Choose from 322 Fun Things to Do in England
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Roman Baths
This first-century Roman bathhouse complex was a meeting point for patricians who came to bathe, drink the curative waters, and socialize. The baths fell out of use with the Roman exodus from Britain but were rediscovered and excavated in the late-19th century. Explore the Great Bath, which is filled with steaming, mineral-rich water from Bath’s hot springs.
The Basics
The Roman Baths are the headline attraction in Bath, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Being just 115 miles (185 kilometers) from central London and within day-tripping distance of Oxford, Brighton, Bournemouth, and Southampton, Bath is a very popular day-tour destination for visitors to South England.
Organized day tours often combine a trip to Bath and the Roman Baths with a visit to the prehistoric Stonehenge monument, the picturesque Cotswolds village of Lacock, Windsor Castle, or the cathedral town of Salisbury. If you want to begin your tour in Bath itself, try a guided walking tour of the Georgian city that includes other top attractions such as the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and Gothic Bath Abbey. Hop-on hop-off tour buses also stop at the Roman Baths.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The hot water that flows throughout the Roman Baths complex, via the Sacred Spring, is untreated, hence bathing is not allowed.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the stone floors are uneven.
- Audio guides are provided, and free tours take place hourly.
- The complex is below street level, and features narrow walkways that may trigger claustrophobia.
How to Get There
Bath-bound Great Western Railway trains depart from London’s Paddington station and take about 90 minutes. The Roman Baths are about a 10-minute walk from Bath Spa train station.
When to Get There
The Roman Baths are the city’s showpiece attraction and, as such, draw big crowds, particularly during July and August weekends. If you are visiting at this time, arrive before 10am or during the evening. In summer, it’s possible to visit at night, when the baths are lit by torches.
Drinking the Thermal Waters
Within the same complex as the Roman Baths is the elaborate Pump Room, a lavish 18th-century construction that served as a socializing spot for Bath’s Georgian elite. The Pump Room now houses a restaurant as well as the King’s Spa fountain, which spouts mineral water directly from the springs. Visitors can try the warm thermal waters, which are said to have curative properties. Be warned: The sulfur-tinged flavor is not to everyone’s taste.
Address: Stall St, Bath, United Kingdom BA1 1LZ, England
Hours: Varies by season
Admission: Adult £16.50, Child £10.25
From $ 10
St James's Park
Set between the grounds of St James’s Palace and the iconic abode to the Queen of England, Buckingham Palace; few picnic spots are as breathtakingly regal as St James’s Park, a 58-acre (23-hectare) stretch, located a short stroll from many of central London’s key tourist attractions.
As well as offering a pocket of greenery amidst the urban sprawl of Central London, the Park’s proximity to Buckingham Palace makes it a popular spot to watch the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony, where the uniformed palace guards change over in an elaborate march and band performance. In addition, the park’s Horse Guards Parade hosts the annual Trooping the Colour military parade to mark the Queen's official birthday, along with the Beating Retreat, a floodlit spectacular featuring marching bands from the Cavalry and Foot Guard regiments, held each June.
A number of attractions grace the park’s interior, most notable of which is the Queen Victoria Memorial, commemorating the legendary ruler’s 1901 death. The 25 meter-high monument, carved from white Carrara marble, stands at the heart of the Memorial gardens, a series of formal flowerbeds and protected landmarks designed by Sir Aston Webb. More recently, the park has become a key part of the seven-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk, passing through locations significant to the beloved people’s princess and in 2012, the Diamond Jubilee Floral Crown was unveiled - a floral recreation of the crown used in the Queen’s coronation ceremony, set on the north side of the lake.
Open to walkers, cyclists and dogs, the park features a restaurant, summer deck chairs and a number of refreshment stalls dotted around its many walkways.
As well as offering a pocket of greenery amidst the urban sprawl of Central London, the Park’s proximity to Buckingham Palace makes it a popular spot to watch the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony, where the uniformed palace guards change over in an elaborate march and band performance. In addition, the park’s Horse Guards Parade hosts the annual Trooping the Colour military parade to mark the Queen's official birthday, along with the Beating Retreat, a floodlit spectacular featuring marching bands from the Cavalry and Foot Guard regiments, held each June.
A number of attractions grace the park’s interior, most notable of which is the Queen Victoria Memorial, commemorating the legendary ruler’s 1901 death. The 25 meter-high monument, carved from white Carrara marble, stands at the heart of the Memorial gardens, a series of formal flowerbeds and protected landmarks designed by Sir Aston Webb. More recently, the park has become a key part of the seven-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk, passing through locations significant to the beloved people’s princess and in 2012, the Diamond Jubilee Floral Crown was unveiled - a floral recreation of the crown used in the Queen’s coronation ceremony, set on the north side of the lake.
Open to walkers, cyclists and dogs, the park features a restaurant, summer deck chairs and a number of refreshment stalls dotted around its many walkways.
