Planning a trip to London in the UK? Here are the 24 best things to do in London to help you make the most of your visit – crafted by locals!
London has been our home for over seven years, and it’s a city that never fails to enchant. In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of the top attractions for your visit. Skip the tourist traps and let us show you the must-see landmarks, famous museums, and peaceful parks.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning visitor, London’s abundance of choices can be overwhelming. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with our handpicked list.
And if you fancy exploring outside the city, check out our guide to the 9 best day trips from London by train – all within an easy two-hour jouarney.
Now, let’s jump right in and discover the 24 best things to see and do in London, shall we?
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Plan Your London Trip
24 Best Things to Do in London, UK in 2024
London offers hundreds of activities and experiences. Having lived here for over seven years, we continue to discover new things to see and do. Below, you’ll find some well-known attractions that we believe you should see when visiting, as well as off-the-beaten-path sights for a truly authentic London experience.
Tower of London
The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and gives you a peek into London’s tumultuous history. Built in 1066, it has been a royal palace, prison, treasury, and armoury. The most famous feature? The Crown Jewels, kept safe in a massive vault and holding some of the world’s most valuable jewels.
When you visit, explore the White Tower, walk along the Battlements, and check out the Bloody Tower and the ‘Torture at the Tower’ exhibition. Take part in a Yeoman Warder’s tour (included in your admission) for an in-depth look at the tower’s history and the Beefeaters who guard it.
Did you know? The Yeoman Warders, often nicknamed ‘Beefeaters’, are iconic symbols of London and Britain. Their name comes from their position as royal bodyguards, which permitted them to eat as much beef as they wanted from the king’s table.
Don’t forget to meet the famous ravens, keeping watch since the 1660s on Charles II’s command. Legend has it that if they ever leave the fort, the crown will fall.
Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London
- Buy tickets online in advance to skip the box office queue.
- Take a 45-minute Yeoman Warder tour (Beefeater tour), which is excellent! It’s included with admission. The tours begin every 30 minutes from the main entrance to the Tower of London.
- Arrive early and head straight to the Crown Jewels as the queue builds up very quickly; then join the Yeoman Warder tour.
- If you have questions while exploring the tower, ask a Beefeater! They live on the property, are knowledgeable and love sharing Tower stories.
Admission and Opening Hours: Tickets are £33.60 (approximately 39€ or US$41) per person. The tower is open from 10am-4:30pm on Mondays and Sundays, and 9am-4:30pm Tuesday to Saturday.
Buy your ticket for the Tower of London here.
Tower of London Official Website
Leadenhall Market
If you’re on the lookout for a hidden gem in London, Leadenhall Market is a must-visit. Dating back to the 1300s, it’s one of the city’s oldest markets, yet it’s still vibrant and bustling.
With various shops, eateries, and bars, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or an enjoyable evening out.
The market’s charm lies in its wrought iron and glass roof, paired with cobblestone walkways. As you stroll, we’re sure you’ll be struck by the intricate details of the building’s facade.
Did you know? Leadenhall Market was featured in one of the Harry Potter movies. For fans, we recommend this award-winning walking tour that explores film and inspiration locations from the Harry Potter series (including a stop at Leadenhall Market). Check availability and pricing for the ‘Harry Potter Movie & Book Locations Walking Tour’ here.
Admission and Opening Hours: The public areas of Leadenhall Market are free to visit and open 24/7.
Leadenhall Markt Official Website
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is undoubtedly one of London’s most iconic landmarks, and no visit to the city is complete without a glimpse of this marvel. Built in 1894 to complement the Tower of London, it showcases London’s impressive engineering.
As you stroll across Tower Bridge, take in the stunning views of the River Thames and the cityscape. For the full experience, we highly suggest grabbing tickets for the Tower Bridge Experience to explore the inner workings of the towers.
The Tower Bridge Experience lasts around 45 minutes and includes a walk along the suspended walkway high above the River Thames. If you’re brave enough, look down through the Glass Floors for a view of the traffic below.
The exhibition also includes access to the engine rooms, which house the original steam engines that once powered the bridge.
