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London Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 6, 2024

London is one of the most popular cities in the world. It’s home to charming pubs, world-class (and often free) museums, tons of history, some of the best theater performances in the world, a diverse population, incredible food, and a wild nightlife.

I know it’s cliche to say there’s something for everyone but, in this sprawling metropolis, there really is!

I’ve been visiting London since 2008 and, with every subsequent visit, the city has grown on me. The more I go, the more awesome stuff I see, the more I fall in love with it. There’s always something new to do here and there’s an energetic vibe to the city.

Unfortunately, it’s also an expensive destination. A visit here can eat a hole in any budget if you aren’t careful.

Luckily, there are tons of free and cheap things to do in London . While budget travelers need to be frugal here, you can still visit London on a budget and have an amazing time.

This London travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this cosmopolitan capital!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on London

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in london.

1. Visit Big Ben and the House of Parliament

Although you can’t go up the tower, you can view this Gothic structure from the street and hear its chimes four times an hour. Big Ben is actually the name of the Great Bell of the Great Clock of Westminster which can be found inside Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, but is often used to refer to the clock and the tower as well. To learn about the UK government, take a tour of Parliament, founded in 1801, while you’re here (get there early or reserve tickets online) . Guided tours cost 29 GBP while self-guided multimedia tours are 22.50 GBP. The best view of the tower is from the opposite side of the river on the South Bank, near the London Eye.

2. See the Tower of London and Tower Bridge

Built in 1070, the Tower of London has expanded many times over the years. It was built as a double-leaf bascule bridge in the middle (both sides lift up) to maintain river access to the Pool of London docks while easing congestion on each side of the river. You can visit inside the tower and walk along the glass walkways. Weapons, armor, and coins were made here until 1810 and today you can view the famous crown jewels, walk the battlements, wander recreated medieval palace rooms, see the iconic Yeoman Warders (known as the Beefeaters as they were allowed to eat as much beef as they wanted from King Henry VII’s table), and spot the legendary black ravens that live in the tower. Skip-the-line tickets are 29.90 GBP.

3. Admire Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is only open to the public for 10 weeks during the summer, but you can join the crowds and watch the changing of the guard at 11am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday throughout the year (get there in good time to find a good place to stand). Admission to the palace isn’t cheap, with tickets costing 30 GBP online (33 GBP on the day), while exclusive guided tours are 90 GBP. Check the Royal Collection Trust website for details on other events happening throughout the year.

4. See Westminster Abbey

A working royal church, the Gothic Westminster Abbey was founded by Benedictine monks in 960 CE. More than 3,300 people are buried here including 17 monarchs and numerous royal funerals have been held here over the centuries. It’s the traditional coronation site for British monarchs and has been the setting for every coronation since 1066, as well as for many other royal occasions, including 16 weddings. Other famous British figures buried here include Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton, Aphra Behn, and Charles Dickens. Tickets cost 27 GBP , but you can visit for free if you go during a service. Just make sure to dress (and act) appropriately as it is a place of worship.

5. Hang out in Trafalgar Square

Stroll around and admire the fountains and the famous monuments, such as the four bronze lion statues and Nelson’s Column (which honors Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805). It is bordered on all sides by a number of museums, galleries, cultural spaces and historic buildings so there’s plenty to do as well. Trafalgar Square is also known to be a center of national democracy and protest so peaceful rallies and demonstrations are frequently held (usually at weekends). Even if there aren’t any official events, lots of people still hang out here so it makes for a good place to people-watch.

Other Things to See and Do in London

1. take a free walking tour.

London has tons of different walking tours on offer. From free tours to specialty tours to paid tours to literary tours to quirky tea tours, London has it all. Free London Walking Tours and New Europe Walking Tours are two of my favorite companies to go with when it comes to free tours. They’re the best way to see the sights and learn about the city on a budget. Just remember to tip at the end!

If you’re looking for more in-depth and specific tours, check out Take Walks. They offer affordable tours that go into a lot of detail. And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, Get Your Guide runs an awesome Harry Potter tour around the city for 15 GBP.

2. Go museum hopping

London has more museums than you could see in a single visit, and many of them are free. You can spend days visiting world-class museums like the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum, and many others — all without spending a penny. One of my favorites is the Natural History Museum, a beautiful Romanesque building that contains over 80 million items, including specimens collected by Charles Darwin. It also has an expansive collection of fossils, making it a fun and educational stop. The Victoria and Albert Museum (named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert) is another favorite of mine. It’s home to over 2,000 works of art covering over 3,000 years of human history.

3. Grab some food in Borough Market

Established in 1756, London’s Borough Market has something for every foodie. It’s home to some of the best British and international produce and dishes. Come here hungry and leave satisfied. It’s great for people-watching too. The market is open daily but the crowds are terrible on Saturdays so be sure to get there early.

4. Enjoy some theater

London is known for its famous theater scene. Attend a show while you’re here and see some of the incredible performances that make London famous. Tickets can be pretty cheap, and something is playing every night (check out TKTS for discounted tickets to shows in the West End). Otherwise, catch a Shakespeare show at The Globe in South London — tickets range from 5-62 GBP depending on the show and seat you choose.

5. Stroll along Brick Lane

Known for vintage clothing, cheap eats, and art, this East London street is a local favorite. Sunday is the best day to come, as this is when the outdoor street market takes place, though the restaurants and shops lining the street are open daily. Brick Lane has some of the best (and cheapest) food in London, especially when it comes to curry, as this is the hub of London’s Bangladeshi community. This street is also a great place to bring a camera, as its walls are basically a gallery for London’s best street artists, including Banksy, D*Face, and Ben Eine.

6. Ride the London Eye

The London Eye is a 152-meter (500-foot tall) Ferris wheel. While a little cheesy, it’s nevertheless one of the most popular attractions in London. It’s across the street from Parliament and provides excellent views of London and the city’s most iconic buildings, especially on a clear day. Tickets are 32.50 GBP , but if you want to play tourist and take in the view, it might be worth it. The ride lasts 30 minutes and tickets start at 32.50 GBP.

7. Visit the London Dungeon

The London Dungeon calls itself “the world’s most chillingly famous horror attraction.” It covers 2,000 years of London’s gruesome history and is a morbid but interesting museum. Although you can learn about popular torture methods in England, this place has turned into more of an “amusement park” type attraction. But if you like things like escape rooms and scary boat rides, it’s enjoyable. Tickets cost 29 GBP when you book online (32 GBP in person).

8. See St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s is a striking English Baroque cathedral with a world-famous dome. Architect Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, the iconic building dates from the 17th century. Inside, you can visit the crypt to see the resting places of famous figures including The Duke of Wellington, Christopher Wren, and Admiral Nelson, or just enjoy the cathedral’s glittering mosaics and elaborate stone carvings. If you don’t mind climbing some stairs, a highlight is to climb to the Stone Gallery or Golden Gallery for panoramic views over surrounding London. Admission costs from 18 GBP when you buy online , which is cheaper than the London Eye and offers similarly breathtaking views.

9. Explore Covent Garden

Covent Garden, a popular West End neighborhood, is a fun place to hang out for an afternoon. It’s home to lots of quirky stalls, busking musicians, an artsy market, and a selection of unusual pubs and coffee shops. Covent Garden is also within walking distance of all the big musical theater shows, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours before catching a performance. Make sure to visit Covent Garden Market, which has been open since the 1830s. It’s a good place to grab a bite to eat or shop at some of the artisan craft stalls. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 8am-6pm, with an outdoor farmer’s market on Saturdays between April and December.

10. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe

An integral part of England’s history, Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre, the venue for which the famous playwright wrote his plays. It’s a must-see for lovers of Shakespeare, with performances embracing near-perfect replicas of Elizabethan staging practices. You can even sit in front where the groundlings did, for shouting and heckling! The theater is open-roofed, so bundle up in the winter. Tickets cost 5-62 GBP depending on the production and the seat (you can stand just as they did in Elizabethan times). You can also take a guided tour for 17 GBP to learn more about the history of the theater (more specialized ones such as the Ghosts and Ghouls tour or the Pride tour cost 20 GBP).

11. Explore Camden Market

A long-time counter-culture haven, Camden Market is home to over 1,000 independent shops, stalls, cafes, restaurants, bars, buskers, and everything in between. It’s enormously popular and busiest on the weekends (it sees over 250,000 visitors each week). Camden Market is actually a series of six separate markets, so you can literally wander the labyrinth of alleyways for hours and not see it all.

12. See the Royal Observatory

Since its founding in the late 17th century, the Royal Observatory at Greenwich has played an important role in astronomy and navigation. The observatory is divided into two sections, with one half focusing on time while the other half is devoted to astronomy. In the Meridian Courtyard, you can stand on either side of the Prime Meridian, which separates the Earth’s eastern and western hemispheres. The Peter Harrison Planetarium is also housed here, where you can see a show for 10 GBP. The Royal Observatory itself costs 16 GBP .

13. Walk around the Strand

In the 12th century, rich noblemen built elegant homes and gardens along the shore (the strand) of the Thames, making it one of the most prestigious places to live (a fact that remains true to this day). Walk down this thoroughfare and be treated to a grand display of wealth and beauty. It was dubbed “the finest street in Europe” by Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in the 19th century. The Strand, which runs from Trafalgar Square to Temple Bar, is home to numerous shops, pubs, landmark buildings, and classic hotels.

14. Drink beer at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

This historic pub has been around since the great fire of 1666 (and there has been a pub at this location since 1538). It’s surprisingly large inside, and in the winter, fireplaces keep pub-goers warm. The wood paneling, atmospheric lack of natural lighting, and vaulted cellars make stepping inside feel like stepping back in time. Famous literary figures like Charles Dickens, R.L. Stevenson, Mark Twain, Oliver Goldsmith, and others used to frequent (and write about) this particular pub.

15. See the Churchill War Rooms

Located beneath the Treasury Building in the Whitehall area of Westminster, the Churchill War Rooms include the government’s command center during World War II and a museum about the life of Winston Churchill. The centerpiece of the whole place is an interactive table that enables visitors to access digitized material from the Churchill archives. If you are like me and a huge history nerd, this is one of the best attractions in the city. I highly, highly encourage you to visit. It’s worth the price! Admission is 29 GBP.

16. Relax in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens for some reprieve. Both parks, which are (conveniently for the visitor) right next to each other, are designated as Royal Parks of London. Hyde Park is the most famous park in London. Originally the private hunting grounds of Henry VII, it opened to the public in 1637 and is a great place to stroll, picnic, or catch one of the many events that are hosted here throughout the year. Kensington Gardens are home to the Serpentine Galleries as well as Kensington Palace. The park and the gardens cover almost 250 acres!

17. Take a Jack the Ripper tour

Jack the Ripper is one of London’s most infamous killers — and his true identity was never figured out. Every night, there are tons of people in the East End learning about Jack the Ripper on a ridiculous number of similar tours. The tour guides you through dark alleyways, stopping at historic locations connected with the infamous serial killer. Tickets cost 15 GBP .

For more information on specific cities in England, check out these guides:

• Bath Travel Guide
• Brighton Travel Guide
• Bristol Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• Manchester Travel Guide
• Oxford Travel Guide

How to Stay Safe in London

London is a safe city and the risk of violent crime here is low. Scams and pick-pocketing can occur around high-traffic areas, especially around tourist attractions like London Tower and on crowded public transit. Pick-pockets tend to work in teams, so stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach at all times just to be safe.

Solo travelers, including solo female travelers, should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Although there are no super seedy neighborhoods in London, avoid wandering around late at night alone — especially if you’ve had a pint or two. As an extra precaution, only bring the money you need when you go to the bar. Leave the rest of your cards and cash in your accommodation.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you do experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Thanks to a few high-profile terrorist attacks and riots across Europe (including London), I frequently get emails inquiring whether or not Europe is safe to visit. The short answer: yes! I wrote a whole post about why Europe is safe to visit.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in London

While the city may be expensive, its popularity means there are lots of hostels here. I’ve stayed at dozens of hostels over the years. Here are some of my favorites:

• Astor Hyde Park
• St. Christopher’s
• Clink261 Hostel
• Generator London
• Onefam Notting Hill

For more hostel suggestions be sure to check out my list of the best hostels in London.

And, to find out exactly where in the city you should stay, here’s a post that breakdowns the best neighborhoods in London.

London Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel dorms – 13-25 GBP per night
• Hostel private rooms – 50-180 GBP per night
• Budget hotels – 70-200 GBP per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 45-100 GBP per night
• Airbnb apartments – 90-150 GBP per night
• Market lunch – 10-15 EUR
• Pre-made sandwiches – 5-9 GBP
• Sit-down restaurants – 14-35 GBP
• Fine dining – 70-100 GBP
• Casual take-out places – 7-12 GBP
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) -13 GBP
• Beer – 6-8 GBP
• Glass of wine – 7-10 GBP
• Cappuccino/latte – 3-4 EUR
• Bottled water – 1-2 EUR
• Groceries for a week – 50-60 GBP

Note: A great way to save money is to get the Taste Card. This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on tons of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have. You can only live on fish and chips for so long!

London Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 60 gbp per day.

If you’re backpacking London, this budget covers a hostel dorm, taking public transit, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free activities like parks, free walking tours, and museums. If you plan on drinking, add another 10 GBP to your daily budget.

Midrange – 150 GBP Per Day

A mid-range budget covers staying in a private Airbnb or hostel room. You’ll be able to eat out for most meals, have a drink or two at the pub, take public transit and the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities such as Tower Bridge or Westminster Abbey.

Upscale – 300 GBP Per Day

On a “luxury” budget, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever activities and tours you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. the sky is the limit!

London Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world. But thanks to its free museums, cheap pubs, and numerous hostels, there are a lot of ways to cut your costs and save money here. Here are my top tips for saving money in London:

Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Visit all the free museums – Most of the museums in London are free, including the Museum of London, the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum. The National Gallery and the Tate Modern are also free and are two of my favorites.

Buy an Oyster Card – This prepaid transit card saves you about 50% on each tube, bus and tram ride. If you plan on using the tube a lot, get this card! You can get a refund for the balance left on the card at the end of your trip. If you aren’t charged international transaction fees and have a contactless credit or debit card, you can also use this for travel and the system automatically caps your travel so you never pay more than you would have if you had bought a travel card. Just make sure to tap in and out and the beginning and end of each ride to make sure you’re charged the right fare.

People watch at the markets – Sunday is market day in London, with Camden Market, the Portobello Market, the Flower Market, being some of the more popular options. People watch, snap some photos, and enjoy local London life without spending a dime.

Watch the changing of the guards – Both the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace (4 times a week) and the changing of the horse guards (daily) at Whitehall take place at 11am (10am at Whitehall on Sundays). Take in true British flare with these interesting and free ceremonies.

Just walk and explore – London is a huge city and beautiful, historic buildings abound. I once walked for four hours and barely made a dent in the route I was going to take (hence the need to get the Oyster Card.) However, once you get out of the tourist area around the Thames, you get to see London the way the locals do. You can pick up free maps of showing walking routes around the capital from any of London’s tourist information shops.

Snag last-minute theater tickets – You can get last-minute tickets to the theater from the official booth in Leicester Square. Availability varies every day, so be sure to get there early. And if you don’t want to shell out a lot of money to see The Lion King or Les Misérables , check out smaller shows and comedy nights at theaters like Leicester Square Theater, where prices start at about 17 GBP.

Skip the cabs – Taxis are incredibly expensive in London and can destroy your budget. I stayed out past when the tube closed one night and the taxi to my hotel was 31 GBP! If you start taking taxis everywhere, you’ll end up spending hundreds of dollars per day, so keep this in mind.

Master the night bus – In London, the tube closes around 12:30am (the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines do run all night on Friday and Saturday nights). To avoid taking expensive taxis, make sure you get a map of the night bus routes so you can get back to your hotel/hostel on the cheap. These buses go all over the city and into the suburbs.

Take a free walking tour – London, like most big cities in Europe, has a wide array of free walking tours given throughout the city. For a historical view of the city, try New Europe , and for off-the-beaten-path tours, try Free Tours by Foot .

Get the Taste Card – This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on thousands of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have.

Get the London Pass – If you get the London Pass, you can enjoy access to over 80 London attractions, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. A one-day pass is 89 GBP, a two-day pass is 115 GBP, and a three-day pass is 135 GBP. You can get all the way up to a ten-day pass for 199 GBP although they often have deals on giving discounts to this. This pass makes for good savings if you’re planning on doing a ton of sightseeing! Other passes available include the London City Pass from Turbopass which includes an option to add transport costs, and the London Sightseeing Pass.

How to Get Around in London

Public transportation – London has excellent public transportation and is the cheapest way to get around. A one-way fare on the tube in Zone 1 costs 6.30 GBP, but getting a Visitor Oyster Card reduces tariffs to 2.50 GBP per ride. No matter how many trips you take per day, your Oyster Card caps your travel at 7.70 GBP for travel in Zones 1 and 2. This is applicable across all public transit, including buses and trams, saving you a ton of money.

The Visitor Oyster Card costs 5 GBP, and then you choose how much credit to add to your card. Remember that you can get back any remaining balance at the end of your trip.

The bus system in London also uses the Oyster Card and costs 1.65 GBP per ride. However, a day of unlimited bus- and tram-only travel costs a maximum of 4.95 GBP. Buses do not accept cash; you must use either an Oyster card, a Travelcard, or your own contactless payment card.

The tram system in London works the same way as the bus system, with rides costing the same.

Bicycle – London’s public bike-sharing program is Santander Cycles. With 750 docking stations and 11,500 bikes, they’re available all over the city. Renting a bike costs 1.65 GBP for up to half an hour and 1.65 GBP for each additional 30 minutes, though you can always dock a bike and take out another one to restart the free timer.

Keep in mind, however, that London isn’t a super bike-friendly city, especially if you’re used to biking with cars driving on the other side of the road!

Taxis – Taxis are readily available, with prices starting at 3.80 GBP and going up around 3 GBP per mile (the tariff is more expensive at night). Given how expensive they are, I wouldn’t take one unless absolutely necessary.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in London but it still costs an arm and a leg if you use it a lot. Stick to public transportation.

Car rental – Cars can be rented for 20-30 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. However, traffic is terrible in the city so I wouldn’t rent a car here unless you are heading out on some day trips. Remember that driving is on the left and that most cars have manual transmissions. There’s also a 15 GBP daily Congestion Charge for driving in the center (7am-6pm Mon-Fri and noon-6pm Sat/Sun/public holidays) and parking is expensive too. Drivers need to be 21 to rent a car as well.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to London

London doesn’t get too cold, but it’s notoriously foggy and rainy. Summer is peak tourism season, and temperatures are the warmest during this time — but rarely are they ever above 30°C (86°F ). London is bursting at the seams during the summer, but the city has a fun, lively atmosphere. People make the most of the warm weather and there are constantly tons of events and festivals happening.

Spring (late March-June) and autumn (September-October) are also fantastic times to visit, as temperatures are mild and the city isn’t as packed.

Winter lasts from December to February, and tourism crowds thin out dramatically during this time. Temperatures can dip below 5°C (41°F), and prices are slightly lower as well. Expect grey weather and be sure to dress warmly.

Since it is frequently rainy here, pack a light rain jacket or an umbrella no matter when you visit.

London Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Fat Tire Tours – For bike tours, use this company! They have fun, interactive tours led by expert local guides. You’ll get to see all the main sights without breaking the bank!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of England.

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

There’s a lot of free information online but do you want to spend days searching for information? Prob not! That’s why guidebooks exist.

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

London Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on London travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in London

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend a Week in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

The 8 Best Hostels in London

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WELCOME TO LONDON

EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF LONDON

London is one of the most fascinating cities in the world! More than 30 million visitors coming from all over the world walk along its streets every year. There is a huge variety of places to visit and things to do in London and we want to ensure that you make the most of your time and money while you enjoy as many of them as you can.

We are here to help you have a memorable time in London and around the big city, which is why we put together the best collection of tours, trips, workshops and events to provide you with the London experience of a lifetime. Whether you would like to explore an area or an interest, our team of local experts are ready to treat you to the best London has to offer.

Start planning your trip to London right now!

Visit London like a Londoner with this list of best visiting tips and planning ideas

Experience all the unique things London has to offer

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Planning your trip to London can seem overwhelming, so we put together some easy tips to get you started. We are all about making you feel welcome, so we've got you covered.

Check out the sections below to find out everything you need to know about the most popular and not to be missed things to do in London, museums and galleries, events, best tours and trips in and around London, key travel information, as well as the top places to go to keep your little ones entertained.

There is always something going on in London, so make the most of planning ahead by checking out our London tickets and special deals, the London event and shows guide, the best shopping and dining places and even what there is to visit out of London.

So whether you are in London for one day, for the weekend or for longer, we're sure to help you make the most of your time and guarantee your stress-free holiday.

Top ten ideas for your first visit to London

Discover the best of London's amazing museums and galleries

Discover the best ideas for a great holiday in London for children

TICKETS AND DEALS 

Welcome to London offer you the opportunity to discover the best London has to offer, exactly as you want it and as you expect it, magnificent and impressive.

Castles, palaces, cathedrals, museums, galleries, parks, endless shopping areas, restaurants and bars, as well as an impressive London architecture and an incredible mixture of cultures and communities, plus the exciting history are all waiting to be explored around every corner.

Discover London on board of the best hop on hop off tour buses or Thames river cruises. Save money and time with the London Pass, skip the long queues at the busiest London attractions by reserving your tickets in advance or find the best seat for the best price in your favourite West End musical or play.

If you haven’t booked your accommodation in London yet, now is the time to do it! Just have a look at our excellent selection of centrally located London hotels.

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Best tickets for London attractions

With fantastic routes and multilingual commentary, the open top bus tour is the best way to explore and enjoy London. The tour includes walking tours, river cruises and the flexibility to hop on and off at all the popular landmarks and attractions. Get your tickets here

Save time and money while visiting London' top sights with your one ticket to London. Enjoy benefits like free entry to 80+ attractions, skip the lines, easy to use mobile app travel cash free. Used by over 3m visitors. Buy your London Pass for the duration of your choice here

Enjoy unique views of London from the top deck of the hop on hop off sightseeing cruise on the Thames. Choose from the guided tours that run daily between Westminster and Greenwich or go for the extra special Dinner or Showboat cruises. Find out more here

Explore English heritage at its finest and choose from a fantastic range of day trips to places like Stonehenge, Royal Windsor, Oxford, Bath, Stratford upon Avon, The Cotswolds. The local experts are ready to share all their exciting stories.

From theatres, concert halls, nightclubs, sports venues, cinemas and outdoor performances, when you are in London there is a guarantee that you will not run out of ideas of what you can do. Boo your best seats here

Choose a unique London experience to make your time in London memorable

London is best discovered on foot, so make the most of your time and get to know the city in the company of an expert guide. Want to take a stroll down Diagon Alley or follow the footsteps of Beatles or see the hidden Banksy spots? No problem! Check your schedule here

Best London gifts and souvenirs made in Britain

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to London – The Best Things To Do, See & Much More!

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Table of Contents

A brief history of london, london fact file, getting there & around, top 10 neighborhoods to visit in london, top 10 london attractions, 10 unique & quirky things to do in london, top 10 green spaces & secret gardens in london  , top 10 best views in london, top 10 london shopping areas & markets, 15 london travel hacks, 10 fun facts about london, top 5 day trips from london, how to stay safe in london, maximize points.

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London: the heart and soul of the UK is a vibrant and eclectic city with plenty to offer every visitor. Historically important and culturally diverse, modern-day London is a hub of famous landmarks, iconic buildings, and innovative attractions on every level.

From the hipster heart of the East End to the tree-lined avenues in the West, London is a collection of unique and individual boroughs all pulling together to create one the greatest cities on Earth.

Whether you are visiting London for business or pleasure, you will always be made to feel at home. The tourist heart of theatre land in Shaftesbury Avenue and the shopping mecca of Oxford Street are always busy, always lively, and always the place to be.

But if you want to step away from the hustle and bustle, you’re never more than a few minutes away from inner city parks and open spaces. Eat lunch with the pigeons in Trafalgar Square or have a picnic with the penguins in London Zoo; London is a city for creatures from all walks of life.

Of course, while you are here, you must visit the Queen! Buckingham Palace is one the most iconic and revered royal buildings in the world, surrounded by a raft of equally important historical buildings that make London such a charming and fascinating destination.

The history of London stretches back as far as Roman times, when Londinium was established as a civilian town founded on the point of the river. As a strategic location that provided easy access to much of Europe , London was used as a base for many early conflicts.

Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the Saxons took over the founding city, where it flourished for centuries until they fell at the hands of the Vikings.

Fast forward several hundred years, and the London that we know and love today really started to take shape during the 16th and 17th Centuries. While the city suffered dramatic and devastating losses during the plague of 1665 and the Fire Of London in 1666, it was still able to rise from the ashes to become a bigger and more eminent capital for the Britons than ever before.

During Edwardian and Victorian times, London was (as it still is) very much at the heart of British royalty and Government. With 2 World Wars destroying parts of the city, the one thing that never disappeared was the determination and community spirit of residents, or their love for the city they call home.

With so much history before us, and as a world-leading city for innovation, London really is the undisputed capital of the world.

Hot Tip: Want to fly to London using the minimum amount of cash? If so, check out our in-depth guide on the best ways to fly to London using points and miles!

Every borough of London has its own distinct character and ambiance. From the curry houses of Brick Lane to the Victorian terraces of Chelsea, London is a collection of suburban villages that together create one of the most interesting and eclectic cities in the world.

Wherever you find yourself in the city, some facts remain the same.

Here a few useful factoids about the city as a whole:

Population:  8.6 million

Area: 610 sq miles (1,584 sq km)

Official Language: English

Other languages spoken:  Throughout the city there are as many as 250 different languages spoken by residents of all the different boroughs.

Official Religion: London, as with the rest of the UK is a Christian (Church Of England)/Anglican province.

Current Prime Minister : Teresa May (Conservatives)

Time Zone:  GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) applies from late October through until March. When the clocks are adjusted after daylight saving time, the UK joins British Summer Time (BST), which is GMT + 1

Currency:  Pound Sterling – GBP – £

Country Dialing Code Prefix: +44

Emergency Numbers: Dial 999 and ask for the service your require (police, fire service, or ambulance)

Open space: 33 percent (including regional, district, and local parks)

Black Cabs: 21,000

Pubs: 7,000

Nature reserves:  144

Getting There

The city of London is easily accessible by land or air, and it is just as easy to make your way around once you get here.

Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton airports are all important transportation hubs, both for the UK/Europe and the rest of the world in general. With direct flights from over 190 destinations and over 650 flights a day from Heathrow alone, London airports are some of the busiest and best in the world.

London City Airport is just a few miles east of the commercial center of the city, and is well-placed to service the needs of business travelers, as well as tourists and holiday makers from certain countries.

When you land in the UK, all of the airports offer fast and efficient access to the West End and the city of London via road or rail.

From Heathrow

Heathrow Terminal 3 offers direct rail service to London Victoria Station. Trains run approximately every hour and the journey time is around 50 minutes. You can pick up one-way tickets from as little as £25.00, depending on the time of travel.

The Heathrow Express runs between London Paddington and all 4 Heathrow terminals. Trains run from just before 6:00am to 11:00pm (approx) and costs from £22.00 for a 15-minute journey.

If you find yourself turned around at the airport, use this guide for navigating between terminals at LHR .

You can jump on a National Express Coach from Heathrow Airport Central Bus Station for a 50-minute journey into London Victoria for as little as £5 per journey. Coaches run around the clock.

From Gatwick

Trains run from Gatwick Airport Mainline Station to London Victoria every 30 minutes and cost from around £16.00 for the 30-minute journey. Alternatively, you can travel from Gatwick to London Victoria on the dedicated Gatwick Express service from £14.00 one-way for a 30-minute journey.

You can catch a National Express Coach from Gatwick Airport Bus Station for the 90-minute journey into London Victoria for as little as £10 per trip. Coaches run around the clock.

Thameslink Trains run regular services from Luton to London Victoria throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 1 hour, and prices start at £20.00 one-way.

National Express Coaches run from Luton Airport to London Victoria regularly throughout the day, with prices from just £5 one-way for a 40-minute journey.

From Stansted

Stansted Express trains run regularly from Stansted to London Liverpool Street throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes, and prices start from £10.00 one-way.

National Express Coaches run from Stansted Airport to London Victoria regularly throughout the day, with prices from just £5 one-way for a 40 minute journey.

Getting Around

London is home the world-famous London Underground system spanning the central and greater metro area. The Underground (also known as the “Tube”) is one the most efficient public transport systems in the world.

First built in 1863 to service 6 intermediate stations between Paddington and Farringdon, the network now covers over 402km using 11 separate lines and stops at 270 stations.

