With so much history and culture, where does one start sightseeing in London? It would take a lifetime to see it all, which is why I compiled this shortlist of top London sights and experiences to explore on your visit. This list will take you from iconic must-sees, to cool, lesser-known things to see in London. If you’re looking for a way to piece some of these highlights together in a logical order, check out my 3-day London itinerary.
1. Listen to Big Ben toll at the Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament aka Palace of Westminister, is the meeting place for the UK’s two houses of Parliament and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Gothic Revival building was constructed after a fire in 1834 destroyed most of the preceding medieval complex on the site.
Here at the Houses of Parliament you’ll also find the London landmark often referred to as “Big Ben”—through Big Ben is the bell inside and what you’re actually looking at is Elizabeth Tower.
2. Tour Westminster Abbey
Just around the corner is Westminster Abbey, established by Benedictine Monks in 960AD. The current gothic structure was built during the reign of King Henry III. For the last 900+ years the Abbey has been the venue for the coronation of British monarchs along with royal weddings and funerals. There are also renowned British poets, writers and scientists memorialized and interred at the royal church.
I recommend arriving at Westminster Abbey right as it opens (9:30 on weekdays, 9:00am on weekends) to avoid long queues for tickets and to allow time for your audio-guided tour (included in your admission) .
3. Be royally impressed by Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace, the official royal residence, is regally beautiful and historically significant at any time of day. If you can time your visit for the Changing of the Guard, it adds even more dimension to your visit and is one of the great free things to do in London.
The Guard conducts their ceremonial change of shifts in the Palace’s forecourt on different schedules depending on the season – see the calendar here to confirm dates.
Tip: For an alternate and arguably better Changing of the Guard experience, see these instructions from local London tour guide, Sinead.
4. Go underground at the Churchill War Rooms
The Churchill War Rooms are named for former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, who with his colleagues directed WWII from an underground bomb shelter. Allow at least 90-minutes to explore the fascinating Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum using the audio guide included in admission of £27 per adult.
5. Stand at the centre of London at Trafalgar Square
Present day Trafalgar Square is a 19th-century public square in the Westminster area of London, but its historical significance reaches back to the 1200s when it was known as Charing Cross.
The famous Square is centred by Nelson’s Column, a monument to Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar (that’s the one where the British Navy fought the combined French and Spanish forces in 1805). Trafalgar Square is also home to two large fountains and various sculptures. It is bordered by outstanding architecture including Admiralty Arch, the National Gallery, St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, Canada House and South Africa.
Tip: Look for the equestrian statue of Charles I in the middle of the roundabout. This is the zero point from which measurements of distance to/from London are made. You’ll find a plaque set into the pavement, marking the spot.
6. Explore the long history of the Tower of London
The Tower of London is a former royal residence, fortified castle and prison, with over 900 years of history. Today you can explore the fortress and its historic cast of characters from royals to rascals. You can take a tour with a Yeoman Warder aka “Beefeater”, meet the Tower’s guardian flock of ravens and see the crown jewels.
Adults are £29.90 to enter, which includes various buildings and exhibits such as: The Jewel House, The White Tower, Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula, Battlements, Medieval Palace, Bloody Tower and Royal Mint exhibition. See here for opening hours. Allow at least 3-hours to see the Tower of London.
7. See Tower Bridge from all angles
Tower Bridge (not London Bridge, that’s different) is one of the most recognisable structures in the London skyline and popular London sights. You can experience Tower Bridge by simply walking across it, or you can explore its inner workings from Walkway to Engine Room with the Tower Bridge Experience. Take an hour to learn about its architecture and history from this unique perspective above (and below) the Thames.
8. Eat at Borough Market
Borough Market is the perfect place to refuel while you are sightseeing in London and its open 7-days. Discover the enticing fresh produce and artisan products alongside delicious prepared food, pubs and cafes. Grab something on the go or stop and enjoy a sit down meal.
The Market is divided into three areas. If you are hungry, look for the Borough Market Kitchen area for street food vendors.
Tip: Look for Kappacasein Dairy which has a reputation for the best cheese toasties in London and The Ginger Pig who serve fantastic sausage rolls.
9. Get theatrical at Shakespeare’s Globe
This is not the original Globe Theatre of Shakespeare’s day, which was destroyed by fire and rebuilt only to be closed during the English civil war. This is a faithful reproduction of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, close to where the original stood.
Take a one-hour tour around the working theatre to learn how the current Globe retains the authenticity of the 16th-century original and continues to bring to life the works of Shakespeare. If you’re travelling during the warmer months, catch a show here and see the venue it in action.
10. Take to the Sky Garden
Sky Garden is an observation deck located at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street, the building colloquially known as “the Walkie Talkie building”. The free attraction touts its status as “London’s highest public garden” with 360-degree views of the city. This is a great place to see London from above. It doesn’t require a costly ticket like The Shard, but it is best to book in advance as places are limited. This is especially so during the summer high season.
