What are the best things to do in London?

London offers endless attractions and experiences. Top things to do include visiting the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, the London Eye, and exploring Covent Garden and the South Bank. For culture, enjoy a West End show, visit art galleries like Tate Modern, or take a river cruise along the Thames.

What are the most popular tourist attractions in London?

The most popular tourist attractions in London include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the British Museum. The Shard, Madame Tussauds, and the Natural History Museum are also among the city’s top-visited sights.

What free things can I do in London?

There are plenty of free things to do in London, including exploring museums like the British Museum, Tate Modern, and the Natural History Museum, walking through Hyde Park or Regent’s Park, watching the Changing of the Guard, and browsing Borough Market or Camden Market.

What are the best family-friendly activities in London?

London is full of family-friendly attractions such as the London Zoo, the Science Museum, SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Shrek’s Adventure, and the Harry Potter Studio Tour. Families can also enjoy river cruises, hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses, and interactive theatre experiences.

What are the top things to do in London at night?

London comes alive at night with world-class theatre shows in the West End, rooftop bars, night-time river cruises, and fine dining restaurants. The South Bank, Soho, and Covent Garden are great areas for evening entertainment, while illuminated landmarks like Tower Bridge and the London Eye offer stunning night views.

What are the best tours in London?

Top-rated London tours include open-top bus tours, Thames River cruises, guided walking tours of Westminster, Harry Potter film location tours, and food tours through Borough Market or Soho. Private and small-group tours are ideal for a more personal experience.

What are the top seasonal things to do in London?

Each season brings something new to London. In spring, visit Kew Gardens or see cherry blossoms in Greenwich Park. Summer offers open-air theatre and music festivals. Autumn is perfect for museums and cosy pubs, while winter is all about Christmas markets, ice skating, and festive lights across the city.

What are the best free museums and galleries in London?

London’s best free museums include the British Museum, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and the V&A. For art lovers, the National Gallery and Tate Modern both offer free admission to their main collections.

What are some romantic things to do in London for couples?

Couples can enjoy dinner with a view at The Shard, a sunset ride on the London Eye, a picnic in St James’s Park, or a West End show. Strolling along the Thames at night and visiting rooftop bars are also popular romantic activities.

Where can I find the best views of London?

The best views of London can be found at The Shard, the Sky Garden, Primrose Hill, and the London Eye. Other great viewing spots include Parliament Hill on Hampstead Heath and the rooftop terrace at Tate Modern.

What are the best indoor things to do in London on a rainy day?

When it rains, explore London’s museums, art galleries, and theatres. Popular indoor options include the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, SEA LIFE Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, and afternoon tea at a luxury hotel.

What are the best day trips from London?

Popular day trips from London include visiting Windsor Castle, Oxford, Cambridge, Bath, Stonehenge, and the Cotswolds. These destinations are easily accessible by train or guided tour from central London.

How many days should I spend in London?

A minimum of three to four days is recommended to see the main sights in London. This allows time to explore key attractions like the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, the West End, and a few neighbourhoods such as Camden, Notting Hill, and Greenwich.

What are the best free viewpoints in London?

Free viewpoints in London include the Sky Garden, Primrose Hill, Parliament Hill, and Greenwich Park. You can also enjoy scenic views from the Tate Modern terrace or along the Millennium Bridge.

What’s the best time of year to visit London?

The best time to visit London depends on your interests. Spring (March–May) offers mild weather and blooming parks, summer (June–August) is ideal for outdoor events and festivals, autumn (September–November) is perfect for theatre and museums, and winter (December–February) is magical with Christmas lights and festive markets.

Things To Do In London

The Complete Guide

Welcome to The London Tourist’s complete guide to the best things to do in London.

Whether you’re visiting for the weekend, planning a family trip, or exploring the capital as a local, London offers an endless mix of world-class attractions, unforgettable experiences, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

From iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace to the city’s many museums, galleries, and West End theatres, there’s something here for every interest. Stroll along the South Bank, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy panoramic views from The Shard.

London is also a city for food lovers, featuring an incredible variety of restaurants, pubs, coffee shops, and street-food markets that reflect the city’s global culture. When the sun shines, explore its many parks and outdoor spaces, or plan your visit around the capital’s seasonal events, festivals, and guided tours.

No matter the time of year, London offers something new every day — from cutting-edge exhibitions and theatre openings to free attractions and family-friendly days out. Browse our guides below to find inspiration and start planning your perfect London itinerary.

Food & Drink in London

Explore London’s world-class food scene - from Michelin-starred restaurants and historic pubs to artisan coffee shops and bustling food markets across the capital.

Pubs in London

Uncover London’s iconic pubs - from riverside beer gardens and heritage taverns to trendy craft ale houses and gastropubs.

Read Pubs Guide

Restaurants in London

Dine your way through London’s culinary scene - discover Michelin-starred hotspots, global cuisine, and hidden gems across every borough.

Read Restaurants Guide

Coffee & Cafés

Sip your way around London’s best cafés - from speciality roasteries and artisan bakeries to cosy brunch spots.

Read Coffee Guide

Food Markets

Explore London’s vibrant markets: taste local produce, street food, and artisanal delights from Borough Market and beyond.

Read Food Markets Guide

West End Theatre in London

Experience the magic of London’s West End - home to the world’s greatest stage shows. From record-breaking musicals and gripping plays to the latest new productions, find the perfect show for your next night out in the capital.

Musicals

Sing along to the biggest West End musicals like The Lion Kiing, The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables smash-hit newcomers and Hamilton.

Read Musicals Guide

Plays

See London’s most acclaimed plays - from long-running favourites like Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and The Play That Goes Wrong to gripping new dramas and revivals.

Read Plays Guide

Best Sellers

Book tickets for London’s hottest shows — discover the top-selling productions right now across the West End and secure your seats early.

Discover Best Sellers

New Shows

Be among the first to see London’s brand-new productions - from world premieres to fresh transfers from Broadway and the UK regions.

Discover New Shows

Seasonal Guides to London

London is a city that transforms with the seasons — from spring’s blooming parks to the festive sparkle of winter. Find out what’s on, where to go, and the best seasonal experiences across the capital throughout the year.

Spring in London

See London in bloom — enjoy spring festivals, outdoor dining, cherry blossoms in Greenwich Park, and open-air theatre in Regent’s Park.

Explore Spring Guide

Summer in London

Soak up the sun at rooftop bars, open-air cinemas, and music festivals. Explore London’s parks and enjoy day trips along the River Thames.

Explore Summer Guide

Autumn in London

Experience London’s golden season - stroll through leafy parks, visit the London Film Festival, and discover cosy pubs and theatre openings.

Explore Autumn Guide

Winter in London

Enjoy London’s festive season - from Christmas markets and ice skating at Somerset House to West End pantomimes and cosy afternoon teas.

Explore Winter Guide

Top Attractions in London

Discover London’s most famous sights and cultural highlights — from centuries-old landmarks and royal palaces to fascinating museums, art galleries, and immersive guided tours.