Choose from 184 Fun Things to Do in London
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 184 listings.
Carnaby Street
Earning renown as an alternative fashion Mecca during the 1960s, Carnaby Street was once the hippest place to shop, home to iconic boutiques like Mary Quant, Lord John, Marion Foale and Sally Tuffin, and frequented by music icons like The Who and the Rolling Stones. In fact, the famous shopping street has become so synonymous with Swinging London that it’s been name-checked in pop hits like The Kinks’ ‘Dedicated Follower of Fashion’ and TV shows like The Simpsons, and even inspired a musical of the same name.
Today, Carnaby Street is decidedly more demure, but the pedestrianized shopping district still retains its left-of-centre attitude, as well as its distinctive yellow arches and two plaques commemorating mod fashion pioneer John Stephen and The Small Faces (outside no.1 and no.52 respectively). Of course, the main reason to visit Carnaby Street is the shops and there are plenty to choose from, including many independent fashion, home and beauty boutiques and British brands like Ben Sherman, Paul Smith and Lyle & Scott. One notable highlight is the small shopping arcade of Kingly Court, home to some London’s most unique young designers, vintage stores and jewelry boutiques, as well as a cluster of cafés and restaurants. Look out for seasonal events too – Carnaby Street is renowned for its pop-up shops, live entertainment and street stalls, making it a colorful place to visit during the summer or Christmas holidays.
Practical Info
Carnaby Street is located in Soho, central London, within a few minutes walking distance of Oxford Street and Regent Street.
Address: Carnaby Street, London, United Kingdom, England
From $ 35
Chelsea Physic Garden
Evocatively nicknamed London’s Secret Garden, the Chelsea Physic Garden is a green oasis in the heart of Chelsea, hidden away by the Thames riverbank. Founded in 1673, it’s London’s oldest botanic garden, set up by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries and renowned for its impressive collection of medicinal plants and rare species.
The 4-acre walled-garden is home to some 5,000 different edible, medicinal and historic plants, with highlights including Britain’s largest outdoor olive tree, the world’s northernmost outdoor grapefruit tree, a series of endangered plants from Madeira and the Canary Islands, and a World Woodland Garden, devoted to forest plants from around the world. There’s also the Tangerine Dream café, which serves lunch and afternoon tea; a gift shop and an annual schedule of workshops, tours and activities.
Practical Info
The Chelsea Physic Garden is located on Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea, on the north bank of the River Thames and is open from Tuesday-Friday and Sunday from 11am-6pm.
Adult admission is £10.50.
Address: 66 Royal Hospital Rd, London SW3 4HS, England
Hours: Open Tues-Fri and Sun 11am-6pm. March-October: Tues and Wed until 10pm.
Admission: Adults: £10.50; Children: £6.95
From $ 90
Covent Garden
In the heart of London’s West End, Covent Garden is one of the city’s most popular dining and entertainment hubs. Home to the Royal Opera House; several top theaters, including the Lyceum and the Donmar Warehouse; world-class restaurants; and many major brand-name stores, most travelers to London plan to explore this area while visiting.
The Basics
Covent Garden’s original purpose was as a convent garden, where Westminster Abbey monks would grow fruit and vegetables, some 500 years ago. In the 17th century, architect Inigo Jones built St. Paul’s Church (not to be confused with the cathedral) and the Covent Garden Piazza and the area started to take shape. In the streets around the market came theaters, coffee houses, and restaurants, turning the area into a nightlife hotspot.
The market arcades, built in the 1830s, were home to fruit, vegetable, and flower sellers. The original market was moved out of the city in the 1970s, and the arcades were redeveloped into stores and cafes. Nowadays, the piazza is famous for lively street performers, while the surrounding streets—Floral Street, Neal Street, Long Acre, and Mercer Street—offer some of the best shopping in London. Guided walking, bike, and taxi tours visit the area on a regular basis. It's also a stop on hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Covent Garden is wheelchair accessible.
