London is one of the most exciting cities in the world, but with so much to see, deciding what to tick off first can feel like a full-time job. If you’re searching for things to do in London, here’s your ultimate hit list: a mix of iconic sights, cultural gems, and royal drama.

London skyline with modern skyscrapers including the Walkie Talkie and the Cheesegrater, viewed from across the River Thames under a clear blue sky.
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I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger and lifelong London enthusiast (I grew up next door in Essex and still pop in regularly for work, wanders, and the occasional overpriced cocktail).

Whether you’re a first-timer or a return visitor, here’s your ultimate bucket list of the best things to do in London.

1. Snap the Guards at Buckingham Palace 👑

You can’t come to London and not visit the King’s gaff. The iconic gates, fancy facade, and strutting soldiers make it a photo-op dream.

Buckingham Palace with the Victoria Memorial in front, viewed from the garden with well-maintained flower beds, under a partly cloudy sky.
Buckingham Palace

Time it right to see the Changing of the Guard – all pomp, pageantry, and plenty of foot stomping.

In summer, the State Rooms open up for public tours (expect chandeliers and enough gold to kit out a Bond villain). And the gardens? Surprisingly chill. Bring a posh picnic.

Nearest Tube: Green Park.

🎟️ Tickets for State Rooms | 🏨 Stay nearby: Taj 51 Buckingham Gate.

2. Get Lost in the British Museum 🏛️

This place is like a time machine for history nerds.

From the Rosetta Stone to Egyptian mummies, ancient Greek statues and Mesopotamian bits you didn’t know existed, it’s a world tour in one (massive) building.

Interior view of a large, domed atrium at the British Museum, with people walking on split staircases. It features a central round structure under a stunning geometric glass ceiling.
British Museum

Bonus: entry is free! Though you might want a guide to help make sense of the sheer scale. The glass-roofed Great Court is worth a visit alone.

Nearest Tube: Tottenham Court Road.
🎟️ Museum Tour Tickets | 🏨 Stay nearby: Radisson Blu Edwardian Kenilworth

Top tip: For the best London days out, check out my curated list of London Experiences.

3. Visit the Tower of London ⚔️

A castle, a prison, a palace, a zoo (briefly) – this place has done it all.

The Tower of London has 1,000 years of scandal and spine-tingling stories. Plus: Crown Jewels, beefeaters, and some very moody ravens.

A woman in a blue dress stands in front of a historic stone castle in London with a black metal fence in the foreground. The sky above is partly cloudy.
Tower of London

Anne Boleyn’s ghost is rumoured to roam here (headless, no less). Book a guided tour or just explore the walls at your own pace.

Nearest Tube: Tower Hill.
🎟️ Tower Entry Tickets | 🏨 Stay nearby: citizenM Tower of London.

4. Admire Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament ⏰

Is it even London if you don’t get a snap of Big Ben?

Officially called the Elizabeth Tower, this is the city’s most famous clock, attached to the glorious Gothic masterpiece that is the Houses of Parliament.

Close-up of Big Ben’s clock tower with gold details shining in the sunlight against a blue sky.
Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower)

You can book a tour to go inside if you fancy some politics and stained glass. Or just wander over Westminster Bridge for the classic view over the Thames.

Nearest Tube: Westminster.
🎟️ Westminster + Big Ben Tour | 🏨 Stay nearby: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge.

5. Ride the London Eye 🌇

For big London views without a helicopter budget, hop on the London Eye.

It’s a slow-moving giant wheel on the South Bank with epic views over the Thames, Westminster, and beyond.

The London Eye ferris wheel against a vivid blue sky, with the River Thames and nearby buildings below.
London Eye

It takes about 40 minutes to go full circle. Pro tip: book a sunset slot or go for the champagne experience if you’re feeling fancy.

Nearest Tube: Waterloo
🎟️ London Eye Tickets | 🏨 Stay nearby: Park Plaza County Hall.

6. Browse the Tate Modern 🎨

Art lovers, rejoice. The Tate Modern is home to Picasso, Warhol, Rothko, and a rotating cast of weird and wonderful installations.

It’s housed in an old power station, with turbine hall exhibitions that wow every time.

The exterior view of Tate Modern features its iconic tall chimney against an overcast sky. A banner intriguingly asks, "If Tate Modern was Musée de la Danse?" Trees and brick buildings complete the foreground, enhancing this emblem of contemporary art.
Tate Modern

Entry is free, but check if there’s a paid exhibition you want to catch. The rooftop restaurant also serves skyline views with your lunch.

Nearest Tube: Southwark or Blackfriars
🎟️ Tate Guided Tours | 🏨 Stay nearby: Hilton London Bankside.

7. Wander Trafalgar Square 🌿

It’s always buzzing here, with street performers, protests, and the odd pigeon photo bomb.

Nelson’s Column towers above, guarded by those famous bronze lions (yes, kids do climb them).

