30 tips on things to do in London as a tourist (Sights and Activities)

From ancient castles to modern marvels, London’s vibrant tapestry awaits your exploration. This curated list delves into 30 sights and activities, guiding you through iconic landmarks, hidden treasures, and cultural delights.

Prepare to witness history’s grandeur, savour culinary treats, and embrace the city’s electrifying pulse.

1- Visit a street market

London is known for its street markets, and several markets around the city are open every day. Here you’ll find everything from London souvenirs to food and clothes. London is an expensive city, and if you want to buy something to take home with you, the street markets are a good alternative since prices are often slightly lower than in stores. The most popular street markets in London are perhaps Camden Market, Portobello Market and Greenwich Market.

History buffs can delve into London’s rich past at Spitalfields Market, where Victorian warehouses house vintage clothing and collectables, while art enthusiasts will find a haven at Camden Market, renowned for its quirky stalls selling independent art and fashion. Beyond the stalls, the markets themselves are social hubs, buzzing with live music, street performers, and friendly banter between vendors and customers. Whether seeking a specific purchase or simply soaking up the atmosphere, London’s street markets offer a delightful and authentic experience for travellers of all ages.

2- See the Spectacle of One of London’s Largest Skate Parks

On the Southbank below the Queen Elizabeth Hall is a large skate park where BMX riders and skateboarders gather every day to ride on ramps and do different tricks. In addition to this, there are also talented graffiti artists who paint awesome works to show off their skills. Even if you don’t go skateboarding or BMX-riding, this spectacle each day is still worth stopping by and checking out.

This expansive indoor facility boasts a wonderland for skaters of all levels. Beginners can hone their skills on smaller ramps and obstacles, while experienced riders can tackle the park’s sizeable bowls, rails, and street sections. Beyond the skating itself, the park offers a vibrant atmosphere with music, food stalls, and a viewing area for non-skaters.

3- Visit the Memorial in Postman’s Park

At King Edward Street, you’ll find Postman’s Park, which is located where the former headquarters of the General Post Office (GPO) was. The park is especially famous for its monuments of everyday heroes who died trying to save others.

It was in 1900 that George Frederic Watts drew up a wall with memorials of deceased everyday heroes that he feared might otherwise be forgotten. A new memorial for Leigh Pitt was added in 2007, to commemorate that he died trying to save a child from drowning. It was the first time in 78 years that a new person was added to the George Frederic Watts memorial wall.

If you do not have time to visit Postman’s Park during your London visit, there’s an app called “The Everyday Heroes of Postman’s Park”, in which you can read about all the people present on the memorial wall.

4- Visit Little India

London is a multicultural centre, and several neighbourhoods have elements of different cultures. One of these is the Little India area located at Southhall Broadway in Southhall. There are about 656,272 people here who have their roots mainly in India and 290,549 in Pakistan.

For travellers seeking a vibrant sensory escape, consider strolling through London’s vibrant Little India! Located in Brick Lane, Spitalfields, this bustling hub offers a delightful immersion into Indian culture. Here’s what you can experience:

1. Culinary Bliss: Indulge in aromatic South Indian street food like sizzling dosas, fragrant curries, and melt-in-your-mouth samosas at street vendors or cosy cafes. For a sit-down feast, discover traditional vegetarian thalis or fragrant biryanis at acclaimed restaurants.

2. Cultural Treasures: Browse vibrant sari shops showcasing intricate silks and dazzling jewellery. Explore charming bookstores brimming with Indian literature and handicrafts. Delve into the fascinating Sri Krishna Temple, adorned with colourful deities and fragrant offerings.

3. Artistic Delights: Wander down Brick Lane, known for its street art scene. Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of murals, stencils, and installations that reflect the community’s spirit. Catch a captivating Bollywood film at the iconic Prince Charles Cinema.

4. Rhythmic Vibrations: Let the rhythmic beats of bhangra music carry you away at lively pubs or community events. Witness traditional Indian dance performances showcasing vibrant costumes and energetic movements.

5. A Peaceful Space: Seek serenity at the Brick Lane Mosque, an architectural gem. Stroll through the adjacent Altab Ali Park, a green oasis adorned with vibrant flowerbeds and frequented by locals enjoying a cup of chai.

5- Visit Little Venice

If you want to get a little feeling of Venice while visiting London, and at the same time want to get away from the hustle of the streets, then you might like to go to Maida Vale at Regents Canal, where Little Venice is located. The area at Regents Canal is very similar to Venice with its water channels and special architecture. Here you can also take a canal boat to explore the beautiful environment. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants where you can stop and relax.