- For same-day theater tickets, visit the TKTS booth on Leicester Square.
- St. Paul’s Church is known as “The Actor’s Church” for the area’s many theaters.
- The churchyard has benches for visitors to sit and rest.
- Covent Garden’s seven main streets converge at the Seven Dials sundial.
How to Get There
Covent Garden is located in the center of West End, London. The nearest subway (tube) station is Covent Garden on the Piccadilly Line. Leicester Square station is also a short walk away. The area is walkable from many other points in Central London and is a popular stop on historic walking and bike tours of the city. Hop-on hop-off buses also stop here.
When to Get There
Covent Garden is a public piazza and is open all day. The Apple Market stalls are open from 10am–6pm. Nearby stores, restaurants, and theaters, including the Royal Opera House, have their own separate opening times—check before visiting.
London’s Chinatown
A few streets away from Covent Garden, bordered by Shaftesbury Avenue and Charing Cross Road is London’s Chinatown, filled with colorful shops and restaurants serving authentic East Asian cuisine. One of the city’s most popular destinations for cheap eats, the area is always buzzing with both locals and tourists.
Address: Covent Garden Market, London WC2, England
Admission: Free
From $ 12
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard is a centuries-old tradition that marks the official shift change of the Household Regiment—the Queen's guards stationed at Buckingham Palace. One of the world's most famous ceremonies and a top London experience, this ceremony gives visitors the chance to witness the grandeur of a royal march. Dressed in their iconic red suits and bearskin hats, the guards exemplify classic British pomp in a showing that's not to be missed.
The Basics
The ceremony begins with the New Guard marching from Wellington Barracks to Buckingham Palace with a marching band, while the mounted Horse Guards Parade leaves from the Hyde Park barracks and crosses The Mall to St. James' Place. The official guard change then takes place in the palace forecourt. Some London walking tours include a timed stop at the palace to see the event, while other tours combine a viewing with a visit to the Tower of London or a whirl on the London Eye.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Buckingham Palace's Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily at 11:30am and lasts about 45 minutes.
- Crowds are frequent, especially at the palace, but you'll find quieter spots elsewhere along the route.
- The ceremony is free to watch, and no tickets are required.
How to Get There
The procession begins at Wellington Barracks and continues on to Buckingham Palace in central London. The nearest tube stations are St. James Park, Green Park, and Victoria.
When to Get There
To get a good view, it's best to arrive early—as early as 9:30am for a good view in the summer months. Some tours are timed specifically for the ceremony, guaranteeing the best viewpoints and insight from an expert tour guide. Note that the ceremony may be canceled in bad weather.
Things to Do Near Buckingham Palace
Travelers can pair the show with stops at Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Windsor Castle, or even with afternoon tea, a classic London experience. The nearby Tower of London also has an entertaining guards tour that complements Buckingham's Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Address: Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1, England
Hours: Daily 11:30am
From $ 23
Cotswolds
Few places encapsulate the beauty of the English countryside like the Cotswolds, with its green rolling hills, grand country estates, and picturesque villages chiseled out of honey-colored stone. A protected “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,” it’s the retreat of choice for wealthy Londoners and residents include movie stars and royalty.
The Basics
Most Cotswolds tours run from London, driving along the winding country roads and stopping to explore the historic market towns or enjoy lunch at a traditional pub. Full-day tours often include a stop in the Cotswolds en route to nearby attractions. Options include a tour of historic Bath, Stonehenge, and Shakespeare’s home in Stratford-upon-Avon; a visit to Oxford, Blenheim Palace, and Warwick Castle; or a tour of Highclere Castle, better known as Downton Abbey.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many Cotswolds tours and attractions are wheelchair accessible; check with your tour operator in advance.
- Some tours include overnight accommodations in local Cotswolds B&Bs or hotels.
- Wear comfortable shoes since most tours include lots of walking.
