Best things to do in London: Our top picks for every kind of visit in 2026

As the official guide to London, our team of experts bring together the very best of the city, from iconic landmarks and world-class museums to unforgettable dining, theatre and immersive experiences.

Read our guide to find out insider tips, practical advice and standout highlights at each stop. Informed by Visit London search trends and first-hand editorial visits, you’ll discover handpicked experiences to ensure everyone has the most memorable London adventure possible.

How we chose the best things to do in London

Recommendations in this guide have been officially tested and approved by our London-based editors, including a host of top attractions, sightseeing tours, immersive experiences, free things to do and so much more. We keep the guide updated throughout the year to include seasonal favourites and fresh ideas for what to do in London.

Whether you’re searching for fun things to do in London, iconic places to visit in London or the top London must-see attractions, our curated list highlights activities that spark curiosity.

Iconic London attractions to see

The London Eye – Best for panoramic city views

For a new perspective on the city, you need to visit the London Eye. We love the fact you can spot more than 55 iconic London landmarks from high above, from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament across the river Thames, The Shard towering over London’s skyline to the royal residence of Buckingham Palace and the river Thames winding through the heart of London.

For a magical experience, we suggest a sunset ride as the city lights start to twinkle. It’s the perfect moment to capture photos and soak in the magic of the city.

Best for: All ages, first time visitors and photography lovers.
Good to know: Book a fast-track ticket to skip the queues at the London Eye.

Tower of London – Best for royal history and the Crown Jewels

For anyone curious about British history, the Tower of London is a must-see attraction. Step inside this 900-year-old fortress to discover tales of royal intrigue, famous prisoners and centuries-old traditions. Follow the cobbled paths and explore medieval walls, meet the iconic Yeoman Warders and marvel at the iconic Crown Jewels – including the largest diamond in the world.

If you love architecture and storytelling then this will be one of the most immersive historic experiences in the city.

Best for: History lovers, families and culture seekers.
Good to know: Guided Yeoman Warder tours available to book in advance.

Hampton Court Palace – Best for Tudor splendour and riverside gardens

Renowned as one of London’s standout historic attractions, Hampton Court Palace has more than 500 years of royal history just waiting to be explored. From the magnificent Tudor architecture and famous gardens to the vast courtyards and riverside grounds, we think there’s so much to see here and you can easily spend half a day exploring.

Don’t forget to spend some time in Henry VIII’s kitchens, which are a true testament to the culinary innovation of Tudor England. When you explore the space, you’ll learn how millions of logs a year kept the central part of the palace thriving, and that 200 people were tasked with producing more than 800 meals daily for the king and his court.

Best for: History enthusiasts, families and garden lovers.
Good to know: Combine your visit to the palace with a Thames riverside walk.

Westminster Abbey – Best for awe-inspiring architecture and royal heritage

Wouldn’t it be magical to visit somewhere where kings and queens have been crowned for more than 1,000 years? Well at Westminster Abbey you can! Wander through stunning Gothic architecture, discover the resting places of famous poets and scientists and enjoy being surrounded by centuries of royal traditions.

We suggest looking for the Coronation Chair at Westminster Abbey – it’s incredible to stand before the very seat that’s been used in every coronation since 1308.

Best for: Culture lovers, history fans and architecture enthusiasts.
Good to know: Expect busy queues during peak times.

Buckingham Palace – Best for State Rooms and royal pageantry

We love visiting Buckingham Palace during the summer months to explore the official residence of King Charles III. It feels a privilege to be able to explore one of the few remaining working palaces in the world, visit the magnificent 19 State Rooms which form the heart of the palace and discover some of the Royal Collection’s greatest treasures.

In keeping with the royal theme, save time to discover one of the finest working stables in the world at the Royal Mews, or discover portraits of the Royal family and journey through the history of Great Britain at The King's Gallery.

Best for: Royal enthusiasts, culture lovers, first-time visitors.
Good to know: Open for summer only – book early to secure preferred date and timeslot.

