Things to Do in London

Choose from 184 Fun Things to Do in London

Tower of London

From medieval torture to grim executions and infamous royal prisoners, the Tower of London has long found itself at the center of the city's dark history. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, the historic castle has served as a Royal Menagerie, Her Majesty's prison, an execution site, a royal observatory, a Royal Mint, and a military storehouse over the course of its existence.

The Basics

Today, the tower famously displays the Crown Jewels (which include the Imperial State Crown) and holds centuries of history within its walls, drawing travelers from near and far. It remains guarded by members of the Royal Bodyguards, known as Beefeaters. Visitors can admire the Royal Armouries in the White Tower, walk along the battlements, and see where Anne Boleyn was executed by order of Henry VIII. The popular Torture at the Tower exhibit, the Coins and Kings exhibit at the Royal Mint, the Fusilier Museum, and the Line of Kings all shed light on the tower's history.

Things to Know Before You Go

This is an incredibly popular London attraction, so it's recommended that you buy your ticket or book your tour in advance.
Choose an early-access tour to beat the crowds, or combine your trip with visits to other top London sites.
Special events, medieval reenactments, and family activities are held at the tower throughout the year.

How to Get to the Tower of London

The tower is located at the north end of the Tower Bridge on London's Thames River waterfront. The closest tube station is Tower Hill via the Circle and District lines.

When to Get There

The tower is open March to October from 9am to 5:30pm (Sunday and Monday from 10am) and November to February from 9am to 4:30pm (Sunday and Monday from 10am). Due to its popularity, queues can get long, especially in the afternoon—visiting first thing in the morning is your best bet to avoid crowds.

Unlocking the Tower's Secrets

The tower's wildly entertaining Beefeaters, or Yeoman Warders, share stories and secrets on the widely recommended Beefeater tour. Learn fun facts such as how six ravens are kept at the Tower of London at all times, and how legend has it that if they ever leave, the tower will fall. There's even a "raven master" tasked with looking after them and a seventh raven on hand just in case. Tours begin every 30 minutes.

Tower Hill, London EC3N 4AB, England

March–Oct Tues–Sat 9am–5:30pm; Sun–Mon 10am–5:30pm; Nov–Feb Tues–Sat 9am–4:30pm, Sun–Mon 10am–4:30pm

Adult £25, Child £12

From $ 8

West End Theater District

Equally as renowned as New York’s Broadway Theater District, London’s West End is widely acclaimed for its award-winning theater productions and vast variety of shows and musicals. Seeing a ‘West End Show’ is a popular pastime for tourists and locals alike, with regular performances of a number of world renowned titles like Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, The Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Blood Brothers and many award-winning film actors from both England and the United States choosing to take to the West End stages. Recent hits like The Lion King, Mamma Mia! and We Will Rock You, have helped increase West End visitors to over 13 million annual show-watchers.

The West End has a long history with theater - the first venue opened on Drury Lane back in 1663 and today the area boasts around 40 theaters, many housed in beautifully preserved Victorian houses. Today the West End, sometimes referred to as ‘Theatreland’, spans the areas of Oxford Street, the Strand, Regent Street and Kingsway in Central London, with venues including the Theatre Royal, the area’s oldest theater; The Coliseum the largest in the capital with its 2,358 seats and the prestigious National Theater on Southbank. It’s an area that encompasses many of central London’s key attractions, shopping districts, restaurants and nightlife, making an evening show in the West End a popular finale to London tours.

London, England

From $ 13

Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum houses more than 2.3 million cultural artifacts from around the globe, spanning over 5,000 years. Explore the museum’s world-famous collections of Asian art and postclassical sculpture, attend a family-friendly drop-in session, or discover work by masters such as Raphael, John Constable, and William Morris.

The Basics

Many opt to visit the V&A, located on the same street as the Science Museum and Natural History Museum, as part of a wider exploration of the South Kensington neighborhood. For those looking for a more intimate experience of the world-famous collection, a private tour provides personalized insights. If you’re particularly interested in one area, thematic tours are also available, while families with kids can benefit from tours specifically designed for children.

