is busy, and both the sidewalks and the road itself are almost constantly congested. If you want to avoid the worst of the crowds, visit first thing in the morning on a weekday.

But if you want to indulge in a little people-watching as you shop, head to Oxford Street at night. The bright lights and buzzing atmosphere will remind you just what makes this shopping mecca such a draw for visitors from all over the world.

21. Leicester Square

Leicester Square is another bustling place in London that you just can’t miss. This public square – established in 1670 – has a distinctly cool and vibrant atmosphere, especially at night when it really comes to life. There is something here for the whole family to enjoy.

Kids, in particular, will love M&M’s World – the biggest candy store on the planet! You can also visit the world’s largest LEGO store , where you can see a huge – and fully working – replica of Big Ben.

Outside the shops, you’ll find plenty of statues of famous figures from literature to popular culture and more. These include Mary Poppins, Paddington Bear, and even Mr. Bean!

The Square is especially popular for its entertainment, offering London’s very best shows and movie theaters . If you’re lucky, you may even get to spot a celebrity at one of the 52 red-carpet movie premieres that take place here every year.

As you would expect for such a busy area, there are lots of excellent bars and restaurants to choose from. And you are just a short walk away from London’s Chinatown , with its incredible restaurants offering a wide variety of Asian specialties.

Before leaving Leicester Square, make sure to visit the Swiss Glockenspiel clock , which is located close to M&M’S World. It’s easy to walk past without noticing – but on the hour, every hour, its bells begin to chime and its figures rotate. This charming clock looks even better at night when it is fully illuminated and it makes a great photograph to add to your collection of London’s diverse and iconic sights.

22. Borough Market

Borough Market dates back to the 13th century and is both the oldest – and the largest – market in Britain. Just steps away from the Shard in Southwark, it is – without a doubt – London’s foodie paradise!

Featuring both British food and lots of international options, the market is packed with stalls and food trucks selling dishes as diverse as spicy empanadas, fresh oysters, specialty fudge, and handmade chocolates. There are also booths heaped with fresh produce and herbs, along with exotic ingredients you’d struggle to find elsewhere. In fact, there are so many stalls that you could spend an entire day here if you decided to visit each and every one!

Borough Market is a great place to visit for lunch! In addition to the artisanal street food, there are plenty of popular restaurants and cafes both inside the Borough Market and in the streets surrounding it. That being said, most visitors would agree that the very best food is to be had at the stalls themselves. The only problem is choosing just which regional specialty to have!

Good to know: The best days to visit are from Wednesday through to Saturday, when the full complement of traders are there. Keep in mind that the market is open during the day, until around 5 pm and it’s closed on Sundays.

TIP: If you are looking to visit more markets in London , definitely check out Camden Market in Camden Town . It’s one of the most unique, quirkiest neighborhoods in the city! Also Greenwich Market , Spitalfields Market, Portobello Road Market, and Columbia Road Flower Market are all really nice.

23. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Last but not least, the hop-on hop-off bus also deserves a mention among the best things to do in London! London is a huge city and there’s no way to see everything in just a few days (not even to mention that your feet will get sore). A journey on a London sightseeing bus is a great way to familiarize yourself with the city and see the best of London’s landmarks in the shortest amount of time.

You can choose to board the bus and enjoy a complete loop of the city, taking in iconic sights such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London. If you decide you want to explore an attraction a little more thoroughly, then you can just hop off and jump on the next bus that comes along when you’re ready.

Each bus has an open top which gives you a great 360° view. In addition, most providers offer features such as live or audio guides, special commentaries for kids, and even activity books.

The raised position of the upper deck of the bus gives you a whole new perspective and a real appreciation for London’s architecture, particularly that of the upper floors that you might have missed otherwise!

Tickets are generally valid for either 24, 48, or 72 hours and usually include extras, such as a free Thames cruise or walking tour. Some providers also offer night tours – a real treat if you choose to take one, as the view of the city lit up at night is unique and unforgettable.

Good to know: The two main hop-on hop-off bus companies – London Tootbus and the Big Bus Tour – both offer very similar routes and prices. Tootbus is usually slightly cheaper than Big Bus. In the past, Big Bus tickets were valid for 1-3 calendar days, whereas Tootbus – for 24-72 hours. So if you only started your Tootbus tour in the afternoon, you could still use it the next morning as well. But Big Bus has recently adjusted its system as well, so now both offers are pretty much identical, and the tickets are valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours from the first validation.

TIP: We recommend booking a ticket for a longer duration , as one day will not be enough to take full advantage of all that’s included. Also, 2-3 day tickets offer much better value than a day ticket.

When we were in London, we took the Tootbus for a day. It was good, but I really regretted we didn’t book it for a longer duration. Multi-day tickets offer much better value and you can also take more time to explore the landmarks along the way.

Map of Top London Attractions

To help you get a better idea of where all the main London attractions are located, we created a map indicating all the points of interest and sights mentioned in this article.

This should help you plan your time a bit better. But please keep in mind that you can only visit 2-3 of the main tourist attractions in a day. It’s busy everywhere, distances between places are big, and even with the skip-the-line tickets, you’ll need several hours for each place (if you visit inside). So plan your time well!

TIP: For more information and useful tips for your visit, please also see our guide with top travel tips for London via the link below. It’s an essential read when planning your trip!

LEARN MORE: Top Tips for Visiting London

How To Use This Map: Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the left top corner for the index. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account – that way you can also consult it when sightseeing in London. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu button, and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’.

So, this is our list of the very best things to do in London for tourists. It might not look like much for such a big city, but you’ll need at least 2 days in London to see just the main places, and 3-4 days to try to cover all the main sights of London mentioned in this guide (and you won’t have enough time to actually visit everything inside).

In addition, there’s so much more to see and do in this fascinating city than just the most famous London tourist attractions! So if you have more time, then definitely take some time to visit at least a few hidden gems of London as well and check out some of the best viewpoints in London !

TIP: If you want to see all the top London sights from this list, visit the main attractions inside, check out some of the lesser-known places, and truly enjoy your visit, make sure to plan at least 5-7 days in London. Staying for a week will allow you to also take one or several day trips from London .

Don’t despair if this is your first visit and you only have a day in the city. With some good planning and advance preparation, you can see some of the musts in London in just a day too. In that case, be sure to check out our recommended London itinerary for one day .

Where to Stay for Sightseeing in London

PRO TIP: In order to make the most of your visit to London, we recommend staying in the heart of the city. Our favorite area to stay for sightseeing in London is close to Westminster Bridge (near Big Ben – London Eye). For example, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London hotel has a great price/quality/location ratio in this area.

Another really nice central area for sightseeing (but also shopping, dining, and theaters) is the area around Trafalgar Square – Covent Garden .

Here are some of the best hotels in this area for all budgets:

• £££££ St Martins Lane – a modern 5* hotel with nice light rooms.
• ££££ Citadines Trafalgar Square – one of the most popular and good value 4* hotels.
• £££ Assembly Hotel – 3* hotel – a nice choice in the mid-range budget.
• ££ The Z Hotel Trafalgar – the most popular and best-rated lower-budget hotel in this area.

READ ALSO: Best Areas to Stay in London

Using the map below, you can also compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in central London . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your stay. Check it out!

More travel inspiration for your trip to the UK:

• Where to go: Best Cities to Visit in the UK
• Near London: Best Day Trips & One Day Tours from London
• With kids: London with Kids & Free Things to Do in London for Families & Family-friendly Afternoon Tea in London
• Yorkshire: Yorkshire Day Trips
• Liverpool: Top Places to See in Liverpool & Liverpool Day Trip from London
• Manchester: Best Things to Do in Manchester & 1-Day Manchester Itinerary
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Blackpool: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Where to Stay in Blackpool
• Scotland: Isle of Skye Itinerary & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh & One Day in Edinburgh & Tips for Visiting Edinburgh
• Glasgow: One Day in Glasgow

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Photos: personal collection, Pixabay.com & Depositphotos.com

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sunday 26th of June 2022

Hello, my sister sent me your web address, which is so helpful! My husband and I will be visiting London and probably Paris in June or July 2023 with our 14 year old daughter. The only thing she wants to do is go to visit the Harry Potter studios, which we will do, but we are trying to plan this trip to decrease the complaining she will do with boredom (worse as an only child) and asking to just sit in the hotel on wifi.... So, your list is so helpful!!. I was also looking at your article on afternoon tea with children, and you mentioned it was hot so it was nice to be inside. When I look at the average high in July in London it says 72, which is much cooler than by us in the states in New Jersey, it's June now and in the mid 90's! I wanted to go in July so that would would be able to tour the palace, but now I'm thinking June would be better if July is too hot and more crowded. Any thoughts? Is it really a high of 72 in July which seems comfortable to me, or is it actually hotter in the city?

Thanks so much-

Monday 27th of June 2022

Hi Lisa, if there is one thing you can't predict in London in advance, it's the weather. And what's hot for us (25-30°C (77-86 F)) is probably very comfortable for people who are used to much higher temperatures. It's very rare that it would get to 90°F in London, maybe just a few days in July or August. But you never really know. It can just as well be 70°F or even lower. As for the crowds, in general, June should be less busy than July. Most European countries only start their summer school break in July, some even mid-July, so June is generally better (just avoid long weekends around bank holidays).