The colored lines and easy-to-read maps make traveling on the Tube simple. Transport for London offers full details of timetables, ticket prices, and station information at www.tfl.gov.uk

The London bus network is equally famous the world over, with its iconic red rear-entrance Routemaster double-decker buses delivering passengers throughout the city day and night.

Buses have been used on the streets of London since 1829, and although the iconic Routemaster has been retired from service on all but one route, the London bus network still undertakes over 4.4 billion journeys every year.

The night bus is also available to carry weary partygoers back home all night long. Again, Transport for London offers full details of timetables, ticket prices, and station information at www.tfl.gov.uk.

Black cabs are a familiar sight on the streets of London, and they are an integral part of the capitol’s culture and community. Black cabs can be hailed on sight from anywhere in the city, and their drivers are legendary for having friendly personalities and extensive general knowledge.

Alternatively, you can call up an Uber and book where you want to go and when by using the app on your smartphone.

Cabs, Ubers , and other private hire vehicles will accept most forms of payment, including cash, credit, or debit card. Most taxis can also be pre-booked using any form of electronic payment.

The London Underground and London buses, however, are accessed using a pre-payment Oyster Card that can be purchased during your stay and topped up as necessary. You can also use a contactless credit or debit card on the Underground system.

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to use a card abroad that’ll earn you lots of valuable points – such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card which earns you 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3x points on dining, and 2x points on all other travel purchases . This is our #1 recommended card. But – at the very least, do make sure you’re using a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees!  

It’s true what they say: a man could truly lose himself in London. To ensure that you don’t, here are some of the most interesting, unusual, and downright delightful neighborhoods in London that you should definitely visit while you are there.

1. The West End, Soho, and Covent Garden

The West End of London is the beating, bustling heart of the capitol with something to see and do on every corner. Enjoy a little retail therapy in the famous shops and boutiques of Oxford Street, or rest a while in one of the many first-class restaurants or bars dotted throughout the area.

Step back from the main road to explore the avenues behind, and you will find yourself in the energetic and eclectic streets of Soho. Take in a show on Shaftesbury Avenue, or stop to see the famous digital advertising boards at Piccadilly Circus.

The West End also encompasses the wonderful Covent Garden with the Royal Opera House, Italianate piazza, and streets packed with designer boutiques and high-end bars and restaurants. The West End has some of the most iconic landmarks in London, and you can access the area from a choice of tube stations including Oxford Circus, Covent Garden, and Piccadilly Circus.

Where to stay:

• Raddison Blu
• St Giles Hotel

Where to eat:

• Heliot Steak House

If you like cool music, people, and fashion, Camden has you covered. You won’t find a more diverse, warm, or energetic part of London anywhere else. Camden may be famous for its younger vibe, but it’s perfect for anyone who is young at heart. Chock full uber-cool bars, restaurants, and funky little shops, Camden is at the heart of the live music scene in London —  you can catch every kind of band here.

To really enjoy Camden, take the time to wander the streets and be sure to look in all the shops (even the strange ones!), as everybody is lovely and welcoming.

Undoubtedly its most famous attraction is Camden Market.  Eclectic to the max and offering a smorgasbord of unusual gifts and funky food stalls, it even has its fair share of well-known brands like Dr Martens, Shelleys, and other stores for you to peruse and enjoy.

Camden is also about the atmosphere. You can spend a day there without spending a penny as you watch the world go by. The best tube stations to use are Chalk Farm Road or Camden Town.

• York & Albany
• Holiday Inn
• Andy’s Greek Taverna
• The Blues Kitchen
• Rossopomodoro

3. Shoreditch & Spitalfields

Things don’t get much more hip and trendy than they do in Shoreditch. Eye-wateringly cool and oozing with fantastic little pop-up bars plus some of the best cafes and restaurants in London, Shoreditch is a hit with hipsters of all ages.

The music scene in the area is on top of its game, and you can catch anything from a country music shindig to an electropop extravaganza in its East End streets.

Spitalfields Market on a Sunday offers cutting-edge fashion, interiors, and original artworks as well as food. Meanwhile, the ultra-chic and ultra-cool Hoxton is just around the corner with its great selection of bars, boutiques, and eateries.

Shoreditch has been heavily regenerated in recent years and is now an area of innovation, experimentation, and super fresh ideas. If you are looking for something different during your stay in London, you will probably find it here. The best station to use is probably Old Street, although Liverpool Street station is only 5 minutes away.

• Z Shoreditch
• The Clove Club

While not on many visitors’ itineraries, Peckham is well worth a visit as it is slowly becoming the Camden of the South. Trendy cafes, art studios, and pop-up bars are appearing everywhere…and the locals don’t seem to mind one bit. If it’s a bit of traditional London you’re after, Peckham has that too, with plenty of pie ‘n’ mash shops, traditional pubs, and the odd market here and there.

Visitors hoping to see Only Fools And Horses-related things will be disappointed, however. The show may have been set here, but it was filmed elsewhere entirely.

The secret of Peckhams’ success as an up-and-coming area is its diversity. All cultures meet here to share their combined love of the London vibe, making it an area that is packed full of music, food, fun, and parties.

Peckham is best reached by the overground rail network stopping at Peckham Rye Station.

• The Victoria Inn
• Peckham Rooms
• Best Western
• Peckham Bazaar
• Peckham Refreshment Rooms
• Begging Bowl

5. Notting Hill

World-renowned for its annual Caribbean Carnival, Notting Hill is also a mecca for those who like to browse unique boutique shops. Expect hefty price tags in some shops, though, as the area is awash with money, supermodels, film stars, and directors…such is its rating on the cool scale!

The world-famous Portobello Market is close by too, where you will find a universe of street foods, fashion, curiosities, and all sorts of things to grab your attention. Saturday is the best day to visit the market, as this is when the street stalls are out. Street food in London is second to none, and this market is the epicentre of culinary greatness in the capital.

If the weather is pleasant, take a wander from Notting Hill Gate to Portobello Road and check out the quirky backstreets and pretty front gardens of the beautiful terraced houses that date back to Victorian times. The best station for the area is Notting Hill Gate.

• The Laslett
• The Portobello Hotel
• Notting Hill Gate Hotel
• The Ledbury

6. Kensington and Chelsea

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea (to give it its proper title) is an affluent area to the west of the City of London. Bordering the Thames, the area has some lovely parks and conservation areas, as well as amazing views along the riverside.

If you like football, world-famous Chelsea FC play home games here in their enormous stadium, complete with its own 5-star hotel.

For everyone else, there are a myriad of designer shops, boutiques, super car showrooms, and beautiful people to be seen. Kensington is close enough to Harrods  (with over 330 departments and 1 million sq ft of shopping!) to be worth a visit, if only to see what being a millionaire could get you.

Dining in the area is a life-defining moment (as well as a wallet-busting one), but treat yourself at least once and you won’t forget it! The best tube stations are West Brompton or Fulham Broadway for Chelsea and High Street Kensington for Kensington.

• The Bentley
• The Five Fields
• Launceston Place

There’s a reason Mayfair is the most expensive property on the Monopoly board. Take a wander around this exclusive area and you’ll soon see why. Mayfair contains some of the most expensive properties in London, usually with some of the most expensive cars parked out front.

Many of the world’s embassies are in Mayfair, and it can be a relaxing walk to tour the streets looking at the grand houses, hidden green spaces, and tranquil squares tucked away behind them. Hyde Park also borders the beautiful streets of Mayfair and is a stunning spot all year round.

Other local attractions include the Royal Academy of Arts and super-posh shopping strip Regents Street. As you might expect, food and drink are world-class in Mayfair, and your taste buds will thank you forever if you dine here. The best tube station to use for the area is Bond Street Station, just a short walk away.

• Four Seasons
• The Chesterfield
• Ormer Mayfair
• Le Gavroche

Colourful, lively, and vibrant are just some ways to describe Brixton. Here you’ll find the always-excellent market with its street foods and amazing stalls, plus a myriad of incredible smells coming out of the various Caribbean cafes and other food outlets. You’ll never not hear music coming from somewhere in Brixton, usually accompanied by laughter as Brixton residents are some of the friendliest people in London.

For gig lovers, there’s the famous Brixton Academy , which always has something cool going on, though you’ll have to book (usually very far) in advance. It’s worth just coming down for lunch if you have a busy day elsewhere, as this really is London’s finest kitchen!

When your belly is full, walk off those calories with a wander through the area and enjoy the amazing murals and artwork painted throughout the neighborhood. The nearest tube for Brixton is, usefully, Brixton, which sits at the end of the Victoria Line.

• The Half Moon
• Premier Inn
• Gateway Hotel
• Casa Morita

9. Greenwich

Britain invented time (sort of), and Greenwich is the place you can stand with one foot in the Eastern Hemisphere and one in the Western. It’s also the place to visit Greenwich Naval College and learn about Britain’s naval history, from it’s earliest beginnings to the modern day.

Be sure to see the Cutty Sark too. This beautiful tea clipper was once the fastest ship in the world, and she’s every bit as grand as you would expect her to be. Take a walk through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel, which runs underneath the Thames to Island Gardens on the North Shore…then take the DLR back if you don’t fancy the walk again.

Greenwich also has lots of shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants, as well as a theatre. Being a historic river town, it’s also handy for grabbing one of the many sightseeing boats that head upstream to Westminster and beyond.

The best station for Greenwich is Cutty Sark on the Docklands Light Railway line.

• The Clarendon Hotel
• Old Brewery
• Elm Street Oyster House

10. Hampstead

Hampstead is a village within a town within a city. It’s a peaceful place surrounded by protected parkland, with a wonderful view down onto the London skyline below.

Hampstead Heath is the city’s largest ancient wetland and park. Take a walk through picturesque Swiss Cottage, which looks exactly as it should given the name.

Stop at any number of lovely almost-countryside pubs and eateries, or check out some of the local museums. Despite feeling like you’re in the depths of the English countryside, excellent transport links will whisk you back into the heart of London within minutes.

The best tube stations to use for the area are Swiss Cottage, Belsize Park, and Hampstead.

• Ginger & White

Hot Tip: There are lots of different hotel options in London including those you can book with points and boutique hotels .

London has more places to see and things to do than you could ever manage in just 1 visit. With this in mind, here are 10 of the top London attractions that you definitely should try to see on your trip.

Some of these attractions have specialized guided tours too so not only do you get to see the best of London, but you get a guide to tell you all the ins-and-outs along the way!

1. The Tower of London & Tower Bridge

The Tower of London is home to the Crown Jewels and is at the heart of much of Britain’s history. Guided tours start from £14.00 per person, and the Tower and visitor center is open from 9:00am–4:30pm almost all year round.

From the Tower you can see what is arguably the most famous bridge in the world. Opened in 1894, Tower Bridge is particularly impressive when it opens to let river traffic pass below. London Bridge walkways and visitor center are open daily and cost £8.70 per person. The nearest Tube station for both attractions is Tower Hill.

2. Buckingham Palace & the Changing of the Guard

Buckingham Palace is the London home of the British monarchy and a much loved tourist attraction. Visitors can tour the famous State Rooms from July to September, and the Changing of the Guard can be seen from 11:00-11:45am on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday from January to March, weather permitting.

For guided tours you can expect to pay £24 per adult (2018 prices), and the nearest tube stations are Victoria, St James Park, and Green Park.

3. The British Museum

Opened in 1753, the British Museum houses some of the world’s greatest treasures from throughout history. You can easily spend the whole day wandering the halls and still not see everything!

The 2001 renovation of the Great Court is also worth a visit. The museum is open daily and is totally free of charge, as are all museums in London. The nearest Tube station is Tottenham Court Road, about 500 meters away.

4. Big Ben & Parliament

The Palace of Westminster , which houses Parliament, was opened in its current form in 1870, although a palace has existed on the site since 1060. St Stephen’s Tower, home to the bell commonly known as Big Ben, sits at the eastern end of the palace. Various tours of the sprawling palace are available at various prices. The nearest tube station is Westminster.

5. Westminster Abbey

Opened in 1090, Westminster Abbey has hosted many royal weddings and funerals, so there are many Kings and Queens buried within the Abbey grounds. It is one of the most photogenic sites in London and sits right next to Westminster Palace. Open all year round, tickets cost £22 per adult (2018 prices). The nearest tube station is Westminster, which is a modern marvel in its own right.

6. The London Eye

For the best views of central London, take a trip on the London Eye . Opened in 2000, the giant ferris wheel will take you on a birds-eye tour of Westminster and the Thames over the course of 30 minutes. Tickets start at £25 and include entry into the 4D Cinema Experience.

The nearest tube station is Waterloo, although getting off at Westminster and walking over Westminster Bridge adds to the fun and affords some great views of the city too.

7. The Victoria & Albert Museum

Opened in 1852, the V&A Museum is one of the world’s largest (and best) collections of art, design pieces, and artifacts. It’s always worth checking out the website, as exhibitions and attractions change throughout the year. The museum is open daily and entry is free.

The nearest tube station is South Kensington, where the museum is just a short walk from the station through tree-lined avenues.

8. St Paul’s Cathedral

The original Cathedral was opened in 1300, although the one standing today was rebuilt and reopened in 1697. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world and has survived fires, plagues, and wars unscathed.

Visitors can tour this amazing feat of engineering, built by Sir Christopher Wren, and experience the delightful Whispering Gallery every day. Tickets start at £16 per adult (2018 prices), and the nearest tube station is St Paul’s.

9. Tate Britain & Tate Modern

The Tate Britain opened in 1897 and today houses a massive collection of British art dating back to Tudor times, including most of the works by Turner. Entry is free and the museum is open daily year-round. The nearest tube stations are Pimlico or Westminster.

The Tate Modern was opened by Queen Elizabeth in 2000. It houses the world’s largest collection of modern and contemporary art and always has special exhibitions going on. Entry is free and the gallery is open daily year-round. The nearest station is Blackfriars.

10. The London Dungeons

Opened in 1974, this horror- and history-themed attraction houses some gruesome and fun exhibits chronicling London’s sometimes-bloody past. Genuinely fun for all the family, it’s a must-see when visiting the capitol.

Tickets start at £21 per adult (2018 prices) and vary greatly depending on how much horror you can handle! The London Dungeons are open daily all year round. The nearest tube station is Waterloo.

Read our guide on the best museums in London for other attractions we recommend visiting.

Hot Tip: Don’t miss out on earning valuable points and miles when you’re abroad. If you don’t have long until your departure, you can always sign up for an instant approval credit card which will give you the card numbers instantly!

If you like your sightseeing to be a little bit off the beaten track, London has plenty of unique and unusual sights for you to see.

1. Dennis Severs House

The house is a time capsule of what a silk-weavers house would have looked like in the 18th century. Put together over many years, Dennis Severs House is a fascinating and detailed museum of early London life down to the finest detail. If you like historical recreations, the house is well worth a visit.

Open most days of the week, tickets start at £15 per adult. The house is on Folgate Street and the nearest tube is Liverpool Street or Shoreditch.

2. Clowns Gallery-Museum London

Located in a former church, the Clowns Gallery-Museum is all about everything to do with clowns, from galleries of clown faces where no 2 faces are like, to clown stained glass windows, and props and gags from throughout the ages. Rumor has it the best part of the exhibition is hidden in the basement, if you dare!

Open on the first Friday of every month, entry is free and the nearest station is Dalston Junction on the Overground.

3. Graffiti & Street Art Tour

If street art is your bag and Banksy is your boy, then this fascinating Graffiti and Street Art guided walking tour should be right up your alley. Kicking off in Shoreditch near Liverpool Street Station, this tour takes you to see some incredible pieces of graffiti and street art, with explanations and interesting facts thrown in along the way.

These tours take you deep into the heart of London, and even into areas that some Londoners may not know exist! The tour will take about 3 hours and cost you £15 per adult.

4. Jack the Ripper Tour of Whitechapel

Grizzly and gruesome, the Jack the Ripper Tour is dedicated to one of the world’s most famous serial killers. Taking you right into the heart of the East End where this prolific British murderer plied his trade, these tours are fascinating and frightening all at the same time. You’ll learn about the Ripper’s victims, his possible motives, and theories on who he was.

The tours meet every night at 7:00pm at Aldgate East tube station and cost £10 per person (2018 prices).

5. Hackney City Farm

An oasis of calm in the middle of the East End, Hackney City Farm is home to a wide variety of rescued and abandoned animals. There are always things going on at the Farm, from art classes to conservation programs and much more. If you have little explorers with you, it is the perfect place for them to get involved and learn about caring for animals and conservation on a wider scale.

Open every day except Mondays, entry is free but they do welcome donations. Hoxton and Cambridge Heath are the nearest tube stations.

6. Kayak on the Thames

Seeing London from the river is a great way to enjoy the many different sites the city has to offer. Take the plunge and kayak along the River Thames on one of many routes past Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and Little Venice. You can even do it at night.

These guided tours are safe and undertaken by a qualified instructor. Prices vary; for example, the Big Ben and Back tour starts at £39. Based near Battersea Bridge, the nearest station for the tours is Imperial Wharf on the Overground network.

7. Chislehurst Caves

Many visitors (and some Londoners too) don’t know that London actually has its very own underground cave network. Chislehurst Caves is a 22-mile long cave system that can be fully explored via a guided tour.

From London Bridge station, take the train to Chislehurst and the caves are just a short walk away. Open Wednesday to Sunday and every day during the school holidays, tours cost £6 per adult (2018 prices) and last about an hour. No booking required.

8. Stay Overnight in London Zoo

Want to see what goes on at London Zoo when everybody goes home? Now you can stay the night in a lodge and get an exclusive after-hours tour of the zoo, including dinner, breakfast, and 2 days of zoo entry. The lodges offer first class accommodation, and you will get the opportunity to see what really goes on behind the scenes at a world-class zoo and conservation center.

A stay at the Gir Lion Lodges at London Zoo costs from around £438 per lodge, based on 2 adults sharing and includes a host of extras. The nearest tube stations are Camden Town and Regents Park.

9. Lee Valley River Park

If you are feeling the need for an adrenaline rush, why not have a go at white water rafting on the very same course that was used for the London 2012 Olympics? Set within the glorious Lee Valley River Park on the northern edges of London, this massive venue hosts a myriad of outdoor activities, sporting events, and an impressive bar and restaurant to boot.

Tickets start at £50 per person (2018 prices) and are for those over 14 only. The park is open all day, every day. The nearest train station is Waltham Cross station, a 10-minute walk from the park.

10. Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Glide around London on your very own vintage Routemaster double-decker red bus, while sipping tea and eating cakes as you take in the sights and sounds of the city from your top deck vantage point. You can choose from an Afternoon Tea Bus Tour or a Gin and Jam Tour. Prices start at £45 per adult (2018 prices). The tours depart from various locations (see website for details) and are available year-round.

London may be a densely populated city, but you are never more than a few minutes away from hidden gardens, open spaces, or a tranquil oasis perfect for a picnic lunch or a few minutes meditation.

Enjoy any one of these below, or maybe discover your own favorite space as you step away from the major tourist hotspots and explore the city at your own pace.

1. St Dunstan in the East

A stunning reminder of the strength of the city, St Dunstan in the East is the bombed out shell of this 900-year-old church. Now, it’s covered with trees, ivy, and has wall climbing flowers winding through its once grand arches. Tucked away behind the city, this hidden garden is a poignant testament to the destruction the city suffered at the hands of the Luftwaffe.

The garden is open from 8:00am-4:00pm daily, and the nearest tube station is Cannon Street.

2. Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park

Find your inner Zen in the Kyoto Gardens . The gardens were donated by the Chamber of Commerce of Kyoto in recognition of the Japan Festival held in London in 1992. This peaceful and serene “park within a park” is one of London’s most well known and frequented “secret” gardens.

The park is open daily from 7:30am until 30 minutes before dusk, and the nearest tube stations are Kensington High Street or Notting Hill Gate.

3. Culpeper Community Garden

Described as a “green oasis in the midst of streets, estates, and inner city bustle” the Culpeper Community Garden is a tranquil retreat for all to enjoy. Used as both a public park and an environmental community project, Culpepper Community Garden is managed by the people, for the people.

A true example of the community spirit of London, the park is open every day from 8:00am until 7:00pm. The nearest tube station is Angel.

4. Hampstead Hill Garden & Pergola

With its exotic flowers, overgrown vines, and faded grandeur, the Hampstead Pergola is both eerie and inspirational in equal parts. Formerly the home of Lord Leverhulme, the stunning raised gardens and the pergola itself are a delightful surprise set in the middle of Hampstead Heath.

The park is open daily from 8:45am until approximately 30 minutes before dusk, and the gardens are just a short walk from either Hampstead or Belsize Park stations.

5. Japanese Roof Garden

For some instant tranquility in the heart of the city, the Japanese-inspired roof garden at SOAS, University of London, provides a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of busy London streets. Perfect for a spot of relaxation and meditation, the garden is accessed via the first floor of the Brunei Gallery.

The gardens are usually open 10:30am-5:00pm Tuesday to Saturday, and the nearest tube station is High Street Kensington.

6. Richmond Park

The largest of the 8 Royal Parks in London and home to over 650 deer, Richmond Park is a beautiful and vast open space in an upmarket area of West London. Popular with cyclists, runners, dog walkers, and those looking to enjoy the splendor of it all, Richmond Park is a perfect example of the quintessential English parkland.

The park is open from 7:30am until dusk all year round, and the nearest station is Richmond.

7. Epping Forest

Forging a link between London and rural Essex, Epping Forest includes 2,400 hectares of forest and open spaces offering a variety of activities all year round. You can take a walk, try cycling, go fishing, visit Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, and explore the remains of 2 large Iron Age forts tucked within the forest grounds.

The park is open all day everyday, but the visitor centers and conservation centers are open from 8:00am-3:30pm daily. The nearest station is Epping Forest.

8. Walthamstow Wetlands

A recent addition to London’s vast selection of open spaces, the Walthamstow Wetlands conservation center just opened in 2017. Situated just 15 minutes from central London, the site offers 13 miles of footpaths and cycle tracks between 10 reservoirs, 8 islands, and London’s largest heronry. Despite being so close to the city, it has the feel of a rural English idyll…just smack dab in the middle of London.

The Wetlands are open to the public daily from dawn to dusk, and the nearest tube station is Walthamstow.

9. Hyde Park

Perhaps the most highly regarded of all of London’s parks and open spaces, Hyde Park is set right in the heart of the West End and is perfect for boating, tennis, horse riding, jogging, cycling, or just enjoying the beauty of it all. The park famously hosts festivals and live music year-round and is open daily from 5:00am until midnight.

The nearest stations are Marble Arch, Knightsbridge, or Green Park, depending on which of the park’s many entrances you’re heading for.

10. Regent’s Park

Still resplendent with all of its Victorian grandeur, Regent’s Park is the largest grass area for sports in Central London. There is plenty to do and see there, including: the famous Open Air Theatre, the extensive London Zoo, beautiful gardens, and even a boating lake. Opened to the public in 1835, it remains a perfect example of London’s love of green spaces and gardens.

Open daily from 5:00am until dusk. The nearest tube station is Regent’s Park.

The London skyline is one the most famous in the world. With iconic modern architecture, industrial skyscrapers and historical spires all living comfortably together, London offers a whole world of opportunities above ground level.

If you are looking for the very best views of London, the sky is literally the limit. Try out some of these ideas for breathtaking vistas and unique aerial experiences.

1. The Sky Garden

Situated at 20 Fenchurch Street, The Sky Garden offers superb views across the city and beyond. The enlarged glass dome offers 3 stories of landscaped public gardens, observation decks, and an open-air terrace. Yes, gardens on top of a building — how amazing! You can book to eat and enjoy the views, or try your luck and turn up as a walk-in.

Open 10:00am-6:00pm Monday through Friday, and 11:00am-9:00pm on weekends. Bookings for free visits are released every Monday, and the nearest tube station is Monument.

2. One New Change

As a recently constructed retail development in the heart of the city, The Roof Terrace at One New Change overlooks St Paul’s Cathedral and offers further views out over the city. You can visit the roof for free from 6:00am-midnight every day, or enjoy cocktails and tapas in Madison restaurant and bar. You can even book a yoga class on the roof terrace, and different events are held all year round. The nearest tube station is St Paul’s.

3. The Monument

The Monument was built in 1677 to commemorate the Great Fire of London and celebrate the rebuilding of the city. It’s in an iconic piece of British architecture and provides outstanding views of London in all directions from a height of about 160 feet. Due to the limited space in the viewing gallery, a maximum of 33 people are allowed inside at any one time.

Tickets cost £4.50 per adult, and the gallery is open from 9:30am-5:30pm every day, except for the December 25-26. The nearest tube stop is Monument.

4. Primrose Hill

First appropriated by Henry VIII to extend parkland available to the poor for open-air recreation, Primrose Hill is still a beautiful spot for everyone. With rolling hills and vast open spaces, it is situated 63 meters above sea level and offers views as far away as Hampstead and beyond.

The park opens at 5:00am and closing times vary throughout the year. The nearest tube stations are Chalk Farm and Swiss Cottage.

5. The Shard

The building that revolutionized the London skyline, The Shard is Western Europe’s tallest building. This whopping 95-story skyscraper is one of the most recognized landmarks in London, and as you would imagine, the views from the Shard are pretty spectacular.

Offering panoramic views stretching for up to 40 miles in every direction, you can enjoy your visit with tickets starting from £29.00 per adult, or an additional £15 for a 45-minute guided tour. The Shard is open daily from 10:00am and closing times changes throughout the year. The nearest tube station is London Bridge.

6. Tower 42

Built on the site of the former NatWest Tower, Tower 42 is the third tallest skyscraper in the City of London. At the top and 600 feet above pavement level sits Vertigo 42, a champagne bar that offers some of the finest views out across the city.

You can book to enjoy champagne and tapas Monday to Saturday from noon until 2:15pm for lunch, and 5:00pm to 9:30pm for dinner. The restaurant is open until 11:00pm, and the nearest tube stations are Bank or Liverpool Street.

7. Heron Tower

Situated at 110 Bishopsgate, Heron Tower is a 230-meter skyscraper in the heart of the city. At the top are 2 highly-regarded eateries that both offer outstanding views of the city.

The Duck and Waffle is an unusual take on traditional British food and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Sushi Samba offers Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine from noon until 1:00am. The nearest tube station is Liverpool Street, but Heron Tower is also accessible from Bank.

8. Oxo Tower

You can enjoy fabulous views across the river from the 8th floor of the Oxo Tower if you book a table in the rather swanky Harvey Nichols Restaurant, Brasserie or Bar . The lower floors offer shops and galleries for you to explore, and the Tower is just a short walk from Southwark or Blackfriars tube stations. The restaurant is open from noon to 11:00pm daily.

9. St Paul’s Cathedral

Visiting the inside of the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral is a magical experience. Visitors can climb 259 steps up the dome to find The Whispering Gallery, which runs around the interior of the Dome, or go even higher to enjoy some of the most spectacular views over London from the Stone and Golden Galleries.

Admission costs £18 per adult and the Cathedral is open to the public from 8:30am-4:30pm Monday to Saturday. The nearest tube station is St Paul’s.

10. Emirates Air Line

The Emirates Air Line is a cable car link that will transport you across the River Thames offering exciting views over the capitol. If you’re feeling adventurous, you will enjoy this opportunity to see some of London’s most iconic spots from the air.

Tickets cost £10.50 per adult and the attraction is open from 7:00am-11:00pm in summer, and closes at 9:00pm in winter. The nearest tube station is Emirates Royal Docks on the DLR line.

From the designer boutiques of Bond Street to the cool and quirky stalls of Camden, London truly is a shopping mecca to suit all budgets.

Whether you are looking for designer handbag or antique table, you won’t struggle to find what you seek in London. Great shops, malls, and markets can be found throughout the city, but here are some of the best.

Camden Market

As eclectic as they come, Camden Market is home to secondhand clothing, furniture, and antique stalls, as well as fabulously funky food stalls, bars, and restaurants. The market is open from 10:00am daily and is just a 5-minute walk from either Camden Town or Chalk Farm stations.

Portobello Road Market

Portobello Road Market is the world’s largest antiques market, and it regularly features over 1,000 dealers selling every kind of antique and collectible you could ever imagine. From tiny trinkets to one-of-a-kind furnishings, Portobello Road Market has something for everyone. The Market is open every day except Sunday. Times vary and every day is dedicated to different types of stalls.

Borough Market

Borough Market is one of Britain’s finest food markets, offering fresh meat, fruit, vegetables, and delicacies from every corner of the earth. The market is held every day from 10:00am until 5:00pm (6:00pm on Fridays), although it only offers limited stalls on Mondays and Tuesdays. The nearest tube station is London Bridge Station.

Old Spitalfields Market

More of a collection of markets than just a single one, The Spitalfields Markets offer cutting-edge fashion and interiors, original artworks, and secondhand clothes and goods. There are plenty of great bars and places to eat too, so you can make a real day of your visit.

The covered Victorian hall markets are open from 10:00am-8:00pm daily, while the outside traders are there from 10:00am-5:00pm. The nearest station is Liverpool Street.

