Things to Do in London During the Day

London is one of the most iconic cities in the world and a great place to visit for a day or two, or even for a longer stay. With its long and storied history, its bustling culture and world-renowned sights, there is plenty to do and explore in this vibrant capital city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, London has something for everyone.

A Brief History of London

London has been an important city for centuries, with its origins dating back to Roman times. The city was once known as Londinium and was the site of the Roman Empire’s first provincial capital. After the Romans left, the city grew and prospered as a trade and manufacturing center.

The city began to modernize in the 18th century and by the 19th century it had developed into a major global commercial and banking center. This period also saw a huge influx of immigrants from all over the world, which added to the city’s diversity and vibrancy. London continued to expand and modernize in the 20th century and today is one of the most important cities in the world.

London’s Most Popular Attractions

There are plenty of attractions in London that are sure to keep you entertained all day long. Some of the city’s most popular attractions include Big Ben, The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, The London Eye, Hyde Park, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tate Modern art gallery.

Big Ben

The iconic clock tower of Big Ben is one of the most recognizable sights in London. Completed in 1859, Big Ben is actually the nickname for the clock’s main bell, which is over 13 tons in weight and is located inside the clock tower. Big Ben is an iconic symbol of London and is a must-see for any visitor to the city.

The Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historic fortress that has been standing since 1078. It has served many purposes throughout its long history, including as a royal residence, prison, and place of execution. Today it is one of London’s most popular tourist attractions and houses both the Crown Jewels and the Royal Mint.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is another iconic sight in London and is the official residence of the British monarch. Built in 1703, it is one of the most recognizable symbols of England and has been home to many members of the royal family over the centuries. Visitors can marvel at the palace’s stunning architecture and lush gardens.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of the most beautiful religious buildings in London and has been an important place of worship since 1066. The abbey is renowned for its impressive Gothic architecture and it has been the site of many royal weddings and coronations over the centuries. It is also home to many royal tombs and memorials.

The London Eye

The London Eye is one of the city’s most iconic attractions and offers visitors stunning panoramic views of London from its giant Ferris wheel. At 135 meters high, it is the tallest observation wheel in Europe and its 32 sealed capsules carry up to 800 people at a time.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest parks and offers visitors plenty of open green space to enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic in the sun. The park also features several ponds, lakes, fountains, statues, and monuments that make it a great place to explore and take in some of London’s history.

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s oldest churches and remains an active place of worship today. Built in 1675, it is renowned for its grand Baroque architecture and features an impressive dome that dominates its skyline. The cathedral also features a number of impressive works of art as well as a crypt housing many famous figures from British history.

Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is one of London’s premier art galleries, featuring works from some of Europe’s best artists from past centuries up to today. The gallery has several floors featuring pieces from different eras, as well as temporary exhibitions that change regularly. It’s also home to one of Picasso’s most famous works, Guernica.

Experience Something Unique

London is also home to many unique experiences that can only be found here. From historical tours to unique shopping experiences, there are plenty of ways to make your trip to London unique and memorable.

Historical Tours

London is full of history and there are many ways to explore it in a unique way. Take a traditional walking tour through some of London’s most famous historical sites or explore them on a vintage red double-decker bus tour. There are also guided tours that take you through some of London’s oldest neighborhoods or explore some of its hidden secrets. For a unique experience, book an evening ghost tour and explore some of London’s spookiest locations. Book a historical tour in London here.

Shopping Experiences

London has some of the world’s best shopping districts and offers something for everyone, from luxury designer stores to unique vintage boutiques. The city has several areas known for their shopping such as Oxford Street, Bond Street, Camden Town, Covent Garden, and Portobello Market. Explore these areas to find something unique or take advantage of one of London’s guided shopping tours to discover hidden gems you may have otherwise missed. Book a shopping tour in London here.

Food Tours

London is renowned for its diverse cuisine, with something for everyone no matter what your tastes may be. From traditional British pubs to international cuisines from all over the world, there are plenty of food experiences to be had in London. Take a food tour to explore some of the city’s best eateries or take part in a cooking class to learn how to make some classic British dishes yourself. Book a food tour in London here.

Conclusion

London is one of the world’s most iconic cities and offers visitors plenty of things to do during the day. From popular attractions such as Big Ben and The Tower of London to unique experiences like food tours and shopping tours, there is something for everyone in this vibrant capital city. Make sure to explore all that London has to offer during your visit for an unforgettable experience!