Top 25 Things To Do In London, England - Updated 2024

things to do in london
Nadine
Nadine 
Updated
| 4 min read

London, UK has a lot to offer if you are looking for famous sites with fun activities. Witness the royal ambiance of this magical place as you visit historical venues such as Leeds Castle, Buckingham Palace, Canterbury Cathedral, and so much more! For those who want pictures with their favorite celebrity, the well-known Madame Tussauds wax museum has you covered as it showcases a remarkable replica of some famous personalities including Her Majesty the Queen. To get fantastic aerial views, you might want to consider going to the famous London Eye. This list of things to do provides you choices for wholesome tour packages so feel free to choose according to your desires. Let’s get into the best things to do in London, the UK, below.

1. Take Argentine tango lessons (from USD 24.0)

Visiting London doesn’t always have to be about sightseeing and museum hopping but can also include some not-so-ordinary experiences for the senses. So next time you’re in London, why not try something unique like an Argentine tango dance class? It originated at the end of the 19th century in Buenos Aires and is an elegant yet relaxed dance. Learn the basics of Argentine tango in a one-hour class of up to six people. You can bring a partner or go solo, bring wine, and get ready to let your body move to the sound of music.

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Argentine Tango lessons in London

Duration: 1 hour

274 reviews

2. Explore London's dark and spooky past (from USD 18.0)

There’s more to London than English charm and royal ambiance, and this tour is about to take you on a unique journey through the city’s dark past. Pass by London’s iconic landmarks, but get ready to get goosebumps listening to stories of serial killers, crime, and disease. Learn about the Great Fire of London, Jack the Ripper, and some lesser-known events like the London Beer Flood, Phosey Jaw, and killers such as the Kray twins. The tour begins at London Bridge and will take you to Tower of London, North Bank, and The Monument, then you will sink into East London’s dark streets.

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Discover London's Gruesome History

Duration: 2 hours

545 reviews

3. Play DJ in the heart of East London (from USD 48.0)

When it comes to parties and entertainment, no one does it as Londoners do. So, if there’s the best place to learn the ins and outs of being a party DJ, this is it. Join this 90-minute experience in East London, and learn how to mix music in your own style by using only world-class DJ equipment. Make a day out of it, and after the workshop, hang around and explore East London more in-depth. There are plenty of hidden gems in this part of the city, including a street market and some excellent restaurants and pubs.

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Become A DJ In Style In A Few Hours

Duration: 1 hour

184 reviews

4. Learn how to make bonbons from world-class chocolatiers (from USD 59.0)

Whether you’re a professional confectioner or an avid chocolate eater, this fun chocolate-making course hosted by Melt’s top chocolatiers will transport you into a world full of flavor and rich textures. You will learn about the history and art of making chocolate, how to make chocolate ganache, and what good chocolate really tastes like. You will even get to make your own box of chocolates and take them home. The experience lasts for 90 minutes, but time won’t seem enough since we’re talking about chocolate tasting.

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Bonbons Making/Tasting

Duration: 1 hour

166 reviews

London Tour Guide

Robert Woolf

Robert Woolf

I am a London tour guide and my tours include talking about people who have shaped the city plus the many connected places such as Hampton Court Palace, The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, the commercial centre of the city: the City of London, and London’s world class museums and galleries. I have been guiding for 12 years. I am a licenced London Blue Badge Tour Guide, a City of London Gu... Read more

Tours by Robert

5. Put your creative hat on at a graffiti-making class (from USD 78.0)

If you’ve even been curious about how graffiti is created or are one of the many people left in awe in front of some of London’s street art, check out this graffiti-making experience. First, learn about the elements of a graffiti design and the different uses of spray cans. Next, decide what you will draw or write and get to work. You will be guided along the way with tips and suggestions, but feel free to let your creativity run free.