How to Get There
The Cotswolds is an area of south England, lying mainly in the counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, and including the cities of Bath, Cheltenham, and Stroud. Located 100 miles (161 kilometers) west of London or about two hours by road, it is accessible via several highways, as well as by public transport. Buses run from the capital to many of the towns and villages of the Cotswolds, while Cotswold Line trains connect London’s Paddington railway station with Hereford and Worcester.
When to Get There
Summer is the most popular time to visit the Cotswolds, and accommodations can fill up quickly in July and August. Be sure to book ahead. Visiting out of summer means you’ll avoid the crowds and enjoy a more local experience, but outdoor activities such as hiking or bike tours will be dependent on weather conditions. Perhaps the most atmospheric time to visit is over the holiday season, when many of the villages host Christmas Markets and you might get chance to see the countryside covered in snow.
The Cotswolds Villages
The idyllic towns and villages of the Cotswolds each have their own unique character, and visitors can admire the historic buildings, browse the antique shops, or stop for a traditional afternoon tea at a café. The largest town in the Cotswolds is Cheltenham, while Cirencester, Tetbury, and Chipping Campden are among the busiest market towns. In the North Cotswolds, the villages of Broadway, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Burford are popular photo stops for visitors, and the village of Bampton is known for its role as Downton Village in Downton Abbey.
Address: England
From $ 69
East End
Renowned throughout Victorian times as the home of the working class, the birthplace of Cockney Rhyming Slang and the stomping ground of the notorious Jack the Ripper, London’s East End has long been associated with the grittier side of the capital. But despite its rough-around-the-edges image, the East End remains one of Londoners’ favorite haunts and its high population of young and immigrant residents has made it one of the city’s most cosmopolitan and ever-evolving districts, teeming with fashion-forward nightclubs, vintage emporiums and modern art galleries.
Since the Olympic Games took over the city in 2012, East London has undergone a 21st-century makeover, with the vast Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park now sprawling over Stratford and a cluster of glitzy shopping malls and chic eateries springing up around it. Locals needn’t worry though – the East End hasn’t lost its grassroots vibe and whether you’re looking to explore the vibrant Bangladeshi communities of Brick Lane, discover London’s hippest bars and live music venues in Shoreditch or hunt down bargains at the legendary Spitalfields Market, there are plenty of good reasons to set your compass east.
Address: London, United Kingdom, England
From $ 16
Canary Wharf
At the heart of London’s historic Docklands, the waterfront district of Canary Wharf has transformed itself into a financial powerhouse in recent years, becoming, along with the City of London nearby, one of the capital’s most important business centers. The modern district is now home to the world or European headquarters of some of the biggest names in banking and media, and it certainly looks the part, with its gleaming skyscrapers and glass-fronted high-rises, including the 235-meter-tall One Canada Square, the tallest building in the UK until the arrival of The Shard.
It’s not all about work in Canary Wharf though – the revitalized docks now serve as an urban playground for the city’s most affluent residents, with a suitably elegant selection of bars and restaurants, and a thriving shopping district. Additional highlights include the unique Traffic Light Tree, an installation artwork by Pierre Vivant; the Centaur, a modern sculpture by Igor Mitoraj; and the Museum of the London Docklands.
Practical Info
Canary Wharf is located in London’s Docklands, on the north bank of the River Thames, east of the City of London.
Address: London, United Kingdom, England
From $ 21
Chatsworth House
The ancestral seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, Chatsworth House in Derbyshire is a prominent example of 17th-century architecture, and one of Britain’s most popular stately homes. It draws visitors from all over the world who come to tour the building and see the famous gardens designed by “Capability” Brown.
The Basics
Home to the Cavendish family since the 1600s, Chatsworth House stands on the River Derwent near the town of Bakewell in Derbyshire. The house was built in the 1560s but remodeled extensively in the 17th century, when the parterre gardens were added. The interiors of the house are very well preserved and include Old Masters paintings, ancient Roman and Egyptian sculptures, and much more. The landscaped grounds by “Capability” Brown were developed in the mid-18th century. Chatsworth House and its owners, the Devonshires, have played an important role in many historical events in the UK. More recently, the home has been used as a location for several films and TV shows, including the famous BBC adaptation of Pride & Prejudice.
