Top 54 Activities in London

London is a city bursting at the seams with excitement and activities, making it challenging to narrow down the very best things to do. With a population of around nine million people, the options are endless, and you could spend a lifetime exploring and still not cover everything. However, with some input from the team at Secret London, we have compiled a list of 54 of the best things to do in London that you simply must try at least once in your life.

1. Soak up the city views from Primrose Hill
   Primrose Hill offers one of the most scenic views in the capital, with sights ranging from the London Eye to Canary Wharf. Poet William Blake once described it as a place where he conversed with the spiritual sun, making it a romantic spot to watch the sunset with a bottle of prosecco.

2. Experience the magic of a West End show
   London is renowned for its world-class plays, musicals, and West End shows. From Disney’s The Lion King to Moulin Rouge! The Musical, there is a diverse lineup of performances to choose from. Pair your show with a pre-theatre dinner at one of the surrounding restaurants for a complete experience.

3. Walk across Tower Bridge’s glass walkway
   Tower Bridge is an iconic landmark in London, and walking across its high-flying glass walkway offers a unique perspective of the city. Set 42 meters above the River Thames, this experience is not for the faint-hearted but is definitely unforgettable.

4. Stroll along the Thames Path
   The Thames Path allows you to walk along the river, passing by numerous pubs and restaurants with maritime history. From Greenwich’s Trafalgar Tavern to Rotherhithe’s The Mayflower, a riverside pub crawl is a great way to explore the city.

5. Explore London’s art galleries
   London is a major player in the global art scene, with over a hundred galleries showcasing classic and modern art. The Tate Modern, Royal Academy of Arts, National Gallery, and Dulwich Gallery are just a few of the must-visit spots for art enthusiasts.

6. Take a step back in time at the Tower of London
   The Tower of London is a historic fortress and prison, housing the Crown Jewels and a rich history of royal intrigue. Join a guided tour by the Yeoman Warders to explore this iconic landmark.

7. Amp up the spook factor on a city ghost tour
   London is known for its haunted history, and a guided ghost tour is a thrilling way to explore the city’s darker side. From Jack the Ripper tours to haunted pubs, there are plenty of spooky spots to discover.

8. Experience London’s nightlife at iconic nightclubs
   London’s nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, with clubs like fabric, The Pickle Factory, Heaven, and Drumsheds offering unique experiences for party-goers.

9. Visit the Natural History Museum
   The Natural History Museum is a must-visit attraction in London, with exhibits on dinosaurs, earthquakes, and the natural world. Don’t miss the stunning Hintze Hall dominated by the suspended skeleton of Hope the Whale.

10. Enjoy an afternoon stroll through Highgate Cemetery
    Highgate Cemetery is a beautiful and serene spot in North London, with stunning graves and mausoleums that showcase funeral architecture at its finest. Explore the Victorian fascination with Egyptian design in the West Cemetery and visit the graves of literary heroes like George Eliot and Douglas Adams.

11. Indulge in high tea
    High tea is a quintessential British experience, and London offers a variety of options from five-star hotels to quirky and out-of-the-box tea experiences. Treat yourself to scones, sandwiches, and a glass of bubbly in a charming setting.

12. Explore Queer Britain
    Queer Britain is a charity that celebrates Britain’s rich queer history, with a dedicated space in Granary Square. Visit the ‚We Are Queer Britain!‘ exhibition to learn about over 100 years of queer life through artefacts, images, and voices.

13. While away the hours in Covent Garden
    Covent Garden is a popular area in London, known for its bougie restaurants, bars, boutique stores, and street performers. Explore Neal’s Yard for a colorful and peaceful spot to relax amidst the hustle and bustle.

14. Queue for a doughnut at Bread Ahead
    Bread Ahead is a cult-favorite bakery in London, known for its cream-filled doughnuts in delectable flavors like velvet chocolate, lemon curd, and sea salted caramel. Be prepared to queue for these mouthwatering treats.

15. Discover the UNESCO-listed Old Royal Naval College
    The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is a stunning architectural masterpiece, with the Painted Hall being the highlight. Explore the Baroque design and intricate paintings that adorn the walls and ceilings of this historic site.

16. Take a stroll along Regent’s Canal
    Regent’s Canal offers a scenic walk through the city, passing by Little Venice, Regent’s Park, and Camden Market. Follow the 200-year-old canal for a diverse journey through London’s neighborhoods.