Tower Bridge is also known for its bascule bridge, which is raised around 800 times a year to allow tall ships to pass through. Catch the action from the walkways, the riverbank, or from the glass walkway of the Tower Bridge Exhibition. Check out the bridge lift schedule if you want to see the raised bridge.
Top Tips for Visiting the Tower Bridge Exhibition
- The bridge is open daily from 9:30am-6pm. Try to visit in the morning, as it tends to get very busy after 12pm.
- Tickets for the Tower Bridge Exhibition are priced at £12.30 (approximately 14€ or US$15) per person.
- While tickets can be purchased on-site, we highly recommend buying your tickets online to skip queues and secure your preferred visit time (there’s a limited amount of tickets for each timeslot).
- Time your visit during a bridge opening, best enjoyed from the Glass Floors for a unique perspective.
Book your Tower Bridge Exhibition tickets here.
Tower Bridge Experience Official Website
Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
Get ready to be blown away by the Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster. This historical gem sits proudly on the north bank of the River Thames, with interiors that will leave you in awe.
The Houses of Parliament are home to the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the two houses of the UK Parliament. The palace was originally built in the 11th century and has seen various renovations and expansions over the years. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive architecture.
Take a stroll across Westminster Bridge for the perfect view of the clock tower, fondly nicknamed Big Ben. Contrary to common belief, “Big Ben” refers to the largest bell inside the clock tower, not the tower itself.
Once you’ve admired the exterior, consider booking a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament to explore the magnificent historic rooms and chambers home to the UK Parliament. The tour takes about 90 minutes and is truly spectacular!
Admission and Opening Hours: The Houses of Parliament are open Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm and on most Saturdays throughout the year. Tickets for guided tours of the Houses of Parliament start from £25.00 (approximately 29€ or US$32) and can be purchased exclusively on the official UK Parliament website or the official UK Parliament ticket office.
Book your Houses of Parliament tickets here.
Covent Garden
We absolutely love Covent Garden – it’s one of our favourite places in London! If you’re looking for a lively district bursting with energy, then Covent Garden is the go-to place. Located right in the heart of the West End, this area is famous for its bustling market, street performers, and a mix of shops and restaurants.
What we adore most about Covent Garden is its magnificent market hall. Housed in a 19th-century building with a rich history as a fruit and vegetable market, it now hosts diverse stalls offering handmade crafts, fresh produce, and beautiful flowers.
Let’s talk about food – because Covent Garden has it all! Here are some local favourite restaurants in the area:
- Barrafina: A must-visit for modern Spanish tapas.
- Sushi Samba: Feeling adventurous? Try the fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine at Sushi Samba.
- Din Tai Fung: Dumpling lovers, don’t miss this Taiwanese gem. We fell in love with their dumplings during our travels through Asia – trust us, they’re delicious!
Just be sure to book your table in advance; these places are popular with locals, and reservations fill up fast.
Admission and Opening Hours: Covent Garden, including the Piazza and the Market Building, can be visited for free and is open 24/7. The shops typically operate from 10am-8pm, Mondays to Saturdays, and from 11am-6pm on Sundays.
Here are your hotel options for London.
Liberty London
Liberty is a fascinating department store to visit in London, known not only for its special collection of luxury goods but also for its remarkable architecture. The Tudor-style building, dating back to 1875, has played a significant role in shaping British design and fashion.
Before stepping inside, take a moment to look up towards the roof. There, you’ll spot a weathervane of a golden ship – an exact model of the Mayflower that carried English pilgrims to America in 1620.
As you explore the store, you’ll notice shields of Shakespeare and portraits of Henry VIII’s six wives. Don’t miss Liberty’s carved wooden animals, especially in the third-floor central atrium.
An impressive feature of Liberty is its old wooden staircase, a fixture since its beginning.
Admission and Opening Hours: Liberty is free for anyone to visit. It’s open from 10am-8pm, Mondays to Saturdays, and from 12pm-6pm on Sundays.
