Discover the top London attractions, most fun things to do in London, and best places to visit in London, in this London trip guide.
London doesn’t politely introduce itself – it sweeps you in.
One moment you’re standing in the shadow of Big Ben, the next you’re wandering a neon-lit street market that smells like ten different cuisines at once. You turn a corner expecting history and stumble into cutting-edge art.
You plan to “see the sights” and end up discovering hidden bookstores, rooftop views, secret gardens, and neighborhoods that feel like their own little worlds.
This is a city where 1,000 years of history live side-by-side with the buzz of modern culture, where royal palaces sit minutes away from quirky street performers, and where every tube stop feels like the start of a new adventure.
So, what are the most fun things to do in London, beyond the postcards and guidebook clichés?
From iconic landmarks and unforgettable experiences to local favorites and unexpected gems, this London trip guide will show you the best attractions, the best places to visit, and the moments that make it one of the most exciting cities in the world.
Table of Contents
🎡 Fun Things to Do in London
From buzzing markets and iconic landmarks to unforgettable experiences and hidden gems, here’s your ultimate guide to the most fun things to do in London.
🎁 Free Things to Do in London
Which are the best places to visit in London for free? Discover the best free things to do in London with family, friends, or solo.
- Outernet London: Immersive digital art shows in a breathtaking, floor-to-ceiling screen space.
- Covent Garden Decorations: Street performers, historic market buildings, and a lively atmosphere all year round.
- Trafalgar Square: One of London’s most iconic public spaces, often hosting performances, events, and exhibitions.
- Regent Street, Oxford Street & Carnaby Street: Perfect for a wander to soak up the buzz of central London.
- Ever After Garden, Chelsea: A beautiful installation of glowing roses honouring loved ones.
- St. Pancras International Station: Grand architecture and a great spot for people-watching.
- King’s Cross & Platform 9¾: Public art, canal-side walks, and a famous photo spot for Harry Potter fans.
- Leadenhall Market: A stunning Victorian covered market ideal for wandering and photos.
- Duke of York Square: A stylish square with public art, markets, and open space to relax.
- Selfridges Windows: Creative window displays blending art, fashion, and fantasy.
- St Paul’s Cathedral: Admire the iconic dome and surrounding views for free.
- Sloane Square: Riverside arcade with striking architecture and Thames views.
- The Savoy: Historic glamour by the river and beautiful interiors to admire.
- St Martin’s Lane: Known for eye-catching displays and vibrant city energy.
- Fulham Palace: Historic setting with gardens and riverside walks.
- Burlington Arcade: Early 18th-century shopping arcade with charming architecture.
- Liberty London: A Tudor-style landmark store worth visiting for the interior alone.
- Free Museum Exhibitions: The British Museum, National Gallery, and Victoria & Albert Museum all offer world-class free entry.
- Southbank Stroll: A lively riverside walk with street performers and iconic landmark views.
💡 Tip: Combine a few of these free things to do in London into a walking route and you’ve got a full day of unforgettable experiences without spending a penny.
🎇 Top Places to Visit in London With Kids
Looking for fun things to do in London with kids? These memorable London attractions and experiences may require a ticket, but they’re worth every penny.
- Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter Tour: Behind-the-scenes tour of Harry Potter films.
- Harry Potter Film Locations Tour: Visit iconic Harry Potter movie filming locations.
- Bluebell Railway: A nostalgic steam train ride through the countryside, great for families.
- Riverside Hub: A large indoor play centre and role-play village for younger children.
- Biscuiteers Boutique & Icing Cafe: Hands-on biscuit-decorating workshops and treats.
- Afternoon Tea Bus Tour: See the sights of London while enjoying themed afternoon tea.
- The Lost Estate Dining Experiences: Theatrical dining with performance and storytelling.
- West End Theatre Shows: World-class productions in London’s famous theatre district.
- The Nutcracker: A magical ballet performance perfect for families and theatre-goers.
- Wicked the Musical: The untold story of the witches of Oz.
- Mamma Mia!: A feel-good musical packed with ABBA hits.
- The O2 Arena: Major concerts, events, and entertainment year-round.
- Royal Albert Hall: Iconic venue hosting concerts, performances, and family events.
- Kew Gardens: Walking trails, glasshouses, and stunning botanical gardens.
