15 Bucket List Things to Do in London You’ll Remember Forever
London is one of those cities that completely sweeps you off your feet. It’s an eclectic blend of timeless history and urban cool, of afternoon teas and rooftop bars, of royal traditions and gritty street art.
As a full-time traveler and digital nomad, I’ve walked its cobbled streets, gotten lost in charming alleyways, picnicked in royal parks, and even worked from cute cafés in Notting Hill.
Whether it’s your first time in London or your tenth, this city has layers upon layers of experiences waiting to be uncovered. So, I’ve rounded up 15 unforgettable things to do in London that’ll make your trip feel like your very own storybook adventure.
1. Explore the British Museum (for Free!)
You can’t visit London and not stop by the British Museum. It’s totally free to enter, which is perfect for budget travelers like me! This place holds over eight million artifacts—yes, eight million!—spanning thousands of years of human history.
From the Rosetta Stone to the Elgin Marbles and ancient Egyptian mummies, you’ll find yourself wandering in awe. I recommend giving yourself at least 2–3 hours to explore, and even then, you’ll probably only scratch the surface.
You can join a free guided tour or pick up a museum map to create your own route. The Great Court (that big, glass-domed ceiling) is a great spot to snap a photo too. And bonus: there’s free Wi-Fi, which is ideal if you’re working on the go!
2. Take a Walk Across Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is not just one of London’s most iconic landmarks, it’s also one of the most stunning spots to enjoy views of the Thames. I love walking across during sunset—it feels like you’ve stepped right into a postcard!
The bridge has a glass-floored high-level walkway that gives you panoramic views from above. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but totally worth it. Inside, you’ll also find the Tower Bridge Exhibition, where you can learn about the bridge’s history and the Victorian engine rooms that used to raise the bridge manually.
This is one of those sights that feels even better in person than in photos. Tip: combine it with a visit to the Tower of London right next door!
3. Visit the Tower of London and See the Crown Jewels
Yes, it’s touristy—but absolutely worth it. The Tower of London is a living piece of British history, dating back to the Norman conquest in the 11th century. Once a royal palace, prison, and even a zoo, it’s now the official home of the Crown Jewels.
And believe me, they’re even more dazzling in real life. You’ll also meet the Yeoman Warders (also known as Beefeaters) who share some of the best—and often grisly—stories from the tower’s past.
There’s something fascinating around every corner, from medieval torture chambers to ravens that are rumored to protect the kingdom. For a full experience, try to visit early in the day to beat the crowds and take the guided tour—it brings everything to life.
4. Stroll Through Hyde Park and Visit Kensington Gardens
If you’re looking to relax, work remotely outdoors, or just have a quiet walk, Hyde Park is the perfect place to do it. It’s one of the largest parks in London and absolutely stunning all year round.
Rent a pedal boat at the Serpentine, visit the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, or just stretch out with a picnic under a tree. Right next door is Kensington Gardens, home to the beautiful Kensington Palace and the whimsical Peter Pan statue (a favorite of mine!).
There are lovely cafés inside the parks where you can grab a latte and watch the world go by. It’s amazing how peaceful it feels despite being right in the middle of the city.
5. Snap Photos at Notting Hill and Visit Portobello Road Market
I’m obsessed with Notting Hill. It’s colorful, romantic, and full of personality—plus it looks like it came straight out of a storybook. On Saturdays, Portobello Road Market comes alive with vintage finds, antiques, and street food that smells like heaven.
You can spend hours strolling past pastel-colored houses, popping into independent bookshops, or grabbing brunch at one of the adorable cafés (Farm Girl is my fave!). If you’re a fan of the Notting Hill movie, you can even find the famous blue door and travel bookshop.
This area is a photographer’s dream and has such a dreamy, bohemian vibe. Go early to avoid the crowds and get the best light for your pictures!
6. Experience the West End and See a Theatre Show
London’s West End is like Broadway’s cooler, British cousin—and seeing a live show here is a must. From classic musicals like The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables to modern hits like Hamilton or & Juliet, there’s always something incredible on stage.
I always check for last-minute deals on TodayTix or visit the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for discounted tickets. Even if you’re not usually into theater, trust me—there’s something magical about sitting in a historic theatre with velvet curtains and golden balconies. The energy is electric! Pair it with dinner in Soho or Covent Garden and you’ve got a perfect London night out.
7. Wander Around Covent Garden
Covent Garden is one of those places that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of a rom-com. Street performers sing opera or juggle fire in the central piazza while you sip coffee or shop for handmade crafts. It’s a mix of elegant architecture, charming shops, and lively atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
You’ll find designer boutiques, vintage shops, and beauty brands all within a few cobbled streets. Don’t miss Neal’s Yard—a hidden courtyard filled with colorful buildings and health-conscious cafés. Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House, so if you’re lucky, you might even catch a performance. I love visiting in the evening when fairy lights come on and the buzz of the city turns cozy and magical.
8. Ride the London Eye for Stunning City Views
If you want to see London from a whole new angle—literally—the London Eye is a must. It’s one of the world’s tallest observation wheels, standing 135 meters tall right on the edge of the River Thames.
