Things to do & places to visit in London, United Kingdom

Ancient tradition and contemporary trend meet in age-old London. One of the most cosmopolitan and dynamic destinations on earth, for centuries the British capital has been on the forefront of whatever has been deemed cutting edge, en vogue, and topical. A thriving metropolis of several million people with a global reach and a worldly outlook, London is at its heart a series of small, interconnected villages with the framework and infrastructure of a modern city joining them together, yet seldom denying each its own distinctive character.

London #1 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.48 based on 784.9k traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 21:38.

London Weather Statistics view more »

Top things to do (22)

• Art Museums
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Flea & Street Markets
• Speciality Museums
• Neighborhoods
• Public Transportation Systems
• Natural History Museums
• Government Buildings
• Religious Sites
• Parks
• Architectural Buildings
• History Museums
• Historic Sites
• Cemeteries
• Arenas & Stadiums
• Children's Museums
• Bridges
• Gardens
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Science Museums
• Military Museums
• Observation Decks & Towers

Upcoming events in London 1

Date	Event	Location	Price	Category
Sat Jun 01 2024 at 06:00 pm to 10:00 pm (GMT+00:00)	The Curtom Orchestra Presents Curtis Mayfield	London		Art

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

1. 5.0 Up at The O2 (7.273 reviews)
   - Very helpful staff
   Sunday: 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Observation Decks & Towers
   
   
   Get ready for a breathtaking new attraction, combining an exhilarating active outdoor challenge with a completely unique perspective on the Capital.Prepare yourself for an unforgettable 90 minute experience which will take you on an uplifting expedition across the roof of the world's most popular entertainment venue. Enjoy spectacular 360 degree views of London from our viewing platform in the centre of the roof, before finishing with a thrilling descent back to base to complete your adventure. See more..
   
2. 4.5 London Eye (88.7k reviews) from $39.52
   - Nice family flight
   Sunday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers
   
   
   Located along the Thames River, this iconic observation wheel offers unobstructed views from its glass pods. During the 30-minute ride, you'll be able to see London's well-known buildings like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and The Shard. On a clear day, you can see up to 25 miles from the top—where Windsor Castle is. Sunset views here are otherworldly, but nightfall views of the twinkling lights are great too. London Eye can be reached easily by taking the Tube to Waterloo station. You might want to buy fast-track passes online in advance to skip the queues. – Tripadvisor See more..
   
3. 4.5 The British Museum (73.5k reviews)
   - An interesting educational way to spend a few hours
   Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Art Museums • History Museums
   
   
   A museum of the world, for the world. Discover over two million years of human history and culture. Some of the world-famous objects include the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures and Egyptian mummies. See more..
   
4. 4.5 Tower of London (67.0k reviews) from $36.37
   - About 15 years since first came & lot more exhibits and new Platinum Jubilee Crown
   Sunday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
   
   
   The Tower of London is one of the top sights to see in the city right in front of the majestic Tower Bridge. This historic castle with over 1,000 years of history is home to the Crown Jewels, the iconic 'Beefeater' Yeoman Warders, and the legendary ravens that have kept the kingdom from collapsing. Inside the White Tower, the oldest building of the castle, is an 11th-century chapel and historic Royal Armouries collections. You can explore the castle and exhibits on your own, but a guided tour can help you navigate this popular attraction most efficiently. The Tower of London is also included in many tourist passes and combined attraction packages. See more..
   
5. 4.5 London Underground (45.2k reviews)
   - Easy to navigate
   Spent < 1 hour Public Transportation Systems
   
   
   London Underground, better known as the Tube, has 11 lines covering 402km and serving 270 stations. Opened in 1863, it is the world's oldest underground railway network, and one of the largest. See more..
   
6. 4.5 National Gallery (40.5k reviews) from $23.11
   - Superb guided tour
   Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Art Museums
   
   
   The National Gallery houses the national collection of paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to the 19th centuries. It is on show 361 days a year, free of charge. See more..
   