19 Things to do in City of London

One of the oldest parts of London, The City is where the Romans founded Londinium. The City is still the main banking and finance district in London so unlike the rest of London, it is generally quieter at the weekends than during the week.

Enjoy the contrast – the hyperactive weekday City streets contrast with the ghost town of the weekends, just as the contemporary architecture of the new City skyline contrasts with the historic buildings.

Monument Tower Walk up Monument Tower

The City is full of Sir Christopher Wren churches. Monument, though, was built as a reminder of the Great Fire of London and is a 202ft column designed by Wren and Dr Robert Hooke to celebrate the City rising from the ashes!

It’s a great place to visit if you want a panoramic view of London. You can climb up 311 steps and get nearly to the top, where there’s a 360 degree viewing platform. Look out for nearby Pudding Lane, where the Great Fire is said to have started.

Tower Bridge Walk across Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is often mistakenly called ‘London Bridge’. But, the original London Bridge was actually sold to an American, shipped there and replaced with a rather boring concrete structure.

Tower Bridge dates from 1894 but is still a working bridge – for an amazing sight, you can check the times when the bascules are lifted to let larger river traffic pass through.

Millennium Bridge Take a selfie on the Wobbly Bridge

The proper name for the wobbly bridge is the Millennium Bridge.

Designed by Arup Group, Foster and Partners, and Sir Anthony Caro, when it was first opened in June 2000 it wobbled from side to side in high winds.

Pedestrian only, it’s a great place for a selfie – it lines up perfectly with the Dome of St Pauls behind.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Take a pint in Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

One of the oldest pubs in London, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese was rebuilt shortly after the great fire of London in 1666.

It is known for its literary connections and appears in novels by Dickens, Agatha Christie and Anthony Trollope.

Royal Exchange Shop till you drop at the Royal Exchange

Whether or not you get your credit cards out or just window shop till you drop, the Royal Exchange is home to some exclusive brands – from Aspinal of London to Hermes and Georg Jensen, it’s somewhere you’ll find luxurious and stunning goods to buy.

Originally a stock exchange which opened in 1566, the current building was constructed in 1844 after two fires destroyed the original exchange buildings.

Silver Vaults Explore the Silver Vaults on Chancery Lane

London’s Silver Vaults were originally built as strong rooms to hold household silver, jewellery and documents. Over the years it evolved to its current day form, secure premises for silver dealers who both store and trade from the shops in the vaults.

Although the building above was completely destroyed during the second world war, the vaults themselves were undamaged. There are over 30 traders and all the shops have been owned by the same families for at least 50 years passed down from generation to generation.

Visitors are welcome to browse an astonishing collection of antique and contemporary silver, most of which is for sale.

Guildhall Art Gallery Spend time browsing the collection of art at the Guildhall Art Gallery

The Art Gallery has a huge collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings and a collection of art documenting the history of London together with special exhibitions from time to time.

Housed in the historic Guildhall buildings, entry is free though you may have to pay for special exhibitions.

Hidden away in the basement are the remains of a Roman Amphitheatre dating back to when the Romans established Londinium around AD43.

The remains were not discovered until the Guildhall Art Gallery was refurbished. Free to visit.

Mansion House Explore the grandeur of the City at Mansion House

Mansion House is the official residence of the Mayor of London.

Built in the Palladian style between 1739 and 1752 it is home to a fine collection of Dutch and Flemish 17th century paintings.

Open to the public on Tuesday afternoons only, you’ll need to time your visit carefully if you want to see inside.

St Dunstan’s in the East Explore the greenery at St Dunstan’s in the East

The pretty gardens at St Dunstan’s in the East were originally part of an 11th Century Church.

Sir Christopher Wren extended the Church which was sadly destroyed in the Second World War and is now a public garden.

Insider tip – nearby you can visit the Billingsgate Roman Bathhouse for a 45 minute guided tour.

Bank of England Dream about unlimited wealth at the Bank of England

Founded in 1694, The Bank of England began as a private bank that would act as a banker to the Government to help fund war efforts.

It moved to Threadneedle Street in the City in 1734 into a building designed by Sir John Soane.

The current building was the result of Victorian ‘modernisation’. There’s a free to enter museum where you can learn more about the history of finance in the City.

Barbican See performing arts at the Barbican

One of London’s best examples of Brutalist architecture, the Barbican is home to a famous Arts Centre in addition to a complex of luxury flats and maisonettes. This part of London was badly damaged during the Second World War and as a result the whole site was redeveloped.

Built in the 1960s and 1980s on the site of a Roman fort, the Arts Centre is the largest of its kind in Europe and home to the LSO and to the RSC. Insider tip – there’s often free entertainment here in the evenings before shows so you can come for a drink and a bit of live music.

Roman Walls Check out the Roman Walls

You’ll find small traces of Londinium’s original Roman walls around the City.

Tower Hill is a good place to start, but there are also portions of walls scattered around the City, notably near the Museum of London.

St Bartholomew the Great ‘Get married’ at St Bartholomew the Great

Perhaps best-known today for featuring in films, this Church was used for Four Weddings and a Funeral, Shakespeare in Love and The Other Boleyn Girl.

It’s one of London’s oldest, founded in 1123 and with a 13th century arch. It houses a number of important works of art including a statue of St Bartholomew by Damien Hirst entitled ‘Exquisite Pain’.

Museum of London Discover the history of London at the Museum of London

he Museum of London focusses on the History of London from prehistoric times to present day.

Opened in 1976 it’s on the edge of the Barbican Estate and is a modern museum with a collection that includes the Lord Mayor’s stagecoach and the London 2012 Olympic cauldron.

There’s a fee to enter, but plenty to make it worth your while doing so.

River Bus Take a river bus from Temple to Tower Bridge

The best way to reach the Tower of London and Tower Bridge is by River Bus.

This is a hop on, hop off service which will take you all the way along the Thames and although not officially a guided tour, you’ll get a unique view of the City from the river.

And, arrive at Tower Bridge in exactly the same way that the original prisoners in the Tower would have done.

Tower of London Find the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

An iconic London sight, even if you don’t want to pay the fee to go into the grounds, it’s well worth a visit.

You can see the crown jewels on display at the Tower, take a tour or just wander round the grounds and take selfies with the Beefeaters – the strikingly dressed guards you’ll find there.

St Paul’s Cathedral Marvel at the magnificence of St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral was designed and rebuilt by Christopher Wren. Visit as a tourist for access to the whole Cathedral and climb 528 steps to the Golden Gallery in the Dome of the building.

You can even go outside at this level where you’ll enjoy panoramic views across London. St Pauls was built on the highest point in London and the Golden Gallery is a further 85 metres above the Cathedral floor.

There are two other galleries in the Dome, the stone gallery which is about halfway up and the whispering gallery. Send your friend to the other side of the dome and whisper something into the wall – the curious acoustic means they will hear every word.

Sky Garden Enjoy a free view at the Sky Garden

While most of London’s skyscrapers are not open to the public or charge an admission fee, the Sky Garden in the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building is free to those who book in advance.

There are landscaped gardens, observation decks and an open-air terrace – it’s London’s highest public garden. You must book in advance through their website.

Leadenhall Market Explore the cobbled streets of Leadenhall Market

One of the prettiest covered markets in London, Leadenhall Market dates from 1321 although the current structure is Victorian It is home to stalls selling flowers, cheese, meat and other fresh food.

There are also shops, pubs and restaurants in the market building. Scenes from Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone were filmed here.

Best Things to do in the City of London: An Insider’s Area Guide

Love This? Save and Share!

This is where it all began. London’s oldest area, The City of London ranges from the base of Tower Hill to Temple Bar – in it you’ll find Roman ruins, age-old churches and mediaeval guilds but also gleaming skyscrapers and classy cocktail bars. 

In other words, there’s so much more to The City than just being London’s financial district.

Never is the history of London clearer than on a walk through the city. A simple stroll will take you from the ruins of the Roman sections of London wall , to historic churches built in the aftermath of The Great Fire of London standing shoulder to shoulder with glassy sky-high contemporary constructions. 

It’s a fascinating jumble of London throughout the ages, restricted to an area a little over a square mile. 

Don’t think The City of London’s appeal is confined to poking into the past – not only is this the hub of London’s financial sector, it’s where you’ll find some of the city’s best bars and restaurants too. 

It’s easy to think of The City as a bit fuddy duddy – but scratch beneath the surface and you’ll discover independent distilleries, local theatres, art galleries and an area that very much has its finger on the pulse, as well as some incredible history .

Top Picks for The City of London

What to do, where to drink and where to eat….

Have You Spotted The Golden Boy of Pye Corner?

