22 Unforgettable Things to Do in London: Your Ultimate London Bucket List

There are so many incredible things to see and do in London that narrowing them down to a single list almost feels impossible. The city that has been my second home for nearly 30 years has it all – iconic landmarks, royal pageantry, world-class museums and galleries, and restaurants serving food that’s out of this world. And then there are those small, unforgettable moments you only discover by wandering its streets.

To help you plan, I’ve grouped my favourite experiences into four categories that blend history, culture, and a touch of fun:
1. My Top 5 London Experiences — the absolute must-dos in London.
2. The London Classics You’ll Love — famous landmarks worth visiting.
3. London Walks You Won’t Forget — scenic routes best explored on foot.
4. Unique and Unforgettable — London experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, this list brings together the very best of London — its sights, flavours, and stories — to help you make the most of your time in one of the world’s greatest cities. Take your pick from the list below or scroll through the whole blog — it’s packed with experiences, walking routes, and local tips to help you uncover the very best of London.

⭐ My Top 5 London Experiences

1. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

If there’s one thing you have to experience in London, it’s the Changing of the Guard. Watching soldiers in red tunics and bearskin caps march to Buckingham Palace, accompanied by a live band playing everything from classic marches to film soundtracks, is both surreal and unforgettable. The pageantry, military precision, and atmosphere make it one of the most iconic experiences on any London bucket list.

⏰ When: Every Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 11:00 a.m. and Sunday at 10:00 a.m. (weather permitting). The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes and draws big crowds.

2. Cruise the Thames All the Way to Greenwich

A Thames River cruise is one of the most scenic and stress-free things to do in London — and the perfect way to tick off a long list of landmarks without walking a single step. In under an hour, you’ll pass Big Ben, the London Eye, Tate Modern, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, HMS Belfast, the City of London, and Tower Bridge. Continue all the way to Greenwich, and you’ll see the city transform as the river winds eastward.

There are plenty of options to choose from. I loved the Thames River Sightseeing Cruise, which runs from Westminster to Greenwich with a lively commentary full of dry British humour. The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is also great — fast and convenient but without an audio guide.

3. Walk Among the Greats at Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey isn’t just another tourist attraction — it’s one of the most extraordinary Gothic churches in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the place where every English and British monarch since 1066 has been crowned. It’s also where 30 kings and queens, including Edward the Confessor, Elizabeth I, Henry V, Henry VII, and Charles II, are buried. Among the many graves and memorials, you’ll also find Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Stephen Hawking, and Charles Dickens. 

Walking through the abbey is one of my favourite experiences in London. It’s moving, unforgettable, and a little surreal, as you find yourself among the tombs of monarchs, poets, and scientists, camera in hand.

4. Taste Your Way Through London’s Street Food Markets

From riverside food trucks to buzzing indoor food halls, London has in recent years, become a true street food paradise. Whatever you’re craving — Indian, Korean, Thai, Greek, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Mexican, British comfort food, or something totally new — you’ll find it here. Think sizzling woks, smoky grills, and container villages alive with music, chatter, and irresistible aromas that draw you in even when you’re not hungry.

Here are my top picks worth adding to your London bucket list:

1. Borough Market – one of the city’s most famous foodie destinations. It’s buzzing and packed with tourists but worth checking out. 
2. Southbank Centre Food Market – full of global street food. Perfect if you’re already visiting the London Eye or strolling along the Thames. 
3. Kingly Court (Soho) — a three-storey indoor/outdoor courtyard packed with restaurants and bars, buzzing day and night.
4. Seven Dials Market (Covent Garden) & Market Halls (various locations) – reimagined food courts with atmosphere, variety, and style. 
5. Boxpark (Shoreditch) & Buck Street Market (Camden) — shipping-container food villages with a hip, urban vibe

5. See a Show in London’s Legendary West End

New York has Broadway, but London has the West End — one of the world’s most legendary theatre districts, with world-class productions, iconic venues, and outstanding performers. With around 39 theatres, there’s something for everyone: long-running musicals, laugh-out-loud comedies, innovative plays, opera, and ballet.

Some of the most popular shows include The Lion King, Mamma Mia!, and The Phantom of the Opera, while Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap holds the record as the world’s longest-running play. Whether you’re after a Broadway-style blockbuster or an intimate drama, an evening in the West End is one of the best things to do in London.

🏰 The London Classics You’ll Love

6. Tour the Houses of Parliament and Climb Big Ben

No London bucket list is complete without seeing the Palace of Westminster — home to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The gothic palace which was rebuilt after the fire of 1834, is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world, and is just as impressive on the inside as it is on the outside.

