Choose from 184 Fun Things to Do in London
ShowingFilter 141-160 of 184 listings.
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum
Known to many as the home of the most famous tennis tournament in the world, the Wimbledon grounds also house the world’s largest tennis museum. Numerous onsite galleries and exhibitions allow visitors to experience the evolution of the famous sport.
The collection of tennis memorabilia contains artifacts dating back to 1555, as well as interactive multimedia such as touch screens, a 3D cinema and a holographic John McEnroe. Items on display include championship trophies, film and video footage, championship player mementos and the Wimbledon library. An interactive gallery called CentreCourt360 presents visitors with a viewing experience of Centre Court.
Practical Info
The museum is located in the All England Lawn Tennis Club in southwest London. It is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Museum entrance costs £12 for adults and £7 for children. Entrance with a guided tour costs £22 for adults and £13 for children. By rail, take the train from London Waterloo to Wimbledon Station. By public transport, you can take the Underground to Wimbledon or Southfields station on the District line or Tooting Broadway on the Northern Line, followed by bus 493. The museum is accessible from Gate 4.
Address: Church Road, Wimbledon, London, England
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Adults £12, Children £7
From $ 32
Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
Meticulously constructed using period-appropriate materials to resemble the original Elizabethan Globe Theatre, which stood at a site just 656 feet (200 meters) away, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre brings the theatergoing experience of yore to life. Plays—not exclusively Shakespeare’s, though the bard’s works do dominate the schedule—are staged in the atmospheric, circular, open-air auditorium.
The Basics
Visitors who want to get inside the Globe Theatre have two options: either buy tickets to a show (the standing-only, yard tickets are cheapest) or join a 30-minute guided Globe Theatre tour. London Pass holders can enter for free. Tours include access to the theater itself, as well as entry to the interactive Globe Exhibition, which focuses on Elizabethan theater. On select days, tours of the indoor, Jacobean-style, candlelit Sam Wanamaker Playhouse are also available.
Guided tours of the Globe can be combined with A Midsummer Night's Dream–themed afternoon tea, a Thames cruise, or a visit to other Shakespeare-connected London sites such as Southwark Cathedral, where Shakespeare worshipped, and the Anchor Bankside pub, a centuries-old tavern at the heart of the Shakespeare-era theater district.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Globe Theater is wheelchair accessible.
- Performances usually last 2.5 to three hours and include a break.
- As the theater is open-air, visitors will be exposed to inclement weather during tours and performances. Bring rain gear if necessary, as tours and performances run in all weather. (Umbrellas are not allowed during shows as they can obstruct the stage.)
- Complimentary audio guides are available for the exhibition.
How to Get There
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre stands on London’s South Bank. Take the Tube to St. Paul’s (Central line), Mansion House (District and Circle lines), or London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee lines). All three stations are within easy walking distance.
When to Get There
Plays are staged from mid-April to mid-October, and tours take place year-round. During summer, it’s best to arrive in the morning as tours end early in preparation for matinee performances.
Best Seats in the House
The best seats in the house are not seats at all, but rather standing tickets. These give you access to the yard, where about 700 “groundlings” (standing audience members) stay on their feet during the entire performance. Not only do these tickets put you close to the action, but they also offer the best stage views. Alternatively, book tickets for the gallery, which has bench seating.
Address: London, England
From $ 13
Somerset House
Once a Tudor palace, Somerset House was redesigned by Sir William Chambers in 1776 as part of the city’s infrastructural improvements. Now a creative and cultural hub offering shows and activities year-round, the building is also known to have appeared in the Sherlock Holmes and James Bond films, among others.
The Basics
Follow in the footsteps of movie stars on a cinematic tour, or visit on a walking or hop-on hop-off tour, according to your schedule. Travelers with more time can explore the grounds on a historical tour and gain insight into the royal, governmental, and public uses of the building over the years, or check out one of the events held here for an immersive experience of culture in the capital.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to Somerset House is free, though there is a fee for some exhibitions and shows.
- The central courtyard is open-air, so remember to bring an umbrella or raincoat on rainy days.
- Somerset House is a must-see for history buffs, culture vultures, and creatives.
- Most of the site is wheelchair accessible; guests with access concerns are encouraged to call ahead.