Trafalgar Square in London at dusk with the Nelson's Column in the center, surrounded by buildings and a view of Big Ben in the distance.
Trafalgar Square

Swing by the National Gallery while you’re here to see masterpieces by da Vinci, Van Gogh and Monet. It’s right on the square, and it’s free!

Nearest Tube: Charing Cross.
🎟️ National Gallery Highlights Tour | 🏨 Stay nearby: Thistle Trafalgar Square.

8. Marvel at the Natural History Museum 🧕

Even before you step inside, the Romanesque building will knock your socks off.

Inside, you’ll find a massive blue whale skeleton hanging in the Hintze Hall, plus dino skeletons, gemstones, and earthquakes you can walk through.

A large blue whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling inside a grand, arched historical museum in London, UK.
Famous Blue Whale Skeleton

Great for kids, science lovers, or just anyone who wants to say hi to a stegosaurus.

Nearest Tube: South Kensington.
🎟️ Museum Tour Tickets | 🏨 Stay nearby: The Queen’s Gate Hotel.

9. Geek Out at the Science Museum 🛰

Right next door to the Natural History Museum, this one’s full of hands-on fun.

Think rockets, space suits, and Stephenson’s Rocket (a game-changing steam train).

Great for families, but honestly just as good for curious adults. The Wonderlab gallery is especially cool if you’re into interactive experiments.

Nearest Tube: South Kensington.
🎟️ Science Museum Guided Tour | 🏨 Stay nearby: The Rembrandt.

10. Explore the V&A Museum 🎩

A treasure trove of art, design and fashion. The Victoria & Albert Museum has everything from ancient jewellery to Alexander McQueen gowns.

It’s huge, beautifully curated, and often has fab temporary exhibits too.

A grand historic building in London, UK, with an ornate facade, featuring multiple arches and detailed carvings, stands against a backdrop of blue skies and scattered clouds.
Victoria and Albert Museum.

There’s also a dreamy courtyard for coffee breaks between galleries.

Nearest Tube: South Kensington.
🎟️ V&A Private Tour | 🏨 Stay nearby: The Ampersand Hotel.

London tip: Consider purchasing the London Pass or the London Explorer Pass, which offer discounts and fast-track entry to many attractions.

11. Gaze Up at St Paul’s Cathedral ⛪

One of the most beautiful buildings in London, St Paul’s Cathedral is famous for its vast dome (which you can climb), whispering gallery, and sweeping city views.

St Paul’s Cathedral dome and stone façade against a bright blue sky with light clouds.
St Paul’s Cathedral

Inside, it’s all elegant arches and golden light. Downstairs, the crypt is full of historical heavyweights like Lord Nelson and Florence Nightingale.

Fun fact: St Paul’s was one of the only London buildings to survive the Great Fire of London in 1666, when all the buildings around it were burned to the ground.

Nearest Tube: St Paul’s.
🎟️ St Paul’s Tickets | 🏨 Stay nearby: Club Quarters Hotel St Paul’s.

12. Cross Tower Bridge 🌉

Don’t mix it up with boring old London Bridge. Tower Bridge is the one with the fairy-tale towers and glass floor walkway.

It even lifts up to let ships pass underneath – still a cool sight even after 100+ years.

Tower Bridge and London’s curved glass City Hall building on a sunny day with bright blue sky.
Tower Bridge, London

You can go inside to learn how it all works (spoiler: hydraulics), or just walk across for a fab view of the Tower of London.

Nearest Tube: Tower Hill.
🎟️ Tower Bridge Audio Tour | 🏨 Stay nearby: The Lalit London.

13. Chill Out in Covent Garden 🌺

Street performers, boutique shops, fairy lights, and floral balconies: Covent Garden is a dreamy place for a wander.

You’ll find live music, market stalls, and the odd opera singer belting out a tune.

A wooden cart labeled "Covent Garden" filled with plants and flowers stands on a cobblestone street lined with buildings.
The bustling interior of this shopping area, one of the notable London tourist attractions, features an arched glass ceiling and multiple floors packed with diverse shops. Visitors wander through the stylish space, discovering unique finds as they embrace the vibrant city atmosphere.
Covent Garden

It’s also home to the Royal Opera House and some excellent wine bars. Come for the photos, stay for the cocktails.

Nearest Tube: Covent Garden.
🎟️ Walking Tours Here | 🏨 Stay nearby: The Henrietta Hotel.

14. Snack Your Way Through Borough Market 🍽️

London’s ultimate foodie spot.

Borough Market is a sensory overload of sizzling street food, artisanal cheese, cured meats, and gooey brownies.

Borough Market

Get there early to beat the crowds and bring a card, as not all vendors accept cash. Perfect for lunch, snacks, and gifts.

Nearest Tube: London Bridge.
🎟️ Market Food Tours | 🏨 Stay nearby: London Bridge Hotel.

