Top 31 Things to Do in London｜First-Time Visitor Guide
Last Updated on 25/03/2025
Things to Do in London – Planning your first trip to London? This article features a selection of the Top 31 London Attractions for first-time visitors, including Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, and more. It provides insights on each attraction, a brief introduction, map links, opening hours, and ticket information. Half of these are free attractions in London, while the other half are covered by the London Pass. Planning ahead can save you a significant amount on your itinerary.
London Articles：London Complete Travel Guide｜London Top Attractions Overview & Info｜London Pass Guide｜Day Trips From London｜London Itinerary｜London Transportation Guide
London Main Attractions and Food Map
I lived in London for almost two years, and even though I’ve since moved to another city, I still make the trip back when I have some time off to catch up with friends and old colleagues. I also love showing friends and family visiting from Hong Kong around the city. The attractions listed below are all places I’ve personally visited, and there are still a few I haven’t fully organised yet, but I’ll be adding them over time. I’ll also be writing individual posts for each attraction, just like I did for Barcelona. Since everything is my own original content, it takes a bit of time to put together, so thanks for your patience!
This map highlights London’s classic attractions (deep red camera icons), themed experiences within the city (black hearts, yellow footballs, blue music notes), central dining spots (orange fork and knife), and shopping destinations (red and black shopping bags) for fist time visitors. The map’s default language is English, but you can switch to your preferred language by clicking "Expand Map" in the top right corner!
The map is set to English by default. Simply click on the 'Enlarge Map' icon in the top right corner to switch to your preferred language!
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace Overview
If you are looking for things to do in Londan, Buckingham Palace is something you can't miss! It is the main residence of the British monarch and hosts significant national ceremonies such as coronations, state visits, and state banquets. Originally built in 1703 as a private home for the Duke of Buckingham, it was purchased by George III in 1761 and converted into a palace, becoming the official residence of the British monarch. Key highlights of a visit include the Changing of the Guard ceremony and the state rooms open to the public during the summer.
I visited during winter when the State Rooms inside the palace were closed. However, I secured a spot early to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. A separate article detailing the best viewing locations will be shared later.
How Long to Spend at Buckingham Palace
- Set aside at least 2 hours to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. If you plan to visit the interior, half a day is recommended.
Buckingham Palace Opening Hours
- State Rooms Inside the Palace:
July-August: Daily 09:30 - 19:30 (Last entry: 17:15)
September: Daily 09:30 - 18:30 (Last entry: 16:15)
In winter, there are sometimes special guided tours available. - Changing of the Guard Ceremony:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 11:00 AM
Please refer to the official schedule for confirmation.
Buckingham Palace Tickets & Tours
- You can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace for free.
- Buckingham Palace is included in the London Pass attractions.
- Buckingham Palace Official Adult Price：£35.00
- Buckingham Palace Tickets
Kensington Palace & Gardens
Kensington Palace & Gardens Overview
Kensington Palace is one of the residences of the British royal family. It was the birthplace of Queen Victoria and the former residence of Princess Diana. Today, it remains one of the official residences of Prince William and Princess Kate. Some sections of the palace are open to the public, showcasing royal history and historic attire. The surrounding Kensington Gardens, adjacent to Hyde Park, offers stunning scenery throughout the seasons.
How Long to Spend at Kensington Palace & Gardens
- Palace Interior: Around 2 hours
- Gardens: Free to explore, recommended to spend half a day
Kensington Palace Opening Hours
- March – October: 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:00)
- November – February: 10:00 - 16:00 (last entry 15:00)
- Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Kensington Palace Tickets & Tours
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey Overview
Westminster Abbey, officially known as the Collegiate Church of St Peter at Westminster, is one of the most famous religious buildings in the UK, located in the heart of London. Founded in the 10th century and rebuilt by Henry III in 1245, it is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture. Westminster Abbey serves as an important venue for royal events, including the coronation ceremonies and state funerals of British monarchs. Key highlights for visitors include the Coronation Chair, which has been used for the coronation of every British monarch since 1308, and Poets' Corner, a memorial dedicated to renowned literary figures. A must-see on your list of things to do in London.
How Long to Spend at Westminster Abbey
- Allow at least 2 hours to explore the interior.
Westminster Abbey Opening Hours
- Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM; Sunday: Open for worship only.
