relaxing places to visit near london

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The 10 Most Relaxing Things To Do In London

Published on: 18th February 2024

Experience the calming side of London with our pick of the top 10 most refreshing activities in the city. From peaceful and tranquil walks around Hyde Park to relaxing spa days and the quiet of the canals, find your oasis among London’s hustle and bustle. Unwind, revive, and chill out in the capital.

Visit Kew Gardens

Leave the urban chaos behind and soak up the peace and tranquillity of Kew Gardens. Meander through beautiful displays of blooms and exotic plant collections. Step inside the glasshouses and be transported to tropical climates thousands of miles away.

Amble along the tree-lined paths, breathe in the fresh air and soak up all the sights and sounds of nature. Kew Gardens is the ultimate escape from London’s frenetic modern pace. A sanctuary where you can collect your thoughts and maybe even snatch a catnap.

Hyde Park, amid the hustle and bustle of London, offers a serene escape. Wander through landscapes of lush greenery as you take in the fresh air. The Serpentine Lake also offers a meeting spot for an afternoon of serenity. Rent a paddleboat, or simply sit and watch the world go by.

You could spend the day in Hyde Park in peaceful relaxation. Laze about with a picnic on the grassy lawns or relax with a book under the shade of a tree around the gentle lake. Hyde Park is the perfect place to escape the noise of the city.

Thames river cruise

Relax on a tranquil River Thames cruise for a serene way to experience London. Float along the still waters and take in renowned landmarks such as Tower Bridge or Big Ben from a peaceful viewpoint.

Enjoy the gentle breeze as you coast leisurely by sites of historical significance and modern-day marvels. Watch as the city is cast in a warm, golden glow, and the skyline twinkles if you opt for a sunset cruise. A River Thames cruise provides a restive getaway and reveals its city's loveliness as you've never seen it before.

Afternoon tea

Experience the utmost relaxation in London by indulging in the age-old British tradition of afternoon tea. Choose a cosy tearoom or elegant hotel lounge and delight in dainty sandwiches, warm scones, and fancy pastries.

You'll bask in a wide variety of aromatic tea served in fine china as you unwind in a calm yet sophisticated setting. Afternoon tea in London can be enjoyed alone, with a loved one or friends, and offers a peaceful respite from the city's energy through the age-old art of serene relaxation.

Indulge in ultimate relaxation with a luxury spa day in London. Chill out in chic surroundings as expert therapists treat you to indulgent treatments such as massages, facials, and body wraps. Soak in peaceful pools, saunas, and steam rooms, leaving all your stresses and strains far behind.

Many of the spas also offer tranquillity lounges where you can recline with herbal tea or fruit-infused water, enveloped in stillness. A spa day in London is a pure escape and offers the best way to rejuvenate in a haven of calm.

Visit a museum or gallery

Step into a haven of tranquillity as you explore London's world-class museums and galleries. Uncover enchanting galleries adorned with priceless works and artefacts, allowing your mind to drift and bask in the beauty surrounding you.

Admire masterpieces by greats of the art world or immerse yourself in absorbing displays that unfurl the stories of countless people and epochs. Many museums lay claim to serene spots for reflection, offering a restful refuge from the hurly-burly of the city beyond their walls.

Regent's Canal walk

Regent’s Canal offers a soothing escape in London, enveloped in tranquillity as if it were miles from the urban jungle. Wander aimlessly along this peaceful waterway, where a lush landscape leads to charming houseboats. You’ll be greeted by the serene sound of lapping water, accompanied by birdsong that will draw you into the calm.

Admire the vivid colours of the canal boats and historical architecture along the way. Whether you find yourself on your own or in the company of others, a canal-side walk is nothing short of a blissful retreat from the city's gridlocked streets in search of a gentle repose.

Watch a play or musical

Treat yourself to an enchanting experience with an evening of drama and live music at one of London’s top theatres. Let talented actors transport you to another time and place, laugh or cry, and be inspired as they share a story on stage.

From classic dramas to lively musicals, there’s something for everyone in the wonderful world of the theatre. Sit back in plush seats as actors and musicians bring stories to life, making you feel part of the action. It’s more than just a show… it’s a chance to relax and unwind surrounded by art and culture.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, London offers a plethora of serene activities for relaxation seekers. From tranquil walks along the Thames to rejuvenating spa experiences, the city's parks, galleries, and tea rooms provide ample opportunities to unwind. Whether indulging in a leisurely afternoon tea or finding solace in nature, London's charm soothes the soul.

If you're planning a visit to London and looking to book any one of the above-mentioned activities, you can receive help from Lovetovisit . Use our seamless search system to enter your dates and preferences, ensuring your time in London is a calm one.

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The best spa breaks near London

Relax and unwind with a pampering getaway at the best spa breaks near London

Thank god for spas. When you're feeling pummelled by the pressures of city life, make for a spa to be pummelled by massage therapists instead: soon, your stress will ebb luxuriously away like the retreating tide. There are some fab day spas right here in London, but venture out into the Home Counties and beyond to find the best (and priciest) examples of the genre: think grand, historic country houses with squadrons of super-skilled masseuses, steamy hot tubs, ornately-tiled pools, and elaborate extras like snow rooms. Most of them also have restaurants, bars and options for overnight stays, so you can keep that ultra-relaxed buzz going into the next day: perfect for a romantic mini break, chilled hen party, or solo treat. Here's our pick of the very best, located  just an hour or less from the capital. 

RECOMMENDED: Affordable spas in London

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The top spa breaks near London

1.  The Grove

About a ten-minute drive from Watford Junction, The Grove is probably best known among the swinging community (not that one) – with its 7,000-yard course, many visit specifically with golfing in mind. But more blissful activities await at the Sequoia spa. Staff emphatically direct you towards a pool whose black tiling gives the water an ominous inky look, but the vitality pool is its best-kept secret – a bubbling bath with pounding jets – while a women’s relaxation room is kitted out with a hypnotic fish tank just in case you still feel the need for screen time. While the hotel itself can feel like a series of confusing corridors, they have been decorated with quirky artwork to keep you entertained while you get your bearings. And you can retreat from the manor to The Stables, a relaxed brasserie on campus whose steak and chips prove a hit with those golf nuts. Definitely take a chauffeured buggy back to your bed after dessert: it’s called self-care. Laura Richards

Watford, Hertfordshire. 25 minutes by train from London Euston.

2.  Hartwell House

• Buckinghamshire

Ever wandered around a National Trust property thinking you’d quite like to hop into one of those four-poster beds and stay the night? Turns out you can. Hartwell House, the Grade I-listed hotel and spa that’s part-Jacobean mansion and part-Georgian house, is one of only three National Trust-owned historic house hotels. It’s rich in history – in fact, it was once home to French king Louis XVIII, who was exiled there in the nineteenth century (alright for some, eh?). These days, it’s the ideal antidote to city life. The hotel rooms are huge and with ceilings so high you could probably squeeze the entire contents of your poky flat in there. The lord/lady of the manor vibes continue at the spa, which is housed in what was once the orangery – it’s lovely and light, and feels incredibly grand. There’s a pool, a jacuzzi, a steam room and separate saunas for men and women in the changing rooms. It’s not the most high-tech spa (you won’t find any plunge pools or jazzy massaging foot baths), but that’s kind of the point – it’s just a lovely spot to unwind in. If you want to feel even more chilled, book yourself in for an aromatherapy sesh, which starts with you choosing the essential oil that most appeals and ends with you feeling totally blissed out. If you’re staying in the hotel, the food in the main restaurant is delicious too. If there were a chance to get exiled here, I’d take it. Isabelle Aron

Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. One hour by train from London Marylebone to Aylesbury.

3.  The Gainsborough

If an hour or two spent wallowing in warm water is what you’re in need of, Bath is the place to head. The honey-coloured city has been the  place to ‘take the waters’ since Roman times – and The Gainsborough is in the amazing and unique position of having Bath’s natural, thermal waters trickle right into its spa. The hotel itself is as plush as they come, with thick carpets, soft bedding and heavy curtains that frame stunning views of the city centre rooftops. The bar is dreamy, with staff ready to create cocktails tailored to your tastes (your mood, your demanding requests) while the restaurant serves up incredibly fancy, beautifully presented fare. But the spa is really the reason to book a room. At the heart of two adjoining Grade II-listed buildings sit the gently steaming and world-famous waters. Book a totally relaxing spa treatment (it’s worth noting as a hotel guest you can only use the spa in the early morning or evening unless you also book a spa treatment), or set off on a traditional cycle around the spa (like circuits, but way more soothing), moving from warm water to hot, from an infrared sauna to a pool of ice chips. The best bit? The historically-accurate (and delicious) cups of hot chocolate you can sip while you spa. Ellie Walker-Arnott

Bath, Somerset. One hour 30 minutes by train from London Paddington. 

4.  Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa

• West Sussex

Next to the bleak-but-beautiful Climping Beach and set in 30 acres of parkland, romantic Bailiffscourt Hotel is a world away from the bustle of London. You could be forgiven for thinking you are stepping back in time into a sort of well-groomed, fragrant medieval village, as the hotel’s 39 rooms are spread over a cluster of thatched cottages and honey-stone buildings. (Despite appearances the main house was built in 1927 as a whimsical, aristocratic holiday home.) There’s nothing medieval about the spa: six contemporary treatment rooms complete with warm flotation beds, steam rooms, sauna and a small gym. It’s purpose-built and styled on a traditional Sussex barn. Light floods through oak timbers and glass into the pool area, where it’s tempting to just lie back and watch gulls twisting in an expansive sky. Heaving yourself from your lounger to imbibe some salty air and take a dip in the steamy open-air pool and hot tub almost feels like a chore. You’ll definitely need to leave the fluffy comfort of your robe behind to eat, though. Dining in the flagstoned Tapestry Restaurant, which has a modern British menu, with an entire section devoted to delicious vegetarian dishes, is a fancy affair. Katie Walker

Climping, West Sussex. One hour 30 mins by train from London Victoria to nearby Little hampton.

5.  The Vineyard

Located a few miles from the M4 outside Newbury, like a zen-exuding pit stop for stressed-out motorway drivers, The Vineyard is a slick operation staffed by a friendly, welcoming team. It’s owned by businessman Sir Peter Michael, a passionate wine lover and art collector, and while there’s no actual vineyard here, there’s no shortage of booze, as his own California winery is well-represented in a quirky, adventurous wine cellar. If you fancy unwinding with a wine flight and an immaculate five-course tasting menu – or you just love the idea of chowing down in the shadow of impressionist landscapes – the formal dining room will tick all the boxes. In the spa, massage therapists work minor miracles with sore joints and knotty shoulders. The bedrooms are comfy and spacious, and the gargantuan breakfast is worth any amount of motorway congestion on its own. If there’s another massage to ease indigestion, you may need it. Phil de Semlyen

Newbury, Berkshire. 50 minutes by train from London Paddington. 

6.  Cliveden House

Not many spas feature a swimming pool that helped bring down a government – but then again there aren’t many places like Cliveden. Founded in the seventeenth century and rebuilt in the nineteenth by the same guy that designed the Houses of Parliament and the real-life Downton Abbey, it's now a stunning country house hotel with National Trust-run grounds – the kind of place you’d normally visit with an audio guide. Inside the spa, there’s a high-tech UV sauna, a warren of treatment rooms for luxurious rubs and scrubs (with scents named after the mistresses of the house) and alfresco hot tubs with a view of the Victorian clock tower. And, of course, there’s the open-air pool where Secretary of State for War John Profumo met Christine Keeler in 1961, kickstarting one of the twentieth century’s juiciest political scandals. As Profumo could have told you, a weekend at Cliveden doesn’t come cheap. But I’ve never been anywhere quite like it. James Manning

Taplow, Berkshire. 40 minutes by train from London Paddington to nearby High Wycombe. 

7.  Eden Spa at Down Hall Country Hotel

A massive stone manor house set in 110 acres of Essex countryside, you’ll feel like royalty when you roll up to Down Hall Hotel. Eden Spa, a dinky building tacked on to the left, is slightly less imposing – but inside there’s a luxurious blue-tiled hydrotherapy pool, plus sauna, steam room and ‘relaxation area’ (think: loungers and many, many magazines). Get the 55-minute hot stone massage – the sensation will give you that tingly feeling of stepping into a bath at the perfect temperature. The hotel is cosy with a chintzy country house vibe. Head to The Garden Room for a comforting steak then retire to your room to lounge about in a fluffy white robe. The suites have balconies, and waking up to views of the vast grounds is pretty special. Kitty Drake

Hatfield Heath, Essex. 40 minutes by train from London Liverpool Street to nearby Sawbridgeworth. 

8.  Ockenden Manor

• Health and beauty

Located a short taxi ride from Haywards Heath station, which itself is just a 50-minute journey from London, is the rather lovely Ockenden Manor. It’s a quiet cluster of buildings, including a sixteenth-century manor and a modern spa building which offers eight treatment rooms, a gym and fitness studio, walk-through rainforest shower, Isopod flotation tanks and more. The spa is spread out over many zones and at the centre is an indoor pool, from which braver swimmers can venture into the smaller outdoor pool. If you need to warm up, there are sauna and steam rooms, outdoor hot tubs and indoor spa baths. For anyone staying overnight, the accompanying 28-room hotel is a joy. Rooms are spacious, full of mod cons and all lead on to a shared balcony. The restaurant and bar are located in the manor (naturally), where there’s a wealth of cosy, old-fashioned charm. Pheasant, duck and venison (from the nearby Balcombe Estate) were on the menu when we visited, and we were served by friendly and helpful staff. Oliver Keens

Cuckfield, West Sussex. 45 minutes by train from London Victoria to nearby Haywards Heath. 

9.  Aqua Sana Woburn Forest

The first thing you need to know about Aqua Sana Woburn Forest spa is that it’s in a Center Parcs. And while that means guests miss out on having manicured grounds to wander around, like at other country retreats, it also means this is probably one of the only spa breaks in the country with four water slides (a very good thing!). The spa itself is just as exciting and action-packed. Spread out over two floors, it features six spa areas, each with their own saunas, steam rooms and sensory experiences. Highlights include the invigorating salt sauna, the refreshing and fragrant herbal-infusion rooms, and the mineral and gem area – it features a crystal steam room – but there must be upwards of 20 rooms to visit here.

There’s also a vast array of treatment options (I opted for a scrub/massage combination that left me relaxed and smooth as a seal) and, unlike at other spas, places to eat. You’ll find loads of your favourite chains on Center Parcs high street. With a welcoming beginner-friendly vibe and huge amounts to experience, this is a spa that’s perfect for people who are easily bored, or for big groups of friends with different tastes. Book it for your next hen. Kate Lloyd

Bedford, Bedfordshire. 50 minutes by train from London Kings Cross. 

10.  Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa

Luxurious without being pretentious and just 45 minutes from London, Pennyhill is the perfect place to escape the city. The vast Surrey spa is decked out with a sauna, herbal steam rooms and eight pools including one with calming underwater music if you want to feel really zen. With so many facilities to explore, the spa can happily cater for everyone – from couples to big groups – and there are even separate facilities for men and women. Unwind with a luxe treatment in one of 21 rooms, where they offer the works – massages, manicures, wraps, facials, scrubs, reflexology. All that relaxing is hungry work – keep it casual and dine in your robe in the spa café, treat yourself to a more upmarket meal at Hillfield or push the boat out at the Michelin star restaurant The Latymer. Oh, and the hotel is also the official training base for the England rugby team, so you might even spot a sporting star in the changing rooms.  Isabelle Aron

Bagshot, Surrey. One hour 20 minutes by train from London Waterloo. 

In the mood for more pampering?

London’s best spa hotels

London is vibrant, varied, exciting, seductive, sprawling... and just a little bit exhausting. At some point, you're probably going to need to pause to unwind.

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Top 10 weekend getaways near London

There’s so much going on in London that it’s easy to spend a week or two just exploring the city. When you’re done ticking off all the must-do and must-see things in London, it’s time to explore nearby destinations that are a couple of hours away by train or plane.

We’ve rounded up 10 of the best weekend getaways near London:

1. Bath, England

Best for: Spa and wellness retreats

Getting there: 1.5 hours by train

Sometimes, we all need a little respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Bath offers the perfect remedy; it’s a charming, historic town that’s perfect for a relaxing weekend spa break. Home to ancient Roman baths , the town is popular with couples and adults looking for some R&R.

Other than soaking in the baths , take a stroll along the ornate Royal Crescent , learn about all things Jane Austen or, if you’re there at the end of the year, check out the Christmas Market (that’s one of England’s largest!).

2. Bristol, England

Best for: art and culture

Getting there: 1 hour 40 minutes by train, or 2.5 hours by coach

There’s just so much to see in Bristol : explore Wapping Wharf, a new quarter of shipping containers home to an eclectic range of eateries and bars; hunt down street art at Stokes Croft , walk across the Clifton Suspension Bridge , shop at the Old Market, and more.

With multiple art galleries and creative spaces, Bristol is a haven for cultural enthusiasts—see it all with these walking tours . And if you’re lucky to visit during summer, the Foodies Festival is a glorious explosion of food, music, performances, and workshops.

3. Cardiff, Wales

Best for: food and people watching

Getting there: About 2 hours by train

Experience the famous Welsh hospitality firsthand in Cardiff . Spend the weekend people-watching, enjoy a taste of Wales at these restaurants , discover the central market , or visit Cardiff Castle .

Don’t miss out on buying some traditional trinkets from the Royal Arcade , or have a whale of a time with your family at the Infinity Trampoline Park and Treetop Adventure Golf .

4. Dublin, Ireland

Best for: nightlife

Getting there: 1 hour by plane

Perfect for a getaway with friends, Dublin is a vibrant city filled with countless things to do. The Irish sure know how to have a good time; say cheers with a pint of Guinness or a shot of Irish whiskey, best enjoyed at the iconic Temple Bar that dates back to the 1300s. Not sure where to start? Go on an epic bar and pub crawl armed with this list .

Or visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn all about the beverage, before visiting the city’s major sights such as Dublin Castle , the Spire , Trinity College Library , or St. Patrick’s Cathedral .

5. The Cotswolds, England

Best for: the English countryside

Looking for somewhere relaxing far away from the crowds? The Cotswolds is just what you need. Venture out to the English countryside, where you’ll find around 750 square miles of tranquility, spanning over six counties like Gloucestershire , Oxfordshire , and Worcestershire , among others.

Get back to nature, be surrounded by cattle, have a picnic on rolling hills, discover medieval villages, try the local produce, and travel back in time at nostalgic cottages. There’s just so much to see and do; take it all in with one of these fascinating tours .

6. Manchester, England

Getting there: 2 hours by train

Best known for its team in the English football universe, Manchester appeals especially to youngsters looking to have a good time. Down a craft brew at the Port Street Beer House , trawl the Great Northern Warehouse district, attend a concert at The Warehouse Project, hunt down a vintage record at Piccadilly Records, or party it up at Canal Street.

That’s not to say that Manchester isn’t for families as well: entertain the kids at Play Factore , a family entertainment extravaganza complete with laser tag, virtual reality, a zip wire, and the UK’s tallest indoor slide.

7. Brighton, England

Best for: seaside break

Go on an adventure to Brighton , a lovely family-friendly seaside resort. Get a sun-kissed tan at the beach , take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque promenade, go on a fairground ride at Brighton Palace Pier , enjoy the burgeoning coffee scene, marvel at the intricate Regency architecture, or lose yourself in The Lanes art district.

Kids will love discovering creatures of the deep at Sea Life Brighton , riding on the Volks Electric Railway , or enjoying a panoramic view from the 150-meter-high British Airways i360 observation tower.

8. Edinburgh, Scotland

Best for: nature and culture

Getting there: 1 hour 20 minutes by plane, or 4 hours 20 minutes by train

A paradise for explorers, Edinburgh is a charming destination full of zest. Scale the 251-meter-high Arthur’s Seat , an extinct volcano that offers one of the best views of the city. Wander around Edinburgh Castle , and marvel at its stunning crown jewels collection.

Explore the Royal Mile , which is home to restaurants, shops, and the like; or discover the city’s different personalities on a comedy walk , darkside walking tour , or underground walking tour . The city also transforms into a pulsating wonderland every summer, when the popular Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes over.

9. The Peak District, England

Best for: nature

Getting there: 2.5 hours by train

This one’s for all you outdoor lovers out there. You can easily spend the whole weekend at the scenic Peak District National Park ; go on a hike, cycle along rugged trails… the possibilities are endless.

You’ll never be bored here—see the architectural marvel of Ladybower Reservoir , discover the idyllic Bakewell village , venture deep into the Peak Cavern (if you’re lucky, you might chance upon a music performance in the cave), step into the shoes of Charlotte Bronte at Hathersage , scale the cliffs of Stanage Edge , explore Thor’s cave , and more.

10. Windsor, England

Best for: history

Getting there: 30 minutes by train

Windsor is one of the most popular weekend breaks near London for people of all ages, and it’s easy to see why. Steeped in history, the city was home to the British royal family for nearly 1,000 years. Compact in size, the area can be easily covered on foot.

Drop by the iconic Windsor Castle , discover every nook and cranny of the Old Town, take the kids to Legoland Windsor Resort , or frolic at Windsor Great Park .

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London is undoubtedly the place to be, but still, it’s nice to get away every once in a while. Here, we share relaxing countryside excursions, brilliant day trips, smashing city breaks, and the best places to visit in the UK. It’s also your one-stop hub for exciting international travel inspiration!

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17 Absolute Best Day Trips from London (+ How to Visit, Top Tours & Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2024

London is an amazing city with so much to offer that you could spend weeks and still not see it all. But in addition to all the top sights and attractions in the city itself , there are also so many beautiful places near London, many of which can easily be visited as a day trip from London.

However, with such an array of possibilities, how do you choose the very best day trips from London that are worth your time the most?

In this article, we feature the absolute best places that you can visit as a one-day trip from London, England . This guide includes all the ‘musts’, the very best day trip destinations near London for first-time visitors, but also for local travelers who want to (re)discover some of the most popular sights near London.

In addition, for each place, we include recommendations on how to visit on your own and also the best day tours from London . Because even though you can visit many of these places by train, often, you will be able to see so much more if you go on an organized tour.

Many tours combine several major landmarks in one day, allowing you to make the most of your time and see a lot in a short time. Furthermore, going with a local guide is a great opportunity to explore deeper, scratch beneath the surface, and discover things you didn’t even know existed…

Good to know: At the bottom of this article, you can find a map indicating all the places that you can easily visit as a day trip from London mentioned in this guide. It will give you a better idea of where everything is.

TIP: If you don’t have the time to read the entire article and are looking for the best day trips from London, here are the 4 most popular day tours among our readers:

• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath (also in combination with Roman Baths that you can add when booking).
• Cotswolds .
• Harry Potter Studio (also in combination with Oxford).
• Seven Sisters & South Downs .

Interesting to know: Overall, the most-visited day trip destinations from London are Windsor Castle and Harry Potter Studios.

These are the best & most popular day trips from London:

1. Windsor Castle

If you visit just one place outside of London city, make it Windsor Castle ! Located just 20 miles (32 km) from the city center, a day trip to Windsor is a must on any London bucket list!

The spectacular Windsor Castle is one of the queen’s official residences and has been home to the royal family for 900 years! Kings and queens have been buried here, including the infamous Henry VIII and Jayne Seymour, his third wife. Most recently, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, is also buried at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.

An excellent example of church architecture in medieval times, Windsor Castle is still used for royal receptions and state occasions. In recent years it has been the venue of the weddings of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.

Open all year round, Windsor Castle is a great way to explore royal history, from touring the Castle Precincts to viewing the lavish staterooms and apartments. The Castle Grounds are both beautiful and peaceful and from there you can observe the iconic Changing of the Guard, which normally happens at 11 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, from April until the end of July.

Good to know. At the moment, Windsor Castle is open daily except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Because it’s a working royal palace, sometimes parts of the castle or even the entire castle can get closed on short notice. Below, you can find all the practical information for your visit. Read on!

How to visit. You can easily get to Windsor by train from London. There’s a direct train from London Waterloo Station and it takes about 1 hour. From Windsor & Eton Riverside station, it’s just a short walk to the castle. Be sure to book your Windsor Castle tickets online in advance ! This is the best option for those who prefer to take their time and explore the castle at their own pace.

If you come here for a day, be sure to check out Windsor and Eton towns as well! The best way to do this is by taking a hop-on hop-off bus in Windsor . Another nice thing to do is take a boat tour and enjoy different views of the castle from the river.

Good to know: Entry to Windsor Palace is also included with the London Pass , which offers good value if you spend more time in London and plan on visiting many popular tourist attractions and museums.

Best tours from London. Windsor Castle is the most popular day trip destination near London, so there are many tours that can bring you here as well. Most tours that visit the castle also include one or several other nice places nearby – perfect for those who are short on time and want to make the most of their day.

Here are the most popular day tours from London that visit Windsor Castle:

• Windsor Castle only – this is a convenient bus transfer from/ to London that also includes the tickets to the castle. This tour takes about 4 hours in total – the fastest way to visit Windsor Castle from London.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford – the most popular full-day tour from London.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – with an option to visit Roman Baths.

2. Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments and another extremely popular destination for London day trips. Built almost 5000 years ago by farmers in the Neolithic period, this is a spiritual and architectural wonder that many people consider an absolute must-see in the UK!

Historians still debate its original purpose, although most agree that it was probably built for spiritual reasons. Meanwhile, engineers marvel at the extraordinary skill and size of the construction project, which must have involved hundreds of workers given the very simple tools they had available at the time.

Whilst the main attraction at this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the mystical Stone Circle itself, you can also view the 5 on-site Neolithic houses. Their design was based on the remains of houses from this period that were discovered during a nearby excavation in 2006.

You can step through the doors of these houses to see just how the builders of Stonehenge might have lived thousands of years ago, with each house equipped with replica axes, pottery, and artifacts.

How to visit . Stonehenge is located about 90 miles (145 km) from London. There are no direct trains to Stonehenge, but you can take a train to Salisbury train station and then take The Stonehenge Tour Bus service from there. The easiest way to get here from London is either by car or by tour. If you drive, prepare for very busy traffic and count at least 2 hours one way. If you go without a tour, be sure to book your admission tickets online in advance !

