36 Best Things to Do in London (in 2023)

👉 Jump to: Things to Do | Museums & Culture | Food & Drink | Events & Activities | Sports & Leisure | Shopping & Fashion

With the endless number of attractions, activities, and events, you’ll never run out of fun things to do in London. London is one of the top visited cities in the world and for good reason. Given its great variety of dining options, places to stay, and things to see, you have the recipe for a great trip. 

Even after living in London for two years and ticking off bucket list items like London Bridge, the Sky Garden, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and several others, I am constantly finding new things I want to see. And of course London restaurants I want to try!

In this article, I’ll guide you through the top-rated things to do in London.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 942 2000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5:45 pm daily, Fridays have extended hours until 10 pm | Entrance: Free, donations are welcome 

Located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, The Victoria and Albert Museum, also known as the V&A, is a staple attraction for fashion lovers across the globe. This unique museum is conveniently located across the street from the famous Natural History Museum, making it a great area to get your fill of culture in one afternoon. 

When looking for things to do in London, The V&A is a great choice as it’s the world’s largest museum of applied arts, decorative arts, and design. The museum gets its name from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and has been around since 1852.

Exhibits are ever-changing, with many dedicated to the work of particular fashion icons and designers.

👉 Pro Tip: Although the museum is free of charge, reserve your tickets in advance to ensure you get a time slot you’re happy with. There’s also a lovely garden out back to enjoy on a nice day!

The London Eye

View London from above

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 967 8021 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: $41-45 

A main feature of the London skyline, the London Eye is a symbol of London and one of the most sought-after tourist attractions the city has to offer. Located on the South Bank along the Thames, The London Eye is Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, garnering over 3 million visits per year. 

This attraction is a two-for-one event as you get to sit back, relax and enjoy the ride while also taking in some of the most picturesque views of London. If you’re planning to visit the London Eye during your trip, make sure to purchase tickets in advance so you don’t have to wait in a large queue.

👉 Love Adventure? Get tickets for The London Abseil  to see the city from a different view

Wimbledon

Get to see the world-famous tennis championships with your own eyes 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 208 944 1066 | Website | Entrance: $33 – $292 

One of the biggest sporting events in the world, Wimbledon is one of the best things to do in London for tennis lovers. If fresh strawberries and cream, Pimms and lemonade, and the opportunity to watch several professional matches sound good to you, I would highly recommend making adding Wimbledon to your London itinerary.

If you’re new to tennis,  then I would highly suggest getting GA grounds tickets instead of center court. This affordable option allows you access to most courts and bring in your own alcohol and snacks. It’s also a great day of fun sitting on the big hill with other fans and watching the center court matches on the big screen!

👉 Pro Tip: If you want center court seats, it’s recommended to arrive very early in the morning (5 or 6 am!) for the best chances of getting in. 

Harry Potter Platform 9 3/4

Experience where Harry and the other wizards departed for Hogwarts up close

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 833 1137 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: Free

Many Harry Potter fans head to London to see the original sights and sets where the popular movies were filmed. If you’re a fan, you’ll know that Platform 9 ¾ in London King’s Cross Station holds major significance as it’s the location where Harry and the other wizards departed for Hogwarts.

Visiting this area in central London, you’ll have the opportunity to take a photo outside of this free iconic set location. Along with snapping a picture, you can also peruse the Harry Potter Shop on the platform to bring home some souvenirs from your visit. 

If you’re there for the day, King’s Cross and nearby Coal Drops Yard have a great selection of restaurants to stop by after you get your fill of Harry Potter.

Visit one of London’s Gorgeous Parks

Take in the lush greenery

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 208 871 7530 | Website | Hours: Curfew is at 10 pm | Entrance: Free

A huge highlight to visiting or living in London is that you get all of the elements of a big city while also getting a taste of nature through all of the incredible royal parks. Visiting the parks is also one of the best things to do in London if you’re planning to do your trip on a budget.

There are so many fantastic parks in London, so I’ll give you a few of my top picks. Pictured is Battersea park, arguably my favorite one in London. It runs along the Thames river, where you can sit by the water, have a cheeky beverage, or check out the sports grounds. It’s also primely located on the cusp of the newly developed Battersea Power Station, a great urban playground with lots of dining options.