Address: London, England
Hours: Open daily: 5am - 12am
From $ 19
London City Hall
Opening its doors back in 2002, the glass-fronted, semi-spherical London City Hall marked a new dawn of London’s governance, providing a sleek, modernist façade for the London Assembly. The building alone is impressive, a geometrical masterpiece designed by architect Sir Norman Foster (who also designed the nearby Gherkin) and featuring eco-friendly natural ventilation, lighting movement sensors and solar panelling, as well as a dramatic transparent spiral stairwell that dominates the interior and climbs all ten stories.
The landmark building now not only serves as the official headquarters of the Mayor of London, but as a public exhibition and meeting space, including an open-air observation deck and free Wi-Fi to all visitors.
Practical Info
London City Hall is located on the south bank of the Thames in central London, between London Bridge and Tower Bridge and is open to the public Mon-Thurs 8.30am-6pm and Fri 8.30am-5:30pm. Admission is free but visitors must pass through security.
Address: The Queen's Walk, London, United Kingdom SE1 2AA, England
Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:30am-6:00pm and Fri 8:30am-5:30pm
From $ 34
London Harwich Cruise Port
Harwich is a small town with a large port. Its positioning where England’s east coast juts out towards Europe makes it an excellent travel and goods hub and it has a large container terminal, a busy ferry terminal, a small cruise ship terminal and an even smaller but pretty historic center.
Three lines used the cruise ship terminal: Holland America, Celebrity and Royal Caribbean and they use it for embarkation and disembarkation. This results in Harwich being a place people tend to travel through rather than a place to linger. Nearby Colchester and Ipswich offer more sightseeing opportunities although none of them really the peak sites people travel to England to see.
How to Get to London
Harwich is well-served by transport links to London and the cruise lines themselves organize transfers from many of the airports: Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted which is the closest. The trip is around two hours from Heathrow and Gatwick so the transfer is the simplest and quickest way. The train is the best way to travel from London to Harwich and back and they run about every hour taking around an hour to reach London Liverpool Street Station.
The port station at Harwich is called Harwich International and is very close to where the ships tie up. The cruise lines often organize a special rail service also. Taxis are readily available but expensive. There is no private car hire office in Harwich so these must be booked ahead. The ferry terminal is also close to the cruise dock and from here ferries go to The Netherlands and Scandinavia.
One Day in London
London has so much to see it’s good to have a list of priorities before you set out. London Liverpool Street Station is in the East End and connects you with many parts of the city by Underground train (Tube). If you have one day, buy a Day Travel Card which means you can use all train and bus routes. Pick up a tube map at the station. Bus routes can be more of a mystery although the view from the top of a double decker bus is wonderful.
For a good overview of London’s iconic sights head for the Thames River’s Victoria Embankment (Embankment Station) and walk across one of the bridges. Waterloo Bridge gives wonderful views from Big Ben to the Tower Bridge. The London Eye also gives great views.
There are open top bus tours you can do and if you like walking you can head from the river, past the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, across to The Mall and St James’s Palace, to Buckingham Palace and on to Hyde Park. Or reverse this order (start from Green Park tube station) to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, which happens every other day (check the schedule) at 11.30am.
Port Information
The language is English and the currency is the British Pound (or quid in local slang). There is a currency exchange at Harwich Port and ATMs (which take only 4 digit numeric PINs). Some shops in the West End of London accept euros but very few so it’s best to change your money. Harwich itself is small and has no internet points or tourist facilities outside the port area.
Three lines used the cruise ship terminal: Holland America, Celebrity and Royal Caribbean and they use it for embarkation and disembarkation. This results in Harwich being a place people tend to travel through rather than a place to linger. Nearby Colchester and Ipswich offer more sightseeing opportunities although none of them really the peak sites people travel to England to see.
How to Get to London
Harwich is well-served by transport links to London and the cruise lines themselves organize transfers from many of the airports: Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted which is the closest. The trip is around two hours from Heathrow and Gatwick so the transfer is the simplest and quickest way. The train is the best way to travel from London to Harwich and back and they run about every hour taking around an hour to reach London Liverpool Street Station.
The port station at Harwich is called Harwich International and is very close to where the ships tie up. The cruise lines often organize a special rail service also. Taxis are readily available but expensive. There is no private car hire office in Harwich so these must be booked ahead. The ferry terminal is also close to the cruise dock and from here ferries go to The Netherlands and Scandinavia.
One Day in London
London has so much to see it’s good to have a list of priorities before you set out. London Liverpool Street Station is in the East End and connects you with many parts of the city by Underground train (Tube). If you have one day, buy a Day Travel Card which means you can use all train and bus routes. Pick up a tube map at the station. Bus routes can be more of a mystery although the view from the top of a double decker bus is wonderful.
For a good overview of London’s iconic sights head for the Thames River’s Victoria Embankment (Embankment Station) and walk across one of the bridges. Waterloo Bridge gives wonderful views from Big Ben to the Tower Bridge. The London Eye also gives great views.
There are open top bus tours you can do and if you like walking you can head from the river, past the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, across to The Mall and St James’s Palace, to Buckingham Palace and on to Hyde Park. Or reverse this order (start from Green Park tube station) to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, which happens every other day (check the schedule) at 11.30am.
