London, the capital city of the United Kingdom, is a bustling hub of business and tourism, and there is so much to see and do. With history stretching back over two thousand years and welcoming millions of visitors every year, there is something in London for everyone to enjoy: art, food, landmarks, museums and so much more. Aside from our fantastic day tours from London, you might be wondering how else to spend your time in this sprawling metropolis, so we have put together a list for you of our top ten things to see in London.
Buckingham Palace
First on our list of must-see places is the world-famous Buckingham Palace. This royal residence is the London “office” of the British monarch, currently King Charles III. It is one of the most popular spots in London, with millions of tourists every year. Visitors can snap a selfie by the Victoria Memorial, overlooking the forecourt, or they can pay to enter the palace itself to take in the splendour of the State Rooms, which are open for 10 weeks each summer. In 2024, this is from 11th July to 29th September. Another major attraction of the palace is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which happens daily from April to July, and every other day in other months.
Tower of London
Set alongside the River Thames, with the iconic Tower Bridge looming overhead, the Tower of London is a tourist hotspot that people come from all over the world to see. Attractions of the Tower include the Yeomen Warders, better known as Beefeaters, who guard the Crown Jewels, as well as the legendary Ravens. Tourists can also witness the Ceremony of the Keys, an ancient tradition that has taken place at the Tower of London every night for the last 700 years. The Tower is also famous for its ghost sightings, with many historical figures held prisoner and executed within its walls, including Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and the young nephews of Richard III.
London Eye and Big Ben
We have listed these two iconic London landmarks together because they are situated very close to each other on opposite sides of the River Thames. The London Eye is a giant Ferris-wheel structure with pods that offer a stunning view out over the city. A 10-minute walk from the Eye is the iconic clock tower of Big Ben beside the Houses of Parliament, easily accessible by Westminster Bridge. Home to the 13-tonne bell which gives the tower its name, Big Ben is one of the most famous cultural landmarks of Britain, and a must-see for any tourist in London.
Natural History Museum and British Museum
In an expensive capital city like London, museums with their free entry are an amazing way to spend your holiday when on a budget, and have so much to offer. The Natural History Museum boasts impressive Victorian architecture that houses five main collections: zoology, botany, entomology, mineralogy and palaeontology. Meanwhile, the British museum dedicates itself to human art, history and culture, with its permanent collection of over eight million works making it the largest in the world. Both museums are some of the most visited tourist attractions in the country.
St Paul’s Cathedral
The masterpiece of famed architect Christopher Wren, St Paul’s Cathedral is an iconic part of the London skyline. Its dome is one of the biggest of the world’s cathedrals and boasts incredible views out over the city for its visitors to marvel at, providing a panorama for the perfect photo opportunity. The site is also a must-visit for art lovers, since St. Paul’s has a large collection of artworks spanning various periods in history, and often hosts rotating art installations. The remains of several important historical figures are interred within the cathedral, including Florence Nightingale, Alexander Fleming, Sir Christopher Wren, and Admiral Lord Nelson.
Westminster Abbey
A World Heritage site with over 1000 years of history, Westminster Abbey is one of the most important buildings in central London. Over the last millennium, forty English and British monarchs have had their coronation ceremonies here when they ascended the throne, and it also hosted sixteen royal weddings. It remains a place of daily worship to this day, as well as a major tourist site. Visitors can take in the intricate gothic architecture on a massive scale: vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows and marble carvings. Although the Abbey was first built in the 13th century, additions and renovations have been made over the last 800 years, making it a work of art whose creation has spanned centuries.
Kensington Palace and Gardens
Kensington Palace is the home of royalty, both historically and to this day. Here, Queen Victoria was born and raised, and it is now the official Royal Residence of Prince William—next in line to the throne of the United Kingdom—and his family. It is a popular tourist site, particularly the gloriously-decorated State Rooms and the Jewel Room, displaying the gems commissioned for Queen Victoria by her beloved husband Albert. Tickets for entry to the palace can be bought online, but it is free for the public to explore the gorgeous Kensington gardens. Once a playground for the children of nobility, the 265 acres of green space boast avenues of trees, artworks, flower walks, fairy gardens and more. The gardens are open 6am–6:30pm every day.
National Gallery
One of the most visited art galleries in London, the National Gallery is located by Trafalgar Square. The gallery is heaven for art-lovers, featuring more than 2300 pieces of European art dating from the 13th to the 20th century. Highlights include works by Rembrandt, Van Gogh and Claude Monet! It is completely free to enter and open to the public from 10am–6pm every day, and it is recommended to spend at least three hours exploring everything the gallery has to offer. Visitors can even join a free guided tour, 3–4pm every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (excluding public holidays). Some other popular art galleries in London include the Hayworth Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, the Tate Modern and the Tate Britain.
Camden Market
Open since 1974, Camden Market is a colourful, diverse community of over 1000 unique shops, stalls, cafes and bars, making it the perfect day out for shopaholics, foodies, or anyone looking to explore the creative scene in London. Located next to Regent’s Canal, Camden Market is the largest in the city, open seven days a week. Historically a melting pot for alternative fashion and music, its origins can still be seen in the various boutiques and the iconic Dingwalls stage, where bands like the Clash, the Sex Pistols and Blondie have played. Visitors to the market can scour the shops, try some of the amazing street-food options, and stroll along the canal. The nearest stations to the market are: Camden Town (Northern Line), Chalk Farm (Northern Line), and Camden Road (Overground).
Horizon 22
The highest in the UK, Horizon 22 is a free public viewing gallery on the 58th floor located in the beating heart of central London. It is an extremely popular attraction, so although tickets are free and on quiet days walk-ins are accepted, it is recommended to book your entry ahead of time! The lift takes you up to Level 58 of the tallest building in the city within 41 seconds to the observation deck. Visitors enjoy breath-taking views out over some of the iconic landmarks of the city centre, including: the River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and more! Sample drinks and snacks from the Horizon 22 Café, snap some Instagram-worthy shots, and take in the London skyline 254 metres above street level.
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However you choose to spend your time in this sprawling city, the blend of centuries-old history, diverse cultures and communities, amazing food and stunning sightseeing spots make it a tourist’s heaven. We hope this guide has been helpful and that you enjoy your time in London. And if you want to get out of the city to explore more of the must-see places in England and be back in London in time for your evening meal, check out our brilliant Day Tours from London. We hope to see you soon!