Things to Know Before You Go

The V&A is a must-see for culture vultures and history buffs.
Entrance to the museum is free, though some exhibitions carry a charge.
The museum is fully accessible to visitors with mobility and/or hearing impairments, though be aware that the tunnel entrance from South Kensington station is not step-free.
The museum has a dedicated stroller-storage area and is breastfeeding-friendly.

How to Get There

The the Victoria and Albert Museum is located on Cromwell Road in the South Kensington neighborhood of London. To get there by public transit, take the underground to South Kensington, which has direct tunnel access to the museum. Alternatively, the 52 and C1 buses from London Victoria stop nearby.

When to Get There

The Victoria and Albert Museum is extremely popular and can become crowded, especially during peak summer months. For a more peaceful visit, aim to arrive first thing in the morning on weekend days or in the late afternoon during the week, or take advantage of extended open hours on Fridays. The museum’s temporary exhibitions change regularly, so it’s a good idea to check ahead to see what’s on.

The V&A Museum of Childhood

Over in East London, another branch of the V&A specializes in art and design for young people. The UK’s National Museum of Childhood is the world’s largest museum of its kind and offers exhibitions, events, and activities to engage adults and children alike.

London, England

From $ 35

White Hart Lane Stadium

Home to one of London’s most successful football (soccer) clubs, Tottenham Hotspur – usually known as Spurs – White Hart Lane Stadium is in north London. The team play in the Premier League – the highest level in English football – and count striker Harry Kane and winger Andros Townsend, both who also play for England, among their current high-profile players. When a match is at their home ground, Spurs players dress in white adorned with the team logo of a navy blue cockerel perched on a football. Team colors for away matches are sky blue and patterned with black stripes.

Football is something of a national obsession in the UK; matches last 90 minutes in two halves, plus injury time. The season runs annually from mid-August until mid-May and match days at White Hart Lane have all the wholesome excitement of family days out, and there are plenty of food and drink outlets at the ground.

In fall 2015, Spurs revealed plans to build a state-of-the-art stadium at White Hart Lane; it will cost £400 million, will have a retractable roof and will be multi-purpose. Rumor has it that the football team has signed a deal with the US’s National Football League (NFL) to play a least two games there per year. Capacity at the new stadium is to be 61,000, there will be a skywalk above it and a sculptural glass façade. Work is expected to begin after the 2015–16 football season is over.

Practical Info

748 High Road, Tottenham, London N17 0AP. Tickets for all matches can be ordered online or by telephone (0344 844 0102 or +44 207 998 1068 from outside the UK), and prices vary from £17 to £81, depending on match and stand. Stadium tours are available; book online. The easiest way to get to White Hart Lane is by mainline train from Seven Sisters, which connects into central London via the Tube’s Victoria Line.

748 High Road, Tottenham, London, England

Opening hours vary

Varies

From $ 136

Whitehall

Whitehall is a main thoroughfare in London running south from the southern end of Trafalgar Square towards Parliament Square. It is named for the Palace of Whitehall that stood in the area until the end of the 17th century and was originally a wide road that led to the front of the palace. The famous Trafalgar Square was built at the northern end of Whitehall in the early 19th century. Whitehall is lined with government buildings, including the Old War Office, the Admiralty Buildings, the Horse Guards, the Ministry of Defense and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Whitehall is also known for its memorial statues and monuments, most notably the national war memorial known as the Cenotaph. In 2005, the National Monument to the Women of World War II was erected just north of the Cenotaph. Other monuments to keep an eye out for along Whitehall are those of Prince George, Duke of Cambridge; Spencer Cavendish, 8th Duke of Devonshire; Douglas Haig, 1st Earl Haig; William Slim, 1st Viscount Slim; Alan Brooke, 1st Viscount Alanbrooke; and Bernard Montgomery, 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein.

Practical Info

Whitehall runs through the City of Westminster in London. The closest Underground stations are Charing Cross near Trafalgar Square and Westminster near Parliament Square.

London, England

From $ 25

Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square—the living, breathing, and beating heart of London’s West End—plays an integral part in local life as a site of celebrations, protests, performances, parades, and public gatherings. Overlooked by grand, stately buildings such as the National Gallery and St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church, this vast square is dotted with iconic fountains and statuary. Most famous among them is the 144-foot (44-meter) Nelson’s Column, which commemorates a British naval victory over France and Spain, and is guarded by four oversized bronze lions.