Covent Garden

Known for its beautiful architecture, open markets, and designer shops, Covent Garden is the perfect place for a bit of retail therapy. You can explore the shops in and around the Italian-style piazza, as well as the pedestrian streets surrounding it.

Most shops are open from 10:00am-7:00pm 6 days a week, and 11:00am-4:00pm on Sundays. The nearest tube station is Covent Garden.

Oxford Street

One of the most famous shopping destinations in Europe, Oxford Street offers plenty of famous brand shops and restaurants for you to enjoy. With flagship stores on almost every corner, you will not find a better selection of High Street goods anywhere in the UK. Most shops are open from 9:30am-9:30pm Monday to Saturday, and 11:30am-6:00pm on Sundays.

Carnaby Street

Once the epicenter of the swinging 60s, modern-day Carnaby Street still has plenty to offer with over 100 shops and 60 different places to eat and drink. Most shops are open from 10:00am-7:00pm Monday to Saturday, and 12:00pm-6:00pm on Sunday. The nearest tube is Oxford Circus.

The streets of Soho are jam-packed with independent fashion outlets, record stores, and vintage boutiques. Where quirky meets classy, Soho offers plenty of unusual shops, great restaurants, and late night bars and clubs.

Opening hours will vary depending on the shops you’re planning to visit, with many clubs and bars staying open until the early morning hours. The nearest tube stations are Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus.

Bond Street

Home to some of the most prestigious shops in the West End, Bond Street boasts one of the biggest and best concentrations of designer shops in the world. If your wallet is up to the task, most shops are open 9:30am-9:30pm Monday to Saturday, and 11:30am-6:00pm on Sundays. The nearest tube station is Bond Street.

A trip to London is a wonderful experience, but it can also be an expensive one. You can help to keeps costs down however, by learning a few simple budget-busting tricks from the locals. Here are just a few to get you started:

1. Skip the Tour Bus

Save money on expensive bus tours by purchasing an Oyster Card instead. At no more than £4.40 a day for unlimited bus travel, you can save yourself a fortune. Routes 11 and 453 are considered the best, as they pass some of the most iconic sites in London and still operate using iconic red Routemaster double deckers.

2. Clip at a Pace Along the Thames

Don’t waste money on expensive river boat cruises, clip along instead!  The Thames Clipper is a regular boat service that travels from Putney to Greenwich, taking in many of the city’s prime locations along the way for as little as £4 for a single ride.

3. Travel Outside of Peak

Unless you need to commute for business, travel outside the peak hours of 6:30am-9:30am and 4:00pm-7:00pm Monday to Friday. Transport systems are very busy and fares are more expensive at these times of day, so try to avoid them when possible.

4. Avoid the Stairs

The London Underground is just that, built a long way under the ground. When it’s busy and escalators are packed, don’t be tempted to take the stairs! Congested stations clear quickly enough, and you would be better waiting your turn than collapsing with exhaustion after climbing hundreds of steps to street level. Convent Garden and Russell Square stations are the worst stair offenders.

5. Know Your Exits

The London Underground platforms can get very busy. Native Londoners save time and energy by getting to know where to stand to quickly board and alight from their regular journeys. If you are a visitor, keep your eye out for groups of Londoners hovered around a space on the platform; this is where the doors will be when the train pulls into the station.

6. Skip the Express Trains

Most London airports offer a dedicated “Express” service into the city. The only thing that is different about them from regular public transport is the price! For example, the Heathrow Express charges £34 to take you into central London, but you could actually jump on the Piccadilly Line for less than a fiver…the journey takes about the same amount of time.

7. Group Buying Websites

The internet has given us many great things, and group buying sites are one of its greatest blessings. Sign up to find excellent discounts for eating out and entertaining yourself in the capitol. Restaurants, theaters, attractions, and many more companies often offer discounts via Wowcher , Groupon , and many more.

8. Cheap Nights Out

Nights out in London can be pricey. Drinks, cabs, and entrance fees can quickly add up. If you are feeling cheeky enough, take some pictures of yourselves, tag your preferred venue on Instagram or Twitter, and see if the promoters will offer you a free VIP table or discounted entrance. It might not work, but it is certainly worth a try!

9. Get Cultured for Free

London may have a reputation for being expensive, but there is actually quite a lot to see and do for free. Like most museums in the UK, the Natural History Museum , the British Museum , the National Gallery , and the Tate Modern are all free to enter. Great for your cultural growth, and somewhere warm to hide from the rain!

10. Walk, Don’t Tube

The tube is worth experiencing and some fares aren’t particularly expensive, but don’t be a slave to it. In Central London it can be just as quick to walk between Tube stations, with the average journey of 3 stops or under being equivalent to a 20-minute walk at most. Walking around helps you to save money and take in more of great sights as well.

11. Stay Outside of Zones 1-3

Central London is easily accessible from all zones. To save money, don’t pay central London hotel prices; find somewhere outside of Zone 3 instead. AirBnB  properties and hotel prices are always much, much cheaper outside of the central zones.

12. Free Personal Shopping

If London fashion has got you feeling frumpy, Top Shop at Knightsbridge and London Oxford Circus has your back! Book a personal shopping appointment and you can select anything from a 30-minute “perfect jeans” session to a complete 120-minute “wardrobe overhaul.” Fabulous, darling!

13. Snap up Bargain Theater Tickets

Theater tickets can be very expensive in London, but if you’re smart you can see the best shows for a fraction of the full ticket prices. It you are between 16-25, you may be lucky enough to pick up one of the limited numbers of £5 tickets available at Cambridge Theatre (see website for details). Alternatively, matinee tickets are often much cheaper than evening performances and can be picked up at the box office of many of the theaters in town.

14. Find Free Entertainment on the South Bank

The South Bank stretches 2 square miles along the southern bank of the Thames. Every day there is a wide variety of free entertainment to be found in and around the Southbank Centre . Free lunchtime concerts at the Royal Albert Hall , free poetry, festivals, street entertainers, and lots more can be found here, along with a brilliant atmosphere and fabulous views of the river.

15. Charlotte Street: One of London’s Best Kept Secrets

Charlotte Street is a hidden gem in the heart of London. In the swanky sounding area of Fitzrovia, you will find a wealth of restaurants, shops, and bars all tucked away from the main tourist areas. Undiscovered by many visitors, the area has a great vibe and is full of Londoners enjoying their hometown.

London is full of unique and often surprising secrets. As a city so rich in history, there are myths and urban legends that have lived on for centuries…and many of them are actual true stories handed down over the years. Here are some of our favorites.

1. Big Ben Is Just a Bell

As one of the most iconic landmarks in London, you may be surprised to hear that “Big Ben” is actually just a big bell. The clock face and the tower it is housed in was actually just called the Clock Tower until the structure was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to celebrate the Queen’s jubilee.

2. Great Ormond Street Owns Peter Pan

The Great Ormond Street Hospital actually owns the copyright to Peter Pan and receives royalties from all associated works and performances. Author J.M. Barrie gifted the rights to this children’s hospital in 1929, despite having no children of his own.

3. The City Has Plenty of Streets, But No Roads

No, that’s not a riddle. Up until as recently as 1994 there were no streets named “Road” in the City of London, and today there is still only 1: Goswell Road. There are plenty of “Lanes,” “Streets,” and “Ways”…but public paths weren’t generally referred to as roads until the 16th century.

4. Hidden Histories

Cleopatra’s Needle on the Embankment houses a time capsule hidden underneath the monument. It is said to contain a capsule from 1878 with cigars, a razor, a portrait of Queen Victoria, copies of 10 daily newspapers, and pictures of 12 “English beauties of the day.”

5. Abandoned Underground

Abandoned tube stations are the stuff of legends, making great film sets and venues for private parties. These include The Strand, Down Street, Brompton Road, and Mark Lane, which is now a pub.

6. Get the Knowledge

If you want to become a Black Cab driver in London you need to successfully master “The Knowledge.” To complete the test you must learn all 320 basic routes, all 25,000 streets, and about 20,000 landmarks and places of interest.

7. St Paul’s and the Pineapples

St Paul’s Cathedral nearly had a couple of stone pineapples placed on the top of the dome. Sir Christopher Wren saw them as “a symbol of peace, prosperity, and hospitality,” and he wanted them to be seen by the whole of London.

8. Pet Cemetery

Hyde Park is home to a hidden pet cemetery that is rarely open to the public. Dating back to the 1880s, the cemetery contains the remains of over 300 animals marked in graves with teeny tiny headstones. At certain times of the year, you can book a guided tour to visit this dark part of the park.

9. Keep Well in Westminster

Feeling a bit under the weather? You should probably give The Houses of Parliament a miss then. Ancient law decrees it illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament. This is thought to be because anyone who dies in a Royal Palace is eligible for a state funeral.

10. Back to Bedlam

The Bedlam asylum was one of the most popular tourist attractions of 18th century London. Visitors paid a penny to watch suffering, and entry was free on Tuesdays. Thankfully, there are now many more wonderful and politically correct things to see in the glorious city that is London.

If you’ve got a bit of extra time and fancy seeing a bit more of the country, here are 5 destinations you should consider within easy reach of London.

Bath is a historical city in the southwest of England. Famous for its stunning 18th-century architecture and natural hot springs, the city is surrounded by rolling English countryside. Visit the Roman baths, the majestic medieval abbey, or just spend time strolling through this beautiful British city. Perfect for a day away from London, you can reach the city of Bath by road or rail.

Trains run from London Paddington into Bath Spa station daily, and an off-peak adult ticket will cost you from £35.00 one-way for the 2-hour journey.

Stratford Upon Avon

As the birthplace of Shakespeare, Stratford Upon Avon is a world-famous market town in the county of Warwickshire. Take in a play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, take a barge along the Stratford Canal, or just spend your time enjoying the stunning medieval architecture that can be found throughout the town during your visit. Stratford Upon Avon can be reached by rail or road.

Trains to Stratford Upon Avon run from London Marylebone Station and the journey takes approximately 2 hours 10 minutes. Prices start from £30.00 for an off-peak adult single ticket.

The university town of Oxford is famous for its 38 colleges, medieval architecture, students on bicycles, and plenty of stunning buildings and dreaming spires. Modern-day Oxford still centers around university life and is truly a picture-perfect town to visit. You can reach Oxford by rail or road, and the town is the gateway to the glorious Cotswolds if you want to travel further.

Trains run from London Marylebone to Oxford daily, and you can pick up an off-peak adult single ticket for as little as £25.00. The journey time is just over 1 hour 30 minutes.

Sometimes referred to as “London On Sea,” Brighton is a lively, energetic, and eclectic seaside town in East Sussex. With beautiful beaches when the sun is shining and plenty of attractions to see if it’s not, Brighton makes for a great getaway from the city. Close enough to get there and back in a day, Brighton is easily reached by rail or road.

Trains run from with London Victoria or London Bridge stations and reach Brighton in just over an hour. Off-peak tickets cost as little £18.00 for a one-way journey.

Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour

Opened in 2012, the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour is a very popular tourist attraction based a short distance outside London. It can get very busy, and you will need to book well in advance…but once there you get to enjoy a fun-packed day exploring the set and scenery of the world-famous Harry Potter films.

Although the studio is only located about 20 miles from Central London, there is no direct rail route or nearby station. You can take the train from London Euston to Watford for around £23.00 one-way, and catch a shuttle bus from Watford Station to the attraction. Alternatively, you can book a pre-paid coach excursion from various pickup points around the city.

For the post part, transport networks in the UK are very good. With a bit of pre-planning, you should be able to make your way all around the country using public transportation without it costing you a fortune.

Booking tickets in advance and not traveling at peak times will help reduce ticket prices and guarantee you seats. If you want to plan your journey before you visit, The Train Line , National Express Coaches , and Transport For London all offer timetables, fares, and plenty of useful advice on how best to use their services.

Overall, London is a very fun, safe, and vibrant city to visit. But like all big cities, there are incidences of crime — and knowing how to protect yourself or who to call if the worst should happen is always important when visiting somewhere new.

Emergency Contacts in the UK

• If you are the victim of a crime, are unwell, or need urgent assistance with a fire, call 999 or 112 to contact the police, ambulance, or fire department.
• For non-urgent crimes or advice on whether you need to contact emergency services, you can dial 101 and an advisor will be able to assist you.
• Information about any major incidents in the capitol will be found on the Met Police website , or follow them on Facebook or Twitter .

If you need travel information, updates of disrupted or canceled services can be found on the Transport for London website.

Keep Safe In The City

Common sense and an awareness of what is going on around you are always important in big crowds of people or densely populated areas.

To ensure you are not an easy target for pickpockets or would-be thieves, follow these simple rules:

• Keep mobile phones, wallets , and purses safely tucked away, and never leave them in plain sight.
• Keep your handbags or briefcases tucked away under your chair in bars and restaurants, or use a table clip if the venue provides one.
• Never accept drinks from strangers — incidences of “spiking” are relatively low in the city, but it’s always best to be cautious

Visiting Public Places

• Never leave your bags unattended. Apart from the potential risk of theft, unattended items often lead to unnecessary security alerts.
• Always carry your wallet or purse close to you, and never carry too much cash around. Keep bags close to you in busy areas, and carry your backpack forward facing on your chest.
• Mobile phones and other devices are incredibly tempting to thieves. Ensure that you always keep yours out of sight when not in use.
• Before you travel, make a note of your electronic serial numbers (ESNs).
• If you do lose your valuables, dial 101 for the nearest police station. You will need to make a full report with them as soon as possible. If you lose your card or it’s stolen and you don’t have a backup, consider an instant approval credit card that’ll show you your numbers and card details instantly online. That’ll allow you to make online purchases (travel purchases such as train/airline/hotel tickets etc) without waiting for the card to come.
• If you are using an ATM, be sure that there is nobody looking over your shoulder as you enter your PIN.

At Your Hotel

• Always keep your passports and other valuables in a locked room safe if one is available.
• Keep a note of the address of your hotel and contact number with you at all times. If you get lost, you can use this to find your way back.

Traveling on Your Own

Always have a point of contact that you check in with during your stay, whether they are in the UK or another country. London is one of the safest cities in the world, but it is good to keep in touch with folks back home.

Although most areas of London do not pose any particular threats to single (or group) travelers, use your own common sense when walking around late at night. Stay on main roads and in well-lit areas.

Always Be Aware

Just as in any busy city, incidents can occur. To help stay safe during your stay, you can do some research before you visit. Watch the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s (NPCC) video with advice on what to do in the rare event of a firearms or weapons attack, and download the free CitizenAid app on Android or Apple, which gives advice on immediate actions in case of an incident.

It goes without saying that there are so many opportunities while traveling to earn lots of valuable points. The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card , for example, earns you 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3x points on dining, and 2x points on all other travel purchases.

Don’t forget that the “travel” category is very broad and includes taxis, tours, parking meters, bus fare, and tube rides. There are also many other ways to earn Chase points.

Chase Ultimate Rewards are so valuable which is why we wrote up the best ways to use Ultimate Rewards points for incredible redemptions on both flights and hotel stays!

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London Travel Guide

Why visit london.

London is a sprawling hub with dozens of thriving neighborhoods, each with its own character and specialty. Visit Shoreditch and Mayfair for clothing and food, West End and South Bank for the theatre scene, and Kensington for museums and high-end shopping.

When to Visit London

For savings and mild temperatures, visit London in the spring and fall, when you can be outside with fewer tourists. Summer is high season, so you'll encounter crowds. In winter, you'll find lower prices but more rain. December is crowded over the holidays.

London Weather

London has a reputation for bleak weather, but the city's annual rainfall is less than New York City. And while it's usually cloudy, London tends to have milder winters with barely any snow. April, May, June, September, and October see mild temperatures and smaller crowds.

What to Do in London

10 best things to do in london.

How to See Sprawling London in Just a Weekend

How to Vacation Like James Bond in London

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Packing for London

London – what to pack – clothing and supplies tips.

What I Packed: Autumn in London

The Ultimate Packing List

What to Bring for London Travel

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Genius Pack Commuter Travel Backpack

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Where to eat in london, borough market: a food lover’s paradise in central london.

Cool London Eats: A Tale of Two Tantalizing Culinary Tours

Where to Stay in London

6 luxury hotels in london, and their cheaper (but similar) alternatives.

5 Neighborhoods Where You’ll Find the Londoner’s London

SmarterTravel Spotlight: The Kimpton Fitzroy London Review

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9 Ways to Experience Luxury in London on a Budget

10 Magical Ways to Experience Winter in and Around London

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For the tourist, London is a thrilling place with a multitude of places to visit. Monuments from the capital’s glorious past are everywhere, from medieval banqueting halls and the great churches of Christopher Wren to the eclectic Victorian architecture of the triumphalist British Empire.

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There is no shortage of things to do in London: you can relax in the city’s quiet Georgian squares, explore the narrow alleyways of the City of London, wander along the riverside walks, and uncover the quirks of what is still identifiably a collection of villages. The largest capital in the European Union, stretching for more than thirty miles from east to west, and with a population of just under eight million, London is also incredibly diverse, ethnically and linguistically, offering cultural and culinary delights from right across the globe.

The capital’s great historical landmarks – Big Ben , Westminster Abbey , Buckingham Palace , St Paul’s Cathedral , the Tower of London and so on – draw in millions of tourists every year. This isn’t a city that rests on its laurels, however. Since the turn of the millennium, all of London’s world-class museums, galleries and institutions have been reinvented, from the Royal Opera House to the British Museum . With Tate Modern and the London Eye , the city boasts the world’s largest modern art museum and Europe’s largest Ferris wheel. And thanks to the 2012 Olympics, even the East End – not an area previously on most tourists’ radar – has been given an overhaul.

You could spend days just shopping in London, mixing with the upper classes in the “tiara triangle” around Harrods, or sampling the offbeat weekend markets of Portobello Road, Brick Lane and Camden . The city’s pubs have always had heaps of atmosphere, and food is now a major attraction too, with more than fifty Michelin-starred restaurants and the widest choice of cuisines on the planet. The music, clubbing and gay and lesbian scenes are second to none, and mainstream arts are no less exciting, with regular opportunities to catch outstanding theatre companies, dance troupes, exhibitions and opera.

London’s special atmosphere comes mostly, however, from the life on its streets. A cosmopolitan city since at least the seventeenth century, when it was a haven for Huguenot immigrants escaping persecution in Louis XIV’s France, today it is truly multicultural, with over a third of its permanent population originating from overseas. The last hundred years has seen the arrival of thousands from the Caribbean, the Indian subcontinent, the Mediterranean, the Far East and Eastern Europe, all of whom play an integral part in defining a metropolis that is unmatched in its sheer diversity. For more on how to make the most of your time in the capital on foot, we've curated a collection of the best walks in London .

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Book tickets and tours in Buckingham Palace.

Book tickets and tours in St Paul's Cathedral.

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Travel ideas for England, created by local experts

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

Walking around vintage England and picturesque Scotland

Visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands by foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included in the trip.

Hiking in out-of-the way Northern Cornwall

Northern Cornwall is a hiker's paradise and this itinerary includes the most scenic parts. You will start your journey in London with some unique activities to get to know the city, before setting off on a 5-day walk across Cornwall. End your trip in Bath and explore the backdrop of Bridgerton.

A walking holiday on the Jurassic Coast

Walking the Jurassic Coast is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the spectacular scenery. Walks range from easy to challenging. 6 days walking are included in this itinerary, as is an extensive pre-program in London and a last night back in the capital.

01 British Museum

The British Museum is one of the great museums of the world. Its assortment of Roman and Greek art is unparalleled, its Egyptian collection is the most significant outside Egypt and, in addition, there are fabulous treasures from Anglo-Saxon and Roman Britain, from China, Japan, India and Mesopotamia.

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02 Tower of London

Bloody royal history, Beefeaters, lots of armour, the Crown Jewels and ravens – and a great medieval castle. The Tower of London has it all.

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03 Highgate Cemetery

The city’s most atmospheric Victorian necropolis, thick with trees and crowded with famous corpses, with Karl Marx topping the bill.

Book a private London tour to St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London.

04 King’s Cross Redevelopment

Take a stroll around the brilliant King’s Cross redevelopment, where galleries, restaurants and public squares have transformed the industrial landscape.

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05 Hampstead Heath

Fly kites, look across London and walk over to Kenwood, for fine art, tea and cakes.

06 London pubs

Have a pint of traditional real ale in one of London’s many old and historic pubs, or visit one of the craft brewhouses that are popping up over the capital.

07 Tate Modern

One of the world’s greatest modern art collections housed in a spectacularly converted riverside power station.

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08 Houses of Parliament

See the “mother of all parliaments” at work from the public gallery; book in advance to attend Question Time or take a summertime guided tour.

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09 Spitalfields and Brick Lane

Visit the offbeat market stalls, shops, cafés and bars on the edge of the East End.

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10 National Gallery

From the Renaissance to Picasso: the National Gallery is undoubtedly one of the world’s great art galleries.

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Book a private tour in the National Gallery.

11 Borough Market

Feast on all the scrumptious free titbits at London’s leading foodie market.

Book tickets to the Borough Market Self-Guided Food Tour.

12 Olympic Park

You can still see some of the iconic venues and Orbit Tower, set amid the beautifully landscaped Olympic Park.

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Book tickets and tours at the ArcelorMittal Orbit.

13 Cycling in London

Rent a Boris Bike and explore the cycling paths of Hyde Park, or pedal along the Regent’s Canal to Little Venice and beyond.

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14 Greenwich

Soak up naval history at the National Maritime Museum, and climb up to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park to enjoy the view over the river.

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15 V&A Museum

For variety and scale, the V&A is the greatest applied arts museum in the world.

16 The view from the Shard

Simply the most impressive view in London.

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17 Hampton Court Palace

Take a boat to this sprawling red-brick affair, the finest of London’s royal palaces.

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Although most of the best places to visit in London are north of the River Thames, which loops through the centre from west to east, there is no single focus of interest . That’s because London hasn’t grown through centralized planning but by a process of random agglomeration.

Villages and urban developments that once surrounded the core are now lost within the vast mass of Greater London, leaving London’s highlights widely spread, and meaning that visitors should make mastering the public transport system, particularly the Underground (tube), a top priority.

If London has a centre , it’s Trafalgar Square , home to Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery . It’s also as good a place as any to start exploring the city, especially as the area to the south of here, Whitehall and Westminster , is one of the easiest bits to discover on foot. This was the city’s royal, political and ecclesiastical power-base for centuries, and you’ll find some of London’s most famous landmarks here: Downing Street , Big Ben , the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey .

River view of Big Ben and-Houses of parliament in London - shutterstock

The grand streets and squares of St James’s , Mayfair and Marylebone , to the north of Westminster, have been the playground of the rich since the Restoration, and now contain some of the city’s busiest shopping zones : Piccadilly, Bond Street, Regent Street and, most frenetic of the lot, Oxford Street .

East of Piccadilly Circus, Soho , Chinatown and Covent Garden are also easy to walk around and form the heart of the West End entertainment district, where you’ll find the largest concentration of theatres, cinemas, shops, cafés and restaurants.

Adjoining Covent Garden to the north, the university quarter of Bloomsbury is the location of the ever-popular British Museum , a stupendous treasure house that boasts a wonderful central, covered courtyard. To the north of Bloomsbury lies King’s Cross, home to the British Library and the city’s Eurostar terminal at St Pancras, and now at the centre of a massive redevelopment project with galleries, restaurants and a swimming pond.

Fashionable Clerkenwell , to the east of Holborn on the northern edge of the City, is visited mostly on weeknights for its many popular bars and restaurants, but also has vestiges of London’s monastic past and a radical history to be proud of.

A couple of miles downstream from Westminster, The City – or the City of London, to give it its full title – is the original heart of London, simultaneously the most ancient and the most modern part of the metropolis. Settled since Roman times, the area became the commercial and residential heart of medieval London, with its own Lord Mayor and its own peculiar form of local government, both of which survive (with considerable pageantry) to this day.

The Great Fire of 1666 obliterated most of the City, and although it was rebuilt, the resident population has dwindled to insignificance. Yet this remains one of the great financial centres of the world, with the most prominent landmarks these days being the hi-tech skyscrapers of banks and insurance companies. However, the Square Mile, as it’s known, boasts its fair share of historic sights too, notably the Tower of London and a fine cache of Wren churches that includes the mighty St Paul’s Cathedral .

East of the City, the East End and Docklands are equally notorious, but in entirely different ways. Traditionally working-class, the East End is not conventional tourist territory, but its long history of immigration is as fascinating as is its more recent emergence as a bolthole for artists. With its converted warehouse apartments and hubristic tower blocks, Docklands is the converse of the edgy East End, with the Canary Wharf tower – for three decades the country’s tallest building – epitomizing the pretensions of the 1980s’ Thatcherite dream.

The South Bank and Southwark together make up the small slice of central London that lies south of the Thames. The Southbank Centre itself, London’s concrete culture bunker, is now ingrained on the tourist map – thanks, in part, to the nearby London Eye , which spins gracefully over the Thames. The area is going from strength to strength, with the Millennium Bridge linking St Paul’s Cathedral with the former power station that’s home to Tate Modern , London’s beloved museum of modern art.

In Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens you’ll find a large segment of greenery that separates wealthy west London from the city centre. The museums of South Kensington – the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum – are a must, and if you have shopping on your agenda you may well want to investigate the hive of plush stores in the vicinity of Harrods, superstore to the upper echelons.

Some of the most appealing parts of north London are clustered around the Regent’s Canal, which skirts the northern edge of Regent’s Park and serves as the focus for the capital’s busiest weekend market, held around Camden Lock. Further out, in the chic literary suburbs of Hampstead and Highgate, there are unbeatable views across the city from half-wild Hampstead Heath, the sprawling stomping ground of dog walkers and kite flyers.

The glory of south London is Greenwich , with its nautical associations, royal park and observatory (not to mention its Dome).

Finally, there are plenty of rewarding day-trips up the Thames, southwest of the city centre from Chiswick to Hampton Court , an area that is liberally peppered with the stately homes and grounds of the country’s royalty and former aristocracy, from Syon and Kew, to Richmond and Ham.

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The City is where London began. Long established as the financial district, it stretches from Temple Bar in the west to the Tower of London in the east – administrative boundaries that are only slightly larger than those marked by the Roman walls and their medieval successors. However, in this Square Mile (as the City is sometimes referred to), you’ll find few leftovers of London’s early days, since four-fifths of the area burnt down in the Great Fire of 1666. Rebuilt in brick and stone, the City gradually lost its centrality as London swelled westwards, though it has maintained its position as Britain’s financial heartland. What you see now is mostly the product of three fairly recent building phases: the Victorian construction boom; the overzealous postwar reconstruction following the Blitz; and the building frenzy that began in the 1980s and has continued ever since.

When you consider what has happened here, it’s amazing that so much has survived to pay witness to the City’s 2000-year history. Wren’s spires still punctuate the skyline and his masterpiece, St Paul’s Cathedral , remains one of London’s geographical pivots. At the City’s eastern edge, the Tower of London still boasts some of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Europe. Other relics, such as Wren’s Monument to the Great Fire and London’s oldest synagogue and church, are less conspicuous, and even locals have problems finding modern attractions like the Museum of London and the Barbican arts complex.

Aiming high: city skyscrapers

Economic recession notwithstanding, the City skyline is sprouting a whole new generation of skyscrapers . From 1980, for thirty years, the City’s tallest building was the 600ft-high Tower 42, designed as the NatWest Tower by Richard Seifert (in the shape of the bank’s logo). Richard Rogers’ Lloyd’s Building , on Leadenhall Street, completed in 1984, was more remarkable for its inside-out design than its modest height – even with Norman Foster’s 590ft-high Gherkin , it was the shape, not its height, that drew attention. In 2010, the NatWest Tower was finally topped by the Heron Tower , a fairly undistinguished 660-ft skyscraper, at 110 Bishopsgate, designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox – on the plus side, public access means you can check out the shark aquarium in the atrium, and pop into the bar-restaurant on the 40th floor. More are planned: Rafael Viñoly’s 525-ft Walkie Talkie , 20 Fenchurch St, so-called because it will get wider as it gets bigger, will include a public “sky garden” on the roof; The Pinnacle , 22–24 Bishopsgate, also by Kohn Pedersen Fox, will be a swirling 945-ft helter-skelter of a tower (with a restaurant on the top floor); and The Cheesegrater , Richard Rogers’ 737-ft triangular-shaped office block at 122 Leadenhall St, is due for completion in 2013.

St Paul’s Cathedral

Designed by Christopher Wren and completed in 1711, St Paul’s Cathedral remains a dominating presence in the City, despite the encroaching tower blocks. Topped by an enormous lead-covered dome, its showpiece west facade is particularly magnificent.

