Looking for inspiration on what to do during your trip to London? Then look no further than this incredible London bucket list made from some of the greatest things to do in and around the city.
There’s something for every type of tourist visiting London on this list. From visiting Churchills War Rooms for the history buffs to having afternoon tea in one of the most famous cafes in the world.
If you find yourself in London and looking to also include side trips, don’t forget to add things from this Europe bucket list onto your trip!
For more bucket list inspiration, you can follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.
Ultimate London Bucket List
1. Traditional Afternoon Tea in Luxury
There’s nothing more British than a good cup of tea, and where better to enjoy it than the capital? You’ll find lots of places serving afternoon tea, made up of sandwiches, cakes, and pastries, along with traditional tea served in bone china cups.
Consider making your London bucket list extra special by booking afternoon tea somewhere fancy, such as The Ritz or The Dorchester.
2. Catch The Changing of The Guard
The Changing of the Guard is a procession that takes place at Buckingham Palace daily during the summer months at 11.30am. You’ll see Beefeaters, horses, and all manner of pomp and ceremony – it’s a must-see when in London and a top travel bucket list check.
3. Walk on The Tower of London Bridge
The fact that London is cut in half by the River Thames means several bridges are connecting both sides; however, few are as historic as the Tower of London Bridge. Head for a walk over this famous walkway and take some fantastic photos of the London skyline as you go.
4. Visit Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is not only beautiful and historic in its own right, having been built in the year 930, but it’s also the site of many important weddings, coronations, and funerals throughout history. This is where Queen Elizabeth II was coronated and, most recently, the location in which Prince William and Kate Middleton got married.
5. Visit Notting Hill
Notable for the movie but also for its color splashed facades. A stroll through Notting Hill is a must on your London bucket list.
6. Tour London From The Sky
The London Eye simply has to be on your London bucket list. Make sure you book your tickets online to save yourself the massive queue at the gate. On a clear day, you can see right over London and towards the coastline, but it’s always a good idea to upgrade and enjoy a glass of champagne as you enjoy the view!
7. Enjoy The View From St Paul’s Cathedral
Not only is St Paul’s Cathedral jaw-droppingly beautiful in its own right, but the fact it sits on the highest point of the city means you can grab some fantastic photos during your visit. Unfortunately, you can’t take pictures inside, but you’re free to snap away at the exterior, and of course, the incredible view.
8. Ride The Tube
AKA the Metro system. and while you are at it, mind the gap!
9. People Watching at Hyde Park
On a warm, sunny day, there is no better way to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city than taking a picnic to Hyde Park. Here you can enjoy the greenery, the sun, and of course, people watch to your heart’s content.
10. Visit Big Ben And The Houses of Parliament
Whilst you can’t go inside Big Ben or the Houses of Parliament, you can take those iconic photos that everyone wants in their collection. If you zoom out far enough, you can even get a selfie with Big Ben himself! Watch out for the iconic bells that ring every 15 minutes – they’re exceptionally loud.
11. Fresh Air at Kensington Palace Gardens
If you’re looking for peace, quiet, and relaxation during your trip to London, then be sure to check-out Kensington Palace. The palace itself is beautiful; however, the real beauty spot here is the gardens filled with a variety of colorful plants and trees.
12. Catch a Show at The O2
If you’re lucky, then you might be able to catch a big named music star at London’s major music venue, the O2 Arena. However, this can’t be a last-minute addition to your London bucket list as tickets sell out fast, so it will need to be booked in advance.
13. Haggle Away at The Markets
London is full of shopping opportunities, but the markets are where the bargains are found. Check out Portobello Road market for clothing and accessories, as well as Camden Market with a more unique and colorful vibe.
14. A Romantic Walk Along The Thames
Providing the weather isn’t too bracing, a walk along the Thames is the ultimate in romance. Head out for a delicious local meal before walking along the riverbank, enjoying the scenery and taking in the twinkling of the lights against the water.
15. Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross
Harry Potter fans will have this on their bucket list. Head to Kings Cross Station, and you’ll find Platform 9 3/4 from the iconic films. There’s a fantastic photo opportunity to be had as well as a store with an extensive range of Harry Potter goodies!
