Having lived here for many years, I know the best London places to see to make the most of your trip, from royal Westminster to the lively East End.
My list of 20 Of The Best London Places To See can lead first-time visitors to the finest landmarks from Borough Market to the Tate Modern. I’ll show you the can’t miss locations that best encapsulate England’s world-famous capital based on my insider’s view of magnificent London.
To fully experience London, see its legendary spectacles. Catch a match at Wimbledon or West End musicals like Les Miserables and Hamilton for unforgettable nights.
Pick what matters most daily. Focus on a different thing each day and add one fun outing – maybe a street art tour one afternoon and going to pubs another night.
However you explore it, London will capture your heart and leave you plotting your next visit before you depart!
Top 20 London Places to See
1. Borough Market
No foodie should miss London’s foremost food court encircling Borough tube station. Simply follow your nose through the Victorian railway arches to discover Borough’s bounty. You can sample all kinds of good stuff – cheeses, cured meats, vegan eats, cocktails, chocolates and just-baked bread.
Additionally, sure, navigating the weekend people means strategy. But that’s part of the fun atmosphere! You may have to wait patiently to get a seat at one of the tasty little restaurants around the edges. Or make your finds into a relaxed riverside picnic by London Bridge. With the community-vibe and top-notch foods, visiting the lively market makes for an excellent London experience.
2. Bermondsey Street
Nestled south of the Thames, Bermondsey Street charms with village vibes in the heart of London. Lined with indie boutiques and cafés between aged brick warehouses, it makes a delightful weekend wander.
Duck into White Cube gallery to glimpse rotating exhibitions of modern art. Then debate your interpretations over outstanding speciality coffee or a pint at a cosy pub.
When hunger strikes, lively tapas bars serve up small plates for sharing. Just plan ahead—their casual settings draw crowds.
Complement your neighbourhood explorations by booking a river cruise from Westminster to Greenwich. Glide past landmarks along the Thames for picture-perfect views of the London skyline.
Additionally and for a magical touch, join the Harry Potter Walking Tour to follow in the footsteps of wizardry. Don wizard robes and pose with props as a guide leads you between filming locations and hidden gems that inspired the series.
No matter how you experience it, Bermondsey Street promises a taste of London life both charming and vibrant.
3. Tower Bridge Top of the List of Best London Places
London’s iconic Tower Bridge deserves both outside appreciation and inside exploration. The bridge’s Gothic towers catch your eye from a distance.
Buying tickets lets you inside to see the inner workings and great city views from the glass walkway up high. A self-guided tour shows how the revolutionary lift system and steam power let tall ships pass under for over 100 years. It also recounts fun facts and the enduring landmark’s history through interactive exhibits and videos ideal for all ages.
4. Tower of London
The UNESCO Tower of London by the river has over 1,000 years of history as Europe’s best medieval fortress. Don’t miss the symbolic Crown Jewels like the Imperial State Crown.
Additionally, take a free Beefeater tour for colourful stories of royal drama, prison, and execution at places like the Bloody Tower. See where keys moments happened across the Tower’s sprawling complex.
Moreover, for memorable atmosphere, book months ahead for the nightly Changing of the Keys ceremony. As the tower locks up, guards bearing lanterns and keys enact this enduring ritual, unchanged for 700 years.
5. Monument to The Great Fire of London
The aptly named Monument was built 1671-77 right where the Great Fire of London began in 1666 before tragically claiming 90 churches and 13,000 homes.
The 202-foot column has a 311-step staircase up to a viewing cage showing 360-degree views of the rebuilt city. Engravings under the narrow windows recount the furious blaze and celebrate London’s determined reconstruction.
Afterward, reward your climb with riverside snacking at Borough Market or Tower Bridge’s scenic views. And don’t forget to pre-purchase a London Pass for discounted access to over 80 attractions over consecutive days.
6. Buckingham Palace
As the London home of British monarchs since 1837, Buckingham Palace occupies mythic status. While gaping at its imposing facade satisfies most, visiting the State Rooms and Royal Gardens allows a deeper dive into regal life.
Each summer, special access tickets grant entry to the Palace’s dazzling interior. Firstly, wander among priceless artworks and artifacts of the Royal Collection that span continents and centuries. Additionally, gaze upward at the soaring Throne Room, its crimson-and-gold grandeur awaiting the next royal event.
In contrast to the artwork, the Throne Room displays more modern royal splendor. Ultimately, exploring the interior provides glimpses of both historic and contemporary royal life.
Additionally, explore the sweeping Palace Gardens that have hosted decadent parties for over 200 years.
For an up-close brush with the palace that launched a thousand postcards, insider access allows you to transcend tourist snaps. Step inside the Gilded Age gates and discover why it remains London’s eternal royal residence.
