London is a destination that calls to every traveller. For me, it has been a dream since childhood, when I first opened my English textbook and read, “London is the capital of Great Britain.” After many years, I finally made it there, and I’m excited to share with you my 25 best things I did in London that you absolutely can’t miss! Including day trips to Oxford, Stonehenge and the Cotswolds.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to explore more, this article will help you make the most of your London adventure.
1. Tower of London
We’ll start with one of the city’s most iconic and historic landmarks – the Tower of London. It was founded by William the Conqueror in 1066. For over a thousand years, this fortress has been home to the royal ceremonies and some of the darkest moments in British history. Many famous prisoners were held at the Tower of London, including Thomas More, Guy Fawkes, and Queen Anne Boleyn.
The Tower is home to the Crown Jewels, which are used in coronations. These treasures are guarded 24/7.
Although the grounds of the Tower of London may seem small, there are numerous buildings and exhibitions. You’ll need several hours to explore it.
Many legends surround this place, but one of the most famous is about the ravens. The story goes that if the ravens leave the Tower, both it and the kingdom will fall. There is a special person in the Tower who takes care of the ravens.
If you want to visit this historic place, you need to buy tickets in advance. I also highly recommend taking a guided tour or a self-guided tour at the entrance.
2. Tower Bridge and Potters Fields Park
Another famous attraction you’ll find nearby is Tower Bridge. It’s very photogenic and fun to walk across. The construction of Tower Bridge began in 1886. There is a historical exhibition inside the towers and glass walkways on top.
On the other side of the River Thames, don’t miss Potters Fields Park. It has panoramic views of Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and the financial district. It’s a great spot for photoshoots and especially magnificent at night.
And it’s also a great place to eat! The restaurant Ivy offers a fantastic interior, great views, and a wonderful English breakfast.
3. Financial District and Sky Garden
London has a long and rich history in finance, playing a crucial role in global trade and banking for centuries. The London Stock Exchange is one of the oldest and most important stock exchanges in the world.
The Financial District represents London’s economic heart. It’s a mix of historic buildings, converted industrial spaces, and modern skyscrapers. It’s a fun place to be during the weekdays for people-watching.
There are two amazing lookouts in the Financial District: Horizon 22 and Sky Garden. Both are completely free! They are very popular, so be sure to book your free ticket online in advance and enjoy the best views of the city.
4. Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard
Buckingham Palace has been the official home of the British monarch since Queen Victoria’s reign in the 19th century. Today, it continues to serve as the heart of the British monarchy.
Every day, Buckingham Palace attracts thousands of visitors eager to witness the Changing of the Guard. It usually takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and most Sundays at 11:00 a.m. Check the exact schedule on the official website.
If you happen to be in London in the days leading up to King’s birthday, you might even catch a rehearsal for the event. This annual tradition honours the British monarch with a military parade showcasing over 1,400 soldiers, 244 horses, 400 musicians, and regimental flags. Typically, this happens in June, even though the King’s actual birthday is in November. The King’s Birthday Parade, or as it’s also called, ‘Trooping the Colour,’ was introduced in 1805.
5. St. James’s Park
Welcome to St. James’s Park, one of the best things to do in London that you absolutely can’t miss! This green oasis is located near Buckingham Palace, right in the heart of the city. Dating back to the 16th century, the park was originally a royal hunting ground. It was transformed into a public park in the 19th century by Queen Victoria. St. James’s Park spans 23 hectares of lush greenery with stunning views of London skyline. It is home to beautiful gardens, a picturesque lake, and countless species of birds. It’s also one of the oldest Royal Parks and has hosted numerous royal events over the centuries
And here’s a fun fact: St. James’s Park is home to the famous pelicans! These charming birds have lived here for over 350 years, ever since the Russian ambassador gifted them to the park in 1664. This was one of my personal London trip highlights.
6. Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. You have to buy a ticket online in advance to get inside. Westminster Abbey was built in 1065 by King Edward the Confessor. Since 1066, it has been the place where all British monarchs have had their coronations.
But it’s not just a royal landmark! Westminster Abbey is also the final resting place for some of the most significant figures in British history, like Charles Darwin and Sir Isaac Newton. His tomb is among the most popular in the Abbey. According to the official website, thirty kings and queens are buried in Westminster Abbey. Their tombs can be found nearby. So, of course, this place is haunted! Legend has it that the ghost of Queen Elizabeth I still roams the Abbey. So don’t be surprised.
The cathedral is done in an amazing Gothic style. Even if you’re not interested in the history of British rulers, it’s worth visiting for the architecture alone. Traditional Gothic pointed arches, stunning colored stained glass, ribbed vaults, and ancient patterns.
Find the ancient Cosmati mosaic pavement in the center. This is where the coronation chair is placed and where the crowning has taken place for centuries. The chair itself is also here, and it is over 700 years old!
Despite the tons of tourists and being a UNESCO World Heritage site, Westminster Abbey is still used for royal occasions today. Prince William and Catherine Middleton were married here in 2011, and the Abbey continues to be the setting for royal jubilees and celebrations.
7. Big Ben and Parliament
Big Ben is a symbol of London. Officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, Big Ben is the nickname for the giant bell inside the tower, which weighs over 13 tons. Standing 316 feet tall, it’s one of the most famous clock towers in the world. You can book a tour inside Big Ben or enjoy the tower from one of the viewpoints on the other side of the Thames. My favourite is at St Thomas’ Riverside Garden.
8. Soho Restaurants
Soho is the go-to district for a good time in London! Few areas of London are as steeped in history as this one. Cultural institutions are found on practically every corner, from historic drinking dens frequented by famous artists and writers to legendary gay bars and hallowed music venues. Whether you’re looking for this historic charm, buzzing pubs, world-class theatres, or cozy cafes, Soho has it all.
I love Soho for its incredible contrasts. One moment you’re standing on a busy street full of people, and the next, you turn the corner and find yourself in a peaceful, quiet courtyard with a café. Soho is my must-visit place for dinner. I really liked the French Café Boheme and the Russian restaurant ZIMA.
9. Natural History Museum
If you’re travelling with kids, the Natural History Museum is a must-visit in London. Adults will be equally mesmerized – I know I was! The museum’s collections comprise almost 70 million specimens from all parts of the world. There is a stunning collection of minerals and gems. A human evolution section where you can explore how humans evolved over millions of years. A dinosaur exhibit boasting one of the most impressive collections in the world. You’ll also find mammal models, including the famous blue whale model that hangs from the ceiling, and many other exhibits. You’ll need several hours to explore this amazing place. And the best part? It’s completely free! You just need to book a ticket online in advance.
Beyond being a museum, the Natural History Museum is also a scientific research institution. It houses one of the world’s largest research collections. Scientists at the museum continue to study everything from biodiversity to paleontology.
10. Chelsea, Kensington and Hyde Park
Kensington and Chelsea are two of the most prestigious and affluent districts in London, known for their luxurious homes, iconic landmarks, and rich history.
Chelsea’s history is more artistic. It was the favourite haunt of the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Mary Quant and Twiggy in ‘Swinging London’ of the 60s. King’s Road was the stomping ground for designers like Mary Quant and Vivienne Westwood.
Kensington features stunning streets that are home to London’s elite, including members of the British royal family. Kensington Palace, a royal residence since the 17th century, is where Queen Victoria was born. Today, it remains home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Catherine.
Don’t forget Hyde Park, right next door to Kensington. It’s one of London’s largest and most famous parks. I recommend renting a bike and bringing some sandwiches for a picnic. You can spend some time at the lake or listen to the local performers at Speakers’ Corner. This area has been a famous site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century.
It will come as no surprise that these privileged districts have an excellent selection of Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as outstanding shopping. The luxurious Harrods department store inside looks like a gallery, treasury and museum. The tea selection and book department are simply stunning!
