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 that in mind, we’ve pulled together this definitive shortlist of the finest things happening in London today. From new and long-standing musicals to iconic department stores and special sightseeing tours, read on to find everything you need for a fun day out in the capital.
Be sure to download the Visit London app and explore “what’s on today near me” for on-the-go inspiration.
Things to do today in London
Visit top attractions
Take your pick from our guide to London’s top attractions. Family favourites like Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter and Madame Tussauds London are open daily. Don’t miss historic landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the London Eye and Buckingham Palace.
Carve out time to visit the Tower of London, one of the world’s most iconic fortifications and a Unesco World Heritage Site. See the crown jewels, meet the tower’s famous raven guardians and hear gruesome tales of the monument’s haunting history with an insightful tour led by one of the Yeoman Warders (also known as Beefeaters).
Discover more of London’s top attractions and book in advance to guarantee entry.
See a show
Rain or shine, London’s West End makes for a great day out with long-standing musicals such as The Lion King, Moulin Rouge and Mamma Mia. There’s a fair few new openings worth checking out, including The Devil Wears Prada and Clueless (from 15 February). Alternatively, grab a seat at one of the best plays in London with comedy masterpieces like The Play That Goes Wrong at the Duchess Theatre near Covent Garden.
Find out what's on today, check the latest availability, discover matinees and book tickets with our guide to London theatre.
Where to go in London today – take a tour
Grab one-day sightseeing tickets and explore London’s legendary landmarks with a hop-on hop-off bus tour and an all-day ticket with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers – both of which allow you to explore the city at your own pace. Discover more of the city by joining one of the many organised tours, from bus tours and Thames river cruises to guided walking tours.
Alternatively, explore beyond London with day trips to some of the UK’s most historic destinations such as Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and the postcard-pretty streets of Bath and the Cotswolds. Check last-minute availability or book tickets ahead to further afield destinations like Liverpool and Edinburgh.
Find family activities in London today
With so many things to do for families in London, it’s easy to make great memories with the kids, whatever their age. Visit top family attractions like Shrek’s Adventure! or head to the West End to see a spectacular kids theatre show – the new revival of Oliver! The Musical at the Gielgud Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue is our pick of the day.
Forecast looking wet and windy? Check out these rainy day activities. We’ve got plenty of half-term inspiration worth bookmarking, too.
Shop till you drop
Retail therapy is always a good idea. Visit some of London’s most iconic department stores such as Liberty London – constructed from the timber of two battleships – and Fortnum & Mason. For streetwear and independent brands, don’t miss our guide to London’s top shopping hotspots. If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to shop more sustainably, explore London’s best zero-waste food shops, markets, charity shops and more.
Enjoy an exhibition
There are always fascinating 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.
Our pick? The newly opened Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism exhibition at Royal Academy. The show charts the work of the boundary-breaking artists who pioneered the modernism movement in the early 20th century, so expect eye-popping works by Oscar Niemeyer, Anita Malfatti and Tarsila do Amaral.
Feast on London's food and drink scene
Whether you fancy breakfast or 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 the newly opened Osteria del Mare in Strand for exceptional Italian fare, or head to Notting Hill to enjoy seasonal plates at acclaimed British chef Jackson Boxer’s new concept, Dove. If it’s a special occasion, book a dinner cruise along the Thames or take an afternoon tea tour.
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 film screenings, talks and workshops happening across the capital today for LGBTQ+ history month.
Plan your next visit
Make the most of what’s on in London with these top things to do each month and each weekend – and take a look at the London events calendar for unmissable events throughout the year.