Choose from 184 Fun Things to Do in London
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 184 listings.
Carnaby Street
Earning renown as an alternative fashion Mecca during the 1960s, Carnaby Street was once the hippest place to shop, home to iconic boutiques like Mary Quant, Lord John, Marion Foale and Sally Tuffin, and frequented by music icons like The Who and the Rolling Stones. In fact, the famous shopping street has become so synonymous with Swinging London that it’s been name-checked in pop hits like The Kinks’ ‘Dedicated Follower of Fashion’ and TV shows like The Simpsons, and even inspired a musical of the same name.
Today, Carnaby Street is decidedly more demure, but the pedestrianized shopping district still retains its left-of-centre attitude, as well as its distinctive yellow arches and two plaques commemorating mod fashion pioneer John Stephen and The Small Faces (outside no.1 and no.52 respectively). Of course, the main reason to visit Carnaby Street is the shops and there are plenty to choose from, including many independent fashion, home and beauty boutiques and British brands like Ben Sherman, Paul Smith and Lyle & Scott. One notable highlight is the small shopping arcade of Kingly Court, home to some London’s most unique young designers, vintage stores and jewelry boutiques, as well as a cluster of cafés and restaurants. Look out for seasonal events too – Carnaby Street is renowned for its pop-up shops, live entertainment and street stalls, making it a colorful place to visit during the summer or Christmas holidays.
Practical Info
Carnaby Street is located in Soho, central London, within a few minutes walking distance of Oxford Street and Regent Street.
Address: Carnaby Street, London, United Kingdom, England
From $ 35
Banqueting House
Built in 1622, London’s Banqueting House was once part of the Palace of Whitehall, which was home to the English monarch for 168 years. The building is the last structure standing of the former complex. It exemplifies the beginnings of neoclassical architecture and boasts a tumultuous history, including the execution of Charles I in 1649.
The Basics
Absorb views of the grand exterior of the Banqueting House on a city walking tour, or book ahead to guarantee entry. Tread in the footsteps of historic ambassadors, such as Pocahontas, as you wander through the undercroft or glimpse Rubens’ iconic ceiling in the Main Hall. Convenient hop-on hop-off buses let you explore Banqueting House and beyond at your own pace, while discounted packages can help you visit several London landmarks in one visit.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visiting is a must for anyone interested in European history, art, or architecture.
- Elevator access to the Main Hall is limited, so wheelchair users should call ahead to make accessibility arrangements.
- Sign language interpreters are available the first Saturday morning of each month.
- Booking ahead is recommended, as the site is sometimes closed for private functions.
- Whitehall is home to a number of top attractions, so sightseeing tours can help you save time and money.
How to Get There
Westminster is ideal for walking excursions, with so many landmarks strewn across a relatively small area. Right in the middle of the action, Banqueting House is located on Whitehall, a 10-minute walk from the Embankment or Westminster Underground stations. Whitehall is also served by several local buses, as well as hop-on hop-off tours.
When to Get There
Banqueting House is open daily year-round, except for Dec. 24–26 and New Year’s Day. It is wise to arrange your visit in advance, as the building is sometimes booked for private functions. Whitehall is impressive at any time of year, but winter’s festive lights lend extra charm to the historic street.
Palaces of London
Banqueting House may be the last vestige of the Palace of Whitehall, but there are plenty more royal residences that are open to visitors in London. Whitehall’s Tudor contemporaries include nearby St. James’s Palace and Hampton Court Palace in Richmond, the site of Queen Jane Seymour’s death in childbirth.
Address: Whitehall, London, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 8
Fortnum & Mason
Standing proud on Piccadilly since 1707, Fortnum & Mason, along with the equally famous Harrods, takes the prize for London’s best-known and most iconic department store. Named after its principal proprietors William Fortnum and Hugh Mason, the central London store is now owned by Wittington Investments Ltd, but its namesakes still grace the iconic rooftop clock – with four-foot high mechanical statues of the men themselves whirring into action as the clock chimes each hour.