11. Notting Hill
Another prestigious district in London gained worldwide fame thanks to the romantic film “Notting Hill” starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. And also thanks to its pastel-colored houses, which look great in Instagram photos.
At the heart of Notting Hill lies Portobello Road Market. It is one of the largest and most famous antique markets in the world. On any given day, the market is brimming with stalls offering antiques, second-hand clothes, fresh produce, vintage items, and unique crafts. The market has been a part of Notting Hill for decades. It’s a great spot to explore and find hidden treasures.
Notting Hill is known for having very expensive real estate. Average home prices often exceed £1 million.
12. Borough Market
Attention, food lovers! London boasts a special, delicious spot steeped in history. Borough Market is one of the city’s oldest trading sites. The market traces its origins to the beginning of the 11th century. Over that long history, it has evolved from a medieval wholesale hub into the capital’s best-known destination for artisan produce and street food.
According to Google search data and social-media mentions, Borough Market is now the most popular food market in the UK. So arrive hungry and be ready for the crowds.
13. King’s Cross
Let’s talk about one of my favourite areas in London – King’s Cross. It used to be all coal depots and grimy train yards. Today it’s home to art schools, tech headquarters, trendy restaurants, public spaces, and a little bit of magic.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, this is where you’ll find Platform 9¾. It’s right inside the station! By the way, London also has a full-on Harry Potter experience – Warner Bros. Studio Tour. I didn’t make it there this time, but I visited the one in Tokyo and loved it!
The iconic King’s Cross Station opened in 1852, followed by the stunning Gothic masterpiece next door – St. Pancras.
Nearby, there is the British Library – one of the largest libraries in the world! Its collection has more than 170 million items from around the globe in over 400 languages! You’ll find here handwritten Beatles lyrics, Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks, one of the oldest surviving copies of the Magna Carta, Shakespeare’s First Folio printed in 1623, and many other priceless treasures. Entrance is free.
Coal Drops Yard is a must-visit if you want to explore London like a local. I was surprised by how cool this place is and how few tourists were around. Originally built as coal warehouses, the site has been transformed into a modern retail space with over 50 shops, bars, and restaurants. I recommend lunch at Caravan King’s Cross. The coffee at Redemption Roasters was great too.
Don’t miss the charming floating bookshop near Granary Square. It has a great collection of classic literature, poetry, and children’s tales. Only ten minutes away lies Gasholder Park. Its mirrored walls are a perfect spot for a photo shoot!
14. Regent’s Canal and Regent’s Park
From King’s Cross you can explore one of the city’s hidden gems – Regent’s Canal Towpath. It is a peaceful, traffic-free path that winds through London, lined with narrowboats, ducks, and converted warehouses. This stretch takes about 25 minutes on foot, and it’s full of character. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
A quiet canal path will lead you to Camden Market – one of London’s quirkiest places. Camden Market is a maze of vintage shops, art stalls, and global street food. Thai, Colombian, Ethiopian – you name it. You’ll find music, fashion, and all sorts of things you didn’t even know you needed. Grab a bite, then follow the road up to Regent’s Park. Or you can take a kayak. This part of the canal is very picturesque.
Regent’s Park is where London slows down. It has wide green lawns, a peaceful lake, the oldest scientific zoo in the world, and the oldest outdoor theatre.
There’s also a rose garden with over 12,000 roses blooming from late spring to summer. It smells absolutely amazing!
From Regent’s Park, a 25-minute walk delivers you to Abbey Road. The very same street from the iconic Beatles album cover.
15. National Gallery
Art lovers should head straight to Trafalgar Square. And not just for the 52-meter-high monument of Admiral Nelson and its glorious history.
Right behind Nelson sits one of the greatest art collections in the world. And guess what? It’s completely free to visit. Welcome to the National Gallery of London.
