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27 Best Things to Do in London

By Sonya Barber and Ramsay Short

London: the city that has anything and everything you could possibly want in a vibrant, world-class capital. Your only real problem is working out what you can miss. With over 170 museums, 3,000 parks, 3,500 pubs and an ever-changing number of restaurants, there’s almost too much to see, do and eat—even for a life-long Londoner.

Truly, the city is too large, and too rich in options, for you to get to it all in one visit; you'll have to make some hard choices. Which incredible food or clothing-market to browse? Tate Modern or the British Museum? Where should you pick for a perfect, full-English breakfast? Where's the best afternoon tea ? How do you pick from all the abundant pubs ? And don't get us started here on the best restaurants . Thankfully, our locally led list of the best things to do in London is here to help you decide—just don’t try to do it all in one day.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Tower of London Arrow

Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, this uncompromising slab of a building has been many things—including the site where Henry VIII ordered the execution of two of his wives. Now the Tower is most famous as the home of the Crown Jewels. Come, take a tour from one of the Beefeaters (offered every half hour), and gawp at the sparkling and the frightening alike.

Kew Gardens Arrow

A spectacular 500 acre garden in west London, Kew boasts one of the biggest and most diverse botanical collections in the whole world. There’s been a botanic garden here since the 18th century when it was a royal palace; today it’s not only a UNESCO World Heritage site with over a whopping 50,000 plants, it’s also just a really lovely place to visit. You can spend a whole day gently wandering along the winding paths through the lawns, trees, lake, Japanese garden, rhododendron dell, rose garden and kid’s play area, as well as popping in and out of the grand glasshouses. It’s a calming and tranquil place (as long as you avoid the playground on a school holiday) but you can also learn plenty about plants along the way.

Tate Modern Arrow

This former oil-fired power station sits smugly in the center of the South Bank, knowing that you’re interested in what’s going on inside. It’s filled to the rafters with paintings and sculptures by the likes of Picasso, Dali, Warhol, and Rothko, all set off perfectly by that gritty industrial interior. It’s rare that any exhibition at Tate Modern is awaited with anything less than bated breath, whether they’re the paid shows across the mid-levels of the institution or the vast and clever commissions to take over the massive space that is the Turbine Hall. You’re pretty much bound to be blown away. 

The Globe Theater Arrow

In London, every building and street has history. And Shakespeare's Globe, although a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre—where many of William Shakespeare's plays were first staged and which burned down in 1613 during a performance of 'Henry VIII'—is no exception. The theater was rebuilt not far from its original site, using construction methods and materials as close to the original as possible, and to watch a performance here is to step back in time with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Coal Drops Yard Arrow

Ever since the Eurostar undersea rail link between Paris and London rolled into Kings Cross St. Pancras station, the formerly down-and-out neighborhood of Kings Cross has experienced a total transformation. Abandoned railway land with disused gas tanks now has been turned into new offices, shopping areas, fountains, apartments, green spaces, and more. There are posh supermarkets in converted train sheds, the coveted Central St. Martins London School of Art and Fashion, artisan restaurants like Hicce, and trendy ice cream shops like Ruby Violet. Granary Square, north of the station and surrounded by restored warehouses, has a 1,000-jet fountain that's great for kids, as well as canal-side, amphitheater-style seating. There’s also the gorgeous revamped Camley Street Natural Park, which is packed with stunning wildflowers and urban biodiversity. Google is building their London headquarters here, an office complex that is supposed to be so state-of-the-art it will reinvent everything we know about workplaces. Add starchitect Thomas Heatherwick's stunningly designed Coal Drops Yard, former coal sheds that are now a super desirable luxury shopping and eating indoor and outdoor destination space, and you no doubt want to hang out at this development in what was once a dark and dusty neighborhood.

South Bank Arrow

The South Bank is one of the London’s best bits. Generally located between the Westminster and London bridges, it offers about two-miles of excellent, largely state-funded arts and entertainment venues alongside breezy, traffic-free views of a succession of city landmarks (Big Ben, St. Paul's, the Tower of London) that lie on the north bank. No wonder it attracts over 14 million people per year. If you have limited time in the capital, South Bank is great because it has everything, including a selection of good restaurants and street food offerings.

Victoria and Albert Museum Arrow

South Kensington’s V&A is one of the world’s largest art and design museums, and it's arguably London’s most glamorous. (Just the building itself is well worth the visit: a glorious red-brick palace filled with sculptural details, extravagant tiling, and frescos.) The collection is helpfully broken down into topics—fashion, theatre, furniture, architecture—and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit, and do check out the seasonal exhibition. The collection is helpfully broken down into topics such as fashion, jewelry, theater and performance, furniture, architecture, ceramics etc and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit.

E Pellicci Arrow

Chances are there will be a queue for this beloved British ‘greasy spoon’ cafe. The Pellicci family has been feeding east Londoners since 1900 and still make some of the best fry ups in town. Stepping inside is like entering a time warp: there’s beautiful ornate art deco wooden paneling, stained glass windows, formica tables and a huge steaming tea urn. In fact, it’s such an icon that English heritage has awarded it grade-II listed status. It’s lively, chaotic, and always great fun. Whatever food you choose, always order a cup of strong "builder’s" tea. There’s coffee, milkshakes, beer, wine, and even limoncello on the menu but nothing goes better with a breakfast than a perfectly brewed cuppa.

Sir John Soane's Museum Arrow

This is, without a doubt, the city’s most atmospheric museum, packed to the rafters with hundreds of interesting and impressive artworks and artifacts. The collection is pretty much whatever took Sir John Soane's eye, positioned in the place it looked best—so don’t go looking for order. Instead, go curious, as the walls give way to secret rooms the unobservant might miss. It's not the unknown it once was though, so unless you go first thing in the morning you'll probably have to wait in line.

Columbia Road Flower Market Arrow

Weekly on Sundays, Columbia Road in East London's hip Shoreditch/Hackney neighborhood, transforms into a multicolored frenzy of stalls and flowers. This otherwise unassuming East End street is transformed into a swath of magnificent plant life, the air fragrant with blooms and the shouts of historic London's famous Cockney stallholders. It's as eccentric as it gets around here. You'll hear rushed deals and offers for a 'tenner' or 'fiver' (ten or five pounds) and because everything is so fresh, it's all gotta be gone by 2 p.m. 

Dennis Severs' House Arrow

Fancy a trip back through time? Just around the corner from buzzy Spitalfields Market, there’s a beautiful old four story house in Spitalfields that is essentially a wonderful time warp. Eccentric American Dennis Severs bought the crumbling derelict building in 1979 and turned the whole thing into an amazing work of art, evocatively recreating the home life of different generations of a Huguenot family living from 1724 to 1919 (and living there himself at the same time!). Severs died in 1999 but the house is perfectly preserved and is one of the most incredible museums in London. This is quite a niche museum: one for history fans, interior enthusiasts and those into theatrical spaces, but truly anyone visiting will be instantly immersed into the bewitching experience. There’s only a small number of people allowed in at one time and everyone is respectfully tip-toeing around peering into chamber pots and studying the ghostly paintings.

Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason Arrow

This historic spot for afternoon tea has been an upper crust British favorite since it began importing leaves from Asia in 1707. It's no wonder the beloved tearoom was reopened in 2012 by the Queen after a sensitive refit. The room retains a fittingly regal affect, decorated in the store’s trademark eau de nil (take that, Tiffany). There’s often a pianist tinkling away in the corner of the airy elegant room in the afternoon. The tea itself will leave even the most discerning of tea snobs with their mouths open. There are 50 different blends and tea sommeliers to help you chose which one is for you.

St. Paul's Cathedral Arrow

One of the most famous cathedrals in the world, St. Paul's (finished in 1708) is the masterpiece of architect Sir Christopher Wren, and its towering dome is probably second on the definitive list of symbols of London after Big Ben. It's awe-inspiring, magical yet somber and reflective, a place for prayer whether you're religious or not. 

Royal Academy of Arts Arrow

The Royal Academy of Arts, or the R.A., as it's more fondly known, has been around for 250 years run by artists, and is home to an incredible collection of global art. The R.A.'s collection is vast, including sculpture, drawing, painting and architecture. There are numerous classic works on show as well as themed exhibitions from the collection, and varied and regular temporary shows that sell out quickly. Annually there is the annual Summer Exhibition featuring plenty of new work from up and coming R.A. students and alumni, and major icons in the art world; it's well worth seeing. You can come for a short visit and still get plenty out of the R.A.—the buildings themselves are worth checking out alone if you like seeing 19th-century and modern 21st-century architecture blended together.

Liberty London Arrow

This is truly one of the most beautiful shops in London. A Grade II-listed boutique department store with an iconic mock-tudor façade constructed from the timbers of two ships, it’s well worth a visit for the shop itself. Founded by Arthur Lasenby Liberty in 1875 who wanted an emporium to show off the treasures from his travels, today the wood-paneled light-filled atriums and cozy side rooms are stuffed full of goodies, new and old. It’s atmospheric, eclectic and unlike any other department store we’ve ever visited. A visit to the store must include a peruse of the impressive fabric department: the rolls and rolls of colorful, intricate and fabulous prints that will make you wish you’d paid more attention in home economics. If sewing isn’t your thing, you can get ready-made bags, cushions, bedding and even chess boards adorned with the delicate Liberty patterns.

The Shard Arrow

Western Europe's tallest building at 309.6 metres, or 1,016 feet, high, The Shard houses London's first Shangri-la hotel , private apartments, offices and three high-end restaurants—Aqua Shard, Hutong and Oblix. All good reasons to visit of course but arguably the main one is the viewing gallery aka The View. Located on floors 68-72 and 244 meters above London, you have an unobstructed 360-degree, 40-mile view across the city.

West End Theatreland Arrow

London's answer to New York's Broadway cuts across a swathe of the West End of the city in Covent Garden, Soho, and Picadilly.  From Shakespeare to contemporary comedies and dramas like Hamilton, as well as countless famous musicals of old and many new, London's West End has it all. Who doesn't want to feel again the infectious glee of musical theatre choreography and the sweating happiness of curtain calls. With the shows coming back after a long closure due to coronavirus, the Criterion Theater is offering a wonderfully quirky musical version of Amelie—the popular French movie of the same name—for more affordable prices than the big-name shows.

National Gallery Arrow

Set in London’s busiest open space, Trafalgar Square, this is the grandmother of galleries with more than 2,300 paintings spanning the 13th to the 19th centuries: Heavyweights include Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Velazquez's Rokeby Venus, and Constable’s six-foot long The Hay Wain . It gets packed at weekends, but its so large that you can usually find a quiet corner. You can download an audio tour covering the museum's highlights, but you can also curate your own by selecting the paintings you want to see before you arrive. The seasonal exhibitions are the only ones you’ll pay for, and as you'd expect, most are spectacular ranging from Lucian Freud to Titian.

Borough Market Arrow

The food hound's favorite London market (and the city's most atmospheric) occupies a sprawling site near London Bridge, both in a large covered area and spreading into the smaller maze of streets that surround it. Records show there’s been a market here since 1276 when it apparently caused traffic jams on London Bridge. What’s on offer? Gourmet goodies run the gamut and you’d be hard pressed not to find something you can’t get enough of and simply spend all day stuffing your face.

Highgate Cemetery Arrow

A graveyard is always a somber place, but Highgate is also a celebratory one. You’ll recognize parts of it if you’ve seen Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Dracula,’ and you'll find the final resting place of writers like George Eliot and Douglas Adams, science pioneers like Michael Faraday and pop culture icons like George Michael (although his grave isn't named as such;  his Panayiotou family plot is in the West Cemetery next to Lucien Freud). And believe it or not, for somewhere with so many legendary men and women buried in it, Highgate Cemetery is one of the least visited of London’s landmarks. But those who come do it for both the ghostly mystery of the place itself, as well as the celebrity dead.

British Museum Arrow

You could spend several lifetimes in the British Museum, Britain’s largest museum, without running out of artifacts to ponder. The collection is one of the largest in the world, arranged by location (Ancient Egypt, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Greece and Rome), and the list of big hitters includes the Rosetta Stone and other finds from Ancient Egypt, Asia and the Middle East. Come early on a weekday for a less crowded experience, pick one gallery and stick to it, or go for a guided “eye-opener” tour.

Hampstead Heath Arrow

Forget the perfect lawns of London's Royal Parks, Hampstead Heath, the vast and, in places wonderfully overgrown, tract of countryside just north of the rock ‘n’ roll neighborhood of Camden Town is the wild heart of the city and an undisputed highlight, so much so it's said to have inspired CS Lewis’s Narnia. The Heath covers 791 acres of woodland, playing fields, swimming ponds and meadows of tall grass perfect both for picnickers and couples in search of privacy. It’s truly beautiful.

Portobello Market Arrow

Running through the center of the ever-fashionable Notting Hill neighborhood in West London, Portobello Road is know for everything from sixties models, photographers, artists and rockstars to rows of antiques stalls, hip pubs and Hugh Grant, but what we’re talking about is Portobello Market when the street is closed off Friday to Sunday and packed with people from far and wide. It’s that famous. Portobello is actually several markets rolled into one: There are antique and bric-a-brac shops, loads of food stalls and further up next to the Portebello Green arcade, emerging designers and vintage clothing shops.

Hyde Park Arrow

Hyde Park is big. At one and a half miles long and a mile or so wide, it's one of London's largest Royal Parks, originally appropriated from the monks at Westminster Abbey by Henry VIII to hunt deer, but now the sort of space where anything goes. Think gangs of roller-bladers on the paths, mad swimmers and chill boaters in the Serpentine Lake, rowdy protestors at Speaker’s Corner and kids aplenty riding horses and tipping their toes into the Diana Memorial Fountain.

Tayyabs Arrow

Most nights you’ll be waiting for at least half an hour before entering this famous, BYOB Punjabi diner in Whitechapel. Tayyabs is loud (and no one’s on a romantic date) but what you’re there for are the sizzling plates of meat. The main attraction is the lamb chops, served up spicy and marinated in a kadai masala with coriander, sliced onions, and chillies, and everything must be paired with freshly baked rotis, parathas, and naans. It’s a great spot for meat eaters and large groups looking for an affordable way to dine on exceptional Punjabi food.

Churchill War Rooms Arrow

This underground lair, just around the corner from 10 Downing Street, is where Churchill spent endless hours plotting Allied victory during the Second World War. Come for the Map Room, which looks exactly as it did when the members of the War Cabinet abandoned it at the end of the war, and the Transatlantic Telephone Room, where Churchill had secret conversations with U.S. officials. Entry is currently timed so you won't be crowded, and there are some pandemic restrictions still in place in terms of social distancing, but it's easy to get around and see everything. The audio guide comes with your ticket and provides an extra insight into the operations that went on during the war, including sounds and speeches of the time. The museum is also fully wheelchair accessible.

Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club Arrow

Nightlife institutions are institutions for a reason. And Ronnie Scott's, Soho’s premier jazz venue on Frith Street, never, ever disappoints. One rule: book your ticket in advance. Ronnie's is a concert venue, generally hosts two sittings a night—everyone from Nina Simone to Pharaoh Sanders has played here—and gigs get booked out quickly by tourists, aficionados and fellow musicians. You can, however, usually get into Ronnie’s Bar, a smaller more dance oriented venue upstairs, without advance notice, as well as into the 'late late' shows. The place itself is everything a jazz venue should be: dark, loud and enticing, romantic even, and so very Soho—you’ll probably feel like drinking whisky but Champagne always goes down better. When the music ends, and you fall out buzzing into the street, finish up with a bite at the legendary late-night favorite Bar Italia across the road. It’s just what's done.

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13 of the best things to do in London

Feb 25, 2024 • 13 min read

Make the most of your time in London with these top things to do © franckreporter / Getty Images

Fast-paced, fabulous and fun, London is packed with world-class things to see, do and experience.

You probably already have a checklist of London sights to visit, but don't forget to pause and soak up the vibe of a city that has been at the forefront of world culture for at least two millennia.

Whether you're a first-time visitor  or coming back for more, London serves up so many options that it can be hard to know where to start. It's easy to fill days or even weeks taking advantage of free entry at the city's top art galleries and museums, learning about the rich and complex history, and seeing live bands and captivating West End shows.

If you have the time – and budget – almost anything is possible in London. To help you whittle down the options, here are the top experiences in London that you won't want to miss.

1. Step back in time at the Tower of London

A world of English eccentricity enclosed within the sturdy walls of an imposing 11th-century fortress, the Tower of London is the perfect place to start a visit to London. As well as taking visitors on a remarkable architectural and historical journey, the castle is home to the world's largest diamond (the controversial Cullinan diamond, part of the famous Crown Jewels), as well as a dazzling array of armor and weaponry. A palpable sense of history and heritage will greet you at every turn.

Planning tip: It’s well worth getting to the Tower early – you'll need at least half a day to explore the sprawling chambers, courtyards and jail cells, and hear about its gruesome history. Arrive as the doors are unlocked and head straight to the Crown Jewels to avoid a long wait in line. To learn more about the Tower's back story, join a Yeoman Warder’s tour for a fascinating and personal introduction to the life and grisly times of this fortress-palace.

Explore the Tower of London effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

2. Be wowed by contemporary art at Tate Modern

A vast shrine to modern and contemporary art, the much-loved Tate Modern enjoys a triumphant position right on the River Thames. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, the gallery is a vigorous statement of modernity, architectural renewal and accessibility. Enter via Holland Street to experience the vast Turbine Hall, which used to house the power station’s electricity generators, and is now home to large-scale art installations. Upstairs exhibition spaces are pushing the conceptual envelope, too, with interesting temporary shows, installations and performance art.

Local tip: Level 10, the viewing platform atop the Blavatnik Building, has been the subject of some controversy regarding privacy because it's possible to look into the adjacent apartment buildings. There are many signs politely requesting no photography on the south side (and not as much to see there anyway). There are also great views from the coffee shop and bar in the main building. If the tide is out, there's good mudlarking – an evocative term for looking for historic junk on the exposed mud at low tide – right in front of the gallery.

3. Explore London’s Black history 

London’s Black history is rich and fascinating and stretches back across centuries. All over London, you'll sense a growing enthusiasm for acknowledging, owning and celebrating this once-overlooked part of London's story. Begin your journey by joining one of the 16 walking tours in central London run by Black History Walks , then head down to the Docklands to learn about the capital’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade at the Musem of London Docklands before meandering south to marvel at the vast Black archives at Brixton’s Black Cultural Archives . Next, indulge in some delicious Caribbean cuisine and take in many of the city’s best Black artists at 198 Contemporary Arts and Learning .

Planning tip:  Notting Hill Carnival , held over the August Bank Holiday weekend, is a colossal street party celebrating Black, Caribbean and African cultures. Join the dancing, parties and parades that fill the neighborhoods around Ladbroke Grove. The official website publishes routes and events in advance.

4. Imagine the royal weddings of yesteryear at Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey has been the heart of the country’s royal and religious life for centuries. This Gothic wonder was founded more than a thousand years ago and today it displays a mix of architectural styles, with the bulk of its structure dating back to the 13th century. As a result, almost every nook and cranny has a story attached to it.

London's great abbey has served as the venue for many showstopper funerals and weddings – 30 monarchs are buried here, and 16 royal weddings have been hosted here, the most recent being that of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011. Among the highlights, you will find the oldest door in the UK, the collection of memorials to great poets and writers known as Poets’ Corner, the Coronation Chair, 14th-century cloisters, a 900-year-old garden, royal tombs and much, much more.

Planning tip: Be warned that the crowds are almost as solid as the abbey’s unshakeable stonework, so aim to join the line first thing in the morning.

Explore Westminster Abbey effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

5. Stroll the sights of the South Bank

A great way to get your bearings and take in a slew of sights at the same time is to take a west-to-east walk along the Thames, through the cultural quarter known as the South Bank. Getting off the Tube at Westminster will deposit you right by Big Ben , the legendary bell atop the clocktower of the Houses of Parliament . From there, cross Westminster Bridge for stellar views back toward the seat of British democracy. 

Once on the Queen's Walk, as this pathway is known, stroll east with the river to your left. Although it’s inescapably touristy, a rotation on the London Eye  is a must for any first-time visitor to the capital. This futuristic Ferris wheel takes 30 minutes to complete a full turn, reaching 135m (443ft) at its highest point, and providing spectacular views of iconic landmarks from its glass capsules. Book tickets in advance to avoid the lines.

The Southbank Centre offers up a roll call of top-draw icons and entertainment; it's a great place to go if you're traveling with kids , with lots of free activities and events in summer. Once you leave the Brutalist concrete architecture of the Southbank Centre behind, you'll find other eclectic London sights, including Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre , the Tate Modern art gallery (with views across the river to  St Paul’s Cathedral ), and the Shard , Britain's tallest building. As you walk, look across the river towards the City of London, and try to pick out its curiously nicknamed skyscrapers – such as the Gherkin, the Cheesegrater and the Walkie-Talkie.

Detour: When hunger calls, take a snack break at legendary Borough Market close to London Bridge, where there are pubs, restaurants, dairies, bakers and more than 100 gourmet food stalls.

Transform your visit to London's Eye by  booking with GetYourGuide.

6. Delve into Muslim London

London was once the capital of an empire that ruled over more than half the world’s Muslims, so it should come as no surprise that the city is home to a wide range of Muslim communities and rich in Islamic heritage. Start with the amazing Islamic collections in the Victoria & Albert Museum ’s Jameel Gallery or the British Museum ’s Albukhary Gallery  – between them, these former imperial institutes hold over 115,000 Islamic items. 

To learn where Arabic was taught in 17th century London, take an eye-opening Muslim History Tour , then treat yourself to some of the capital’s most delicious Muslim cuisine. Try a fiery curry along East London’s Brick Lane (or great Punjabi-style kebabs nearby at Tayyabs ), head north to Green Lanes for London’s most authentic Anatolian dishes, or go west along Edgware Road for varied Middle Eastern cuisine.

7. Dive deep into history at the South Kensington museums

A trio of world-class museums lie within yards of each other in the well-to-do neighborhood of South Kensington , their grand edifices proving an equal draw to the glories within. With seven floors of interactive, educational and eye-opening exhibits, the spellbinding collection of models, machines and inventions at the Science Museum mesmerizes adults and children in equal measure. 

You could spend days in the huge Victoria & Albert Museum , which houses the world’s leading collection of decorative art objects, and still be astounded at its variety and depth. With its animatronic Tyrannosaurus rex , riveting displays about planet Earth, the research-oriented Darwin Centre and architecture straight out of a Gothic fairy tale, the Natural History Museum is an astonishing melding of science and imagination. Start in the iconic Hintze Hall, where the skeleton of a blue whale dives down from the ceiling.

Local tip: To see a more unusual side to the museums, and mingle with some Londoners, check in advance to see if any “Lates” are running; the museums periodically open their doors into the evening for special events with music and food. There are even occasional sleepover events called Dino Snores  at the Natural History Museum.

8. See a world-class theater show in the West End – and beyond

London is one of the best places in the world to catch a show, so take the opportunity while visiting the capital. For the most famous faces and well-known productions, head to the West End . This area is synonymous with musicals; look out for classics like  Les Misérables or Mamma Mia! , family favorites such as Matilda,   The Lion King  or Wicked, and offbeat hits such as The Book of Mormon (definitely not family viewing!) .

If musicals are not your thing, get onto TodayTix and see what else is playing. Be sure to check out the edgy, small-cast shows at independent theaters such as the Donmar Warehouse and Soho Theatre , to catch up-and-coming talent for not much more than the price of a pint of beer.

