Top 31 Things To Do in London in 2025

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if tours in London are worth it.

1. Don’t Eat Fish and Chips

Now, forget what you’ve heard about British cuisine being all about fish and chips wrapped in yesterday’s news—though, yes, that was a thing once upon a time!
Instead, we recommend diving into the vibrant world of Indian cuisine. One standout spot is Dishoom, with seven locations spread throughout the city, each offering a taste of Mumbai’s flavors. Reservations? Not necessary! Simply walk in and let your taste buds guide you.

Planning a group outing? Dishoom reserves tables for all party sizes until 5:45 pm. For larger groups of six or more, reservations are available after 6 pm. Now, let’s talk about the food! Get ready to be amazed by dishes like the flavorful dahl (a creamy lentil dish) and juicy chicken ruby, each bite taking you to the lively streets of Mumbai.

When in London, definitely broaden your horizons and embrace the variety of other amazing foods to eat here in London.

Where to get it: Dishoom

Where to get Fish & Chips: Bad for you, but not all bad. If you do want to try, try Fishoria.

2. Navigate the Royal Pigeon’s Playground

Got royal fever? Head to Buckingham Palace for a chance to catch a glimpse of the British monarchy in action. As you explore, keep an eye out for the famous royal pigeons, who have a knack for causing charming chaos around the palace grounds. Stroll through the iconic St. James’s Park, a historic setting for royal weddings, jubilees, military parades, and grand state celebrations. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a must-see spectacle, especially during the peak summer months of June and July.

Craving the royal treatment? Book a guided tour of Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park, and The Mall. While the palace can be admired from the outside year-round, guided tours inside are available only from July to September, during the royal family’s summer residence. Plan ahead to secure your spot, as this limited access provides a unique chance to delve into the rich history and intriguing stories of the palace. Experience the royal splendor and uncover the fascinating world behind the palace walls.

Address: Buckingham Palace

3. March to the Royal Beats at Westminster Abbey

Dive into royal history at Westminster Abbey, the grand church where British monarchs have been crowned for over 750 years! This Gothic masterpiece is one of London’s top attractions, and the Coronation Chair is a must-see. It’s the very throne where King Charles III was crowned in May 2023—how cool is that?

But there’s even more to discover. Westminster Abbey is not only the site of historic ceremonies but also the final resting place of notable figures like Charles Dickens and Stephen Hawking, but surpringsingly not Winston Churchill.

For a truly memorable visit, I highly recommend a guided Westminster Abbey tour. You’ll skip the lines and get fascinating insights from a knowledgeable guide, ensuring you don’t miss any of the Abbey’s rich history. While wandering on your own is an option, a guided tour brings the stories and significance of Westminster Abbey to life in a way you won’t want to miss.

Address: Westminster Abbey

Not ready to book a tour? Check out guide for the Westminster Abbey.

4. Buy Flowers at One of London’s Best Markets

London is home to a variety of markets that capture the hearts of both tourists and locals. With so many options and a limited amount of time during your visit, it can be challenging to decide which ones to explore. The Tour Guy staff personally visited several markets and compiled this list of the best markets in London. One of our favorites is Columbia Road: London’s Hidden Floral Wonderland. 

5. Get Cultured at Tate Modern

Home to some of the world’s most exciting modern and contemporary art, Tate Modern showcases an incredible collection of paintings, sculptures, and large-scale installations from renowned artists like Pablo Picasso, Yayoi Kusama, and Henri Matisse. The museum’s stunning architecture—housed in a former power station—also adds to the experience. Plus, with free entry, you can wander through its expansive galleries without breaking the bank, making it a must-visit for art lovers and casual visitors alike.

Address: Bankside

6. Get Fancy Dim Sum at A. Wong

This isn’t your average Chinese restaurant—its two Michelin stars speak volumes. The dining experience is enriched by a compelling backstory: Chef Andrew, opened the restaurant at the site of his family’s restaurant where he grew up doing homework while his parents worked. The open kitchen provides a captivating view of his craftsmanship, with each dish presented alongside an insightful explanation. The upscale venue specializes in exquisite dim sum and a spectacular 10-course “Taste of China” menu, showcasing regional flavors. Every bite lives up to the restaurant’s stellar reputation, making it a standout in fine Chinese dining. For an unforgettable culinary adventure, this is the place to be.