7. 4.5 Tower Bridge (39.8k reviews)
   - Avoid engine room
   Sunday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges • Observation Decks & Towers
   
   
   An iconic London landmark and one of Britain's best loved historic sites, Tower Bridge is open to the public 363 days a year. Within the Bridge's iconic structure and magnificent Victorian Engine rooms, the Tower Bridge Exhibition is the best way of exploring the most famous bridge in the world! Come learn about this incredible feat of Victorian engineering, discover how the Bridge is raised and enjoy stunning panoramic views across London from our high-level walkways, 42 metres above the River Thames. Opening Times: 09:30 - 17:00 (last admission ) See more..
   
8. 4.5 Natural History Museum (37.6k reviews)
   - The best museum that I have visited
   Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:50 PM Spent More than 3 hours Natural History Museums • History Museums
   
   
   A center of scientific excellence in the discovery of taxonomy and biodiversity, this world-famous museum promotes the discovery and enjoyment of the natural world through such exciting exhibits as the Life and Earth Galleries, wildlife garden and geological collections. See more..
   
9. 4.5 V&A - Victoria and Albert Museum (32.6k reviews)
   - Beautiful & Eye Drooling
   Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:45 PM Spent 2-3 hours Art Museums
   
   
   The world's greatest museum of art and design.The V&A's collections are unrivalled in their diversity. Explore historical and contemporary art and design, including works of art from many of the world's richest cultures. Admission free. See more..
   
10. 4.5 Big Ben (31.9k reviews)
    - Restoration Tick
    Sunday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    Better known as Big Ben (it's actually the name of the Great Bell!), this iconic clock tower which stands at the Houses of Parliament is officially called the Elizabeth Tower, named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. When the Elizabeth Tower is open for tours, you can climb up the tower and admire the clock and bell up close—though slots are limited to U.K. residents and require reservations in advance. But fret not, you can still learn about its history and admire its ornate golden facade on a tour of London or the Houses of Parliament. – Tripadvisor See more..
    
11. 4.5 Buckingham Palace (29.6k reviews) from $36.49
    - Nice experience, very interesting
    Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    Buckingham Palace is recognised around the world as the focus of national and royal celebrations as well as the backdrop to the regular Changing the Guard ceremony. Explore the magnificent State Rooms which are open to visitors for 10 weeks each summer and on selected dates during winter and spring. During a visit to Buckingham Palace, visitors can see the 19 magnificent State Rooms, which provide the setting for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining. All rooms are furnished with many of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection. See more..
    
12. 4.5 Camden Market (29.0k reviews)
    - Pretty crowded, but fun
    Sunday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Flea & Street Markets
    
    
    We're driven by the belief that you can only keep discovering if you keep looking ... so we're always adding interesting stores and traders. No two days are ever the same at Camden Market. Keep checking back to see what's new and what's next. See more..
    
13. 4.5 Covent Garden (25.2k reviews)
    - Undoubtedly the best place to walk and enjoy the atmosphere of London
    Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Flea & Street Markets
    
    
    Filled with restaurants, bars, markets and boutiques, London's premier tourist center offers fabulous shopping by day, and the destination of theatergoers and patrons of the Royal Opera House by night. See more..
    
14. 4.5 Westminster Abbey (24.6k reviews) from $32.84
    - Great historical site
    Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites
    
    
    Westminster Abbey was initially built by Henry III in 1245 and it is one of the most important Gothic buildings of England. At first home of Benedictine monks, the coronation church since 1066 and the final resting place of 17 monarchs. It contains a treasury full of paintings, stained glass, pavements, textiles, books and various other artefacts plus the most significant collection of monumental sculptures of the UK. The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries in the Abbey's Triforium opened in June 2018. Explore over 1,000 years of history in this truly unique space, high above the Abbey floor. See more..
    