A couple more of the best parks include the infamous Hyde Park, which is centrally located and has a massive pond. Richmond Park is also well worth the visit, where you’ll likely spot deer and other wildlife.

Natural History Museum

Fill your mind with history and science

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 942 5000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5:50 pm daily | Entrance: Free, but donating is encouraged

When planning things to do in London, the Natural History Museum in South Kensington is one of my top recommendations. 

Due to the diverse range of unique exhibits offered, it’s a great spot to bring the family, a friend, or go solo. Whether it’s science, history, space, or wildlife that piques your interest, you are guaranteed to be mesmerized by the insightful and engaging exhibits.

The museum is made up of four colored zones, and I would recommend downloading the free map on the website in advance of visiting. There are also multiple cafes where you can enjoy a refreshment between exhibits, especially if you’re planning on staying for a while.

Columbia Road Flower Market

The perfect spot for a sunny Sunday stroll

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 8 am – 3 pm Sundays (or until the flowers run out!) | Entrance: Free

Even on a Sunday morning, you’ll find areas in London that are buzzing with people. One of the top neighborhoods to visit during this time is the East London area of Bethnal Green, which hosts a weekly flower market on Columbia Road every Sunday morning. East London locals and visitors alike flock to this street filled with independent shops, cafes, and florals.

This is one of my favorite markets to visit in London because the area is so quirky and full of character, and plants and flowers make everything cheery.

👉 Pro Tip: The market goes from 8am – 3pm and I recommend going early to ensure you get the best selection of plants and flowers!

The Shard

Find the best views in the whole city

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 844 499 7111 | Website

If you’re looking for the best view of London during your visit, then The Shard is the place for you. A glass skyscraper with 87 floors containing some of the best fine dining restaurants in London, offices, and the Shangri-La hotel, you are guaranteed to get an incredible view of the city from this location.

I would highly recommend checking out one of the fantastic fine dining restaurants in The Shard for a nice dinner with a view. There is also a lovely selection of cocktail bars, each offering its own unique atmosphere if you’re more in the mood for some libations.

Crown Jewels Exhibition 

Spend the day in the Tower of London to see the one-of-a-kind Crown Jewels

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 203 166 6000 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5:30 pm Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 5:30 pm Sunday – Monday | Entrance: Ranges from $17 – $34 (you can save on family packages)

A well-sought-after attraction, the Tower of London has quite a reputation as one of the top landmarks to visit in the city. You could easily spend an entire day browsing this historic castle along the River Thames due to its extensive wealth of exhibitions.

Most famously known for holding a collection of Crown Jewels, you will have the opportunity to see them up close and learn about the nation’s history. 

In addition to over 23 thousand gemstones housed in this castle, there are plenty of other eye-catching exhibits and things to see including The White Tower, Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula, Battlements, Medieval Palace, Bloody Tower, Torture and exhibition, Fusiliers Museum, and Royal Mint exhibition.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Take in this stunning conservation project

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 208 332 5655 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 3 pm daily | Entrance: $14-26

If you’re an environmental enthusiast or plant-lover, then paying a visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew is one of the best things to do in London. One of the most biodiverse places on earth, The world-famous Kew Gardens is filled with over 50,000 living plants. 

The tranquil UNESCO world heritage site is located in Richmond, a borough on the outskirts of London. When planning your visit, you can make a whole day out of the gardens as there are many features to explore and events taking place. Features include The Temperate House, the Japanese Gardens, seasonal Christmas displays, and much more.

Buckingham Palace

Experience traditional English culture

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 303 123 7300 | Website | Hours: Any time of day to see it outside; 9:30 am – 7:30 pm July & August; 9:30 am – 6:30 pm September & October | Entrance: $20-37 (discount for families if you book directly through the Buckingham Palace website) | 👉 Check out this Buckingham Palace Tour

Globally recognized as the Queen’s official London residence and home, visiting Buckingham Palace is one of the quintessential things to do in London. 

Located in the heart of central London, you can pop by on your walk around the city’s main attractions. To get the full experience, plan to view the palace during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This happens on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday year-round or any day in the summer at 11 am.

During the select months of July through October, you’ll have the opportunity to enter parts of Buckingham Palace and view the picturesque staterooms, which are only open for a limited time of 10 weeks each summer. 