The best place from which to appreciate St Paul’s is beneath the dome, decorated (against Wren’s wishes) with Thornhill’s trompe l’oeil frescoes. The most richly decorated section of the cathedral, however, is the chancel, where the gilded mosaics of birds, fish, animals and greenery, dating from the 1890s, are spectacular. The intricately carved oak and limewood choir stalls, and the imposing organ case, are the work of Wren’s master carver, Grinling Gibbons.

The galleries

A series of stairs, beginning in the south aisle, lead to the dome’s three galleries, the first of which is the internal Whispering Gallery, so called because of its acoustic properties – words whispered to the wall on one side are distinctly audible over 100ft away on the other, though the place is often so busy you can’t hear much above the hubbub. The other two galleries are exterior: the wide Stone Gallery, around the balustrade at the base of the dome, and ultimately the tiny Golden Gallery, below the golden ball and cross which top the cathedral.

Although the nave is crammed full of overblown monuments to military types, burials in St Paul’s are confined to the whitewashed crypt, reputedly the largest in Europe. Immediately to your right is Artists’ Corner, which boasts as many painters and architects as Westminster Abbey has poets, including Christopher Wren himself, who was commissioned to build the cathedral after its Gothic predecessor, Old St Paul’s, was destroyed in the Great Fire. The crypt’s two other star tombs are those of Nelson and Wellington, both occupying centre stage and both with more fanciful monuments upstairs.

Tower of London

One of Britain’s main tourist attractions, the Tower of London overlooks the river at the eastern boundary of the old city walls. Despite all the hype, it remains one of London’s most remarkable buildings, site of some of the goriest events in the nation’s history, and somewhere all visitors and Londoners should explore at least once. Chiefly famous as a place of imprisonment and death, it has variously been used as a royal residence, armoury, mint, menagerie, observatory and – a function it still serves – a safe-deposit box for the Crown Jewels.

The lively free guided tours given by the Tower’s Beefeaters (officially known as Yeoman Warders) are useful for getting your bearings. Visitors today enter the Tower along Water Lane, but in times gone by most prisoners were delivered through Traitors’ Gate, on the waterfront. Immediately, they would have come to the Bloody Tower, which forms the main entrance to the Inner Ward, and which is where the 12-year-old Edward V and his 10-year-old brother were accommodated “for their own safety” in 1483 by their uncle, the future Richard III, and later murdered. It’s also where Walter Raleigh was imprisoned on three separate occasions, including a thirteen-year stretch.

Tower Green

At the centre of the Inner Ward is Tower Green, where ten highly placed but unlucky individuals were beheaded, among them Anne Boleyn and her cousin Catherine Howard (Henry VIII’s second and fifth wives). The White Tower, which overlooks the Green, is the original “Tower”, begun in 1076, and now home to displays from the Royal Armouries. Even if you’ve no interest in military paraphernalia, you should at least pay a visit to the Chapel of St John, a beautiful Norman structure on the second floor that was completed in 1080 – making it the oldest intact church building in London.

Crown Jewels

The Waterloo Barracks, to the north of the White Tower, hold the Crown Jewels; queues can be painfully long, however, and you only get to view the rocks from moving walkways. The vast majority of exhibits post-date the Commonwealth (1649–60), when many of the royal riches were melted down for coinage or sold off. Among the jewels are the three largest cut diamonds in the world, including the legendary Koh-i-Noor, which was set into the Queen Mother’s Crown in 1937.

Clerkenwell, Hoxton and Shoreditch

Since the 1990s, the northern fringe of the City has been colonized by artists, designers and architects and transformed itself into the city’s most vibrant artistic enclave, peppered with contemporary art galleries and a whole host of very cool bars, restaurants and clubs. Clerkenwell , to the west, is the most thoroughly gentrified, whereas Hoxton (to the north of Old Street), and to a lesser extent Shoreditch (to the south), have a grittier side to them. There are few conventional sights as such in all three areas, though Hoxton and Shoreditch are stuffed full of art galleries (most famously the White Cube on Hoxton Square), but their hip nightlife and shopping scenes keep them lively.

Welding the West End to the financial district, Holborn is a little-visited area, but offers some of central London’s most surprising treats. The Inns of Court make for an interesting stroll, their archaic, cobbled precincts exuding the rarefied atmosphere of an Oxbridge college, and sheltering one of the city’s oldest churches, the twelfth-century Temple Church .

Close by the Inns is the Sir John Soane’s Museum , one of the most memorable and enjoyable of London’s small museums, packed with architectural illusions and an eclectic array of curios.

Political, religious and regal power has emanated from Westminster for almost a millennium. It was Edward the Confessor (1042–66) who first established Westminster as London’s royal and ecclesiastical power base, some three miles west of the City of London. The embryonic English parliament used to meet in the abbey and eventually took over the old royal palace of Westminster. In the nineteenth century, Westminster – and Whitehall in particular – became the “heart of the Empire”, its ministries ruling over a quarter of the world’s population. Even now, though the UK’s world status has diminished, the institutions that run the country inhabit roughly the same geographical area: Westminster for the politicians, Whitehall for the civil servants.

The monuments and buildings in and around Westminster also span the millennium, and include some of London’s most famous landmarks – Nelson’s Column , Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament , Westminster Abbey , plus two of the city’s finest permanent art collections, the National Gallery and Tate Britain . This is a well-trodden tourist circuit since it’s also one of the easiest parts of London to walk round, with all the major sights within a mere half-mile of each other, linked by one of London’s most majestic streets, Whitehall .

Houses of Parliament

Clearly visible at the south end of Whitehall is one of London’s best-known monuments, the Palace of Westminster, better known as the Houses of Parliament . The city’s finest Victorian Gothic Revival building and symbol of a nation once confident of its place at the centre of the world, it’s distinguished above all by the ornate, gilded clocktower popularly known as Big Ben , after the thirteen-ton main bell that strikes the hour (and is broadcast across the world by BBC radio).

The original medieval palace burned down in 1834, and everything you see now – save for Westminster Hall – is the work of Charles Barry, who created an orgy of honey-coloured pinnacles, turrets and tracery that attempts to express national greatness through the use of Gothic and Elizabethan styles. You get a glimpse of the eleventh-century Westminster Hall en route to the public galleries, its huge oak hammer-beam roof making it one of the most magnificent secular medieval halls in Europe.

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Westminster Abbey

The Houses of Parliament dwarf their much older neighbour, Westminster Abbey , yet this single building embodies much of the history of England: it has been the venue for all coronations since the time of William the Conqueror, and the site of more or less every royal burial for some five hundred years between the reigns of Henry III and George II. Scores of the nation’s most famous citizens are honoured here, too (though many of the stones commemorate people buried elsewhere), and the interior is crammed with hundreds of monuments and statues.

Entry is via the north transept, cluttered with monuments to politicians and traditionally known as Statesmen’s Aisle, from which you can view the central sanctuary, site of the coronations, and the wonderful Cosmati floor mosaic, constructed in the thirteenth century by Italian craftsmen, and often covered by a carpet to protect it.

The abbey’s most dazzling architectural set piece, the Lady Chapel , was added by Henry VII in 1503 as his future resting place. With its intricately carved vaulting and fan-shaped gilded pendants, the chapel represents the final spectacular gasp of the English Perpendicular style. Look out for Edward I’s Coronation Chair, a decrepit oak throne dating from around 1300 and still used for coronations.

Nowadays, the abbey’s royal tombs are upstaged by Poets’ Corner , in the south transept, though the first occupant, Geoffrey Chaucer, was in fact buried here not because he was a poet, but because he lived nearby. By the eighteenth century this zone had become an artistic pantheon, and since then, the transept has been filled with tributes to all shades of talent.

Doors in the south choir aisle (plus a separate entrance from Dean’s Yard) lead to the Great Cloisters , rebuilt after a fire in 1298. On the east side lies the octagonal Chapter House, where the House of Commons met from 1257, boasting thirteenth-century apocalyptic wall paintings. Also worth a look is the Abbey Museum, filled with generations of lifelike (but bald) royal funereal effigies.

It’s only after exploring the cloisters that you get to see the nave itself: narrow, light and, at over a hundred feet in height, by far the tallest in the country. The most famous monument in this section is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, by the west door, which now serves as the main exit.

Once famous for its riverside mansions, and later its music halls, the Strand – the main road connecting Westminster to the City – is a shadow of its former self. One of the few vestiges of glamour is The Savoy, London’s grandest hotel, built in 1889 on the site of the medieval Savoy Palace on the south side of the street. As its name suggests, the Strand once lay along the riverbank until the Victorians shored up the banks of the Thames to create the Embankment.

Bloomsbury was built over in grid-plan style from the 1660s onwards, and the formal bourgeois Georgian squares laid out then remain the area’s main distinguishing feature. In the twentieth century, Bloomsbury acquired a reputation as the city’s most learned quarter, dominated by the dual institutions of the British Museum and London University, but perhaps best known for its literary inhabitants, among them T.S. Eliot and Virginia Woolf. Today, the British Museum is clearly the star attraction, but there are other minor sights, such as the Charles Dickens Museum. Only in its northern fringes does the character of the area change dramatically, as you near the hustle and bustle of Euston, St Pancras and King’s Cross train stations.

British Museum

The British Museum is one of the great museums of the world. With more than 70,000 exhibits ranged over several miles of galleries, it boasts a huge collection of antiquities, prints and drawings – more than 13 million objects (and growing).

The building itself, begun in 1823, is the grandest of London’s Greek Revival edifices, dominated by the giant Ionian colonnade and portico that forms the main entrance. At the heart of the museum is the Great Court , with its remarkable, curving glass-and-steel roof, designed by Norman Foster. At the centre stands the copper-domed former Round Reading Room , built in the 1850s to house the British Library. It was here, reputedly at desk O7, that Karl Marx penned Das Kapital .

The British Museum collections

The most famous of the Roman and Greek antiquities are the Parthenon sculptures, better known as the Elgin Marbles , after the British aristocrat who walked off with the reliefs in 1801. The Egyptian collection of monumental sculptures is impressive, but it’s the ever-popular mummies that draw the biggest crowds. Also on display is the Rosetta Stone , which finally unlocked the secret of Egyptian hieroglyphs. There’s a splendid series of Assyrian reliefs, depicting events such as the royal lion hunts of Ashurbanipal, in which the king slaughters one of the cats with his bare hands.

The leathery half-corpse of the 2000-year-old Lindow Man , discovered in a Cheshire bog, and the Anglo-Saxon treasure from the Sutton Hoo ship burial, are among the highlights of the prehistoric and Romano-British section. The medieval and modern collections, meanwhile, range from the twelfth-century Lewis chessmen, carved from walrus ivory, to twentieth-century exhibits such as a copper vase by Frank Lloyd Wright.

The dramatically lit Mexican and North American galleries , plus the African galleries in the basement, represent just a small fraction of the museum’s ethnographic collection, while select works from the BM’s enormous collection of prints and drawings can be seen in special exhibitions. Among fabulous Oriental treasures in the north wing, closest to the back entrance on Montague Place, are ancient Chinese porcelain, ornate snuffboxes, miniature landscapes, and a bewildering array of Buddhist and Hindu gods.

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More sanitized and commercial than neighbouring Soho, the shops and restaurants of Covent Garden today are a far cry from the district’s heyday when the piazza was the great playground (and red-light district) of eighteenth-century London. The buskers in front of St Paul’s Church, the theatres round about, and the Royal Opera House on Bow Street are survivors of this tradition, and on a balmy summer evening, Covent Garden Piazza is still an undeniably lively place to be.

Royal Opera House

The arcading on the northeast side of the piazza was rebuilt as part of the redevelopment of the Royal Opera House , whose main Neoclassical façade dates from 1811 and opens onto Bow Street. Now, however, you can reach the opera house from a passageway in the corner of the arcading. The spectacular wrought-iron Floral Hall serves as the opera house’s main foyer, and is open to the public, as is the Amphitheatre bar/restaurant (from 90min before performance to the end of the last interval), which has a glorious terrace overlooking the piazza.

Few places in London have engendered so many myths as the East End (a catch-all title which covers just about everywhere east of the City). Its name is synonymous with slums, sweatshops and crime, as epitomized by figures such as Jack the Ripper and the Kray Twins, but also with the rags-to-riches success stories of a whole generations of Jews who were born in these cholera-ridden quarters and then moved to wealthier pastures.

As the area is not an obvious place for sightseeing, and certainly no beauty spot – despite all the fanfare around the 2012 Olympic Village – most visitors to the East End come for its famous Sunday markets: cheap clothes on Petticoat Lane (Middlesex Street), clothes and crafts in trendy Spitalfields , hip vintage gear around Brick Lane and flowers on Columbia Road. As for the East End Docklands , including the vast and awesome Canary Wharf redevelopment, most of it can be gawped at from the overhead light railway.

Thinking big: Olympic Park

Focus of the 2012 Olympics, London’s Olympic Park is situated in a most unlikely East End backwater, on a series of islands formed by the River Lea and various tributaries and canals. The centrepiece of the park is the Olympic Stadium, surrounded on three sides by rivers, and earmarked to become home to West Ham United football club. Standing close to the stadium, with a bird’s-eye view of the whole site from its public observation deck, is the Orbit tower, a 377ft-high continuous loop of red recycled steel designed by Anish Kapoor, and dubbed the Helter Skelter. The most eye-catching venue, however, is Zaha Hadid’s wave-like Aquatics Centre, to the east, which may have cost four times its original, but at least it looks good. The other truly sexy building is the curvy Velodrome, with its banked, Siberian pine track and adjacent BMX circuit. The nearest tube is Stratford; you can also approach from Hackney Wick Overground or Pudding Mill Lane DLR station.

Hampton Court Palace , a sprawling red-brick ensemble on the banks of the Thames thirteen miles southwest of London, is the finest of England’s royal abodes. Built in 1516 by the upwardly mobile Cardinal Wolsey , Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor, it was purloined by Henry himself after Wolsey fell from favour. In the second half of the seventeenth century, Charles II laid out the gardens, inspired by what he had seen at Versailles, while William and Mary had large sections of the palace remodelled by Wren a few years later.

The Royal Apartments are divided into six thematic walking tours. There’s not a lot of information in any of the rooms, but audioguides are available and free guided tours are led by period-costumed historians who bring the place to life. If your energy is lacking – and Hampton Court is huge – the most rewarding sections are: Henry VIII’s State Apartments , which feature the glorious double-hammer-beamed Great Hall; William III’s Apartments ; and Henry VIII’s Kitchens .

Tickets to the Royal Apartments cover entry to the rest of the sites in the grounds. Those who don’t wish to visit the apartments are free to wander around the gardens and visit the curious Royal Tennis Courts (April–Oct), but have to pay to try out the palace’s famously tricky yew-hedge Maze , and visit the Privy Garden , where you can view Andrea Mantegna’s colourful, heroic canvases, The Triumphs of Caesar , housed in the Lower Orangery, and the celebrated Great Vine , whose grapes are sold at the palace each year in September.

Book a tour in Greenwich Peninsula.

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens cover a distance of two miles from Oxford Street in the northeast to Kensington Palace, set in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea . Other districts go in and out of fashion, but this area has been in vogue ever since royalty moved into Kensington Palace in the late seventeenth century.

The most popular tourist attractions lie in South Kensington , where three of London’s top museums – the Victoria and Albert, Natural History and Science museums – along with the vast Royal Albert Hall, stand on land bought with the proceeds of the 1851 Great Exhibition. Chelsea, to the south, has a slightly more bohemian pedigree. In the 1960s, the King’s Road carved out its reputation as London’s catwalk, while in the late 1970s it was the epicentre of the punk explosion. Nothing so rebellious goes on in Chelsea now, though its residents like to think of themselves as rather more artistic and intellectual than the purely moneyed types of Kensington.

Book tickets and tours in Kensington Palace.

Piccadilly , which forms the southern border of swanky Mayfair , may not be the fashionable promenade it started out as in the eighteenth century, but a whiff of exclusivity still pervades Bond Street and its tributaries, where designer clothes emporia jostle for space with jewellers, bespoke tailors and fine art dealers. Regent Street and Oxford Street , meanwhile, are home to the flagship branches of the country’s most popular chain stores.

Marylebone , which lies to the north of Oxford Street, is, like Mayfair, another grid-plan Georgian development – a couple of social and real-estate leagues below its neighbour, but a wealthy area nevertheless. It boasts a very fine art gallery, the Wallace Collection , and, in its northern fringes, one of London’s biggest tourist attractions, Madame Tussauds , the oldest and largest wax museum in the world.

Book tickets and tours in Madame Tussauds.

Oxford Street: the busiest street in Europe

As wealthy Londoners began to move out of the City in the eighteenth century in favour of the newly developed West End, so Oxford Street – the old Roman road to Oxford – gradually became London’s main shopping thoroughfare. Today, despite successive recessions and sky-high rents, Oxford Street remains Europe’s busiest street, simply because this two-mile hotchpotch of shops is home to (often several) flagship branches of Britain’s major retailers. The street’s only real landmark store is Selfridges opened in 1909 with a facade featuring the Queen of Time riding the ship of commerce and supporting an Art Deco clock.

Almost all of North London ’s suburbs are easily accessible by tube from the centre, though just a handful of these satellite villages, now subsumed into the general mass of the city, are worth bothering with. First off is one of London’s finest parks, Regent’s Park , home to London Zoo; Camden Town , famous for its huge weekend market, is nearby. The highlights, however, are the village-like suburbs of Hampstead and Highgate , on the edge of London’s wildest patch of greenery, Hampstead Heath .

Book tickets and tours in ZSL London Zoo.

Camden Town

For all its tourist popularity, Camden Market remains a genuinely offbeat place. The sheer variety of what’s on offer – from cheap CDs to furniture, along with a mass of street fashion and clubwear, and plenty of food stalls – is what makes Camden Town so special. More than 100,000 shoppers turn up here each weekend, and parts of the market now stay open week-long, alongside a crop of shops, cafés and bistros.

Highgate Cemetery

Highgate Cemetery , ranged on both sides of Swain’s Lane, is London’s best-known graveyard. The most illustrious incumbent of the East Cemetery is Karl Marx . Marx himself asked for a simple grave topped by a headstone, but by 1954 the Communist movement decided to move his grave to a more prominent position and erect the hulking bronze bust that now surmounts a granite plinth. To visit the more atmospheric and overgrown West Cemetery , with its spooky Egyptian Avenue and sunken catacombs, you must take a guided tour. Among the prominent graves usually visited are those of artist Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and lesbian novelist Radclyffe Hall.

Bounded by Regent Street to the west, Oxford Street to the north and Charing Cross Road to the east, Soho is very much the heart of the West End. It’s been the city’s premier red-light district for centuries and retains an unorthodox and slightly raffish air that’s unique for central London. It has an immigrant history as rich as that of the East End and a louche nightlife that has attracted writers and revellers of every sexual persuasion since the eighteenth century. Today it’s a very upfront gay enclave, especially around Old Compton Street . Conventional sights in Soho are few, yet there’s probably more street life here than anywhere in the city centre, whatever the hour. Most folk head to Soho to go the cinema or theatre, and to have a drink or a bite to eat in the innumerable bars, cafés and restaurants that pepper the area, which includes Chinatown in the south.

The South Bank has a lot going for it. As well as the massive waterside Southbank Centre , it’s home to a host of tourist attractions including the enormously popular London Eye . With most of London sitting on the north bank of the Thames, the views from here are the best on the river, and thanks to the wide, traffic-free riverside boulevard, the whole area can be happily explored on foot. Just a short walk away lies the absorbing Imperial War Museum , which contains the country’s only permanent exhibition devoted to the Holocaust.

Despite being little more than ten years old, the London Eye is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Standing an impressive 443ft high, it’s the largest Ferris wheel in Europe, weighing over 2000 tons, yet as simple and delicate as a bicycle wheel. It’s constantly in slow motion, which means a full-circle “flight” in one of its 32 pods (one for each of the city’s boroughs) should take around thirty minutes: that may seem a long time but in fact it passes incredibly quickly. Book online (to save money), but note that unless you’ve paid extra you’ll still have to queue to get on. Tickets are also sold from the box office at the eastern end of County Hall.

Now largely built up into a patchwork of Victorian terraces, South London nevertheless includes one outstanding area for sightseeing, and that is Greenwich , with its fantastic ensemble of the Royal Naval College and the Queen’s House, the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory, and the beautifully landscaped royal park. The Sunday market is also a popular draw.

The only other suburban sights that stand out are the Dulwich Picture Gallery , a public art gallery even older than the National Gallery, and the eclectic Horniman Museum , in neighbouring Forest Hill.

Greenwich draws tourists out from the centre in considerable numbers. At its heart is the outstanding architectural set piece of the Old Royal Naval College and the Queen’s House , courtesy of Christopher Wren and Inigo Jones respectively. Most visitors, however, come to see the National Maritime Museum and Greenwich Park’s Royal Observatory . With the added attractions of its riverside pubs and walks – plus startling views across to Canary Wharf and Docklands – it makes for one of the best weekend trips in the capital. To reach Greenwich, you can take a train from London Bridge (every 30min), a boat from one of the piers in central London (every 20–30min), or the DLR to Cutty Sark station (every 4–10min).

Book tickets and tours in Cutty Sark.

In Tudor and Stuart London, the chief reason for crossing the Thames to what is now Southwark was to visit the disreputable Bankside entertainment district around the south end of London Bridge. Four hundred years on, Londoners are heading to the area once more, thanks to a wealth of top attractions – led by the mighty Tate Modern – that pepper the traffic-free riverside path between Blackfriars Bridge and Tower Bridge. The area is conveniently linked to St Paul’s and the City by the fabulous Norman Foster-designed Millennium Bridge, London’s first pedestrian-only bridge.

Book tickets and tours on Tower Bridge.

Shakespeare’s Globe

Dwarfed by Tate Modern, but equally remarkable in its own way, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is a more or less faithful reconstruction of the polygonal playhouse where most of the Bard’s later works were first performed. The theatre, which boasts the first new thatched roof in central London since the Great Fire, puts on plays by Shakespeare and his contemporaries, using only natural light and the minimum of scenery. To find out more about Shakespeare and the history of Bankside, the Globe’s stylish exhibition is well worth a visit. You can have a virtual play on medieval instruments such as the crumhorn or sackbut, prepare your own edition of Shakespeare, and feel the thatch, hazelnut-shell and daub used to build the theatre. There’s also an informative guided tour round the theatre itself; during the summer season, you get to visit the exhibition and the remains of the nearby Rose Theatre instead.

Book tickets and tours in Shakespeare's Globe.

Bankside is dominated nowadays by the awesome Tate Modern . Originally designed as an oil-fired power station by Giles Gilbert Scott, this austere, brick-built “cathedral of power” was converted into a splendid modern art gallery in 2000. The best way to enter is down the ramp from the west so that you get the full effect of the stupendously large turbine hall. It’s easy enough to find your way around the galleries, with levels 3 and 5 displaying the permanent collection, level 4 used for fee-paying special exhibitions, and level 7 home to a café with a great view over the Thames. Along with the free guided tours and multimedia guides, various apps are available (Tate has free wi-fi).

Works are grouped thematically. Although the displays change every year or so, you’re still pretty much guaranteed to see works by Monet and Bonnard, Cubist pioneers Picasso and Braque, Surrealists such as Dalí , abstract artists like Mondrian , Bridget Riley and Pollock, and Pop supremos Warhol and Lichtenstein. And such is the space here that several artists get whole rooms to themselves, among them Joseph Beuys, with his shamanistic wax and furs, and Mark Rothko , whose abstract “Seagram Murals”, originally destined for a posh restaurant in New York, have their own shrine-like room in the heart of the collection.

St James’s, the exclusive little enclave sandwiched between St James’s Park and Piccadilly , was laid out in the 1670s close to St James’s Palace . Regal and aristocratic residences overlook Green Park, gentlemen’s clubs cluster along Pall Mall and St James’s Street, while jacket-and-tie restaurants and expense-account gentlemen’s outfitters line Jermyn Street. Hardly surprising then that most Londoners rarely stray into this area. Plenty of folk, however, frequent St James’s Park, with large numbers heading for the Queen’s chief residence, Buckingham Palace , and the adjacent Queen’s Gallery and Royal Mews .

Buckingham Palace

The graceless colossus of Buckingham Palace , popularly known as “Buck House”, has served as the monarch’s permanent London residence only since the accession of Victoria. Bought by George III in 1762, the building was overhauled in the late 1820s by Nash and again in 1913, producing a palace that’s as bland as it’s possible to be.

For two months of the year, the hallowed portals are grudgingly nudged open. The interior, however, is a bit of an anticlimax: of the palace’s 660 rooms you’re permitted to see twenty or so, and there’s little sign of life, as the Queen decamps to Scotland every summer. For the other ten months there’s little to do here – not that this deters the crowds who mill around the railings, and gather in some force to watch the Changing of the Guard , in which a detachment of the Queen’s Foot Guards marches to appropriate martial music from St James’s Palace (unless it rains, that is).

The Changing of the Guard

The Queen is colonel-in-chief of the seven Household Regiments: the Life Guards (who dress in red and white) and the Blues and Royals (who dress in blue and white) are the two Household Cavalry regiments; while the Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish and Welsh Guards make up the Foot Guards.

The Changing of the Guard takes place at two London locations: the two Household Cavalry regiments take it in turns to stand guard at Horse Guards on Whitehall , while the Foot Guards take care of Buckingham Palace. A ceremony also takes place regularly at Windsor Castle.

Book tickets and tours in The Household Cavalry Museum.

Most visitors experience West London en route to or from Heathrow Airport, either from the confines of the train or tube (which runs overground at this point), or the motorway. The city and its satellites seem to continue unabated, with only fleeting glimpses of the countryside. However, in the five-mile stretch from Chiswick to Osterley there are several former country retreats, now surrounded by suburbia.

The Palladian villa of Chiswick House is perhaps the best known. However, it draws nothing like as many visitors as Syon House , most of whom come for the gardening centre rather than for the house itself, a showcase for the talents of Robert Adam, who also worked at Osterley House , another Elizabethan conversion.

Running through much of the area is the River Thames , once the “Great Highway of London” and still the most pleasant way to travel in these parts during summer. Boats plough up the Thames all the way from central London via the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew and the picturesque riverside at Richmond , as far as Hampton Court.

Kew Gardens

Established in 1759, Kew’s Royal Botanic Gardens manage the extremely difficult task of being both a world leader in botanic research and an extraordinarily beautiful and popular public park. There’s always something to see, whatever the season, but to get the most out of the place come sometime between spring and autumn, bring a picnic and stay for the day.

Of all the glasshouses, by far the most celebrated is the Palm House , a curvaceous mound of glass and wrought iron, designed by Decimus Burton in the 1840s. Its drippingly humid atmosphere nurtures most of the known palm species, while in the basement there’s a small, excellent tropical aquarium.

Book tickets and tours in Kew Gardens.

Every weekend trains from Waterloo and Paddington are packed with people heading for WINDSOR , the royal enclave 21 miles west of London, where they join the human conveyor belt round Windsor Castle . If you’ve got the energy or inclination, it’s possible to cross the river to visit Eton College , which grew from a fifteenth-century free school for impoverished scholars and choristers to become one of the most elitest schools in the world.

Windsor Castle

Towering above the town on a steep chalk bluff, Windsor Castle is an undeniably imposing sight, its chilly grey walls, punctuated by mighty medieval bastions, continuing as far as the eye can see. Inside, most visitors just gape in awe at the monotonous, gilded grandeur of the State Apartments , while the real highlights – the paintings from the Royal Collection that line the walls – are rarely given a second glance. More impressive is St George’s Chapel , a glorious Perpendicular structure ranking with Henry VII’s chapel in Westminster Abbey, and the second most important resting place for royal corpses after the Abbey. On a fine day, put aside some time for exploring Windsor Great Park , which stretches for several miles to the south of the castle.

You can pretty much sample any kind of cuisine in London, from Georgian to Peruvian, from Modern British to fusion – you can even get yourself some Cockney pie and mash. And it needn’t be expensive – even in the fanciest restaurants, set menus (most often served at lunch) can be a great deal, and the small “sharing plates” that are currently all the rage are a godsend if you want to cut costs. While the old-fashioned London caffs are a dying breed, the city has plenty of great little places where you can get quick, filling and inexpensive meals – especially good at lunchtime, most of them are open in the evenings too. Bear in mind also that many pubs serve food, from simple pub grub to haute cuisine.

More than just a cuppa: afternoon tea

The classic English afternoon tea – assorted sandwiches, scones and cream, cakes and tarts, and, of course, lashings of tea – is available all over London. The best venues are the capital’s top hotels and most fashionable department stores; a selection of the best is given here. To avoid disappointment it’s essential to book ahead. Expect to spend £20–40 a head, and bear in mind that most hotels will expect “smart casual attire”; only The Ritz insists on jacket and tie.

