There’s no shortage of exciting things to do in London. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime to one of the greatest cities in the world.
Full of historical sites and contemporary landmarks, London is a city that’s on many people’s bucket lists.
Ideally, you’ll get to pick your favorites right after you check out our list of the unique things to do in London. But if you’re up for the challenge, do all of them during your trip.
It’s going to be worth it.
#1 – Take a Cable Car Ride over the Thames River
Set between the Royal Docks and Greenwich Peninsula, the Emirates Air Line cable car offers quite a different view of the city.
From above, you’ll get to see the London skyline, the O2 Arena, and the Thames river. You can also get to see a stunning London sunset on a cable car if you time your ride right.
During the day, the ride takes 10 minutes and the cars arrive every half a minute. The night rides go slower and may last up to 13 minutes.
For romantics, they can choose to have champagne during the ride. And there’s also an option to reserve a private cabin that has a capacity of 10.
#2 – Take A Snapshot with Your Favorite Celebrity
Madame Tussauds is one of the museums in London that most people agree you shouldn’t miss. From historical icons to Hollywood superstars, the museum has over 250 wax figures for you to see.
You can walk the red carpet with Kate Winslet or strike a pose with David Beckham in the sports zone. For the superhero buffs, the museum shows a 4D movie featuring familiar heroes of the Marvel universe.
You can also learn about what goes into the making of the unbelievably lifelike sculptures on display.
#3 – Tour the Tower of London
Standing proud for 900 years, the Tower of London has been a royal palace, a jewel house, and a zoo. It’s also notorious for being a prison where many met their maker.
For those curious about the place’s grim history, there’s a Beefeater guide who’ll tell you all about the executions that took place. You’ll also learn about the myth of the tower’s ravens and see the historic armory and weapons.
Since it was the first zoo in London, you can also learn more about the Royal Beasts that once inhabited the tower.
#4 – Visit Shakespeare’s Theater
Your stay in London wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Globe Theatre.
It’s a faithful reconstruction of the playhouse where the genius playwright worked. And from Tuesday to Sunday, you can go on a 50-minute tour and discover more about the original playhouse and this theater.
Of course, you can also see a play there, just so long as you book your tickets in advance.
#5 – Tour the Warner Bros. Studio
Harry Potter fans will cherish the chance to see where the iconic saga was filmed. The studio tour takes you through the sets, the props, and the costumes featured in the movies.
You’ll get to check out Hagrid’s hut, Dumbledore’s office, and the Great Hall. You can go through the Diagon Alley and take a photo at Platform 9¾ as you’re about to board the Hogwarts Express.
Relive the most memorable scenes and find out how all the magic came to life.
#6 – Ride the London Eye
With its 32 capsules and breathtaking 360° views, the London Eye is a great contemporary London landmark.
The wheel takes you 443ft into the air for a unique view of the city’s landmarks. And as you ascend or descend, you’ll see Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben.
The capsules are equipped with interactive guides that can tell you more about the landmarks. The ride takes half an hour and there are fast entry tickets for those who wish to skip the long queues.
Note that you may want to book the tickets online prior to your arrival.
#7 – Visit Portobello Road Market
The main street of Notting Hill, Portobello Road, is where over 1,000 merchants set up shop. It’s easily one of the best places in all of London to pick up some authentic souvenirs.
The shops sell an assortment of quintessentially British merchandise, like recreations of Banksy’s art, tea sets, and regional antiques.
You’ll enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and abundance of quality food. That said, make sure to check out some of the food stalls or take a break inside one of the restaurants.
#8 – Stroll down Piccadilly Circus
The atmosphere may remind you of New York’s Times Square, but better – that is if you prefer to have Edwardian buildings reflecting the billboards lights.
Piccadilly Circus alone is filled with exciting things to do in London.
After all, this is the seat of all the hustle and bustle in the city and a great starting point to go bar hopping. You’ll be just a short walk away from some of London’s best bars and clubs.
#9 – Shop at Camden Market
This is where a lot of Londoners choose to spend their afternoons.
The market opens at 10 every morning and the 200 stalls carry all the goods you can think of. You’ll find fashion, furniture, ethnic cuisines, and souvenirs, to name but a few. Not to be missed are the Portuguese desserts and antique home decor.
And when you’ve had enough of all the shopping, head on to one of the many cool bars tucked away in Camden’s narrow streets.
#10 – Take a Break at Hyde Park
If you want to unwind and escape for a little, Hyde Park is the place to go. You can walk the footpaths or rent a bike and cycle to all of the park’s attractions.
The most iconic place is the Speakers’ Corner where George Orwell and Karl Marx had their debates back in the day.
Experience London
This top 10 list only scratches the surface of what London has to offer. The hope is that they can at least get you ready to immerse yourself in this world-class city’s charm and tradition.