7. Camden Lock Market: Best London Places to See Freaky Shit
To see London’s funky side, visit alternative Camden Town. Its markets, shops and street scenes appeal to free spirits.
Additionally, start at the Camden Lock market maze filled with guitar buskers and food aromas. Shoppers find vintage cowboy boots, tattoo art and more.
Moreover, sniff out fresh fish and chips to munch while roaming Camden’s lively streets. Its freak flag flies high with captivating markets and stalls spreading alternative vibes across this carefree corner of London. Quirky shops and culture colourfully reflect the neighbourhood’s vibrant spirit.
Furthermore, continue on to shuffle through quirky boutiques, get inked at an indie tattoo parlour, or catch a band at the storied Camden Roundhouse. And be sure to reserve an afternoon for a relaxing canal cruise departed right from Camden Lock. Glide by colourful narrow boats and spy wildlife along Regent’s Canal to Little Venice.
In conclusion, eclectic and energizing, Camden provides a lively counterpoint to London’s polish and pomp. Its gritty charm never fails to delight.
8. The Painted Hall in Greenwich
Nicknamed “the Sistine Chapel of the UK,” the Painted Hall in Greenwich awes visitors with its epic Baroque interior. As part of the Old Royal Naval College, its elaborate dome ceiling and symbolism-rich walls were designed to glorify British sea power.
Before the crowds arrive, come early to gaze up at the Greenwich Maritime Museum’s splendid painted ceilings. Use the binoculars to admire James Thornhill’s ambitious overhead murals while guides explain the oceanic and wisdom symbols circled around the walls. Wandering this fine interior reveals enlightening details.
Thereafter, wander the College’s grounds and riverside views before hitting Greenwich Market’s lively bazaar, brimming as it does with artisanal goods and global street foods. Refuel with a hearty serving of traditional pie, mash and parsley liquor at Goddard’s, an unfussy neighborhood gem.
Additionally, vintage treasure hunters will delight in the area’s antique shops dotted with unexpected deals. Strolling here feels a world away from London’s bustle.
9. Leadenhall Market
Behind London’s modern “Cheese Grater” tower hides a 14th-century gem – charming Leadenhall Market. Its cobble lanes and ornate Victorian roofs once sheltered butcher stalls. Now they lead to boutiques, galleries and lively pubs.
Next door, the steel-and-glass Royal Exchange building encloses upscale shops and eateries in the old trading site’s circular hall. Alternatively, visit Sky Garden at sundown – the iconic tower with unbeatable 360° views of the Square Mile. Subsequently, after wandering this historic market, revel in those sky-high vistas as the sun sets over the city.
10. Natural History Museum: Best London Places to See a Dinosaur!
South Kensington packs top attractions. Start at the always-free Natural History Museum, before hitting other biggies nearby. Even without its giant Diplodocus skeleton guardian, the cathedral-like building wows. Furthermore, it houses globally famous collections to fascinate all ages – dinos! diamonds! wildlife photos! rare bugs and plants!
Arrive when doors open to make the most of exploring the research institution’s greatest hits. Then easily walk next door to the free Science Museum or V&A and keep museum-hopping this star line-up. Skipping tickets between them makes for an affordable day of cultural joy.
11. Tate Modern
The popular Tate Modern and its iconic turbine hall sit across from St Paul’s. Come early on weekdays to skip crowds. In addition, beyond special exhibits needing tickets, guests can freely discover installations, Dali sculptures and major Picasso works inside the tall light-filled building.
This retrofitted industrial cathedral now holds substantial famous works for all to admire. Certainly, don’t miss it!
12. Tate Britain
London’s leading modern art museum shines in a former power station. The popular Tate Modern and its iconic turbine hall sit across from St Paul’s. Come early on weekdays to skip crowds.
This retrofitted industrial cathedral now holds substantial famous works for all to admire. Certainly, don’t miss it!
13. Trafalgar Square: One of the Best London Places to See Iconic Landmarks
As London’s civic centrepiece, Trafalgar Square delivers iconic landmarks and easy access to the National Gallery’s masterpieces. Snap selfies besides Nelson’s Column and its resident giant lion statues before crossing the street.
Within the Gallery, historic works like Van Gogh Sunflowers and Da Vinci drawings await without ticket fees. You can easily spend hours getting lost in the collections and special exhibitions.
Afterwards, wander down Whitehall to glimpse No. 10 Downing Street’s black door or get lost in Covent Garden’s boutique warren. Endless possibilities branch out from London’s famous plaza.
14. Feast at Brick Lane
Craving curry? Then head straight for Brick Lane, the aromatic heart of London’s Bangladeshi community. Amass big groups to sample family-run spots crammed along this East End strip. Where you can score a mind-blowing meal for under £10.