The London Proms

The London Proms , provide a feast of classical music at bargain-basement prices. Uniquely, there are more than five hundred standing places – £5, even on the famed last night – which must be bought on the door, on the day; seated tickets cost between £7.50 and £90; last-night tickets start at £55. The acoustics may not be the world’s best, but the calibre of the performers is unbeatable, the atmosphere superb, and the programme a creative mix of standards and new or obscure works. And the hall is so vast that even if you turn up an hour or so before the show starts you are unlikely to be turned away.

Gay and lesbian nightlife in London

London’s lesbian and gay scene is so huge, diverse and well established that it’s easy to forget just how much – and how fast – it has grown over the last couple of decades. Soho remains its spiritual heart, with a mix of traditional gay pubs, designer café-bars and a range of gay-run services. Details of most events appear in Time Out , while another excellent source of information is the London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard . The outdoor event of the year is Pride London in late June/early July, a colourful, noisy march through the city streets followed at the end of the month by a huge, ticketed party in a central London park.

London Theatre

London has enjoyed a reputation for quality theatre since the time of Shakespeare and, despite the continuing dominance of blockbuster musicals and revenue-spinning star vehicles, still provides platforms for innovation and new writing. The West End is the heart of “Theatreland”, with Shaftesbury Avenue its most congested drag, but the term is more of a conceptual pigeon-hole than a geographical term. Some of the most exciting work is performed in what have become known as the Off-West End theatres, while further down the financial ladder still are the fringe theatres, more often than not pub venues, where ticket prices are lower, and quality more variable.

Notting Hill Carnival

The two-day free festival in Notting Hill is the longest-running, best-known and biggest street party in Europe. Dating back more than forty years, the Caribbean carnival is a tumult of imaginatively decorated parade floats, eye-catching costumes, thumping sound systems, live bands, irresistible food and huge crowds. It takes place on the Sunday and Monday of the last weekend of August.

Planning a trip to London? Don't miss our experts' pick of the best luxury hotels in the city .

Considering how temperate the London climate is, it’s amazing how much mileage the locals get out of the subject. The truth is that there’s no best time to visit London – summers rarely get really hot and the winters aren’t very cold.

In fact, it’s impossible to say with any certainty what the weather will be like in any given month. May might be wet and grey one year and gloriously sunny the next; November stands an equal chance of being crisp and clear or foggy and grim.

So, whatever time of year you come, be prepared for all eventualities, and bring a pair of comfortable shoes, as, inevitably, you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

The Romans founded Londinium in 43 AD as a stores depot on the marshy banks of the Thames. Despite frequent attacks – not least by Queen Boudicca, who razed it in 61 AD – the port became secure in its position as capital of Roman Britain by the end of the century. London’s expansion really began, however, in the eleventh century, when it became the seat of the last successful invader of Britain, the Norman duke who became William I of England (aka “the Conqueror”). Crowned king of England in Westminster Abbey, William built the White Tower – centrepiece of the Tower of London – to establish his dominance over the merchant population, the class that was soon to make London one of Europe’s mightiest cities.

Little is left of medieval or Tudor London. Many of the finest buildings were wiped out in the course of a few days in 1666 when the Great Fire of London annihilated more than thirteen thousand houses and nearly ninety churches, completing a cycle of destruction begun the year before by the Great Plague, which killed as many as a hundred thousand people. Chief beneficiary of the blaze was Christopher Wren, who was commissioned to redesign the city and rose to the challenge with such masterpieces as St Paul’s Cathedral and the Royal Naval Hospital in Greenwich.

Much of the public architecture of London was built in the Georgian and Victorian periods of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, when grand structures were raised to reflect the city’s status as the financial and administrative hub of the British Empire . And though postwar development peppered the city with some undistinguished modernist buildings, more recent experiments in high-tech architecture, such as the Gherkin, have given the city a new gloss.

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24 Best Apps for London Travel

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: May 25, 2024

If you’re headed to London, then you need to know all about the top apps for London travel. Finding the best app for London transport is perhaps an obvious one. But did you know that it’s also possible to arrange laundry services, find a toilet, check the weather, book theatre tickets and much more, via the very best apps for London visitors?

This guide to the top 24 London travel apps really can make your London trip go so much more smoothly! From the official app for the London Underground to booking rideshares, finding vegan eateries, or avoiding unnecessary bank charges, it can all be right there at your fingertips. 

Don’t leave for London without checking out the following apps!

Check out our London and UK travel deals page for savings on your trip!

London Bus Pal

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The main point of the London Bus Pal app is to keep you informed about live bus departures and arrivals. This is more accurate than using timetables, as it accounts for traffic and weather conditions on the day. 

The results displayed show the bus number, the destination, and the timings in minutes or even seconds. You can also search by stop, finding what buses will depart from there shortly. 

This app is popular among bus enthusiasts, as well as those who are simply wondering where their bus is right now. 

Both Google Play and the App Store offer this free London bus app. 

The Citymapper App is ideal for navigating your way around London. You can meet all your transport needs with this single app. It will even issue step-by-step directions for making journeys via public transport, car share, bike, scooter, or as a pedestrian. 

With the CityMapper London app you can also view live waiting times for buses, trains, and trams, as well as comparing prices for services like Uber and Santander Cycles (a public bike hire scheme also known as Boris Bikes). 

You can even share trip details and your ETA with other people. To ensure safety and visibility after dark, you can also choose the ‘main roads’ option.

The Citymapper app is a real go-to for any London trip. It’s available on Apple and Android , and the basic version is free. 

Google Maps’ London coverage is very good indeed, and you can even use it to find your way via satellite navigation. This app can even show you the most efficient route to where you’re headed.

Live updates will keep you in the loop regarding public transport times, plus road conditions and closures. There’s also Street View to discover an area before you go, and Live View to see exactly where you are at any point in time.

When you don’t have a WiFi connection , you can even use the offline maps function. Get the Google Maps app for free on Android or Apple . 

For live London Transport updates, you cannot beat the TfL Go app. This app from Transport for London will keep you updated regarding trams, buses, trains, and DLR (Docklands Light Railway) services.

You can also use it to plan walking and cycling routes. Another useful function is the step-free tube map, showing accessible underground services for mobility scooters, buggies, and wheelchairs. This app can also help you locate the nearest public toilets!

TfL Go works with Apple and Android devices, and is free to download. 

The TfL Oyster and Contactless app allows you to manage your payments for London Transport by contactless card or Oyster card. You can top up on the go, buy passes and travel cards, view your trip history, and more. 

Useful features include being able to check how much credit you have before you travel, and buying tickets without having to queue.

Grab the Transport for London Oyster and Contactless app on Google Play or the App Store . 

This is one you can use for travelling beyond London as well as within the city. In fact it’s used Europe-wide – and it works with coach travel as well as rail.

You can also compare fares, including discounted tickets, before making a booking. The Trainline app can also help you find empty seats on the train, and keeps you updated so you can skip any queues. 

It’s available on Android and Apple , and is free to download and use. 

National Rail Enquiries is a helpful public transport app that also gives you the latest London Underground info. 

The free app will allow you to see timetables, plan journeys, save station details, and even track trains via a pin on a map.  The alert function will also let you know about disrupted services.

Get the National Rail Enquiries app on Apple or Android .

Top 3 Ride Hailing Apps for London (other than Uber and Lyft) 

Move over, Uber. Indian app Ola has grown rapidly to become the third-biggest ride-sharing app on the planet. More than six million passengers have now used it in the UK. 

Fares are very competitive, with a minimum of about £5.50 and a rate of just over £2 per mile. 

Ola is available on both Google Play and the App Store . 

Bolt isn’t only a ride-hailing app, it can also help you find scooters to get around London. Drivers are fully vetted for your safety, and you can check the cost before ordering a car. 

You can also pay in-app, leave reviews to help others, and track your driver’s current location.

Get Bolt for your Android or Apple device. 

Taxiapp is your go-to for booking black cab rides across London. The app is operated by drivers, and your entire fare goes directly to your cabbie. 

It’s simple to book a ride by inputting your origin and destination, and you can even pre-tip your driver to smooth the way. All Taxiapp drivers have passed The Knowledge, meaning they can navigate 25,000 London streets with ease. 

The App Store and Google Play offer Apple and Android versions of Taxiapp. 

Top 5 Tourist Apps for London

The Go City app is the home of the London Pass. So if you buy one of these great value passes to use while exploring the UK capital, you can plan all your attraction visits and activities in one place. (Use code UKTP5 for 5% off your London Pass)

The app can even inspire your sightseeing, and includes an AI planner. It also stores your digital pass to streamline your travels. 

Find out more about the various passes available in London including the London Pass , the GoCity Explorer Pass , and the Big City Saver Pass in this article .

The Go City or London Pass app can be accessed via the App Store for Apple, or for Android on Google Play . 

If you want to see a theatre show while in London, London Theatre Direct can make sure you buy the cheapest possible – or last-minute – tickets. 

You can even secure a seat only an hour before the show starts, before collecting your tickets at the theatre. 

At the present time, the free London Theatre Direct app only works with Apple devices, but this could change at any time. 

Get Your Guide will help you find things to do and places to go in the UK. The app can also be used to book skip-the-line tickets, to save you queuing at popular attractions. 

It’s simple to find the highest rated activities, attractions, and tours, so you can make the most of your time in London. Get Your Guide also offers refundable tickets, normally when you cancel 24 hours or more before travel.

You can use this free app on Android or Apple devices.  

Whether your London plans have changed or the hotel room you’ve reserved isn’t up to scratch, the app from booking.com can help you find affordable, highly-rated accommodation. You can also use it for planning your onward travel. 

You can search in various ways, such as by location, name, or even a local attraction. Daily deals are often available, and free cancellation is often thrown in, too. 

Get this free app on Google Play for Android , or the App Store for Apple devices. 

This fun app is aimed at tourists who want to experience the view from this iconic bridge – even when they haven’t been. 360 degree video footage ensures realistic, panoramic views. 

The Raise Tower Bridge app is presently only available on the App Store . 

Top 3 Food Apps for London

Best Coffee is a free guide listing 5,000 plus coffee shops around the world. Not only will this app help you find a great London cafe, but you can also search for places that offer free Wifi, are cycling friendly, or have baby changing facilities. 

All venues listed are checked and endorsed by genuine coffee fans. You can also read recently published reviews and articles via the education hub on the app. If you want to find a top-notch indie coffee shop in a London neighbourhood, this is the app for you.

Download Best Coffee for Apple or Android .  

Opentable will help you track down the best – and most affordable – places to eat in London.

This free app allows you to read reviews from other diners, find discounts and special deals, and check out the menus before reserving a table. You can even invite friends and family to join you there via the RSVP invite function.

You can get the free Opentable app on Apple or Android .

Whether you’re craving a healthy meal or sticking to a gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian diet, the Happy Cow app will help you find the perfect place to eat.

The Happy Cow app will help you track down local food markets, cafes, health food shops, restaurants, and grocery stores. You can also help and connect with others by sharing images, advice, and reviews.

This free vegan and special diet friendly app can be accessed via the App Store and Google Play .

Top 6 Practical Apps for London

If you use a wheelchair or another form of mobility assistance, then the AccessAble app acts as your complete guide to accessibility in London. By using it, you can work out whether places will be accessible before you go. 

The useful information given includes photographs, as well as all the facts and figures you need. Disabled people find this to be a very reliable and trusted source of information. 

Get the AccessAble app on Google Play or the App Store . 

It rains a lot in London, and the rest of the UK, making the Met Office app invaluable. You can use it before your trip to help finalise your packing list, according to the expected weather. It will also alert you to any severe weather warnings. 

It’s also worth checking before you set out for the day – though no weather forecast is foolproof, and we recommend that you always carry a rain jacket ! The interactive wet weather map can give you some hints, though. 

The Met Office is the UK’s official weather department, so it’s as trustworthy as you’re going to get! This free app is available for Apple and Android phones and tablets.

One of the worst things about travelling can be carrying a load of dirty laundry around in your suitcase or backpack. As well as packing more than you’d need to if you could only clean your clothes. While hotels can do this, the charges can be eye-watering.

Enter the Laundryheap on-demand laundry app. In under 24 hours, you can have your clothing washed, and ironed too if required. You can also freshen up sleeping bags, or do some dry cleaning. 

This squeaky clean and super useful app is available on the App Store and Google Play . 

When you need to locate the closest public toilet, Flush is the app you need. The app can also help you find bathrooms offering disabled access, and whether you need a key (radar key). 

The Flush app will also tell you whether there is any charge to use the bathroom. You can also help other app users by giving ratings, and adding any new toilets you find that aren’t already listed.

You can get Flush as a free Android or Apple app. 

Is the name of this app a play on Transport for London? That’s for you to decide. All we’re saying is that it’s extremely useful when you’re caught short. 

The Toilets 4 London team also do what they can to ensure there are as many well-kept toilets for public use as possible. If you do have feedback, the app developers also tend to be very responsive. 

Get Toilets 4 London on Google Play or the App Store . 

The Wise app means benefiting from low fees on international payments, plus better exchange rates. You can use a Wise debit card, too, for paying directly from your Wise account.

We find the Wise debit Mastercard to be among the easiest and cheapest ways to pay around the world. If you want to avoid high fees or poor exchange rates on using pounds sterling in London, it’s well worth considering.

The Mastercard is accepted pretty much everywhere, and you can hold multiple currencies simultaneously. Any funds you don’t use can be converted back to your home currency once you return, before transferring to your bank account. 

The free Wise app is available on Google Play for Android and the Apple app store. 

Whether you want to pay for rides or public transport trips on the go, find things to do, book accommodation, or check accessibility in advance of your visit, the best apps for London offer all this and so much more. 

From clean clothing and the best rates on pounds sterling to Uber alternatives and the best London coffee shops, you can literally discover the city via your smartphone’s touchscreen.  

Which helpful London travel app will you be downloading first?

London Travel Guide & Itinerary Planner Ebook (+ 4 BONUS ebooks)

PRESENTED BY CITI® / AADVANTAGE®

• DESTINATION GUIDE

The essential guide to visiting London

Here’s what you need to know about England's capital city—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit London

Architectural landmarks such as the   Tower of London ,   Westminster Cathedral , and   Kensington Palace , as well as revived modern buildings like   Tate Modern   and the   Battersea Power Station . Some of the finest theaters in the world, from the   Old Vic   to the rebuilt   Globe . Brown ale, fish’n’chips and weekend markets from Greenwich to Camden.  

Best time to visit London

Spring : The Gulf Stream warms up the city early. Flowers start blooming in February and trees follow with their blossoms in March. The   Chelsea Flower Show   is a major draw in May.  

Summer : The tourist season peaks between mid-July and late August. Music festivals play out in   Somerset House ,   Hyde Park , and   Victoria Park .  

Autumn : Fall kicks off with the   London Design Festival , and the weather stays temperate into late October. Halloween is gaining importance throughout the city, though Guy Fawkes Night—a festival of fireworks and bonfires on November 5 – is more widely celebrated.   Battersea Park , by the Thames, has a great display.  

Winter :   Shopping streets   switch on their festive lights in early December. While some cultural life slows down during the dark, wet winter months,   Kew Gardens   launches its winter fair and skating rink. And Hyde Park hosts a   Winter Wonderland .    

Lay of the land

The Thames River, lined with grand public architecture like   St Paul’s Cathedral , the   London Eye ,   and Westminster (the seat of government), divides the city into north and south. The oldest enclaves lie to the east, around the   City of London , the old financial center also known as the “square mile.” Cultural energy revolves around   Soho ,   Covent Garden ,   Mayfair , Bloomsbury, and the   South Bank , a riverfront strip of modernist theaters and galleries.    

Historically, wealthy residents settled in West London communities like   Belgravia , Kensington, and Chelsea, gravitating to Holland Park and Notting Hill. The picturesque Georgian streets around   Hampstead Heath   have always been popular among literary types, with nature-lovers hiking up   Parliament Hill   for the city view. The neighborhood becomes more fashionable as you descend toward   Primrose Hill , with its pastel-colored townhouses and ivy-clad pub gardens.  

Younger Londoners congregate in East London, in gentrifying working-class neighborhoods like Dalston and Clapton. Postindustrial Hackney Wick has reinvented itself as a hub for live music, clubs, and inventive restaurants. Just over the River Lea is the former Olympic Park, a sports mecca that’s been rewilded and developed with museums and restaurants.  

( 11 must-do experiences in London. )

Getting around London

By public transport:   The   London Underground , or Tube, is an extensive subway network that reaches from Heathrow Airport in the west, to Greenwich, the Olympic Park, and northern suburbs. The system incorporates an above-ground network called the Overground, and the new inter-city Elizabeth Line. Fares start at £2.70 ($3.50) and rise according to distance.   London buses   follow more winding routes between neighborhoods and start at £1.75 ($2.25) with a daily cap at £5.25 ($6.75). Seniors and students 11 and over are eligible for discounts. Children 10 and under travel free. Riders can pay with any contactless card or device, but cash is no longer accepted.

By train:   Trains beyond London are found at larger stations like Paddington, Euston, Liverpool Street, London Bridge, Victoria, and Charing Cross. Riders must purchase tickets ahead of travel at the station or with an app like   Trainline .  

By taxi:   London’s famous   black cabs   can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Typical fares start at about £7.60 ($9.75) for a mile-long journey. Minicabs, or privately run taxi services, can be booked in advance or hired from a licensed purveyor, found on most main streets. Uber operates throughout the city.    

By boat:   The   Thames Clipper   boat service, now operated by Uber, runs along the Thames between Putney, in southwest London, and Barking, in the east, stopping at Battersea, Westminster, Tate Modern, Tower Bridge, Greenwich, and other piers. Prices start at £5.60 ($7.20) one way, with discounts for children and families. Riders can pay with a contactless card or with the Uber app.

( Going underground: a subterranean tour of London's abandoned tube stations. )

By bike:   Transport for London operates the   Santander bikeshare program , with bike docks in place across the city. A day-pass costs £3 ($3.85) for unlimited 30-minute rides; payment can be made through the   app   or at a docking terminal.   Lime operates an e-bike- and scooter-share program. Vehicles are GPS-equipped and located via the   app ; prices vary.    

By car:   Only confident drivers familiar with England’s road laws should operate a private car in London. There is a daily £15 ($19.25)   Congestion Charge   in effect for most areas of central London, which must be paid on the day of travel. New   emissions rules   impose additional fees on non-compliant motor vehicles, and “ultra-low-emission zones”   (ULEZ)   make it tricky to enter some neighborhoods during the day.  

By foot:   London neighborhoods are highly walkable, but the distance between them can be vast. Most roads have sidewalks that are well populated into the night. Always look both ways before crossing, even at a green light. Traffic normally comes from the right.  

Know before you go

Diversity:   London is one of the world’s most ethnically diverse cities, with 37 percent of residents born outside London—many from South Asia, West and East Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean. Hundreds of languages are spoken here, and most neighborhoods have a mix of residents.    

LGBTQ+:   The most recent   Open For Business index   gave London a top AAA rating as a “stalwart supporter” of LGBTQ+ inclusion and equality, and its universities rank highly among gay students. Soho is, historically, the LGBTQ+ hub of the city, though gay bars pop up in several neighborhoods, notably in East London and Lambeth.  

( Best hotels for every type of travele r. )

What to read and watch

The most fascinating London-based books and films transport the reader to a specific neighborhood and historical period and focus on its rich diversity.    

Oliver Twist , by Charles Dickens. Tragic, romantic, and surprisingly funny, this classic exposed the underbelly of Victorian London and prevails on high school reading lists everywhere.  

Bridget Jones’s Diary , by Helen Fielding. The titular Jones is a sad, sardonic, desperately funny 20-something single woman working for a London publisher. The book centers on West London while the film adaptation transports most scenes to the southeast. Both will get you in the mood to explore.  

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes , by Arthur Conan Doyle. The book series and the companion TV show Sherlock take place around Baker Street in central London but investigate further afield into Piccadilly, New Scotland Yard, and the Tower of London  

London: The Biography , by Peter Ackroyd. Possibly the greatest contemporary history of the city, the weighty tome reaches back with wisdom and wit through Victorian London to the Plague and the Great Fire.  

Brick Lane , by Monica Ali. This instant classic, published just after the millennium, is an evocative peek into the lives of Bangladeshi immigrants in East London, based firmly in reality.  

Notting Hill , written by Richard Curtis of Four Weddings and a Funeral (and others), this 1990s hit comedy capitalized on the vulnerable charm of Hugh Grant—and the undeniable charm of bohemian London—and inspired generations of tourists to seek out that blue door.  

Rye Lane . Set around the eponymous market in Peckham, South London, this post-Covid romance begins with a meet-cute in   an   gender-neutral   bathroom.  

My Beautiful Launderette . An enduring favorite that introduced a young Daniel Day-Lewis to the world, this romance by Hanif Kureishi was set in South London during the Thatcher years and emerged as one of the first “queer fairytales” to reach a wide audience.

Related Topics

• HISTORY AND CIVILIZATION
• HISTORIC SITES
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE
• CITY GUIDES

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24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Shandley McMurray Updated Mar 20, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley has visited London many times, most recently on an extensive tour of England in the spring of 2022. Author Shandley McMurray lived in London and always enjoys returning.

London is one of the world's most mesmerizing cities . Modern architectural marvels like the Shard line medieval laneways peppered with historic monuments, high-end shops, and award-winning theaters. Picturesque streets and avenues connect renowned attractions like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul's Cathedral, causing visitors to gape at their beauty and exhaust their phone's photo storage.

With so many impressive tourist attractions and captivating things to do, it's no wonder London is one of the most popular places to visit in the world , attracting over 20 million tourists each year. Britain's bustling capital offers something for everyone, including shopaholics, foodies, adventurists, historians, and kids, making it tough to choose what to do first.

Should you hit one of the top museums, many of which are free to enter, or enjoy a picnic in one of the city's expansive parks ? Maybe tour a royal palace, or wander around a breathtaking garden? Perhaps you'd prefer to take in a show; enjoy a horseback ride; see the city views from atop the London Eye; or enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in Harrods, the world's poshest department store?

Use our list of the best attractions and things to do in London to help decide what to see and do in this phenomenal city you'll want to visit again and again.

See also: Where to Stay in London

Visit Buckingham Palace and Watch the Changing of the Guard

See the crown jewels at the tower of london, beat the crowds: take a morning stroll across tower bridge, get cultured at the british museum, big ben and the houses of parliament, get creative at the national gallery, tour the art displays at the victoria and albert museum, wander around piccadilly circus and trafalgar square, journey to the top of the shard, get your art fix at tate britain and tate modern, walk the hallowed halls of westminster abbey, head underground to the churchill war rooms, walk with dinosaurs at the natural history museum, enjoy a picnic in hyde park, climb the dome of st. paul's cathedral, shop at london's best markets, be entertained by buskers at covent garden, take flight on the london eye, meet henry viii at hampton court palace, straddle the meridian line at greenwich, the imperial war museum & hms belfast, explore the london docklands & canary wharf, visit picturesque richmond park, ogle the flora and fauna at kew gardens, where to stay in london for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to london, map of tourist attractions & things to do in london, best time to visit london, england.

One of Britain's most iconic buildings, Buckingham Palace is also the scene of London's most popular display of pomp and ceremony: the Changing of the Guard.

Drawing crowds at 11:30am most days regardless of the season, this colorful display of precision marching and music also takes place at St. James's Palace . One of the top free things to do in London , you can then follow the band along The Mall as they march between sites.

Buckingham Palace was built in 1837 and has been the London residence of the Royal Family since Queen Victoria's accession. If you're wondering whether the King is in, look at the flagpole atop the building: if the royal standard is flying day and night, he's at home. On special state occasions, he and members of the Royal Family may even emerge on the central balcony.

When the King's away at the Royal Family's summer residence in Balmoral Castle, Scotland , visitors can purchase tickets for tours of the State Rooms, the Queen's Gallery, and the Royal Mews.

From prison to palace, treasure vault to private zoo, the magnificent Tower of London has fulfilled many different roles over the centuries. One of Britain's most iconic structures, this spectacular World Heritage Site offers hours of fascination for visitors curious about the country's rich history, so much of which happened here.

Inside the massive White Tower, built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, is the 17th-century Line of Kings with its remarkable displays of royal armaments and armor. Other highlights include the famous Crown Jewels exhibition, the Beefeaters, the Royal Mint, and gruesome exhibits about the executions that took place on the grounds.

The Bloody Tower is also worthy of a visit. Here you'll find stories of ancient torture, and you can learn about the mystery of two princes who disappeared many years ago.

For the best use of your time, especially during the busy summer season, purchase the Tower of London Entrance Ticket Including Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour in advance, to bypass the ticket office lines. This pass guarantees the lowest price, helps avoid the crowds, and saves time and hassle.

Located adjacent the Tower of London, Tower Bridge features two huge towers rising 200 feet above the River Thames.

This is one of London's best-known and most photographed landmarks. While fascinating behind-the-scenes tours are available, you can easily walk across the bridge from the Tower of London.

For the best Tower views, as well as a glimpse of HMS Belfast and London Bridge (which many mistakenly believe Tower Bridge to be), find a spot mid-way across. While it can be crowded, especially around sunset, an early morning arrival before the throngs of tourists get there is well worth the effort.

Afterwards, head over to the renovated Butlers Wharf district on the bridge's south end for a unique twist on the classic "full English" breakfast at WatchHouse Tower Bridge. This now ritzy area is fun to wander and is home to a funky selection of restaurants, luxury housing, and shops.

Address: Tower Bridge Road, London

Official site: www.towerbridge.org.uk

Displaying one of the world's finest collections of antiquities, the British Museum contains more than 13 million artifacts from the ancient world. With priceless objects from Assyria, Babylonia, China, Europe, and elsewhere, it's hard to know where to begin in this expansive attraction.

Most tourists head first for the museum's most famous exhibits: the controversial Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon, the Rosetta Stone , the colossal bust of Ramesses II, the Egyptian mummies, and the spectacular hoard of 4th-century Roman silver known as the Mildenhall Treasure .

In addition to a well-stocked, on-site bookshop boasting an exhaustive array of titles on ancient history, archaeology and art history, there's a shop selling kids' games and souvenirs, along with one that sells replica sculptures and jewelry.

For those able to linger longer, the museum offers a variety of lectures and workshops, plus a restaurant and café.

Address: Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London

Official site: www.britishmuseum.org

Nothing screams "London" more emphatically than the 318-foot tower housing the giant clock and its resounding bell known as Big Ben. It's as iconic a landmark as Tower Bridge , and the tolling of Big Ben is known throughout the world as the time signal of the BBC.

Below it, stretching along the Thames, are the Houses of Parliament . The seat of Britain's government for many centuries, it was also once the site of the royal Westminster Palace occupied by William the Conqueror.

The best view of the parliament buildings can be had by crossing Westminster Bridge and looking back. Or, turn left after crossing the bridge and walk along the path towards the SEA LIFE London Aquarium (a fun spot to take kids). Gather your crew along the wall for a perfect photo with Big Ben in the background.

Tours of the Houses of Parliament offer a unique chance to see real-time debates and lively political discussions. From Parliament Square, Whitehall is lined by so many government buildings that its name has become synonymous with the British government.

Official site: www.parliament.uk/bigben

It's almost impossible to visit London without catching a glimpse of the impressive National Gallery. This iconic, columned museum is set at the edge of Trafalgar Square , home to incredible masterpieces that make it one of the best attractions in London.

Ranking among the top art museums in the world, London's National Gallery represents an almost complete survey of European painting from 1260 until 1920. The museum's greatest strengths are in its collections of Dutch Masters and Italian Schools of the 15th and 16th centuries.

Among its highlights are a cartoon (preliminary sketch) of the Madonna and Child by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo's The Entombment , Botticelli's Venus and Mars , van Gogh's Sunflowers , and The Water-Lily Pond by Monet.

Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London

Official site: www.nationalgallery.org.uk

The Victoria and Albert Museum (aka the V&A) is part of a South Kensington-based group of museums that includes the Natural History Museum and Science Museum . Founded in 1852, the V&A covers close to 13 acres and contains 145 galleries spanning some 5,000 years of art and related artifacts.

Exhibits include ceramics and glass, textiles and costumes, silver and jewelry, ironwork, sculpture, prints, and photos, and are conveniently arranged into four main categories: Asia; Furniture, Textiles, and Fashion; Sculpture, Metalwork, Ceramics, and Glass; and Word and Image.

It's impossible to get around this vast museum in a single visit, so the best plan to tackle it is to decide in advance which sections you most want to see. Taking a V&A tour is highly recommended, and often free, with options including everything from daily introductory tours to specific gallery or themed tours.

The Main and Garden Cafés are more impressive than any museum eatery you've seen. The intricate detailing on everything from the floor to the columns to the ceiling make them worthy pieces of art themselves. Plus, the food is quite tasty. Also, don't miss an opportunity to luxuriate in the John Madejski Garden , which is so beautiful and serene, you'll forget you're in the center of one of the world's largest cities.