Liberty London Official Website
Coal Drops Yard
With its unique blend of modern architecture and Victorian heritage, Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross offers a refreshing alternative to the usual historic buildings in London.
Originally used for coal storage, this shopping district now boasts over 50 stores and restaurants. It’s one of London’s less well-known hidden treasures.
If you’re a tech enthusiast like us, the Samsung KX experience store is a must-visit. This beautifully designed space allows you to explore the latest in technology and engage with cutting-edge gadgets.
Feeling peckish? German Gymnasium offers modern European cuisine in a historic former gym, while Kimchee, a South Korean-inspired restaurant, serves tantalising dishes like Korean fried chicken and bibimbap in sizzling hot stone bowls. And don’t miss the Goods Way food and dining space, a New Orleans-inspired venue featuring street food vendors in a Louisiana-style courtyard.
Top Tip: Coal Drops Yard is conveniently located within walking distance of both King’s Cross and St Pancras stations. While you’re there, be sure to check out the spectacular St Pancras building.
Admission and Opening Hours: Coal Drops Yard is free to visit and open from 10am-11pm daily.
Here are your hotel options for London.
Coal Drops Yard Official Website
Regent Street
Regent Street, with its distinctive curved architecture, isn’t just a shopper’s haven but also a historical gem worth exploring. Designed by John Nash in the 19th century, the street has become a symbol of British elegance and style.
In contrast to its more upscale neighbour (Bond Street), Regent Street is home to a mix of high-end, iconic, and global brands. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in flagship stores and retail therapy.
Did you know? Regent Street transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland during Christmas. It was the first Central London location to showcase Christmas lights back in 1954, pioneering the tradition of public Christmas lights in the city.
Admission and Opening Hours: Regent Street is free to visit and open 24/7. Although each of Regent Street’s stores has individual opening times, here’s a general guide: weekdays from 10am-8pm, Saturdays from 9am-8pm, and Sundays from 12pm-6pm.
Natural History Museum (NHM)
If you love natural history, the Natural History Museum (NHM) in South Kensington is a must-visit spot in London. With over 80 million specimens, including fossils, minerals, and animals, it’s a fantastic and wallet-friendly day out for you.
The NHM is housed in a Romanesque building designed to complement the exhibitions within. Its open and church-like structure is as much a wonder as the items on display.
The star of the show is Hintze Hall, which features a colossal 25-metre (82-foot) blue whale skeleton, the largest animal on earth. Marvel at several billion-year-old dinosaur skeletons, the world’s first T-Rex fossil, a meteorite as old as our solar system, and exhibits on mammals, human evolution, and Charles Darwin’s discoveries.
Top Tips for Visiting National History Museum
- Fast-Track Entry: Book your tickets in advance on the official NHM website to skip the long queues. It’s free, and you’ll thank yourself for avoiding a wait.
- Choose the Right Entrance: While the main entrance (Cromwell Road) often has a big queue, the Queens Gate and Exhibition Road entrances are usually less busy.
- Grab a Map: The NHM is vast, so pick up a map in the main hall to help you navigate the exhibits efficiently.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays and earlier in the day (before 12pm) are less crowded. Steer clear of school holidays to enhance your experience.
- Fuel Up: Don’t explore on an empty stomach. Ensure you’ve had a good meal before delving into the wonders of the NHM.
Admission and Opening Hours: The NHM is open 10am-5:50pm daily. It’s free to visit, though some temporary exhibitions require a fee.
Book your free NHM tickets here.
St James’s Park
Discover the tranquillity of St James’s Park, a green haven in the heart of London spanning 58 acres.
Originally a royal hunting ground and a venue for festivities in the 16th century, the park now offers a peaceful retreat for both locals and visitors. Enjoy a stroll amidst the beautifully arranged flower displays, and don’t miss the spectacular views of Buckingham Palace.
Did you know? St James’s Park is home to a resident colony of pelicans. The park has had pelicans since they were first gifted by a Russian ambassador to King Charles II in 1664. For a chance to see the pelicans up close, head to Duck Island Cottage. They’re being fed fresh fish between 2:30pm and 3pm every day there.