Sightseeing around Central London 

Take a tour and visit the iconic London landmarks

🌐 Website | 👉 Experience the main attractions in this 1-day London tour

One of the best things to do in London if you’re a first-time visitor is to tour all the main attractions in the city, whether you book a guide or make it a self-guided tour.

In addition to Buckingham Palace and the London Eye, there are several other memorable sights to see within London’s core. Many attractions can be viewed from outside and are completely free, or there are some London walking tours you can partake in.

Some of the best spots that you surely won’t want to miss on your sightseeing route include Tower Bridge, Leicester Square, Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Houses of Parliament, just to name a few.

Broadway Show 

Take in some of the world’s top music theatres on the big stage

🌐 Website | Ticket Prices: $33 on average 

London is home to some of the best broadway shows in the world. Whether you’re in the mood for something funny or a more intense performance, there are so many shows to pick from, you won’t be short on options.

With theatres scattered across the city, you’ll be able to see top performances no matter where you stay in London. However, if you’d like to be among the action in the main area of theatre, I would recommend visiting London’s west end.

A great way to make the most of your theatre experience in London is to get dressed up, book a reservation at a nice restaurant in the west end, and cap off the night with a show. 

London Museums & Culture

The British Museum

Experience traditional English culture

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 323 8299 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Saturday – Thursday, 10 am – 8:30 pm Friday | Entrance: Free, but there is an option to make a donation

A pinnacle of history, arts, and culture, the British Museum in Bloomsbury central London is a great place to get a cultural fix during your trip to London. The museum is home to over eight million works of art, making the British Museum one of the largest and most comprehensive art institutions.

Some of the most popular themes throughout the exhibits at the museum include animals, The Americas, Egypt, Africa, desire, love and identity, and much more. There are always new exhibits coming out on relevant topics and the museum offers guided tours.

Tate Modern

Art that will teach you something new

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 887 8888 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: Free, but there is an option to make a donation

If you’re an art fiend, the Tate Modern is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Sitting within the family of four famous art galleries under the Tate name, this one is extra special as it features the best of modern British art, and international modern and contemporary art. 

The Tate Modern is located near London Bridge, surrounded by gorgeous views. In addition to the fantastic modern art exhibits, the Tate Modern also features some great events. 

On the last Friday of every month, the museum hosts an event called ‘Tate Lates’ from 6-10 pm, featuring various talks, workshops, exhibits, food & drinks, and a live DJ. If you happen to be visiting at the end of the month, I would highly recommend checking out one of these events.

National Gallery

Home to world-renowned pieces of art

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 747 2885 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm daily (open until 9 pm on Fridays) | Entrance: Free, but there is an option to make a donation

For the more traditional art lover, the National Gallery located in the heart of Trafalgar Square is one of Europe’s biggest art treasures. Around for almost 200 years, this institution of art features over 2000 unique paintings ranging from the 13th to 20th centuries. 

The National Gallery is a great place for families as it offers events and creative sessions for children, along with historic works for adults. The museum is free to enter, and it also offers free daily guided tours where you can be taken through the art by an expert guide. 

Somerset House

Top-notch arts and culture surround this iconic establishment

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 845 4600 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7 pm daily | Entrance: Free, but some exhibits charge a fee

Located in The Strand overlooking the River Thames, Somerset House sits on a site that previously belonged to a Tudor palace owned by the Duke of Somerset. This stunning Georgian building is an institution for creativity and arts, sharing it with greater society.

Visiting Somerset House is an activity worth adding to your list of things to do in London as they regularly host exciting events. Think live music, outdoor interactive life-sized art exhibitions, or a world-renowned design biennale.

Barbican Conservatory

A tropical oasis to awaken your senses

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 638 4141 | Website | Opens at 12pm | Entrance: Free

The Barbican Conservatory is the second largest conservatory in London after Kew Gardens. Located within the greater Barbican Centre, you could make a full day out of this activity.  

The conservatory is home to around 1,500 species of plants and trees, a unique mix of temperate and arid types from regions such as South Africa and Brazil. On select Sundays, the Barbican’s resident gardeners lead a tour where you can learn more in-depth information on the conservatory, and they may even share a few secrets!

Starting at the conservatory, make your way to an art exhibit and enjoy some food and drinks at one of the several restaurants at the Barbican Centre. 

👉 Pro Tip: Check the website one week in advance on Thursdays at 10 am to get a ticket. There are also a limited number of day tickets released for online booking from 9:30 am each day the Conservatory is open.