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London graffiti street art experience

Duration: 2 hours

36 reviews

6. Play with clay in a pottery-making class (from USD 75.0)

Join a small group of people in a pottery-making class; it doesn’t matter if it’s your first encounter with clay or you’re a pottery expert. You will love meeting new people, learn about different hand-building techniques, and how to throw the clay on the wheel. Best of all, you will be able to create your own art and play with clay as much as you want. The result will be something unique that will remind you of this experience for a long time. All materials will be provided, so all you need to do is show up excited, get creative, and get to work.

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London Pottery Workshop · ★4.97

Duration: 3 hours

237 reviews

7. Climb ArcelorMittal Orbit for panoramic vistas of the city

climb arcelormittal orbit for panoramic vistas of the city
Source: www.klook.com

London is beautiful from every angle you decide to view it, whether it’s from up above or from a double-decker. Admiring the city from the top of ArcelorMittal Orbit should definitely be on your bucket list. Situated at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, UK’s tallest sculpture is a landmark in itself, and the panoramic vistas are just a bonus. You will get to see London’s iconic Big Ben and O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, and The Shard, and then speed down the world’s longest and tallest tunnel slide.

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ArcelorMittal Orbit Ticket & The Slide, London, United Kingdom - Klook Philippines

8. See the twinkling city from London's iconic O2 Arena (from USD 44.23)

see the twinkling city from london's iconic o2 arena

Catching a concert at the O2 Arena is a must, but there are other ways to explore London’s famous entertainment venue. Enjoy spectacular vistas of the city and the thrilling experience of climbing the arena’s roof on a 90-minute tour. You will get a climb suit, boots, and a harness so can ascend the building in perfect safety. You will cross a suspended walkway before you take in the panoramic views of Tower Bridge, Olympic Park, and many other attractions. You can opt for a day tour or climb at night to see the twinkling city from afar.

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London: Climb The Roof of The O2 Arena

Duration: 1.5 hour

2688 reviews

9. Spoil your tastebuds on a Soho food tour

Cosmopolitan Soho is London’s hotspot when it comes to going out, dining, or enjoying a pint of beer. With so many amazing places to discover in the city’s iconic neighborhood, one of the best ways to take in as much as possible is by joining a food tour. Put on your most comfortable shoes, and get ready to walk your way through Soho’s streets, stopping at popular restaurants to try local and international dishes. A taste test of local snacks, water, and alcoholic drinks is included.

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10. Take the whole family on a DreamWorks Adventure Tour (from USD 26.54)

take the whole family on a dreamworks adventure tour

This tour will be an interactive, fun-filled experience for the entire family. Hop on a magical 4D bus that will take you to the Kingdom of Far Far Away, where you will meet the famous Shrek and DreamWorks characters, learn Kung Fu, and join various live shows. Well-trained actors, interesting stories, and spectacular special effects will fascinate children and adults alike. Everyone will have a good time, share lots of laughter, and even get scared by a witch or two.

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London: DreamWorks Shrek's Adventure Tour

Duration: 70.0 minute

526 reviews

11. Discover the art of hat making in a cozy studio in Central London (from USD 137.0)

If you have a creative side, love hats, or are into DIY projects, join a one-day workshop that will immerse you in the art of hat making. Meet the group in a studio in central London, where you will learn about different hat styles, materials, and trimmings. You will get to make the base of a hat, wire and trim its edges, and then decorate it by adding different embellishments. The result will be a unique piece in your own style, plus you will leave knowing so much more about the skills involved in hat making.

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Make a Fascinator Hat With a Designer

Duration: 3 hours

41 reviews

12. Learn about historical artifacts at the British Museum (from USD 90.0)

Take a thorough semi-private tour of the British Museum’s permanent collection and learn about historical artifacts, mummies, and humans’ evolution from tribes to empires and beyond. Although your guide will come prepared with loads of information and interesting facts, you will find the tour enjoyable and exciting. Make sure you bring a valid photo ID, and keep in mind that the tour only includes the museum’s permanent collection.