How to Get There
Somerset House is a 5-minute walk from Temple underground station, and 10 to 15 minutes from Covent Garden, Charing Cross, or Waterloo. Many local and hop-on hop-off buses serve the Strand, Waterloo Bridge, or Aldwych, while river bus and hop-on hop-off cruises serve nearby Embankment Pier.
When to Get There
Special events at Somerset House are popular with residents and visitors alike. In winter, the outdoor ice skating rink and Christmas arcade provide festive fun in the city, while film screenings, concerts, and DJ sets are enjoyed during warmer months.
Stroll the South Bank
Conclude your visit to Somerset House with a walk across Waterloo Bridge and head into one of London’s cultural districts. Wander east along the river and discover prime Thameside views, as well as unique architecture, theatres, galleries, and English pubs to boot.
Address: Strand, London, United Kingdom WC2R 1LA, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Bomber Command Memorial
The long-awaited memorial to the Royal Air Force (RAF) Bomber Command, London's poignant Bomber Command Memorial is a heartfelt tribute to the 55,573 British, Australian, New Zealand, Canadian and Commonwealth pilots and aircrew who lost their lives and the many others who were wounded or captured during the air raids of WWII.
Officially opened in 2012 by Queen Elizabeth II, the striking memorial takes center stage near the western entrance of London's Green Park and includes a Bomber Command Memorial Time Capsule crafted from the remains of a Second World War bomber. The design of architect Liam O'Connor, the memorial also features a 2.7-meter high bronze sculpture depicting a seven-man bomber crew, housed inside a grand classical portico made of Portland Stone.
Practical Info
The Bomber Command Memorial is located in front of the RAF Club in Green Park. The nearest underground (tube) station is Hyde Park Corner.
Address: Green Park, London, England
From $ 42
Sherlock Holmes Museum
London’s most famous fictional detective is brought to life at the Sherlock Holmes Museum, located at 221b Baker Street, the legendary address from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories, where Holmes and his famous sidekick, Dr. Watson, lived between 1881 and 1904.
The Basics
Sherlock fans will delight in exploring the Sherlock Holmes Museum, a privately run attraction that faithfully re-creates the world of Conan Doyle’s books. For the full experience, opt for a Sherlock Holmes walking tour and visit filming sites from the BBC TV series Sherlock, or combine a Sherlock Holmes tour with a tour of the East London locations associated with Jack the Ripper. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Sherlock Holmes gift shop, where you can pick up a Holmes-style magnifying glass or deerstalker cap.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Sherlock Holmes Museum is a must-see for mystery and TV fans.
- While some ground-floor rooms and the gift shop are wheelchair-accessible, most of the museum is not.
How to Get There
The Sherlock Holmes Museum is located at 221b Baker Street—which is actually found between 237 and 241 Baker Street—in North London. It’s within walking distance of attractions such as Madame Tussauds and Regent’s Park, and the closest tube station is Baker Street on the Bakerloo, Circle, Jubilee, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines.
When to Get There
Open daily year-round, the museum can get busy, especially during the peak summer months. The quietest time to visit is weekday mornings.
A Tour of the Sherlock Holmes House
Visitors are welcomed to the house by esteemed landlady Mrs. Hudson before embarking on a journey into the world of detective Sherlock Holmes. You’ll see Holmes’ characteristic Victorian-style study on the first floor overlooking Baker Street, as well as Watson’s bedroom on the second floor. The “lumber room” is full of lodgers’ suitcases, and Holmes’ attic bedroom appears in typical disarray. Look out for Holmes’ favorite armchair by the fire, his treasured calabash pipe, his array of wacky disguises, and his collection of secret notebooks and papers scattered around the house.
Address: 221b Baker Street, London, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Tower Bridge
With its Gothic towers and central bascule flanked by dramatic suspension bridges, Tower Bridge is both a remarkable feat of engineering and one of London’s most instantly recognizable landmarks. The famous bridge is a popular subject of London postcards, leading many to mistake it for London Bridge, which is actually the next one upstream.
The Basics
Whether taking a city walking tour, admiring the bridge from a River Thames cruise, or driving across the bridge on a hop-on hop-off city tour, a tour of London’s historic sights isn’t complete without a stop at Tower Bridge. A popular choice is to cross the bridge on a walking tour, perhaps including a visit to the Tower of London (which stands at the northern end of the bridge) or continuing along the Thames riverfront past landmarks such as Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye.