Port Information
The language is English and the currency is the British Pound (or quid in local slang). There is a currency exchange at Harwich Port and ATMs (which take only 4 digit numeric PINs). Some shops in the West End of London accept euros but very few so it’s best to change your money. Harwich itself is small and has no internet points or tourist facilities outside the port area.
Address: Parkeston, Harwich, Essex CO12 4SR, England
From $ 302
London Southampton Cruise Port
Southampton cruise terminal is the no. 1 cruise port in the UK, welcoming some of the largest cruise ships in the world, including those owned by Cunard, P&O, and Royal Caribbean. The port also runs passenger ferries to the Isle of Wight and across the channel to France.
The Basics
With so many cruises starting and ending in Southampton, pre-cruise and post-cruise shore excursions to London—75 miles (121 kilometers) northeast—are a popular choice, stopping at attractions, such as Windsor Castle, Salisbury, or Stonehenge, along the way. Private transfers between London Heathrow Airport or Central London, and Southampton port take around two hours.
Alternatively, the center of Southampton has a few attractions, including the remains of its medieval city wall, and a large selection of shops and shopping malls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
- There are four cruise terminals in Southampton, so be sure that you know which terminal your ship arrives and departs from.
- There are no shuttle buses between terminals and Southampton, so choose a tour with pickup included or plan to take a taxi.
How to Get to Southampton from the Southampton Cruise Port
Southampton has four cruise terminals—Mayflower, City, Queen Elizabeth II (QE2), and Ocean—all located around 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) from Southampton Central Railway Station and Southampton coach station, and around 5 miles (8 kilometers) from Southampton Airport. Despite being within walking distance, the motorways and busy dockyards mean that it is best to take a taxi. Taxi ranks are located outside each terminal.
Port Information
The local language is English, and the currency is the British pound (or “quid” in local slang). Other currencies are not typically accepted, although credit cards can be used almost everywhere, including many taxis.
Address: Ocean Gate Atlantic Way, Southampton SO14 3QN, England
From $ 46
Rochester
The historical city of Rochester, located east of London, was a special place for well known author Charles Dickens as this was his childhood home and the place where he lived later in life. Many buildings and other locations in Rochester were featured in Dickens' writings, more than any other city besides London. Some of the buildings that still exist today include the Restoration House, which was used as the home of Estella and Miss Havisham in Great Expectations, and the Poor Travellers House, which was featured in a short Christmas story.
Visitors can also go to the Guildhall Museum of local history where you can learn more about Charles Dickens and his works. There is also a walking tour through the city that guides you to the buildings and locations he wrote about. Other highlights in Rochester include the Rochester Cathedral which was founded in 604 and is the second oldest cathedral in England. Visitors can also explore Rochester Castle and the views from the top of one of the tallest keeps in the country.
Practical Info
Rochester is located 32 miles east of London and can be reached by train from London's Victoria Station.
Address: Rochester, South East England, United Kingdom, England
From $ 148
London Bridge
Though often confused with its grandiose neighbor Tower Bridge, London Bridge is, in reality, more functional than fancy. It does, however, have a long history, with its first iteration having been erected by the Romans way back in AD 50. No visible trace remains of the original bridge, nor of the handful of structures that replaced it, including the one that became the subject of that famous nursery rhyme. Though the current 1970s-built concrete version is not quite as eye-catching, the views it offers of Tower Bridge are hard to top.
The Basics
Many visitors to the British capital see the bridge during London tours, whether on a guided evening cycling excursion, a cruise down the River Thames, or while traveling via hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. Some travelers also traverse the famous bridge on a walking tour or on their way to the London Bridge Experience and the London Tombs. The London Bridge Experience, situated within the still-standing vaults of the old 19th-century bridge, brings visitors on an interactive tour through time, with costumed actors enacting episodes from the bridge’s two-millennia-long history, while the London Tombs takes travelers to a former plague pit to relive some gruesome incidents from centuries past.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring a camera to take photos of Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, the Shard, the HMS Belfast, and the City of London, all of which are visible from London Bridge.
- Visit at night to see the shimmering lights of London reflected on the Thames River.
- Bring raingear to protect yourself from London’s frequent downpours.
How to Get There
London Bridge is well-connected. Take the tube to Monument station (via the District or Circle line) at the north end of the bridge or to London Bridge station (via the Northern or Jubilee line) at the south end. London Bridge also serves as a rail station, with routes running across greater London and beyond.
When to Get There
Avoid visiting during the morning and evening rush hours, when commuting city workers crowd the sidewalks. Mid-mornings and mid-afternoons are quieter.
The Sale of London Bridge
Perhaps the most famous story associated with this icon is one of mistaken identity. In the 1960s, the rapidly deteriorating 1831-built London Bridge was purchased for a tidy sum by American businessman Robert P. McCulloch, who—according to rumor—believed he had purchased the much more magnificent Tower Bridge. Either way, McCulloch had the last laugh, relocating the 19th-century bridge to Arizona’s Lake Havasu, where it’s now a major tourist draw.