Westminster Abbey Tickets & Tours
- Westminster Abbey Offical Adult Price：£29.00
- Westminster Abbey Tickets
- Westminster Abbey is Included in the London Pass Attractions
Big Ben And House Of Parliament
Big Ben Overview
Big Ben, officially known as Elizabeth Tower, and the Houses of Parliament, also referred to as the Palace of Westminster, are among London’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 11th century, the current building mainly dates from the 19th-century Gothic Revival reconstruction. The term “Big Ben” refers to the large bell within the clock tower, rather than the tower itself. The Houses of Parliament is home to the UK Parliament, including both the House of Lords and the House of Commons. A must-visit for anyone seeking things to do in London.
How Long to Spend at Big Ben
- For external photos from different angles, allocate about 1 hour. If planning to go inside, add an extra hour. If visiting the Houses of Parliament, allow an additional 1.5-2 hours.
Big Ben Opening Hours
- The external viewing is open all day.
Big Ben Tickets & Tours
- External viewing is free
- Official Guided Tour of the Houses of Parliament：£33.00
- Official Guided Tour of Big Ben： £30.00
- Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace Guided Tour
The British Museum
British Museum Overview
The British Museum, founded in 1753 and officially opened in 1759, is one of the world’s most renowned museums. With over 8 million items in its collection, it covers human history, culture, and art from around the globe. Key highlights include artefacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, China, and India. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in London for history and culture lovers.
If you use Google Maps for navigation, the map will guide you to the "back entrance" of the British Museum. Don’t worry, that’s the correct place to queue for entry. When leaving the museum, you’ll exit at the "front entrance" shown in the image above—be sure to take a photo as a memento.
How Long to Spend at the British Museum
- It’s recommended to allocate at least 4 hours for your visit.
British Museum Opening Hours
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Extended until 8:30 PM on Fridays)
British Museum Tickets & Tours
- British Museum is a free attraction in London (reservation via official website recommended)
- Professional Guided Tours of British Museum
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum Overview
The Natural History Museum is one of London’s most popular museums, showcasing dinosaur fossils, earth sciences, and biological specimens. The building itself is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture, housing over 80 million specimens, including the famous Stegosaurus fossil and the blue whale skeleton.
How Long to Spend at Natural History Museum
- It is recommended to allocate at least 2 hours for a visit.
Natural History Museum Opening Hours
- 10:00-17:50
Natural History Museum Tickets & Tours
- The Natural History Museum is a free attraction in London.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge Overview
Tower Bridge is an iconic bridge spanning the River Thames, and since its opening in 1894, it has become one of London's most symbolic landmarks. Designed by Welsh engineer Sir Horace Jones, the bridge combines Gothic architectural style with modern engineering techniques. Visiting Tower Bridge is one of the must-do things to do in London, offering both historical significance and stunning views.
Best photo angles? Rather than sticking to one or two fixed spots, I recommend taking some time to stroll along the river to enjoy different views. Additionally, viewing from The Shard offers a completely different perspective from above.
How Long to Spend at Tower Bridge
- If you’re taking photos from different angles around the Tower Bridge, please allow about 1 hour. If you’re planning to visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition, allocate an additional 1 hour.
Tower Bridge Opening Hours
- Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (April to September); 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (October to March).
Tower Bridge Tickets & Tours
- Tower Bridge Exhibition Official Adult Price：£13.40
- Tower Bridge Exhibition Tickets
- Private Half-Day Tour of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge
- Tower Bridge Exhibition is Included in the London Pass Attractions
Tower of London
Tower of London Overview
The Tower of London is located on the banks of the River Thames and was founded in 1078 by William the Conqueror. It has served as a royal palace, prison, armoury, treasury, and zoo, and is now home to the British Crown Jewels. Additionally, the Tower of London is the site of several famous historical events, including the execution of Anne Boleyn, the wife of Henry VIII, who he pursued for years before having her executed there. A visit to the Tower of London is one of the top things to do in London, offering a fascinating journey through British history.
To quickly learn about the history of the "Tudor Dynasty" during the reign of the infamous King Henry VIII, you can watch the TV series of the same name.
How Long to Spend at the Tower of London
- At least 2 hours, it’s recommended to visit the Jewel House first.