16. Vintage Shopping in Style
You can grab some incredibly stylish vintage pieces where you wouldn’t expect them to be found around London, and Shoreditch is the place to go if you love vintage clothing, bags, and accessories.
17. Head to The West End And Catch a Show
The West End is the UK’s version of Broadway. Here, you’ll see big named shows at various shows, including; Phantom of The Opera, The Lion King, Cats, and Aladdin.
18. Designer Shopping Aplenty!
If big designer brands are your thing, your bucket list wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Oxford Street and Regent Street. Here you’ll find all the major labels, and you might even spot a celebrity or two.
19. Enjoy The Fun of Piccadilly Circus
A slightly scaled-down version of Times Square, Piccadilly Circus, is a busy, colorful, and neon-lit spot you have to visit when you head to London. Photos here simply have to be on your London bucket list!
20. View The Oxford And Cambridge Boat Race
A boat race along the River Thames between the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge is a historical and must-see event. Usually taking place in April, the race is viewed by millions around the world, and you can line the river banks and cheer on your preferred side for yourself.
21. Go to a pub
Is there anything more British than going to a pub for a pint of beer and watching football? We think not.
22. Check Out a Soccer Match at Wembley Stadium
If you’re a soccer fan or even just a fan of sports in general, then seeing a match at Wembley simply has to be on your London bucket list! If soccer isn’t your thing, head to Wimbledon during June and check out the Grand Slam tennis tournament.
23. London’s Hop on And Off Sightseeing Bus
What better way to save your legs than to enjoy the major sights via bus? The double-decker hop on and off bus is the perfect way to see the most popular locations across the capital.
24. Head to The Top of The Shard
The shard is an iconic piece of architecture set against the London skyline. Head to the top and check out the best view, without a doubt. Anyone scared of heights; this one might not be on your bucket list!
25. Explore History at The British Museum
Not only is the British Museum free, but it’s a fantastic place to escape from the rain and cold weather for a few hours! You can check out some of the most comprehensive and unbelievable collection of historic artifacts here, including Egyptian mummies.
26. Check Out The Sunset From Primrose Hill
During the late summer especially, head to the top of Primrose Hill in Regent’s Park and enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see. Setting over the London skyline, this is an Insta-worthy snap location to add to your London bucket list.
27. Head to The Tower of London
Home of the stunning crown jewels, a former prison, and where Anne Boleyn was famously beheaded, the Tower of London is a historic spot you simply must visit when in London. Tours book up fast, so be sure to book ahead of time.
28. Do The Iconic Beatles Stroll at Abbey Road
Everyone knows the one we’re talking about – striding over the crossing at Abbey Road! This is a real photo opportunity. However, the motorists might not thank you for it!
29. Visit 10 Downing Street
You can’t visit the spot where the British Government is run, but you can glimpse it from the street. The actual door you see during press conferences, with the Prime Minister standing outside, is heavily guarded and behind a date. However, that doesn’t stop people from trying to sneak a peek!
30. Experience a Moment in History at Churchill War Rooms
Underneath the streets of London, Churchill and his staff stayed safe from Nazi air raids and made critical and strategical decisions to win the Second World War. This is a fantastic spot to visit, even if you don’t know too much about this point in history.
31. Straddle The Prime Meridian
Head to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich and learn about GMT and everything time-related! You can even stand with one foot on either side of the Prime Meridian, effectively having one foot in the eastern and one foot in the western hemispheres.
32. Visit The Pigeons at Trafalgar Square
This is the heart of the city during significant events and especially New Year’s Eve. You’ll find famous monuments here, such as Nelson’s Column, and many, many pigeons!
33. Try The Local “Delicacies.”
If you love fish dishes, then you have to try good, old British fish and chips. Countless restaurants around London serve this, but head to the East End of London for the most authentic. If you’re feeling brave, you can even try jellied eels!
34. Stay in a unique Airbnb
Sure, London has some of the fanciest hotels, but if you are looking for a more unique, local experience, try staying in an Airbnb in the neighborhood of your choosing. This will also give you more freedom over meals/preparation, laundry and proximity to wherever you prefer to be.
Pin for Pinterest
Disclaimer: As an Airbnb Associate, I earn when you book through the link in this article.
