The 50 best things to do in London

What is it? A reconstruction of William Shakespeare’s circular theatre, which was destroyed by a fire, sat a few hundred yards from its original site.

Why go? It’s the closest you’ll ever get to experiencing the Bard’s plays as his Elizabethan audience did. To stand or not to stand, that is the question. In the era of Mr Shakespeare himself, many theatregoers would stay on their feet when watching a play. Known as ‘groundlings’, those who stood would get an ace and up-close view of the show. At the Globe, this tradition has endured and you can get a standing spot for as little as £5. Honestly, the action is so engrossing that by the time you realise your feet hurt, it’ll all be over.

Don’t miss: A midnight performance. You’ll have to book well in advance for one of these late-night shows but it’s worth it for the raucous atmosphere. Pop to the pub beforehand for a pint or two – and maybe a coffee to keep you awake into the early hours. 

What is it? A rooftop bar for proper oenophiles on Peckham’s Rye Lane, from the team behind the much-loved Camberwell Italian spot Forza Win.

Why go? Peckham is hardly short on rooftop bars – it basically invented the modern model with Frank’s – but most of its sky-high watering holes lose their edge in winter when exposed to the elements. Not Forza Wine, which offers the best of both worlds: an outdoor, bench-filled terrace and an indoor area with tall tables and glass doors revealing that skyline. And it’s not just worth stopping by for the views; this place takes the grape stuff seriously, does some great renditions of classic cocktails at winning prices, and serves up a cracking menu of ‘Italian-ish’ nibbles.

Don’t miss: Can’t decide which of its daily-changing small plates to go for? You can order the entire menu, plus four desserts (we’d opt for the signature Custardo®) for £135, which works out at a very decent £33.75 a head.

What is it? One of London’s oldest and best-loved flower markets, packed to the brim with all manner of floral delights.

Why go? A weekend institution in east London, the Sunday flower market that lines Columbia Road is a hipster paradise and one of the best places in the city to buy flowers, bedding plants, cacti and even a banana tree if you’ve got the patio space at home and the upper body strength to carry it there. 

Don’t miss: The best blooms and bargains. The market goes on until 3pm in all weathers, but for the best buys you need to get there for 8am (or hold out to the end for a bargain on unsold stock). Head down side streets to find cute cafés, shops, antique dealers and galleries sticking to market opening hours.

What is it? Strap in because this is the capital's biggest, grandest royal park.

Why go? With its ancient woodland, think open space and rural wilds in the heart of the city. This former royal hunting ground has changed little over the centuries, but modern-day visitors are more likely to be wielding a kite than a bow and arrow. Look out for wild red and fallow deer but be sure to keep your distance (especially during autumn’s rutting season).

Don’t miss: Make a beeline for the Isabella Plantation, an ornamental woodland garden full of clearings, ponds and streams and planted with ferns, exotic trees and shrubs. It’s particularly striking during April and May when the azaleas and rhododendrons put on their annual show. Rent a bike to really get to see the whole park. 

What is it? Dating back to the thirteenth century, London’s oldest food market is a cornucopia of gourmet goodies – your go-to for artisanal finds.

Why go? It used to highlight British produce but nowadays you’ll find global traders and street-food vendors: enjoy French confit-duck sandwiches, Ethiopian stews and scotch eggs (elevated, of course).

Don’t miss: Arrive early (get coffee from Monmouth), pick up from Neal’s Yard Dairy, Brindisa and Bread Ahead, and head for a riverside picnic.

What is it? A riverside titan of arts and entertainment, the Southbank Centre is made up of multiple venues hosting some of London’s most sought-after events. 

Why go? To soak up some serious culture; its packed calendar of annual events includes Imagine Children’s Festival during the February half-term, Women of the World festival around International Women’s Day, Refugee Week actitivites and celebrity-curated music festival Meltdown in the summer, and a plethora of A-list screenings, talks and workshops during London’s Film and Literature festivals in the autumn. It’s still worth a visit even when there’s nothing on; head to the food market to munch on vegan cake, or pick up a rare first edition at the bookstalls. 

Don’t miss: While you’re there, head along the South Bank to the Globe and gawp at the hallowed Shakespearian playhouse.

What is it? Oh just 3,000 acres of beautiful green space, filled with stunning vistas, rare plants, Victorian glasshouses, a Chinese pagoda and a treetop walkway. You know, nothing too grandiose.

