London is a wonderful city with so much to see and do. When visiting, you could easily spend a couple of days, a week or more, getting lost in its charm – whether that’s dining at
one of the restaurants in Mayfair, visiting a rooftop bar or swimming in one of the hotels with an infinity pool, the possibilities are endless.
Alongside these great things to do, you could also go and see a show, or hop on a boat and explore the Thames. From the dazzling lights of the West End, where world-class theatre productions light up the night, to leisurely river cruises offering unique views of iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and the London Eye, there’s never a dull moment.
To help inspire you, we have put together a brief guide on three things to do in London when visiting.
1. See a theatre show
You can’t visit London without going to see a theatre show. There are so many, and they are mostly award-winning, with incredible performers taking part. You could go and watch The Lion King, see Harry Potter, or enjoy Wicked (which is incredible). When buying tickets, there are various sites online where you can buy them last minute; this way, you get a great deal, although sometimes not the best seats.
2. Swim in an infinity pool
If you haven’t been in an infinity pool before, then you are going to love this experience. When visiting, there are various infinity pools in London, dotted around, all offering unique views of the city. You could stay at the Shard and swim on the 52nd floor, or you could head over to Vauxhall and see the Sky Pool at Embassy Gardens in Nine Elms. Some of the places will only let you swim in the pools if you are staying there, so bear that in mind if going to an infinity pool in London is something you are interested in.
3. Watch a football match
London is known for having some of the best football teams in the world dotted around the city. Jump on a tube and you can visit Spurs’ new football stadium (which is arguably one of the best around at the moment), or you could visit a rival and watch a match at Chelsea’s stadium or Arsenal’s. If you don’t have time to watch a match or struggle to get tickets, consider doing one of their stadium tours, as this is also a fun activity to do. Tickets for matches can sometimes be difficult to get if you are visiting at the same time as a big match is happening. For example, getting tickets for Arsenal vs Chelsea could be particularly difficult – but it is possible!
When are you planning on heading to London, and how long are you going to stay? What things have you currently booked for your visit? Is there anything missing from our guide that you think we should be adding? Let us know in the comment box below. We look forward to hearing from you.
4. Take a Thames river cruise
Exploring London by boat gives you a whole new perspective. You’ll glide past landmarks such as the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and Tower Bridge, seeing the city from a different angle. Cruises range from relaxed sightseeing journeys to exciting speedboat rides if you want an adrenaline rush. Many boats also serve afternoon tea or dinner, making it a memorable dining experience as well as a sightseeing trip.
5. Visit the Tower of London
Steeped in history, the Tower of London is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. This fortress has been everything from a royal palace to a prison, and it houses the dazzling Crown Jewels today. Join a Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) tour to hear tales of kings, queens, and infamous prisoners. Don’t forget to look out for the ravens – legend has it that if they ever leave, the Tower and the kingdom will fall.
6. Explore Borough Market
If you love food, Borough Market is a must. Located near London Bridge, this bustling market is packed with stalls selling everything from artisan cheeses and handmade chocolates to fresh street food from around the world. It’s the perfect place for lunch, or simply to wander and soak up the atmosphere. Many top chefs shop here too, so you know the produce is some of the best around.
7. Stroll through Hyde Park
London’s most famous park is an oasis in the middle of the city. It’s a great place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing, whether you want to enjoy a picnic, take a boat out on the Serpentine lake, or simply wander the tree-lined paths. In summer, Hyde Park often hosts concerts and events, while in winter, Winter Wonderland takes over with rides, markets, and festive fun.
8. Go up The Shard
Even if you’re not staying at The Shard, visiting the viewing platform is worth it. From 310 metres high, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panorama of London that stretches for miles. On a clear day, you can see as far as Windsor Castle. The bar at the top is also a fantastic place for a cocktail with a view, especially in the evening when the city lights sparkle below.
9. Walk across Tower Bridge
One of London’s most photographed landmarks, Tower Bridge is more than just a crossing. Inside, you can explore the Victorian engine rooms and walk across the high-level glass walkways, giving you a thrilling view straight down to the river below. It’s both an educational and an exhilarating experience, especially if you catch the moment when the bridge lifts for passing boats.