Address: 70 Wilton Rd.

Looking for more great places to eat? Check out our guide to the best restaurants in London.

7. Stay at a Downtown Hotel With Epic Skyline Views

The Ritz and Claridge’s (both in Mayfair) and the Savoy in the Strand, are London landmarks and have the grandeur and illustrious history to demand the highest prices. So if you have the extra cash to spend, be pampered like a prince, president, or rock star for a few days. At the Savoy Restaurant, you can also dine like one, as this Michelin-starred restaurant has celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay at the helm.

If you prefer a hotel experience beyond these historic institutions, try Shangri-La at the Shard. It only opened in 2014 and has incomparable views of London as it’s the capital’s tallest building. It also has a sky pool, which is Europe’s highest hotel pool with views across London that are unmatched.

Last but not least! If you’re a Spice Girls fan, you absolutely can’t miss out on visiting the St. Pancras Hotel, the iconic spot featured in their legendary “Wannabe” music video! It’s a must-see for any die-hard Spice Girls enthusiast.

Learn more in our article: Where to Stay in London.

8. Hear About Local Haunts from Beefeaters at Tower of London

The Tower of London is steeped in a dark and storied past as a notorious prison for political prisoners and enemies of the crown. For centuries, this formidable fortress was a site of imprisonment and torture. Among its most infamous detainees was Guy Fawkes, a zealous Catholic who nearly succeeded in blowing up the Houses of Parliament in 1605. Today, Guy Fawkes Night on November 5th is marked by bonfires and fireworks, a vivid reminder of his failed plot against the king.

The Tower is also home to the Crown Jewels, the ceremonial treasures of the British monarchy. These priceless artifacts are safeguarded by the Yeoman Warders, commonly known as Beefeaters. Dressed in their distinctive 16th-century red uniforms, they can often be seen leading processions behind the royal carriage, adding a touch of historic grandeur to royal events.

Additionally, the Tower’s grounds are inhabited by ravens, which are integral to a Tudor-era legend. According to the omen, if the ravens ever depart, it is believed that the monarchy will fall. Keep an eye out for these majestic birds as they play a crucial role in the Tower’s lore.

Pro Tip: Meet a Beefeater in a private group or reserve your spot on an early access tour when they ceremoniously open the gates!

Address: Tower of London

Explore the TOwer of London

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if Find out if tours in London are worth it.

9. Enjoy an Afternoon Tea Like a Proper Brit

My recommendation for a “cuppa” as it’s often called in the UK is a café in a very public place (the West End) but with a secretive, understated vibe. You could almost walk past Café In The Crypt because from the outside it doesn’t look anything like a café!

The cylindrical glass front is more like the entrance to a fancy public toilet. But once inside, you’ll discover there are authentic tombstones inside. They’re a unique statement piece alongside your English tea and cakes.

Address: Trafalgar Sq

10. Catch a Show at Shakespeare’s Globe

Is a trip to London really complete without visiting this iconic Elizabethan playhouse built in 1959 where Shakespeare’s plays were performed? I say no. Immerse yourself in the rich history of one of the greatest playwrights of all time. This stunning reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre offers a unique opportunity to experience live performances in a space that reflects the Elizabethan era. Additionally, guided tours provide fascinating insights into Shakespeare’s life, his works, and the cultural significance of the theatre during his time.

Address: 21 New Globe Walk

11. Get the Best View of Parliament

The Houses of Parliament are located in Westminster, the UK’s political center. Members of Parliament, legislators, and the Prime Minister gather here to debate policy and pass laws. On Wednesday or Thursday morning, you may even catch the Prime Minister arriving with his security entourage at the Cromwell Green entrance opposite Parliament Square.

