Choose from 184 Fun Things to Do in London
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HMS Belfast
The World War II warship HMS Belfast, moored on the south bank of the Thames, is an iconic symbol of British history. Discover interactive displays and preserved spaces across the vessel’s nine decks and learn about life on the naval ship, as well as its role in D-Day, the Arctic Convoys, and the Battle of North Cape.
The Basics
The ship has become a fixture of the Thames landscape, with river cruises offering premier views of the vessel. For a closer look, skip the lines with a prebooked ticket, leaving plenty of time to explore the ship’s quarters, including the engine rooms, sick bays, and flag deck. Some city passes offer access to HMS Belfast along with other top city attractions, while flexible hop-on hop-off tours allow time to explore at your own pace.
Things to Know Before You Go
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HMS Belfast is a must-see for visitors interested in Britain’s naval history and has plenty to entertain families.
- Some tours include entrance fees as part of the package; otherwise, there is a charge to enter.
- Deck areas are accessible for wheelchairs, with lift access from the gangway. Below deck is inaccessible due to the preserved nature of the ship.
- Free handheld audio guides are available for all visitors.
How to Get There
The ship is moored on the south bank of the Thames, just a few minutes’ walk from London Bridge station. It is also easily accessed by river boat, with London Bridge City Pier next door.
When to Get There
HMS Belfast is open daily throughout the year, except Christmas. The ship is popular with school trips, but you can miss the crowds with a morning or later afternoon visit. Admire panoramic views of the city from the flag deck, with winter offering a particularly festive vista.
Imperial War Museum
HMS Belfast is operated by Imperial War Museum, a museum group with five branches, two in London. The IWM London, about 2 miles (3 kilometers) from HMS Belfast, houses a Holocaust Exhibition as well as a number of war artifacts from across the century, while the underground Churchill War Rooms on King Charles Street provide insight into wartime London.
Address: The Queens Walk, Tooley Street, London SE1 2JH, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Greenwich
On the south bank of the River Thames, just downriver from central London, Greenwich is one of London’s most atmospheric boroughs. Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage–listed maritime history and Royal Observatory—the home of Greenwich Meantime—it’s a lively retreat from the busy inner city.
The Basics
The most scenic way to arrive in Greenwich is by boat, and sightseeing cruises along the Thames run all the way from Westminster, passing landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Shakespeare’s Globe along the way. The best way to explore is on foot and a walking tour of Greenwich typically includes landmarks such as the Cutty Sark (the world’s sole-surviving tea clipper), the Old Royal Naval College (famous for its magnificent Painted Hall), the National Maritime Museum, and the Queen’s House. Be sure to visit the Royal Observatory, where you can stand at the meeting point of two hemispheres on the Prime Meridian Line, and Greenwich Market, which is renowned for its art, handicrafts, and delicious street food.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Greenwich is a lovely spot for London-goers looking for a break from the big city.
- Plan to spend at least a half-day in Greenwich or a full day if you want to take in all the sights.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the Greenwich on foot—it’s full of hills, cobblestone streets, and steps.
- The Royal Observatory and many of the other attractions in Greenwich are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Thames Clippers boats run down the River Thames from Embankment Pier and Tower Pier in central London, taking less than an hour to reach Greenwich. The quickest way to Greenwich is by DLR train from London Bridge to Cutty Sark station, or by train from London Bridge or Cannon Street to Greenwich station. The closest London Underground station is North Greenwich on the Jubilee line, which is right next door to the O2.
When to Get There
Greenwich is busiest during the peak summer months (July and August), when you might want to avoid weekends if you don’t like crowds. Popular times to visit are during the Greenwich Summer Festival (July to August), Greenwich Music Time Festival (July), Greenwich and Docklands International Festival (June to July), and Greenwich Christmas Market (November to December).
O2 Arena
North Greenwich is home to the huge O2 arena and entertainment complex, housed in the former Millennium Dome. As well as hosting some of London’s biggest music concerts and sporting events, the O2 has a cinema, bowling, and a number of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Thrill-seekers enjoy the Up at the O2 experience, which offers spectacular views as you walk along the O2’s roof.