Why go? This world-leading botanic garden is captivating any time of year. There’s loads to see here, whether you like green stuff or not. Why not take a trip to the Treetop Walkway? At 18 metres high, this trek through the leaves offers fab views of the grounds. Or, stroll down to the Chinese Pagoda, which was built in 1762 and towers over the southern end of the Gardens. Or, visit the extraordinary Marianne North Gallery. The building is a beautifully tiled piece of Victorian architecture and the whole place is lined with over 800 of North’s colourful paintings of flowers, landscapes, animals and birds. 

Don’t miss: The restored Temperate House is a horticulturalist’s delight, home to encephalartos woodii, one of the rarest plants in the world, that outlived the dinosaurs.

What is it? A riverside icon on London’s South Bank dedicated to modern and contemporary art. It’s the younger, hipper sibling to Pimlico’s Tate Britain.

Why go? To be inspired and challenged – even by the architecture. Tate Modern is based in what was Bankside Power Station. Its 2016 Switch House extension added gallery space and incredible 360-degree views of the London skyline. Step inside to discover works by the likes of Warhol, Matisse and Bourgeois, all part of the free permanent collection.

Don’t miss: The Tate Boat (decorated with Damien Hirst dots) runs up and down the Thames between Tate Modern and Tate Britain every 30 minutes during gallery opening hours. Just tap in and out with an Oyster or contactless card as you would on the tube or bus.

What is it? A giant ferris wheel on the South Bank, with equally enormous views of the city.

Why go? Turning at a stately 0.6 miles per hour, the London Eye is more like a graceful pirouette than a fast spin cycle, providing astounding views of the skyline and cityscape. Many of London’s landmarks are visible from this 135-metre-high wheel. Spot Big Ben, Tower Bridge and a tea-sipping Queen at Buckingham Palace.

Don’t miss: After-dark views. Book an evening spot to see the city sparkling at night. Even better, take a spin near Christmas for extra glitter. 

What is it? The most quintessentially English thing you can ever eat at one of the most traditional and elegant hotels in London. 

Why go? Forget brunch, afternoon tea is really where it’s at. With flattering lighting, the scent of fresh roses and classical musicians playing away in the corner, the Foyer at Claridge’s is a class act. This elegant art deco space is where chic A-listers and other ‘people with taste’ come to take tea. Expect tasty patisserie, sensational just-baked scones and incredible finger sandwiches. 

Don’t miss: The drink at the heart of the ritual. Sip on a fine bone-china cup of Claridge’s Blend, a bespoke tea designed for this very occasion. 

What is it? A cathedral to culture, the V&A is a world-class museum championing the very best of decorative art and design. There are some 150 grand galleries over seven floors. They contain countless pieces of furniture, ceramics, sculpture, paintings, posters, jewellery, metalwork, glass, textiles and dress, spanning several centuries. 

Why go? High-profile ticketed exhibitions often sell out, but the permanent exhibits are fascinating and free to visit. 

Don’t miss: The world’s first all-porcelain courtyard created by architect Amanda Levete with 11,000 handmade tiles. When it catches the sunlight, the glittering ceramics make London look like 1960s Rome. 

What is it? A large, leafy greenhouse within the iconic performing arts and exhibition centre.

Why go? This labyrinthine arts complex is part of a vast concrete estate – an icon of brutalist London architecture – that also includes 2,000 covetable flats and lots of confusing walkways. Which makes the fact that it’s also home to the second-biggest conservatory in the city a very lush surprise. The indoor garden has 2,000 plant species. It’s like stepping into the happy ending of a dystopian thriller, when the characters finally find signs of life on an abandoned planet. 

Don’t miss:  Inside, the focus is on world-class arts, taking in every imaginable genre.

What is it? A massive club on the site of the old Ikea in Tottenham from the team behind Printworks and Manchester’s Depot Mayfield.

Why go? This cavernous, 608,000 sq ft party den is the joint largest capacity nightclub in the world and features three separate dancefloors, five bars – including a 25,000 sqft bar in the main 15,000 capacity room – 48-metre-long LED screens and an outdoor terrace and food court. Its hosted gigs from the likes of Bicep, Marcel Dettmann, Kelly Lee Owens, Loco Dice, Girls Don’t Sync, Sherelle, Skepta and The Sugababes, along with takeovers from BuggedOut! The Hydra and Radio 1 Dance.