Royal Opera House

Take in exquisite musical and dance performances

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 304 4000 | Website | Hours: 12 – 6 pm daily | Entrance: Fees vary based on the event 

As you wander through Covent Garden and enjoy the various shops and restaurants the area has to offer, why not stop at this major performing arts center to take in some traditional opera music, orchestra, or ballet? You’ll be able to spot the building within Covent Garden based on its classic white pillars and intricate glass tiles.

A show at this opera house makes for a great night out and is THE place to see The Royal Opera, Royal Ballet, and the Orchestra. This is a great thing to do in London to have a date night, an evening out with a friend, or a family night.

Food & Drink

Afternoon Tea at The Dorchester 

Sip and relax while you enjoy some of the finest teas from around the world

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 629 8888 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 6pm daily

I cannot recommend the Dorchester Hotel enough for its exquisite afternoon tea. The service at this hotel in Mayfair will make you feel like royalty, and the atmosphere and interior design is unmatched. 

Entering the hotel, you’ll instantly be greeted by one of the attentive staff members and brought to your table in The Promenade. 

Their menu includes several exquisite teas from around the world, along with the three types of fare you’ll get to partake in: scones with clotted cream and fresh preserves, a selection of sandwiches, and the gorgeous seasonal pastries (a sample of which are pictured above). 

Borough Market

Take in the rich scents of delicious cuisines from the market stalls

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 407 1002 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm Saturday, 10 am – 3 pm Sunday | Entrance: Free

Located on the heels of London Bridge and not far from Tower Bridge, the Borough Market is a great place to stop for a bite to eat amidst a day of London sightseeing. This infamous food market is filled with vendors boasting local British produce and ingredients and has offerings among the likes of street food stalls to full-fledged fine dining.

Some of my favorite spots to hit up include Brindisa for a selection of Spanish tapas, Hobbs roast for delicious meat and halloumi wraps, Porteña for mouth-watering Argentinian empanadas, and Rabot Restaurant for some unique cocoa-inspired dishes.

Edible Cocktails at Lounge Bohemia

Enter a new universe as you step into this one-of-a-kind speakeasy experience

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 772 070 7000 | Website | Hours: 6 pm – 12 am Monday – Saturday, 6 pm – 11 pm Sunday 

A gem hidden within the depths of east London, Lounge Bohemia is one of the most quirky and unique bars in London you will ever experience.

Lounge Bohemia is an underground Czech speakeasy-style bar that is one of London’s best-kept secrets. The website is minimalist and written in Czech, and the only way to make a reservation is by calling the number listed, giving it that true exclusive feel. You must have a reservation in order to experience this specialty cocktail bar.

In true speakeasy fashion, the location is not easily spotted by the common eye and is hidden beneath a Shoreditch kebab shop at the address listed. One of the highlights of this 60s cocktail bar is their cocktail tasting menus, offering a range of themed cocktails including ones you can eat.

Sunday Roast at Knife

Mouth-watering offerings that will guarantee walking away full and happy

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 627 6505 | Website | Hours: 6 pm – 10 pm Wednesday – Saturday, 12 pm – 4:30 pm Sunday

Arguably one of the best things about the UK in my humble opinion is the tradition of the Sunday roast. Each Sunday from about 12 pm onwards you will be able to find a roast at nearly every pub across London and the greater UK, which makes it simple to find one but tough to separate the best ones.

With that said, I would highly recommend Knife as a top pick. In addition to the rustic atmosphere, roasts here cost a reasonable market price. Along with what’s on your plate, they throw in extra mini Yorkshires and bread with rich bone marrow butter as starters, along with extra side dishes that come with your main.

It’s not often that you go to a restaurant for a meal and are told not to order extra starters or sides because it will be too much food. You are guaranteed to walk out of this place full and satisfied.

Bermondsey Beer Mile

A mile’s worth of craft beer and cider to quench your thirst 

📍 Google Maps | Website 

For the craft beer and cider lovers out there, you have met your match with the Bermondsey Beer Mile. What more could you want than a mile long of craft breweries on a nice sunny day with some friends? This area has the libations and the vibes to go along with them.