During the summer, catch the seasonal floral displays boasting over 22,000 plants for an extra touch of beauty to your visit.
Admission and Opening Hours: The park is free of charge and is open from 5am-midnight daily.
St James’s Park Official Website
Sky Garden
For stunning panoramic views of London without breaking the bank, head to Sky Garden on floors 34-37 of the Fenchurch Building. The rooftop of the building, which is also nicknamed the Walkie-Talkie building because of its distinctive shape, is an ideal spot for taking some amazing photos.
Did you know? The Walkie-Talkie Building has a quirky history, including the infamous “fryscraper” incident, where light beams from the building caused damage to parked cars and even melted parts of a nearby shop’s sign.
What’s special about Sky Garden is its free admission, providing a budget-friendly alternative to other observation decks in London like the Shard.
Admission and Opening Hours: Access to the Sky Garden is free of charge. It’s open on weekdays from 10am-6pm and on weekends from 11am-9pm. We highly recommend reserving your (free) tickets in advance, available up to three weeks ahead.
Reserve your free tickets for the Sky Garden here.
Piccadilly Circus
Let’s dive into Piccadilly Circus, an iconic spot in London’s West End. This bustling road junction is a hotspot for shopping, dining, nightlife, and, of course, tourism – a true reflection of the city’s vibrancy.
As you arrive, you’ll be met by giant neon signs, billboards, and the famous Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain. The area is constantly buzzing with activity, featuring double-decker buses and cabs navigating the circle, making it a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the city’s energy.
With its advertising screens and heavy foot traffic, Piccadilly Circus draws comparisons to Times Square in New York City and Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo (even though Piccadilly Circus is a bit smaller).
For a unique perspective, consider the Hidden London Piccadilly Circus tour by the London Transport Museum. Having explored several Hidden London tours, we can vouch for their great organisation and informative nature. The Piccadilly Circus tour allows you to step into passageways and lift shafts of the underground station, closed to the public since 1929, revealing original Edwardian design features.
Check availability and pricing for the Hidden London Piccadilly Circus tour here.
Admission and Opening Hours: Piccadilly Circus is free to access and open 24/7.
Chinatown London
Situated in the heart of the West End, Chinatown London has been a cultural cornerstone for the Chinese community since the early 20th century.
As you walk through the streets, the red lanterns, pagoda-style roofs, and bustling restaurants will transport you to a different world. Chinatown is home to over 70 authentic East Asian restaurants, shops, bars, and cafes. From delicious dim sum to steaming bowls of noodles, you’ll find all kinds of amazing food to try here.
Top Tip: One of the most exciting times to visit Chinatown is during the Chinese New Year. In fact, it’s the largest Chinese New Year celebration outside of Asia, and the atmosphere is absolutely electric! Expect to see colourful lanterns, dragon and lion dances, and lots of fireworks.
Admission and Opening Hours: Chinatown is free to enter and open 24/7. However, the opening hours of its shops and restaurants may vary.
Here are your hotel options for London.
Seven Dials & Neal’s Yard
Seven Dials is a hidden gem in the heart of London that you don’t want to miss! The name comes from seven streets converging at one junction, creating a distinctive and picturesque destination. It’s also home to 90 stores, beauty boutiques, and over 50 cafes, restaurants, bars, and pubs.
Our favourite spot in Seven Dials is the Seven Dials Market. In this covered food market, you can indulge in food from around the world.
Another spot you shouldn’t miss in Seven Dials is Neal’s Yard. The buildings in this picturesque courtyard are painted in bright hues of blue, yellow, and green.
Top Tip: Make sure you stop by Homeslice in Neal’s Yard. They serve up some of the best wood-fired pizzas in London.
St Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in London, designed by Sir Christopher Wren and finished in 1710. It has been the site of countless national events, including the funerals of Winston Churchill and the wedding of Prince Charles (now King Charles III) and Princess Diana.
Inside the cathedral, you can explore beautiful stained-glass windows and climb 528 steps to the dome for panoramic views of London. Don’t miss the Whispering Gallery, where you can hear whispers from across the dome.
