Things To Do In London Half Term

London is one of the world’s greatest cities and is a global hub of culture and entertainment. Home to some of the world’s most iconic buildings and monuments, London is an exciting and bustling metropolis filled with endless possibilities. During the half-term holidays, London is a great place to explore, with plenty of fun and exciting activities to enjoy. From family-friendly attractions to educational activities, here are some of the best things to do in London during the half-term holidays.

History and Heritage

London is a city steeped in history and bursting with culture, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of historical attractions to explore. One of London’s most iconic sites is the Tower of London, a 900-year-old fortress that has served as a royal palace, prison and execution site. Visitors can explore the towering walls, learn about its long history, and experience the tradition of the Ceremony of the Keys. Other popular historical sites include the British Museum, where visitors can explore ancient artifacts, the National Gallery, where they can enjoy classic artworks, and Westminster Abbey, which has been a sacred site since the 7th century.

Fun and Entertainment

London is also home to a number of family-friendly attractions, including some of the world’s most famous theme parks. Legoland Windsor Resort is a great option for kids and adults alike, with rides, rollercoasters, and interactive experiences. Another popular theme park is Chessington World of Adventures, which offers a wide variety of rides and attractions for all ages. For animal lovers, the London Zoo is a must-visit, where visitors can explore over 650 species of animals.

Food and Drink

London has some of the best food and drink offerings in the world. From traditional British pubs to modern gastropubs, there’s something for everyone. For those looking to sample some traditional British fare, head to Smithfield Market for roast beef sandwiches, fish and chips, or a good old pint of beer. For more adventurous eaters, there’s a variety of options to choose from, such as Indian curries or Turkish kebabs. For a true taste of London, head to Borough Market for some traditional English fare such as steak-and-ale pies or shepherd’s pies.

Shopping

London is renowned for its shopping scene and there’s something for everyone. From high-end designer stores to vintage shops and markets, there’s something for every budget. Popular shopping spots include Oxford Street for trendy fashion stores and Westfield for luxury brands. For those looking for something a bit more unique, head to Camden or Brick Lane for an eclectic mix of independent stores and vintage treasures.

Explore Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and is a must-visit during your stay in the city. Visitors can explore the bridge’s Victorian engine rooms which contain original machinery from the 19th century. The bridge also boasts stunning views of the River Thames, making it a popular spot for photo opportunities. Tours are also available which guide visitors through the bridge’s history and explain how it was built in 1894.

Sample Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is an iconic British tradition and there’s no better place to sample it than London. There are plenty of high-end tea rooms offering an array of delicious treats such as scones, pastries and sandwiches. Popular spots include the famous Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly Circus or Claridge’s in Mayfair, where visitors can enjoy afternoon tea in opulent surroundings.

Visit a Museum

London is home to some of the world’s best museums and galleries, from world-renowned institutions such as the British Museum or the National Gallery to smaller independent venues such as the Victoria & Albert Museum or the Design Museum. Most museums offer free admission so they are a great option for those looking for an affordable day out.

Take a Tour

There are plenty of tour options available in London during half term holidays. One popular tour is the Harry Potter Walking Tour which takes visitors on an enchanting journey through some of the locations featured in the iconic film series. The tour includes access to Diagon Alley and other magical locations featured in the films. Another great option is the Jack The Ripper Tour which takes visitors on a journey through East London following in the footsteps of one of Britain’s most notorious serial killers. The tour includes access to some of Jack The Ripper’s old haunts as well as fascinating tales about his victims.

Book a London Bus Tour

A great way to explore London is by taking a bus tour of the city. London Bus Tours offer an easy way to see all the main sights in one day without having to worry about navigating around the city. The tours offer an insightful commentary about London’s history as well as plenty of photo opportunities. The tours generally last around two hours but there are also longer tours available if you want to explore further afield.

Book a Thames River Cruise

A great way to experience London from a unique perspective is by taking a River Thames cruise. There are plenty of options available including lunch cruises with live music or sunset cruises with dinner. The cruises offer stunning views of London’s landmarks such as Big Ben or Tower Bridge as well as an insider’s look at some lesser-known areas of the city like Greenwich or Canary Wharf.

Explore Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is one of Britain’s most iconic royal palaces and was once home to Henry VIII. Visitors can explore the palace’s stunning grounds and gardens as well as take part in interactive tours which tell stories from its long history. Hampton Court Palace also boasts one of Britain’s finest collections of artworks so it is definitely worth a visit during your time in London.

Take a Trip Down Memory Lane

London’s East End holds many secrets and offers visitors a glimpse into its fascinating history. Take a trip down memory lane with a guided walking tour around some of its most iconic spots such as Petticoat Lane or Spitalfields Market. Learn about how these areas have changed over time and discover tales about some of East London’s most colourful characters.

Conclusion

London is a vibrant city full of exciting attractions and activities during half term holidays. Whether you’re looking for fun family days out or educational excursions, there’s something for everyone in this incredible city. From exploring historical sites such as Tower Bridge or Hampton Court Palace to sampling traditional afternoon tea or taking a river cruise down the Thames, you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes during your stay in London.