Address: London Bridge, London SE1 9BG, England
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 18
Liverpool Cathedral
Discover a symbol of Liverpool and gain insight into the city’s history with a visit to the National Heritage-listed Liverpool Cathedral. As the largest religious building in Britain, the Anglican cathedral boasts neo-Gothic architecture, distinctive artwork, and a 328-feet (100-meter) tower that provides sweeping views across River Mersey.
The Basics
To fully appreciate Giles Gilbert Scott’s famous design, visitors can opt to ascend the bell tower for panoramic vistas or simply explore the peaceful interior, looking out for installations by notable artists, including Tracey Emin. If you’re tight for time, some tours offer a city overview package that includes the cathedral along with other top attractions. For brave souls, other tours offer after-hours insight into some of the city’s spookiest spots, including the cathedral graveyard.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With the world’s largest Gothic arches and the UK’s biggest organ, the cathedral is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and design.
- Access to the building itself is free, but a small donation is encouraged.
- Some tours include the Tower Experience as part of the package; otherwise, there is a charge to enter the bell tower.
- Be prepared for a lot of climbing as the tower has 108 stairs.
- The main cathedral floor is wheelchair accessible from the parking lot. Elevator access is available to different ground floor levels and the Lady Chapel.
How to Get There
Liverpool Cathedral is just under a mile (1.3 kilometers) from Liverpool Lime Street. The walk from the city center is about 30 minutes. Bus routes 82 and 86 serve the cathedral, taking around 15 minutes from Liverpool One Bus Station. Some tours offer hop-on hop-off bus services, stopping near the cathedral.
When to Get There
The cathedral is an active place of worship, and therefore visitor access is restricted during services. Interested members of the public are welcome to join the congregation for the service; otherwise, it’s best to avoid Sunday morning visits.
Why is Giles Gilbert Scott’s Architecture So Famous?
Liverpool Cathedral’s architect, Giles Gilbert Scott, also designed the UK’s famous red telephone boxes, as well as London’s Battersea Power Station, among other notable landmarks. His work mixed modernism with Gothic features and created well-known structures out of otherwise functional buildings, all of which are still well worth a visit.
Address: 20 St James’ Road, Liverpool L1 7BY, England
From $ 20
London Eye
One of the world's most famous Ferris wheels, the London Eye offers unparalleled views of central London's world-famous landmarks from its prime location on the Thames River waterfront, opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The gigantic, 443-foot-high observation wheel was built to mark the millennium in 2000 and quickly became one of the most popular paid attractions in the United Kingdom.
The Basics
How to Get to the London Eye
The Coca-Cola London Eye is located on the south bank of the River Thames. The easiest way to reach it is by tube to Waterloo station, which is serviced by the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo and City lines. From the station, it's a 5- to 10-minute walk to the Ferris wheel. Visitors traveling on the District or Circle line can disembark at Westminster station for a scenic walk across Westminster Bridge. Surrounding the Eye are street performers, food stalls, and fairground attractions in Jubilee Gardens.
When to Get There
The Eye opens at 10am and closes at either 8:30 or 9:30pm depending on the time of the year. Look out for special themed events—the London Eye has hosted flash mobs, pop-up dining events, romantic Valentine's Day dinners, and even weddings. Plus, the wheel is a main feature in London's famous New Year's Eve fireworks display.
Unlucky 13
The Basics
A 30-minute ride in one of the 32 glass pods offers panoramic views, so travelers can spot London highlights such as St Paul's Cathedral and Buckingham Palace from every angle. One full trip around takes 30 minutes, with the structure rotating at a fairly slow speed, meaning visitors are free to walk about their capsule and take photos from all sides.
With more than 3.5 million annual visitors, lines for the London Eye's capsules can get quite long. Pre-booking a fast-track, skip-the-line ticket is the best way to maximize your time in England's capital. Travelers with a penchant for luxury can opt for a private capsule experience that includes champagne. Many London Eye tours combine a rotation on the wheel with other popular London activities such as afternoon tea, a Thames River cruise, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, or a city tour that covers top sites, including the Tower of London and London Dungeon.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Take a spin on the wheel at the start of your London vacation to orientate yourself and grasp the layout of the capital city's seemingly endless sprawl.
- On a clear day, it may be possible to spy Windsor Castle on the horizon from one of the wheel's pods.
- If gray skies threaten rain, nearby indoor activities abound: the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, the BFI IMAX cinema, Madame Tussauds wax museum, and Shrek's Adventure ensure kids and adults stay entertained during a storm.
The Coca-Cola London Eye is located on the south bank of the River Thames. The easiest way to reach it is by tube to Waterloo station, which is serviced by the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo and City lines. From the station, it's a 5- to 10-minute walk to the Ferris wheel. Visitors traveling on the District or Circle line can disembark at Westminster station for a scenic walk across Westminster Bridge. Surrounding the Eye are street performers, food stalls, and fairground attractions in Jubilee Gardens.
When to Get There
The Eye opens at 10am and closes at either 8:30 or 9:30pm depending on the time of the year. Look out for special themed events—the London Eye has hosted flash mobs, pop-up dining events, romantic Valentine's Day dinners, and even weddings. Plus, the wheel is a main feature in London's famous New Year's Eve fireworks display.