The Basics

Trafalgar Square is one of the best places to take the pulse of life in England’s capital city. While many tourists come here independently, a guide can help enlighten visitors as to the significance of the square’s many monuments and sights as well as draw attention to the splendid surrounding architecture. Trafalgar Square is commonly included on sightseeing tours of the West End and Central London, along with nearby Westminster, where you’ll find Big Ben and the United Kingdom’s Houses of Parliament. You may also encounter Trafalgar Square during guided walking tours, bus tours, and bike tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

You’ll find public restrooms at the west end of the square; a small charge applies.
Check ahead to see if an event is scheduled. Preparation for big events may result in limited access.
The National Gallery offers free Wi-Fi.

How to Get There

The nearest station to Trafalgar Square is Charing Cross, which is served by the Bakerloo and Northern Underground lines as well as by regular rail. Embankment (Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Northern lines), Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines), and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) stations are all fewer than 10 minutes’ walk away.

When to Get There

Trafalgar Square is at its liveliest in summer. Lunchtime is particularly good for people-watching as office workers decamp from their desks to eat on the steps in front of the National Gallery. In the run-up to the festive period, a giant Christmas tree—a gift from Norway to the people of Britain—is erected in the center of the square, and carolers belt out festive songs to raise money for charity.

The Fourth Plinth

Built in 1841, Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth was originally meant to host a statue of King William IV, but because of a lack of funds, it stood empty for more than a century. Until recently, that is, when the mayor of London decided to put the plinth to good use: as a showcase for contemporary artwork. In 2017 the plinth held David Shrigley’s Really Good, a 22-foot (7-meter) bronze thumbs-up.

Trafalgar Square, London SW1, England

Free

From $ 12

Up at the O2

Extending for 1,247 feet (380 meters) across the curving dome of London’s landmark O2 Arena, the Up at the O2 rooftop walkway promises far-reaching vistas and open-air thrills. Equipped with climbing suits and safety harnesses, visitors traverse the fabric walkway with a guide, making their way up to an observation platform where spectacular 360-degree views of the River Thames, leafy Greenwich, and the glinting skyscrapers of Canary Wharf await.

The Basics

You can access the O2 Arena rooftop only during an official guided climb. The whole experience, including a pre-climb safety briefing, takes around 90 minutes. A maximum of 16 people can take part in each climb. Purchase tickets in advance to ensure a spot at your preferred time slot. After having ascended to the O2 viewing platform and taken in the bird’s-eye panoramas of London, if you want a different perspective on the city, consider embarking on a Thames cruise. Hop-on hop-off river boats depart from nearby Greenwich Pier.

Things to Know Before You Go

With ascending and descending slopes of up to 30 degrees, the Up at the O2 walkway is not for the faint of heart.
Climbing suits, harnesses, and boots are provided. Don’t forget to bring hats and gloves in cold weather.
Children aged 10 years and older can do the climb as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

How to Get There

The nearest tube station is North Greenwich (Jubilee line). MBNA Thames Clippers run regular river bus services to North Greenwich Pier. You can also reach the O2 via the Emirates Air Line, a 0.6-mile (1-kilometer) cable car route spanning the River Thames. Find Up at the O2 to the left of the main arena entrance.

When to Get There

The best time of the year to embark on an ascent is during summer, when clear skies are more likely. Book a sunset climb for epic selfies, or try an evening twilight climb to see the city’s lights sparkle in the night sky. Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled climb to allow time for the check-in process.

Where to Eat at the O2

Scaling one of London’s premier concert venues is appetite-inducing work. If you need to refuel after, the arena complex has lots of tempting options. You’ll find plenty of places to dine and drink on the palm-lined Entertainment Avenue inside the O2, including Thai restaurant Busaba Eathai, burger franchise Five Guys, and Portuguese chicken chain Nando’s.

Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX, England

Hours vary by season.

Tickets start at £30

From $ 21

Twickenham Stadium

Twickenham Stadium, also sometimes referred to as Twickenham or Twickers, is a rugby stadium located in the town of Twickenham within the London borough of Richmond upon Thames. It is the home of the rugby union and therefore hosts a big number of important rugby matches, such as the Aviva Premiership, the LV Cup and the Middlesex Sevens. Twickenham Stadium has also been a host for the Rugby World Cup several times.