Tower of London Opening Hours
- 09:00 – 17:30
Tower of London Tickets & Tours
- Tower of London Official Adult Price：£34.80
- Tower of London Tickets
- Private Half-Day Tour of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge
- Tower of London is Included in the London Pass Attractions
St Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral Overview
St Paul’s Cathedral, designed by the renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren, was built from the late 17th to early 18th century, replacing the medieval church that was destroyed in the Great Fire. Its dome is a key landmark on London’s skyline and becomes an ideal spot for photos during cherry blossom season. One of the best things to do in London is to explore the grandeur of St Paul’s Cathedral, offering both historical insights and spectacular views of the city.
How Long to Spend at St Paul’s Cathedral
At least 1 hour; if you plan to climb to the dome, reserve an extra hour.
St Paul’s Cathedral Opening Hours
- Monday to Saturday: 08:30 - 16:30 (Dome climbing starts at 09:30)
St Paul’s Cathedral Tickets & Tours
- St Paul’s Cathedral Official Adult Price： £25
- St Paul’s Cathedral Tickets
- St Paul’s Cathedral is Included in the London Pass Attractions
The Shard
The Shard Overview
The Shard, designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, was completed in 2012 and is the tallest building in London, standing at 310 meters. It is named for its shard-like appearance. The building features two observation decks located on the 68th and 72nd floors, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of London and its surroundings, including the River Thames and Tower Bridge. If you’re looking for unforgettable things to do in London, visiting The Shard’s observation decks should be at the top of your list for panoramic views of the city.
The Shard has several upscale restaurants and bars, such as “Aqua Shard,” where you can enjoy gourmet food while admiring the city views. I had a Mid-Autumn dinner here with my family, enjoying a stunning view of Tower Bridge with the full moon.
How Long to Spend at the Shard
- At least 1 hour if visiting the observation deck; if dining inside the building, plan for around 3 hours.
The Shard Observation Deck Opening Hours
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Summer), 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Winter)
The Shard Tickets & Tours
- The ShardOfficial Adult Price：£37
- The Shard Tickets
- The Shard is Included in the London Pass Attractions
King’s Cross Station
King’s Cross Station Overview
King’s Cross Station is one of the most iconic train stations in London, opened in 1852 and serving as a key hub for British Rail. The station gained fame from the Harry Potter series, especially its Platform 9¾, where fans flock to take photos. There’s also a souvenir shop selling Harry Potter-themed merchandise. If you’re looking for things to do in London that combine history and pop culture, visiting King’s Cross Station and its famous Platform 9¾ is a must.
How Long to Spend at King’s Cross Station
- If you plan to queue and take a photo at Platform 9¾, allocate around 30 minutes to 1 hour.
King’s Cross Station Opening Hours
King's Cross Station is open 24 hours a day throughout the year, but the operating hours for shops and dining facilities vary. Most shops typically operate from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The specific opening hours for the Platform 9¾ commemorative area and its souvenir shop are as follows:
- Monday to Saturday：08:00 – 20:00
- Sunday：09:00 – 20:00
King’s Cross Station Tickets & Tours
- The Platform 9¾ Memorial at King’s Cross Station is a free attraction in London
Sherlock Holmes Museum
Sherlock Holmes Museum Overview
The Sherlock Holmes Museum is located at 221B Baker Street, London. The museum is designed to replicate the home of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as described in the novels, featuring Victorian-style furniture, props, and iconic scenes.
How Long to Spend at Sherlock Holmes Museum
- 1-1.5 hours
Sherlock Holmes Museum Opening Hours
- 09:30-18:00
Sherlock Holmes Museum Tickets & Tours
Royal Observatory
Royal Observatory Greenwich Overview
The Royal Observatory in Greenwich is the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The Prime Meridian, located within the observatory, is a must-visit photo spot, allowing visitors to stand at the meeting point of the Eastern and Western hemispheres. For those seeking unique things to do in London, a visit to the Royal Observatory offers both historical significance and a chance to be in two hemispheres at once.
How Long to Spend at the Royal Observatory Greenwich
- 2 Hours
Royal Observatory Greenwich Opening Hours
- 10:00-17:00 （Last Entry：16:30）
Royal Observatory Greenwich Tickets & Tours
- Royal Observatory Greenwich Official Adult Price：£20
- Royal Observatory Greenwich Tickets
- Royal Observatory Greenwich is Included in the London Pass Attractions
National Maritime Museum & Queen’s House
National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House Overview
The National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House are neighbouring attractions located in the Greenwich district of London. These are great things to do in London for history and art lovers, offering insight into the UK’s maritime heritage and stunning architectural designs.