Don’t miss: Drumsheds’ owner, Broadwick Live, is promising eclectic cultural programming in the future; look out for orchestras, ballet, and community events.

What is it? A major opera house and performing arts venue  in the heart of London. It’s a Covent Garden institution, and one of the best opera houses in the world. 

Why go? For opera, of course, or breathtaking ballet from The Royal Ballet, who also call this iconic building home. The smaller spaces offer a line-up of experimental and independent dance and music works. You can book on to a backstage tour, which takes you around the auditorium and behind the scenes, often with a chance to see the Royal Ballet in class. The Velvet, Gilt and Glamour Tour offers a look at the building’s architecture as you hear stories of the opera greats who have performed there.

Don’t miss: The best seats in the house. If you’ve got the dosh, the seats on the third floor balcony are said to have the finest sound quality.

What is it? Founded in 1857, the Science Museum is one of London’s largest tourist attractions, and one of the world’s major museums.

Why go? From daytime play for little ones to lates for geeky grown-ups, the Science Museum is a happily noisy home of scientific discovery that’s free to visit for one and all. Head to Wonderlab, a state-of-the-art seven-zone area of the museum that’s ticketed, allowing you to see live experiments and shows away from the crowds. Visit Power Up, a fascinating exploration of gaming over the last 50 years and watch a film at the in-house IMAX cinema. 

Don’t miss: Amazing objects that have shaped the last few decades, from the first Apple computer to Apollo 10, which orbited the moon in 1969.

What is it? It’s one of the most famous art galleries in the world, an iconic institution that first opened in 1838 and now boasts over 2,300 works of art. 

Why go? To check out some of the planet’s most iconic paintings. Highlights of the vast, eclectic collection include Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’, Turner’s ‘The Fighting Temeraire’, van Eyck’s ‘The Arnolfini Portrait’ and Monet’s ‘The Water-Lily Pond’. Plus your Carravagios, your Hogarths, your Seurats, your Vermeers, your Titians, your Botticellis; if they’re a (male, European) painter of note, they probably feature on the walls of this place. And it’s free of charge, to boot.

Don’t miss: Its Friday lates, when the gallery stays open until 9pm. They take place every week, and often feature free art talks and drawing workshops.

What is it? A good old-fashioned caff. Since 1900 this workers’ café has provided carbs and protein in eggy, meaty and pan-fried form to the good people of east London.

Why go? Traces of bygone eras, like art deco interior details and Formica tables have earned E Pellicci Grade II-listed status, but what diners love best is that the fry-ups, grills and Italian plates are still all dished up by the same family.

Don’t miss: As strange as it might sound, you’re going to want to chase down your fry-up with a helping of bread-and-butter pudding – it’s a customer favourite.

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What is it? One of the UK’s most prominent performing arts venues, which sits proudly on the South Bank.

Why go? To witness world-beating performances featuring luminaries of the acting scene and rising stars set to be the next big things.

Don’t miss: The musical phenomenon that is 'Hadestown' or the Olivier Award-winning 'Dear England'. 

What is it? A welcoming and brilliantly maintained urban farm, complete with cute animals, just off Brick Lane in east London.

Why go? You can get a little taste of the countryside in the East End at Spitalfields City Farm. Friendly residents up for a pat include Bayleaf the donkey and a lovable pair of hairy hogs. The farm shop sells homegrown produce like freshly laid eggs, and the range of veg grown is remarkable for the location. There’s always something going on, from the homely café and laidback weekend festivals to family volunteering programme Families Go Wild. A proper city gem with a lovely vibe.

Don’t miss: The annual goat race. A rival to the famous Boat Race on the Thames, which sees Oxford and Cambridge universities go head to head, Spitalfields City Farm’s goat race pits two goats against each other on the same afternoon. It’s a lot more exciting than its riperine equivalent and over a lot quicker.

What is it? The original branch of Fergus Henderson and Trevor Gulliver’s gastronomic mini-empire. 

Why go? St John is quite possibly the most influential restaurant to have opened in London in the past 30 years. It’s credited with reacquainting the British with the full possibilities of native produce, especially anything gutsy and offal-ish. And did we mention it’s delicious? And so popular that when it recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with a menu of its best hits (complete with 1994 prices), a fortnight’s worth of bookings were made in less than a minute. 

