I mean, who doesn’t have a soft spot for London?
This is the place that gave us The Beatles (arguably the best band of the 20th century), the fascinating Royals, Shakespeare, cheeky humor, the afternoon tea, cheddar cheese, fish & chips, Downton Abbey, more and more. London’s got a little something for everyone, especially if it’s your first time being there.
If you’re here to explore some of the most iconic London attractions, here’s the thing, as exciting as London is, it can feel a bit overwhelming. It’s big, it’s busy, and everything is kind of...everywhere. So, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in London, so that you don’t have to.
London Eye
Floating silently above the city, catching glimpses of icons, rooftops, and the legendary River Thames glistening below, is really one of the best things to do in London if you ask us. Riding the London Eye is something words can’t quite capture, and those views of the city’s stories are just the cherry on top.
It’s one of the most recognizable London attractions, and a highlight for anyone visiting the city. If you want a hassle-free experience, many London sightseeing tours include a fast-track pass to the wheel, making the whole experience smooth and memorable.
The River Thames
William Wordsworth once wrote about the Thames, calling it the mighty mother of rivers, capturing its endless flow that mirrors the city’s constant change.
Walking by the river means you’re touching this vein of stories, stretching from Roman Empires to many of Shakespeare’s plays. Cruising the Thames or just sitting by its banks is a necessity among things to do in London. It’s one of the most recognisable London attractions that show you the city in a different perspective, especially when seen aboard one of the classic river-based London sightseeing tours.
Tower Bridge
You might've seen this giant fairytale bridge in pictures everywhere. But here’s what most people don’t know, it actually lifts up to let ships pass through it. Catch it in action, and be part of a moment that mirrors one of London's stunning engineering marvels.
Snap a picture from the walkway if you can, because it’s one of the best things to do in London England for that perfect shot. The views from the top are often featured on curated London sightseeing tours, making it a bucket-list stop for photography lovers.
Big Ben & Westminster
Big Ben stands tall beside the Houses of Parliament, ticking through history since 1859. It’s the heartbeat of London, thriving through moments big and small. Walk around Westminster and feel the fragrance of politics, tradition, and power, all in the air. These two have long held their spot among the things to do in London.
As classic London attractions, they are included in nearly every one of our London sightseeing tours, ensuring first-time travellers never miss them.
The City of London
Not your typical tourist spot, but the City of London is where ancient churches and glass towers like The Gherkin sit still, waiting to be explored.
Check out St Paul’s Cathedral for mind-blowing dome views or observe the contrast of the city’s old and new architecture. We pick it as one of the underrated things to do in London England. Many travelers overlook it, but guided London sightseeing tours of this district give you some of the most unique contrasts of modern and medieval London.
Windsor Castle & Thames Valley
Take a quick trip outside London to Windsor Castle, the Queen’s weekend pad and one of the oldest inhabited castles in the world. It’s all history, grandeur, and maybe a few corgis.
On the way back, the Thames Valley offers countryside views so charming, you might want to stay there for a while. This makes for one of the best day trips from London and a must on your list of things to do in London. As one of the most iconic royal London attractions, Windsor often appears on almost all full-day London sightseeing tours!
Piccadilly Circus
As the sun sets, London turns into a wonderland of lights, and Piccadilly Circus becomes the epicenter. From here, walk through Leicester Square, feel the soul of Chinatown, and lose yourself in the madness of Soho. If you’re looking for fun things to do in London after dark, this trio should be on your list. These districts are more than nightlife, they’re cultural London attractions, filled with food, performers, and the glow of warm city lights.
These places to visit in London are just the tip of the iceberg, and there’s always more to explore.