If you want to learn more about the 19th-century bridge and take in the views from the high walkways, visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition, housed in the bridge’s northwest tower. Entrance to the exhibition is free for London Pass holders, and combination tickets are available for the exhibition and the Monument—a tribute to the Great Fire of London.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tower Bridge is a must for architecture and engineering aficionados, and all first-time visitors to London.
- While you can walk, cycle, or drive across the bridge, the most spectacular views are from the top walkways—part of the Tower Bridge Exhibition.
- River traffic takes priority over road traffic, and vehicles and pedestrians have to wait when a boat wants to come through.
- The bridge is accessible to wheelchair users and strollers.
How to Get to There
Tower Bridge is the easternmost of central London’s main bridges. Entrance to the Tower Bridge Exhibition is from the Tower of London (north) side of the river. The closest Tube stations are Tower Hill (District and Circle lines) on the north side and London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee lines) on the south side. Riverboats stop at Tower Pier on the north bank and London Bridge City Pier on the south bank.
When to Get There
It’s almost impossible to avoid crowds along Tower Bridge, especially in peak season (July and August), but opting for an early morning or late evening stroll across the bridge offers the best chance. If you’re hoping to capture a dramatic photograph of the bridge, arrive in time for sunrise, when the lighting is perfect and the crowds are thin. If possible, time your arrival to coincide with the opening of the bascule bridge; times are listed on the Tower Bridge website.
The Tower Bridge Exhibition
At the Tower Bridge Exhibition, you can discover the tower’s fascinating history, peek into the Victorian engine rooms, and learn about its complex mechanics while watching a virtual bridge lift. The highlight is the chance to walk the 138-foot-high (42-meter) walkways at the very top of the towers. The East Walkway offers great views along the River Thames, including the HMS Belfast and London Bridge, while the Glass Walkway lets you look down through a glass floor to the cars and pedestrians on the bridge below. Guided tours also offer behind-the-scenes access to areas including the bridge control room, the machinery room, and the bascule chambers.
Address: Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 2UP, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
Soho
This London neighborhood has it all: theaters, live music, eclectic nightlife, shopping, historical sites, and a quirky food scene. Located in the West End District popular with actors, artists, musicians, and fashionistas, Soho is also the epicenter of London’s gay scene.
The Basics
Covering just one square mile (2.6 square kilometers), Soho is best explored on foot. Taste your way around Soho’s diverse food scene on chocolate tours, English tea and dessert tours, modern British food tours, or excursions featuring international cuisine. Walk in the footsteps of The Beatles on Abbey Road and learn about the city’s other rock ‘n’ roll legends, or visit the area’s best-loved pubs and brewhouses on a bar-hopping tour. If history is your thing, Soho walking tours offer an education on London’s hidden gems and historic artifacts.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring your rain gear as London is known for its unpredictable downpours.
- As you walk around Soho, look out for noses on the buildings and walls (known as “the seven noses of Soho”). According to local legend, good luck comes your way if you spot them all.
- Be prepared for crowds. Soho can get busy, especially around lunchtime.
- Kingly Court near Carnaby Street offers free Wi-Fi, a station to refill your water bottles, and a seating area for dining alfresco.
How to Get There
Set in Central London in the middle of the West End, Soho is easy to visit via guided tour or public transportation. Travel by bus or tube (subway) to any of these stations that are close to Soho: Leicester Square, Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus, or Tottenham Court Road. If you plan to stay in London for several days, it’s a good idea to pick up a visitor Oyster card. Driving is not recommended as this area is very busy and there can be limited parking.
When to Get There
Soho is thriving day and night. To avoid crowds, visit mid-morning on a weekday to miss commuters on the tube and beat the lunchtime rush at restaurants. The place comes alive at night, so be sure to check out some bars, comedy clubs, and live music venues like Ronnie Scott’s.
Shopping in Soho
Soho is a bustling shopping district—the department store Liberty is a London institution and if you’re traveling with kids, be sure to visit the famous toy shop Hamleys. For boutiques, go to Berwick Street, Carnaby Street and Kingly Court, and for flagship stores, go to Oxford Street and Regent Street. If you love chocolate, don’t miss the Paul A. Young store on Wardour Street.