If you’re fascinated by politics or architecture, you’ll love touring the Parliament. The tour takes you through Westminster Hall, the House of Lords, and the House of Commons, where major political decisions are made. For something more unusual (and a little more demanding), climb the 334 steps to the top of Big Ben. It’s a rare chance to see the Great Clock and the 13.5-tonne bell up close.

7. Catch Tower Bridge Opening (and Walk its Glass Skywalk)

There are three great ways to experience London’s most iconic bridge. For many, simply seeing it is enough — but watching its roadways tilt skyward to let tall ships pass is unforgettable. For something even more special, head inside the Bridge Towers. You’ll discover the bridge’s ingenious engineering, enjoy great views across the city, and get the thrill of standing on glass walkways suspended high above the Thames (not for the faint-hearted!).

8. Go on a Treasure Hunt at the British Museum

The British Museum is one of the most extraordinary museums in the world, with a collection of more than 8 million objects from different eras, countries, and cultures. It’s the place to be if you want to see Egyptian mummies, Greek sculptures, Samurai armour, and even Viking chess pieces. No wonder more than 6 million people visit each year.

It’s impossible to see everything in one visit, so if you’re short on time, start with the Ancient Egypt collection to view the museum’s most famous object — the Rosetta Stone — along with its impressive display of mummies. You can also follow the museum’s one-hour highlights trail, which is a great way to see its unmissable treasures.

9. Admire Masterpieces at the National Gallery

The National Gallery in London’s Trafalgar Square is one of my favourite places to visit on a rainy day — not only to admire the art but also to enjoy the stunning architecture. The gallery is home to more than 2,600 masterpieces, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, Leonardo da Vinci, and Canaletto, among many others. You could easily spend a full day here, but even a couple of hours is enough for a memorable visit.

To learn more about the most famous paintings, get the self-guided audio tour audio tour — it covers 60 highlights across the galleries. If you’re short on time, search the National Gallery collection before your visit, then head straight to the rooms featuring the artists or paintings you most want to see.

10. See London from above

London has no shortage of incredible viewpoints — each with its own character and perspective. Which one you choose will depend on your budget and the type of experience you’re after.

1. London Eye — A true classic. Close-up views of Big Ben, Parliament, and the Thames from its giant glass capsules make this London icon a favourite with tourists. Locals sometimes dismiss it as “an overpriced Ferris wheel,” but it is a fun and unforgettable ride.
2. Horizon 22 — The new kid on the block. Located on Level 58 of one of London’s tallest buildings, it offers sweeping 300-degree views through floor-to-ceiling glass — and it’s completely free. A must if you are after incredible views without spending a penny.
3. Sky Garden — London’s highest public garden. A light-filled soaring space with greenery, cocktails, and sweeping views across the city. It’s especially beautiful at sunset with a glass of bubbly in hand. Admission is free but popular, so book in advance or try your luck on the day. 
4. The Shard — The dramatic one. The tallest building in the UK (and 7th tallest in Europe) with 360-degree views across London. Its dizzying open-air skydeck is the highest in the city – totally unforgettable, if a little nerve-wracking.

11. Find the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

Even if you don’t go inside, there’s nothing more extraordinary than sitting on the steps outside the Tower of London on a sunny day, gazing at this medieval fortress and imagining what life was like within its walls. This is where queens Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard met their fate, where the young princes of Edward IV mysteriously vanished, and where prisoners left graffiti that you can still see carved into stone today.

Inside, you’ll find the stunning Crown Jewels, Henry III’s massive defensive wall, courtyards and towers steeped in history, and the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) who live and work here alongside the Tower’s famous ravens — legendary guardians of the fortress. It’s a huge and fascinating complex to explore.

12. Climb to the Golden Gallery of St Paul’s Cathedral

Few buildings dominate London’s skyline quite like St Paul’s Cathedral and its world-famous dome. Inspired by St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, this baroque masterpiece is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
It’s where King Charles III married Princess Diana, and where national heroes like Admiral Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, and the cathedral’s architect, Sir Christopher Wren, are buried.

The tour takes you through the Cathedral Floor, the Crypt, and the dome itself — the real highlight. Once in the dome, you can explore three galleries: the Whispering Gallery, offering a unique view of the cathedral’s interior; the Stone Gallery, with sweeping outdoor views across the city; and the Golden Gallery at the very top. The climb is steep but rewarding — the panoramic views from above are truly unforgettable, making it one of the best vantage points in London.

13. Stand in Two Hemispheres at Once in Greenwich

London is full of unique and quirky experiences, but few are as extraordinary as standing in two hemispheres — eastern and western — at the same time. You’ll find the Prime Meridian line at the top of Greenwich Hill, outside the Royal Observatory.