Address: London SE10, England
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard is a centuries-old tradition that marks the official shift change of the Household Regiment—the Queen's guards stationed at Buckingham Palace. One of the world's most famous ceremonies and a top London experience, this ceremony gives visitors the chance to witness the grandeur of a royal march. Dressed in their iconic red suits and bearskin hats, the guards exemplify classic British pomp in a showing that's not to be missed.
The Basics
The ceremony begins with the New Guard marching from Wellington Barracks to Buckingham Palace with a marching band, while the mounted Horse Guards Parade leaves from the Hyde Park barracks and crosses The Mall to St. James' Place. The official guard change then takes place in the palace forecourt. Some London walking tours include a timed stop at the palace to see the event, while other tours combine a viewing with a visit to the Tower of London or a whirl on the London Eye.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Buckingham Palace's Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily at 11:30am and lasts about 45 minutes.
- Crowds are frequent, especially at the palace, but you'll find quieter spots elsewhere along the route.
- The ceremony is free to watch, and no tickets are required.
How to Get There
The procession begins at Wellington Barracks and continues on to Buckingham Palace in central London. The nearest tube stations are St. James Park, Green Park, and Victoria.
When to Get There
To get a good view, it's best to arrive early—as early as 9:30am for a good view in the summer months. Some tours are timed specifically for the ceremony, guaranteeing the best viewpoints and insight from an expert tour guide. Note that the ceremony may be canceled in bad weather.
Things to Do Near Buckingham Palace
Travelers can pair the show with stops at Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Windsor Castle, or even with afternoon tea, a classic London experience. The nearby Tower of London also has an entertaining guards tour that complements Buckingham's Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Address: Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1, England
Hours: Daily 11:30am
From $ 23
Emirates Stadium
As England’s third-largest football stadium after Wembley and Old Trafford, and home to Arsenal Football Club, one of the capital’s most renowned football teams, Emirates Stadium is a top choice for those looking to soak up the atmosphere of a British football match. Opening its doors in 2006, the state-of-the-art stadium was designed by HOK Sport and cost an impressive £390 million to build, with seats for up to 60,365 fans.
Touring the landmark stadium is also a popular choice for fans, offering the chance to explore the changing rooms, complete with luxury hydrotherapy spas, walk through the players’ tunnel onto the pitch and stand in Arsenal Manager Arsène Wenger's spot in the dug-out. The on-site Arsenal Museum is another must-see, crammed with iconic photos and memorabilia from Arsenal’s long history, and fans can also shop for sports gear or print a bespoke Arsenal shirt at The Armoury, the official Arsenal shop.
Practical Info
Emirates Stadium is located in Holloway North London and the nearest London underground (tube) station is Arsenal. The Arsenal museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm, or 4:30pm on Sundays (or 1 hour before kick-off on match days) and adult admission is £7 (or free with a stadium tour).
Address: Hornsey Rd, London, United Kingdom N7 7AJ, England
Admission: £7
From $ 29
Her Majesty's Theatre
There has been a theater on the site of Her Majesty's since 1705, but this incarnation opened in 1897 as a fine example of Victorian civic architecture. Today, the theater is part of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Really Useful Group of entertainment venues, including six theaters throughout London's razzle-dazzle West End.
With a capacity of 1,100 in the main auditorium, Her Majesty's Theatre has been showing the fabulous Phantom of the Opera musical—known for its spectacular stage sets and Lloyd Webber's opera-lite score—since its world premiere in 1986, notching up a record-breaking run of more than 12,000 performances. The show plays to packed audiences nightly.
The theater was given a thorough overhaul in 2014, with many of its paintings cleaned and the stalls re-gilded. The 2.5-hour Phantom of the Opera performance runs Monday through Saturday at 7:30pm, with matinees on Thursday and Saturday at 2:30pm. A variety of afternoon tea and dinner packages are available.