Address: London, England
Admission: Free
From $ 19
The London Shard
Piercing the sky like a gigantic shard of glass, the London Shard is every bit as spectacular as it sounds. This architectural wonder, designed by Renzo Piano, is not only one of the city’s most iconic structures—it also boasts the highest observation deck in London.
The Basics
For most visitors, the star attraction is the view from The Shard’s open-air Skydeck, which affords a spectacular vista of London landmarks such as the Tower of London, Big Ben, the London Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and even (on a clear day) the distant Windsor Castle. Visitors can opt for a day or evening visit, splurge to add Champagne, or combine skip-the-line entrance with a ride on the London Eye, a sightseeing cruise along the River Thames, or a walking tour of Central London.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visits are timed, so it’s best to book ahead.
- For security reasons, all guests are required to pass through metal detectors and have their bags scanned before entering the building.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on-site.
- The Shard is fully wheelchair accessible and concession tickets are available.
How to Get to The Shard
The Shard is located in Southwark in central London, a short stroll from the London Bridge and Borough Market. The closest tube station is London Bridge, served by the Jubilee and Northern lines.
When to Get There
The Shard is open all year round, and thanks to the London Landmarks Guarantee—if you can’t spot at least three of the city’s top landmarks, you can revisit for free in better weather—there’s no bad time to visit. Those hoping to avoid the crowds are best off visiting outside of peak summer season or opting for an early morning weekday time slot. For the most atmospheric views, consider an evening visit to admire the illuminated London skyline.
The Shard by Numbers
Standing a dizzying 1,016 feet (309.6 meters) high, The Shard is the tallest building in Western Europe and features a shimmering façade made from some 11,000 panes of glass, with 44 lifts and 306 flights of stairs. At 800 feet (244 meters) high, the observation deck is twice as high as any other London viewpoint, and the 360-degree panoramic views stretch up to 40 miles (64 kilometers) away on a clear day.
Address: 32 London Bridge Street, London SE1, England
Hours: April–Oct: daily 10am–10pm; Nov–March: Sun–Wed 10am–7pm, Thurs–Sat 10am–10pm
Admission: Adult £25.95, Child £19.95
From $ 24
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
The large, Greek-inspired Theatre Royal Drury Lane is the oldest theater site in London that is still in use. Having opened in 1663, it is considered to be one of the most important theaters in the world – architecturally and historically speaking. No other theater in Britain has a longer history of continuous use. More than three centuries old, the Theatre Royal Drury Lane is also said to be one of the most haunted buildings in all of London – no small feat for a city that claims its fair share of spooky old buildings ( a skeleton with a knife in its chest was found in a hidden room in the 1870s)! The interior of the theater is ornately decorated with plush red-velvet seats for a truly traditional theatergoing experience. The current building was completed in 1812, and has the distinction of having been paid a visit by every monarch on the throne since then. Productions at the theater fill the house regularly, with hits like ‘Oklahoma,’ ‘My Fair Lady,’ and ‘Oliver’ seeing runs of hundreds of performances. Visitors can see a show and also take a professional guided tour through a tour company.
Practical Info
Shows being performed at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane (commonly known just as ‘Drury Lane’) change frequently. The building faces Catherine Street and backs onto Drury Lane. The disabled entrance is on Russell Street. There are four spaces for wheelchairs, L1 and 35, K1 and 35, with seating for companions in the same row.
Address: Catherine Street, London WC2B 5JF, England
Hours: Varies per show
Admission: Varies per show
From $ 19
ZSL London Zoo
The world’s oldest scientific zoo with a history dating back to 1828, the ZSL (Zoological Society of London) London Zoo remains one of the city’s most popular family attractions. The zoo’s myriad animal residents include over 750 species, from mighty lions to cute penguins to creepie crawlies.
The Basics
A London Zoo entry ticket includes full access to the zoo’s many attractions, as well as daily events such as zookeeper talks and animal feedings. From February to October, it’s also possible to upgrade to include skip-the-line access. If you’re sightseeing in London, it might be worth investing in a London Pass, which includes free entrance to the zoo, as well as other London attractions such as the View from the Shard and the Tower of London, plus a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lines can be long, especially in peak season, so buy tickets in advance.
