50 best things to do in London in 2025: your ultimate "what to do in London" checklist

From royal palaces and museums to historic bridges and cathedrals, discover world-famous London attractions and iconic landmarks with the best things to see in London.

1. See 55 of London’s greatest landmarks on a 30-minute ride on the London Eye: Get ready for astounding 360-degree views of the city as you climb aboard one of the 32 glass capsules of the London Eye. It is the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel at 135 metres (443ft) high! Built to celebrate the millennium in 2000, the special engineering achievement has become a symbol of the modern capital and a world-famous icon of architecture. 
   Address: Riverside Building, South Bank, London SE1 7PB.

2. Soar above London on the London IFS Cloud Cable Car: Glide above the Thames and take in aerial views of London's skyline, as you travel on the cable car from the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks. Time your visit with sunset over the river and watch the city come alive after dark with extended night flights after 7pm. The journey from one side of the Thames to the other takes around 10 minutes and return flights are also available.
   Address: North Greenwich or Royal Victoria, London SE10 0FR.
3. Discover the magnificent Hampton Court Palace, Henry VIII’s former residence and a London must-see: Uncover Tudor treasures, glorious gardens and an iconic maze at this Grade I-listed royal palace on the banks of the river Thames. Other palace highlights include the Great Hall, which is adorned with magnificent tapestries, the Chapel Royal, home to Anne Boleyn’s Book of Hours, William III’s State Apartments and the Magic Garden adventure playground.
   Address: East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU.
4. Be dazzled by the largest diamond in the world, on display at the Tower of London’s Crown Jewels exhibition: Marvel at the 100 objects and 23,000 precious stones that make up the Crown Jewels. You can also take a tour with one of the Yeoman Warders around the Tower of London to hear fascinating insights into one of London's most famous historical landmarks. Discover its 900-year history as a royal palace, prison and place of execution, arsenal, jewel house and zoo!
   Address: Tower Hill, City of London, London EC3N 4AB.
5. Take a tour of Buckingham Palace, the official administrative headquarters of the King: On selected dates during the summer, visitors can tour the 19 State Rooms, which form the heart of the palace. Explore one of only a few working royal palaces remaining in the world today. As one of the most iconic and impressive buildings in the world, it's a must-visit to experience the best of British history and culture.
   Address: London SW1A 1AA.
6. Climb the dome of St Paul's Cathedral and enjoy spectacular views across London: Discover a working cathedral steeped in history, experience breathtaking views from the Stone and Golden Galleries and marvel at the marble architecture throughout this historic landmark. Destroyed by the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current building was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710. Its iconic dome is 111 metres (364ft) high and is one of the largest cathedral domes in the world.
   Address: London EC4M 8AD.
7. Be in the right place at the right time to see Tower Bridge lift up: Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Glass Floors and high-level Walkways, 42 metres (138ft) above the river. Then head to the magnificent Victorian Engine Rooms to hear about the lives of the people who kept the bridge going. Tower Bridge has become one of the most popular things to do for visitors to the city. Explore this iconic London landmark on a self-guided tour or join one of the expert-led London Tower Bridge tours.
   Address: Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 2UP.
8. See Egyptian mummies and objects from around the world at the British Museum: Founded in 1753, the British Museum has a collection covering two million years of history. Travel from ancient Greece and Egypt to Africa and China, or from Roman Britain to medieval Europe, in more than 60 free galleries centred around the magnificent Great Court. Showcasing human knowledge in all forms, the British Museum was the world’s first public museum of its kind and attracts more than six million visitors each year.
   Address: Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG.

Now you've ticked London's must-sees off your sightseeing list, it's time to explore London from a different angle! Join a guided tour, see quintessentially British ceremonies, or spot top London sights from the water with a cruise down the Thames.