Belying its early incarnation as a simple grocery store, Fortnum’s soon earned a reputation for selling the highest quality foods and imported delicacies to London’s high society, even supplying food for a number of Victorian era Royal functions. Today, the variety has expanded but the quality remains top notch, with their luxury Christmas and picnic hampers - a renowned tradition dating back to Victorian times – ranging in price from a very reasonable £35 to a mind-blowing £25,000.
In the last few decades, Fortnum’s has branched out into a number of alternative areas, selling home wares, perfumes, jewelry and accessories, all with a quintessentially English flavor. The spectacular window displays (particularly atmospheric around Christmas time) feature old-fashioned tearooms decorated with fine china and the central atrium is highlighted by a grand volute staircase and domed roof.
There’s plenty to do besides shopping here too. Visit the award-winning wine bar, sample Viennese cakes and strudels at the decadent ice cream parlor or eat in one of the acclaimed restaurants. You can also opt for traditional English Afternoon Tea in the new Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, where you can pick up some of the famous Fortnum & Mason loose-leaf tea to take away with you.
Belying its early incarnation as a simple grocery store, Fortnum’s soon earned a reputation for selling the highest quality foods and imported delicacies to London’s high society, even supplying food for a number of Victorian era Royal functions. Today, the variety has expanded but the quality remains top notch, with their luxury Christmas and picnic hampers - a renowned tradition dating back to Victorian times – ranging in price from a very reasonable £35 to a mind-blowing £25,000.
In the last few decades, Fortnum’s has branched out into a number of alternative areas, selling home wares, perfumes, jewelry and accessories, all with a quintessentially English flavor. The spectacular window displays (particularly atmospheric around Christmas time) feature old-fashioned tearooms decorated with fine china and the central atrium is highlighted by a grand volute staircase and domed roof.
There’s plenty to do besides shopping here too. Visit the award-winning wine bar, sample Viennese cakes and strudels at the decadent ice cream parlor or eat in one of the acclaimed restaurants. You can also opt for traditional English Afternoon Tea in the new Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, where you can pick up some of the famous Fortnum & Mason loose-leaf tea to take away with you.
Address: 181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER, England
Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10am - 9pm and
Sunday 12pm - 6pm
From $ 27
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence and administrative office of the British royal family since the 19th century and is one of the few remaining working royal palaces in the world. Access for the public is limited and exclusive but worthwhile for those who arrange a visit.
The Basics
Buckingham Palace is one of England's most famous landmarks. Visitors can always view its opulent exterior through the gates, but visits must be timed right to tour the interior. During its summer opening, travelers can peek into the state rooms, see the Throne Room, stroll through the palace gardens, and admire masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt and Canaletto in Queen Victoria's Picture Gallery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The palace is a must for history buffs and royal enthusiasts.
- Pair a stop at Buckingham Palace with the Changing of the Guard ceremony and afternoon tea for a quintessential London experience.
- Tours of the palace interior are only available in summer from late June to late September, while the queen is on holiday in Scotland.
- If the Royal Standard flag is flying atop the palace, it means the queen is in residence; otherwise, the Union Jack flag is flown.
How to Get There
Buckingham Palace is located in central London at the heart of St. James Park. It's a pleasant stroll from London attractions such as Westminster Cathedral and Big Ben and is often included as a stop on city walking tours.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Buckingham Palace is during the legendary Changing of the Guard ceremony, when the royal guards change shifts. This takes place daily at 11:30am but can be canceled in bad weather. The palace interior is only open to the public during summer, from late July until the end of September, with tours running daily from 9:30am to 7:30pm (until 6:30pm in September). You'll want to book this coveted experience in advance.
Nearby Royal Sites
Windsor Castle is the nearest queen's residence to Buckingham, located just outside London. It can be visited on a quick, half-day trip from the city. And although not royal in nature, Westminster Abbey is the resting place of many English monarchs and the site of some royal family weddings (including that of Prince William and Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge).