The History of London’s Roman Amphitheatre and the Unlikely Story of How it was Discovered

Lord Mayor’s Show: A Guide to Visiting the City’s 800-Year-Old Tradition

London’s Wobbly Millennium Bridge is Closed For Urgent Repairs

The Grizzly History of the Aldgate Pump of Death

Treasures of Gold and Silver Wire: A New Exhibition with Some Seriously Stunning Threads

Time to Discover: The Barbican Centre

London Wall: A Walk Through Old London (+ Map)

Bartholomew Fair – A 900-Year-Old Street Party – is Being Revived in London This Month

Barbican Beautification: Phase Two of the Barbican’s Revamp is Given the Go Ahead

The Hidden Secrets of One of London’s Oldest Churches: St Bartholomew the Great

The Hidden Secrets of The Royal Exchange

St. Paul’s Will Be Transformed with a Massive New Public Square – Here’s Everything You Need to Know

The Hidden Secrets of Blackfriars Bridge 

Discovering Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park: East London’s Lesser-Known Magnificent Seven Cemetery

A Wes Anderson Pop Up is Coming to London!

A Guide to 8 Beautifully Historic City of London Churches

The Bloomin’ Beautiful Garden at 120: Explore London’s Biggest Public Rooftop Garden

Leadenhall Market: 700 Years of History and A Touch of Harry Potter Magic

The Incredible History of the City of London: The World’s Longest Continuous Democracy

Discovering the Inns of Court and London’s Ancient Legal History

Things to do in the city of london.

Delving into the unmissable spots in The Square Mile.

St Paul’s Cathedral 

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most important landmarks – that much is a given, but that doesn’t do it justice. 

Famously designed by Christopher Wren after the old cathedral was burnt down in The Great Fire of London, the spire of St Paul’s seems to pop up wherever you are in The City. 

Inside, it’s just as spectacular – a riot of gilt and soaring archways that will etch itself on your brain. 

Buy your ticket

Barbican 

Love or hate the architecture (for the record, I’m on the love side), there’s no doubt that The Barbican is one of the city’s cultural hubs. 

Theatre? Check. Cinemas? Check? Concert halls? Check. Art gallery…. I could go on. 

That’s all before you get to the architecture – Brutalist, beautiful and best explored on one of their specific architecture tours. 

Pop into the Conservatory (open specific Sundays) to see its striking collision of Amazon rainforest and concrete structures.

London Mithraeum 

It’s no secret that I love the London Mithraeum . 

It says everything you need to know about The City that there’s a secret Roman temple buried underneath the shiny Bloomberg offices. 

Book a (free) ticket for the immersive temple experience. I won’t give the game away but there’s moody lighting, chanting and it’s all a bit bonkers and wonderful. 

St Dunstan in the East 

St Dunstan in the East is one of London’s most unusual (and beautiful) gardens . 

Set in the ruins of a medieval church that was destroyed by The Blitz, it’s a peaceful haven in the centre of the Square Mile. 

Sky Garden 

The towering glass garden at the top of the Walkie Talkie building, Sky Garden is one heck of a beautiful spot. Though the garden itself is a sight, you’re really here for the views, which are some of London’s best. 

Shame it can be so tough to get in – though it’s free, access tickets book out well in advance, though I do drop you some hints for beating the system in my Guide to Visiting the Sky Garden . 

Leadenhall Market 

The poulters and fishmongers of the 14th century Leadenhall Market have long been replaced with upmarket shops and restaurants, but it still retains something special that keeps visitors coming back again and again. 

The ornate wrought-iron structure plays a large part: built in the Victorian times, the red and gold construction is one of The City’s finest.

Postman’s Park

One of London’s quirkier spots, there’s nothing particularly interesting about Postman’s Park at first glance…that is until you glance at the tiled shelter hidden in one corner of the park. 

This is the Watt’s Memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice, filled with plaques commemorating the lives of Londoners who died doing heroic deeds. 

It’s a quiet, contemplative piece of greenery surrounded by the concrete jungle of the city and well worth a visit. 

London Wall 

We all know that the Romans loved a wall, and London (then Londinium) was no exception. The Romans built a wall around the City of London that was maintained until the 18th century. Remarkably, you can still see sections of the wall that date back to Roman times – head to Cooper’s Row for one such fragment. 

The Old Bailey 

Want to listen to something hair-raising? Go and listen to the trials at The Old Bailey, the Central Criminal Court of England and Wales. 

Many of the country’s most serious crimes are heard here – including that of the Kray Twins, The Yorkshire Ripper and Jeremy Thorpe – the former Liberal leader who was accused (but acquitted) of conspiracy to murder.  

Smithfield Market

You’ll need to get up early to catch Smithfield Market – London’s largest meat market – at its liveliest. By 8am the action has already dwindled to nearly nothing. 

Either way, the grand Victorian construction is worth gawping at.  

What you see today is just the tip of the iceberg of Horace Jones’ cathedral of iron and stone with many of the cavernous halls and a now defunct underground station closed to the public.  

Even more excitingly, West Smithfield is soon to become the new venue for the Museum of London. 

Museum of London 

As a city with so much history, it’s difficult to get a true sense of the narrative that saw London evolve from a sleepy backwater to the contemporary metropolis that we see today. Showcasing that narrative is exactly what the Museum of London sets out to do. 

Permanent exhibitions take you on a jaunt through time from the neolithic tools used in the area that was to become London, to London today. There’s even a full row of Victorian shops for you to explore. 

Walk the Old London Wall 

Did you know that in its earliest days, London was a walled city and that you can still see bits of the old London Wall in the City of London today? Well, you can. Even though the London Wall dates back to Roman times, it was maintained in part until the 18th century. Do the London Wall Walk and discover more.

The Monument 

The Monument to The Great Fire of London no longer soars above the rooftops of the surrounding area, but that doesn’t mean it’s not still worth a visit. 

Climb the 311 steps to the top for stellar views of the Thames, Shard and The City. 

Bank of England 

There’s not much to see inside the Bank of England, save for a relatively interesting museum with virtual tours and the chance to see every note issued by the Royal Mint since its formation.

Temple Bar Gate 

With a history that stretches back to the early days of The Square Mile and has been involved in numerous Royal ceremonies over the years, The Temple Bar Gate is one of the most interesting pieces of London’s history. 

That’s only compounded by the fact that where you’ll find it today in Paternoster Square isn’t the place you would have found it 150 years ago, and even its Victorian location was just temporary. 

The Wren-designed gate has been painstakingly shifted all over London. Today it seems to have found a more permanent home (we hope). Wherever it is, it’s definitely worth a look. 

Eating & Drinking in The City 

My favourite places to eat and drink in The Square Mile.

Oriole 

Oriole might not get as much press as it’s older sister Nightjar in Shoreditch – but you should take that as a good thing as it makes the possibility of nabbing a table that much higher. Art Deco and Fin de Siecle style come together with some of the best cocktails in town. Highly recommended. 

Whether you go for the views or the food, you won’t be disappointed – SUSHISAMBA has long been one of the capital’s hottest dining spots and there are no signs it will be giving up that mantle any time soon.

Perched on the 38th and 39th floors of the Salesforce Tower (previously the Heron Tower), it boasts some of the best views in the city.

That’s all before you indulge in the food – a unique mix of Brazilian, Peruvian and Japanese – which is as delicious as it is unusual. Kick things off with some Plantain Chips, segue onto a Salmon Ceviche or something sizzling from the Robata menu… but whatever you do, don’t miss the sushi.

City of London Distillery Bar

When it opened, the City of London Distillery was the first gin distillery to open in almost 200 years. To say that they’re passionate about gin is something of an understatement. I’d highly recommend their gin-making classes if that’s your thing, but their chic subterranean bar is lure enough. Expect the best G&T’s you can get your hands on, with other gin-based cocktails thrown in for good measure. 

Enoteca Rabezzana 

The City of London isn’t short on great wine bars – so when Enoteca Rabbezaana opened in 2015, some questioned what it could really bring to the table. 

Turns out the answer was… a lot. The extensive collection of over 120 wines is paired with some of the best Italian charcuterie and cheese you can get your hands on in London. 

Hawksmoor Guildhall 

During the noughties, Hawksmoor set about establishing itself as a shrine to which all London meat lovers should pay homage, a reputation that lasts to this day. What’s the big attraction? Grass-fed, dry aged beef and sustainably sourced seafood for starters – not to mention a cocktail list that always tempts you to have just one more. 

Duck & Waffle 

It’s difficult to remember a time when Duck & Waffle didn’t dominate The City of London’s dining scene – quite literally – it’s on the 40th floor after all. The menu is contemporary British with European touches, the view is fabulous and it all comes with the prices to match. 

Brigadiers 

There’s no quite putting your finger on Brigadiers . Inspired by the Indian mess bars where the army would socialise in days past, it’s an Indian barbecue restaurant, whisky bar and sports venue rolled up into one – and more elegant than any of those descriptions would suggest. Go with a fat wallet and an empty stomach. 

Sweetings 

Sweetings is the place you go when you want traditional British seafood with lashings of conservatism and not a hum of fusion food in sight. It’s a City classic for a reason – and, while it could be stuffy, isn’t. Go, if only to say you’ve dined in one of London’s classic eateries.

Club Gascon

If you want cooking that really strives for perfection, book yourself in for a meal at Michelin-starred Club Gascon . Their menu of contemporary French cooking takes the best of a very traditional cuisine and brings it shining into the modern age, then serves it up at the hands of a team of waiters commanding impeccable service. 