- On-site facilities include paid storage lockers, water fountains, and restaurants and gift shops.
- Paid parking is available but limited; visitors are encouraged to arrive by public transport.
- Visitors are required to pass through security and submit to bag checks before entrance to the zoo.
- The ZSL London Zoo is wheelchair accessible and discounted entrance fees are available.
How to Get There
Camden Town (Northern line) is the closest Tube station; from there, it’s a short walk to the zoo entrance. There are also several buses that run from Camden past the zoo. You can also reach the zoo from the Baker Street (Bakerloo, Metropolitan, Circle, and Hammersmith & City lines) or Regent's Park (Bakerloo line) Tube stations and then walking through the scenic Regent’s Park.
When to Get There
London Zoo is open daily year round, although opening times vary slightly throughout the year. The busiest time to visit is in July and August or during school holidays; weekdays outside of these times are generally much quieter. To avoid the crowds, opt to visit on a rainy day; many of the outdoor viewing areas are covered, and there are a number of indoor exhibitions as well.
Wildlife Experiences at ZSL London Zoo
Highlights of a visit to ZSL London Zoo include the Tiger Territory, where you can marvel at endangered Sumatran tigers through floor-to-ceiling glass windows; the Gorilla Kingdom, where Western Lowland Gorillas roam freely in their African jungle habitat; the Land of the Lions, where walkways overlook mighty creatures; and the Penguin Beach, where 150 Macaroni and Humboldt penguins live in an enormous pool. Behind-the-scenes tours, zookeeper-for-a-day programs, and interactive BUGS sessions are also available for those wanting a more hands-on experience.
Address: Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, England
Admission: Prices vary by season
From $ 27
Tower of London
From medieval torture to grim executions and infamous royal prisoners, the Tower of London has long found itself at the center of the city's dark history. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, the historic castle has served as a Royal Menagerie, Her Majesty's prison, an execution site, a royal observatory, a Royal Mint, and a military storehouse over the course of its existence.
The Basics
Today, the tower famously displays the Crown Jewels (which include the Imperial State Crown) and holds centuries of history within its walls, drawing travelers from near and far. It remains guarded by members of the Royal Bodyguards, known as Beefeaters. Visitors can admire the Royal Armouries in the White Tower, walk along the battlements, and see where Anne Boleyn was executed by order of Henry VIII. The popular Torture at the Tower exhibit, the Coins and Kings exhibit at the Royal Mint, the Fusilier Museum, and the Line of Kings all shed light on the tower's history.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is an incredibly popular London attraction, so it's recommended that you buy your ticket or book your tour in advance.
- Choose an early-access tour to beat the crowds, or combine your trip with visits to other top London sites.
- Special events, medieval reenactments, and family activities are held at the tower throughout the year.
How to Get to the Tower of London
The tower is located at the north end of the Tower Bridge on London's Thames River waterfront. The closest tube station is Tower Hill via the Circle and District lines.
When to Get There
The tower is open March to October from 9am to 5:30pm (Sunday and Monday from 10am) and November to February from 9am to 4:30pm (Sunday and Monday from 10am). Due to its popularity, queues can get long, especially in the afternoon—visiting first thing in the morning is your best bet to avoid crowds.
Unlocking the Tower's Secrets
The tower's wildly entertaining Beefeaters, or Yeoman Warders, share stories and secrets on the widely recommended Beefeater tour. Learn fun facts such as how six ravens are kept at the Tower of London at all times, and how legend has it that if they ever leave, the tower will fall. There's even a "raven master" tasked with looking after them and a seventh raven on hand just in case. Tours begin every 30 minutes.
Address: Tower Hill, London EC3N 4AB, England
Hours: March–Oct Tues–Sat 9am–5:30pm; Sun–Mon 10am–5:30pm; Nov–Feb Tues–Sat 9am–4:30pm, Sun–Mon 10am–4:30pm
Admission: Adult £25, Child £12
From $ 8
Shoreditch
The geographical center of London’s East End, Shoreditch has long been the district’s beating heart – an eclectic, cosmopolitan, and ever-changing neighborhood favored by artists, students, and fashionistas. Sandwiched in-between the high-rise office blocks of Liverpool and the City to the west, and the vibrant Bangladeshi communities of Brick Lane to the southeast, modern-day Shoreditch is known for its lively markets, bold street art, and cutting edge nightlife.