Although, it might feel like a stretch to go beyond central London if you’re only here for a few days, the Greenwich Prime Meridian is absolutely worth the trip. Not only is it a fascinating piece of world history, it also feels like a quirky travel badge you’ll want to tick off. And, you don’t need a ticket — the line continues beyond the gates, so you can straddle both hemispheres free of charge.

14. Tour the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace

It’s not every day you get to step inside the spaces where The King welcomes monarchs, presidents, and other world leaders on diplomatic visits. The State Rooms open to visitors each summer (usually July to September), with occasional private tours at other times of the year — offering a rare glimpse into the world of the British monarchy.

Lavishly furnished with glittering chandeliers, the finest French and English furniture, intricate clocks, grand sculptures, and paintings by some of the world’s greatest artists, the State Rooms are out of this world. The tour is an unforgettable experience — not only for the beauty of the rooms and their history, but also for the sheer opulence on display.

🚶London Walks You Won’t Forget

15. Explore London on Foot

There’s no better way to experience London than on foot. And walking along the river and through the City of London gives you the chance to see some of the capital’s most iconic sights up close. With centuries of history, intriguing monuments, hidden corners, and sweeping skyline views, the route from St Paul’s Cathedral into the City via the South Bank is probably one of London’s most rewarding walks.

Start at St Paul’s and admire its dome from One New Change. Cross the Millennium Bridge to Tate Modern, walk past Shakespeare’s Globe, and stop for lunch at Borough Market. Then follow the river through Hay’s Galleria, past HMS Belfast, and on to the iconic Tower Bridge. After crossing bridge, wander through St Katharine Docks, then loop back past the Tower of London. Pause at St Dunstan in the East, and finish in the City with skyline views from Sky Garden or Horizon 22, and the Victorian splendour of Leadenhall Market.

16. Relax and Recharge in London’s Royal Parks

London is full of extraordinary green spaces — lush, spacious, and often just steps from the busiest streets. They’re perfect for slowing down after hours of sightseeing, where you can breathe in cleaner air, and spot wildlife. On sunny summer days, London’s parks come alive with locals stretched out on the grass. Pack a picnic, bring some drinks, and enjoy your surroundings just as Londoners do.

The best way to explore is on foot, but if you’ve had enough of walking, you can hire a bike and discover the parks on two wheels.

Best parks to explore:

• St James’s Park — right by Buckingham Palace and The Mall, and the only place in London where you’ll see pelicans living in the wild.
• Hyde Park — stroll around the Serpentine, see the statue of Peter Pan, or visit the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain. Cross into Kensington Gardens for the Princess Diana Memorial Playground, where kids can climb aboard a wooden pirate ship.
• Regent’s Park — a beautiful mix of wildlife, gardens and lakes.
• Richmond Park — London’s largest park (wilder than the rest), perfect for cycling or spotting herds of deer.
• Greenwich Park — has great city views and is home to the Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory.
• Hampstead Heath — wilder than the Royal Parks, with woodlands, swimming ponds, and city views from Parliament Hill.
• Holland Park — home to the serene Kyoto Garden, a Japanese-style oasis with waterfalls, koi carp, and peacocks wandering freely.

17. Walk Along Regent’s Canal and Discover Camden Market

Regent’s Canal is probably one of London’s most underrated gems. Once a busy industrial transport route, today the nine-mile canal is lined with colourful barges, leafy towpaths, quirky bridges, and the occasional kayaker or paddle boarder. Wildlife adds to its charm too — you might spot geese, swans, ducks, herons, or even cormorants.

My favourite stretch is between King’s Cross and Camden, linking two of London’s trendiest neighbourhoods. Start at Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross, stop by Word on the Water (a floating bookshop on a barge), before continuing to Camden, where you can dive into the famous market and its buzzing street food scene.

For a slightly longer and more scenic route, try the Amsterdam-like walk from Little Venice to Regent’s Park. It’s a picturesque stretch with narrowboats, tree-lined paths, and a tranquil atmosphere.

🎭 Unique and Unforgettable London

18. Ride the Iconic Red Double-Decker Bus and the Tube

Your London trip wouldn’t be complete without riding the Tube and hopping on a famous red double-decker bus. The Tube is the fastest way to get around the city — with 11 lines, 272 stations, and trains every couple of minutes, it’ll get you to almost every landmark in no time. The iconic bus is slower but far more scenic (and budget-friendly). Grab a seat on the top deck for unbeatable views of St Paul’s, Trafalgar Square, and the Houses of Parliament — all for the price of a regular bus ticket. 