Top Tips for Visiting St Paul’s Cathedral
- Open Monday to Saturday, 8:30am-4:30pm (10am on Wednesdays).
- While worship is free, you need a ticket for sightseeing (£25, approximately 29€ or US$31).
- We recommend buying your ticket online to avoid the queues.
- Take advantage of the guided tours that are included with your ticket. You can sign up for them on the day at the Guiding Desk.
- Grab the included audio guide at the entrance for a deeper understanding of the cathedral’s history.
- Note photography restrictions.
- If physically able, climb the steps to the dome’s top for a fantastic city view. Just be prepared that the stairway is steep and narrow.
Buy your ticket for St Paul’s Cathedral here.
Mercato Mayfair
If you’re looking for a unique food experience in London, you should head to Mercato Mayfair. This dining spot is located inside a beautifully restored Grade-I listed church that spent three decades on England’s Heritage at Risk register. After an extensive £5 million (approximately €6 million or US$6 million) renovation, the church has been transformed into a stunning food hall and cultural hub.
Mercato Mayfair boasts various food stalls with food from all over the world, from Italian deli and fresh seafood to British butcher and patisserie. The building features a striking glass atrium, marble floors, and brass fixtures, giving it a modern and elegant touch.
As food lovers, we consider Mercato Mayfair one of our top food halls in London. We love the fact that it’s tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street, making it a peaceful spot to enjoy delicious food. If you’re planning to visit, keep in mind that the food hall is located on North Audley Street.
Admission and Opening Hours: Mercato Mayfair is free to enter. Operating from 12pm-11pm (Mon-Thu), 12pm-midnight (Fri-Sat), and 12pm-10pm (Sun), it’s a delightful spot for food exploration throughout the week.
Here are your hotel options for London.
Burlington Arcade
Burlington Arcade, a historic shopping arcade, is located in the heart of Mayfair. Built in 1819, the arcade has a fascinating past and has been delighting shoppers for over 200 years.
As you stroll through the arcade, you’ll be transported back in time to a bygone era of glamour and luxury. The arcade is home to a variety of high-end shops and boutiques, offering everything from designer fashion to bespoke jewellery.
One of our favourite things to do at Burlington Arcade is simply to take in the captivating architecture and atmosphere of the place. The arcade’s glass roof and intricate details make it a true masterpiece of design.
Top Tip: Be sure to watch out for the iconic Beadles, the official guards of Burlington Arcade. They’ve been patrolling the area since the early 1800s, maintaining an atmosphere of exclusivity and refinement. Easily recognisable in their traditional uniforms, the Beadles wear top hats and frock coats.
West End Show
A trip to London wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the magic of a West End show. Renowned globally for its exceptional theatre productions, the West End boasts over 30 shows, offering a diverse range of entertainment.
If you’re unsure about which West End show to catch among the multitude of options, here are some recommendations from us: Hamilton (musical), Back to the Future (musical), The Lion King (musical), The Unfriend (play), The Book of Mormon (musical), Mrs Doubtfire (musical), and Wicked (musical). We’ve seen 100+ shows over the years, and we assure you they’re outstanding productions currently running in London.
Top Tips for Finding Cheap Tickets for West End Shows
- If you prefer to plan ahead: Use Theatremonkey to find fantastic deals on advance tickets, ensuring you secure the best seats at the best prices.
- If you’re okay with same-day tickets: Consider TKTS for same-day discounted tickets to a variety of shows. Run by the Society of London Theatre (SOLT), it’s a legitimate source. Visit the TKTS booth in Leicester Square or check the TKTS website for ticket availability.
Find a West End show in advance on Theatremonkey.
Camden Market
Camden Market is one of London’s most vibrant and bustling attractions. Its several markets are famous for their unique offerings and quirky finds. You can find everything from vintage clothing and accessories to art and crafts, and from Mexican groceries to Cuban cigars.
The market is also home to Camden Stables, a space that once housed horses but now accommodates a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants. The preserved architecture and design of the stables offer visitors a glimpse into Camden’s history.
