Five Great Things to Do in London

There are so many things to do in London it can be hard to plan a visit here. My 5 Great Things To Do in London can help. If you just have a short time in the capital or you really aren’t sure where to start, any one of these will give you a flavour for this amazing city.

London is one of the most visited cities in the world. Way back in the eighteenth century, writer Dr Samuel Johnson argued, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.” Today, even more than in Johnson’s day, there are so many great things to do in London!

Although the London I love is very different from the one Johnson knew, what he said is still very true today. There is literally something for everyone in this cosmopolitan city. Having lived in or near London for the majority of the last twenty-five years, I can honestly say that I haven’t even scratched the surface of all the amazing things there are to see and do here. I can definitely give you some suggestions to get you started though!

Get the best view of the city from The London Eye
It may look scary, but The London Eye is a fun, comfortable way to get one of the best possible views of the capital. Suitable for kids and adults alike, even folks I know who are afraid of heights came off this overgrown ferris wheel raving about their experience. Definitely one of the great things to do in London!

Step back in time at Hampton Court
There’s been something interesting happening at Hampton Court nearly every day for over 500 years now. Costumed interpreters make this haunted – and hauntingly beautiful – palace come alive.

Explore a working royal home at Buckingham Palace

The State Rooms in Buckingham Palace are open daily this year from 23rd July until 2nd October. The tour also includes the Fashioning a Reign Exhibition featuring 90 years of style from The Queen’s wardrobe. You can visit the Royal Mews and The Queen’s Gallery all year round.

While the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are only open to the general public in the summer, special ‘private’ guided tours are also held at selected times of the year. I’ve been on these tours more than once, most recently in April 2016, and they are well worth the price of admission. Guides are incredibly knowledgeable, groups are no larger than 30 and you are able to see the wonderful furniture and paintings up close without the crowds.

Explore the private lives of Queen Victoria and the Stuarts at Kensington Palace

Home to the Royal family for well over 400 years, Kensington Palace is where 18 year old Princess Victoria became Queen and Princess Diana brought up her children. It is now the London base of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their son Prince George. The parts of the palace open to the public focus on the Stuart Court and Queen Victoria, bringing the stories of these historic figures vibrantly to life. Special events are held often at Kensington Palace and from 30 November to 6 January you can party like it’s 1699, celebrating Christmas in royal style with a season of fun and games suitable for the whole family.

Soak up history and culture throughout the ages at The Victoria and Albert Museum

With a collection covering much of the last 2000 years, the V&A exhibits international art and design in nearly every medium. Relaxed and family friendly, there’s something for everyone here, whether you love fashion, sculpture, art, furniture or architecture.

Whether your travelling on your own, as a couple or with family, there are so many great things to do in London. I encourage you to visit and see for yourself!