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 to fall in (London) love... so without further ado, here's our guide to the 18 fun London tourist attractions in 2024.
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Tower Bridge
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 priced at just £12.30 a pop for an unrivalled view of the river underneath. Why bother, you ask? 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, one of the best places to visit in central London for free.
Natural History Museum
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.
Best things to do in London? Dive into the depths of animal history at the Natural History Museum.
Buckingham Palace
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.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making Of Harry Potter
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.
Palace Of Westminster
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 London's top landmarks, the Palace Of Westminster is an architectural marvel that's steeped in history and tradition.
Tate Modern
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 gorge 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 top London attractions, not just for globe-trotting art but for its impressive architecture too.
The Shard
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).
Free attractions in London? Soar up to sky-high heights and soak in beaut city scenes at The Shard.
Big Ben
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.
V&A
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, 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.
Shakespeare's Globe
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 £5 (or cosy up on galleried bench seating, boriiing).
Travel back in time with The Bard's reborn circular theatre, Shakespeare's Globe, one of the best tourist attractions in London.
Cutty Sark
Set sail on a jolly adventure aboard Greenwich’s legendary Cutty Sark, one of the most unique things to do in London. 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.
Royal Albert Hall
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.
The London Dungeon
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.
Westminster Abbey
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?
Kew Gardens
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.
London Eye
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 a top-paid attraction in the UK. Phew, all that excitement got you feelin' 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.
Portobello Road Market
Places to visit in London for free, you ask? Keep your weekday antics wholesome with a trip to Portobello Road Market, the ultimate TikTok-famous 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.
St Paul's Cathedral
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 fraidy-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.
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