Chatsworth has been voted the UK’s most popular country house several times and is a favorite stop for guided tours of England. If visiting independently, you can purchase individual tickets for different attractions or buy a combined pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Chatsworth House is ideal for architecture and history enthusiasts.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the vast house and 105-acre (43-hectare) garden.
- Various restaurants, cafés, and shops are available on the grounds.
- The house is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Chatsworth House is located in Derbyshire in England’s Peak District, close to the town of Bakewell. If driving, there is on-site parking. Alternatively take the train to the town of Sheffield and then transfer to a bus to Chatsworth, or join a guided tour.
When to Get There
Chatsworth House is open daily year-round except for major holidays. Hours vary by day and by season; check online for current schedules.
Kiddie Fun at the Farmyard and Playground
If you’re traveling with little ones, they are sure to enjoy the farmyard and playground that you’ll find on the grounds at Chatsworth (tickets available separately). Children can see the farm animals up close and even help with farmyard tasks like milking the cows. The playground—with rope park and zipline—will appeal to adventurous youngsters.
Address: Bakewell, Derbyshire, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 647
Eltham Palace
Eltham Palace, a grand Tudor residence, makes a worthy detour from nearby Greenwich. As the childhood home of Henry VIII, the medieval palace boasts a fascinating royal history and is best known for its elaborate art deco style interiors, transformed in the 1930s by wealthy businessman Stephen Courtauld.
Visitors to Eltham Palace are whisked back to the 1930s as they explore the domed entrance hall, where the Courtaulds held their glamorous cocktail parties; peek into the opulent gold bathroom and stroll the exquisite orchid and rose gardens. Also open to guests are a series of new rooms, including a map room, a walk-in wardrobe filled with beautiful period clothing, a basement billiard room and a WWII bunker. Traces of the palace’s medieval roots can also be seen, most notably in the glorious wood-beamed Great Hall and the historic moat, crossed by London's oldest working bridge.
Practical Info
Eltham Palace is located in Eltham, about five miles (8 km) southeast of Greenwich. The site is open Sunday through Thursday from 10am to 6pm. Adult admission is £13.60. Multimedia guides are available to visitors and a café, shop, visitor center and children’s playground can also be found on site.
Address: Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE, England
Hours: Sun-Thurs 10am- 6pm
Admission: Adult: £13.60, Child: £8.10
From $ 90
City of London
Also known as the Square Mile, the City of London is a subset of London that covers the area that was once within the original ancient walls built by the Romans centuries ago. Today, it is best known as a center for international finance. While not a standard London borough, the city has its own governance, separate ceremonial county and population of just over 8,000. Officially recognized as an independent entity, it even has its own police force and maintains a unique feel separate from the rest of London.
The major City of London sights are St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Other attractions include the Bank of England, Mansion House, the Monument, the Barbican Estate and the Museum of London.
Practical Info
The City of London lies within walking distance from Southwark, West End and the South Bank. There are 11 underground stations in the city, the most central being Bank and Monument. It is also possible to arrive by train or by boat on the Thames.
Address: London, England
From $ 34
Canterbury Cathedral
Discover a national symbol and gain insight into England’s history at the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Canterbury Cathedral. Dating back to 597, the site has held religious significance for centuries, drawing pilgrims to the location of Thomas Becket’s murder and visitors interested in its medieval towers, chapels, and stained-glass windows.
The Basics
The cathedral’s distance from London makes it a prime stop on a tour of the South. Combine your visit with stops at other landmarks, such as Leeds Castle and Dover Cliffs, for a full day’s break from the capital, or take advantage of multi-attraction tours that allow you to explore London and beyond at your own pace. Opt for a guided cathedral tour for intimate insight, or be immersed as you explore the historic grounds independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Canterbury Cathedral’s historic significance makes it a must-see for history buffs.