Unlucky 13
It's no accident that the London Eye has 32 capsules—each one represents one of the city's 32 boroughs. However, observant visitors will notice that the last capsule is actually No. 33—the creators skipped pod No. 13, deeming it unlucky.
Address: Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB, England
Hours: April–Aug 10am–9:30pm; Sept–March 10am–8:30pm
Admission: From £21.20
From $ 13
Parliament Square
At the heart of London’s Westminster district, the aptly named Parliament Square is a pocket of greenery at the epicenter of some of the capital’s most significant buildings and makes a popular photo opportunity for tourists, as well as being the site of many public protests and demonstrations. Notable buildings include the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben to the east, Westminster Abbey to the south, the Supreme Court to the west and Her Majesty's Treasury and the Churchill War Rooms to the north.
Parliament Square is also home to a prominent collection of statues of legendary statesmen, both from the UK and overseas, and including Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Nelson Mandela, Oliver Cromwell and Richard I, 'The Lionheart, as well as the most recent addition, Gandhi.
Practical Info
Parliament Square is located opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in Westminster, London.
Address: Westminster, London, England
From $ 25
London Dungeon
The immersive London Dungeon transports visitors into London’s past for a theatrical journey into the city’s underbelly. Participants make their way through a series of shadowy rooms, where costumed actors reveal the most horrible tales from the capital’s history, including accounts of the gory murders committed by Jack the Ripper and Sweeney Todd, the failed Gunpowder Plot of Guy Fawkes, and the Great Fire of London. The meticulous sets, spooky special effects, and thrilling rides make for a memorable, shriek-out-loud experience.
The Basics
The London Dungeon is a fun, if not somewhat frightening, way to learn about some of the more macabre chapters from London’s history. Ticket holders will find a cast of charismatic characters on hand to guide them through the 90-minute experience. Because of the attraction’s popularity, it’s a good idea to purchase a ticket in advance, thus avoiding waiting in line or potentially being assigned a slot much later in the day. A London Dungeon entrance ticket can be combined with a Thames River hop-on hop-off cruise, which stops at several locations along the waterfront, including Westminster Pier, Tower Pier, Greenwich Pier, and the London Eye Pier.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The dungeon can be somewhat scary and may not be suitable for young kids, those with a nervous disposition, or those who suffer from claustrophobia.
- The tour contains two optional rides: a boat ride and a sudden-drop ride.
How to Get There
Find the London Dungeon on the South Bank near the London Eye and the Sea Life London Aquarium. Waterloo Station—which is served by the Northern, Jubilee, and Bakerloo Tube lines, as well as mainline rail—is only about a 5-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The London Dungeon is particularly popular among families with older kids, and it tends to be busy on weekends and during summer. Book a ticket in advance to ensure you get a suitable time slot.
The London Dungeon Rides
The London Dungeon features two rides. The Tyrant Boat Ride mimics the experiences of 16th-century royal traitors who would have been transported down the foggy, rat-infested River Thames on their way to Traitors Gate at the Tower of London. The second ride, Drop Dead, takes guests through a public hanging, with participants facing a judge, priest, and executioner before experiencing the dreaded free-fall drop.
Address: 28-34 Tooley Street, London SE1 2SZ, England
Hours: Open daily except December 25
Admission: Adults: £21
From $ 31
London Transport Museum
If you think a museum devoted to buses, trains and taxis sounds dull, think again – there’s nothing boring about the London Transport Museum! Located by Covent Garden market in the heart of central London, the museum is crammed with interactive exhibitions, multi-media displays, and historic vehicles, making it fun and educational for all ages.
Learn about London’s public transport through the ages as you admire a 1805 horse-drawn omnibus, a steam-powered underground train, and a wooden Metropolitan Railway coach; ride the Northern Line simulator; discover London transport during the war years; or hop up into the driver’s seat of a classic red double-decker bus. That’s not all – there’s a kid’s zone with mini vehicles, a busking area, and a ‘Thames Nipper’; a vast collection of London Underground posters, maps, and graphics; and a well-stocked gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs adorned with the iconic London Underground logo.
Practical Info
The London Transport Museum is located in Covent Garden Piazza and is open on Fridays from 11am to 6pm and every other day from 10am to 6pm. Adult entrance to the museum is £17.50, while under 18 go free. Entrance is free with the London Pass.
Did You Know? The museum’s transport theme is even continued into the restrooms, where each cubicle is decked out in the colors of London’s different tube lines!
Address: Covent Garden Piazza, London, England
Hours: Sat-Thurs 10am-6pm, Fri 11am-6pm
Admission: Adult £17.50, Child (under 18) free
From $ 21
Lord's Cricket Ground
Renowned as the Home of Cricket, the Lord’s Cricket Ground is more than 200 years old and home to the legendary Marylebone Cricket Club. The 28,000-seat sporting arena hosts some of the world’s most prestigious cricket events and international test matches, and the on-site MCC Museum is one of the world's oldest sporting museums.