Address: Buckingham Palace Road, London, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Canterbury Cathedral
Discover a national symbol and gain insight into England’s history at the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Canterbury Cathedral. Dating back to 597, the site has held religious significance for centuries, drawing pilgrims to the location of Thomas Becket’s murder and visitors interested in its medieval towers, chapels, and stained-glass windows.
The Basics
The cathedral’s distance from London makes it a prime stop on a tour of the South. Combine your visit with stops at other landmarks, such as Leeds Castle and Dover Cliffs, for a full day’s break from the capital, or take advantage of multi-attraction tours that allow you to explore London and beyond at your own pace. Opt for a guided cathedral tour for intimate insight, or be immersed as you explore the historic grounds independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Canterbury Cathedral’s historic significance makes it a must-see for history buffs.
- Some tours include admittance; otherwise, there is a charge to enter the cathedral and grounds outside of service hours.
- Built across several levels, some of the medieval structure—including the Trinity Chapel—is inaccessible for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The cathedral is a short walk from both Canterbury West and Canterbury East stations, with direct links to London. The Kent site is easy to access from the channel ports, ideal for Eurostar or ferry travelers. On-site parking is available only via prior arrangement, but the city offers plenty of affordable alternatives, including a park-and-ride service. Many tours from London include round-trip transportation.
When to Get There
Canterbury Cathedral is a sight to behold at any time of year, though December’s carol services certainly add to the magic. Spring and summer bring extended daylight hours and an ideal climate for outdoor exploring. If you’re curious about worship as well as sightseeing, entry to the cathedral is free during service times, making Sunday a popular day to visit.
The Significance of Canterbury Cathedral
As the home of the Church of England, Canterbury Cathedral holds a special relationship with English history and culture. The Kingdom of Kent was the first to convert to Christianity under Rome, and Archbishop Thomas Becket’s murder in 1170 solidified the building’s religious and political importance. The cathedral has links to William the Conqueror and the Magna Carta, and was immortalized by the father of English literature, Geoffrey Chaucer, in his famous Canterbury Tales.
Address: Canterbury Cathedral, Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury, United Kingdom CT1 2EH, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 52
Canary Wharf
At the heart of London’s historic Docklands, the waterfront district of Canary Wharf has transformed itself into a financial powerhouse in recent years, becoming, along with the City of London nearby, one of the capital’s most important business centers. The modern district is now home to the world or European headquarters of some of the biggest names in banking and media, and it certainly looks the part, with its gleaming skyscrapers and glass-fronted high-rises, including the 235-meter-tall One Canada Square, the tallest building in the UK until the arrival of The Shard.
It’s not all about work in Canary Wharf though – the revitalized docks now serve as an urban playground for the city’s most affluent residents, with a suitably elegant selection of bars and restaurants, and a thriving shopping district. Additional highlights include the unique Traffic Light Tree, an installation artwork by Pierre Vivant; the Centaur, a modern sculpture by Igor Mitoraj; and the Museum of the London Docklands.
Practical Info
Canary Wharf is located in London’s Docklands, on the north bank of the River Thames, east of the City of London.
Address: London, United Kingdom, England
From $ 21
Cutty Sark
Now permanently docked in Greenwich, London, this 19th-century tea clipper—one of the fastest vessels of its era—once sailed the seas between Britain and China. Onboard exhibitions and costumed characters document what life was like for the crew as they steered the ship to ports all around the world.
The Basics
Visitors can prepurchase an admission ticket and make their own way to the Cutty Sark, before climbing aboard to explore. Costumed characters from Cutty Sark’s past perform several times a day on the main deck.
Many half-day and full-day tours of Greenwich include a visit to the Cutty Sark, as well as other Royal Museums Greenwich venues, such as the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House, and the Greenwich Royal Observatory. Passengers on boat cruises along the River Thames may catch a glimpse of the Cutty Sark’s masts from the water.
