20 Things to Do in London: Top Activities, Tickets & Attractions

London captivates visitors with its perfect blend of historical grandeur and contemporary energy. From royal palaces and world-class museums to vibrant markets and theatrical masterpieces, the British capital offers an endless array of experiences for every type of traveller. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to discover more of this magnificent city, our curated list of things to do in London will help you craft an unforgettable itinerary. We’ve included iconic landmarks alongside local favourites, with practical information about tickets and the best ways to experience each attraction. Let’s explore the very best that London has to offer!

1. Visit the Tower of London

The Tower of London stands as one of Britain’s most iconic historical sites, combining nearly a thousand years of history with fascinating tales of intrigue, imprisonment, and royal treasures. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and even a zoo throughout its long and storied history.

The Tower’s fascinating history comes alive through the entertaining tours led by the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), who share tales of executions, escapes, and royal scandals. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at the dazzling Crown Jewels, explore the medieval White Tower, and discover the legendary ravens that are said to protect the kingdom.

• See the priceless Crown Jewels collection, including the Imperial State Crown
• Join a guided tour with the iconic Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters)
• Explore the White Tower, housing the Royal Armouries collection
• Visit the Medieval Palace and walk the ancient walls

Tickets to the Tower of London start from £29.90 for adults and £14.90 for children, with family tickets and online discounts available. Plan to spend at least 3 hours exploring this historic fortress to fully appreciate its significance.

2. Ride the London Eye

Soaring 135 meters above the Thames, the London Eye offers unparalleled 360-degree views of London’s skyline. This iconic observation wheel has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks since opening in 2000, providing a spectacular vantage point to see up to 40 kilometers in all directions on a clear day.

Each rotation in one of the 32 high-tech glass capsules takes approximately 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to spot famous landmarks like Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament, and Tower Bridge. The experience is particularly magical at sunset when the city begins to light up.

• Experience breathtaking panoramic views across London
• Identify major landmarks with interactive touchscreen guides
• Choose special experiences like Champagne flights or private pods
• Combine with other South Bank attractions for a full day of sightseeing

Standard tickets start from £30, but booking in advance online can save you money and time. For an extra-special experience, consider the Champagne Experience or beat the crowds with Fast Track entry.

3. Explore the British Museum

Housing one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of human history, art, and culture, the British Museum is a treasure trove of over eight million works spanning two million years of civilization. This magnificent institution takes visitors on a journey through time and across continents, from ancient Egypt to modern Europe.

The museum’s most famous artifacts include the Rosetta Stone, which was key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs, the controversial Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon, and the impressive collection of Egyptian mummies. The stunning Great Court with its spectacular glass roof is an architectural marvel in itself.

• Marvel at the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies
• See the controversial Parthenon sculptures (Elgin Marbles)
• Explore the extensive collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts
• Discover treasures from around the world in themed galleries

Entry to the British Museum is free, though some special exhibitions may require tickets. The museum is vast, so consider joining one of the free daily guided tours or using the museum’s suggested itineraries to focus on areas that interest you most.

4. Witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Experience a quintessentially British tradition at Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a colorful spectacle of British pageantry that has attracted visitors for generations.

Watch as the Queen’s Guard, dressed in their distinctive red tunics and bearskin hats, perform the ceremonial handover accompanied by a military band. The elaborate ceremony represents the official handover of responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Palace.

• Watch the precision drill and band performance
• Photograph the guards in their iconic red uniforms and bearskin hats
• Experience a royal tradition dating back centuries
• Combine with a tour of Buckingham Palace State Rooms (summer only)

The Changing of the Guard typically takes place at 11:00 am on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, weather permitting. This free spectacle is extremely popular, so arrive at least 45 minutes early for the best viewing spots. During summer months, you can also tour the State Rooms when the Royal Family is away.

5. Step Inside Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey stands as a magnificent example of Gothic architecture and a living pageant of British history. Since 1066, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been the coronation church for British monarchs and the final resting place for many of the nation’s most significant historical figures.