Best tours from London. Since Stonehenge is quite a drive from the city, but it doesn’t require that much time to visit, it’s usually included as one of the sights of some of the most popular day tours from London.

Here are the most popular tours that visit Stonehenge from London:

• Stonehenge only – a very popular half-day tour (morning or afternoon) that includes transportation and entrance tickets. It takes about 6 hours and is the fastest way to visit Stonehenge from London.
• Stonehenge & Bath – the most relaxing full-day tour.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – a very complete tour that also includes an entry to the Roman Baths.

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and the most popular town that you can easily visit as a day trip from London. This picturesque historic city is filled with stunning examples of honey-colored Georgian architecture and some of the most photographed buildings in the world.

Perhaps the most famous feature of this UNESCO World Heritage City is the ancient Roman Baths built around thermal springs and supplying water for over 2,000 years. Whilst the Baths are open for you to view, no bathing has been allowed there since 1978. Instead, the much more modern Thermae Bath Spa was opened in 2006, containing the only natural hot spring in England in which you are allowed to bathe.

In the city stands the magnificent Bath Abbey , with its unique ‘ladder of angels’ on the west front. This feature was inspired by Bath’s Bishop at that time, who saw angels ascending and descending in a dream. You will also see the iconic ‘Royal Crescent’ – 30 Grade I listed terraced houses built in the late 18th century, arranged in a crescent around a verdant lawn overlooking Royal Victoria Park.

Another architectural gem is the Circus , also built in the latter half of the 18th century. This historic street of large townhouses forms a circle, which is how it got its name (Circus is Latin for a ring, circle, or oval).

And perhaps most beautiful of all is the romantic Pulteney Bridge , with its small, leaded domes, pilasters, and pediments. The bridge was named after the wife of William Johnstone Pulteney, an important figure in Bath at that time and owner of much of the surrounding land. A popular thing to do in Bath is to take a short boat trip on River Avon – it allows you to easily see some of the main sights of Bath in a short time.

How to visit. Bath is about 120 miles (195 km), about 2.5 hours drive from London. If you drive, be sure to stop at Stonehenge along the way! The fastest way to get to Bath from London is by train – it takes less than 1.5 hours. And there are also many tours that visit Bath from London, usually in combination with other beautiful places nearby.

TIP. If you visit Bath on your own, you may want to take a walking tour of the city. It’s the best way to see a lot in a short time – you’ll be sure not to miss any important places, but it also gives you a better insight into the history and architecture of this unique town.

Best tours from London. Since Bath is so close to Stonehenge, most tours from London visit both of these places together. In addition, some tours also include one or several other places nearby.

Here are the most popular day tours from London to Bath:

• Stonehenge & Bath .
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath .
• Stonehenge and Bath Tour with Secret Site – a very highly rated small group tour.

One of the UK’s most famous university towns, Oxford is also a place that you can easily visit as a day trip from London.

Oxford University was established in the 12th century and is one of the oldest universities in the world. The university is composed of 38 separate college buildings, whose architecture inspired the poet Matthew Arnold to name it the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ (see the picture of the All Souls College below, and you’ll understand where the name comes from).

Some scenes in the Harry Potter movies were filmed in Oxford, so it can be fun to try and spot them as you tour the city. Harry Potter fans can also opt for this popular walking tour of the filming locations .

In the heart of the city center is Christ Church College , home to the magnificent Hall and Christ Church Cathedral with its landmark spire and Tom Tower. The gardens of the 12th-century Cathedral inspired Lewis Carroll to write ‘Alice in Wonderland’. You can hunt for features of the story, such as the Alice in Wonderland motives in one of the large windows in the Great Dining Hall.

The Cathedral also contains the shrine and tomb of Saint Frideswide, the patron saint of Oxford. Christ Church College – one of Oxford University’s largest colleges – has lots more for visitors to see, from the famous Bodley Tower to the stunning Meadow Building.

There are two main museums that are well worth seeing during a visit to Oxford. Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean Museum is Oxford University’s museum of art and archaeology. Free to enter, it’s a great place to learn all about human culture and societies across the world and throughout time, with its collections including everything from Egyptian mummies to contemporary works of art.

The Oxford University Museum of Natural History , meanwhile, houses a captivating collection of natural specimens, covering everything from Earth’s beginnings to a look inside an active beehive!

Connecting two parts of Hertford College is the Hertford Bridge , popularly known as the ‘Bridge of Sighs’. Named after its resemblance to Venice’s Bridge of Sighs , this particular bridge is a skyway that allows students to travel from one building to another. Designed by Sir Thomas Jackson and completed in 1914, this photo-worthy bridge is best viewed from the steps of the University’s Bodleian Library (another must-see in Oxford).

How to visit. Oxford is just 60 miles (95 km), 1.5 hours drive from London. There are also direct trains from London and the journey takes about 1 hour – this is the best way to visit Oxford on your own. There are also organized tours that visit Oxford from London – usually in combination with one or two other places nearby.

TIP: If you visit Oxford for a day, consider this walking tour . It takes just 1.5 hours and is a great way to learn more about the city and the university. River cruises are also very popular and are a fun way to explore Oxford!

Best tours from London. While you could easily fill an entire day in Oxford, most one-day tours from London only spend a few hours here and combine a visit here with several other places.

Here are the most popular tours that visit Oxford from London:

• Harry Potter Studio Tour & Oxford – a bucket list day trip for all Harry Potter fans!
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford – see three of the most popular locations in one day.
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds – this is a great tour for those who want to see the English countryside. It’s also a nice addition to the popular Windsor, Stonehenge, and Bath tours mentioned above. If you do two of these tours, you get to see most of the nicest day trip destinations near London in just two days.

5. Cotswolds

The scenic traditional towns and stone villages of the Cotswolds is one of the most popular London day trips for those who want to experience the true English countryside. This area is so picturesque! Below, you can find an overview of the most beautiful places not to miss.

Minster Lovell village is the home of Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote, which sits on the banks of the River Windrush. This 15th-century Oxfordshire manor house was built by William, Baron of Lovell and Holand – one of England’s richest men at the time. The house was eventually abandoned and now only the substantial ruins remain, giving lots of wonderful photographic opportunities against their beautiful rural backdrop.

A Cotswold village of outstanding beauty is Bibury , with its gorgeous stone buildings that run along the banks of the River Coln. Here you can see the iconic Arlington Row – a series of buildings that were originally built as a monastic wool store but were later converted into cottages. Now owned by the National Trust, Arlington Row is considered to be so quintessentially English that its image appears on the inside cover of UK passports.

Another village well worth visiting is Buford , with its 3 arched medieval bridges across the River Windrush. Famous for its High Street which runs down toward the river, Buford is popular for antique shopping and boasts lots of good restaurants, pubs, and tea rooms. It’s also home to a hotel in which King Charles dined with his mistress, Nell Gwynne.

Whilst there are many contenders for the title, most people will agree that Bourton-on-the-Water is the prettiest village in England. Also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, this ‘must-see’ village is named for the many beautiful bridges that cross its river at the center. Located in a small valley, Bourton-on-the-Water has many charming tea rooms and restaurants, plus a range of eclectic shops including pottery and the Cotswold Perfumery. Don’t miss the popular model village, which is a 1/9th scale replica of the entire center of the village.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting on the afternoon of the August Bank Holiday Monday, you’ll witness one of the village’s more curious traditions, in which a local team plays a full game of football right in the River Windrush. This bizarre game of soccer has been filmed and reported all over the world!

If you have more time in this area, here are some more really nice villages to see in the Cotswolds: Castle Combe, Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester, Chipping Campden, Blockley, and Stanton .

How to visit. The Cotswolds are about 30 minutes drive west of Oxford and about 2 hours drive from London. Since the main attractions of the Cotswolds are its various villages, the best way to visit here is either by car or with a tour.

Best tours from London. The beautiful Cotswolds region is just a short drive from Oxford, so many tours combine the two places. There are also popular Downton Abbey filming location tours that combine a visit here to that of the Highclere Castle, but because of time restraints, you usually only see one village on these tours.

Here is an overview of the most popular Cotswolds tours from London:

• Cotswolds only – this is the best tour for those who want to explore the Cotswolds deeper as it visits several of the nicest villages and allows you more time to experience this beautiful area.
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds – the most popular day tour.
• Oxford and Cotswolds Villages – the best small-group tour.
• Stonehenge, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Bath, and Cotswolds – this tour is packed, but well organized and you get to see some of the best places in a very short time.

6. Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small medieval market town and also a very popular place to see near London. The birthplace of William Shakespeare is probably at the top of most people’s must-see lists and the main reason to visit here.

The timber-framed house on Henley Street is where Shakespeare not only spent part of his childhood but also the first 5 years of his marriage after his father’s death in 1601. Live presentations from guides dressed in period costumes and the carefully restored Tudor rooms bring history to life.

In the many Tudor-style buildings of Stratford, you’ll also find 3 theatres owned by The Royal Shakespeare Company. They perform plays by Shakespeare, his contemporaries, and other, later writers. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is situated on the banks of the River Avon, panoramic views of which can be enjoyed from the theatre’s tower.

Also on the River Avon is the Swan Theatre , built on the side of the Royal Theatre and offering a more intimate atmosphere. The third theatre – the Other Place – is smaller and used as a center for performing arts.

For a taste of old-fashioned romance, pay a visit to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage a bit outside of town. This beautiful 500-year-old building was originally a farmhouse and was where William Shakespeare courted Anne, his future wife. Incredibly picturesque, the cottage still contains original features and furnishings and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Another must-see is the Hall’s Croft , the house of Shakespeare’s daughter, with stunning gardens. Inside, you can find original 16-17th-century furniture, paintings, and other items.

How to visit. Stratford-upon-Avon is about 100 miles (160 km), 2 hours drive from London. If you don’t have a car, the easiest way to visit here on a day trip from London is by joining a tour.

Best tours from London. Most tours visiting Stratford-upon-Avon from London combine it with other places nearby and only spend a few hours here. They usually include a guided walk in the town center and sometimes a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace.

Here is a small selection of the best day tours from London:

• Shakespeare’s Stratford & Cotswolds – this is one of the few tours that spend more time in Stratford and also visits Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. It also brings you to three villages in the Cotswolds.
• Oxford, Stratford, & Cotswolds – this popular tour spends about 2 hours in Stratford and covers more ground in a day.

7. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Fans of Harry Potter – and even those who have yet to experience the wizardly wonder of the movies – will enjoy a visit to the fascinating Warner Bros. studio near London . It’s one of the most popular day tours from London (after Windsor Castle), and a must if visiting London with kids .

Here, you can see firsthand some of the amazing sets used in the film’s production, including the Great Hall of Hogwarts (which went on to be used in 6 more films) and the Forbidden Forest filled with 19 trees, each with a diameter of over 12 feet. You can even see The Hogwarts Express locomotive at the elusive Platform 9¾.

There are prop rooms where you can take a close-up look at look at the elaborate props used in the Harry Potter movies. There are almost 2,000 potion jars and memory vials, all with labels hand-designed by the Graphics Department. You can also see Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, which took 3 months to build and was intended to look as much as possible as a real 18th-century storefront.

If you have an interest in the making of movies, you will enjoy other parts of the studio as well. The Special and Visual Effects section reveals how some of the more incredible scenes were created, including how Harry and his friends were made invisible by the Invisibility Cloak and how they appeared to fly! Even more captivating is the Creature Effects section, where you can learn how the magical creatures in the Harry Potter films were created and brought to life.

A visit to the Making of Harry Potter Studio provides a magical and educational experience for adults and children alike. If you are looking for a fun relaxing day trip near London, this is a great option for the whole family!

How to visit. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio is located in Leavesden, Watford, about 20 miles from London city center. But because of the busy traffic, it’s quite a long drive. There’s a train from London to Watford, from where you’ll have to take a bus to the studios – the journey will take you over 1 hour not counting the time to get to the station. There are also several companies offering bus transfers from London – see below.

Best tours from London. The easiest way to get to Harry Potter Studios is by booking a transfer or a tour from London. That way you don’t have to worry about the tickets either.

This highly-rated  Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour  departs from Victoria Station, close to Westminster Catedral in the city center. There is also a popular  tour that departs from King’s Cross . The prices are usually the same and include a bus transfer and tickets. You’ll need about 7-8 hours in total for this day trip.

PRO TIP: One of the most popular tours from London is this popular tour that includes a visit to the studios and also visits Oxford . It’s a truly magical day trip as Oxford is one of the places where Harry Potter movies were filmed.

8. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace , one of the Tudor Palaces, was the former royal residence of King Henry VIII. In addition to Windsor, this is another really nice place to visit near London, especially if you are a fan of royal history.

Hampton Court is a huge, impressive baroque-style palace located at the River Thames and surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland . If you visit in spring, you can see the magnificent tulip festival. But the gardens have something nice to offer in every season, and there are various events at the Palace throughout the year.

The interior of the castle gives you a chance to take a glimpse into the daily life of royals in the 16-17th centuries. You can visit the impressive State Rooms and private apartments of William III . Also, don’t miss the kitchens of Henry VIII , where over 200 people worked in the past, cooking and serving more than 800 meals per day.

Another highlight is the magnificent Great Hall that was originally a dining room, but afterwards became a sort of theatre that was used for entertainment, plays, and dances. Back in the day, William Shakespeare performed his plays here. The highlights here include a series of tapestries showing scenes from the Book of Genesis and the impressive timber roof with Anne Bollaine’s coat-of-arms.

This is also a very nice place to visit for families, with a maze in the garden, fantastic play areas for children, and plenty of places for a picnic. When the weather is nice, you could easily spend an entire day just exploring the gardens.

How to visit. Hampton Court Palace is located on the outskirts of London, about 15 miles southwest of the city center. You can easily visit Hampton Court Palace from London by train. There is a train from London Waterloo Station to Surbiton Station, and from there to Hampton Court. It takes about 40 minutes.

In addition, there are also several tours – see below.

Good to know: Hampton Court Palace entry is included with the London Pass .

Tours from London. Because Hampton Court is quite easy to get to and explore on your own, there aren’t many organized tours. The best ones are private tours like this one ; it combines a visit to Hampton Court Palace with that of Windsor Castle. That way, you get to see two of the most impressive royal palaces near London in one day.

There are also some nice bike tours or boat tours that explore the surroundings of Hampton, starting from different locations nearby.

9. Brighton & Seven Sisters

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London and see some of the stunning nature of England, then definitely consider a day trip to the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and South Downs . At the same time, you can also visit one of the UK’s nicest coastal cities – Brighton .

Brighton is worth a trip in its own right, with all the little pleasures that a lively seaside resort has to offer. If you have some time to spare, check out the Royal Pavilion , an Asian-style palace that looks like it belongs in an Indian fairytale…

But for a sightseeing day trip from London, you can also opt for something slightly different and explore some of the beautiful nature outside of town as well.

The rolling hills of the South Downs offer so much to explore and enjoy, with spectacular views and popular spots with their own unique legends. One of the most famous is that of the Devil’s Dyke , a v-shaped dry valley whose creation was attributed to the work of the devil himself (although, as you will see, it’s far too beautiful for that!). The South Downs is also home to the Long Man of Wilmington – a 235 ft tall chalk figure on the side of a grassy hill and one of only two human hill figures in England.

Be sure to check out Beachy Head , which – at 535 feet – is the highest chalk cliff on the southern coast of England. From the top, you can see miles of coastline in either direction, plus the candy-striped lighthouse that sits just out to sea. Nearby is the Birling Gap – one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline on the south coast. Here you can see coastal erosion firsthand, with the cliffs eroding up to a meter a year at certain points.

Another highlight of any visit to the South Downs is the Seven Sisters – an undulating line of white chalk cliffs, each hill with its own name. They are best viewed from Seaford Head , where you can see evidence of an 8th hill beginning to form from the erosion of the sea.

TIP: Any visit to the Downs must include a visit to the popular Middle Farm , which offers such delicacies as local cheese, sparkling wines, and traditional Sussex cider.

How to visit. South Downs and the Seven Sisters are located near Brighton in south England. While you can easily get to Brighton by train from London, you’ll need a car for the other places. The best way to visit is with a tour – see below.

Best tours from London. There are just a few tours from London that visit this area. The best option is this highly-rated tour that includes a train ticket from London to Brighton and a small-group minibus tour of the sights along the coast. If you prefer to make your own way to Brighton, you can also book the same tour starting in Brighton .

TIP: If you rather book a private tour, there is one tour that offers a pick-up in your hotel in London and covers all these sights in and around Brighton.

10. Cambridge

Less than an hour by train from London, Cambridge is another beautiful town to visit for a day. Just as Oxford, it’s probably best known for its centuries-old University, and this beautiful town has lots of well-preserved historic buildings. But this medieval city is also a student town and has a very nice, relaxed atmosphere.

Don’t miss the King’s College Chapel , Queen’s College , Trinity College, and Wren Library . You can also climb to the top of the tower of Great St Mary’s Church for nice views over the city.

In addition to exploring the many colleges in the city (there are 31! of them), be sure to walk along the River Cam ! Also Cambridge has its own Bridge of Sighs . This covered bridge at St John’s College spans over the river and is a favorite photo spot for weddings as well as tourists visiting the town.

Other nice bridges worth seeing in Cambridge are the Mathematical Bridge , Clare College Bridge , King’s College Bridge , and there are many others.

A great way to explore the beautiful river, see the bridges, the town, and the surroundings is a punt tour . This traditional boat ride is a very typical thing to do in Cambridge – don’t miss it!

How to visit. Cambridge is just over 60 miles (95 km) north of London, and the easiest way to visit is by taking a direct train from King’s Cross Station in London. It takes less than 50 minutes, so you can easily visit Cambridge on your own, without a tour.

Once in Cambridge, you can take a walking tour with a local or explore on your own. The earlier mentioned punt tours on the river are also not to be missed.

Best tours from London. If you rather visit Cambridge with a tour from London, there are several options as well. We recommend this 2-in-1 tour that visits Cambridge and Oxford . That way, you get to see two university towns in one day.

11. Canterbury Cathedral & Leeds Castle

While Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral are over 20 miles apart, these two landmarks don’t require that much time and so are usually visited on the same day. In fact, they are usually combined with a short visit to Dover too, but more about it further below.

After a visit to Leeds Castle , you will not be able to help but agree with Lord Conway, who described it as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’. With a romantic, fairy-tale appearance, this 12th-century gem was built in the center of a natural lake, surrounded by 500 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland.

Leeds Castle was once used as a palace by Henry VIII and the private property of six medieval queens. Its rooms have been beautifully restored and give you the opportunity to learn all about its long and fascinating history.

In addition to the Lady Baillie Garden, which gives stunning views across the lake, the grounds also hold one of Kent’s most popular mazes, with 2,400 yew trees. Once you reach the maze’s center, a fascinating underground grotto takes you back to the real world!

One of the most famous and picturesque Christian buildings in England, Canterbury Cathedral was founded in 597, then extensively rebuilt from 1070 to 1077. It is the Cathedral of the leader of the Church of England, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and is still used for active worship.

The Cathedral contains the shrine of Archbishop Thomas Becket and you can stand on the spot upon which he was murdered, as told in Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous ‘Canterbury Tales’.

Also the medieval town center of Canterbury, with its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses, is a nice place to see if you have more time. It’s a popular day trip from London for locals. Also here, you can take traditional boat tours on the river.

How to visit. Unless you have a car, the easiest way to visit Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral is by taking a tour. If you just visit one of these places, you could also get there by public transport. For Leeds Castle, you have to take a train to Ashford, followed by a bus trip to the castle. For Canterbury, there’s a direct train from London, and you can make a nice relaxing day trip by visiting this picturesque town.

Best tours from London. There are several tours from London that visit these places. You can find them here and they are all quite similar in terms of itinerary.

12. White Cliffs of Dover & Dover Castle

“There’ll be bluebirds over the white cliffs of Dover” went the words to the popular wartime song – and if you’re familiar with the song then it’s quite incredible to see the inspiring white cliffs for yourself. If you are looking for something different to see near London than historic towns and villages, Dover is a wonderful place to visit!

Composed of chalk, Dover’s cliffs are 350 ft high and stretch for 8 miles. They were on the front line of both world wars and were a critical part of England’s defenses at that time. Now, they provide wonderful views across the surrounding countryside and the English Channel. On clear days you can even look across and see France!

The unique chalky grassland habitat of the cliffs means that they are abundant in wildlife and you can see all sorts of flowers, butterflies, and birds as you walk, including the rarely spotted peregrine falcon.

You can either spend your visit simply enjoying the cliff-top views, or take a short trip to see Dover Castle too. Dover Castle is one of England’s biggest castles and was built in 1066 by William the Conqueror. Ironically, he built it to stop anyone from invading the country using the way in which he’d invaded it himself!

A visit to the Castle includes exploration of the tunnels that go deep into the cliffs, where you can learn all about the dramatic evacuation from Dunkirk and see the Underground Hospital that was used to treat injured soldiers in WWII.

How to visit. Dover is about 80 miles southeast of London. You can take a direct train to Dover from London and visit the town and the castle, and take a walk along the shore from where you can admire the beautiful white cliffs. Alternatively, you can also visit here with some day tours from London – see below.

Best tours from London. There are several tours that visit Dover from London, usually in combination with a few other places and Dover is often not more than a short photo stop. Here are the most popular day tours:

• Dover, Leeds Castle & Canterbury Cathedral – the most popular and best price/quality tour from London.
• Dover, Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Greenwich – quite a full day, but you get to see a lot in a short time.

13. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is a very impressive country house in Woodstock, about 65 miles northwest of London. This is England’s only non-royal country house that actually holds the title of a palace.

The birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill currently the home of the 12th Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace is a stunning example of 18th-century Baroque architecture. During your visit, you will see the magnificent staterooms, which are filled with priceless works of art and beautiful tapestries. A grade I listed building and World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace also contains the finest collection of antiques to be found anywhere in Europe.

The gardens – set within over 754 hectares of land – are particularly wonderful to explore. Designed by the English landscape architect Capability Brown, there are several formal gardens to enjoy. Don’t miss the Rose Garden, the exquisite Water Terraces, the Secret Gardens, and the family-friendly Pleasure Gardens.

Historical monuments can be seen throughout, including the Column of Victory (built to commemorate the Duke of Marlborough’s military successes), the Grand Bridge which spans the two lakes and The Temple of Diana, where Sir Winston Churchill proposed to his future wife.

There are also a few recommended walks to take. Possibly the most beautiful is The Lake and Grand Cascade walk, which gives you breathtaking views of the countryside.

Good to know: The Palace and the grounds are so big and have so much to offer that you can easily spend an entire day here. In fact, many people find that one day isn’t even enough and many locals get a yearly pass for the Palace. However, many tours only spend a few hours here and just cover the main highlights. So how to visit depends on what you want to see and do here.

How to visit. The easiest way to visit Blenheim Palace is by car or with a tour, but you can also get here by public transport. From London Paddington Station, take a train to Hanborough (a bit over 1 hour), and from there, take a bus to the palace (it takes 7-10 minutes). If you want to spend an entire day at the palace, this is the best way to visit on a day trip from London.

Best tours from London. There are several tours that shortly visit Blenheim Palace from London. The best tour that spends more time at Palace is this Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds tour. This tour also includes a few short photo stops at other popular locations nearby.

14. Downton Abbey Filming Locations

Downton Abbey filming locations close to Oxford and the Cotswolds make another popular day trip destination from London. There are two main places that you’ll want to see here – Bampton village and Highclere Castle .

Highclere Castle is a beautiful building and another fine example of luxurious life in the English countryside. It has been used for various film sets but became hugely popular since the filming of the TV series Downton Abbey . It’s now a very popular place to visit from Oxford or from London. The castle belongs to the Carnarvon family and is kept as it is, without turning it into a ‘theme park’ like some other castles in the area.

Another must-see for Downton Abbey fans is the beautiful village of Bampton . You’ll recognize many of the buildings here from the series, and it’s great fun to try to spot them during your visit!

Be sure to locate the home of Isobel Crawley, the church (actually named St. Mary’s), two fictional pubs – the Grantham Arms and the Dog and Duck – plus the Downton Cottage Hospital. The building used for the hospital is, in reality, the Bampton Community Archive, which houses a collection of old photos of the village and its people.

Bampton is a lovely village to visit in its own right. It is mentioned in the Domesday book of 1086 and was already a large settlement during the era of the Norman Conquest. On the other hand, it’s so small that you don’t need much time here.

How to visit. Highclere Castle is located about 65 miles (105 km) west of London, whereas Bampton village is about 30-40 miles from here, very close to Oxford. The best way to visit these places is either by car or by taking a tour.

Best tours from London. There are several tours visiting Downton Abbey filming locations from London. Some of the tours also visit Oxford, some others pass several villages of Cotswolds as well. This tour has the most complete itinerary covering most of the Downton Abbey filming locations.

The picturesque village of Lacock in rural Wiltshire near Bath is another place often visited on day tours from London. It’s a small village and you don’t need much time here, but it’s well worth a stop if touring the area.

The historic village of Lacock looks much as it did two centuries ago. Founded in the Saxon era, Lacock’s buildings originally made up part of a monastery complex (be sure to visit Lacock Abbey !). In the 19th century, it lost its main source of income from the wool industry, so very little development has taken place since then.

This means that this unspoiled little village gives an authentic look into days gone by. In fact, you can still see an old workhouse and medieval tithe barn in addition to the traditional stone cottages, with classic English pubs dotted throughout.

The village’s beauty makes it a popular choice as a TV and film location. Scenes from Pride and Prejudice were filmed here and Lacock Abbey was also used to film parts of Harry Potter.

Lacock was also used in Downtown Abbey, but because of its location, it’s usually a place you’d visit in combination with Bath and Stonehenge and not together with Highclere castle or Bampton. Unless you drive – in that case, you could make your own tour covering all three.

How to visit. Because of its rural location, Lacock is best visited by car or with a tour.

Best tours from London. There are many tours that stop in Lacock, usually in combination with a visit to Bath, Stonehenge, sometimes also with Windsor Castle. This is the most popular tour that also brings you to Lacock (in addition to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath).

