Every visit to London should include at least some time spent seeing the city’s top tourist attractions, which range from the ultra-modern London Eye to the centuries-old Tower of London. Even better, entrance to several of London’s most famous sites is completely free. Find all of them by consulting the map of London’s attractions.
In addition, there are a great number of destinations in London that are suitable for families with children. Explore the Science Museum, London’s interactive centre for science and technology, or get up and personal with marine life at the SEALIFE London Aquarium. Both of these attractions are located in London. Both are wonderful options for entertaining days out in London with one’s family.
You might also take in some culture at London’s museums, pay a visit to the Queen at Buckingham Palace, or grab the ideal photo with Big Ben, all of which are examples of some of the renowned spots you may visit in London.
Top London Attractions to Visit
London tourist attractions include art, history and various cultural aspects which always attract the visitors and tourists to London. Striating from being a city with royalty to having one of the best lot of museums, London tourist attractions have no boundaries. Even if it’s your first trip to London.
They Are Also Affordable
Additionally, tourist attractions in London are mostly affordable considering how costly a city it is, you just have to be calculative and careful. Where do we even begin? From London attractions for families to London tourist attractions, there are no boundaries in top London attractions.
Most Popular Attractions
The View From the Shard
The highest building in the city, having been added to London’s skyline in the year 2012. The Shard, which has a height of 310 meters, was designed to house a variety of different types of businesses and residences, as well as hotels, bars, and restaurants, and of course, an enticing observation platform.
At the highest point to which members of the public have access (floors 69–72), you can take in breath-taking views of the city in every direction. Throughout the year, there are a variety of activities, such as concerts and gin tastings, in addition to certain Saturday evenings reserved for a silent disco. Also something you can discover and have fun doing as a couple.
This is one of the London attractions, which on a day when the sky is clear, the floor-to-ceiling windows provide spectacular views over the surrounding area of the city.
Up at the O2
Have you ever been curious about what the view of London might be like from 53 meters above North Greenwich? Discover the answer by purchasing a ticket for Up at The O2, where you have the option of climbing during the day, at sunset, or during the twilight hours.
If you purchase the ultimate AAA pass, you will be granted access to the roof. From there, you will get a panoramic view of the city and will be able to identify well-known landmarks such as the Olympic Park, the Thames Barrier, the Shard, and Canary Wharf.
This is one of the London tourist attractions which offers a breath-taking panorama in every direction, not to mention that beautiful climbing.
Arcelormittal Slide and Orbit
The reason its location is immediately next to the Olympic Stadium, this network of red curly-wurly scaffolding reigns supreme over the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. It was designed by the artist Anish Kapoor and the structural engineer Cecil Balmond, and it has a height of 114.5 meters (376 feet).
It has elevators (in addition to a staircase with 455 steps) that lead up to two platforms from which one may take in an intriguing but not necessarily stunning view. In addition, there are two of Kapoor’s fun distorting mirrors located within, as well as the choice to either abseil or slide down to the earth below.
There are two aspects to consider: the perspective and the slide. Enjoy the thrilling ride down the 12-loop corkscrew as you cling to your stomach and hang on for dear life.
London Eye
In the same vein as the Millennium Dome, also known as the O2 Arena to those who are too young to remember the twentieth century, the London Eye was constructed in order to commemorate the year 2000. Since that time, the London Eye has been a huge success, and it’s difficult to imagine what London’s skyline would look like without it.
Because it doesn’t stop very often, there won’t be any need to bow or make a grand entrance when you board. Before you know it, you’ll be more than halfway up in the sky, taking in the breathtaking views of the city below.
The specific one is one of the top London attractions. In addition to providing a stunning panorama of the nation’s capital, the area is home to a plethora of popular tourist destinations.
Westminster Abbey
In a manner similar to that of the Pantheon Crypt in Paris, which is a popular London attraction for people to visit in order to read the graves, tablets, busts, and stone dedications, Westminster Abbey is also an important place of worship in the United Kingdom.
At point of fact, seventeen kings as well as dukes, countesses, and other “celebrities” from throughout history are buried in this cemetery (Darwin, Dickens and Hardy). Since its establishment by Benedictine monks in the year 960 AD.
Westminster Abbey has played host to not just sixteen royal marriages but also every single British coronation that has taken place inside its walls since 1066.
