London is a city filled with history and culture, from the simple to the exotic. A must-visit city that regularly tops some of the best cities to visit in the world. Whether you’re drawn to royal traditions, world-class museums, lively markets, or peaceful green parks, the UK’s capital has something for everyone.Â
So, if you are visiting for the first time or in a long time, here are some of the best things to do in the city. Some are touristy, others pretty laid back, but they make for some of the best places and experiences to have in the city.
Things To Do In London
1. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
2. Skate on the Ice Rinks during Winter
3. Watch a Tennis Match at Wimbledon
4. Eat your way through Borough Market
5. Look at Art and Artifacts in the Albertropolis
6. Watch a play at the National Theatre
7. Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s
8. Go for a Movie Marathon at Prince Charles
9. Spot a Deer at Richmond Park
10. Buy a Book at the Daunt
10 Things To Do In London
1. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
This one is as touristy as it gets, but still a true London tradition worth experiencing. Simply because no trip to London is complete without catching a glimpse of its famous royal traditions, and the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic. It’s something amazing to watch, at least if you are visiting for the very first time.
The colourful ceremony is a true display of British pageantry, as the Foot Guards in their red uniforms and tall bearskin hats march in perfect step, accompanied by music, to take over from the Old Guard. It usually occurs on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sundays, but can also change based on the whims of the military, so it’s always good to double-check on their website.
To get the best view, aim to arrive early and grab a spot near the Victoria Memorial or along The Mall.
Location: Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London, United Kingdom
2. Skate on Ice Rinks During Winter
Many people believe winter in London is dreary, wet, and miserable, but that’s far from the reality of things. When winter arrives, London quickly turns into a festive wonderland, with fairs and festivals at every corner. One of the best ways to enjoy winter is by skating at one of the city’s beautiful outdoor ice rinks.
Anytime from November to January, different spots around London start opening up for the winter with a good skating rink, both indoors and outdoors. Some of the more historical spots to visit include Somerset House and Hampton Court Palace, usually set up with beautiful rinks where skaters can glide in the cold air beneath twinkling lights, surrounded by historic architecture. You can also visit the winter wonderland at Hyde Park, the largest outdoor rink in the United Kingdom.
Skating in London is a simple but classic London winter experience. It is actually perfect for families, couples, or anyone who wants to soak up the holiday spirit and enjoy the winter air. It doesn’t really matter if you are a confident skater or just in it for the atmosphere; it’s a good memory to treasure.
3. Watch a Tennis Match at Wimbledon
For sports fans, watching a match at Wimbledon is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Held every year for two weeks in late June and early July, The Championships are the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world. Legendary tennis players fly in from all over the world to participate in the match, and celebrities of all kinds attend.
The true wonder, though, is the gameplay with the tensed silence and exclamations of awe. You will be able to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the All England Club, with its immaculate grass courts, players in crisp white attire, and the famous tradition of queuing for tickets. Grab a bowl of strawberries and cream, find your seat on Centre Court or Court One, or join the crowds on Henman Hill (also known as Murray Mound) to watch the action on the big screen.
It’s an unforgettable chance to see world-class players chase Grand Slam glory and to be part of one of Britain’s most cherished summer traditions.
Location: All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, Church Road, Wimbledon, London, United Kingdom
4. Eat Your Way Through Borough Market
This one is for the true food lovers. Experience an adventure at Borough Market, London’s oldest and most famous food market, with roots going back to the 13th century. Right next to London Bridge, the bustling market is full of amazing gourmet and simple dishes from all over the world. The market used to specialise in British produce alone centuries ago, but now it is an easy way to experience several food cultures in the same place.
You can take your time wandering through the beautiful stalls, sampling everything from artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread to gourmet street food. You will find fresh fruit and vegetables, organic meats, craft beers, pastries, and all kinds of international treats.
It’s the perfect spot to grab a delicious lunch, stock up on great one-of-a-kind pantry goodies, or just soak in the lively, friendly atmosphere. For any foodie visiting London, Borough Market is an absolute must.
Location: Borough Market, Southwark, London, United Kingdom.
5. Look at the Art and Artifacts at the Albertopolis
Albertopolis is the nickname for the exhibition and cultural road in South Kensington, dedicated to the arts and sciences. The area is home to a trio of world-class museums that will definitely keep you exploring for days. The vision of Prince Albert, the inspiring district, still remains a must-visit site for anyone interested in art, history, and science today.
