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. As spring gets underway, we’ve pulled together this definitive shortlist of the top things happening in London today. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor activities, food inspiration or what to see in the theatre, you’ll find everything you need for an action-packed day out in London.
Be sure to download the Visit London app for on-the-go inspiration.
Visit top London attractions
Take your pick from our guide to London’s top attractions. Visit family favourites like Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter, Madame Tussauds London and SEA LIFE London Aquarium. Don’t miss seeing iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the London Eye and Buckingham Palace.
Soak up the longer, warmer days with an exhilarating Thames Rockets speedboat tour or test your limits at Go Ape in Battersea Park, where you’ll scale zigzag bridges, high ropes and zip wires in this ultimate treetop adventure.
For a slice of history, carve out time to visit the Tower of London. Explore the Unesco World Heritage site and learn gruesome tales of the Bloody Tower from the Yeoman Warders (also known as the Beefeaters), before marvelling at the dazzling crown jewels.
Discover more of London’s top attractions and book in advance to guarantee entry.
See a theatre show in London today
Rain or shine, London’s West End makes for an unforgettable day out in the capital. From award-winning musicals like The Lion King, Moulin Rouge and Wicked the Musical, celebrated for their breathtaking set designs and dazzling costumes, to a fresh crop of new arrivals.
Secure tickets to the West End debut of Tony Award-winning musical The Great Gatsby (opening 11 April) or the world premiere of Conor McPherson’s highly anticipated play The Brightening Air at the Old Vic (opening 16 April). Don’t miss the final few weeks to enjoy laugh-out-loud musical comedy Mrs Doubtfire at the Shaftesbury Theatre (closing 26 April), and the gripping political thriller Kyoto at Soho Place Theatre (closing 3 May).
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 – take a tour
Grab one-day sightseeing tickets and explore London’s top landmarks on a hop-on hop-off bus tour or pick up an all-day ticket and discover the capital by Uber Boat or Thames Clippers – both of which allow you to explore the city at your own pace. Uncover more of the city on an organised tour, from bus tours and river cruises to guided walking tours.
With spring in full bloom, April is the perfect time to visit the capital’s gorgeous parks and green spaces. Head to Greenwich Park for lines of gorgeous cherry blossom trees or wander along the Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park.
Alternatively, adventure outside of 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.
Explore family activities in London today
There are plenty of fun-filled things to do for families in London, so it’s easy to make great memories with the kids over the Easter break (7 to 21 April). Visit popular family attractions like Shrek’s Adventure! or The Paddington Bear Experience on the South Bank, or head to the West End to see a spectacular kids theatre show – the newest stage adaptation of Oliver! at the Gielgud Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue is ideal for little ones.
Lots of attractions have month-long Easter events throughout April such as Hampton Court Palace’s Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt (29 March to 21 April) and The Big Hunt (24 March to 27 April), where beautifully decorated eggs have been scattered across iconic locations in London.
Forecast 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 battleships – 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 Wallace Collection’s new exhibition Grayson Perry: Delusions of Grandeur and find ceramics, tapestries and sculptures from Perry’s successful career. Head to the Tate Modern to see the boundary-breaking Leigh Bowery! exhibition, where incredible costumes, photographs and inspirations from one of the fashion’s biggest icons are on display. FRAMELESS is a great option for those seeking an immersive experience, expect masterpieces from the likes of Monet, Van Gogh, Dalí and Cézanne.
Prefer a guided tour? You can uncover the best of the British Museum’s impressive collection with an expert guide.
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 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.
Still hungry? Don’t miss our round-up of the best places for alfresco dining and 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 workshops happening across this capital this month for Easter weekend (18 to 21 April).
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.