17. See the roller skaters in Hyde Park
    Hyde Park is a central green space in London, perfect for a leisurely stroll or watching roller skaters practice their skills near the Serpentine. Enjoy the open grasslands, manicured gardens, and tree-lined boulevards in this historic park.

18. Gorge yourself in Chinatown
    London’s Chinatown is a foodie paradise, offering a wide range of delicious Chinese cuisine from saucy dumplings to soupy noodles. Explore the vibrant streets and try out some of the best Chinese food in the city.

19. Embark on the Bermondsey Beer Mile
    The Bermondsey Beer Mile is a beer lover’s paradise, with a stretch of breweries offering a variety of craft beers. From The Kernel Brewery to Affinity Brew Co., you can embark on a beer crawl through South London.

20. Indulge in street food from food trucks
    London’s food trucks offer a variety of quick and delicious street food options, from meatballs and dumplings to chicken wings and mac ’n‘ cheese. Explore the city’s diverse food scene through these mobile eateries.

21. Catch a gig or concert at live music venues
    London is home to some of the best live music venues in the world, offering a range of performances from legendary rock bands to up-and-coming talent. Check out venues like LaFayette and Southwark Cathedral for unique musical experiences.

22. Enjoy a cocktail at a hidden bar
    London is known for its hidden cocktail bars, tucked away behind unassuming facades and doors. Visit bars like Happiness Forgets for expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy setting.

23. Channel your inner Royal at London’s palaces
    London boasts a rich history of Royal Palaces, including Kensington Palace, St. James’s Palace, Hampton Court, and Buckingham Palace. Explore these historic landmarks and immerse yourself in the regal history of the city.

24. Have an award-winning feast
    London is home to a plethora of award-winning eateries, with over 80 Michelin-star restaurants offering high-end tasting menus. From Le Gavroche to Veeraswamy, indulge in a culinary experience fit for royalty.

25. Surprise your eyes with hidden gems in London
    London is full of hidden gems, from the stunning Shri Swaminarayan Mandir to the picturesque Painshill Park. Explore these unique spots within the city limits and discover the beauty that lies beyond the concrete jungle.

26. Escape into the world of photography
    London’s photography exhibitions offer a diverse range of visual experiences, from portraits of African lives to images of environmental crises. Explore the city’s vibrant art scene through various exhibitions held throughout the year.

27. Enjoy a tipple at a historic pub
    With over 3,500 pubs to choose from, London is a haven for pub-goers. Visit historic pubs dating back to the 16th century and enjoy a pint in a cozy and atmospheric setting.

28. Attend a summer music festival
    London’s summer music festivals offer a range of acts and performances, from Field Day to All Points East. Grab a beer, soak up the sun, and dance the day away at one of these lively events.

29. Tuck into waffles at all hours of the night
    Duck & Waffle is a renowned 24/7 dining spot in London, offering delicious waffles and other treats round the clock. Indulge in a late-night snack with stunning views of the city below.

30. Explore Richmond Park
    Richmond Park is a vast deer park in southwest London, offering a tranquil escape from the city. Wander through open grasslands, woodland trails, and encounter herds of deer in this beautiful natural reserve.

31. Admire street art in London
    London is home to eclectic street art, from murals of David Bowie to towering cranes. Explore neighborhoods like Camden, Brick Lane, and East Dulwich to discover these incredible pieces of art.

32. Visit London’s weekend markets
    London’s weekend markets offer a variety of goods, from flowers to vintage clothing and street food. Explore markets in Greenwich, Bermondsey, Walthamstow, and Brixton for unique finds and tasty treats.

33. Explore London on a bike
    London’s bike hire services make it easy to explore the city on two wheels. Cycle along the Thames Path, through Regent’s Park, or in the vast Epping Forest for a scenic and active adventure.

34. Have a giggle at live comedy
    London’s comedy clubs offer a range of performances, from large venues to intimate pub basements. Enjoy a night of laughter and entertainment at one of the city’s top comedy clubs.

35. Take a dip in an al fresco swimming spot
    London’s lidos offer a refreshing escape during the summer months, with options like London Fields and the largest freshwater swimming pool in the UK. Beat the heat and enjoy a swim in these outdoor pools.

36. Explore Bankside
    Bankside is a vibrant neighborhood in London, with medieval streets, historic landmarks, and lively bars and restaurants. Visit The Globe, HMS Belfast, and other attractions in this charming area.