Along this street, you’ll find the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), a beautiful collection of art, design, and performance, showcasing 5,000 years of human creativity, the Natural History Museum famous for its incredible dinosaur skeletons, fascinating geology displays, and immersive exhibits of the natural world and the Science Museum, a fun and interactive display of scientific discoveries and innovations across centuries. It is perfect for all ages.
Even better, entry to the permanent collections at all three is free, making it an unbeatable way to dive into London’s rich culture and history without spending a penny.
Location: South Kensington, London, United Kingdom.
6. Watch a play at the National Theatre
If you love live performance, the National Theatre on the South Bank is a must-visit. The beautiful Brutalist building is home to three unique stages, the Olivier, Lyttelton, and Dorfman, where you can see everything from classic plays to comedy dramas, often starring some of Britain’s best actors.
The National is large enough to hold hundreds of guests at once and is known for making theatre accessible to everyone. Tickets are available at a range of prices, so there’s something for every budget. Even if you’re not seeing a show, it’s worth stopping by to explore the impressive building, grab a drink or a bite to eat at the understudy while taking in views of the Thames, or join a backstage tour to discover what goes on behind the scenes.
Location: National Theatre Upper Theatre, South Bank, London, United Kingdom
7. Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s
This one is for those who want a truly quintessential British experience. Then, you don’t want to miss Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s in Mayfair. The ritual is a timeless British tradition, and there is no better place to indulge in it than Claridge’s. You can simply settle into a plush armchair in the hotel’s beautiful Art Deco surroundings and enjoy a spread of finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and a delicious selection of pastries.
Everything is paired with a carefully chosen range of fine teas from around the world, served with all the grace and attention to detail you’d expect. It’s a wonderfully indulgent way to step back into a more elegant era and perfect for a special occasion, or simply to enjoy one of Britain’s most beloved traditions.
Location: Claridge’s, Brooke Street, London, United Kingdom
8. Go For a Movie Marathon at The Prince Charles Cinema
This one is for the movie lovers, the Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square is a real hidden gem and a refreshing alternative to the big chain cinemas. The independent cinema is famous for its cool but weird line-up of movies, featuring everything from cult classics like the Ghilbi Studios animation to popular series like Harry Potter, double bills to sing-along shows, and all-night movie marathons.
Here, audience participation is all part of the fun, making for a lively and unforgettable cinema experience. The cool statement billboard in the front of the cinema also makes for a quirky part of the cinema. So grab some popcorn, sink into a comfy seat, and get ready for a nostalgic and thoroughly entertaining night out. It is really a kind of movie magic you can only find at the Prince Charles.
Location: 7 Leicester Place, London, United Kingdom
9. Spot a Deer at Richmond Park
Richmond is the largest of the eight London Royal Parks, perfect for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of London. If you need a break from the city, or are just a nature lover, then Royal Park and a national nature reserve is a 2,500-acre green haven that feels a world away from the urban hustle.
The park is particularly famous for its herds of red and fallow deer, which can often be spotted grazing quietly all around the park at dawn or dusk. Richmond Park is a natural, beautiful landscape of tranquil lakes and wildlife. The park also has impressive views of London, especially on a clear day, you can even see St Paul’s Cathedral in the distance.
Richmond is perfect if you are in the mood for a long walk, a bike ride, or just some quiet time in nature, and it does offer space to breathe and reconnect with nature.
Location: Richmond Park, Richmond, London, United Kingdom
10. Buy a Book at the Daunt
Finally, for the book lovers reading this, Daunt Books on Marylebone High Street is a true treat to experience in London. Often called one of the most beautiful bookstores in London, its flagship shop is a book lover’s paradise. Miles of books to wander through, with its Edwardian-style oak galleries, skylights, and a gorgeous arched window that floods the space with light.
What makes Daunt Books truly special is its unique way of organising books. The lineup is usually arranged by country rather than genre, making for an interesting browse. It feels like a little adventure of discovery, trying to find something and maybe even ending up with something you didn’t even know you were looking for.
Whether you are after a travel guide, a beloved classic, or something modern and new, Daunt Books offers a quiet, inspiring place to get lost among the shelves and soak up the magic of a truly great bookstore.
Location: 84, Marylebone High Street, London, United Kingdom
Conclusion
London is a city that has a lot to offer its locals and travellers too. It inspires, entertains, educates, and sometimes even surprises. From royal pageantry to nostalgic cinemas, bustling food markets to peaceful deer-filled parks, these highlights are just a taste of what England’s incredible capital has to offer. So if you are planning your own unforgettable London adventure, you can add this to your list based on your preferences and get ready to discover all the magic London has waiting for you.