Don’t miss This wonderfully simple dish of roasted vealbone marrow, parsley salad and grilled white sourdough has been a permanent fixture on the menu since the place opened. 

What is it? Unapologetically eccentric and always original, Liberty is a whimsical department store near Oxford Circus. It was founded in 1875, but the mock-Tudor Marlborough Street incarnation – constructed with the timbers of two ancient warships – was built in the 1920s.

Why go? Although Liberty trades on its history, it squeezes fashion-forward innovation into its wood-panelled rooms. Browse silks, Liberty-print cottons and one-off designer collaborations.

Don’t miss: The Liberty Christmas Shop. Open for a sizeable chunk of the year, it’s a magical, glitter-covered, gift-wrapped festive grotto, perfect for selecting weird and wonderful decorations for your tree. Brussels sprout bauble, anyone?

What is it? A fun, friendly neighbourhood pub that’s as popular with Nunhead locals and dedicated drinkers as it is art school students and the Goldsmiths crowd.

Why go? With over 3,500 boozers scattered around the capital, it takes something seriously special to top our list of London’s 50 best pubs, as Skehan’s did in our most recent edition. This towering corner pub is as fun as it is friendly. It’s family-run and independent, a rare thing these days in London, and attracts everyone from OAPs to local bands, chic fashion students and troupes of cheerful lads. There’s karaoke, folk-music nights, quizzes, footie and a perpetually popular pool table, not to mention perfect Guinness. This is an Irish pub after all.

Don’t miss: The terrific Thai food courtesy of in-house kitchen Chai’s Garden.

What is it? A real-life medieval castle by the Thames and, if we want to be technical, it's actually speaking, the Queen's Royal Palace and fortress.

Why go? For all that bling (and the ravens, if we're honest). You can’t help but gawp at the staggeringly priceless collection of diamonds, tiaras and sceptres that make up the Crown Jewels. Arrive early to beat the crowds and catch a glimpse of these precious rocks that the Royal Family still uses on official occasions. This 900-year-old monument is one of the country’s finest historical attractions and has enough to see to fill a whole day.

Don’t miss: If you want the real lowdown on the Tower, join a tour led by one of the costumed Yeoman Warders, or Beefeaters, who live and work here (they even have their own secret on-site pub). They’re a fun bunch, filling their talks full of jokes and fun jibes, as well as nitty gritty details you won’t find in the guidebook. 

What is it? If you’re looking for a mind-blowingly strong and delicious cocktail in sumptuous surroundings, this hotel bar is the right place.

Why go? It’s Stanley Tucci’s go-to and was Ian Fleming’s when he was penning the Bond books. Cocktails are among the most expensive in the city, but bar snacks are fabulous. Stagger across the cobbles of St James’s on your way out (the drinks really are that strong).

Don’t miss: Made to a recipe by esteemed bartender Salvatore Calabrese, its world famous martini is theatrical crafted from a trolley that’s wheeled to your table. You simply must order it.

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What is it? One of the county's most famous institutions, dedicated to human history, art and culture.

Why go? There’s so much to see at the British Museum –Parthenon sculptures, Lewis Chessmen, The Rosetta Stone. The world-famous Egyptian stone, the key to deciphering the hieroglyphs, is the most sought out item in the collection. If you think you’ve done it all, delve deeper by looking out for new acquisitions, or pop into one of the museum’s temporary exhibitions.

Don’t miss: The Ancient Egyptian collections at the British Museum really are something to be seen. There are seven galleries packed full of fascinating artifacts. You can spend hours solely staring at the various mummies preserved so exquisitely behind glass that they give you the feeling of stepping back in time, and the huge stone busts of figures like Ramesses and Amenhotep are breathtaking. 

What is it? A totally beautiful, independent bookshop, founded by James Daunt in 1990. 

Why go? Daunt Marylebone, the small chain’s flagship store, might be London’s most beautiful bookshop. Occupying an Edwardian building on Marylebone High Street, it boasts an incredible galleried main room and stained-glass windows that feel like they’re from a long-lost world. All the books are arranged by country – regardless of content – which makes for a fun and unique browsing experience. Take home your books in a branded tote bag for the true Daunt experience. 

Don’t miss: The other amazing bookshops in London, like King’s Cross bookshop barge Word on the Water, tech-free Libreria in Shoreditch, Persephone Books on Lamb’s Conduit Street, which sells pretty reprints from female writers, and the stellar London Review Bookshop in Bloomsbury.