- Some tours include admittance; otherwise, there is a charge to enter the cathedral and grounds outside of service hours.
- Built across several levels, some of the medieval structure—including the Trinity Chapel—is inaccessible for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The cathedral is a short walk from both Canterbury West and Canterbury East stations, with direct links to London. The Kent site is easy to access from the channel ports, ideal for Eurostar or ferry travelers. On-site parking is available only via prior arrangement, but the city offers plenty of affordable alternatives, including a park-and-ride service. Many tours from London include round-trip transportation.
When to Get There
Canterbury Cathedral is a sight to behold at any time of year, though December’s carol services certainly add to the magic. Spring and summer bring extended daylight hours and an ideal climate for outdoor exploring. If you’re curious about worship as well as sightseeing, entry to the cathedral is free during service times, making Sunday a popular day to visit.
The Significance of Canterbury Cathedral
As the home of the Church of England, Canterbury Cathedral holds a special relationship with English history and culture. The Kingdom of Kent was the first to convert to Christianity under Rome, and Archbishop Thomas Becket’s murder in 1170 solidified the building’s religious and political importance. The cathedral has links to William the Conqueror and the Magna Carta, and was immortalized by the father of English literature, Geoffrey Chaucer, in his famous Canterbury Tales.
Address: Canterbury Cathedral, Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury, United Kingdom CT1 2EH, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 52
Emirates Stadium
As England’s third-largest football stadium after Wembley and Old Trafford, and home to Arsenal Football Club, one of the capital’s most renowned football teams, Emirates Stadium is a top choice for those looking to soak up the atmosphere of a British football match. Opening its doors in 2006, the state-of-the-art stadium was designed by HOK Sport and cost an impressive £390 million to build, with seats for up to 60,365 fans.
Touring the landmark stadium is also a popular choice for fans, offering the chance to explore the changing rooms, complete with luxury hydrotherapy spas, walk through the players’ tunnel onto the pitch and stand in Arsenal Manager Arsène Wenger's spot in the dug-out. The on-site Arsenal Museum is another must-see, crammed with iconic photos and memorabilia from Arsenal’s long history, and fans can also shop for sports gear or print a bespoke Arsenal shirt at The Armoury, the official Arsenal shop.
Practical Info
Emirates Stadium is located in Holloway North London and the nearest London underground (tube) station is Arsenal. The Arsenal museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm, or 4:30pm on Sundays (or 1 hour before kick-off on match days) and adult admission is £7 (or free with a stadium tour).
Address: Hornsey Rd, London, United Kingdom N7 7AJ, England
Admission: £7
From $ 29
Cenotaph
The Cenotaph is a war memorial that stands on Whitehall Street in central London. It began as a temporary structure built for a peace parade at the end of World War I and in 1920 was replaced by a permanent structure made of Portland stone. It is now considered the United Kingdom’s primary war memorial, also commemorating those killed in World War II and other wars in which Britons fought and died. King George VI unveiled the memorial for the second time in November 1946 following the end of World War II. The design of the Cenotaph has been replicated elsewhere in the U.K., as well as in Australia, Canada, Bermuda, Hong Kong and New Zealand.
Standing 35 feet high and weighing 120 tons, the memorial has the words “The Glorious Dead” inscribed on it twice. It is the site of the annual National Service of Remembrance, held on Remembrance Sunday, the Sunday closest to November 11.
Practical Info
The Cenotaph is located on Whitehall Street between Richmond Terrace and Derby Gate. The closest Underground station is Westminster.
Address: Whitehall Street, London, England
From $ 43
Churchill War Rooms
A branch of the acclaimed Imperial War Museum, the Churchill War Rooms are set in the secret wartime bunker from which the cigar-puffing Prime Minister of Britain, Winston Churchill, directed the country’s war efforts. Situated beneath street level in London’s Westminster district, the Cabinet War Rooms were constructed shortly before the outbreak of World War II. Little has changed within them since the war came to a close in 1945, though these days, the underground complex functions as a museum, documenting the workings of the United Kingdom’s wartime government.