Aside from shopping, Camden Market is a great place to soak up the atmosphere and people-watch. You can enjoy live music, street performances, and a variety of food stalls and vendors selling international cuisine.
Top Tip: Camden Market tends to get extremely crowded on the weekends. If possible, avoid Saturdays and Sundays. However, if you must go on the weekend, consider planning your trip before 11am or after 5pm.
Admission and Opening Hours: Entry to Camden Market is free, and it’s open every day from 10am to 6pm.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the British monarchy since King George III acquired it in 1761. While it may not be the most impressive from the outside, the inside of the palace is breathtaking.
Here are three things we recommend doing in and around Buckingham Palace:
Buckingham Palace: State Rooms
- Tour the State Rooms, which are open to visitors during the summer months only (Summer 2024 dates: 11 July – 29 September 2024).
- Highlights include the Ballroom, Picture Room, Throne Room, and White Drawing Room.
- Explore the palace gardens and view royal art collections.
- Tickets sell out quickly, so buy them well in advance to guarantee entry.
Check availability and pricing of the State Rooms tour here.
Buckingham Palace: Changing of the Guard Ceremony
- Changing of the Guard is a traditional ritual where the old guard hands over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace to the new guard.
- Takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
- Witness guards marching in traditional uniforms and bearskin hats for a quintessential London experience.
- Attending the ceremony is free, however, for a deeper historical understanding, we recommend experiencing the ceremony with a local guide.
Check availability and pricing of the Changing of the Guard ceremony with a guard here.
Buckingham Palace: The Royal Mews
- The Royal Mews manages road travel for The King and the members of the Royal Family.
- It’s one of the finest working stables, responsible for training horses for royal carriages.
- View historic coaches and carriages, including the stunning Diamond Jubilee State Coach.
- See some of The King’s horses that pull the coaches and carriages.
Buy your Royal Mews tickets here.
British Museum
Looking for a museum that has it all? Look no further than the British Museum! It’s home to tens of thousands of artefacts from all over the world, including ancient Egypt, Japan, and Nigeria. And the museum’s impressive architecture adds to the experience.
You could easily spend an entire day wandering the halls and still not see it all! The Egyptian collection is a highlight of the museum, featuring the famous Rosetta Stone and other treasures.
Top Tips for Visiting the British Museum
- Opt for the back entrance (Montague Place) instead of entering through the front entrance (Great Russell Street) to avoid longer queues.
- Grab a map and prioritise what you want to see – the museum is huge!
- While entry is free, booking a slot is recommended to skip queues.
- Visit early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
Reserve your free ticket at the British Museum here.
Admission and Opening Hours: Entry is free, though certain exhibitions may have fees. The museum is open daily from 10am-5pm (Fridays until 8:30pm).
Borough Market
Calling all food enthusiasts! Make sure to include Borough Market in your London itinerary. Located near London Bridge, this historic market caters to every food lover’s dream, offering fresh produce, street food, and delectable speciality dishes.
Did you know? Borough Market has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, like Bridget Jones’s Diary and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. So not only is the market a great place to grab some tasty food, but it also has a bit of a celebrity status!
The market can get quite busy, especially during peak hours. So, expect to queue for some of the more popular stalls. But don’t worry, it’s all part of the experience!
Top Tip: If navigating Borough Market feels overwhelming, consider joining a foodie walking tour. Local guides lead you to the best food spots while sharing the market’s rich history. You can check the tour pricing and availability here.
Admission and Opening Hours: Entry to Borough Market is free. The market is open from 10am-5pm Tuesday to Friday, 9am-5pm on Saturday, 10am-4pm on Sunday. And it’s closed on Mondays.
Butler’s Wharf
Butler’s Wharf, a Victorian warehouse district east of Tower Bridge, was once a bustling hub for the London Docks, where ships unloaded goods like tea, spices, and ivory. Today, this transformed area is a lively destination featuring restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops.
