London's calling, and it's time to answer. Bursting at the seams with history, innovation and plenty of fun attractions, narrowing down your London checklist can feel like navigating a labyrinth of never-ending possibilities. But fear not adventure seekers; we've got you covered. From historic museums and cutting-edge exhibitions to towering skyscrapers and everything in between, we're unveiling the greatest list of all with our guide to fun London tourist attractions in 2025.
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London Attractions: Museums, Theatres And More
1. Tower Bridge
- Where: Tower Bridge Road, SE1 2UP
- How much: from £13.40 per adult, £6.70 per child
- Top tip: their 'relaxed opening' is perfect for those who prefer quiet spaces or with neurodiverse needs
A late Victorian architectural sight to behold and London's most iconic bridge, Tower Bridge sits magnificently atop the mighty Thames, which flows 42 metres below. Take a self-guided stroll along its glass-floor walkaway for an unrivalled view of the river underneath.
While it may not be ancient, clocking in at just over 125 years old, its ability to majestically rise in the middle for passing vessels has made the bridge a symbol of the Big Smoke. Need a break from all the touristy fun? Head to some of the restaurants nearby for a boost of energy (and deliciousness).
Unravel the mysteries of Tower Bridge.
2. Natural History Museum
- Where: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, SW7 5BD
- How much: free entry but a donation is encouraged
- Top tip: follow the signs to the museum through the tunnel at South Kensington underground station to arrive right outside
Calling all culture vultures: few places on Earth have managed to condense hundreds of millions of years of history into a series of fascinating exhibitions like the Natural History Museum in South Kensington. Follow along for an experience like no other as the museum documents the astonishing chronology of the animal kingdom, from dinosaurs to earthquakes and creepy crawlies galore.
Marvel at the scientifically significant fossils of ancient birds and gaze in awe at 65-million-year-old ammonites at this top attraction in London before heading out to some of the coolest restaurants and bars nearby.
Dive into the depths of animal history at the Natural History Museum.
3. Buckingham Palace
- Where: London, SW1A 1AA
- How much: from £32 per adult, £16 per child
- Top tip: secure your tickets in advance to pay less than on the day
Fancy a cuppa with the King? Well, maybe not, but you can still catch a glimpse of Buckingham Palace and witness the celebrated Changing of the Guards ceremony. Not just an emblem of the British monarchy - it's a living testament to centuries of history and tradition, where the past comes to life before your very eyes.
Sneak a peek into the world of the Crown and explore the majestic state rooms to discover a treasure trove of artefacts and gape at special exhibitions fit for royalty (literally). Fancy a regal dinner too? There are plenty of swish restaurants nearby.
Royalty enthusiast seeking more than just a binge-watch of The Crown? Take your passion to the next level at Buckingham Palace.
4. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making Of Harry Potter
- Where: Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, Watford, WD25 7LR
- How much: from £56 per adult (those aged 4 and under go free)
- Top tip: visit at Christmas to see The Great Hall transformed with snow
Nestled within the very studios that birthed the magical films, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making Of Harry Potter is a wizard's dream, packed with props, preserved film sets, and enchanting insights into the behind-the-scenes sorcery.
With a whopping 6,000 visitors daily (around two million each year), this self-guided journey through the spellbinding sets is a must for Potterheads, even if you have to venture beyond North London to reach the magical abode. Wander through the Great Hall, stroll the cobbles of Diagon Alley, and don't miss the chance to board the Hogwarts Express on Platform 9 ¾ for that famous luggage trolley shot. If you're still craving more magical fun in the capital, check out other Harry Potter-themed experiences in town.
Get ready for a magical journey at Warner Bros. Studio Tour, one of the best places to get London attraction tickets.
5. Palace Of Westminster
- Where: London, SW1A 0AA
- How much: from £27 per adult for an audio tour, and from £34 for a guided tour
- Top tip: if you're a UK resident, you can enjoy a 75 minute guided tour for free
Ready to dive into the heart of British democracy? A stunning combination of history, politics, and jaw-dropping architecture, the Palace Of Westminster (also known as the Houses of Parliament) is a Gothic-style phenomenon that has been the heart of Britain's political power since its completion in 1870.
Book yourself a tour through its hallowed halls and get the inside scoop on the inner workings of the House of Commons and House of Lords. To round things off, grab a plate of traditional fish and chips at one of the restaurants nearby.
One of the top tourist attractions in London, the Palace Of Westminster is an architectural marvel.
