With more than 42 million visitors exploring London's top attractions each year, the city is consistently ranked among the world’s leading destinations for the quality, variety and scale of its experiences (source: London's Attraction Monitor, London & Partners 2025).
London is home to nine out of the top 10 most visited attractions across the UK, so our London-based editorial team can vouch for the incredible landmarks, world-class museums and immersive experiences just waiting to be explored.
We recommend you book your tickets in advance to secure a preferred date and time – and you’ll often save money too! Once you’ve picked your must-see sights, use our London attractions map to plan the perfect route with ease.
Top 10 London attractions right now
Top 10 London attractions and places to visit in 2026
Nearest Tube: Waterloo station (Jubilee, Bakerloo and Northern)
When: Daily: Opening times vary (check official website) but general hours are: Mon-Fri, 11am-6pm; Sat-Sun and school holidays, 10am-8.30pm
Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
The London Eye is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, offering unbeatable 360-degree views across London’s uninterrupted skyline.
Opened in 2000 to celebrate the new millennium, it was once the world’s tallest observation wheel and quickly became a symbol of modern London. A ride in one of its 32 spacious glass capsules gives you a unique and grand perspective of iconic sights such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the river Thames.
Highlights not to miss include the slow, smooth ascent to 135 metres (442ft) and the chance to spot landmarks up to 24 miles (40km) away on a clear day. Whether you’re a first time visitor or a local rediscovering the city, the London Eye provides a memorable and breathtaking way to experience London from above.
Best for: All ages, first-time visitors and photography lovers.
Good to know: From 14 November, every ticket includes a Festive Flight, where you'll glide above London's sparkling skyline in a Christmas-themed pod while listening to enchanting festive stories along the way.
Riverside Building, London, SE1 7PB
From £33.00
Based on 92,481 reviews
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District)
When: Sun-Mon: 10am-4.30pm, Tue-Sat: 9am-4.30pm. Hours may differ during school and public holidays
Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours
Explore the Tower of London and discover more than 900 years of fascinating history, royal stories and political intrigue at one of London's most iconic landmarks.
Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1078, the Tower of London has served as a royal palace, fortress, prison and even a zoo.
Unmissable highlights include viewing the dazzling Crown Jewels, exploring the medieval White Tower and visiting Tower Green to learn about the famous historic executions, including those of Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey. Other highlights include learning about the infamous Traitor’s Gate used for prisoners, and walking the ancient battlements and discovering the Bloody Tower, bringing history vividly to life.
Best for: History lovers, families and culture seekers.
Good to know: Look out for the legend of the Tower's ravens, which are believed to protect the monarchy.
Tower Hill, City of London, London, EC3N 4AB
From £38.00
Based on 70,014 reviews
Nearest station: Watford Junction (Overground)
When: Times vary, check times on your booking date
Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours
Have a magical day out with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Harry Potter films at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter.
Wander through iconic sets like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley and the Forbidden Forest, exploring the real costumes, props and visual effects that brought the wizarding world to life on our screens. It’s a must-visit for fans and film lovers alike, revealing secrets of creature design, animatronics and green-screen magic you won’t find anywhere else.
Unmissable highlights include stepping onto Platform 9¾ to see the Hogwarts Express, venturing down Gringotts Wizarding Bank and marvelling at the breathtaking Hogwarts Castle model. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or keen to discover filmmaking magic, the experience is unforgettable.
Best for: Harry Potter fans, film fanatics and families.
Good to know: Keep an eye out for festive surprises throughout Hogwarts in the Snow takeover, from the Great Hall dressed with towering Christmas trees and a festive feast to snow-covered sets, Yule Ball dance lessons and the Hogwarts castle model transformed with filmmaking snow. 14 November 2026 - 17 January 2027.
Stop 1, Bulleid Way, London, SW1W 9SR
From £93.75
Based on 49,231 reviews
Nearest Tube: Westminster (Jubilee, District and Circle)
When: Daily: Mon-Fri, 9.30am-3.30pm and Sat 9am-3pm. On Sunday it's open for worship only. Opening times may vary, depending on events and services taking place in the Abbey
Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours
Westminster Abbey is one of London’s most important historic landmarks, renowned for nearly a thousand years of royal tradition, architectural splendour and national heritage.
Founded in the 10th century and rebuilt in stunning Gothic style in the 13th, it has been the coronation church since 1066 and the setting for royal weddings, state ceremonies and national commemorations. A visit offers the chance to explore the Coronation Chair, Poets’ Corner and the breathtaking medieval Chapter House. Don’t miss the Royal Tombs, where monarchs including Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots are laid to rest, or the impressive Henry VII Lady Chapel with its intricate fan vaulted ceiling.
With its rich history, remarkable craftsmanship and deeply atmospheric spaces, Westminster Abbey is a must-see for anyone interested in Britain’s past and its living traditions.