One of our favourite activities at Butler’s Wharf is strolling along the picturesque Shad Thames. The overhead gantries provide a stunning backdrop to the charming cobbled street.
Afterwards, head to Butler’s Wharf Pier, a riverfront location that offers panoramic views of the River Thames and the iconic Tower Bridge.
Here are your hotel options for London.
Battersea Power Station
Battersea Power Station, located on the south bank of the River Thames, is an iconic landmark that has played a significant role in London’s history. Built in the 1930s, this colossal coal-fired power station once supplied electricity to the city but ceased operations in 1983, leading to decades of redevelopment proposals that fell through.
After nearly 40 years and a £9 billion investment (approximately 10 billion € or US$11 billion), Battersea Power Station underwent a remarkable transformation, reopening its doors in October 2022. The architectural marvel blends Art Deco and brutalist design elements, featuring a distinctive brick facade and four towering chimneys that showcase London’s industrial past and its ability to adapt and thrive.
Within the historic turbine halls of Battersea Power Station, you’ll now find over 140 shops, restaurants, cafes, and a cinema.
Top Tip: Top Tip: As you explore Battersea Power Station’s surrounding area, walk along the gorgeous riverside promenade or find a cosy spot to unwind.
One of the fun things to do within the station is to ride on Lift 109, a glass lift ascending to the top of one of the chimneys. It offers a 360-degree view of London’s skyline. The ticket starts from £17 and includes entry to an interactive multimedia exhibition detailing the building’s history and transformation. Be sure to book your ticket ahead as they sell out quickly. As locals, we’ve strolled around Battersea a few times and wanted to ride the lift, but tickets were gone. Booking in advance allowed us to finally experience the lift’s panoramic view.
Buy your Lift 109 ticket here.
Admission and Opening Hours: It’s free to enter Battersea Power Station. The shops within the station are open from 10am-9pm Monday to Saturday, and 12pm-6pm on Sunday. Cafes, bars, restaurants, Lift 109 and the cinema are often open earlier and later.
Interactive Map: 24 Best Things to Do in London
To enhance your journey through the city of London, we’ve created an interactive map featuring all the top things to see mentioned in this article. Click on the map below to unveil the locations of the sights, providing you with a comprehensive guide to plan your itinerary and navigate the city with ease.
How to use this map: Access the list of locations by clicking on the top left corner of the map. For a larger view, open the map in a new tab by clicking on the top right corner. Or save our map to your Google Maps by clicking on the star next to the map title.
Other London Attractions and Experiences
For our city guides, we always meticulously select the activities that we think are the absolute best things to do. However, if you have a bit more time in London, consider these additional attractions:
London Eye – Enjoy views of London from the iconic rotating capsules of the London Eye, though we prefer other views like The Shard. If you decide on the London Eye, we recommend purchasing your London Eye tickets in advance.
Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour – Dive into the magical world of Harry Potter with this fantastic studio tour. We loved getting a behind-the-scenes view of the special effects and walking through film sets like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Platform 9 ¾. Don’t worry if you don’t have a car – there are many tours with transport from Central London. We can recommend this Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio tour with transfer, but there are many more highly-rated tours here.
Madame Tussauds – Get up close to lifelike wax figures of celebrities and historical icons at Madame Tussauds. It’s an entertaining visit, but for first-time visitors with limited days, we’d recommend prioritising the must-see attractions.
River Thames Cruise – See the sights of London along the banks of the River Thames on a sightseeing cruise from a unique perspective. It’s a great way to explore the city.
Sightseeing Bus Tour – While London is a walkable city, there’s so much to see! If your feet need a break, explore London on a bus tour. We’ve tried out several bus tour companies over the years with friends visiting us in London. Our favourite bus tour is offered by City Sightseeing, but there are many more (e.g. from Tootbus or Big Bus).
Stadium Tour – With 22 stadiums in London, why not discover your favourite one on a guided tour? Recommended ones include the Emirates Stadium & Museum Tour, Chelsea Football Club Stadium & Museum Tour, Wembley Stadium Tour, and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Tour.
