Our most recommended things to do in London

Exploring the World of the McLaren Technology Centre

1. Exploring the World of the McLaren Technology Centre

Enjoy exclusive, unprecedented access to the McLaren Technology Centre. Visit the home of one of the most successful Formula 1 teams in history to get a behind-the-scenes look at where its most innovative machines are created. Board the bus in the heart of central London and travel outside the city to the town of Woking, the home of the McLaren Technology Centre. Upon arrival, be welcomed into the McLaren family by your expert guide on a tour of the state-of-the-art facility. Discover more about the groundbreaking innovations from McLaren's 60-year history. Get a rare opportunity to see the top-secret assembly line where some of the world's fastest and most innovative cars are created. Hear the stories of McLaren's illustrious history within Formula 1, including their numerous championship wins with racing legends like Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, and Lewis Hamilton. Admire authentic racing memorabilia and the kits worn by the McLaren team throughout the years. Get up close to championship-winning Formula 1 cars with instantly recognizable liveries, as well as a selection of supercars and hypercars, developed onsite under the banner of McLaren Automotive. After your experience, relax on the journey back to London, with drop-off in the center of the city.

London: Before-Hours National Gallery Tour with Art Workshop

2. London: Before-Hours National Gallery Tour with Art Workshop

Discover London's National Gallery on a before-hours tour and journey through art history as you explore one of the most impressive art collections in the world. Uncover the meaning behind the masterpieces with your historian guide, and sketch your own creations inside the gallery. Meet your guide at the National Gallery and embark on a tour for your group alone. Wander through the vast halls without the usual crowds and marvel at renowned works of art showcasing the evolution of art throughout history. Discover the deeper meaning of the paintings with detailed explanations from your art historian guide. Then, take part in an exclusive sketching workshop inside the empty gallery. Learn the basics of sketching and perspective from your guide, and let the surrounding artwork fuel your creativity. Create your own unique souvenir to take home with you after your one-of-a-kind experience at this iconic venue. GetYourGuide is partnering with the National Gallery in London to bring you a truly unique experience with one of the greatest art collections in the world. View world-famous paintings on an exclusive before-hours tour and bring your own ideas to life with a sketching workshop.

London: Carib-British Roast with Original Flava

3. London: Carib-British Roast with Original Flava

Indulge in a mouthwatering 2-course Caribbean-style British roast with one of the founders of Original Flava. Watch as either Craig or Shaun crafts their special jerk marinade while explaining the history behind this fusion dish Arrive at the Original Flava Residency in the heart of Brixton and meet your host, Craig or Shaun of Original Flava. Then, watch a live demonstration on how to prepare their iconic jerk marinade and season your ingredients for the Caribbean-British roast. As you watch the demonstration, delve into the history behind this fusion cuisine. Discover how Caribbean-British cuisine has evolved and how these cultures merged and influenced one another. After the live demonstration, settle in for a mouthwatering two-course dinner. Savor your Caribbean-British roast dinner and relish beloved elements from both cultures, from Yorkshire pudding to jerk chicken, along with brown stew chicken, roast lamb, fried dumplings, gravy, roast potatoes, and more. There is also a meatless option for vegetarian guests and vegan guests. Soak in the warm ambiance in the room as you share stories with your host and fellow food lovers. At the end of your experience, take home a jar of jerk marinade, a new understanding of Caribbean-British cuisine, and a few tips to enrich your home cooking. South London-born and based brothers Craig and Shaun bring their love of Caribbean food to a mainstream audience through social media and cookbooks. Join Original Flava for an exclusive cultural experience in London as you discover the best of both British and Caribbean cuisine.