Apart from a number of impressive concerts by world famous artists, Twickenham Stadium has been reserved for rugby and is actually the biggest stadium in the world devoted to the sport. After extensive reconstruction in 1995 and another redevelopment a decade later, the stadium now seats 82,000 people and also holds a Marriott hotel overlooking the fields as well as the World Rugby Museum. As the name suggests, the museum doesn’t only focus on English rugby, but covers the sport as a worldwide phenomenon. Find out about the origins of some of the world’s most famous rugby players, relive several of the best matches the sport has ever seen and learn about rugby history from its beginnings to the present day with interactive displays. Additionally, an ever changing selection of special exhibitions cover some of the more obscure details and items of the sport.

Practical Info

Twickenham Stadium can be found in South West London. The nearest train station, also called Twickenham, is only a short walk away from the stadium. There is parking available, however the parking spaces are limited and especially on game days, it’s advisable to pre-book online. There are tours of the stadium and the museum available several times a day, but the stadium is closed on Mondays, on holidays, as well as during matches and events.

Whitton Road, Twickenham, United Kingdom, England

Pricing varies

From $ 32

Wembley Stadium

The largest stadium in the United Kingdom and the second largest in Europe, Wembley Stadium is an iconic London landmark. Since the remodeled stadium opened in 2007, it has hosted the annual FA Cup final, the 2012 Olympic Games finals, and the UEFA Champions League Finals, and also serves as a venue for world-renowned musicians.

The Basics

Football enthusiasts can experience the electric atmosphere of match day at Wembley Stadium with tickets to a Tottenham Hotspur game, while sports fans can opt for a behind-the-scenes tour to see the players’ dressing room, the press conference room, the royal box, the players tunnel, and the pitchside. For the most spectacular views, soar overhead on a helicopter tour and enjoy an aerial view of the 440-foot-high (134-meter) Wembley Arch.

Things to Know Before You Go

On-site facilities include restrooms, ATMs, food kiosks, a bar and restaurant, and a stadium store.
Large bags and items are not permitted in the stadium, and bags are subject to security checks.
Wembley Stadium is fully wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Located in Wembley, North London, the stadium is accessible by train (Wembley Stadium station) from London Marylebone, by tube via the Jubilee and Metropolitan lines (Wembley Park station), and by National Express buses from over 50 cities in the UK. It is not advised to travel there by car as parking is limited, but it is possible to do so from central London via the A40, A406, and A4088.

When to Get There

Wembley Stadium is open year-round, but public entrance is only by guided tour or for sporting events and music concerts.

Music Concerts at Wembley Stadium

Because it’s the UK equivalent of Madison Square Garden, playing a gig at Wembley is a sought-after achievement for bands and artists around the globe. Amongst its most famous events, the stadium hosted the 2007 Live Earth concert and the commemorative Concert for Diana, as well as sold-out concerts by acts such as Muse, George Michael, Bon Jovi, Metallica, Madonna, Oasis, and AC/DC. Take That played a record-breaking eight nights at Wembley Stadium in 2011, which was the fastest- and biggest-selling tour in UK history with 623,737 tickets sold.

Wembley, London, England

Tours: Adults £20, Child £12

From $ 73

Westminster Bridge

One of London’s oldest road bridges, with a history dating back to 1739, Westminster Bridge crosses the iconic Thames River, running from Westminster on the north bank to Lambeth on the south side. Overlooked by Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the Grade II listed bridge is one of London’s most photographed landmarks, immortalized by painters like JMW Turner and Samuel Scott, and seen on-screen in movies including Mission Impossible, 28 Days Later, and Die Another Die.

Located right in the heart of central London, it’s hard to miss Westminster Bridge and there are plenty of ways to visit. Perhaps stroll across the famous bridge on a walking tour of London, cruise beneath its arches on a Thames River sightseeing cruise, or enjoy a spectacular aerial view from the London Eye or The Shard. Alternatively, see the illuminated bridge at its most atmospheric during a night tour of the city, or visit on New Year’s Eve to watch the dazzling fireworks over the riverfront.