6- Get Close to WWII in the Churchill War Rooms

On King Charles Street in Westminster in St. James’s Park, a short walk from Buckingham Palace, you’ll find the Churchill War Rooms. At this museum, you’ll get to see what Winston Churchill’s War Rooms looked like during World War II and how the whole of the British government worked underground with their strategies and secrets as Germany’s attacks went on. The rooms that you get to see are original, and the interior is completely preserved from World War II. Moreover, some rooms are just part of an interactive Winston Churchill museum where you can follow all his work as a leader during World War II as well as his life story.

• Explore the Cabinet War Room: Witness the very spot where Churchill and his advisors made crucial decisions that shaped the course of the war. Sit in the Prime Minister’s chair and imagine the weight of responsibility he carried.
• Discover the Map Room: Trace the movements of troops and battles on the iconic illuminated maps that adorned the walls. Learn about the complex logistical challenges faced during the war.
• Unravel wartime secrets: Hear recordings of Churchill’s speeches and intercepted enemy communications, gaining a deeper understanding of the wartime atmosphere.
• Experience the Blitz: Feel the vibrations of simulated bombing raids and see the impact of the war on London through interactive exhibits.
• Go beyond the bunker: Explore the Churchill Museum, housed above the War Rooms, and learn about the life and legacy of this iconic wartime leader.

7- Discover the Dark Parts of London’s History at the Horror Museum of London Dungeons

Perhaps you’ve heard the stories of Jack the Ripper and Sweeney Todd, who were two of London’s worst criminals of the 1800s. If you want to learn more about the darker part of London’s history, you can go to the London Dungeons, a small amusement park combined with stories from the past. These include two underground rides, a maze of creepy old London Streets, a torture chamber and the chance to visit the houses affected by the plague. In several places, you’ll also meet different half-shady characters to make the experience even more vivid, played by an actor.

8- Go for a Walk in St. James’s Park

After running around the streets of one of Europe’s most densely populated cities, it might be nice to relax amongst some greenery. A wonderful place that lends itself perfectly to a walk in the countryside is St. James’s Park. The park is located right by Buckingham Palace in Westminster, and the area is full of magnificent buildings with impressive architecture that can be seen from the park. There is also some wildlife among all the green. As you roam around in St. James’s Park, you should therefore not be surprised if you encounter any impertinent and fearless squirrels or birds.

9- Hop-on and Hop-off Bus

Like most large cities in the world that attract a lot of tourists, London offers hop-on and hop-off buses. These buses take you to all sorts of attractions in London and in total there are three routes to choose from with lots of stops. The buses are spacious and comfortable for either the open air or roofed vehicles and offer a recorded commentary about the places you pass. For those who wish, there is also the opportunity to see all the sights from a boat on the river. This boat trip is usually included, along with walking tours of London and the price of the hop-on and hop-off bus ticket.

10- Learn More about British Aviation History at The Royal Air Force Museum

If you’re interested in aeroplanes or want to learn more about England’s aviation history, you should visit The Royal Air Force Museum. In this museum, you can learn everything about aviation history, from the first hot air balloon ride to the latest Eurofighter plane. Overall, there’s a collection of over a hundred different aircraft on display, and there are several attractions—including a sound and light show that illustrates the Battle of Britain. The museum belongs to the sights of London that are ideal for families as there are plenty of activities for children of all ages.

11- Ride a Lap or Two in the London Eye

One of London’s attractions that can easily be perceived as very “touristy” is the London Eye. This spinning Ferris wheel is made for the typical tourist, but despite this, it’s difficult to call it a tourist trap as the London Eye offers a unique experience for those who choose to ride a lap or two. At the top of the wheel, you’ll find yourself over 135 meters above the ground and get a great view.

One lap takes about thirty minutes, and that’s plenty of time to look out across London in a way you won’t find anywhere else. In the evening, you can also choose to ride on a so-called “Champagne Flight”, which means that the capsule becomes one of London’s best bars with a nocturnal view that you won’t get at any other nightspot.

12- Visit Soho

A very popular neighbourhood to visit in London for tourists and Londoners alike is Soho. This is largely thanks to the effervescent nightlife and all the shops and restaurants as well as entertainment with music, comedy, theatre and cinema. Soho has an incredibly rich culture, and there is a lot to do when visiting this neighbourhood. Soho is centrally located in the western part of London and borders Oxford Street, Regent Street, Leicester Square and Charing Cross Road.