Jack the Ripper Walking Tour – Walk through history with a guided tour, exploring the mysterious and infamous Jack the Ripper’s haunting trail.
Sea Life London Aquarium – Dive into the depths of the ocean without leaving London. If you’ve done most other things in London, this might be worth visiting for you. We thought it was okay, but we’ve seen better aquariums, like the S.E.A. Aquarium in Singapore or the Dubai Aquarium.
Westminster Abbey – Immerse yourself in history at Westminster Abbey, a grand and historic church.
Afternoon Tea – Indulge in the British tradition of afternoon tea, savouring delightful treats in a cosy setting. While you can opt for a classic experience at the Ritz or Fortnum & Mason, there are more unique versions, such as an afternoon tea on a double-decker bus or an afternoon tea cruise.
London Dungeon – Experience the darker side of London’s history through interactive exhibits at the London Dungeon. The actors are good and help you get into the spirit.
ZSL London Zoo – Enjoy a day surrounded by wildlife at London Zoo. It’s quite a pleasant experience overall, but some animal enclosures lacked enrichment for the animals.
Visiting London: FAQ
What shouldn’t I miss in London?
- Immerse yourself in history: Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Buckingham Palace.
- Catch iconic sights: Big Ben & Houses of Parliament, and Tower Bridge.
- Explore vibrant neighbourhoods: Notting Hill, and Covent Garden.
- Experience world-class art: British Museum, Natural History Museum, and Tate Modern.
- Indulge in afternoon tea: Harrods, Fortnum & Mason, Ritz, or double-decker afternoon tea tour.
What are 6 famous places in London?
Is there anything fun to do in London?
Absolutely! From bustling markets and iconic landmarks to world-class museums and quirky neighbourhoods, London offers endless fun. Catch a West End show, explore vibrant markets like Borough Market, or stroll along the Thames.
How do I spend a day in London?
Start with iconic sights like Big Ben & Houses of Parliament. Take a river cruise and get off at Tower Bridge. Grab afternoon tea at a renowned establishment like Harrods or Fortnum & Mason. Catch a West End show for a quintessential London experience.
How many days in London is enough?
Ideally, 5-7 days allow you to explore beyond the main sights and delve into different neighbourhoods. However, even a 3-day trip can offer a taste of London’s best.
What is the prettiest part of London?
Beauty is subjective, but some top contenders include:
- Regent’s Park with its lush gardens and stunning architecture.
- Notting Hill with its colourful houses and charming streets.
- Kensington Palace with its beautiful gardens and serene atmosphere.
- Greenwich with its maritime history and panoramic views.
What can I do in London for free?
- Explore world-class museums like the British Museum and Tate Modern (free entry to permanent collections).
- Wander through iconic parks like Hyde Park and St James’s Park.
- Attend free events like the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- See fascinating sights like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge from the outside.
Wrap-Up: Must-See Sights of London
So, that’s a glimpse of London! From the iconic Tower Bridge to the lively Borough Market, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the industrial heritage of Coal Drops Yard or the revitalised charm of Battersea Power Station, London unveils its stories at every turn.
After living in London for over seven years and still calling it our home, we’re excited to hear about your adventures in the city. Have you explored these gems? What are your favourite things to do and see in London? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
And if you haven’t visited London yet, we hope you feel inspired after seeing the pictures and learning about these must-see attractions!
16 comments
What a complete and detailed list! I’ve never been to London but I’m already looking forward to my visit with your list.
The tower bride looks stunning! I also love that you added parks. I’ve had very good experiences in visiting parks in Europe. The best part is they’re mostly free!
We couldn’t agree more, Gladis! London’s parks are indeed treasures, and the Tower Bridge is an iconic sight. We hope your first visit to London is everything you’re anticipating and more!
London is a gateway city for us to get to Europe so we have been there a few times. Each visit we pick one or two things to see on that trip. Your post has added some great new suggestions for future trips. Such great variety in the sights.
Linda, we’re delighted our post could provide you with fresh ideas for your future London visits. Here’s to discovering more of London’s wonderful sights on your future visits!