The Best Places to Visit Around London

London is one of the most visited cities in the world. It’s a city steeped in history, boasting a wealth of renowned attractions, world-famous museums, bustling markets, a vibrant nightlife, and a rich cultural heritage. From the iconic Tower Bridge and Big Ben to the bustling streets of Soho and the world-class shopping of Oxford Street, London has something to offer everybody.

London is an incredibly diverse city, with over 300 languages spoken in the capital. This multiculturalism is reflected in the range of cuisines, festivals and events that take place throughout the year. From the annual Notting Hill Carnival to the new trendy street food markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.

With so much to see and do in London, it can be hard to decide what to do first. To make things a bit easier for you, we’ve put together a list of the best places to visit around London. Whether you’re looking for a spot of culture, a day of shopping or a night out on the town, these are the places you should be sure to check out during your stay in London.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and has been an integral part of London’s history for more than 900 years. It was originally built by William the Conqueror as a fortress and prison and has since been used as a royal residence, prison and execution grounds, and even a zoo.

Today, the Tower of London is open to visitors from all over the world who want to experience its rich history and fascinating architecture. Visitors can explore the iconic White Tower, enjoy interactive exhibits, watch the legendary Yeoman Warders (or “Beefeaters”) perform their duties, and even take part in a guided tour of the tower’s grounds.

The Tower of London is open every day except Sunday and admission tickets can be purchased online.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of London’s most iconic buildings and has been a site of royal celebrations, coronations, and funerals since 1066. The abbey is home to the tombs of many famous figures throughout history, including kings and queens, writers, poets, scientists, and statesmen. It is also home to St Edward’s Chapel, which houses some of Britain’s most precious artifacts such as the Coronation Chair and the Stone of Scone.

The abbey is open daily from 9:30am-3:30pm and visitors can explore the building independently or join a guided tour. Visitors can also attend regular services held in the abbey throughout the week.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most famous landmarks and it has been home to the British royal family for centuries. It is open for public tours during the summer months and visitors can get an up-close look at some of its lavish interior decorations, tour its beautiful gardens, and even catch a glimpse of the royal family at work.

Visitors can also explore the changing of the guard ceremony which takes place each day at 11:00am (except Sundays). This unique ceremony is a great way to learn about British pageantry and it takes place right outside Buckingham Palace.

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most iconic buildings and it has been standing for more than 300 years. The cathedral is renowned for its impressive architecture and stunning interior design which include intricate mosaics and stained glass windows. Visitors can explore St Paul’s inside and out or join an audio tour which offers insight into its fascinating history.

Guided tours are available daily from 9:30am-3:30pm and admission tickets can be purchased online.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest parks and it is home to some stunning gardens, peaceful lakeside areas, and over 400 species of wildlife. Visitors can explore this vast green space on foot or by bicycle or take part in one of the many activities available such as boating on the lake or horse riding. Hyde Park is also home to some amazing events throughout the year such as concerts, film screenings, and sporting events.

Hyde Park is open daily from 5:00am-midnight and entry is free.

Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace is another iconic royal residence in London which has been home to some of Britain’s most famous monarchs throughout history. Today it is open to visitors who want to explore its beautiful grounds and gardens or get an up-close look at some of its stunning interior decorations. Visitors can also join one of Kensington Palace’s many guided tours which offer insight into its unique history.

Kensington Palace is open daily from 10:00am-6:00pm and admission tickets can be purchased online.

Camden Town

Camden Town is one of London’s most iconic neighborhoods and it’s home to a thriving street art scene, bustling markets, independent stores, and lively pubs. This vibrant area has something for everyone including vintage shops, live music venues, unique restaurants, street food stalls, and more.

Visitors can explore Camden Town on foot or join one of its many exciting walking tours which offer insight into its vibrant culture and creative community. Camden Town is open daily from 10:00am-6:00pm and entry is free.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is an iconic area in central London which boasts a vibrant mix of markets, shops, restaurants, bars, pubs, theatres, galleries, and more. This lively area has something for everyone including unique independent stores, trendy eateries, bustling street markets, live music venues, theatres showcasing some of Britain’s best performers, and more.

Visitors can explore Covent Garden on foot or join one of its many exciting guided tours which offer insight into its unique history and vibrant culture. Covent Garden is open daily from 10:00am-6:00pm and entry is free.

Popular Tours Around London

London Tower Bridge Experience Tour

The London Tower Bridge Experience Tour is a great way to get an up-close look at one of London’s most iconic landmarks. The tour offers visitors a chance to explore one of the world’s most famous bridges from inside as well as learn about its unique history through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays. Visitors will also get an up-close look at some of the bridge’s impressive features such as its original Victorian engine rooms and spectacular glass walkways. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and tickets can be booked online.

Kensington Palace Tour

The Kensington Palace Tour offers visitors a chance to explore one of London’s most iconic royal residences. The tour takes visitors on a journey through centuries of royal history as they explore some of Kensington Palace’s most impressive rooms and gardens such as Queen Victoria’s Apartments and King William III’s Sunken Garden. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and tickets can be booked online.

Westminster Abbey Guided Tour

The Westminster Abbey Guided Tour gives visitors an up-close look at one of London’s most iconic buildings. During the tour visitors will have a chance to explore some of Westminster Abbey’s most impressive features such as St Edward’s Chapel and Coronation Chair as well as learn about its unique history through interactive exhibits. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and tickets can be booked online.

London Eye Experience Tour

The London Eye Experience Tour offers visitors a chance to experience one of London’s most iconic attractions up close. During this tour visitors will have a chance to take in magnificent views of London from high up in the eye as well as learn about its unique construction methods through interactive displays. The tour lasts approximately 30 minutes and tickets can be booked online.

London has something for everyone so whatever your interests are there are plenty of places to explore around London that will leave you with an unforgettable experience. From iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and Westminster Abbey to vibrant neighborhoods like Camden Town and Covent Garden, there really is something for everyone in this wonderful city. With so much to see and do around London it can be hard to decide what to do first so we hope this guide gives you some ideas on where to visit during your stay in London!