The best way to explore the district is on a walking tour, taking in highlights such as Brick Lane, London’s ‘curry mile’; the famous Spitalfields Market; and the main thoroughfares of Old Street, Great Eastern Street and Shoreditch High Street. Alternatively, explore the district’s renowned street art on a photography tour of Shoreditch; discover the hip bars, music venues and clubs on a Shoreditch pub crawl; or tuck into some of the East End’s best street food on a food tasting tour of Shoreditch.
Practical Info
Shoreditch is located in London’s East End, just north of Whitechapel and west of Bethnal Green.
Did You Know? British celebrities including Alexa Chung, Jarvis Cocker, Tracey Emin, and Keira Knightly have all lived or own houses in Shoreditch.
Address: Shoreditch, London, England
From $ 19
Shaftesbury Theatre
From foot-stomping musicals like Burn the Floor and Rock of Ages, to classics like Hairspray, Fame, and Rent, as well as recent hit Motown: The Musical—the Shaftesbury Theatre has earned its stripes over the last two decades as one of the top theaters of London’s West End. The legendary theater has a history dating back to 1911, when it opened its doors as The Princes Theatre. It’s now a GradeII-listed building with a seating capacity of 1,400, and the largest independent theater in the West End.
Practical Info
Shaftesbury Theatre is located on Shaftesbury Avenue in London’s West End, just a short stroll from Covent Garden. It is open daily, depending on show times.
Did you know? The first ever production at Shaftesbury Theatre was The Three Musketeers, which opened on Boxing Day, Dec. 26, 1911.
Address: 210 Shaftesbury Ave, London, UK, England
Hours: Daily, depending on show times
From $ 112
Beefeater Gin Distillery
The Beefeater Gin Distillery, which opened to visitors in 2014, offers the chance to discover the secrets of London's best-selling gin and get a behind-the-scenes peek at the historic distillery, which dates back to 1862.
The Basics
A Beefeater Gin Distillery tour takes about an hour and includes a guided tour, a self-guided visit to the exhibition areas, and a chance to sample the award-winning Beefeater Gin. Tours are free for London Pass holders and VIP tours, which includes a gin tasting led by an expert, are also available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The legal age for drinking or purchasing alcohol in the UK is 18"”you may be asked for ID. Soft drinks are offered to underage visitors.
- Interactive iPads, which are preloaded with guides and info, are available to rent at the ticket office.
- The distillery is fully wheelchair accessible, complete with lift access and accessible restrooms.
- Advance bookings are recommended.
How to Get There
The Beefeater Gin Distillery is located in Kennington, South London. The nearest tube stations are Oval on the Northern Line and Vauxhall on the Victoria Line.
When to Get There
The distillery is open Monday to Saturday; tours typically run every 30 minutes. The busiest time is in July and August when afternoon tours can sell out; during slower times of year, there may be fewer daily tours.
A Tour of Beefeater Gin Distillery
Tours of the Beefeater Gin Distillery are split into two parts"”a self-guided tour of the interactive Beefeater Gin Distillery Visitor Centre, followed by a guided tour of the facility. During the first half, journey back to 18th-century London and discover the gin craze that swept the city; you can walk down a replica of William Hogarth's famous Gin Lane, explore a Victorian-era Covent Garden (that produced the herbs, fruits, and flowers that flavored the gin), and visit Burrough's American Bar. On the guided tour, meanwhile, you'll see the original copper stills, learn about the art of gin-making, and enjoy a complimentary gin-and-tonic at the distillery's bar.
Address: 20 Montford Pl, London, England
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Bank holidays 11am-4pm
Admission: Tours: Adult £12
From $ 90
The Gherkin (30 St Mary Axe)
Affectionately nicknamed “The Gherkin” for its unusual shape, the dazzling glass-fronted skyscraper at 30 St. Mary Axe is among London's most distinctive landmarks, looming 590 feet (180 meters) over the City of London financial district.
The Basics
The Gherkin is not typically open to the public, although the top floor hosts a private member’s club and there are a number of bars and restaurants in the piazza at the base of the building.
