Things to do in London
Widely considered the finest and most beautiful residences in the UK, London’s magnificent, historical royal palaces attract admirers from around the world. Here are just five of the best that you should visit on your next trip to the English capital.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is perhaps the best-known London palace. Photo: Annapurna Mellor / Viator The Queen’s personal quarters. One of the best-known royal palaces in the world, Buckingham Palace is the primary (official) residence of the British monarch. The palace features 19 state rooms, which are open to the public for three months each summer when the queen goes to Scotland.
During the rest of the year, admire the palace and its famous balcony from behind gilded gates or stop by for the Changing of the Guard ceremony—just don’t forget to arrive well before the scheduled procession to beat the crowds.
How to visit: Experience life as a member of the British royal family on a tour of the State Rooms, or stroll through St. James’ Park to a luxury hotel for afternoon tea.
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Abbey Road Tours and Tickets
Pop pilgrims flock to this black-and-white-striped crosswalk in North London for the ultimate photo opportunity. Day in and day out, Beatles fans can be seen trying to recreate the iconic 1969 “Abbey Road” album cover photo at this now-iconic pedestrian crossing. Nearby lies Abbey Road Studios, the famous recording studio where the Beatles recorded many of their hits.
Carnaby Street Tours and Tickets
An alternative-fashion mecca during the Swinging Sixties, Carnaby Street epitomized It was home to iconic boutiques like Mary Quant, frequented by The Who and the Rolling Stones, and even name-checked in pop hits like The Kinks’ Dedicated Follower of Fashion. By the 1970s, it became a stomping ground for the punk movement, with the Sex Pistols and their anti-establishment ethos leaving their mark on its rebellious spirit. Today, Carnaby Street blends its counterculture heritage with modern flair, remaining one of central London’s coolest shopping destinations.
Hampton Court Palace Tours and Tickets
Once the residence of the infamous King Henry VIII, Hampton Court is one of the king’s two remaining palaces and one of the grandest castles in England, having once been planned to rival the Palace of Versailles in France. With its 500 years of history, the palace has witnessed royal drama, political intrigue, and architectural transformation, making it one of England’s most fascinating historical landmarks.
Westminster Cathedral Tours and Tickets
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.
Notting Hill Tours and Tickets
Immortalized in the 1999 romantic comedy of the same name, Notting Hill is a popular West London neighborhood and is at the top of many visitors’ wish lists. Known for its vibrant rainbow-hued houses, the bustling Portobello Road market, and the highly anticipated Notting Hill Carnival, the area stands out as one of London’s most colorful and lively neighborhoods, offering a unique blend of cultural events and iconic sights.
Cenotaph Tours and Tickets
One of London’s most important commemorative monuments, the Cenotaph—located on Whitehall, just steps from 10 Downing Street and Churchill’s Imperial War Rooms—was originally created to memorialize the British troops who lost their lives in World War I. Today, it remembers all British servicemen who have fallen in conflict.
Diana Memorial Fountain Tours and Tickets
Dedicated in 2004 by the late Queen Elizabeth II, the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain was established in remembrance of Princess Diana following her untimely death. The oval fountain—created by landscape architects Gustafson Porter + Bowman, and constructed from Cornish granite—was designed to be accessible, and to invite peaceful contemplation.
London City Hall (Southwark) Tours and Tickets
Note: London City Hall (Southwark) is temporarily closed.
Famed for its striking looks, London City Hall (Southwark)—which overlooks the Thames and is just steps from Tower Bridge—was designed by starchitect Norman Foster (who also created the city’s iconic “Gherkin” skyscraper.
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum Tours and Tickets
One of the world’s largest tennis museums, the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum—located just steps from the world-famous Centre Court—delves deep into the history and highlights of the sport. Items on display range from trophies and outfits worn by former Grand Slam champions to Olympic memorabilia and other historical mementos.
London Chinatown Tours and Tickets
More London Tours
Exciting Full Day Tour – See All London Sites
The day tour will start at 10.00am at Charing Cross Train Station station. I’ll start by showing you all the main attractions in London’s famous Westminster through an amazing walking tour This can be seen as an opportunity to meet new people while seeing all London sites in ONE DAY! We’ll be seeing sights such as; Trafalgar Square, Changing of the Horses Guard Parade, St James’ Palace/Park, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, iconic London Eye and the mighty Big Ben. Afterwards you’ll enjoy a brunch break and at a British cuisine. Afterwards we’ll explore other famous parts of London including St Paul’s Cathedral, Tate Modern Gallery, Tower of London, Millennium Bridge, Tower Bridge and London Bridge Finally, we’ll end the tour at 4.30pm with a cafe trip. On this day you’ll get a tour guide, teacher, local expert but also a new friend
See All London Sites Tour
Harry Potter Walking Tour
Read more about London Harry Potter Walking Tour
Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London
Glide by some of London’s must-see landmarks on a sightseeing cruise from Westminster to Greenwich on the Thames River. Step aboard your comfortable cruise boat at Westminster Pier and listen to the entertaining live commentary as you pass sights such as Shakespeare’s Globe, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London. Drink in the views from the open or indoor deck, and at Greenwich, step ashore to visit attractions (own expense) such as the Cutty Sark or National Maritime Museum. Upgrade to include a return cruise back to Westminster.
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