Top 15 Things to Do In London This Year

London is a city layered with history, culture, and unmissable experiences. If you are planning to visit London this year, do not miss some corners of the city with amazing stories to tell and unforgettable memories to give. This world-class capital of England is a vibrant destination for all travel enthusiasts. But how do you make each moment of your trip to London count? The city is too rich in options, and we have carefully selected some of them for you. If you wonder which place to go first and what to do to take in the city’s charm, here are the 15 things to do in London for an extraordinary experience.

Buckle up your bags and take a look at our quick list to explore London in the best way possible on your next trip. Read on to find out more!

List of 15 Best Things To Do On Your Next Trip To London

If you like a good afternoon tea, there’s just a place for you in London. For those who want to take romance to the next level, many London attractions can be a perfect backdrop for your tale of love. Wondering about incredible food options or markets to shop for souvenirs? London has it all. Even Benjamin Franklin once said- “London is a roost for every bird.” 

Here is our carefully curated list of 15 best things to do in London for a perfect experience.

• Experience the Changing of the Guard
• Visit the Natural History Museum
• Watch a Cabaret Performance at Copacabana
• Explore God’s Own Junkyard
• Visit the Sky Garden
• Cruise on the River Thames
• Wander Through Camden Market
• Watch a live show or musical at West End
• Have Afternoon Tea at Great Court Restaurant
• Admire the Modern Art at Tate Modern
• Catch a View from The Shard
• Take a Yeoman Warder Tour
• Take a Helicopter Ride Over London
• Book a London Day Trip
• Visit Benjamin Franklin’s House

1. Experience the Changing of the Guard

• Location–Buckingham Palace
• Best For– Families and those into History and Tradition
• Major Attractions- Guard changing ceremony, palace gardens, staterooms, royal lifestyle experiences

The Changing of the Guard is a formal military ceremony at Buckingham Palace where one group of soldiers leaves duty, and the new group replaces them. It is a quintessential experience in London, offering a deep dive into British royal traditions. It is a free and fascinating way to experience the regal heritage of this royal capital. Both kids and adults can enjoy watching the Queen’s Guard hand over their duties to their peers in their iconic red uniforms. It is also one of the best family-friendly activities to experience in London.

When To Watch– August to May on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday around 10:45 a.m. June and July daily at the same time.

2. Visit the Natural History Museum

• Location– South Kensington
• Best For– Everyone who likes history and science
• Major Attractions – Dinosaur Gallery, Guy the Gorilla, Moa bone fragment and skeleton, Earthquakes and Volcanoes

The Natural History Museum is a knowledge haven and one of the best free things to do in London. It offers incredible experiences for history buffs, curious travelers, and science lovers. The museum has several exhibitions that include life-sized dinosaur skeletons, collections of Earth’s geology, interactive displays, and more. It also offers hours of exploration with options ideal for both adults and kids, making it one of the best things to do in London, UK, on your next trip.

Best Time to Visit– Go by 3:00 or 4:00 p.m. to avoid waiting time or crowd.

3. Watch a Cabaret Performance 

• Location- Copacabana or The London Cabaret Club
• Best For– watching live performances, burlesque, and cocktails
• Major Attractions – The Samba Dance, West End Stars Performance, British tapas-inspired menu

Watching a cabaret performance is the best thing to experience London nightlife and Copacabana is the best spot for that. You can also catch dazzling cabaret performances, enjoy live music, and watch burlesque shows and circus at the London Cabaret Club. Both these amazing locations offer you the perfect night out of your boring routine. There are cocktails, entertainment, and glamour packed into each performance here. 

• Best Time For Watching– 7:15 to 7:30 for a preshow, arrive by 6:30 for a perfect experience.

4. Explore God’s Own Junkyard

• Location– Shernhall St, Near Walthamstow Central Station
• Best For– Neon Art Lovers and Insta-worthy photos
• Major Attractions– Neon Lights, Film Props, the Rolling Scones Cafe, Bracey’s artwork

Art lovers who have visited London highly recommend God’s Own Junkyard to others. It is one of the best free art exhibitions in London, offering quirky and colorful signs, artworks, and other glowing installations. Although you’d never run out of things to do in London, without visiting this perfect spot, your trip will be somewhat incomplete. If you would love to click a few Instagram-worthy photos, add God’s Own Junkyard to your bucket list. P.S. It is a hidden gem in East London for art lovers and is totally free to visit. Looking just ordinary on the outside, it offers a spectacular kaleidoscopic collection of artwork inside.

• When to Visit– It is open only on weekends (Fri-Sun). Visit in the evenings for the best experience (before 6:00 p.m.)