Practical Info
Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QL. Ticket prices range from £21.50 to £125. Shows Mon–Sat 7:30pm; Thurs & Sat also 2:30pm. There’s underground car parking in Trafalgar Square (£11.50 daily congestion charge applies on weekdays) and the nearest tube station is Piccadilly Circus on the Piccadilly or Bakerloo lines.
Address: Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QL, England
Hours: Shows Mon–Sat 7:30pm; Thurs & Sat also 2:30pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 84
Hampstead Heath
Often losing out to the grandeur of London’s Royal Parks, Hampstead Heath remains the underdog of the city’s tourist attractions, but Londoners flock to enjoy the park’s unkempt charms.
The park encompasses 791 acres of natural countryside, stretching from Hampstead to Highgate in North London and provides a change to the manicured gardens and pristine flowerbeds of the inner city. Here, kite flyers add a splash of color to the vast grasslands, dog walkers weave among shaded woodlands and the windswept meadows have provided the backdrop to films like Notting Hill, as well as inspiring C.S.Lewis’ famous novel ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’. The most famous spot on the heath is the iconic Parliament Hill, where the incredible panoramic view from the summit is renowned as one of the capital’s best lookouts. The view takes in the entire London skyline, with the Thames River, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard and Buckingham Palace all visible.
A number of walks run through the Heath and one of the most popular is the walk between Parliament Fields Hill and North London’s other famed peak, Primrose Hill. Make sure you stop along the way at the grand Kenwood House with its beautiful 18th-century gardens and the renowned Highgate Cemetery, where Karl Marx is famously buried. The park’s public swimming pools also draw in the masses, with the three ponds crammed with sun-seekers in the summer months and hosting freezing-cold swim-a-thons in the winter months.
The park encompasses 791 acres of natural countryside, stretching from Hampstead to Highgate in North London and provides a change to the manicured gardens and pristine flowerbeds of the inner city. Here, kite flyers add a splash of color to the vast grasslands, dog walkers weave among shaded woodlands and the windswept meadows have provided the backdrop to films like Notting Hill, as well as inspiring C.S.Lewis’ famous novel ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’. The most famous spot on the heath is the iconic Parliament Hill, where the incredible panoramic view from the summit is renowned as one of the capital’s best lookouts. The view takes in the entire London skyline, with the Thames River, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard and Buckingham Palace all visible.
A number of walks run through the Heath and one of the most popular is the walk between Parliament Fields Hill and North London’s other famed peak, Primrose Hill. Make sure you stop along the way at the grand Kenwood House with its beautiful 18th-century gardens and the renowned Highgate Cemetery, where Karl Marx is famously buried. The park’s public swimming pools also draw in the masses, with the three ponds crammed with sun-seekers in the summer months and hosting freezing-cold swim-a-thons in the winter months.
Address: Spaniards Road, London NW3 7JJ, England
From $ 52
Lacock
A small, rural village on the southern edge of the Cotswolds in Wiltshire County, Lacock is famous for its historic feel and big-screen appearances. It has been featured in several film and television productions, including Pride and Prejudice, Emma and most recently, Harry Potter.
Sights include the medieval Lacock Abbey, with its expansive English gardens, stable house and Fox Talbot Museum, a photography exhibition named after the inventor of the negative/positive photographic process (a Lacock resident in the 1800s.)
Many visitors enjoy the two-mile walk that circles the surrounding countryside and offers views of the town and its abbey.
Practical Info
Lacock is located west of London, and the easiest way to get to it from the city is by taking the train from London Paddington station to Chippenham, followed by a bus to Lacock. It is also accessible via a two-hour car ride.
Address: Lacock, England
From $ 129
Princess Diana Memorial Fountain
Few British royals were as universally adored as Princess Diana, the affectionately nicknamed ‘People’s Princess’, and the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain is just one of the many tributes and memorials erected in her name after her untimely death back in 1997.
Opened by Her Majesty The Queen in 2004, the unique water feature is the design of Kathryn Gustafson and represents Diana’s life, quality and openness, a continuous circle of flowing water, crafted from Cornish granite and crossed by three bridges. The memorial fountain lies on the route of the Princess Diana Memorial Walk, an 11km circular trail running through five of London’s royal parks and linking sights like Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace and the Princess Diana Memorial Playground.