- Hyde Park: A vast royal park with boating, playgrounds, and open-air relaxation.
- Somerset House: Cultural hub hosting exhibitions, events, and family-friendly activities.
💡 Tip: Mix iconic attractions with theatre, hands-on experiences, and outdoor spaces to create a London itinerary that keeps both kids and adults entertained.
❤️ Unique Things to Do in London
Looking for cool things to do in London? From immersive experiences to unique tours and unforgettable dining, the city offers activities you won’t forget.
- Tower of London & Crown Jewels Exhibition: View the remarkable Crown Jewels and visit the White Tower, Traitors’ Gate, and Tower Green, where Anne Boleyn was beheaded.
- Buckingham Palace, St James Palace & Tea at Kensington Palace: Learn insider facts and stories of three historic palaces in one experience.
- Hot Tub Boat Tour in London: Cruise the city’s waterways in a 3.8m wooden boat with a self-operated, wood-fired hot tub heated to 38°C for a unique 75-minute experience.
- Charles Dickens London Walking Tour: Follow in Dickens’ footsteps through the streets that inspired his stories.
- Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour: Explore original sets and props from the films in this unforgettable behind-the-scenes experience.
- Lunch River Cruise on the Thames: Enjoy a two-course meal while sailing past London’s most famous landmarks.
- London Dinner Cruise on the Thames: Dine on the river with illuminated views of the city and onboard entertainment.
- London Cooking Class & 7-Course Tasting Dinner: Learn to prepare a 7-course menu in a genuine Londoner’s Edwardian home.
- London Historical Pubs Tour: Pop into centuries-old alehouses, see literary haunts favored by writers such as Charles Dickens.
- WW2 London Blitz Private Tour: Learn about the German aerial bombardment and discover major landmarks, like the Cenotaph and Houses of Parliament.
- Jurassic World: The Exhibition: Meet life-sized dinosaurs in this thrilling immersive experience.
- Frameless Immersive Art Experience: Experience the sensation of being surrounded by more than 42 masterpieces.
- Electric Cinema: Watch a movie in style with plush seating, cosy blankets, and festive film favourites.
- Twinings Tea Tasting Masterclass: Immerse yourself in London’s rich tea-drinking culture and traditions and learn how the pros evaluate tea.
- The Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea: Enjoy high tea, snacks, and a tour at Kensington Palace.
🛍️ Best London Markets
Stroll through London’s best markets and soak up the lively atmosphere – with incredible street food, quirky gifts, artisan finds, and enough buzz to keep you happily wandering for hours.
- Borough Market: One of the best food markets in the world.
- Leadenhall Market: Historic covered market with permanent traders.
- Greenwich Market: Daily market for crafts, art, antiques, and food.
- Old Spitalfields Market: A covered market with traders every day.
- Kingston Ancient Market: Historic market with regular traders.
- Camden Market: Huge, daily market with food, vintage, crafts.
- Portobello Road Market: Famous antiques market (best on Saturdays).
- Columbia Road Flower Market: Sundays only, iconic flower market.
- Brick Lane Market: Sundays, vintage, food, art, chaos in the best way.
- Broadway Market: Saturdays, great food and independent stalls.
- Maltby Street Market: Weekend food market under railway arches.
- Covent Garden Market: Apple Market traders daily inside the piazza.
🍽️ Best Food in London
From markets to iconic eateries, there are endless things to do in London for food lovers. The city’s food scene is a feast for the senses, with unforgettable dining experiences, creative cocktails, and comforting classics around every corner.
- The Chalet, Somerset House: Raclette and alpine-inspired comfort food (when in residence).
- Sketch London (The Gallery & Glade): Iconic interiors, creative menus, standout cocktails.
- Clos Maggiore: Famous for its fairy-lit ceiling and romantic setting.
- Balthazar: A lively French brasserie perfect for any time of year.
- Nibbles Railway Cafe: A novelty café where model trains deliver your food.
- The Ivy Chelsea Garden: Beautiful décor and a varied modern British menu.
- Daphne’s: Elegant Italian dining with timeless charm.
- Claridge’s: Legendary afternoon tea in one of London’s most elegant hotels.
- Fortnum & Mason: Teas, sweet treats, and gourmet food halls worth browsing.