What is it? An eighteenth-century neoclassical palace between the Strand and the river. It’s an art gallery, event space and music venue.

Why go? There’s loads to see and do all year round. In lieu of summertime gigs and outdoor cinema, find outdoor art installations.

Don’t miss: The many cultural events and activities the venue plays host to, alongside its usual exhibitions. At any given time, you'll find dance workshops, parties and celebratory mini-festivals taking over the space.  

What is it? Alexandra Palace, aka Ally Pally, was built in the 1870s as an entertainment and education venue for the people of London and it’s still doing that job today by, among other things, hosting an incredible firework display to mark Bonfire Night every November.

Why go? Well, what can’t you do at Ally Pally? It’s long served as a music venue, attracting big name bands. It’s home to a forest adventure ground, a skate park, a farmers’ market, an ice rink, a garden centre, a boating lake and a golf course. The palace’s ‘hidden’ theatre is also set to reopen, having been closed to the public for the last 80 years. Look out for seasonal food festivals too, or crafting events and vintage expos if that’s more your bag. Alternatively, pack a picnic and simply soak up those sensational views of the city skyline in Alexandra Park. 

Don’t miss: That enormous mast. Alexandra Palace is known globally as the birthplace of television. In 1935 the BBC leased the eastern part of the Palace, from which the first public television transmissions were made. Cool, huh?

What is it? A 57-acre park in Westminster, which is basically the Queen’s giant front garden.

Why go? It's gotten a pretty big facelift since King Henry VII’s heyday when it was a swampy stretch of land, used mainly as a deer-breeding ground. King James I drained it and moved more animals in (including elephants, crocodiles and exotic birds). Today it remains as it was redesigned in the 1820s, all lush landscape and winding paths. Spot squirrels scampering around and pretty views of Buckingham Palace at the western end. 

Don’t miss: The park’s famous avian tenants – the pelicans. In 1664 the Russian ambassador presented a pair of pelicans to the king, and today the birds are still offered to the park by foreign ambassadors. Find them at the big lake in the middle.

What is it? A four-screen cinema with a varied programme of films and events as well as food and drink options, from weekend brunch to weekday tipples. 

Why go? To make an evening (or day) of it under one roof. After work, arrive for dinner before a showing, see the film then head to the brand new riverside bar for a debrief over some movie-themed cocktails. Alternatively enjoy a leisurely breakfast beside the Thames before a lunchtime film. There’s also a bookshop, the Mediatheque – where you can discover treasures from British film and TV history – and an exhibition space. 

Don’t miss: The BFI’s curated seasons really are the business if you love film. They encompass a whole range of subjects from month-long programmes celebrating ‘the uncanny’ to director and genre specials. They even get top-notch directors like Martin Scorsese to hand-pick their favourite flicks. 

What is it? A home to a rather impressive 80 million plant, animal, fossil, rock and mineral specimens. This South Kensington spot, which is also a world-class research institution, is full of wonders.

Why go? To come face-to-face with animatronic dinosaurs, a dodo, a giant sequoia tree, an earthquake simulator, glow-in-the-dark crystals and a great big blue whale skeleton which hangs from the ceiling of the Hintze Hall and goes after the name ‘Hope’. 

Don’t miss: The Museum’s gardens have just reopened after a huge transformation project. The new five-acre expanse of greenery now features a canyon crafted out of ancient stone, biodiverse habitats full of frogs and newts and a bronze cast of Dippy the Diplodocus – who used to hang in the Hintze Hall. 

What is it? A magnificently gothic, overgrown, 53,000-grave cemetery (housing 170,000 dead) in north London.

Why go? A stroll through a graveyard may seem like a  macabre way to spend an afternoon, but the chaotically overgrown Highgate Cemetery really is something special. It was one of London’s seven great Victorian cemeteries but fell into disrepair. Today, you can go and witness it in all its crumbling glory. The West Cemetery requires booking in advance for a guided tour. Entrance to the East Cemetery is £6 and must be bought in advance.

Don’t miss: The cemetery’s famous residents. Find the final resting places of, among others, ‘Hitchhiker’s Guide’ author Douglas Adams and poet Christina Rossetti. You can also visit Karl Marx. You can’t miss his spot – it’s topped with a massive sculpture of his head.