5. Visit the Sky Garden

• Location– The Fenchurch Building (The Walkie-Talkie)
• Best For– Panoramic views of London’s skyline, Budget exploration
• Major Attractions– 360-degree London View, African Lilies, Bird of Paradise, Fenchurch restaurant, special events

The highest public garden in London- the Sky Garden, is located at the Fenchurch Building also known as the Walkie Talkie Building at Fenchurch Street. You can visit here for free and enjoy the most spectacular views of the entire city. If you are in London with your partner and looking for a romantic date idea, it is the best place for you. Watch the sunset over the city’s skyline and take a walk through the lush green indoor garden hands in hand with your partner. You can even grab a drink from the bar or simply soak in the panoramic views without spending a single penny.

• Best Time to Visit– Early mornings with no crowds or at sunset for amazing views.

6. Cruise on the River Thames

• Location– Embarkation at Westminster Pier, Tower Pier or Greenwich Pier
• Best For– Sightseeing, Couples, and First-time visitors
• Major Attractions– the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Hampton Court Palace, Cutty Sark

If it's your first time in London, a River Thames cruise is something you should never miss. It is one of the best things you can do in London for an amazing experience without going over budget. There are several cruise options available, like sightseeing tours, dinner cruises, evening jazz cruises, and more to suit different needs and budgets. Take a 40-minute cruise along the River Thames or include it with an additional attraction for a perfect experience (ticket prices starting-£19.50). You can also try London Boat Tours from London Eye- and spot the popular places to visit in London from the water.

• Best Time For Cruise– try late afternoon or early evening on Weekdays.

7. Wander Through the Camden Market

• Location– Camden Town. London
• Best For– Shopping, live music, and street food
• Major Attractions – Stables Market, Dingwalls, Lane7, Photomatic event, Secret Food Tours

The Camden Market in the English capital, London, is a diverse community of street food trades, creative sellers, and independent stores. This market has a variety of cultures, cuisines, and creativity throughout. You can shop in one of its amazing shops or try the delicious food options in one of the food stalls. There are often live performances to suit each type of traveler. This market also offers exciting things to do in London with kids. So, do not miss visiting Camden Town on your next trip to the city.

• Best Time to Visit- Early morning on weekdays for bargains and lunchtime for delicious food.

8. Watch A Live Show Or Musical At West End

• Location– Victorica Palace Theatre, Lyceum Theatre, or more West End Theatres
• Best For– Theater and opera lovers, live entertainment
• Major Attractions– The Mousetrap, Back to the Future Musical, Leicester Square, Mamma Mia!, The Lion King, The Phantom of the Opera

The best theater productions in London are found in the West End of London. It is home to several iconic theatres with live shows, performances, and musicals running all year round. You can watch the long-running show The Phantom of the Opera or catch a Lion King Musical performance at the Lyceum Theatre. Go to Leicester Square and find the best live music venues in London for a perfect experience in the West End. You can also watch Hamilton at the Victoria Palace Theatre or find other famous performances with live entertainment.

• When to Visit– November to Early January for the best shows

Read More - Best Places To Visit In London

9. Have Afternoon Tea at Great Court Restaurant

• Location– The British Museum, Bloomsbury
• Best For– A Royal and historical experience
• Major Attractions– mezzanine floor, European-style dishes, communal dining

Skip the pricey afternoon tea at famous restaurants like Ritz and Palm Court, and choose to have afternoon tea at the British Museum, London. The museum showcases the history of the United Kingdom in a new light. You can sip your favorite tea in between of your discovery session of its famous treasures and experience England’s rich history. Many famous tea hotspots of London are not kid-friendly which this Great Court Restaurant in the British Museum can be a good alternative for. Take your kids along and spend your afternoon sipping aromatic tea after a day full of strolls.

• Timings- Book in advance and arrive before 4:00 p.m. as no new sittings are allowed after that.

10. Admire the Modern Art at Tate Modern

• Location– Bankside, London
• Best For–admirers of modern and contemporary art.
• Major Attractions– Fountain by Marcel Duchamp, Marilyn Diptych by Andy Warhol, Turbine Hall, Modigliani and Mondrian

Tate Modern is a modern art gallery located in Bankside, London, England. It showcases some of the best modern and contemporary art pieces and works from famous artists across the world. It is a totally free-to-visit experience, and you can find various sculptures, paintings, and large-scale installations from big names like Yayoi Kusama and Pablo Picasso. Henri Matisse, and more. Tate Modern also features several exhibitions throughout the year for art enthusiasts from budding and famous artists.

• The Best Time to Visit– Weekday mornings for the quietest experiences and have more time to admire the art.