13- Palace of Westminster

Previously, this was the royal residence, but it’s now the site of Britain’s parliament. The building has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, and in 1834, it burned down completely. After the fire, the architect Charles Barry was hired, and he created a gorgeous palace in a late Gothic style, which is attached to the medieval building Westminster Hall.

The palace is very big at 275 metres long and ninety metres wide in total. It has three large towers, of which the highest is over a hundred metres high. Moreover, some smaller towers are placed here and there with their characteristic pointed roofs. There are several beautiful rooms inside the Palace, including the octagonal Central Hall.

14- Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum

Tennis has long been an important sport in the UK, and this is reflected truly in the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum. Here you can see how tennis has evolved from being something that the rich exercised during their parties to becoming a popular sport that has a turnover of a billion each year. Inside the museum, you can take advantage of great exhibitions, films, audio guides and interactive touch screens.

There are also regular temporary exhibitions on different themes, such as “Tennis on the French Riviera.” Besides rackets and other tennis equipment, there is also a collection of objects inspired by tennis, such as special toys and teapots.

15- Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is an art gallery that opened in 2000. It belongs to the Tate Group, which already has a gallery in London (Tate Britain) and two galleries outside the city of Liverpool and St. Ives. Many fine works of art in modern and contemporary art have been collected here from all around the world. Of all the hundreds of paintings there, you will find several works by Picasso, Matisse, Duchamp and Pollock.

Every day guided tours are available to participate in and some are free as well. These guided tours touch on different parts of the permanent exhibition, and it is good to join all of them to get an overview of what is on display.

There are also several different activities and temporary exhibitions. They include tours for the blind where they can touch the objects and experience the art in ways other than by sight.

16- Brick Lane Music Hall

Brick Lane Music Hall has performances every day with its popular form of musical entertainment. Usually, you sit down and have your afternoon tea or a three-course formal dinner while enjoying the nice shows. All year round, the Brick Lane Music Hall has performances, and they often have a theme that is related to the season. St. Patrick’s Day and Seaside Special are two examples of themes, and others such as The Sixties Show, Diva and Cockney Sing Song.

Often, the audience is very involved in the show, and during a visit here, you can be sure to have a good laugh and feel thoroughly refreshed after the show is over. Both the food and the entertainment are of a high standard at Brick Lane Music Hall.

17- The Royal Opera House

The Royal Opera House in London is one of the leading opera houses in the world and an attraction that is well worth a visit. The building that The Royal Opera is in isn’t that old; it was built in the late 1800s and was recently renovated. The opera has, however, been around longer—it started in the early 1700s and, over the years, has entertained tourists and Londoners with its amazing opera performances. In total, there are over two thousand seats for spectators, and it is almost always packed during the performances.

During the day, you can book a tour, and then take a bite at one of the Royal Opera’s restaurants. Something very popular among visitors is to drink tea in the amphitheatre restaurant whilst enjoying a beautiful view of the Covent Garden. Inside the Royal Opera House are The Royal Ballet and The Orchestra of the Royal Opera, with fantastic performances all year round. The performances usually mix classic with modern dance and ballet.

18- Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising

A slightly different museum located near Portobello Road’s famous market is the Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising. It has a large collection of thousands of objects from the mid-1800s to the present. There are all sorts of different things, like Rimmel makeup from the 1890s, Chopper bikes from the 1970s or Oxo cubes from the period around World War I.

If you’re an adult, you’ll very likely recognize several things that you remember from your childhood or read or heard about. The Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising is an interesting museum that will evoke many pleasant memories while sharing knowledge about how various products have evolved and changed over the years.

19- The Wallace Collection

The Wallace Collection is one of England’s foremost art collections on display in an old, beautiful and historical building from the 1800s. To begin with, the collection of art was privately owned by Sir. Richard Wallace and donated by his widow in 1897. The works in the collection have been selected and curated with care and thoughtfulness. By the early 1900s, it was already considered one of the finest art collections in England and included several works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Boucher, Rubens, Van Dyck and Peter Adolf Hall. The surroundings are also very pleasant to explore with beautiful rooms full of fine old furniture. It also features special performances throughout the year with different themes.