St Paul’s Cathedral – Best for jaw-dropping dome views and Wren’s masterpiece

When climbing the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, we’re rewarded with some of the most spectacular, uninterrupted views across London. Exploring this awe-inspiring landmark always feels special – it’s a masterpiece of architecture and faith that draws in history lovers, culture seekers and anyone who appreciates an iconic skyline.

We recommend setting aside around two hours to wander through and admire the grand interior, visit the crypt and make the climb up to the Golden Gallery for breathtaking panoramic views. The Whispering Gallery is a must visit too – its astonishing acoustics means a whisper against the wall can be heard clearly more than 33 metres away.

Best for: Architecture fans, history lovers and photographers.
Good to know: Attending a service at St Paul’s Cathedral is free.

Tower Bridge – Best for sky-high walkways and glass-floor thrills

Exploring the iconic Tower Bridge never gets old, whether you’re taking a self-guided wander or joining one of the expert-led Tower Bridge tours.

Take in panoramic views from the glass floors and high-level walkways, 42 metres (138ft) above the river Thames, and see the city stretch out beneath your feet. Continue to the magnificent Victorian Engine Rooms to learn about the people who once kept the bridge moving. Time your visit to coincide with a Bridge Lift and see the roadway rise beneath your feet.

Best for: Families, first-time visitors, anyone chasing unique skyline views.
Good to know: Be in the right place at the right time to see Tower Bridge lift up.

London's top sightseeing tours

Hop-on hop-off bus tour – Best for effortless sightseeing

Glide between London’s most iconic landmarks from the comfort of your seat on a hop-on hop-off bus tour. It’s the perfect sightseeing experience for a relaxed activity, and one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to see London from every angle. Simply grab a seat, sit back and let the views unfold around you. Then if you decide you want more time to explore a landmark, hop off for as long as you need, and then hop back on when you’re ready to continue the bus sightseeing tour.

The bus tour covers more than 60 different stops across the city, making it unbelievably easy to tick off all your bucket-list favourites like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge, all in one trip!

The hop-on hop-off ticket also includes extras such as Thames river cruise or walking tour, giving visitors even more ways to explore the city.

Best for: First-time visitors, families, anyone wanting a relaxed view of the city.
Good to know: Choose the seats on the open upper deck for the best views.

River cruises – Best for scenic views along the Thames

Explore London’s iconic riverside sights on board a river cruise; from the open-top deck or the cosy indoor saloon, glide past landmarks such as the London Eye, Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral and even drift beneath Tower bridge for spectacular photo moments. Guided commentary shares fun facts as you cruise, and onboard café-bars mean refreshments are always within reach.

Fancy seeing London’s twinkling skyline from the water at night? Check out the jazz dinner cruise for a magical evening on the historic river Thames, while soaking up iconic landmarks with a glass of bubbly in hand. 

Best for: First time visitors, families and relaxed sightseeing.
Good to know: Boats run in most weather conditions, and we encourage wearing layers for open-top cruises.

Walking tours – Best for exploring the city up close

We love London walking tours for the way they bring the city’s stories to life, step by step. Guided by experts, walking tours gives you an intimate, ground-level view of the capital where you can uncover hidden corners, cultural gems and centuries of history.

Explore royal landmarks and witness the Changing of the Guard on the Royal walking tour, seek out the city’s most famous bear on a Paddington Bear walking tour or learn about the spine-chilling unsolved mysteries in east London on a Jack the Ripper walking tour. There are plenty of top-rated tours – perfect for curious visitors and locals alike.

Best for: Culture lovers, history fans and anyone looking to learn more about London.
Good to know: Wear comfortable shoes and pack light.

Fun and immersive experiences in London

ABBA Voyage – Best for electric nostalgia

Set inside the purpose-built ABBA Arena and exclusive to London, see groundbreaking visual effects with a live band to create the sensation of ABBA performing right in front of you. ABBA Voyage is unlike any concert you’ve ever attended – it’s a fully immersive celebration of the music that shaped generations, from Gimmie! Gimmie! Gimmie! to Thank You for the Music, drawing crowds of lifelong fans and first timers alike.