Shiro 

New (ish) kid on the City of London dining scene, Shiro comes to London as part of the Aqua Group and by way of Hong Kong. It was there they made a name for themselves serving up artful plates of crystal sushi – the japanese classic topped or wrapped in a chinese jelly that looks as pretty as can be

Angler 

If it’s seafood you’ve got on your mind, Shiro’s sushi is rivalled by one of the top fish restaurants in the City: Angler . Another Michelin-awarded restaurant, these guys serve up the very finest sustainable seafood from an ever changing menu and a top-floor spot at the luxury South Palace Hotel. Angler’s pricey, but worth every penny. 

Read Next: The Best Restaurants in the City of London

Top Shopping Spots

Pretty as the structure of Leadenhall Market is, that doesn’t stop it from being one of The City’s top shopping spots. The relatively extensive range of shops includes Barbour, wine merchants Bedales and Reiss. 

One New Change 

By far the largest shopping centre in The City of London, One New Change offers a diverse (if rather uninspiring) range of high street shops geared towards the upper end of the market. There’s a Friday Food Market to jazz things up and the Roof Terrace offers spectacular views of St Paul’s. 

Royal Exchange

Shopping centre is not the first thing that would spring to mind when you look at the grand edifice of the Royal Exchange – but they did things a little differently in the Victorian times when the current version of the building was designed. 

Inside, you’ll find a select variety of designer shops and a Fortnum & Mason Restaurant and Bar in the heart of the imposing building.

Places to Stay in the City of London 

The andaz london liverpool street.

Chic and Centrally Located

Located next to Liverpool Street Station, The Andaz is a stone’s throw from Shoreditch and The City’s best spots.

Check Availability

City Opulence

Five star opulence and city-boy chic meet at The Ned. There are ten restaurants and several more bars to keep you entertained.

Pan Pacific 

A touch of luxury 

With grand views, swimming pools and service to top the list of the best in London, you don’t get much more luxurious than a night at the Pan Pacific. 

Practical Tips for Exploring

• The City boasts plenty of history, but it is also home to some of London’s most iconic architecture from the past few decades. Check out The Gherkin, The Walkie Talkie and The Cheesegrater for a different take on things. 
• If you only drink in one bar, make it Oriole. Ensconced underneath Smithfield Market, it’s one of The City’s not so hidden gems. 
• Don’t venture into The City of London at the weekend – it’s dead and a lot of places are shut. Weekdays are hands-down the best time to explore. 

Map of The City of London

Read more london guides.

• The Ultimate Shoreditch Street Art Guide: 18 Unmissable Spots + Map
• 24 Cool Sunday Markets in London
• 2 Days in London Itinerary – The Insider’s Guide
• The Best Bars in London: The Dilettante’s Guide to Where to Drink in London Right Now

LET'S GET SOCIAL!

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

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

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

Find Out More

Recently Published

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

Everything you need to know before you go to London in 2024

Mar 10, 2024 • 7 min read

Make the most of your trip to London with these expert tips © FilippoBacci / Getty Images

Even though I was born and raised in London, I’ve been caught out without a brolly (umbrella) in the rain countless times. I’ve felt the scorn of others when not noticing there’s a queue, and I’ve made the costly error of driving into the city. But as a local, I’ve made these mistakes so you don’t have to; I hope my experience and top tips help inspire a smooth and memorable trip to the UK capital.

1. Know your Tube etiquette

One easy way to annoy commuters is to not follow these very easy rules when traveling around on London’s Underground. Get your ticket, bank card or smart phone ready before you reach the ticket barriers so you don’t create a queue. Stand on the right when using escalators so passengers wanting to walk can pass. Let passengers off the train first (stand to either the right or left of the doors) before you board. Offer your seat to someone who may need it more, such as a pregnant person, an elderly person, someone who is disabled and so on. And definitely don't try to strike up conversations with the locals (if you want to blend in). 

2. Skip the car

London ’s roads are small, its traffic is chaotic, and there’s hardly anywhere to park. Plus, you’ll be charged for driving your car in to the center of London – the congestion charge is £15 a day, while the separate ULEZ charge starts from £12.50 and only certain energy efficient or electric cars are exempt. The best way to get around is on public transport (although check on the TFL website or app for information on industrial action and weekend engineering works). Use the Tube, hop on a bus, or rent a bike or e-bike if in the center of the city; cycle maps, highlighting designated paths for bikes, can be downloaded online.

3. Bring layers (and a raincoat)

London’s weather is changeable – temperatures have been known to rise and fall by 20°C in a matter of days. Showers can happen any time of year so pack a brolly (umbrella) or raincoat in your day bag and wear layers that you can easily take off. In summer, always carry a bottle of water on the Tube (the deep tunnels were built before air-conditioning). And while the climate may be mercurial, don’t let bad weather put you off going about your day – simply switch to more indoor-based activities, there are hundreds of them to choose from.

4. Opt for comfort over fashion when it comes to shoes

Most people cover a lot of ground when exploring London, plus different terrains: grass in the many green spaces, long Tube escalators, slippery pavements and even cobblestones. Museums require leg work, as do bridges, boats and parks. Heels are pretty pointless in London, unless you are getting a door-to-door cab to a venue. 

5. Make reservations for top restaurants

While there are plenty of terrific places to eat that welcome walk-ins (although be prepared to queue for the best joints), many of the best restaurants are booked up weeks in advance, especially new ones or those run by celebrity chefs. More restaurants have adopted booking policies and deposits since the pandemic, so if you’re looking for a unique dining experience, you will need to book ahead.

6. Do as the Londoners do and go to a supper club

Embed yourself in London life with a dinner party with locals; a supper club is a superb way to try home-cooked local food from London’s diverse community. These are locally run endeavors, taking place in people’s homes or taking over whole restaurants – try The Bridge Club  serving British eats made with French cooking techniques in South London, Dinner Ladies putting on immersive food experiences, or Indian street food run out of local chef Dhruv Mittal’s flat.

7. Know how to order at a pub

There are unspoken rules when visiting a pub. One person – not a whole group – should go to the bar. Stand anywhere and wait your turn. If someone was waiting before you, it’s polite to signal for the bar staff to serve them first if they come over to you. When you go back to your table with the drinks, you just bought "a round". Now everyone at the table owes you a drink throughout the evening, each person has a turn at buying a round. Last orders are when the bell rings, and from this moment you have 20 minutes to finish your drink.

8. Go to a football game

Football rivalries run high in the city, with 17 football clubs, including seven Premier League teams and four Women’s Super League Teams. Giant temples to "The Beautiful Game" sit around London and are great places to feel the collective energy of the city, as locals congregate (come rain or shine) to watch their heroes on the field. You'll need to book tickets far in advance for Premier League Games, but women’s and lower league men’s games are usually easier to come by – and arguably far more fun to watch. Visit local team websites to book.

9. Be polite and embrace the art of queueing

Londoners (and British people alike) are big on manners, and not having any will get you into trouble. Say "please" and "thank you", and apologize if you bump into someone. Don’t stare at people on the Tube, and hold a door open for people behind you when you walk through one. Let people pass, and be sure to help people in need (people with buggies at the top of stairs, older people crossing the road etc). If there is a queue to the attraction you want to visit or a stall you want to buy from, join it – you’ll might not get into a confrontation if you skip the line, but you will be judged. 

10. Make a plan, but don't go overboard

London is massive, so getting from one side to the other takes a couple of hours in a car (and that's if there is light traffic). Riding the Tube is quicker, but journey times can still be long if attractions are on either side of the city. Minimize travel times by exploring by neighborhood – do a day in Central London, another day in West London and so on. Plan on spending at least a few hours in the big museums and galleries, as there is so much to see. Take many breaks, grab lunch at a cafe or pub and pause to take in the views. It’s easy to get carried away with the energetic pace of London, but sights are more enjoyable if you adopt a more leisurely approach.

11. Don’t leave your stuff lying around

Don’t leave your bags unattended at public venues like stations, buses, theaters or museums, as this is likely to cause alarm and your bag may be removed – or stolen. Only take with you what you are able to carry for several hours. Luggage storage is generally rare in London, but hotels will likely store bags once you check out. Avoid carrying mobile phones in back pockets or where they can be easily swiped from your hand in the street. Never leave your phone or purse on a cafe table, opportunistic thieves will distract you and it will be gone before you realise what's happening. 

12. It's an election year in London

The incumbent mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, will face an election race in May 2024 (he's been in the top job since 2016). This might not be particularly noteworthy for travelers, but it does mean there's greater incentive to make sure London is working well. Policing, housing and public transport are high on the agenda for all the candidates. Services have been expanded to support the rising number of "rough sleepers" in the city, with the visible issue of homelessness a concern for locals and visitors alike. Tube strikes, which brought the city to a standstill in 2023, have been averted but industrial action on national rail services in and out of the city continue. The city goes to the polls on Thursday 2 May, 2024. 

This article was first published September 2023 and updated March 2024

Explore related stories

Walking Tour

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Follow one woman’s quest to taste 100 cups of coffee in New York City.