Things to Know Before you Go
- The Cutty Sark is a must for history buffs, maritime enthusiasts, and families.
- A café can be found on the vessel’s lower ground deck.
- Cutty Sark is wheelchair friendly with step-free access available via King William Walk and Greenwich Pier, and lifts providing access to all levels. Some parts of the main deck are not accessible.
How to Get There
Cutty Sark is permanently stationed at Greenwich Pier in South East London. To get here, ride the MBNA Thames Clipper from London Eye Pier (35 minutes), London Bridge City Pier (25 minutes), or Tower Pier (20 minutes). Trains from Central London to Greenwich take less than 10 minutes, while the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) from Central London to Cutty Sark DLR station takes just 20 minutes.
When to Get There
Peak hours typically fall between 1pm and 3pm on weekends, with July and August drawing the biggest crowds. The best time to visit is in June, when summer weather means you can still fully enjoy all the outdoor attractions of Greenwich, such as Greenwich Park and the waterfront, but without the huge crowds.
On Board the Cutty Sark
During its prime, the Cutty Sark was one of the fastest Victorian sea clippers to sail the seas. The ship would typically set sail from Britain and journey to China, returning with stores of tea. Visitors who step aboard the restored vessel today can take hold of the wheel on its main deck, gaze up at the copper hull, and see the cramped quarters where the captain and crew slept. You can also see interactive maps tracking shipping routes and illustrations.
Address: London, England
From $ 16
Cenotaph
The Cenotaph is a war memorial that stands on Whitehall Street in central London. It began as a temporary structure built for a peace parade at the end of World War I and in 1920 was replaced by a permanent structure made of Portland stone. It is now considered the United Kingdom’s primary war memorial, also commemorating those killed in World War II and other wars in which Britons fought and died. King George VI unveiled the memorial for the second time in November 1946 following the end of World War II. The design of the Cenotaph has been replicated elsewhere in the U.K., as well as in Australia, Canada, Bermuda, Hong Kong and New Zealand.
Standing 35 feet high and weighing 120 tons, the memorial has the words “The Glorious Dead” inscribed on it twice. It is the site of the annual National Service of Remembrance, held on Remembrance Sunday, the Sunday closest to November 11.
Practical Info
The Cenotaph is located on Whitehall Street between Richmond Terrace and Derby Gate. The closest Underground station is Westminster.
Address: Whitehall Street, London, England
From $ 43
Camden Market
Made up of Camden Lock Market, Camden Stables Market, and Camden Canal Market, the area known as Camden Market is the largest collection of street vendors in the United Kingdom. In continuous operation since the 1970s, the market draws crowds of visitors who come to explore the huge variety of unusual stalls and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
The Basics
Long known as an alternative shopping destination to the chic boutiques of Central London, Camden Market’s 1,000 stalls offer vintage clothing, books, antiques, and much more—there’s even a store dedicated to vintage pianos. You can taste your way through the many different food stalls, pick up an artisanal coffee, browse the clothing booths, or retreat to one of the canalside pubs for a refreshing drink while you watch the action unfold. The fun comes in just soaking up the atmosphere around you.
Visitors can choose to wander at will through the different areas of the market or take part in an organized walking tour to learn more about the area’s history and the many colorful characters the market has welcomed over the years.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Camden is famous for its live music venues, including The Dublin Castle and Jazz Cafe.
- Camden market is well-known for its excellent street food, so plan to enjoy lunch or dinner while you’re there.
- The area is always busy—keep an eye on your belongings and watch out for pickpockets.
How to Get There
Camden Market is best accessed by public transport or taxi, as parking is very limited. The nearest tube station is Camden Town. Chalk Farm and Mornington Crescent stations are also a short walk away. A number of buses from different parts of the city also serve the area.
When to Get There
Camden Market is open every day (including bank holidays) from 10am until late, except Christmas Day. The market can get very busy at weekends, especially on Sunday afternoons, so plan to visit on a weekday if you prefer a slower pace. To navigate the market stalls more easily, you can organize a private tour.