11. Catch a View from The Shard

• Location– London Bridge Street
• Best For– Exclusive and Panoramic Views with rich experience
• Major Attractions- Viewing Platform, Aqua Shard, Hutong, Oblix, The Slide

You can catch breathtaking views of London city from the View from the Shard at London Bridge street. The View from the Shard is a 72-story skyscraper and one of the tallest buildings in London, United Kingdom, meanwhile the 7th tallest in Europe. The viewing platform is located on the top floors 68, 69 and 72. You can gaze across the entire city with this point and enjoy exciting views from a high vantage point. Take at least 45 to 60 minutes to catch all the details of the city. The tickets can be purchased at the location, or you can buy Fast Track tickets in advance to save time.

• The best time to Visit– around 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. for a magical experience.

12. Take a Yeoman Warder Tour 

• Location– The Tower Of London, Tower Hill
• Best For– History and Royal Heritage
• Major Attractions– Traitor’s Gate, the scaffold site, The Bloody Tower, the medieval palace, The White Tower, The Ravens, the Armoury in action

The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage site with several tales of its everlasting history. Back in the 1000s, it was used both as a prison and a royal residence. Today, this iconic fortress houses the Crown Jewels. You can take a Yeoman Warder Tour of this iconic tower and learn more about it. Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, will share the major stories from 1000 years back in history with you. Find out ticket prices and more with lowfarescanners and book tickets to experience London uniquely.

• When to Visit– Mornings or late afternoon; avoid weekends if you do not want extra crowds.

Read More - Places To Visit Near London

13. Try a Helicopter Ride To See London From The Skies

• Location– Departure from Battersea Heliport
• Best For- Adventure Lovers, Couples, and Photographers
• Major Attractions– Houses of Parliament, The City, St Paul’s, The Globe Theatre, Thames River, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Olympic Stadium

You can travel the entire city on foot and explore all the places to visit in London. But if you are searching for the most epic things to do in the city, taking a helicopter tour is something you must try. This tour gives you extraordinary aerial views of famous London landmarks like Buckingham Palace, The Tower of London, The Shard, and more. A typical ride lasts around 50 minutes to 1 hour. Check out different ride options and your departure place can also vary based on that.

• When To Ride– Spring and Summer during midday, around 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

14. Book a London Day Trip

• Location– Several departures and drop-off points
• Best For– The whole exploration of London City
• Major Attractions– Bath, Stonehenge, Canterbury, Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle

Will you be in London for at least 4-5 days? Book exciting day trips from London and explore the heart of England at its best. A royal residence- Windsor Castle can be explored in half a day, and you can even add Stonehenge to your day trip. Other options include a visit to Bath and Stonehenge, include the White Cliffs of Dover on your trip for a better experience. Or plan a day trip to the Cotswolds.

• Booking Tip– Book a day trip that leaves early in the day and offers maximum exploration options.

15. Visit Benjamin Franklin’s House

• Location– 36 Craven St, London 
• Best For– Literature tours, Book Club, Architecture tours
• Major Attractions- Educational Programs, Private Events, Photoshoots, Medical history Room

If you have been a fan of Benjamin Franklin’s original works, you can pay a visit to his house in London. He lived in London for 16 years in the late 1700s and called this house located at 36 Craven Street his home. Today it is turned into a museum as it's the only house where you can still find some of his works. 

• Best Time To Visit– Fridays for architectural tours, Sat-Sun for historical experiences.

Concluding,

London has a diverse range of experiences available for every visitor. Try a helicopter ride to see it through the high skies, or book a day trip to experience everything from the grounds. The city is a treasure trove of incredible things to do and places to visit. You can also visit this amazing capital city of England and be amazed by its neverending charm. Need more information on events, art exhibitions, or live performances? Check out our various options for flights to London and book with Lowfarescanners. We can help you Tour London with the best packages and flight options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the top things to do in London for first-time visitors?

A: The top things to do in London for first-time visitors include:

• Visit to the Buckingham Palace in London
• watch the changing of the Guard
• Seeing the Big Ben
• Explore the Tower of London. 

Q: What are the best outdoor activities in London?

A: The best outdoor activities in London include- 

• A visit to the Hyde Park
• Taking a cruise on the River Thames
• Explore an outdoor theatre

Q: What are some unique things to do in London? 

A: The most unique things to do in London, England, include 

• glow-in-the-dark drawing
• meeting some unusual robots
• 18th-century London life experience
• exploring the weirdest museum on Mare Street.

Q: When is The Best Time To Visit London?

A: The best time to visit London is between June and August for warm and pleasant weather. There are some attractions which may look better in the winters, but overall this period is more preferred for the best climate and amazing views.

Q: Is there anything fun to do in London?

A: There are many fun rides in London and other options for an exciting getaway. You can take a London Helicopter Ride, visit the museums and galleries, book a day trip to Stonehenge and bath, and much more.

Q: What is the most popular thing in London?

A: London is famous for a lot of things. You can watch Buckingham Palace- the official residence of the British monarch, visit Big Ben London, visit the gothic masterpiece- Westminster Abbey, or explore art galleries that display fabulous works of art.