Walking through the Abbey is like taking a journey through England’s past. Marvel at Poets’ Corner, where literary giants like Chaucer, Dickens, and Tennyson are commemorated. Stand in the same spot where countless royal weddings and coronations have taken place, including the coronation of King Charles III and the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton.

• Visit the tombs of monarchs including Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots
• See Poets’ Corner, the resting place of famous British writers
• Admire the magnificent medieval architecture and stained glass
• Experience the Lady Chapel, considered the height of Tudor Gothic design

Admission to Westminster Abbey costs around £27 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children. Audio guides are included with your ticket, providing fascinating insights into the Abbey’s history and significance.

6. Admire Modern Art at Tate Modern

Housed in the former Bankside Power Station on the south bank of the Thames, Tate Modern has transformed into one of the world’s most visited contemporary art museums. Its industrial architecture provides a striking backdrop for its collection of international modern and contemporary art from 1900 to the present day.

The museum’s vast Turbine Hall hosts large-scale, specially commissioned works that often become talking points in the art world. The permanent collection includes masterpieces by Picasso, Warhol, Dalí, and Hockney, alongside rotating exhibitions that challenge and inspire visitors.

• See works by Picasso, Warhol, Rothko, and other modern masters
• Experience the impressive Turbine Hall installations
• Enjoy panoramic views of London from the viewing platform
• Explore both permanent collections and temporary exhibitions

Entry to Tate Modern’s permanent collection is free, though special exhibitions require tickets. The museum’s location offers spectacular views of St. Paul’s Cathedral across the Millennium Bridge, making it worth visiting even for the architecture and vistas alone.

7. Sample Culinary Delights at Borough Market

Dating back to the 13th century, Borough Market is London’s oldest and most renowned food market. This gastronomic paradise near London Bridge brings together artisanal food producers, international street food vendors, and specialty ingredient suppliers under one vibrant roof.

Wandering through the market is a feast for all senses. The air is filled with enticing aromas from freshly baked bread, sizzling street food, and aromatic spices. Vendors offer generous samples, allowing you to taste everything from artisanal cheeses and charcuterie to exotic truffles and olive oils.

• Sample artisanal cheeses, fresh bread, and international delicacies
• Enjoy street food from around the world
• Shop for unique ingredients and food souvenirs
• Join a food tour for expert insights into the market’s best offerings

Entry to Borough Market is free, and it’s open Monday to Saturday, with limited stalls on Mondays and Tuesdays. For the full experience, visit between Wednesday and Saturday when all traders are present. The market is busiest during lunch hours, so arrive early if you prefer a more relaxed experience.

8. Experience a West End Show

London’s West End is synonymous with world-class theater, rivaling New York’s Broadway for the quality and variety of its productions. Taking in a show in this historic entertainment district is an essential London experience, offering everything from long-running musicals to cutting-edge plays and star-studded revivals.

The area around Leicester Square, Covent Garden, and Shaftesbury Avenue houses dozens of historic theaters, many dating back to the Victorian era. These beautiful venues add to the magic of seeing productions like “The Lion King,” “Les Misérables,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” or the latest critically acclaimed plays.

• See world-famous musicals and award-winning plays
• Experience performances in historic, ornate theaters
• Spot celebrities in leading roles or in the audience
• Enjoy pre-theater dining in Covent Garden or Soho

Ticket prices vary widely depending on the show and seating location, typically ranging from £25 to £150+. For the best deals, visit the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for same-day discounted tickets, or try your luck with daily lottery tickets for popular shows.

9. Relax in Hyde Park

Hyde Park offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, with 350 acres of green space in the heart of London. As one of the city’s eight Royal Parks, it has been a place of recreation, protest, and celebration for centuries, hosting everything from royal hunting parties to massive concerts and demonstrations.

The park’s centerpiece is the Serpentine, a large recreational lake where visitors can swim, boat, or simply enjoy the waterside cafes. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Serpentine Gallery, which showcases contemporary works in a former tea pavilion, while history buffs can visit Speakers’ Corner, the traditional site of public speeches and debates since the 1800s.