Mar 17, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 11, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 19, 2024 • 17 min read

Dec 25, 2023 • 11 min read

Dec 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 10, 2023 • 6 min read

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in City of London

Top things to do in city of london.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• City of London
• Covent Garden
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Tower of London

2. Sky Garden

3. St. Paul's Cathedral

4. The Monument to the Great Fire of London

5. Garden at 120

6. City of London Distillery & Bar

7. Barbican Centre

8. Temple Church

9. St. Dunstan In The East

10. Bank of England Museum

11. Leadenhall Market

12. Guildhall Art Gallery

13. Swingers - City

14. All Hallows By The Tower

15. London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE

16. Church of St. Bartholomew the Great

17. 30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)

18. City of London Information Centre

19. Postman's Park

20. Enigma Quests

21. Liverpool Street Station

22. One New Change

23. Old Bailey

24. The London Silver Vaults

25. Guildhall

26. St. Stephen Walbrook

27. Victoria Embankment Gardens

28. Dr. Johnson's House

29. Moonshine Saloon

30. St Bride's Church

What travellers are saying.

JavaScript is turned off in your web browser.

Turn it on to take full advantage of this site, then refresh the page.

Welcome, What do you want to do?

• Attractions, museums and entertainment
• City gardens
• City Information Centre
• Eat and Drink in the City of London
• Find Volunteering Opportunities
• Green spaces
• History and heritage
• Shopping in the City of London
• Staying in the City of London
• Venues for Hire
• Walks and itineraries

Upcoming events

Join The London Crew: Grab this checklist with 110 things to do in london from a local.

Hues Of Delahaye

14 Cities Close to London To Visit By Train [2024]

Are you planning a short trip to England and want to explore  cities close to London ? Look no further!

This Londoner has you covered whether you’re an experienced traveller or new to exploring the UK, there is plenty of great days trips from London within easy reach.

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best dat trip from tour is this  Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Full-Day Tour with a near-perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating.

From quaint cobbled streets and lively markets, these destinations offer unique experiences that take in all the culture, beauty, and history of these historic English towns, villages and cities close to London by train.

14 Cities Close to London – Outside UK

Here’s a look at some of the  best places near London  to explore— all within 2 hours away by train or car.

1. St Albans – 25 Minutes Away By Train

Just 25 minutes away from London, St Albans is the closest city to London by train. St Albans has plenty of history for visitors to explore. It was once a major Roman settlement and its cathedral dates back 1,400 years.

Visit Verulamium Park, which lies on the site of what was once one of the largest cities in Roman Britain. Tour the beautiful 11th-century St Albans Cathedral or visit the Verulamium Museum, filled with fascinating ancient artefacts and some of the most breathtaking mosaics you’ll find outside of the Mediterranean.

For more inspiration read my guide on  things to do in St Albans one of the cities nearest to london?

2. Chelmsford – 30 Minutes Away By Train

This city is located just 30 minutes away from London by train. Chelmsford was granted city status on 1 June 2012 to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

This small city is filled with exciting attractions such as Hylands House and Park—a Grade 11 Neo-classical mansion surrounded by parkland.

The Chelmsford Museum offers interactive exhibits about the history of Chelmsford and Essex and Central Park, which is home to several outdoor events throughout the year in one of the top cities around London.

3. Brighton (England) – 1 Hour By Train

Brighton is one of England’s most popular seaside resorts just an hour away from London by train.

This quaint yet modern seaside escape from London has been a beloved bathing sea resort since the 18th century and is well known for its iconic Royal Pavilion.

Built by King George IV between 1787 and 1822, visitors marvel at the exotic palace constructed of Indian-style domes and minarets accented with lavish decorations. 

Additionally, tourists flock from all around to take strolls and take in sights along Brighton Palace Pier, a 1,722ft long Victorian pier located near downtown Brighton.

If you’re feeling adventurous, float up to 450ft in the spacious glass viewing pod of Brighton i360 for 360 views of the South Downs and the surrounding.

Last but not least, be sure to visit Brighton Museum & Art Gallery with its rotating collection of contemporary art exhibits and historical artefacts. They are so many things to do in Brighton!

4. Cambridge England – 1 Hour By Train

Cambridge, England is a bustling university city and county town located in Cambridgeshire. Cambridge is one of my favourite cities in the United Kingdom to visit, with so much to explore and things to do in Cambridge . Why don’t you start your visit by seeing Trinity College or the free-to-enter Fitzwilliam Museum.

Why not climb the 123 steps of the University Church tower of the Great St Mary’s Church and get a 360-degree view of the market square and the Colleges from above.

For a unique experience, why not take a punting tour along the river Cam and take in the beautiful views of the college “Backs”.

For more inspiration read my guide on  the best photo spots in Cambridge

While punting, keep your eyes peeled for the famous Mathematical Bridge too. Built in 1749 by James Essex (the Younger) and designed by William Etheridge, this architectural wonder stretches across the river Cam connecting Queens’ College with other colleges.

Check out King College Chapel, one of Cambridge’s most iconic buildings.

And if that wasn’t enough for you, take a stroll around Cambridge University Botanical Garden or join an exciting 90-minute Cambridge tour led by a past Cambridge student for firsthand insight into the prestige University.

A Cambridge day trip from London by train is easy from St Pancras train station with a journey time of within one hour.

Cambridge Uni Tour Led By Alumni w/ Optional Kings College

Come take a walk with one of Cambridge University’s graduate students and tour some of the most popular colleges, like King’s College, Clare College, and Trinity College.

⭐ RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars (710+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | BOOK NOW

5. Winchester – 1 Hour By Train

Winchester is a charming Cathedral city in Hampshire, England. The ancient walls of the cathedral had stood since 1093 when William the Conqueror was in charge, and its Great Hall has King Arthur’s Round Table pride of place. This is a must-see city for those looking to transport themselves back in time.

Many centuries’ worth of history can be explored throughout the city, from Winchester Cathedral to the magnificent remains of Winchester Castle, which still stands strong in the form of its Great Hall.

There’s also the Hospital of St Cross founded in 1132 one of the oldest charities in Great Britain with Grade I listed buildings.

Don’t forget the Royal Armouries either – Fort Nelson hosts an unbelievable collection of artillery that you won’t want to miss out on.

And if that isn’t enough? Then you can experience victory through the Exercise Hockley Viaduct Way; this historic railway dates back to 1891.

For those seeking a guided experience, take a stroll around Winchester with a guided walking tour.

6. Canterbury – 1 hr 30 Minutes By Train

Canterbury is another excellent destination for those looking to escape from London for a day trip . Located an hour and a half away by train, this ancient city offers plenty of attractions such as Canterbury Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

The mother church of Anglicanism has sections that date back to the 11th Century, the Anglo-Gothic and Romanesque structure has been the site of major historical events.

The Canterbury Roman Museum is the perfect place to travel back in time. With its original Roman pavement mosaic, you can explore what the town would have been like 100 years ago.

Discover the history behind England’s largest medieval gateway at the Westgate Towers Museum and Viewpoint. Learn about how it was used to defend the city while enjoying spectacular views of Canterbury. Then, take a walk through the beautifully kept Westgate Gardens nearby.

However, one of the top things to do in Canterbury is to do a Canterbury river tour.

London: Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and White Cliffs

From London, take a day trip by mini-bus to Kent, known as the Garden of England. Visit Canterbury Cathedral, see the fantastic White Cliffs of Dover, and tour Dover Castle – the largest castle in the country!

⭐ RATING:  4.3 out of 5 Stars (186+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10.5 hours | BOOK NOW

7. Oxford 1 hr 30 Minutes By Train

Located just an hour and a half away by train, Oxford is another great destination for those looking to explore England’s past. Oxford is also one of the major cities in the United Kingdom.

If you have just a short amount of time to explore Oxford, let me offer you the perfect sightseeing itinerary. Start with the University of Oxford it’s an absolute must-see. Here are a few things you can do in Oxford:

Take a stroll along its grounds, admire its magnificent architecture, and peek into some of its famous lecture halls. From there, head straight to Christ Church College, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Oxford , UK and known worldwide for its connection with Alice in Wonderland.

Keep your eyes peeled for the Radcliffe Camera. This stunning Thematic Library is a perfect symbol of Oxford’s architectural heritage. Its eye-catching 18th-century baroque-style design is renowned for its morning sunlight and striking shadow patterns – it’s a sight you won’t forget.

Home to over 200,000 rare books from the 16th, 17th and 18 centuries, Radcliffe Camera Oxford also showcases impressive displays like the exhibit of John Selden’s legacy.

After that jaw-dropping experience, make your way to Pitt Rivers Museum, where you’ll find fascinating collections from many cultures, postcards from all around Great Britain, and incredible exhibitions on anthropology and archaeology from all over the world.

Bridge of Sighs is  one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. This beautiful footbridge will transport you back in time as you meander over its Gothic arches, connecting two quadrangles at Hertford College.

The bridge provides spectacular views of wooded gardens and meadows that are simply not seen elsewhere in Oxford, making it well worth a few moments of your time if you’re fortunate enough to make it there during sunset.