11. Be astounded by St Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece that has survived fires, wars and political unrest. Its dome is another highly recognizable feature of the London skyline. Explore the Baroque Cathedral and its crypts using a multimedia guide or take a guided tour.
If you are able-bodied, climb the 528 steps to the Golden Gallery and see London from St Paul’s magnificent dome. There are several elevated viewpoints to take in London including The View from the Shard, Sky Garden, London Eye and Tate Modern Viewing Level, but this is my favourite.
12. Visit the British Museum
Spend an hour or so exploring the highlights of the British Museum and discover astounding artifacts of human history, art and culture. Even if you can only squeeze in an hour to see highlights, it’s worth your time. Must-see exhibits include the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon Sculptures and Lewis Chessmen.
13. National Gallery & Portrait Gallery
Enjoy the British National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery, with their outstanding collections. Highlights of the National Gallery include works by Vermeer, Titian, Cézanne, Seurat, Monet, Bellini, Botticelli, Rembrandt, Reubens and more. Admission to the National Gallery is by donation of your choosing.
In addition, the neighbouring National Portrait Gallery is said to hold the most extensive collection of portraits in the world, with over 215,000 artworks that cover the 16th-century to present. The Gallery is filled with famous faces including various monarchs, writers, politians and artists. Start with the National Gallery and move onto the Portrait Gallery if you have more time.
Note: The National Portrait Gallery is closed until 2023 for major renovations.
14. Design a few hours at the V&A (Victoria and Albert) Museum
This art and design mecca is said to hold the world’s largest collection of applied and decorative arts and design. The Museum encompasses architecture, costume, photography, furniture and more. There’s lots to see, so use the Museum’s highlights to guide your visit if you’re short on time. You can also join a free V&A Highlights Tour, held daily at 10:30 and 14:00.
The Museum’s permanent collection is free of charge, though there may be an admission fee for temporary exhibits.
15. Indulge in afternoon tea at the Ritz London
Afternoon tea (improperly but commonly referred to as high tea) is a British institution. The Ritz is one of the oldest and most sought-out afternoon tea experiences in London. Rest and replenish after some sightseeing in London, with 3-tiers (plus extras) of food and a pot of tea (or two) in the ornate Palm Court. The Ritz London afternoon tea is silver service with a price to match, but trust me, you won’t need to eat dinner afterwards.
Due to its popularity, you will absolutely need a booking for afternoon tea at The Ritz. Ensure you are properly dressed for the occasion – men will need a jacket and tie, no jeans or sportswear allowed for anyone. Consult the website for menus, hours, and to make a booking.
16. See some West End theatre
London’s West End is one of the most famous and well-regarded theatre districts in the world. From the street, West End is akin to New York’s Broadway Theatre District: tacky and over-touristed with obnoxious LED billboards, souvenir hawkers and overpriced restaurants—mind the pickpockets too. It really puts the “Circus” in Piccadilly Circus! But once inside a theatre, you’ll find the tourist gauntlet is worth it. If you want to see London’s longest running show (it must be good, right?), it’s Agatha Christies’ The Mousetrap.
17. Saunter around the highlights of Hyde Park
Take a lap around the key sights of Hyde Park including Speakers’ Corner, Diana Memorial Fountain and the Rose Garden (when in season), before continuing your sightseeing in London in Kensington Gardens.
18. See the beauty of Kensington Palace and Gardens
Within Kensington Gardens you’ll find the beautiful Italian Gardens, Peter Pan Statue, Serpentine Gallery and Albert Memorial. At the far western end of the Gardens is Kensington Palace and the Queen Victoria Statue.
Kensington Palace is known for being the birthplace of Queen Victoria and childhood home of various royals. Though it’s no Versailles, the Palace is a great place to get the 101 on some of the royals and particularly the often under-represented females. The admission for adults is £20, check here for opening hours.
Tip: Kensington Palace is also the only royal palace in London that offers afternoon tea. See the Palace website for more details.
19. Scale the Monument to the Great Fire of London
Next on the list of top things to do in London is the Monument to the Great Fire. The Great Fire indelibly changed, London burning most of the medieval city to the ground. The Monument, a Doric column topped with an urn of fire, memorialises the catastrophic event which started in a bakery on nearby Pudding Lane. For £5.80 you can climb 311 steps to the viewing platform near the top.
Tip: If you are visiting one of the other previously mention observation decks while sightseeing in London, note that the view from the Monument is not as good. Depending on your budget, it may be worth saving your pennies for another attraction.
20. Wander Whitehall and Downing Street
Whitehall Street, between the Houses of Parliament and Trafalgar Square, is recognised as the centre of the British government. Whitehall is lined with ministries housed in opulent Neoclassical and Palladian-style structures, along with various monuments and memorials. You will also pass by the well-guarded and gated official residence of the British Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street.
21. Follow the Changing of the Guard from St James’ Palace
This red-brick palace was built between 1531-1536 during the reign of Henry VIII and remains the most senior royal palace in the United Kingdom. As the residence of English monarchs for over 300 years, it has been the setting of many significant historical events. It remains the home of several royal family members and the venue for various state visits, ceremonial occasions and charitable receptions.
