Things to do in London

Brimming with parks and palaces, London has more landmarks than you can wave a Union Jack at. But if historic buildings aren’t your cup of tea, why not head to attractions full of fun, such as London Zoo or Madame Tussauds? Here's our pick of the best things to do in the capital to get you started.

With thrilling activities both indoors and out, we’ve got everything you need to turn your London city break into an action-packed day of drama. Climb a vertical ice wall, whizz down the world’s longest slide or just go for a bit of wild swimming. All you need is your Oyster card and your sense of adventure.

The streets of London are paved with high-brow attractions. No matter how niche your interests, the capital’s many museums and galleries will have an exhibition to suit you. Or explore the student side of the city’s cultural scene by paying a visit to some of London’s most prestigious universities.

From action on-stage to drama on the football pitch, London’s not short of an entertainment hot spot or two. Besides attracting the best talent on the planet to tread its boards or appear at its stadiums and arenas, the capital has a year-round calendar of stunning events to enjoy, too.

Epicentre of all things cool, London has plenty to keep you busy by day. But the city really comes alive when the sun goes down and the secret speakeasies, swanky superclubs and swish cocktail bars open their doors. Want to party like a VIP? Visit a historic boozer packed with charm?

Market stalls piled high with freshly shucked oysters. Creative cafes dedicated to cereal. Michelin-starred restaurants from the finest chefs in the world. Foodie heaven awaits you in London. What will be on the menu on your city break? Read on for everything you need to get a real taste of the capital.

Want to shop where the Queen buys her tea bags? Or visit the world’s oldest toy store? London lets you do this and more. Many stores are tourist destinations in their own right. Don’t worry if your budget’s more Primark than Prada. Head to a market and pick up some vintage threads instead.

Not sure how to navigate your way around the big smoke? Looking for the best route from the airport to your hotel? Read our guide and you’ll soon be nipping around the capital like a local. Or save yourself a busy Tube ride by picking up a Boris bike from a docking station.

So we’ll never be royal, but visiting Buckingham Palace has got to be the next best thing. As one of the world’s best-known tourist attractions, it’s a must-see if you’re in London for a city break. But a trip to the Queen’s pad is much improved if you plan when you’re going in advance. The palace and its park are spectacular, but you won’t even get a peek inside without booking a tour, and these normally only take place in August and September when the Royal Family aren’t at home.