16. Warwick Castle

If you want to visit a real medieval castle near London, consider a day trip to Warwick Castle . With a history that goes back over 1000 years, a visit here takes you on a journey back in time, to a world of historic myths and battles for the English throne, but also lavish banquets, and royal splendor.

The castle was originally built as a wooden fort in 1068 and was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century. As you arrive, you enter over the footbridge and find an impressive medieval castle with ramparts and towers. You can climb the stairs of the castle walls and explore this impressive castle inside out.

A visit to Warwick Castle is very different than the others mentioned in this guide – it has something of a theme park feel if you like. There are various events, shows, attractions, archery and sword lessons, and lots of other fun experiences all year round.

This is one of those places where locals visit with their children during weekends and school holidays, but it’s also fun and entertaining for tourists. Even more so if you are traveling with a family.

How to visit. Warwick Castle is located about 100 miles (160km), 2 hours drive from London. If you want to spend more time at the castle, by far the easiest way to visit Warwick from London for a day is by train.

There are direct trains from London Marylebone Station to Warwick Railway Station, the journey takes about 1.5 hours. From the station, it’s about 20-30 minutes walk to the castle. Be sure to check the official website of the castle for more info and book your tickets in advance!

Best tours from London. Most tours from London that visit Warwick Castle do this in combination with Oxford and Stratford. Some also stop at one or two villages in the Cotswolds. Here you can find a selection of tours that include a visit to Warwick Castle .

17. Liverpool & The Beatles

While not exactly next door, we feel that Liverpool also deserves a mention as a place that you can visit on a day trip from London. If you are a fan of The Beatles , a visit here is a bucket-list experience and well worth the journey.

A visit to Liverpool gives a fascinating look into the lives and times of 4 local lads who formed what would become one of the most famous bands in the world. A good starting point from which to enjoy this vibrant Victorian city is the Royal Albert Dock, which is made up of refurbished dock warehouses and is now packed with restaurants, cafes, and many attractions.

The Beatles Story is an award-winning, permanent exhibition totally devoted to the Fab Four! Located on the Dock, it contains lots of authentic memorabilia and provides an immersive experience for visitors. Even children are catered for in the Exhibitions Discovery Zone. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance !

Another interesting part of the visit for die-hard Beatles fans is the Magical Mystery Tour , which you take via a colorful tour bus that sets off from the Royal Albert Dock. In addition to the birthplaces, homes, schools, and original workplaces of the Beatles, you will also see the places that inspired some of their greatest hits, including Penny Lane and Strawberry Field.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool

How to visit. The best way to visit Liverpool as a day trip from London is by taking a train (going by car would be about 4 hours one way). The journey by train takes 2 – 2.5 hours and there are many trains throughout the day, but be sure to book in advance and start your day as early as possible!

Once in Liverpool, you can take the earlier-mentioned Magical Mystery bus tour. Definitely visit the Beatles Story exhibition as well!

TIP: If you find it overwhelming to arrange everything yourself, you can also book a day tour to Liverpool from London. Most of these ‘tours’ are actually individual trips where everything from train tickets to all activities is pre-arranged for you. See below.

Best tours from London. This Liverpool and The Beatles day tour is the most popular and probably the best option. It includes reserved train seats, an entry to the Beatles Story exhibition, and also a ticket to the 2-hour Magical Mystery Tour!

Good to know: The above-mentioned tour from London to Liverpool starts at Euston Station in London and is normally available every day except Sundays. You’ll have to meet their representative at the station at 6.30 AM, so prepare for this to be a long day!

LEARN MORE: How to Plan a Day Trip to Liverpool from London

Map of the best places to visit as a day trip from London & practical info

To give you a better idea of where all these places are located, we created a map indicating all the best day trip destinations from London mentioned in this guide. You can click on the map below in order to see it on Google Maps.

Good to know: As already mentioned, many of the most popular day trip destinations from London can be visited with organized tours or by train .

We don’t recommend renting a car if you are staying in London – the traffic is so busy in and around the city that it would be a nightmare for someone who’s not used to it. Renting a car would only make sense if you are planning a longer road trip, outside of the cities.

For organized tours , we recommend booking via the GetYourGuide website . They have a great selection of tours at the most competitive rates and the best cancelation policy and customer service out there. We personally book all tickets and tours via this website when we travel anywhere in the world.

So, this is our guide to some of the most popular day trips and tours from London. I hope that this helps you choose a few nice places to visit near London and make your trip even more memorable.

For more travel inspiration for London and the UK, please see our featured articles below. Check it out!

More travel tips and inspiration for London:

• Must-see in London: Top London Attractions
• Hidden Gems of London
• Camden Market
• What to See in Camden Town
• Best Views in London
• London Travel Tips
• Where to Stay in London
• 1 Day in London
• 2-day London Itinerary
• London with Kids
• Family Afternoon Tea in London
• Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• Painted Hall
• Queen’s House and Tulip Stairs

READ ALSO: Traditional British Food & Where to Try It in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

• Cities: Best Cities to Visit in the UK
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Yorkshire: Yorkshire Day Trips
• Liverpool: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & The Beatles in Liverpool
• Manchester: Best Things to Do in Manchester & 1-day Manchester Itinerary
• Scotland: Isle of Skye Itinerary & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh: Top Places to See in Edinburgh & One Day in Edinburgh & Tips for Visiting Edinburgh
• Glasgow: One Day in Glasgow
• Seaside: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Blackpool Travel Tips & Places to See Near Blackpool
• …for more destinations, check our UK travel guide .
• Read also: How to Plan a Trip to Europe

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Lacinda Mena

Tuesday 2nd of May 2023

I am traveling with a group of six. We would like to depart London on September 4 and view Stonehedge, Windsor, and Bath on our way to Southampton. Do you know of any tours that would offer this service?

Hi Lacinda, no, I don't personally know any tours that offer this kind of service. I found this private tour that visits all the places that you mentioned from London. It's one of the cheapest and best-rated tours in its kind. However, I'm not sure if they wouldn't mind dropping you off somewhere else. You could probably book it and then contact them and ask what is possible. If it's not what you are looking for, you can cancel it. I see that the tour has free cancelation, so that's how I would do it. Otherwise, try to search the internet for private drivers and ask for a quote. Good luck!

Wednesday 26th of April 2023

Amazing blog! Was looking for something like this for my trip to London in a few days, and this has been really useful information; the detail with which you describe are amazing. Plus the alternatives to get there and the map, loved it all! Thanks for taking the time.

Thursday 27th of April 2023

Glad to help and thanks a lot for taking the time to leave this kind feedback, Alex! Have a great trip!

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Awesome! Thanks for the info!

Saturday 4th of February 2023

This was great information. Thanks

Monday 6th of February 2023

Glad to help. Have a great time in the UK!

Thursday 15th of December 2022

Love this blog!!! I am planning a trip to London with my son in February! This is exactly the information we are looking for! Super helpful!!

Friday 16th of December 2022

Glad to help, Holley. Have a great time in London!

Travel With A Dog

Quiet Places in London including Relaxing Parks & Peaceful Squares

Living in London was an interesting experience for me, however, I very much missed the peaceful tranquillity of the countryside. To counter my desire, I sought places in the city that were tranquil to rest my mind and counteract the overstimulation the city gave to me.

As part of my research, I purchased a copy of a book called Quiet London to point me in the way of a few hidden gems to find. The book validated my need to avoid overstimulation, too.

Quiet Places in London Including Parks

Some tried and tested quiet places in London that I used to escape from the hustle and bustle when visiting.

Finding a Quiet Spot in Hyde Park

Hyde Park is famous for excellent reasons. It is one of the more prominent parks in London and attracts lots of tourists. The Serpentine is the lake in the centre, which is home to lots of birds, including a flock of swans. Outside of the busy tourist times, the park still has activity, but there is always a chance to find a quiet spot. There are many trees to sit under off the main paths and have a read or watch the word go by.

Feeding the birds is a guilty pleasure of mine, the swans and geese with wholemeal bread as directed by signs in the park. The herons are an unusual breed for people to feed, but they seem to enjoy a slice of belly pork. They made short shrift of the pork, and over time used to stalk me awaiting food. Another amazing experience is the starlings. They are tame enough to eat breadcrumbs from your hands if you sit still.

The Relaxing Italian Gardens

Near to Hyde Park and Lancaster Gate tube station in Westminster is The Italian Gardens . The gardens are a nice place for dog walks or to sit and relax at most times of the year. Theses gardens are at the far end of The Serpentine lake and classed as part of Kensington Gardens.

This is a very picturesque park with multiple carved historic pools, many fountains, and sculptures. There are many footpaths to walk around and enjoy the scenery. These can lead to both Kensington or Hyde Park. the gardens date back to 1860 and were a gift from Prince Albert to Queen Victoria.

Quiet Garden & Views at Barrier Park

I discovered barrier park while perusing a book about quiet places to visit in the city. This is a park on the opposite bank of the Thames to the principal attraction of The Thames Barrier. The park has fantastic views of the barrier and is quiet as the book promised. This is a great place for photographing the impressive structure of sitting on the riverside, watching the river flow by.

Thames Barrier Park is 7-hectares of green space with landscaped gardens, hedgerows and an abundance of flowers. It is in the Royal Docks near to Pontoon Dock on the DLR. It is a newish park and only opened its gates in 2000.

The Beautiful Kew Gardens

Another tranquil spot in London is The Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew . It is a fantastic day out for those that love to see or relax in greenery and flowers which are perfectly landscaped. They have a vast selection of plants, trees and flowers for visitors to see and many quiet spots for reflection.

The Quiet Canals at Westbourne Grove

The walk from Westbourne Grove Along the canals is a rather quiet place to relax and take a step back from London life. There’s lots of greenery here, as well as some nice wildlife. Many wildfowl call this place home and the water is rather clear. There are many boats moored up on the banks to see, too.

I particularly find canals relaxing, especially when they are quiet. This towpath leads to or away from Little Venice behind the Paddington Train station. Little Venice is a brilliant spot to head towards after stretching your legs.

River Lee Navigation a Tranquil Haven for Nature

The River Lee Navigation was one of many walks that I enjoyed while living in London. It’s an interesting place with narrow boats, a canal and the Tottenham marches nearby. I found it a rather quiet walking route and was a relaxing few hours. Once away from the footpath entrances, the tranquillity became apparent.

Explore The Quiet Parts of Hampstead Heath

Hampstead Heath is a lovely place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There are lots of trails, including through woodland to find a quiet spot to sit and ponder. They also have some tranquil pools to sit by and enjoy the relaxing nature of the water. You can also go for a swim in Hampstead Ponds, including the ladies or a mixed swimming pond. There’s lots of wildlife to spot too while exploring Hampstead Heath.

Soho Square A Tranquil Garden

Another place to collect your thoughts and see some interesting things is Soho Square. Soho Square is one of the older squares in the capital and dates from 1681. The square is basically a park with some interesting features to see. What caught my eye was the Tudor style lodge in the centre of Soho Square. There are many benches to sit on and the lawn too when dry.

Tower Hill & Tower of London After Dark

After the tourists have gone home and the sun has gone down, the area surrounding the Tower of London is a fantastic quiet spot. The crowds have gone and the benches empty for a sit town and to enjoy the views. There are many nice things to see while chilling out here after dark. The Tower of London and London Bridge all lit up are both special to see.

Also nearby is Trinity Square Gardens, which is also a nice place to sit and enjoy in the daytime or evening. After dark the nearby buildings are nicely lit up, however you can see more of the gardens’ features while enjoy the green space.

Victoria Tower Gardens South Next to The Palace of Westminster

Another cool public space with views that I found to be tranquil was Victoria Tower Gardens South. They are right next door to Westminster Palace and the houses of Parliament . The gardens also have river views which always seem to add to the tranquillity for me. The garden also has some interesting statues and memorials to see while perusing the area. There are benches to sit on and in nice weather, the lawn is a great place to plonk your bum.

Dean’s Yard A Peaceful Spot in Westminster

Dean’s yard is a lovely and quiet place away from the nearby crowds of the attractions in Westminster. This is a beautiful square with grass in the middle. Dean’s Yard has some amazing views, including the spires of Westminster Abbey.

They built Dean’s Yard on the site of the former monastery farmyard. Since the 18th century there have been three rows of tree including maple, sycamore and red horse chestnut trees. It’s a popular spot for the pupils at Westminster School, however it was quiet when I wandered through.

Relax in St James Park

A short walk from many of the prime sites in London is St. James Park. It’s a nice place to chill out between some pretty epic sightseeing. I’ve always managed to find a quiet spot away from the high foot traffic areas. The lake in St James Park adds to its relaxing nature and Theres many spots to sit and enjoy the views of the water. They have a few refreshments stand selling snacks, coffee or overpriced tiny beer.

I usually pack a can if planning to chill in the park. M&S or Tesco both have cold beers. Autumn is a great time to visit and the changing colours certainly add to the vibe. If you enjoy watching wildlife in the parks, St. James has some fascinating birds to see and some friendly squirrels. Overall, St James Park is a lovely place near Buckingham Palace and Horseguards Parade.

Cavendish Square

A nice place for a chill after shopping on Bond Street is Cavendish Square. This is a lovely place at the rear of the big John Lewis store. Cavendish Square dates back to 1717 and was laid out by the 2nd Earl of Oxford. The square is tree-lined, thus has plenty of shade to enjoy the benches of the park. As a bonus, there are some interesting sculptures to see while relaxing.

Victoria Embankment Gardens Whitehall Extension

Alongside the north bank of the River Thames , downstream of to Big Ben, is the Whitehall Extension of Victoria Embankment Gardens. They are a nice place to hang out with pretty surroundings and plenty of benches to sit on. As a bonus, there are a few interesting statues to see near the flower beds.

Whitehall Gardens

Also on the north bank of the Thames is the historic Whitehall Gardens. The famous Horse Guards building, which is rather pretty, overlooks Whitehall Gardens. The garden has many places to sit, some interesting statues and pretty flower beds during the warmer months.

Other Relaxing & Quiet Places in London

• The Southbank of the River Thames
• Richmond Park
• Epping Forest
• WWT London Wetland Centre

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15 Most Relaxing Things to do in London

Are you planning a relaxing trip to London?

Then you’re going to want to start coming up with an itinerary!

Although it’s one of the biggest, most fast paced cities in the world, there are plenty of ways to relax in London if you know where to look.

From taking a stroll through Hyde Park to cruising down the River Thames, keep reading to discover the 15 most relaxing things to do in London.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay

As a start, you need the right place to stay as your base for a relaxing holiday.

We’ve had a look at hundreds of hotels, checking their facilities, pricing, services, activities and on-site dining.

Inhabit Hotel London would be our best recommendation for the most relaxing stay.

The work shops and wellness activities at Inhabit Hotel London will compliment all the relaxing things to do we found in London.

Check out their rooms and see how they can add value to your next London getaway.

Once you’ve organised your hotel, you can decide on the most relaxing activities when you arrive in London.

Check Rooms

1. Stroll Around Hyde Park

Walking through Hyde Park is a must while in London.

This urban park in central London is one of four royal parks in the city.

The park is divided by the scenic Serpentine River, which you can even swim in during the summer months.

Beyond swimming, Hyde Park is an idyllic place to go for a stroll through gardens.

Check out the famous monuments as you explore the park or even have a picnic.

Despite being right in the city centre, the large size of the park makes it easy to find some alone time.

It also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, and is only a short distance from Inhabit Hotel London.

• Opening Hours: Daily 5am-12pm
• Nearest Stations: Queensway, Lancaster Gate, Hyde Park Corner, Knightsbridge

Check Tours

2. Kensington Gardens

A walk around Kensington Gardens is just what you’ll need after a busy day of sightseeing.

Kensington Gardens is located just west of Hyde Park, so you could even see both at the same time if you like.

The gardens span 275 acres and are one of London’s most historic royal parks.

Kensington Gardens is made up of Serpentine Lake, as well as a round pond and a Dutch garden that dates back to the 18th century.

There are also multiple notable statues within the gardens, such as the Albert Memorial and the Roman sculpture known as ‘The Arch.’

Enjoy the beautiful flowers and fountains of Kensington Gardens in all seasons throughout the year.

• Opening Hours: Daily 6am to dusk
• Address: London W2 2UH, United Kingdom

Check Tours   Official site

3. Regents Park

Regent’s Park is yet another royal park that is a great option if you’re looking for a relaxing activity.

It is located in north west London and is typically a bit quieter than the more central Hyde Park.

The park was founded in 1811 and today is over 410 acres.

Park highlights include Queen Mary’s Gardens, the boating lake, and Hanover Gate treehouse playground.

In addition, Regent’s Park is also home to the Regent Park Zoo and Regent’s University London.

It is also surrounded by some of the most upscale flats in London.

• Opening Hours: Daily
• Address: Chester Rd, London NW1 4NR, United Kingdom

4. Kew Gardens

Visit one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world while in London.

Kew Gardens is a leisurely attraction great for people of all ages, as well as large groups.

It is also easily accessible via the tube (there is a tube station called Kew Gardens).

The park itself is 120 hectares in size, and is one of the oldest parks in the UK.

It also happens to house the largest number of living plant species on the planet.

Kew Gardens is divided up into sections, such as the Japanese Garden and the Palm House.

It also has a treetop playground and rotating interactive exhibits.

• Opening Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
• Location: Richmond, United Kingdom

5. Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is a must while in London.

And in addition to being ultra tasty, it’s also a very relaxing activity.

Simply sit down with your friends or family and enjoy some delicious treats and freshly brewed tea.

There are plenty of afternoon tea opportunities in London.

Many of the oldest hotels in the city offer it in a historic tea room setting.

But there are also specific tours that include afternoon tea on an iconic double decker bus or afternoon tea in Westminster Abbey.

No matter what you choose, you can expect savoury finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and of course, scones with jam and clotted cream!

More reading:

• Best Places in London for Afternoon Tea Experience

6. Cruise on the River Thames

Can you think of anything more relaxing than cruising down the River Thames?

Walking along the river can be extremely busy, especially during rush hour.

That is why we recommend getting away from the hustle and bustle by floating along the river on a state of the art river cruise.

There are plenty of cruising options available in London, whether you’re looking for a sunset experience or a lunch or dinner cruise.

No matter which you choose, you can bet it will be relaxing.

You will also have a unique vantage point when it comes to spotting some of London’s most famous attractions.

7. London Eye

See London from the comfort of a private pod on the London Eye.

This attraction first opened in 1999 and since then, has quickly grown to become one of the most popular sites in the city.

It is made up of 32 pod capsules that can accommodate a total of up to 800 people.

One trip around the wheel takes roughly half an hour, meaning you will have plenty of opportunities to snap photos of all the best sites.

The London Eye is the fourth tallest structure in the city so you can bet that the view is incredible.

You can even book private pods with food or champagne if you wish to experience the magic alone with your loved ones.

• Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 11am-6pm; Saturday to Sunday 10am-8:30pm
• Address: The Queen’s Walk, Bishop’s, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom

Check Tickets   Official site

8. London Shard Viewing Platform

Enjoy the city from above at the London Shard Viewing Platform.

The Shard is one of the most iconic buildings in London’s skyline.

Located in the City of London, this all glass building is a sight to behold.

But taking the elevator up to the viewing platform and seeing the city from above is even more spectacular.

The structure stands 1,016 feet tall and took over 12 years to create.

The Shard is 72 floors and looks right down on the River Thames.

Be sure to bring your camera!

• Opening Hours: April to October 10am-10pm; November to March 10am-7pm
• Address: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, United Kingdom

9. ZSL London Zoo

Spend time with some of the cutest, most exotic animals in the world at the ZSL London Zoo.

The London Zoo was established in 1828.

It was originally intended as a scientific zoo where animals would be studied, but eventually opened to the public in 1847.

The zoo is located in Regent’s Park and today it contains over 800 species of animals.

Their resident animals today are located in enclosures that mirror their natural habitats.

For example, there is a newly built Tiger Territory and a Gorilla Kingdom.

For a leisurely stroll and relaxing time, the London Zoo is the ideal place to visit.

• Opening Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
• Address: Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom

Check Tickets

10. Sea Life London Aquarium

Explore the ocean at the Sea Life London Aquarium.

This family-friendly attraction is conveniently located in central London.

That means you won’t have to travel far to get up close and personal with penguins, fish, and more.

Sea Life London houses one of Europe’s largest collections of marine animals.

You will find everything from Gentoo penguins to Sand Tiger Sharks here.

There are over 500 species of marine animals in total and over 14 zones for visitors to explore.

In some zones, it’s almost a zen-like experience with music playing in the background while sea creatures swim by peacefully in their habitats.

• Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10am-4pm; Thursday 11am-4pm; Saturday 9:30am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm.
• Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, Bishop’s, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom

11. London Natural History Museum

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of the most famous museums in the world, the London Natural History Museum.

The huge museum dates back to 1881 and has been a staple of the posh Kensington area since then.

Not only is the building itself stunning, but people of all ages will enjoy its many exhibits.

Stroll through the London Natural History Museum and you will come across everything from dinosaur skeletons to a creepy crawlies gallery.

The museum houses over 70 million specimens in total, however, not all are on display.

Whatever you do, be sure to check out the Diplodocus skeleton and the animatronic T-Rex in the Dinosaurs Gallery.

• Opening Hours: Daily 10am-5:50pm
• Address:  Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD, United Kingdom

12. Watch a Live Show

London is home to the West End, on par with Broadway when it comes to live shows.

Thus, seeing a play or a musical while in London is a great activity to participate in!

It’s also very relaxing as all you need to do is sit down and enjoy the show.

You will find some of the most famous musicals performed in the West End, such as The Lion King, Wicked, School of Rock, and Les Miserables.

If these big musicals don’t appeal to you, there are also other types of live events, such as seeing a Shakespeare play at the Globe Theatre.

Check Shows

13. London Shopping

Calling all shopaholics!

If you need a break from all the sight seeing, why not indulge in a little retail therapy?

After all, London has some of the best shopping in the world.

From the iconic Harrods to London’s many markets, like Borough Market and Camden Market, there are shopping opportunities at every turn.

There are even official shopping tours you can take that will transport you to some of the best shopping areas.

Whether you prefer to shop alone or in a tour group, don’t miss out on all the incredible finds available in London.

More Reading:

• 20 Best Shopping Areas in London

14. Bike Riding Around London

Give you feet a rest by renting a bike and exploring the city on two wheels.

There are plenty of official bike tours, as well as bike rental places for visitors to use.

You can even rent city bikes by the half hour or hour.

Bike through Hyde Park, along the River Thames, or all over the city.

Whatever you decide, you will love exploring the city in this leisurely manner.

There are even tours that combine buses and biking if you need a rest.

15. Food Tasting in London

As one of the biggest cities in the world, London is also the most diverse.

This has made for an extremely unique melting pot of culture inspired by countries all over the world.

This melting pot also translates to food, which is why you can find almost any type of cuisine in London.

Exploring the city’s food scene is a must if you’re looking to relax while dining.

From delicious Indian curries to Moroccan stews, you can find it all here.

There are also plenty of tours, like market tours, chocolate tours, and more, that will allow you to explore a particular part of the city’s food scene.

• 14 Best London Food Tours & Dining Experiences

We hope you’ve come to see that there are plenty of opportunities to relax in London.

From strolling through a royal park to exploring a historic museum, this bustling metropolis has plenty of leisurely activities for visitors.

Find More Relaxing Things to do in London

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Places To Visit Around London

Here's a list of the best places to visit near london:, quick navigation.

Must Visit Attractions Near London

Windsor castle.