Take a Stroll on Regent’s Canal
After your fun market tour, head down to Regent’s Canal for a peaceful stroll through one of London’s most interesting neighborhoods, where elegant terraces line the canalside and narrow bridges take you back to a time when horses were the only form of transport. You can walk as far as Regent’s Park—one of London’s eight Royal Parks—complete with a lake, flower gardens, and tree-lined pathways.
Address: Camden High Street & Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8AH, England
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Cambridge Theatre
Opened in 1930, the Cambridge Theatre is one of the younger theaters in London’s West End. Standing on a narrow corner and made of steel and concrete, it provides an early example of a London theater adopting the modern, expressionist style that was popular in Germany in the 1920s. Inside, however, theater-goers will see bronze friezes depicting nude figures in a variety of poses, marble columns and concealed lighting. Red décor replaced the original gold and silver color scheme in the 1950s, while chandeliers and candelabras were added then as well.
The theater seats more than 1200 on three levels and has hosted both plays and musicals over the years, though it functions best as a musical venue due to its size. Matilda the Musical has been playing since 2011.
Practical Info
Theater tickets can be purchased online or at the box office. To reach the theater by the Tube, take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden or Leicester Square or the Northern Line to Leicester Square. Bus numbers 14, 19, 24, 38 and 176 also run near the theater.
Address: 32-34 Earlham Street, London, England
Hours: Daily 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., or 15 minutes after the curtain has gone up on performance nights.
Admission: Ticket prices vary
From $ 97
Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Overview
Gatwick Airport is one of six international airports to serve the city of London and is second in size only to Heathrow Airport. A major transport hub, London Gatwick has two terminals and welcomes more than 40 million passengers every year, accommodating flights to and from some 200 global destinations.
The Basics
Avoid the stress of getting to and from the airport by prebooking a Gatwick transfer. Private and shared airport transfer services include pickup at arrivals and drop-off at Central London hotels, or at cruise ports, such as Southampton Cruise Port and Dover Cruise Port.
Private transfers offer more flexibility and comfort—drivers will often track your flight number online, so they’ll know if you’re delayed—and can transport passengers between Gatwick and other London airports, including Heathrow, Luton, Stansted, and London City airports.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Passenger amenities at Gatwick include a chapel and prayer room, currency exchange, and luggage storage facilities.
- Gatwick offers free charging ports and 90-minutes free Wi-Fi.
- Shops and restaurants can be found in both North and South terminals and are open from early morning until about 10pm.
- An inter-terminal shuttle service carries passengers between the two terminals.
How to Get There
Gatwick is situated around 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Central London. London black cab fares can be high; save money by prebooking transfers. The easiest way to get into Central London is to ride the Gatwick Express Train from the station near the Gatwick South Terminal to London Victoria. Trains leave every 15 minutes from approximately 6am until just after 11pm. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
When to Get There
Gatwick is a busy airport and lines can form during peak travel times (i.e., the summer months of June, July, and August, and over the Christmas holiday). Busy periods include weekends (Friday–Monday). Midweek, the busiest times are morning and early to midevening. Arrive three hours in advance for international flights.
Things to See Near Gatwick Airport
If you find yourself in Gatwick for a short layover and don’t want to make the journey into London, you might want to take the short trip to Gatwick Aviation Museum, just a 5- to 10-minute drive from the airport. It houses a collection of British aircraft and displays documenting Gatwick’s history. If you have more time to spare, you may want to journey to the seaside town of Brighton, about a 25- to 45-minute train journey away.
Address: England
From $ 17
Garden Museum
Dedicated to the history and art of gardening, London’s Garden Museum offers a tranquil break from the busy city. It’s a must-see for any traveler with a green thumb, with a permanent display of paintings, tools, and historic artifacts representing 400 years of gardening in Britain.