1. Get closer to the most interesting tourist attractions in London with a guided walking tour: When it comes to walking tours in London, there are plenty of exciting themes and options to choose from. Whether you're interested in famous historical figures such as Jack the Ripper, fascinated by royal London or just want to sample London's brilliant food, attractions and architecture, there's a London walking tour for you!
2. Sit back and get an overview of London's most gorgeous sights on a bus tour: London is one of the most walkable cities in the world, but sometimes you just want to sit back, relax and enjoy the sights from the comfort of your seat. Choose from sightseeing tours of top London landmarks, night-time tours, movie tours, ghost tours and even tours with afternoon tea.
3. Take a boat trip on the river Thames and see London in style: The river Thames is the perfect vantage point for some of London’s most iconic sites come rain or shine. Escape the crowds and experience London’s beautiful scenery glide by with a Thames river cruise by day or night. Options include jazz cruises, dining experiences, sightseeing rides, speedboats and more!
4. Catch the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony in front of Buckingham Palace: An absolute must-do in London, Changing the Guard is a formal ceremony in which the group of soldiers protecting Buckingham Palace are replaced by a new group of soldiers. The famous London guards have been around for centuries, with the first ceremony taking place during the reign of King Henry VII. This free London event is very popular, so arrive early to secure a spot with a good view!
5. See London's famous bronze lion statues, fountains and Nelson’s Column at Trafalgar Square: One of London's most popular tourist destinations and a must-do, Trafalgar Square is also home to the fantastic National Gallery, historic buildings, statues and monuments, and a range of exciting events throughout the year.
6. Snap a photo at Piccadilly Circus in front of its iconic electronic advertising boards: Piccadilly Circus is another one of London's most popular destinations. From here, you can easily walk to Piccadilly, Leicester Square, Shaftesbury Avenue and Regent Street. It's the perfect central London starting point from which to explore the surrounding Soho and Chinatown areas.
7. Stand across the Prime Meridian Line in historic Greenwich and take time to explore the area: Famed for giving its name to Greenwich Mean Time, Greenwich is where hemispheres meet. It's home to a Unesco World Heritage Site, The O2 entertainment venue, London’s only cable car and the city's oldest Royal Park. Discover breathtaking views, royal heritage and amazing attractions, all in a beautiful riverside setting minutes from central London.

From world-class art to glorious parks and gardens, London has plenty of incredible things to see and do for free. Explore London without breaking the bank with these free sightseeing ideas.

1. Stroll along the Thames Path on the South Bank: Lining a pretty stretch of the river Thames in central London, the South Bank is dotted with arts and cultural venues, stylish restaurants and big-hitter attractions. See major London landmarks from the Houses of Parliament to Tower Bridge. The banks of the river Thames also offer long stretches of traffic-free cycling. Most of London's Thames-side cycle route is on the Thames Path National Trail, which runs from the source of the Thames in the Cotswolds to the Thames Barrier east of Greenwich.
2. Explore the eight Royal Parks in London: Discover incredible London wildlife, beautifully designed gardens and plenty of space for picnics and leisurely strolls in London's best parks, from pretty St James’s Park to peaceful Bushy Park. Admire the 12,000 roses in Queen Mary’s Gardens in Regent’s Park, go boating in Hyde Park or try deer-spotting in the countryside of Richmond Park.
3. See world-class art for free in gorgeous galleries dotted across the city: Whether you love Old Masters or modern art, contemporary sculptures or Impressionist paintings, London has an art gallery to satisfy your cultural cravings. Most are free, including the exceptional National Gallery, Tate Modern, the National Portrait Gallery and Tate Britain. You can also visit lesser-known gems, such as the William Morris Gallery, featuring beautiful works from one of Britain's most famous designers.
4. Visit the city's most famous museums for free: Be amazed by iconic artefacts, vast permanent collections and exciting exhibitions at the best museums in London, most of which are free to visit. Some of the best free museums in London include the British Museum, the Science Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the National Maritime Museum.

From discovering the capital on two wheels to riding rollercoasters, active travellers and adventure seekers will find plenty of immersive experiences and fun things to do in London. 