The Bermondsey Beer Mile makes a great location for a Saturday afternoon pub crawl, so gather your friends, partner, or whoever you’re traveling with and head down to check out one of over 15 independent bars on the strip. 

Bermondsey also offers some fantastic restaurants, so I would recommend making a reservation in advance and heading out for a bite after a day of brewery indulgence.

Mercato Mayfair

A food market in a gorgeous old church

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 403 0930 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 11 pm Monday – Thursday, 12 pm – 12 am Friday & Saturday, 12 pm – 10 pm Sunday | Entrance: Free

Mercato Mayfair is one of the most unique food markets in London because it is located in an old church with stained-glass murals. It’s a gorgeous setting to enjoy some food and libations, and the market offers a great selection of stalls, from Italian delicacies to fancy G&Ts. 

The venue boasts two floors with worldwide cuisine, a rooftop terrace, and a wine cellar. This is a place you can enjoy some delicious cultural food with friends and family any day of the week. It’s also a great London date idea. As an added bonus, it’s dog friendly so you may spot some cute pooches during your visit! 

Events & Activities in London

Secret Cinema 

Immerse yourself into the story by participating in the action

📍 Location is subject to change per event | Website 

If you want to picture the event version of a speakeasy bar, then Secret Cinema fits the bill. Unlike any other event you’ve experienced, Secret Cinema provides immersive film and TV events at hidden locations, where you can take part in the action.

Some of the events have featured famous flicks and series including Stranger Things, Dirty Dancing, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Casino Royale. By partaking, you can dress up as a cast member and be part of the crowd or take center stage for your own cinematic moment.

Top Secret Comedy Club

Have a laugh and enjoy a pint at one of the best comedy clubs in Europe

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 795 653 9784 | Website | Hours: 5:30 pm – 11 pm Monday – Thursday, 5 pm – 12:30 am Friday, 2 pm – 12:30 am Saturday, 2 pm – 10:30 pm Sunday | Entrance: Prices range per show from free shows to $22

Day or night, this fun underground comedy club borders Covent Garden and is a great place for a laugh. With tickets ranging from free of charge to only $22, this is a fun activity that won’t break the bank.

Acts range from amateurs looking to test out their sets to special guest appearances from celebrity comedians including Jack Whitehall, Amy Schumer, and Trevor Noah. They also offer cheap drinks and you’re allowed to bring in your own takeaway. This is a great way to have a fun night out on a budget.

Flight Club

Who knew there were so many games you could play with darts?

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 203 019 3093 | Website | Hours: 11:30 am – 12 am Monday – Wednesday, 11:30 am – 12:30 am Thursday, 11:30 am – 1 am Friday, 11 am – 1 am Saturday, 11:30 am – 10:30 pm Sunday | Entrance: $11 per person for 90 minutes of darts (groups of 6+ needed)

Spanning a few locations across London, this home to various darts games is one of the most popular activities in London to do with a group of friends. Great as an afternoon or evening activity, Flight Club is sure to bring out your competitive side while you embark on several different variations of games involving darts with your crew.

There are locations in North London, East London, and South West London, allowing visitors or locals all across the city to partake. This spot also has some wicked food platters and drinks, making it a great destination for birthdays or celebrations of any kind.

Greenwich Peninsula Golf Range

A driving range with a great view of the city

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 208 293 8992 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 11 pm daily | Entrance: $6 – $30 based on the length of time / number of balls

Located in the lovely Royal Borough of Greenwich, you can have a swing at the driving range while taking in some of the best views in London. You can rent one of the bays solo to practice your technique or with a group to relax and enjoy some food and drinks while seeing who has the best drive.

Each bay has an Inrange interactive experience with cutting-edge ball tracking technology and challenges to help you improve your golf game. As the only driving range of its kind in London, Greenwich Peninsula Golf Range can get very busy, so I would highly recommend pre-booking a slot.

Chelsea Flower Show

Take in 1-of-a-kind flower displays 

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 8 am – 8 am Tuesday – Friday, 8 am – 5:30 pm Saturday | Entrance: $55 – $134 (This event takes place annually for one week at the end of May)

Taking place once a year at the end of May, The Chelsea Flower Show is arguably the world’s most famous flower show and one of London’s most acclaimed events. Held in the Royal Hospital in Chelsea, it’s fun to walk around the neighborhood and see all of the stunning flower displays.