The National Maritime Museum showcases the maritime history and achievements of Britain, with a vast collection of nautical artefacts, ship models, and exhibitions related to pirate culture. The Queen’s House is famous for its tulip spiral staircase, a popular photo spot for visitors.
- Find National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House on Google Map
- Royal Museums Greenwich Official Website
How Long to Spend at the National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House
- About 2-3 hours for both attractions combined
National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House Opening Hours
- 10:00-17:00
National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House Tickets & Tours
- The National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House are free attractions in London.
London Eye
London Eye Overview
The London Eye, located on the south bank of the River Thames, stands at 135 metres high with a diameter of 120 metres. It officially opened on March 9, 2000, and was once one of the largest observation wheels in the world. Sponsored by British Airways, it is also known as the “Millennium Wheel.”
The London Eye is one of the top things to do in London, offering incredible panoramic views of the city. It is one of the highest-priced attractions covered by the London Pass. If you have the London Pass, make the most of it! However, if you do not have the London Pass, I wouldn’t recommend purchasing tickets separately. You might want to consider visiting The Shard, Sky Garden, or even St. Paul’s Cathedral for a panoramic view of London instead.
How Long to Spend at the London Eye
- The London Eye takes 30 minutes for one full rotation. Be sure to allow extra time for queuing and taking photos from the outside.
London Eye Opening Hours
- Monday to Sunday 11:00-20:30
London Eye Tickets & Tours
- London Eye Official Adult Price：£42
- London Eye Tickets
- London Eye is Included in the London Pass Attractions
Thames River Cruise
Thames River Cruise Overview
The River Thames is the longest river in the UK, flowing through central London. Boat tours typically depart from Westminster Pier and Tower Pier, offering various routes and boat options. During the journey, you can see famous London landmarks such as Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye.
Taking a boat tour along the River Thames is one of the best things to do in London, offering unique views of the city’s iconic landmarks. If you're staying in London for more than 3 days and plan to take a day trip to Greenwich, you can choose to take the Thames River Cruise to Greenwich Pier.
How Long to Spend on the Thames River Cruise
- Approximately 1 hour (Westminster Pier to Tower Pier)
Thames River Cruise Opening Hours
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (hours may vary slightly by company).
Thames River Cruise Tickets & Tours
- There are several suppliers for the Thames River Cruise, with Uber Boat service included in the London Pass.
- Thames River Cruise Tickets
- Thames River Cruise Afternoon Tea
Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium Overview
Wembley Stadium is the symbol of English football. Not only is it the home ground of the England national football team, but it is also the venue for important cup matches. For football fans, the Wembley Stadium Tour is one of the top things to do in London, offering an inside look at this iconic venue. If you’re interested in the history of football, the tour is definitely a must-do.
How Long to Spend at Wembley Stadium
- The Stadium Tour lasts about 2 hours; if you’re lucky enough to get tickets for a match, please allocate 3 hours to watch the game!
Wembley Stadium Opening Hours
- Stadium Tours (Non-Match Days)：
- October to March：10:00-15:00（Last Entry）
- April to July, & September：10:00-16:00（Last Entry）
- August：10:00-17:00（Last Entry）
Wembley Stadium Tickets & Tours
- Wembley Stadium Official Adult Price£25
- Wembley Stadium Tour Tickets
- Wembley Stadium Tour is included in the London Pass Attractions
Emirates Stadium
Emirates Stadium Overview
The Emirates Stadium is the home ground of the Premier League team Arsenal. For football enthusiasts, the Emirates Stadium Tour is one of the exciting things to do in London, offering an in-depth experience of this iconic venue. The tour includes visits to the players’ changing rooms, the stadium tunnel, and more—making it a must-visit for “Gunners” fans! (Note: I’m a Liverpool fan, so I won’t pretend to write about Arsenal’s glorious history!).
How Long to Spend at Emirates Stadium
- The Stadium Tour lasts about 2 hours; if you’re lucky enough to get tickets for a match, please allocate 3 hours to watch the game!