Practical Info

Westminster Bridge runs across the River Thames in central London, between Westminster on the north bank to Lambeth on the south side.

Westminster Bridge, London, England

From $ 34

Westminster Cathedral

Not to be confused with the more-famous Westminster Abbey, just a short walk away, Westminster Cathedral is England’s most important Roman Catholic Church and an architectural landmark in its own right. Built at the turn of the 20th century, the striking terracotta-brick building is renowned for its unique neo-Byzantine architecture and remains the only example of its kind in London.

As well as admiring the red-and-white-striped façade, visitors are free to explore the church’s exquisite interiors, or climb the 83 meter tall bell-tower, where the views extend across the city. The cathedral also holds daily services and is the only cathedral in the world to sing daily Mass and Vespers, performed by the world-renowned Westminster Cathedral Choir.

Practical Info

Westminster Cathedral is located on Francis Street in Westminster and the nearest tube station is Victoria. The cathedral is open daily from 7am to 8pm and is free to enter, with a charge of £5 to climb the bell tower. Services are held daily.

42 Francis Street, Westminster SW1P 1QW, England

Daily 7am- 8pm

Free; access to bell tower £5

From $ 43

Wellington Arch

As the grand centerpiece of Hyde Park Corner, Wellington Arch is among London’s most viewed landmarks, but it’s also possible to explore inside the historic monument. Built for George IV between 1826 and 1830 to commemorate the British victories in the Napoleonic Wars, the Wellington Arch was originally intended to stand at the entrance to Buckingham Palace.

A short stroll from both Hyde Park and Green Park, the Arch offers great views over the royal parks and nearby Buckingham Palace, as well as making a great spot from which to watch the daily Changing of the Guards ceremony – the mounted Horse Guards pass right beneath the arch. Visitors can also enjoy three floors of exhibitions telling the story of the arch’s history and the Battle of Waterloo.

Practical Info

The Wellington Arch is located on Hyde Park Corner at the western corner of Green Park in central London and is open daily from 10am to 4pm (winter) or 6pm (summer). Adult admission is £4.70 or free with the London Pass.

Apsley Way, London, England

Daily 10am-4pm (winter) or 6pm (summer)

Adult £4.70, Child £2.80

From $ 32

Wallace Collection

Amassed by the Hertford-Wallace family throughout the 19th century, the collection was given to the nation by the widow Lady Wallace in 1897 and opened to the public in 1900. The notable works, displayed in a traditional aristocratic townhouse, include French 18th-century painting, furniture, and porcelain, as well as important pieces by Rembrandt, Hals, and Velázquez.

The Basics

This often-overlooked collection offers visitors unique insight into European art and social history with more than 5,000 display pieces lining the stately rooms, including paintings, ceramics, furniture, and sculptures. Select tours offer a visit as part of a private London itinerary, allowing for a fully personalized experience, while the museum itself offers private group tours, out-of-hours visits, and family activity maps, as well as a free highlights tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Wallace Collection is free to enter.
With one of the best ancien régime collections outside of France, as well as works by the old masters, the museum is a must-see for art enthusiasts and those interested in European history.
The museum is wheelchair-accessible, with ramp access, a lift between floors, and accessible toilets.

How to Get There

The Wallace Collection is a 10-minute walk from Bond Street, served by the Central and Jubilee lines. Marylebone is the nearest mainline station, about a 20-minute walk away, or a short bus ride (No. 139, 13, 113, 189, or 174) straight down Gloucester Place. Driving in London is not recommended, although there is limited parking available in Manchester Square for disabled visitors.

When to Get There

The collection is open daily, and its on-site restaurant, Peyton and Byrne, offers dining in a glass-covered courtyard from breakfast through afternoon tea daily, and for dinner Friday and Saturday.

Links to British Aristocracy

When the widow of Sir Richard Wallace gifted the collection in 1897, it was an end to a long family legacy of collecting. The Wallace Collection was amassed by the first four Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, the son of Richard Seymour-Conway, the fourth Marquess. The Seymour family are well-known in British history; Jane Seymour, Queen of England from 1536 to 1537, was the third wife of Henry VIII and a distant Wallace relative.

Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN, England

From $ 54

Warwick Castle

In 1608 William the Conqueror built Warwick Castle, one of England’s most magnificent medieval castles, on the banks of the River Avon and encircled by beautiful parklands. Now a historical theme park run by Merlin Entertainments, it’s a full-on medieval experience filled with fascinating exhibits, interactive tours, and activities for the whole family.

The Basics

A Warwick Castle tour includes access to the castle’s armory, state rooms, and Great Hall, as well as the towers, ramparts, and gardens. Optional extras include entrance to the Castle Dungeon Experience or a traditional cream tea at the Warwick Castle Conservatory Tea House. Warwick Castle tours from London are often combined with a visit to William Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, the university city of Oxford, or the Cotswolds.

Things to Know Before You Go

Warwick Castle is a must-see for history, architecture, and castle buffs.
Visitor facilities include luggage lockers, ATMs, restaurants, gift shops, and car parking (fees apply).
Audio guides are available in eight different languages.
Some parts of the castle are accessible to wheelchair users. Strollers are not allowed inside the castle, but free stroller storage is available.

How to Get There

Warwick Castle is located 30 miles (48 kilometers) southeast of Birmingham, about a 40-minute drive; from central London, it’s a 2-hour drive along the M40. Direct trains run from London’s Marylebone station to Warwick Station, about a mile from the castle.

When to Get There

Warwick Castle is open daily throughout the year, but the busiest times to visit are July, August, and during school holidays. Although visiting outside of these times is advisable if you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, many of the castle’s shows and activities close down or offer limited availability in low season. The most atmospheric times to visit include Christmas and Easter, when the castle hosts special seasonal events and festivities.

Things to Do at Warwick Castle

There’s loads to see and do at Warwick Castle. Watch one of the world’s largest working catapults launch a flaming fireball, learn about the castle’s history at the Time Tower multimedia exhibition, attend a medieval banquet, or watch the spectacular Dragon Slayer show (selected dates in August only), which includes fire jousting, daring stunts, and a thrilling display of lights and pyrotechnics.

Kids will love following the Horrible Histories adventure maze, dressing up in period costumes, and watching displays of medieval jousting, archery, and falconry. You can even spend a night at the castle, either staying in one of the luxury Tower Suites, a lodge, or a glamping tent in the Knight’s Village.

Warwick, Warwickshire CV34 4QU, England

Open daily, 10am - 4pm

Adults: £14.55

From $ 69

Whitechapel

Located in the district of East London, this historic neighborhood was named after a tiny chapel that crumbled during World War II. And while its unassuming name may not entice the typical traveler, this London destination is filled with history and sites that make it worth a visit.

From old-school breweries like the White Heart Brew Pub, to abandoned slaughterhouses and famous foundries (including the one that cast Big Ben!), Whitechapel is as unique as UK neighborhoods come. And while these oddities make it worth a wander, it’s former residents like the notorious murder, Jack the Ripper, and the much-stories Elephant man who put this community on the map.

Practical Info

Whitechapel is home to a large Bangladeshi community around the area known as Brick Lane. This is the perfect spot to stop for lunch or dinner and sample the nation’s traditional dishes. The relatively new Whitechapel Art Gallery is also worth a visit.

London, United Kingdom, England

From $ 16

Warner Bros Studio London

Step into the magical world of Harry Potter and journey behind the scenes of one of the most successful film series of all time at the Warner Bros Studio London – The Making of Harry Potter. Fans can step inside memorable sets such as Diagon Alley, Dumbledore's office, and the Great Hall; discover behind-the-scenes secrets and special effects used in the Harry Potter movies; and admire a huge collection of costumes, iconic props, and interactive exhibitions.

The Basics

Visiting the Warner Bros Studio is only possible by guided tour, with most tours including return transportation from London. Potter fanatics can also combine a studio tour with stops at other notable Harry Potter film locations in England, such as Platform 9¾ at Kings Cross St. Pancras in London or the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College in Oxford.

Things to Know Before You Go

Tickets to the Warner Bros Studio must be booked in advance—each visitor is given an assigned time slot.
Be sure to bring your camera and comfortable shoes, as there’s lots to explore on a walking tour.
Printed guidebooks and digital guides are available in nine different languages.
Most areas of the studio are wheelchair accessible, although a few of the sets have uneven ground that may make access difficult.
Free WiFi is available on-site.