Detour: If Shakespeare is more your thing, attend an Elizabethan-style performance at Shakespeare's Globe . You'll need to book ahead for a standing ticket as one of the all-weather "groundlings" who watch from the open-air yard in front of the stage (or you can pay extra for a seat in the gallery). Despite being the brainchild of American actor, Sam Wanamaker, the facsimile theater is a triumph of authenticity, right down to the nail-less construction, English-oak beams, original joinery and thatched roof (the sprinklers are a modern touch).

9. Relax in gloriously green Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

London’s impressive array of urban parks is second to none and the city's eight Royal Parks are the place to see locals at ease and in their element. Hyde Park alone covers 142 hectares; throw in Kensington Gardens , and you have even more space to roam. Here, you'll find everything you could want from a London park: a central setting, a royal palace , deck chairs, boating lakes, open-air concerts, art galleries, towering centuries-old trees, a tasteful granite memorial to Princess Diana, and a magnificently overblown memorial to Prince Albert facing the iconic Albert Hall .

10. Watch the guards change at Buckingham Palace 

No trip to the capital would be complete without a glimpse of what the Royals are up to. The simplest way to see a bit of sovereign ceremony is to watch the Changing of the Guard , a generations-old ritual in which soldiers in iconic bearskin hats swap shifts outside Buckingham Palace . Arrive early for a good view; the show starts at 11am, and it’s best to arrive by 10:15am (unless you happen to be very tall). If you hanker after more, you can tour the palace itself from July through September (the State Rooms are open for guided tours in the winter and spring, and for 10 weeks every summer).

Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham and then purchased by King George III, Buckingham Palace has been the Royal Family’s official London lodging since 1837, when Queen Victoria abandoned the old royal residence at St James's Palace . On a tour, visitors can get a peek at the State Rooms – a mere 19 of the palace's 775 rooms – and wander through the stunning gardens.

11. Drink a pint at a historic English pub

London minus its pubs would be like Paris sans cafes. Pub culture is a part of London's DNA, and the pub is the best place to see local people in their hop-scented element. Some London pubs – such as the character-filled, centuries-old  Lamb & Flag  and Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese – have been fixtures on the social scene for centuries, and a pub pint is the cornerstone of a good night out across the capital. They're also favorite stops for long, family-friendly weekend lunches; gastropubs dot London’s culinary cosmos, many rivaling the best restaurants. 

Local tip: If you have to choose one place in London for an evening out, make it Soho , a densely packed warren of after-dark delights. For centuries a bohemian quarter, Soho was once a seedy red-light district, but these days, it's better known as the hub for London’s LGBTIQ+ community . For an old-school pint or four, drop into the French House , Bar Termini , Yard or the White Horse .

12. See the world’s treasures at the British Museum

With almost six million visitors trooping through its doors annually, the British Museum in Bloomsbury is Britain’s most-visited attraction. It is crammed with such an array of treasures (many of which, controversially, were obtained from other countries by force or political sleight of hand) that you could probably spend your whole trip navigating the vast and hallowed collection of artifacts, art and age-old antiquity, and still not be done.

In fact, the collection was once even bigger, but some objects have been returned to their home countries (and others, unbelievably, were stolen by a light-fingered curator). Free eye-opener tours allow you to focus on specific parts of the vast collection, or you can take in the highlights by wandering through the Great Court, with its stunning glass-and-steel roof designed by Norman Foster, and checking out the closest exhibition halls. Don’t leave before you’ve seen the Rosetta Stone, the key to deciphering hieroglyphics, and the fascinatingly macabre Egyptian mummies (including mummified calves, birds and cats).

13. Sit down to a traditional afternoon tea 

The quintessentially English indulgence of whiling away an afternoon eating dainty sandwiches and cakes and drinking tea may give you the feeling you're being observed by Lady Whistledown herself. Venues serving afternoon tea abound, and despite looking like sets from a Bridgerton party, these establishments are perfectly welcoming to all sorts of travelers. There's no need to dress to the nines; smart casual attire is fine (in other words, no trainers, joggers or sweatshirts). 

For the classic experience, head to Claridge’s or the Ritz , or in the summer try the terrace at The Goring or the stately Orangery  at Kensington Palace. It's called afternoon tea, but you can have your tea at almost any time of the day. Pre-booking is highly recommended as slots can book out, especially on weekends and in the peak season.

Planning tip: Make sure you arrive suitably hungry. The spread might not look much in the pictures, but all those plates of delicate treats really do add up to a mini feast. 

This article was first published March 2019 and updated February 2024

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What to Do in London?

22 attractions you shouldn't miss.

Latest update: March 28, 2024

In a nutshell: 5 tips for staying in London

• Big Ben, Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral and The Shard are some of the absolute highlights of London .
• While in London, you should visit at least one market. Our highlight: Borough Market !
• Free admission to museums : not a problem at London’s Tate Modern or British Museum.
• Walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter through real sets at Warner Bros. Studios.

These were our top highlights in London . But of course, that’s not all!

In our article we will show you 22 cool London sights sorted by category: You can just have a look at what is really interesting for you.

Map of our 22 London attractions

To start off and give you a better sense of all the London sights in this post, we made a map of our 22 highlights below.

Click here to download the map in PDF format

London attractions for first-timers

You are visiting London for the first time and obviously want to check out the most popular London highlights . We put the must-sees for you in two lists. The London attractions with a camera icon are among the highlights, but a short photo stop is enough here. The other the attractions are also worth checking out from the inside. Therefore, we will describe them in more detail.

These London highlights will be described in more detail:

Tower Bridge

Tower of london, westminster abbey.

• St. Paul’s Cathedral

Buckingham Palace

London attractions for a quick photo stop:

Big Ben Houses of Parliament Downing Street Windsor Castle

You should plan 1 hour

Tower Bridge is, without a doubt, one of the most famous bridges in the world . 40,000 vehicles cross the bridge every day and it is lifted several times daily to let ships pass through. Read more about the exact Bridge Lift times here .

Nine meters above the Thames is a free walkway. 42 meters up, there is another walkway with a glass floor – pretty cool, but only if you’re not afraid of heights.

You will need a ticket for the glass floor and the Bridge Museum.

Get tickets for Tower Bridge

You should plan 1.5 hours

The Tower of London is especially famous for the Royal Family’s Crown Jewels , estimated at over 20 billion pounds, which are kept there.

The Tower’s history is equally interesting though: it has served as an armory, prison, execution site and even a royal residence .

Pre-purchasing tickets online is recommended, as the lines at the door are always very long .

Get tickets for the Tower of London

To the website

Only a short walk from the Palace of Westminster is the 700-year-old church Westminster Abbey. This is where the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and the wedding of Kate and William took place.

As you stroll around the gravestones in the cemetery, you’ll find many famous names from British history, such as Charles Darwin.

If you pre-purchase your tickets online they are a little cheaper.

Get tickets for Westminster Abbey

closed on Sundays (open for church services)

St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s is a defining feature of London’s skyline and is located in the heart of the City. The cathedral’s huge dome is even bigger than that of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome . The entire structure is absolutely beautiful, not just the architecture, but also the paintings and exhibitions .

If you can stomach climbing more than 500 steps up the spiral staircase to the top of the cathedral, a breathtaking view of London awaits you from a height of about 111 meters.

We recommend booking your tickets online in advance. The lines at the tickets booths can take forever, especially on weekends and during the peak season.

Tickets for St. Paul’s Cathedral Combined Ticket Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral (5% discount)

You should plan 1 hour (for the Changing of the Guard)

Nothing represents British history better than the Royal Family. So of course a visit to Buckingham Palace is an absolute must when you’re in London. The Palace is the official residence of the British Royal Family .

You can watch the Changing of the Guard at the Palace all year round. The spectacle takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. It always starts at 11 am, but you should get there by 10:30 am to get a good view.

Note: You can only visit the royal chambers between July and October. Make sure to secure your tickets well in advance online.

Get tickets for the Buckingham Palace

Open between July and October

The Shard really lives up to its name, jutting out of the ground like a piece of shattered glass. For a brief period, the 310-meter skyscraper even held the title of tallest building in Europe upon completion in 2012.

Its 72 floors include offices, apartments, restaurants, stores, and a 5-star hotel. The viewing platforms on the 69th and 72nd floors offer fantastic views over London.

It’s quite a bit cheaper to buy tickets online in advance than on site, but you’ll still have to wait in line to exchange your online ticket for a physical one. We recommend that you avoid visiting on weekends when the lines are particularly long.

Get tickets for The Shard

Several floors offer Michelin-star cuisine and great cocktails as well as an amazing view of London. You don’t have to pay admission here, but of course the food and drinks cost a pretty penny. You can also book a hotel room at the Shangri-La Hotel.  It offers luxury rooms with a spectacular view.

Current room rates at the Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard

Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays in winter

It’s the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe at 135 meters , and the view is fantastic. However, if you have to choose between the London Eye and The Shard, we would recommend The Shard.

It’s a good idea to book your tickets online in advance , as they’re 10 percent cheaper that way. You can choose between a standard ticket and a fast track ticket when you book your ride. The fast track ticket grants you preferred entry to the Ferris wheel through a special entrance so you don’t have to wait in line.

Get Fast Track Tickets for the London Eye

Big Ben & Houses of Parliament: More London highlights for first-timers

These attractions are in every travel guide and cannot missed on our list. You can visit these for the perfect London snapshot:

London attractions for culture lovers

You love museums, can really lose yourself in art or like to stroll through theater districts? Perfect! In this section you will find the most exciting museums in London and other attractions for real culture lovers.

Our culture highlights in London at a glance:

• Tate Modern / Tate Britain

British Museum

National gallery, covent garden, notting hill, tate modern and tate britain.

You should plan 3 hours

Two of our favorite museums in London are Tate Modern and Tate Britain. While Tate Britain primarily shows British artists from the Tudor period to British Modernism , Tate Modern features art and architecture by modern artists from around the world .

Tate Britain and Tate Modern are two of the most important art museums in London. In Tate Britain you can find art from the Tudor period to British Modernism , Tate Modern features art and architecture by modern artists from around the world . Tate Modern will appeal to you even if you’re not really into art in general.

The buildings’ architecture alone is stunning and can turn a rainy day in London into a unique experience. The 10th floor of Tate Modern also offers a great view of the city.

And here’s the best part: Both museums are completely free to visit !

Our tip: “Tate Lates”. Visit the Tates at night, accompanied by music and a bite to eat. Late at Tate is a regular event that takes place every first Friday of the month at Tate Britain and every last Friday of the month at Tate Modern.

You should plan 2 hours

The British Museum is a world-renowned museum of cultural history and has accumulated some of the most important sculptures, antiquities, and architectural works in human history.

There’s so much to see at the British Museum that it’s impossible to take in everything at once, even if you spend the whole day.

Visiting the museum is free , but you’re encouraged to make a donation. Only special exhibits and events charge admission.

Guided tour of the British Museum

The National Gallery is an art museum located directly on Trafalgar Square in the city center. It’s one of the most significant and largest portrait galleries in the world with a collection of more than 2,300 artworks from the 13th through the 19th century.

The collection includes portraits of Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Leonardo da Vinci, among many others. Admission to the National Gallery is free .

Our tip: Trafalgar Square is a wonderful spot to take a break from all the sightseeing. Its two fountains at the center are magnificent and the surrounding area is perfect for picnics, especially in the summer.

Guided tour of the National Gallery

Covent Garden is a theatre and entertainment district in the West End. People often only associate the historic Apple Market on the car-free square with the name Covent Garden, but the area has so much more to offer.

The London Museum of Transport, the Royal Opera House, the London Film Museum, and Seven Dials are just a few worthwhile attractions in the neighborhood. And aside from all the museums and theaters, the Apple Market is one of the most beautiful photo spots in London.

Its elegant halls are the perfect place for a leisurely shopping stroll. The many singers and street performers are what make the market so special.

You should plan 2 – 4 hours

Notting Hill is definitely one of the most photogenic parts of the city . Or instagrammable , as our younger readers might say. The neighborhood is known from numerous films such as the eponymous rom-com starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant.

The streets of Notting Hill are characterized by colorful houses and flowers .

The market on Portobello Road is one of the most beautiful markets in London, replete with second-hand fashion, antiques, and wares of all shapes and sizes. The main market opens on Fridays and Saturdays.

The annual Notting Hill Carnival takes place in August. Europe’s largest street festival offers a spectacular parade with a wide variety of colorful characters.

Guided walking tour through Notting Hill

Attractions for London experts

Have you been to London before? These London attractions are great for a second or third visit .

London insider tips that are worth visiting:

Borough Market

Brick lane market.

Our tip for London connoisseurs who have plenty of time:

• Street Art in London

The first Chinese restaurants set up shop in London in the 1950s. Today, you’ll feel as if you’ve been swept away to the Far East. Chinese characters, dragons, lanterns and the smell of fried duck are everywhere. Even the street signs in Chinatown are bilingual.

Chinatown is a little culture shock. You can eat delicious Asian food here or stock up on typical Asian products in the stores.

Our tip: Chinatown is also the scene of many exciting events, such as the Chinese New Year celebrations. Check the Chinatown website for information on upcoming events.

Borough Market is a very impressive food market that’s frequently chosen as a picturesque setting for movies, such as Bridget Jones or Harry Potter.

There are more than 130 stalls selling fruit, vegetables, natural products, meat, and fish . In addition to regional products, you’ll also find delicacies from all over the world. For example, German expats in London can enjoy a taste of home in the form of German bratwurst sold here.

You can easily spend a couple of hours here, sampling from the stalls and shopping for souvenirs. The market is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Only on Sundays it closes one hour earlier.

Our tip: Around Borough Market you’ll also find some cool London restaurants.

Closed on Sundays (only open in the run-up to Christmas)

At Brick Lane Market in Shoreditch you can find anything from antiques to vintage fashion, art, souvenirs and of course lots of delicious street food .

The market originated in the former Old Truman Brewery , which had to close in the 80s. Today it has developed into a market with over 300 stalls , some of them covered and others are simply on the street. We particularly like the fact that Brick Lane still retains the industrial charm of old London .

Our tip: It’s best to visit Brick Lane Market on a Sunday, which is the only time the street market takes place.

Streetart in London

You should plan 4 hours (for a tour)

If you already know the classic museums in London, there is still more art than the mainstream.

Especially the neighborhoods of Shoreditch and East End are full of beautiful street art. Among them are works by internationally known artists like Banksy or Shepherd Fairey.

We recommend a guided tour , because your guide knows the coolest street art in London and you don’t have to search for a long time.

Street art tour and workshop in London

London highlights for families

If you’re traveling to London with children, you probably won’t be looking for dull museums. In our list you will find the London highlights that kids will also enjoy . We will describe the first three in more detail in a bit.

These sights in London were our highlights:

• Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studios
• Transport Museum London

More London attractions for families:

• Science Museum
• Holland Park
• Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station

You should plan 1 – 3 hours

Hyde Park is one of the public royal parks in the heart of London. With an area of 1.4 square kilometers there’s plenty of space for your kids to run around and play.

The Serpentine, a snake-shaped lake running through the middle of the park, is the perfect place to cool off in the summer. From late November through January, Hyde Park hosts the Winter Wonderland with ice skating, a Ferris wheel, and a circus – perfect for families.

Our tip: On Sundays, pay a visit to Speakers’ Corner in the northeast end of Hyde Park (near Marble Arch). Since the 19th century, speakers have been coming here to stand on boxes and speak their minds about every topic under the sun. If you’re feeling brave, why not give it a go yourself?

Warner Bros. Studios

Why not apparate to Diagon Alley and get a few souvenirs from Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes ? You can – well, almost.

At Warner Bros. Studios in London, you can visit some of the original sets, such as Diagon Alley , the Great Hall at Hogwarts, and the wizarding bank Gringotts . You’ll see the actors’ costumes and some of the iconic props like Harry’s Nimbus 2000 or Hagrid’s flying motorbike .

A truly magical experience for all Harry Potter fans, both young and old.

Harry Potter Studios Tour

London Transport Museum

At the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden, your kids can explore the world of London’s transport.

There is, for example, a restored steam engine , electric trains or the typical r ed double-decker buses to discover. What kid wouldn’t want to play train conductor?

The museum also tells some really crazy stories . There is, for example, an exhibition about an underground aircraft factory in a subway tunnel.

Get tickets for the London Transport Museum

More tips for families in London

London has so many fun options to offer for families. Here are some more ideas:

London highlights for shopping fans

London and fashion – the two belong together. We will show you the best places to shop in London.

Our highlights for shopping in London:

Oxford Street

Camden market.

Oxford Street is one of the most prestigious and famous shopping streets in all of Europe. It extends for 1.9 kilometers and offers everything from luxury brands to cheap knick-knacks.

Stores open daily. If you really want to do some serious shopping, try strolling down the street during the week ; it’s pretty much impossible to shop in peace on the weekends.

Our tip: The pre-Christmas season is a magical time in London, and starting in November, Oxford Street is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights. Be sure to stop by Carnaby Street, a side street off of Oxford Street, and marvel at the lights and romantic restaurants around Kingly Court.

Harrods is the most famous department store in London. The rich and famous have been shopping at Harrods since 1834, and for a long time the department store was the official supplier to the Royal Family.

The charm of the old building will send you into a shopping frenzy. Many of the stores are luxury boutiques like Chanel, Gucci or Prada. But there are also several “normal” stores.

Our tip: If possible, don’t visit Harrods on a Saturday, as it’s particularly crowded then.

You should plan a whole day

Camden Market is not just any old market. There are around 1,000 stores offering anything from vintage fashion to art to street food . The atmosphere is like a trip back in time to the 70s and 80s. It is divided into three separate markets :

• Buck Street Market , right next to the Tube station, is full of stalls selling cheap, mass-produced goods.
• Stables Market , along Chalk Farm Road, offers alternative and vintage fashion, furniture, and second-hand items.
• The oldest market is located directly on Regent’s Canal. Camden Lock Market offers high-quality hand-made jewelry and clothing, decorations, and the finest street food.

London for free: Our tips for those on a budget

Are you traveling on a budget? London is not exactly a cheap destination, but with some tricks at hand, you can visit many of London’s attractions for free.

Here are our tips for free sightseeing in London:

• walk across Tower Bridge
• visit a free museum like Tate Modern, Tate Britain, British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum or the National Gallery
• enjoy the view in the Sky Garden
• stroll through the markets of London
• check out some street art in East London

General tips for your visit to London

Before you get started with your trip to the top highlights in London, here are a few quick tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Ideally, you should plan at least 3 to 5 days for your city trip to London. That’s still not much for such a big city, which is why it’s important to plan well.

#1 Choosing the right place to stay

When choosing your accommodation, you should make sure that it’s in a central location . Here are three great and centrally located hotels in London.

Wilde Aparthotels : cool apartments in the bustling Covent Garden district, very close to the theater district The Montague On The Garden: super stylish boutique hotel near the British Museum, especially suitable for families and first-time visitors Treehouse Hotel London : super green hotel with a treehouse theme, close to Oxford Street

#2 Get an Oyster Card

London is huge and its must-see attractions are scattered throughout the city, so doing everything on foot is only recommended for the most ambitious exercise fanatics. For everyone else, the public transport network is excellent  and is the perfect way to get around and see the sights.

You’ll need an Oyster Card to use the public transport in London. An Oyster Card is a pre-paid travel card that you simply hold against the reader before boarding a bus or entering a Tube station. It’s incredibly convenient and easy to use. Cards are available at local outlets, such as airports and all Tube stations.

Alternatively, you can also order the card before your trip and have it conveniently delivered to your home for a small fee. That way you can feel like a local and just get on the next bus or Tube when you arrive, without the hassle of looking for a vending machine.

Order the Oyster Card online

We recommend using the Citymapper app for public transport in London. It shows you how long it’ll take you to get from A to B, how much it’ll cost, and which lines to take.

Get the Android app from the Google Play Store Get the iOS app from the Apple Store

#3 Save time and money with city passes

It may be worth buying one of the London city passes if you plan on visiting a lot of attractions that charge admission.

These discount passes grant you free admission to numerous attractions in London and save you quite a bit of money.

Another advantage is that some sights offer preferred fast track admission for pass holders. In other words, not only will you be saving money, but also a lot of time.

The following passes are available:

London Pass (includes most of the attractions) Go City’s London Explorer Pass (the most flexible pass) Merlin Magical London 5-in-1-Pass (a good choice for families with children)

#4 Explore London with a guided tour

If you’re visiting London for the first time or want to explore a whole other side of the city, a guided tour is a great idea.

There’s a huge range of city tours in London to suit all tastes.

Here are three cool tours, that can be booked directly online:

Bike tour through London Boat cruise on the Thames including lunch Harry Potter-themed tour

What are your London highlights?

That wraps up our list of the 22 must-see sights and attractions in London. Have you ever been to London? Which attractions in London were your absolute favorites? Tell us all about them in the comments. We look forward to hearing from you!

London, England   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Doug Armand | Getty Images

34 Best Things to Do in London, England

Whether you're keen to brush up on your history knowledge at the Tower of London , tour the home of the monarchy at Buckingham Palace or check out one of the city's many art galleries, London isn't short on things to do. Thespians will

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

Tower of London Tower of London

Although its exterior might be grim and even unimpressive (especially when compared to stately  Buckingham Palace ), the Tower of London's interior is always bustling with activity. Despite its name, the large complex has a long history as a palace, a fortress and a prison. Each exhibition and activity here explores this history.

If you're enchanted with the monarchy, don't miss the famous crown jewels exhibition. Among the items you'll see is the Imperial State Crown – which is still worn by the queen for each State Opening of Parliament – and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. In 2020, Prince of Wales' Investiture Coronet joined the display in the Jewel House. For an oral history, take an entertaining tour led by the Yeoman Warders (tower guards). During the hourlong excursion (included in your admission ticket), the guards will regale you with tales of the tower's bloody past. The White Tower is one of the world's most famous castles and a recognizable London landmark. Inside, you'll find the 350-year-old exhibition, "Line of Kings," which includes suits of armor worn by Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Keep an eye out for the Tower's famous ravens, who are said to guard the structure.

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

Step through halls where history was made time and again by visiting the British Parliament. Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate, which is more than 900 years old), the House of Commons Chamber and the House of Lords. If you're not interested in perusing the corridors that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London. 

If you're one of many looking to snap your own photo of one of the most photographed buildings in the world, the best vantage point is from Westminster Bridge. But if you want a truly smashing shot, head on over to Lambeth Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridges on the South Bank for a view of Parliament and the London Eye together. Keep in mind that Westminster Bridge connects two of the city's most popular attractions ( London Eye  and Parliament), and as a result is almost always very crowded.

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Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history. Westminster Abbey is generally busy – and the staff keeps you moving at a pretty swift pace – so do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding the British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor.

If you prefer to see the abbey at your own pace, but still want a little guidance on the history you're encountering, take advantage of the multimedia guides, which are included in the price of admission and available in 14 languages. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour (led by the abbey's vergers) and see special places inaccessible to the public, including the tomb containing Saint Edward the Confessor. If you decide to take this tour, you'll pay 10 pounds (around $14) on top of the general admission price.

British Museum British Museum free

The British Museum is both an architectural beauty and a trove of some of the world's most noted antiquities. In fact, many travelers say it's the best museum in all of London. What's more, it's free to visit. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures to Mesopotamian objects, the British Museum is a history buff's dream containing artifacts in the millions. The immense collection can make an initial museum visit seem overwhelming: Pick the exhibits that most interest you, and plan return trips if you feel so inclined.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's exhibits – the approximately 80,000 objects on display out of its collection totaling 8 million items – consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and the LBGTQ-themed "Desire, Love, Identity" tour and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book an "Around the World in 60 Minutes" tour for 14 pounds (around $20). Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (about $10), are also available to rent daily.