Finally, top off your visit with a scenic boat ride along the River Thames. Just don’t forget your camera—this picturesque view is one for the ages.

Oxford: University and City Walking Tour with Alumni Guide

Take a walking tour of Oxford University with one of its current students, who will provide extensive knowledge about the school, and take you to a filming location for Harry Potter.

⭐ RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars (1397+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | BOOK NOW

8. Bath 1 hours 30 Minutes By Train

Bath, England, has so much to offer! If you want to learn more about the history of this beautiful city, visit the Roman Baths and explore Bath’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Bath is one of the few UNESCO World Heritage cities near London.

Once you’re done there, head over to Thermae Bath Spa and soak in some of their natural hot spring water. And don’t forget to check out The Holburne Museum, where you can experience a bit of Bath’s culture. Then relive the Georgian era with a tour of No.1 Royal Crescent.

For more inspiration read my guide on things to do in Bath UK

After that why not stroll through the Fashion Museum and take in some of the beauty and style of Bath.

For those up for an adventure, climb the 154 steps to get a magnificent view from the top of Beckford’s Tower located on Lansdown Hill.

Finally, visit The Jane Austen Centre and let it transport you back in time as you explore Austen’s time spent living here in Bath, UK. Believe us when we say it doesn’t stop there – pop into Sally Lunn’s for their legendary Bath bun or enjoy some high tea at one of the local establishments for a real taste of English culture.

Bath: 1.5-Hour Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tourist Guide

Let a professional tour guide, guide you through this UNESCO World Heritage City, its major landmarks of Bath and its captivating history.

⭐ RATING:  4.9 out of 5 Stars (567+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | BOOK NOW

9. Bristol 1 hr 35 Minutes By Train

Located just an hour and a half from London, this vibrant city has plenty of things to see and do, including excellent shopping in The Galleries, exploring Bristol Cathedral, or taking a stroll along the picturesque Harbourside.

For more inspiration read my guide on  things to do in Bristol UK

While you’re in town, visit the Bristol Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world, or take a day trip to the nearby Bath. You won’t miss out on this charming city with its fascinating history, elegant architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Bristol: Tootbus Bristol Discovery Hop-on Hop-off Tour

This open-top bus tour of Bristol’s major attractions gives you 14 different stops to hop off and explore the parks and attractions in a leisurely manner.

⭐ RATING:  4.4 out of 5 Stars (44+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 Day | BOOK NOW

It’s one of the large cities easy to travel to London Paddington with a journey time from London to Bristol Temple Meads of one and half hours from  London Paddington.

10. Norwich 1 hr 50 Minutes By Train

If you are looking for an exciting day trip outside of London, consider visiting Norwich, UK.

You’re in for a real treat when you travel to Norwich, this beautiful cathedral city located in Norfolk, England.

It was the first UNESCO City of Literature in England to receive the title award in May 2012. There’s so much you can do while in Norwich like:

Visit the famous Norwich Castle, which has stood since 1067, and explore the Roman ruins at Venta Icenorum – the remains of a once-thriving ancient town.

See the spectacular Norman architecture of Norwich Cathedral, built nearly 900 years ago in 1096-1145, this impressive structure is an unmissable part of the city’s skyline.

Better yet, catch up on local history by heading to the Museum of Norwich at The Bridewell.

Go shopping at Castle Mall or Chapelfield Mall, admire the beauty of St John the Baptist Cathedral or take in stunning views of part of the Norfolk Broads National Park.

You’ll never forget your time in this delightful city with its wealth of fascinating history and you’ll see why is is in the to 10 UK cities closest to London.

11. Salisbury England – 2 Hours By Train

This cathedral city is located in Wiltshire in the UK, where the rivers Avon, Nadder, and Bourne meet. The sights here are sure to take your breath away.

In the heart of it, all is Salisbury Cathedral – one of England’s four original Magna Carta manuscripts has its home there dating back to 1215AD.

Further exploring can be had at nearby Cathedral Close, where attractions like Arundells, Mompesson House, The Rifles Military Museum and Salisbury Museum await in the 10 cities closest to London.

And don’t forget to check out the traditional Charter Market in the Market Place when you’re in town.

12. Chichester 2 Hours By Train

Chichester in West Sussex has a rich Roman past. In fact, there is historical evidence of Roman settlement within the city. Examples of this can be found in the remarkable Roman baths and the Georgian wall that replaced the old city walls.

The Chichester Cathedral stands tall and proud as an impressive testament to the city’s past – having been constructed in the 11th century, it replaced an additional cathedral founded in 681 at Selsey.

If you want to learn more about what Chichester City Centre has to offer, then check out The Novium Museum. You can go on a fascinating learning tour there, as it’s free to enter. Plus, here is a fun fact – it was built on the remains of a Roman bathhouse.

Then take a stroll through Bishops Palace Gardens to appreciate nature’s beauty while taking in some spectacular views. What are you waiting for

13. Manchester 2 Hours By Train

If you’re looking to explore Manchester, England, you’ll have no shortage of things to see and do. Manchester is one of the major cities near London worth visiting.

The Manchester Opera House and Palace Theatre in the city centre is a great first stop.

Visit the Manchester Cathedral not only was it built almost 800 years ago, in 1421, but this historically significant UK landmark also features beautiful remnants of old English Gothic architecture, such as its unique two-toned masonry work.

The cathedral houses the world’s largest stained glass window in a three-part design called ‘The Good Samaritan’, which is worth taking a few moments to admire.

If you’re a sports fan, then be sure to check out Old Trafford while you’re there.

RHS Garden Bridgewater is worth a visit to experience something extra special. Reviving the gardens of the historic 156-acre Worsley New Hall estate has created an idyllic landscape everyone should see at least once.

For a unique tour of Manchester, try one of the river cruises or take in all Manchester United has to offer with its museum and stadium tour.

Don’t forget there’s plenty more beyond just Manchester, like the beautiful countryside, including the Lake District and Peak District, and cosmopolitan cities such as Chester, Leeds, Liverpool and Newcastle.

Old Trafford: Manchester United Museum and Stadium Tour

Visit Manchester United and get a rare look at the dressing room, tunnel, players’ dugout, and other exclusive areas.

⭐ RATING:  4.7 out of 5 Stars (1900+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | BOOK NOW

14. Liverpool 2 Hours By Train

If you’re looking for a truly iconic and quintessentially British experience, then look no further than Liverpool one of the cities closest to London.

Pay a visit to the Royal Albert Dock Liverpool and relive its industrial heritage, or wander through the Beatles Story Experience to feel the electrifying force of 1960s counterculture.

To learn about Liverpool’s literary and artistic past, explore Liverpool Cathedral and the Walker Art Gallery.

Why not check out the British Music Experience if music is more your thing? Its interactive galleries will have you rocking around the clock!

Sports lovers should head to Anfield Stadium to witness Liverpool F.C. in action or take a 360-degree tour of the Royal Liver Building, one of Liverpool’s most iconic landmarks.

History buffs can explore the Georgian Quarter, where centuries-old architecture stands proud.

Immerse yourself in independent culture in the Baltic Triangle, one of Europe’s most cutting-edge creative hubs. However you choose to experience it, Liverpool has something to offer everyone.

Cities Near London FAQs

What towns are close to London?

The towns close to London are Maidenhead, Windsor, Hampstead and Richmond-upon-Thames and are less than an hour away from London city. Maidenhead  is just a short 34-minute drive to the West of London. This picturesque town offers quaint little cafes and lovely scenic walks and is perfect for a day trip excursion or even a weekend staycation . Windsor  is another great town to explore, just a 25-minute drive out of London. Wander through its beautiful castle or discover the many shops and restaurants in the stunning high street.

Hampstead  is also just a short 15-minute drive outside of London. Hampstead is the perfect place to relax and unwind with its charming village vibe and beautiful parks and gardens.

Greenwich  is a great option too, just 20 minutes downriver by boat and packed with historic sites such as the Cutty Sark , The National Maritime Museum and Royal Observatory.

Richmond-upon-Thames  is a 40-minute drive from London and offers great hiking trails and beautiful green spaces.

For those who fancy something further away, Folkestone in Kent is well worth checking out; it is famed for its beachfront promenade along the coast, where you can enjoy some of the best views of The White Cliffs of Dover . 

I have tried to select towns 30 minutes from London or within an hour from London.

What cities are 1 hour away from London?

These are the top cities within just one hour’s drive of London like St Albans, Chelmsford, Winchester, Brighton and Cambridge these are amongst the 10 closest cities to London.

What are the 2 cities in London?

London isn’t just one city; it’s actually two: the City of London and the City of Westminster . The City of London is a smaller area consisting primarily of the financial district, while the City of Westminster is made up of a variety of neighbourhoods and boroughs on both sides of the River Thames and takes in prominent landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Houses Of Parliament and Trafalgar Square.

 UK Cities Closest to London Conclusion| City Near London

These cities near London are some of the best places to visit if you’re looking for an escape from London but don’t want to travel too far, then these cities are perfect for you.

Sharing is caring!

• Pinterest 1

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!