Practical Info
The Princess Diana Memorial Fountain is located in Hyde Park, close to the Serpentine Lake.
Address: Hyde Park - W Carriage Drive, London, England
From $ 43
Hampton Court Palace
The famous former residence of the infamous King Henry VIII, Hampton Court is one of the king’s two remaining palaces and one of the grandest castles in England, having once been planned to rival the Palace of Versailles in France. Today, visitors can explore the castle interior, which showcases two architectural styles (the Tudor palace of Henry VIII and the baroque palace of William III), stroll through its massive hedge maze, see the historic tennis court, and view the largest grape vine in the world. Don’t miss the State Apartments’ royal bedrooms and galleries, the Tudor kitchens, Chapel Royal, or the medieval Great Hall, which has been in continuous use for more than 450 years.
The Basics
The Hampton Court Palace is commonly visited from London either independently or as part of a royal palaces tour and paired with a stop at Windsor Castle. Book priority entrance tickets to skip the line and spend more time exploring the grounds, or, for more context, choose a guided historical tour that walks you through the palace and formal gardens. Bike tours of the Hampton Court Palace grounds are another popular options.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Helpful red-coated guides can be found all over the grounds offering interesting information about the castle (while making sure you keep your hands off the valuable furnishings).
- Book an advance ticket with timed entry to avoid lines.
- Free Wi-Fi access is available.
- Much of the palace is wheelchair accessible, and disabled visitors may bring a caregiver free of charge.
- Hampton Court Palace entry is included in the London Pass.
How to Get There
Hampton Court Palace is set in the royal borough of Richmond upon Thames, on the River Thames and a short distance from London in the town of Surrey. It’s accessible by public transport—Hampton Court Station is a 30-minute train ride away from Waterloo Station in central London. From the train station, it’s a short walk across the Hampton Court Bridge over the River Thames to the palace.
When to Get There
The palace is open daily from 10am to 4:30pm, with extended hours until 6pm in summer. Arriving earlier in the day or taking a private tour will help you avoid crowds.
Royal Palaces of England
For a glimpse at royal life and customs in settings truly fit for royalty, go beyond Hampton Court and visit the royal residences at Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace in London, as well as nearby Windsor Castle.
Address: East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU, England
Hours: Daily 10am–6pm (until 4:30pm in winter)
Admission: £15.90 (adults)
From $ 13
Harrods
Built by Charles Henry Harrod in 1834 and now owned by Qatar Holdings, Harrods is London’s largest and most iconic department store. With 330 different departments spread over seven floors, it’s a top choice for shoppers, selling everything from luxury souvenirs and gourmet British foods to renowned designer brands and stylish homewares.
The Basics
A popular tourist attraction, Harrods often gets included as part of London sightseeing tours. For more time to explore, opt to visit on a hop-on hop-off bus tour or book a VIP experience with an independent shopping tour and your own private driver. While you’re there, take a ride on the opulent Egyptian Escalator, pay a visit to the Princess Diana memorial, or indulge in a decadent afternoon tea at The Georgian.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Customer services include personal shopping, a wellness clinic, and bespoke tailoring.
- Large bags, rucksacks, and umbrellas must be left at the store’s Left Luggage desk.
- ATMs, free Wi-Fi, and a range of bars, restaurants, and tea rooms are available on-site.
- Harrods is fully wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Harrods is located on Brompton Road in the upmarket Knightsbridge neighborhood of West London, a short walk from the designer shops of Sloane Street. To get there by tube, take the Piccadilly line to Knightsbridge station.
When to Get There
Harrods is open daily all year round. Weekday mornings tend to be quietest, and while it can get busy during weekends and school holidays, that’s when to go to enjoy in-store events, pop-up shops, and celebrity appearances. During the festive season, the store hosts a spectacular Santa's Grotto and some of London’s most impressive window displays.