15. Catch the View at Sky Garden 🌿

A lush indoor garden on the 43rd floor of a skyscraper? Yes please. The Sky Garden is one of London’s best free views – just book ahead.

A person in a black coat and hat stands on a rooftop terrace, overlooking a London tourist attraction skyscraper on a cloudy day.
Interior view of a large, modern glass-walled observation deck with people seated and standing, overlooking a cityscape. There are green plants and trees inside the space in London.
Sky Garden

Grab a drink at the bar, snap the skyline, and see how many landmarks you can spot from up high. It’s particularly dreamy at golden hour.

Nearest Tube: Monument.
🎟️ Book Free Tickets | 🏨 Stay nearby: The Ned.

16. Wander Camden Market 🌍

Camden is punky, colourful, and slightly chaotic, in the best way. Think food stalls, goth boots, quirky shops, and a canal that’s surprisingly peaceful just steps away.

View of Camden Lock in London, showcasing historic buildings, canals, moored boats, and a footbridge under a cloudy sky.
In Camden Town, a bronze statue of a woman in a dress stands elegantly on the bustling street, framed by vibrant planters filled with flowers, against the backdrop of a sleek modern building.
Camden

It’s also the spiritual home of Amy Winehouse. Grab vintage clothes, record store finds, and some banging street food.

Nearest Tube: Camden Town.
🎟️ Camden Food Tour | 🏨 Stay nearby: Holiday Inn Camden Lock.

17. Climb Up to the Sky at The Shard 🌇

If the London Eye feels too slow and Sky Garden is fully booked, head to The Shard. It’s London’s tallest building and the views are pure wow.

The Shard skyscraper in London rising into a pale blue sky with soft clouds, surrounded by modern buildings.
An aerial view of London captures the iconic Tower Bridge over the River Thames, with city buildings and the Canary Wharf skyline in the background under a partly cloudy sky—showcasing one of the top London tourist attractions.
The Shard and the view from the Shard

Book a slot for the viewing platform or splash out on cocktails at one of the sky-high bars. Don’t forget to look down!

Nearest Tube: London Bridge
🎟️ Shard Tickets | 🏨 Stay nearby: Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard.

Handy Travel Tips for London 📝

📖 Book attraction tickets in advance to skip queues (especially for the London Eye & Shard).

🌧️ Pack a brolly or raincoat. London weather is… let’s call it moody.

🚶 Bring comfy shoes – this is a walking city!

📟 Use Citymapper app to navigate the Tube like a pro.

🚒 Get a contactless card or Oyster card for easy public transport.

🚖 Avoid driving. Parking is pricey, traffic is wild, and the Tube is faster.

Map of Things to Do in London 🗺️

Here’s a handy map showing all the top London attractions mentioned in this post. Perfect for plotting your sightseeing route and figuring out what’s nearby. Click the star to save it to your own Google Maps for easy trip planning.

FAQs About Things to Do in London 💡

Got questions about planning your London trip? Here are some quick answers to help make your visit smoother.

What’s the best time of year to visit London?

Spring and autumn are perfect for mild weather and fewer crowds. December is magical too, think Christmas markets and twinkly lights. Also, try London in winter for a quieter city (but wrap up warm).

Can I see London on a budget?

Yes! Many top museums (like the British Museum and National Gallery) are totally free. Parks, markets, and neighbourhood strolls are also budget-friendly.

Is the London Pass worth it?

It can be, especially if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions in a few days. Do the maths based on your itinerary.

How do I get around London?

The Tube is your best friend. Contactless cards or Oyster cards work on all public transport. Walking is great too!

What’s the best viewpoint in London?

Sky Garden is free and gorgeous, The Shard is the tallest, and the London Eye gives you moving 360° views. Pick your vibe.

Final Thoughts on London ✨

London is the kind of city that keeps surprising you – whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth. From royal palaces to riverside views, quirky markets to sky-high gardens, it’s a place that blends history and modernity like nowhere else.

So pack comfy shoes, grab your Oyster card, and dive into one of the most vibrant cities in the world.

Planning your London itinerary? Check out my related posts:

🌟 15 Famous Icons of London, UK.
🌳 Guide to the 8 Royal Parks of London.
🌎 Ultimate London Travel Guide.
🔮 Harry Potter Things to Do in London.
📏 Where to Stay in London by Neighbourhood.
💫 Best 5-Star Hotels in London for a Luxurious Stay.
❄️ Things to Do in London in Winter (That Actually Suit the Season).

Pinterest Pins for London 📌

Planning your London trip? Save this post for later by pinning one of the images below to your travel inspiration boards on Pinterest.

Collage of London landmarks including Tower Bridge lit at dusk, the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben with a Union Jack flag, and the London Eye against a bright blue sky, with text reading “Things to Do in London”.
Close-up of Big Ben’s clock tower against a bright blue sky with white clouds, with text reading “Things to Do in London”.

👉 Looking for practical travel tools? Check out my Travel Resources page.

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