Once stuffed, sugar fiends can pop by one of several tiny chocolate boutiques concocting tempting small-batch confections.
Looking for vintage fashion or furniture? Cheshire Street’s packed thrift stores promise unusual finds without outrageous markups.
15. Experience Shoreditch
Gritty Shoreditch provides an East London counterpoint to the West End’s polish. Once downtrodden, its vibrant street art murals now get framed by trendy boutique hotels.
This creative spirit infuses Old Street’s bars, clubs and pop-up food stalls. Keeping week-night revellers entertained along neon-bathed side streets.
By day, a different energy dominates. Spitalfields Market’s stalls highlight upscale crafts and designer brands, while Columbia Road Flower Market fragrantly overflows on Sunday mornings. Quieter moments await down side lanes at Dennis Severs’ 18th-century time capsule house.
Shoreditch’s constant reinvention promises adventures whether you seek parties or peace.
16. Stroll Through Covent Garden
Covent Garden shines as London’s most picture-postcard public space. Visitors kill hours strolling its piazza with boutiques, market gift stalls, and entertainers pleasing crowds.
Snap an Instagram selfie by the iconic red phone booths before jumping into the transport museum to check out transit history.
Additionally, theatre buffs can splurge on the Royal Opera House’s grand ballet or opera hall. Eating outside or pub-hopping the quaint lanes, Covent Garden never fails. Moreover, wandering this hub’s attractions and plop down at cafes makes for top London days out.
17. Tour The British Museum
The vast British Museum presents far too many human history and culture masterpieces to see in one visit. Plan must-sees by checking the online collection list beforehand to streamline your time.
Furthermore, most want to view the Egyptian mummies, towering Rosetta Stone, medieval Sutton Hoo treasures and debated Parthenon Marbles taken from Greece. Just walking the Great Court with its towering glass-and-steel ceiling inspires awe before viewing more.
Next, seek out your personalized highlights tour using the collection guides to make the most of it.
Finally, go weekdays to avoid crowds and allow time to lose yourself within world cultures all under one colossal roof.
18. The West End: Best London Places to See a Show
London’s famed West End dazzles with spectacular shows – big musicals to small fringe productions. While the many choices overwhelm some visitors, insider tips save money on top talent.
Subsequently, head to Leicester Square’s TKTS booth selling same-day theatre seats at half price. Time it right and pay under £40 for front orchestra seats to hit shows like Les Misérables or The Lion King. Ultimately, this strategy lets you delight in London’s vibrant theatre scene without blowing your budget.
19. Bar Hop in Soho
Craving true big city buzz? Soho’s vibrant streets hit that high note. Skirting Chinatown’s steaming noodle shops and neon-signed bars promises endless eating and nightlife options.
What’s more, Soho’s artsy soul comes from its indie boutiques, crackling-cool record stores, tapas eateries and jazz flowing from legendary Ronnie Scott’s club.
Around every corner, something entices – LGBTQ+ clubs near Old Compton, riotous improv comedy. Soho stays stirring long after other ‘hoods sleep. Owing to its delicious diversity, fresh finds await each visit. In summary, come soak up the invigorating cosmopolitan spirit.
20. Houses of Parliament One of the Top London Places to See
The Houses of Parliament’s neo-Gothic towers regally rise along the Thames’ south bank. Big Ben draws tourist eyes up, but visiting the historic debating rooms better evokes “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” feelings.
UK residents can request gallery passes to watch verbal sparring during Prime Minister’s Questions or arrange MPs’ tours of the decorative arts. Though Big Ben’s inside stays closed for now, its river frontage still inspires awe.
Afterward, soak up more history just steps away at the Churchill War Rooms and immerse yourself in the statesmanship that steered Britain through WWII darkness.
London Places to See for Shopaholics
1. Bond Street
For couture and bespoke baubles, head to Bond Street where royal-warrant luxury rules. Browse mega-brands like Burberry, Chanel and Hermès before visiting historic auction houses like Sotheby’s and Bonhams to find heirloom treasures. Nowhere else matches this famed concentration of elite gems and high fashion.
2. Regent Street
Regent Street delights shopaholics with its rocking flagship stores and ritzy landmarks from Oxford Circus to Piccadilly Circus. Duck into the awesome toy palace Hamleys for some giddy childlike vibes, then peep the vintage prints at classy Liberty London.
Furthermore, don’t sleep on fancy Fortnum and Mason either! Their ground floor Food Hall offers exotic edibles like Aussie truffles or Singaporean chilli crab paste, primo for packing hampers alongside some lush Burroughs gloves.
Subsequently, need a shop break? Wander down Swallow Street to irresistible cheese and chocolate spots en route to Carnaby Street. Its funky boutiques sport swinging sixties style paying homage to fab faves like The Beatles and Twiggy!
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