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Warwick Castle

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Best of Switzerland

The New Forest

The New Forest is an unenclosed pasture area of northern England that is renowned for its forest trails, native ponies, and heathland. It is the hotspot for many interesting outdoor activities such as paddle boarding, horse riding, and hiking. The New Forest National Park is the prime attraction of this area where you can have a picnic with your family, or you can witness deers, tigers, rhinoceroses, and wild buffalo in the region. You should also visit the Hearst castle that is an artillery fortress designed by Henry XIII. Apart from that, Exbury Gardens is the ideal weekend getaways from London for a family day out, and you can even have an Exbury steam railway ride here. Distance from London: 69 mi. Best Time: May to September. How To Reach: You can board a train from Waterloo that will drop you at The New Forest in 90 minutes. Suggested Read:  Things To Do In Victoria London   Must Checkout:  Europe Honeymoon Packages

Blenheim Palace

Brighton Museum & Royal Pavilion

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Highclere Castle & Downton Abbey Sites

Must Visit Cities Near London

Known throughout the world for its unparalleled educational magnificence, the town of Oxford is a global educational hub. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit near London due to its historical buildings and covered markets. One such amazing place that you must visit here is the Christ Church Cathedral that exudes excellent architecture and beauty. Oxford Castle is another major attraction here that gives you a chance to have a 360 degrees view of London. You should also visit the Sheldonian Theatre, which houses the Museum of the History of Science. It has a splendid collection of ancient art and antiquities, Greek and Roman pottery, classical sculpture, Far Eastern art, and jewelry. While here, you should also consider going shopping in Cornmarket Street, which is pedestrian-friendly and sells a range of items. Among many branded shops and departmental stores, this street also has the historic Golden Cross arcade which is well-known for its jewelry and craft shops. Distance from London: 56.1 mi. Best Time: August and September, May & July. How To Reach: Board a train from Paddington Station to Oxford. It will take sixty minutes to reach Oxford from London. Checkout & Book:   London Tower Bridge Tickets    Suggested Read:  Places To Visit In London       

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Regarded as one of the best places to visit around London, the city of Brighton has some outstanding attractions and monuments. A must-visit attraction is the Brighton Palace Pier, a perfect example of a Victorian pleasure pier. You can have traditional seaside fun here while enjoying the rides and the delicious street food. Another great attraction over here is the Royal Pavilion, which was the home of Prince Regent. This pavilion is one of the most exotic and stunning architecture in the British Isles. During your trip to Brighton, you should also visit the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, which includes fashion & style, design & fine art and exciting interactive exhibitions. Distance from London: 56.4 mi. Best Time: May to September. How To Reach: Board a bus from Victoria Coach Station to Brighton. Book Now: Buckingham Palace Tickets  Recommended Read: Places In West London  

Located in the county of Kent, Canterbury is one of the heritage cities of Britain that has retained its old-world charm as well as modern glitz. It houses the Canterbury Cathedral that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for being the murder site of Archbishop Thomas Becket. You should also visit the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, which has a facility-part museum, an art gallery, and even a library. It displays a collection of paintings, prints, engravings, European ceramics, Anglo-Saxon jewelry, and Asian porcelain. Canterbury Castle is another major attraction here where you can discover the historical treasures of Canterbury. Distance from London: 60.8 mi. Best Time: May & September. How To Reach: South Eastern train runs regular service from St Pancras, Charing Cross and London Victoria. Do Read:   T hings To Do In Central London

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Known to be a rival of the Oxford University, Cambridge is claimed to have one of the most preserved historic buildings in England. The King's College Chapel is the most famous attraction over here that is renowned for its 12-bay perpendicular-style interior and incredible architecture. Besides that, the Mathematical Bridge is the major highlight of the city as it has been built without any nails solely relying on the calculative structuring. You should also visit the  Cambridge University Botanical Garden stretching across 40 acres in Cambridge. This garden boasts of having more than 8,000 plant species from across the world. Another must-visit place is the Fitzwilliam Museum, which is an architectural masterpiece. It displays collections of Egyptian antiquities, illuminated manuscripts,  potteries of English, China, Greek, and Roman origins. Distance from London: 64.0 mi. Best Time: June & July. How To Reach: ThamesLink Runway and The Great Northern Runway runs the fastest train to Cambridge. Check This Out:  Hidden Places In London    

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Best of England

Winchester functioned as a former cultural and political capital of England until the 13th century. It is home to some of the best places to visit around London, such as the Winchester museum, which is one of Europe's largest cathedrals. Another such attraction is the Highclere Castle: Aka Downton Abbey that was featured in the English TV series of the same name. The Castle includes a spectacular gothic saloon, a library with 5,650 rare books and historic portraits. Another popular attraction over here is the Hospital of St. Cross, which is England's oldest almshouse. It features the 15th-century Hall of the Brothers, a kitchen, and a chapel. Other must-visit places are Winchester City Mill, Winchester's Military Museums, Marwell Zoo, and Winchester City Museum. Distance from London: 67.8 mi. Best Time: May to June. How To Reach: Take a train from Waterloo to Winchester. Best Offers On:  London Eye Tickets   Recommended Read:  Things To Do In London With Kids     

If you're looking for one of the best places to visit around London, then St Albans should be your topmost choice. It is a vibrant city located in the northern belt of London known for its centuries-old medieval cathedrals and scenic parks. Verulamium Park is one of the beautiful spaces in St Albans that houses an ornamental lake, and you can witness here the remains of ancient Roman walls. If you wish to trace the rich history of this city, then the Verulamium Museum should be your ideal stopover. It has displays of gold coins, mosaic structures, and second-century Roman theater. Distance from London: 69 mi. Best Time: May to September. How To Reach: You can take a flight from Gatwick and Luton airport. Both these airports are linked directly to London. Do Read:  Things To Do In Shoreditch   

Mersea Island

This is a small fishing town with sandy beaches and an impressive collection of cafes, shops, and restaurants. Due to its old-world charm and impressive landscape, it is considered to be one of the best places to visit around London. Mersea Island Vineyard is a popular destination here that is known for producing local and traditional wines, while also offering an enthralling view of lush greenery of nature. Get a glimpse of the history of Mersea Island by visiting the Mersea museum that houses the oldest sculptures and archeological relics. Distance from London: 69 mi. Best Time: May to September. How To Reach: You can catch a train from Liverpool Street to Colchester train station. From here you can board a taxi to Mersea Island. Check This:  Things To Do In Kings Cross   

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One of the beautiful and charming villages in South East England, Rye, is a haven for nature lovers. This adorable fairy-tale town has medieval cafes and inns, winding streets and quirky shops. It houses the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve that is spread in around 1,000-acres and has over 4,000 species of animals. Another attraction is the Rye Castle Museum and Ypres Tower, which has two sites, East Street and The Ypres Tower. The East Street site includes collections of the museum and is the best place to know about the rich history of Rye. You should also visit the Parish Church of St. Mary, Rye, which houses magnificent stonework and exquisite stained-glass windows. Another must-visit site is the Mermaid Street, lined with crooked timber houses and quirky cafes. It is considered to be one of the most photographed streets in Rye. Distance from London: 76.7 mi. Best Time: June to October. How To Reach: No direct train runs from London to Rye. You can however board a train from St Pancras. Do Read:  Things To Do Near Borough Market   

Portsmouth is one of the most famous places to visit near London that serves as the base of the Royal Navy and contains around two-third of the surface fleet of the UK. It houses some of the most popular ships such as the Tudor carrack Mary Rose, HMS Warrior and HMS Victory. Further, the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard gives you a chance to discover the eight hundred-year-old maritime histories of the town. You can also visit the Blue Reef Aquarium to witness the diverse species of aquatic animals housed here. Distance from London: 74.8 mi. Best Time: March to November & January to February. How To Reach: Board a train from Waterloo to portsmouth. Suggested Read:  Things To Do Near London Eye   

The stark landscape and the otherworldly beauty of Dungeness make it one of the best places to visit near London. It boasts of having the largest shingle beach in Europe where you can enjoy sunbathing, and you can also relish the seafood at the cafes and beachside shacks located here. Also, the RSPB Nature Reserve is an absolute paradise for the wildlife watchers as you can witness here a dazzling variety of migratory as well as domestic birdlife. Another major attraction that you must visit here is the Pilot Inn that is known for serving the best chips and traditional seafood. Distance from London: 77.8 mi. Best Time: March to May. How To Reach: Board a train from St Pancras to Ashford International. Board a taxi from Ashford to Dungeness. Recommended Read:  Museums Near London Bridge   

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Surrounded by sandy beaches, fishing villages, and family attractions, Chichester is one of the most popular weekend getaways from London. West Wittering Beach is one of the prime attractions of Chichester that has been awarded the Blue Flag for its cleanliness. It is a sandy and long beach where you can enjoy sunbathing and boating. Chichester Cathedral is also an important attraction that is the sacred church of the Holy Trinity and is the seat of Bishop of Chichester. Also, the city center is the main shopping arena of Chichester, where you can buy a variety of elite brands. Distance from London: 80.8 mi. Best Time: June to Early September. How To Reach: You can board a train from Victoria to Waterloo station. Check This Out:  Places In East London   

Well known as an elegant spa town since Roman times, Bath is built for relaxation and pleasure. This is one of the best weekend getaways from London where you can have an aromatic spa or Roman Baths to relieve your senses. It is a gorgeous city dotted with exquisite architectural monuments and cobblestone streets. Nestled between Somerset and Mendip Hills, it is considered to be one of the best places to visit near London because of its honey-colored Georgian houses and beautiful gardens and parks. Bath Abbey is also a popular site over here that is a Gothic cathedral with beautiful paintings and architecture. Furthermore, another popular attraction is Pulteney Bridge that is considered to be the departure point for various fun river excursions. Distance from London: 114.6 mi. Best Time: January to February. How To Reach: Frequent trains run from Paddington station to London after every thirty minutes. Do Read:  Adventurous Things To Do In London   

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Also known as the capital of castles in Wales, the city of Cardiff is known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscape. Among many places to visit around London, Cardiff should be an ideal stopover in your itinerary due to its beautiful castles and historic houses. It houses the Cardiff Bay Barrage, which is located in a stunning maritime setting, perfect for a bike ride or a relaxing stroll. You should also pay a visit to the Albany Gallery and the Martin Tinney Gallery that depict some of the greatest art collections in the world. Some other attractions that you must visit over here are Hensol Castle Distillery, St. John's Parish Church, and Forest Farm Country Park. For a calming experience after a busy day of touring, you should surely visit the chic Mermaid Quay to have a romantic dinner with your partner. Distance from London: 150.6 mi. Best Time: Early June to Late September. How To Reach: 27 trains operate in a day from London to Cardiff. You can board any of the trains that will drop you at Cardiff in 2hrs and 28 mins. Also Read:  Things To Do Near Borough Market   

Manchester is one of the most lively and vibrant cities in London, throbbing with architectural splendours and creative spaces. It houses the most popular football club in the entire world known as the Manchester United Football Club. Moreover, a paradise for the foodies, Manchester has a huge variety of street food markets as well as elegant cafes and restaurants. The city is also home to some of the oldest libraries, such as the Chetham's and John Rylands library that houses a collection of novels and books spanning across five millennia. Distance from London: 208.4 mi. Best Time: June and August. How To Reach: Take a bus from Victoria bus station to Manchester. Suggested Read:  Things To Do In London In September   

Guildford is a beautiful town located on the southern periphery of London. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit around London because it is home to historic cathedrals and castles that offer peace and tranquility like none other. Apart from that, the city seems to be brimming with an array of pubs, restaurants, bars, and shopping venues as well. Moreover, the Odeon Cinema is a paradise for the film fanatics, and you can watch some of the best Hollywood movies over here. If you're a shopping enthusiast, then Tunsgate Quarter should be your ideal spot as it is home to some of the branded stores such as Cath, Loaf, and Kidston. Distance from London: 208.4 mi. Best Time: June and August. How To Reach: Direct buses don't run from London to Guildford. You can however board a bus from Victoria Coach Station and arrive at Friary Bus Station. Check This Out:  Thing To Do In London In October   

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Home of iconic music-band, The Beatles and Liverpool Football Club, the city of Liverpool, is one of the best places to visit near London. To start the tour of this city, you should visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum, which has an impressive collection of artifacts and sculptures. Another such attraction is the Pier Head area of Liverpool, which houses the Three Graces,  the traditional trio of harbor buildings. Moreover, the Museum of Liverpool celebrates the city's distinct history, geography, and culture with several displays. It houses various collections of decorative art and period costumes and other archaeological materials. Liverpool also has some of the best gardens and parks, such as the Sefton Park Palmhouse, that is lush with greenery and large varieties of flowers. Distance from London: 220.5 mi. Best Time: May to June. How To Reach: Board a train from Euston station in London to Liverpool. Suggested Read:  Places In North West London  

The capital city of Northern Ireland, Belfast is the birthplace of the sunken ocean liner, RMS Titanic. To recall the legacy of the ship, the Titanic Quarter has been built, which pays tribute to Belfast's maritime history. Another major attraction over here is the HMS Caroline museum, which houses one of the last surviving vessels to have witnessed service in both world wars. This floating museum also displays history related to WWI and WWII. You should also visit St. Anne's Cathedral, which is a neo-Romanesque style of a basilica featuring a beautiful mosaic ceiling and elegant stained-glass windows. Other worthwhile visits in Belfast are the Grand Opera House, Crumlin Road Gaol, the Belfast Castle and the Belfast Zoo. Distance from London: 470.0 mi. Best Time: April to October. How To Reach: Board a train from Euston station to Belfast. You can also take a car ferry from London that takes ten hours and four minutes to reach Belfast. Recommended Read:  Camping Near London   

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London Top Attractions

Located on London’s Southbank, the London Eye is the world’s tallest cantilever wheel and an iconic figure in the London sky. This wheel attracts nearly 4 million visitors every year, making it a popular destination among tourists and locals alike. If you're planning a trip to Europe, consider including the London Eye in your itinerary as part of our exciting Europe tour packages.Wheel consists of 32 capsules which are made of glass. On a clear day one can see up to 40 km from the wheel. There are multilingual guides giving a commentary on the details of the spectacular view of the city. Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and other famous London landmarks can be seen from the London Eye.The slow rotation of the wheel enables one to take pictures of the famous landmarks. Apart from the stunning view, another major attraction is a 4D show that forms a part of your London Eye experience. Over the past 19 years, it has become an important feature of the London skyline.You can also look out for special themed events like pop-up dining events, Valentine day celebrations or an anniversary dinner. London Eye is one of the major attractions in London’s New Year day firework celebrations. Seeing London at a glance should definitely be a part of your London itinerary. The wheel was dedicated to the public in 2000. It was originally planned to be in public service for only 5 years. However, its popularity made it a permanent feature in the tourist map of London. Tourists love the experience of the thrilling ride on the wheel and observe the breathtaking view of the London city over the River Thames.If you are planning for a honeymoon trip to Europe, you can checkout Europe Honeymoon Packages

Popular as one of the unique UNESCO World Heritage sites in London, Kew Gardens is one of the pleasant getaways in the city to enjoy with your family and friends. Explore this captivating destination as part of our curated Europe tour, home to a fascinating collection of living plants and an internationally recognized scientific research center. With over 14,000 trees, Kew Gardens' exquisite natural landscape spanning 300 acres is truly spellbinding, making it a leading center of research, complete with a library, museums, and beautiful gardens.It invites people of all ages to discover a day of serenity in the city of London. The visitors here can enjoy a number of activities whether it is taking a stroll along the colourful canopies of trees or exploring the beautiful glasshouses. Some of the popular attractions of Kew Gardens include the Palm House, Princess of Wales Conservatory and the Waterlily House.There are activities which the visitors can enjoy at Kew Gardens like the 59 ft high Treetop Walkway, catching the views of the city by climbing the Great Pagoda and getting to know about its history at the Kew Palace. Kew Gardens is also a paradise for photographers who wish to capture the natural beauty of London at its best.

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 11 Country Breaks Near London You’ll Want to Take

Today I want to bring you my list of country breaks near London you’ll love. There are a lot of great places to travel in and around the English countryside. Whether you enjoy long walks, pretty villages, or scenic drives , there are country getaways near London that will fit your style. If you’re looking for your next great escape from the city, my list will help you find the perfect destination for you. I’ve included a map, too.

Country Breaks Near London

My guide to country breaks near London includes a variety of trips in the UK . Whether you’re looking for country weekend breaks near London, countryside retreats near London, or the best country spa hotels near London, there’s an ideal one for you.

From the home counties to places further afield, these getaways will take you to some of the best places to visit in the UK . With idyllic scenery and peaceful surroundings, they showcase Britain’s finest offerings.

I’ve visited all the places on my list (many of them more than once), and I can personally vouch for how good they are. There are a lot more ideas in the book 52 Great British Weekends , too. You can get it on Amazon here .

1. Country Break in the Cotswolds

I’ll start my list of country breaks near London with the Cotswolds. When it comes to scenery, it’s hard to beat this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Just 2 hours from London by car, it’s a great place to get away from the city.

With quintessential villages , bucolic landscapes, and picture-pretty towns, it’s one of the most popular rural weekend escapes from London.

Whether you drive or travel to the Cotswolds without a car , there’s plenty to do and see on a short break.

From walking through villages like Painswick and Upper Slaughter to visiting National Trust properties in the Cotswolds , there’s a variety of ways to spend your time here.

If you like getting outdoors, there are great Cotswolds walks you can take in places like Moreton-in-Marsh and Burford . They’re ideal ways to get to know the area on foot.

If you’re traveling in a specific season, my spring weekend in the Cotswolds , autumn weekend in the Cotswolds , and winter weekend in the Cotswolds blog posts can help. My interactive Cotswolds map is a useful resource, too.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in the Cotswolds here . There are lots of beautiful places to stay in the area, including country spa hotels.

2. Country Break in Kent

Kent comes next on my list of the best country breaks near London. Out in the southeast of England, this county is bursting with places to escape to for a couple days (or longer!). Whether you travel by train or car, there are a lot of options.

From oyster-laden Whitstable to hipster Margate , pretty Deal , postcard-perfect Rochester , beachfront Broadstairs , underrated Folkestone , harborside Ramsgate , castle-topped Dover , and cathedral-graced Canterbury , there are lots of pretty towns and small cities to discover.

Add to that stately homes like Knole in Sevenoaks and historic fortresses like Scotney Castle , and there’s a wide variety of places to visit in Kent . You can take great country walks in the county, too.

You can even go wine, cider, and beer tasting in Kent . It’s the perfect way to discover the area through its famous English drinks . There are lots of wineries, cider producers, and breweries in the county, so you have a good deal of choice.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Kent here . I’ve stayed at The Bay Tree in Broadstairs, The Relish in Folkestone, and The Sun Inn in Faversham, and I recommend them all.

3. Country Break in West Sussex

West Sussex is another of the best country breaks near London. This county in southern England is an easy trip from the city and an ideal place to escape from the UK capital for a quick adventure or relaxing getaway.

There are plenty of options when it comes to West Sussex weekend breaks . I particularly like the South Downs National Park, the Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and Arundel , which has an amazing castle.

Petworth, a chocolate-box town full of cobbled streets and pretty shops, is also fun to visit. The town is home to the impressive Petworth House, a 17th-century stately home near London .

Petworth House has an amazing art collection and grounds designed by renowned 18th-century landscape architect Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.

There are lots of fun West Sussex walks you can do in the area as well. From Knepp Castle Estate to Cissbury Ring and West Chiltington, you have good options to choose from.

Then there are the wineries, many of which welcome visitors. From Tinwood Estate to Kinsbrook Vineyard, I’ve enjoyed tours and tastings at a number of them over the years. New vineyards near London are popping up all the time, too.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in West Sussex here . From hotels to B&Bs, guesthouses, and country house hotels, there are lots of good places to stay in the county.

4. Country Break in Hampshire

Hampshire is another of the best country breaks near London. This county is brimming with everything from idyllic villages to scenic landscapes, colorful lavender fields, and peaceful woodland areas.

There’s no shortage of places in Hampshire for country escapes near London. If villages are your thing, places like East Meon are hard to beat. The traditional thatched-roof cottages here are straight out of a fairy tale.

If you enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, the South Downs National Park and the New Forest are perfect places to travel. The latter has great hotels and restaurants like The Pig in Brockenhurst.

You can even visit Jane Austen’s house here. It’s located in the village of Chawton and it’s one of the best Jane Austen sites in England . You can see her bedroom and personal effects like her writing table inside.

If you want to get away to Hampshire, you can book a hotel here . I’ve stayed at The Greyhound on The Test Hotel in Stockbridge and I love its stylish country atmosphere. You can book a room here .

5. Country Break in Rye

Rye is next on my list of country breaks near London. Out in East Sussex, this jewel of a town is full of cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, idyllic cottages, and haunted inns.

It’s one of the prettiest towns in England and one of my favorite weekend trips from London by train .

There are a lot of fun things to do in Rye . From climbing the church’s bell tower to visiting the former home of writer Henry James and exploring the picture-perfect streets, this town has a lot to offer for a 2-night break in the UK.

Rye is also an easy walk from Camber Castle, a historic fortress with connections to Henry VIII. It’s one of my favorite castles near London . And that’s to say nothing of its proximity to Camber Sands, one of the best beaches in East Sussex .

If you want to take this short break from London, you can book a hotel in Rye here . If you want something unique, the Mermaid Inn is rumored to be haunted. You can book a room here .

6. Country Break in North Norfolk

North Norfolk is one of the best country breaks from London by car. Whether you love stately homes, shopping, pubs, or beaches, there’s something in this part of the county for you.

From Burnham Market to Wells-next-the-Sea , there’s no shortage of places to stay for a weekend in Norfolk . Add to that famous stretches of sand like Holkham Beach, and this area of England has a lot going for it.

If you want to take this short break from the UK capital, you can book accommodation here . I’ve stayed at a number of hotels in North Norfolk, and my top pick is The Hoste . You can book a room here .

7. Country Break in Brecon Beacons National Park

Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales is another of my favorite countryside weekend breaks near London. It’s ideal if you love nature.

I’ve traveled to this part of Britain many times, and on every trip I’ve gained a greater appreciation of its abundance of walking trails, waterfalls, and pretty towns and villages.

From climbing Pen y Fan to eating my heart out at the Abergavenny Food Festival , the area has impressed me with the variety of weekend breaks in Wales on offer.

If you’re visiting the Brecon Beacons in a particular season, you can use my blog posts about a summer weekend in Wales and a winter weekend in Wales for specific travel tips.

If you want to go on this country getaway, you can book accommodation here . There’s a variety of options when it comes to places to stay, including B&Bs, hotels, and holiday cottages and homes.

8. Country Break in Surrey

Surrey is one of the closest country breaks from London. Depending where you’re starting and ending, it takes around an hour to drive here from the city (and less by train).

It’s quick and easy to get out and into the idyllic landscapes this part of England has to offer.

Once here, there’s a lot you can do. From exploring local towns to visiting a lavender field near London and going on country walks , the county offers a variety of activities.

The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has everything from storybook landscapes to rambling paths. You can see the highlights on a country walk in Surrey .

There are great villages to visit, too. Shere is known for being a filming location for the movie The Holiday , and Peaslake is famous for mountain biking.

If you want to take this break, you can book a place to stay here . There are a lot of great options in the county, including pubs with rooms, converted priories, and charming inns.

9. Country Break in the Wye Valley

On the border of England and Wales, the Wye Valley is another great country break near London. The first organized tour in Britain took place here, leading to the area’s reputation as the birthplace of British tourism.

An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Wye Valley is home to pretty towns and bucolic countryside.

From shopping for antiques in the market town of Ross-on-Wye to exploring the ruins of Tintern Abbey in Monmouthshire, there’s a lot to do in this part of the UK.

If you like getting outdoors, Symonds Yat Rock is the perfect place to go for a walk and take in sweeping views over the River Wye. There are hiking trails through the Forest of Dean from Symonds Yat, too.

If you want to go on this country escape from London, you can book accommodation in the Wye Valley here . There are lots of great options for places to stay, including farmhouses, cottages, and Elizabethan manor houses.

10. Country Break in the Peak District

Next on my list of the best countryside breaks near London is the Peak District and Derbyshire. This area is not only full of natural beauty but also some of the most famous stately homes in Britain. It’s one of my favorite weekend getaways from London.

Chatsworth House is celebrated in its own right, and it’s also known for being a filming location for Pride & Prejudice and other movies set in England .

Other stately homes in the Peak District have been used as filming locations for movies adapted from Bronte sister novels. Towns like Matlock and Bakewell are lovely as well.

If you like hiking, the Peak District has you covered, too. There are lots of great walks and rambles you can do in Derbyshire.

If you want to take this break, you can book accommodation here . My top pick for a place to stay in the area is The Cow Dalbury . It’s a stylish place, and you can book a room here .

11. Country Break in Devon

Devon is another of the best country breaks from London. Down in the south of England, this county is known for its dramatic coastline and beautiful landscapes. It’s one of my favorite 3-day trips from London .

There are lots of exciting places to travel in Devon, from the seaside in Salcombe to the tower in Glastonbury . National Parks like Dartmoor, abbeys like Buckfast, and towns like Tavistock are lovely, too.

You can learn more in my blog post about a tour of Devon I took with a company called Rabbie’s. You can even book the tour I went on here . It’s a great way to get an overview of what the county and surrounding areas have to offer.

You can book accommodation in Devon here . There’s a range of places to stay in the area, including historic hotels, guesthouses, and inns.

Map of Country Breaks Near London

Below is an interactive map of all the destinations I covered in this blog post. If you click on the blue pins, you can find more information about each one. I hope it helps you plan your getaway!

Best Country Breaks Near London

I hope you’ve liked my list of country breaks near London, and that it’s helped you discover new places to travel from the UK capital. There are a lot of amazing destinations within a short drive or train ride from the city. Happy exploring!

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10 Quiet Places in London to Rest and Relax

If you live in a big city like London, it can be hard to find good places to escape the crowds. Here are the best  quiet places in London to rest and relax, to inspire you to go outdoors more.

Quiet Places in London to Relax

With a population of almost 9 million according to the last census, London can be a busy and noisy place. However, if you know where to look there are some nice places to chill in London.

It’s even better if you combine a walk with a catch up with a friend or family member. These cool places to relax in London are well worth a visit.

1. Hyde Park

You might be surprised to see the famous Hyde Park on this list of the quietest places in London. However, as it’s the largest of the London Royal Parks, you’ll easily find a quiet place within Hyde Park’s 42 hectares.

This Grade I listed park has many peaceful areas as well as famous landmarks such as the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, Speakers Corner and the Serpentine Gallery.

The Serenity statue is located on the south side of the Serpentine and is one of many beautiful sculptures in the park. For senior citizens, there’s an outdoor playground situated within the Bowls and Tennis Centre, open from 9 am to 9 pm, April to September and 10 am to 4 pm, October to March.

The Rose Garden is one of the most beautiful places in London, especially at the beginning of Summer when the roses are blooming. You can find it at the South East corner of Hyde Park, near Hyde Park Corner.

There’s a lovely pergola, as well as two fountains – the Boy and Dolphin and the statue of Diana the Huntress. Another tranquil spot is the Round Pond, a seven acre lake near Kensington Palace.

2. St James’s Park

Of all the relaxing places in London, St James’s Park is particularly well known thanks to its central location in St James near Buckingham Palace. Spread over 23 hectares, it’s home to many birds including pelicans.

The first pelicans were presented as a gift from the Russian Ambassador in 1664 and today there are over 40 of them. Watch them being fed fish next to Duck Island Cottage every day between 2.30 and 3 pm.

If you’re lucky, you might also spot some green parakeets in the park. There’s a charming cafe in the park with lovely lake views.

3. Regent’s Canal Walk

There are many great things to do in Kings Cross , with Camley Street Natural Park being a real revelation. You’d never guess you were a few minutes away from a busy railway station and its actually one of the quietest places in London.

This former coal drop for the railways is now a tranquil inner city oasis where you can spot bats, frogs, kingfishers and many more species. The park is temporarily closed while a new visitor centre is constructed.

Nearby you have one of the best canal walks in London. The Regent’s Canal Walk stretches for 9 miles, from Limehouse to Paddington.

The towpath was completed in 1820 and the section between Camden Lock and Kings Cross is particularly pleasant. Kings Cross itself has changed a lot in recent years and it’s now a popular dining and shopping destination.

4. A Secret London Garden

For a panoramic view of London, go for a walk up Primrose Hill, which stands 213 feet high. From here, walk down the hill to Regent’s Park and the secret garden.

Whilst Regent’s Park is a beautiful place in its own right, few visitors realize that there’s a secret London garden located just off the Inner Circle. It is one of the best hidden gems of London  and is guaranteed to surprise your walking companions.

St John’s Lodge itself is a private residence, however the gardens are open to the public. In fact, they’re a great place for a London date as you can picnic there. The centrepiece is a Grade II listed statue of a boy and a mermaid, Hylas and the Nymph.