15. 4.5 Churchill War Rooms (23.4k reviews)
    - Behind the Glass - stupidly expensive, but worth the cost
    Sunday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums
    
    
    London’s Hidden Gem Housing the underground nerve centre where the British government directed the Second World War and the award-winning Churchill Museum, Churchill War Rooms is one of London’s must-see attractions. Walk the top-secret corridors and glimpse what life would have been like during the tense days and nights of the Second World War. See more..
    
16. 4.5 Hyde Park (22.4k reviews)
    - Huge Park with lots of different walks
    Sunday: 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 2-3 hours Parks
    
    
    Once the hunting ground for Henry VIII, this large royal park is best known for its famous Speakers' Corner, where people speak their minds, Rotton Row, a famous horse-riding area and Serpentine Lake, home to waterfowl and oarsmen. See more..
    
17. 4.5 The View from The Shard (19.2k reviews) from $38.92
    - Amazing afternoon
    Sunday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers
    
    
    Located 800ft above the ground, The View from The Shard is the highest viewing platform in London and is the only place to see the entire city all at once. The viewing galleries on Level 69 and the open-air Skydeck on Level 72 provide spectacular 360° views of London and beyond. In fact, on a clear day, visitors can see for 40 miles. Friendly and knowledgeable guest ambassadors are on hand to answer questions about this iconic building and the breath-taking views. Fall in love with the iconic skyline and spot famous sites including The Houses of Parliament, The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the Olympic Park and Wembley Stadium. Ideal for London’s culture seekers as well as those on their first trip to the capital. See more..
    
18. 4.5 St. James's Park (19.1k reviews)
    - Definately a Park to Chill Out in
    Sunday: 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Parks
    
    
    This 90-acre park, the oldest Royal Park in London, features a large lake that is a wildlife sanctuary for ducks, geese, swans and even pelicans. See more..
    
19. 4.5 St. Paul's Cathedral (17.4k reviews) from $24.94
    - Evensong is amazing from the Choral Gallery
    Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Churches & Cathedrals
    
    
    Rebuilt by Christopher Wren after the great Fire of 1666, St. Paul's has been the site of many historic state occasions; including Sir Winston Churchill's state funeral and the Royal Wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer. A busy working Christian community with several daily services at which all are welcome. St Paul’s also welcomes visitors with access to five levels of the Cathedral including the Whispering Gallery with its unique acoustics and the Stone and Golden Galleries atop the Dome offering breathtaking panoramic views over London. Multimedia guides in eight languages for adults and children are included with sightseeing admission as well as free guided tours to join upon arrival. See more..
    
20. 4.5 Houses of Parliament (16.7k reviews)
    - Beautiful Building, Great Lesson on History and UK Government
    Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Government Buildings
    
    
    Most of this iconic building was built in the mid-19th century following a devastating fire in 1834. Westminster Hall survived the fire and dates from 1097. All visits are currently suspended. For the latest updates and online content, please go to the website and sign-up to the e-newsletter. See more..
    
21. 4.5 Sky Garden (16.6k reviews)
    - Miguel cocktail connoisseur
    Sunday: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Observation Decks & Towers
    
    
    Perched at the top of a skyscraper, Sky Garden is a three-story glass dome that offers incredible views of the city. Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city at its landscaped gardens, observation decks and open-air terrace. Have a luxurious seafood meal at Fenchurch, or simply kick back and relax with a cocktail at the Sky Pod Bar. The Sky Garden is free to enter; all you have to do is to reserve a time slot on their website. You can also visit on a London Skyline tour, a full-day customised tour, or even hire a chauffeur for a sightseeing trip. – Tripadvisor See more..
    
22. 4.5 Borough Market (13.6k reviews)
    - AMAZING!
    Sunday: Flea & Street Markets
    
    
    This market is one of London’s oldest and largest food markets, with over 100 delicatessens, butchers, fishmongers, and cheesemakers selling fresh produce, meats, artisanal delicacies, and more. It's where locals come to do their grocery runs, and where travelers can come to try some of the best British food in a historic setting. Join a food and market tour of London to make sure you don't miss any of the best stalls. It gets busy on weekend afternoons, and some traders aren't open on all days—typically on limited market days early in the week—so be sure to plan ahead. – Tripadvisor See more..
    