Many stores also hold events and promotions during this time of year as it is prime time for foot traffic in the borough.

Sports & Leisure Things to Do

Football Match

Be a part of one of England’s biggest cultural events

🌐 Website

Rivaled with rugby as the UK’s most popular sport, attending a football match will be unlike any other sporting event you’ve attended in your life. The level of energy that football fans provide is unparalleled, and going to a game will allow you to be amongst the action and experience it for yourself.

With many popular Premier League teams including Arsenal, Manchester United, Aston Villa, Chelsea, and others, there are tons of games to pick from, however, getting tickets can be a difficult feat. 

👉 Pro Tip: Check the ticket resale sights in advance of your trip for the best chance at scoring tickets to a game, usually sold by season ticket holders who have first access.

Royal Ascot 

An opportunity to dress up, go out with your friends, and enjoy a day of racing 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 344 346 3000 | Website | Entrance: Tickets from $60

If you’re in the mood to get dressed up, partake in some of Britain’s finest racing, and have the opportunity to potentially bump into the royal family, then Royal Ascot is for you. 

Packed with exciting races, Pimms, and people in their finest attire, this is a great London event that takes place every June.

If you’re feeling lucky, you can place bets on the races in hopes of walking away richer than you arrived. Be sure to get advance tickets as the event often sells out, and check the website to find the dress code for the enclosure you’re attending. 

Rugby game at Twickenham 

Visit this world-renowned stadium to watch one of England’s most popular sports

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 203 613 2036 | Website 

Last but certainly not least, rugby is a British sport that certainly should not be slept on. For eager sports fans, this is a game jam-packed with action.

Twickenham is the famous stadium where the England team plays, and there are often cup games and other rugby events taking place here as well, such as the Commonwealth Games. 

Although it is recommended to still book in advance, rugby tickets are much easier to score than Football, so this makes a great option for people keen to catch a game during their trip to London.

Shopping & Fashion Attractions

Harrods

Luxury at its finest

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 207 730 1234 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 9 pm Monday – Saturday, 11:30 am – 6 pm Sunday

Located in the luxurious neighborhood of Knightsbridge, Harrods is one of the most iconic stores for fashion globally.  Founded in 1849, it is one of the oldest department stores in Europe, spanning over a million square feet across 7 floors and over 300 departments. 

Another great element of this store is its luxury food hall, an emporium complete with delicious chocolate, coffees and teas, patisserie, seafood, exotic produce, and much more. 

If you’re looking to live in luxury for the day, there’s also a Moët & Chandon Champagne Bar in the building where you can stop for a refreshing glass while browsing. If you’re visiting during Christmas, Harrods offers some of the best decorations in the city.

Vintage Shopping in Brick Lane

Find a hidden treasure unique to your trip to London

📍 Google Maps | Website 

If second-hand vintage fashion is more your vibe, then the best place to stay in London for variety of one-of-a-kind pieces is Brick Lane. 

Part of the East London Borough of Hackney, Shoreditch is one of the greatest areas for fashion, with people expressing themselves and trying out every style you can imagine. This is personally one of my favorite parts of London to shop, as you will often find items you can’t get anywhere else.

Brick lane offers several great vintage haunts, filled with a range of threads from 90s sportswear to designer. There is also a market on Saturdays and Sundays along the street, that also offers several international food stalls where you can grab a bite while you shop.

For more while there, see my guide to things to do in Shoreditch.

Oxford Circus 

London’s most famous shopping district

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +44 343 222 1234 | Website 

I would not be able to talk about shopping in London without mentioning Oxford Circus, arguably London’s most famous shopping district for visitors. Both Oxford and Regent streets are packed with shops varying in price range, where you’ll be able to pick up pieces following the latest trends.

A couple specialty stores I would recommend taking a peek into while you’re in the area are Liberty London and Fortnum & Mason. Liberty is a gorgeous department store situated in a Tudor-revival building and offers high-end fashion, skincare and makeup, and homewares. 

Fortnum & Mason is known for its selection of fine teas, also offering a food hall filled with other luxurious food and drink items that make great gifts.

👉 Pro Tip: I would recommend visiting on a weekday during working hours if possible to try and avoid the bigger crowds.

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Now you know what to do in London!

The list of things to do in London could truly go on forever, which is what makes it such a great city to explore. Up next, check out my picks for the best day trips from London!