The Basics
The most atmospheric way to experience Lord’s Cricket Ground is to attend one of the regular matches, but cricket enthusiasts can also go behind the scenes on a guided tour. Tour highlights include a visit to the Long Room, the Pavilion, and the player dressing rooms; a look at the Honours Boards; and entrance to the MCC Museum, where exhibits include the Ashes urn and Prudential Trophy. Cricket fans also frequent the Lord’s Tavern pub, situated right by the Grace Gates.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Book your match tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Test Match and One Day International tickets are allocated by ballot, with applications taking place months in advance.
- Tours must be booked in advance.
- On-site facilities include free Wi-Fi, ATMs, and a selection of bars and food vendors in each stand.
- All entrants to the ground are required to undergo security checks, and no large bags or suitcases are permitted.
- The Warner Stand, Mound Stand, and Grand Stand have accessible areas reserved for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Lord’s Cricket Ground is located in St. John’s Wood, North London, and the closest tube station is St. John’s Wood on the Jubilee line, a 5-minute walk from the stadium. Visitors can also take the train to Marylebone station and then walk roughly 10 minutes. Parking is unavailable on major match days and the three days beforehand, so public transit is recommended.
When to Get There
The ground is open year-round but only match ticket holders can access the MCC Museum on match days. Unless you’re lucky enough to have tickets, it’s best to avoid the grounds entirely during international fixtures, as the area becomes overrun with spectators.
The History of Lord’s Cricket Ground
Lord’s Cricket Ground doesn’t have any royal relations as its name may suggest—it’s named after Thomas Lord, a professional cricketer and the venue’s founder. The stadium is actually the third ground established by Lord, with the original dating back to 1787 on what is now Dorset Square. The current ground, built in 1814 and in use ever since, was also an Olympic venue, hosting the archery events in 2012.
Address: St John's Wood Rd, London NW8 8QN, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 90
River Avon
Winding its way through the Warwickshire countryside in England’s West Midlands, the River Avon is perhaps best known for its namesake town, Stratford-upon-Avon, famously the birthplace of William Shakespeare. The scenic river passes through the heart of the medieval town and boat tours offer a new perspective for visitors, passing waterfront landmarks like the
Royal Shakespeare Theatre, the Swan Theatre, Holy Trinity Church and Lucy’s Mill Wier.
As well as being the lifeblood of Stratford-Upon-Avon, the River Avon is well connected to England’s waterways, joining the River Severn at Tewkesbury and linked via the Stratford-Upon-Avon canal to Birmingham.
Practical Info
The River Avon runs for 85 miles (137 km) from Naseby in Northamptonshire to join the River Severn at Tewkesbury.
Address: England
From $ 28
London Luton Airport (LTN)
While long-haul passengers usually touch down at Heathrow Airport or Gatwick Airport, London Luton is a popular choice for budget travelers because it houses low-cost carriers such as Wizz Air, EasyJet, and Ryanair. With roughly 14.6 million annual passengers, LTN is London’s fourth-largest international airport, and runs regular flights to the UK and the rest of Europe, serving destinations such as Edinburgh, Barcelona, Budapest, Amsterdam, and Dublin.
The Basics
Luton Airport has high-speed rail connections to central London, but a range of shared or private arrival and departure transfers are also available, offering door-to-door service and luggage assistance. Private transfers also connect Luton Airport to the Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted airports.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Passenger amenities at London Luton include short-stay and long-term car parks, car hire services, currency exchange, a prayer room, a luxury departures lounge, and various shops, bars and restaurants.
- Four hours of free Wi-Fi is available for airport users.
- Trains and Green Line 757 coach services offer wheelchair accessible transport to Luton Airport.
How to Get There
London Luton Airport is located 34 miles (55 kilometers) northwest of London along the M1 motorway. High-speed trains, run by East Midlands Trains, can take you from St. Pancras station in Central London to Luton Airport Parkway railway station in just 22 minutes. From there, a free shuttle bus runs to the airport terminal buildings in roughly 10 minutes. National Express and Terravision buses also run from London Victoria Coach Station to Luton Airport.
When to Get There
Flights run from London Luton Airport year-round. First flights take off around 5am and final flights leave around 9:30pm.
Address: Airport Way, Luton LU2 9LY, England
Hours: Daily
From $ 10
St George's Chapel
Windsor is a handsome town in Berkshire, southeast England, with an ancient heart, a setting along the River Thames and a connection by bridge to Eton, home of one of England’s oldest and most prestigious public schools. St George’s Chapel sits next door to Windsor Castle, which is both the largest permanently occupied castle in the world and one of the official homes of HM The Queen. The chapel was founded in 1348 by King Edward III and is a fine example of Gothic styling with flying buttresses, glorious stained glass and a vaulted interior of exceptional grandeur, as befits the place of worship of the Royal Family.