If you’re looking for an alternate Changing of the Royal Guard experience, be at St James’s Palace at 10:20am for a prime spot. There in the Friary Court, the guards going off-duty form for uniform inspection by the Captain of The King’s Guard at 10:30am. The unit then parades down The Mall, accompanied by a band or corps of drums, to Buckingham Palace. You can march alongside them all the way, just make sure you keep to the footpath and NOT on the red road—or you might find yourself in a royal bit of strife!
22. Eat, drink and shop at Covent Garden
Covent Garden was home to England’s first public square. The Italian-style Piazza, St Paul’s Church and originally some very fine housing, were designed by renowned architect Inigo Jones. After the Great Fire of London in 1666, the square became London’s largest fresh fruit and vegetable market.
Covent Garden’s neoclassical Market Building still stands today and is home to market stalls, boutiques and restaurants—go hungry! Also in the area you’ll find the Royal Opera House, colourful Neal’s Yard and the excellent, London Transport Museum.
23. See contemporary art at Tate Modern
Tate Modern is an art museum exhibiting modern and contemporary art from around the world. The gallery is housed in a creatively reworked, former power station and has an excellent viewing platform looking out at the north bank of the River Thames. The gallery’s permanent collection is free to enter, while temporary exhibits may require a paid ticket.
24. Make like the Beatles at Abbey Road
Get your picture on one of the world’s most famous pedestrian crossings and outside Abbey Road Studios. Music fans won’t want to miss an opportunity to stand outside these legendary recording studios where the likes of Pink Floyd, Ella Fitzgerald, Radiohead, Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran, Kylie Minogue, Lady Gaga, Adele and of course, The Beatles have all made music history.
Be careful and respectful on the pedestrian crossing. This is a working street with traffic and everyday people trying to go about their day. Tourists line up by the dozen to get photos, backing up traffic especially at peak hour. Go first thing in the morning if you can or at least outside major weekday commute times.
25. Stand on the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory Greenwich
Since the 19th-century, the world has told time according to a standard convention that relates to the Royal Observatory at Greenwich in greater London—Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The Observatory was Britain’s first state-funded scientific institution. It was intended to advance studies of astronomy, which would aid in timekeeping, navigation and cartography. The original Observatory buildings sits on the Greenwich Meridian, which was chosen by a delegation from 25 nations, to be the Prime Meridian (aka 0° Longitude).
As London expanded, the Royal Observatory had to be relocated but its original buildings remain in Greenwich and have been opened to the public along with modern Planetarium. Stand on the Prime Meridian and see the first ever Time Ball drop (yes, like the one in NYC on New Year’s Eve but way older, in fact the first one ever).
Tip: The Royal Observatory sits atop of a hill with panoramic views across Greenwich and Canary Wharf. Even if you don’t enter any of the paid attractions here, go for the view!
26. See “the UK’s Sistine Chapel” at the Old Royal Naval College
The Old Royal Naval College is a fascinating place to explore, with 500 years of history and beautiful architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage complex is located on the former site of a Tudor Palace. After the Palace’s destruction during the English civil war, the site became a Royal Hospital—a retirement home for former Seamen.
It later evolved into a Naval College training British Naval officers until 1997 and was opened to the public in 1998. You might even recognize the former College for its film and TV appearances in The Crown, Les Misérables, Cruella and Skyfall, among many others.
Wander around the grounds and explore the exhibits at the Visitor Centre for free. You can also see outstanding interiors of the Chapel of St Peter and St Paul without a ticket. The gem, though. The absolute do-not-miss of the Old Royal Naval College is The Painted Hall, and for that you will need to pay £13.50 (save a dollar by pre-purchasing online).
The Painted Hall is often referred to as the “the UK’s Sistine Chapel” and it is absolutely deserving of the hype. The Hall’s extravagant looking interiors are largely the work of artist Sir James Thornhill, who spent almost 20-years painting the Hall with Italian baroque style murals and architectural details. Get more information on the official website.
11 more things to do in London
Got time for more sightseeing in London? Here are 10 more things to see, do, eat and experience.
- See a performance at Royal Albert Hall, or take a tour of the historic arts centre.
- Explore the street art and vintage shops of Brick Lane.
- Eat and explore at Portobello Road Market.
- Seek out movie locations in Notting Hill.
- Re-fuel with a traditional Sunday roast at a neighbourhood pub.
- Catch a match or take a tour of Lords Cricket Ground.
- Attend a Wimbledon tennis match (usually early-July) or take a tour of Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Club and Museum.
- Spend a sunny day in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- Investigate the Sherlock Holmes Museum in Baker Street.
- Ride in a black taxi and a red double-decker bus.
- Enjoy art, architecture and antiquities with an hour in Sir John Soane’s Museum.
Enjoy your time sightseeing in London. It is an incredible city with so much to offer, there’s almost no doubt you’ll want to return time and again.
Peace, love & inspiring travel,
Madam ZoZo