Shopping at Harrods
The sprawling department store lives up to its motto: “Omnia Omnibus Ubique—All Things For All People, Everywhere.” In addition to clothing, jewelry, accessories, and cosmetics by designers such as Dolce and Gabbana, Burberry, Balenciaga, Chanel, and Estée Lauder, Harrods also has a specialized range of tea, luxury accessories, cosmetics, furniture, books, and its own line of souvenirs.
Address: 87-135 Brompton Road, London SW1X 7XL, England
Hours: Mon - Sat 10am - 9pm, Sun 11:30am - 6pm
Admission: Free
From $ 27
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
The vast grounds and imposing stadiums that once hosted athletes from all over the world during the 2012 London Olympics have now been transformed into one of East London’s most impressive green spaces—Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The Basics
Whether you want to explore the beautiful parklands on a walking or biking tour, take a boat cruise along the City Mill River, or enjoy lunch at The Podium or the Timber Lodge Café, there are plenty of ways to visit the Olympic Park. Relive the trials and triumphs of the 2012 Olympics on a guided London Stadium tour, or see the ArcelorMittal Orbit illuminated by night on an after-hours tour of London’s East End. You can also enjoy aerial views of iconic Olympic venues like the London Aquatics Centre, the Copper Box Arena, and Lee Valley VeloPark from the roof of the O2 or on a thrilling helicopter flight.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Head to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Information Point (just north of the London Aquatics Centre) for a park map and the latest visitor information.
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the park.
- The park and its venues all all wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and sighted guides are all available.
How to Get There
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is located in East London, straddling the districts of Stratford, Hackney Wick, Bow, and Leyton. To get there by train, get off at the Stratford stop on the Jubilee and Central lines, or at Pudding Mill Lane or Hackney Wick stations The Stratford International train station offers direct links to other UK destinations including Kent, Dover, and Canterbury.
When to Get There
The park is open daily all year and special events, and family activities are held on weekends and during school holidays throughout the year. The most popular time to visit is during the summer months, when you can enjoy open-air concerts, art exhibitions, boat tours, and other activities. During the holiday season, the park hosts a Christmas Market, choir concerts, and other events.
Things to Do at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Take in the views or ride the slide at the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the UK’s tallest sculpture, follow the Art Trail or London 2012 Trail, stroll through the Mandeville Place orchards, or go shopping at the gigantic Westfield Stratford City Mall. There are ample opportunities for sports and outdoor activities too: the state-of-the-art Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre comes equipped with 10 courts and two hockey pitches; the one-of-a-kind VeloPark offers all sorts of two-wheeled fun, from track cycling and road racing to BMX and mountain biking; and the London Aquatics Centre has two gigantic swimming pools and a diving pool.
Address: London E20 2ST, England
From $ 15
Heathrow Airport (LHR)
As Europe’s largest airport, London Heathrow (LHR) serves more than 70 million air travel passengers annually. It’s the UK’s busiest airport, serving as the gateway to London for most of the world and offering currency exchange facilities, accommodation, luggage storage, and VIP lounges.
The Basics
There are many airport transfer services in and out of Heathrow, whether you’re headed into London or elsewhere in the UK. Direct transfers, both private and shared, are available to Southampton Port, Oxford, Bristol, Cambridge, or straight to your London hotel. Options depend on your available time and preferred level privacy. Book transfers in advance to ensure on-time pickup.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The enormous airport can seem overwhelming to first-time visitors, so leave plenty of time to check in and pass through security or collect your luggage.
- Showers and children’s play areas are available at each terminal.
- The airport offers an abundance of bars, restaurants, and tax-free shops, plus free Wi-Fi and charging stations.
How to Get There
Heathrow Airport is located 20 miles (32 kilometers) west of central London and is connected by public transport, taxi, and private transfer to the city. Public transport to the terminals runs from 5am and 11:45pm. The Heathrow Express (20 minutes) and Heathrow Connect (30 minutes) trains depart from and arrive to London Paddington. Other options include the London Underground (Piccadilly Line, about 50 minutes from central London) and the night bus (about 90 minutes from Trafalgar Square). Private drivers and direct London airport transfers are the best bet for anyone wanting to avoid public transit.
