Every time I visit London I fall in love with it more. I love taking the Tube to different destinations around the city, walking along the Thames, going to shows, enjoying the pubs, and yes, I even love the rain! After numerous visits, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite things to do in London.
Tower Bridge
At the top of many people’s list is the iconic Tower Bridge. Be sure to walk across it and snap some pictures! Right next to the bridge on the north side is also the Tower of London, so you can check off two bucket list items right there in the same place. The Tower Bridge is a great way to start off your London adventure.
Jubilee Walk
A walk along the Thames River is a great way to cover some ground and enjoy the London skyline. I would recommend walking on the south side, from the Tower Bridge all the way to the London Eye. Along your walk you will pass by notable sights such as Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, Borough Market, The Shard, Southwark Cathedral (an underrated hidden gem!) and many little alleyways full of shops and eateries. A good stopping point is when you reach the London Eye and then cross the Westminster Bridge over to Big Ben. If you look down, you’ll see the Queen’s Jubilee Walkway symbols helping to guide you along the river.
Markets
There are many amazing markets you will find in London. My favorite market is the Borough Market, set up under the railway tracks and full of artisan bread, mulled wine, fresh meats and cheeses, pastries and so much more! You’ll also find hardier meals like burgers and fish and chips here, making it a great spot for lunch. Among others, Leadenhall Market and the Old Spitalfields Market are great centrally located markets in the city.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is home to some of the cutest little streets you will find in London. You’ll find coffee shops and bakeries on every corner, along with many restaurants and bars that make it a great spot for a meal. There is good shopping here and a lot of notable theaters that house some of the city’s best shows.
West End Theater
That brings us to our next must do! For a fun afternoon or evening out, going to a West End show is something I always look forward to when in London. From The Phantom of the Opera to Mamma Mia to Hamilton, London’s West End district is Europe’s equivalent to New York City’s Broadway! With more availability and cheaper tickets than in NYC, you can easily grab a couple tickets for a show the day of for as little as £20!
Sky Garden
While there are many places in London that offer amazing views of the city, I would highly recommend visiting Sky Garden. It’s free and well, a garden in the sky! While you wander through the jungle-like garden at the top of this skyscraper, the 360° views are pretty hard to beat! Be sure to book a timeslot well in advance (I’m talking weeks, maybe even months!) to ensure you get the opportunity to go up.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Wandering through the City of London district, you’ll find a great mixture of old and new world architecture. St. Paul’s Cathedral is right in the midst of all the hustle and bustle and has held many notable events, such as the funeral of Winston Churchill and the wedding of Prince Charles to Diana, Princess of Wales. Take a few minutes to step inside and gaze up at the beautiful Renaissance-Baroque design, or view the cathedral from afar on the Millenium Bridge.
Big Ben
Perhaps the most prominent figure in the London skyline is Big Ben. Newly painted and refurbished, this clock tower stands prominently next to the Thames and by the Palace of Westminster, the home of the United Kingdom Parliament. A visit to London is not complete without a stop here!
Westminster Abbey
Across the street from the Palace of Westminster is Westminster Abbey. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic architectural masterpiece has been home to the coronations of many Kings and Queens, from William the Conqueror to Elizabeth II. It also serves as the burial grounds for many famous figures, such as Isaac Newton. With church services still held at Westminster today, it is a dignified symbol of the long-reigning Christian tradition and British history dating back centuries.
St. James Park & Buckingham Palace
To get a peek at the life of the royals, Buckingham Palace is a must when visiting London. Located in St. James Park, the grounds surrounding the palace are the perfect spot for a morning stroll. Take a walk down the Mall to get the best view of Buckingham Palace and the Victoria Memorial. If you want to catch the changing of the guards at the palace, head over to the palace at 10:45am.
Piccadilly
Right next to St. James Park is Piccadilly Circus. This is the heart of the West End theater district and home to a huge amount of retail and restaurants. To me, Piccadilly Circus is the Times Square of London, thanks to its flashy billboards and large crowds. Watch out when you cross the streets as this is one of the busiest intersections in London! When walking down Piccadilly street itself, be sure to step into Hatchards, London’s oldest bookstore and a real hidden gem that is easily missed.
Museums
London is home to plenty of museums! And the best part is, the majority are free! From the Victoria and Albert Museum to the National History Museum to the Imperial War Museum, there’s a museum for every interest. Being the lover of history that I am, the British Museum is my favorite pick because of how many ancient artifacts from all over the world it houses, like the actual Rosetta Stone and mummy of Cleopatra. The Churchill War Rooms are at the top of my bucket list for next time.
Eat at the Pubs
I don’t think I could ever get tired of pub food! You can’t make it two blocks in London without running into one! Not only is the food delicious (meat pies yum!) but the atmosphere makes it a great spot to hang out. Some of my favorite London memories have taken place in pubs thanks to the amazing food, friendly people, and fun environment.
Go to a Concert
London is certainly a hotspot for traveling artists from all over the world! Be sure to check out if your favorites are coming to town to grab tickets at world-class venues like the O2 Arena!
I hope you enjoy your adventures in London! And always remember, mind the gap!