This is one of the London attractions which is to be visited to appreciate the Gothic grandeur in all of its majesty.
Buckingham Palace
An opportunity to see great artwork, get a peek of royal grandeur, and explore HRH’s administrative offices. The exterior of Buckingham Palace, which is located at the terminus of The Mall, is well-known among both tourists and residents.
However, this modification wasn’t done until 1913, when King George V and Queen Mary put their stamp on everything. Prior to then, in the year 1633, the palace was not even royal.
Rather it was owned by Lord Goring, who was compelled to turn over possession to the Royal Family (during the reign of King George III) owing to a defect in his contract. King George III inherited the palace. Poor guy.
You must visit this tourist attraction in London for a reconnaissance mission inside the world’s most well-known royal house.
The Palace of Hampton Court
A magnificent palace set inside verdant gardens, located on the outskirts of south-west London. There is plenty for people of all ages to do here, from the indoor tennis court in the style of the Tudors to the royal maze, from the King’s private toilet to the Magic Garden adventure playground.
Those who are interested in history and art should buy the ticket for the Palace and Gardens; those who are traveling with children should get the ticket for the Magic Garden and Maze instead. Be sure to keep an eye on the web page in order to keep track of when they are open over the different seasons.
You must go to one of the top London tourist attractions to get disoriented inside the Royal Maze.
The Many Parliamentary Buildings
The heart of democratic life in the United Kingdom. You can bring the House of Lords and House of Commons to life by taking an audio tour around both chambers of the structure. It lasts for almost an hour and a half, and prominent parliamentary characters like Mr. Speaker and Black Rod are discussed in it. Have a touch of the posh? Pick the trip that includes an afternoon tea service along the banks of the Thames.
Visit this London attraction for a fascinating mix of architectural, political, and historical aspects.
Madame Tussauds
In the year 1802, Marie Tussaud made her debut in the capital with her waxworks (32 years after she founded the show in Paris). Around the year 1884, she made the decision to establish a long-term presence in Marylebone, and she has been there ever since. This is one of the London family attractions to look forward to during your visit.
There are over 300 realistic models for guests to see at Madame Tussauds, including both modern celebrities like George Clooney and historical figures like Albert Einstein and Marilyn Monroe. Elsewhere The Queen carries herself with dignity atop the Royal Balcony, and celebrities such as the cast of Marvel have their own Hall of Heroes.
You must go to these London tourist attractions and take a picture of yourself beside all of the renowned people.
Historical Attractions in London
Undoubtedly, London has a change in history, even then, there are plenty of historical tourist attractions in London to visit to devour yourself of the immense history of this magnificent country. There are some historical places which haven’t changed over the 200 years. However, some had renovations and changes in architecture here and there.
The British Museum
The British Museum is one of the largest museums in the world. Which is surprisingly enough, free! With top-notch London’s attractions, it carries historical and anthropological artefacts which are world renowned. Additionally, it has pottery and glass from the Roman Empire along with Babylonian stonework and Samurai armour.
These are just some of the notable things they have. Along with these, there are many other specialities of this museum. You can book a visit there by consulting with them through their website, or even calling them for a three hour visit.
London Mithraeum
In September 1954, during the construction of a huge new office block for the insurance company Legal & General, builders uncovered a Roman temple. The temple was located on the banks of the long-lost River Walbrook.
Which is now a City of London Street. The River Walbrook was an ancient tributary of the Thames and source of freshwater that was essential to the running of the Roman city of Londinium.
The good news is that the proprietors of the original site of the temple, the media powerhouse Bloomberg, have brought the temple back to life via the use of “an innovative museum experience that will transform the way that we engage archaeology.” The end product is a London attraction that is not only intriguing but also brilliantly produced, making it an absolute must-see.
The Tower of London
William the Conqueror, the first Norman ruler, is credited with placing the order for construction of the Tower of London, which was once known as the White Tower. Construction on the structure began in the 1070s.
It was intended to serve as a castle and stronghold from the time it was built until the late 19th century, and it did so without alteration. There is a lot to see and do at the Tower, including the beefeaters, the ravens, the location of the menagerie, and just strolling around the structure to take in its rich history. Make sure that you allow yourself plenty of time for your visit.