If you're around, check into one of the fun "Friday Late" programs held on the last Friday of the month (except for March and December). These fun events are popular for their food and drink experiences, along with late-night exhibition openings.

Address: Cromwell Road, Knightsbridge, London

Official site: www.vam.ac.uk

Two of London's best-known tourist spots, Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square lie not far apart and mark the gateway to Soho , London's lively theater and entertainment district. The walk from one to the other is truly enjoyable, lined with eclectic boutiques, tasty cafés, ice-cream shops, and winding laneways evoking a bygone era when only horses and buggies traipsed through these historic streets.

Trafalgar Square was built to commemorate Lord Horatio Nelson's victory over the French and Spanish fleets at Trafalgar in 1805. Nelson's Column , a 183-foot granite monument, overlooks the square's fountains and bronze reliefs, which were cast from French cannons. Admiralty Arch, St. Martin-in-the-Fields , and the National Gallery surround the square.

Piccadilly Circus marks the irregular intersection of several busy streets, including Piccadilly, Regent, Haymarket, and Shaftesbury Avenue. Overlooking this somewhat untidy snarl of traffic stands London's best-known sculpture, the winged Eros delicately balanced on one foot, bow poised.

"It's like Piccadilly Circus" is a common expression among Londoners to describe a busy and confusing scene.

Since it opened in 2012, The Shard has taken its place as one of the most-recognizable and most-visited landmarks in London.

Standing 1,016 feet tall and encompassing some 95 stories, this remarkable structure is so-named for its resemblance to a shard of glass. Yet, while it dominates the skyline south of the River Thames, its pleasing design doesn't seem at all out of place when seen next to neighbors such as Tower Bridge.

In addition to its office space on the lower levels, The Shard is home to a stunning Shangri-La Hotel and three superb restaurants, all boasting some of the most incredible views over London. For those not staying here, the upper-most levels consist of a choice of viewing platforms: indoor and outdoor.

Another London skyscraper that's worth a visit is the "Walkie Talkie" with its popular Sky Garden attraction. Located around the corner from the Tower of London and set on the building's 34th to 37th floors, the garden's terraces offer some of the best views over the city. If you've got the time, reserve a table at one of the restaurants here in order to enjoy the views while you dine.

Address: 32 London Bridge Street, London

Official site: www.the-shard.com

Art lovers cannot visit London without touring its most impressive art museums: the two Tates. Located on opposite sides of the Thames, Tate Britain and Tate Modern together comprise one of the world's most important art collections .

The original gallery opened in 1897 as the basis of a national collection of significant British art, and continued to make acquisitions, needing more space to properly display its collections. The end result was the establishment of Tate Britain, in Millbank on the north side of the Thames, as home to its permanent collection of historic British paintings.

A superbly transformed power station across the Thames became home to the modern art collections. Art lovers can spend a whole day viewing both sites, conveniently connected by high-speed ferry. Better still, walk across the Millennium Bridge , a footbridge that connects the two banks of the river close to the Tate Modern. The views are spectacular.

Tate Britain

• Address: Millbank, London
• www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-britain

Tate Modern

• Address: Bankside, London
• www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern

Another location with a long association with British royalty, Westminster Abbey stands on a site that's been associated with Christianity since the early 7th century. Officially known as the Collegiate Church of St. Peter in Westminster, Westminster Abbey was founded by Edward the Confessor in 1065 as his place of interment.

From his burial in 1066 until that of George II almost 700 years later, most sovereigns were not only crowned here but were buried here, too. More recently, it's become famous as the preferred location for Royal Weddings.

This masterpiece of Gothic architecture not only has the highest Gothic nave in England (102 feet), it's also one of London's most popular tourist attractions, drawing well over a million visitors each year.

Highlights of a visit include seeing the more than 600 memorials in the Nave, including the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior; Poet's Corner in the Transepts , with its memorials to the likes of Shakespeare, Chaucer, and Dickens; the Westminster Abbey Museum; and the attractive gardens.

Address: 20 Dean's Yard, Westminster, London

Official site: www.westminster-abbey.org

Among the most fascinating and evocative of London's historic sites are the perfectly preserved Churchill War Rooms.

The nerve-center from which Prime Minister Winston Churchill directed British military campaigns and the defense of his homeland throughout World War II, their simplicity and cramped conditions underline the desperate position of England as the Nazi grip tightened across Europe.

You'll see the tiny cubicle where Churchill slept and the improvised radio studio where he broadcast his famous wartime speeches. Simple details, such as Clementine Churchill's knitting wool marking the front lines on a map of Europe, bring the era to life as no other museum could possibly do.

Audio guides are available (a thorough self-guided tour takes about 90 minutes), and a café and bookshop are located on the premises.

Address: Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London

Official site: www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms

Established in 1754, London's spectacular Natural History Museum remains one of the most-visited such attractions on the planet. It's easy to spot for its huge Romanesque façade, and a visit is something you'll not want to rush. Arrive early as it can get quite crowded.

Many of the museum's original exhibits are still on display centuries later, and together comprise a massive collection of more than 80 million items showcasing everything from botany to zoology, plus pretty much everything in between. A highlight of a visit is seeing the preserved specimens that Charles Darwin collected on his epic journeys.

If you're not in a hurry, start your visit by joining one of the formal guided tours on offer, ranging from 30 to 50 minutes. You'll be introduced to highlights you may wish to return to at a later date to explore in greater detail.

A variety of fun events are held regularly, from workshops for kids to late night openings. Shopping opportunities are located on-site, along with a number of dining options.

Address: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London

Official site: www.nhm.ac.uk

Covering 350 acres, Hyde Park is London's largest open space and has been a destination for sightseers since 1635. One of the park's highlights is the Serpentine, an 18th-century man-made lake popular for boating and swimming. Hyde Park is also where you'll find Speakers' Corner , a traditional forum for free speech—and heckling.

Another Hyde Park landmark is Apsley House , former home of the first Duke of Wellington and purchased after his famous victory at Waterloo. Now a museum, it houses Wellington's magnificent collections of paintings, including Velázquez's The Waterseller of Seville , along with gifts presented by grateful European kings and emperors. England's greatest hero is also commemorated at the Wellington Arch.

Another lovely London green space to explore is Regent's Park . Just a short walk away from Westminster, this 410-acre attraction is a delight to stroll around. If you're traveling with kids, be sure to visit London Zoo , located within the grounds of the park and one of the most popular things to do for families visiting the city.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions around Hyde Park

The largest and most famous of London's many churches, and undoubtedly one of the most spectacular cathedrals in the world, St. Paul's Cathedral sits atop the site of a Roman temple. The previous church structure was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666, and Sir Christopher Wren designed the rebuild .

Today, the twin Baroque towers and magnificent 365-foot dome of St. Paul's are a masterpiece of English architecture. If you're up to it, be sure to walk the stairs with their spectacular views of the dome's interior, including the Whispering Gallery , undoubtedly one of the top things to do in London.

• Read More: Exploring London's St. Paul's Cathedral: A Visitor's Guide

Whether you're a fan of food, flowers, art, or clothes, you'll find something to love in London's best markets . While most open only on weekends (Fridays included), some of the most eclectic venues, like the vibrant Camden Market in North London, welcome shoppers daily.

Camden Market is home to over 100 stalls, shops, and eateries offering everything from gluten-free goodies to hand-made jewels to bohemian clothing. If you're looking for a distinct urban feel, you'll find it here.

Borough Market is a must-visit for foodies in central London. This popular venue, which is situated near London Bridge, is so busy on weekends, you'll have to fight your way through crowds to nab the best produce or mouthwateringly good sample of giant paella.

Arrive early (we'd suggest no later than 10am) to enjoy a little more elbow room. The line for coffee can extend for blocks, so head there first. While some stalls are open during the week, most don't unveil their goods until Friday morning.

Old Spitalfields Market is another beloved spot offering some of the city's most gorgeous flowers, interesting antiques, art, jewelry, and more. Built in 1876, this is one of the best examples of a Victorian Market Hall.

Other popular markets include, Maltby Street Market , Brick Lane Market , and Portobello Road.

Read More: Best Places to Shop in London

The market halls of Covent Garden are only the beginning of the neighborhood, which encompasses the shops and restaurants of Long Acre and other adjacent streets, those of Neal's Yard and Seven Dials, as well as the Central Square with its incredibly talented, and unique, street performers.

The halls and arcades of Covent Garden Market are lined with specialty shops and kiosks selling everything from teas to fine handcrafts to tacky souvenirs. A few restaurants are sprinkled in as well, some offering patios for you to enjoy a tasty treat while people-watching.

Housed in the former flower market, you'll find the London Transport Museum , a kid-centric haven for those who love all things vehicular. Filled with historic buses, trolleys, and trams, children and adults alike will love this interactive transportation hub. "Drive" a London bus, pilot a tube train, or sit on an ancient trolley.

This area is also where you'll find the Royal Opera House and a variety of other leading London theaters.

Built to mark London's millennium celebrations in 2000, the London Eye is one of the world's largest observation wheels. Its individual glass capsules offer the most spectacular views of the city as you embark on a circular tour rising 443 feet above the Thames. The journey lasts close to 30 minutes, often quicker than the time spent lining up for your turn.

If you can, reserve your time in advance. Better still, skip the line completely with a London Eye: Skip-the-Line Ticket . This advance ticket allows you to take a flight at any time on the day you plan to visit. If you can afford it, rent one of the private capsules and share the experience with friends and family.

Another fun way to view London for above is aboard the Emirates Air Line , a cable car system that crosses the Thames between Greenwich and the Royal Victoria Dock. The journey travels one kilometer and lasts 10 minutes, long enough to enjoy spectacular views and grab a few memorable selfies.

Official site: www.londoneye.com

Another great Thames-side attraction, Hampton Court is one of the world's most famous and grandest of royal palaces, and a truly remarkable place to visit in London. Its Great Hall dates from Henry VIII's time (two of his six wives supposedly haunt the palace), and it's where Elizabeth I learned of the defeat of the Spanish Armada .

Meet Henry VIII himself or have a chat with Anne Boleyn, both of whom wander the grounds and involve guests in their interesting antics at random points throughout the day. Depending on the time and date you visit, you may even be asked to participate in a session in court.

Grab an audio guide upon your arrival and choose a velvet cloak to wear as you tour the grounds, if you're hoping to feel a bit more authentic. Get lost in the palace's famous Maze , or grab a bite in the on-site café,

Other interesting features include the Clock Court with its fascinating astronomical clock dating from 1540, the State Apartments with their Haunted Gallery, the Chapel , the King's Apartments , and the Tudor tennis court. Don't miss the Tudor Kitchens and their massive fireplaces.

The gardens are also worth visiting, especially in mid-May when in full bloom. Highlights include the Privy Garden, the Pond Garden, the Elizabethan Knot Garden, the Broad Walk, and an area known as the Wilderness.

Although a little farther outside the city center, Hampton Court is a must-do sightseeing trip when visiting London. It's a bit of a haul on the tube, but taking a taxi, renting a car, or even grabbing a car service will make this trip more than worthwhile.

• Read More: Visiting Hampton Court Palace: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

For centuries the hub of Britain's naval power, Greenwich is best known to tourists as the home of the Cutty Sark , the last of the 19th-century tea clippers to sail between Britain and China. The ship is located adjacent to the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre with its exhibits showcasing more than 500 years of maritime history, and the Palladian mansion known as Queen's House .

The impressive collections of the National Maritime Museum , the largest of its kind in the world, illustrate the history of the Royal Navy. And one of the most unusual things to do in London is standing with one foot in each hemisphere, astride the Meridian Line in the Meridian Building in the Royal Observatory.

Read More: Top Attractions in Greenwich & Docklands Districts, London

If you've time in your travel itinerary, two other military attractions related to the Churchill War rooms are also worth visiting: The Imperial War Museum and HMS Belfast .

Located a short distance from the popular Southbank cultural district, the Imperial War Museum London can easily occupy the best part of a day with its fascinating exhibits and collections of military vehicles, weapons, and aircraft.

Set in chronological order, displays portray the very real experiences of participants and victims in the world's major conflicts, with many hands-on exhibits allowing unique incites into their place in history. The Holocaust Galleries are particularly sobering.

A shop and café are located on-site, and before leaving, grab a selfie standing next to the huge shells and guns located out front.

The other must-see under the Imperial War Museum umbrella, HMS Belfast is a well-preserved WWII-era cruiser that served during D-Day. Located on the River Thames opposite the Tower of London, this historic vessel can be explored as part of a guided or self-guided tour.

For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a fun family tour. A gift shop is located on the premises.

The revitalized Docklands area of East London has been transformed into an international place of business and recreation, filled with some of London's smartest new restaurants and entertainment experiences.

The revitalized Docklands area also includes Canary Wharf. This important financial and business hub offers a variety of fun things to do, including shopping and dining.

The excellent Museum of London Docklands is the place to visit to learn more about the area. Located in a series of old Georgian warehouses on Canary Wharf, it brings to life the river, port, and its people from Roman times to the present through hands-on displays that are especially interesting for children.

A little closer to the Tower of London, St. Katherine Docks is fun to explore, too. Redeveloped as a mixed commercial and residential area, here you can spend time wandering the marina or enjoying a great meal or respite while watching the world go by.

It's hard to believe you're in London (well, technically just outside London) when on a visit to Richmond Park. One of the most captivating of the eight Royal Parks, this lavish natural wonderland has everything you'd look for in an English park: winding paths, verdant woodland, sparkling lakes, horse stables and trails, bike lanes, and multiple picnic spots.

Enjoy unparalleled views of St. Paul's Cathedral from King Henry's Mound , a picturesque hilltop surrounded by wild deer. Luxuriate in a warm tea and traditional scones at the Pembroke Lodge Tea Room , or rent a bike and cycle through this spectacular 2,500-acre nature reserve.

If visiting during spring, particularly late April or early May, make your way to the Isabella Plantation , a remarkable Victorian woodland garden set within the park. Its vibrant 40 acres are filled with colorful rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias so resplendent, you'll think you're walking through a fairy tale.

Official site: https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/richmond-park

Spending at day at Kew Gardens is one of the best things to do in London. A UNESCO Heritage Site , this phenomenal spot is home to over 50,000 living plants and some of the most majestically manicured gardens in England.

Officially called the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is situated in southwest London on the south bank of the Thames and offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of central London, and a welcome breath of fresh air. Located on a flight path, you'll spot multiple jumbo jets, but these add to the allure for little ones.

Also family-friendly is the expansive indoor and outdoor playground, which comes complete with a zipline. Visit on a sunny day, and you should prepare to jostle for a picnic spot on the lush lawns, as this is a popular spot for families to enjoy a lunch out. Didn't pack snacks? Visit one of the on-site restaurants for a tasty treat-they even offer dairy and gluten-free options.

Laid out in 1759, the gardens became government property in 1841. In 1897, Queen Victoria added Queen's Cottage and the adjoining woodland. A variety of tours are available free with admission, and many musical and cultural events are held here throughout the year.

Don't miss the towering Pagoda ; Japanese gardens ; Treetop Walkway ; and the remarkable Palm House , an indoor rainforest with an aquarium in the basement. The impressive Rhododendron Dell is a breathtaking treat popping with vibrant blooms during spring.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of London's Kew Gardens

London's top tourist attractions are spread out over several different areas of the city. If you want to spend time sightseeing, it's a good idea to base yourself in a central location and use the city's excellent public transport system to travel between the sites. Here are some highly rated hotels in Central London:

Luxury Hotels:

• When it comes to posh hotels, the grande dames still grace the list of London's best. Pampering guests for more than a century are The Goring , a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace.
• The Langham , in the heart of the West End, has played host to royals and celebrities for more than 150 years.
• A few steps from Trafalgar Square is the Corinthia London , with a rooftop terrace and luxurious afternoon teas.
• The Ritz London , also known for teas, is handy to the posh shops of Mayfair.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Fielding Hotel , a popular boutique property, places you right near Covent Garden, one of the city's most touristy areas. Handy for those arriving by train from Heathrow or Gatwick airports,
• The Clermont, Victoria is right over Victoria Station.
• About a 15-minute stroll from Covent Garden, Bloomsbury was once London's literary hub and is now home to one of the city's top attractions, the British Museum, as well as highly rated mid-range hotels such as The Montague on the Gardens and The Bloomsbury . Both are also a short stroll from Oxford Street shopping.

Budget Hotels:

• If you're watching your wallet, the Premier Inn London Kensington (Earl's Court) Hotel is an affordable option minutes from museums and Earls Court tube station.
• You can also head north and try The Alhambra Hotel or Jesmond Dene Hotel , both near busy King's Cross tube station, a major transport hub.
• In-depth tours. It's hard to choose the best sights to see in London; there are so many awesome spots on offer. This nine-hour, Best of London Sightseeing Tour makes sure you don't miss anything essential. In addition to taking you to some of the city's top spots like Westminster Cathedral and Buckingham Palace, guests receive pre-arranged tickets for a boat cruise, as well as comprehensive tours of the Tower of London and St. Paul's Cathedral, plus a stop to watch the Changing of the Guard. Upgrade to receive a cream tea at Harrods or a flight on the London Eye.
• Seeing the Sights . One of the best ways to see the sights of London is on a traditional, double-decker Hop-On Hop-Off London Sightseeing Tour . This has been the classic sightseeing tour for years, and it's popular for good reason: it's easy, convenient, informative, and ensures you see the most important attractions. Tickets are flexible, with open dates, and are valid for a 24-hour period. Even if you are in London for several days, this is a great way to spend a day getting oriented, especially for first-time visitors to the city.
• Day Trips . Beyond the city, there are some excellent sightseeing opportunities that can be easily undertaken on a day trip tour from London. The Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath Day Trip from London is an 11-hour guided trip that takes visitors to these must-see places to visit. It's a great way to see the surroundings without the hassle of driving, navigating, and parking.
• Harry Potter Experience. Fans of Harry Potter will definitely want to take the Warner Brother's Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter for a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the movie and a walk through the incredible sets where the film was made. Visitors can explore the site on their own, see the costumes and props, wander through the Great Hall, and learn about the whole experience of filming. The tour includes transportation to and from the studios from central London and an entrance ticket.

Let's be honest: no one travels to London for its weather. Frequented by cloudy skies that release smatterings of mist and rain, the UK's epic capital city is best visited with an umbrella in hand.

That said, London receives less annual rainfall than its tarnished reputation would have us believe, and less than many European cities . And rather than heavy rainfalls, the norm is "little and often." Yes, you'll likely run into a sprinkle or two during your visit, but a little rain never ruined a vacation, especially when touring a historic metropolis with so much to offer.

When those beautiful, bright sunny days do appear, visitors receive front row seats to the city's remarkable transformation. Locals smile more easily, the city's best parks and gardens fill with sun worshippers and picnickers, and a sparkling hue adds another level of magic to the city's most magnificent buildings. There's nothing better!

London is a tourist hot spot throughout the year. In other words, there's never a bad time to visit. If you're looking for a better chance of glimpsing the sun and avoiding masses of tourists, however, the best time to visit London is from March through May . That said, if you don't mind rubbing elbows with a zillion other tourists, a good time of year to travel to London is during the summer months from June to September.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Other English City Destinations : Given its relatively small size, it's easy to travel from London to other great English cities, including lovely Liverpool , famous as the birthplace of The Beatles. The industrial city of Manchester is also within easy reach and is popular for its historic canal network and fine museums. Birmingham is another northern city worth visiting and celebrates both its rich industrial past along with modern museums, art galleries, and other cultural attractions.

Easy Escapes : From London, you're only a short train ride away from the idyllic countryside of the Lake District , a popular walking destination and known for the stunning scenery around Lake Windermere. The historic city of Bath , named after its well-preserved Roman baths, is another great escape, whether for a weekend or a week. So, too, is the cathedral city of Durham , which is also home to one of the most-visited castles in England.

Top UK Vacation Ideas : Scotland makes for an excellent UK vacation, and is where you'll find the spectacularly beautiful city of Edinburgh , recognizable the world over for its lovely castle. The tiny nation of Wales , too, is worth exploring, especially its capital city of Cardiff and the stunning scenery of Snowdonia in North Wales .

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Heathrow Airport Guide

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Heathrow Airport is London's largest and busiest airport, acting as an international travel hub for passengers from all over the world. The airport, which first opened in 1946 and features five total terminals, offers flights around the globe, including to the United States, Asia and around Europe. It serves both domestic and international destinations, with an emphasis on international flights leaving from four public terminals.

The departures and arrivals are located on different levels, and departures can be found on the upper level of each terminal. It's a very well organized and easy to navigate airport, but Heathrow is also often crowded, especially during holiday periods and over the summer.

Heathrow Code, Location, and Contact Information

• Airport code: LHR
• Location: Heathrow is located 15 miles west of London in Hounslow
• Airport website: https://www.heathrow.com/
• Flight tracker: Track arrivals here and departures here
• Airport map: Heathrow's website features terminal and transit maps here
• Airport phone number: +44 20 7360 1250

Know Before You Go

Heathrow is a very large airport and both check-in lines and security lines can be long. It's best to arrive 2 to 3 hours before a flight to ensure enough time regardless of your destination. Heathrow features five terminals, although only four are used for commercial flights, and the terminals are connected via shuttles and trains, or by foot. Although Heathrow can be very busy, it's also an extremely clean, well-organized airport with easy to follow signs and helpful staff members.

Most large airlines serve Heathrow, which is a hub for British Airways (which takes up all of Terminal 5 and some of Terminal 3). Many international flights transit through Heathrow on the way to various other destinations and the transfer system is fairly easy to follow, although will require some walking and time.

Security at Heathrow is tight and travelers should be prepared to fit all their carry on liquids into a single plastic bag, which is provided before the security lines. There are no exceptions to this rule, so if you have extra liquids it's best to check your luggage. Be prepared to remove shoes, belts, and jackets, and to take electronics out of your bags.

Heathrow Parking

Each of Heathrow's terminals features parking for travelers, including short and long stay parking. The airport also offers several special parking services, from valet to Meet & Greet parking, as well as dedicated Heathrow Business Parking at Terminals 2, 3, and 5 for travelers leaving for a few days at a time. All parking options can (and should) be booked in advance online using Heathrow's website. The online rates are often cheaper than those at the airport.

Several airport hotels offer Heathrow Hotel & Parking packages that combine an overnight stay with either Meet & Greet parking or long stay parking. These hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Mercure London Heathrow, Radisson Blu Heathrow, Park Inn by Radisson, and Sheraton Skyline. Packages can be booked in advance via Heathrow's website or via the hotels directly.

Heathrow also offers parking for motorcycles in Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. All motorcycles must used designated areas, which are listed specifically on the Heathrow website for each terminal. Bicycles should be parked in the Heathrow Cycle Hub at Terminals 2 and 3, or at Terminal 4 or 5. Bikes can also be stored at the left baggage office for up to 90 days.

Driving Directions

Heathrow Airport is located 15 miles west of central London. The airport is easily accessible from the M4 and M25 motorways, although traffic can be a consideration when driving to and from Heathrow. To access Terminals 2 and 3, exit the M4 at junction 4 or the M25 at junction 15. Terminals 4 and 5 have their own separate entrances. For Terminal 4, exit the M25 at junction 14 and follow signs for Heathrow Terminal 4, or exit the M4 at junction 4b and follow the M25 south to junction 14. For Terminal 5, exit the M25 at junction 14, or exit the M4 at junction 4b and follow the M25 south to junction 14.

For those who prefer to follow satellite navigation to Heathrow, enter postcode TW6 1EW for Terminal 2, TW6 1QG for Terminal 3, TW6 3XA for Terminal 4 and TW6 2GA for Terminal 5.

Public Transportation and Taxis

Heathrow is best accessed via public transportation. There are several options to get to the airport on public transportation, including by taxi, train, or Tube.

• Heathrow Express: The Heathrow Express connects the airport with Paddington Station in central London, bringing passengers to Terminals 2 & 3 and Terminal 5 in 15 to 20 minutes. To access Terminal 4, exit at Terminals 2 & 3 and transfer to the local service. Tickets can be booked online or on the Heathrow Express app in advance. If you book more than 30 days ahead, the tickets are usually discounted. Be sure to check the service and train times before heading to Paddington as there can be outages or service work. There is free Wi-Fi onboard the trains.
• TFL Rail: London's TFL Rail also connects Heathrow to Paddington via a local service with a few stops along the way. This is a great option for those with slightly more time as the fare is significantly cheaper than the Heathrow Express. The journey typically takes 30 to 40 minutes. You can purchase a ticket at Paddington, or pay with an Oyster card, contactless credit card, or Zone 6 Travelcard.
• London Underground: The Tube accesses Heathrow via the Piccadilly line, which runs from central London all the way to the airport. Allot at least an hour if you plan to take the Tube and be sure to avoid rush hour as it's difficult to get large suitcases into the cars when they're crowded. The fare varies depending on where you start your journey, but it's typically the cheapest way to get to the airport. Pay with an Oyster card, contactless credit card, or Zone 6 Travelcard.
• Buses: Many local buses include Heathrow on their routes. Use the TFL website to find the best option from your destination. Note that buses can take a long time, especially in busy traffic, so it's recommended to take the Tube or a train.
• Taxis and Ubers: Hail a taxi from anywhere in London to get to the airport. Black cabs are wheelchair accessible, but are often quite pricey. Black cabs will accept cash or credit cards. Uber also operates to and from Heathrow, which is a good option for those on a budget. Minicabs and car services are also bookable in advance for a set rate.

Where to Eat and Drink

Heathrow has plenty of dining options in each terminal, from quick-fix eateries to sit-down restaurants. Look for Pret a Manger, EAT, Costa, and Starbucks to satiate any coffee cravings, or search out a special meal to pass the time. Note that many of the restaurants offer pre-order service with the Heathrow Airport app.

• Fortnum & Mason Bar: Located in Terminal 5, Fortnum & Mason Bar features high-end options like seafood and caviar, as well as champagne and the brand's iconic teas.
• Leon: One of London's most popular fast food spots is Leon, which has an outpost in Terminal 2. Grab a sandwich or salad box, as well as breakfast items.
• Spuntino: This New York offshoot can be found in Terminal 3, serving up comfort food and cocktails, as well as breakfast.
• Comptoir Libanais: Lebanese eatery Comptoir Libanais, located in Terminal 4, offers mezze bites, tagines, and savory flatbreads with many healthy options.

Where to Shop

Heathrow is filled with shopping options, including extensive duty free shopping. There are numerous designer shops located throughout the terminals, although Terminals 2 and 3 tend to have the best shops thanks to their many international flights.

• Burberry: The iconic British fashion brand has a shop in Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5.
• Hamleys: Britain's favorite toy store, Hamleys, is the best place to stop for a souvenir or gift before you leave London. There are shops in Terminals 2, 3, and 4.
• The Harry Potter Shop: Get all your wizarding gear at The Harry Potter Shop in Terminal 5, which sells collectibles, apparel, accessories, gifts, novelties and souvenirs.
• World of Whiskies: Take home some of the U.K.'s best whiskey from World of Whiskies, which can be found in Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. Customers can pre-order their products via the Heathrow website for collection at the airport.
• Harrods: Harrods, another British favorite, can also be found in Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5 with a limited selection of designer and high-end products from their famous department store.

How to Spend Your Layover

Heathrow has several airports nearby for those with overnight layovers, but it's also possible to head in to central London if you have enough time. Public transportation, such as the Tube or the Heathrow Express, is recommended and travelers can store their luggage at the left luggage office for a fee. Left luggage offices are located in all terminals on the arrivals level.

If central London feels too far away, consider visiting somewhere closer to Heathrow during your layover. Windsor and Eton are just west of Heathrow and accessible by Uber or taxi, and Chiswick offers a nice downtown area just east of Heathrow.

The best airport hotels for a layover include the Sofitel London Heathrow, located at Terminal 5; Hilton London Heathrow Airport at Terminal 4; and YOTEL, a budget capsule hotel also at Terminal 4. The No1 Lounge after security in Terminal 3 offers bunk and single rooms for passengers who prefer not to leave the airport.

Airport Lounges

Heathrow features numerous frequent flyer airline lounges throughout Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5, including for British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, United Airlines and American Airlines. Customers can opt to pay for entry to several of the lounges, including Aspire Lounge and Plaza Premium Lounge, which are listed below. There is also a free Rest and Relaxation room for all travelers in Terminal 3.

• Terminal 2: Plaza Premium Lounge
• Terminal 3: Plaza Premium Lounge, Club Aspire Lounge, No1 Lounge and Travel Spa, No1 Lounge Bedrooms
• Terminal 4: Plaza Premium Lounge, The House Lounge, SkyTeam Lounge
• Terminal 5: Plaza Premium Lounge, Aspire Lounge

Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

Heathrow offers free Wi-Fi for all passengers throughout the airport, both before and after security. Select "_Heathrow Wi-Fi" on your device and follow the instruction to register. There is no time limit on the use of Wi-Fi. There are also free computer desks with broadband access in every terminal.