For the best experience, we recommend arriving early to enjoy the atmosphere as the arena fills. Browse the merchandise shop or grab a bite to eat and a drink at the venues inside.

Best for: Music lovers, groups and anyone who wants a spectacular night out.
Good to know: Book ahead to secure tickets as performances sell out quickly.

FRAMELESS – Best for art escapism

FRAMELESS transforms a traditional art gallery into something magical by placing visitors inside iconic masterpieces. Immerse yourself in the floor-to-ceiling art projections, motion sensors and tailored soundscapes bringing to life iconic artworks by the likes of Monet, Dalí, Klimt and Van Gogh.

Explore four extraordinary art gallery spaces and see the artwork change through movement, colour, shapes and perspectives. Whether you’re spinning to scatter Monet’s waterlilies or stepping into the surreal dreamscapes of Dalí, every room creates a unique emotional experience.

Best for: Art lovers, families and immersive art fanatics.
Good to know: Late night sessions available on Fridays and Saturdays.

The Lost Estate – Best for immersive fine-dining storytelling

Step inside The Lost Estate and discover one of London’s most extraordinary immersive nights out where theatre, live music and fine dining come together to create the perfect transportive experience. Whether it’s the glitz and glamour of 1930s New York’s 58th Street with a six-course Manhattan-inspired tasting menu and Harlem jazz, or the festive magic of The Great Christmas Feast complete with a Victorian dining theatre retelling of a Dickens' classic, each production pulls you into a different world.

We love The Lost Estate for its seamless blend of performance, storytelling and gastronomy. Prepare to become part of the narrative, surrounded by immersive sets and themed cocktails to transform you to another era.

Best for: Theatre lovers, celebratory nights out, immersive experience fans.
Good to know: Advance booking essential to guarantee the best seats in the house.

Twist Museum – Best for entertaining photo ops

Visit Twist Museum for a vibrant, multisensory world where your eyes, ears and mind are constantly put to the test. Explore more than 60 immersive exhibits and illusions, including rooms that challenge your sense of colour, perspective, heat, sound and spatial awareness, with every space inviting you to question what’s real.

We love the Twist Museum for its playful, curiosity driven approach. Key exhibits to look out for include striking visual colour experiences in the Colour Flip Room, an immersive photo-friendly room packed with kaleidoscopic patterns in the Kaleidoscope Room and sensory-testing illusions in the Sound Lab.

Best for: Curious minds, illusion lovers and groups.
Good to know: Interactive exhibits offer great photo moments – get snap happy!

Top picks for things to do in London with kids

Disney’s The Lion King – Best for dazzling puppetry and heart-warming music

Experience Simba’s moving journey from curious young cub to ruler of Pride Rock in Disney's The Lion King, an award-winning West End production at the Lyceum Theatre. Stunning puppetry and vibrant costumes bring the adventure to life on stage as Simba escapes after Scar takes over the kingdom, eventually returning to face his past and claim his destiny.

See the characters from the award-winning Disney film on stage with an incredible cast of actors and puppets, including full-size zebras, giraffes and lions. Soak up the delightful atmosphere and revel in the timeless classics of Circle of Life, Can You Feel the Love Tonight and more.

Best for: Families, musical lovers and Disney fans.
Good to know: Stalls seats near the central aisle offer an immersive experience, with animals making their grand entrance through the auditorium.

SEA LIFE London Aquarium – Best for animal lovers and little explorers

Discover more than 500 species spread across 14 immersive zones at SEA LIFE London Aquarium, including the UK’s largest living coral reef – home to vibrant clownfish, yellow tangs and shimmering sea goldies. Don’t miss Penguin Point, where Gentoo penguins glide and play, or the magical Ocean Tunnel, where sharks, turtles and colourful tropical fish drift overhead.

The aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible with lift access throughout, and both guide dogs and assistance animals are welcome. To make the most of your visit, check the daily schedule for ranger led talks covering rays, sharks and penguins.