The Basics
For anyone with an interest in WWII history or British politics, the Churchill War Rooms are an absolute must. They are divided into two areas: the original Cabinet War Rooms, including the all-important Map Room, and the Churchill Museum, which chronicles the life and work of the revered wartime leader. You can explore the exhibits independently with the aid of a complimentary audio guide. Some organized excursions combine entrance to the Churchill War Rooms with guided tours of Westminster Abbey and nearby WWII sites. London Pass holders get free entry to the Churchill War Rooms.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Allow at least 1.5 hours to explore the Churchill War Rooms.
- The Churchill War Rooms are accessible to wheelchair users.
- Book tickets in advance for fast-track entry.
How to Get There
The Churchill War Rooms are located on Clive Steps, just off Whitehall. The nearest Underground stations are Westminster (Jubilee, District, and Circle lines) and St. James’s Park (District and Circle lines). Charing Cross railway station is about a 12-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The Churchill War Rooms are busiest during the summer months (May through August); during school breaks (such as around Easter, and during February and October breaks); and on Saturdays. To avoid the crowds, go midweek.
Exploring WWII History in London
The Churchill War Rooms are not the only attraction in town to delve into WWII history. The Imperial War Museum in Lambeth, South London, also features WWII-oriented exhibits. A stone’s throw away on the South Bank sits HMS Belfast, a warship that took part in the Normandy landings in 1944, while Parliament Square hosts a statue of Winston Churchill. Bletchley Park, the Victorian estate where British intelligence cracked Germany’s enigma code, is within day-tripping distance of London.
Address: Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London SW1A 2AQ, England
Hours: Mon - Sun: 9:30am – 6pm
Admission: Adults £21
From $ 26
Downing Street
Few London addresses are as famous as 10 Downing Street, a Grade I listed Georgian townhouse and the official residence and office of the British Prime Minister since 1735. Centuries of government meetings, important decisions and more than a few scandals have taken place behind the property’s iconic black door (which can be opened only from the inside and even the Prime Minister is not given a key) and former residents have included everyone from Winston Churchill to Margaret Thatcher to Tony Blair.
For security reasons, access to Downing Street is limited to government officials only and visitors can do little more than peek through the police patrolled iron gates, but it’s still a popular inclusion on visitor’s itineraries, and there’s always the chance of spotting the Prime Minister himself. Those wanting to get a closer look can follow the video tour on the Downing Street website or, if you’re lucky, join one of the Open House London tours that take place over one weekend a year. Keep an eye on next door too - 11 Downing Street is the official residence of the Chancellor of the Exchequer and sees a steady stream of British politicians through its doors.
Practical Info
Downing Street is located in the City of Westminster in Central London and is not open to the public.
Address: Downing Street, London, England
From $ 23
Fortnum & Mason
Standing proud on Piccadilly since 1707, Fortnum & Mason, along with the equally famous Harrods, takes the prize for London’s best-known and most iconic department store. Named after its principal proprietors William Fortnum and Hugh Mason, the central London store is now owned by Wittington Investments Ltd, but its namesakes still grace the iconic rooftop clock – with four-foot high mechanical statues of the men themselves whirring into action as the clock chimes each hour.
Belying its early incarnation as a simple grocery store, Fortnum’s soon earned a reputation for selling the highest quality foods and imported delicacies to London’s high society, even supplying food for a number of Victorian era Royal functions. Today, the variety has expanded but the quality remains top notch, with their luxury Christmas and picnic hampers - a renowned tradition dating back to Victorian times – ranging in price from a very reasonable £35 to a mind-blowing £25,000.
In the last few decades, Fortnum’s has branched out into a number of alternative areas, selling home wares, perfumes, jewelry and accessories, all with a quintessentially English flavor. The spectacular window displays (particularly atmospheric around Christmas time) feature old-fashioned tearooms decorated with fine china and the central atrium is highlighted by a grand volute staircase and domed roof.