When to Get There
As Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world, you’ll want to ensure enough time ahead of your scheduled departure. It’s a good idea to arrive at least three hours in advance for an international departure.
Benefits of Private Airport Transfers at Heathrow
Delays are unfortunately common at such a massive airport, but booking an airport transfer reduces some of the worry you’d otherwise have about a late arrival. When you book online and share your flight information, drivers typically track your flight. They also reduce travel stress by helping with luggage and offering the potential for hotel pickup or drop-off.
Address: Greater London TW6, United Kingdom, England
From $ 17
Handel House Museum
Devoted to the life and times of one of London’s most legendary composers, the Handel House Museum is a must for fans of classical music. Housed in the grand Georgian town house where George Frideric Handel lived from 1723 to 1759, the museum has been restored in period style, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of the great Baroque composer.
Visitors can learn about Handel’s rise to prominence, from his early life in Germany to composing for the British Royal family; admire an eclectic collection of instruments, Handel portraits, manuscripts, and personal effects; and discover the origins of masterpieces such as 'Messiah', 'Zadok the Priest', and 'Music for the Royal Fireworks', all composed at the house.
The museum also serves as a live music venue, regularly hosting concerts, lectures and other music-themed activities.
Practical Info
The Handel House Museum is located in Mayfair, central London, and is open from Monday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm. Adult admission is £10.
Did You Know? Brook Street’s musical heritage doesn’t end with Handel. The flat across the street at 23 Brook Street recently opened as a museum devoted to its former resident – music icon Jimi Hendrix.
Address: 25 Brook St, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom W1K 4HB, England
Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-6pm
Admission: Adult £10, Child £5
From $ 13
Queen's House
Commissioned by King James I in 1616, the magnificent Queen’s House was originally a gift for his Queen, Anne of Denmark, but remained unfinished at the time of her death, completed instead by King Charles I in 1638. Designed in an innovative Palladian style by architect Inigo Jones, the grand garden villa remains one of the principal landmarks of Greenwich, now standing proud at the entrance to the vast Greenwich Park.
The Queen’s House is now owned by the National Maritime Museum and houses part of the museum’s art collection as well as an impressive array of Royal portraits. The lavish interiors are also open to the public, including highlights like the ‘Tulip Staircase’, the Great Hall, with its striking black and white marble floor, and a range of 17th-century furnishings.
Practical Info
The Queen’s House is located at the northern entrance to Greenwich Park, next to the National Maritime Museum and is open daily from 10am-5pm. Admission is free.
Address: Romney Rd, London, England
Hours: Open daily from 10am-5pm
From $ 59
Highclere Castle
A neo-Gothic masterpiece, Highclere Castle is best known for doubling as Downton Abbey in the much-loved TV series of the same name. The turreted, sandstone mansion was created by Sir Charles Barry, the architect behind England’s Houses of Parliament. The site upon which it stands has been in the hands of the Carnarvon family since the 17th century, and the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon now welcome the public to explore the lavishly decorated interior, the Egyptian Exhibition, and the 1,000-acre (405-hectare) Capability Brown–designed grounds.
The Basics
Highclere Castle is a popular day trip from London. You can go as part of a group tour by bus, in a small-group tour by minivan, or on a private tour by luxury vehicle or even black cab. Afternoon tea is offered in the castle’s tea rooms in the coach house, though you must book in advance. Some full-day tours from London incorporate stops at other Downton filming locations, such as the charming Cotswolds village of Bampton, which is used to portray Downton in the show. Other tours include non-Downton destinations such as Oxford, home to the esteemed university.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Day trips from London typically last between eight and 11 hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothes.
- Most organized tours include guided visits around the house.
- Most areas of the castle—namely the ground floor and the Egyptian Exhibition—are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Trains from London Paddington station depart approximately every hour and bring passengers to Newbury station, situated about 5 miles (8 kilometers) north of the castle. From Newbury, it’s a 15-minute taxi ride to Highclere Castle. Newbury-bound National Express buses depart from London Victoria.