Tourists often gather at a patch of green space called Parliament Square to admire the statues of political greats such as Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, and Gandhi. Campaigners and political protestors also meet here, so it can get a bit noisy and heavily policed on occasion.

If you’re looking for quieter green, try Victoria Tower Gardens, a nearby park where you’ll also find a landmark bronze statue called the Burghers of Calais by Auguste Rodin. Find out more about how to visit the UK Parliament.

Address: Houses of Parliament

12. Visit Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is an epic site just over 1 hour from London, which makes it great for a day trip. The town feels like a medieval village (as it should) and is centered around the castle and shopping area with tons of restaurants.

Visiting the home of this historic family is something you won’t forget. We walked into one of the largest halls I have ever been in only to find out it was where Megan and Harry had their wedding reception. Walking on the same floors as the Queen of England—now that’s a royal memory!

We recommend our Windsor Castle, Bath, and Stonehenge tour—an ideal way to explore three iconic destinations in one seamless journey.

Address: Windsor Castle

Not ready to book a tour? Check out how to visit Windsor Castle for more info.

13. Experience the Magic of Stonehenge at Sunset

For a break from the city hustle and a taste of the English countryside, embark on a two-hour journey west of London to explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stonehenge. This megalithic structure was built and added to over the course of a thousand years between 3,000 and 2,000 B.C. at the beginning of the Bronze Age. You could describe it as a pile of rocks—which it is—or as a glimpse of our ancient human origins.

It is also larger than life and inspiring to witness in person. The stones were dragged from Wales down to the south of England to create this impressive structure. They are definitely not just piled on top of one another. When you visit, you’ll notice there is an impressive system of joints that hold them together. You can read about it in our article on the history of Stonehenge and join one of our day trips from London to Stonehenge and Windsor Castle.

Address: Salisbury

Get up close to Stonehenge

Not ready to book a tour? Check out how to visit Stonehenge for more info.

14. Dive Into Roman History in Bath!

Visiting Bath feels like stepping into a Jane Austen novel infused with Roman history and modern luxury. Plus, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Experience the ancient Roman Baths, stroll the elegant Georgian streets, and treat yourself at the Thermae Bath Spa.

Don’t miss shopping at charming stores or savoring local cuisine. Bath offers history, culture, and relaxation for a perfect getaway. For dining, Clayton’s Kitchen in a Georgian townhouse offers delightful seasonal British fare and drinks.

Address: Bath

15. Get Wizardly at Harry Potter Studios

For movie lovers and Potterheads, the Warner Bros. film studio in London is a must-visit. It preserves many iconic Harry Potter sets, giving you a real connection to the magic of the movies. You can walk through the Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley, and the Great Hall. Don’t forget to swing by Platform 9 ¾ and hop on the actual Hogwarts Express from the movie!

And no visit would be complete without checking out the movie magic of the special effects department and other behind-the-scenes attractions. The studios are in Leavesden, Watford, 20 miles outside London, and tour tickets start at £56.

The most convenient option is to book a guided tour of popular Harry Potter stops plus the Warner Brothers studios! It’s a great deal that will really bring to life your favorite movie and remove the hassle of getting around the city and out to the studios yourself. 

Address: Warner Drive, Leavesden

Get Wizardly with a HARRY POTTER Tour

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if tours in London are worth it.

16. Grab a Bite at Battersea Power Station

Battersea Power Station is an old coal-fired power station sitting on the south bank of the River Thames in Nine Elms, Battersea, within the London Borough of Wandsworth. It was designed by the Chief Engineer for the London Power Company and is now a unique blend of over 150 shops, bars, restaurants, leisure and entertainment venues, parks and historical spaces. It’s a fascinating piece of history that really adds to the character of the area.

Address: Circus Rd W, Nine Elms

17. Ride the London Eye

It might surprise you that the London Eye is our top thing to do in London. When it first opened, the London Eye received harsh criticism from many who questioned its purpose, and they were all proven wrong. It has now become the symbol of London and recognized worldwide!