There’s plenty to do besides shopping here too. Visit the award-winning wine bar, sample Viennese cakes and strudels at the decadent ice cream parlor or eat in one of the acclaimed restaurants. You can also opt for traditional English Afternoon Tea in the new Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, where you can pick up some of the famous Fortnum & Mason loose-leaf tea to take away with you.
Belying its early incarnation as a simple grocery store, Fortnum’s soon earned a reputation for selling the highest quality foods and imported delicacies to London’s high society, even supplying food for a number of Victorian era Royal functions. Today, the variety has expanded but the quality remains top notch, with their luxury Christmas and picnic hampers - a renowned tradition dating back to Victorian times – ranging in price from a very reasonable £35 to a mind-blowing £25,000.
In the last few decades, Fortnum’s has branched out into a number of alternative areas, selling home wares, perfumes, jewelry and accessories, all with a quintessentially English flavor. The spectacular window displays (particularly atmospheric around Christmas time) feature old-fashioned tearooms decorated with fine china and the central atrium is highlighted by a grand volute staircase and domed roof.
There’s plenty to do besides shopping here too. Visit the award-winning wine bar, sample Viennese cakes and strudels at the decadent ice cream parlor or eat in one of the acclaimed restaurants. You can also opt for traditional English Afternoon Tea in the new Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, where you can pick up some of the famous Fortnum & Mason loose-leaf tea to take away with you.
Address: 181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER, England
Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10am - 9pm and
Sunday 12pm - 6pm
From $ 27
Camden Market
Made up of Camden Lock Market, Camden Stables Market, and Camden Canal Market, the area known as Camden Market is the largest collection of street vendors in the United Kingdom. In continuous operation since the 1970s, the market draws crowds of visitors who come to explore the huge variety of unusual stalls and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
The Basics
Long known as an alternative shopping destination to the chic boutiques of Central London, Camden Market’s 1,000 stalls offer vintage clothing, books, antiques, and much more—there’s even a store dedicated to vintage pianos. You can taste your way through the many different food stalls, pick up an artisanal coffee, browse the clothing booths, or retreat to one of the canalside pubs for a refreshing drink while you watch the action unfold. The fun comes in just soaking up the atmosphere around you.
Visitors can choose to wander at will through the different areas of the market or take part in an organized walking tour to learn more about the area’s history and the many colorful characters the market has welcomed over the years.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Camden is famous for its live music venues, including The Dublin Castle and Jazz Cafe.
- Camden market is well-known for its excellent street food, so plan to enjoy lunch or dinner while you’re there.
- The area is always busy—keep an eye on your belongings and watch out for pickpockets.
How to Get There
Camden Market is best accessed by public transport or taxi, as parking is very limited. The nearest tube station is Camden Town. Chalk Farm and Mornington Crescent stations are also a short walk away. A number of buses from different parts of the city also serve the area.
When to Get There
Camden Market is open every day (including bank holidays) from 10am until late, except Christmas Day. The market can get very busy at weekends, especially on Sunday afternoons, so plan to visit on a weekday if you prefer a slower pace. To navigate the market stalls more easily, you can organize a private tour.
Take a Stroll on Regent’s Canal
After your fun market tour, head down to Regent’s Canal for a peaceful stroll through one of London’s most interesting neighborhoods, where elegant terraces line the canalside and narrow bridges take you back to a time when horses were the only form of transport. You can walk as far as Regent’s Park—one of London’s eight Royal Parks—complete with a lake, flower gardens, and tree-lined pathways.
Address: Camden High Street & Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8AH, England
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Fleet Street
Making a name for itself in the 16th-century as the center of London’s printing and publishing industry, it seemed fitting that Fleet Street would be the birthplace of London’s first daily newspaper, the Daily Courant in 1702, and the street quickly became the de facto home of the British Press. Dozens of the country’s major newspaper offices and publishing headquarters once resided on Fleet Street, including Reuters, The Daily Telegraph, The Daily Express and the Metro, and although few remain, ‘Fleet Street’ is still used by Londoners to reference the city’s press.