37. Get lost in the urban jungle in the sky
    The Sky Garden offers panoramic views of London from its 43rd-floor platform, with a leafy rooftop garden to explore. Enjoy stunning vistas of the city while sipping on cocktails at this unique rooftop spot.

38. Watch a flick at London’s best cinemas
    London’s cinemas offer a range of movie-watching experiences, from IMAX theaters to independent gems. Catch a film at one of the city’s top cinemas for a cinematic treat.

39. Be blown away by some cabaret
    London’s cabaret scene offers a mix of dance shows, glamour, and burlesque performances. Enjoy a night of entertainment and spectacle at one of the city’s cabaret venues.

40. Do things by the book
    London is a paradise for bookworms, with a variety of bookshops catering to different interests. Explore unique bookstores like Gay’s The Word and Alice Through The Looking Glass for literary treasures.

41. Amble your way down Regent’s Canal
    Regent’s Canal offers a picturesque walk through the city, passing by scenic spots like Little Venice and Regent’s Park. Explore the diverse neighborhoods along the canal for a leisurely stroll.

42. Dine at a BYOB restaurant
    London’s BYOB restaurants allow you to bring your own wine or beer, saving money on drinks while enjoying a delicious meal. From Thai and Moroccan to Ethiopian and Vietnamese cuisine, there are plenty of options to choose from.

43. Catch a game of live sport
    London is a hub for live sports, with football, rugby, cricket, and tennis matches taking place throughout the year. Whether you’re in a stadium or a sports bar, enjoy the thrill of live sports in the city.

44. Add some vintage threads to your wardrobe
    London’s vintage shops offer a treasure trove of unique clothing and accessories, perfect for adding a retro touch to your wardrobe. Explore shops like Beyond Retro and discover hidden gems from the past.

45. Satiate your appetite with a bagel on Brick Lane
    Brick Lane is a vibrant street in London known for its diverse food scene, including the famous Beigel Bake. Indulge in a hot salt beef bagel or other delicious treats while exploring this bustling neighborhood.

46. Appreciate the city skyline from a rooftop bar
    London’s rooftop bars offer stunning views of the city’s skyline, perfect for enjoying a drink with a view. From St. Paul’s Cathedral to The Gherkin, sip on cocktails while taking in the sights from a rooftop perch.

47. Delve into London’s history on a guided walking tour
    Explore London’s history through guided walking tours that uncover secret alleys, ancient pubs, and lost societies. Learn about the city’s intriguing past as you wander through its historic streets.

48. Take a boat ride on London’s waterways
    London’s waterways offer a unique perspective of the city, with boat rides along the Thames and canals. From leisurely cruises to adrenaline-pumping speedboat rides, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the water in London.

49. Enjoy a glass of wine at a wine bar
    London’s wine bars offer a selection of classic and unique wines from around the world. From candlelit venues to delis doubling as wine bars, sip on a glass of vino in a cozy and stylish setting.

50. Discover hidden deals and steals in London
    London can be an expensive city, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options for dining and entertainment. Follow Secret London’s videographer Phoebe as she hunts for the best deals under £20 in the city.

51. Eat your way through London’s vegan restaurants
    London is a vegan-friendly city, with over 400 vegan restaurants offering a variety of plant-based cuisine. From Sri Lankan curries to wild mushroom risotto cake, explore the city’s vibrant vegan food scene.

52. Visit Europe’s highest viewing platform at Horizon 22
    Horizon 22 offers panoramic views of London from the 43rd floor, making it the second tallest building in the city. Enjoy stunning vistas of iconic landmarks like The Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge from this free viewing platform.

53. Explore hidden gems outside of London
    Venture beyond the city limits to discover hidden gems like Eel Pie Island, Morden Hall, and the River Colne. Explore these unique spots near London for a day of adventure and discovery.

54. Release stress at a rage room
    London’s rage rooms offer a unique way to let off steam by breaking objects without consequences. Experience the thrill of smashing items in a stress-free environment at one of these rage rooms near London.

In conclusion, London offers a plethora of exciting and diverse activities for residents and visitors alike. From exploring historic landmarks to indulging in culinary delights, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, art enthusiast, or adventure seeker, London has endless opportunities to explore and enjoy. So, grab your Oyster card, put on your walking shoes, and embark on a journey to discover the best things to do in London.