Enjoy impressive views of The Gherkin during a London Thames River evening cruise or a ride on the London Eye; see the landmark up close on a walking tour of historic London; or combine a visit with nearby London attractions like London Bridge, The Monument, the Tower of London, or St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There’s no regular public access to the inside of The Gherkin.
- Most of the bars and restaurants in the building are wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
Located in the City of London financial district, The Gherkin is within walking distance of the Tower of London, the Monument, and Old Spitalfields Market. The closest tube stations are Aldgate on the Circle and Metropolitan lines, and Liverpool Street Station on the Central, Hammersmith & City, Circle, and Metropolitan lines.
When to Get There
The striking landmark looks even more dramatic at night, when its shimmering facade is illuminated.
The Gherkin: An Architectural Marvel
Largely regarded as a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, The Gherkin’s award-winning design was the work of Norman Foster, whose company also renovated buildings such as the Reichstag in Berlin, London City Hall, and Wembley Stadium. While best known for its resemblance to—you guessed it—a gigantic gherkin, the eye-catching design also includes energy-conserving features such as spiraling light wells and ventilation shafts. Today, the famous office building houses companies such as Swiss Re and Sky News.
Address: 30 St Mary Axe, London EC3A 8EP, England
From $ 43
Smithfield Market
Today one of the largest wholesale meat markets in all of Europe, Smithfield Market has been buying and selling meat and poultry for over 800 years. Also known as London Central Markets, this is the largest historic market still standing in the City of London.
Early risers can still witness some of Britain’s finest meats being hand-picked by London restaurateurs, or purchase their own meats, poultry, olive oils and cheese. The structure itself is known for its bright colors and Victorian architecture, and many visitors combine their visit to the market with a stop at one of the trendy Farringdon-area restaurants.
Practical Info
Close to St. Paul’s Cathedral, the market is just a few minutes’ walk from both the Farringdon and Barbican tube stations. The market is open Monday through Friday, and parking is also available in the Smithfield Underground Car Park. Vendors begin selling at 3 a.m. and continue until mid-morning, so it is recommended that visitors arrive by 7 a.m.
Address: East Market Building, London EC1A 9PQ, England
Hours: Monday-Friday 3am until mid-morning
From $ 34
Whitehall
Whitehall is a main thoroughfare in London running south from the southern end of Trafalgar Square towards Parliament Square. It is named for the Palace of Whitehall that stood in the area until the end of the 17th century and was originally a wide road that led to the front of the palace. The famous Trafalgar Square was built at the northern end of Whitehall in the early 19th century. Whitehall is lined with government buildings, including the Old War Office, the Admiralty Buildings, the Horse Guards, the Ministry of Defense and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
Whitehall is also known for its memorial statues and monuments, most notably the national war memorial known as the Cenotaph. In 2005, the National Monument to the Women of World War II was erected just north of the Cenotaph. Other monuments to keep an eye out for along Whitehall are those of Prince George, Duke of Cambridge; Spencer Cavendish, 8th Duke of Devonshire; Douglas Haig, 1st Earl Haig; William Slim, 1st Viscount Slim; Alan Brooke, 1st Viscount Alanbrooke; and Bernard Montgomery, 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein.
Practical Info
Whitehall runs through the City of Westminster in London. The closest Underground stations are Charing Cross near Trafalgar Square and Westminster near Parliament Square.
Address: London, England
From $ 25
Twickenham Stadium
Twickenham Stadium, also sometimes referred to as Twickenham or Twickers, is a rugby stadium located in the town of Twickenham within the London borough of Richmond upon Thames. It is the home of the rugby union and therefore hosts a big number of important rugby matches, such as the Aviva Premiership, the LV Cup and the Middlesex Sevens. Twickenham Stadium has also been a host for the Rugby World Cup several times.
Apart from a number of impressive concerts by world famous artists, Twickenham Stadium has been reserved for rugby and is actually the biggest stadium in the world devoted to the sport. After extensive reconstruction in 1995 and another redevelopment a decade later, the stadium now seats 82,000 people and also holds a Marriott hotel overlooking the fields as well as the World Rugby Museum. As the name suggests, the museum doesn’t only focus on English rugby, but covers the sport as a worldwide phenomenon. Find out about the origins of some of the world’s most famous rugby players, relive several of the best matches the sport has ever seen and learn about rugby history from its beginnings to the present day with interactive displays. Additionally, an ever changing selection of special exhibitions cover some of the more obscure details and items of the sport.
