London Bucket List: 26 Best Things To Do In London

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Last Updated on December 4, 2024 by sydabroad

If you are looking for the ultimate London bucket list then keep reading! 

If you are planning a trip to London, England, and looking for all of the best things to do in the city, then this guide is for you. I’m sharing the perfect London bucket list for inspo for your next trip. This guide also includes the best way to get around the city, where to stay in London and more.

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This post is all about the best London bucket list. 

London Bucket List – The Basics 

Currency = British Pound

1 USD  = .81 Pound Sterling

Many places in London will accept card payments but I find it helpful to keep a bit of cash for small purchases. Cash is helpful if you need to tip a guide, split a bill, or shop at local markets. There are also plenty of ATMs throughout the city. 

Language = English 

The national language in the UK is English. 

Phone & Internet 

You shouldn’t have a problem with phone service and wifi in London. From my experience, I never had an issue with the phone and internet service in the city. There was cell service just about everywhere. A majority of the cafes and restaurants had wifi available. 

For traveling internationally, I suggest using an eSIM for affordable cellular data when you travel. The Airalo app makes it easy to purchase and install an eSIM suitable for the destination you are visiting. Check out Airalo here. 

Daily Budget 

London is not necessarily a budget-friendly city but it is possible to travel on somewhat of a budget. A mid-range daily budget for London is about 120 pounds. However, if you stay at a hostel, do free activities, and eat at local markets it is possible to spend as little as 50 to 70 pounds per day. 

Tipping in London  

It is customary to tip around 10% to 15% of the bill when eating out at restaurants. At times restaurants will add an automatic tip to your bill instead. This is called a service charge. 

Can You Drink The Tap Water?

Tap water is safe to drink in London. 

The Weather in London 

You can expect the weather from June to September to be warmer and this is high season so expect more crowds. It will be much cooler from November to February. As for rain, it rains in London year-round so make sure you pack accordingly. Pack a rain jacket and a compact umbrella.

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How to Get Around London

The best way to get around London is by using the Tube. This is the city’s underground public transit system. It’s easy to use and very affordable. I suggest purchasing an Oyster Card if you will be using the Tube for your primary mode of transportation. 

You can purchase Oyster Cards at all tube stations, some visitor centers, and some DLR stations. 

Make sure to have Google Maps downloaded, this way you can navigate the tube using your phone. 

Alternatively, you can also use rideshare or taxis. Uber is available in London – another great transportation option. However, traffic can be bad so typically it’s quicker and more affordable to take the Tube.  

Map of London’s Best Experiences

Find a map below of all of the spots mentioned in this London bucket list.

The Ultimate London Bucket List

1. Watch The Changing of The Guards at Buckingham Palace

The changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace takes place every day at 10:45 AM. It can get crowded – especially during the weekends. If you want a good spot get here a bit early. 

2. The National Gallery

The National Gallery is one of the most prestigious art museums in London located in Trafalgar Square. The museum’s vast collection includes work from artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Vincent van Gogh. The National Gallery is free to enter. 

3. Try eClairs at Maitre Choux 

For a sweet treat, stop by Maitre Choux for one of their famous eclairs. Not only are they pretty desserts but they are delicious as well. There are multiple locations around the city and the perfect place to grab a quick sweet treat. 

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4. River Thames Cruise 

For a unique perspective of the city, take a cruise on the River Thames. There are various tours you can book depending on your preferences. I’ve linked a great option below. 

5. Visit The Shard

The Shard is a skyscraper in London and is the tallest building in the United Kingdom. It was completed in 2012 and stands at a height of 310 meters tall.

For impressive views of the city, head to the restaurant Aqua Shard. It’s located on the 31st floor of the Shard serving modern British cuisine. It is a pricy spot, not the best place to visit if you are on a budget. 

6. Ride The London Eye

No matter how touristy – the London Eye is a must to include on Your London bucket list. Riding the iconic London Eye gives you a unique perspective of the city, you can’t miss it. 

Ticket prices start at about 25 euros for off-peak weekdays. You can find more information here. They also offer VIP experiences with champagne. 

7. Visit St. James Park 

St. James Park is in the heart of London and it’s a great way to escape the city for a while. It’s famous for hosting royal ceremonies.    

8. Piccadilly Circus 

Piccadilly Circus is at times referred to as the Times Square of London. It’s a lively place to hang around with bars, restaurants, and lots of shopping. 

9. Visit The Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is located in central London spanning the River Thames. It’s certainly one of the most iconic landmarks in London known for its historical significance and neo-Gothic architectural design. 