It is the burial place of 10 English kings including Henry VIII and George III, as well as many other members of the monarchy, and is also home of the Knights of the Garter; this is one of the oldest chivalric orders in the world and the highest ceremonial accolade in the UK. Members currently include the Queen, Prince Charles and former leaders of the armed services, captains of industry and ex-Prime Ministers; their heraldic banners hang high above the choir in the chapel. St George’s is closed to visitors on Sunday, but all are welcome at any of the services throughout the week; they are held daily at 8:30am, 10:45am, noon and 5:15pm.
Practical Info
Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1NJ. Open Mar–Oct Mon–Sat 9:45am–5:15pm; Nov–Feb 9:45am–4:15pm. Admission includes entry to Windsor Castle: adults £19.20; seniors & students £17.50; under 17 £11.30; under 5 free; family ticket £49.70 (chapel services are free). Take the train from London Waterloo or Paddington via Slough to Windsor. By car, take the M4 and leave at exit 6, signposted to Windsor.
Address: Windsor Castle, Windsor, West Berkshire, England
Hours: Mar–Oct Mon–Sat 9.45am–5.15pm; Nov–Feb 9.45am–4.15pm
Admission: Includes Windsor Castle; dults £19.20; seniors & students £17.50; under 17 £11.30; under 5 free
From $ 52
River Cam
Flowing through the heart of Cambridge, the River Cam is not only the city’s lifeline, but one of its most captivating natural landmarks. The most visited section of the river runs between Bishops Mill and Jesus Lock, lined by the grand buildings of Cambridge University and aptly nicknamed ‘The Backs’ as it’s framed by the ‘backs’ of eight colleges. Following the river along this stretch affords impressive views of King’s College, the Wren Library at Trinity College and landmarks like the Bridge of Sighs and the Mathematical Bridge.
For visitors to Cambridge, the quintessential local activity is punting along the River Cam – a chauffeured cruise in a flat-bottomed boat or ‘punt’, propelled along by a 5-meter-long pole. A romantic, slow-paced punting tour is ideal for sightseeing as you’ll float downstream with plenty of time to snap photos and admire the riverside landmarks.
The River Cam is also a popular recreational ground, with university rowing teams using it to practice for the prestigious Oxford-Cambridge boat race (held along the River Thames in London each spring). Walkways run along parts of the river and many pubs and restaurants offer riverside views, while the grassy banks make an idyllic picnic spot during the summer months.
Practical Info
The River Cam runs for around 14 miles (23km) from Ashwell in Hertfordshire and through central Cambridge until it meets the River Ouse.
Address: England
From $ 14
Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel
Once described as “seamlessly elegant” by The Daily Telegraph, Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel is indeed one of the best hidden gems in the English Lake District. Built as a summer home for a wealthy mill owner in 1879, it’s located just outside the quaint village of Bowness-on-Windermere and set among 6 acres (2.4 hectares) of stunning gardens and woodland. The four-star country hotel overlooks the largest lake in Cumbria and boasts 34 tastefully decorated and luxurious guest rooms and two AA Rosette dining rooms (famous for their tasty afternoon tea), which are open to nonresidents. Other amenities include an indoor heated pool, a sauna, beauty and holistic therapy rooms, and a fitness room.
What makes Lindeth Howe so famous, besides its spectacular setting, is its previous owner, who was none other than famed author Beatrix Potter. She penned and illustrated two of her famous children’s stories, Timmy Tiptoes and Pigling Bland, while staying at Lindeth Howe between 1902 and 1913.
Practical Info
Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel’s guest rooms come equipped with bath, shower, tea- and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi, hair dryer and a digital flat screen TV with radio. The hotel is located in the heart of Lake District National Park, just 1.5 hours north of Liverpool and Manchester via the M6 and the A591.
Address: Lindeth Drive, Longtail Hill, Windermere, England
Admission: Rates start at $306 (£225) per night.
From $ 480
London Stansted Airport (STN)
As London’s third-busiest airport, after Heathrow and Gatwick, London Stansted sees up to 24 million passengers pass through its terminals each year. As well as being a major base for low-cost carrier Ryanair, Stansted serves over 170 destinations all around Europe, as well as select destinations in North Africa, Central America, and the United States.
The Basics
Stansted has bus and rail connections to Central London, but a range of shared and private arrival and departure transfers are also available, offering door-to-door service and luggage assistance. Private transfers also connect Stansted Airport to the Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton airports.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Passenger amenities at London Stansted include airport hotels, short-stay and long-term car parks, car hire services, currency exchanges, a prayer room, and a luxury departures lounge, plus various shops, bars, and restaurants.
- Free Wi-Fi is available for airport users.
- Stansted is fully wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
London Stansted Airport is located 40 miles (64 kilometers) northeast of London along the M11 motorway. Regular Stansted Express trains connect the airport to Liverpool Street Station in East London, a journey of about 45 minutes. National Express coach services run to the airport from London Victoria Coach Station and other Central London stations.
When to Get There
Flights run from London Stansted airport year-round. The first morning flights typically take off around 9am and final flights take off around 11pm.
Address: Bassingbourn Rd, Stansted CM24 1QW, England
Hours: Daily
From $ 10
London Dover Cruise Port
Dover is famous for its white cliffs and when approaching England by ship they are a lovely, iconic greeting to the United Kingdom. While a busy ferry port connecting England with France, Dover is a relatively quiet cruise ship port, used for embarkation and disembarkation.
