London – your travel guide

London: where do we start?
This teeming metropolis has it all, from big‑name museums to trendy bars, a thriving nightlife and some of the best shopping in Europe.

If you’re planning a visit, check out this handy travel guide for lots of tips on what to see and do in London.

 

Sightseeing in London

Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace – London’s tourist attractions are famous around the world. Every summer, the city welcomes roughly five million visitors, keen to enjoy this heady mix of history and splendour.

So how can you see the sights while avoiding the crowds of tourists? To start with, we’d recommend taking a leisurely cruise up the River Thames.

You’ll pass by some of London’s most impressive buildings, including the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London. You can hop on and off at various points up the river, and tickets are normally valid for 24 hours, making this a handy way to get around the city.

Another brilliant way to see London is by taking a stroll through the South Bank area by the side of the Thames. Set out from Waterloo train station and you’ll soon arrive at the London Eye – a giant ferris wheel that offers dazzling views over the city.

Continue along the riverside and you’ll pass fantastic attractions such as the Tate Modern art gallery and a reconstruction of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. The walk ends at the Houses of Parliament, where a guided tour will take you behind the scenes of this fascinating building.

Want to experience more in London? Search for activities offered by our local guides.

 

 

Food and drink in London

London is a cultural melting pot, and there are a dizzying array of different styles and flavours to be enjoyed here.

To start with, we’d suggest you check out London’s food halls. Harrods department store runs the most famous one – and also the priciest. Its art deco interior holds a range of gourmet delights, including rare and expensive treats such as lobster and caviar.

If you’re looking for something a little less refined, try the lively Borough Market. Located just minutes from London Bridge station, this is a wonderful place to sample international street food, or quench your thirst with a pint of craft beer.

For restaurant-goers, the city offers a bewildering amount of choice. London has everything from Michelin‑starred establishments, to ‘greasy spoon cafes’ (cheap diners, where you can get a traditional English breakfast).

There are also some more unusual options, for the more adventurous traveller. Head to Dans le Noir in Camden, a restaurant where you eat in complete darkness, or experience tableside acrobatics at the aptly‑named Circus bar.

Looking for food and drink experiences in London? Discover more with one of our local guides.

 

Unusual activities in London

You’ve seen the sights on your visit to London, now why not try some of its more unusual activities? You’ll find that there are surprises around every corner in this fascinating city.

For instance, did you know that you could spend a night with the lions at London Zoo? Check in at the Gir Lion Lodge and you can spend the night next to the Asiatic lion enclosure. You also get a two‑course dinner, and private guided tours of the different animal cages after closing time. 

Or, if you’re an adrenaline junkie, head to the Lee Valley White Water Centre for a spot of white‑water rafting. The venue, built for London’s Olympic Games in 2012, also provides canoeing and kayaking sessions both for beginners and more proficient guests.

Lastly, if you visit London in August, it’s worth checking out Notting Hill Carnival. This two‑day celebration, known as ‘Europe’s biggest street party’, is a vibrant celebration of London in all its multicultural glory. Expect brightly‑coloured dancers, pumping sound systems, and a party lasting well into the early hours of the morning.

Searching for things to do in London? Try one of the unique experiences offered by our Localists.