1. Ride a Santander Cycle in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and relive the spirit of the London 2012 Olympic Games: Santander Cycles, London's public bicycle hire scheme, is a great way to travel around the city. The first half hour only costs £1.65 and day passes are available from £3, so grab a bike and get riding. Find more cycling routes to explore London on wheels, from riding along the river to exploring the city's hidden corners.
2. See a game or take a tour (or both!) at one of London's most iconic sports stadiums: Get a taste of London's club football scene by visiting legendary Wembley Stadium. Or check out the homes of one of these other great football clubs: Chelsea, Arsenal, West Ham United or Tottenham Hotspur. A must-do in London for any self-respecting football fan!
3. Hike up a famous London roof for unforgettable thrills and stunning views: Climb on the roof of Tottenham Hotspur's stadium on the thrilling The Dare Skywalk or go Up at The O2 to climb the world-famous entertainment venue and get a 360-degree view of London’s skyline. Both experiences last 90 minutes and can be booked in advance.
4. Take an exhilarating James Bond-style ride on the river Thames with a speedboat tour: Whizz along the river past iconic landmarks and feel the wind whip through your hair, on one of the many Thames Rockets speedboat tours. Pick the Ultimate London Adventure for a 50-minute ride that takes you past sights such as Big Ben and Tower Bridge, or choose the Thames Barrier Boat Adventure for a journey that takes you right up to the Thames Barrier.
5. Ride a rollercoaster at one of London’s top theme parks: For an adrenaline-packed day out with the family or friends, take a trip to Chessington World of Adventures, Thorpe Park, Legoland Windsor and more thrilling theme parks. Enjoy fun for all ages at central London spots, or head to amusement parks further afield, which can be easily reached via train, coach or car.
6. Have a fun night out at London's best bowling alleys and activity bars: From ball pits and electric shuffleboard to old-school bowling and arcade fun, discover the fun-filled side of the capital and check out thrilling ways to test your sporting skills with these top indoor activities in London bars.

If you're visiting London with children in tow, you will love these kids-friendly attractions and activities. Whether fans of Harry Potter or animal lovers, discover the best things to do in London for families.

1. Take the kids to the theatre for spectacular family-friendly shows: London's West End has a variety of popular kids theatre shows, offering a magical experience for young audiences. Combining vibrant storytelling, engaging performances and interactive elements, London's family-friendly theatre shows are designed to captivate children's imaginations. Catch a performance of The Lion King, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Matilda The Musical and more!
2. Immerse yourself in Harry Potter’s wizarding world at various spots across London: Push a trolley through Platform 9¾ at King's Cross, seek out the Harry Potter statue in Leicester Square, before stepping inside the Gryffindor common room at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, featuring film sets alongside hundreds of costumes and props from the Harry Potter films.
3. Meet your favourite characters at Shrek's Adventure! London: Treat the little ones to an indoor walk-and-ride attraction inspired by the hit DreamWorks film, where fun challenges, rides and laugh-out-loud shows await. You'll meet all your favourite Shrek characters, as well as encountering a magic mirror maze, smelly swamp, powerful spells and a cheeky DreamWorks Game Show.
   Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB.
4. Say hello to underwater creatures at SEA LIFE London: Get ready to explore the marine world on London's South Bank. Stroll underneath the sea in the glass Ocean Tunnel, take a trip to Seahorse Kingdom, spot piranhas and crocodiles in the Rainforest Adventure and test your nerves on the Shark Walk as sharks swim beneath you. Other creatures you'll meet at the London aquarium include clownfish, rays, jellyfish and starfish.
   Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB.
5. Rub shoulders with the world’s most iconic figures made of wax at Madame Tussauds London: Come face to face with more than 150 unique and incredibly realistic figures across three immersive floors. There are also four exciting and immersive experiences at Madame Tussauds London, including a unique ride through the capital's history on the Spirit of London Ride and assembling the avengers to face a new threat in the Marvel Universe 4D Experience.
   Address: Marylebone Road, London NW1 5LR.
6. Spot the penguins at London Zoo, a must-see in London for kids of all ages: Spot more than 700 animal species at the city's popular zoo on the northern edge of Regent’s Park, which has been entertaining visitors since 1847. Wander through the zoo visiting your favourite animals or follow one of the set, colour-coded routes. Pink, orange and blue routes guide you past lions, tiger, giraffes, penguins and more.
   Address: Outer Circle, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY.

Be dazzled by London's best things to do after dark, from famous West End musicals to the city's best cocktails bars with spectacular views.

1. See a smashing West End musical in London: Take your pick from hit shows such as The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera musical, Wicked London or get The Book of Mormon London tickets. From well-known West End musicals to smaller off-West End performances and fringe theatres, there's a wide variety to enjoy.
2. Go to a late museum or gallery opening: Many art galleries and London museums open late, with talks, performances, workshops, films, DJ sets, drinks and much more. Plus, you don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy a cultural night out in London – many of these evening exhibitions and events are free.
3. See the city twinkle from up high: Soak up spectacular views of London’s skyline at sunset at The View from The Shard, go up to London’s Sky Garden for free and enjoy spectacular views of the city at night, or soar high above London at Lift 109 at Battersea Power Station. Entry to the Sky Garden is limited, so reserve online in advance.
4. Dance the night away at one of the top clubs in London: Get ready to stay out late! Check out the best clubs in London to party till dawn, from legendary multi-floor venues to converted Victorian warehouses, including Fabric, G-A-Y at Heaven and Ministry of Sound.