• Boat or swim in the Serpentine lake during summer months
• Visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain
• Explore the Serpentine Galleries’ contemporary art exhibitions
• Join the many recreational activities from cycling to horseback riding

Entry to Hyde Park is free, and it’s open from 5:00 am until midnight year-round. The park hosts many seasonal events, including Winter Wonderland during the Christmas season and summer concerts featuring world-famous musicians.

10. Walk Across Tower Bridge

Often mistakenly called “London Bridge,” the iconic Tower Bridge is one of London’s most recognizable landmarks. This Victorian engineering marvel, completed in 1894, combines a bascule and suspension bridge design that allows it to open for river traffic while maintaining its Gothic architectural style.

Walking across Tower Bridge offers spectacular views of the Thames, The Shard, HMS Belfast, and the Tower of London. For an enhanced experience, visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition inside the bridge’s towers, where you can learn about its history, see the original Victorian engine rooms, and walk across the thrilling glass floor walkway 42 meters above the river.

• Walk across the high-level glass floor for unique river views
• Learn about the bridge’s history and engineering in the exhibition
• See the original Victorian engine rooms
• Check the bridge lifting schedule to witness this spectacular event

Walking across the bridge at street level is free, but tickets for the Tower Bridge Exhibition cost around £11.40 for adults and £5.70 for children when booked online. The exhibition provides fascinating insights into the bridge’s construction and operation.

11. Discover the Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is a cathedral to the natural world, housing an awe-inspiring collection of over 80 million specimens spanning billions of years of Earth’s history. Housed in a magnificent Romanesque building, the museum combines scientific research with interactive exhibits that appeal to visitors of all ages.

The museum’s centerpiece is the spectacular Hintze Hall, where a massive blue whale skeleton named Hope now hangs from the ceiling. Beyond this impressive welcome, visitors can journey through galleries dedicated to human evolution, dinosaurs, mammals, and the fascinating Earth Hall with its escalator through a model of the Earth’s core.

• Marvel at the famous dinosaur gallery with animatronic T-Rex
• See the blue whale skeleton suspended in Hintze Hall
• Explore the mammal hall with its life-sized blue whale model
• Experience the earthquake simulator in the Earth Hall

Entry to the Natural History Museum is free, though some special exhibitions may require tickets. The museum is extremely popular, especially during school holidays, so arrive early or visit during weekdays if possible to avoid the largest crowds.

12. Stroll Along the South Bank

The South Bank is one of London’s most vibrant cultural districts, stretching along the Thames from Westminster Bridge to Blackfriars Bridge. This riverside promenade offers a perfect blend of iconic views, cultural institutions, street performers, and dining options that make it ideal for a leisurely walk at any time of year.

As you stroll along the South Bank, you’ll pass world-class venues like the Southbank Centre, National Theatre, and BFI Southbank. Street performers entertain crowds, food markets tempt with global cuisines, and book stalls under Waterloo Bridge offer literary treasures. The walk provides spectacular views of London icons like Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the City of London skyline.

• Enjoy street performances and seasonal festivals
• Browse the book market under Waterloo Bridge
• Visit the Southbank Centre’s cultural venues
• Capture perfect photos of London’s skyline across the river

Walking along the South Bank is completely free, making it one of London’s best budget-friendly activities. The area is particularly magical at sunset and in the evening when the buildings across the river light up. Food markets and festivals frequently pop up along the route, especially during summer months.

13. Explore Notting Hill and Portobello Road Market

Made famous by the eponymous film, Notting Hill combines elegant Victorian townhouses, bohemian charm, and cultural diversity. At its heart lies Portobello Road Market, one of London’s most beloved street markets and a treasure trove for antique hunters, fashion lovers, and food enthusiasts alike.

Saturdays are when Portobello Road Market truly comes alive, with over a mile of stalls selling everything from valuable antiques and vintage clothing to fresh produce and street food. The market’s different sections each have their own character, from the antiques section at the Notting Hill end to the vintage fashion further north.