Best for: Culture lovers, history fans and architecture enthusiasts.
Good to know: Visit Poets' Corner where some of the UK's most famous writers, such as William Shakespeare and Jane Austen, are buried.
Westminster Abbey, London, SW1P 3PA
From £32.00
Based on 29,958 reviews
Nearest Tube: Varies by departure point (Departures from the London Eye, Victoria and Green Park)
When: 6 Nov-3 JanDuration: Approximately 90 minutes
See London sparkle from a whole new perspective on the Christmas lights London by night bus tour.
Climb aboard an open-top bus and journey through the capital's most dazzling festive displays, passing glittering landmarks, iconic shopping streets and beautifully illuminated Christmas decorations along the way.
Travel past the famous lights of Regent Street, Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus while an expert guide shares stories and facts about London's festive traditions and seasonal displays.
Best for: Families, festive date nights and anyone wanting to see London’s mot famous Christmas lights without the crowds.
Good to know: The tour is not hop-on hop-off, so passengers remain on board for the full journey. Wrap up warm if you're sitting on the upper deck for the best views of the lights.
Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 9SZ
From £25.00
Nearest station: Bank (Central)
When: Mon-Sat: 8.30am-4.30pm (last entry 4pm). On Wednesdays the Cathedral opens at 10am. Dome Galleries open daily, last entry 4.15pm.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
See St Paul's Cathedral up close and personal, a masterpiece of architecture and one of the city's most recognisable landmarks.
Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the cathedral has stood at the heart of the capital for more than 300 years and played a central role in British history, from royal weddings to state funerals.
Step inside to admire the vast interior, intricate mosaics and historic artworks, and continue upwards to the Stone and Golden Galleries for panoramic views across London’s skyline.
Best for: Architecture fans, history lovers and photographers.
Good to know: Don't forget to visit the Whispering Gallery, which sits 30m above the crossing of the nave. Stand facing one of the four corners that support it, and get a friend to stand facing the diagonally opposite one; you can whisper into the wall and be heard by them, even though someone standing a couple of feet away won't hear a thing!
St. Paul's Churchyard, London, EC4M 8AD
From £26.00
Based on 18,057 reviews
Nearest tube: Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City)
When: First entry, 10am. Last entry, 3.45pm. Thursday's first entry is 11am. Saturday's last entry is 4.45pm. Last entry is 4.45pm all week in peak weeks.
Duration: Approximately 70 minutes from your ticket start time
Step into the wonderful world of Paddington Bear at the exciting immersive extravaganza, The Paddington Bear Experience.
The heart-warming, multi-room immersive adventure brings the beloved stories and film world of Paddington to life. Begin the journey in a recreation of Paddington Station, meeting the Station Master before boarding a full-sized train carriage that whisks you through London to Windsor Gardens. Along the way, explore colourful themed rooms, solve puzzles, meet familiar characters and help the Brown family prepare for the Marmalade Day Festival.
Highlights not to miss include stepping into the magical Peruvian jungle, joining the joyful street party finale in Windsor Gardens and even posing for a photo with Paddington himself. With charming sets, interactive storytelling and plenty of marmalade filled fun, it’s an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages.
Best for: Families, Paddington Bear fans and film lovers.
Good to know: Don't forget to visit Mr Gruber's Antique Shop at the end of the experience where you can buy toys, books, games and souvenirs from your day at the Paddington Bear Experience.
County Hall, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 7GP
From £34.00
Nearest tube: London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee)
When: Mon-Sun: 9.30am-6pm (last entry 5pm)
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
One of London’s most recognisable sights, Tower Bridge, is both a working bridge and a must‑see visitor attraction.
Step inside this Victorian engineering masterpiece to discover its fascinating history, enjoy panoramic views across the capital and walk across the spectacular 42 metres (137ft) glass floor high above the river Thames. Explore the atmospheric Victorian Engine Rooms, where original steam engines, coal burners and interactive displays reveal how the bridge was raised to let tall ships pass through the Pool of London.
Set against a backdrop of the Tower of London, City Hall and the modern skyline beyond, Tower Bridge offers one of the best vantage points in the city and a brilliant mix of history, architecture and unforgettable views. This cultural icon is a symbol of London, featured in countless films, photos and postcards of the vibrant city.
Best for: First time visitors, history fans and anyone wanting classic London views.
Good to know: The bridge still opens regularly to allow ships through – timings are displayed in advance and can be a highlight of your visit.
Tower Bridge Road, London, SE1 2UP
From £16.00
Based on 40,611 reviews
Nearest Tube: Tottenham Court Road, (Elizabeth, Central and Northern)
When: Sun-Thur: 10am-8pm, Fri-Sat: 10am-9pmDuration: Approximately 60 to 90 minutes
Challenge your senses at Museum of Illusions London, where immersive exhibits, optical illusions and interactive installations blur the line between reality and imagination.