20- Explore Tower Bridge – one of London’s Most Famous Landmarks

Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1894, The bridge spans the River Thames, and it provides pedestrians and vehicular traffic with a direct link between the City of London and Southwark. Tower Bridge is also a popular tourist destination, and many visitors come to walk across the bridge, which offers stunning views of the city skyline. The bridge is illuminated at night, making it a truly spectacular sight.

Visitors can also learn about the bridge’s history at the Tower Bridge Exhibition, a presentation that occupies both of the bridge’s towers. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history of one of the world’s most famous landmarks. The exhibition tells the story of how the bridge was designed and built and highlights some of the challenges that had to be overcome during its construction.

Visiting Tower Bridge is one of the most popular things to do in London, and it offers stunning views of the river and the cityscape (if you’re looking for a historical activity, check out our guide to the Great Fire of London Locations).

21- Visit a Royal Park and See a Deer

Richmond Park is one of London’s eight Royal Parks, and it’s easy to see why it’s a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike. With over 2300 acres of green space to explore,  Richmond Park is a perfect place for a relaxing stroll or picnic. The park was originally enclosed by King Charles I in 1637 as a deer-hunting park, and it remains home to a population of wildlife, so be sure to keep an eye out for deer and other animals while you’re there.

There are also some great trails for cycling or running, making this park the perfect place to get active outdoors. In addition, The park is home to several historical landmarks, including the Isabella Plantation and Pembroke Lodge.

So whether you’re looking for a bit of peace or an afternoon filled with adventure, Richmond Park has something for everyone!

22- Check out the British Museum – One of the Most Famous Museums in the World

The British Museum is one of the largest and most important museums in the world and it’s the most visited attraction in the UK. Founded in 1753, it houses more than seven million artefacts from all over the world. Housed in a magnificent neoclassical building in the heart of London, the museum’s collections span centuries and continents, from ancient Egyptian mummies to contemporary British art and everything in between. The British Museum is also home to several world-famous objects, such as the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.

In addition to its impressive collections, the British Museum offers a variety of educational programs and public events, making it an essential component of London’s cultural scene. The museum also has an extensive library and research centre.

Its central location in London makes it easy to get to from anywhere in the city. Plus, admission is free. So if you’re ever in London, be sure to check out an incredible museum.

23- Climb the 525 Steps to the Dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral

Located in the City of London financial district, it is the seat of the Bishop of London and the mother church of the Diocese of London. The current cathedral, which was designed by Sir Christopher Wren, was completed in 1710. Built on the site of the previous cathedral that was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666, it later became a symbol of hope during the Blitz of World War II. St. Paul’s is renowned for its architecture and its role in British history.

The cathedral also houses several important works of art, including sculptures by Sir Joshua Reynolds and paintings by William Holman Hunt. St. Paul’s remains an active church, serving as a place of worship for people worldwide.

Today, St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most popular tourist attractions, welcoming over two million visitors each year. It’s easy to see why- with its impressive architecture and history, there is a lot to see and explore at this cathedral.

Whether you’re a fan of history, and architecture or just looking for a picturesque spot to snap a selfie, it’s worth adding a tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral to your list of things to do in London.

24- Visit the Home of the Crown Jewels

The Tower of London is one of the city’s most unmissable experiences and one to add to the top of your London bucket list.

Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1066, this historic fortress has served as a royal palace, a prison, and even a place of execution. Today, it is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the winding corridors and dark dungeons and learn about the tower’s fascinating history.

Among the many reasons to visit the Tower of London is to see the Crown Jewels. The Crown Jewels are among the most dazzling collections of gems and jewellery in the world, and they have a long and fascinating history. Created over centuries, they were originally intended to symbolize the power and majesty of the monarchy. Today, they are kept safe in the Tower of London, where visitors from all over the world can view them.

With so much to see and do, a visit to the Tower of London is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So don’t forget to add it to your list of things to do in London.

25- Visit the Dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is home to several interactive exhibits and houses a vast collection of artefacts and specimens from nature, including dinosaurs, rocks and minerals, animals, plants and insects. The museum also has several educational programs for children, and it sponsors research into the natural world.

Among the most popular exhibits is the life-size replica of a Tyrannosaurus rex, and who wouldn’t want to check out a life-size T. Rex skeleton?

The other exhibit you can’t fail to miss is the blue whale skeleton that is suspended from the ceiling of the Hintze Hall. The blue whale is the largest known animal on Earth, and its skeletal remains provide insight into its massive size and impressive anatomy.

Whether you’re a budding palaeontologist or just looking to learn more about the natural world, a visit to the Natural History Museum is sure to be both a fun and educational day out.

