50 Things to Do in London

London, a dynamic global hub, pulses with history, culture, and endless energy, captivating visitors from around the globe. Whether you’re drawn to royal history tours in London, exploring diverse neighborhoods like Shoreditch, or seeking budget-friendly options such as the numerous free things to do in London, this city delivers experiences for every type of traveler. Planning your adventure well ensures you capture the essence of this vast metropolis.

This guide maps out 50 distinct activities to help you navigate the city’s rich offerings. From witnessing centuries-old traditions to indulging in modern culinary scenes, discover a mix of must-see landmarks and local favorites. Use this list to craft your perfect London journey and dive into its unique character.

Royal Landmarks and Historic Sites

Begin your exploration at Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the monarch. Check the schedule beforehand to witness the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony, a display of British pageantry.

Journey back in time at the Tower of London, a historic castle on the Thames. Explore its formidable walls and see the Crown Jewels, a dazzling collection of royal regalia.

Marvel at Westminster Abbey, the stunning Gothic church that has hosted coronations and royal weddings for centuries. Its intricate architecture and historical weight are deeply impressive.

Stand beneath Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower) and admire the Houses of Parliament from Parliament Square. Hearing the famous chimes echo across Westminster is a classic London moment.

Cross Tower Bridge, arguably London’s most recognizable bridge. Walk across its high-level walkways for great river views and visit the Victorian Engine Rooms.

Explore Kensington Palace, the birthplace of Queen Victoria and former home of Princess Diana. Tour the State Rooms and wander through the beautiful surrounding gardens.

Visit Hampton Court Palace, King Henry VIII’s magnificent former residence just outside central London. Get lost in its famous maze and explore the opulent Tudor kitchens.

Discover St Paul’s Cathedral, Sir Christopher Wren’s architectural masterpiece with its iconic dome. Climb to the Whispering Gallery for unique acoustics and ascend further for panoramic city views.

Walk down The Mall, the grand processional route leading from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace. It’s particularly atmospheric during royal events or on a sunny Sunday.

See Horse Guards Parade, the ceremonial grounds off Whitehall. You can often see the Household Cavalry guards on duty here, offering great photo opportunities.

World-Class Museums and Galleries

Immerse yourself in human history and culture at the British Museum, home to world treasures like the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. Entry to the permanent collection is free.

Explore the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum in South Kensington. See dinosaur skeletons, the blue whale model, and learn about Earth’s history; admission is free.

Discover science and technology at the Science Museum, also in South Kensington and offering free entry. Its interactive exhibits make it engaging for all ages.

Admire European masterpieces at the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. See works by artists like Van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, and Turner, with free admission to the main collection.

Experience modern and contemporary art at Tate Modern, housed in a former power station on the South Bank. Enjoy diverse exhibitions and stunning views from its upper levels; the permanent collection is free.

See British art from 1500 to the present day at Tate Britain on Millbank. Explore works by Turner, Constable, Hockney, and many others, with free entry to the main galleries.

Explore art and design at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in South Kensington. Its vast collection spans centuries and cultures, and general admission is free.

Visit the National Portrait Gallery next to the National Gallery (check reopening status). Discover portraits of influential figures throughout British history.

Step into the preserved home of a famous architect at Sir John Soane’s Museum. This unique house museum is packed with art and antiquities, offering free entry.

Explore London’s history at the Museum of London, tracing the city’s story from prehistoric times to the present day. Learn about Roman Londinium, the Great Fire, and more, with free admission.

Green Escapes in the City

Relax in Hyde Park, one of London’s largest Royal Parks. Go boating on the Serpentine lake or visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.

Wander through Regent’s Park, known for its beautiful rose gardens and the London Zoo. Climb Primrose Hill on its northern edge for fantastic skyline views.

Explore St James’s Park, located right next to Buckingham Palace. Enjoy the lake teeming with pelicans and waterfowl, offering peaceful views towards Whitehall.

Discover the expansive Richmond Park on the edge of London, famous for its wild deer herds. It offers a true escape into nature with woodlands and open grasslands.