It’s situated along Westminster Road which is a vibrant area full of attractions that light up at night. The dazzling lights on the wheel stand out most amongst these. Soaring to dizzying heights, you can enjoy panoramic views of landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you hover over the River Thames.

You’ll need to book your tickets ahead of time as they can sell out, especially in the summer months. Ticket prices start at £42, and they also offer multiple ticket packages to see several attractions in London.

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall

18. Spend Time at the Big Ben

In the heart of Westminster, London, the legendary clock tower known as Big Ben has quite the tale to tell. Initially named St. Stephen’s Tower, it embraced a royal makeover in 2012 as the Elizabeth Tower, celebrating the Queen’s Jubilee. While technically “Big Ben” refers to the bell, it’s commonly used to describe the entire clock tower situated at the northern end of the Houses of Parliament.

Great news for travelers: Big Ben is back in action! After a six-year restoration, it reopened to the public in 2023. Now, you can step inside, immerse yourself in history, and experience the timeless charm of this iconic clock tower.

Address: Big Ben

19. See the Famous Churchill War Rooms

It is at this site on King Charles Street where Winston Churchill, Britain’s greatest Prime Minister, led the allied response against Hitler. Here, you can explore the secret underground halls and corridors of the famous War Rooms. Also, there’s a Churchill Museum where you can learn little-known facts about his remarkable leadership.

There’s even a BBC Broadcast Room where the speeches from the War Room were broadcast to the nation. Churchill was known for his stirring speeches, which raised the nation’s spirits during the war. If WWII history is your thing, then stopping at the Churchill War Rooms should be at the top of your things to do in London list.

Address: Clive Steps, King Charles St

SEE OUR CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS TOUR

Not ready to book a tour? Check out how to visit the Churchill War Rooms for more info.

20. Travel Through Time at the British Museum

The British Museum is undoubtedly a must-see in London and a personal favorite! As the UK’s premier museum attraction over the years, it effortlessly secures a spot on our list of top things to do in the city. Once inside, you’ll be able to immerse yourself into the heart of ancient civilizations with iconic treasures like the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and fascinating Egyptian mummies.

We also recommend a visit the collections in the Enlightenment Room, which is full of quaint English curiosities and inventions from the Victorian age when England led the scientific enlightenment. Check out our article on how to visit the British Museum.

Address: Great Russell St

21. Take in the London Skyline from The Shard

This is the UK’s tallest building, offering breathtaking views of the capital from its upper floors. This glass pyramid was designed by renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano. Head up to the 72nd floor, the crown jewel and the highest open-air viewing platform for the ultimate experience. There are also restaurants and bars to enjoy the cityscape in a more chilled-out mode.

Address: 32 London Bridge St

22. Find Vintage Cars at the London Transport Museum

A step back into vintage British transportation a super fun thing to do in London. The red double-decker buses are almost synonymous with the streets of London, so why not explore a museum that has over a century of vintage vehicles?

It’s a great place for families, adults, and especially those who love trains and vintage cars. You’ll learn how the advancements in electricity revolutionized public transportation in an ancient city like London. They even have tours of hidden London where you can explore the Underground too! Check their website for current events and tours in case you want to do more than explore the museum.

Address: The Piazza, London

23. See London From the Thames

The River Thames runs through London and offers a whole new perspective on the city, which is why seeing it from a boat is highly recommended. Granted, the cool London air can get a bit chilly in some months, so bring a jacket if you’re here in the off-season. We recommend taking a speedboat tour of the Thames and the unique areas along the river.

You’ll enjoy speeding on the river with several stops where the driver will explain what you’re seeing, the importance of the areas in old and new London, and fun stories about the history. It’s another experience you won’t soon forget!

24. Listen to Music at St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral, a London icon, has a rich history spanning centuries. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of 1666, it’s a marvel of Baroque architecture. From royal events to surviving World War II bombings, this cathedral has seen it all. Did you know that Sir Christopher Wren and even Prince Charles and Lady Diana were married here?