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British Museum in London Guided Tour

Duration: 2.5 hours

1 review

13. Explore London's wild side after dark (from USD 36.0)

If you’re passionate about wildlife and don’t shy away from some spookiness, this experience is for you. Go on an after-dark adventure and discover the city’s more mysterious side as you go looking for bats and learn about their biology, different species, and the misconceptions around them. If you’re lucky, you might even spot other animals including foxes, hedgehogs, or badgers. A handheld electronic device for detecting bats will be provided, so each participant will get to try it out.

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A spooky London bat walk after dark

Duration: 2 hours

46 reviews

14. Get chills down your spine at the Dungeons London (from USD 33.49)

get chills down your spine at the dungeons london

A spooky yet equally fun and entertaining experience awaits you at Dungeons London. Take a trip down history lane and explore some of London’s most gruesome days. Twenty live actors will keep you entertained with nine live shows, including the spooky story of Jack the Ripper and a visit inside the infamous barbershop of Sweeney Todd. The tour also includes two underground rides before you wrap it up with a complimentary drink at the Dungeon Tavern.

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London: Entry Ticket to London Dungeon

Duration: 1.5 hour

2530 reviews

15. Have an exciting, personalized bus tour around London (from USD 56.0)

All aboard the open-top double-decker Big Bus and explore the famous attractions of London! With choices of the number of days (one to three days) for the ticket, you will have more than enough time for a wholesome tour in beautiful London. On top of that, opting for this package entitles you to design a personal itinerary! Take note that the stops are just across the famous points of interest of London including Hyde Park, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and much more. Experience London unlike any other with this bus tour!

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London Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with River Cruise

Duration: 70 to 210 minutes

8725 reviews

16. Witness the famous Changing the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace (from USD 63.0)

Changing of the Guard is a well-known ceremony that contributes to London’s trademark of royalty. Such tradition has been carried up to this day so with this tour, you have the opportunity to bask in the royal side of London. Besides that, you also have the chance to visit other attractions such as Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace, Royal Wedding venue, and of course, the iconic Big Ben among many others. This three-hour trip will give you that dose of elegance that London is made of. How lovely!

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Royal London with Changing of the Guard plus London Eye Option

Duration: 3 hours

170 reviews

17. Ride a boat at River Thames (from USD 157.97)

ride a boat at river thames

The majestic beauty of London is amplified through this activity showcasing the beautiful Leeds Castle at the pleasant Kent countryside, Canterbury Cathedral (with an option to have lunch there), and the White Cliffs of Dover where you can see the Dover Castle. You can even have the chance to have a boat ride at River Thames! Get all these as you hop on an air-conditioned bus transport.

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Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover, and Greenwich

Duration: 10.0 hour

207 reviews

18. Pose with Celebrities at the famous Wax Museum (from USD 45.0)

Have you ever dreamed of getting photos with celebrities? This time, you do not have to fight for that chance since in this tour you will have priority tickets to Madame Tussauds! Here you will find realistic wax replicas of famous celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Tom Hardy, David Beckham, Kim Kardashian, Captain Marvel, Spider-Man, and even Her Majesty the Queen! Take unlimited photos for as long as you want with these remarkable figures as you explore this world-famous venue.

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Madame Tussauds London Skip The Line with Star Wars Exhibition

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

2095 reviews

19. Enjoy smooth cruising from Westminster to Greenwich

enjoy smooth cruising from westminster to greenwich

Wouldn’t it be nice to experience London in an extraordinary way through smooth cruising? Take either a one-way or with-return cruise from Westminster to Greenwich and have an exhilarating view of beautiful London. Witness the beautiful London Tower and much more of London’s historical sites. A tour guide will let you know about the wonderful points of interest you will admire from the cruise.

