Things to do in 

London

There's an energy in London that's both rich and bold. It doesn't just reside in its top attractions like the historic Tower of London or sprawling Hyde Park but also in its distinct neighbourhoods, from vibrant Camden to stylish Notting Hill. Things to do in London spin with seasonal highlights, sparking a different flame in each part of the year. Autumn might reveal off-the-beaten-path experiences like the golden hues of Richmond Park, while winter throws a cosy spell with festive markets. These layers show London in its truest form, buzzing, diverse, and brimming with life.

Explore London off the beaten path

Step away from the big-ticket sights and lean into alternative things to do, where small stages, pocket museums, and quiet hillsides reveal a slower, local rhythm.

Cultural experiences: Slip into Wilton’s Music Hall for an atmospheric evening show in its creaky Victorian space. If you’re around midweek, drop by Cecil Sharp House for a folk session or dance class, then finish with a late pint at The Sir Richard Steele nearby.

Small museums and galleries: Wander Sir John Soane’s Museum at Lincoln’s Inn Fields; go in the late afternoon when the rooms feel almost private. Pop over to the Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities in Hackney for a cabinet-of-wonders vibe and a tiny cocktail bar downstairs after 5pm. If you like historic homes, Leighton House in Kensington glows at golden hour, with tiled rooms that reward an unhurried look.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Climb Stave Hill in Rotherhithe just before sunset for broad views over the Docklands without the queues. Alternatively, bring a snack to Point Hill in Greenwich or the south terrace at Alexandra Palace for an easy, uncrowded dusk panorama.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Hunt for vintage glass, maps, and tea sets at Alfies Antique Market in Marylebone; midweek mornings are calm and friendly. On Sundays, stroll Chatsworth Road Market for small-batch hot sauce, candles, and sourdough from local bakers. For sturdy, well-made keepsakes, pop into Labour and Wait on Redchurch Street and pack a canvas bag or enamel mug that actually gets used back home.

Popular neighbourhoods

A city's soul resides within its neighbourhoods and London’s heartbeat pulses through its eclectic districts. Each offers a delightful tableau of sights, sounds, and experiences, reflecting the city's rich past and dynamic present.

Westminster: Walk amidst the grandeur of British political power as you traverse through Westminster, home to iconic landmarks like the Big Ben, Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.

Covent Garden: Engage with the buzz of street performances, high-end fashion boutiques, artsy treasures, food stalls, and historical architecture that hallmark the vibrant Covent Garden.

Soho: Join the trendy vibe of Soho teeming with diverse eateries, nightlife hotspots, and world-class theatre, all steeped in a rich bohemian history.

South Bank: Enjoy the eclectic mix of cultural attractions along the scenic South Bank, including the imposing London Eye, thought-provoking Tate Modern, and the foodie's paradise of Borough Market.

South Kensington: Step into a world of intellect and grandeur in South Kensington, home to world-renowned museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, and the iconic Royal Albert Hall.

Things to do in London by season

Spring: Parks burst into blossom, canal paths invite long walks, and neighbourhood markets feel lively without the crush. Hop between galleries and garden squares, a comfortable pace for seniors and first-time visitors alike.

Summer: Warm evenings mean picnics in Hyde Park, lido swims, and sunset views from riverside paths. Couples linger by the South Bank after dark, while families spread out in museums and playgrounds across the city.

Fall: Leaves turn in Richmond and Greenwich, Open House weekends reveal hidden interiors, and riverside art trails keep strolls interesting. Cooler days suit café stops and theatre nights, a good time for culture-focused travellers.

Winter: Christmas in London shines with Regent Street lights, markets along the Southbank, and carols drifting from historic churches. Skate rinks and cosy pubs make easy stops between museum visits, with quieter mornings for iconic sights.

Annual moments to catch include Notting Hill Carnival in August, Pride in London each summer, and the London Marathon each spring threading past landmarks. The Lord Mayor’s Show and Chinese New Year in the West End bring pageantry and parades that light up central neighbourhoods.