Best for: Families, animal lovers and curious minds.
Good to know: Don’t miss daily live feeding sessions, with sharks, penguins and piranhas featured throughout the day.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – Best for wizardry magic

Step behind the scenes of the beloved Harry Potter film series at Warner Bros. Studio Tour and immerse yourself in the spellbinding world where all eight films were brought to life. We love how this tour lets you wander through iconic sets at your own pace, from the Great Hall and Diagon Alley to Dumbledore’s office and the forbidden forest – all while seeing hundreds of original costumes, props and special-effects secrets up close.

Boarding the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9¾ is always a highlight for visitors – don’t forget to snap a photo on the platform beside the luggage trolley!

Best for: Harry Potter fans, families and film lovers.
Good to know: Seasonal themes run throughout the year, making repeat visits just as enchanting.

Madame Tussauds – Best for celebrity photo moments

Step through the world-famous doors of Madame Tussauds and into a dazzling world of stardom, where more than 150 unique and incredibly realistic figures await across three immersive floors. 

Strike a pose with Hollywood legends, pop culture icons and global superstars – from David Bowie to Beyoncé – and feel the buzz of the Impossible Festival, the red carpet Awards Party and even a royal encounter with King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Whether you're meeting music legends, film heroes or members of the Royal Family, every corner reveals a new surprise.

Best for: Families, pop-culture lovers and selfie enthusiasts.
Good to know: New wax figures are introduced throughout the year, with recent highlights including additions like Taylor Swift and Timothée Chalamet.

London Zoo – Best for unforgettable animal encounters

We love London Zoo for the way it brings you face-to-face with more than 700 species, all set within the leafy surroundings of Regent’s Park. From the lively residents of Penguin Beach (home to England’s largest penguin pool!) to the majestic Asiatic lions in Land of Lions, every corner of the world-renowned zoo offers something new to discover.

Step inside immersive walk-through habitats like Butterfly Paradise or wander through colour-coded routes to see tigers, giraffes and gorillas up close.

Best for: Families, animal lovers and little explorers.
Good to know: In June and July, visit after hours and enjoy the zoo in a new light without the crowds at Zoo Nights.

The Paddington Bear Experience – Best for family friendly immersive fun

Step into the charming world of the Paddington Bear Experience in this joyous multi room immersive adventure designed for all ages.

Your journey begins at Paddington Station, where you board a full sized train carriage and set off through bustling London before arriving at 32 Windsor Gardens, home of Paddington and the Browns. Explore beautifully detailed sets, wander through interactive rooms, meet beloved characters and help prepare for the biggest celebration of the year – the Marmalade Day Festival.

We love this experience for its warmth, creativity and attention to detail – it’s a joyful, hands-on adventure that leaves both children and adults smiling.

Best for: Families, Paddington Bear fans and film lovers.
Good to know: Extend the adventure with Paddington The Musical at the Savoy Theatre.

Best food and drink experiences in London

Afternoon tea – Best for a quintessential British treat

Filling-packed finger sandwiches, warm scones smothered with cream and jam and tempting sweet treats can only mean one thing – the wonderful pleasure and leisure of taking afternoon tea.

Make time to enjoy one of the city’s most charming traditions, whether its tucking into scones beneath the copper-clad hull of the Cutty Sark, savouring cakes aboard a Thames afternoon tea cruise, or enjoying sweet treats on a vintage double decker during an afternoon tea bus tour, each experience offers something a little magical.

London has such a wonderfully diverse afternoon tea scene and is proof that some traditions really are timeless! 

Best for: Food lovers, first-time visitors and friends.
Good to know: Popular slots fill fast so if you’ve found somewhere you’d love to go, book ahead!

Food tours – Best for combining sightseeing with top food

For an inviting way to explore the city’s diverse culinary scene, we recommend joining a London food tour. With local expert guides leading the way, prepare to uncover everything from authentic street food hot spots to traditional British favourites, discovering dishes you might otherwise miss on your own.

Whether you’re wandering through the iconic Borough Market, sampling global cuisine in Brick Lane or enjoying sweet and savoury treats onboard a panoramic afternoon tea bus tour, food tours blend culture, history and cuisine into one memorable bite.