6. Tate Modern
- Where: Bankside, SE1 9TG
- How much: free entry excluding some limited-run exhibitions
- Top tip: enjoy a bite to eat in the gallery's restaurant, where chef Chris Gillard whips up a storm
A London icon dating back to the 1900s, Tate Modern is a beacon of contemporary art, boasting incredible works by legends like Andy Warhol, Salvador Dalí, and David Hockney. As it's a creative wonderland featuring everything from paintings and films to performance art and thought-provoking discussions, trust us when we say you'll stumble upon some seriously eye-catching installations (free and ticketed) that'll make you stop in your tracks and stare.
Take your time to soak in not just the art but also the gorgeous public spaces and the beaut level 10 coffee shop, offering awe-inspiring views of the London skyline, before you head down to a top-notch Southbank restaurant for tasty grub.
Tate Modern is one of the best London attractions, not just for globe-trotting art but for its impressive architecture too.
7. The Shard
- Where: 32 London Bridge Street, SE1 9SG
- How much: View From The Shard tickets start from £32 per person
- Top tip: Check out some of the fantastic restaurants and bars there, like Aqua Shard, Oblix, Hutong, and GŎNG.
Head up to London's best attraction and tallest skyscraper, The Shard, for snap-worthy views. Poking clouds since 2012, this colossal 1,017ft high-rise building decked out with 11,000 glass panes is not just a lofty spectacle; it's a world of hotels, bars, restaurants, offices, and a jaw-dropping observation deck.
Ascend to floors 68-72 for a 360-degree city display as part of The View from The Shard. The official experience even throws in a Champagne reception and entry to the open-air sky deck – trust us, there's nothing better than a killer view with a bubbly bonus (just make sure your fear of heights is under control).
Soar up to sky-high heights and soak in beaut city scenes at The Shard.
8. Big Ben
- Where: Palace of Westminster, House of Commons, SW1A 0AA
- How much: £35 per adult, £20 per child
- Top tip: climbing Big Ben is hugely popular, so make sure to book months in advance
No trip to the Big Smoke is complete without a pint at a classic Westminster pub and, of course, coming face to face with the most recognisable symbol of the English capital - Big Ben. Towering over the city, this historical masterpiece offers breathtaking views, a journey through time on its interior tours, and an unmistakable chime that resonates with London's heartbeat.
Soaring almost 100 meters into the sky from its prime spot on the banks of the Thames, it's an icon, a paragon of engineering, and has been a guardian of punctuality for Londoners for over 160 years.
A symbol of all things British, Big Ben isn't just a timekeeper; it's a London landmark.
9. V&A
- Where: Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL
- How much: free entry excluding some limited-run exhibitions
- Top tip: deep dive into their collections online to uncover everything from wedding dresses to wallpapers
Tucked away in South Kensington, the V&A claims the title of the world's largest museum of decorative arts and design. Serving as a dynamic centre for artistic expression, their permanent collection houses a whopping 2.3 million objects, making it a day-long exploration for culture devotees.
Head over to immerse yourself in its exhibitions and extraordinary designs; if you find yourself having a bit of an art overload, take the opportunity to unwind in the neighbourhood with a yummy brunch or early dinner at the nearby restaurants before heading back for more exploring. The best part is that most of its exhibits are completely free, so you can stroll to your heart's desire without spending a pretty penny.
Named in honour of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, V&A is a cultural sanctuary in the heart of London.
10. Shakespeare's Globe
- Where: 21 New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT
- How much: from £10 standing to £75
- Top tip: they're an open-air theatre so make sure you dress for the weather
A must-visit for tourists and die-hard theatre buffs, Shakespeare's Globe is your golden ticket to relive the magic of The Bard's plays just like his Elizabethan audience did. To stand or not to stand becomes the burning question, though.
Back in Shakespeare's heyday, 'groundlings' stood firm, catching all the theatrical action up close. And guess what? This tradition lives on at the Globe, where you can snag a front-row standing spot for as low as £10 (or cosy up on galleried bench seating).
Travel back in time with The Bard's reborn circular theatre, Shakespeare's Globe, one of the best tourist attractions in London.
11. Cutty Sark
- Where: King William Walk, SE10 9HT
- How much: £22 per adult, £11 per child
- Top tip: book a Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass to save and bag entry to the Royal Observatory too
Set sail on a jolly adventure aboard Greenwich’s legendary Cutty Sark. This dry-docked sensation is a top-tier experience, taking you back to the 1800s when this ship ruled the high seas, zipping from China to Great Britain stocked with shipments of tea and other goodies.