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

Though called a garden, Covent Garden isn't all about plants and flowers. Rather, it's a piazza and a collection of urban streets boasting numerous upscale stores as well as bars, restaurants, art installations and more. In other words, it's a bustling neighborhood within London's West End. Shops range from famous trademarks like Ralph Lauren and Mulberry to independent brands. In addition to conventional shops and boutiques, Covent Garden has a covered market area where vendors sell everything from antiques to crafts. Similarly, dining options range from foodie destinations like Sushi Samba and Balthazar to casual pubs. Given Covent Garden's open-air orientation, there are appropriately more than 1,000 seats for al fresco dining.

Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House. Even if you're unable (or disinclined) to see an opera, you can tour the lavishly appointed Royal Opera House. Architecture-enthusiasts find the building, especially its glass atrium, stunning and the tours informative. General admission tickets are 19 pounds (about $24) for adults and 16.75 pounds (about $21) for anyone younger than 16. (Check the opera house’s website for dates and times.)

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander over to nearby Chinatown to sample its slew of Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops, and continue on into Soho for some of the city's best LGBT-friendly bars. – Laura French

Regularly compared to  New York 's  Times Square , Piccadilly Circus is the meeting place of five busy roads and is the center of London's hustle and bustle. Whether it's people on their way to work in the morning, shoppers en route to the chain store-lined Oxford Street (just a few blocks north) or lively club and bar hoppers passing through at night, Piccadilly is always thrumming with activity. 

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a fun night out, buy tickets for a showing of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," which is the longest-running play in history. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Catching a show in London's West End theater district is just as necessary as watching a play on  Broadway  during a trip to  New York City . The quality is some of the best in the U.K., and the constant mix of new and classic productions with local and world-renowned talent (think: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Angela Lansbury, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benedict Cumberbatch) excites both visitors and locals alike. Even if you don't consider yourself much of a theater devotee, recent travelers said the atmosphere, specifically near the lively Leicester Square, where many of the theaters are concentrated, is worth a late-night wander.

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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A short stroll from Hyde Park Corner will take you to The Grenadier – a tiny pub hidden down a cobbled alley. It opened in 1818 as an officers' mess and now serves beers and classic pub fare in atmospheric, wood-strewn surroundings. – Laura French

Just north of the Royal Albert Hall and northwest of Buckingham Palace  sit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: a stretch of green bisected by West Carriage Drive. Hyde Park was once the recreational stomping grounds for King Henry VIII, but now this 350-acre swath of land is open to the public and a must-visit for travelers looking for a relaxing moment away from the city's hustle and bustle. Among Hyde Park's meandering foot and bike paths and flourishing flora and fauna, you'll find a few standout attractions that are worth exploring. Watch the swans and boats glide over the serene Serpentine Lake (or rent a vessel yourself), visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or stop by the Speakers' Corner, a site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century (previously used by George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin, among others). For the sporting set, Hyde Park has tennis courts, football pitches (remember: football means soccer here) and a horse-riding arena.  

The London Eye The London Eye

The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

For nearly 200 years, Trafalgar square has been a London institution. Flanked by the National Gallery , the square features two fountains, several busts and bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column. The column, which honors Admiral Horatio Nelson for his success at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, stands 16 feet tall. At its base, bronze panels detail some of Nelson's battles and the two lions are there to protect the monument.

Recent travelers appreciated this famous London locale, noting that it's a great spot for photos and people-watching. However, know that aside from the National Gallery and surrounding shops and restaurants, there isn't much to do at the square itself.

St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is arguably the second must-see church in London (the first, of course, being Westminster Abbey ). With its imposing dome – one of the largest in the world – St. Paul's forms a predominant spot along London's skyline. It's also a survivor: Although an older incarnation burnt during the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current dome (designed by Sir Christopher Wren and officially completed in 1711) survived numerous World War II bombings.

To make the most of your visit, reviewers highly recommended climbing to the top of the dome to the Golden Gallery. You'll have to hike up 528 steps, but after catching your breath you'll enjoy far-reaching views of the River Thames, the  Tate Modern , and Shakespeare's Globe . And once you've seen the top, head below ground to the crypt (the largest in Europe), where the tombs of notable figures such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington as well as Wren are housed. Though some reviewers are put off by the pricey admission, most agree that a peek inside is well worth the extra coin.

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after your visit, head next door to the Science Museum to browse interactive exhibits and live science shows, and catch a film at the IMAX, one of the UK's biggest screens (entry to the museum itself is free, though some exhibitions are extra). – Laura French

Located in South Kensington, this museum brims with data from 70,000 different species (from animals to tiny protozoa) and exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur bones to simulated earthquakes. The Natural History Museum is also a favorite among families, so you'll find it crawling with kids.

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St. James's Park St. James's Park free

One of London's eight Royal Parks, St. James's Park is nearly 57 acres. It's surrounded by three palaces: its namesake St. James’s Palace, Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament ) and Buckingham Palace . The park's semi-circular flower beds – the Memorial Gardens – which sit beside Buckingham are one of its major attractions. The park is flanked one side by the Mall, a route for royal processions that bisects the gardens and on another by the Horse Guards Parade, a parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour is held. Other notable buildings nearby include No. 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence) and the Churchill War Rooms . The park also features a portion of the 7-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk and provides habitat for various animal species, including foxes and ducks as well as its famed pelicans. Additionally, runners race through St. James's park as the final leg of the annual London Marathon.

Visitors invariably find the park to be quite stunning and well-maintained. It’s deemed an excellent place for walking while admiring the many historical structures nearby.

National Gallery National Gallery free

Sitting in Trafalgar Square, London's National Gallery features a labyrinth interior so large that it requires a color-coded map to navigate. The museum features paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works. Among its 2,300 in-house pieces, visitors will find famed paintings, such as Botticelli's "Venus and Mars," Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait at the Age of 34” and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers." 

Recent visitors loved the variety of paintings at the National Gallery, saying that travelers may need more than a day to get a glimpse at all the masterpieces that grace its never-ending halls. They also commend the gallery's cafe.

Borough Market Borough Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across from Borough Market sits the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garrett: a tiny museum housed in an 18th-century attic of that's the oldest surviving operating theatre (think: operating room) in Europe. It displays intriguing artifacts about the gruesome medical practices of the past. – Laura French

The food-focused Borough Market is effectively three markets in one (with restaurants, bars and shops interspersed throughout). Three Crown Square features large producers and merchants while Green Market has smaller, specialty ones. You'll find everything from cheese to wine to pastries to produce. Borough Market Kitchen provides a platform for street-food vendors. The roughly 1,000-year-old market regularly hosts cooking demonstrations and classes.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick an early tour time and explore slowly. There is so much to see that you may miss small details if you go too quickly. And don't worry about time. Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Located at the studios where all eight of the "Harry Potter" films were produced, this is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizarding World. Visitors can view original film sets – from the Great Hall to Gringotts, Diagon Alley to the Gryffindor Common Room – with hundreds of original props and costumes to browse. Glimpse the model used for Hogwarts Castle, learn about Hagrid's animatronic head, visit Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express; this is a comprehensive, interactive tour for the whole family that's well worth adding to your London bucket list.

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

Home to more than 40 British monarchs and in use since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is a spectacular daytrip from London. Visitors can wander the elaborate state rooms, observe the famous Changing the Guard and admire the many artworks and collectibles on display. Should time allow, take a stroll along the Long Walk: a nearly 3-mile-long tree-lined road that is part of the castle's park. Though you'll find a cafe and souvenir shop on-site, Windsor (the town) offers a bevy of dining and shopping options.

Though always crowded, a visit to Windsor should not be missed. Time and again, travelers say that it is a wonderful place to see while in London, and many were repeat visitors. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues said they had little trouble exploring the castle.

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Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're able, opt for a standing ticket at the performance. You'll get a more authentic experience, plus your proximity to the actors lets you admire their facial expressions and costumes. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

This is not the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's time. The original Globe Theatre – which staged Shakespeare's plays and where the Bard wrote "Twelfth Night," "King Lear," and several others – opened in 1599 and burned down in 1613. The second Globe was erected in 1614 but was then torn down in 1644, after all theaters where shuttered by Parliament. The current incarnation – referred to as the Globe Theatre by its staff – has been in operation since 1997 and it is a celebrated performing arts venue dedicated to staging the Bard's plays. In a nod to its much older namesake, today's open-air theater has a thatched roof – the only one in the city – that does not cover the central yard. Seating is in the round. Or, for a truly memorable experience, you can choose to stand in the yard just below the stage to watch a performance (as many did in Shakespeare's time).  

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in December to see Carols at the Royal Albert Hall; it's a spectacular, sing-along show guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. – Laura French

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall where musicians of all genres perform. It also hosts special non-concert events, including sporting events and dance performances. The building's famed 20,000-square-foot iron roof was the largest unsupported dome in the world when it was installed in 1869 (two years before the hall officially opened). An 800-foot long, 5,200-square-foot mosaic frieze dubbed "The Triumph of Arts and Letters" encircles the structure's exterior. The hall can accommodate 5,900 people.

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th-century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form – the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as sculptures, Chinese artifacts, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free weekly public lectures.

Recent travelers praised the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. Many described its permanent collection as surprise around every corner. If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consult the building's map before you go; a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit.

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

Along with Parliament and Big Ben, Tower Bridge is London's next must-see architectural marvel, not to mention the most famous bridge that crosses the Thames. Construction on the bridge started in 1886, which means it's practically modern by London standards, but Tower Bridge stands out for its stunning detail and moveable roadways that lift up when large ships need to pass through. The views from the bridge are an added bonus. From the elevated sidewalks visitors get a prime view of the  Tower of London ,  St. Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome, the London Eye and The Monument.

If you're interested in viewing the city from a higher vantage point (about 137 feet above the Thames), consider a visit inside Tower Bridge, during which you go to the top of the bridge – equipped with a glass floor – as well as to the bottom to the engine rooms. However, recent visitors say that those who are afraid of heights might want to forgo walking across the glass floor.

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, which Henry VIII acquired in the 1520s and subsequently expanded, features the Grand Hall (with Anne Boleyn's coat of arms carved in the ceiling and antique tapestries on the walls) and the largest kitchens in Tudor England (capable of producing 800 meals a day). Its grounds include 60 acres of formal gardens complete with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country as well as the largest grape vine in the world.

Past visitors observe that there’s a lot to see and that the huge palace necessitates a lot of walking. They also recommend the audio tour, which is included in the ticket price. The gardens are frequently singled out as worthy of attention.

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Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

Meandering just shy of 9 miles from Paddington in the west to the Limehouse Basin in the east, this charming river walk offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. It passes several postcard-pretty spots, including Little Venice, where quaint cafes, pubs and restaurants sit on the waterfront; Regent's Park, one of London's most popular green spaces and the home of London Zoo; and Camden Lock, famous for its markets, street food stalls and antique shops. You'll also get to see the East End, including trendy Dalston, Victoria Park (home to a farmers market every Sunday) and Mile End.

There's history behind it, too; the canal opened in the early 19th century to transport coal, building materials and other goods from northern industrial cities to King's Cross – a long-standing center for trade – and operated for more than 140 years.

Camden Market Camden Market free

Londoners and out-of-towners alike enjoy spending a morning (or afternoon) at the Camden Market. Camden Market is actually multiple markets spread out in the neighborhood of Camden. It sprawls with more than 1,000 stalls, shops, bars and cafes carrying close to everything, from furniture to food and lots of fashion. Looking for cheap graphic T-shirts and dresses? Head over to the first set of Camden Market stalls located closest to the Tube station. If you're looking for more of a mix of items, walk over the bridge to the lock market, situated on the peaceful Camden Lock. You'll find stalls filled with antiques, clothing, souvenirs and a variety of food stalls. Food on offer ranges from traditional fish and chips to Middle Eastern fare, hot dogs and Portuguese tarts. This area gives way to the long and winding stables market, consisting of vendors selling vintage home decor, leather goods and clothing.

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area. The market is open daily from 10 a.m. until roughly 6 p.m. (though different businesses may open and close at different times). For more information about the vendors at the market, visit its official website .

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

Located on the South Bank along the Thames, the Tate Modern is part of a group of four museums (all named Tate) which house the 70,000 artworks that comprise the national collection of British art. As its name suggest, this Tate holds the more contemporary-style pieces than its three other counterparts, making it more of a hit or miss among travelers. Dalí and Picasso, as well as many British artists, are represented inside this repurposed power plant – but you'll find the works are scattered. Art is grouped by theme rather than by artist.

Recent visitors said if you're a fan of contemporary and modern art, you'll enjoy the Tate Modern. If you're partial to antiquities or the more traditional works of art, you'll probably be better served at the  British Museum  or the  National Gallery . Art aside, the eateries located within the museum may be enough of a reason for travelers to visit. Both the Espresso Bar and Kitchen and Bar at Tate Modern afford stunning views of  St. Paul's Cathedral , which is situated on the other side of the river. At the very least, take a stroll along the Thames to view the museum's impressive exterior.

Greenwich Greenwich free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Skip the tube and hop on an Uber Boat to arrive in Greenwich by water – they depart from various stops along the Thames, including Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster and the London Eye, with single fares from £5.20. – Laura French

Sitting southeast of central London, Greenwich is a great daytrip within city limits and well worth the trek. Greenwich's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Royal Observatory, where the prime meridian bisects the institution and travelers can stand on both the eastern and western hemispheres. Other favorite museums and attractions include the Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Market. 

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

Famous for its waxworks, this was the first Madame Tussauds museum in the world, established in 1884 on Marylebone Road to display works by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. During the French Revolution, Tussaud was forced craft works of executed nobles – including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette – to prove she was loyal to the crown. Following the end of the revolution, she left France and traveled to Britain, bringing the waxworks with her, in the early 1800s. Today, the museum upholds the waxwork tradition, with more than 150 realistic-looking figures displayed across 11 zones – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt to Harry Styles and Barack Obama to King Charles III.

Recent visitors were impressed and said they enjoyed exploring the different themed areas – from "Star Wars" to "Marvel" – as well as the new Chamber of Horrors room, which explores London's historic criminals. The taxi-themed ride and Marvel 4D show were also a hit, and many recommended it for families, especially those with teenagers. Several commented that lines can be long, even with pre-booked tickets, and it can get crowded inside.

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Up at The O2 Up at The O2

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for crisp air and fewer crowds. Afterwards, head southwest to Greenwich for some food and shopping at Greenwich Market. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Climb over the roof of The O2 – London's arena for major musical and sporting events – for unparalleled views of the city. The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf are among the sights observable from the 170-foot apex. Excursions generally take about 90 minutes, with an hour of walking that travelers typically find rewarding.

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

Locals and tourists alike tend to adore Portobello Road Market. Located in the posh Notting Hill neighborhood (made famous by the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie of the same name), the market stretches down the long Portobello Road, which is considered to be the area's high street (or main street). The market is filled with hundreds of merchants of all kinds selling a variety of common flea market items including antiques, art, jewelry, clothing and food. But what stands out about Portobello Market (aside from its adorably colorful location) is its collection of antiques and quintessentially English items. In just a few blocks, visitors can find a wellie shop, scores of vintage tea sets, quality London souvenirs and Banksy recreations. The market is also billed as being the largest antiques market in the world. If you have a penchant for fashion, the best sampling is found at the end of the market near the Ladbroke Grove Tube stop. There, visitors will not only find the greatest concentration of locals but a great selection of vintage attire as well.

Recent visitors loved Portobello Market for its lively atmosphere, wide selection of items and cheap food stalls. Although many lauded the quality found at the food stalls, some urged visitors to check out nearby restaurants, as many serve exceptional British and international fare. Others also advised visitors to pay close attention to their belongings. Portobello Market is not only very crowded, but concentrated on a narrow street, creating an easy opportunity for pickpockets to strike. 

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

Delve into London's macabre past at this interactive attraction, which explores the history of Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd and other criminals through live actors, exhibits and rides. Smell, see and hear the city of yesteryear as you wander through the underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, exploring a darker side to this bustling city.

Travelers said the London Dungeon was a great way to get a glimpse into the history of the city and were impressed with the quality of acting and special effects. Many enjoyed the rides and other surprises, although some noted it can be frightening for younger children (a minimum age of 12 is recommended). Some also said it was expensive, but discounts are available when tickets are combined with entry to nearby attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

Step inside the London Transport Museum to explore the history of getting around London. Exhibits detail the first London Underground, how the city expanded, Victorian-era transport and much more. Plus, there are multiple hands-on exhibits to keep young ones entertained.

Overall, travelers were pleased with their visits to the museum and found the history fascinating. Others note it's very family-friendly, so you should expect tons of kids during a visit (unless you visit in the late afternoon, when the museum says it's a bit quieter). 

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

The collection here includes works by renowned artists such as Titian, Velazquez and Van Dyck as well as various medieval and Renaissance objects. The collection was assembled in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace and then donated to Great Britain. The permanent collection centers on European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries and includes notable French paintings and decorative arts from the 18th century. Special exhibits tend to focus on individual artists, such as Frans Hals and Peter Paul Rubens. Before going to see the fine and decorative arts on display in person, you can explore more than 400 items using a free digital guide available from the museum's website .

Art lovers generally find much to enjoy here, and many suggest it merits repeat visits. Some opine that the signs could provide more information about the items on view.

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Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunker that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his war cabinet used to shelter from bomb raids and plot their steps during World War II. The maze-like corridors tell the story of this volatile time period, centering on the larger-than-life leader that Churchill was.

Travelers describe the Churchill War Rooms as fascinating, and more than one traveler calls it a favorite London attraction. Some say that the rooms are much bigger than they had imagined and that people tend to spend a lot of time soaking in the exhibits and information. Others say that the exhibits have a strange layout, which can lead to confusion when trying to follow the sequence of events. Additionally, this popular spot gets crowded, so most museumgoers recommend that visitors get to the Churchill War Rooms early to avoid a long wait.

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20+ Crazy Fun Things to Do in London in 2023 (Curious, Quirky & Cool!)

I know there are many people who talk about fun things to do in London . Yet, my goal today is not to talk about famous London attractions . I’ve written quite a few articles about the best things to do in Central London already. For instance, I’ve written about the best free things to do in London when you’re absolutely broke. I also focus a lot on things to do in London by area on The London Local, including Bethnal Green , Brick L a ne , Shoreditch , or even lately Hampstead Heath . In this article, I’m going to be focusing on cool things to do in London in 2023. 

That includes some exhibitions , some absolutely tremendous cemeteries, and some very fashionable museums and art collections. Of course, I know you are looking for the best things to do in London at night and cheap activities . I mean, we are not all very rich when we live in London – far from it.

20+ Crazy Fun Things to Do in London in 2023 (Curious, Quirky & Cool!)

When I talk about cool things to do in London, I have a very specific idea of what cool, quirky, and curious mean.  It is not enough to look for the best free things to do in London if you’re going to be finding yourself at the Tate Modern and the usual walk around Covent Garden and Regent Street up to Oxford Circus. There’s so much more that I want to share with you, even amazing things to do in London tomorrow, during the weekend, or at night. Before we get started, you might like to take a look at these guides I’ve written for you to find them the top things to do in London:

• the best things to do in London for free (when you’re broke af),
•  and the best cheap things to do in London alone

If you’re just feeling like shopping a different way, how about discovering the best Japanese shops in London ? I’ve broken them down for you so you can find the coolest Japanese stationery, makeup brands, snacks, and much more!

City Exploration Games by CityDays

The ultimate London experience for urban adventurers If you’re looking for an immersive day out in London full of fun challenges, then a CityDays exploration game could be just the thing! Not only do you get to explore some of London’s hidden secrets and historic landmarks whilst solving an array of riddles and clues, you also get to stop in top-rated cafes, pubs and bars along the way (some of which will give you a discount if you let them know that you’re on a CityDays hunt!). CityDays have 8 different treasure and scavenger hunts to choose from – The City, Greenwich Guile, A Forbidden Fayre, Secrets of the Squares, Mysterious Mews, A Rift In Time, All Gone South and Shoreditch Shuffle.

The Secret City offers 8 different treasure and scavenger hunts to choose from – The City, Greenwich Guile, A Forbidden Fayre, Secrets of the Squares, Mysterious Mews, A Rift In Time, All Gone South and Shoreditch Shuffle.

CityDays – Mystery Walks of London

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🐣 Visiting London for Easter?

Check out our guide for the best things to do in London this Easter ! Including Easter Egg hunts for the kids, tasty themed afternoon teas and classic London Easter traditions .

Have a Harry Potter Themed Afternoon Tea

Interactive afternoon tea for two at wands and wizards exploratorium.

Indulge in a magical and interactive afternoon tea at the Wizard Exploratorium in Soho. You’ll be invited to select a magic wand and then lead to an interactive work station where you’ll brew your teas. The magic wand also controls your afternoon tea stand which is filled with a carefully curated selection of delicious sandwiches, desserts and a traditional English scone for each ‘wizard’.

The main Wizards afternoon tea is aimed at adults and older children from ages 12+. If you are looking to take younger children, you can book in for a Little Wizards Afternoon Tea designed for ages 5-11. University students can get a 20% discount on specific dates and times.

Arcane Afternoon Tea for Two – Wands and Wizard Exploratorium

Location: 26 Greek Street, London, W1D 5DE View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Leicester Square Price: £42 per adult (ages 12+), £32 per child (ages 5-11), £33.60 University Students

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Birdies Battersea

If you are looking for really fun things to do in London, I think you should take a look at Battersea. I feel like this is one of the most underrated areas of London, and under the tunnel, at Battersea Power Station, you can find Birdies.  This is a totally undescribable mini-golf course focused on the most unforgettable features that a golf course in London could have.

I’m talking great menu for food, I’m talking 9 holes, I’m talking super instagrammable golf course.  I’ve never been that much of a golf lover, to be honest. That is not one of the things in London I would choose to do when with friends. However, Birdies is so instagrammable, so actually absurd… I still recommend it to you as one of the fun things to do in London this weekend, or during the week . If you want to eat great street food in London far from the famous London attractions and landmarks,  Birdies in Battersea will definitely make for a good time.

Location: 6 Arches Lane, Nine Elms, SW11 8AB View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Battersea Power Station Price: Adult Peak £12 | Adult Off Peak £8 | Children £6

Fun Things to do in London: Monopoly Lifesized

I spotted the Monopoly Lifesized game while walking from Fitzrovia to Tottenham Court Road one day. This is not one of the cheap things to do in London, far from it, actually. However, when you get the chance to play Monopoly in real life, can you really look at the price?  You could definitely spend a day in London shopping in one of the cheap shopping centers , for instance, or going to one of the amazing art galleries. You could go to one of the famous London parks and visit instagrammable bridges like Albert Bridge or Tower Bridge.  But then, if you really want to have some good fun, Monopoly Lifesized is your immersive destination.

If you’ve played Monopoly before, you already know what the deal is. You’re going to play on your feet, buying properties, solving mysteries, and competing against the clock. In 80 minutes, you need to have won the game. There are 4 life-sized boards to choose from and they will cost you from £49 per adult and from £25 for a junior. Forget about the usual London sightseeing because Monopoly Lifesized is one of your ultimate top things to do in London this weekend. 

Monopoly Lifesized

Location: 213-215 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7PS View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Goodge Street Price: From £49 per person

Fun Things to do in London: Visit Roller Nation

The reason why I don’t like golf that much is the same reason I don’t really like roller skating.  It’s not that much of a matter of not liking , it’s more that I suck at roller skating. However, Roller Nation, a roller-skating nightclub in Tottenham , is one of the best things to do in London in 2023. It goes beyond any fun you could have in the city if you just don’t mind going all the way to Tottenham.

This is one of the most amazing venues for cheap date ideas in London, for instance . To be fair, when you can have that much fun, you don’t really mind spending a few more stations on the tube. You can either meet with friends there, plan a hen party, or just go solo, you know.  If you’re looking for the best things to do in London at night , for sure, Roller Nation is one of them. Basically, it is described as a nightclub on skates. Yet, I’d like to highlight the fact that if you’re looking for the best street food in London , Roller Nation is it .