How to Get There

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is located in Watford, about 20 miles (32 km) northwest of central London. The closest railway station is Watford Junction, from where direct services run from London Euston and take about 20 minutes—shuttle buses run from the station to the studio.

When to Get There

The Warner Bros Studio is open all year round, but special events are often held during school holidays and celebrations. At Christmas time, the annual Hogwarts in the Snow event brings a host of seasonal festivities, while at Halloween, the sets get a spooky makeover.

Magical Moments on the Harry Potter Studio Tour

Immerse yourself in JK Rowling’s wizarding world by hopping aboard the original Hogwarts Express steam train, wandering through the Forbidden Forest and the Dark Arts exhibitions, and taking a peek inside Hagrid’s Hut, the Gryffindor Common Room, and the Ministry of Magic. You can even try on costumes, taste a cup of Butterbeer or a Butterbeer ice cream (extra cost), or pose for a green-screen photo to see yourself “flying” on a broomstick. Don’t forget to pick up a wand or another piece of official Harry Potter fan merchandise in the Studio Gift Shop.

Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, England

Vary

Varies

From $ 100

Westminster Abbey

A UNESCO World Heritage site, with a legacy dating back more than 1,000 years, Westminster Abbey is among London’s most historic landmarks. The Gothic church is best known for hosting headline-grabbing events involving the British royal family, such as the Queen’s coronation, Princess Diana's funeral, and Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding.

The Basics

A tour of Westminster Abbey is like taking a walk through British history. Explore independently with an audio guide, on a tour led by a verger (church official), or with a private guide. Tickets include access to all the main areas of the church. The London Pass also grants access to Westminster Abbey.

Things to Know Before You Go

Booking in advance will help you avoid waiting in long lines. Otherwise, be prepared to queue for up to an hour at peak times, especially in July and August.
As the abbey is a place of worship, visitors are asked to dress modestly, and due to its uneven floor and steps, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Taking photos or videos is not permitted within the abbey.
Some, but not all, areas of the abbey are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair users should enter by the North Door; admission is free.
On-site facilities include restrooms, a café, and a gift shop.

How to Get to Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is located close to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in Central London, a short stroll from the Thames riverfront. The nearest tube stations are St. James's Park and Westminster. The visitor entrance to the abbey is at the West Gate of the North Green.

When to Get There

Westminster Abbey is open to visitors every day except Sundays and on religious holidays, when the church is open to worshippers only. To avoid crowds, arrive early on a weekday. To hear the Abbey Choir perform, time your visit for the daily Evensong (weekdays at 5pm and weekends at 3pm). Special after-hours tours also run on Wednesday evenings, typically one of the quietest times to visit.

What to See at Westminster Abbey

Visitors can see the Shrine, containing the tomb of Saint Edward the Confessor; the Royal Tombs, including the tombs of Queen Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots; the Poets' Corner, where a number of creatives are buried or commemorated; the Nave; the 13th-century Cloisters; and memorials devoted to Isaac Newton, Oscar Wilde, Shakespeare, and many more notable figures. For the full experience, end your visit with a stroll through the beautiful College Garden and a traditional afternoon tea at the Cellarium Café.

20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, England

Worship only on Sundays. Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9:30am- 3:30pm, Saturday 9:30am - 1:30pm

Adults: £22, Children (6-16): £9, Children (0-5): free

From $ 9

Westminster

The political, historical and cultural heart of London, the central district of Westminster is one of the capital’s busiest areas and home to so many of the city’s top attractions that many tourists never venture far outside its boundaries. Most visitors start their tour along the Thames River waterfront, where highlights include the Houses of Parliament, the Gothic Westminster Abbey and Westminster Palace, home to the iconic Big Ben clock tower, while the famous London Eye looms on the opposite riverbank.

Close by is the grand central boulevard of Whitehall, which leads to Parliament Square and the Prime Minister's official residence at 10 Downing Street; Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery; the Tate Britain and, to the north, the vibrant West End Theater district.