Fleet Street’s most notorious former resident, however, is the fictional Sweeney Todd, the ‘Demon Barber of Fleet Street’ and the villainous star of several musical productions and films, including Tim Burton’s 2007 hit. If you believe the tales, the murderous Todd owned a barber’s shop at no. 186, where his victims were killed, then baked into pies by his neighbor Mrs. Lovett and eaten by unsuspecting customers.
Practical Info
Fleet Street is located in the City of London, a short walk from BlackFriar’s Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral.
Address: Fleet Street, London, England
From $ 18
Cutty Sark
Now permanently docked in Greenwich, London, this 19th-century tea clipper—one of the fastest vessels of its era—once sailed the seas between Britain and China. Onboard exhibitions and costumed characters document what life was like for the crew as they steered the ship to ports all around the world.
The Basics
Visitors can prepurchase an admission ticket and make their own way to the Cutty Sark, before climbing aboard to explore. Costumed characters from Cutty Sark’s past perform several times a day on the main deck.
Many half-day and full-day tours of Greenwich include a visit to the Cutty Sark, as well as other Royal Museums Greenwich venues, such as the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House, and the Greenwich Royal Observatory. Passengers on boat cruises along the River Thames may catch a glimpse of the Cutty Sark’s masts from the water.
Things to Know Before you Go
- The Cutty Sark is a must for history buffs, maritime enthusiasts, and families.
- A café can be found on the vessel’s lower ground deck.
- Cutty Sark is wheelchair friendly with step-free access available via King William Walk and Greenwich Pier, and lifts providing access to all levels. Some parts of the main deck are not accessible.
How to Get There
Cutty Sark is permanently stationed at Greenwich Pier in South East London. To get here, ride the MBNA Thames Clipper from London Eye Pier (35 minutes), London Bridge City Pier (25 minutes), or Tower Pier (20 minutes). Trains from Central London to Greenwich take less than 10 minutes, while the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) from Central London to Cutty Sark DLR station takes just 20 minutes.
When to Get There
Peak hours typically fall between 1pm and 3pm on weekends, with July and August drawing the biggest crowds. The best time to visit is in June, when summer weather means you can still fully enjoy all the outdoor attractions of Greenwich, such as Greenwich Park and the waterfront, but without the huge crowds.
On Board the Cutty Sark
During its prime, the Cutty Sark was one of the fastest Victorian sea clippers to sail the seas. The ship would typically set sail from Britain and journey to China, returning with stores of tea. Visitors who step aboard the restored vessel today can take hold of the wheel on its main deck, gaze up at the copper hull, and see the cramped quarters where the captain and crew slept. You can also see interactive maps tracking shipping routes and illustrations.
Address: London, England
From $ 16
Florence Nightingale Museum
A heroine of the Crimean War, a pioneer of social reform, and the founder of modern nursing – Florence Nightingale is one of the most talked about women in British history. The story of the legendary ‘Lady with the Lamp’ is the focus of the Florence Nightingale Museum, where a series of interactive exhibitions chronicle her life, from her privileged beginnings, to her work as a nurse in the Crimean War, to her role in reforming midwifery and nursing around the world.
Housed in London’s St Thomas’ Hospital - home to the Nightingale Training School of Nursing and Midwifery - the museum showcases almost 3,000 artifacts, including photographs, films, maps, medical equipment, and personal effects. Among the many treasures, highlights include Nightingale’s pet owl Athena, her medicine chest used in the Crimean War, and a rare Crimean Register of Nurses.
Practical Info
The Florence Nightingale Museum is located in St Thomas' Hospital, opposite the Palace of Westminster on London’s South Bank. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm, and adult admission is £7.50. Admission is free with the London Pass.
Address: 2 Lambeth Palace Rd., Labmeth, London SE1 7EW, England
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Adult £7.50, Child £3.80
From $ 10