London, the vibrant capital of England, is a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and modernity. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, London offers countless experiences that cater to all interests. Here are the top must-do activities to make the most of your trip:
1. Marvel at the Iconic Big Ben and Houses of Parliament
Big Ben is one of London’s most famous landmarks. Officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, this stunning clock tower is part of the Houses of Parliament. Take a guided tour to learn about British politics and history, or simply admire the Gothic architecture from the nearby Westminster Bridge.
Visiting Hours: Varies as per the month. Usually 9:15 am to 4:30 pm
Entry Fee: 30£ for Adults and 15£ for Children
2. Visit the Tower of London and Tower Bridge
The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over a thousand years of history. It’s home to the Crown Jewels and has served as a royal palace, prison, and fortress. Nearby, Tower Bridge offers breathtaking views of the Thames River and London’s skyline. Walking across the bridge or exploring the exhibition inside is a must.
Visiting Hours: 9 or 10 am to 4:30 pm
Entry Fee: 34.80£
3. Explore the British Museum
The British Museum is a treasure trove of human history, art, and culture. Its collection spans over two million years, featuring artefacts like the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. Best of all, entry is free, making it an excellent choice for travellers on a budget.
Visiting Hours: 10 am to 5 pm and until 8:30 pm on Fridays
Entry Fee: Free
4. Stroll Through Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most beautiful green spaces. Rent a pedal boat on the Serpentine Lake, visit the Diana Memorial Fountain, or simply enjoy a relaxing walk. The park is also home to the famous Speakers’ Corner, a historic site for public debates and performances.
Visiting Hours: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
5. Discover the Southbank and London Eye
The Southbank is a lively area along the Thames, featuring theatres, restaurants, and street performers. The London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel, offers panoramic city views. A ride at sunset is particularly magical.
Visiting Hours: 11 am to 6 am (Monday to Friday) and 10 am to 8:30 pm (Saturday and Sundays)
Entry Fee: £29 when booked in advance, or £42 when booked on the spot
6. Step Back in Time at Buckingham Palace
As the official residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace is a symbol of royal heritage. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony or tour the State Rooms during the summer months.
Visiting Hours: 9:30 am to 7:30 pm
Entry Fee: Adult: £90.00 (in advance), £93.00 (on the day)
Young Person (18-24): £78.50 (in advance), £80.50 (on the day)
7. Admire Art at the National Gallery
Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery houses over 2,000 works of art, including masterpieces by Van Gogh, da Vinci, and Turner. Entry is free, making it a cultural highlight for art enthusiasts.
Visiting Hours: 11 am to 6 pm and Closed on Mondays and National Holidays
Entry Fee: Free
8. Experience West End Theatre
London’s West End is synonymous with world-class theatre. From timeless classics like The Phantom of the Opera to modern hits like Hamilton, there’s a show for everyone. Book your tickets in advance to secure the best seats.
Visiting Hours: Monday to Saturday
Entry Fee: £154.56
9. Tour the Harry Potter Studios
Harry Potter fans shouldn’t miss the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Explore iconic sets, costumes, and props from the beloved film series. The Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Hogwarts Express are just a few highlights.
Visiting Hours: 9:30 am to 10 pm
Entry Fee: £98.10 Onwards
10. Dine at Borough Market
Foodies will love Borough Market, a paradise for fresh produce and gourmet delights. Sample artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and international cuisines from the market’s many stalls.
Visiting Hours: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: Free
11. Take a River Thames Cruise
See London differently by taking a cruise along the River Thames. Many tours comment on the city’s history and landmarks, such as the Globe Theatre and the Shard.
Visiting Hours: 10 am to 10 pm
Entry Fee: 18£ for adults and 9£ for children
12. Shop at Camden Market
For a taste of London’s alternative culture, head to Camden Market. This bustling area has quirky shops, street food stalls, and live music venues. From vintage fashion to unique souvenirs, Camden Market has something for everyone.
Visiting Hours: 10 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: Free
13. Go Pub Hopping
Experience London’s pub culture by visiting some of its historic establishments. Try The Churchill Arms in Kensington for its floral façade and cozy atmosphere, or head to Ye Old Cheshire Cheese, a centuries-old pub frequented by literary legends.
14. Visit the Victoria and Albert Museum
The V&A Museum is a celebration of art and design, featuring everything from fashion and textiles to sculptures and photographs. The museum’s collection is vast, so plan to spend a few hours exploring.
Visiting Hours: 10 am to 5:45 pm
Entry Fee: Free
15. Take a Day Trip to Greenwich
Greenwich is a historic area that offers a mix of maritime history and stunning views. Visit the Royal Observatory, stand on the Prime Meridian, and explore the Cutty Sark, a 19th-century clipper ship.
16. Discover Hampton Court Palace
Step into the world of Tudor royalty at Hampton Court Palace. Explore the opulent State Apartments, the Great Hall, and the stunning gardens. The maze is a fun challenge for all ages.
Visiting Hours: 10 am to 4 pm
Entry Fee: £27.20
17. Cross Abbey Road
Music enthusiasts can’t resist recreating The Beatles’ famous album cover on Abbey Road. While you’re there, visit Abbey Road Studios, where countless legendary albums were recorded.
18. Indulge in Afternoon Tea
No trip to London is complete without indulging in afternoon tea. From luxury hotels like The Ritz to quaint tea rooms, there are plenty of options to enjoy this quintessentially British experience.
FAQs
- What are 7 places to visit in London?
The 7 places you must visit in London are Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, The Tower Of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye, The British Museum and Big Ben.
- What are 3 famous things in London?
Big Ben: The iconic clock tower, officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, symbolizes London.
Buckingham Palace: The official residence of the British monarch, famous for its Changing of the Guard ceremony.
The Tower of London: A historic castle known for housing the Crown Jewels and its rich royal history.
- Is there anything fun to do in London?
London offers a variety of fun activities, including:
Thrilling Experiences: Climb the O2 for stunning views or take a speedboat ride on the Thames for an adrenaline rush.
Unique Attractions: Enjoy immersive experiences like The Crystal Maze LIVE or visit themed bars for games and drinks.
Outdoor Adventures: Explore parks like Hampstead Heath, go kayaking in Camden, or hire a pedal boat in Hyde Park for a relaxing day out.
- What is the biggest attraction in London?
The biggest attraction in London is the British Museum, which draws millions of visitors annually to explore its vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world. Other notable contenders include the Tower of London and the London Eye, both of which are also extremely popular among tourists.
- What’s the prettiest place in London?
One of the prettiest places in London is Notting Hill, known for its colorful houses and charming streets, particularly along Portobello Road. Another stunning spot is Hampstead Heath, offering expansive green spaces and breathtaking views from Parliament Hill.
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