From London: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour

4. From London: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour

Perfect for those with a penchant for Harry Potter, this Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London provides a unique opportunity to explore the magic of the Harry Potter films — the most successful movie series of all time. Venture behind the scenes to discover a huge array of fantastic sets, costumes, and props. Learn some closely guarded secrets, including facts about the special effects and animatronics that made the Harry Potter films so hugely popular around the world. Step onto the famous cobblestones of Diagon Alley, featuring the shopfronts of Ollivander's Wand Shop, Flourish and Blotts, and Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. See iconic props from the films, including Harry’s Nimbus 2000 and Hagrid’s motorcycle. Rediscover other memorable sets from the film series, including the Gryffindor common room, the boys’ dormitory, Hagrid’s hut, and the Potions classroom. Visit Platform 9 ¾ and ride the Hogwarts Express! Explore a perfect recreation of the platform and the train itself and relive the magic of Harry’s trips to Hogwarts by posing with a luggage trolley right before it disappears through the wall and walking through the train carriage. Learn how the iconic train scenes were filmed, and browse through your favorite character’s luggage! Top off your Hogwarts Express adventure in a train-themed souvenir shop and load up on goodies inspired by your favorite Potter films. For the first time ever, enter the set of Gringotts Wizarding Bank! Walk through the wizarding bank of Gringott's, the Lestrange vault, a gallery of goblins, and much more. Admire the imposing marble columns and discover the costumes and prosthetics belonging to Bogrod, Griphook, and many other Goblin bankers. Then enter the depths of the Lestrange vault used to store the treasures of Bellatrix Lestrange and surround yourselves with treasure. You'll have approximately 4 hours to enjoy the magic of the Harry Potter studio. Due to heavy traffic at busier times of the year, this may be shorter however the minimum time spent at the studio will be no less than 4 hours. With the bus journey included, the total duration of the tour is normally 7–7.5 hours, subject to traffic and entry times. Discovering Hogwarts: 2nd May - 4th September 2023: For the first time since filming, over 400 floating candles will adorn the enchanted ceiling of the Great Hall, giving visitors a chance to step into the set just as the cast would have seen it during Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

London: Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket

5. London: Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket

Take a tour of the timeless Tower of London – part of British history since the 11th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in 1086 by William the Conqueror.  Discover London’s castle – a secure fortress, royal palace, and infamous prison. Spot the ravens that live on the premises and find out why they are known as the guardians of the Tower. Stroll across Tower Green to see where many executions took place, including those of 2 of Henry VIII's wives. You will also have access to the inside of the tower. Prepare to be dazzled by the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom. These priceless symbols of the British Monarchy compose the greatest working collection of crown jewels in the world. Pore over the 23,578 gems, including the glistening Imperial State Crown - this piece alone has 2,868 diamonds, 273 pearls, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, and 5 rubies. Gain valuable insights into the Tower's History from some of its most famous residents, The Yeoman Body. Whilst Tours may be currently unavailable, the Yeoman Warders will be on hand to provide fascinating stories of the Tower through the ages.

London: The London Eye Entry Ticket

6. London: The London Eye Entry Ticket

Step into your capsule and feel the exhilaration as you rise up over the water and come face to face with the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Soar above them, up to 135 meters on the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel.  There are mesmerizing 360-degree views of the whole city laid out before you. See the most famous landmarks including Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London and up to 40km out of the city to Windsor Castle on a clear day. Enjoy the gradual rotation and just stand and stare at the hustle and bustle of London life unfolding beneath you, the beautiful sunset over the city, or the thousands of twinkling lights after dark. 

Madame Tussauds London

7. Madame Tussauds London

Millions of people have flocked through the doors of London’s Madame Tussauds since it first opened more than 200 years ago. Add your name to the list and make your way up the red carpet to see all your favorite stars. The museum-style ropes and poles have gone, so you can truly get up close and personal with A-list celebrities, sporting legends, political heavyweights, and historical icons. Relive the moments and events that made the world take notice. Join your favorite celebrities at the ultimate party including Eddie Redmayne, Benedict Cumberbatch and Tom Hardy. Join the Royal Family on the iconic Buckingham Palace balcony, take a selfie with royal couple Harry and Meghan and meet Harry Styles. Explore the jungles of Kong: Skull Island with Tom Hiddleston as Captain James Conrad or hail a London cab for a journey through 400 years of the capital’s history. Then use the force to be transported to a galaxy far, far away and star in the action with the greats of the Star Wars universe.