26- Kick Back in London’s Most Famous Park

Spanning 350 acres, Hyde Park is centrally located and is home to many attractions, including the Serpentine Lake and the Diana Memorial Fountain. It’s the perfect place to take a stroll on a sunny day or have a picnic with friends. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Hyde Park carousel or take a boat out onto the Serpentine Lake.

Hyde Park is also home to several iconic landmarks, including Speakers’ Corner, where people have been gathering to share their views on politics and current affairs for centuries.

Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just a chance to take in some fresh air, a visit to Hyde Park will leave you with lasting memories. And with its convenient location in the heart of the city, it’s easy to get to no matter where you’re staying.

27- See London on a Budget with Free Walking Tours

Walking is one of the best ways to explore a city, and London is no exception. So an excellent way to discover all that London has to offer is on a free walking tour. These tours provide an intimate look at London’s history, architecture, and culture, led by knowledgeable and passionate guides. Whether you’re interested in learning about the city’s many royal palaces or exploring its hidden alleyways, a free walking tour is a great way to get to know London.

They’re also a great way to meet other travellers and get insider tips on where to eat, drink, and shop. Best of all, you can decide how much or how little to tip your guide at the end of the tour.

28- Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum is one of the most iconic museums in London. Founded in 1852, it houses a huge collection of art and artefacts from around the world. From ancient sculptures to modern art, there is something to interest everyone at the V&A.

The museum is free to enter, making it a great option for budget-conscious travellers. Visitors can explore over 145 galleries, which cover a wide range of topics such as painting, sculpture, furniture, textiles, photography, metalwork, ceramics, and jewellery.

And with over 2 million items on display, it’s impossible to see everything in one visit. You can easily spend a whole day exploring the different galleries and exhibits and barely scratch the surface of what is to offer. There is also a fantastic cafe on-site, where you can refuel and rest your weary legs after a long day of exploring.

29- Sample the Delights at Borough Market

This iconic London market is bursting with a tantalizing array of artisanal foods and delicious street food, so it’s worth including it on your list of things to do in London. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, dinner, a quick snack or a gourmet meal, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite. You’ll also find an array of stalls selling international cuisine, so you can sample dishes from all over the world. And if you want to indulge your sweet tooth, there are plenty of tempting treats.

The market is also a great place to pick up unique gifts for your food-loving friends back home. And with its convenient location near London Bridge station, it’s easy to get to (need information about the London Underground? Find our guide here).

30-Unravelling London’s Literary Secrets

For those with a penchant for intrigue, Baker Street offers a captivating foray into the world of Sherlock Holmes. Step into the iconic 221B, now a meticulously preserved museum, where Victorian-era rooms whisper of deductions made and mysteries solved. Immerse yourself in the legacy of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s enigmatic detective, exploring exhibits showcasing Holmes’s life, skills, and cherished possessions. Venture beyond the museum walls and embark on a self-guided trail, retracing the steps of Holmes and Watson through the very streets that inspired their adventures. Conclude your investigation with a refreshing respite at the Sherlock Holmes pub, or perhaps acquire a deerstalker hat and pipe as mementoes of your literary escapade. Let Baker Street ignite your inner detective and guide you on an unforgettable London adventure.

Things to Do in London in Conclusion

“When you are tired of London, you are tired of life, for there is in London all that life can afford.” -Samuel Johnson. This great quote from one of London’s most famous residents pretty much sums up why the city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. There is just so much to do in London that it would be impossible to list everything in one article. However, we have done our best to compile some of the best things to do in London.

From the world-renowned free museums and free art galleries to the vibrant London nightlife and delicious food, there is something for everyone. So whether you’re visiting for a short weekend trip or staying for an extended vacation, be sure to check out some of these great attractions.

London, a city where history whispers from ancient cobblestones and modern marvels touch the clouds, beckons every explorer. Whether you’re captivated by towering castles or enticed by world-class museums, this vibrant metropolis promises an unforgettable adventure. Let’s delve into 30 curated tips to guide your London voyage, ensuring you witness its majestic sights, immerse yourself in its pulsating culture, and savour its delectable delights. From royal grandeur to hidden gems, get ready to unlock the secrets of this captivating city!

This intro sets the stage for your 30 tips, highlighting the excitement and diversity of London for tourists. It uses evocative language, paints a picture of the city’s beauty, and piques the reader’s interest to explore further. Feel free to use this as a starting point and customize it further to your liking.

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