10. Visit the British Museum
With millions of artefacts spanning thousands of years, the British Museum is one of the greatest museums in the world – and best of all, it’s free to enter. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Egyptian mummies. You could easily spend a whole day exploring, but even a quick visit will leave you amazed at the sheer scale and diversity of its collection.
11. Take an afternoon tea
Afternoon tea is a quintessential British tradition, and London offers it in style. The Ritz and Claridge’s are famous for their luxurious spreads of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries, but there are also themed teas across the city – from literary-inspired menus to quirky options on double-decker buses. It’s the perfect treat to break up a busy day of sightseeing.
12. Go shopping on Oxford Street & Regent Street
If you love shopping, London won’t disappoint. Oxford Street is home to high-street favourites and flagship stores, while Regent Street offers more upmarket options. Don’t miss Liberty, a beautiful department store with its Tudor-style exterior, or Selfridges, which is as much an experience as a shop. Whether you’re after fashion, beauty, or souvenirs, this area has it all.
13. Explore Camden Market
For something a little different, head to Camden. The market is a maze of stalls selling vintage clothes, quirky gifts, and international food. It’s a hub for creativity and alternative culture, with street art around every corner. Once you’re done shopping, take a walk along Regent’s Canal or enjoy live music in one of Camden’s famous pubs and venues.
14. Ride the London Eye
The London Eye is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. The giant observation wheel takes you 135 metres above the ground, offering sweeping views of the Thames and beyond. Each rotation takes about 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the view and snap photos. It’s especially magical at sunset or after dark when London is illuminated.
15. Visit St Paul’s Cathedral
A masterpiece of architecture, St Paul’s Cathedral is a must-see. Inside, the dome is breathtaking, and if you’re feeling energetic, you can climb up to the Whispering Gallery and all the way to the Golden Gallery at the very top for incredible views. The cathedral has also been the site of historic events such as the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.
16. Take a day trip to Greenwich
Just a short boat ride or train journey from central London, Greenwich is packed with history and charm. Stand on the Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory, explore the Cutty Sark, or wander through Greenwich Market. The views from Greenwich Park across the Thames to Canary Wharf are spectacular, especially at sunset.
17. Wander Covent Garden
Covent Garden is one of London’s most vibrant areas. The historic market building is full of boutique shops and cafes, while the surrounding streets are packed with restaurants and bars. Street performers bring the piazza to life, and the atmosphere is always buzzing. It’s also home to the Royal Opera House, making it a cultural hotspot as well as a shopping and dining destination.
18. Explore the Natural History Museum
A favourite with families, the Natural History Museum is both fascinating and fun. The dinosaur skeletons in the main hall are iconic, and the museum covers everything from volcanoes to gemstones. The building itself is stunning, with beautiful Victorian architecture. Like the British Museum, entry is free, making it an accessible attraction for everyone.
19. Experience the nightlife in Soho
Soho is the heart of London’s nightlife, offering something for every taste. From cocktail bars and jazz clubs to comedy shows and late-night eateries, there’s always something happening. It’s also home to some of the city’s best LGBTQ+ venues. The energy is infectious, and whether you’re out for a quiet drink or a night of dancing, Soho is the place to be.
20. Take a walk along the South Bank
One of the most scenic walks in London, the South Bank is lined with attractions and incredible views. Start near the London Eye and stroll along the river past Shakespeare’s Globe and the Tate Modern, finishing at Tower Bridge. Along the way, you’ll find food stalls, pop-up events, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s the perfect way to soak up the atmosphere of the city.
Whether it’s your first visit to London or your tenth, the city always has something new to offer. From historic landmarks and world-class theatre to hidden gems and unforgettable food experiences, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your time. You could spend weeks exploring and still not see it all – which is why so many people return again and again. However long you’re staying, we hope this guide gives you inspiration to make the most of your trip.
So, when are you planning on heading to London, and how long will you stay? Which of these activities have caught your eye, and is there anything else you’d add to the list? Share your plans in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!
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