Make sure to take a look at their concert schedule! Every Sunday, enjoy captivating organ recitals that showcase the stunning Grand Organ’s power and beauty.

Tickets can be purchased for a sightseeing tour of the ornate crypt, galleries, and dome. The Whispering Gallery is famous for carrying voices around the walls in a spooky way!

Address: St. Paul’s Churchyard

25. Spend an Evening in Soho and Chinatown

For a lively evening around locals and tourists, head over to the Soho area, which is near Piccadilly. The closest metros are Leicester Square (pronounced Lester!) and Piccadilly. You’ll find lots of things to do here from dropping a few pounds (money, that is) at the famous Hippodrome Casino, seeing a show at the Piccadilly Theater, finding tasty food in Chinatown on Gerrard Street, or shopping at some high-end stores. Try Pho & Bun if you’re into Vietnamese food.

Address: Soho, London

26. Take Pictures on Tower Bridge

The area near Tower Bridge and city hall where the mayor of London is based is dotted with eateries and filled with joggers and visitors. From the Tower of London side, you can usually walk up the steps and onto the bridge for free.

Otherwise, you can pay to enter the inner bridge itself and enjoy views from its glass walkway. Other areas to explore include the engine rooms just under the bridge where the history of its Victorian-era engineers and workers is documented. 

If you find yourself near the Tower Bridge area, don’t miss the chance to visit St. Katharine Docks Marina, the only marina in central London! It’s just a 5-minute walk from the Tower of London and is a hidden gem worth exploring. While you’re there, why not stop by The Dickens Inn, arguably the most popular pub along the River Thames? Fun fact: The Dickens Inn was opened by Cedric Charles Dickens, the grandson of the renowned author Charles Dickens.

Address: Tower Bridge Rd

27. Find London’s Oldest Bookshop at Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly has retained its reputation as a classy district since the 17th century. Back then, it was named after the fancy lace collars called piccadills that were sold there. Some of the shops on the adjoining stretch of road called Piccadilly still have Georgian-era fronts including Hatchards, which is London’s oldest bookshop, established in 1797.

My recommendation is to start your day on the steps around the statue of Eros, as it is commonly known. It’s a popular gathering place for tourists and street performers. From there, most of your options are within eyesight, including the Piccadilly Lights and the West End’s Theatreland.

Keep in mind, Piccadilly Circus can get pretty crowded – London’s equivalent to New York’s Times Square – so brace yourself for the lively atmosphere!

Address: Piccadilly Circus

28. Order a Drink in the Cellar Bar Under Leadenhall Market

We celebrated the 700th anniversary of Leadenhall Market in 2021. The market site dates back to Roman times but the current market was built there in the 14th century. So it’s one of London’s oldest!

The Victorian architecture and stunning arches are so incredible that scenes from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone were filmed here. It’s another site that’s rumored to have inspired the look of the movie’s Diagon Alley. It’s a special to grab a bite or a drink before shopping at the many boutiques, jewelers, and bookshops.

Pro Tip: After you’ve explored this historic area, head to Old Tom’s Bar under Leadenhall Market for a super cool place to order beer and a tasty pork pie.

Address: Gracechurch St | Old Tom’s Bar

Check out our list of the best markets in London.

29. Stroll Through Hyde Park

This is the largest and most famous of the Royal Parks and a favorite amongst joggers. It truly comes to life in the summer when tourists gather at Serpentine Lake to hire boats or soak up the the seldom-seen English sun.

You can also visit the Diana Memorial Fountain if you’re a fan of the iconic princess (I mean, who isn’t?). In the summer, hippy drummers gather in the park, and more people join in as the beats fill the air, attracting spontaneous dancers. It’s all about those Woodstock vibes!

Address: Hyde Park

30. Grab a Beer on Bermondsey Beer Mile

The Bermondsey Beer Mile is a collection of brewery bars and bottle shops that runs along a stretch of railway arches, now nearly two miles long. What makes it special is that they all open around the same time on Saturday afternoons, offering the perfect opportunity for a fun pub crawl.

Address: 56 Stanworth St.