Roller Nation

Location: 117 Bruce Grove, N17 6UR View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Bruce Grove Price: From £10 per person

Otherworld: Virtual Reality in London

Otherworld is one of the other amazing things to do in London this weekend, during the week, or in the evening. It was mentioned in many famous publications, such as BBC, The Times, The Evening Standard, or even Vogue.  We don’t often talk about cool things to do in East London other than going out in Hackney or going to dinner in one of the best halal restaurants in East London, for instance. But I’ve always been an East London girl, even when I was living in Seven Sisters, up north.

Otherworld is one of the London attractions that focuses on virtual reality . I think I speak for many of us when I say that when we’re looking for fun things to do in London, we’re looking for something that’s gonna knock us off our feet . The London crowd is a demanding one, and that’s definitely the place where you can have an otherworldly experience. You can go on your own or with friends, turn yourselves into avatars, and just ride the wave of the adventure stream in London. I’m talking immersion, I’m talking virtual, and extreme relaxation and fun in the midst of the city.

Location: 336 Acton Mews, E8 4EA View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Haggerston Price: From £14

God’s Own Junkyard

I remember the first time I ever visited God’s Own Junkyard near Walthamstow. This full neon gallery and shop is one of the best free London attractions . I was a make-up artist when I first visited it, and just so you know, you cannot take a professional camera or a reflex when you go visit God’s Own Junkyard. Only phone pictures are allowed. We’re not talking about the best free things to do in Central London as Walthamstow is located far East. However, if you don’t go, you’re going to regret it big time. Especially since it’s free, folks. God’s Own Junkyard is full of neon signs, movie props, controversial objects, and amazing neon lights. Basically, Chris Bracey, God’s Own Junkyard’s owner has been creating art for the likes of David Lachapelle and Martin Creed for almost 40 years. The place is absolutely one of the most aesthetic places in London. There’s even a small independent coffee shop inside, where the cakes are decadent.

Location: Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall St, London E17 9HQ View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Wood Street Price: FREE ENTRY!

Luna Cinema: Outdoor Cinema in London

Luna Cinema is a company that provides an amazing open-air cinema experience in London. They focus on drive-in and open-air cinema , which means you can even watch a movie outdoors in London. Without a doubt, it’s one of the top things to do in London at night with you r other half or with friends after work. It’s not only a company that works in London since Luna Cinema is a moving attraction across the UK. At the moment, of course, since it’s cold, the Luna Cinema is closed. However, you can still follow them on social media or see straight on their website when they’re going to reopen and what kind of movies are going to be screened.  These are mostly classic movies showing in this open air cinema in London , including Dirty dancing and the likes of Pretty Woman. Not only will you pay £15 for a great classic movie but the setting is bound to be exceptional , like the Geffrye Museum and Kensington Gardens. The Luna Cinema tops all London attractions when you want to create memories with your best friends or with the city of London herself .

Location: Various locations across London Nearest Station: Various locations across London Price: Prices start from £19.50 per person

Swingers Crazy Golf – Fun things to do in Londons West End

If you’re looking for unique date ideas in London, I would suggest passing by the Swingers Crazy Golf. Basically, each game lasts about 30 minutes and this is one of the most instagrammable places in London . Also, if you are a sucker for the best street food in London, you will find Patty & Bun, Pizza Pilgrims, and Crosstown Doughnuts at Swingers Crazy Golf.  That’s a true London experience, given how quirky it is and how blown off you’re going to be when you spend time there. It is true that London has always been an aesthetic place, with its skyscrapers and mix of the old and the new. But now, it seems that most of the cool things to do in London are based on Instagram . I would say that spending date night at the Swingers Crazy Golf (which has since then moved away from its Shoreditch warehouse) is one of the most fun things to do in London. Not only are you going to spend an amazing evening, but you’re going to eat well and you’re going to go to sleep with amazing memories.  Much like any of the best London attractions, right?  So if you’ve never gone mini-golfing before, that’s a place you should visit.

Swingers Crazy Golf

Location: 15 John Prince’s Street, W1G 0AB Nearest Station: Oxford Circus Price: £13.50 per person

Fun Things to do in London: Upside Down House

If you’re looking for amazing things to do in London, then one of the best activities I can recommend this year is visiting the Upside Down House at Westfield White City. The Upside Down house arrived in London last year, and it’s the exact replica of a home flipped upside down. There are already Upside Down houses in other United Kingdom cities like Manchester, Bristol, and another city I adore – Brighton. Aside from very overrated famous London attractions, it’s great to know that you can live street art and entertainment another way in the city. I don’t know if you are familiar with Westfield White City: it’s one of the most famous shopping centers in London. There, you can find great brands like Inglot, M&S, and even high-end brands to shop for clothes, perfume, makeup, electronics, and much, much more. 

It seems that more and more activities and installations in London are made for Instagram. To be honest, the Upside Down House is one of the most instagrammable places in London . It is not one of the free things to do in London as the ticket costs £5 per person, while kids under 3 go for free.  However, it is indeed one of the cheap things to do in London at the moment. If you pay attention to your Instagram feed, that’s one of the aesthetic places in London you are going to want to regram . For sure, you’re going to capture some crazy good pictures at the Upside Down House. It makes for an amazing cheap date idea in London whether you’re a student, a freelancer, or a couple.

Upside Down House – Westfield

Location: Westfield Square, Ariel Way, W12 7GF View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Wood Lane Price: £5 per person

Go to a Pancake Art Cafe – Fun things to do in London with the Kids

The first time I came across the Pancake Art Cafe was actually last year. I know that when I talk to you about it, and if you have children or a child, you’re going to want to visit straight away. If you’re ever around Camden ( which, if you like aesthetic places in London, you’re bound to be ),  the Pancake Art Cafe is one of the independent coffee shops in London you’ll want to spend an afternoon at. No one is telling you to actually make pancake art if you don’t want to. But you can definitely get one of the best hot chocolates in London in this cafe. However, I have come to put more value in things I do by myself rather than things prepared by other people for me. If you’re like me, creating your own colorful pancake is something you’re gonna love to do . A few days ago, I wrote about the best instagrammable cafes in London to get your pink latte fix. Although that’s not a coffee shop where you can get a pink latte , you can definitely get an aesthetic matcha latte at the Pancake Art Cafe. That makes for one of the best date ideas in London, and one of the best things to do in London tomorrow, during the week, or this weekend. I would recommend you to go see the Camden street art, go shopping at the best charity shops , and finish the afternoon with a break at the Pancake Art Cafe . For sure, you’re going to go back home with great memories.

Pancake Art Café – Camden

Location: 3 Water Lane Arch, NW1 8NZ7 View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Camden Road Price: £25.00 per person

Go on a London rooftop

One of the best things to do in London will always be to go on a rooftop. There are quite a few rooftops that I’ve talked about. From some of them, you can see the view and from others, you will just enjoy the presence of the city in the background as you’re having drinks and eating the best street food in London . It’s not all about sightseeing when I talk about the best things to do in London, actually. It’s about being able to share evenings with friends, and family experiences with the best backgrounds in the city. When I’m talking rooftops in London, I can give you a few examples that will leave you dumbfounded, including:

• The famous Sky Garden in the Walkie-Talkie building
• The Greenwich Observatory
• The top of the Tate Modern 
• The Fen Court Rooftop at Monument (pictured above)
• The rooftop garden at New Change

I will dedicate a full article to London rooftops and you best believe that is one of the best free things to do in London . The best part is you don’t even need to pay for most of them, whether it’s a garden or one of the skyscrapers in London. 

Fun Things to do in London: Harbour Quay Gardens

I know that when we live in the city, one of the things that we miss the most is the fact that there are not that many beaches in London . There are water points, there are lakes – artificial and natural, there are natural reserves… but I often miss the feeling of a real beach in London.  Well, I’m here today to tell you about Harbour Quay Gardens. Located in Wood Wharf, Harbour Quay Gardens is a long boardwalk built along the water. When it’s spring and summer, taking a walk in this very clean piece of quiet is one of the best free things in London you can do with your other half or with your family.  I actually feel very inspired whenever I am near the water, and I cannot recommend enough ditching the famous London attractions for an afternoon at Harbour Quay Gardens . You can even have a picnic there, read the book or just chill while other people are passing by. There is also fitness equipment right on the Harbour Quay Gardens, and many people come to train here when it gets all sunny and warm. 

Harbour Quay Gardens – Canary Wharf

Location: Harbour Quay, E14 9ZX View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Canary Wharf

Go to the decadent Wallace Museum

If you’re looking for the best free things to do in London and you’re getting kind of tired of all the famous museums , I would recommend visiting the Wallace Museum. The Wallace Collection was built between the 18th and 19th centuries and it is all about fine arts, fine furniture, armor and arms, and everything paintings and sculpture dating back to those centuries. This is even one of the cool things to do in London tomorrow if you have a day off . It used to be a private collection owned by the marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, and it was transferred to the British nation in 1897.  There are countless exhibitions and events held at the Wallace Museum, and to be fair, it might very well be one of the most instagrammable museums in London . If you like aesthetic places and are keen on being brought back in time, this all golden and burgundy gallery is one of the too underrated London attractions.

Wallace Museum London Art Gallery

Location: Hertford House, Manchester Square, W1U 3BN View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Bond Street Price: FREE ENTRY!

Visit The Chocolate Factory

It always gets better in the city when it comes to cool things to do in London. Next up on my list is visiting the Chocolate Factory in Westfield . I bet you didn’t even know there was a Chocolate Factory in London, right? It is definitely one of the best London attractions in 2023, and it is to tally built on Instagram fame. You can go with friends, solo, or with your family and visit various rooms that revolve around sweetness, cakes, and lollipops all blended together. What is super cool is that the Chocolate Factory is one of the London attractions that run challenges and competitions on their social media and allows you to win various prizes. If you’re looking for fun things to do in London this weekend and you don’t want to go sightseeing, spend an hour at this wonderland.  Rooms there are called Chocolate Town, Lollipop Forest, or the likes of Cupcake Room.   Everything around you is built for you to take amazing selfies. If you were planning in going to Westfield Shepherd’s Bush this weekend or tomorrow, why not book a ticket for the Chocolate Factory as well?  Not only will you be able to experience one of the best cheap things to do in London, but you will also be able to eat sweets and chocolate in this ethereal space . It might very well be one of the best things to do with kids in London in 2023 and I would recommend not to miss the opportunity. It’s fun, family-friendly, and everything you’d expect from the city’s curiosity.

The Chocolate Factory

Location: 1st Floor Westfield London, Ariel Way, W12 7GF View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Wood Lane

Visit the Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition

For some reason, the top things to do in central London often seem to revolve around Covent Garden . Many times I have walked around the area and found amazing independent coffee shops, bakeries, and even skincare brands that I really love like The Ordinary. Covent Garden is also home to some of the best stationery shops in London like Kikki K.  Just a few minutes’ walk from Covent Garden, on Wellington Street, is one of your best things to do in London this weekend, namely t he Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition .  Although I am a die-hard Potterhead and a Ravenclaw at that, I too have gotten a bit tired of Harry Potter. Above all of the messy fame that the Harry Potter franchise has garnered over the last years, starting with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. The Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition is somewhat a different type of London attraction. If you would like to learn Harry Potter film facts, that’s a journey you’re going to want to take.  It’s not going to be one of the cheap things to do in London, since a ticket for an adult retails for £20 online. However, you’re going to be able to ride a broom, go home with a Harry Potter-style ID, and even go to a Butterbeer Bar.  I have been to the Harry Potter Warner Bros studios in Leavesden more than once, and I have always enjoyed the experience very much. This might very well be your chance to live the Harry Potter craze one more time without having to go all the way to the studios – straight in the heart of London.

Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition at The London Film Museum

Location: London Film Museum, 45 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7BN View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Covent Garden Price: £20 Adult, £14 Child (discounts available on family tickets)

Go full-on kid at Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch

If you are into fun things to do in London such as a crazy golf background or neon exhibitions,  then you will love Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch.  This is a London experience that is totally built on quirkiness and reflects the colorful area of Shoreditch . Ballie Ballerson is about colorful ball pits like the ones we used to jump in when we were kids. The goal is to give adults amazing things to do in London at night, and what’s better than jumping around in a colorful ball pool without the fear to be judged ? No one’s telling you that you can’t go London sightseeing during the day but during the night, you can get amazing street food at Ballie Ballerson and enjoy a colorful venue. Plus, if you are an Instagram freak and love finding aesthetic places in London, Ballie Ballerson provides the energy you need to go through the night with your friends or your partner.   That’s definitely one of the best cheap date ideas in London since a ticket is £7.50. I’ve written about the best coffee shops in Shoreditch to work, relax, or study a few days ago. I would totally recommend spending the day working or cramming your exams in one of these London cafes, especially Powerhouse Coffee on Curtain Road since Ballie Ballerson is located on the same street. One of the best fun things to do in London tomorrow, or this weekend.

Ballie Ballerson – Shoreditch

Location: 97-113 Curtain Road, EC2A 3BS View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Shoreditch High Street Price: From £4 per person

Fun Things to do in London: Go to a rooftop park

Among the best things to do in London, I don’t know how I could leave out spending time at a rooftop in London. There are many more than you could ever imagine. Actually, London rooftops will be the topic of an upcoming guide on The London Local. Can you imagine that a lot of them are actually free London attractions?  One of the best-known rooftops in London is – of course – Skygarden. Located at the top of the Walkie Talkie building, it garners immense popularity because of its free access. Yet, another one of the great rooftops in London is the Crossrail Place Roof Garden in Canary Wharf.  Canary Wharf has always been one of my favorite areas in London. To think that you can spend time at this free rooftop garden is breathtaking. Not only is the pathway there decorated with greenery and plants from all around the world, but it’s also quiet . Plus, it’s a very romantic place if you’re looking for cheap date ideas in London. The Crossrail Place Roof Garden is located at the top of the Canary Wharf shopping center. This one I already mentioned in my guide about the best places for cheap shopping in London . If you want to know where to go shopping on the cheap in London, that’s one of the spots.  This roof garden might be one of the most instagrammable places in London. There are lots of hidden pathways and corners in the Crossrail Place roof garden. Opening times? It’s open every day until 9 pm (until sunset during the summer). The plus? If you’re looking for fun things to do in London, lots of events and shows take place at the Crossrail Place roof garden all year round . One of the best secret London attractions. 

Go to an instagrammable cafe in London

You guys have really enjoyed my guide to the most instagrammable cafes in London for your pink latte fix. I mean, who doesn’t love colorful latte? Soon enough, I’ll write about the most instagrammable cafes in London. We’re talking pink cafes like El&n Cafe, flowers everywhere like Saints Aymes…  For me, a freelance writer , spending time at one of the best cafes in London to work and study is one of the best things to do in London. It’s not free, but when you go to an instagrammable cafe, you’re actually very happy to pay the price. Because they’re picture-perfect, the prices usually follow.  However, as in many parts of London, a latte shouldn’t cost more than £4 or £5. Which is expensive but still worth it. And balanced when you compare those cafes to non-IG-friendly cafes in Central London . So, you know. If you’re looking for the best things to do in London, I would recommend one of those instagrammable cafes. El&n Cafe probably being the first.

Saint Aymes – Instagrammable cafe

Location: 59 Connaught St, St George’s Fields, W2 2BB View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Marble Arch

Visit the cemetery parks in London

Back when I used to live in Mile End, I was literally 5 minutes away from the Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park. In France, we have a very different cemetery culture than the United Kingdom has. For instance, we wouldn’t consider mixing the words cemetery and park . It’s just not a thing. Except maybe for the Père Lachaise cemetery in Paris where lots of famous people are buried.  Well, I’ve found that one of the best free things to do in London is to visit the cemetery parks. To be fair, it makes for a nice walk and a quiet moment, although I wouldn’t recommend it in a list of cheap date ideas in London. Just a bit creepy, innit?  The Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park is one of the “Magnificent Seven” cemeteries in London. It’s completely free to access, huge, beautiful, and there are even some colorful benches there. I’d say the best thing to do is to spot the names and dates on the tombs. Since it’s a cemetery park, the fauna and flora remain untouched. They’re pure and green, with great trees towering over the tombs and the occasional ray of sunlight breaking through. Absolutely worthy of any plan for your day of London sightseeing, if you’re looking for free things to do in London.   In case you’re wondering, the other cemetery parks in London are:

• Nunhead Cemetery
• Brompton Cemetery
• Abney Park Cemetery
• Kensal Green Cemetery
• West Norwood Cemetery
• And the very famous Highgate Cemetery

All these cemetery parks in London look a bit alike, but actually – no, they don’t . They all feature that beautiful nature in London, that’s for sure. However, they all have their own personality. Some look more like city cemeteries, while others are true natural attractions in London. 

Do a tour of fun statues in London

I love finding new fun statues in London. That’s one of the coolest free things to do in London, no doubt about it. When I talk about the most famous statues in London, of course, I’d include memorial statues and sculptures. But unless you’re a history freak , that’s not the kind of London attraction I want to recommend.  I’m talking about fun statues in London that represent movie or cartoon characters, for instance . So that would be Leicester Square statues, implemented a few years ago in one of the most famous areas of London. Just a stone’s throw away from Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden, you can find statues of famous people and characters, including:

• A Mary Poppins statue
• A Harry Potter statue
• A Mr. Bean statue
• A Batman statue
• A Paddington bear statue, 
• And a Charlie Chaplin statue, among others.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in London at night, that’s one of them. At night, the Leicester Square statues get all lit up . That makes them very unusual and quirky characters to have in your Instagram feed, for instance. And that’s definitely one of the fun things to do in London with kids too.  If you’re with kids, you might love Holland Park (inside which is nestled the famous secret Kyoto Garden ). There, you’ll find several statues and sculptures. That includes a giant wrinkled yellow apple , a sculpture of a walking man, and a giant chessboard built right on the ground. How’s that for London sightseeing?

See the London views from secret places

I know that when you look for London attractions, one thing you’re expecting to see is the beautiful London views. There are quite a few places in London where you can spot amazing views. I’d start with the famous Primrose Hill sunset , for instance. You can also spot the amazing view at Hampstead Heath , still in the London parks register. If you’d like to spot the London views closer to the center, these are some places I can recommend:

• At the top of the Garden Museum
• The Crossrail Place Roof Garden in Canary Wharf
• The Madison Bar
• Ratcliff Beach in Bermondsey

Those are all great spots to see the London views. FYI, Ratcliff Beach in Bermondsey is not really a beach, but it does provide amazing views of Canary Wharf. Going to this secret beach in London is one of the best things to do in the summer. It doesn’t matter that the actual “beach” isn’t that pretty – nor sandy. But this place, like the whole Bermondsey, Wapping, and Limehouse seashores is amazing. Especially when you can spot the London skyline under the burning sunset sky. 

Visit an ethnic market – Brixton Market

There’s nothing I like doing more than learning about other cultures. One of the cool things to do in London, since it’s such a melting pot , is to learn and taste other cultures. I mean, what is the best way to discover a new mindset, other than through food?  The ethnic market you should definitely include in your London sightseeing plans is Brixton Market . That’s one of the very best markets in London , if I may say so. There, you can buy absolutely pure shea butter in London, for instance, along with other great hair products and ethnic food. Since Brixton is such a young and lively place, there is lots of street art all around the station , and lots of cool things to do in London at night in this area of South London. I’m talking about some of the best street food in London, some amazing independent shops and brands for hair, fashion, and many events scattered all throughout the year.  Brixton Market, in Brixton Village, is an African slash Caribbean market. There, you’ll find all the necessary fresh and pantry ingredients to make jerk chicken, for instance, or mafe – both incredible dishes. You don’t even need to buy anything if you want to keep it one of the best free things to do in London. But I guarantee you’ll want to taste some of that amazing street food.   Unlike many other activities you’ll do while London sightseeing, Brixton Market is a breath of fresh air in the hustle and bustle of the super structured London life. It’s lively, colorful, tasty, and culturally richer than any other area of the city. I’d even go as far as saying it might be cooler to spend an afternoon there than in most famous London attractions.

Brixton Market

Location: Electric Ave, SW9 8JX View on Google Maps Nearest Station: Clapham Common

Go see the cherry blossom (from March)

I will write a post about the best places in London to see the cherry blossom, come spring. There are countless areas where you can take super instagrammable photos with cherry trees blossoming all around London . It’s actually one of the best free things to do in London when the weather is warming up nicely and to be honest, I look forward to this season every year. Among the best places to see cherry blossom in London, I can list quite a few. That includes Notting Hill, Hampstead Heath, and Battersea Park. Stanley Crescent is one very famous street in West London to see the cherry blossom too. There, plenty of influencers take cherry blossoms pictures that you then see on social media. If you’re located in East London, you can see the cherry blossom at Aldgate Square , for instance. I would recommend going to get a filling breakfast at Grounded or Dolce Coffee. Then, start walking down towards Whitechapel and Fenchurch Street.  There, on the right, you will see an amazing little square with a church and very fairytale-like cherry blossom trees . Mark it down as it’s going to be one of the best things to do in London in 2023. You would not want to miss the beautiful flowers in bloom .

So there you have them, the best things to do in London in 2023. I’ve included quite a big chunk of free things to do in London . Yet, I do know that some amazing activities that the city brings to us have to be paid for. To be honest, I’m very much okay with paying for London attractions that do not break the bank . And for activities that are really different from anything we’ve ever seen in London . I’ve never agreed with the fact that paying for the London Eye was a thing. And I think I never will .  I’ve tried to include some cool things to do in London at night. Most you can do without having a big budget at hand . Whether you’re looking for places to chill this weekend or during the week after work, those are my best bets. That should help you make the most of your London sightseeing experience. It’s all about learning about history, monuments, and famous landmarks. But London is much more than that . It’s about reaching out to other populations and cultures, to the past and the present, and broadening your horizons.  If you’d like to learn more about other cultures, I’d suggest taking a look at the best halal Malaysian restaurants in London . Or, why not, the best vegan bakeries for cakes and cupcakes , or the cutest cat cafes in London ! Those are definitely some of the best things to do in London, and I know you’ll enjoy the ride!

• Latest Posts

• London on a Budget: What to do in London with £10? - 12 May 2023
• 20+ Crazy Fun Things to Do in London in 2023 (Curious, Quirky & Cool!) - 9 February 2023
• 29 Ultimately Best Halal Breakfast in London (2023) - 4 January 2023

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Unique things to do in London

Take a walk on the weird side in London at these out-there exhibitions, attractions and events

London is so stuffed full of world-class theatres , museums , attractions , music venues and parks that you’d have to live here for aeons before you’d be able to tick them all off your bucket list. A noble pursuit, for sure, what if you want to take a walk on this city's wilder side?

Venture down dank tunnels, marvel at medical oddities, or take to the canals in a cow-print canoe with our guide to London's unique things to do. There's a pretty much limitless array of ways to stretch your legs, brain and wallet in the city's more esoteric corners. Finally, something actually good to tell your work mates about on Monday morning.

RECOMMENDED:  101 things to do in London RECOMMENDED: Time Out Offers

An email you’ll actually love

The best unusual things to do in London

1.  Do glow-in-the-dark drawing

It looks more like a psytrance rave, but a  Neon Naked  life drawing session is actually an experiment in light, texture and movement. Expect models adorned in glorious neon accessories and body paint, throwing different poses for you to capture. Keen drawers – and there’s no experience necessary btw – are encouraged to experiment with different techniques, like line-drawing and pointillism using neon paint. Trippy. 