Best for: First-time visitors, food lovers and anyone wanting a deep dive into British cuisine.
Good to know: Food markets in London get busy – joining a guided tour helps to find the best stalls faster.

Taste Film – Best for immersive movie-themed dining

Eat what you see on screen at Taste Films’ fully immersive, multi-sensory movie experience.

Each dish is served at the precise moment it appears in the film, turning iconic scenes into flavour rich moments you can taste. Expect menus crafted to match film favourites, from garden fresh dishes for Twilight to inventive culinary nods to Ratatouille and beyond.

We love Taste Film for the cosy and curated atmosphere and attention to detail – from the themed drinks to the playful plating – designed to deepen your connection with the story.

Best for: Movie lovers, foodies and date nights.
Good to know: Menus are timed to key scenes with venues offering a comfortable, intimate set up.

Six by Nico – Best for creative six-course tasting menus

Six by Nico is one of London’s most exciting dining concepts. Every six weeks, the restaurant unveils a brand new themed tasting menu inspired by a story, destination or idea. Classic flavours are reimagined with modern flair, presented in artistic, Instagram-worthy form.

We love Six by Nico for its ability to make dining feel like a theatrical experience – the menus are playful and creative, and the ever-changing themes mean no two visits are ever the same.

Best for: Foodies, date nights and special occasions.
Good to know: Elevate your experience with an optional wine pairing upgrade.

Indoor food halls – Best for global flavours under one roof

We’re truly spoilt with the quality of food halls in London, bringing together an exciting mix of independent traders, global cuisines and vibrant communal spaces.

Arcade delivers a culinary playground with a rotating line up of street food kitchens offering everything from noodles to smash burgers. Market Halls provides a spacious, modern setting with multiple bars and food traders serving mouth-watering global dishes, and Mercato champions with a vast range of tasty food traders in unique spaces. Heading to theatreland? Don’t forget to check out Seven Dials Market for a vibey street food experience, just a short stroll from Covent Garden.

Best for: Casual dining, street-food lovers and groups.
Good to know: Food halls are great for walk-ins, with many venues offering indoor and outdoor seating.

Best free things to do in London

British Museum – Best for history buffs and curious minds

Step inside one of the world’s most iconic museums and travel through two million years of human history, all under one roof at the British Museum. From ancient Egypt and Greece to East Asia, Africa and the Americas, see up close cultural treasures that have shaped civilisations.

Highlights include the Rosetta Stone – the ancient stone inscribed with hieroglyphs, Demotic and Greek that unlocked the secrets of Egyptian writing – and exquisite gold and silver burial treasures from 7th-century England. The museum offers an awe-inspiring journey through time, where ancient artefacts, monumental sculptures and curated galleries are arranged around the spectacular Great Court.

Best for: History lovers, culture seekers and first-time visitors.
Good to know: For a faster highlights experience, guided tours are available.

Natural History Museum – Best for natural-wonder lovers and interactive exhibits

Venture inside the Natural History Museum, one of London’s most spectacular museums, to uncover 4.5 billion years of natural history. Wander beneath Hope, the magnificent blue whale skeleton suspended in Hintze Hall, come face to face with ancient fossils and explore world-renowned spaces such as the Dinosaurs Gallery, where you’ll meet Sophie the Stegosaurus.

The museum’s Victorian architecture, vast collections and immersive displays – from wildlife photography exhibitions to Earth sciences – make it a captivating day out for visitors of all ages.

Best for: Families, architecture lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Good to know: Entry is free, but timed tickets are recommended on weekends and holidays.

Science Museum – Best for interactive science and space adventures

See innovation brought to life through hands-on galleries, interactive exhibits and iconic scientific objects at the Science Museum. Discover the Soyuz TMA 19M descent module, a real piece of the Moon, and awe-inspiring exhibitions on mathematics, medicine, engineering and space exploration.