When to Get There
Highclere Castle is open to the public for about 65 days a year: for two weeks around Easter, during the two May bank holiday weekends, and from early July to early September. Entry is ticketed, with morning and afternoon time slots available. Tickets sell out quickly so be sure to book well in advance. Walk-up tickets are also sold at Highclere; arrive early to ensure you get one.
Special Events at Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle hosts various seasonal events throughout the year including special castle tours, concerts, and parties. During the holiday season, the estate is the setting for festive fairs and carol services. In summer, the castle’s events program includes garden parties, during which guests don period dress and enjoy picnics and Pimm’s on the grounds.
Address: Highclere Park, Newbury, West Berkshire RG20 9RN, Highclere, London, England
Hours: Hours vary by season.
Admission: Varies
From $ 104
Green Park
The smallest of London’s network of eight Royal parks, Green Park is located in Westminster, between Hyde Park to the west and St. James Park to the east. The 40-acre (16-hectare) green space is dissected by the Mall on one side and Constitution Hill on the other, right next to Buckingham Palace. It’s a peaceful triangle, known for mature plane and lime trees as well as a number of memorials, statues, and fountains.
The Basics
Its proximity to Buckingham Palace makes Green Park a popular destination for visitors looking to escape the bustle of the city. The park is home to memorials honoring Canadian, African, Indian, and Caribbean soldiers killed in the two World Wars. The park is on the path of the 7-mile (11-kilometer) Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk. It’s also included on a number of hop-on hop-off bus tours, and royal and historical tours of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Deck chairs are available to rent from March to October during daylight hours.
- There are two refreshment kiosks in Green Park located at Ritz Corner and Canada Gate.
- The park is wheelchair accessible.
- Green Park has been used backdrop to a number of films, including The Importance of Being Earnest.
How to Get There
The closest underground stations include the Green Park and Hyde Park Corner stations, and the park is also served by multiple bus lines. There are no parking facilities near the park.
When to Get There
The park is open all day, year-round. Upwards of a million daffodils bloom in the park in the spring, tuning Green Park a brilliant yellow for a brief few weeks.
Royal Gun Salutes
Royal Gun Salutes, which mark special occasions like the Queen’s birthday and state visits, are fired from Green Park. Salutes are normally fired at midday and include 41 rounds. Public attendance is permitted, and a full schedule can be found online.
Address: London, England
From $ 27
Old Royal Naval College
The grand focal point of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Royal Naval College (ORNC) is an impressive architectural feat, stretching along the banks of the River Thames. Originally designed as a Royal Naval Hospital, the ORNC was the work of legendary architect Sir Christopher Wren (whose other masterpieces include St Paul’s Cathedral) and was built on the site of the Greenwich Palace, the birthplace of Henry VIII.
The magnificent classical buildings, with their twin domes, striking colonnaded façade and vast lawns now serve as the dramatic centerpiece of Greenwich and offer a fascinating introduction to the neighborhood for visitors. Highlights of a visit include the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre, where exhibitions are devoted to the ORNC and Greenwich’s maritime heritage; Sir James Thornhill’s spectacular Painted Hall; and the neo-classical style Chapel of St Peter and St Paul. Throughout the year, the ORNC also hosts a number of music performances, exhibitions, workshops and special events.
Practical Info
The Old Royal Naval College is located on the south bank of the River Thames in Greenwich, South London, a short walk from the Cutty Sark. The venue is open daily from 10am and 5pm and is free to enter, although ticket costs may apply for exhibitions, performances and workshops. Free 45-minute guided walking tours are held from Mon to Fri at 1.30pm and 3pm, or Sat and Sun at 11am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 3pm.
Address: King William Walk, London SE10 9NN, England
Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm
From $ 18
Chatsworth House
The ancestral seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, Chatsworth House in Derbyshire is a prominent example of 17th-century architecture, and one of Britain’s most popular stately homes. It draws visitors from all over the world who come to tour the building and see the famous gardens designed by “Capability” Brown.