• Hunt for treasures among the world’s largest antiques market
• Photograph the area’s famous colorful houses
• Sample international street food from market vendors
• Visit filming locations from the movie “Notting Hill”

Exploring Notting Hill and browsing Portobello Road Market is free, though you’ll want to bring spending money for the irresistible finds. The market is busiest on Saturdays when all stalls are open, but sections of the market operate throughout the week. August visitors can experience the famous Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s biggest street festival.

14. Take a Thames River Cruise

Seeing London from the water offers a unique perspective on the city’s most famous landmarks. A Thames River cruise lets you experience the capital’s rich history while escaping the busy streets, providing uninterrupted views of iconic sights that have defined London for centuries.

Various cruise options cater to different interests, from basic sightseeing trips to afternoon tea cruises and romantic dinner experiences. Most routes travel between Westminster and Greenwich, passing landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe, Tower of London, and Tower Bridge.

• See major London landmarks from a unique perspective
• Learn about London’s history through onboard commentary
• Choose from sightseeing, dining, or themed cruise experiences
• Use hop-on-hop-off boat services as practical transportation

Standard sightseeing cruises start from around £14 for adults, while dining cruises cost considerably more. Many London Pass holders can enjoy a free river cruise as part of their package. For a budget alternative, consider using the Thames Clipper commuter service, which follows similar routes at a lower cost.

15. Indulge in Afternoon Tea

Few experiences are as quintessentially British as afternoon tea, a delightful tradition dating back to the 1840s. In London, this elegant ritual has been elevated to an art form, with venues across the city offering everything from traditional spreads to innovative themed experiences.

A traditional afternoon tea typically includes finger sandwiches with classic fillings like cucumber and cream cheese or egg and cress, freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of cakes and pastries. All this is accompanied by your choice of fine teas, or champagne for a special occasion.

• Experience a British tradition in elegant surroundings
• Enjoy finger sandwiches, scones, and delicate pastries
• Choose from historic hotels, department stores, or quirky themed teas
• Upgrade to champagne tea for special occasions

Prices vary widely depending on the venue, from around £35 at mid-range establishments to over £70 at luxury hotels like The Ritz or Claridge’s. Many places offer themed afternoon teas inspired by everything from famous books to fashion designers, providing unique twists on this classic experience.

16. Visit Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter

For Harry Potter fans, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London offers an unmissable behind-the-scenes look at the magical world created for the blockbuster film series. Located just outside London in Leavesden, where all eight Harry Potter films were made, this immersive attraction showcases the incredible sets, costumes, and props that brought J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world to life.

Walk through the actual Great Hall, explore Diagon Alley, step aboard the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9¾, and discover how the films’ breathtaking special effects were created. The tour constantly evolves with new additions, from the Forbidden Forest to Gringotts Wizarding Bank, ensuring even repeat visitors find something new to experience.

• Explore iconic sets including the Great Hall and Diagon Alley
• See thousands of authentic props and costumes
• Discover the secrets behind the films’ special effects
• Taste Butterbeer and shop for exclusive merchandise

Tickets must be booked in advance and cost approximately £51.50 for adults and £40 for children. The studio is located about 20 miles northwest of London, accessible by train from Euston to Watford Junction, followed by a dedicated shuttle bus. Plan for at least 3-4 hours to fully enjoy the experience.

17. Climb to the Dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral

Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, St. Paul’s Cathedral, has dominated London’s skyline for over 300 years. This architectural marvel with its distinctive dome has witnessed countless historic events, from the funerals of Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher to the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

Visitors can explore the cathedral’s ornate interior, including the vast crypt housing tombs of national heroes like Admiral Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. The real highlight, however, is climbing the 528 steps to the top of the dome. The journey takes you first to the Whispering Gallery, where a whisper against the wall can be heard on the opposite side, then to the Stone and Golden Galleries offering spectacular panoramic views across London.

• Experience the acoustic marvel of the Whispering Gallery
• Climb to the outdoor Golden Gallery for panoramic city views
• Explore the vast crypt with tombs of famous historical figures
• Marvel at the intricate mosaics and Wren’s architectural genius

Admission to St. Paul’s Cathedral costs around £21 for adults when booked online, with concessions available. The ticket includes access to the cathedral floor, crypt, and all three galleries of the dome, plus multimedia guides and guided tours.