Founded in 1824, it started with just 38 paintings. Today, the collection holds over 2,300 European works from different centuries. Monet’s Water-Lily Pond, Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Turner’s Fighting Temeraire, Leonardo da Vinci’s Virgin of the Rocks – and many other masterpieces. Before you leave, don’t miss the astonishing floor mosaics in the main vestibule.
16. Tate Modern
You can continue your art journey with the Tate Modern. It opened in 2000 inside the former Bankside Power Station and quickly became one of the world’s most famous modern art museums. You’ll find works by Picasso, Dalí, Andy Warhol, and Yayoi Kusama — all under one roof.
There are many rooms with jaw-dropping installations — from giant radio towers to fog-filled labyrinths. These installations aren’t just about admiring beauty. They make you think, feel, question, and sometimes even play.
Whether you’re a die-hard modern art fan or just curious about what art looks like in the 21st century, Tate Modern is a must-see in London. Most of the exhibitions are completely free. And as a bonus, there’s a stunning view of the London skyline.
17. Theatre, music, comedy shows
London has one of the most vibrant nightlife scenes in the world, with something for every mood — from high culture to late-night dancing.
There are over 230 theatres citywide, with 40+ in the West End alone. These venues host iconic plays and musicals like: The Mousetrap — Agatha Christie’s, the Lion King musical, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and many more.
Same-day tickets with discounts are available at TKTS in Leicester Square or through apps like TodayTix.
British humour is known all over the world. If you’re visiting London, catching a live comedy show is a brilliant way to experience it first-hand. The Comedy Store is the most famous club in Soho
And then there’s the music… London’s buzzing music scene offers everything from rock, pop, and dance events to jazz, opera, and classical music nights. If you have time, I highly recommend checking out the iconic 100 Club.
18. Murals of Spitalfields and Shoreditch
It’s time to explore hipster London. Spitalfields and Shoreditch are the city’s most creative and colourful neighbourhoods. With murals, markets, vintage shops and delicious gourmet bars.
Victorian Spitalfields Market is another place with history. It was opened back in the 17th century! Here, you’ll find one-of-a-kind handmade items by independent artists, creative fashion, and a diverse range of street food options.
Spitalfields is a lively East End area, home to a large Bangladeshi community as well as artists and creatives. The vibrant streets of this neighbourhood are covered with murals and graffiti by local and international artists.
I highly recommend taking a walk to the neighbouring Shoreditch area. In my opinion, it’s even more stylish and interesting than Spitalfields. This dynamic neighbourhood is a hub for artists, foodies, and anyone craving a unique experience.
It has an open-air gallery vibe. Vivid murals, staged photoshoots, and artists crafting new masterpieces. The atmosphere dazzles, with countless inviting bars and restaurants lining every step of the route.
19. Covent Garden
Let’s go check out another tourist spot in London – Covent Garden. It’s known for the Royal Opera House, diverse shopping, street entertainment, and dining. Of course, you’ll find a nice market there. Originally a fruit and vegetable market, the space now houses a mix of boutiques, art galleries, and high-end stores. It’s a great place to shop for unique gifts and fashion. In Covent Garden, you can enjoy all kinds of street performers – musicians, acrobats. Around every corner, you can discover something interesting and beautiful. My favourite is colourful Neal’s Yard Street nearby.
20. Bank Station and St. Paul’s Cathedral
Did you know that in London, there is a City of London? Also known as the Square Mile, it is the oldest part of the city, dating back to Roman times. It also has its own Lord Mayor, laws, and traditions! The City of London’s population is about 9,000 people. But despite being so small, it is a very important historical and financial center. This is where you’ll find the Financial District, the London Stock Exchange, the Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
St. Paul’s Cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710. Its stunning dome is one of the largest in the world. St Paul’s endured the Blitz, largely unscathed, embodying British resilience and hope amid wartime destruction.
Nearby Millennium Bridge, opened 2000, now attracts crowds and film crews.