From quintessential afternoon tea to Michelin-starred dining, London abounds with fantastic places to eat and drink. Discover some of the best, with these top foodie recommendations.

1. A trip to London is not complete without having a quintessential afternoon tea experience: Treat yourself to a traditional afternoon tea, opt for a cheap afternoon tea if you're on a budget or take your pick from many afternoon tea London deals. Alternatively, try something a little different with a themed afternoon tea or quirky afternoon tea. Or, if you're looking to really impress, splash out with a champagne afternoon tea.
2. Treat yourself to an unforgettable meal at the best London restaurants: London is a food-lover’s dream! Discover the best restaurants in London, from quirky eateries and romantic hideaways to Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrity chef venues. London restaurants cater to every taste, budget and dietary need and can be found everywhere from swanky settings with top views to shipping containers.
3. Enjoy some comfort food and a pint of beer at a traditional London pub: Have a crispy battered fish and chips, a London classic, or if you're visiting on a Sunday, order a tasty Sunday roast. For another classic British treat, tuck into pie, mash and liquor at one of the best London pie shops.
4. Indulge in an expertly made cocktail at one of London's best cocktail bars: Sip a classy cocktail and enjoy the view of London at night at an intimate rooftop bar. If you prefer champagne, treat yourself to a glass of fizz at a London champagne bar. Or order a drink at London’s quirkiest bars and expect nothing but the unexpected.

It's time to hit the shops! Find the best London shopping spots, from luxury department stores such as iconic London must-see Harrods to bargain fashions at the city's excellent markets.

1. Browse everything from antiques to designer clothes at London's best markets: Check out London's top markets, selling everything from flowers and tasty street food to antiques. Browse for flowers at Columbia Road Flower Market, a must-see in London. Enjoy mouthwatering street food at Brick Lane Market or Greenwich Market. Discover lesser-known London Sunday markets.
2. Splurge on luxurious finds at one of London's top department stores: Choose from dozens of brands under one roof and shop for designer fashion, foodie treats, homeware and more at these famous London shopping destinations, including true British icon Harrods in Knightsbridge, Fortnum & Mason's historic Piccadilly store, Liberty London on Regent Street and Selfridges on Oxford Street.
3. Alternatively, shop for high-street fashion, cosmetics, sportswear and anything you want at Westfield, Europe's largest urban shopping centre: Fancy an all-day shopping spree? Westfield has two major shopping centres in London: White City and Stratford. With more than 250 shops and 50 places to grab a bite each, plus cinemas and bowling alleys, Westfield’s shopping centres are some of the largest shopping malls in Europe.
4. For unique finds, look out for the best vintage fashion shops in London: Make the most of the city’s vibrant retro clothing scene and pick up fashion items from past decades at the city's top vintage shops. London’s rich history and diverse cultural tapestry make it an ideal hunting ground for thrift enthusiasts. From charity shops to specialised vintage and secondhand stores, London offers endless options for shoppers looking to find unique and affordable pieces. Neighbourhoods such as Shoreditch, Camden, Notting Hill and Brick Lane are especially renowned for their concentration of thrift shops and vintage markets.

London has so much happening all year round. Don't miss the city's best and most spectacular events and celebrations with these top picks.

1. 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.
2. Celebrate all things Irish with St Patrick’s Day special events in London in March: Catch the colourful St Patrick's Day Parade through central London and then watch live performances from famous Irish musicians, as well as rising stars and special guests, in Trafalgar Square. Check out the market of craft stalls and tuck into traditional and modern Irish food.
3. 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. 
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Enjoy the colours and sounds of the Caribbean at Notting Hill Carnival in August: Groove to the beat at 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.
7. Come winter, discover the best of what’s on in London at Christmas: Enjoy the magical atmosphere, admire the stunning decorations and visit Santa’s grotto. Round up the year with the perfect spot from where to enjoy the spectacular New Year’s Eve Fireworks, a London must-see if you're in town!