Practical Info
Twickenham Stadium can be found in South West London. The nearest train station, also called Twickenham, is only a short walk away from the stadium. There is parking available, however the parking spaces are limited and especially on game days, it’s advisable to pre-book online. There are tours of the stadium and the museum available several times a day, but the stadium is closed on Mondays, on holidays, as well as during matches and events.
Address: Whitton Road, Twickenham, United Kingdom, England
Admission: Pricing varies
From $ 32
Sir John Soane's Museum
Housed within the walls of his own home, Sir John Soane’s Museum was designed to inspire students of architecture and drawing by providing examples of different architectural styles and decoration. It has been open to the public since 1837.
The Basics
Sir John Soane was a successful British neoclassical architect, responsible for designing several important Regency-era buildings, including the Bank of England. After becoming professor of architecture at the Royal Academy, he decided to create a museum within his home (made up of three buildings in Lincoln’s Inn Fields) for his students, and the result is a quirky collection of copies of famous statues, Soane’s architectural models, and artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
Visit independently or book a tour that visits the museum, like the secret gardens excursion of London that includes afternoon tea.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Admission to the museum is free.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible but is narrow in parts. There are a few special custom-sized wheelchairs available.
- You can prebook a guided tour.
- The museum does not have a shop or cafe.
How to Get There
The museum is located at 13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields in Holborn, London. The closest tube (subway) stop is Holborn (Piccadilly and Central lines) which is a short walk away. Numerous buses including nos. 1, 59, and 188 stop nearby on Kingsway.
When to Get There
Sir John Soane’s museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10am–5pm. Last entry is at 4:30pm. It’s also open on bank holidays. Weekends are the busiest time to visit.
Take a Break at Lincoln’s Inn Fields
Thought to have inspired Central Park in New York, the urban green space at Lincoln’s Inn Fields is a popular spot to stop and take a break on any busy day out visiting London’s museums. Close to Sir John Soane’s Museum and the British Museum, it’s the largest public square in the city.
Address: 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields, England
From $ 93
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square—the living, breathing, and beating heart of London’s West End—plays an integral part in local life as a site of celebrations, protests, performances, parades, and public gatherings. Overlooked by grand, stately buildings such as the National Gallery and St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church, this vast square is dotted with iconic fountains and statuary. Most famous among them is the 144-foot (44-meter) Nelson’s Column, which commemorates a British naval victory over France and Spain, and is guarded by four oversized bronze lions.
The Basics
Trafalgar Square is one of the best places to take the pulse of life in England’s capital city. While many tourists come here independently, a guide can help enlighten visitors as to the significance of the square’s many monuments and sights as well as draw attention to the splendid surrounding architecture. Trafalgar Square is commonly included on sightseeing tours of the West End and Central London, along with nearby Westminster, where you’ll find Big Ben and the United Kingdom’s Houses of Parliament. You may also encounter Trafalgar Square during guided walking tours, bus tours, and bike tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You’ll find public restrooms at the west end of the square; a small charge applies.
- Check ahead to see if an event is scheduled. Preparation for big events may result in limited access.
- The National Gallery offers free Wi-Fi.
How to Get There
The nearest station to Trafalgar Square is Charing Cross, which is served by the Bakerloo and Northern Underground lines as well as by regular rail. Embankment (Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Northern lines), Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines), and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) stations are all fewer than 10 minutes’ walk away.
When to Get There
Trafalgar Square is at its liveliest in summer. Lunchtime is particularly good for people-watching as office workers decamp from their desks to eat on the steps in front of the National Gallery. In the run-up to the festive period, a giant Christmas tree—a gift from Norway to the people of Britain—is erected in the center of the square, and carolers belt out festive songs to raise money for charity.
The Fourth Plinth
Built in 1841, Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth was originally meant to host a statue of King William IV, but because of a lack of funds, it stood empty for more than a century. Until recently, that is, when the mayor of London decided to put the plinth to good use: as a showcase for contemporary artwork. In 2017 the plinth held David Shrigley’s Really Good, a 22-foot (7-meter) bronze thumbs-up.
Address: Trafalgar Square, London SW1, England
Admission: Free
From $ 12