Warner Bros. Studio London: Tour with Bus Transfers

8. Warner Bros. Studio London: Tour with Bus Transfers

This 7-hour program (including 4 hours in the studios) provides the opportunity to explore the magic of the world-renowned Harry Potter film series at Warner Bros. Studio London, including the Forbidden Forest. Take a peek behind the scenes of a huge array of beautiful sets, costumes, and props. See some closely guarded secrets, including facts about the special effects and breathtaking animatronics that made these films so hugely popular around the world. Help yourself to refreshments in the Studio Café, including freshly prepared hot soups and snacks, salads, sandwiches, and afternoon treats. Other snacks can be purchased at 2 locations on the Studio Tour. Explore the Studio Shop stocked with a wide range of gifts and souvenirs to remind you of the day you spent immersed in The Making of Harry Potter. Dark Arts (15th September - 5th November 2023) Returning for the spooky season, Dark Arts will see the Great Hall ceiling decorated with over 100 floating pumpkins as well as a Hallowe’en feast of lollipops and red apples dressed along the tables. Visitors are invited to follow the Dark Mark trail, try their wand combat moves against Death Eaters in a live duel as they storm the Studio Tour, all before walking down a darker Platform 9 ¾ and an eerier Diagon Alley. Hogwarts in the Snow (11th November 2023 - 14th January 2024) 2023 will conclude with the return of the Studio Tour’s beloved Hogwarts in the Snow feature. Starting at the Great Hall, bedecked in the gold decorations from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, all the way through to Hogwarts castle model, fan-favourite sets throughout the Studio Tour will be displayed in their festive finery. Learn the secrets behind ice that never melts and fire that doesn’t burn and see a blanket of filmmaking snow covering the Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley and the magnificent Hogwarts castle model.

London: Emirates Stadium Entry Ticket and Audio Guide

9. London: Emirates Stadium Entry Ticket and Audio Guide

Explore behind the scenes at Arsenal Football Club and let a host of Arsenal stars share their match-day experiences with you with an audio guide of Emirates Stadium. Get ready to take your place in the changing room, walk down the tunnel and imagine the roar of 60,000 fans. Make use of the Arsenal-branded headphones provided to listen to the audio guide provided. Reveal player stats and highlights of their best moments through the shirt cam, while the tour cam brings your experience to life with interactive access to never-before-seen footage. Visit the Arsenal Museum, founded in 1886, Arsenal has a wonderful history from the club’s time at Woolwich, Highbury, and Emirates Stadium. The newly refurbished museum offers visitors the chance to take in a number of exciting exhibits. Many of the items on display were kindly donated by former players. Highlights include Jens Lehmann’s goalkeeper gloves that he wore for every league match of the unbeaten ‘Invincibles’ season in 2003/04, Michael Thomas’ boots from Anfield ’89 and Charlie George’s FA Cup Final shirt from 1971. The museum also features two impressive video theaters and twenty major displays based on Arsenal’s proud history. You will receive a certificate upon completion of your visit. Looking for somewhere to grab a bite to eat after your visit? Why not visit Chapman’s (located outside the Armoury Store), serving a wide selection of food and drinks including teas and coffees, sandwiches, paninis, wraps, and much more.