Visit Kew Gardens (Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore diverse plant collections in stunning glasshouses and landscapes, though entry requires a ticket.

Stroll through Holland Park in Kensington, known for its tranquil Kyoto Garden. Find woodland paths, formal gardens, and even peacocks roaming freely.

Enjoy the views from Greenwich Park, offering iconic vistas across the River Thames towards Canary Wharf and the City. It’s also home to the Royal Observatory.

Walk or cycle along the Regent’s Canal, passing through areas like Little Venice, Camden, and Hackney. Enjoy the waterside pubs and houseboats lining the route.

Culinary Adventures and Markets

Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea experience at a hotel or tea room. Enjoy delicate sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and exquisite pastries.

Explore Borough Market near London Bridge, a paradise for food lovers. Sample artisanal cheeses, fresh oysters, street food from around the world, and gourmet products.

Wander through Camden Market, famous for its alternative fashion, crafts, and diverse international street food stalls. Soak up the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.

Discover Covent Garden Market, enjoying street performers in the piazza and browsing the Apple Market’s crafts. Find numerous restaurants and cafes surrounding the central market building.

Enjoy a classic pub lunch in a traditional London pub. Order fish and chips or a Sunday roast paired with a local ale for an authentic experience.

Taste diverse flavors in Brick Lane, famous for its curry houses. Explore the Sunday market for vintage clothes, street art, and food stalls.

Visit Maltby Street Market on weekends, tucked away under railway arches in Bermondsey. Find gourmet street food vendors and artisanal producers in a lively setting.

Explore the food scene in Soho, offering a huge concentration of restaurants covering every cuisine imaginable. From Michelin-starred dining to cheap eats, Soho has it all.

Have a meal in Chinatown, located just off Shaftesbury Avenue. Enjoy authentic East Asian cuisine, browse Chinese bakeries, and soak in the bustling atmosphere.

Try pie and mash, a traditional East End London dish. Find an authentic pie shop for a taste of London’s working-class culinary history.

Unique London Experiences

Ride the London Eye, the giant observation wheel on the South Bank. Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city’s skyline during the slow rotation.

Take a River Thames cruise for a different perspective on London’s landmarks. Various routes run between Westminster, the Tower of London, and Greenwich.

Visit the Sky Garden atop the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building for stunning city views from its public garden space. Booking free tickets in advance is essential.

Explore the vibrant street art scene in Shoreditch. Wander the streets to discover murals and graffiti by famous artists like Banksy and local talents.

Visit the Royal Observatory Greenwich, stand on the Prime Meridian Line, and explore the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Enjoy the history of astronomy and navigation.

Attend a West End theatre show in London’s famous theatre district around Shaftesbury Avenue and Leicester Square. Book tickets for musicals, plays, and comedies.

Explore Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station, a must-visit for Harry Potter fans. Find the trolley disappearing into the wall and browse the adjacent Harry Potter shop.

Discover Little Venice, a picturesque canal area where the Regent’s Canal and Grand Union Canal meet. Enjoy the tranquil waterside walks and colourful narrowboats.

Wander through Neal’s Yard in Covent Garden, a colourful hidden courtyard filled with independent shops and cafes. It’s a vibrant and photogenic spot.

Visit Abbey Road, famous for the Beatles’ album cover. Recreate the iconic crossing (carefully!) outside Abbey Road Studios.

Shopping Destinations

Browse the luxury stores along Bond Street and Oxford Street, two of London’s most famous shopping thoroughfares. Find designer boutiques, flagship stores, and high-street fashion.

Explore Harrods, the world-famous luxury department store in Knightsbridge. Admire its opulent food halls and designer collections, even if just window shopping.

Visit Carnaby Street, known for its independent boutiques and trendy fashion stores. Explore the surrounding pedestrianised streets filled with unique shops and eateries.

Discover Liberty London, a beautiful Tudor-revival department store known for its floral prints and curated selection of fashion and homewares. Its distinctive architecture is worth seeing.

Shop for quirky gifts and souvenirs in Notting Hill, especially around Portobello Road Market (famous for antiques on Saturdays). Explore the colourful houses and charming boutiques.