The Basics
Travelers typically visit the Garden Museum independently or on a tour of London’s most famous gardens. In addition to the museum’s permanent collection and four to six annual temporary exhibitions, there is (of course) a beautiful garden to walk through. Visitors can also climb 131 steps to the top of the site’s medieval tower for city views. Several exhibitions, topical presentations, and events are held each year to explore the creation of British gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is accessible to wheelchairs, with an elevator straight to the permanent collection on the first floor.
- The small onsite garden cafe serves tea and small bites.
- Entry to the Garden Museum is included in the London Pass.
- The medieval tower closes one hour before the museum’s closing time.
How to Get There
The Garden Museum is located in central London on the South Bank of the Thames, beside Lambeth Palace and across from the Tate Britain and Parliament. It’s about a 15-minute walk from Westminster. The museum can be reached by taking the tube to Westminster, Waterloo, Victoria, or Vauxhall, or by taking bus 3, 344, 360, 507, or C10 directly to the museum.
When to Get There
The Garden Museum is open daily from 10:30am to 5pm, with the exception of Saturdays, when it closes at 4pm. The museum is closed the first Monday of every month. Expect the largest crowds in the afternoon; visit early in the morning for a quiet visit.
Garden Museum Past and Present
The Garden Museum resides in the once-abandoned Church of St-Mary-at-Lambeth, and therefore carries centuries of history in its medieval tower and archbishop’s tomb. The church is the burial place of John Tradescant, a famous British naturalist and gardener, and his tomb now forms the centerpiece of a knot garden. The church was turned into a museum by John and Rosemary Nicholson in 1977 to preserve the tomb of Tradescants (both John and his son) and the church.
Address: Lambeth Palace Road, London, England
Hours: Sun - Fri: 10:30am - 5pm, Sat: 10:30am - 4pm, closed first Monday of each month.
Admission: Adults: £10
From $ 90
Eltham Palace
Eltham Palace, a grand Tudor residence, makes a worthy detour from nearby Greenwich. As the childhood home of Henry VIII, the medieval palace boasts a fascinating royal history and is best known for its elaborate art deco style interiors, transformed in the 1930s by wealthy businessman Stephen Courtauld.
Visitors to Eltham Palace are whisked back to the 1930s as they explore the domed entrance hall, where the Courtaulds held their glamorous cocktail parties; peek into the opulent gold bathroom and stroll the exquisite orchid and rose gardens. Also open to guests are a series of new rooms, including a map room, a walk-in wardrobe filled with beautiful period clothing, a basement billiard room and a WWII bunker. Traces of the palace’s medieval roots can also be seen, most notably in the glorious wood-beamed Great Hall and the historic moat, crossed by London's oldest working bridge.
Practical Info
Eltham Palace is located in Eltham, about five miles (8 km) southeast of Greenwich. The site is open Sunday through Thursday from 10am to 6pm. Adult admission is £13.60. Multimedia guides are available to visitors and a café, shop, visitor center and children’s playground can also be found on site.
Address: Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE, England
Hours: Sun-Thurs 10am- 6pm
Admission: Adult: £13.60, Child: £8.10
From $ 90
Downing Street
Few London addresses are as famous as 10 Downing Street, a Grade I listed Georgian townhouse and the official residence and office of the British Prime Minister since 1735. Centuries of government meetings, important decisions and more than a few scandals have taken place behind the property’s iconic black door (which can be opened only from the inside and even the Prime Minister is not given a key) and former residents have included everyone from Winston Churchill to Margaret Thatcher to Tony Blair.
For security reasons, access to Downing Street is limited to government officials only and visitors can do little more than peek through the police patrolled iron gates, but it’s still a popular inclusion on visitor’s itineraries, and there’s always the chance of spotting the Prime Minister himself. Those wanting to get a closer look can follow the video tour on the Downing Street website or, if you’re lucky, join one of the Open House London tours that take place over one weekend a year. Keep an eye on next door too - 11 Downing Street is the official residence of the Chancellor of the Exchequer and sees a steady stream of British politicians through its doors.