What is it? A cluster of breweries, taprooms and bottle shops occupying the railway arches along a stretch of road in SE1, the Bermondsey Beer Mile is a must-visit spot for fans of a hoppy IPA.

Why go? To sample pours from some of London’s best craft breweries. Along the route (which is actually closer to two miles long) you’ll find the likes of The Kernel, Cloudwater and Anspach & Hobday. And it’s not just beer you can sample here. It’s also home to Gosnells meadery, These Days aperetivo bar and and the UK’s first sake brewery, Kanpai.

Don’t miss: It’s probably a good idea to line your stomach before embarking on a sesh as mammoth as this, so it’s fortunate that the area is also home to plenty of great eateries. We’d suggest starting your crawl at Maltby Street Market or the St John Bakery on Druid Street.

What is it? The legendary Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square is central London’s coolest movie house.

Why go? It’s a breath of fresh air in tourist-trap central. The two-screen independent shows an eclectic mix of new releases, cult and arthouse titles. It’s comfy, cheap and very cheerful, and the programming is as good as it gets.

Don’t miss: Expect double bills, seasonal classics, singalongs and all manner of unusual screenings – epic 70mm presentations of ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ take place in one screen while people acapella-along to ‘Pitch Perfect’ in the other. 

What is it? The world’s last surviving tea clipper, Cutty Sark was once the fastest ship of her age. That was over a century ago now, but she is still a spectacular sight, perched on her glass pedestal at the Thames’s edge in Greenwich.

Why go? The ship was nearly destroyed by fire in 2007, but reopened to the public in 2012 looking more handsome than ever. The £30 million restoration has seen her elevated three metres above the dry dock, allowing visitors to get closer than ever to its 65-metre-long gilded hull. Discover the ship’s history and explore the many cargoes that filled the Cutty Sark’s hold, from tea and whisky to wool and buffalo horns.

Don’t miss: The nearby National Maritime Museum. Continue your nautical education in Greenwich with a trip to NMM. The collection includes great works of art, incredible treasures and the actual blood-stained uniform that Lord Nelson was wearing when he was fatally wounded on board HMS Victory.

What is it? An iconic, Grade II-listed Soho watering hole, which famously only serves beer in half-pints. This is Soho history. Come and drink it in. 

Why go? If you like to drink in places where the history’s as important as the booze on offer, the French House needs to be on your list. Charles de Gaulle used the pub as a workplace during World War II; Dylan Thomas and Francis Bacon both drank here; Fergus Henderson ran the upstairs dining room right before heading off to start St John...the list goes on. 

Don’t miss: You’ll likely find yourself joining the regulars on the pavement outside if you visit during busy hours, do make time to visit the upstairs restaurant. Headed up by Neil Borthwick, formerly of the Merchants Tavern, it offers up  seasonal, gutsy and stripped back French and British fare.

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What is it? The Grade I-listed St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most famous buildings in Britain and an iconic feature of the London skyline. 

Why go? Sir Christopher Wren’s baroque beast is a marvel to look at, with an enormous dome and gorgeous interiors, but it actually still operates as a working church. All the services are free and open to all people of all faiths, including the incredibly popular Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. But to really nose around, climb the dome and head down into the crypt you’ll need a sightseeing ticket. Adult tickets are £25 on the door and include a multimedia guide or guided tour and access to an exhibition about the cathedral’s fascinating history.  

Don’t miss: The Whispering Gallery. That’s the indoor balcony at the base of the dome, where the acoustics of the cathedral’s architecture create a bizarre aural phenomenon. Stand on the exact opposite side of the dome as a friend, whisper something (‘I’m watching you’ is good) and they’ll hear you loud and clear, despite being more than 100 feet away. Spooky.

What is it? A grand Tudor pile that Henry VIII ‘acquired’ from Cardinal Wolsey. It was later home to royal Stuarts and Georgians too, who all left their mark on the palace.

Why go? The remarkable thing about Hampton Court Palace is that you can stand in the very rooms where history was made. Wander down the corridor where Catherine Howard was dragged screaming, see how George I’s chocolatier prepared the king’s favourite tipple and take a gander at King Charles II’s royal bog. There are also ace gardens and the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze. 

Don’t miss: The wintertime Ghost Tours. These after-hours adventures, with tales of paranormal activity and regal apparitions, are frighteningly good.

What is it? The lengthy thoroughfare of Green Lanes is home to one of London’s biggest Turkish communities. 