18. Browse Camden Market

Camden Market is actually a collection of adjoining markets in Camden Town, forming one of London’s most vibrant and alternative shopping destinations. This eclectic marketplace has evolved from a small arts and crafts fair in the 1970s to a major attraction that draws visitors from around the world.

The market encompasses several distinct areas, including Camden Lock by the canal, the Stables Market in former horse stables, and Camden Lock Village. Together they offer an astonishing variety of goods from vintage clothing and handcrafted jewelry to international street food and unique artwork. The area’s distinctive aesthetic, with elaborate shop fronts and street art, adds to its appeal.

• Shop for alternative fashion, vintage finds, and unique gifts
• Sample global cuisines at the international food stalls
• Explore the converted stables and horse hospital
• Enjoy live music and the area’s distinctive punk heritage

Entry to Camden Market is free, and it’s open every day, though many stalls are closed on Mondays. The market is busiest on weekends, so visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience. After shopping, you can take a walk along Regent’s Canal or visit nearby Primrose Hill for panoramic views of London.

19. Stand on the Prime Meridian at Greenwich

Greenwich is a historic riverside area that combines maritime history, scientific achievement, and beautiful green spaces. Most famously, it’s home to the Prime Meridian Line, which divides the eastern and western hemispheres and is the reference point for Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

The Royal Observatory, perched on a hill in Greenwich Park, is where you can stand astride the Meridian Line with one foot in each hemisphere – a popular photo opportunity. The Observatory also houses fascinating astronomical and timekeeping exhibits, including John Harrison’s revolutionary marine chronometers that solved the longitude problem.

• Stand on the Prime Meridian line with one foot in each hemisphere
• Explore the Royal Observatory’s astronomy exhibits
• Visit the National Maritime Museum and Cutty Sark clipper ship
• Enjoy panoramic London views from Greenwich Park

Entry to Greenwich Park is free, but the Royal Observatory charges around £16 for adults and £8 for children. The area is easily reached by river boat from central London, adding a scenic journey to your visit. Other attractions in Greenwich include the free National Maritime Museum and the restored Cutty Sark tea clipper.

20. Experience East London’s Street Art and Brick Lane

East London’s Brick Lane and Shoreditch areas have transformed from working-class neighborhoods to vibrant cultural hubs known for their street art, vintage shops, curry houses, and hipster cafes. This dynamic district showcases London’s multicultural identity and creative energy.

Brick Lane itself has been shaped by successive waves of immigration, most recently becoming the center of London’s Bangladeshi community and famous for its curry restaurants. On Sundays, the Brick Lane Market sprawls through the area, offering vintage clothing, antiques, crafts, and global street food in a bustling, multicultural atmosphere.

• Discover ever-changing street art by world-renowned artists
• Sample authentic Bangladeshi curry on “Curry Mile”
• Browse vintage shops and independent boutiques
• Visit the Sunday markets for unique finds and street food

Exploring Brick Lane and Shoreditch is free, though you’ll want money for the markets, shops, and eateries. For the best experience, join a guided street art tour to learn about the artists and the area’s history. The district is particularly lively on Sundays when all the markets are operating.

Plan Your Perfect London Adventure

London’s remarkable blend of history, culture, and innovation ensures there’s something for every traveller to discover. From royal palaces and world-class museums to vibrant markets and peaceful parks, the city offers endless possibilities for exploration. This list of 20 things to do in London only scratches the surface of what this magnificent capital has to offer.

When planning your visit, consider London’s seasonal attractions too – summer brings open-air theatre and riverside festivals, autumn offers beautiful park colors, winter transforms the city with Christmas markets and ice rinks, while spring sees royal parks burst into bloom. For the best experience, mix iconic landmarks with local neighborhoods to truly understand what makes London one of the world’s most visited cities.

Remember that many of London’s best museums are free, while popular paid attractions often offer discounts for advance online booking. Consider investing in a London Pass if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions, as this can provide significant savings. Whatever your interests, budget, or time constraints, London promises unforgettable experiences and memories to last a lifetime.