London: Tower Bridge Entry Ticket

10. London: Tower Bridge Entry Ticket

A trip to London wouldn't be complete without a visit to Tower Bridge, one of the city's most famous landmarks. A visit to Tower Bridge will take you back to the Victorian era, immersing you in the landmarks story from the very beginning. Marvel at the views of the city from the stunning glass walkway, set 42 metres above the River Thames. Situated between the North and South Towers, you can enjoy awe inspiring and unique views of the city. You can also read all about the history and construction of Tower Bridge. Take a trip back in time and discover the impressive Victorian Engine Rooms that once powered Tower Bridge. See where more than 80 people were needed to operate the engines and raise the bridge. The engine rooms will ignite your senses to get a feel of what it was like back in the Victorian era. See the former workers of Tower Bridge forever immortalised in the Blue Line that leads from the Towers to the historic Engine Rooms. The Blue Line shines light on some of the unsung heroes who kept the famous landmark in motion.

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Frequently asked questions about London

What top attractions are a must-see in London?

What are the best day trips and excursions from London?

The best day trips and excursions from London are:

Stonehenge

Insider tips: Planning a trip to London

Laurence is a full time travel blogger and photographer, who shares his tips on travel and improving your photography on his website Finding the Universe. He used to live in London, and you can see his tips for spending two days in London here.

What should I do on my first trip to London?

The best way to get acquainted with the city is to take a stroll from the Tower of London, across Tower Bridge, and along the south bank of the Thames before finishing at the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. This will take no more than 2 hours, but will acquaint you with many of London's most popular sights. You could easily visit two of London's most popular attractions at the start and end of your journey, the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey as well.

What are some hidden gems to see in London?

London has some really interesting and quirky museums which are well worth visiting. The Museum of Brands is a great option, as is the Cartoon Museum. The Postal Museum is also worth a visit!

How much time should I spend in London?

The main highlights of central London can be experienced across two days. If you want to explore areas outside the central area, perhaps visiting attractions like Windsor Castle, an extra day would be advisable.

What food is London known for?

No trip to London would be complete without trying out some local pub food. Highlights of a pub menu would include fish and chips or a traditional steak and ale pie. Don't forget to leave room for dessert, with sticky toffee pudding being a popular option!

What are the best months to visit London?

Avoiding the summer crowds in London is advisable, so visiting between April and June or in September should give you the best combination of better weather and less people. December is also a good time to visit as the city is decorated with lights and Christmas decorations.

What is neighborhood The East End of London known for?

The East End of London, which stretches from around the Tower of London out towards the London City Airport, is famous for its markets, street food, and incredible curry houses.

What are the best neighborhoods for food?

If you love curry, one of the most popular dishes in the UK, then you'll want to head out to East London where you'll find an incredible array of authentic Indian restaurants. Another good option is to dine around the West End theatres, there are many good restaurants in this area which often have pre-theatre dining deals.

What are the best neighborhoods for shopping?

The most well known shopping street is the mile long Oxford Street which runs from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road. This has all the major high street brands. For high end shopping, you'll want to head to the area of Mayfair, whilst those of you shopping for a suit will want to head to the world famous Savile Road.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit London?

Central London, and specifically the borough of Westminster, is probably the best place to base yourself in the city. Here you'll find everything from budget hostels through to world famous five star hotel brands. Basing yourself here might cost a bit more than being a bit further out, but it is definitely worth it for the proximity to sightseeing.

Other Sightseeing Options in London

Want to discover all there is to do in London? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about London

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 191,905 reviews

My wife and I really enjoyed our visit to Windsor castle and particularly St George’s Chapel. Wd where both very moved by being able to see the final resting place of our beloved Queen Elizabeth the Second and he husband Prince Philip the Duke of Edinburgh. The castle tour was really enjoyable and being able to go through all the staterooms was an excellent experience we will never forget. We will definitely visit again, all in all a great trip at a very inexpensive cost.

Our guide, Johnny, was awesome. We were late and told by the company that we would not be able to find him. However, God smiled upon us and we stumbled upon the group. He was great! So knowledgeable and fun!

They were super accommodating as I bought for the wrong day. We got in and had a wonderful time. The finger foods were great!

It was a perfect way to do som sightseeing and the afternoon tea was very good, the staff was amazing.

Comfortable environment, reasonable range of food, we were there for breakfast.