Practical Info
Downing Street is located in the City of Westminster in Central London and is not open to the public.
Address: Downing Street, London, England
From $ 23
Avebury
Dating from between 2900 and 2600 BC, Avebury is the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle. Originally composed of three stone circles—the largest of which comprised 98 standing stones (though only 27 now remain)—Avebury is truly immense. Though the function of Avebury is not fully understood, it was likely used for pagan ceremonies.
The Basics
The county of Wiltshire is brimming with Neolithic sites. Day tours departing from London, Glastonbury, and Salisbury typically combine visits to Stonehenge, Avebury, Woodhenge, and West Kennet Long Barrow, which are all part of the Stonehenge and Avebury UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other day tours combine a trip to the Avebury site with visits to picturesque English cities, towns, and villages, such as Georgian Bath or medieval Lacock, known for its wood-framed houses and stone cottages.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Avebury is a must for history buffs and anyone with an interest in mysticism.
- Beat the daytime crowds with a guided after-hours tour.
- Part of the henge is accessible by wheelchair, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom can be found on Avebury High Street.
How to Get There
Avebury is situated in Wiltshire in southwest England. If you’re driving, parking is available at the National Trust parking lot, 6 miles (10 miles) west of Marlborough on the A4361. Alternatively, take the train from London Paddington to Swindon, then switch to the Stagecoach route 49 bus to Avebury.
When to Get There
Visitors can walk around the stone circles at any time, though early morning and early evening are when the site is at its most tranquil. As in neighboring Stonehenge, the summer solstice in June is a big event, and the parking lot often fills up early on this day.
History and Highlights of Avebury
Today in Avebury, only 30 original stones remain standing, though pillars mark the places where other stones once stood. It is thought many of the original stones were removed in the Middle Ages by religious zealots who wanted to wipe out evidence of England’s pagan past. Other stones were pilfered in the 18th century and used to build houses in the vicinity, some of which can still be seen across the fields. Some stones to look out for: the huge Swindon Stone, which has never been toppled, and the Barber Surgeon Stone, under which the skeleton of a man was unearthed. The tools he was buried with indicate that he was a barber-cum-surgeon.
Address: West Kennett, Marlborough, Wiltshire, Avebury SN8 1QF, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 64
Golden Hinde
Few historic ships can boast of voyages as great as the Golden Hinde, whose round-the-globe expedition between 1577 and 1580, captained by Sir Francis Drake, was one of the great journeys of the Elizabethan era.
Today, a full sized reconstruction of the iconic ship, originally called the ‘Pelican’ and renamed the Golden Hinde mid-voyage, stands at Bankside along the River Thames, offering visitors the chance to step onboard and learn about the galleon’s great adventures. As well as peeking into the cabins and engine room, costumed actors and interactive tours allow visitors to discover the life of a Tudor sailor, and it’s even possible to help raise the anchor and fire the guns.
Practical Info
The Golden Hinde is located on the south bank of the River Thames, close to London Bridge.
Address: 1, Pickfords Wharf, Clink Street, London, England
Hours: 10am – 5.30pm daily, except during private events
Admission: Tours start at: £6 Adults, £4.50 Children, £18 Family of 4
From $ 6
ArcelorMittal Orbit
The ArcelorMittal Orbit, built for the 2012 London Olympics, has the distinction of being the UK’s tallest sculpture. At 375 feet (114.5 meters) high, it is also possibly the world’s tallest—and longest—tube slide. The observation decks offer visitors stunning views with visibility of up to 20 miles (32 kilometers) on a clear day.
The Basics
Built in collaboration with artists Anish Kapoor and Carsten Höller, designer Cecil Balmond, and ArcelorMittal Steel, the Orbit is composed of 2,000 tonnes of tangled red steel twisting up into the sky. Two elevators transport passengers 260 feet (80 meters) up to the indoor observation decks. Those brave enough can then descend the 583-foot-long (178-meter) slide with 12 twists through a transparent tube, culminating in a corkscrew of turns and a final drop into darkness. Alternatively, take the elevators back to the ground level or descend 455 steps accompanied by a soundscape installation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The ArcelorMittal Orbit is a must for thrill-seekers and those who appreciate elevated views.