2.  Give yourself a scare

• 4 out of 5 stars
• Recommended

Ready for tales of murder, torture and other foul deeds? They're all brought to life on a tour of London’s horrible past in scary but seriously funny style. There's a  stonking variety of scenery, smells, rides and atmospheric lighting to make you feel like you’ve left the twenty-first century behind.

3.  Sleep over at the zoo

• Zoos and aquariums
• Regent’s Park

The appeal of a sleepover in (well, next to) the lion enclosure is obvious: it’ll be like living in the real-life ‘Jungle Book’.  Hire a lodge, enjoy private guided tours around and get exclusive access to animal enclosures after hours. A two-course dinner and buffet breakfast are included, so you won’t have to worry about your rumbling stomach waking up the neighbours. 

4.  Explore a little-known arty island

The stretch of the Thames between Putney and Hampton Court contains several strange surprises, one of which is a number of small islands dotted along the watercourse. One of the best-known (and biggest) of these is Eel Pie Island . First finding fame as the site of blues gigs in the ’60s, and then for its recording studio, it’s now got its own nature reserve and a collection of artists’ studios. Keep your eyes peeled for Eel Pie’s open days when you’ll get the chance to visit this privately owned Thames delight.

5.  Get your 1980s groove on at Little Nan’s

• Bars and pubs
• Cocktail bars
• price 2 of 4

Welcome to full-throttle ’80s front-room fetishism, with cocktail menus hidden inside Charles ’n’ Diana memorabilia books, mocktails served in leopard-print mugs, soap stars in photo frames and cat-covered cushions galore. Little Nan’s Bar  was set up in honour of owner Tristan’s late grandmother, who made it to 104. Expect leopard print, china and Pat references aplenty.

6.  Discover a kitsch treasure trove

• East Dulwich

Down a perfectly normal-looking street in East Dulwich you'll find a perfectly not-normal-looking abode. Taking the concept of one man's trash being another man’s treasure, artist Stephen Wright is in the process of covering every available surface of this home in his kitschy mosaics. Everything here comes together in a magical hideaway that’s periodically open to the public, generally on the last Saturday of the month.

7.  Meet some highly unusual robots

• Things to do
• Games and hobbies

Want a divorce? Fancy a cheap holiday? Need to launder money or lose weight? All these things and many others can be achieved for the modest outlay of a pound (sometimes two) at the nutty slot machines of Novelty Automation in a small shabby space behind a Bloomsbury shopfront. Once displayed in Covent Garden’s Apple Market, these lovingly crafted moving sculptures are almost all the work of cartoonist Tim Hunkin. 

8.  Splash down white-water rapids

• Sport and fitness
• Waltham Cross

This London 2012 Olympic Games venue is open to the public for adrenaline-fuelled white-water rafting, canoeing and kayaking sessions – riding the rapids that challenged the world’s best makes for an action-packed experience. On the centre’s raft adventure, you’ll be high-siding, spinning and nose-dunking on the Olympic Standard Competition course before you know it.

9.  Take selfies at an OTT neon gallery

• Walthamstow

God’s Own Junkyard showcases neon artist Chris Bracey’s personal collection of work in a salvage yard in Walthamstow. It contains everything from his signage for Soho sex clubs in the ’60s to his work for the movie industry, including pieces that were used in ‘Captain America’, ‘Eyes Wide Shut’, ‘Byzantium’ and more. Once you’re done being dazzled, you can grab drinks and snacks at the yard’s Rolling Scones Cafe (lolz).

10.  Explore a riverside creek

• Walks and tours

Take a guided walk at low tide around Deptford Creek , one of the last natural creeks to survive in the UK. The post-industrial area is a haven for freshwater and saltwater plants and animals including birds and butterflies, and a huge range of wild flowers. Walks last two hours, cost £15, and booking is essential. 

11.  Have dinner on a vintage tube carriage

The Grade II-listed former Victorian waste water pumping station Walthamstow Pumphouse stopped sloshing around sewage a while ago and is now home to something far more palatable. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, it's home to Latin American supper clubs where you can feast on a six-course tasting menu in a vintage tube carriage. Dimmed lights, an atmospheric soundtrack, and dishes from Mexico to Patagonia set the tone for a memorable night on the rails.

12.  Visit a secret sewing machine museum

This tiny family-run Battersea museum is a neat-as-a-pin tribute to the sewing machine, which opens on the first Saturday of each month. It houses the collection of Ray Rushton, which includes a replica of his father's sewing machine shop, and 600 gleaming examples of his wares, dating from 1829 to 1950. Look out for the star exhibit: a machine which belonged to Queen Victoria's daughter.

13.  Experience eighteenth-century London life

• Historic buildings and sites
• Spitalfields

The ten rooms of this ornate Huguenot house have been decked out to recreate snapshots of life in Spitalfields between 1724 and 1914. A tour through the ‘still-life drama’, as American creator Dennis Severs put it, takes you through the cellar, kitchen, dining room, smoking room and upstairs to the bedrooms. Tours take place four days a week: opt for one of the silent candlelit visits on Friday nights for maximum historic atmosphere.

14.  Get lost in Sir John Soane’s Museum

When he wasn’t designing notable buildings (among them the original Bank of England), Sir John Soane (1753-1837) obsessively collected art, furniture and architectural ornamentation. In the nineteenth century, he turned his house into a museum to which, he said, ‘amateurs and students’ should have access. That’ll be us then. The result is this amazing place in central London , open Wednesday through Sunday, which is completely free to visit. 

15.  Paddle along London's canals in a canoe

Kayak down the Thames in a bovine boat as part of Moo's Canoes's watery sightseeing tours. A two- or three-person vessel decorated with a black-and-white cow print will be your mode of transport. There are several waterway routes you can pick from, including Hackney Wick or around Limehouse Basin, and some come with meal stops for hungry canoers. 

16.  Visit London’s weirdest museum

• Art and design

This tiny  Mare Street curiosity shop is both on the art circuit and determinedly off any beaten track. Peek through the windows of the Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities and you’ll see a world in which velvet-cloaked Victorians, or perhaps The Mighty Boosh, might reside. Entering the shop, which is also the spiritual home of the esoterically minded Last Tuesday Society, reveals a plethora of shells, skulls, taxidermy specimens and assorted oddities. 

17.  Fly through the air at a trapeze school

• Classes and workshops

Gorilla Circus's  flying trapeze school  sets up camp on the north-west side of Regent’s Park for the summer with expert acrobats teaching all sorts of fancy tricks on the highly strung bars.  Even beginners aim to be ‘caught’ by the hands of a (trustworthy) instructor by the end of a two-hour session. 

18.  Dine in the dark

• Restaurants
• Clerkenwell

Are you a sucker for a pretty plate decked out with delicate herbs or dabs of coulis? Learn to focus on what really matters at Dans le Noir? , an Islington restaurant where you eat in complete darkness, putting all the focus on the taste, smell and texture of the food. Before being led into the pitch-black basement by the restaurant’s blind waiters, you select one of four colour-coded mystery menus. The best part? If you spill anything down your top, no one’s going to notice. 

19.  Get all coquettish at the Fan Museum

An entire museum dedicated to a coquettish cooling method ? We are a fan. This beautiful building is the world’s first museum dedicated to the history of handheld fans and the craft of fan-making. Housed in a pair of newly restored Georgian townhouses, it holds more than 3,000 specimens from all over the world, some dating back to the eleventh century. Entry costs just £5, and it's just on the edge of Greenwich Park for a picturesque stroll afterwards.

20.  Have cocktails in a public toilet

The proposition of a drink in a public loo has never been a very appealing one. That was until WC opened up inside an old toilet in Clapham. But don’t be put off your Martini: not only is it surprisingly beautiful, it’s – dare we say it – romantic. Spend a penny on a well-curated wine list and a selection of cheese and charcuterie. WC, geddit?

21.  Go back in time at a hidden Roman temple

There’s a wonderful world to discover below ground level, and we’re not talking about the tube. The Roman Temple of Mithras lay hidden for around 2,000 years before it was rediscovered in central London. Now, it’s preserved in a state-of-the-art museum, where visitors can ogle some of the exquisite artefacts that were left or lost by the very first Londoners. Look out for the ancient Oyster cards carved in marble… kidding.   

22.  Eat cheese from a conveyor belt

A few years back, The Cheese Bar made all our dreams come true when it opened a cheese conveyor belt restaurant in the West End, and we are forever thankful for it. It’s just as you hope it’ll be and more: an unending supply of quality, artisan cheese dishes gliding around a shared dining table. Plates start from around £3.95 – you’re in for gouda times. 

23.  Explore Euston’s lost tube tunnels

Know the Burger King at Euston like the back of your hand? Maybe it’s time to explore what lies beneath it with one of London Transport Museum's special tours. There is a labyrinth of dark passageways that have been concealed for more than 50 years – many of them with perfectly preserved mid-century design.  Book on to a tour and fall in love with these dank and grimy relics of old London. 

24.  Take in the sights at London’s longest graffiti wall

The dimly lit tunnels of  Leake Street  link the South Bank area to Lower Marsh, creating an edgy subterranean gallery of street art. Look closely and you might spot a Banksy. Or just soak up the atmosphere and get mildly, enjoyably high off the fug of aerosol fumes.  

25.  Check out this crazy collection of kidney stones

• Science and technology
• South Kensington

Imagine passing a kidney stone the size of a mango. Not only did it really happen, but the folks at the Science Museum got their hands on it to show in their Medicine gallery . The speckled display wall looks rather beautiful from afar. Then you get up close and realise it's made up of hundreds of urinary and gall   stones   which have been removed from the human body. Nice. 

26.  Learn to shuck oysters

Ah, oysters. The height of sophistication, right? Well, they were considered peasant food in London in ye olde days, served up on street corners as snacks. Today, they’re enjoying a renaissance thanks to a foodie boom and their fab sustainability credentials. With that in mind, there’s no need to be intimidated. Bentley’s Oyster Masterclass is one of the best in the biz: eat a load of oysters and master shucking for £75, which includes a glass of champers. That’s worth shelling out for. 

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Hidden Gems of London That Most Tourists Never See (+ Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

Even people who have never been to London can tell you what the main highlights of the city are. Who hasn’t heard of the London Eye, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, or Buckingham Palace… But if you are looking for a more unique and local experience and want to discover a different side of London off the beaten path, you may like this selection of some of the less visited secret places  – the hidden gems of London.

Recently we’ve had such a great time exploring London with kids and we had been to London several times in the past, but I am in no way an expert on the secret places in London. Therefore, in addition to our cool finds in London, I also asked my fellow travel bloggers to share their favorite hidden gems of London .

Some of these places are suggested by the locals who live (or lived) in London for many years. Some others – by people who live nearby and consider London their second home. Other suggestions are from tourists like you and I, who found some really cool places that made their visit to London more memorable.

UPDATE: Inspired by all the hidden gems of London in this article, I went to explore these and many other secret places of London that most tourists never see. This article started with a few secret spots in London and has been updated over the years to highlight more interesting lesser known places in London.

Unfortunately, some places also closed down and had to be removed from our selection. At the moment of the last update, this guide contains 33 amazing places that will show you a different side of London and make your visit so much more special.

London is an incredible city hiding countless hidden gems and there is no way to see them all. So each of these hidden gems is carefully selected and we include only the most special, cool, unique places that are truly worth your time.

I’m not telling you to skip the highlights of London – they are all well worth visiting, especially if you are traveling to London for the first time . But if you want to travel deeper and experience the local side of this beautiful city, then this list of hidden gems will give you plenty of ideas for more unusual places to see in London.

If you make an effort to visit at least a few places mentioned in this article, it will make your trip to London even more special and truly unforgettable. These hidden gems will show you a very different side of London and will make you fall in love with this incredible city even more. London is truly one of a kind.

From the most colorful neighborhoods, quirky pubs and cafes, a variety of gardens and parks, to some of the best views or unexpected activities – here you’ll find plenty of ideas on how to experience London off the beaten path. Find out!

Good to know: To make your travel planning a bit easier, I made a map featuring all of the locations mentioned in this post . You can find it at the bottom of this post. It should help you to combine visiting the main landmarks with some of the hidden gems of London, and create your own itinerary including some of these less known places to visit in London.

TIP: Before we continue to the best hidden gems of London, I want to share a few highly-rated guided tours that take you a bit off the beaten path in the city . If you are looking for even more cool, unusual, and secret places in London and don’t want to spend hours researching where to go, check them out via the links below.

Top 4 Secret London Tours:

• Secret London Bike Tour .
• Secret British Food Tour .
• Street Art & Graffiti Tour .
• Secrets of London Walking Tour .

Without further ado, these are some of the best hidden gems of London :

1. Saint Dunstan in the East

Originally built in the 11-12th centuries and refurbished several times after that, Saint Dunstan in the East is my personal favorite of the hidden gems of London. 

This medieval church was partially destroyed during WWII and the Anglican church decided not to rebuild it.

What’s left is an incredibly successful architectural project where the remaining walls of the church have been incorporated into a pretty little garden. It’s a green quiet oasis and one of the absolute best secret finds during my most recent trip to London.

The Church of Saint Dunstan is located in between the Tower of London and London Bridge. Despite being so close to some of the major London attractions, it’s an incredibly peaceful and tranquil place where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This hidden gem is just 10 minutes walk from Tower Bridge – don’t miss it when in London!

2. Little Venice

Sleepy Little Venice is a series of tree-lined canals that many tourists miss during their London trip. Spanning from Hyde Park to Warwick Avenue, it’s near enough to the city center that you can squeeze it in between other attractions.

What makes Little Venice unique is that it’s completely unlike anywhere else in the city: colorful canal boats roam the waterways, and many serve as tearooms and cafes. Afternoon tea or brunch on a London canal boat – does it get more memorable than that?

Visit any location between Paddington and Camden Town to see Little Venice for yourself. The popular cafe boats, Darcie & May Green and Waterside Cafe, are located near Paddington, while Camden is a great place to wander the locks and board a water bus boat trip (these are very nice and a great way to see more of the area!).

TIP: One of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon in London is to walk the whole Little Venice towpath which takes about an hour (set your route on Google Maps between Paddington and Camden Lock Market or vice versa, and select ‘walking’). You’ll see some animals as you pass behind the London zoo, and admire funky-painted houseboats the whole way.

Little Venice is recommended by Rose from Where Goes Rose .

3. The Painted Hall

I have to say that I wasn’t sure if the Painted Hall belongs on the list of  the best places to see in London or the secret places of London. However, since it took me years and several trips to London to find out about it, I assume that it’s still not very widely known. So I think it deserves a mention as one of the absolute-best hidden gems of London.

Located inside The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich (and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Painted Hall has just recently been restored to all its previous glory. It’s been its 10th and most successful renovation so far. The moment you catch the first glimpse of it, it will take your breath away.

Painted by James Thornhill between 1707 and 1726, this spectacular ceremonial dining room is a real masterpiece of English Baroque art. The entire hall, covering over 3700 sq. meters is painted by hand. This incredible piece of art displays the power and prestige of Britain to the rest of the world. Even today it looks absolutely impressive; I can just try to imagine what kind of an impression it left on people back in the 18th century…

The Painted Hall is one of the most incredible places I have visited in London and I can thoroughly recommend that you take a trip to Greenwich just to see this. It will be absolutely worth it! You can just get tickets and visit on your own, but a guided tour is very affordable too and gives you a better appreciation of this unique place.

TIP: London hop-on hop-off bus ticket of 48 hours or longer includes a river cruise to Greenwich as well. It’s a great way to see the highlights and the hidden gems of London in just a few days.

LEARN MORE: Visiting the Painted Hall

4. Spitalfields and Brick Lane

Spitalfields and Brick Lane is an area of London that I often find myself feeling too conspicuously uncool for. The rawness of Brick Lane, coupled with the exotic smells from the infamous curry houses is like nowhere else in London.

You won’t be able to stop yourself from lingering. Grab a salted beef bagel from one of the Jewish delis at the top (people queue for these!) and slowly wander down Brick Lane taking the occasional side street or alleyway to check out some world-famous street art, eclectic vintage stores, and the best chocolate shop (Dark Sugars) in London.

You’re in Jack The Ripper territory now. And there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about the serial killer by visiting some of the old English pubs he frequented in Victorian times: slightly scary but equally fascinating!

Finish off with a little shopping trip to Spitalfields Market and treat yourself to some of London’s finest handcrafted wares. I’m telling you – Spitalfields and Brick Lane area has it all!

TIP: This area is well-known as Jack the Ripper territory. A unique way to explore the dark side of London is by taking a Jack the Ripper interactive tour with a local guide . Walk in the footsteps of Jack the Ripper and inspect the murder sites (and try to solve the unsolved murders on this immersive experience). See The Old Bailey, where the Elephant Man lived and where Braveheart was tortured, and hear stories that will show you a very different side of London, one that most tourists never see or hear of…

If you rather explore this quirky part of London in daylight and with more colors, check out this highly-rated street art tour . It ends at the Spitalfields Market where you’ll find plenty of great food options.

This quirky neighborhood in London was chosen as one of the best hidden gems by Alex from My Life Long Holiday. You can read more about Spitalfields and Brick Lane on her blog.

5. Neal’s Yard

If you love walking around aimlessly looking for colorful streets, pretty corners, secret bookstores, and quiet tea shops, then you will love discovering London.

One of the best secret finds in London is a small alley called Neal’s Yard . It opens into a courtyard defined by colorful facades housing health food shops and cafés, just a few minutes walk from the Covent Garden train station. Just walk up Neal Street until Short Gardens and turn left, you will enter a little gem tucked away from the usual modern setting.

The place may seem small, but being there separates you away from the busy atmosphere of London. You can have a snack, coffee, even lunch quietly while admiring the surroundings and watching people just go by. There are wooden chairs around the courtyard you can sit on to take a perfect selfie with the quaint features as your background.

Neal’s Yard is also known for its values-driven retailers, you can buy organic soaps and beauty products, organic cheese, as well as homecoming gifts for friends and family from the various shops.

Good to know: Neal’s Yard is located next to Covent Garden, close to Trafalgar Square and many other top attractions. So it’s really easy to include this hidden gem in your London itinerary, even if you have just one or two days in London .

This hidden gem of London was selected by Marie from Our City Travels .

6. The Vaults

The Vaults , sometimes also called Waterloo Vaults are hidden underground tunnels deep under the famous Waterloo Station in Central London. It’s a fascinating place that hides many more secrets than you’d think at first sight.

Located at Leake Street at the back side of Waterloo Station, the Vaults can be found inside a colorful graffiti tunnel. Despite all the associations with darkness, underground, and alternative lifestyle, it actually feels like a very safe and welcoming place.

If you love street art and quirky different things, then you should definitely not miss this secret place in London. It’s an ever-changing sight and when we visited there were many artists painting and repainting the walls and the ceilings of the main tunnel. This tunnel, located on Leake Street, is open to the public and you can visit any time. If you bring some paint, you could easily add your own masterpiece as well.

Inside the colorful Leake Street tunnel, you can also find Waterloo Vaults. It’s a sort of event venue for anything and everything unusual. Waterloo Vaults is a place for concerts, theater performances, parties, and so much more. Private events are also possible. On their website, you can find the most recent event calendar .

The nearby pub, Vaulty Towers, also has a very unique decor and is a great place if you fancy a drink or a quick meal. The pub is open daily (except for some public holidays), from noon on.

Good to know: Because of its very central location, just a short walk from the London Eye, you can easily include this colorful graffiti tunnel in pretty much any London itinerary. For example, take a look at our 1-day London itinerary for inspiration on how you could plan your time and make even a short visit to the city a bit more special.

TIP: If you enjoy street art and graffiti , consider taking a guided tour with a local . There are so many amazing street art locations in London, plus, you visit some local neighborhoods that you wouldn’t see otherwise. There are also tours with workshops – may you want to try some graffiti art yourself!

7. Tulip Stairs

The Tulip Stairs are probably the most aesthetically pleasing of all the hidden gems of London mentioned in this article. Located inside the 17th-century Queen’s House in Greenwich, the sweeping staircase is considered one of the most beautiful spiral staircases in the world.

What makes the Tulip Staircase unique is that these are the first centrally unsupported stairs built in England. The blue wrought-iron railing has flowers in it and for a long time, they were described as tulips, which also gave the name to the Tulip Staircase.

However, it is now believed that the flowers are actually lilies, the royal flowers of France, and were used in compliment to Henrietta Maria of France. She took charge of completing the construction of the Queen’s House after the passing of the previous queen. 

The entrance to the Queen’s House is free of charge, so if you are visiting Greenwich and have a few minutes to spare, don’t miss this incredible gem.

TIP: Combine the visit to the Tulip Stairs with the other hidden gems of London located in Greenwich – the Painted Hall and the Greenwich Foot Tunnel.

LEARN MORE: Tulip Stairs & Queen’s House in Greenwich

8. Sky Garden

Sky Garden’s free and amazing views of London is one of my favorite London gems. It is a public space with landscaped gardens, observation decks, and an open-air terrace located at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street, the building known as ‘The Walkie-Talkie’.

Sky Garden might be a hidden gem not known to most London visitors, but it’s still a very popular place, with locals and tourists alike.

The bird’s eye views of London are gorgeous. Sky Garden is a great place for dinner, or you can just grab a drink at the rooftop bar. There is also a botanical garden that you can explore while you take in the views of the city. When you peer through the windows, there are super helpful decals with the names of the major buildings that can be seen from here.

PRO TIP: Walk-in spaces are limited, so it’s best to get a ticket. The free tickets are released online a week in advance, are very sought-after, and you have to be really quick to get one! For more practical information and booking check the Sky Garden website .

This free hidden gem of London was chosen by Constance from  The Adventures of Panda Bear .

READ ALSO: Best Views in London

9. Sir John Soane’s Museum

Cool, crazy, incredible, extravagant, fascinating… There are no words to fully describe one of the most unusual places in London – Sir John Soane’s Museum . What a museum!

Sir John Soane (1753-1837) was an architect and art collector, who used his own house in order to test all kinds of architectural ideas. After his death, his house became a museum and it’s said to house over 45000 art objects, all collected by its extravagant owner.

From the moment you enter the house of Sir John Soane, you’ll be awe-struck by this crazy labyrinth of narrow corridors and rooms. It looks as if every single square inch is in use one way or another and even the ceilings are covered with sculptures, paintings, and other decorative objects.

The spaces are so narrow that you aren’t allowed to bring any big objects with you and will be asked to put your purse or a small backpack in a plastic bag, just to avoid damaging something by coincidence. Please note that photography is not allowed inside, but you can find nice images on the website of the museum. The image featured here is courtesy of the museum and is a good representation of what you can expect to find inside.

If you are looking for something different to do in London, Sir John Soane’s Museum won’t disappoint. The entrance to the museum is free. It’s open daily from Wednesday to Sunday. You can find all the practical information here .

10. Silver Vaults

Silver Vaults was another very unique find on my recent trip in search of London’s hidden gems. This secret place in London was recommended to me by one of our followers on Facebook. Since I was just nearby, I decided to check it out without having the slightest idea of what to expect. It completely blew me away…

Literally hidden deep under the ground beneath Chancery Lane, the Silver Vaults are exactly what the name suggests – a series of highly secured vaults filled with silver. The Silver Vaults of London host the world’s largest retail selection of silver. It’s a sort of underground market for the rich and the famous.

Built back in 1876 as a storage place for jewelry, documents, and household silver, it is now home to over 30 shops selling all kinds of silver artifacts. You’ll discover more silver items than you ever thought possible – everything from silverware, silver trays, silver dining sets to silver jewelry, and even bigger household items like lamps, mirrors, or even a BBQ set…

Some of the silver you’ll see here is antique, some – recent modern design. They all have one thing in common, though – high price tags. We were told that Hollywood stars and other VIPs are regular customers, but everyone is just as welcome.

