London is a city that has captivated the world for centuries with its rich history, iconic landmarks, and diverse culture. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for visitors to decide what to prioritize during their trip. Now let’s be honest, London is so vast it is literally impossible to list down everything in one post. So, to help you plan your visit, here are the most popular things to do in London. However, if you like treading on some of the more niche stuff, check out my other post about the most off-beat things to do in London.
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Visit the Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and its history dates back over 900 years. Originally built as a royal palace, the Tower has been used as a prison, a treasury, a menagerie, and even a royal mint. Today, visitors can tour the Tower’s many exhibits, including the Crown Jewels and the White Tower. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Tower’s history is its reputation as a site of torture and execution. Many famous figures were imprisoned and executed at the Tower, including Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey.
Fun Fact: Legend has it that if the six resident ravens ever leave the tower, the kingdom will fall.
Explore the British Museum
The British Museum is one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive museums, with a collection spanning over two million years of human history. The museum’s most famous exhibits include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the mummies of Ancient Egypt. One of the most interesting aspects of the British Museum is its controversial history of acquiring artifacts from around the world. Many of the museum’s exhibits were taken from other countries during the height of the British Empire, and the debate over whether these items should be returned to their countries of origin continues to this day.
Go to the Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch and has been the home of the royal family since Queen Victoria’s reign. The palace is open to visitors during the summer months, and visitors can take a tour of the state rooms and the gardens. One of the most exciting events at Buckingham Palace is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily during the summer months and on alternate days during the winter. The ceremony features the famous red-coated guards marching to music as they change shifts.
Walk through Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most famous parks, covering 350 acres in the heart of the city. The park was originally created as a hunting ground for King Henry VIII and has since become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Hyde Park is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Serpentine Lake, the Diana Memorial Fountain, and Speakers’ Corner. The park is also a great place to relax, have a picnic, or take a stroll through the gardens.
Explore Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a bustling shopping and entertainment district in the heart of London. The area is known for its street performers, boutique shops, and trendy restaurants. One of the most interesting aspects of Covent Garden is its history as a former fruit and vegetable market. Today, visitors can still see remnants of the market, such as the glass-covered Apple Market, which is now home to a variety of artisanal crafts and gifts.
Take a tour of the Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is the home of the British government and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in London. The building dates back to the 11th century and has since undergone numerous renovations since then. It sits on the bank of the river Thames, which is also a great place for a walk. One of the most iconic images associated with London, the Big Ben, is also a part of this historic building.
Take a ride in the London Eye
The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. The wheel stands 135 meters tall and is the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe. A ride on the London Eye takes approximately 30 minutes and provides stunning views of landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. The London Eye was originally intended to be a temporary attraction, but it was so popular that it became a permanent fixture on the London skyline.
See a show at the West End
The West End is London’s answer to Broadway, with dozens of theaters showing a variety of shows, from musicals to plays. Some of the most popular shows include The Lion King, Les Miserables, and Phantom of the Opera. The atmosphere in the West End is electric, with crowds of theater-goers filling the streets before and after shows. The West End has been a center for theater productions since the 17th century and even today provides entertainment to millions of people annually.
In conclusion, London is one of the most diverse and interesting cities in the world. It is not quite possible to probably see everything that London has to offer. But, I hope this guide will help you pick and choose some of the best ones.
If you have any questions, or want some help to plan your next holiday, feel free to contact me.