Once a chic seaside resort, Dover has never really recovered from being bombed during World War II and these days most people choose to stay further along the lovely south-east coast in the pretty Georgian town of Brighton or in medieval Rye or in Canterbury with its famous cathedral, or to head up to London which is a couple of hours travel north.
Within Dover the main attraction is the castle built by Henry II in the 12th century, one of the oldest in England. In 1539, Henry VIII built nearby moated Walmer Castle, also worth a visit.
How to Get to London
Dover is very well-served by links with London. By train the trip is around two hours and from Dover Priory Station you can choose to go to either London Victoria – the closest for Buckingham Palace, or London Charing Cross – the closest for the Thames River, Trafalgar Square and the West End. There are also regular bus services to London Victoria which are cheaper but slower. Gatwick Airport is the closest air link and has an excellent train service.
Private rental cars are easily organized. Taxis are available but will be prohibitively expensive to travel all the way to London although to move locally in Dover they are inexpensive. A taxi from the port to the rail or bus station or between docks is easy and recommended, also to visit the castles. Cruise ships come in at the western docks, ferries to France leave from the eastern docks.
One Day in London
London has so much to see it’s good to have a list of priorities before you set out. Both London Victoria and London Charing Cross Stations have many underground train (Tube) links to get your around the city. If you have one day, buy a Day Travel Card which means you can use all train and bus routes. Pick up a tube map at the station. Bus routes can be more of a mystery although the view from the top of a double decker bus is wonderful.
For a good overview of London’s iconic sights head for the Thames River’s Victoria Embankment (Charing Cross or Embankment Station) and walk across one of the bridges. Waterloo Bridge gives wonderful views from Big Ben to the Tower Bridge. The London Eye also has great views.
There are open top bus tours you can do and if you like walking you can head from the river, past the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, across to The Mall and St James’s Palace, to Buckingham Palace and on to Hyde Park. Or reverse this order (start from Victoria or Green Park tube station) to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, which happens every other day (check the schedule) at 11.30am. Between London and Dover are some interesting places to visit such as the grand house Sissinghurst with its lovely garden.
Port Information
The language is English and the currency is the British Pound (or quid in local slang). Dover is a well-equipped tourist city with internet cafes and currency exchanges at both the port and in the city, and ATMs (which take only 4 digit numeric PINs). Some taxis at Dover port may accept your euros or dollars but at an unfavorable exchange rate so it’s best to use local currency.
Once a chic seaside resort, Dover has never really recovered from being bombed during World War II and these days most people choose to stay further along the lovely south-east coast in the pretty Georgian town of Brighton or in medieval Rye or in Canterbury with its famous cathedral, or to head up to London which is a couple of hours travel north.
Within Dover the main attraction is the castle built by Henry II in the 12th century, one of the oldest in England. In 1539, Henry VIII built nearby moated Walmer Castle, also worth a visit.
How to Get to London
Dover is very well-served by links with London. By train the trip is around two hours and from Dover Priory Station you can choose to go to either London Victoria – the closest for Buckingham Palace, or London Charing Cross – the closest for the Thames River, Trafalgar Square and the West End. There are also regular bus services to London Victoria which are cheaper but slower. Gatwick Airport is the closest air link and has an excellent train service.
Private rental cars are easily organized. Taxis are available but will be prohibitively expensive to travel all the way to London although to move locally in Dover they are inexpensive. A taxi from the port to the rail or bus station or between docks is easy and recommended, also to visit the castles. Cruise ships come in at the western docks, ferries to France leave from the eastern docks.
One Day in London
London has so much to see it’s good to have a list of priorities before you set out. Both London Victoria and London Charing Cross Stations have many underground train (Tube) links to get your around the city. If you have one day, buy a Day Travel Card which means you can use all train and bus routes. Pick up a tube map at the station. Bus routes can be more of a mystery although the view from the top of a double decker bus is wonderful.
For a good overview of London’s iconic sights head for the Thames River’s Victoria Embankment (Charing Cross or Embankment Station) and walk across one of the bridges. Waterloo Bridge gives wonderful views from Big Ben to the Tower Bridge. The London Eye also has great views.
There are open top bus tours you can do and if you like walking you can head from the river, past the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, across to The Mall and St James’s Palace, to Buckingham Palace and on to Hyde Park. Or reverse this order (start from Victoria or Green Park tube station) to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, which happens every other day (check the schedule) at 11.30am. Between London and Dover are some interesting places to visit such as the grand house Sissinghurst with its lovely garden.
Port Information
The language is English and the currency is the British Pound (or quid in local slang). Dover is a well-equipped tourist city with internet cafes and currency exchanges at both the port and in the city, and ATMs (which take only 4 digit numeric PINs). Some taxis at Dover port may accept your euros or dollars but at an unfavorable exchange rate so it’s best to use local currency.
Address: Harbour House, Waterloo Crescent, Dover CT17 9BU, England
From $ 50