The best things to do in London today at a glance:
- 🪄 Best for fantasy fans: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
- 🕵️ Best for history buffs: Hidden London Underground tours
- 🎭 Best for theatregoers: Disney's The Lion King
- 💂 Best for sightseeing: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
- 🐻 Best for family fun: The Paddington Bear Experience
Planning things to do in London is no easy task. There are buzzy neighbourhoods lined with forward-thinking restaurants and bars, world-famous attractions, exciting events and an ever-changing roster of shows in the West End to consider. With 2026 in full swing, we’ve curated a definitive shortlist of the top things happening in London today. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor activities, food inspiration or the latest theatre must-sees, you’ll find everything you need for an action-packed day out in London.
Download the Visit London app for exclusive offers and on-the-go inspiration, and explore what's on in London this month for even more ideas.
Top things to do in London today
Visit world-famous London attractions
Explore London's landmarks in style on a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour, stopping at more than 60 key attractions across the city such as Buckingham Palace, St Paul's Cathedral and Shakespeare's Globe. Alternatively, book a night-time bus tour to enjoy a glittering view of the capital's skyline, all while learning about London's fascinating history from an onboard guide.
Plan a fun-filled family day out and visit favourites such as Madame Tussauds London, SEA LIFE London Aquarium and The Paddington Bear Experience. Make a day of it at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, where you can explore original sets, costumes and props from the hit films, as well as shop for replica wands, house-branded robes and collectables in the Studio Shops.
For a slice of history, head to the Unesco World Heritage Site and home of the Crown Jewels, the Tower of London. Uncover gruesome tales of the Bloody Tower on a guided tour with the Yeoman Warders (also known as the Beefeaters) and see how many ravens you can spot.
Discover London from new heights on the London Eye – at 135 metres (443ft) high, it was once the world's tallest observation wheel – and soak in sweeping views across the capital. Pick up a London Pass to save on more than 100 top attractions.
Discover more unmissable attractions and book in advance to guarantee entry.
The best theatre shows in London today
Rain or shine, London’s West End makes for an unforgettable day out in the capital. From award-winning musicals such as The Lion King, Moulin Rouge and Wicked, renowned for their breathtaking set designs and dazzling costumes, to a fresh crop of new arrivals including Cirque du Soleil's OVO, Shadowlands and Beetlejuice, there's something to suit every type of theatregoer.
Celebrate 75 spectacular years of Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap at St Martin's Theatre, a gripping murder mystery set at a remote English hotel during a snowstorm.
Enjoy an immersive experience with ABBA Voyage or treat the kids to a feel-good show such as Come Alive! London: The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular or Matilda the Musical.
Find out what's showing in London’s West End today, explore matinee performances and book tickets with our guide to London theatre.
Where to go in London today
Once you've ticked off London's top landmarks on a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour, see more of the capital on an organised tour, from river cruises to guided walking experiences.
Recharge at London's gorgeous parks and green spaces. Greenwich Park and Hampstead Heath offer undisturbed skyline views, while Richmond Park is renowned for its herds of deer and open grassland. Don't miss central London's St James's Park – the oldest of the capital's Royal Parks – and carve out time to visit Kew Gardens, known for its themed glasshouses, treetop walkways and botanical festivals.
Alternatively, adventure outside London with day trips to some of the UK’s most historic destinations such as Stonehenge, Windsor Castle or the postcard-pretty streets of Bath and the Cotswolds. Check last-minute availability or book tickets ahead for destinations further afield including Paris and Edinburgh.
Explore family activities in London today
There are plenty of fun-filled activities for families in London, making it easy to create great memories with the kids over February half-term (16 October to 20 October). Visit popular family attractions such as Shrek’s Adventure! and The Paddington Bear Experience on the South Bank. Check out what's on in the West End for kids theatre.
Little ones will love the London Transport Museum, where transport icons including the world's first Underground steam train, red bus, black taxis and groundbreaking designs such as the first-ever Tube map are displayed across interactive galleries. Book now, children under 17 go free!
If the forecast is looking wet and windy, check out these rainy day activities, from the Natural History Museum to the Young V&A.
Where to shop in London today
Visit some of London's world-renowned department stores such as Liberty London – constructed from the timber of two ships – and Fortnum & Mason. For streetwear and independent brands, don’t miss our guide to London’s top shopping hotspots.
If you’re visiting London on a weekend, be sure to check out some of the best markets in the capital. Borough Market, Maltby Street Market and Seven Dials Market are great choices for those looking for a diverse menu of food, while east London’s Columbia Road Market makes for a Sunday well spent with its colourful, fragrant flowers.
Enjoy an exhibition in London today
There are always exciting exhibitions happening at London’s top museums and galleries. From free exhibits and permanent collections to the latest blockbuster art shows, spend the day marvelling at works by emerging and established talents.
Check out the newest show at Lightroom, Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs, and uncover the crucial role these animals have played in shaping our world. The 50-minute experience features scenes from Apple TV's Emmy Award-nominated series, set to a powerful score by Hans Zimmer and narrated by actor Damian Lewis. Don't miss The Natural History Museum's exhibition, Our Story with David Attenborough, an immersive installation that takes audiences on a journey through the evolution of our planet.
Prefer a guided tour? You can explore the best of the British Museum and National Gallery on an expert-led tour.
Feast on London's food and drink scene
Whether you fancy brunch, indulging in afternoon tea, dining at a restaurant, or ending the night with drinks at a pub or bar, London’s food and drink scene is diverse. Check out Bar Valette in Shoreditch for delicious dishes inspired by Southern France and Spanish tapas, or head to Covent Garden to enjoy seasonal British plates at the stylish new restaurant, Town. If it’s a special occasion, book a dinner cruise along the Thames or take a themed afternoon tea tour.
Still hungry? Don’t miss our round-up of the best places for alfresco dining or where to enjoy a traditional English breakfast in London.
Discover epic events
London hosts some of the world's top events, from famous festivals and sporting spectacles to cultural celebrations, concerts and family fun. Discover special events in London today, and keep your eyes peeled for fun events and openings happening across the capital this month.
Plan your next visit
Make the most of what’s on in London with these top things to do each month and weekend. Bookmark our London events calendar for unmissable events throughout the year.