Arsenal Stadium Opening Hours
- Stadium Tours (Non-Match Days)：
- Monday to Saturday：09:30-17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 16:00
Arsenal Stadium Tickets & Tours
- Arsenal Stadium Official Adult Price£27
- Arsenal Stadium Tour Ticket
- Arsenal Stadium Tour is Included in the London Pass Attractions
Stamford Bridge Stadium
Chelsea Stamford Bridge Stadium Overview
Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge Stadium is the home ground of the Premier League team Chelsea. For football fans, the Stamford Bridge Tour is one of the top things to do in London, offering a behind-the-scenes experience of the club’s iconic stadium. The tour includes visits to the players’ changing rooms, the stadium tunnel, and more—making it a must-visit for “Blues” fans! (Note: I’m a Liverpool fan, so I won’t pretend to write about Chelsea’s glorious history!).
How Long to Spend at Chelsea Stamford Bridge Stadium
- The Stadium Tour lasts about 2 hours; if you’re lucky enough to get tickets for a match, please allocate 3 hours to watch the game!
Chelsea Stamford Bridge Stadium Opening Hours
- Stadium Tours (Non-Match Days)：
- September to March：09:40-15:00
- April to June：09:40-16:00
- July to August：09:40-17:00
Chelsea Stamford Bridge Stadium Tickets & Tours
- Chelsea Stadium Official Adult Price：£30
- Chelsea Stadium Tour Tickets
- Chelsea Stadium Tour is included in the London Pass Attractions
Borough Market
Borough Market Overview
Borough Market, dating back to the 13th century, is a foodie’s dream in London. If you’re looking for things to do in London, this vibrant market is a must-visit, offering everything from fresh oysters starting at £1 to mouth-watering Spanish paella and truffle risotto. It’s the perfect place to explore local and international flavours.
How Long to Spend at Borough Market
- 1-2 Hours
Borough Market Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 - 17:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 16:00
Trafalgar Square
Tafalgar Square Overview
Trafalgar Square, named to commemorate the British Navy’s victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, is a key landmark in London. If you’re looking for things to do in London, this historic square is a must-see, and during the Christmas season, it transforms with a special Christmas market, adding a festive charm to the heart of the city.
How Long to Spend at Tafalgar Square
- 1 Hour
Tafalgar Square Opening Hours
- Open All Day
Tafalgar Square Ticket & Tours
- Trafalgar Square is a free London attraction.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden Overview
Covent Garden, once a bustling fruit and vegetable market, is now a lively cultural hotspot in the heart of London. For those seeking things to do in London, this area offers a mix of shopping, entertainment, and dining. During the Christmas season, the square is beautifully decorated with a giant Christmas tree and a festive market, adding to its already vibrant atmosphere.
How Long to Spend at Covent Garden
- 2 Hours
Covent Garden Opening Hours
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00-20:00
- Sunday: 11:00-18:00
Oxford Street, Regent Street ＆ Surroundings
Oxford Street & Regent Street Overview
Oxford Street is home to hundreds of shops and is one of the busiest shopping streets in the world. If you’re looking for things to do in London, this area is a must-visit for avid shoppers. Regent Street, known for its elegant architecture and luxury brands, offers a more refined shopping experience, while Bond Street is a haven for high-end boutiques. Just a short walk away, Piccadilly Circus is a bustling landmark, offering sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment.
This area is often described as London’s prime shopping battleground. The streets are only a few minutes' walk from each other, and while it might sound like you can cover them all in 20 minutes, that's far from the truth!
How long to spend at Oxford Street & Regent Street
- About 2-4 hours (depending on how much you plan to buy)
Oxford Street & Regent Street Opening Hours
- Shops are generally open from Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Soho
Soho Overview
Soho, nestled next to Chinatown, is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and nightclubs, and is the cultural heart of London’s LGBTQ+ community. For those seeking things to do in London, Soho offers a dynamic mix of entertainment and culture. By day, the area transforms into a charming spot, with delightful cafés and boutique shops to explore, making it a perfect destination any time of day.
How Long to Spend in Soho
- For dining and drinks, allocate about 1-2 hours.