- Entrance to the Orbit is reduced for children; check the website for all concession prices.
- There are a number of cafés and restaurants within walking distance from the Orbit.
- The Orbit is accessible and offer wheelchairs to borrow on a first-come first-served basis.
How to Get There
The ArcelorMittal Orbit is located in East London, in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Take the tube from central London—it’s about a 10-minute walk from Stratford Station, on the Central and Jubilee lines—or one of various bus lines.
When to Get There
The Orbit is open daily year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. The attraction hosts seasonal events such as evening fireworks viewing throughout the year. Check the website for a schedule and opening hours.
Abseiling
If the world’s longest tunnel slide wasn’t daring enough, the Orbit also offers abseiling (aka rappelling) from 262 feet (79 meters) in the air, making it the UK’s highest free fall. Professional instructors take participants through a thorough safety training and provide all safety gear. Then the adventure begins with a steep descent surrounded by views of London’s famous skyline and landmarks.
Address: ArcelorMittal Orbit, London, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Baker Street
Running from Regent’s Park at the north end all the way to Oxford Street at the south end, Baker Street is one of Marylebone’s main thoroughfares, but for fans of Sherlock Holmes, it’s much more than just a shopping destination! Immortalized by author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle as the home of fictional detective Sherlock Holmes, Baker Street has now become one of the most famous addresses in London literature.
Fans should make a beeline for 221b Baker Street, the detective’s fictional home – a grand Georgian townhouse, which now houses the Sherlock Holmes Museum. Next door, you can shop for souvenirs in the official Sherlock Holmes gift shop, then pose for photos with the nearby Sherlock Holmes Statue.
Practical Info
Baker Street is located in Marylebone in central London, just south of Regent’s Park. The closest tube station is Baker Street on the Circle and Hammersmith & City lines.
Address: Baker Street, London, England
From $ 26
Gabriel's Wharf
With its picturesque riverside promenade, colorful shopfronts and terrace cafés, Gabriel's Wharf is the ideal spot to soak up the atmosphere of the Thames riverside. Located on London’s lively Southbank, the redeveloped wharf lies just a short walk from the landmark OXO tower and the waterfront Bernie Spain Gardens, and is buzzing with life both day and night.
As well as browsing the many independent designer boutiques, handicraft stores and art galleries, visitors to Gabriel's Wharf can choose from a diverse range of cafés, bars and restaurants. Be sure to snag a table with a waterfront view – the wharf looks out over St Paul’s Cathedral, Waterloo Bridge and Somerset House.
Practical Info
Gabriel’s Wharf is located on London’s Southbank on the south side of the River Thames in central London.
Address: Gabriel’s Wharf, Lambeth, London SE1, England
From $ 34
East End
Renowned throughout Victorian times as the home of the working class, the birthplace of Cockney Rhyming Slang and the stomping ground of the notorious Jack the Ripper, London’s East End has long been associated with the grittier side of the capital. But despite its rough-around-the-edges image, the East End remains one of Londoners’ favorite haunts and its high population of young and immigrant residents has made it one of the city’s most cosmopolitan and ever-evolving districts, teeming with fashion-forward nightclubs, vintage emporiums and modern art galleries.
Since the Olympic Games took over the city in 2012, East London has undergone a 21st-century makeover, with the vast Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park now sprawling over Stratford and a cluster of glitzy shopping malls and chic eateries springing up around it. Locals needn’t worry though – the East End hasn’t lost its grassroots vibe and whether you’re looking to explore the vibrant Bangladeshi communities of Brick Lane, discover London’s hippest bars and live music venues in Shoreditch or hunt down bargains at the legendary Spitalfields Market, there are plenty of good reasons to set your compass east.
Address: London, United Kingdom, England
From $ 16