Another star attraction of Westminster is Buckingham Palace, the official home of Her Majesty the Queen, linked to the city by St James Park, The Mall and the Horse Guards Parade, where the annual Trooping the Colour celebration is held.

Practical Info

The district of Westminster is located in central London just west of the City, on the north bank of the Thames River.

Westminster, London, United Kingdom, England

From $ 12

Tower Bridge

With its Gothic towers and central bascule flanked by dramatic suspension bridges, Tower Bridge is both a remarkable feat of engineering and one of London’s most instantly recognizable landmarks. The famous bridge is a popular subject of London postcards, leading many to mistake it for London Bridge, which is actually the next one upstream.

The Basics

Whether taking a city walking tour, admiring the bridge from a River Thames cruise, or driving across the bridge on a hop-on hop-off city tour, a tour of London’s historic sights isn’t complete without a stop at Tower Bridge. A popular choice is to cross the bridge on a walking tour, perhaps including a visit to the Tower of London (which stands at the northern end of the bridge) or continuing along the Thames riverfront past landmarks such as Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye.

If you want to learn more about the 19th-century bridge and take in the views from the high walkways, visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition, housed in the bridge’s northwest tower. Entrance to the exhibition is free for London Pass holders, and combination tickets are available for the exhibition and the Monument—a tribute to the Great Fire of London.

Things to Know Before You Go

Tower Bridge is a must for architecture and engineering aficionados, and all first-time visitors to London.
While you can walk, cycle, or drive across the bridge, the most spectacular views are from the top walkways—part of the Tower Bridge Exhibition.
River traffic takes priority over road traffic, and vehicles and pedestrians have to wait when a boat wants to come through.
The bridge is accessible to wheelchair users and strollers.

How to Get to There

Tower Bridge is the easternmost of central London’s main bridges. Entrance to the Tower Bridge Exhibition is from the Tower of London (north) side of the river. The closest Tube stations are Tower Hill (District and Circle lines) on the north side and London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee lines) on the south side. Riverboats stop at Tower Pier on the north bank and London Bridge City Pier on the south bank.

When to Get There

It’s almost impossible to avoid crowds along Tower Bridge, especially in peak season (July and August), but opting for an early morning or late evening stroll across the bridge offers the best chance. If you’re hoping to capture a dramatic photograph of the bridge, arrive in time for sunrise, when the lighting is perfect and the crowds are thin. If possible, time your arrival to coincide with the opening of the bascule bridge; times are listed on the Tower Bridge website.

The Tower Bridge Exhibition

At the Tower Bridge Exhibition, you can discover the tower’s fascinating history, peek into the Victorian engine rooms, and learn about its complex mechanics while watching a virtual bridge lift. The highlight is the chance to walk the 138-foot-high (42-meter) walkways at the very top of the towers. The East Walkway offers great views along the River Thames, including the HMS Belfast and London Bridge, while the Glass Walkway lets you look down through a glass floor to the cars and pedestrians on the bridge below. Guided tours also offer behind-the-scenes access to areas including the bridge control room, the machinery room, and the bascule chambers.

Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 2UP, England

Varies

From $ 13

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum

Known to many as the home of the most famous tennis tournament in the world, the Wimbledon grounds also house the world’s largest tennis museum. Numerous onsite galleries and exhibitions allow visitors to experience the evolution of the famous sport.

The collection of tennis memorabilia contains artifacts dating back to 1555, as well as interactive multimedia such as touch screens, a 3D cinema and a holographic John McEnroe. Items on display include championship trophies, film and video footage, championship player mementos and the Wimbledon library. An interactive gallery called CentreCourt360 presents visitors with a viewing experience of Centre Court.

Practical Info

The museum is located in the All England Lawn Tennis Club in southwest London. It is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Museum entrance costs £12 for adults and £7 for children. Entrance with a guided tour costs £22 for adults and £13 for children. By rail, take the train from London Waterloo to Wimbledon Station. By public transport, you can take the Underground to Wimbledon or Southfields station on the District line or Tooting Broadway on the Northern Line, followed by bus 493. The museum is accessible from Gate 4.

Church Road, Wimbledon, London, England

Daily 10am-5pm

Adults £12, Children £7

From $ 32