5. Battersea Park

With a fantastic location overlooking the River Thames, Battersea Park is spread over 83 hectares. It’s one of the best places to chill in London.

The London Peace Pagoda  was a gift from the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order in 1984. A floating lantern ceremony takes place here in August each year, to commemorate the anniversary of the Nagasaki atomic bomb.

The pagoda is looked after by Reverend Gyoro Nagase, a Buddhist monk who lives in the park. If you’re in need of refreshments, Pear Tree Cafe is a great place to eat by the lakeside.

Not far from here, you’ll find the newly revamped Battersea Power Station , now an impressive leisure and retail space.

6. Chelsea Physic Garden

Dating from 1673, the Chelsea Physic Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Britain. It’s also one of the most peaceful places in London. The name refers to the science of healing and it was originally established as the Apothecaries’ Garden.

There are over 5,000 varieties of plants with healing and medicinal properties here. The Tangerine Dream Cafe overlooks the main lawn and is a lovely place in which to enjoy lunch or afternoon tea.

Chelsea Physic Garden is open from 11 am to 6 pm, with the cafe closing at 5 pm, from 30 March to 2 November and an entrance fee applies. After visiting the garden, take a stroll along Chelsea Embankment to admire the view of Chelsea Bridge. You could also head for a bite to eat at Chicama, one of the most Instagrammable London restaurants .

7. Greenwich Park

Being besides water is always relaxing and Greenwich Park is no exception. This place is also brimming with history, being one of only UNESCO World Heritage Sites in London.

There’s so much to see in the park, from the National Maritime Museum to the Royal Observatory and the iconic Meridian Line. Admire the longest herbaceous border in London at over 200 metres, situated in front of Queen’s House.

If you visit on a Sunday, make sure to see the Queen’s Orchard, open from 1 am to 4 pm and accessed via Creed Place Gate. The Flower Garden is also not be missed, with its deer viewing points and huge cedar trees.

8. Victoria Park

London’s oldest public park is also one of its largest, with 86 hectares of land to enjoy. Victoria Park has been popular with Londoner for over 170 years and parts of it are Grade II listed.

There’s a Chinese pagoda overlooking one of the two lakes and the Pavilion Cafe is a good choice for refreshments. The  Victoria Park Memoryscape Trail is a clever initiative enabling park visitors to learn about the park.

You can download the whole trail or particular tracks or print off the Memoryscape Trail map. The whole walking route takes about 1 and a half hours.

9. Kyoto Garden

Holland Park is one of the most picturesque of the capital’s parks. Within its 22 hectares, Kyoto Garden is one of our favorite quiet parks in London. The garden was donated by Kyoto Chamber of Commerce in 1992.

Ever since, it’s been a popular spot for visitors and also for wildlife. You’ll often see herons basking by the pond, eyeing the koi carp!

There are actually 2 Japanese gardens in Holland Park, with the other one being the Fukushima Memorial Garden. The park is open every day from 7 am and closes at dusk.

10. The Thames Path

Undoubtedly one of the best river walks in London, the Thames Path is a National Trail footpath stretching for 180 miles. It begins at the Thames Flood Barrier in Woolwich and goes all the way to Gloucestershire.

One of the most scenic sections of the Thames Path is from Hampton Court to Staines. You’ll pass the iconic Hampton Court Palace before walking past houseboats and water reservoirs.

We hope you’ve enjoyed these suggestions of the most quiet places in London. We are firm believers in the power of walking to improve your mental and physical well-being.

How do you boost your mental and physical health? Are you a fan of walking?

You might also enjoy:

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Suze and Paul Renner

Suze and Paul are the founders of LuxuryColumnist, one of the leading luxury online magazines worldwide.

2 thoughts on “10 Quiet Places in London to Rest and Relax”

一个博客能让人流连忘返，讲真，靠的是实力！

You have picked some of my favourite parks, I love Hyde park and St James. Finding a park for some peace is always welcome Lucy x

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Posted on 21st November 2023 Categories Things to do

By: Author Lotte Reford

19 Delightful Weekend Getaways from London for Your Next Break

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Let’s face it, we’re all in need of a break. Although the city at the weekend is a fabulous place, these cheeky weekend trips away from London are the perfect spots to unwind, take time out and discover a new destination. 

Think about it, when’s the last time you got out of the city? That’s right, you deserve a little holiday. So, here’s a guide to the best weekend getaway spots accessible from London. 

Some are perfect for city breaks, others just right for getting some much needed time outdoors, not to mention a few luxurious spa escapes . We’ve even included a few overnight trips from London that seem built for romance (I’m not blushing – you’re blushing). 

Get your overnight bag ready my friends, you’re going on a mini break!

The Best Weekend Getaways from London 

Oxford .

Perfect for: History, art, and culture. Oxford is also pretty romantic, so a good couple’s retreat. 

Oxford is like something out of a picture book, all cobbled streets, dreaming spires, and pubs with literary pedigrees. Which is probably why it’s such a popular choice for a weekend trip from London.

If you’re an arty type, you can visit the world famous Ashmolean museum and wander the streets taking in the architecture. But the real joy of Oxford is that whatever you do there, it feels intellectual. We mean, even a trip to the pub takes on another meaning when you realise it’s CS Lewis and JRR Tolkein’s favourite boozer.

How to get there: Oxford is a tight 53 minutes from Paddington station on the train, with no changes. 

Where to stay: Malmaison Oxford isn’t your typical boutique hotel. For one thing, it’s housed in a converted prison. Rooms normally start at £195, check out rates and availability .

Perfect for: Exploring independent coffee shops, slow fashion boutiques, and independent eateries. A city break that remains relaxing. 

Bristol is undeniably cool. In fact, the Montpellier area of the city was recently judged the UK’s coolest neighbourhood.

Ever a hub of activism, Bristol was named the country’s first Cycling City in 2008 so if you enjoy life on two wheels then bring your bike on the train with you. 

Popular attractions in Bristol include Clifton Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain, but if wonders of Victorian engineering aren’t your idea of fun you can spend your weekend in the city’s excellent independent record shops, coffee shops and bars instead. 

How to get there: The train takes 1 hour 44 minutes from Paddington.

Where to stay: With amazing freestanding baths in every room and a spa, the Harbour Hotel is the best place to stay in Bristol for full-on relaxation. Rooms start at £195, but rates vary have a look at prices and availability . 

Perfect for: Spontaneous summer beach weekends. 

Many people would rank Brighton as the best weekend escape from the city, ourselves included. In fact, it’s so close you can easily hop to the beach for a cheeky one-night getaway from the capital.

There are many sides of Brighton, from Victorian terraces to donuts on the pier to LGBTQ+ venues to rival London. Brighton’s thriving foodie scene means you have drinking and dining options galore – we’d recommend Burnt Orange for its wood-fired mediterranean treats.

But, of course, the main draw is the beach! It’s pebbles rather than sand, but that doesn’t stop Brighton residents and visitors alike from enjoying it.

How to get there: Brighton is 1 hour from London Bridge by train.

Where to stay: The Artist Residence Brighton offers gorgeous, period rooms with a modern twist from £174 a night. Check rates and availability here . 

North Norfolk

Perfect for: The seaside, but wild. 

North Norfolk is a fantastic weekend getaway that feels as though it should be much further from the city than it is. 

The salt flats of North Norfolk are breathtaking, and offer long, windswept walks out to desolate beaches. 

You’ll also be impressed by the seafood, cheese, and even the railway. Seriously, the Poppy Line runs from Sheringham to Holt, with Victorian carriages and the option of afternoon tea. 

How to get there: You can reach Sheringham in 3 hours from Liverpool Street by train, changing at Norwich. 

Where to stay: Dales is a gorgeous English country house hotel set on 4 acres of National Trust parkland. Prices start at £179 a night but check rates and availability .

Perfect for: A beach holiday with a little culture and history thrown in. The Kent countryside is also lovely, though. 

Margate has long been an overlooked gem but things have really changed in the past decade. This seaside town’s beach rivals Brighton’s (and it’s sandy!) and the seafront is all Georgian townhouses, so the view is amazing in every direction! 

Londoners have been day tripping to Margate for a while now, but why not make that day trip into a weekend getaway? 

There’s more to Margate than beaches and “Kiss-me-Quick’ hats – for a start there’s the Turner Contemporary gallery, then spend some time browsing vintage shops, frequenting cute cafes and finding irresistible seafood spots.

How to get there: Margate is about 1.5 hours from St Pancras or Victoria by train. 

Where to stay: Located just a minute from the Winter Gardens and a few more from Margate’s seafront, The Victoria Hotel is exceedingly convenient for all this Kent seaside town has to offer. The period rooms start at £204 a night. Why not check out availability now?

Perfect for: Long walks and wildlife, with the option of town comforts. 

The Cotswolds is a great destination if you want to spend some serious time outdoors. 

You have two options for staying in the Cotswolds if you’re travelling mostly by train. You can go to Cheltenham and enjoy a balance of town and country life, including a lovely 1930s lido in the summer, or make your way to Moreton-in-Marsh and keep things rural. 

Whatever you choose, you’re sure to be charmed by the area’s rolling green countryside. Especially after the hustle and bustle of London. 

How to get there: Cheltenham is 2 and a half hours from London, changing in Bristol. Morton-in-Marsh is 1 and a half hours from London, changing in Oxford. 

Where to stay: Cheltenham is an old spa town, with all the regency romance you would expect from one. Stay at No. 38 the Park for a real taste of period luxury. Rooms start at £145 per night.

The Gower Peninsula

Perfect for: Getting back to nature and exploring historical sites. 

This wild slice of Wales probably doesn’t leap to many people’s minds when they’re considering weekend getaways from London, but do you know what? Wales is closer than you think!

This southwestern corner of the country also has the honour of being the UK’s first area of outstanding natural beauty, which presumably means it’s the absolute best looking part of the UK. 

How to get there: The train to Swansea is 2 hours and 45 minutes, and to get to Oxwich Bay or Gower you’ll need to take local buses from there. The drive from London is around 4 hours. 

Where to stay: Stradey Park Hotel and Spa in Llanelli is a converted Edwardian country house right on the coast. Rooms usually start at £150 per night, but you should check rates and availability . 

Perfect for: History and culture by the sea. 

Rye is probably the cutest town in East Sussex, and that’s really saying something.

Lost in the steep, twisting, cobbled lanes it’s easy to imagine Rye back in the 1800s when it was full of smugglers. Now, though, you’ll find more art galleries and boutiques than swarthy sea dogs. 

There’s still the beach, of course, which is another fantastic place to wander thoughtfully as you enjoy your cheeky getaway from London. Speaking of beaches, if you’re in the area, definitely visit Camber Sands, a beautiful and unspoiled expanse of sand – get the 102 bus from Rye, which departs hourly.

How to get there: Rye is about an hour from St Pancras, with a change at Ashford International. 

Where to stay: Jeake’s House on Mermaid Street is a quirky, and slightly over the top seaside B&B. Rooms start at £146 per night. Check rates and availability. 

Perfect for: Both historical city breaks and access to the Yorkshire Moors. 

Known for its Minster, cute alleyways and 13th Century pubs, York is a city that shouts Britishness from the rooftops. 

That’s probably why it’s so popular with international tourists, and yet it’s often overlooked as a London weekend getaway location.

The old town within the city walls is a historical experience, but you’re also only 45 minutes from the Moors when you’re in York. Why not plan a city-break, walking-break combo when you choose York for the weekend?

How to get there: Amazingly, York is just 1 hour and 52 minutes from King’s Cross by train. 

Where to stay: Grays Court Hotel sits right by York Minster, and offers views over the city walls. The historic property also has a 2-Rosette restaurant with popular tasting Rooms start at £200 check rates and availability.  

Perfect for: Picturesque city breaks with plenty of art and culture. 

Scotland’s capital city is one of the most beautiful urban areas in the UK. It’s also on the coast, stuffed full of museums, galleries and parks, an entertainment powerhouse, and it has a literal mountain in the middle of it!

Of course, people flock to Edinburgh for the Fringe every summer, or almost every summer at least, but the city has plenty to offer year round. In fact their Hogmanay (New Year) celebrations are world famous. 

How to get there: From King’s Cross, Edinburgh is a 4 hour and 46 minute fast train away. 

Where to stay: If you don’t mind splashing some cash on your big international weekend trip from London, then try The Witchery By The Castle , which drips with Gothic Scottish glamour. Rooms are available from £395 per night, but prices vary by season and suite. Why not check rates and availability now?

Perfect for: Romantic weekend getaways, relaxation and a touch of history. 

An extremely convenient weekend getaway from London, Bath combines regency spa town, southwest cool (being right next to Bristol) and Roman history.

You can visit the Roman baths themselves if you’re visiting for pure relaxation, or simply wander the grand centre of town and imagine yourself to be a lady or gentleman there to take the waters.

There’s an abundance of independent tea rooms, coffee shops, pubs, and arty boutiques dotted around Bath too, so it’s an easy place to while away a weekend. 

Where to stay: Number 15 Great Pulteney Hotel and Spa offers boutique townhouse accommodation in the heart of Bath. Rooms start at £235 per night. Check prices and availability.  

Perfect for: Exploring the historical town, or enjoying nature in the Mendips. 

Frome (hint: rhymes with ‘room’) is a lovely market town in East Somerset, an area often ignored when it comes to weekend trips from London.

Sitting on the edge of the Mendips, Frome is hilly and elevated and offers both a great town centre for weekending and access to the hills. 

You’ll find mediaeval buildings and independent shops and eateries in Frome all year, but why not time your visit for the Frome Festival or, even better, the annual Agriculture and Cheese Show! A weekend built around cheese sounds like a pretty good use of your break from London to us!

How to get there: Frome is 3 hours and 8 minutes from Paddington, with a change in Westbury. 

Where to stay: If you’re in a mediaeval town, why not stay at a mediaeval inn? The Archangel is just that, with a history as accommodation dating back to 1311. Rooms start from £95 per night, though you should check dates and prices before booking. 

Perfect for: Romance and rambling. 

Visit Brockenhurst in the New Forest for a weekend of rambling. Walks are unlikely to run out, with 140 miles of trails to explore including a secret coast and miles and miles of ancient forest.

And if you do manage to get tired of the forest? Well, the village of Brockenhurst itself is quaint, historical, and a lovely place to spend a day. 

As a complete contrast the New Forest is also home to the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu (pronounced ‘Bewlee”), with a collection of over 280 vehicles spanning over 120 years.

How to get there: From Waterloo, Brockenhurst is 1 hour and 32 minutes on the train. 

Where to stay: There are plenty of country house hotels around Brockenhurst, but our favourite is Careys Manor Hotel and Spa. Rooms start at £200 per night, but do check prices and availability .

South Downs

Perfect for: Enjoying nature.

The South Downs National Park stretches from Winchester, England’s first capital city, all the way to the cliffs of Eastbourne. Of course, even if you’re a seasoned walker you’re unlikely to cover it all in one weekend getaway from London, but that just means you can keep coming back.

Winchester is the easiest entrance point for the South Downs, but it’s also a destination in itself. So, when you’ve got tired feet from exploring bronze age burial mounds and rolling hills, you can relocate to the town centre, take a look at the cathedral, and grab yourself a bite to eat. 

How to get there: Trains from Waterloo and Victoria reach Winchester in just under 1 hour. 

Where to stay: The Old Vine, a historic inn in Winchester, is a great base for a trip to the South Downs. You’ll be able to reach the park easily, but still come home to a great pub dinner. Rooms start at £170, but do check rates and availability .

Perfect for: History, culture, or a romantic city break. 

Cardiff Bay has been made pretty famous over the last couple of decades through its starring role in BBC vehicles like Doctor Who, but there’s more to the city than the Bay’s modernist monoliths and that statue of Captain Scott that looks a little melted.

As Wales’ biggest city, Cardiff plays host to some great gigs, shows and exhibitions, and has an up and coming food scene. Central Market is a great place to browse, and if you’re feeling historical you can add a trip to Cardiff Castle to the itinerary. 

How to get there: The train to Cardiff takes just under 2 hours from Paddington Station. 

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Cardiff is a modern hotel with a terrace and fitness centre located right in the middle of the city. It’s part of the IHG group, but retains a boutique feel. Rooms start at £107 per night, but rates vary so do check prices and availability . 

Perfect for: Long walks, enjoying the outdoors and getting back to nature.

Dartmoor must be inspiring, because it’s the setting for Hound of the Baskervilles and War Horse . 

It’s easy to see how the area’s desolate beauty led to such dark and intense literature, but hopefully a weekend break to Dartmoor should turn out more relaxing than terrifying.

Dartmoor is a fantastic place for genuinely outdoorsy activities like fishing, cycling, horse riding and multi-day walks. It’s also abutted by Devon’s two main cities, Exeter and Plymouth, so you don’t have to keep things entirely rural. 

How to get there: With the train journey to Dartmoor clocking in at 5 hours and 50 minutes, this is one weekend getaway location you’ll need to either plan to visit on a bank holiday weekend, or drive to. The drive is a more reasonable 4 hours. 

Where to stay: If you want to be close to Dartmoor, Chagford is a fantastic option. Plus, it was voted the best place to live in the UK! Try the Mill End Hotel, which offers modern decor and classic farmhouse beams for £185 per night. Prices vary, so check rates and availability before booking. 

Peak District

Perfect for: Exploring nature. 

When people think about a walking holiday, the Peak District often comes to mind. Walks range from the challenging trails of the Dark Peak to the more gentle rambles of the White and Southwest Peaks. 

Whatever part of the Peak District you choose to explore, views are dramatic and breathtaking. There’s also a whole lot of history to get stuck into in the area, from castle ruins to old mill towns. 

The Peaks are pretty easily accessible from Sheffield, which is an arty, charming town in its own right. 

How to get there: From King’s Cross, you can be in Sheffield in 2 hours and 14 minutes. From there, it’s about another half hour on local buses to the Peak District national park. 

Where to stay: Brocco on the Park in Sheffield is a boutique, 4-star hotel with all mod cons and just a little period elegance. It makes a great base for forays into the Peaks. Rooms start at £135 a night, but do check rates and availability for your planned visit. 

Perfect for: This is the ultimate weekend city break accessible from London.

When you want to go on a weekend trip from London, but you still want to be in one of the UK’s most exciting cities there’s only one obvious contender. You’re going to Manchester for the weekend!

Manchester is an exciting clash of old and new, with Victorian architecture up against state of the art modern buildings. The Northern Quarter is the place to be for food, booze and alternative shopping options, but in Manchester you can throw a stone and hit a great night out or a coffee shop you’ll never forget. 

How to get there: Trains from Euston to Manchester take 2 hours and 6 minutes. 

Where to stay: The large, stylish, purpose-built Dakota Manchester offers high-spec accommodation in the heart of the action. Rooms start from £126, but check prices and availability before you make any booking decisions. 

Canterbury 

Perfect for: History and country walks

This historic city boasts beautiful streets, houses in the mediaeval style and some seriously good pubs. Star of the show though, has to be the Cathedral. Founded by Augustine in 597, the cathedral is the oldest, and probably most impressive of Britain’s Christian structures. 

Want to get out of the city? There are plenty of country walks that can be taken without needing to hop in a car or use public transport. Just follow the city’s river and you’ll find yourself stomping through the delightful Kentish countryside feeling a million miles from civilization. 

How to get there: Trains from St. Pancras take just over an hour.

Where to stay: The Corner House is slap bang in the middle of the city only 400m from the cathedral. They have comfortable rooms starting from £120 per night and lay on a complimentary continental breakfast for all their guests. See availability here .

Whitstable 

Perfect for: Good eating by the sea and quiet walks around the bay. 

If you’d like a bit of seaside with your getaway, consider heading down to Whitstable. The town is known for its rows of multicoloured beach huts, some great local beer and a reputation for good oysters. 

As such there are some great restaurants you should check out while you’re in town, Whitstable Oyster Company and The Lobster Shac k being two of them. When you’re not busy eating your way through fantastic seafood restaurants head out of town for walks along the seaside and Herne Bay. 

How to get there: Trains from St. Pancras take just over an hour. 

Where to stay: The Marine offers classic grandeur on the seafront at a very reasonable price. It also offers some great sea views from both the rooms and the restaurant and complimentary breakfast for all guests. Check rates here .

Weekend Trips from London: Map

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We delve into the cool, interesting and quirky spots that make London such a dynamic city, telling you the best things to do, eat and drink along the way. 

Tired of the same old dull suggestions? Want to know where to find London’s secret bars, tastiest eats and weirdest finds? We provide practical guides that help you do just that.

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45 Best Things to Do in London. The Ultimate Bucket List (2022)

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Whether this is your first time visiting London or you’ve lost track of all the times you set foot in this fascinating city, here’s an epic bucket list to help you plan your next trip. It includes the best  things to do in London , where to eat, and the  best places to visit .

London is a magical melting pot of cultures, like a thousand cities crammed into one. I love the sense of community bordering on humanitarianism and the energetic approach to life. It’s where I go whenever I want to feel like myself. Because for me, London is the most inspiring city in the world.

In London, you could visit a world-class museum one morning and tour the equally fascinating streets of the East End in the afternoon. Nibble on an egg mayo deli sandwich in the park for lunch and have dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant a few hours later. Or relax in a fancy café overlooking London’s skyline before you go on a thrift store shopping spree. Anything goes!

I urge you to visit London with an open mind. Go beyond the highlights and discover London as I came to know and love it. Draw inspiration from my list of top things to do in London and find some treasures of your own. I’m sure you’ll have the time of your life and make memories that will last forever.

Also read: 15 wonderful day trips from London

1. Visit the Buckingham Palace

This is one of the most iconic things to do in London and no trip to the UK’s capital is complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace. Maybe you’ll see the King gaze through the window, or maybe not. But you need to see at least his majestic residence.

The changing of the guards takes place at 10:30 am every morning. Make sure you get there before that to grab a good spot or join a guided tour for the best views.

You can also visit the Queen’s Gallery and the Royal Mews any time of the year. However, the magnificent State Rooms are only open to the public for 10 weeks during summer.

After watching the ‘Victoria’ TV series, wandering the hallways of Buckingham (which she converted into a palace and royal residence) turned out to be quite an emotional experience. The visit is self-paced and you’ll get an audio guide that is very well done.

2. Feed the squirrels in St James’s Park

St James’s Park is the one right in front of Buckingham Palace. It’s a beautiful green area, with gorgeous flower beds. However, I got hooked not because of the vegetation, but because of its furry inhabitants.

This isn’t the only park in London where you can meet the resident squirrels, but it’s the first one where I fed them (with peanuts gifted by a kind stranger). Yeah, I was totally unprepared.

Once I made friends with a baby squirrel I didn’t want to leave. It was so special to see him learn to trust humans and after a few attempts, he got over his fear and grabbed the nut right from my hand, rubbing his furry face on my palm in passing. Then quickly run away to hide it, just like his parents did. What can I say, I was in seventh heaven for days!

3. Take a selfie with Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster

After being covered in scaffolding for nearly 5 years, the Elizabeth Tower, the iconic clock tower that houses Big Ben (which contrary to popular belief is one of the bells inside the tower, not the tower itself) has been finally restored to its former glory. Hurrah!

Curiously enough, the color scheme of the clock has been changed to blue and gold, which are believed to have been the original colors. And I must say it looks gorgeous!

Since you’re in the area you should also take the opportunity to discover London off the beaten path.

I know it sounds a bit funny to say that since you’re basically in the heart of London. But how many people do you know that have actually wandered the 3-mile-long hallways of the Palace of Westminster?

With over 1,000 rooms and 100 staircases, this is where the British parliament meets. And you can join a tour on Saturdays and most weekdays during parliamentary recesses.

4. Look up in awe at Westminster Abbey

The coronation and burial place of British royalty, this Gothic church is a must-visit in London. While it might be difficult to believe, it’s even more impressive on the inside than it’s on the outside. Even if you only have 3 days in London , this should be high up on your priority list!

I took the tour right after watching ‘The Tudors’ and ‘Reign’, two TV shows that portray a fascinating period in British history. So it was really interesting to see the tombs of Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots so close to each other.

Other important people, like Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Charles Dickens, and a few hundred more are also buried here, so the church is like an extravagant final resting place.

But it’s also where Prince William and Kate Middleton, as well as the other 15 royal couples before them, got married so it’s not all doom and gloom. Plus from an architectural point of view, Westminster Abbey looks out of this world. You might want to spend a good couple of hours admiring all the details.

5. Go up the Shard

Visiting the tallest building in Western Europe surely has its appeal and not only due to its height. London’s most inspiring structure looks elegant, sleek, and really inviting.

I looked up the Shard many times since most days I’d pass through the London Bridge station before continuing my explorations. But the open-air sky deck on level 72 is admission only and the prices are pretty steep, at £30+.

You decide if spying from so high up and sitting at London’s highest champagne bar is worth the price (drinks to be purchased separately).

But if you’re on a tight budget and don’t care about going all the way to the very top, you can stop by AquaShard at level 31. Of course, it’s only halfway through, but you can still enjoy the views for the price of a drink (around £8). Keep in mind that the dress code is smart casual.

6. See London’s skyline from the Sky Garden

Want to see London from above and visit London’s highest public garden completely free? This is one of the most unique things to do in London on a budget.

The Sky Garden on the 43rd floor of The Walkie-Talkie building offers magnificent panoramic views over London. From this green oasis, you can see the Shard across the Thames, St Paul’s iconic dome, as well as the Gherkin. You still need to book your visit in advance, because space is obviously limited. But once you’re there, there’s no time limit.

You can have a drink at the bar (super reasonably priced!) or have lunch/dinner in one of the restaurants. I visited on a very windy day and they had to close the open-air terrace for security reasons. Luckily I managed to snap a few pics just in time, although the scene from ‘Winnie The Pooh And The Blustery Day’ when Piglet is taken by the wind popped into my mind.

Afterward, I spent a couple of hours looking through the huge windows (there’s ample seating) and wandering around the garden, which is absolutely spectacular.

7. Fly high above London in a helicopter

For the best views of London, you need to take a helicopter tour. I did this a couple of years ago and those 20 minutes flying above St Paul’s, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace? Those were my favorite 20 minutes in London!

The imposing buildings you pass by at street level all of a sudden seem so tiny from up above. And maybe you knew it before because of Google maps, but seeing how London is dotted with so many green spaces, with real trees instead of green pixels, is surreal. You start to appreciate the vastness of London, and everything is put in a new light.