Wander through the dizzying Vortex Tunnel, discover optical illusions that challenge your perception and capture plenty of laugh-out-loud photos along the way.
Packed with mind-bending exhibits, interactive illusion rooms and gravity-defying installations, this immersive attraction puts your senses to the test.
Best for: Families, groups of friends and funny photo opportunities.
Good to know: Many of the exhibits are designed for photos and videos, with staff on hand to help you discover the best angles and illusion effects!
15-17 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 1BJ
From £29.00
Nearest Tube: Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City)
When: Open daily: Mon-Wed, 9.30am-7pm; Thurs, 11am-7pm; Fri-Sun, 9.30am-7pmDuration: Allow up to two hours to explore the different zones
To see thousands of fascinating marine creatures up close, you have to visit SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
Explore the wonders of the underwater world and come face-to-fin with majestic sharks, graceful rays and colourful tropical fish as you make your way through themed zones and immersive ocean habitats.
Wander through the glass Ocean Tunnel and see marine life swoop and swim all around you, watch playful penguins going about their day and discover creatures from some of the world's most remarkable aquatic environments – right in the heart of London. There’s plenty to keep all ages entertained, with interactive exhibits, daily feeding sessions and mini film stops to learn all about ocean conservation.
Best for: Families, animal lovers and rainy-day adventures.
Good to know: Booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak times like school holidays and weekends.
Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7PB
From £31.00
Based on 6,720 reviews
How we choose the top 10 attractions in London each month
We curate our monthly top 10 attractions using a data-driven approach that blends real visitor behaviour with seasonal trends. This ensures the list reflects what people love doing in London right now, including:
- Analysing monthly ticket sales
- Reviewing attraction visitor numbers
- Considering seasonal trends
- Adding insider insights and tips
Using this approach, we’re able to create a well-rounded and timely top 10 list – highlighting everything from taking in sweeping city views on the London Eye to uncovering royal history at the Tower of London.
You can even explore our guide to the top free things to do in London, so you can make the most of your visit to the capital.
Book tickets for London's top attractions
From iconic landmarks to unforgettable experiences, London’s best attractions are just a click away. Whether you're planning your first visit or rediscovering the city, make the most of your time with curated experiences like The Total London Experience or unlock access to multiple attractions with The London Pass.
Make your London adventure memorable – book your tickets now with Visit London and skip the queues!
London attraction FAQs
What are the top five tourist attractions in London?
Top attractions to have on your London list are:
- Westminster Abbey – Marvel at impressive architecture and discover memorials of more than 30 kings and queens buried at one of London's most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- St Paul's Cathedral – Explore the working cathedral steeped in history and experience breathtaking views across London from the Stone and Golden Galleries.
- Buckingham Palace – On select dates during the summer months, tour the 19 State Rooms, the magnificent Grand Staircase and special exhibitions at one of the few working royal palaces in the world.
- National Gallery – Admire some of the greatest collections of paintings in the world and discover many artistic treasures at the National Gallery.
- Big Ben – Visit The Houses of Parliament's iconic clock tower, commonly known as Big Ben, with its four clock faces illuminated against the backdrop of the London skyline. Tours can be booked by visiting the official UK Parliament website.
What is the number one London attraction?
The number one London attraction is Tower of London, welcoming 2.9 million visitors from around the world in 2024.*
The popular historical site is famed for its nearly 1,000 years of history, glistening Crown Jewels and its famous raven residents.
What is the best way to see the sights of London?
The best way to see the sights of London is by bus tour, walking tour, bike tour or Thames river cruises! A sightseeing tour is the perfect way to experience London's top attractions and explore lesser-known areas of the city.
Explore the best attractions with a London attractions pass and access more than 100 top attractions including Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Kew Gardens and more.
What are some of London’s modern landmarks?
London's skyline is home to some of the world's most striking modern architecture, and in the last 50 years many landmarks have been designed and built, five of which include:
- The Shard – The 1,017ft (309.6 metres) building houses a hotel, several bars and restaurants, office space and a public observation deck on the 72nd floor, offering panoramic views across London.
- The London Eye – Opened on New Year's Eve 1999 and open to the public from March 2000, the London Eye offers 360-degrees of London from a cantilevered observation wheel.
- 20 Fenchurch Street – The Walkie Talkie – Experience unparalleled views from Sky Garden, situated at the top of the glass building, nicknamed due to its aesthetic similarity to a Walkie Talkie.
- The Gherkin – Enjoy 360-degree city views in the restaurant and cocktail bar, Searcys, located on level 40 of The Gherkin. This unique building has five-degree rotation on each floor, producing the unique glass pattern on the building's exterior.
- Tate Modern – Originally used to house electricity generators for the Bankside Power Station in 2000, the space transformed into gallery spaces, from paintings and film to performance and discussions.