Free "Power Pole" charging stations are available in all terminals, before and after security. The charging station use U.K. and European plugs, or a USB cable. Those with a U.S. plug should bring along a converter to use the charging stations.

Tips & Facts

• Travelers with kids should look for "Stay & Play" areas in each terminal after security. The areas, which include slides, soft play areas, and separate baby and junior zones, welcome kids up to 9 years old. Mr. Adventure coloring and activity sheets are also available at each "Stay & Play" area. Many Heathrow restaurants feature Kids Eat Free meal deals, which can be spotted via Mr. Adventure signs at each restaurant.
• Travelers who need special assistance at the airport can put in a request in advance ahead of time via their airline or travel agent. Be sure to make the request at least 48 hours ahead of travel. There are also assisted toilet facilities, an assistant shopping service, and reserved seating in each terminal. In addition, look for the rest and relaxation room in Terminal 3, which offers a quiet space.
• Those who don't want to deal with the hassle of heavy luggage can use Heathrow's Transfer Bags service, which collects bags from your hotel, home or office for delivery to Heathrow. The service can be booked online via Heathrow's website or at one of the left luggage office. AirPortr offers a similar service, which is also booked online in advance.

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London Travel Guide | Top Attractions, Travel Essentials, Tips & More

Why visit london.

London is one of the world's most popular cities. It has delightful pubs, global (and often free) art museums, tons of history, some of the world's best theater scenes, multicultural demography, fantastic food, and wild nightlife. London is a fantastic city to visit, and getting around is a breeze thanks to England's excellent public transportation. You could easily spend a week or more perusing everything that each London district has to offer and still have things to do on your next visit. If you are planning to go to London sometime soon, here is everything that you need to know before the trip.

Top 10 things to do in London

1. London Theatre

Home of the best live entertainment.

London Theatre, encompassing the renowned West End and numerous fringe venues, offers a rich array of performances, from classic musicals such as Hamilton and The Lion King to innovative contemporary works like Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Things to do:

• See a world-class play or musical
• Join backstage tours and meet the cast
• Look out for post-show discussions or enjoy live orchestra performances

Best suited for: Theatre enthusiasts

2. London Eye

Observation wheel for sightseeing.

Standing at 135 meters tall, the London Eye offers stunning 360-degree views of London's skyline, including landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and the River Thames.

• Enjoy a 30-minute rotation and make note of London's attractions from a bird's eye view
• Spot magical fireworks during your night-time visit
• Sip on champagne while appreciating London's skyline

Best suited for: Couples looking for a romantic experience

3. Tower of London

A royal fortress & prison.

The Tower of London, built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, is a historic palace on the River Thames, renowned for its medieval architecture, role as a royal residence and prison, and housing the Imperial State Crown.

• Appreciate the Crown Jewels
• Join the Yeoman Warder Tour
• Attend special events

Best suited for: History & royal enthusiasts

4. Madame Tussauds London

Madame Tussauds London, founded in 1835 by Marie Tussaud, showcases over 150 lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical icons, and fictional characters. It offers immersive zones and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.

• Say hello to over 150 lifelike wax celebrities
• Go on the Spirit of London ride to learn more about the capital's history
• Explore the city's dark criminal past in the Chamber of Horrors, an immersive attraction

Best suited for: Fans of pop culture and celebrities

5. Buckingham Palace

Official residence of british monarch.

Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch since 1837, features 775 rooms including State Rooms used for official functions, set amidst expansive gardens for royal events and ceremonies.

• Check out the State Rooms
• Attend the Changing of the Guard ceremony
• Observe the beautiful Flemish, Dutch and Italian works featured in the King's Picture Galley

Best suited for: History buffs

6. Westminster Abbey

Historic gothic church.

Westminster Abbey, a historic Anglican church in London's City of Westminster, spans over a thousand years of history, renowned for coronations, royal weddings, and as the burial site of monarchs and notable figures.

• See one of the oldest pieces of furniture - the Coronation Chair
• Admire the gorgeous decorations, including the oldest door in Britain, present in the Chapter House
• Pay your respect to many noted British poets and writers buried at the Poets' Corner

Best suited for: History, literary and art lovers

7. Thames River

Major waterway for transportation.

The River Thames, spanning 215 miles through southern England and flowing through London, is crucial for trade, history, and recreation, serving as a lifeline for two-thirds of London's drinking water supply.

• A Thames River cruise is an absolute must!
• Enjoy the view of iconic London landmarks such as the Big Ben and London Eye from a unique vantage point
• A romantic lunch or dinner on the cruise would be an unforgettable moment for you and your partner

Best suited for: Families and couples

8. SEA LIFE London Aquarium

Educational marine life center.

SEA LIFE London Aquarium, situated by the River Thames near the London Eye, showcases over 5,000 creatures across 14 themed zones. It offers interactive exhibits and educational programs on marine conservation.

• Learn about the fascinating world of seahorses
• Venture into the tropical freshwater exhibit
• Get up-close with the sharks as they swim underneath your feet

Best suited for: Marine conservation enthusiasts

9. Up at the O2

Unique outdoor activity.

"Up at The O2" is a thrilling 90-minute adventure that offers a chance to climb the iconic O2 dome in Greenwich, London, and enjoy the bird's-eye view of the city while equipped with safety gear.

• Enjoy the 360-degree panoramic view of the city from the top
• Visit the surrounding parklands with several trails
• After your climb at the O2, make sure to visit the entertainment complex at the base, which has several bars, restaurants, and a cinema

Best suited for: Adventure seekers

10. London Dungeon

Spine-chilling historical experience.

Positioned along the South Bank, the London Dungeon is an acclaimed tourist spot that recreates macabre historical events with live actors, special effects, and thrilling rides for a unique experience.

• Experience one out of the 19 interactive shows
• Go on thrilling rides like Drop Dead: Drop Ride or The Tyrant Boat Ride
• Visit the torture chamber to learn about the horrifying punishment techniques used in medieval London

Best suited for: Thrill seekers and history enthusiasts

London Travel Essentials

#London Travel Guide

Travel Essentials in London

• Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
• Language : English
• Socket Type: Type G
• Currency: Great British Pound | GBP | £
• Country Code: + 44
• Emergency Numbers: 999 (for any kind of emergency), 111 (specifically for medical purposes) and 112 (if you need help from a coastguard)

Spring in London

When: March to May

Average Temperatures: 6°C to 18°C

Summer in London

When: June to August

Average Temperatures: 13°C to 23°C

Autumn in London

When: September to November

Average Temperatures: 5°C to 20°C

Winter in London

When: December to February

Average Temperature : 3°C to 12°C

Best Time to Visit London

High Season

When: April to August

What to Expect:

• Museums, monuments, and other tourist destinations will likely have long queues.
• Expect maximum flight rates and high hotel occupancy during the High Season.

Which attractions have high visitors during peak months: London Eye, Tower of London, and British Museum

Which attractions offer a relaxed experience during high season: The Geffrye Museum, Wilton's Music Hall, and The Museum of London Docklands

Events during high season: Wimbledon, London Pride, and Notting Hill Carnival

Shoulder Season

When : March, April, September, and October

• The best times to visit are in the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and crowds are minimal.
• Hotel and restaurant prices are high but more easily acquired during the shoulder season.

Which attractions have high visitors during shoulder season: Kew Gardens, Hyde Park, and Tower of London

Which attractions offer a relaxed experience during shoulder season: The London Canal Museum and The Royal Observatory Greenwich

Events during shoulder season: London Marathon, Halloween celebrations, and Totally Thames festival

When: November to February

• In general, the weather is cold and damp.
• If you don't mind the rain, you will be rewarded with fewer crowds of people and queues at top tourist attractions.
• Off-season tourists will find great deals on airfare and hotels.

Which attractions have high visitors during low season: London Dungeon, West End Theatres, and London Eye

Which attractions offer a relaxed experience during low season: Thames River Cruise, Kew Gardens, and Little Venice

Events during the low season: Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park and Christmas markets

The must-have essentials

For Spring and Autumn:

• Lightweight clothing such as blouses, shirts, light sweaters, trench coat, waterproof jackets and scarves
• Comfortable and waterproof boots and shoes
• Compact umbrella, in case of unpredictable weather changes
• Lightweight gloves for chilly mornings

For Summer:

• Breathable cotton or linen tops, tank tops, t-shirts and blouses, along with shorts, skirts and dresses
• Sunglasses and sun hate to combat the bright sunshine
• Slides or flip-flops for beach days
• Sunscreen to protect yourself from UV-rays

For Winter:

• Insulated and waterproof coats and jackets, scarves, and gloves
• Any other thermal clothing like turtleneck sweaters and woolen dresses would also be great
• Waterproof and insulated boots and shoes
• Umbrella for unexpected rains

General must-haves:

• Reusable water bottle
• Travel adapter
• Portable charger
• Daypacks to carry your belongings during outings

Per person average daily budget

• Budget Travel: £45-£60

Budget travelers have reported spending around £60 per day in London. You would have to spend around £20 on meals and £2-£8 on local transportation for a day. Accommodations can cost around £23-£33.

• Mid-range Travel: £110-£125

Regular travelers spend around £105 each day. Food would cost around £25 for a day and £10-£14 to get around the city. In addition, the average price for a hotel stay in London is £75+.

• Luxury Travel: £450+

Luxury tourists may spend as much as £100+ per day on meals and £50-£100 on transportation, with accommodation coming up to £300+.

Average daily budget for a couple

• Budget Travel: £120-£190

The total cost for a couple's spending per day would be around £120-£190. Accommodation would cost around £66-£150, while food would cost around £62-£90. To get around the city, you must shell out £8-£16.

• Mid-range Travel: £210-300

The daily cost for a couple who wants a decent mid-budget travel experience would be £210-£300. Food would cost £70-£100, and transportation would be around £10-£20. In addition, the average price for a hotel stay in London is £150-£250.

• Luxury Travel: £500+
• Couples may spend as much as £200 per day on meals and £50+ on transportation, with accommodation costing £300-£400+.

Average daily budget for a family of 4

• Budget Travel: £240-£380

If you are visiting London with your family, you would need to spend at least £240 per day on a budget. Accommodation would cost you nearly £100-£150, while food would be around £80-£120. You would have to spend £16-£32 on public transportation.

• Mid-range Travel: £400-600

A three-star hotel for a family would cost £200-£300, and food would cost somewhere around £100-£150. Transportation, including bus fares and tube, would cost anywhere between £20-£40

• Luxury Travel: £650-£900+

A family of 4 may spend as much as £200-£400 per day on meals and £50-£100+ on transportation, with accommodation costing £400+.

London Travel Tips

• Save on sightseeing with the London Pass: This cost-effective option allows you to visit London's top landmarks without breaking the bank.
• Choose public transport: London boasts an extensive public transport network. The Tube often provides the most efficient means of travel, while buses offer a scenic alternative.
• Simplify your travel with the Oyster Card: When loaded with money, this convenient card offers significant savings on public transport compared to paper tickets.
• Optimize your journey by choosing the right airport: Select the one closest to your accommodation to minimize travel time and costs.
• Opt for accommodation in Central London: Central London is close to some major city attractions, so choose your lodging there to reduce travel time.
• Go on a cruise: Consider a boat ride on the Thames for a unique city perspective.
• Explore local food markets: Make a quick stop at markets such as Borough Market for affordable and delectable meals.
• Visit free attractions: Take advantage of London's numerous no-cost museums and galleries, such as the British Museum and the National Gallery.
• Bring a portable charger: Given the extensive sightseeing, your phone battery may deplete rapidly. A portable charger can be invaluable.
• Exercise caution regarding pickpockets: Ensure your belongings are secure and remain vigilant, particularly in crowded areas.

Free Things to do in London

Even though London is generally an expensive city to visit due to its popularity and ample supply of sights, the British capital still has many free things to do scattered throughout. Here are some places you can visit for no cost:

• Visit the British Museum: Discover one of the world's largest and most comprehensive museums, housing the Rosetta Stone and numerous other ancient artifacts.
• Stroll through Hyde Park: This 350-acre scenic green space is ideal for jogging, cycling, or leisurely relaxation. On a warm afternoon, go on a family picnic!
• Check out Shoreditch's street art: The vibrant murals and graffiti in this dynamic East London neighborhood are worth visiting.
• Attend a concert at the Southbank Centre: Enjoy performances by accomplished musicians at the Royal Festival Hall and Queen Elizabeth Hall.
• Experience a serene service at St Paul's Cathedral: Join the daily Choral Evensong to appreciate the cathedral's remarkable acoustics.

Transportation Apps:

• The London Pass App
• Tube Map App
• Hungryhouse

Other Useful Apps:

• BBC iPlayer

Know Before You Visit London

Airports in London

• London City Airport (LCY) Address: Hartmann Rd, London E16 2PX, United Kingdom
• Heathrow Airport (LHR) Address: Longford TW6, United Kingdom
• Gatwick Airport (LGW) Address: Horley, Gatwick RH6 0NP, United Kingdom
• London Luton Airport (LTN) Address: Airport Way, Luton LU2 9LY, United Kingdom
• London Stansted Airport (STN) Address: Bassingbourn Rd, Stansted CM24 1QW, United Kingdom
• London Southend Airport (SEN) Address: Eastwoodbury Cres, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6YF, United Kingdom

Visa Requirements to Visit London

The relevant UK officials make a choice on your visa application, which is primarily based on the required UK visa documents. There are specific documents required for each UK visa. You must gather all of these documents depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

• A valid passport or travel document that contains at least two blank pages and has 6 months of validity from the date of your departure from the UK.
• A filled visa application form and two passport photographs.
• A financial document demonstrating your ability to support yourself throughout your trip. Common documents include proof of income, bank statements, pay slips, and evidence of accommodation.
• A travel timetable for all of your trips, including dates and flight numbers.
• It is also highly recommended to get your admission to the city covered by travel insurance.

Insurance in London

If you plan to travel internationally, purchase relevant travel insurance before departing. If you already have travel insurance, check to see what coverage you have for coronavirus-related events, such as medical treatment and travel interruption, and any planned activities, such as adventure sports. If you're keen on purchasing a new policy, look into how it addresses these issues.

• Examine your policy to see if it covers medical expenses.
• Make sure to read the terms and conditions of your policy carefully.
• Select a policy that covers both cargo and personal property loss.
• Procure the plan as soon as possible, preferably before your trip.
• Consider getting an insurance plan that covers 24/7 emergency assistance, which can be invaluable during your trip.
• Check if your pre-existing medical conditions are covered in your policy.
• Understand the claim process, including how to file the claim and the necessary documents to do so.

Internet in London

O2 offers free Wi-Fi at several locations in London, even if you are not an O2 subscriber. Each Wi-Fi session at Starbucks lasts 2 hours, but you can have an unrestricted number of sessions per day if you reconnect after 2 hours. Besides O2 and Starbucks, numerous public libraries, shopping centers, chain restaurants, transport hubs, and select Tube stations also offer free Wi-Fi.

Some of the best internet service providers in London are:

• Virgin Media

Phone Calls in London

You would need a 900 MHz and 1800 MHz band phone, as well as the ability to use 3G, for your mobile phone to work in the UK. However, be wary of roaming charges, which can quickly add up if you're not connected to the internet. Here's other important information you need to make phone calls in the city:

• Incoming : In order to dial a number in London from abroad, type in your country-specific exit or access code, followed by 44, which is the country code for the UK, followed by the phone number.
• Outgoing : To dial a number outside of the UK from London, type in 00, which is the UK’s international call access code, followed by the country code of the place you are going to call, followed by the phone number.

Staying Healthy in London

Drink plenty of water, juice, and other liquids to stay hydrated. Another thing you can do is stay out of the sun as much as possible. On clear days, the sun can be pretty powerful in London, and it is easy to get badly burned. Wear sunscreen if you are outside in the sun. Here are a few other tips for staying healthy while visiting London:

• Avoid eating on the street unless it's a reputed street vendor.
• Make sure to get enough sleep.
• Put on sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Make sure to wash your hands frequently, especially after being on public transportation.
• Eat a balanced diet, including tons of fruits, whole grains, and vegetables.
• Bring all your necessary medications in their original containers in case you require them.

Money in London

Currency: Great British Pound Sterling | GBP | £

Credit cards are widely used for payment in London. There are numerous ATMs throughout the city where you can withdraw cash. Keep an eye out for ATMs that seem to have been tinkered with. To avoid being charged an exorbitant fee, make sure to ask about service fees and exchange rates before changing money. In London, the following online payment methods are accepted:

• Samsung Pay

Safety in London

In general, London is safe. However, any location with a high number of tourists that is outside of your jurisdiction should be handled with caution. Here are some safety tips for your trip to London:

• Pickpockets can be found in heavily populated regions and on public transportation.
• Take only what you need, leaving your personal items and extra cash at the hotel and only carrying the money you need in a fanny pack hidden away on your person.
• If you plan to travel with extra funds and personal documents, use a pouch or bag with zips and a safe handle or a money belt.
• Stay vigilant on the streets, especially if you come from a country that drives on the right, unlike the United Kingdom.

Laws in London

It's important to note that there are no specific laws or rules implemented to govern a tourist's behavior in London. However, it's always a good idea to follow the standard practices and guidelines as given below:

• Loud noises in public spaces are generally frowned upon, so maintain decorum in public transport, restaurants, museums, and parks.
• Jaywalking is not illegal, but using pedestrian crossings when the signal turns green is safer and more respectful.
• When on the escalator, stand on the right side, thus allowing people to walk from the left side.
• Littering can lead to fines.
• Drinking alcohol in public transport is prohibited.
• You must not smoke in enclosed spaces such as public transport, bars, and restaurants. Only use the designated smoking areas for this.

Explore London

Tower Bridge combines bascule and suspension elements. It offers scenic views of the Thames and features a glass-floor walkway and Victorian engine rooms.

Located near Marble Arch, Frameless London provides a captivating digital art experience, showcasing floor-to-ceiling projections of renowned artworks like Monet's "Water Lilies" and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers."

St. Paul's Cathedral, known for its impressive dome and Baroque style, is a historic site that survived the Blitz and serves as the resting place for Admiral Nelson and Sir Christopher Wren.

LEGOLAND Windsor Resort

LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, located in Berkshire, is a family theme park featuring over 55 LEGO-themed rides, live shows, and attractions, including Miniland and the Dragon roller coaster.

The Shard, London’s tallest building, features a striking glass facade and houses hotels, restaurants, offices, and an observation deck on its 72nd floor that offers 360-degree city views.

Arsenal FC Stadium

The Arsenal FC Stadium, known as Emirates Stadium, is a modern football venue in London that hosts Arsenal FC matches. It has facilities, including hospitality suites and a dedicated Arsenal Museum.

Royal Botanic Gardens, known as Kew Gardens, showcases a vast collection of plants, beautiful landscapes, and historical glasshouses, including the iconic Palm House and the Princess of Wales Conservatory.

Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace, situated in Kensington Gardens, is a royal residence and museum that features opulent staterooms, historical artifacts, and exhibitions about British royalty, including Princess Diana’s fashion collection.

More Attractions in London

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Thames Cruise

The London HOHO bus tour offers 24/48-hour access to open-top buses with 50+ stops, a 1-hour cruise, four walking tours, and a 2-hour evening tour.

London Sightseeing Tour

Visit London’s top attractions with our sightseeing tour: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace’s Changing of the Guard, the Tower of London, a scenic Thames boat ride, and a guided Greenwich Village tour.

Harry Potter Film Locations Tour

This tour takes you to popular Harry Potter filming sites from the movies, including Diagon Alley and Borough Market. It is a 2.5-hour guided tour with an interactive Hogwarts house quiz. For detailed insights, you can choose from various languages.

Jack The Ripper & Haunted London Tour

The Jack the Ripper & Haunted London tour explores real-life murder locations. Guided through haunted streets, learn about the Whitechapel Murders, visit the Ten Bells pub, and enjoy famous fish and chips.

Paddington Bear Walking Tour

The Paddington Bear Walking Tour covers key London sites from the books and films, includes visits to filming locations, and offers memorabilia shopping at Mr. Gruber's, Portobello Market, and the Paddington Shop.

More City Tours in London

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds London displays an array of detailed wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and cultural icons. The museum offers themed zones, interactive displays, and photo opportunities with well-known personalities.

The Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms feature restored WWII bunkers and Cabinet War Rooms used by Winston Churchill. The site includes exhibits on wartime operations and the historical context of Churchill's leadership.

The Clink Prison

The Clink Prison Museum details the history of one of London’s oldest prisons through authentic artifacts and exhibits, conveying the harsh conditions and evolution of the penal system.

London Transport Museum

The London Transport Museum captures the essence of London’s transport history through its diverse vehicle collection and engaging exhibits, reflecting the significant changes in the city’s transportation over time.

The British Museum

The British Museum, renowned for its global artifact collection, includes significant pieces such as the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, representing a broad spectrum of historical and cultural epochs.

More Museums in London

Shrek's Adventure London

Shrek’s Adventure is a themed attraction with interactive elements based on the Shrek films. The experience includes character interactions and takes you on a journey through the world of Far Far Away.

Chessington World of Adventures

Chessington World of Adventures combines elements of a theme park, zoo, and aquarium. The venue includes diverse rides, interactive attractions, and animal displays, catering to various interests and age groups.

Peppa Pig World

Peppa Pig World, located in Paultons Park, includes a selection of rides and attractions inspired by the children's series. You can engage with interactive elements and meet beloved characters from the show.

Thorpe Park

Thorpe Park Resort in Surrey offers an array of high-thrill rides and other attractions that cater to all ages and people. The park is recognized for its extensive roller coasters and water-based entertainment options.

More Themeparks in London

Shakespeare's Globe

Architectural style: Elizabethan

Key architect: Theo Crosby of Pentagram

Architectural style: Gothic

Key architects: Henry of Reyns, John of Gloucester, Robert of Beverley, Nicholas Hawksmoor, and Ptolemy Dean

Architectural style: English Baroque

Key architects: Sir Christopher Wren and Robert Hooke

Architectural style: Pyramidal shape, inspired by railway lines

Key architect: Renzo Piano

Architectural style: Norman

Key architect: William the Conqueror, Richard I, Edward I, Anthony Salvin, and John Taylor

Architectural style: Neoclassical

Key architect: John Nash, Edward Blore, and Sir Aston Webb

Things you can find here:

• Designer brands
• Cosmetics and skincare products

Regent St. & Jermyn St.

• Men's fashion products
• Bespoke tailoring services
• Formal wear

Knightsbridge

• Vintage alcohol
• High-end fashion brands
• Luxury boutiques

Covent Garden

• Book shops and toy shops
• Lifestyle products

• Bespoke suit tailoring services
• Accessories for men

• Fragrance and beauty products
• High-end jewelry
• Luxury fashion brands

London Marathon

The London Marathon is a prestigious annual long-distance race in London, attracting numerous participants and generating substantial funds for charity.

Usually held in: April, every year

First held in: 1981

Next held on: April 27, 2025

London Book Fair

The London Book Fair is a key event for the publishing industry, providing networking opportunities and insights into global trends and leaders in creative content.

Usually held in: March, every year

First held in: 1971

Next held on: March 11-13, 2025

Chelsea Flower Show

The Chelsea Flower Show is a premier event for garden enthusiasts, featuring exquisite floral displays, innovative garden designs, and horticultural trends at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Usually held in: May, every year

First held in: 1913

Next held on: May 20-24, 2025

Carnaval del Pueblo

Carnaval del Pueblo celebrates Latin American culture with vibrant parades, live music, and diverse cuisine, highlighting the community's rich diversity and spirit.

Usually held in: August, every year

First held in: 2000

Next held on: August 4, 2024

Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival, London’s largest street festival, celebrates Caribbean culture with colorful parades, really cool music, and lip-smacking food, drawing around 2 million attendees annually.

Usually held on: August Bank Holiday weekend

First held in: 1966

Next held on: August 25-26, 2025

London Film Festival

The London Film Festival is a key annual event showcasing innovative films and cinematic storytelling, essential for discovering emerging talent and industry trends.

Usually held in: October, every year

First held in: 1957

Next held on: October 9-20, 2024

How to Save Money in London

With so many choices, London, like all other tourist attractions, can become expensive. Here are the best money-saving ideas to help you experience London on a tight budget.

• Oyster cards, Visitor Oyster cards, and contactless payment cards are the most cost-effective modes of transportation in London. Using a Visitor Oyster Card is more than half the price of buying one-day paper Travelcards or single cash tickets.
• Although longer journeys should be taken by public transportation, central London is ideal for walking or biking using the city's Santander Cycles system.
• London has a plethora of amazing free sights and monuments that you can visit free of charge. Top art galleries and museums, such as Tate Modern, the National Gallery, and the British Museum, as well as the Southbank Centre art complex and outdoor spaces like Hyde Park and Hampstead Heath, are among them.
• Seeing a West End play does not have to be costly, as there are several ways to get cheap London Theatre tickets . Purchase your tickets in advance for significant savings. You can also get cheap last-minute tickets at the TKTS booth in Leicester Square.
• The London Pass provides free admission to over 60 top London attractions, such as the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, the London Bridge Experience, and the Thames River Cruise.
• If you don't think you'll do enough sightseeing to justify purchasing a London Pass, you can avoid long lines and save money on ticketed attractions and exhibitions by booking online and ahead of time.

Know The City Neighborhoods

Upscale Area | Nightlife Hub

Best day to visit: Saturday

Soho is the place to go if you really want to wolf down and have a lot of fun. This is possibly London's most well-known neighborhood, and its somewhat shady past has spilled over into today in a zippy and exhilarating way.

• Catch a show at the Soho Theatre
• Shop at Carnaby Street
• Visit a Jazz club

Rustic Neighborhood I Fresh Produce

Best day to visit: Sunday

Marylebone is one of those rare neighborhoods where you get a distinct impression that you've just discovered an enchanted secret with its quaint alleyways and bookstores.

• Explore art and furniture at the Wallace Collection
• Play golf at Swingers
• Experience a distinctly Australian atmosphere at Daisy Green cafe

Upscale Area | Shopping Hub

Mayfair's affluent streets are home to some of the world's most opulent shops, galleries, and eateries, not to mention the gold-gilded gates of The Dorchester and its equitably well-known neighbors, Claridge's and The Connaught.

• Shop to your heart’s content at Bond Street
• Enjoy a British Afternoon Tea at Claridge's
• Don't miss out the classic exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts

Historic Area | Glitzy

Battersea's riverside parade of eateries and boutiques now has a glossy backdrop to match, thanks to an intense revamp that earned the neighborhood its own underground station and sparkling reputation.

• Attend a music or comedy show at Battersea Arts Centre
• Spot the celebrity cribs
• Pay a visit to the Japanese Peace Pagoda at Battersea Park

Artistic Neighborhood | Unorthodox

Shoreditch's unconventional creative energy can still be felt and seen pulsing through the streets. By day, eccentric cafés serve flaky pastries to their fashion-forward regulars, and by night, multicultural bars and clubs judder into action until the early hours.

• Spot the graffiti art in the neighborhood
• Go bar hopping in the evening
• Photograph the strange architecture

Local Hotspot | Photogenic

Best day to visit: Saturday and Sunday

This spot on the Thames's south bank provides much more than Borough Market's famed foodie stalls. While you could effortlessly spend hours munching on the delectable samples on offer, venture further and you'll discover a working replica of Shakespeare's original Globe Theatre.

• Take a walk along the Thames River
• Visit the London Eye
• Catch a movie at BFI Southbank

Pop-culture Heaven | Tourist Hotspot

Brixton is the birthplace of David Bowie and also where Jimi Hendrix is said to have once jammed, but its glitzy pop-culture persona is only the tip of the iceberg. Because of the area's mix of generations, ethnicities, and lifestyles, this south London institution is always changing.

• Plan an interesting date at The Shrub & Shutter
• Watch a movie at The Ritzy
• Read up at the Black Cultural Archives

Family Friendly | Upscale

Camberwell, arguably the most beautiful South East London neighborhood, is fiercely proud of its self-contained town within a major city. It's no surprise, given the quirky cafés, independent boutiques, and rows of doll-house-perfect Georgian properties. 

• Appreciate the works of emerging artists at South London Gallery
• Enjoy a picnic at the Burgess Park
• Eat from the food stalls at the Camberwell Green Weekly Markets

Getting Around London

The London Underground, also known as "the Tube," is simple to use and has vast networks across the city and into adjacent counties. It is recommended to use a pay-as-you-go Oyster card (specifically, a Visitor Oyster Card) to commute all through the Underground's nine zones (though the great majority of tourist attractions are clustered in the first and second zones). Even if you don't intend to use the Tube for the duration of your stay, purchasing an Oyster card (rather than a single-fare ticket) will always be less expensive.