It was my first time in a helicopter and I was a little bit nervous, but it was such an amazing experience, I can’t recommend it enough. This tour isn’t on the cheap side, but it’s a unique experience that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

8. See a musical in London’s West End

I try to see at least one musical every time I’m in London and I’ve never been disappointed. There are dozens of performances going on in West End on any given day, so you are really spoiled for choice.

My favorite musical of all time is ‘Mamma Mia!’, which has been performed on various stages in London’s West End for over 20 years. It really is a must-see!

“ Phantom of the Opera ” is another good one that I loved and is still running. And Dolly Parton’s ‘9 to 5’ had been on my list of things to do in London for a long time until I finally got to see it at Savoy Theater starring David Hasselhoff.

Hot tip: If you ever pass by The Savoy, make sure you take a peek inside the hotel (spoiler alert, it’s gorgeous!), or better yet, book a room and spend the night.

Two other musicals I haven’t been to but heard amazing things about are “ Thriller ” and “ Lion King ” (you can book here in advance if you want to secure great seats). Both of them are currently on my London bucket list.

9. Eat, drink, and be merry in Covent Garden

Covent Garden in London’s West End is an elegant and jolly place. You’ll find anything from fashion stores, crafts, antiques, and some very nice restaurants and bars.

I always love to have pre-theater dinner here before I go to a musical. Plus Covent Garden is straight out of a fairy tale in winter, which makes it one of my favorite places to visit in London during Christmastime.

You’ll almost always find a street performer or entertainer drawing in a crowd in the Piazza, right in front of the Covent Garden Market. This is a popular place where people have been putting on a show since the 1660s.

If you want to see another (quirky) side of London, look for Neal’s Yard. It’s a tiny, colorful street with a laid-back atmosphere, full of independent cafés, restaurants, and shops.

10. Enjoy a performance at Shakespeare’s Globe Theater

The black and white half-timbered circular building by the Thames looks quite intriguing on the outside. Of course, the building is a reconstruction of the original theater that burned down over four centuries ago. Taking the guided tour (you can get your ticket online), or even better, seeing a performance, is highly recommended.

For me, seeing Othello here was a dream come true. The play was a wonderful mix of old and new, with magnificent costumes and elegant dresses, and featured Mark Rylance’s appearance as Iago and a scene-stealing performance from Sheila Atim.

This is an open-air theater. You can opt for a seat – nothing fancy, but protected by a thatched roof. Or you can be a ‘groundling’, like me, and have an experience similar to that of an Elizabethan audience. If you decide to stand, you’ll be exposed to the elements, but you’ll see the actors up close. Plus your wallet won’t even notice (standing tickets are only a few pounds).

11. See one of your idols live in concert at the O2 Arena

The O2 Arena’s high-tech architecture easily catches the eye. It’s one of the most famous places in London and you should not miss the opportunity to see it up close.

On a previous visit to London, I had the chance to see Britney Spears in concert at the O2. I didn’t know it back then, but it was one of her last performances back in 2018. Now it is rumored she might never return to the stage ever again and I’m glad I didn’t hesitate and bought that ticket.

I had wanted to see a concert at the O2 for years. I even remember jokingly telling my husband a few months before how cool it would be to go to a Britney concert here. Sometimes, you make a wish and the universe delivers. It was surreal!

Another fun thing you can do is climb the roof of the O2 Arena (it’s 50 meters high!). I haven’t done this yet but it’s on my London to do list.

12. Go shopping at Harrods

This is one of the best places to go in London if you want to splurge on designer clothing and luxury gifts. Recently, Harrods was even named the world’s best-performing luxury department store!

At Christmastime, the humongous red brick building looks sprinkled with fairy dust, while the interior is like stepping into the lobby of a sumptuous hotel.

I loved walking around and discovering all the different areas. There are Art Nouveau rooms, Egyptian-themed rooms, and even a memorial dedicated to Princess Diana and her fiancé (the department store used to be owned by the fiancé’s father).

My friend calls Harrods a museum because everything here is so expensive that most people will only afford to look around. But it’s free entry and everyone is so nice and welcoming that it would be a pity not to have a look around. It simply is a must do in London.

13. Discover the charming mews

Do you know how sometimes you look for something and find something entirely different (and magical) instead? And then you become obsessed with your new finding and can’t stop raving about it? This happens to me in London all the time!

I stumbled upon the mews while looking for Harrods. As it happened, I took the wrong turn and ended up in the middle of Halkin Mews. I couldn’t stop firing my camera. But there are many mews all around Hyde Park and they are some of the prettiest streets in London.

The mews used to be stables tucked away behind fancy city houses with living quarters for the servers on the top floor. These days, however, they are a cobbled wonderland in all kinds of pastels and some of the top places to see in London and also to photograph.

Some of the houses are covered in vines, and others drip with wisteria, but they aren’t cheap accommodations anymore. Their selling price is in the millions! And they are so quaint, it’s even rumored that Adele has bought a house in one of the mews!

14. Eat your weight in doughnuts

You need to forget everything you’ve ever heard about British cuisines (or lack thereof). Every time I visit London I return home with two to four extra pounds as a souvenir. That’s because I can’t stop adding new delicacies to my already long list of favorites. Like doughnuts, one of my newest obsessions.

Do you believe there’s anything more satisfying than a freshly-made doughnut? I don’t think so. So obviously, eating doughnuts is one of the must do things in London.

Luckily, you’ll find plenty of stores selling doughnuts all around London. The vegan ones from Crosstown are my favorites — you have to try their matcha tea doughnuts! But the Bread Ahead ones in Borough Market are a show stopper too.

If you love both croissants and doughnuts and can’t make up your mind, you have to stop by Dominique Ansel Bakery near Victoria Station to try their cronuts. Dominique Ansel is the father of this flaky, fluffy pastry, having invented it in New York back in 2013 and he’s launching a new flavor every month.

15. Indulge in the perfect afternoon tea experience

A quintessentially British experience, I can assure you that in London there’s an afternoon tea for everyone. Do you fancy it while cruising the Thames? Do you prefer it on a double-decker while taking in London’s sights? Or at the Kensington Palace? London’s got you covered!

While on my first trip to London I totally missed this experience, I more than made up for it in the meantime. Whether it’s just a freshly baked scone with Cornish clotted cream and a cup of Earl Grey tea or something more sophisticated, I’m a convert.

Among my favorite afternoon tea experiences in London are the decadent ‘Confessions of a Chocoholic’ afternoon tea at Hilton Park Lane and the Gentlemen’s Tea at Reform Social & Grill. For something a bit more casual, Bea’s of Bloomsbury serves both gluten-free and vegetarian afternoon tea.

16. Have a Michelin-starred moment at Maitre Choux

This is about way more than simply satisfying your sweet tooth. It’s about finding your joie de vivre altogether. Because once you’ve sunk your teeth in one of the airy eclairs at Maitre Choux, you’ll be spoiled for life. Don’t blame me, though. I’m just trying to help here.

Maitre Choux is the brainchild of Joakim Prat, head pastry chef of 9 Michelin stars. Honestly, this guy’s a genius. So do your tastebuds a favor and stop by one of his patisseries. There’s one in Soho, one in South Kensington, and one on King’s Road.

Have one of his mouthwatering eclairs (or two, more realistically, five). They are colorful, light, crispy, and soft, all at the same time. This is one of the best culinary experiences in London and it will only set you back a few pounds. I honestly can’t have enough of these eclairs whenever I’m in London. I like to imagine this is what heaven tastes like.

17. Try Marmite and pick a side

It’s the Queen’s favorite spread (okay, we don’t know that for sure, but it has her majesty’s seal of approval, so at least somebody in the royal family eats it). And the Brits freaked out when an attempt to increase the prices of Marmite right after the Brexit referendum woke up the country to the new reality.

Don’t know what Marmite is? While the name always makes me think of mermaids for some reason, it’s actually a savory spread made from yeast extract. It has a strong taste, it’s very salty and it’s best had on buttered toast or a mid-afternoon crumpet alongside a cup of tea.

Marmite has tons of B12 (great for vegans or vegetarians) and a wealth of other B vitamins. I’ve been told that I had to pick sides – you either love it or hate it, there’s no middle ground. I’m 100% in the love it camp. I could eat it with anything, not just buttered toast!

18. Look for Dracula at Highgate Cemetery

Ever since the Victorian era, this cemetery in north London inspired stories (some of them quite weird and hilarious, in hindsight at least).

Parts of Bram Stoker’s “ Dracula ” took place in a make-believe version of Highgate. And parts of “ Dorian Gray ” and “ Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald ” movies were shot here.

The cemetery is perhaps even more romantic now than it was in its heyday. The unruly ivy embracing Gothic tombstones and angels peeking through branches are quite atmospheric. There are mausoleums, chapels, vaults, catacombs, and quite a few famous permanent residents too.

The cemetery is divided in two by a road. The Westside can be visited by guided tours only. They have very limited spots, so you have to book a few days in advance.

Rest assured, the tour is well worth it, entertaining, informative, and quite fun. Plus the ticket will also grant you access to the Eastside. I was a bit disappointed Dracula didn’t make an appearance but maybe it’s for the better. Dracula or not, this is without a doubt one of the coolest activities in London.

19. Take a deep breath in the Kew Gardens

Kew Royal Botanical Gardens in southwest London host the largest and most diverse botanical collection in the world. The gardens are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful places to visit in London. If you’re a sucker for pretty flowers and mighty trees like I am, you’ll want to spend a whole day here.

I was so wonderfully surprised when I finally visited. Never in my wildest dreams have I imagined that I’d be able to walk among treetops and touch the tallest branches with my fingertips. Nor did I expect to see an alpine glasshouse that looks like a Calatrava landmark (something you can see in Valencia ).

Or a palm house where you can climb all the way to the top and see the palm trees from above; a fairytale-like lily pond; a Japanese pagoda; a palace, or a uniquely immersive experience powered by bees.

I should probably read more about the places I visit BEFORE I visit. But I just LOVE a good surprise like this. If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in London, Kew Gardens should definitely be on your radar.

20. Admire the most perfect flowers at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

Got a green thumb or just love seeing magnificent flower arrangements? RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the most prestigious flower show in the world and the second-largest in Britain (after the RDS Hampton Court Garden Festival). It’s where every May, the latest gardening trends are presented to the delight of over 150,000 attendees.

When I visited a few years ago, I was over the moon. I just wanted to stare in awe at all the elaborate arrangements and photograph every single flower. I might have fallen in love with a few English roses and dreamed of wearing the exquisite flower dresses on display. Moreover, I met Miss Potter and a giant Peter Rabbit. And even ran into Rowan Atkinson!

Keep in mind that tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. But if you’re ever in London during the month of May, don’t miss the RHS Chelsea Flower Show!

21. Visit Kenwood House and Hampstead Heath

Kenwood House is a former stately home dating back to the 17th century. It is located on the northern boundary of Hampstead Heath, one of the most beautiful green areas in London.

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in London for free. The house is open daily and it’s packed with classical paintings and lavishly decorated rooms. The meadow in the back is a great picnic area and a popular spot for birthday parties on Sundays.

After I visited the house I ventured through Hampstead Heath. It was incredibly peaceful and relaxing and I even got to see some impressive views over London with a barely visible Shard in the distance.

It was hard to believe that I was still in London. Yet that’s London for you, a city that spreads for dozens of miles in any direction. A city that respected the ancient woodlands and grew around them.

22. Recharge your batteries in the Epping Forest

A former royal forest, this impressive ancient woodland in the northeast, is not the closest thing to the heart of London and all the attractions. But it’s one of the most interesting discoveries I’ve ever made in London.

The forest is 14 km long and 4 km wide and it’s a blissful escape from all the hustle and bustle of the city. I visited on a Sunday and saw many families with kids and locals walking their dogs through the forest. Although it never got crowded (we only saw someone every five or ten minutes), this gave me a sense of safety.

There are no trails so we just followed a dry river bed for nearly two hours, sometimes stopping to rest on a fallen tree, before we retraced our footsteps. Due to the thick canopy, our phones didn’t have network coverage, so I have no idea how deep into the forest we really got.

Apart from the complete lack of traffic noise and the proximity to nature, I also loved how clean it all was (people don’t litter and seem to really care about the forest). 

23. Meet Henry VIII at Hampton Court Palace

Ready for a history lesson? Oh, but the fun kind, of course! Hampton Court Palace used to be King Henry VIII’s residence. Yeah, that Henry VIII, the guy who’s best known for his collection of wives, most of which didn’t survive their marriage. He was also the father of Elisabeth I.

If you’re a fan of ‘The Tudors’ TV show, you’ll love this palace in the borough of Richmond, in the southwest of London. It’s massive and the gardens are pure bliss. And I’ve been told that sometimes you can even meet Henry VIII.

I didn’t have the pleasure because apparently, the king was indisposed that day. But given the womanizer he was, I’m sure that’s to my advantage. I did, however, meet some pretty interesting characters (including Anne Boleyn’s cousin). They showed us around and didn’t shy away from oversharing some royal rumors, which was pretty cool.

24. Explore the charming canals of Little Venice

As I said before, London is like many cities in one. And if you’re looking for lesser-known attractions in London , Little Venice is one of them. In fact, it was such a wonderful surprise, I had to pinch myself (several times).

I recommend you pick a sunny day (no, London is not all overcast skies) because the symphony of clouds, trees, and boats reflected in the canals is so beautiful.

The whole area is peaceful and picturesque. You’ll find quaint little floating cafés, willow-lined alleys, and cute, colorful boats decorated with potted plants in bloom. It made me think of Venice devoid of crowds.

You can cruise the canals, which can be quite romantic. But I found walking along the waterway just as interesting and even a bit intriguing. As it turns out, there are quite a few people leading a minimalist lifestyle in these narrowboats. Some of them even live here full-time.

25. Cruise the Thames

Want to see London from a different perspective? A cruise on the Thames can be tons of fun. Sure, you could simply do some sightseeing. But how about enjoying an afternoon tea cruise, going on a romantic dinner cruise, or dancing to your hearts’ content on a silent disco cruise?

Personally, I love seeing London’s landmarks at sunset — so many of them look wonderful from a boat!

The most inexpensive way to cruise the river is with Thames Clippers. This is a river bus service and you can use your pay-as-you-go Oyster card or your contactless card (not the monthly Travelcard).

A journey with Thames Clippers only costs a few pounds and it’s nothing fancy. But it’s comfortable enough and you get the same views as from a more expensive cruise (minus the champagne and other fun bits).

Want more advice on how to get around and save money? Check out my best London travel tips .

26. Stand on the Meridian Line

That’s a bucket list item right there. Find the Prime Meridian Line and have your photo taken while you have one foot in the West and the other one in the East.

I did this several times just for the kicks. Because to be honest, the photo is just you standing in front of a brown wall on top of a metallic line. That’s the free version, anyway.

Things get more exciting if you visit the Royal Observatory. You’ll get an audio guide and can also visit the planetarium.

Besides this, there are many other wonderful things you can do in Greenwich , from visiting Cutty Sark and the newly reopened “Sistine Chapel” of the UK to enjoying some of the best panoramic views over London.

I also challenge you to walk through Greenwich Park and find Queen Elizabeth’s Oak. It was planted back in the 12th century and has a strong link to the Tudors. The tree died over 150 years ago and recently fell to the ground. A new baby oak was planted in its memory by Prince Philip.

27. Meet London’s foxes

Admittedly, it took me a long time to find out about London’s urban foxes. But once I did, I became obsessed with them.

I was living in Blackheath, a quiet residential area in southeast London close to Greenwich Park when my friend casually mentioned a fox she saw through the window. She’d been living in London for quite some time, so spotting foxes on the lawn in front of the house was normal.

After making this discovery, I started seeing brown-red coated foxes everywhere around the neighborhood, especially at night. Once, I even glimpse one curled up and snoozing in the garden during the day.

There’re thousands of foxes living in London , usually in the neighborhoods. But it’s not unheard of for a brave fox to venture to the city center from time to time. They are adorable, harmless, and only slightly bigger than a house cat. Next time you’re in London, keep an eye out for these beautiful creatures!

28. Witness the craziest side of London in Camden Town

Camden Town is one of the most unique and unusual neighborhoods in London. It’s incredibly colorful, with overly decorated shop fronts and a punk atmosphere. Basically, if you’re a shoe store in Camden, you have a giant Converse sticking out of the building. If you’re an oriental restaurant, a colorful dragon decorates the facade.

I’ve seen some of the most unique clothes and vibrant hair colors here. In general, the main street is a little bit too wacko for my taste. But I still think it’s one of the must see things in London.

When you’re done people-watching, head on over to the Camden Market to grab a bite. This place is more like several markets in one, selling anything from clothes, handmade items, and unique finds to delicacies from all around the world.

My husband wanted to visit Cyberdog, which turned out to be a crazy store with blasting music and futuristic fashion (not practical, but interesting to look at). I have a hunch that teens would find this particularly interesting. 

29. Wander through the colorful district of Chinatown

Bordering Soho, London’s Chinatown spreads only a few streets but surely packs a punch.

It almost feels like for a brief moment you step out of London. You’ll see strings of red paper lanterns, Chinese guardian lions, a beautiful Chinese arch, and even the signs are in Mandarin! Chinatown is first and foremost a bustling community where people work and live.

There are dozens of buffet restaurants, most of them truly affordable. You’ll also find a wide selection of dim sum dishes. And even a fantastic bakery selling mouthwatering buns, cakes, and Taiyaki (custard-filled fish-shaped waffles). Bring in cash because most eateries won’t accept cards.

30. Explore the posh Notting Hill and colorful Portobello Road

You’ve surely heard of Notting Hill because of the rom-com with the same name. But this district is also famous for being one of the most expensive areas in London.

Notting Hill is cosmopolitan and multicultural and yes, its streets are lined with posh houses. Totally worth a stroll and even taking an inexpensive walking tour!

If you want something really colorful, head to Portobello Road where you’ll find a wealth of quirky pastel houses and specialist shops selling antiques. The market gets really busy on Saturdays when all the shops are open. There’s a lot of energy on the streets (and a bit of haggling too).

Curious about the Notting Hill Carnival taking place every August? I was too, but I think that in recent years this carnival has become a victim of its own fame. 

31. Meet your idols at Madame Tussauds London

This is the original wax museum and one of the top London attractions. First opened in 1835, the technique has not changed much over the years, but the residents did.

Sure, you can still find some figures created by Madame Tussaud herself, including a self-portrait (her last creation). But most wax figures are celebrities in vogue today.

You can have your picture taken mingling with the royal family. Or pose next to Albert Einstein, Freddie Mercury, Britney Spears, Muhammad Ali, Jennifer Lawrence, or George Clooney.

One observation – everyone is SO tall! If you’re under 5’5”, wearing something other than flats might work to your advantage. And keep in mind that everyone is dressed to impress.

My favorite part? An exact replica of the bedroom from where Zoella and Alfie (Britain’s most popular vloggers) vlog. This was such an unexpected surprise and a wonderful tribute to the digital world we live in! I got a bit emotional, I must say.

You can purchase your ticket online, but keep in mind that Madame Tussauds doesn’t allow you to skip ahead of the line even if you have a ticket.

32. Enjoy the V&A and the Natural History Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A for short) is my favorite museum and one of the best places to see in London. It’s also the world’s largest museum of applied and decorative arts and design. Wonderful to explore at a leisurely pace, I highly recommend you also join their free highlights tour.

As you enter the museum, look up to see Chihuly’s extravagant blown glass sculpture. It’s magnificent! Then allow yourself a few hours to admire all the furniture, outfits, and everyday objects on display. My favorite exhibit is the Great Bed of Ware (an incredibly large bed surrounded by some pretty funny legends)!

Right next door to the V&A you’ll find the Natural History Museum. This is an amazing place and visiting it is one of the top things to do in London with kids (of all ages, I might add). And it’s also a geeky thing to do , I might add.

The most impressive exhibits are the dinosaur skeletons and ‘Hope’, the blue whale skeleton in the main hall. You’ll also find specimens collected by Darwin, Sir Sloane’s plant collection, and even the link between reptiles and birds. And yes, the building itself looks out of this world. Pay special attention to the mosaic floor and the detailed ceiling.

33. Visit the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery

Museum hopping is one of the best free things to do in London on a rainy day (and on a sunny day too).

Since you’ll probably make it to Trafalgar Square anyways, you should really visit the National Gallery. There are a whopping 2,300 paintings inside, including some by Vermeer, Monet, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Turner, and Botticelli.

If you’re not too tired, you should also pop inside the National Portrait Gallery around the corner for a moment. Not quite as busy (or large) but you will find some magnificent portraits here. Perhaps more intriguing, you’ll find an ink portrait of Malala Yousafzai. And even one of Ed Sheeran (who interestingly enough, looks a lot like Van Gogh!).

34. Walk across the Millennium Bridge

This iconic steel suspension bridge connects the Globe Theater and Tate Modern with St Paul’s Cathedral on the other side of the Thames.

Crossing it, I was surprised at how sturdy it was. But later on, I found out that at first, it was quite wobbly so they had to make adjustments.

On a sunny day, crossing the bridge can be a fun thing to do in London (and there are some nice photo ops too). Plus the bridge is a quick way to get from one side of the river to the other. Given how crowded London’s underground can get at peak hours, Millennium Bridge might be a better option.

35. Visit St Paul’s Cathedral

The imposing St Paul’s Cathedral is an iconic landmark and one of the top 10 places to visit in London. The exterior has been restored in recent years. But the interior is spectacular too.

The entry ticket also gives you access to the Whispering Gallery, named so after the bizarre acoustics phenomenon that takes place along the circular walkway at the base of the dome.

Climb even higher to the Golden Gallery (a whopping 528 steps!) and you’ll see some stunning panoramic views of London.

36. Sip a cup of tea at the Twinings shop

If you like tea, you might want to pop inside the Twinings historical teashop close to St Paul’s Cathedral. This is one of my favorite British tea brands so when I found out about its existence, I was really curious to check it out. The tiny facade could easily pass unnoticed and the shop isn’t very spacious, but it makes for an interesting visit.

As you walk in, you’re embraced by the sweet smell of tea. There’s a sample counter and antique teapots on display. The interior is elegant and the staff is happy to have long tea conversations with anyone who walks in.

The Twinings shop is a great place for gift shopping as well. And you can purchase some interesting tea flavors that you won’t otherwise find in supermarkets. The shop opened over 300 years ago!

37. See Tower Bridge and the Tower of London

Tower Bridge is one of the most recognizable landmarks that dot London’s skyline. It’s a gorgeous structure and if you’re lucky you might even see it lift to let vessels pass by. Inside it hosts an exhibition about its history from Victorian times to the present day.

Next to Tower Bridge is the Tower of London. This is where the crown jewels are kept. The Tower is a piece of old London beautifully preserved among all the new buildings. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top things to see in London.

The Tower of London has a long history (more than 1,000 years!) and was founded by William the Conqueror. The Tower is technically a castle. Throughout the years, it served as a fortress, a prison, and a palace among other things. It even has a few resident ghosts (one of them is a bear!).

38. Let your nose lead the way at Borough Market

Dating back 1,000 years, Borough Market is one of London’s most fascinating food markets. It’s located by the London Bridge, and it feels a bit like a trip back in time. Not because of the market in particular (it’s all card swiping and food-handling gloves) but due to its proximity to the Shard.

On one side there’s the fresh produce market and on the other the street food stalls. I’ve been here so many times, yet I always seem to find something new.

My favorite spots are Kappacasein (raclette sandwiches), Gujarati Rasoi (Indian vegetarian food), and Bread Ahead (which always smells delicious and tricks me into trying a new doughnut flavor). 

39. Eat your way through London on a thrilling food tour

Remember how I said that London is a city that inspires? That doesn’t hold true only for the artists (and me), but also for the talented chefs that are transforming London’s food scene into one of the most exciting in the world!

It would be a pity to visit UK’s capital without sampling something new. Personally, I’m a food tour enthusiast and love to join at least one such tour wherever I go. As you can imagine, London has no shortage of food tours, from gourmet offerings to local haunts in the East End.

This is how I discovered some of my favorite places to eat in London, as well as my love for salted caramel chocolate cake a few years ago. So I can only encourage you to look past traditional pub food and curries.

Join a food tour and you’ll see for yourself that London’s food scene is doing fantastic these days.

40. Pose by a red phone booth

No visit to London is complete without snapping a photo of a red phone booth, right? You posing in or next to it, of course. It’s cheesy, I know, but can you resist the temptation? This is one of those bucket list things to do in London that you simply cannot say “no” to.

There are quite a few red phone booths in London and eventually, you’ll run into one for sure. Some of the best spots are Parliament Square (with Big Ben in the backdrop), Victoria Embankment (opposite the London Eye), Festival Gardens (right next to St. Paul’s Cathedral), and Board Court near Covent Garden Market (there’re five booths in a row).

The K2 red phone booth was voted one of Britain’s top 10 design icons and some booths are even protected under UK law. Yes, there are different red phone booth designs and K2 is just one of them.

41. Peek inside London’s secret places

I’ve long wanted to attend Open House London and when I finally did I surely wasn’t disappointed. This event is held every September and during two magical days, 800+ iconic buildings and private homes not normally open to the public can be visited for free.

Open House is a concept that originated in London and was later on replicated around the world. For some of the attractions you can simply show up and wait in line, but others need to be pre-booked. Super popular places, like Number 10 on Downing Street, can be visited by ballot only.

I quickly drew an itinerary, trying to visit as many buildings as humanly possible. The highlight, however, was the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, due to the stunning architecture but also due to Palmerston, the accomplished resident Chief Mouser .

Named after the former Foreign Secretary and British Prime Minister during Queen Victoria’s reign, I was surprised to find Palmerston the Cat soundly asleep on a chair. He had his own security detail and was undisturbed by all the noise and people snapping pics of him. Oh, the sweet life of a cat!

42. Go on an alternative tour of London

Shoreditch is an uber-trendy, hipster-friendly area and it’s jam-packed with fascinating street art. It’s Banksy’s playground and the place to be if you want to feel cool.

Since I love street art, I make a beeline for Shoreditch to check out what’s new every time I’m in London. And no, I’m never disappointed. It’s like the walls are alive and brimming with creativity.