Soho Opening Hours
- Most cafes and restaurants in Soho operate from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Bars and nightclubs typically open at 8:00 PM and stay open until 2:00 AM or later
Soho Tickets & Tours
China Town
London Chinatown Overview
I don’t usually recommend Chinatowns, but London’s Chinatown is an exception. It’s large, conveniently located, and if you’re feeling worn out after a shopping spree on Oxford Street, it’s the perfect place to stop for lunch. For things to do in London, Chinatown offers a unique cultural experience and delicious food options to recharge before continuing your exploration.
How Long to Spend at London Chinatown
- For dining, allocate 1-2 hours
London Chinatown Opening Hours
- Most restaurants usually operate from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Harrods
Harrods Overview
Founded in 1834 and located in the Kensington area of London, Harrods is one of the most iconic luxury department stores in the world. Even if high-end fashion isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of things to do at Harrods, like exploring its Food Hall and Gift Department (especially magical during the Christmas season). The architecture is stunning, and the Christmas light displays are perfect for snapping some photos to remember your visit!
How Long to Spend at Harrods
- At least 3 hours, including time for lunch or afternoon tea.
Harrods Opening Hours
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Sunday: 11:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Camden Market
Camden Market Overview
Located in the northern part of London, Camden Market is one of the top things to do in London for anyone who loves multicultural vibes, artistic creativity, and delicious food. The market is made up of various areas, including Stables Market and Camden Lock Market, where you’ll find everything from handmade crafts and vintage clothing to unique artworks and souvenirs. Don’t miss the large selection of Japanese models! Plus, the food stalls offer a diverse range of cuisines from all corners of the world, making it a true feast for the senses.
How Long to Spend at Camden Market
- 4 hours, including time for lunch
Camden Market Opening Hours
- 10:00-18:00
Notting Hill
Notting Hill Overview
Notting Hill is one of London’s most famous colourful neighbourhoods, known for Portobello Road Market, independent bookshops, and charming British cafés. It is also the filming location of "Notting Hill". Every August, the vibrant Notting Hill Carnival takes place here.
How Long to Spend at Notting Hill
- 2-3 hours
Portobello Road Market Opening Hours
- Monday to Saturday: 08:00 - 19:00 (busiest on Fridays and Saturdays)
- Sunday: Fewer stalls available
Hyde Park
Hyde Park Overview
Hyde Park is one of the most famous and largest royal parks in central London, spanning over 140 hectares. It was originally used as a hunting ground by Henry VIII in 1536 and opened to the public in 1637. The park is almost synonymous with London itself.
In spring, the cherry blossoms in Hyde Park are a spectacular sight, rivaling those in Japan. During the Christmas season, the park hosts Winter Wonderland, one of the best things to do in London at Christmas. It features various food stalls, entertainment, and thrilling rides, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere of London.
How Long to Spend at Hyde Park
- Allocate about 2 hours for a leisurely walk and photography.
Hyde Park Opening Hours
- Daily from 5:00 AM to midnight
Hyde Park Tickets & Tours
- Hyde Park is a free London Park
- Note: Winter Wonderland requires a separate ticket, which will be explained in a separate post.
St. James’s Park
St. James's Park Overview
St. James’s Park is one of the oldest royal parks in London, established by Henry VIII in 1532 as a royal hunting ground. After watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, it’s a natural next stop as you head towards Downing Street, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben. Along the way, you’ll encounter plenty of adorable wildlife, making it one of the best things to do in London for nature lovers and casual strolls alike.
How Long to spend at St. James's Park
- 1 hour (Walk from Buckingham Palace through the park to Downing Street)
St. James’s Park Opening Hours
- 05:00 - midnight
St. James’s Park Tickets & Tours
- St. James's Park is a free London Park
Richmond Park
Richmond Park Overview
Before living in London, I never imagined that such a vast and tranquil royal park could exist in the heart of this bustling city. Richmond Park, covering around 2500 acres, is a nature reserve home to over 600 freely roaming wild deer.
Aside from capturing (with your camera!) the wild deer, close your eyes and listen to the symphony of nature—birdsong, animal calls, the whispers of the wind, and the rustling of leaves—almost like being part of a live Discovery Channel performance. You can also cycle or ride horses here, making it one of the most peaceful things to do in London for outdoor enthusiasts.
How Long to Spend at Richmond Park
- 3 Hours
Richmond Park Opening Hours
- 07:30-20:00
Richmond Park Tickets & Tours
- Richmond's Park is a free London Park
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