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London: Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise

Duration: 1.0 to 2.0 hour

11634 reviews

20. Photoshoot at Westminster Abbey (from USD 171.0)

Do you know what’s awesome about London, among many other things? The places are awesome for photos! Pictures are great tokens to treasure. With that, don’t miss the opportunity to take unlimited snaps with the dramatic and historic London attractions! Visit the gorgeous St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, the Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London. At the latter venue, you may have lunch at your own expense. By the end of the tour, you have the option to upgrade and finish off the journey by availing a London Eye flight or cream tea at Harrods.

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Tower of London, Changing of the Guard Tour and Thames Cruise

Duration: 9 hours

2103 reviews

21. Visit the Columbia Road Flower Market

Columbia Road market in London, June 2013 (6)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chmee2 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

An immersive experience of living like a local awaits as you visit the Columbia Road Flower Market. Located in Bethnal Green, this place offers a wide array of lovely flowers and other gardening accessories. Besides that, there are also independent kiosks selling various objects like jewelry and vintage clothes. Take note that the market is open only on Sundays.

Columbia Road Flower Market

Address: Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG, UK

Website: Columbia Road

Opening hours: Sun: 8am - 4pm (closed Mon - Sat)

Price: 70+ USD

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22. Have a picnic in Hyde Park

Aerial view of Hyde Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Hyde_Park_from_th... used under CC BY 2.0

Enjoy one of London’s eight royal parks as you enter the gorgeous Hyde Park! London visits work best with a picnic basket and simple leisure time basking in the London vibe. There are so many activities you can do here besides having a picnic. You can swim in the park’s refreshing open waters, row your boat over the river, play badminton, ride horses, or you may opt to merely admire the wonderful surroundings. The best thing about this is that because of the big space there are a lot of spots to choose from!

Hyde Park

Address: London, UK

Website: Hyde Park

Opening hours: 5am - 11:30pm (daily)

Price: Free

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23. Watch Opera at Royal Opera House

ROH auditorium 001
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user FA2010 used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

The Royal Opera House is a grand venue that will leave you gasping for its beauty and sheer majesty. When you personally go here, you will understand why this place is famous. The ROH is also known as “Covent Garden” and it is the home of London’s elite performing arts. A great way to experience London is by witnessing artistic shows right here! Look for the schedules of operas or ballet recitals for that much-awaited showcase of London’s artistry.

Royal Opera House

Address: Bow St, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9DD, UK

Website: Royal Opera House

Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)

Price: 100 - 300 USD

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24. Party like a Londoner on a pub crawl experience (from USD 14.0)

party like a londoner on a pub crawl experience
Source: www.viator.com

You can’t say you truly experienced London and British life without going into a pub and order a pint of beer. So, a night out in the city is a must when in London. Join a pub crawl experience and get ready to check out London’s West End cool pubs, dance the night away, and have free shots. The tour will take you to different bars in central London, starting at Zoo Too Bar and continuing at some of Soho’s best spots. You will receive a total of five free shots throughout the night; don’t forget to bring your ID.

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London West End Pub Crawl, 1 Big Night Out: The biggest daily pub crawl in UK

Duration: 5 hours

6 reviews

25. Get panoramic views from the Eye (from USD 90.0)

With just one ticket, this package offers you a trip to six of London’s famous attractions such as the London Eye, River Thames, and much more! Experience the wonder and thrill as you tour Shrek’s Adventure London and the well-known SEA LIFE Aquarium and then enjoy the exhilarating views of beautiful London. Take note that the ticket is usable within ninety days so take your time as you explore these iconic places. This is definitely a tour that is all-in!

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London 6 Attraction 90-Day Admission Ticket with London Eye

Duration: 1 to 90 days

7 reviews

A majestic journey awaits

Get that immersive experience in London, UK by participating in the various activities to do here! With the beautiful points of interest in the area, you will not run out of places to admire. Whether by taking package tours or going to destinations on your own, the best way to experience London is by taking your time and letting your eyes feast on such majestic beauty.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Nadine has a passion for film photography, entrepreneurship, and the performing arts. She loves meeting friendly people, trying exotic cuisines, and exploring new places authentically. Her life...Read more

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