Dive into its construction secrets, get up close and personal with the towering masts from the main deck, wander beneath the copper hull (yes, you can touch it), take a spin at the wheel, and unravel the intriguing tale behind its quirky name.
As the world's speediest tea clipper, Cutty Sark's legacy is as vast as the ocean.
12. Royal Albert Hall
- Where: Kensington Gore, South Kensington, SW7 2AP
- How much: tours are £20 per adult, £12 per child
- Top tip: you can also book to enjoy an afternoon tea here, with 14 blends on offer and Ruinart Champagne
Commissioned by Queen Victoria in 1871 and named in honour of her husband, the Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington is a testament to architectural and musical excellence. Whether you're a fan of orchestral performances or not, this distinguished venue guarantees an experience surpassing musical preferences. It hosts concerts of various genres, including rock, funk and dance, as well as the incredible Cirque du Soleil.
Step into a world of Victorian elegance and immerse yourself in the ambience of late-night jazz and classical symphonies within the hall's majestic interiors. For afters, make your way to one of the brilliant bars nearby.
Beyond its musical offerings, the Royal Albert Hall beckons visitors with its incredible architecture and impeccable acoustics.
13. The London Dungeon
- Where: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB
- How much: from £27 per person online
- Top tip: perfect your pose for the Drop Dead ride
One of London's top attractions and a bone-chilling extravaganza that dives deep into the dark and gruesome chapters of the city's history, The London Dungeon serves up a gory blend of amusement and education, bringing infamous events to life with a side of humour.
This terror hotspot recreates the creepiest historical events from the capital's past with shows on Jack the Ripper, Sweeney Todd, Guy Fawkes' Gunpowder Plot and more. Not for the faint of heart, this experience is a macabre mix of entertainment that'll send shivers down your spine; it's history drenched in horror. Spoooky.
Get ready to scream your way through London's gruesome past at The London Dungeon.
14. Westminster Abbey
- Where: Dean's Yard, SW1P 3PA
- How much: £30 per adult, £13 per child
- Top tip: you can experience one of its services, like morning prayer, free of charge
Step into the historic embrace of Westminster Abbey, a harmonious blend of architectural styles and one of London's most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites, to see gothic glamour in all its splendour. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Abbey is a functional church and a pivotal stage for unfolding historical events.
Home to 16 royal weddings and every British coronation since 1066, this renowned building is also the VIP spot for the dearly departed, including monarchs, literary legends, and history's A-listers like Elizabeth I and Charles Darwin.
Did you know that Westminster Abbey holds the unique designation of a royal peculiar, governed directly by the Crown?
15. Kew Gardens
- Where: Richmond, TW9 3AE
- How much: £22 per adult on-peak, £6 per child online
- Top tip: explore the gardens at Christmas for a fantastical light display
Escape the madness of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Kew Gardens. Originating in 1840, this botanical gem spanning a vast 300 acres and boasting over 50,000 living plants was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.
Not just a daytime delight, Kew Gardens frequently transforms with the seasons - summer evenings come alive with pop-up cinema nights and foodie events, while as winter approaches, thousands of lights and glowing sculptures illuminate the paths, creating a magical Christmas ambience. Once you're through exploring, take advantage of the lush restaurants in Richmond, maybe even one fronting a waterfront terrace, and enjoy the beautiful landscape South-West London has on offer.
A flora-filled destination in West London, Kew Gardens puts on an incredible display of plant life.
16. London Eye
- Where: Waterloo, London, SE1 7PB
- How much: £29 per adult online
- Top tip: make it a full day out with a multi-attraction ticket and zoom down the Thames on a river cruise
Constructed in honour of the year 2000, the London Eye is an integral part of the city's skyline, offering breathtaking panoramic views and dynamic light displays. A dizzying delight and a must-visit for anyone wanting a sky-high selfie, this giant Ferris wheel boasts 32 sealed pods accommodating up to 1,600 passengers for an awe-inspiring 30-minute spin.
While no longer the tallest in the world, it remains a perennial favourite, drawing over three million visitors annually, cementing its status as an iconic destination. Phew, all that excitement got you feeling thirsty? Don't fret; there are plenty of gorgeous bars to get your boozy fill nearby.
Nab a London Eye ticket and get ready to be elevated to cloud nine.