23. 4.5 Wallace Collection (6.555 reviews)
    - Third visit - love it
    Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Art Museums
    
    
    A free to visit, national museum in the heart of central London. Originally a private collection, the artwork was bequeathed to the nation by Lady Wallace in 1897. This attraction features one of the world's best collections of French 18th-century pictures, porcelain and furniture, plus a fantastic array of 17th-century paintings. See more..
    
24. 4.5 Regent's Park (6.418 reviews)
    - Lovely walks in the park
    Sunday: 5:00 AM - 9:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Parks
    
    
    Originally a royal hunting ground, this scenic park is a popular recreation area offering an artificial lake, tennis courts, cricket ground, children's playgrounds and the London Zoo, which lies on the north side of the park. See more..
    
25. 4.5 Greenwich (5.908 reviews)
    - A London Must See
    Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods
    
    
    Set on the south bank of the Thames, approximately five miles from central London, this city borough is rich in maritime history and features the Old Royal Naval College, National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory, which was built by Sir Christopher Wren for King Charles II. See more..
    
26. 4.5 Kensington Gardens (4.475 reviews)
    - Peaceful and Beautifully Landscaped
    Sunday: 6:00 AM - 7:45 PM Spent < 1 hour Parks • Gardens
    
    
    Separated from Hyde Park by the Serpentine, a lake used by boaters and swimmers, this park is calmer and more peaceful than its neighbor, and features many attractions including a statue of Peter Pan, Albert Memorial and the Serpentine Art Gallery. See more..
    
27. 4.5 Royal Air Force Museum London (3.731 reviews)
    - What a wonderful place, with plenty to see.
    Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Military Museums • Science Museums • Children's Museums
    
    
    The Royal Air Force Museum London is a national museum that celebrates and commemorates the story of the Royal Air Force. We have now reopened to visitors. We are open daily from 10:00am and admission is free. Get ready for take-off and pre-book your free timed entry now by visiting our website, rafmuseum.org. Explore the first 100 years of the RAF, its role today and imagine its future contribution and technology. Discover our multi award-winning First World War in the Air Galleries, Historic Hangars and our Bomber Command Hall – offering a great day out to all our visitors. Our calendar of events, lectures and temporary exhibitions throughout the year enable visitors to engage further with the RAF Story. Our staff and volunteers are here to help you have a great time. We look forward to welcoming you. See more..
    
28. 4.5 Chelsea FC Stadium Tour & Museum (3.232 reviews)
    - Chelsea Stadium tour
    Sunday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Arenas & Stadiums
    
    
    Chelsea Football Club also offers an established and acclaimed Stadium Tour and Museum attraction, offering an information and exciting insight into Chelsea and Stamford Bridge, alongside an interactive and immersive museum experience. See more..
    
29. 4.5 Highgate Cemetery (2.040 reviews)
    - Worth the Cost and Effort to Get Here
    Spent 2-3 hours Cemeteries
    
    
    Beautiful Victorian cemetery near to Hampstead Heath. Highgate Cemetery has some of the finest funerary architecture in the country. It is a place of peaceful contemplation where trees, memorials and wildlife flourish. See more..
    
30. 4.5 London Eye (88.7k reviews) from $39.52
    - Nice family flight
    Sunday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers
    
    
    Located along the Thames River, this iconic observation wheel offers unobstructed views from its glass pods. During the 30-minute ride, you'll be able to see London's well-known buildings like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and The Shard. On a clear day, you can see up to 25 miles from the top—where Windsor Castle is. Sunset views here are otherworldly, but nightfall views of the twinkling lights are great too. London Eye can be reached easily by taking the Tube to Waterloo station. You might want to buy fast-track passes online in advance to skip the queues. – Tripadvisor See more..