The Basics
Home to the Cavendish family since the 1600s, Chatsworth House stands on the River Derwent near the town of Bakewell in Derbyshire. The house was built in the 1560s but remodeled extensively in the 17th century, when the parterre gardens were added. The interiors of the house are very well preserved and include Old Masters paintings, ancient Roman and Egyptian sculptures, and much more. The landscaped grounds by “Capability” Brown were developed in the mid-18th century. Chatsworth House and its owners, the Devonshires, have played an important role in many historical events in the UK. More recently, the home has been used as a location for several films and TV shows, including the famous BBC adaptation of Pride & Prejudice.
Chatsworth has been voted the UK’s most popular country house several times and is a favorite stop for guided tours of England. If visiting independently, you can purchase individual tickets for different attractions or buy a combined pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Chatsworth House is ideal for architecture and history enthusiasts.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the vast house and 105-acre (43-hectare) garden.
- Various restaurants, cafés, and shops are available on the grounds.
- The house is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Chatsworth House is located in Derbyshire in England’s Peak District, close to the town of Bakewell. If driving, there is on-site parking. Alternatively take the train to the town of Sheffield and then transfer to a bus to Chatsworth, or join a guided tour.
When to Get There
Chatsworth House is open daily year-round except for major holidays. Hours vary by day and by season; check online for current schedules.
Kiddie Fun at the Farmyard and Playground
If you’re traveling with little ones, they are sure to enjoy the farmyard and playground that you’ll find on the grounds at Chatsworth (tickets available separately). Children can see the farm animals up close and even help with farmyard tasks like milking the cows. The playground—with rope park and zipline—will appeal to adventurous youngsters.
Address: Bakewell, Derbyshire, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 647
Prince Edward Theatre
The Price Edward Theatre originally opened in London in 1930, but was soon reimagined as a cabaret restaurant known as the London Casino. After periods of hosting pantomines and then functioning as a cinema, the theater reopened in 1978 with a performance of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Evita. It was completely refurbished in 1992, when the stage was enlarged, the auditorium was renovated and redecorated and new side boxes were added.
The outside of the Prince Edward Theatre is notable for its design in the style of an Italian palace. Inside, visitors will find arched doorways and a large circular foyer decorated in an art deco style. The stage trails only that of the Drury Lane and Covent Garden theaters in size and the auditorium holds more than 1600. Aladdin is currently playing at the theater, while past shows have included Mamma Mia, Mary Poppins, Jersey Boys and Miss Saigon.
Practical Info
To reach the Prince Edward Theatre, take the Tube to either Leicester Square or Tottenham Court Road. Alternatively, more than a dozen bus routes run near the theater, including numbers 3, 6, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 22, 23, 38, 88, 94, 139, 159 and 453.
Address: 28 Old Compton Street, London, England
Hours: Box office is open Monday to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.
Admission: Ticket prices vary
From $ 80
Chelsea Physic Garden
Evocatively nicknamed London’s Secret Garden, the Chelsea Physic Garden is a green oasis in the heart of Chelsea, hidden away by the Thames riverbank. Founded in 1673, it’s London’s oldest botanic garden, set up by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries and renowned for its impressive collection of medicinal plants and rare species.
The 4-acre walled-garden is home to some 5,000 different edible, medicinal and historic plants, with highlights including Britain’s largest outdoor olive tree, the world’s northernmost outdoor grapefruit tree, a series of endangered plants from Madeira and the Canary Islands, and a World Woodland Garden, devoted to forest plants from around the world. There’s also the Tangerine Dream café, which serves lunch and afternoon tea; a gift shop and an annual schedule of workshops, tours and activities.
Practical Info
The Chelsea Physic Garden is located on Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea, on the north bank of the River Thames and is open from Tuesday-Friday and Sunday from 11am-6pm.
Adult admission is £10.50.
Address: 66 Royal Hospital Rd, London SW3 4HS, England
Hours: Open Tues-Fri and Sun 11am-6pm. March-October: Tues and Wed until 10pm.
Admission: Adults: £10.50; Children: £6.95
From $ 90