We talked to a couple of salesmen there and they all seem to be doing it for generations. One guy told us that his grandma was among the first people who started trading in silver at the London Silver Vaults. It really feels like a place with a unique history. Such an interesting find in London. 

The Silver Vaults are open every day except on Sunday and bank holidays, from 9 till 5. 30 PM (till 1 PM on Saturday). The entrance is free of charge.

11. The Churchill Arms

One of our favorite places to visit in London that not many people know about has to be The Churchill Arms. Located in the Notting Hill area of the city, Churchill Arms is a pub with a beautiful array of floral decorations.

Spring is one of the best times to visit as you can see the flowers in full bloom, although the pub is incredibly beautiful at any time of year. In fact, at Christmas, the festive spirit is in full swing with Christmas Trees and lights having their moment to shine.

The Churchill Arms is probably one of the most photographed pubs in London, and when you see it for yourself, it is easy to understand why. Originally there were only a few hanging baskets and I guess you could say it has since blossomed into a lot more.

To get here, you will need to get the tube to Notting Hill Gate Station, and it is a short 5-minute walk from there. The Churchill Arms really is a special place to visit in London and we highly recommend you make the time for it if you like unusual places.

This picturesque pub was selected as one of the hidden gems of London by Lizzie & Dave from Wanderlust And Life .

12. Hidden bar – The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

Secret bars are apparently very popular in London and are springing up like mushrooms. However, if you don’t know they exist or where exactly to find them, chances are you’ll just pass by and will never know.

My blogger friend Alex from MyLifeLongHoliday  who was exploring the hidden gems of London together with me, had done some previous research and so we set on a quest to find one of the hidden bars of London. She had marked a bar called ‘The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town’ on Google Maps , but when we arrived there, we found just a regular diner called ‘The Breakfast Club’.

We decided to ask the waiter if he had heard of this hidden bar and if he could guide us to it. The friendly waiter said to follow along and took us inside the restaurant. Then all of a sudden, he stopped by an old fridge and opened the door. And indeed – the opening at the back of the fridge was an entrance to a hidden bar in the basement.

The bar itself is just a regular bar with drinks and some small snacks, but the people working there are incredibly friendly. When we came back to the bar in the evening, they met us with a smile and a hug – as if we were old friends. You should have seen the faces of the people dining in the restaurant when we disappeared inside that huge fridge…

The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town is obviously not the only hidden bar in London. But it’s quite close to some other hidden gems of London in the Spitalfields area and is therefore easy to combine with a visit to many other hidden gems of London. If you find yourself in the area, don’t miss it.

Alternatively, look for another Breakfast Club in the area close to where you are staying in London. From what I understood, there seem to be a few of these restaurants in London and rumor has it that they are hiding some other bars as well.

TIP: They might ask you for a password to enter this hidden bar. It’s best to ask to ‘see the Mayor’ or something along those lines. Make sure to also familiarize yourself with the rules as to how to exit the bar – it’s a hilarious read.

13. Columbia Road Flower Market

Columbia Road Flower Market is one of the real hidden gems of London. Only a ten-minute walk from the buzzing Brick Lane (see above), this flower market is tucked away in the East End of London, behind a housing estate. The only clue you have that there’s anything to see is the occasional large potted plant struggling down the street with a person hiding somewhere behind it.

The market is held every Sunday morning between 8 am and around 3 pm. There are around 50 stalls selling every kind of flower and plant you could imagine. There are also around 60 small independent shops including several cafes. Add in some busking musicians and you have a great atmosphere.

TIP: Most of the best flowers tend to sell out in the first hour or two. We’ve found that the best time to pick up a bargain is around 1 pm, when things are starting to quiet down and stallholders are looking to offload their remaining stock.

This different way to spend a Sunday morning in London is suggested by David from Delve Into Europe .

14. Royal Exchange

If you like places where modern life blends in with history, then don’t miss the Royal Exchange in London . Established in 1566 as London’s first place for trading stocks, this iconic building has a long history. It’s one of the places where, traditionally, the reign of the new monarch is announced to the public.

The Royal Exchange building has been destroyed by fire twice and was in danger of collapse at the end of the 20th century. The building as we see it today dates from the 1840s but has been extensively remodeled in 2001.

Located halfway between St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London, the Royal Exchange is impressive both from the outside as well as inside. Nowadays it is mostly known for boutique shopping and fine dining, with the upper floors being used as offices. 

TIP: Combine your visit to the Royal Exchange with that of the nearby Leadenhall Market and many other hidden gems in the Spitalfields area.

15. Leadenhall Market

London has no shortage of markets to visit, but I’d argue that Leadenhall Market is one of the most beautiful. It’s also a bit hidden away, so it isn’t as well visited as others, such as the popular Borough Market.

Leadenhall Market is a covered market, with a beautiful ornate roof that features glass windows and curved beams. It dates from the 19th century, although there has been a market on this location from the 14th century, making it one of the oldest markets in London. It’s brightly colored and incredibly photogenic. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera along!

Leadenhall Market is found in the City of London, on Gracechurch Street, and most visitors on foot will access it via one of the narrow pedestrian alleyways. It can be hard to spot, so having a map or an app with the location saved will help.

Film buffs will recognize the Leadenhall market as one of the Harry Potter filming locations in London. The market was the location for one of the entrances to Diagon Alley.

TIP: Harry Potter fans will love Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour . It’s a tour with exceptional guides, masters of storytelling, that has been selected as one of the best tours in London by GetYourGuide.

If you have a day to spare, you may like to consider a day trip to the Harry Potter: Warner Bros. Studios as well. It’s been one of the most popular day trips from London for years.

This literally hidden gem of London is suggested by Laurence from Finding The Universe, where you can find more  Harry Potter filming locations in London .

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from London

16. Monster Supply Store

Did you know that there are monsters living in London? Well, there are and they are hungry. Fortunately, they can get the snacks that they need at the Hoxton Street Monster Supplies Store .

This cool little spot is located on Hoxton Street in northern Shoreditch. They offer “service with a snarl” and assorted snacks for feeding your monster. You can find goofy products like “salt made from tears of anger” (smoked salt), “night terrors” (rainbow candies) or “impacted earwax” (caramels…I hope).

What’s really going on at Monster Supply is a brilliant literacy program started by the author Dave Eggers in the US and expanded to the UK by author Nick Hornsby. The organization inspires kids to become storytellers and writers through literacy workshops. The store, also known as Ministry of Stories, helps to bring awareness of the program and supports nonprofits.

TIP: You can load up on Monster supplies Thur/Fri 1 pm-5 pm and Saturday 11 am-5 pm.

This cute monstrous find is suggested by Carol from Wayfaring Views. On her blog, you can find more information about this and other great things to do in Shoreditch .

17. The Postal Museum & Mail Rail

The Postal Museum also deserves a mention on this list of true hidden gems in London! Not only it’s a great place to learn more about Britain’s postal service and communications history over the past 500 years, but you can also take a trip back in time via underground railway tunnels under the city!

Mail Rail is an underground railway of Royal Mail and one of the best-kept secrets in London. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century and remained in operation until 2003. It is now open to the public and is one of the most unique experiences in London.

There are several ways to explore this underground railway system. Mail Rail experience takes you on a ride on a miniature train through some of the original tunnels. Whereas Tunnel Walks allow you to explore other parts of the railway on foot. This tour gives you exclusive access to platforms, tracks, and tunnels that you don’t see on the ride.

This museum is great for young and old. It’s also one of the coolest places to visit in London with kids!

Good to know: The Postal Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday. Depending on the activities you choose, count 1.5-3 hours for a visit. See here for more information and tickets .

18. Primrose Hill

Head to Primrose Hill for some of the best views of London and a quirky neighborhood to explore.

One of six protected viewpoints in London, from the peak of Primrose Hill you can see the entire city laid out before you. When it is clear, it is easy to spot landmarks like the London Eye, The Shard, and BT Tower in the distance.

Take a picnic to Primrose Hill on a sunny day and join Londoners enjoying one of their favorite neighborhoods, famous for its colorful houses and resident celebrities.

When you have finished admiring the views, wander down the hill until you reach the Regent’s Canal. From there it is a short stroll along the canal to the bustling markets and bars of Camden Town.

Primrose Hill is one of the favorite choices of less known places in London by Katy from Untold Morsels .

19. Greenwich Foot Tunnel

As you walk along the Greenwich riverside, you may notice a small red brick circular building with a glass dome. It is right next to the imposing Cutty Sark, so being overshadowed by this impressive structure there is a chance that you may even miss it. In fact, so many people do! Greenwich has so many things to do in such a small area that it’s easy to miss things.

So, now that you know what to look out for, I’ll tell you that this little building is the entrance to one of the most astounding feats of Victorian engineering, the Greenwich Foot Tunnel . It is a pedestrian tunnel built under the Thames River to connect Greenwich with Island Gardens on the Isle of Dogs.

Greenwich Foot Tunnel was opened in 1902 and its purpose was to provide access to the docks on the north of the river for dockworkers that lived in the south of the river. It has been recently refurbished and it is now a pedestrian highway and free for everyone to walk through.

It amazes me that such a structure is still in use, and walking through it is quite an experience – cold, damp, and very echo-y. Certainly not for claustrophobics!

This hidden gem was chosen by Teresa from Brogan Abroad, where you can read about more  places to see in Greenwich .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Greenwich

20. The Dickens Inn

One of my favorite pubs to take visitors in London is The Dickens Inn . Not only is it a beautiful-looking building, but it is also full of history.

This former 18th-century three-story warehouse was thought to have housed tea or be owned by a brewery. It has a long and intriguing history intertwined with Charles Dickens and East London heritage.

With a slanted roofline that is higher on one side than the other and 2 huge balconies covered in flowers, you definitely cannot miss The Dickens Inn when you enter St Katharine Docks.

The best bit is that it is only 5 minutes walk away from both Tower Bridge and the Tower of London , making it a great spot for a drink or something to eat. Children are allowed into the pub during the daytime as well. Also, there is also a pizza and a grill restaurant inside, if you want a nice sit-down meal.

TIP: The best time to visit is during the spring season when all the flowers are blooming on the outside walls.

Recommendation by a London resident Melissa from MelB Travel . 

21. Kayaking under the Tower Bridge

You’ve probably all heard of Tower Bridge and seen lots of pictures of it, so it is not exactly a secret place in London. But did you know you can go on an organized kayak tour which goes past the best London landmarks and the highlight is paddling under Tower Bridge ?! Now that is one unique experience to have in London!

The Thames can be quite busy with traffic from riverboats, but thanks to our four guides we felt completely safe during the whole journey! It took us about 3 hours to cover the 17 km from Battersea to Greenwich. We used double kayaks, which were very stable and easy to handle, so beginners were also welcome. If you want to explore London in a truly special way, this trip is for you!

This unique experience in London is recommended by Krix from Travel Hacker Girl. On her blog, you can find more information about kayaking in London .

TIP: If you would like to see the River Thames and London in this unique way, but are short on time and/or not interested in kayaking, you may want to consider this  highly-rated speed boat tour that also goes under the Tower Bridge .

22. Kyoto Garden

If you are looking for a beautiful hidden gem in London, then head to Kyoto Garden.  The gardens are easily accessible from central London.

Kyoto Gardens are over 20 hectares and are located around Holland House, which used to be an old castle where many famous families have lived in. It was originally built in 1605 but was destroyed in the Second World War.

The Kyoto Gardens was officially opened in 1991 to mark the friendship between Japan and the United Kingdom.

The gardens have been beautifully landscaped and designed to reflect how Japanese gardens look. It is a truly peaceful and picturesque place a bit off the beaten path in London. You will find stone carvings in Japanese style, peacocks and herons roaming around, numerous varieties of flowers and trees, waterfalls, and even the beautiful koi carp fish.

The gardens can be visited in any season. In spring you will find a big variety of magnificent flowers in full bloom, it’s also the season for the famous Japanese cherry blossom. In summer you will see the bright colors of flowers and trees. In autumn – golden rusty vibrant leaves on the huge oak- and maple trees surrounding the area. In winter you will find incredible views over the gardens; it’s truly magical if covered in snow.

Kyoto Garden is open daily and is free to visit. This is a great location for photography so don’t forget your camera.

This beautiful park was chosen as one of the best secret places in London by a local resident Eliza.

23. Postman’s Park

In the shadow of St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most poignant parts of central London.  Postman’s Park – so called as it was popular with postal workers from the local central sorting office – is host to George Frederic Watts’s Memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice, a memorial to ordinary people who died while saving the lives of others.

It consists of a long wall housing ceramic memorial tablets featuring the likes of “G Garnish, A young clergyman, Who lost his life in endeavoring to rescue a stranger from drowning at Putney” or “John Clinton, Aged 10, Who was drowned near London Bridge in trying to save a companion younger than himself”.

The fact that this small park, with its sad little plaques, is in the center of one of the great world cities, surrounded by skyscrapers and other important buildings, makes this quiet place even more poignant. It’s a secret place in London that many tourists never visit. Postman’s Park is a must see, if only for a few moments of peace in the hustle and bustle of London life…

Contributed by Chris Young from England Explore .

24. Battersea Park and Children’s Zoo

Nestled on the southern banks of the Thames, you will find one of London’s better kept secrets, Battersea Park . With a real community feel to it, the 200-acre park has been home to many fairs, playgrounds, and attractions over the years.

One of the more recognizable landmarks of Battersea Park is the Peace Pagoda, erected in 1985. It’s a beautiful place to reflect and watch life roll by on the Thames.

Whilst the funfairs of the past are now gone, there’s still a lot going on in this park – sporting fields aplenty, a miniature zoo, the historic Pump House gallery, Putt in the Park mini-golf with pizzeria, a nature reserve, a playground with a miniature train, and in the heart of the park, an ornamental lake where on weekends and holidays you can hire mini rowing or paddle boats.

Our favorite part of the park is the hidden gem Battersea Park Children’s Zoo . Far cheaper to enter than its more famous north London counterpart (and with far less or an urban, concrete feel), it’s the perfect size zoo for little explorers. All their mammals, reptiles, and birds are little and in keeping with the zoo’s size.

There are plenty of hands-on activities scheduled throughout the week for children to be involved in, including feeding times and education programs. To finish things off there’s a magnificent adventure playground, complete with its own fire truck!

This little-known gem of London is suggested by Keri from Little City Trips .

25. MI6 Building

A few minutes after Skyfall begins, M is shown driving to her office building when an explosion rips apart one side of the building forcing the agency to relocate to an underground bunker. That building is the actual MI6 headquarters called the SIS Building in Vauxhall , London.

The MI6 building is situated on an embankment and has prongs along its roof to prevent unauthorized networks from catching the digital transmissions inside the building. That’s the closest you’ll come to seeing any sort of geekery about the Secret Service from ground level.

It looks somber and foreboding from the outside and could easily be mistaken for a drab office building if you don’t know what you’re looking at. But for James Bond fans like me, the place is particularly important for all the special moments it has given us in the movies.

The SIS Building was featured in GoldenEye way back in 1995, The World is Not Enough, Skyfall, and its follow-up Spectre. In case you’re wondering how the real MI6 staff feels about their building showing up so prominently, an established anecdote says that the staff actually cheered when the model SIS building created on a film set was blown off in Skyfall. That’s three cheers for attitude right there!

The MI6 building is actually a pretty popular place to see in London among James Bond fans. James Bond tours will take you here, some on foot and some others by a (mini) bus, because it is located a bit outside the city center.

MI6 building is recommended to all James Bond fans by Priyanko from Constant Traveller .

26. Pop Brixton

Pop Brixton is home to some of London’s tastiest food stands, hipster cocktail bars, pop-up vintage clothing shops, art galleries, quirky exercise classes and even a co-working space.

Their mantra is all about supporting small local businesses, so the space is always buzzing with creative people and unique startups milling around.

It’s the perfect place to go for casual food or drinks on any afternoon or evening. Or check out their special events like photography exhibitions, wine tasting, tai-chi, or urban gardening.

Pop Brixton is a place where you can experience London as and with the locals, a secret find not many tourists know about.

This hidden gem is recommended by a London local Harriet.

27. Short walk through the centuries in the City of London

The City of London has a rich history and in just a few steps you can be transported through the centuries.

Starting at the London Mithraeum the immersive experience gives you a taster of worshiping at the cult of Mithras in the recreated Roman temple. Artifacts are displayed to give you an insight into the lives of the first Londoners.

One minute down the road you’ll fast forward to the 17th century as you reach St Stephen Walbrook . Destroyed by the Great Fire of London, the church was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren. The green dome is thought to be the precursor for the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral. Find the Rothschild Building to get a great view of the dome framed by the building.

You’ll find yourself back in Roman London when you reach St Magnus the Martyr . The arch on the western side of the church is where people crossing the old London Bridge entered the city. Pop into the church to see a model of what the bridge looked like. Other remnants include a piece of timber dated AD 75 and stones from the medieval bridge. The walk between these hidden gems will take just 10-15 minutes, however, you should build in some time at each stop.

TIP: If you like history and want to learn more about London’s secret past, take a look at this ‘old London’ walking tour . You’ll discover the back streets, execution sites, ancient churches, and other historic places that most people don’t even realize exist… This tour is like taking a trip centuries back in time!

This short walk covering several of London’s hidden gems is suggested by Emma from Emma Online. On her blog, you can find more details about this historic walk in London .

28. Alexandra Palace

If you are visiting London and you’ve picked a hotel in the Northern part near Muswell Hill or Wood Green, then you may enjoy visiting Alexandra Palace . Sure, it’s not a typical place you would visit when you go to London. However, Alexandra Palace, also called Ally Pally, can be a fun getaway especially if you are visiting London with kids.

Built in 1873, the palace is stunning to look at. You can relax on the green lawns of the palace while admiring the Rose window or take a boat ride on the lake behind the palace. You don’t have to wait for winter to do some ice skating. The ice rink at Alexandra Palace is open all year round.

There are other things you can enjoy as well such as tree climbing, a small golf course, Farmer’s market, a segway rally, and an adventure course. It’s a full day of fun at Alexandra Palace!

Submission by Pari from Traveling Pari .

29. Hampstead Heath

Hyde, Regent, and Kensington Gardens are perennial favorites for parks to visit while in London. They are all beautiful, but for a less manicured bucolic setting, none compare to the wild beauty of the Heath in Hampstead Village .

Located about half an hour from Central London, Hampstead is a posh community that has a historically artsy past. The likes of D.H. Lawrence, Sigmund Freud, Robert Louis Stevenson, and countless creative luminaries have resided there.

At some point or another, all have been known to have taken their contemplative strolls through Hampstead Park . There are riding lanes for horses, many ponds where one can find people and swans swimming alongside. There are also private mansions, such as the Kenwood House which has been a backdrop for countless period films.

Of all things, the beauty of this park is its ability to make one think and appreciate both the simple and the complex while taking a stroll. There is something inherently English about the place and it almost can’t be helped that your creative self comes alive. Hampstead Heath is certainly worth a day trip from Central London.

30. Kew Gardens – Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is home to the largest and most diverse collection of living plants, anywhere in the world.

Although it’s not necessarily very hidden, most tourists seem to skip this beautiful part of London. Perhaps because it’s a bit out of the way of other popular tourist attractions. But trust me when I say that Kew Gardens are well worth a visit!

Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers unique landscapes and iconic architecture from every stage of the Gardens’ history. There are more than 100 world-class attractions at Kew Gardens such as iconic buildings, art collections, vistas, and glasshouses. There are also various temporary exhibitions at Kew Gardens that might be worth your time. The glasshouse is not to be missed and is a perfect place to shoot some amazing photos (whether it’s for your Instagram page or traditional photo album).

TIP:  Kew Gardens are really big, so you definitely need time to properly explore this less known gem of London. It’s recommended to do some research to decide what you want to see upfront, or take a full day and explore this beautiful place to the fullest. You can buy admission tickets in advance and save some time.

Kew Gardens are recommended to visitors looking to explore some less known places in London by Lisanne from Chapter Travel .

31. Chelsea Physic Garden

Tucked away in a hidden corner of London between the upscale shopping of the King’s Road and close to the Chelsea Embankment and the Albert Bridge across the Thames is the capital’s original secret garden. Dating back to the late 17th Century, the Chelsea Physic Garden remains the second oldest botanical garden in the UK (after the gardens at Oxford University). It has been at the forefront in the cultivation of medicinal plants.

Home to the tallest standing olive tree in Britain, the layout of different sections of the garden is very admirable. The Dicotyledon Order Beds (so named as the plants here are grown with two seed leaves) and Monocotyledon (one seed leaf) are a testament to this with over 800 organized according to their groups. Some are indeed quite rare. In between these and the statue of Sir Hans Sloane is the tranquil pond rockery.

Various glasshouses are located in these gardens, the largest of which is known as the Tropical Corridor. Ideal for storing all year round many exotic plants from the Atlantic that would otherwise not survive the harsh winters. Also, one of the smaller glasshouses has a little exhibit of desert cacti. A great anomaly in London!

An afternoon strolling in this peaceful oasis makes you forget that you are in the heart of a big, noisy city. With a cafe that provides outdoor seating too, what better way to take it in slowly and appreciate this green space in the heart of one of London’s most well-heeled districts.

This unusual little garden in London is suggested by Jonathan from  Journey Maxx .

32. Climb The O2 Arena

The O2 Arena in London was originally built for the millennium and has become the world’s most popular entertainment venue.

Not many people can say they climbed over The O2 Arena. With the Up at The O2 Experience, visitors can walk on a path suspended 2 meters above the roof of The O2. On the viewing platform at the top, 52 meters high, you have time to take in 360-degree views of London and even enjoy a glass of champagne if you like. On a clear day, you can see landmarks up to 15 miles away.

Your guide will provide you with all the climbing gear you need including a safety harness. At the beginning of the climb, you are going up at a 28-degree incline, then it levels off as you approach the top.

In a way, going down is more difficult than going up. The incline is slightly steeper at 30 degrees. If you are worried about looking down, you might want to try going down backward. Don’t let your fears stop you, it’s such a unique and memorable experience!

TIP: If you want to climb the O2 Arena, you have to book it in advance. Here you can find prices and check availability for the climb .

This unique London activity is suggested by Anisa from 2 Traveling Texans. You can find more information about The O2 Experience on their blog.

33. Thames Barrier Park

The Thames Barrier is an iconic structure in London, built in the 80s in order to solve the centuries-long problem of flooding in central London. You can visit the visitor center on the southern side of the river (not too far from Greenwich), or simply see this impressive movable dam from the  Barrier Park (opposite side of the river). This little park is a real hidden gem in London!

Barrier Park with carefully landscaped gardens was designed with tranquillity in mind and also to frame the imposing barrier. The gardens have a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the year and are a haven for pollinators and wild birds.

While wandering through the park, you get nice views of the barrier. Between the park and the river, there is a nice waterfront promenade with benches to enjoy the view. There is also a coffee shop on-site for refreshments and a play area for children.

TIP: Barrier Park is in the Royal Docks area and is easily accessible via the Docklands Light Railway. The nearest stop is Pontoon Dock. However, if you are feeling adventurous, the river bus and then the cable car across the river makes a delightful journey there or back.

This special place to see in London is recommended by Rich from RJOnTour. On his blog, you can read about visiting Barrier Park .

The Hidden Gems of London on the Map

As promised, here is a map showing all the hidden gems of London that are mentioned in this post. You can click on the little arrow to see the index, alternatively just click on any of the locations to see which place it is.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, these are some of the nicest local finds and less known places in London for your travel list. I am certain that visiting at least some of these gems will make your trip to London even more special and more memorable. In addition, you may want to check out some of the best London views (many of them are free to visit).

And, of course, don’t miss the must-see tourist attractions in London ! But even if you visit just a few of the hidden gems, it will make your trip so much more special!