Highgate Cemetery
The well-known philosopher and political economist Karl Marx was laid to rest at London’s Highgate Cemetery, which is also the name of the cemetery. It is also the last resting place of a number of other notable individuals, including the remains of a number of authors, painters, political activists, and other professions.
On the website of Highgate Cemetery, one may find a list of prominent people who are buried there. On the first Saturday of every month at 2:15 p.m., visitors may participate in guided tours of the East Cemetery, which is the location where Karl Marx was laid to rest. These excursions typically continue for close to an hour.
Imperial War Museum
The Imperial War Museum is devoted to researching wars that have taken place all over the globe throughout history. The First and Second World Wars, the Holocaust, women’s roles in the conflicts, wartime artwork, and the political issues of the time are just some of the topics that are covered in the exhibitions at the London Imperial War Museum.
Other topics include military history, the roles that women played in the conflicts, wartime artwork, and political issues of the time. The Imperial War Museum has a number of rotating exhibits that are kid-friendly, including one that recreates a trench from World War I.
London Roman Wall
The Roman Wall of London was constructed between around 190 and 220 AD and ran for approximately three miles in length, beginning at Blackfriars and ending at Tower Hill.
During that time, the strategically important Roman city of Londinium was covered by this defensive wall. Londinium already had a fort when construction of the London Roman Wall began, and sections of the fort were eventually integrated into the construction of the new wall.
The majority of the Roman Wall that formerly surrounded London has been hidden by medieval extensions and various forms of construction throughout the course of the ages. Despite this, there are a few sections that have been carefully kept and may still be visited today.
The piece of the London Roman Wall that is still standing at Tower Hill is shown on the map as being one of the most conspicuous surviving sections.
Kew Palace
Kew Palace was built in 1631 by trader Samuel Fortrey. The 17th century palace is known for its unusual ornate brickwork and gables, and it is the oldest surviving structure in the Kew botanical gardens.
This London attraction was opened to the public in 1898. The ground and first floor rooms at Kew have been refurbished to match the Georgian period, but the second floor has been left undisturbed. This is easily one of the London family attractions to look forward to.
Cabinet War Rooms
During World War Two, Winston Churchill and his government worked out of an underground bunker complex in London. One section of that complex is called the Cabinet War Rooms.
After the end of World War II in 1945, when the Cabinet War Rooms were no longer required, they were kept in their original state until the 1980s, when they were renovated and made available to the general public.
The cabinet war chamber, which is where Churchill’s war cabinet convened, as well as Churchill’s office and his bedroom are among those that are available to the public today.
This subterranean office building even has a cafeteria and a medical facility on the premises. Guests should plan to spend at least one hour and thirty minutes visiting this historically significant location of one of the popular tourist attractions in London from the Second World War.
HMS Belfast
HMS Belfast is a Royal Navy light cruiser ship that had a part in both World War II and the Korean War. It is presently available to the public in London under the authority of the Imperial War Museum. Opened in March 1938, HMS Belfast was launched by the Royal Navy in 1939, not far before or during the onset of World War II.
HMS Belfast’s second combat assignment would come in the 1950s, during the Korean War, when she was one of the first ships to go into battle to assist American and South Korean Troops. HMS Belfast participated in a few wartime operations before ultimately being transferred to London in 1971.
Jewel Tower
This is one of the top London attractions, originally part of the historic Westminster Palace, the Jewel Tower was erected in 1365 to keep the wealth of Edward III, giving it the distinction of the ‘King’s Privy Wardrobe’. Despite a fire in 1834, the Jewel Tower and Westminster Hall have been the only structures of the palace to survive.
Today, the Jewel Tower is available to the public under the jurisdiction of English Heritage. Visitors to the Jewel Tower may observe its fourteenth century vault, an exhibition on Parliament’s history and witness the ruins of its medieval moat and quay. A visit normally lasts roughly half an hour.
Art Attractions: London Attractions for Culture Experts
Whether you enjoy Old Masters or modern art, sculptures which are contemporary, in London attractions or paintings of Impressionists, London has an art gallery to suit your cultural desires.
Check out the newest shows, uncover classic pieces in prominent London galleries, or explore the city’s lesser art galleries for gems.