There are plenty of amazing bus routes to help you explore the city, and Transport for London (TfL) has a handy guide to the best sightseeing journeys: Best Bus Leisure Routes. So, if you want to feel like a true Londoner, skip the pricey hop-on hop-off tours and use public transport. It’s fast, efficient, and surprisingly fun.

19. Enjoy Fish & Chips with a Pint in a Proper English Pub

When in London, you’re never far from a traditional British pub. With more than 3,500 pubs across the city, you’ll find one on almost every corner. Many are centuries old with creaking floorboards, dark mahogany partitions, island bars, mosaic-tiled walls, brass fittings, and even the occasional ghost story. And if there’s one dish you have to try while you’re here, it’s the classic Fish & Chips. Crispy battered fish (not breaded), chunky chips (not French fries), and a side of mushy peas — it’s the quintessential British comfort meal.

Most pubs serve a decent plate of Fish & Chips, but some stand out as much for their history and atmosphere as for their food. Here are three that are worth checking out

• The George, Southwark — London’s only surviving galleried coaching inn
• The Mayflower, Rotherhithe — a riverside pub with links to the Pilgrim Fathers
• Ye Old Mitre, Holborn — tucked away down an alley, this pub dates to 1546

20. Tour a Football Stadium or Cheer at a Live Match

London breathes football. On match days, pubs fill up with fans in jerseys and scarves, and even the tube buzzes with chants and songs. Tickets aren’t cheap or easy to come by, but if you can get your hands on one, do it – the atmosphere of a live match is an unforgettable experience.  

If you miss out (or prefer something calmer), take a stadium tour instead. You’ll go behind the scenes — into the locker rooms, press areas, and even pitch-side. I loved the Chelsea FC Stadium Tour. The stadium may not be as large as some of the others, but the tour is brilliantly done and a lot of fun.

21. Step into the Magic at Harry Potter Studios

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll find a few familiar places in London — but none better than the Warner Bros. Studio Tour just outside the city. Stepping inside feels like walking straight into the films – you’ll wander through the Great Hall, peek into Dumbledore’s office, mix potions in Snape’s classroom, and even stroll down Diagon Alley. Allow at least half a day (3–4 hours) to explore, and longer if you’re visiting with kids who won’t want to leave. 

If you can’t make it out to the studios, London itself has a few Harry Potter filming locations to explore. Visit Leadenhall Market, the real-life inspiration for Diagon Alley, or head to King’s Cross Station to take a phot of Platform 9¾, luggage trolley and do a bit of souvenir shopping.

22. Splurge on Shopping in London’s Extraordinary Stores

Forget the cliché T-shirt that says, “I went to London and all I got was this T-shirt.” Shopping in London is about finding something more special — souvenirs and gifts that feel uniquely British. Here are a few ideas:

🍵 Tea & Biscuits from Fortnum & Mason
Fortnum’s legendary teas range from historic blends to herbal infusions. Pair it with a tin of their beautifully packaged biscuits (chocolate, ginger, pistachio, and even Christmas orange) and you’ve got the ultimate London gift.

🧸 A Bear to Treasure
Whether it’s a classic teddy, Paddington Bear, or your own creation, London is the place to buy one. Visit the Paddington Store at Paddington Station, or head to Hamleys to Build a Bear — complete with outfits, voice recordings, and all. Bonus: during your child’s birthday month, they can “pay their age” for a bear!

📚 Books & Maps at Stanfords, Covent Garden
Stanfords is a paradise for travel lovers – packed with guidebook, maps, travel writing, and even a bargain shelf for unexpected finds. A paradise for anyone who loves travelling.

🎁 Classic Souvenirs
Souvenir shops are everywhere, selling everything from red bus keyrings and “Mind the Gap” hoodies to royal nodding dolls and Harry Potter gems like the Nimbus 2000. They may be a little cheesy — but they’re fun, easy to pack, and budget-friendly (with multi-buy deals like 3 for £10 hard to resist).

💎 Luxury London: Harrods & Liberty
If you want to splurge, visit Harrods in Knightsbridge — a legendary department store with designer fashion, jewellery and gourmet food halls. For something quirkier, head to Liberty near Oxford Circus, famous for its Tudor-style exterior and iconic Liberty fabrics.

Get Ready for Your London Adventure

From iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey to hidden gems along Regent’s Canal, London is packed with incredible experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, this guide will help you uncover the very best things to do in London — the sights, flavours, and moments that make this city truly unforgettable.

If you’re planning your trip, don’t miss my 3-Day London Itinerary — it brings together the highlights, hidden gems, and practical tips to help you experience London like a local.