The 5 Best European Cities To Visit: Where To Go and When

E urope is a hotspot for tourism due to its impressive diversity and access. There are a multitude of cultures, cuisines and landmarks in Europe. The continent is also relatively easy to get around, since public transportation there is efficient. Some travelers may even opt to travel around Europe all at once since there are jaw dropping views within close proximity. The continent is a traveler’s paradise since the infrastructure is well designed for commuting . There are so many popular destinations within Europe, so it may be difficult for travelers to determine where exactly they should go. These are the best European cities to visit and the ideal season for travel in each. 

London 

London, the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. Travelers visiting London can experience the top attractions in the bustling urban metropolis. It is a cultural capital with a plethora of historical sites that travelers can witness. This metropolitan city has plenty for travelers to explore. Some of the most popular things to do and see are the Big Ben clock tower, Westminster Abbey, The British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London. Foodies can indulge in some English delicacies like fish and chips, traditional English breakfast and bangers and mash. There are many other cuisines that travelers can try in London, including Indian, Italian, Chinese, Thai, French and many other cultural foods. 

Best Times To Visit

The best time to visit London, England depends on the traveler. For the best sightseeing weather, travelers should make their way there between March and May. The temperature in this season is around 60 degrees, so travelers should dress themselves in layers. The high season for travel in London is in the summer and winter. If travelers want to avoid crowds, they should not visit London between June to August or December to January. 

Paris 

Paris, France is a major tourism destination that has plenty of globally recognizable monuments and cultural hallmarks. Even the cityscape of Paris is quite popular due to its iconic landmarks. French culture is all around very influential, but beyond that Paris is a remarkable city with plenty to see. The architectural wonders of Paris are a big appeal of the city. In fact, over 30 million travelers enjoy the picturesque city of light each year. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Versailles Palace, Paris Catacombs, Luxembourg Gardens and the Champs-Elysees are among the best attractions in the city. Tourists can enjoy the cheeses, soups, macarons and fresh breads of Paris while visiting Paris. 

The best times to visit Paris are either in the spring or autumn. During these times travelers can expect better temperatures. This weather allows them to comfortably sit outside and enjoy things like Parisian cafe tables. The weather is nice and moderate in the city between April to May and September to October. Travelers will even notice that there are less crowds in the tourist areas.

Rome is the capital city of Italy and it has certainly made its mark on the globe. It is among one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Some of the art, architecture and cuisine of Rome dates back 3,000 years. The city offers travelers a deep dive into ancient history and culture. There are plenty of famous sightseeing attractions in Rome that travelers should visit during their Europe trip. Some of the most popular ancient buildings for tourists to view in Rome include The Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, The Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica. There are a large number of famous remnants of the Roman Empire that have historical significance in this city. Some other things that tourists can do in Rome include guided walking tours, countryside trips, shopping, indulging in delicious Italian food and strolls around the city.  

Travelers visiting Italy should expect bigger crowds in areas like Rome. Although crowds are somewhat consistent, travelers can plan their trip so that it is as convenient as possible. Between October and April travelers will experience the least amount of crowds. The costs of accomodations are lower during this time too, but travelers may have to tolerate the chilly weather in exchange for price. Travelers should be sure to pack a jacket since weather can be around 50 and 70 degrees in Rome during this season. 

Barcelona 

Barcelona, Spain is an artistic looking and charming city with plenty for visitors to experience. The city overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is a modern hub as well as one of Spain’s most popular cities. It has a wide range of leisure activities and is a walkable city, so plenty of travelers love Barcelona. The unique architecture, beaches, culinary options and art of Barcelona keep travelers coming back. Travelers can enjoy the food of Barcelona while in the bustling city. Paella, croquettes, potato bombas and escalivada are just a few of the most popular dishes of Barcelona. Tourists commonly enjoy the Picasso Museum, the Cathedral of Barcelona, Casa Milá, Park Güell, Las Ramblas and Barceloneta Beach while in the city. Some of the most popular attractions of Barcelona are the buildings and shopping areas. Alternative activities for travelers include hot air balloon tours, walking tours, food and wine tours, private sailing tours and immersive museum experiences. 

Best Times To Visit 

The best time to travel to Barcelona is between April and July. During this time travelers will experience the best weather. Temperatures are around the mid 70’s during this season which means that the outdoor conditions are manageable. This is particularly important for travelers depending on public transportation. If sightseeing is a priority travelers should visit in early spring or autumn since there are less crowds. During the spring there is some rainfall, especially during April. Since a lot of the attractions in Barcelona are outdoors, this will definitely impact a trip. 

Amsterdam 

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and it is a quite popular city. It has a vibrant culture, rich history and stunning landscapes. The picturesque canals, historic homes, creative spirit, liberal appeal and shopping opportunities are the top features of the city. Tourists looking to immerse themselves in this European city can try the local cuisine. Pannenkoeken, haring, oliebollen, kaas and stamppot are some of the top Dutch comfort foods. These traditional food items are popular among locals but travelers should try them while they are exploring abroad. Stamppot, a dish made from potatoes and vegetables, is the national dish. Other than cuisine, travelers can visit the top attractions of the area to learn more about Amsterdam. The Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Heineken brewery tour, red light district, Body Worlds Museum and local parks are the top things to see. 

The best months to visit Amsterdam are spring and autumn. Between April and May or September and November is the most ideal time to visit. There are less crowds and more mild weather during these seasons. Although the weather is not particularly dependable, these months provide pleasant temperatures of around 60 degrees. If travelers prefer to travel during the most affordable time to go to Amsterdam, the winter may be best. Temperatures generally are around 30 or 40 degrees during the winter, but hotel rates are low. 

London Marathon 2024: Where to watch, route, start time, rail strikes and celebrities to look out for

The Evening Standard's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Swap your sambas for sneakers and get warming up that cheer voice. Britain’s biggest marathon, the London Marathon , returns to the streets of central London this weekend and it’s set to be the greatest yet. More than half a million people are set to take on the world-famous 26.2-mile course — a new record (the previous was set in 2019) — and many thousands more are set to turn out to cheer them on.

If you managed to secure a place in the running equivalent of Glastonbury, you should probably buy a lottery ticket and watch out for lightning (apparently just four per cent of applicants actually get a place, according to new data). If you weren’t lucky enough to nab a spot this year, you can still revel in the buzz and drama of race day. Bonus: no blisters. Folding bike brand Brompton is offering free bike hire to anyone supporting so you can whizz to as many cheer spots as possible. Just head to the brand’s hire stations at East India, Broadgate and Regents Place.

From the hottest support spots and celebrities to look out for, to free food and Brockwell Lido dips for finishers, here’s everything you need to know.

When is the 2024 London marathon?

Sunday is race day and conditions are looking good, with mild temperatures, gentle winds (finally!) and lots of sunshine.

The elite and wheelchair races start from 08:30am, and the mass participation waves will kick off between 10:00am until 11:30am.

Where to watch

For cheer-squad novices, there are two rules for supporting: download the official London marathon app so you can track your runner, and plan ahead. The route starts in Blackheath and winds its way past many of the capital’s most iconic sights before ending on The Mall, so prepare yourself for some shoulder-barging if you want to see your runner (and your runner to see you).

The most popular cheer spots are at the Cutty Sark (mile 6), Tower Bridge (mile 12), Canary Wharf (mile 18), the Tower of London (mile 22), the London Eye and Big Ben (mile 25) and Buckingham Palace (mile 26), but you might have a better chance of wiggling your way to the front of the crowd if you pick a different spot. Miles 9 to 12 around Rotherhithe and Bermondsey are a good option if you want to give your runner a much-needed pick-me-up early-on, and miles 14 to 21 around Limehouse and Canary Wharf are a great base if you want to see your runner multiple times without having to walk too far.

That said, you might not need to walk at all. Thanks to Brompton’s special marathon day treat, supporters can bag themselves a free folding bike for getting around town. Just email [email protected] with your runner’s bib number and you’ll receive a special code. The three hire stations with access to the race route are East India Station, Broadgate, and Regents Place. For those with disabilities, the accessible cheer points can be found at Cutty Sark, Canary Wharf, Rainbow Row (Butcher Row), Tower Hill and Victoria Embankment.

See above for a map of the route on Strava. And here’s our list of the best pubs, bars and restaurants along the full 26.2-mile route.

Will rail strikes affect the London marathon 2024?

Teenage girls ‘face almost eight years of their future as an unpaid carer’

Gordon Ramsay firm secures court possession order for squatter-occupied pub

UK and US impose new sanctions on Iran in wake of attack on Israel

Join the AXA Startup Angel webinar for tips to win £25,000

No self-respecting British event would be complete without a train strike. Mercifully, there are no Tube strikes planned for Sunday, but if you’re taking part and have friends or family travelling into London from the Midlands or the north, they’ll need to plan ahead.

Strike action will affect the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) network with no service on Saturday 20 April, the day before the race, and reduced service on the day itself. Although strike action shouldn’t affect London trains, do note that there are planned engineering works and closures on the Elizabeth line, Waterloo & City line and the London tram on race day itself.

How to watch on TV and live stream

If you can’t make it into the capital for race day (or fancy a lie-in), you can still enjoy the excitement on TV.