Do you know any amazing secret places in London that you’re willing to share? Please leave a reply below!

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in London: Best Areas & Hotels

More inspiration & info for your trip to London:

• Tips for visiting London for the first time
• London in 1 day
• London 2-day itinerary
• Camden Market in London
• Things to do in Greenwich
• Things to do in London with kids
• Best Day Trips Near London
• Liverpool from London: Day Trip Itinerary

Travel guides for the UK:

• Food: British Food – Traditional UK Dishes to Try
• Cities: Best UK Cities to Visit
• Manchester: Best Things to Do in Manchester & 1 Day in Manchester
• Liverpool: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & The Beatles Attractions in Liverpool
• Edinburgh: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh & Edinburgh in One Day
• Glasgow: How to See the Best of Glasgow in One Day
• Scotland: Isle of Skye Itinerary & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Yorkshire: Best Things to Do in Yorkshire
• Cornwall: Best Things to Do in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall

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

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Tuesday 23rd of April 2024

Will visit London in August this year, for the first time. Thank you for the wonderful list of hidden gems!!!

Wednesday 24th of April 2024

Glad to help, Mirela. If visiting for the first time, you may want to check out our tips for visiting London as well. Have a great trip!

Jeff Petrillo

Tuesday 2nd of April 2024

Kudos. What an amazing list of amazing places and sites. I have read many blog posts and guides--but you have topped the list. This is a definite go-to guide for the curious and interested traveler. Thank you for putting this together.

Thursday 4th of April 2024

Thank you for your kind feedback. Enjoy London!

Andy Sillett

Saturday 23rd of December 2023

Well done Jurga, you have found some great locations that I took a long time finding despite living here 40 years

Monday 25th of December 2023

Thank you, Andy. I can well believe that you could spend your entire life in the city like London and keep on finding interesting new places all the time... Merry Christmas and happy exploring!

Torben Carlsen

Wednesday 11th of October 2023

I have visited London a couple of times with my daughter and we once found a cosy small square close to Tower Bridge and St. Katherine's Dock. There was a fountain with funny things placed around, soap, nail brush and more stuff ... In november I go to London, now with my wife, but I cannot find the square on any map!! Can you help me?

Sunday 19th of November 2023

@Torben Carlsen, I found my square called Courage Yard. On the southbank of Tower Bridge, immediately to the left, a little hidden behind Starbucks and close to the pub The Anchor's Tap. The fountain is different and amazing.

Thursday 12th of October 2023

Hi Torben, I'm afraid I can't help you with this. I have never seen such a fountain in London. Good luck with your search and enjoy your trip!

Jamie Fitzpatrick

Sunday 8th of October 2023

This is brilliant, thank you for taking time to put this together. We visit london every year and are always trying to find more things to discover. One to add of interest is taking a walk down billionaires row, home to lots of embassies and very expensive houses. The road is guarded by police but well worth a walk, located on kensington palace gardens right next to kensington palace.

Monday 9th of October 2023

Thanks for the tip, Jamie. Happy travels!

Posted on Published: 24th May 2023  - Last updated: 25th May 2023 Categories Things to do

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

33 Hidden Gems in London – Secret Spots You Have to Discover

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We go in search of the hidden spots that we think deserve a little more credit.

London is a city that pays dividends – if you take the time to invest in it that is. There are so many hidden gems in London that if we’re frank, if you’re not taking the time to explore the city, you are not doing it justice. 

As a tourist, it can be too easy to go through a checklist of the main attractions and think you’ve “seen” London. Hell, even if you’re a local, you know that it is all too easy to get stuck in a rut doing the same old things. 

We’re not throwing shade. Believe us, we are not (well, we kind of are but in the friendliest, loveliest way). 

We’ve all gone through our fair share of “OMFG I love London” and “ugh, I’m so bored – all I wanna do is sit at home and drink tea” phases with this weird and wonderful city we call home. 

Been there, done that

Make no bones about it though, if you’re not discovering secret places in London, you’re only hearing half the story. 

Who wouldn’t want to discover an ancient Roman temple buried in the heart of The City? Or visit one of the highest points in South London where you can soak up some of the best views in the city – get this – in absolute peace and quiet? 

How about a jaunt to the secret garden of an old manor house in… Streatham ?

It’s all very well and good extolling the virtues of exploring the unexplored places in London but who has the time to do all that research? To weed through the copious amounts of chaff to find the stuff that’s really worth doing? 

Ummm, us, that’s who. 

Luckily for you, in the past year we’ve taken it to next levels of dorkiness exploring London off the beaten track and now we’re writing this guide with all of our favourite spots. Many of the entries even link to longer guides so you can find out even more about each spot. 

We told you, next level dorkiness right here. 

Ready to explore for yourself? What are you waiting for? Let’s sit back with a cuppa tea and go get ‘em. 

Take a sneak peek at some of the hidden gems covered in this guide with this cool video !

Hidden Gems in London

Pickering place.

Mayfair might feel like an unlikely place to discover London’s secrets. After all, anyone who has ever heard of The Ritz and Green Park knows that Mayfair’s all about the old-school spenny glamour. 

Well, that’s not wrong but we’ll bet very few of you have ever heard of Pickering Place . Accessed through a small archway, unmarked save for some small lettering you’d certainly miss if you weren’t looking for it, Pickering Place holds the title of England’s smallest square and is one of the best places Julianna discovered when writing her Unusual London book . 

Juicy as that tidbit is, that’s not really what makes it interesting though – that would be the beautiful Georgian architecture that looks like it’s been plucked from straight out of the 18th century and the square’s surprisingly salacious history. 

Like all good and upright parts of town, the residents of Mayfair needed somewhere they could blow off a bit of steam and do things that may or may not have been a little bit illegal. Pickering Place, hidden from prying eyes, was the perfect candidate. 

As such, it found itself as the centre of many a naughty activity including bear baiting, gambling and even duelling. Oh those crazy olden days people. 

It’s also pretty AF #justsaying. 

Leadenhall Market 

While Leadenhall Market has slowly crept onto an increasing number of people’s radars, it’s still unknown enough to warrant a spot on any list of secret places to visit in London. 

Let’s get the big stuff out of the way first – yes yes – Leadenhall was used as a filming location for Harry Potter . If you make believe hard enough, you can almost transport yourself to the world of Harry Potter & The Philosopher’s Stone. 

Exciting as that is, there’s so much more to Leadenhall Market. 

Like the fact that there’s been a market here since the 14th century. At first it was just for butchers and fishmongers (both long gone) before it became one of London’s most important markets. 

The gorgeous gold and red arched architecture bounced onto the scene in the 19th century and now it’s all about high-end shops, ye olde pubs and a few tasty restaurants. Just go

St Dunstan in the East 

If you’re a frequent reader you’ll know that we love St Dunstan in the East. We’ve mentioned it in our Instagrammable London Guide , City of London Guide , Beautiful Places in London piece and now this. 

We’re NOT sorry about it. Not one jot. If we have to keep carping on about St Dunstan in the East until our last breaths before you guys listen to us and go, well, that’s a burden we are willing to carry. 

Whooo, that was one heck of a hype job, no? 

Now that we’ve extolled the virtues of St Dunstan in the East as some of the best hidden architecture in London, we guess we’d better tell you what it is. 

Okay, okay. It’s one of The City’s many mediaeval churches , named after Saint Dunstan (don’t know your saints? He’s the one who defeated the devil by holding him in the face with a pair of tongs…as you do). 

The original church had the misfortune to burn down in the Great Fire of London. It was rebuilt by Christopher Wren , only to be bombed to a shell during The Blitz. 

At this point, the authorities gave up and turned St Dunstan’s into the city’s most unusual park. Aaaand that’s why today you can have lunch in the open-air ruins of a mediaeval church in the heart of the City of London. 

Royal Arcade

A lot of chat goes into Mayfair’s gorgeous shopping arcades, much of it focused on the prestigious Burlington Arcade. 

However, if you stop halfway along Old Bond Street and turn your head at just the right moment, you’ll find the entrance to the Royal Arcade – IOHO the fairest of them all. 

Whether you think this is a hidden secret in London will, we suspect, depend on your penchant for luxury shopping. 

If you’re the kind of person who spends your whole life on Bond Street looking for this season’s must-have designer find, we guess you’ll be rolling your eyes like “goodness, I must go to the Royal Arcade thrice-monthly at least”. Lah-di-dah .

For the rest of you, we’d very much recommend taking the time to stroll through, slack-jawed at the striking Victorian architecture . You’ll thank us when you do. 

Hampstead Hill Garden and Pergola 

Tucked amidst the Golders Green section off Hampstead Heath proper, the Hampstead Hill Garden and Pergola is without a doubt one of the prettiest London secrets of them all. 

We won’t go into the history ( we did that in this guide ): TLDR version, it was built by a philanthropist as the garden to his swish manor where he’d entertain the hoi polloi of London society before becoming a public park later in the 20th century). 

Who really cares when the end result looks like the Garden of Eden but with more OTT architectural flourishes? 

Bonus points if you visit during wisteria season when the very sight of it has been known to reduce grown women to the kind of ecstatic hysteria normally reserved for children and a pile of presents at Christmas. 

Nunhead Cemetery 

Tired of trying to get yourself organised enough to book tickets for the much talked-up Highgate Cemetery ? 

Well, it might interest you to know that Highgate is just one of the “Magnificent Seven” Victorian cemeteries that encircle what was then the outer peripheries of London… 

Meaning there are six other cemeteries where you can go and get your Victorian gothic, hauntingly beautiful graveside fix (which all sounds a bit wrong really). 

Of them all, Nunhead Cemetery is one of the least visited but we’d say the most enchanting. Left to go wild during the second half of the 20th century, it’s been transformed into a wildlife reserve. 

Exploring is a matter of meandering on narrow paths ducking under trees and above graves – all in perfect peace and quiet.

London Mithraeum 

Far from the stuffy suit-fest some people assume it to be, the financial district of The City of London is filled with hidden treasures including many a Roman ruin. 

Still, the Temple of Mithras is without a doubt the best – thanks to the fact that when you visit you experience a full-on recreation of temple worship complete with dimmed lights, chanting and atmospheric smoke. Tres bizarre. 

It’s all a bit strange. The temple was dedicated to the god Mithras, only worshipped by a devout (some say a bit cray cray) cult of male followers who’d sacrifice live bulls in his honour. 

So when the lights go down and the chanting starts, don’t be surprised if you get just the tiniest shiver down your spine. It is weiiiiiiiiiird but in a good way. 

Entrance to the Mithraeum is free but you do have to book timed tickets to ensure the experience isn’t overbooked. 

There’s also an interesting exhibition on the history of London from its Roman times as Londinium onwards to mooch about in so allow plenty of time to go and discover.

Streatham Rookery 

We always enjoy talking about Streatham Rookery . You know, the kind of smile that slides onto your face when you’re trying not to humblebrag that you know something the listener doesn’t, but you kind of are humblebragging all the same. 

Consider this one of those moments. 

What’s to brag about? 

Well, to be honest, most people haven’t ever heard of the Streatham Rookery, and those that have mainly live in Streatham but it’s one of the darned prettiest little gardens in South London all the same. 

If that doesn’t count as one of the hidden things to do in London, we don’t know what does. 

The gardens, while small, really burst into bloom in the summer months – the White Garden here is said to have inspired that at Sissinghurst and there are enough pergolas and flower-filled beds to keep even the most demanding ‘Grammer busy for hours. 

Cecil Court 

There’s something straight up magical about Cecil Court . 

Maybe it’s the fact that, despite being sandwiched between Covent Garden and Charing Cross Road, entering feels like stepping into the Narnia wardrobe. 

The pushing crowds and ugly buildings disappear, replaced with a quaint series of booksellers, Victorian facades and still-functioning gas lamps. It couldn’t feel more different to heaving Trafalgar Square around the corner. 

Rumour even has it that Cecil Court provided the inspiration for Diagon Alley in J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter books (though others will argue until they’re blue in the face that the title should go to nearby Goodwin’s Court instead). 

The plot really does thicken when you find out that many of the bookshops on the court are dedicated to magic and the occult. Maybe bring your wand just in case. 

One Tree Hill 

We have to be honest, One Tree Hill does so well at being one of the secret things to do in London that we hadn’t even heard of it until earlier this year, let alone visited. 

We were passing an old history book around the office (because we really know how to have a good time in our downtime) and saw mention of it. 

So we decided, like any good, inquisitorial journalist / nosey person to read up a bit more and lo. Only goes and turns out that it’s one of the coolest viewing points in London .

Nestled at the top of a (rather steep) woodland-covered hill, once you puff your way up to the top of One Tree Hill, you are treated to some rather striking views of the city skyline framed by the treeline. It’s too perfect and we love it. 

That’s not where the story ends though. The name supposedly comes from a tree that Elizabeth I rested under as she took refuge here on a journey through the Great North Wood that used to cover most of South London. 

You can even see the very spot as it’s marked by a plaque. 

Leake Street Tunnel 

Underneath the behemoth that is Waterloo Station, in the bowels of the maze of arches that crisscross below the ground, you’ll find another of London’s cool spots – Leake Street Tunnel . 

Now, it’s no secret that we love street art. We *may* have been known to wake up at the crack of dawn and trek across the city because we’ve heard rumour of a new piece going up and want to get up there and see it while it’s fresh and shiny. Obsessed. 

So it was pretty much a given that we’d love London’s largest legal street art wall – Leake Street Tunnel. 

The tunnel was started as part of a street art festival masterminded by Banksy in the noughties and it’s been going strong ever since. 

At any given time, you’re all but guaranteed to see at least a few new pieces in the making and there are opportunities aplenty to gawp at the sheer talent displayed by many of these artists. 

Read More: The Best Street Art in London: The London Graffiti Guide

The Seven Noses of Soho

You can always rely on Londoners to do a weird thing or two… like sticking up plaster moulded noses on buildings all over central London and not owning up to the fact that it was you and why you did it for almost two decades. 

You’d think that was a pretty far-fetched story but that’s exactly what happened with the Seven Noses of Soho . 

Artist Rick Buckley created the noses as a protest about the growing use of CCTV across London and stuck them all over buildings in Soho and the West End. 

Most of the noses were removed but seven (now six) remained in Soho. All kinds of theories sprung up about the noses and why they were created until Buckley finally fessed up and explained in (wait for it) 2011 – a mere 14 years after the fact. 

Want to find them? Read our handy guide (hint: there’s a map to help you along with the task)

Mercato Mayfair 

We’ll level with you – Mercato Mayfair is one of the best hidden gems in London… for now. 

The sister of Elephant & Castle’s Mercato Metropolitano opened in the beautiful setting of a converted church that makes quiet the setting for lunch. That said the venue still doesn’t garner as much attention as the E&C location does. 

That means you can go and enjoy the delicious street food and *cough cough* boozy drinks in the golden main hall in a relatively crowd-free setting – or at least without the hoards that you’d expect elsewhere. 

Not gunna lie though, places like this in London don’t stay quiet for long, especially at the weekend – Don’t shoot the messenger if it turns out to be less hidden gem and more battle through these crowds again. 

Upstairs at Rules 

It might seem weird for us to say that the city’s oldest restaurant is one of the secret spots in London, but bear with me… because I’m not talking about the restaurant itself, we’re talking about its absolutely jaw-dropping upstairs bar. 

You see, while many people have heard of Rules, not that many have heard that the upstairs bar is not only one of the best places for cocktails in London but is also hiding a winter garden that is worth losing your sh*t over. 

How would you like to have drinks amidst a jungle of palm fronds, flowers and rather delicious baroque decor in a light-filled conservatory? Thought so. 

We always grapple with the selfish part of us that doesn’t want to share London secrets like Upstairs at Rules because we thoroughly enjoy having it as our go-to Covent Garden drinking spot … but here we are, selfless as ever, sharing away. 

Just remember that if it ever comes down to us being contenders for the last table. 

St James’s Palace 

Did you know that just around the corner from the Georgian monstrosity that is Buckingham Palace (IOHO, too blocky, no elegance), there’s another palace that not that many people have even heard of? 

St James’s Palace is a royal palace dating all the way back to the Tudor times. In fact, large parts of the original palace built by Henry VIII still survives today. 

That sounds pretty epic. Even by London standards where our attitude to old stuff is decidedly lax because there’s just so much of it. 

So why isn’t more fuss made over St James’s Palace? The answer is pretty simple… because you can’t actually go inside. 

Unlike Buckers and other Royal Palaces, St James’s Palace is rarely (read: never) open to the public… but you can see large parts of the palace buildings without going inside. 

Simply walk down The Mall from Buckingham Palace and turn left into St James’s and take a wander to look at the palace from all angles. 

The Coach & Horses Pub 

We’ll make you a bet. 

Clear your mind’s eye and think of an old London pub – we’re talking really old. What does it look like? Which part of town is it in? Got it? 

Now open them. How close did it look to this?

Pretty close right? 

If we’re talking looks alone, The Coach & Horses is, without a doubt, one of the cutest pubs in London. 

The Tudorbethan building may look distinctly at odds with its surroundings but it’s thought that this is actually the oldest building on Bruton Street. 

While it is something of a secret spot, we’ll warn you that the locals are well and truly in the know. The pub only seats 50, so you’ll need to get there early if you actually want to grab a pew inside. 

Halkin Mews 

Can we level with you? It took us a long time to get on board with the mews brigade. 

We’re still not 100% convinced by the fact that what ultimately used to be stables for horses have somehow become some of the most expensive residences in an already expensive city… but that’s London for you. 

Still, there’s no denying that some of London’s mews are rather attractive – but as they pop up on the ‘gram with increasing frequency, some of them are starting to feel like a rather boring slow-mo circus of awkwardly posed models. 

That’s exactly why Halkin Mews is such a gem. Not only is it in cutesy Belgravia and one of the best looking mews in London, but it’s not that well-known so you can have a look around in peace. 

Eltham Palace 

London has no shortage of hidden palaces (see St James’s above) but we guarantee that you’ve never seen one quite like Eltham Palace before. 

This former royal palace used to be a favourite until Henry VIII decided he liked his one at Greenwich better and it was sold off during the Commonwealth period before falling into disrepair for centuries. 

It all sounds very sad, but that’s not where the story ends. 

Eltham Palace was bought in 1931 by the wealthy Stephen Courtauld who started a period of transformation and extension that led to some of the best-preserved Art Deco interiors you can find today. 

Add to that a series of moated gardens and you maybe start to see why this is one of the hidden gems of London you should make time to visit. 

Barbican Conservatory

Whether you love or loathe The Barbican, London’s biggest cultural centre, really boils down to how you feel about Brutalist architecture . 

Even if you hate it (and many people do), you should go and seek out the Barbican’s stunning conservatory  to see if it will change your mind. 

We can’t see how you can resist just the smallest amount of wonder as you poke around through thousands of exotic plants, vines trailing from the upper levels and greenery winding between the concrete structures. We just can’t… but you do you boo. 

The Conservatory used to only be open on Sundays but it’s currently open every day (booking only). Whether that’s a long term change is unclear but you should grab the chance to go. 

City of London Distillery 

London’s love of gin is one of the worst kept secrets of all time. 

In fact, the city had such a problem with the clear stuff in the 18th Century that there’s a bonafide period in London’s history known as the Gin Craze (go look it up if you don’t believe us). 

Though it fell out of favour for a while, gin is well and truly back on London’s menu. New distilleries have popped up all over town, but few are as brilliant as the City of London Distillery. 

First of all, you’ll find The City of London Distillery down the quaint St Bride’s Lane just off Fleet Street. Walk down into its underground enclave and it gets better – there’s a cool bar from which you can watch their treasured still, Betty, do her work. 

Crossness Pumping Station 

On the face of it Crossness Pumping Station sounds kind of… boring. Or gross. You can take your pick. 

If you said to us that we’d get excited about a pumping station that formed part of London’s sewage system, we’dhave raised an eyebrow to say the least. 

Proving that you can never underestimate the Victorian ability to make even the most functional structure a work of beauty, a visit to Crossness Pumping Station truly is one of the unique things to do in London. 

The interior features the kind of wrought-iron workmanship that’s all

The Tulip Stair 

Greenwich is home to so many London landmarks – The Cutty Sark and The Observatory among them – that it can be easy to leave it at that. 

You’d be missing out though. 

Take the Queen’s House: the first wholly classical building in England that now contains one of the city’s most important art collections – yet not that many people have heard of it, let alone been. 

The house is also where you’ll find the gorgeous Tulip Stair , so called because of the intricate tulip motifs on the iron railings. The first cantilevered spiral staircase in the UK, the Tulip Stair is an architectural feat… but it doesn’t hurt that its graceful beauty is one of the prettiest spots in town either. 

Or that it might be haunted…

The Horniman Museum 

London’s never short on a museum or gallery, which perhaps explains why it’s generally only locals who make it to The Horniman Museum in Forest Hill. 

This is so much more than a local museum. Created by wealthy tea merchant Frederick Horniman in 1891, the diverse and interesting collections are a bit like the Natural History Museum in a smaller and more digestible format. 

There are aquatic displays, musical instruments, ethnography, natural history – all thoughtfully curated and engagingly presented. It really is one of the most underrated things to do in London. 

Once you’re finished in the museums proper, take some time to mooch around the 16 acres of gardens. 

At their apex you’ll discover sweeping views into central London, while the terraced levels contain a series of treasures including a Sound Garden and an Animal Walk filled with living natural history specimens.

Garden at 120 

The City’s Sky Garden gets no shortage of attention from locals and visitors alike, but just down the road, The Garden at 120 is one of London’s hidden gems. 

Perhaps it’s because it’s newer (it only opened at the beginning of 2019), perhaps it’s because people just don’t know about it. 

Whatever the reason, you should totally take advantage of this tranquil spot. 

Situated on the 15th floor of 10 Fenchurch Avenue, the Garden is a quiet oasis of peace in the otherwise busy city. 

Of course, given the fact that it’s smack bang in the centre of The City, it’s no surprise that it also happens to boast some rather special views of central London either. 

Go and enjoy a unique vantage point of landmarks including The Gherkin and St Paul’s Cathedral.

Holly Village, Highgate

It’s not difficult to see what inspired so many poets, writers and intellectuals to live in Highgate. 

Best described as a village that got sucked up into London, the area has retained its rural feel. Not least because it borders onto Hampstead Heath , the finest stretch of countryside in London if there is such a thing. 

If Highgate itself can be described as one of the less known places in London, wait until you see the opulent Victorian Gothic architecture of Holly Village . 

Dating to the 1860s, it was designed for Angela Burden-Coutts, then the second richest woman in Britain (number one was Queen Victoria in case you wondered). 

Even though the grounds of this “village within a village” are private, you can still take a look at the neo-Gothic architecture from the ornate entranceway. 

Ye Olde Mitre

Ye Olde Mitre bills itself as one of the most difficult to find pubs in London and, you know, they might just be right. 

Though the likelihood of you accidentally stumbling across this pub are about 0.00001% it’s the fact that it’s so well hidden that makes it one of London’s best kept secrets. 

On the cusp of Farringdon and Holborn, the pub just so happens to be one of London’s historic drinking holes – there’s been a pub on these grounds since 1546 at least. 

At night, the small courtyard is shrouded in fairy lights, beckoning for you to ensconce yourself in a cosy nook, pint in hand. 

Bonus points if you see the tree stump around which Queen Elizabeth I is said to have danced when it formed a part of the garden of one of her favourite subjects, Christopher Hatton. 

Oriole 

There’s nothing us Londoners love more than telling people about a great little place we know. Maybe that’s why the speakeasy scene has practically exploded here in the past decade (that and the fact that we ruddy love a good cocktail). 

Still, while some places like the Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town and Nightjar have made their way onto most people’s radars, others like Oriole have stayed relatively low-key. 

