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Real People Share What’s Actually Worth Doing in London

Things to do in London! Must-see landmarks, plays, hidden gems, food markets, parks & museums. Plan the perfect trip with these local tips.

Things to do in London, St. Paul's.

I loved going to London for a few days, but it obviously wasn’t enough time.

And after reading ideas from tourists and locals on things that are worth doing in London, I’m now accumulating a small list of ideas for my next trip.

Now if you’re making plans for London yourself, then I thought I’d also share my list plus give you a few recommendations from my own experience. Some of them are touristy but worth the hype, while others are less known and worth trying.

So take a few notes before heading out and enjoy trying these London spots and activities.

Things to do in London, The Churchill Arms.
PHOTO: VINCENT CRETON

The Churchill Arms

One of the most famous pubs in London, it’s worth the hype.

Painted red and decorated with flowers from the inside out, it of course stands out from the other famous eateries in the city.

I personally loved going there; they serve Thai food which I didn’t expect but was very happy with, and it has such a cozy atmosphere. So if you plan on dining and experiencing the pubs of London, then definitely put this one on your list.

Things to do in London, British Library.
PHOTOS: DOMINIC KURNIAWAN

British Library

“Handwritten Beatles lyrics, Don Quixote manuscript, DaVinci notebooks, Jane Austen’s desk, the Magna Carta, and on and on and on. Went there on a lark, ended up balling like a baby because I was so totally overwhelmed by the magnitude and importance of the artifacts they have on display. (I think it was “Don Quixote” that ultimately brought me to tears (is my favorite book of all time)). It’s one of my favorite museums in London, and that’s saying something. Really, can’t recommend it enough if you like that kind of thing. Have a blast, London is totally fabulous!” – Phlash1969

“the main British Library building near St. Pancras Station – they have a Treasures Gallery room with some old important pieces that are in their collection, Michelangelo and Da Vinci drawings, old Shakespeare books, original sheet music from composers like Beethoven and Handel and others, Jane Austen items.” – mistakes_were_made24

I’m kind of stunned I didn’t do this one, but it’s now high up on my list of things to do in London. Me and my husband love history, so I think we’re going to like crossing this spot of our list.

Things to do in London, St. Paul's Cathedral.
PHOTO: CHASING FOXES

St. Paul’s Cathedral

If you want to feel like you’re in a movie set or maybe just clear your head, then St. Paul’s Cathedral is an amazing place to stop.

I was with my husband and a friend when we visited and we all three just made our way up to the walkway near the top of the dome and took in the view. You almost feel like you’re in a different world and I loved it.

Things to do in London, Harrod’s.
PHOTO: LAURA RODRIGUEZ

Harrod’s

“I love Harrod’s, I feel like I’m wandering the Crown Jewels section of the Louvre when I’m there. I also love the natas for sale at the bakery there, a scrumptious Portuguese custard. I never buy anything except natas there.”

” love to look at gorgeous food and Harrod’s food court was mind blowing. I just stared and salivated for hours.” – Gnarlyhands

Things to do in London, Borough Market.
PHOTO: CHLOE G.

Borough Market

“Borough market is super yummy. I often get a picnic there when I’m in town. I can vouch for the empanada stand, the mushroom pate, and the custard tarts, gosh yum!”

“Go to Borough Market ( I sample all the foods I can)” – Content_Pool_1391

I always tell new folks go to London Bridge first, get off there and head to Borough Market, get a coffee from Monmouth, pick up snacks from Borough to. – Delicious_Device_87

I love food markets and this one honestly looks and sounds like so much fun! But I think I’d probably need to go on an empty stomach so I could try as much as possible.

Things to do in London, Greenwich Park.
PHOTO: HANLIN SUN

Greenwich Park

“Greenwich Park is free, gigantic and beautiful. It has so many spaces that you could spend an entire day exploring it. The meridian is at the top of a hill with an observatory and a great view. Outstanding children’s park too.” – Exotic-Scallion4475

“The Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich was the highlight of my last London trip.” – TheSpatulaOfLove

“I’d recommend visiting Greenwich and the surrounding area: Maritime museum, Greenwich park, Greenwich Observatory and there are plenty of cosy pubs to grab a meal too.

“It’s less touristy but well worth the visit on a nice day.” – Pargula_

I love spending time in beautiful parks, and since so many people were suggesting Greenwich Park, I’m putting it on my list!

Things to do in London, Old Bank of England.
PHOTO: ALENA VEASEY

Old Bank of England

If you want a good place to eat, then definitely try the Old Bank of England. Once a bank until 1975, it’s a great spot to try meat pies (one of England’s specialties).

The atmosphere is incredible, the interior is beautiful, and the venison meat pies are perfect. An amazing place to have a relaxing dinner in the city.

Things to do in London, London Eye.
PHOTO: CHASING FOXES

London Eye

Nearly everyone says the London Eye, but in my opinion, it’s not over-hyped.

I’d personally recommend going at sunset; the lights of the city are turning on, but you still get to see everything before it gets dark. Also, the sunset makes it so much more beautiful.

It’s a 30-minute ride and you can see many of the famous landmarks of London once you reach the top.

Things to do in London, Globe Theater.
PHOTO: PRES PANAYOTOV

Globe Theater

“Not free but a standing ticket at Shakespeares Globe Theater is super cheap!! Like £5? Even though you have to stand the entire show, the actors are interactive and go through the audience throughout the play so it’s more fun than the seats IMO.” – figure_of_peach

I personally love Shakespeare, and for just £5, I’m definitely going!


 

Grace Moser is the author and founder of Chasing Foxes, where she writes articles to help women create a life they love in big and small ways. She's been a full-time traveler since 2016 and loves sharing her experiences and exploring the world with her husband, Silas. Her lifestyle and travel advice can also be seen on sites such as Business Insider, Glamour, Newsweek, Huffpost, & Apartment Therapy.

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