21. Thames Cruise the London Eye
Another popular activity in London is taking a boat ride along the River Thames. There are many options like: hop on hop off cruise, uber boats, dining on the river and just regular boats to get from one side to another. London’s story was written on the Thames, and the view from the water is the quickest way to read it. Piers to remember: Westminster (Big Ben), Tower Pier, Greenwich, Bankside and London Eye.
I especially want to highlight the London Eye. This Ferris wheel allows you to admire the city from a height of 135 meters while in a glass capsule. The 32 capsules symbolize London’s 32 boroughs, and the extra “33” label is reserved for maintenance. More than 5,000 couples have got engaged aboard. Capsule 25 is rumoured to be the lucky one. If you buy your ticket online in advance, you’ll get a 45 % discount.
22. Parliament Hill Viewpoint
Join the locals at sunset on Parliament Hill in Hampstead Heath to enjoy a 360° view of the city’s heartbeat – completely free. Locals jog, picnic, and fly kites here year-round, turning the hill into London’s communal backyard.
Take a stroll through the neighbourhood around Hampstead Heath. The area is home to many celebrities, including Benedict Cumberbatch, Tim Burton, and Stephen Fry.
25. Cotswold Trip
Let’s hop on a train from the famous Paddington Station to venture into the countryside.
One of the most charming getaways from London is the Cotswolds. A cluster of storybook villages surrounded by picturesque green hills and fields. Bourton-on-the-Water is among the most popular and beautiful.
Most houses in Cotswold villages are built from the iconic, honey-coloured local limestone. Because the region lies within a protected National Landscape, new buildings must blend in, so you can wander through streets that have looked virtually unchanged for centuries.
Bourton-on-the-Water delivers the quintessential Cotswold fantasy. Golden-stone cottages, a bubbling river, and a taste of English traditions. Home to roughly 4,000 residents, it welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists every year.
24. Oxford
Even more than the Cotswolds, I was utterly captivated by Oxford. It is stunning! Teaching is documented in Oxford as early as the 11th century, making it the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Some of the buildings date back to the medieval era, and it blows my mind that people get to study in the midst of that living history every single day!
There are more than 40 independent colleges in Oxford, each with its own crest. The Bodleian Library holds over 13 million volumes. It keeps a copy of every book and e-book published in Britain and Ireland. Harry Potter’s Hogwarts was inspired by Oxford, and many scenes from the films were shot here, so you’ll meet plenty of fans along the way.
You can experience it all just an hour from London. Book your tickets to the iconic buildings well in advance. And if you make it to Oxford, I recommend checking out Moya restaurant, it’s delicious!
25. Stonehenge + Bath
For our next destination, we’re going to take a tour bus and explore two of the most famous ancient sites in the UK – Bath and Stonehenge.
Visiting England without seeing Stonehenge felt like a crime to me – a mythical, mysterious monument with 4,500 years of history. How many kings has it witnessed, how much dust has it gathered, how many world events has it survived?
Who built it? Why? When? Where did the stones come from? We still don’t know. This place has more questions than answers. Even though tourists aren’t allowed to step inside the circle and, from a distance, Stonehenge looks like ordinary rocks, its riddles still pull you in like a magnet.
Some of you might even find Stonehenge a bit disappointing, so I recommend combining the trip with a visit to the city of Bath.
Bath is a charming city on the River Avon, founded by the Romans around 2,000 years ago, and it’s famous for its stunning architecture and thermal spas. In the city centre, the original Roman bathhouse complex has been preserved. You can’t bathe there anymore, but you can wander through this slice of history and even taste the mineral water. Because of this very complex, the city of Bath exists—and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trust me—you’ll love it. It’s beautiful here, the food is great, and just walking around feels like you’re in a Jane Austen novel. By the way, she actually lived here for a while.
On that romantic note, I’m wrapping up my list of “The 25 Best Things to Do in London You Can’t Miss”. Share your favourite places in London in the comments.