17. Portobello Road Market
- Where: Notting Hill
- How much: free (not including your cool vintage finds)
- Top tip: the markets busiest trading days are Friday and Saturday so visit then if you want to soak up the true atmosphere of Notting Hill life
Keep your weekday antics wholesome with a trip to Portobello Road Market, the ultimate London playground perfect for treasure hunters.
This bustling destination situated in the eclectic Notting Hill, famous for its vintage stalls and a cameo in Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts' epic rom-com, is a five-in-one extravaganza with restaurants galore and over 1,500 stalls showcasing everything from jewellery to antiques, quirky curiosities, and all things fabulous. Don't be shy; come on down, explore and have a chat (or a haggle) with a friendly dealer setting up stalls on both sides of the road.
A London institution, you can find way more than just knick-knacks and curios at Portobello Road Market.
18. St Paul's Cathedral
- Where: St. Paul's Churchyard, City of London, EC4M 8AD
- How much: from £26 per adult, £10 per child
- Top tip: culture fanatics will be thrilled to discover that the cathedral runs exhibitions and concerts - keep an eye out for tickets
St. Paul's Cathedral is a towering masterpiece in the heart of London, inviting you to uncover layers of history within its holy walls. Step inside to experience a different world, admire the decorative ceilings, wander the winding staircases, and capture the cathedral's splendour from the nave—a prime spot for gorge photos.
Not for the scaredy-cats, the crypt is a must-visit to view the resting place of figures like Nelson and Wellington along with historical treasures, while the brave can ascend over 500 steps to the golden gallery for some of London's best, albeit thrilling, vistas. End your trip on a high by dining near this gorgeous building at one of the many restaurants nearby.
St. Paul's Cathedral is more than an architectural sensation; it's a symbol of British history.
19. Borough Market
- Where: 8 Southwark Street, SE1 9AL
- How much: free (excluding tasty eats)
- Top tip: visit early to bag yourself some scrumptious treats and avoid the crowds
Step into Borough Market, and you’ll find yourself in a vibrant foodie paradise where the air is rich with the scent of sizzling chorizo, freshly baked sourdough, and just-cut herbs. Nestled under the historic railway arches near London Bridge, this legendary market has been tantalising taste buds for over 1,000 years - and it only gets better with age.
Wander through the bustling stalls and discover a world of culinary treasures, as well as restaurants nearby. Grab a legendary grilled cheese sandwich from Kappacasein, where molten, golden cheddar oozes from crispy sourdough. Sample velvety Iberico ham and salty manchego from Brindisa, or, if you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss Bread Ahead, where pillowy doughnuts bursting with vanilla custard are nothing short of delicious.
Make sure you come hungry to this market.
20. The Paddington Bear™ Experience
- Where: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB
- How much: from £34 per person
- Top tip: grab a marmalade sandwich after your adventure
Calling all explorers - this is one marmalade-fuelled mission you don't want to miss. Nestled on South Bank, The Paddington Bear™ Experience is a magical, multi-room adventure where you’ll journey through iconic locations, solve fun puzzles, and meet beloved characters from the films. Your adventure begins at Paddington Station, where you’ll hop aboard a train bound for 32 Windsor Gardens.
But that’s just the start. You’ll find yourself deep in the Peruvian jungle, navigating hidden surprises and lending a paw to Paddington and the Brown family as they prepare for a very special occasion - The Marmalade Day Festival. Of course, no visit would be complete without meeting the lovable bear himself - so be sure to grab a photo with Paddington before you leave.
One of the best children's attractions London has to offer is for adults too.
21. Shrek's Adventure London
- Where: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB
- How much: from £21 per person online
- Top tip: book three attractions together (like the London Eye and Madame Tussauds) and save up to £57
Get ready for a wildly fun, totally bonkers day at Shrek’s Adventure London, the immersive, interactive experience that puts you right in the heart of Far Far Away. Perfect for families, this one-of-a-kind walkthrough attraction lets you become the star of your own fairytale. Your journey begins aboard a magical 4D flying bus, driven by none other than Donkey himself. Hold on tight as you soar through the land of make-believe, encountering ten live fairytale-themed shows along the way.
Meet Princess Fiona, cross paths with mischievous characters, and take on hilarious challenges as you hunt for the special ingredients needed to track down Shrek and find your way home. From spellbinding surprises to laugh-out-loud moments, this experience is packed with storytelling, interactive fun, and a sprinkle of ogre-sized magic.
Just like onions, this Central London tourist attraction's got layers.
On the hunt for more activities? Check out our guide to free attractions in London.