Why go? For the best Turkish food this side of Istanbul. Think amazing pastries, verdant vegetable shops, life-changing kebabs and thick coffee that will have your eyes on stalks. Green Lanes runs for six miles from Newington Green to Palmers Green, but you want to head to the stretch nearest Harringay Green Lanes station to soak up the atmosphere and feast on meze at Gökyüzü.

Don’t miss: Dessert. Pop into Antepliler’s sweet side for boxes full of honeyed, sticky baklava. 

What is it? The largest stadium in the UK, and the home of English football. 

Why go? Hosting the nation’s biggest sporting spectacles since 1923, Wembley has plenty of heritage to inspire any visitor, but its legendary status as a temple of sport was assured with England’s World Cup Final win over West Germany in 1966, and cemented more recently with the Lionesses Euro 2022 victory, also against Germany.

Don’t miss: The Wembley Tour, which revisits the stadium’s golden moments from the 1920s to the present. The 75-minute tour includes the England Changing Rooms and Players’ Tunnel, as well as the chance to sit in the England manager’s press conference and to lift a replica FA Cup. 

What is it? A Finsbury Park pleasure palace where you can bowl, dance, slurp slushies, play all manner of arcade games and sing your heart out in a karaoke booth until the wee hours.

Why go? This old den of entertainment has been around since 1913, surviving two world wars and even playing host to The Beatles in 1963. It almost got torn down by Harringay council to make way for flats in 2014, but the adoring locals petitioned hard until the council gave in. And so they should! It’s a proper north London gem; in fact, we reckon you probably can’t call yourself a true Londoner until you’ve bowled a gutterball on its hallowed lanes.

Don’t miss: The fact that you can order hot dogs and burgers right to your lane or karaoke booth. Heaven.

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What is it? The capital’s most famous bridge, which crosses the Thames near the Tower of London. Not to be confused with London Bridge as it rather frequently is.

Why go? The historical structure is a little bit of a stunner. It lifts up in the middle when large vessels are passing underneath (you can check out lift times on its website) and it gained a daring glass floor on the high walkways in 2014, allowing slightly braver visitors to look straight down to the road and river 42 metres below. Each of the six glass panels is 11 metres long and weighs more than 500kg. Just don't think about it too much when you’re walking across them. 

Don’t miss: Your chance to stand inside Tower Bridge’s Bascule Chambers. These underground caverns allow for the movement of the huge counterweights when the bridge is raised. The subterranean space is normally out of bounds but is sometimes used for concerts and events. 

What is it? First built in the 1920s as a cinema at a cost of £250,000, and operating as a music venue since the early seventies, the 5000-capacity Grade II-listed Brixton Academy is one the capital’s most storied music venues, 

Why go? To take in a bit of rock history; just about any British artist of note over the last fifty years has set foot on its hallowed stage, from the Rolling Stones, The Clash, the Sex Pistols and The Smiths to Blur, Coldplay, Amy Winehouse and Florence and the Machine. It’s a great venue to check out if you enjoy being down in the mosh pit, with the raked standing area providing great sightlines even if you find yourself stood behind the tallest bloke in the crowd. 

Don’t miss: 

What is it? One of London’s oldest and most popular street markets, Portobello Road Market dates all the way back to the 1860s, when it mainly sold fruit and veg. These days you’ll find all manner of goods being sold, but it’s best known for its antiques.

Why go? While Notting Hill might be one of London’s most affluent neighbourhoods these days, but Portobello Road Market retains a bit of the area’s former edge. Nestled amongst the colourful houses and shops on the stretch between Notting Hill Gate and Ladbroke Grove, it features hundreds of dealers peddling jewellery, books and collectibles dating from as early as the 1600s up to the 1960s. If you’re a fan of a good old rummage, this is still one of the best places in London to pick up some special little trinkets and curios.

Don’t miss: There’s plenty of great stuff to eat around here, particularly on weekends. Head to local institution Lowry & Baker to fuel up on brunch before an afternoon of browsing, or grab a takeaway latte from Coffee Plant and see which street food stall takes your fancy.

What is it? A Dean Street institution, Soho Theatre is one of London’s most exciting performing arts venues, staging an eclectic line-up of comedy, cabaret, fringe theatre and spoken word.