Serving decadent drinks with live jazz in a fin-de-siecle interior, Oriole is everything you want from a secret bar in London – hush hush, fancy and not afraid to shake up some adventurous tipples. 

It’s ensconced underneath Smithfield Meat Market behind a rather unprepossessing door. Don’t worry, if you think you’ve found the right place, you probably have. 

Cross Bones Burial Ground 

With the exception of Nunhead Cemetery, so far I’ve steered away from the city’s more macabre spots, but Cross Bones Burial Ground is one of the secret places in London that truly fascinates us. 

If you’re easily creeped out, this probably isn’t for you – if not though, read on. 

You see, the whole of the South Bank area used to be a breeding ground of rather scandalous occupations – whoring, gambling, fighting – it all used to happen on the South Bank. There were brothels aplenty, as well as some of the city’s poorest slums. 

Many of those poor and all of the prostitutes were buried on a small plot of unconsecrated land near to The Shard – Cross Bones Burial Ground.

In fact, over 15,000 bodies were buried here over time, until inner city burials were banned in the Victorian times. 

These days, there’s a small garden on the site, wreathed in flowers and trinkets. The Cross Bones Society also holds a monthly remembrance ceremony / seance on the site to commemorate the outcasts of society. 

British Library Reading Rooms

Euston 

You’re probably aware of the British Library. It’s a bit of a Meca for people trying to find a quiet spot to get productive in the city centre, and an iconic place in its own right. Do you know about its reading rooms though?

These are special areas of the library that aren’t accessible to the general public. That is unless you have a reader’s card… 

Getting one is super easy and takes no more than 15 minutes. All you need is a proof of address and some ID. You can register online here and then go in to pick up the card. 

Once you’ve got your reader’s card you can access all the previously inaccessible rooms. In them you’ll find plenty of empty desks and supreme quiet – something that’s missing from the BL’s main public areas. 

The rooms are also full of great books on pretty much every subject you can think of. Best of all though, that card also gives you access to the library’s archives and you can request to see anything they’ve got in their cavernous storage chambers – chambers that have a copy of every book published in The UK for the past 250 years. 

Thank us later, bookworms.

The Painted Hall 

Greenwich 

Greenwich already made it into this guide for The Tulip Stair. It’s about to make a second win for The Painted Hall . The place is a bit of a marvel of design, but if you’re into minimalism you’re not going to like it. 

The Painted Hall is part of the Old Royal Naval College and actually functioned as a sort of dining room, a place for officers to chow down away between classes. Does it even bare saying that the room had to be fit for the men that lead the empire into battle? 

By 18th Century standards that meant fluted columns reminiscent of the reason of Ancient Athens (or would it be the might of Imperial Rome?) and a ceiling that evokes the Sistine Chapel: Far above you on that high ceiling is an enormous mural painted by Sir James Thornhill that depicts heroic fragments of English history, kings, battles, inventions. 

The space is pretty incredible, but not one that most Londoners will have made time to go and see. It’s also conveniently close to the Tulip stairs so you can tick two places on this guide off your list at once. 

The Silver Vaults

The City of London 

You may have been to Hatton Gardens – London’s diamond district – but have you ever heard of The Silver Vaults ? 

They are a massive series of subterranean silver markets and shops on Chancery Lane. You wouldn’t know to look for if you just walked past the door, it’s the sort of place you have to search out for yourself. 

If you’re smart enough to find it you’ll be able to feast your eyes on a staggering amount of silver (literally you almost need sunglasses to look directly at some of these rooms) 

All this stuff is on sale, so if you find something you like and you’ve got a few quid to spare you can even treat this as a shopping trip. Perhaps there’s a special someone who would really like a piece of some of this precious metal…

There we are: 33 hidden places in London for you to explore. 

We hope you have even a smidgen as much fun exploring these as we did! There’s so much to see in this city that you can’t help but get a little too excited when you find a new spot you’ve never heard of. 

If you love this guide, we can pretty much guarantee you’ll love the Unusual London book, which features over 115 places in the city waiting to be discovered. Check it out .  

Secret Places in London: Map

Here’s a map of the places featured in this guide – enjoy your adventures!

Looking to See More of London Off the Beaten Track?

• 56 Quirky and Unusual Things to do in London
• 32 Free Things to do in London – Cool, Quirky and Totally FREE London Attractions
• Best Art Galleries in London
• Travel Back to Winchester Palace – the Medieval Ruins in London Bridge

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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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Linda On The Run

Travel, Lifestyle, And Fitness For Those Over 60

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20 Unusual Things To Do In London

May 9, 2023 //  by  Linda On The Run //   8 Comments

Are you looking for unusual things to do in London? Is this perhaps a repeat visit to London and you have already seen the top tier most-visited touristy attractions?

Or maybe you are simply yearning to visit unique London spots maybe you are not aware of. Well,  you have come to the right place!

Planning your trip to London last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top pics for London!

Top Experiences and Tours In London:

• The London Eye Entry Ticket (Save time and book in advance!)
• Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour (Skip the line.)
• Tower of London & Crown Jewels Exhibit (Likely to sell out.)
• High Tea Thames River Cruise (Book ahead to save time.)

Best London Hotels:

• Sanderson London (Close to the subway!)
• The Montague On The Greens (Private and close to the subway)
• The Exhibitionist Hotel (In the heart of South Kensington)
• The Corner London City (Close to all subway connections.)

I adore this city and love all the quirky things to do in London there are.

London is one of the most beautiful and captivating of European capital cities.

With a little research, you can dig into the heart of the city and find what the locals do and where all the cool places to visit in London really are!

And that is exactly what I have done for you here: I have shared my favorite unusual things to do in London to tempt you to discover and explore London’s many, maybe not so well-known, locations.

Here are some of my top tips on remaining healthy while you travel to London

Enjoying Beautiful Views of London At  Sky Garden Is One Of The Unusual Things To Do In London

Sky Garden is one of the more unusual places in London to visit. It is a very exceptional public space that is three stories tall and offers 360-degrees of uninterrupted and stunning views of London.

While this quirky thing to do in London is free, you do have to sign up for tickets in advance online. A limited number of tickets are issued for each day, and there is lag time online, so make sure to sign up early.

You can try your luck without tickets, but the line is long for admittance and there is no guarantee you can get inside at all.

If you do make it inside, you will find scrupulously manicured and tended to botanical gardens on all three stories at Sky Garden.

And of course, the absolute finest views of London all the way around! There are three upscale restaurants to dine at and two bars for cocktails.

Consider reading these next: 

What To Do In London For Three Days

7 Things To Know Before Your First Trip To London

11 Beautiful Places In London You Should Not Miss

The Ultimate 1 Day In London Itinerary

Look here: London: Big Bus Open-Top Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

Look here: London Explorer Pass

Look here: The Original London Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

Leadenhall Market Is Magical And One Of The Cool Things To Do In London

Leadenhall Market is a covered market in the financial district of central London.

Its ornate roof, painted green, cream and maroon, along with its cobbled streets will make for a magical visit.

It is a very popular tourist destination in London, so you will not be alone.

What makes Leadenhall Market one of the unusual places to visit in London is that it has been the backdrop for several movies.

Most notably Harry Potter, and even had a marathon run through it. You can see why visiting it has made the list of unusual things to do in London.

You might decide to visit for lunch or a snack because the market sells fresh foods of all kinds along with fresh flowers to brighten up your day!

What a unique thing to do in London!

Look here: Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour

Visit The Royal Exchange For Some History

Located in the heart of London’s financial district, the Royal Exchange building is trapezoidal in shape. It was twice destroyed by fire, and the current building was designed in the 1840s.

Today, the Royal Exchange is a shopping and dining destination and one of the more unusual places in London to visit.

With boutique shops and dining, visiting this historic location is one of the cool places in London to visit.

Here is a London Paris itinerary to consider if you will be visiting both capital cities during the same trip.

The Royal Exchange building in the financial district of London.

Neal’s Yard Is One Of The Secret Places In London You Might Just Pass By

One of the true hidden gems in London is Neal’s Yard. Many people are not even aware of it.

A stylish little courtyard adjacent to Covent Garden, Neal’s Yard is one of the beautiful places in London to stop and take a picture or two. Until recently, it was full of garbage.

Now it has been renovated into the popular location it is today, making it one of the best things to do in London with teens .

It is worth the visit to see the flowers and ivy-covered walls of the colorful shops. and buildings.

Full of independent shops this stylish London attraction has enough to interest anyone.

There are chic eateries and pubs to discover. World-famous Neal’s Yard Remedies offers all things organic for the body and skin.

Good for people-watching, picture taking or eating, visiting Neal’s Yard for an afternoon stroll or an evening out Is one of the unusual things to do in London.

If you will be in London for an extended amount of time, look at this ultimate 5 days in London itinerary for everything you need to know!

Walk, Hike Or Bike The Line 

What is The Line? It is London’s first contemporary art walk.

Opened in 2015, it runs from Greenwich Peninsula (The O2) to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (North Greenwich to Stratford.) The Line Hike is three miles as the crow flies.

However it meanders along the London waterways of the River Thames, so that adds distance, making this one of the more unique places to visit in London.

Set up as an outdoor urban exhibition space,  modern and contemporary art is displayed for all to view.

If you do not have much time in London, this 3 day London itinerary is perfect to look at!

It is possible to hike, bike or walk the entire trail. You can do it all at once or visit different parts of it at different times.

Enjoying The Line is free. However, there are two areas that have fees: the first is a cable car that takes you over the Thames River for a birds-eye view. Secondly, a DLR railway station is close by.

There is a slew of restaurants, bars, and cafes at various locations on The Line or very near it.

Viewing modern art while walking along the River Thames is certainly one of the more unusual things to do in London.

FYI: The Line is a Community Interest Company that thrives on donations from the public who visits. Please give it you are able.

Look here: Climb The Roof of The O2 Arena

See The Greenwich Meridian Where You Can Be In The Same Place But At Different Times

What is this you may be wondering? The Greenwich Meridian is the actual line of the earth that separates east from west. This is the same way that the Equator differentiates north from the south.

It is an imaginary line that marks zero degrees longitude. It is significant because Greenwich Meridian is the starting point of every time zone in the world!

It is definitely one of the more unusual things to do in London!

Look here: River Thames Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise

Tickets here: Westminster to Greenwich by the Thames Barrier: River Cruise

Tickets here: Royal Observatory Greenwich Entrance Ticket

One Of The Unusual Things To Do In London Is To Walk Under The River Thames!

One of the really unusual places to visit in London is the Greenwich Foot Tunnel.

It was completed in 1902 and last renovated in 2012. The Greenwich Foot Tunnel was constructed originally to replace the unreliable and expensive ferry service at the time.

It was used to transport workers to their jobs.

Today entrances on both sides of the River Thames have glass domes and spiral staircases making climbing into and out of it more manageable.

If you want to take a brerak from the big city there are many day trips from London by train!

One of the unusual things to do in London is to walk under the Thames River!

Look here: The London Eye

Grab an Instagram Picture On The Tulip Stairs

One of the hidden gems in London, is really only a few tube stops away. Located in the Queen’s Palace in Greenwich, you will find the Tulip Stairs.

Hailing from the seventeenth century, visiting the Queen’s Palace is like stepping back in time. And admission is free.

The ornate blue Tulip Stairs are an architectural wonder. They have the distinction of being the first geometrical self-supporting spiral staircase built in Great Britain.

This is really one of the cool places to visit in London.

Look here for 20 fab hidden gems in London you do not want to miss seeing!

Visit Little Venice And Walk The Canals

Venice in London? Yes, sort of. The residential neighborhood referred to as “Little Venice” is located where the Regent’s Canal meets the Grand Union Canal.

At that location, a small group of waterways is formed and given the name of Little Venice. Visiting here is certainly one of the more unusual things to do in London.

There are lots to do and see in London’s Little Venice. You can take a boat ride down the canals from April to November. Or walk along the waterways exploring Regent’s Park or the London Zoo.

Rembrandt’s Gardens is also one of the unusual places to visit in London and can be accessed from the strolling canals in Little Venice.

Look Here: Little Venice Waterbus Boat Trip To Camden

Look here: Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket

Look here: T he Wonders of Little Venice: London City Exploration Game

Visit Saint Dunstan-In-The-East Church Garden

Located on St Dunstan’s Hill, halfway between London Bridge and the Tower of London is the Saint Dunstan-in-the-East parish church. It is one of the pretty London attractions not to miss.

This Church of England/Roman Catholic church was destroyed during World War II and in 1967 it was decided to turn the ruins into a public garden which opened shortly thereafter.

Landscaping and a fountain were installed to add to the charm of the Gothic-inspired building and its grounds. Occasionally open-air services and weddings are conducted there.

Visiting Saint Dunstan-in-the-East is really one of the unusual things to do in London.

Saint Dunstan is now a beautiful park.

Look here: Day Trip From London To Stonehedge

The Hide Bar

Open since 2007, The Hide Bar prides itself on offering locals and tourists alike sustainably sourced and locally produced cocktails and brews.

Using some of the best ingredients from around the world to begin with, this local hangout is chic and comfy at the same time.

Just about every drink on the Hide’s menu is produced within London and that is an amazing feat!

Their menu is a step above traditional ‘bar’ food, and I especially appreciated there were vegan and vegetarian options to choose from.

Having a pint or a cocktail, and maybe some lunch or dinner at The Hide is one of the unusual things to do in London.

Look here: View from the Shard Entrance Ticket

The iconic red phone booths in London.

Imperial War Museum

If you are in search of one of the unusual places to visit in London this is it!

Most of the museums in London have free admission and the Imperial War Museum is one of them!

Founded in 1917, the original purpose of the Imperial War Museums was to record the war efforts and sacrifices of Great Britain during World War I.

However, that original goal has been expanded to include all military conflicts that Great Britain has been involved in since 1914.

When you visit you can view personal and official war documents, photographs, movies, and videos. On the grounds, you will also find various examples of military vehicles, aircraft, and war artifacts.

If you are an avid history buff, and even if you are not, one of the unusual places to visit in London is the Imperial War Museum.

Look here: The London Pass with Access to over 80 Attractions

Cannons guarding the entrance of the Imperial War Museum.

Learn About London By Visiting Her Neighborhood Markets

A great way to experience authentic London attractions is to visit where the locals and tourists alike go. The sights, sounds, and smells of London will greet you at these local markets:

Camden Market is huge with lots of vendors selling everything under the sun. There are quite a few restaurants and bars to refuel and rest at.

You may have heard of Covent Market. It may be the best-known market. It started out as a fruit market but now it is chic and trendy along with its shops and restaurants.

There are so many things to do in Covent Garden, so plan to stay awhile!

The North Hall sells crafts, jewelry and more all made by British craftsmen/women.

The world-famous gourmet Borough Market is made up of more than one hundred stalls with vendors and suppliers from all over Britain selling their wares including food and pastry.

There are other stalls that sell items from all over the world.

One of the best things to do in Shoreditch is to visit the markets there as well.

Whichever of the London markets you choose to visit it will certainly be one of the interesting and unusual things to do in London to learn about the city and how it works!

Look here: Discover Camden with a Local Host

Look here: London Street Markets: 3-Hour Private Guided Tour

Eat Your Way Around London

A really cool yet unusual thing to do in London is to eat your way around town while learning about British food, culture, and history.

Food tours, in the London neighborhood that interests you, is an excellent way to experience Great Britain while eating and drinking at the same time!

This is a unique thing to do in London with great benefits!!

Look here: London: Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Look here: London: 3-Hour Secret British Food Tour

Look here: 3 Palaces Guided Walking Tour & High Tea

Look here: Magic of London Tour with Afternoon Tea at Harrods

Tea and biscuits in London anyone?

Visit the Unique London Attraction The Warped Window In St Martin’s Church

An unusual thing to do in London is view the window exhibit at St Martin in the Fields church.

The church is located in Trafalgar Square, where you can find this extraordinary window.

The current one replaces the one that was destroyed during the World War II bombing of London. It is plain, yet its contemporary flavor is a bit out of character in the stylish and ornate church.

Looking at the window closely, you will find both horizontal and vertical lines which form what appears to be a cross with an opening in the middle.

That allows light to enter, thus lighting the interior of the church.

This is certainly one of the most thought-provoking hidden gems in London.

Visit Churchill Arms A Very Unique Thing To Do In London

What makes this unusual thing to do in London is that the building itself is spectacular. And it houses an eclectic pub and restaurant.

However, if you hit this cool place to visit in London at the right time of year, you will find it literally overflowing with blooming flowers.

Also, it holds lots of Winston Churchill memorabilia.

Rumor has it that Churchill’s grandparents visited the pub frequently.

Prepare To Be Wowed Viewing The Painted Hall

This is one of the cool places to visit in London for the wow factor!

It is located in the Old Royal Navy College, in Greenwich, and its ceiling is nothing short of a masterpiece.

James Thornhill painted it over 300 years ago. However, it recently was carefully restored.

It is now reopened to the public but there is an admission fee.

The price to restore the Painted Hall is equivalent to eleven million American dollars.

You can rent audio or video guides. There are cushioned reclining seats to use to admire the exquisite Baroque-inspired ceiling.

There is a gift shop and cafe nearby as well.

Visit London’s Silver Vaults For Souvenir Shopping

Doing business since late 1802, the large subterranean market known as London Silver Vaults has 40 shops that sell everything silver.

Coincidentally, all of the forty shops are owned by the same families for the past 40 years.

It is located directly under Chancery Lane, and the vaults have never been broken into. They even withstood a direct bombing during World War II without being damaged.

A visit to the Silver Vault is quite an unusual thing to do in London.

Kyoto Gardens Is A Cool Thing To Do In London

There is a tranquil Japanese-inspired garden found in the middle of London.

You can find this beautiful garden in Holland Park in the Borough of Kensington.

It is a gift from the people of Japan celebrating the relationship between the Japanese and the people of Great Britain.

It is gorgeous and one of the most peaceful places to visit in London.

Visit The Old Curiosity Shop

No one really knows if this literary landmark and the sixteenth-century shop were Charles Dicken’s inspiration for the novel of the same name.

It is said that Dickens paid a visit to the little wood-timbered shop a few times. Perhaps he did receive inspiration for his writings.

Today this curious place in London sells upscale men’s and women’s shoes. After 500 years, it is still open for business. It is one of the more unusual things to do in London.

Packing Tips For Visiting Cool Places In London

Using these useful packing tips will enhance your experiences while hopefully keeping you organized while searching for unusual places to visit in London.

You will want to   pack lightly to make your travels easier.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring with you when looking for unusual things to do in London.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

If you have a pouch already you may not want to or need to invest in a new one, like me. If it does not come with RFID protection , these  RFID  sleeves  would be handy to prevent identity theft.

This configuration comes with enough passport and credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected.

They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your current pouch or wallet. These are the kind my family and I use not only when traveling but at home as well.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips .

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast! I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek Selfie Stick and Tripod  for my birthday. It has Bloothtooth connectivity so it is very easy to use. It is made of durable aluminum and is very lightweight and easy to carry.

I was never a fan of  packing cubes  until I tried them out! Now  I am sold .  These Bagail packing cubes   are  the exact ones I use whenever I travel . I cannot believe how much more organized I am now! And I never leave without them anymore.

Don’t forget to bring along a  universal power adapter  on your 3 days in London, this worldwide power plug is a great example and will charge your phone at the end of your busy days.

And this  world traveler adapter kit   can charge several devices at the same time.

This is what you will need when there are several people traveling in your group, or if you bring several electronic devices on your trip that require charging at the same time.

Hydration is so important. You want to remain hydrated to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels. 

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you.

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  the 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack or your purse.

The replaceable carbon filters ensure fresh drinking water.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is at a premium. Then this  collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space in your suitcase at all.

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. This  foldable water-resistant backpack  would be great. It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from.

The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

Perhaps you need a more substantial backpack for your international travel. This  antitheft backpack   has a charging port, is water-resistant and can comfortably carry up to a 15.6″ laptop.

You will be walking more than usual looking for hidden gems in London itinerary. Sturdy and comfortable walking shoes  are a must-have.

These  waterproof all-season shoes   are extremely affordable yet fashionable.

Mostly everyone is familiar with the Skechers brand, and these  Air Run high fashion sneakers  come in a lot of colors to match your outfits and are still affordable.

If you are visiting London in warmer weather, maybe you want  a pair of sandals  to wear to dinner or to the local cafe, I highly recommend these  Vionics adjustable strap orthotic sandals.

I have several pairs of Vionics that I bring with me *everywhere* I travel. They are very comfortable and have orthotic footbeds that cradle and support your feet.

Bring a lightweight scarf or shawl . Scarves and shawls are very popular in Europe and London is no exception. Both men and women wear scarves, both decoratively and as a layering piece to keep warm. This  cotton unisex lightweight   scarf is versatile and can be worn in any season.

We all need to  protect our eyes  from the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays. These  unisex polarized sunglasses   come in a lot of lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable too.

If you are fond of the  aviator-style of sunglasses  these polarized aviators may interest you.

If you are in need of new luggage, this  expandable soft side spinner luggage  is affordable and comes in lots of colors.

If you like hard-sided better, then you may favor this  hard-sided luggage set  better. Both sets come with TSA locks and 8 wheels per piece.

Quick Tips When Visiting London

Here are some  quick tips  and  tricks which hopefully will enhance your trip to London and make it less stressful and more enjoyable.

UPDATED:  Stay vigilant!  During our last trip to Paris, our family of four was robbed 3 times. We discussed at great length how we had to remain vigilant to protect ourselves against pickpocketers.

However, we were not successful. My daughter had her brand new Olympus camera stolen in broad daylight in a McDonald’s Restaurant in the Montmartre District of Paris while we were having afternoon refreshments.

My thief was caught red-handed with her arm up to her elbow inside my backpack. Lucky for me my daughter apprehended her, and I was carrying my passport and credit cards on my body.

She wore better clothes, better shoes and more trendy sunglasses than I did. She did not look like a thief.

She did not “fit” our idea of what a pickpocketer was. (I still do not understand how she could unzip my backpack while I was wearing it, without me knowing or feeling it.)

Finally, Terrence had his backpack unzipped while on the very crowded Paris subway. The burglar had his hand inside an outer pocket but was foiled by a Good Samaritan seated nearby.

Please do not have any preconceptions about who can violate you by stealing your possessions.  Stay vigilant and alert. Hope you have more success than we did.

Remember to always  stay hydrated . Bring a nondisposable refillable water container and refill it often! Not only will you hedge the odds against getting sick, but you will also be saving a lot of water bottles from being sent to British landfills.

Call your credit card company  for two reasons: 1) notify the bank that you will be out of the country and give them your exact travel dates.

2) check to see if the bank charges foreign transaction fees every time you are out of the country and use your card. 

If it does, inquire about applying for a credit card that does NOT charge such fees.

When using an ATM  in London, England, make sure it is in your bank’s network, so you do not incur a transaction fee every time you use a British ATM to withdraw money.

Also, consider withdrawing larger amounts of money, fewer times, to limit the transaction fees by your bank.

Whenever you can,  purchase advanced tickets to  London attractions whenever possible when seeking out secret places in London.

Tickets purchased online, in advance, are mostly always discounted, and many times come with a “skip the line” perk.

You will have more time to spend at the attraction since you will not be waiting in the entrance line. Also, you can better pace yourself during your busy days.

I hope these suggestions of the most unusual things to do in London will maximize your planning making it possible to see as many hidden gems in London as your time permits.

Have you ever been to London? Share one highlight that was your favorite thing to do, or place to visit. What would be your top unusual place to visit?

If you are still looking for things to do, there are many clubs and bars in Camden London to explore!

Reader Interactions

August 12, 2022 at 5:40 am

Amazing and well written blog.

August 18, 2022 at 8:26 pm

Thank you very much!

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