However, I have to say that I didn’t fully understand street art until I joined a street art tour of Shoreditch. I mean, street art can be beautiful and/or thought-provoking, but there’s always more to it than meets the eye.

So you either do A LOT of research prior to your visit, or you rely on the knowledge of a guide to fully understand what you’re seeing and the context in which it was created.

But to be honest, even with a lot of online reading and Instagram stalking, you can easily miss the newest masterpieces. So I always prefer to join a tour and can only recommend you do the same.

43. Find some Harry Potter magic at Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market is one of my favorite covered shopping arcades in Europe, along with Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan and Galeries Royales Saint Hubert (one of the top attractions in Brussels ).

The interesting thing is that Leadenhall Market dates back to Roman times. Its current wrought iron and glass looks, however, only came later on, during the Victorian era.

Nowadays, the market is a wonderful meeting place for office workers from the financial district who gather here for after-work drinks.

For Harry Potter fans this is a magical place and a London must see for a different reason. Leadenhall Market was used as a filming location in the first Harry Potter movie where it stood for Diagon Alley.

Unsurprisingly, this is just one of the many Harry Potter places in London! If you’re a Potterhead, you can book a Harry Potter themed tour to visit key filming locations. This is probably the best thing to do in London for Harry Potter fans. Plus many of these places are London landmarks in their own right, and yes, Leadenhall Market is top of the list.

44. Walk in Sherlock Holmes’ footsteps

In a city that hosts some of the world’s greatest museums, the Sherlock Holmes Museum at 221b Baker Street seems so tiny.

Nonetheless, it’s packed with Victorian objects, furniture, and a special charm. I visited this museum the first time I was in London and have fond memories of it.

Due to the narrow staircase and relatively small rooms, only a few people can visit at a time. This means there’s usually a long line. If the weather is moody make sure you bring an umbrella.

If you want to see other sites tied to Sherlock Holmes, you can join a guided tour that will show you both recent filming locations and the places that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories.

45. Enjoy London at Christmas

From twinkling fairy lights and ice rinks to traditional markets and carol concerts, you’ll find a million things to do in London at Christmas.

Stroll through Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland — it’s magical in every single way! Put on your skates and join in the fun at the Natural History Museum. Listen to carols at the Royal Albert Hall. Go shopping at Liberty or Harrods. And rediscover your inner child as you stare in awe at all the festive shop window displays.

Personally, I believe London is at its best at Christmas because of all the magical things to do in London this time of the year. I love joining the vintage bus tour so that I can see all the Christmas lights along Oxford and Regent streets from a different perspective. And I never fail to stuff my face with all the delicious mince pies I can get.

Of course, no Christmas trip to London would be complete without browsing the seasonal markets. London has some of the best Christmas markets in Europe , so you won’t be disappointed. Just make sure you put on warm clothes because London can get pretty cold and humid in winter.

Map of the best things to do in London

To help you with planning your London trip, I’ve created a map of the best things to do in London where I pinned all the places mentioned above. Click on a pin to see what it is or click on the small top left arrow to see the list of attractions.

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

Plan Your Next Trip To United Kingdom With Our Guides

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The ultimate london bucket list: 40+ epic things to do in london.

There are so many epic things to do in London that deciding what to visit can be pretty overwhelming. Being a Londoner, I know my way around the city, I know what’s worth visiting and what you can skip.

In this ultimate London bucket list I’ve put together, conveniently divided by area, all the most awesome things to do in London, from the most touristy to some hidden local gems . If you’re planning an epic trip to London, this is the bucket list for you!

Before you go, have you booked your London hotel already? If not, check out my Londoners guide to the best areas to stay in London ! And if you’re not sure how best to travel around London, check my how to get around London guide .

How well do you know London? Take the ultimate quiz !

In this guide:

• 1.1 See Buckingham Palace
• 1.2 Visit the British Museum
• 1.3 See a musical in the West End
• 1.4 Shop in Oxford Street
• 1.5 Explore Piccadilly Circus
• 1.6 Walk around Carnaby Street
• 1.7 Have dinner & drinks in Kingly Court
• 1.8 Explore Leicester Square
• 1.9 Wander around Chinatown
• 1.10 See Covent Garden
• 1.11 Visit Trafalgar Square
• 1.12 Visit Platform Nine and Three Quarters
• 1.13 Visit St Paul’s Cathedral
• 1.14 Enjoy the view from Madison’s Rooftop Bar
• 1.15 Visit Westminster Abbey
• 1.16 See the Houses of Parliament & Big Ben
• 1.17 Ride the London Eye
• 1.18 Explore the nightlife in Soho
• 1.19 See the view from Monument
• 1.20 Enjoy the view from Sky Garden
• 2.1 Eat at Borough Market
• 2.2 Enjoy the view from The Shard
• 2.3 Have food and drinks in the Scoop at More London Place
• 2.4 Visit Tower Bridge
• 2.5 Visit the Tower of London
• 3.1 Shop at Portobello Market
• 3.2 Wander around Notting Hill
• 3.3 Relax at Holland Park
• 3.4 Relax in Hyde Park
• 3.5 Visit the Natural History Museum
• 3.6 Visit the Science Museum
• 3.7 Visit the Victoria & Albert Museum
• 3.8 Go shopping at Harrods
• 3.9 Wander around Kew Gardens
• 4.1 Explore the nightlife in Shoreditch
• 4.2 Enjoy a night out at Bounce
• 4.3 Play crazy golf
• 4.4 Wander around Spitalfields
• 4.5 Ride the Emirates cable car
• 5.1 Eat and shop in Camden Market
• 5.2 Relax in Regents Park
• 6.1 Afternoon tea bus tour
• 6.2 Showboat dinner river cruise
• 6.3 Go for bottomless brunch
• 7.1 Budget accommodation
• 7.2 Mid-range accommodation
• 7.3 Luxury accommodation

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Central London bucket list

See buckingham palace.

There is no London bucket list complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace. Iconic for being run by the Monarch, the United Kingdom’s British Royal Family has its administrative headquarters in the Buckingham Palace.

This palace boasts 17 th century Old English architecture, as well as a full garden that spans all around the main building.

If you time your visit well you’ll also be able to witness the world famous changing of the royal guards, which happens every day at 11AM sharp in the morning.

Book your visit to Buckingham Palace here

Visit the British Museum

Ironically enough, the British Museum will allow you to immerse yourself deeper into the history of various ancient civilisations, but not so much in the English one!

The British Museum houses collections from all over the world, including Egyptian artefacts such as the Rosetta Stone.

I find it hilarious that it is named the British Museum when most of the displays and cool things to see are actually from different cultures, and there isn’t much that is related to British history or culture.

I was pretty baffled the first time I visited it. Entrance fee is free for anyone from anywhere. There are also paid exhibitions that regularly change according to the time of the year and holiday that is currently being celebrated.

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See a musical in the West End

West End in London is the home of various iconic operas. Lined up one after the other you will find plenty of theatres where you can go watch a musical, just make sure to book beforehand!

Especially if you’re visiting London in winter it’s a fabulous activity that you can do to get out of the cold and rain , while stilling enjoying a typical London experience.

It’s pricey, but it’s definitely worth the experience. All the musicals are epic – I’ve seen Aladdin, Lion King, Wicked, Billy Elliott and Phantom of the Opera, and they were all so good it’s hard to pick a favourite.

The costumes, production, acting, singing and dancing were incredible in all of them.

Shop in Oxford Street

Known for being one of the main shopping districts in London, the shopping experience in Oxford Street is definitely like no other. It houses all the big brands such as Zara, Topshop and Brandy Melville but at very affordable prices.

However, this shopping centre can get extremely busy during weekends with all the tourists looking to shop during their visit to London (you’ll find very few Londoners shopping on Oxford Street)!

That’s why I advise to go early in the morning or during the week, when there will be fewer shoppers around.

Explore Piccadilly Circus

The British equivalent of Times Square in New York, Piccadilly Circus is located in the heart of London and is an fun place to wander around.

The hustle and bustle of Piccadilly Circus, with its street performers, large LED screens, flashing lights and millions of people is quite something for those who aren’t used to the chaos of London.

Walk around Carnaby Street

Carnaby Street is a colourful pedestrian street parallel to the chaotic Regent Street. With the lights and colourful buildings, walking down this road feels like you are the main character of a romantic movie!

Aside from the interesting architecture and design of this street, there are lots of cute shops and restaurants that you can explore as well.

Have dinner & drinks in Kingly Court

Located right next to Carnaby Street, just down a little alleyway, you will find Kingly Court. This is a covered mall area with a central courtyard and balconies overlooking it, with bars and restaurants on every floor.

Explore Leicester Square

A buzzing square located in the West End of London, Leicester Square offers a lot of activities to do and enjoy. You can visit cinemas, eat out at restaurants or shop at the street market during Christmas.

Bonus points if you visit during the night as they turn on the colorful lights and it feels like walking through an enchanted forest!

If you feel like having a drink at one of the best rooftop bars in London , pop over to LSQ Rooftop and you’ll have a great view over Leicester Square and the London skyline.

Wander around Chinatown

Located just right next to Leicester Square, London boasts its own Chinatown.

Here you can find lots of Chinese restaurants that offer a great and authentic Chinese dining experience, plus lots of Chinese shops where you can buy antiques or Chinese food.

If you’re visiting London during Chinese New Year you can also expect to find the area in full party and with beautiful decorations.

See Covent Garden

Covent Garden is a very popular area of London. It used to be the central market for fruits and vegetables but is now better known as a shopping district.

The central covered area of Covent Garden, known as the Apple Market, is full of cool shops, bars , cafes and restaurants and a few touristy but quirky market stalls.

You can often find street performers displaying some cool tricks too.

Covent Garden is a busy part of London at any time of year, but you can expect to find lots of people sat outside enjoying food and drinks especially in summer, or at Christmas time under the decorations and Christmas lights .

Visit Trafalgar Square

Located close the Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square is home to the National Gallery, most known for having on display all the best masterpieces of European art.

There are lots of iconic pieces of art that can be found inside the museum, such as The Baptism of Christ, Venus at her Mirror and Diana and Actaeon.

Entry to the National Gallery is free, but if you’re not feeling a museum you can also just soak in the atmosphere of the busy square and snap pictures with the lions.

Visit Platform Nine and Three Quarters

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you have to visit Platform Nine and Three Quarters in Kings Cross station. Who am I kidding, it’s a must visit even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan.

While you can’t see the actual spot on the platform with the arches, there is a dedicated spot inside Kings Cross Station with the trolley half inside the wall where you can take picture.

There might be a little bit of a queue of people waiting to take photos at busy times of day, but considering everything in London is busy it’s a small thing to wait for!

It’s one of the main Harry Potter filming locations in London and a must-see in any London bucket list!

Book a Harry Potter walking tour in London here!

Visit St Paul’s Cathedral

The Dome of the St Paul’s Cathedral is visible from pretty much anywhere in London, and is a distinct part of London’s skyline.

Considered as an icon for London , St Paul’s Cathedral is well known for its grandiose and stunning architecture reminiscent of Anglican interior décor.

The Cathedral has its doors open for anyone, so you can go in for free, attend a service and you also have the option of visiting the crypts and the rooftop, from which you can see the streets of London from high up above.

Book your skip the queue entry to St Paul’s Cathedral here

Enjoy the view from Madison’s Rooftop Bar

Situated right across from St Paul’s Cathedral, Madison’s Rooftop Bar is as good as it gets. It offers the best views of the Cathedral’s dome, as well as the London skyline in all of its majestic glory, perfect for anyone looking to snap some great Instagram shots .

The drinks are pricey, but the location and views are definitely stunning. Especially a sunset, when you have the opportunity to see the golden light wash over the roofs of London and the skyline light up against the darkness.

The view is open also if you’re not a customer of the bar.

There are two separate lifts, one for people going to the bar and one for those going just for the view, but they will take you to the same spot, which makes it great for those looking to save money or who don’t like alcohol.

Visit Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of those iconic spots in London, famous for being the site of daily offerings and services to many British worshippers.

It is a historic site that stores within its walls the history of thousands of years. Visitors must pay in order to visit, while worshippers can go in for free.

Please note that sightseeing in the Westminster Abbey is not allowed on Sundays. Important British people are buried here, amongst whom Stephen Hawking, Charles Darwin and others.

Book your tour of Westminster Abbey with audio guide here

See the Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

The House of Parliament is a very important location, as it serves as the meeting place of the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Aside from the main building itself, it oversees another iconic tourist attraction, River Thames.

A lot of people will be surprised to find out that Big Ben isn’t the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament. Big Ben is actually the name of the grand bell in the clock tower, but it’s commonly used to refer to the whole structure.

The tower itself is actually named Elizabeth Tower. At the moment it’s currently under renovations and isn’t as pretty as it usually is, but still, it’s a must visit on any London bucket list.

Ride the London Eye

The London Eye is both one of the main tourist attractions and landmarks in London. It’s considered to be a “picture worthy” spot, perfect for the ‘Gram!

It’s very touristy, for good reason, as it offers one of the most incredible views in London. Despite living in London for seven years I’ve only actually been there once, but can assure you that it’s a great experience.

If you are planning to ride the London, I suggest that you book your ticket beforehand in order to avoid queuing for too long.

Book your London Eye tickets here

Explore the nightlife in Soho

Soho, a neighborhood in the City of Westminster, is best known for its risqué scene. It is home to the various burlesque shows, gay and lesbian bars, crazy nightlife and the centre of fashion.

There is no better way to discover a city than to explore its nightlife, and that is true also for London. If you are a fan of the nightlife scene, you should definitely visit Soho, bar hop and enjoy a few drinks with your friends.

See the view from Monument

Just outside Monument tube station you will find the Monument to the Great Fire of London. Despite being in London for years and walking past it every day on my way to work, I only recently visited it.

Entry costs £5 (or less for students and children) and gives you access to a 360° view over London.

You have to climb 311 steps to get there, but it’s well worth it. You’re high enough to see over the surrounding rooftops, but not too high as to lose the details of Tower Bridge. It’s one of the most stunning views in London.

Enjoy the view from Sky Garden

Sky Garden is an indoor garden and bar at the top of what is known to Londoners as the “walkie talkie”, one of the highest buildings in London that offers one of the best 360 degree views over London, and has a funny walkie talkie shape.

The entrance is free but you have to book a time slot online beforehand! Be sure to do it in advance of your trip as slots usually sell out very fast.

If you forget to book online before, they do free walk-in entry after 6PM, but keep in mind that there is a business casual dress code so dress appropriately.

Drinks are expensive, but it’s well worth the beautiful views! Aside from being an indoor garden, bar and restaurant (do you even need any more reasons to visit?) they also offer some cool activities like sunrise yoga.

South East London bucket list

Eat at borough market.

Borough Market is the perfect place to go on a street food adventure. There are lots of stalls that offer international street food coming from a whole variety of places and cultures!

Normal operating days are during Mondays to Saturdays. Be sure to get there as early as you can in order to beat the crowds as the number of people visiting Borough Market at meal times can get pretty overwhelming.

One of the most visited and iconic stalls is the scotch egg one (it doesn’t get more British than that)!

Enjoy the view from The Shard

The Shard, named after looking like a broken shard of glass from a distance, is a tall building considered to be London’s highest viewing gallery, designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano.

The viewing platform is located on the 70 th  floor and tickets cost between 24 GBP and 32 GBP, depending on how far back in advance you book for the tickets.

Instead of queuing to see the view from The Shard with an empty hand, you could visit one of the bars, get a drink, and feel luxurious as you enjoy both your drink and the view (for free, if you get a drink).

Cocktails can range from 15 GBP to 20 GBP, which is expensive. But considering that you are drinking at one of the best viewpoints in London , the price could be much worst.

Ordering a drink is much cheaper than the viewing platform, but you’re getting a drink with it, so why not? Plus, the bars are only located a few floors below the viewing deck so the view does not change that much.

Book your ticket to The Shard viewing deck here

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Have food and drinks in the Scoop at More London Place

This activity can only be crossed off your London bucket list if you are visiting London in summer . It’s located outdoors with a semi-circular theatre type of set up, right next to Tower Bridge.

There is a pop up food and drinks shack with sun beds where you can chill and enjoy the summer heat. There are also regular scheduled activities during the evening like mass karaoke, movie screenings and more.

I used to work in More London when I had an office job (did you read about how I quit my corporate job ?) and I was always very jealous of people that could sit there during the week and enjoy the summer sun.

It’s more of a local insider addition to this London bucket list!

Visit Tower Bridge

Another iconic London landmark, the Tower Bridge is a combination of a tower and a bridge in one, hovering over the River Thames. You can walk across it or visit the towers and be able to marvel at the beauty of the River Thames.

Walking across it is free; however, if you wish to view the Tower Bridge exhibition, you would have to buy a ticket.

Visit the Tower of London

Despite being in London for seven years I haven’t actually visited the Tower of London myself, but it’s on my London bucket list and I will eventually pay it a visit.

Aside from the main palace itself it also houses artifacts significant to the British culture such as the crown jewels.

Click here to book a visit to the Tower of London & Crown Jewels Exhibition

West London bucket list

Shop at portobello market.

Portobello Market is the world’s largest antique market built in 1850. It still retains much of its mystery, magic and romance even today.

There are lots of cute and colourful houses all along Portobello Road, even if you’re not interested in the vintage market and shops it’s still a very pretty area of London to walk around .

Portobello Street and the streets around it are amongst the prettiest streets in London .

On weekends there is also a very cool street food market with lots of variety. It’s open from 8AM to 6:30PM from Mondays to Saturdays. Opening hours can vary depending on the weather, so be sure to check the weather forecast before your visit!

Wander around Notting Hill

Allow yourself to be transported to the Victorian era of the 1800s through the streets of Notting Hill . Walking around the streets of Notting Hill , lined with white Victorian houses, you will feel transported in an old, black and white film.

In Notting Hill you can find also loads of cool bars , cute cafes and delicious brunch spots . Plus, it’s the backdrop of the famous movie Notting Hill, so kind of a must-see on any London trip right?

Click here to book your Notting Hill walking tour

Relax at Holland Park

Take a break from the city’s chaos by visiting and relaxing at Holland Park, filled with tall trees and beautiful gardens. There are also peacocks that are freely walking around the park which are quite an unexpected thing to see in London.

Holland Park is also well known for having a Kyoto garden designed to emulate an authentic Japanese garden complete with the waterfalls. There is also a playground in the park if you are visiting with your children.

Relax in Hyde Park

Another great park to relax is central London’s biggest park , Hyde Park. It’s really wide and has a lot of monuments and gardens, complete with small man made ponds to complement the flower arrangements.

It’s one of the most relaxing and beautiful places in London .

Visit the Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is definitely my favourite museum in London to visit. Entry is free, but there are also special displays and exhibitions at specific times that you can pay for.

The dinosaur and underwater exhibition are the coolest as there are lots of interactive games for children (which are great also for adults). The architecture of the building itself is pretty stunning too.

Visit the Science Museum

The Science Museum comes in a close second to the Natural History Museum. The Science Museum is futuristic, boasting displays illustrating principles of physics or setups that showcase the results of a recent research study.

With flying cars, optical illusions and lots of cool and interactive games, the Science Museum truly feels like a portal to an alternate universe.

Visit the Victoria & Albert Museum

The Victoria & Albert Museum is an art and history museum that showcases artefacts and art significant to London’s culture, as well as imported art pieces from other countries.

While it’s not as fun and interactive as the first two museums I listed above, it’s definitely a must visit if you are passionate about history and culture as there are lots of interesting things to see.

These three museums are all close to each other in South Kensington , one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in London. In the area you will find also many great pubs and cafes , where you can relax during your London adventures.

Go shopping at Harrods

Harrods is an iconic shopping spot in London. It’s very expensive, which why it’s not really the ideal place to do your London souvenir shopping , but it’s a very stereotypically London spot and you will want to visit it during your trip.

Lots of high end, luxurious brands can be found here at Harrods. Even if you don’t actually buy anything it’s still cool to wander around, do some window shopping and explore the food hall.

The interior of Harrods is very expensive and luxurious. You might even spot a couple or two interesting new products (that you can then search for a cheaper equivalent of online)!

Wander around Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is a bit farther out than the other items in the West London subdivision of this bucket list but it’s well worth the visit.

It is a large botanical garden with greenhouses that was built in 1299 by Edward I when he moved his court manor house to the neighbouring Richmond. It eventually became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2003.

There are lots of cool features in this botanical garden such as a treetop walkway that is 200 meters above ground, the Sackler Bridge made of granite and bronze, and the various plant houses in cool shapes and sizes.

It’s the perfect spot to visit during a cool summer day, wander around the gardens and maybe have a picnic .

Book your entry ticket to Kew Gardens Here

East London bucket list

Explore the nightlife in shoreditch.

Shoreditch is considered the “new Camden”. There are lots of cool restaurants and bars in this neighbourhood, and it’s very well known for its lively nightlife. Come here at night and enjoy the nightlife culture it has to offer.

If you drop by during the day there are still other cool things to do like visiting the old Spitafields Market, taking pictures with the pretty houses of Wilkes Street or Princelet Street and exploring the street art in Shoreditch .

Enjoy a night out at Bounce

If you’re looking for a bit of a unique night out, Bounce is the place for you. Start out your night with food, drinks and a ping pong game! You’ve read that right, a ping pong game!

Bounce has a number of ping pong tables the you can book and play with your friends. It’s a great location to visit for travelling couples or friends looking to do some alternative recreational activities while hanging out together.

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Play crazy golf

If you’re looking for another different night out, crazy golfing is the way to go. There are a quite a few different crazy golfing bars in East London, I’ve personally been to Plonk Crazy Golf and Swingers Crazy Golf.

The idea is that there are funky mini golf courts, with whacky lights and fun tricks.

-Plonk is BYOB so you can bring your on drinks, whilst others will usually have a bar. Whichever crazy golf bar you choose, you’re sure to have a great night out!

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Wander around Spitalfields

Expect to see lots of cool graffiti and vintage designs in this market. The market is well known for selling cheap but delicious street foods, pop up markets selling merchandise like clothes and bags and so much more!

Try to visit early in the morning though, as it can get very busy later in the day or on weekends.

Ride the Emirates cable car

The Emirates cable car was the OG and authentic way of crossing the River Thames. Nowadays, it serves a tourist attraction that brings you high up over the Thames River, where you can see the stunning views below you.

Bonus points if you visit at sunrise, sundown or nighttime as the reflection of the sun is very beautiful against the water of the river.

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North London bucket list

Eat and shop in camden market.

Camden Market is one of my favorite street food markets in London thanks to the huge variety of cuisines from all over the world. It’s like a one stop trip to go over the world.

Not only is it known for street food, but there are also shops that sell all sorts of souvenirs , clothes and jewelry as well. Amy Winehouse, singer of Back to Black used to live here in Camden , which used to be the “punk” and “edgy” area of London.

Beyond Camden Market you will find also loads of tasty restaurants , fun bars and cute cafes in the area.

Relax in Regents Park

Regents Park is much smaller than Hyde Park but it’s still definitely beautiful and relaxing. It more of a hang out spot for locals than it is a tourist attraction for visitors.

Primrose Hill, at the Northern end of the park boasts a beautiful view of the London skyline. For a genuine Londoner experience make sure to visit Primrose Hill in summer, maybe with a few snacks and beers.

Cool activities to add to your London bucket list

Afternoon tea bus tour.

It doesn’t get any more British than afternoon tea . This is a meal where tea is served with sandwiches, cakes and scones.

If you want to give this leisure British activity a special London twist, why not experience it while touring around London on a double-decker bus tour!

This way, you can enjoy your tea time while being able to see all the main tourist landmarks from the streets of London. The B Bakery bus also has some beautiful interior decorations, making it one of the most Instagrammable dining spots in London !

Click here to book your spot on a B Bakery afternoon tea bus tour!

Showboat dinner river cruise

If you can have afternoon tea on a bus, why not have dinner on a boat? The Showboat Dinner Cruise is a fun way to combine a lovely 4-course dinner with seeing all the main highlights of London from a different angle.

The cruise starts at Westminster Pier, and cruises past all the main sights like the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf and Greenwich.

During the cruise you will be served a 4-course dinner and wine, all the while with live music and singing.

Click here to book your dinner showboat cruise!

Go for bottomless brunch

People in England love drinking, and there is something about drinking during the day, which makes it even more fun. Bottomless brunch has recently become one of the finest London weekend traditions.

There are lots of great bottomless brunches in London to choose from.

This usually consists of a one or two course meal, with up to two hours of unlimited alcoholic beverages. It’s a very Londoner thing to do and can be an amusing way to spend an alternative day in London.

Where to stay in London

I’m a Londoner but over the past seven years I’ve stayed in a number of hotels throughout London, whether with family when they came to visit (and couldn’t fit in my tiny student halls room) or more recently with blog collaborations and I can recommend some hotels in London for every budget.

More than a specific hotel I want to suggest areas of London where you can stay, that will allow you to have the best London experience.

Regardless of how long you have in London you will want to stay very central or you will waste time travelling around. If you’re not super central make sure to be within 5 minutes walking distance to a tube station.

Personally I would recommend staying either in Camden, Angel or even more central around Holborn and Bank, these are ideal areas if you’re visiting London for the first time .

Click here to see the latest prices and availability for accommodation in London!

Budget accommodation

There are tons of hostels in London . I’ve never personally stayed in one but have heard great things of Wombats .

There are also loads of hotel chains with numerous properties around London like Holiday Inn or the Travelodge that are more affordable than independent hotels. The more central ones are a bit more expensive but usually still offer good value for money.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability for budget accommodation in London!

Mid-range accommodation

Just like there are budget chain hostels and hotels, there are also a number of mid-range chains you can go for like Hilton or Marriott spread all over London.

My parents stayed at the Hilton in Angel back when I used to live in the area and loved it, Angel is also a great area to stay as its a bit outside the tourist chaos of London but still within easy reach of all the main attractions.

These options are a bit fancier than the previous budget suggestions but at more reasonable prices than the luxury properties in London.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability for mid-range accommodation in London!

Luxury accommodation

I spent one night at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel  for a blog collaboration and that was the fanciest place I have ever slept at in London.