From the top, you’ll get a 360-degree view of the city, including Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, and on a clear day, even Windsor Castle way off in the distance. Each pod is fully enclosed and takes about 30 minutes to complete a full rotation, which makes it feel slow and peaceful—perfect for soaking it all in.
You can even book a private pod for a special occasion! I recommend going just before sunset so you catch golden hour and the city lighting up at night. Dreamy!
9. Take a Day Trip to Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is just a short train ride from central London, and wow—what a day trip it is! This is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it’s still one of the Queen’s official residences.
The grand rooms are jaw-droppingly beautiful, especially St. George’s Chapel, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married. You can walk through the lavish State Apartments, see royal artwork, and learn all about centuries of royal history.
Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony either—it’s less crowded than the one at Buckingham Palace and just as fun to watch. The town of Windsor itself is super cute too, with lovely little shops, bakeries, and riverside walks. It’s the perfect blend of history, charm, and royalty!
10. Browse Books at Daunt Books in Marylebone
Daunt Books in Marylebone is like a fairytale for book lovers. It’s an Edwardian bookshop with oak galleries, skylights, and travel books organized by country—not genre, which is honestly so cool.
I could spend hours wandering through its cozy shelves, imagining trips to far-off places or flipping through classic novels. It’s not just about books here—it’s the atmosphere. The whole space feels like stepping back in time, but in the most comforting way.
Marylebone itself is a posh little neighborhood worth exploring, full of stylish boutiques, cafes, and local gems. After browsing Daunt Books, I usually grab a flat white from one of the nearby cafés and sit in Paddington Street Gardens nearby to read a few chapters. Pure bliss.
11. Discover Street Art in Shoreditch
If London had a hipster heart, it would be Shoreditch. This vibrant neighborhood in East London is a living canvas—literally. The walls here are covered with jaw-dropping street art by both famous and local artists, including some of Banksy’s most iconic pieces.
I always take a stroll down Brick Lane and Redchurch Street, camera in hand, because you never know what new artwork might pop up overnight. But Shoreditch isn’t just about graffiti—it’s also packed with quirky cafés, food trucks, vintage stores, and pop-up galleries.
For foodies, Boxpark (a shipping container market) is a must-stop, and the curry houses on Brick Lane are legendary. There’s a raw, creative energy in Shoreditch that I adore—it’s perfect for wandering, people-watching, and feeling inspired.
12. Step Inside Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is more than just a church—it’s a symbol of British history and tradition. Every time I walk inside, I feel like I’m stepping into a living timeline. This is where royal coronations have taken place for nearly 1,000 years, and it’s the final resting place of famous figures like Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and even Stephen Hawking.
The Gothic architecture is absolutely breathtaking, especially the vaulted ceilings and intricate stained-glass windows. You can take a self-guided audio tour or just soak in the quiet reverence of the space.
Don’t forget to visit the Poets’ Corner—it’s one of my favorite spots. And if you’re around during Evensong, the choral service is hauntingly beautiful and free to attend. A true spiritual and cultural gem in London.
13. Spend a Day at the Victoria and Albert Museum
The V&A Museum is like a treasure chest of art, design, and style. It’s one of my favorite museums in the world, and like many in London—entry is free! From ancient sculptures to modern fashion exhibitions, there’s something for every creative soul.
I once lost track of time wandering through their jewelry collection (hello, sparkly tiaras!) and textiles section. One minute you’re admiring a 16th-century ballgown, and the next you’re staring at contemporary art installations.
The architecture of the museum itself is worth admiring, and the courtyard café is the cutest spot for a mid-day break. If you’re into fashion, design, photography, or even furniture history, you’ll find endless inspiration here. It’s less crowded than the British Museum but just as rich in culture.
14. Enjoy a Picnic and Skyline Views at Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill is one of those magical London spots that feels like a secret, even though locals adore it. Nestled just above Regent’s Park, it offers some of the best panoramic views of the London skyline—without a ticket or a queue!
I love packing a picnic, grabbing a takeaway coffee or snack from nearby Camden Market, and hiking up the gentle hill to relax and watch the city stretch out before me. You can spot the Shard, the London Eye, and the BT Tower from here.
The surrounding Primrose Hill neighborhood is also charming, with pastel houses, stylish cafés, and indie bookstores. It’s such a peaceful escape from the busy city below, especially around sunset when the sky turns soft pink and orange. Pure London magic!
15. Wander the Historic Streets of Greenwich
Greenwich is a little slice of old-world charm tucked just southeast of the city center. It’s where time literally begins—yes, the Prime Meridian runs right through it!
I hopped on a riverboat down the Thames to get there (highly recommend for scenic views), and spent the day exploring maritime museums, walking through the beautiful Greenwich Park, and even standing on the 0° longitude line at the Royal Observatory.
The views from the observatory over the city skyline are breathtaking. The Cutty Sark, a historic tea clipper ship, is also anchored here and open to tour. There’s a fabulous local market filled with street food and handmade goodies, and the whole vibe is relaxed, historical, and super photogenic. It’s a perfect day trip from central London.