10. Afternoon Tea at Sketch

Afternoon Tea is a must to include on your London bucket list. Although there are many amazing places to enjoy afternoon tea in London, Sketch is a unique and luxurious experience. Read my guide here all about my experience having afternoon tea at Sketch in London.

If you plan to visit Sketch, make reservations ahead of time. 

11. Try Fish and Chips

You can’t visit London without having fish and chips! You can find this traditional dish just about anywhere in the city. Some of the best fish and chips in London are Poppies Fish and Chips, Fish at Borough Market, and the Golden Union.

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12. Notting Hill 

Notting Hill is a vibrant area in London famous for its antique markets and vintage fashion. Visit the colorful houses (a great photo spot in London) and Portobello Road Market. 

13. Neal’s Yard

Neal’s Yard is a small alley in London’s Covent Garden between Shorts Garden and Monmouth Street. It’s one of London’s prettiest streets and you’ll find independent bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops.  

14. See a Show in London’s West End

London’s West End is famous for its world-class theater productions and shows. A few popular shows you can find are The Lion King, Mamma Mia!, Wicked, Hamilton, The Phantom of the Opera, and more. 

It’s the perfect way to spend an evening in London. I saw Wicked and it was incredible.  

15. Trafalgar Square 

Trafalgar Square is one of the most popular squares in London. It’s located in the heart of the city known for its cultural attractions, historical significance, and common gathering place.

16. Take The Iconic Red Phone Booth Photo

You can’t miss the iconic red phone booths in London. You can find them in various locations around the city. 

Although they used to function as payphones, they remain in the city as an iconic symbol of London and British Culture. Yes, it’s a touristy photo opp but such a cute one and well worth it in my opinion! 

17. Visit Westminster Abbey 

Westminster Abbey is a royal church and is one of the most historically and architecturally significant religious buildings in London. While you are in the Westminster area visit the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben (now called Elizabeth Tower).

18. Coffee at Peggy Porschen Cakes

For a picturesque spot and a good cup of coffee, head to Peggy Porschen Cakes. This is certainly one of the most Instagrammable places in London. 

19. St. Paul’s Cathedral 

St. Paul’s Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral in London and the seat of the Bishop of London. It’s known for its elegant English Baroque architecture. 

Its iconic dome and beautiful interior make St. Paul’s Cathedral an amazing place to visit in London. You can also get picturesque views of London from the top of St. Paul’s Cathedral. 

20. Harry Potter Tour

If you are a Harry Potter fan you won’t want to miss Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. Here you get to explore the magical world of Harry Potter. 

21. Hyde Park

Enjoy the beauty of one of London’s most popular parks. It’s a great place to relax and escape the bustling city.  

If you are visiting Ireland, make sure to check out my Dublin travel guide here!

22. Visit the British Museum

The British Museum has a vast collection of art and historical artifacts. It documents the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present. You can even see Egyptian mummies.

23. Cocktails at Mr. Fogg’s

Mr. Fogg’s is a collection of cocktail bars transporting you back to the Victorian era. There are multiple locations around London. 

Each location has its vibe and atmosphere. For a unique cocktail experience visit one of the Mr Fogg’s locations in London. 

24. Shop at Harrods Department Store

Harrods is one of the most famous department stores in the world. This iconic department store was founded in 1834 as a small grocery store. 

Over the years, it evolved into a department store offering high-end goods. Now it’s known for its luxurious shopping experiences, and a range of luxury services including personal shopping, tailoring, and more.

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25. Take a Walking Tour of London

I always love starting my trips with a walking tour of the city. This is a great way to get a feel for the city and get local recommendations. It’s also a great way to meet other travelers. 

26. Borough Market 

Borough Market is arguably the best market to visit in London. It’s located in Southwark and is one of the largest and oldest food markets in the city. Here, you can find delicious food from all around the world. 

Where to Stay in London 

Although London is not a cheap place to visit by any means, you can find affordable hotels and hostels around the city. With the Tube, it makes it easy to get from place to place if you are staying outside of Central London. 

I stayed at Ibis Docklands Excel and it was perfect during my weekend in London. They offer free breakfast and it is a reasonably priced hotel. I’ve listed a few hotel options below: 

Budget: Wombat’s City Hostel and Ibis Docklands Excel Hotel

Boutique: The Gore London

Luxury: Rosewood London and The London EDITION 

Find a Place to Stay in London

I hope this London bucket list helped plan your next trip! If you have any questions feel free to DM me on Instagram, comment below, or email me at sydabroad@gmail.com.

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