- Dishoom Carnaby: Bombay-inspired dishes and house cocktails in a vibrant setting.
- Duck & Waffle: Sky-high dining with panoramic views and a creative menu.
- Polo Bar: A legendary 24-hour café serving comfort food day and night.
- Gaucho: Premium steaks and wine in stylish surroundings across multiple locations.
- Bacchanalia, Mayfair: Opulent interiors paired with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
- The Connaught Grill: Classic fine dining with exceptional steaks and wine.
- Florattica Rooftop Bar: Stylish rooftop cocktails with skyline views.
- The Pie Room at Rosewood: Artisan British pies in an intimate setting.
- EVE, Cromwell Road: Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, bar, and café.
- Maggie Jones’s: Kensington favourite since the ’60s, serving rustic British favourites.
- Mercato Metropolitano, Mayfair: Gourmet street food inside a restored church.
- Koyn Restaurant: Contemporary Japanese dining inspired by fire and earth.
- Flute, Broadwick Soho: Chic rooftop bar with crafted cocktails.
- Borough Market: One of the best food markets in the world, perfect for grazing.
🏨 Where to Stay in London
From cosy hostels to luxury hotels, London offers the perfect base for exploring the city’s top attractions, markets, and iconic sights. Finding the right place to stay in London means you’ll be perfectly positioned to make the most of everything the city has to offer.
Budget / Hostels:
- YHA London St Pancras: Affordable, central, family-friendly.
- Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage: Beautiful Victorian Grade II historic building.
Mid-range Hotels:
- citizenM London Bankside: Stylish, modern rooms near major attractions.
- Z Hotel Shoreditch: Compact, comfortable stay in a lively area.
Luxury Hotels:
- The Savoy: Iconic riverside hotel, timeless glamour, exceptional service.
- The Ritz London: Elegant afternoon tea and unbeatable central location.
Countryside Retreats:
Some of the best hotels in London are actually just beyond the city limits. So, if you’d rather stay outside the city, these countryside retreats offer comfort and festive charm.
- The Grove, Watford: Luxury countryside escape near London.
- Sopwell House, Saint Albans: Relaxing spa retreat.
- Down Hall Hotel, Essex: Historic mansion in scenic grounds.
- Lainston House, Winchester: Elegant rural hideaway.
- Coworth Park, Berkshire: Country-chic luxury and spa.
- Manor of Groves, Sawbridgeworth: Peaceful Georgian manor stay.
🚄 Charming Day Trips from London
Looking to escape the city buzz for a day? London’s location makes it perfect for quick getaways, from historic towns to scenic countryside, all just a train ride away.
- Windsor Castle: Stroll along the River Thames and explore this royal town.
- Bath: Georgian architecture, Roman baths, and cozy cafés.
- Cambridge: Wander cobbled streets and enjoy punting along the River Cam.
- Oxford: Visit historic colleges, browse quaint bookshops, and enjoy a festive afternoon tea.
- Blenheim Palace: Visit the fictional “Downton Abbey” village and picturesque Cotswolds.
- Brighton: For a coastal twist, explore Brighton Pier and quirky shops along the seafront.
- Canterbury: Discover medieval streets and the stunning cathedral in this historic city.
- Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Bath: Visit three of Britain’s most famous historic sites.
Whether you’re after history, shopping, or a cozy stroll, these day trips from London are ideal for adding variety to your London trip itinerary.
London is impossible not to love. From free activities with kids to world-class markets, iconic landmarks, dining experiences, and unforgettable adventures, the city dazzles with energy, culture, and charm at every turn.
You can save on your London trip costs with the London Attractions Pass. It gives you sightseeing credits for 1–10 consecutive days, with access to over 100 top London attractions, skip-the-line entry, and a 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Disclaimer: Event details, including dates, times, venues, and ticket prices, are subject to change without notice. Please confirm all information with the event organizers before attending. We are not responsible for any errors, cancellations, or changes made by third parties.
- Where Was The Phantom Menace Filmed? A Galactic Travel Guide - February 20, 2026
- Where Was The Rise of Skywalker Filmed? - February 19, 2026
- Where Was The Last Jedi Filmed? Explore Every Epic Spot - February 18, 2026
Discover more from Ahoy Matey Blog
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Pingback: Best Things To Do In Rome At Christmas Time (2025)