Fare: £2.40 to £6 for a Single Ticket

General timings:

• Monday to Saturday: 5am to 12am
• Sunday: 7am to 11pm

The appeal of taking the bus is that you get to see the views. Because the London Underground is, well, underground, you miss out on the scenic views of the city. A single ride with an Oyster costs 1.75 pounds (approximately $2.25). Remember that buses do not accept cash, so bring a topped-up Oyster card to pay for your trip. Many bus routes run around the clock and cover the entire city. Routes Nos. 9, 14, 15, and 22 are especially excellent for sightseeing, per the London visitor's bureau.

Fare : £1.75 for a single ticket

TfL (Transport for London) is in charge of a number of rail options. The London Overground system consists of six routes that travel throughout the city. TfL Rail transports passengers from the city's Paddington Station to Heathrow Airport and Reading. It also transports passengers between Liverpool Street and Shenfield (a town northeast of London). The London Trams network connects visitors to towns in the south of London, including the well-known Wimbledon. It also connects to other forms of public transportation. Rail fares, like the Tube, vary depending on the time of day and the number of zones traveled.

Fare: £5 to £20 for a single ticket

The famous black cabs of London can be found all through the city, as well as in demarcated lines at busy train stations, airports, and hotels. When hailing a taxi on the street, keep in mind that a lit-up taxi sign indicates that it is available. Cabs are metered, and fares vary depending on the time of day and distance traveled. A minimum fee of 3.80 pounds is always charged, but a journey of one mile or more will cost at least 7.60 pounds (approximately $9.77).

Fare: £7.60 for one mile

General timings: 24 hours a day

Know Before Driving in London

When driving in London, visitors should be aware of the various road markings and signs. There are a few one-way streets, so keep an eye out for them and make sure you're going in the right direction. There are a lot of pedestrians in London, so be careful when driving and always give way to pedestrians at crosswalks. Also, be mindful of the following things:

• Visitors who are used to driving on the right side of the road should be aware that Londoners drive on the left.
• The cars are also typically manual; automatics are more expensive.
• Furthermore, traffic and parking are a nightmare, and the cost of gasoline is exorbitant.
• Avoid using your car for city tours whenever possible, and rather reserve it for discovering the city's fringes or taking a day trip .

What to Eat in London

English cuisine has long been criticized for its taste. However, that is a thing of the past. The food in London is surprisingly flavorful and uses influences of its multiculturalism. With the amazing variety of cuisines available and the number of street market stalls only going up, there is no way for you to be disappointed with the food in London.

Must-Try English Food

Bacon Butty

Bacon butty, bacon bap, bacon roll—whatever you call it, this is a bacon sandwich. It's just bacon on some kind of white bread. You can toast the bread or get it on a large roll and top it with English mustard, HP sauce, or ketchup, but let's be honest: this is the archetypal British dish, one that you cannot miss!

Best places to eat Bacon Butty:

• St. John Bread and Wine

Bangers and Mash

Bangers and mash, also known as sausages and mashed potatoes, has long been a firm favorite of the British working class, as well as a staple of the country's pubs and culinary traditions. It is filling, affordable, delicious, and is, well, meat and potatoes, the world's sweetest protein-carbohydrate union.

Best places to eat Bangers and Mash:

• Mother Mash
• The Coach & Horses
• Davy's At Plantation Place

Sheperd’s Pie or Cottage Pie

While these hearty pies are not strictly London dishes, they do fall under the big umbrella of figurative, widely available U.K. foods worth scouring out in England's capital. Cottage pie and shepherd's pie are both baked meat pies topped with mashed potatoes.

Best places to eat Sheperd's Pie or Cottage Pie:

• The Churchill Arms
• The Fox & Hounds

Kippers are herring that have been cured through kippering: split open, washed, salted, and smoked before being grilled/broiled or sautéed. This method of curing fish dates back to the 1840s in Northumberland, and it was quickly introduced to London.

Best places to eat Kippers:

• The Wolseley
• Randall & Aubin

Full English Breakfast

This majestic British breakfast, also known as a fry-up, was once known as high-calorie energy for the 19th-century working class; now known as famous weekend hangover fare, usually combines fried eggs, bacon, usually back bacon, sausage, pan-fried tomatoes, and mushrooms, baked beans, and toast.

Best places to eat English Breakfast:

• Terry's Cafe
• The Breakfast Club

Must-Try English Desserts 

Bread and Butter Pudding

It's usually prepared with white bread, butter, eggs, milk, sugar, and raisins or currants; vanilla, cream, and cinnamon are frequently included. It's likely that it's been made here for centuries, starting as bread pudding and progressing to bread and butter pudding as ingredients like eggs and milk became more readily available.

Best places to eat Bread and Butter Pudding:

• The Stablehand

Chelsea Bun

Chelsea buns were invented in the 18th century at a bakery in West London's Chelsea district. They are made with a spiced yeast dough that has been rolled out and topped with currants, sugar, cinnamon, and butter. The pastry is coiled into a spiral roll, then sliced, baked, and drizzled with a sweet sugar glaze.

Best places to eat Chelsea Bun:

• Fitzbillies
• Honey & Co
• The Bun House

Crumpets are spongy, cratered small savory cakes meant to be toasted and slathered with butter, which drops and soaks into the many pits on its upper surface. Those holes are a distinguishing feature today, but they are unlikely to have existed prior to the Victorian era when bakers added yeast and then baking powder to a pancake-like flour-egg-milk base.

Best places to eat Crumpets:

• Good and Proper Tea
• Dirty Bones
• he Wolseley

This beloved summer dessert, a "mess" of puff pastry pieces, whipped cream, and strawberries, is named after Eton College, a prestigious public school for boys about 35 kilometers west of London, where it's thought to have originated in the 1930s. Chefs occasionally add a sauce to tie everything together, but there are only three essential ingredients.

Best places to eat Eton Mess:

• Bread Ahead

Eccles Cake

Eccles cakes are round lovely currant-filled cakes made with buttery pastry that date back to the late 18th century and a town called Eccles in Manchester. They are usually topped with coarse sugar. They're sweet and mildly oozy on the inside, and they're a tasty treat for tea or breakfast. This sweet treat can also be found at The Flour Station.

Best places to eat Eccles Cake:

• St. John Bar and Restaurant
• Pump Street Bakery
• Town Mill Bakery

Where to Stay in London

There are tens of thousands of accommodation options in the British capital, which can be daunting. The budget is usually the most important consideration when choosing a place to stay. This guide will provide you with all of the details you need about the alternatives available for various budgets. This list includes everything from 5-star properties and boutique experiences to budget backpacker hostels.

Budget Hotels

Staying in London can be expensive, but if you know where to look, you can find some great budget hotels. There are numerous low-cost hotels in London that will provide you with a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. These are some of the best low-cost hotels:

• Notting Hill Gate Hotel (from £73-£93 per night)
• Travelodge London Central Waterloo (from £80-£111 per night)
• Heeton Concept Hotels (from £96-£116 per night)

Mid-Range Hotels

If you want more traditional hospitality in London, regardless of your budget, there are plenty of mid-range options to choose from. The two banks, as well as Shoreditch, are among the most desirable areas for hotels. Here are some of the best mid-priced hotels:

• Hyatt Place London City East (from £141-£146 per night)
• Holiday Inn London - Bloomsbury, an IHG Hotel (from £229-£279 per night)
• Novotel London Paddington (from £283-£303 per night)

Luxury Hotels

There are several alternatives in London for a more opulent hotel experience. When compared to other premium hotels around the world, some highly-rated deluxe hotels are considered to be quite affordable. Here are a few examples of the priciest hotels in London:

• JW Marriott Grosvenor House London (from £521-£581 per night)
• Charlotte Street Hotel (from £648-£701 per night)
• Bulgari Hotel London (from £1181-£1390 per night)

Hostels in London can be a good option for budget-conscious travelers. They are not only less expensive than traditional hotels, but they also offer a more authentic London experience. You will be able to meet new people and make new friends while staying in a hostel, and you will most likely get to know the surrounding streets quite well.

• Wombat's City Hostel London (from £73-£157 per night)
• Astor Museum Hostel (from £85-£95 per night)
• Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage (from £140-£141 per night)

Boutique Hotels

A boutique hotel may be the best option for you if you want an elegant and one-of-a-kind hotel experience in London. Smaller hotels provide a more intimate and personalized experience, with many involving unique design features and/or themed rooms.

• Montagu Place Hotel (from £232-£321 per night)
• Artist Residence London (from £235-£338 per night)
• Hazlitt's (from £299-£300 per night)

Where to Shop in London

The city has numerous streets that are lined with countless luxury brands and are filled with eye candy for Shopaholics. While shopping here isn't cheap, it's an amazing experience worth trying if you want to glam up your wardrobe or home! So, the next time you visit England, make sure to visit these best shops in London to fulfill your wish:

Oxford Street

The famous Oxford Street, located in the heart of the city, is home to over 300 shops that offer the most magnificent London shopping experience, making Oxford Street shopping one of the greatest things to do in London on your travel. From designer wear to bargain fashion, you'll find it all here, and it'll be worth every penny.

Location: Oxford Street, London W1W 8LG, England

What to Buy: Designer Clothes

Bond Street

Irrespective of whether you wish to splurge and grab the best city fashion for yourself or just take a stroll and indulge in window shopping, this London shopping street is the best place to be amongst the best places to visit in London. This place not only has got the big names in the house but is also very popular amongst the celebrities.

Location: Bond St, London E15 1LT, England

What to Buy: Luxury items

Notting Hill

This site is the greatest London shopping center or hub for all kinds of Shopaholics and if you were thinking about where to shop in London, then Notting Hill is the solution. From small and unique shops that sell vintage to high-end designer boutiques that sell a mix of boho and chic, you'll find it all here for cheap shopping in London.

Location : Notting Hill - Google Maps

What to Buy: Boho Chic items

King’s Road

The King's Road, home to some of London's best shops, merits to be on your England itinerary. Whether you're looking for antiques for your home or chic dresses from distinctive labels for your wardrobe, this place is certainly perfect and will not disappoint when it comes to the best clothing shopping in London.

Location : Chelsea, London‎, England

What to Buy: Antique items

If you prefer tailor-made over ready-made clothing, London has a delightful surprise in store for you. The popular Savile Row, one of London's best shopping areas, will not only allow you to have your specially crafted outfit but will also make you find love with its old-fashioned style.

Location: Savile Row, Mayfair, London, UK

What to Buy : Old-fashioned style

Best Tours in London

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours 

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses are a fantastic way for tourists to explore the city and provide unparalleled ease of access to the city's most important landmarks. Any significant landmark in London will have open-top double-decker buses plying the streets. Millions of tourists visit London each year, and the Hop On Hop Off (HOHO) buses are a popular mode of transportation.

Best suited for: Sightseers and budget-travelers

Best Tours in London:

• City Sightseeing: London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Tootbus: London Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with Thames River Cruise
• Golden Tours: Central London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Guided Tours

Guided tours in London are an excellent way to see all of the city's top tourist attractions without getting lost. You can learn about each tourist attraction's history and discover interesting info about them that you would not have known otherwise. You'll also be able to avoid crowds and long lines at the attractions.

Best suited for: History enthusiasts as well as art and culture aficionados

Best Guided Tours in London:

• Skip-the-Line Guided Tour of Westminster Abbey
• Tower of London After Hours Guided Tour & Ceremony of the Keys
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour London Tickets & Guided Tour of Oxford

Walking Tours 

London is a walkable city. It is therefore quite convenient to set out on foot and witness a number of major attractions without having to pay for public or private transportation. This also allows you to see a lot more of the city than you would have from the public transport.

Best suited for: Solo travelers who want to explore on their own pace

Best Walking Tours in London:

• Jack the Ripper Museum
• Buckingham Palace Ticket Options with Multimedia Guide
• WWII Secrets of Westminster, Churchill’s War Rooms & Museum Walking Tour

Nearby attractions to visit from London

135.9 km | 2.5-Hour Drive

Constructed between 3000 BC and 2000 BC, Stonehenge is an internationally recognized monument noted for its precision and symmetry. It forms part of a broader prehistoric complex with ceremonial pathways and burial mounds, inviting visitors to engage with solstice celebrations and ancient traditions.

Good for: Architecture enthusiasts

When to visit: March-May, September-November

• Discover the ruins and mysteries of the Stonehenge
• Witness solstice events

185 km | 3-Hour Drive

Famed for its Roman-built bathhouses, Bath in Somerset is a UNESCO World Heritage Site characterized by remarkable architecture, natural beauty, and rich history. As the only UK city with natural hot springs, the Thermae Bath Spa is a highlight. The Jane Austen Centre, celebrating the city's impact on the renowned author's life and works, is also a notable attraction.

Good for: Wellness Seekers

• Make the most of ancient religious spa
• Attend Bath Literature Festival

Windsor Castle

39.5 km | 1-hours drive.

Windsor is home to the 950-year-old Windsor Castle, famous for its majestic architecture and lush gardens. The city also offers Legoland, Eton College, Windsor & Eton Brewery, and the traditional Changing the Guard ceremony. The Windsor & Royal Borough Museum provides further insights into Windsor's rich history.

Good for : History lovers

• Witness the grandeur of Windsor Castle
• Admire the gothic architecture of St. George's Chapel

143 km | 2-Hour Drive

The Cotswolds, covering 800 acres across five counties, is a tranquil retreat in the British countryside. Here, you can explore medieval towns, dine in historic taverns, savor local cuisine, and participate in outdoor activities such as cycling, canoeing, and kayaking amidst scenic landscapes.

Good for: Ones who want to dwell in nature

• Take a sip of locally produced gin or whiskey from Cotswolds Distillery
• Spot rare animal species at Cotswolds Wildlife Park

96 km | 1-Hour Drive

Oxford, home to the esteemed University of Oxford, includes landmarks such as Radcliffe Square, the Bodleian Library, Christ Church College, and Oxford Castle & Prison. The city captivates literature enthusiasts and boasts a vibrant cocktail scene frequented by notable figures like the Duke of Cambridge.

Good for: Literary lovers

Things to do :

• Explore Oxford's cobblestone streets to find the Bodleian Library and the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin
• Pay a visit to one of the oldest universities in the world - University of Oxford

Highclere Castle

107 km | 1-hour drive.

Highclere Castle, famed for the filming location for Downton Abbey, exemplifies Victorian grandeur surrounded by extensive gardens. The 5,000-acre estate features picturesque greenery, and lodge rentals offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the royal life at the castle.

Good for: Downton Abbey fans

• Check out the Egyptian exhibition at the castle
• Participate in the Highclere History Festival

More Day Trips from London

London with kids & family

With far too many activities to do in London with children, this city is a fantastic option for your first stop when visiting the United Kingdom with the family. Everyone will find something to their liking in London. On any given day during a family vacation to London, you can go sightseeing, enjoy toddler playing time at the playground, engage school kids in history, enchant teenagers with all the facilities of a big city, and decompress with delicious dishes and a glass of wine. London is like an open-air gallery where kids can see history as a living thing rather than just a historical topic.

7 things to do with your toddlers

Roleplay at a museum

Little kids love some character play, don't they? Let your kid run around as a conductor for the day at the London Transport Museum! In the All Aboard play zone, they can wear uniforms, drive a Baby DLR, sail a Thames Nipper, and manage the Lost Property office!

Catch a show at the theatre

West End Theatre regularly presents kid friendly shows and musicals. So, if your child is a fan of the green Ogre, Shrek the Musical would be perfect or if they often run around the house doing 'Oink-Oink,' they would be thrilled to watch Peppa Pig's Fun Day Out show. Take your pick!

Quick stroll in the park

Younglings often get tired of sightseeing. Why not take them to one of London’s fantastic parks? You can go to Hyde Park’s South Carriage Drive Playground, Kensington Gardens’ Diana Memorial Playground, or Coram’s Fields in Holborn, which is exclusively for kids and their guardians.

A day out with the animals

ZSL London Zoo delights young children with its engaging animal encounters and adventure zones. From the lively meerkats to the enchanting Rainforest Life, it's a must-visit for little explorers. An added benefit: your young one would learn so much about the wildlife!

Enjoy a sea-sational day at the aquarium

SEA LIFE London is a splash-tacular adventure for toddlers! With vibrant fish, playful penguins, and the thrilling Shark Walk, little ones will be fascinated by the underwater world and its colorful inhabitants.

Soar in the sky

The London Eye provides a wild adventure for young children! The giant Ferris wheel offers stunning views of London, and its enclosed capsules ensure a safe and comfortable experience for toddlers as they see the city from new heights.

Visit the toy heaven

Spoil your kiddo at Hamleys London - a dream destination for young children! With its vast array of toys, live demonstrations, and engaging play areas, kids of all ages will be captivated by the fun and imagination at every turn in this iconic toy store.

7 fun places to visit with your teenagers

Up at the O2

Up at the O2 is a must-do for teenagers seeking excitement in London! Climb the iconic O2 Arena and enjoy panoramic city views from the top. It’s an adrenaline-pumping adventure that will thrill any teen.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Inspire your teen at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, where live Shakespearean dramas come to life in a stunning replica of the original playhouse. This spot is perfect for young adults to experience classic theatre and historical atmosphere.

Warner Bros. Studio

Unleash your teen’s inner wizard at Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter Tour! This studio tour experience lets your kid explore famous sets, see authentic costumes, and feel like they’re part of the magical world. Perfect for young sorcerers and witches!

At Madame Tussauds London, fame is just a photo op away! The museum's themed zones allow you to fulfill your kid's dreams of saying hello to Marvel heroes or pop stars. It's the perfect place for anyone who loves glitz and glamour!

Score big with a visit to Arsenal FC Stadium! Witness the ground where legends like Dennis Bergkamp once played, walk your way through the players’ tunnel, and learn about the club’s storied past. Ideal for teens who idolize football greatness!

Thames River Cruise

Set sail on the Thames River Cruise and see London from a new angle! Perfect for teens who would appreciate unique perspectives of landmarks like the London Eye and Tower Bridge, all while relishing the cool breeze on deck.

Is your child interested in craft and culture? Frameless London is an art-lovers paradise for youngsters, featuring stunning immersive displays and interactive experiences. It’s a vibrant way for them to explore and interact with art beyond traditional museum walls!

Art & Culture in London

As one of the world's major global cities, London has a significant impact on the arts, commerce, education, entertainment, fashion, finance, health care, media, tourism, and transportation. It is therefore not surprising that the art and culture of London are relevant globally. With its diverse tourist attractions, a visit to the city of London would ensure that you witness the city’s thriving art and cultural scene with your own eyes: an experience that is more precious than anything one particular monument in London may have to offer.

Shakespeare’s Globe

Seeing a play at Shakespeare's Globe – preferably while standing beneath the open-air "wooden O" – is an opportunity to experience the playwright's work at its greatest and most credible. You can also take an insightful guided tour of the theater, which includes access to an art show about Shakespeare, theater in the 17th century, and life in Bankside.

Madame Tussauds, which is packed with waxwork replicas of famous people, is kitschy and pricey, but it makes for a fun-filled day. There are numerous personalities to admire, ranging from former and current lawmakers to athletes, actors, singers, and movie characters. It's selfie heaven, so bring your selfie stick for the perfect shot with your favorite look-alike.

Art of Banksy London

The Art of Banksy has been shown in various countries, including Tel Aviv, Gothenburg, Melbourne, and Toronto. You will have the opportunity to view several of the artist's most famous works, such as "Girl and Balloon," "Flower Thrower," and "Rude Copper." Banksy is credited with popularizing urban and street art between 1997-2008.

The royal residence of the British monarchy, Buckingham Palace has been the seat of the sovereign since 1837 and today is the administrative headquarters of the Monarch. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is a large building with 775 rooms, 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms that makes it a must-see attraction in London.

British Library

Colin St. John Wilson's British Library building is an architectural marvel, made of low red-brick roofs and helmed by a large piazza with an outsized statue of Sir Isaac Newton. It was finished in 1998 and houses some of the greatest literary treasures, including the first complete text of the New Testament, Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks, and copies of the Magna Carta.

Tate Modern

Tate Modern, one of London's most remarkable attractions, is an exceptional modern- and contemporary art museum located in the ingeniously renovated Bankside Power Station. This gallery has been incredibly effective in providing challenging work to the general public, both through its free archive and fee-charged big-name exhibition spaces.

Entertainment in London

London does not lag behind any other premier European attraction when it comes to entertainment options. It is the home to West End and off-West End theaters. In addition, there are various venues that are known to provide wonderful live performance arts events throughout the year.

London Theatre

West End is London's main theatre neighborhood, containing over forty theaters. It has hosted shows since William Shakespeare's time and has remained the standard for commercial theater throughout the world. It is also home to some of history's biggest theatrical productions, and performers.

Top shows that you must not miss:

• Fawlty Towers
• Spirited Away
• Stranger Things: The First Shadow

London Musicals

The magic of West End musicals in London is so electric that it cannot be defined! Each show in this world's premier theatre district flawlessly combines intriguing storytelling, impressive choreography, and delightful music, leading to some top-notch entertainment!

Top musicals that you must not miss:

• The Phantom of the Opera
• Les Misérables
• The Lion King

Royal Opera House

On Covent Garden Piazza, opera and ballet have a fabulous setting, and a night here is an exquisite affair. Despite the program's modern influences, the classic productions with their world-class entertainers remain the main draws.

Top opera shows you must not miss:

• New Crystal Pite

Royal Albert Hall

Named after Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, this magnificent Victorian concert hall hosts classical music, rock, and other showings and is also the home of the BBC-sponsored Proms. If you're lucky enough to snag a ticket, you're in for a treat – whether you're a fan of classical music or rock 'n' roll.

• Cirque du Soleil
• Classical Spectacular
• Several film screenings with live orchestra

National Theater

Every year, the nation's flagship theatre performs up to 25 shows across three venues within this brutalist block. Even if you aren't here for a performance, you can explore the foyers, which include a bookstore, restaurants, bars, and exhibition spaces.

• People, Places & Things

Bush Theater

This West London theatre is known for encouraging new writing and is housed in the former Passmore Edwards Public Library building. Its success since 1972 can be attributed to strong performances by Jonathan Harvey, Conor McPherson, Stephen Poliakoff, Caroline Horton, and Tanya Ronder.

• The Real Ones
• Wolves on Road

Top 10 London Travel Tips

• Grab discounted theater tickets at the TKTS booth on the day of the show.
• You can spend days exploring world-class museums such as the Tate Modern, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum, and many others without spending a dime.
• Borough Market in London, founded in 1756, has something for every foodie. It is the home of some of the finest British and international produce and dishes. Come hungry, and you'll leave satisfied.
• Get out of the city and enjoy a day trip to Oxford , Stonehenge , or to the countryside of Cotswolds or Lacock.
• Go for the Thames River Cruise if you are in London in Spring or Autumn to really witness the beauty of the city.
• Wind down at one of the parks of London because sightseeing in the city can really be hectic.
• Walk the South Bank of London and take in the London vibe as you go along.
• Don’t miss a quintessential London pub experience on your trip to London, preferably during a football or rugby game.
• Include a short day trip out of London when London starts to get too familiar for comfort.
• Take advantage of the Santander Cycle system and take a bike tour around the city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to London

The best time to visit London is in the months of April, May, October, and November.

London can be a bit hot in July and August. The average temperature in London is around 16 degrees Celsius, which is not too hot.

Yes, you must see Big Ben in the dark in addition to the Shard .

The best places to eat in London are located in the central area of the city, like Alexander The Great Restaurant, Buenos Aires, Liman Restaurant, and Amrutha Lounge.

English, French, Spanish, and German are spoken in London.

The best way to get around London is through the bus and tube network.

The live entertainment options in London include jazz shows, concerts, live theater , and operas.

For London, you should always pay close attention to the weather forecast. The summer months can be hot and require breathable clothing. The winter season requires multiple layers. It also rains in London quite often throughout the year, so be sure to carry waterproof clothing.

Do not impede the way of the locals during rush hours, do not start pointless conversations, do not make eye contact with strangers as Londoners are reserved, and do not be loud in a closed space.

The London Eye , St . Paul’s Cathedral , and Tate Modern are the must-see attractions if you are in London for just one day.

You can stay at one of the many hotels in London available for a wide array of budgets. The city also has boutique hotels and hostels. Visitors seeking a more tranquil experience should stay near Camberwell, while those seeking to be in the thick of the action should stay in Soho.

The most popular tourist spots in London are The Shard , Tate Modern, Madame Tussauds , St. Paul’s Cathedral , and Westminster Abbey .

Some of the best day trips from London are Stonehenge , Oxford , and Bath .

Smaller rooms, big locations

hub by Premier Inn offers smart, stylish rooms across London and Edinburgh at great prices. Each room includes a slick touchscreen control panel to change the lighting and temperature, completely free superfast Wi-Fi*, snazzy 40" smart TVs, high-powered monsoon showers and relaxing beds.

• Luxury double bed (king-size in bigger rooms)

• Free tea and coffee 24/7

• Monsoon showers

• 40” smart TV**

• Free superfast Wi-Fi*

• Pull out desk and storage (plus chairs in bigger rooms)  

hub standard room

Compact rooms, designed around you. From the super comfy bed to monsoon shower, 40" smart TV** to pull out desk and underbed storage – everything is crafted for your comfort and entertainment.

hub bigger room

All the clever design, entertainment and comfort of our standard room just a bit, well, bigger. There’s extra space, a luxurious king-size bed, a 40” smart TV** and a desk and chair.

Efficient design

Change your room’s lighting and temperature to suit you without even getting out of bed, using state of the art touchscreen controls.

Recharge and unwind on our super comfy beds. Enjoy high-powered, monsoon showers in our en suite bathrooms, and free tea or coffee 24/7.

Don't hold back

Free superfast Wi-Fi* keeps you connected to what matters. Stream your favourite shows, keep up with work and stay up to date throughout your stay.

Our ambient rooms

Our calming ambient rooms are window-free making them perfect for embracing a cosy and peaceful stay. The comforting, mood-lit lighting solutions allow you to unwind before bed and feel refreshed when waking up. These include a self-dimming back-lit box, cleverly designed circadian light wells that support your natural body clock by mimicking natural daylight or frosted glass to give you light and an extra layer of privacy***.

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*Wi-Fi device exclusions apply. Only devices with a web browser and the ability to connect to a public service are able to access the network, please check your device for compatibility. Connect up to 3 devices to Ultimate Wi-Fi - please check compatibility prior to purchase. Service terms and conditions apply, please see  free Wi-Fi  or  Ultimate Wi-Fi  for full details.

** A few of our London hub hotels do not have Smart TVs.

***hub by Premier Inn operates a mix of hotel sites where hotel features, layouts and design may vary depending on hotel, room configuration and location. This includes rooms that are window-free.

7 of the best ways to travel to and around London

• London is easily accessible from most major cities around the world.
• Many direct flights are available, and excellent public transit makes it simple to explore the city.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

London has more international airports than any other city — six in total. International trains like Eurostar also serve the city, and you may even board transatlantic boats if you'd rather bob along on the waves instead of soaring in the skies. 

Here are the best options for getting to and around London.

Heathrow Airport

Over 80 airlines operate out of Heathrow Airport 's four terminals, flying tens of millions of passengers to over 200 destinations annually. From Heathrow, you may take a cab, ride-hailing service, rental car, train, tube, or coach to your desired location. 

Gatwick Airport

The international Gatwick Airport is a hub for British Airways and more than 35 other airlines , including low-cost EasyJet. Once you arrive at Gatwick you can take a cab, rental car, ride-hailing service, train, or coach to your destination. You may also take the Gatwick Express , a train that runs every 15 minutes and deposits you at London Victoria Station in half an hour.

London Stansted

Flights from international destinations like Greece and Germany take off from and arrive at London Stansted , with over 25 airlines serving the airport. The airport is about 35 miles or about an hour's drive from London. A taxi, car, coach, or train can get you to Liverpool Street in under 50 minutes. 

Once you're settled in and ready to explore, many local transit options make it easy to get around the city.

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The Tube , which is London's underground metro system, is perhaps the most popular method of transportation in London, serving millions of passengers daily across 270 stations on color-coded lines. Look up the stations in advance to plan your route as it can be confusing. However, this is the best way to efficiently navigate the city.

Bus services

You'll easily recognize London's buses as the big, iconic red double-deckers you've seen in movies. While slower than the Tube, they can still get you where you'd like to go, and cheaply. Check out the stations and schedules to plan your journey.

Car services and taxis

It's typically easy to find an Uber in London, especially since black cabs can be pricey. But you may want to take this taxi service at least once — because cabbies are required to take a notoriously difficult test known as " the Knowledge " that takes years of study, they're some of the best cab drivers in the world.

Train stations abound in London, and if you're staying on the outskirts, you'll soon become familiar with their locations as they tend to be in spots where there isn't a Tube nearby. Known as the Overground or National Rail , these trains are quick and efficient but can be pricier than the Tube. Note that kids aged five and older will be charged for a ticket.

View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting London.

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