We love the Science Museum for the way it turns big ideas into thrilling and accessible experiences – from walking beneath a human-flown plane to exploring the inventions that have shaped modern-day society. It’s a lively and inspiring place to explore and you’ll discover hidden gems each time you return.

Best for: Families, science lovers and hands-on learners.
Good to know: Entry is free but pre-booking is required. Some galleries and experiences are an additional cost.

London free parks – Best for scenic walks and wildlife moments

Wander the tree lined paths of Hyde Park, climb the hill in Greenwich Park for sweeping views across the Thames and Canary Wharf or be lucky enough to spot herds of free roaming deer in Richmond Park. For a peaceful oasis vibe, check out Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden for tiered waterfalls and koi carp. If skyline views are more your style, Primrose Hill offers one of London’s best protected panoramic views.

We love London’s parks because each park feels like its own miniature world – from royal gardens to ancient woodland and lakeside picnic spots. They’re perfect for long walks, outdoor workouts, quiet moments or discovering London’s natural side.

Best for: Nature lovers, families and photography-lovers.
Good to know: Primrose Hill is especially popular at sunset.

Horizon 22 – Best for the highest free views in London

Soar 244 metres (800ft) above the city to the 58th floor of Horizon 22, London’s highest free viewing platform. From this sleek, glass fronted space you can take in extraordinary 300-degree views of the city, spotting landmarks including The Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Walkie Talkie and the river Thames winding between them. The vast floor to ceiling windows gives the space an open, airy layout making it feel as if the entire skyline is within reach.

We love Horizon 22 for the incredible views of the city stretching as far as the eye can see – without costing a penny! There’s a café and bar at the viewing platform too, so you can extend your stay and enjoy a bite to eat.

Best for: First-time visitors, skyline lovers and photographers.
Good to know: Entry is free, but tickets must be pre booked online in advance.

Can’t-miss events in London

Take part in the biggest Chinese New Year celebrations outside Asia

Every year in January or February, hundreds of thousands of people enjoy a colourful parade, free stage performances and traditional Chinese food throughout London's Chinatown, Trafalgar Square and the West End. Arrive early for the Chinese New Year Parade to secure a good viewing spot.

Catch one of London’s legendary music festivals

Music lovers are spoilt for choice with exciting and eclectic London music festivals taking place year-round. Pick from a wide range of spring and summer festivals in London, featuring everything from electronic to jazz music, and dance to your favourite band's tunes. Plan ahead and book tickets early for multi-day or VIP options.

Cheer on tennis greats at the Wimbledon Championships

Root for the pros at Wimbledon, one of the four annual Grand Slam tennis tournaments that take place around the world. Soak up the lively atmosphere, best enjoyed with strawberries and cream, for two weeks of tennis matches in south-west London, at the end of June and in early July. Apply for tickets early in the ballot and keep an eye out for confirmation emails.

Embrace London's diversity at Pride in London in July

Celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community with the Pride in London parade through central London, with free festivities in Trafalgar Square and other events taking place across the capital. Get to the parade early to secure a good viewing spot.

Enjoy the colours and sounds of the Caribbean at Notting Hill Carnival in August

Groove to the beat at Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street festival. Enjoy sound systems, a vibrant parade full of drum bands and sparkly costumes, street food stalls and more over the August bank holiday weekend. Sunday is the family day and often more relaxed, whereas Monday is the high-energy, party day for the main parade.

Come winter, discover the best of what’s on in London at Christmas

Enjoy the magical atmosphere, admire the stunning decorations and check out everything the city has to offer. From a Christmas lights bus tour of London to Christmas theatre shows, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Beat the shopping crowds by exploring in the morning or enjoy the lights after dark.

Ring in the New Year with unforgettable London celebrations

Toast to the arrival of 2027 in spectacular style with London’s world-famous New Year’s Eve fireworks on the banks of the Thames. For a truly memorable night, book a New Year's Eve river cruise and choose from a range of party boats with live music to elegant dinner cruises. New Year's Eve cruises sell out fast, so book tickets in advance.

Find even more things to do in London, from top London attractions and sightseeing tours to theatre shows in London.