8 Places to Visit and Things to Do in London

As Omicron’s tendrils begin to spread across the different countries in the world, the UK has been coming up in headlines more frequently. Not sure about you, but we sure miss London. A city founded by the Romans, today it thrives as a captivating city with mesmerizing architecture, iconic sights and unique culture. From Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey, Soho and Hyde Park, here are the best places to visit and things to do in London. We know that travelling to the UK isn’t entirely feasible right now, but do bookmark this page for when the world is able to go back on track and resume some semblance of normalcy!

1. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is not only one of the largest parks in London, it is also arguably the most popular. This is a place where anything goes. ​​At times you’ll find gangs of roller-bladers, swimmers and boaters in the Serpentine Lake, rowdy protestors at Speaker’s Corner and many kids riding horses and playing at the Diana Memorial Fountain. Apsley House which was the home of the first Duke of Wellington is now a museum, housing a magnificent collection of paintings and beautiful gifts from former European kings and emperors. All in all, Hyde Park is a must-visit for a breath of fresh air in the city.

3. Buckingham Palace

You can’t complete a trip to London without catching a glimpse of Buckingham Palace, especially if it’s your first time in the city. It’s been home to the Royal Family since 1837, with 775 rooms and the largest private garden in London. Come catch the Changing of the Guard, which takes place year-round. This display of precision marching and music takes place between three locations: Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks. To How to end up in the right place at the right time? You can check out the Changing the Guard Walking Tour from Fun London Tours!

4. V&A

The Victoria & Albert Museum aka V&A spans 13 acres with 145 galleries covering 5,000 years of art and artifacts. A world-class museum showcasing the very best in art, It’s so huge, it’s impossible to complete in a single visit, so it helps to know in advance which galleries you want to see most. We highly recommend a V&A tour which is often free and covers everything from daily introductory tours to a specific gallery or themed tours.

5. Borough Market

Dating back to the 13th century, London’s oldest market has a rich heritage, but the focus is very much on the here and now. Once a wholesale market, today it is a beacon for sustainable food production, gourmet goodies, artisanal finds and social connection. Visitors come from far and wide, and you’d be hard pressed not to find something you like. Come in your comfiest pants and simply spend the day stuffing your face!

6. Soho

Long known as London’s entertainment hub, the sex shops may have decreased since the 1980s, but its hedonistic spirit lives on. On top of bars and clubs, Soho also has a number of theaters, jazz bars and restaurants to explore. It’s close to Leicester Square which means it’s a great spot for some drinks after a play or stage show. Soho lin the daytime is just as charming, with music shops, cosy cafes and bakeries. Come get your morning coffee and a pastry and spend some time people-watching.

7. Platform 9¾

If you’re a Potterhead, Platform 9 ¾ in King’s Cross station should be at the top of your things to do in London. You’ll find it before you enter any of the platforms, to the far left of the main electronic departures board. Expect a line, a gift shop, and even professional photographers! You can have a professional photo taken for about £10, but it’s free if you have a friend or ask someone to take your photo for you. Make sure to come in house colours! 

8. London Eye 

For the best views in the city, get on the iconic London Eye. A giant ferris wheel rising 443 feet (135m) above the Thames, its glass capsules offer spectacular views as you embark on a circular tour. You can see many of London’s landmarks from here such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace. For a unique view, book an evening spot to see the city sparkling at night. Even better, take a spin near Christmas for extra sparkles and glitters!