Whether you’re into fine art, sculpture, photography, contemporary works or arty events, you will uncover hidden jewels at one of London’s numerous small art galleries. Also, the best thing? Most of them are free things to do in London!
The Natural History Museum
This extensive museum has more than 80 million artifacts, including specimens gathered by Charles Darwin. It’s also a fantastic museum for families with children. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week.
The Science Museum
Founded in 1857, you’ll discover some interesting interactive exhibitions on topics like aviation, space exploration, and other great science-related items. It’s a fantastic museum to hang out in with your friends and nerd out. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week.
The National Gallery
A collection of nearly 2,300 paintings spanning from the mid-13th century to roughly 1900 may be seen at the National Gallery, which was created in 1824 and is the oldest art museum in the United Kingdom.
Paintings by Johannes Vermeer, Sandro Botticelli, Rembrandt, and Michelangelo are among the treasures on display. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week.
The Royal Academy of Arts
This is a prestigious institution in the United Kingdom. In 2018, this gallery opened its doors to the public with free exhibits that included paintings by world-renowned artists, Greek and Roman statues, and complex sculptures.
The National Gallery of Art
Admire more than 2,000 masterpieces by European artists, including works by Botticelli, Caravaggio, Da Vinci, and Van Gogh, among many others.
The National Portrait Gallery
This place is located in London. The National Portrait Gallery, which has the greatest collection of portraits on a worldwide scale, will satisfy all of your portrait needs.
Tate Britain
Tate Britain is a museum in London. Tate Britain is home to outstanding specimens of the best British art dating back to the 1500s and continuing to the current day.
The Tate Modern
Tate Modern is a modern art museum in London. Located inside a power station, one of London’s most renowned galleries exhibits works by world-renowned artists with performances, installations, and beautiful pictures.
The Guildhall Art Gallery and the Roman Amphitheatre
These are two of the most popular attractions in London. This location has a collection of art treasures dating from 1670 to the present day, as well as the remnants of a Roman Amphitheatre dating from the second century CE.
Sightseeing in London
When the sun shines, which doesn’t happen very frequently in London, the city comes alive with people enjoying the fresh air in the city’s many magnificent parks, which are located across the city.
The parks in the city are fantastic places to spend time since they have expansive open areas that are filled with flowers and pathways in addition to ponds, ducks and geese, and lawns that have been well maintained.
The following is a list of some of the world’s most beautiful parks for sightseeing London’s attractions.
The Park at St. James’s
In addition to its other features, this area, which spans more than 23 hectares, is home to a lake, several species of birds (including pelicans!), a network of roads and paths, and more. On their route to Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard, tourists with young children will find St James’s Park Playground to be a nice pit stop. The park is well included in the overall park. Additionally, it is fenced, which makes it simpler to let the kids run freely.
Green Park
Despite the fact that it was built in the 1500s, Green Park is distinct from almost every other park in the city since it does not have any man-made buildings or lakes of any kind.
Regent’s Park
The expansive park in question is one of the Royal Parks of London and has the title of London’s most significant green space. It was established in 1811 and is home to both the London Zoo and Regent’s University in addition to being the birthplace of the institution.
Kensington Gardens
This Royal Garden of London was formerly a private garden, but it has since been transformed into a public park that is home to a variety of landmarks, including Kensington Palace and the Serpentine Galleries.
Hyde Park
It’s possible that this is the park in London that gets the most attention from tourists. After having been utilized as Henry VII’s personal hunting grounds, it was made available to the general public in the year 1637.
It is a wonderful place to take a stroll, have a picnic, or go to any of the many activities that are conducted here on a regular basis throughout the year.
Holland Park
This park is home to a wide variety of attractions, including anything from Japanese gardens to a massive chess set to what’s left of the Holland House after it was destroyed during World War II, as well as everything in between.
The following is a list of some of London’s most popular and top attractions, as well as some cheap and free things to do there that you should not miss:
- Big Ben
- The famous “London Eye“
- Buckingham Palace
- Westminster Abbey
- The Museum of Great Britain
- The famous Piccadilly Circus
Final Verdict
Thinking about visiting some of the top attractions in London? In some London tourist attractions, There are a lot of things to do in London that don’t cost any money at all, which is surprising given that London is such a big and expensive city. We really hope that you found our article to be helpful, and we hope that you have a fantastic time exploring this amazing city!