Why go? If ever there were a place in London to get a year-round taste of the Edinburgh Fringe it’s here. On any given evening you could catch an acclaimed one man show destined for small-screen success (‘Fleabag’ and ‘Baby Reindeer’ both played here after taking the Fringe by storm), a work-in-progress hour from a renowned comedian, or some late-night cabaret from a veteran drag star. Head to the bar afterwards, and you’ll likely find yourself rubbing shoulders with the next generation of ‘Mock The Week’ regulars. How exciting.

Don’t miss: Ever fancied trying your hand at stand-up or playwriting? Check out the Soho Labs, a series of affordable 10-week courses helping budding comics, playwrights and cabaret acts to hone their craft.

What is it? A fascinating museum that completely devotes itself to contemporary design in every form. 

Why go? Relocated in 2016 from its former home near Tower Bridge, the new-and-improved building in Kensington is both an awe-inspiring presence and also a trove of the world's finest design. Its recent exhibition programming has encompassed everything from football to Barbie, via ASMR, London’s fashion scene and the design work of Tim Burton, Enzo Mari, Ai Weiwi and Yinka Ilori. 

Don’t miss: The museum’s excellent and ecclectic programme of design workshops, where you can learn how to throw a clay pot, screen print a t-shirt or build a wooden chair. 

What is it? A classic Victorian boozer on one of south east London’s loveliest high streets, the Camberwell Arms is a proper gastropub presided over by chef-owner Mike Davies, who also runs Peckham institution Frank’s.

Why go? To sample one of London’s finest roast dinners. London often gets a bad rap when it comes to Sunday roasts. But you won’t find yourself forking out £30 a head for dry slices of meat and watery gravy at this place. Instead, you can expect an ever-changing seasonal menu featuring four options of roasts to share between two. These might include such hearty hits as pork belly with kalibos cabbage, santana apple and grape mustard slaw or a rolled leg of lamb with spring onion, peas, mint and pine nut sauce. 

Don’t miss: It’s worth noting that the drinks here are as immaculate as the food; the white port and tonic is wonderfully thirst-quenching on a hot day. Or put some hairs on your chest with a seriously punchy horseradish martini.

What is it? The Divine is the new venue run by The Glory, the infamous east London queer pub that closed at the start of 2024. Run by drag queens Jonny Woo and John Sizzle, the new spot is located on Kingsland High Street, just a short sashay down the road.

Why go? a Just like its dearly departed older sibling, The Divine is split over two levels; a main bar upstairs where you can enjoy a quiet(ish) drink, and a performance venue in the basement. Head here to check out the ecclectic programme of outré cabaret shows and fringe theatre, before dancing until the small hours as the place transforms into a sequin-studded, drag-fuelled, pop-tastic disco.

Don’t miss: Its annual drag competitions, Lipsync1000 and Man Up! Taking place throughout the year, the heats are free to watch if you’re up for some raucous weeknight fun.

RECOMMENDED: ‘Dark, sexy, shambolic’: an oral history of The Glory

What is it? A 25-cover, day-to-night spot on Compton Street, Bar Termini does two things: coffee and cocktails. And boy does it do them well.

Why go? Sure, the place serves up a killer cup o’ joe (the cafe side of things is handled by Marco Arrigo, who happens to be the Head of Quality for Illy) but people mainly flock here to sample what is arguably London’s best negroni. Or, rather, negronis, because there are four iterations of city’s favoured aperitivo on the menu. Alongside the ‘classico’, you’ve got the pink peppercorn-infused ‘superiore’, the rose petal-infused ‘rosato’ and an aged rendition, the ‘robusto’. Each is available for just £9 a pop. At that price, it’s sorely tempting to order all four at once and get absolutely sozzled. 

Don’t miss: The bar also offers ready to pour bottled versions of each variety. Our advice? Pick up a large bottle of your favourite variety and keep it in your fridge door.

What is it? One of east London’s worst kept secrets, Rooftop Saunas is exactly what the name suggests; a series of four saunas perched on the top of Hackney’s Netil House. The venue can up to 20 sweaty guests at a time, and facilities also include plunge pools, showers, cold waterfalls and cool down rooms.

Why go? London has really cottoned on to the restorative powers of this traditional Finnish pastime in recent years, with a whole bunch of sauna facilities opening across the city. But none of them feel quite as special as this one, where floor to ceiling glass windows offer some seriously scenic views over the east London skyline. 

Don’t miss: Once you’re all sweated-out, head across the roof to Netil360 for pizza, drinks and a chill out.