The BBC will be broadcasting the whole thing, with live coverage on BBC One from 08:30 to 14:15, before moving to BBC Two from 14:15 until 15:00. If you miss it, you can watch highlights on BBC Two from 18:00-19:00 and online on BBC iPlayer.

Which celebrities are taking part?

There’s something ever so slightly satisfying about watching your favourite celebrity grinding it out for 26.2 miles, looking a little less polished than they do on Instagram.

The race always attracts big names, with this year’s stars including the comedian Romesh Ranganathan, who’s running for suicide prevention charity Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM); The Woman in the Wall actress Ruth Wilson MBE, who’s running for Alzheimer’s Research UK; and ex-Doctor Who actor Christopher Eccleston, who’s running to raise awareness for charity The Big Issue.

Special mention goes to Eastenders stars Emma Barton and Jamie Borthwick, who’ll be running as their characters, Honey and Jay, for a special episode of the soap. The storyline will follow the fictional pair as they run the marathon in memory of Jay’s wife, Lola, who died of a brain tumour in 2023. If you spot them, make sure you’re smiling: you could just make your debut as an extra in the background of the show.

Who are the other stars of the amateur race?

Fancy dress is a quintessential part of the London marathon. Remember the guy who spent five days completing the course dressed in a deep sea diving suit?

Conservation charity Save the Rhino claim to have pioneered the whole thing, when a runner completed the race wearing a 12kg rhino costume in 1992, and this year it’s debuting a new first: the marathon’s first ever rhino wheelchair costume, which will be worn by member of Wales Rugby League wheelchair team, Martin Turner.

You might also spot Dave 'the Running Telephone', who’ll be running his 25th marathon in aid of this year’s race charity, Samaritans, dressed in a telephone costume.

This year’s oldest competitor is 91-year-old David Picksley from Croydon, who has run an impressive 13 marathons to date. He’ll be walking the 26.2 mile route to raise money for Bowel Cancer UK in memory of his sister, who he lost to the disease in 1974.

Where to go after

If you’ve got any energy left to celebrate after the finish line, fitness studio Barry’s Bootcamp will be hosting a marathon after-party at its SW1 studio. Think live music, refreshments, and free protein shakes for anyone who shows their medal. It's free to join, but you do need to sign up in advance.

They’re not the only ones handing out freebies for medal-holders. Greene King is offering a free drink of Guinness (or Guinness 0.0%), G&Ts and soft drinks to all finishers who show a medal at one of its London pubs between Sunday and Tuesday; Lush is offering medallists its all-new Cold Water Soother Epsom salt cube (worth £6) and Wiccy Magic Muscles solid massage oil (worth £8); and Franco Manca, Bills, Meatliquor and The Real Greek are among those handing out free food.

Recovery-wise, Fusion Lifestyle is offering all finishers a free swim at Brockwell Lido or North London Park Road Leisure, and online yoga site Live Yoga Teachers is offering free livestreamed recovery classes on Monday, Wednesday and Friday after the race. Just send in a picture of you at the finish line with your medal and they’ll send you a voucher.

Deliveroo and Boots have also teamed up to launch a ‘ Marathon Roo-covery’ hub featuring everything from bath salts and Compeed blister plasters to protein bars. Just use the code ROOCOVERY10 for £10 off all Boots products on Deliveroo.

When does the ballot open for next year?

If you find yourself getting sucked in by the joy of the event (don’t say we didn’t warn you), there’s not long to wait until you can try your luck for a coveted place.

The London marathon 2025 is set to take place on Sunday, April 27, and the ballot opens this Saturday, April 20, the day before this year’s race. It’ll close on Friday, April 26, so you have just under a week to throw your name into the ring. Here’s to making it into that lucky four per cent.

The Bartlett Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis

• Publications
• Partnerships

New Book by Prof Michael Batty – The Computable City: Histories, Technologies, Stories, Predictions

18 April 2024

Prof Batty’s new book examines how computers simulate cities, and the ways in which they are increasingly embedded in urban areas, changing our behaviour and influencing the evolution of these environments.

Prof Michael Batty’s research is sited within City Science – the practice of modelling the growth and evolution of cities to inform future urban design. The Computable City: Histories, Technologies, Stories, Predictions , published by MIT Press, focuses on the place of computing within this field, charting the history of computer modelling in understanding and planning cities since the first models were developed in the late 1950s in the US.

The new book tells the story of the growing sophistication of computational urban modelling; explores the history of digital revolutions and the influence of social media and platform economies; and tracks the emergence of the smart city – defined by the proliferation of open data and interconnectivity, and using technologies including artificial intelligence and big data analytics to optimise transport, governance, infrastructure and sustainability. Prof Batty argues that as we have developed better science, the computers that harness it have become so small and fast that they are embedded in the form, function and life of the city itself, to the extent that the modern city approximates a form of networked computing, yielding big data on a scale never seen before.

“ It is impossible to predict the future but as planners and designers, we have the luxury of being able to invent it. Our inventions may be good or bad, but we need to fashion our tools to ensure our designs become better and better. But we face the double bind that although we can invent the future city, we cannot predict what we will invent. This has always been the greatest challenge in architecture and planning.”

– Prof Michael Batty 

Prof Michael Batty is Emeritus Professor of Planning at The Bartlett, and Chair of the Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis. He has worked on computer models of cities and their visualisation since the 1970s and has published three other books about City Science – Cities and Complexity  (winner of the Alonso Prize of the Regional Science Association in 2011), The New Science of Cities and Inventing Future Cities , all published by MIT Press. During the Covid-19 pandemic he ran the Digital Task Force for Planning  with CASA’s Dr Wei Yang. He is a Fellow of the British Academy, the Academy of Social Sciences and the Royal Society, and the recipient of a CBE, the Nobel de Géographie, the Gold Medal of the Royal Town Planning Institute and the Senior Scholars Award of the Complex Systems Society.

More information

• Buy The Computable City at Amazon
• View Prof Michael Batty’s UCL profile

Image: MIT Press

Related News

How many tornadoes touched down in Iowa on Tuesday? NWS starts storm review

Iowa saw multiple rounds of severe weather Tuesday, from thunderstorms to tornadoes.

A few severe thunderstorms in central Iowa also produced hail one to two inches in diameter and wind gusts up to 60 mph.

UPDATES: Iowa may have had 13 tornadoes on Tuesday. The strongest was an E2 that ran 40+ miles

How strong was the Dallas County tornado on Tuesday?

Rural central Iowa experienced one tornado in Dallas County.

A tornado touched down shortly after 11 a.m., tracking from south to north across the northern part of Dallas County, according to NWS . It was 7 miles long with a width of about 50 yards, NWS shared on social media Wednesday afternoon. Winds were estimated to be between 75 and 85 mph with an EF rating of 0.

The path of the tornado ran from northwest of Dallas Center to northeast of Minburn, It was on the ground for about 5 minutes.

A Dallas County Sheriff's Office employee told the Register on Tuesday that three agricultural buildings were severely damaged or destroyed due to the tornado. Other minor damage was reported in the area.

More: How long do tornadoes last? Do they hit big cities? Answering Iowans' common questions about twisters.

Were there other tornadoes in Iowa?

One tornado tracked through both Calhoun and Pocahontas counties in northwest Iowa, touching down shortly after 2:30 p.m. The tornado periodically lifted, NWS said, moving south to north.

Tornado ratings have not yet been determined by NWS, as officials await damage reviews.

Severe thunderstorms tracked across the Quad Cities, the NWS said , in two waves between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. on Monday.

NWS reported that there was damage from strong wind gusts, hail and at least one confirmed tornado, which happened near Mediapolis. Storm damage teams will assess the damage to determine ratings.

Emergency managers reported a tornado near Sioux Center, as well as two other reports near the area.

What assistance is available for Iowa tornado victims?

Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Wednesday that she issued a disaster proclimation for Allamakee, Cass, Des Moines, Fayette, Henry, and Lee counties in response to Tuesday's severe weather.

Residents in those counties will be eligible for the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program, which offers grants up to $5,000 for households making up to 200% of the federal poverty level. Receipts are required to be reimbursed for expenses like home or car repairs, replacement of food or clothing or temporary shelter. Applications are available at homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/assistance .

Those facing serious needs can also utilize the Disaster Case Advocacy Program. An advocate will be assigned to victims to help create a recovery plan and offer referrals to other resources. Details are available at iowacommunityaction.org .

How windy was it Tuesday?

Most of the Iowa experienced excess winds of up to 40 mph. Wind gusts due to thunderstorms brought in winds of 50 to 60 mph.

The highest wind gusts were reported in Estherville, at 62 mph. The Des Moines International Airport experienced winds of 43 mph.

Are storms like this normal weather for this time of year?

Simply put, yes.

Allan Curtis, meteorologist at NWS Des Moines said this was a typical low-pressure spring storm system that neighboring states also experienced.

A low-pressure system will typically cause clouds, wind and storms, as they suck air into them, according to NOAA. A high-pressure system is constantly pushing air away, typically bringing clear blue skies.

Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at  [email protected]  or follow her on Twitter  @VictoriaReynaR .