The property is beautiful, the service excellent and the location perfect as base to explore London, especially if you only have 2 days in London.

I also spent an afternoon at Cheval Three Quays where a friend of mine was staying and can highly recommend it, the apartments are new, have a great view of the Thames and are in a great location to explore London.

There are also lots of unique boutique hotels in London if you want something a bit different.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability for luxury accommodation in London!

Final thoughts on the ultimate London bucket list

Need help figuring out how to see all these awesome activities? Check out my detailed London 1-day itinerary or if you have a bit longer, how to spend 2 days in London  or 5 days in London .

Have you been to London before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

This ultimate London bucket list is, in my opinion as a Londoner, a must-see for any first time visitor to London. I hope you find this guide useful and that you enjoy this city I’ve come to call home!

Syndicated content. This article was originally published on Greta’s Travels –  The Ultimate London Bucket List: 40+ Epic Things to Do In London

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Greta Omoboni is a full time blogger based in London. After 3.5 years of blogging about destinations all over the world on her main site, Greta's Travels, she decided to start a new site, dedicated to her second home and favourite city; London!

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Where to Visit With a Day Trip – Near London: Most Adorable English Towns and Villages

London is a vibrant and exciting city that is well worth visiting for so many reasons. Home to some of the most famous tourist sites in the world, it boasts an impressive and instantly recognizable skyline. But there is a different side to England not far from this sprawling metropolis – a side that is quaint, delightful, and an absolute must-see when visiting London.

At HeyTripster we provide trip plans to the famous historic and momentous sights the city has to offer, but we think it’s important to visit some of the beautiful towns near London to visit too. If you are looking for towns, cities to visit near London, you should check out this blog. Each of the places in this article has its own unique character, history, and points of interest. And they have been attracting pilgrims, tourists, and visitors for many, many years.

Traveling from London

1. go right back in time with a daytrip to salisbury & stonehenge, 2. walk in the footsteps of royalty with a heytripster trip plan to windsor, 3. visit bath – one of the grandest cities near london to visit, 4. oxford and the cotswolds: two very different but equally attractive places to see near london, 5. be charmed by canterbury, 6. visit stratford upon avon and discover the life of the world’s most famous playwright, 7. let heytripster introduce you to one of the most important locations in english history, 8. discover one of the most overlooked places to go near london – st albans.

London has fantastic transport links with the rest of England via train or car, and there are some wonderful places to visit near London that you can reach within a few hours or less and will introduce you to other quintessentially English towns and cities.

While using London Underground to get around the city is relatively inexpensive (you can normally do a whole day on the Tube for around £5 using your contactless card, mainline trains in England are notoriously expensive – particularly if you travel between the peak hours of between 06.30 – 09.30 in the morning or 15.30 – 18.30 in the evening. The best way to save on train tickets when traveling to England is to travel off-peak and book in advance if possible. During off-peak hours, use the ‘Kids for a Quid’ offer which sees children travel for £1. If traveling in a group of 3-9 people, you may be able to get a group discount of up to 34%.

Please note: There are several train operators that travel to and from London with prices and offers subject to change without notice but all information is correct at the time of publication.

If you’re traveling by car and looking for things to do near London, the M25 motorway is your friend. The M25 is a ring road around London with access to major routes in and out of the city.

Let’s start to explore the best places to visit near London;

Ok, including Stonehenge on a list of places to visit near London is a bit of a stretch as it’s actually 87 miles away. But you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the most famous prehistoric site in Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to around 2600 BC and many myths and legends have grown up around it. One suggests the stones have healing properties. Another that they were transported to the site by giants.

What is in no doubt, though, is that these giant, heavy stones were placed in their current location, at what is believed to be an ancient burial site, thousands of years ago using techniques we can only guess at. The structure is a marvel to look at and the nearby visitor center is packed with information about it.

Starting at the visitor center is recommended as you will begin your day with the Virtual Stones Experience where you will find out more about Stonehenge itself and the landscape around it. The experience is interactive with opportunities to look around Neolithic houses, feel the Touching Stone, and try pulling a sarsen (the sand block stones that Stonehenge is made from).

After seeing what life was like in Neolithic times, the visitor bus will take you to see Stonehenge. Unfortunately, you can longer touch the stones.

During the Summer Solstice (21st June), huge crowds gather to see the sunrise behind the Heel Stone and shine its first rays shine into the heart of the stone circle.

Stonehenge is open every day apart from Christmas Day.

Ticket prices: Adult £22.70 Child £13.60 Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) £59.00 Family (1 adult and up to 3 children) £36.30

Salisbury is a medieval city near Stonehenge, famous for its cathedral. Other historic sites include: · Old Sarum – an ancient ruin set in the stunning landscape just outside the city · Mompesson House – an 18th century Grade One listed house · The Poultry Cross – a large structure built in the 14th century that was home to the Poultry Market · Rolly’s Fudge Pantry – a local store selling traditional English fudge for those with a sweet tooth

Location: View on Google Maps Phone Number: +44 370 333 1181 Website: Visit Tripadvisor: View Foursquare: View

Just an hour outside of London via the M4, Windsor is home to the Royal Family throughout summer. When the Queen’s Standard is flying above Windsor Castle, it indicates that Queen Elizabeth II is in residence. The castle, steeped in over 1000 years of royal history, is open to visitors all year round but is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Tickets are priced at : · £30.00 for adults · £16.50 for children · Under 5s go free

Aside from Windsor Castle, which boasts some impressive artworks by Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Canaletto and Da Vinci, the town of Windsor is a pleasant place to go for a walk. Stroll along The Long Walk, following in the footsteps of royalty, visit a local pub for a pint of ale, and visit Windsor Guildhall where Prince Charles and Camilla were married. This is a town like no other, dominated by Windsor Castle and almost fairytalesque in its charm. Windsor ranks close to the top of the best towns to visit near London.

During the summer months, Windsor Racecourse holds weekly meetings on a Monday night. Tickets for this typically English day out start from just £30. In June, Ascot Racecourse holds its Royal Meeting. This is a bit pricier, must be booked in advance, and is one of the highlights of the British sporting year.

Location: View on Google Maps Phone Number: +44 303 123 7334 Website: Visit Tripadvisor: View Foursquare: View

Located 117 miles from London but accessible in around two and half hours by car or train, Bath is a microcosm of English history. Named after the wonderfully preserved Roman Baths in the center of the city, visiting Bath is like taking a step back in time. Just yards from the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey dominates the central square.

The Abbey is a stunning example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture. For a traditional English afternoon tea, head to the Bath Pump House, a grand old building that now serves as an elegant dining hall. It’s not cheap, but it is delicious.

If you’re feeling energetic, you can walk up to The Royal Crescent for a taste of what life was like in Georgian England. Many of the grand houses in the street are still occupied, but one has been turned into a museum where you can find out how the wealthy and the poor lived in the 1700s.

Bath is also home to the Jane Austen Exhibition where guides in Regency Costume will guide you through life in England during the time of great works of literature like Pride & Prejudice.

Location: View on Google Maps

One of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful university towns. Oxford is easy to reach from London by car or train. If traveling by car, park outside of the city and use the ‘Park & Ride’ bus to get into the city. Naturally, the university is the main tourist attraction with highlights including the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College which featured as the Great Hall in the Harry Potter movies.

Don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs that joins two parts of Hertford College over New College Lane. Oxford itself is a small but attractive city with plenty of parks and gardens to explore. In the center of the city is the historic Covered Market and Christ Church Cathedral.

The Ashmolean Museum has recently seen huge investment and is now one of the most popular attractions. With artifacts from all ages right across the globe, it has something for everyone – and entry is free.

The Cotswolds is the name given to the idyllic region near Oxford that is full of beautiful rolling hills and picturesque villages. Many of the buildings here are made using the local Oolitic limestone, naturally produced in the region between 206 – 124 million years ago. Its distinct yellow hue is unique to the region and makes The Cotswolds a one-off area.

Villages made of the local stone are dotted between lush green landscapes that are ideal for hiking and seeing wildlife. For a more organized view of wildlife, including animals from all around the world, visit Cotswold Wildlife Park.

As it is predominantly lots of small villages and beautiful countryside, visiting The Cotswolds is one of the best places to visit near London by car. Fans of popular BBC drama series Father Brown will want to visit the village of Blockley, home to the church featured in the series as well as other familiar sites.

The Cotswolds is traditionally associated with the wool and cloth industries and there are still numerous markets across the region throughout the week. Of particular note is the market in Stow on the Wold on Saturday mornings.

For foodies, there are local farm shops all across the region as well as Woodchester Valley vineyard where a selection of wines produced on the site are available for tasting and to buy.

60 miles and around 2 hours from London, Canterbury is a beautiful medieval city in Kent – the county known as the Garden of England. Due to excellent transport links via train or the M2, it is considered one of the best places to visit near London. Home to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Canterbury Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been the center of English Christianity since St Augustin arrived and converted the Anglo Saxons in 597.

The streets around the cathedral are charming and quaint, and the pedestrianized zone through the center of the city makes it easy to access all the local sights on foot.

There are plenty of historical pubs where you can try a local ale but if you prefer more modern tastes, there are bars serving modern drinks too. The choice of places to eat is also huge. Try food from around the world with Mediterranean fayre at Il Posticino or great Mexican food and drink (including real tequila – worm and all) at Tacos Locos.

Canterbury Roman Museum chronicles the impact of the Roman Empire on the region and you can even see a section of the original Roman road beneath Waterstones bookshop in the city center. Canterbury Heritage Museum explores more modern history.

Birthplace and long-time home of William Shakespeare, Stratford upon Avon is a homage to The Bard and one of the most delightful towns to visit near London. Almost everything here is dedicated to or inspired by the greatest playwright in England’s history. Many of the buildings maintain their Tudor charm and just strolling around the town is a joy.

Right in the heart of the city is Shakespeare’s family home where he was born in April 1564. Now a tourist attraction, the house serves as a fantastic example of life in England at that time.

As you make around the house and garden, you may be lucky enough to happen upon an impromptu act from one of Shakespeare’s plays performed by actors in traditional dress.

You can buy one ticket for Shakespeare’s birthplace, Shakespeare’s New Place, the Stratford home he bought when he returned successfully from London, and Anne Hathaway’s cottage. The delightful 12-roomed cottage was where Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s future wife, grew up.

A ticket to visit all three attractions costs: · £26.00 per adult · £17.00 per child A ticket for one site will cost £20.00.

If you fancy catching a play, Shakespeare’s Globe theatre is open all year round with a variety of traditional versions of some of the playwright’s most famous works. River cruises on the River Avon and rowing boat hire are also available.

Hastings, home of the famous battle in 1066 that saw William the Conqueror claimed the English throne, is situated on the south coast of England. The ruins of Hastings Castle are here, but Pevensey Castle is another place worth visiting. There you can find out how prisoners were treated – and if you’re traveling with children, you can have them locked up for a bit too!

The exhibition at Battle Abbey, a partially ruined Benedictine abbey, tells the story of the Norman Conquest of England and the defeat of King Harold. Here you can stand on the spot where this decisive battle was fought and visit the Harold stone that marks the exact location that Harold is said to have fallen. The nearby town of Rye is worth a visit if you have time. The Tudor buildings and cobbled streets are a window on another era.

And just a short drive away is Camber Sands, a beautiful sandy beach where you can sample the unique atmosphere of the British seaside. There is a pier, amusement arcades, fairground rides, and, of course, Punch & Judy shows. Make sure you enjoy fish and chips by the sea too – there is nothing more British!

One of the best cities near London to visit, St Albans is a small city just 25 miles from London that is often overlooked but is an absolute gem! Located in Hertfordshire, and just 10 minutes from the M25, the city was one of the most important towns in Roman Britain.

During Roman times, it was known as Verulamium, and parts of the walls to the town are still visible in St Albans Park. In the center of the park, and completely free to visit, is The Hypocaust, a wonderfully preserved mosaic and part of one of the first underground heating systems in England.

Towering over the park is St Albans Cathedral, built on the site of the execution of the first English Christian martyr, killed for harboring a priest in his home. Inside the striking cathedral lies the tomb of St Alban.

The city itself is quite small but makes for a pleasant place to stroll with lots of vennels and alleys where you can imagine much skulduggery took place over the years. There are numerous places to eat and drink but two are worthy of a mention. Ye Olde Fighting Cocks is one of a number of pubs that claim to be the oldest in England. While that claim may be disputed, the low ceilings and dark atmosphere are certainly akin to a historic alehouse.

The White Hart Hotel is another historic pub. Dating back to 1470, it is charmingly unsymmetrical with low ceilings and tiny walkways. Legend has it that the 11th Lord Lovat stayed overnight in 1747 on his way to London to be the last person beheaded in England. St Albans is a great place to stop off if you’re visiting the Harry Potter studios in nearby Leavesden.

Where should I go within 2 hours in London?

What are some food and drink experiences near london, what are some romantic getaways near london.

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London… the infamous British city that hundreds – probably thousands – of posts and articles are written about. Yet, like many others, I wanted to write about it myself , as well as my favorite sites to see in London.

Because despite the typical dreary weather, this beautiful city filled with culture, art, a fun atmosphere, and magnificent attractions won me over.

Although, when I first visited London three years ago, I have to say I kind of really hated it.

Like despised the city.

The reason I was visiting London was because it was a short stop on my way to Salzburg, Austria , where I’d be studying abroad for the summer.

Since we were on our way to another destination, and it was a set tour, we had very limited time in London. Thus, we were severely rushed and I think it kinda ruined the whole thing for me. We didn’t get to visit very many London points of interests and I felt a bit stressed out during the trip, which was a huge downer.

Plus, the weather was depressingly shitty … which I know is typical for London.

BUT when I visited again a couple months ago, I had the best weather ever! Cloud-free skies, beaming sun rays, and light jacket temperatures. It was like the city was trying to make up for my last trip!

While I was meandering around the glorious city for a few days, I visited multiple sites around central London and wanted to share the list with you for inspiration!

No doubt, there are hundreds of other articles naming off the many London attractions but, like every other traveler, my experience with London was unique and these are my favorite sites to visit in London.

Not only does London offer numerous paid attractions that are super cool, you’ll also find tons of free things to do in London if you’re on a budget!

Table of Contents

20 BEST ATTRACTIONS AND SITES TO SEE IN LONDON, ENGLAND

1. buckingham palace.

One of the most recognizable attractions in London, Buckingham Palace is the London residence and headquarters for the monarch of the UK.

It has served as the home for the UK sovereign’s since 1837 , although it was formally known as Buckingham House before architect John Nash transformed it into Buckingham Palace in the 1820s for George IV.

Within Buckingham Palace walls is 775 rooms and the gardens is the largest private garden in London. Each summer, the State Rooms, which are used for official and state entertaining, are open to the public for viewing.

Ever thought about visiting Britain’s largest cathedral? Get a peek inside the Liverpool Cathedral by clicking HERE !

2. National Gallery

The National Gallery is an art museum located in Trafalgar Square. It houses one of the greatest collection of paintings in the world; over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900. As one of the most visited art museums in the world, the National Gallery is something spectacular.

But that’s not the best part… the museum is  free to enter 361 days out of the year! So, if you’re on a budget, this is one of those cheap sites to see in London.

Another one of those undeniably iconic sites to see in London, Big Ben is at the top of most “what to in London” lists! And rightfully so, as it’s remarkable.

Also known as Elizabeth Tower , Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock located at the north part of the Palace of Westminster. Although, the dubbed name usually extends to both the clock and the tower, not just the bell.

As one of the most famous London landmarks, Big Ben should definitely be at the top of your list of places to see in London. But fame and popularity is not all this landmark has to offer, there are also some cool, random facts about it.

For example, did you know Big Ben has nearly never stopped ?

Even after a bomb debilitated the Commons chamber during WWII, the clock tower survived and Big Ben continued to let the people know what time it was.

Also, Big Ben’s timekeeping is regulated by a stack of coins put down on the huge pendulum. How cool, right?!

4. Millennium Bridge

While it’s known as the Millennium London Footbridge , this magnificent piece of architecture has been nicknamed simply the Millennium Bridge.

No doubt, this steel suspension bridge is the most striking out of the bridges crossing the River Thames. With its strong steel bands and comprehensive, yet simplistic design, the Millennium Bridge is breathtaking.

But that’s not all… The Millennium Bridge is one of the more nerdier sites to see in London. Harry Potter fans might recognize this particular bridge from the series, as it was featured in the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince .

The bridge is also dubbed as the “ Wobbly Bridge ” by Londoners, as pedestrians crossing the bridge can feel it occasionally swaying in the wind.

5. Westminster Abbey

With a history going back over a thousand years and the setting for every coronations since 1066 , Westminster Abbey is one of the world’s most famous churches and should be near the top of everyone’s list of places to visit in London.

A treasured attraction filled with breathtaking stained glass windows, beautiful paintings, and a magnificent interior, this place is also the final resting home to 17 monarchs .

Though, that’s not all who lay here. There are more than 3,300 people buried here, many who played a significant part in the nation’s history, like Charles Dickens, Isaac Newton Sr., and Charles Darwin.

6. Trafalgar Square

One of London’s most vibrant public areas in the middle of the city, Trafalgar Square is a beautiful and relaxing place to just chill out after exploring the other attractions in London.

Built around what was formally known as Charring Cross, Trafalgar Square is surrounded by beautiful architecture and holds magical fountains.

7. Palace of Westminster

Also known as the House of Parliament , the Palace of Westminster is the meeting place of the House of Lords and the House of Commons, United Kingdom’s two houses of Parliament.

It’s also one of the most recognizable buildings in the world and with a history that spans over 900 years, dating back to the Anglo-Saxons time, this palace is much more than just beautifully architected.

Now known as UNESCO World Heritage Site , the palace is a combination of both ancient and modern buildings. During the Great Fire of 1834, most of the previous palace was destroyed. The now present-day building houses a great collection of furnishings, artifacts, and works of art.

Visitors can take a peek inside UK Parliament year round, Monday through Saturday , to attend committee hearings and debates, or to take a tour though this magnificent site in London.

(Psst, did you know you can watch fireworks that light up above the House of Parliament on what is known as “Bonfire Night” in the UK? Learn more about Guy Fawkes and Bonfire Night in London here !)

8. Borough Market

Not a typical London attraction people will visit, the Borough Market is a  huge area filled with hundreds of stands selling yummy food options, like vegan meals (including treats!), burgers, falafels, wraps, beer, and more! I

t’s amazing. Not only that, but it’s one of the largest and oldest markets in London, with the market site dating back to the 12th century !

Visiting the Borough Market is one of the more unusual places to visit in London, as it’s not on many lists. But, it’s no doubt one of my favorite things to do in London because you get to see tons of cool and unique things!

The market is open Monday to Saturday and the full market is open for business Wednesday to Saturday. On Monday and Tuesday, visitors can find hot food stands, and fruit and vegetable stands!

9. St. Paul’s Cathedral

As the second largest cathedral in the world and Northern Europe’s biggest church, St. Paul’s Cathedral is no doubt one of the most spectacular sites to see in London.

An Anglican cathedral and the seat of the Bishop of London, the cathedral took about 35 years to construct; built between 1675 and 1710.

St. Paul’s Cathedral predecessor was destroyed in the Great Fire of London and it’s reconstruction was the first cathedral to be built after the English Reformation.

When visiting, plan to spend about 1-2 hours exploring what this London attraction has to offer. Doors open at 8:30 am and close at 4:30 pm.

On Sundays, the cathedral is only open for worship. Costs to enter St. Paul’s Cathedral is £18 for adults; £16 for students and 60+; and £8 for children.

Learn more about visiting one of the best things to see in London here .

Traveling on a budget? Check out these awesome FREE tours in Edinburgh, Scotland !

10. Piccadilly Circus

If you need to take a break from exploring London, definitely take a break here. Sit down, relax, take a couple breaths, and watch the world go by at one of the busiest squares in London .

Half a million people pass through this junction each day and most would compare it to a circus, hence the name! It can be a bit nuts here but that’s all part of the fun.

My favorite thing to do here: people watch ! Although, don’t be underwhelmed by Piccadilly Circus’ simplicity. Just take a seat in front of the well-known Eros Statue and watch the craziness go by. You’ll be surprised at what you see!

11. London Eye

That giant ferris wheel you see in hundreds of pictures of London? That’ll be the London Eye .

A magnificent ferris wheel situated on the Southern bank of the River Thames. The London Eye is likely one of the most popular sites to see in London, being it’s a fun ride  and visitors get a spectacular view of the city from above.

Fun fact: when the London Eye opened in 2000, it was the tallest ferris wheel in the world at 443 feet tall , with a diameter of 394 feet.

The London Eye is open daily from 11 am to 6 pm; sometimes from 10 am to 9:30 depending on the season and day. Standard ticket is £24.30 (if booked online).

12. Hyde Park

Right at the heart of London, you’ll find one it’s most beautiful attractions: Hyde Park . Whether you want to stroll through a beautiful park or sit back, relax, and have a picnic, Hyde Park is the place to do it.

And if it’s the middle of the summer with the sun blazing down, dip your toes in the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial. Or, if you’re brave enough, take a swim in the Serpentine!

13. Tower of London

No doubt about it, the Tower of London is one of my  favorite attractions in London. It’s a huge area (castle of sorts) filled with history, dark stories, timeless tales, magnificent jewels, and bone-chilling executions.

There’s nothing boring about this place!

One of the most visited sites in London, the most alluring thing about this place is its history, which is filled with blood.

Three young queens died here; Henry VIII beheaded four people here; hundreds said their last words before being executed on Tower Hill; and many others were left to be tortured or die quietly in the prisons below.

It’s no wonder this place has ghosts that wander through the grounds (or supposedly so!).

Tip for visiting : make sure to go on the free, one-hour tour with the Yeoman Warder (aka the “Beefeaters”), which leave from the main entrance every 30 minutes.

This London attraction opens 9am to 5.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5.30pm Sunday and Monday (4.30pm winter). It costs £21.50 online for adults and £9.70 for children age 5-17.

14. St. James’ Park

With breathtaking views of nearby London attractions, like Westminster, Big Ben, the London Eye, and St. Jame’s Palace, St. Jame’s Park is a beautiful area to spend a couple hours taking a break and relaxing.

At just 23 hectares, St. Jame’s Park is the second smallest of eight parks in the central London area, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in stunning greenery, beautiful manicures lawns, a crystal clear lake, and spectacular wildlife.

Need to help packing? Check out my list of 10 odd essentials I never travel without !

15. Tower Bridge

When you visit London, this is another one of those infamous sites to see in the city. Built between 1886 and 1894, Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge which crosses the River Thames.

No doubt, visiting Tower Bridge is one of those London must-do experiences!

If you’re looking to visit this iconic London attraction, you’ll learn all about the history of the bridge’s creation and how it works.

You’ll also get panoramic views of the city, as well as an unusual view, as there’s now a glass floor exhibit where you’ll see London below your feet!

Learn more about visiting Tower Bridge here .

16. British Museum

Housing a vast collection of art pieces and thousands of artifacts, the British Museum is a great place to spend an afternoon.

One of the best free things to do in London, the British Museum is free to enter and has a permanent collection of about 8 million pieces , making it one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world.

Learn more about what the British Museum has to offer and what special exhibitions is has going on here .

Note:  The picture above is not the British Museum, but St. Paul’s Cathedral. Though, the British Museum building is just as breathtaking. 😉

17. Harrod’s

Harrod’s is a world-class department store located on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, London. While you may not think of visiting a department store whilst exploring around London, I beg you to reconsider… as Harrod’s is most definitely one-of-a-kind.

For more than 160 years, Harrod’s has continued to attract and intrigue people from around the world.

With 7 floors and 330 departments striving to provide the highest quality fashion, food, homeware, and technology, Harrod’s no doubt has something for everyone (especially those with deep pockets!).

While I didn’t purchase anything here, as my pockets are quite shallow, Harrod’s is one of those remarkable sites to see in London that’ll have you awe-ing.

Learn more about the department store here .

18. Royal Courts of Justice

Commonly called just simply the “Law Courts,” the Royal Courts of Justice is the building in London where the High Court and Court of Appeal of England and Wales are. But that’s not why this is on the list…

The Royal Courts of Justice is a magical and enchanting building on London’s Fleet Street. With soaring arches and breathtaking stained glass windows, this magnificent architectural beauty of a building is quite a site to behold.

And, since it’s not on the list of many, it’s another unusual thing to do in London! In my humble opinion, one of London’s must-see attractions.

Not just because it looks like and reminds me of Hogwarts… well, maybe. 😉 In any case, it’s definitely something to admire!

19. The Shard

A glass shard cutting through the clouds, you say? Oh no no, that’s just one of the most recognizable and remarkable skyscrapers in the world.

At 95 stories, the Shard is the UK’s tallest building . Thus, the view from the Shard is absolutely spectacular! It’s one of the best things to do in London but definitely not the cheapest, at £25.95 per adult. If you’re on a budget and looking for some free things to do in London, this isn’t likely going to be on your to-do list.

But if you can wiggle out some spare change – alright, more than some spare change – from your wallet, taking in London from the Shard will be unforgettable!

20. River Thames

If you’ve been strolling through London for hours on end and need a little break, consider taking one somewhere that has a view of River Thames.

Flowing right through the middle of central London, it’s easy to find a seat along the banks and have a spectacular view of the surrounding area. Like this beautiful view of the Parliament building!

Additionally, many different tour groups and organizations offer boat cruises along the River Thames. It’s a wonderful way to sight see and take in the best London attractions from the water.

So… if you’ve made it this far – kudos! That was quite the read. When I suggest sites to see in a city, like London, I love to include some of the history behind each attraction.

Thus, for 20 sites to see in London, this post got quite long.  But I did include the word “comprehensive” in my title 😉 . And if I do say so myself, it’s very comprehensive.

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• Top 30 things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland (don’t miss #12!)
• The muggle’s handbook on visiting the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London
• 3 fantastic, lesser-known alternatives for popular UK destinations
• 10 best places to visit in Wales, UK (#7 is a must!)
• Top attractions, places to visit, and things to do in Chester, England + best places to stay!

Pin Comprehensive List of the 20 best attractions & sites to see in London ↓

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Article comments.

Elena Gilbert

Really informative blog, has been really helpful.

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