30 of the Top Tourist Attractions in London, UK.

London is a lively city steeped in history, culture, and charm. With hundreds of top tourist attractions in London to choose from, deciding which ones are essential for your trip can be daunting. Not sure where to begin? Below I have listed 30 of the top tourist attractions in London, UK.

I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through one of my affiliate links.

In case you don’t know me, hello! I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger from Essex (adjacent to London) in England. I have spent my life working and socialising in London, so I have plenty of local experience to share with you.

This list will give you an introduction to the most popular and famous tourist attractions in London, along with tickets/tour links, plus a mid-range or luxury hotel recommendation near each attraction. I’ll also include a map and FAQs at the bottom of the page. See also my Ultimate London Travel Guide.

30 of the Top Tourist Attractions in London.

London is a huge city, and even Londoners who have lived here for decades haven’t seen it all. This list is aimed at first-time visitors who haven’t been to London before.

1. Buckingham Palace.

No trip to London would be complete without seeing the residence of the British monarchy. The architecture and gardens are worth admiring, even if you’re not interested in royalty.

Originally built as ‘Buckingham House’ in the 18th century, it became the main royal residence in 1837 during Queen Victoria’s reign. The palace is famous for its impressive Neoclassical style and the balcony where the royal family appears during special occasions.

Each day you can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a traditional display of British ceremony held in the palace courtyard. In the summer, some parts of the palace, like the State Rooms, are open to the public, offering a look at the luxurious interiors and royal art collections.

The palace gardens, known as the Buckingham Palace Gardens, are also open on certain days, providing a peaceful retreat in the middle of London.

• London Area: Westminster.
• Tickets: State room tickets & Changing of the Guard tickets. Official website here.
• Recommended Hotel: St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel. Elegant hotel with luxurious rooms and top-notch amenities, located a short walk from Buckingham Palace.

2. The British Museum.

The British Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of archaeological wonders, housing over 8 million artefacts that span millennia of human history. Among its most famous exhibits are the Rosetta Stone, pivotal in deciphering ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, and the Parthenon sculptures, showcasing the artistry of ancient Greece. There are also Egyptian mummies and Greek pottery, and much, much more.

Beyond its remarkable collections, the British Museum is also known for its stunning architecture, blending historic charm with modern design. The Great Court, with its striking glass roof, serves as a central hub and meeting place.

• London Area: Bloomsbury.
• Tickets: Exclusive museum guided tour.
• Recommended Hotel: Radisson Blu Edwardian Kenilworth Hotel. Stylish and conveniently located in Bloomsbury, this hotel provides easy access to the British Museum and West End theatres.

3. The Tower of London.

The Tower of London, located on the north bank of the River Thames, is an historic fortress that has played a central role in English history for over 1,000 years. Originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the tower has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a place of execution. It is perhaps most famously known for housing the Crown Jewels, including priceless treasures such as crowns, sceptres, and orbs used in royal ceremonies.

Inside, the fortress houses various exhibitions and displays that recount its rich history, from its medieaval origins to its role in World War II. Highlights include the White Tower, built by William the Conqueror, and the Yeoman Warders, or Beefeaters, who serve as guides and guardians of the tower.

Today, the Tower of London stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in London. It is said to be haunted by the ghost of Anne Boleyn, amongst others.

Fun fact: There are 6 onsite ravens who live on the South Lawn of the Tower. Legend says if the ravens ever leave the Tower, then the kingdom will fall. Luckily this has never happened!

• London Area: Tower Hill.
• Tickets: Tower Entry Tickets.
• Recommended Hotel: citizenM Tower of London Hotel. A trendy hotel with smart rooms and stunning views of the Tower of London and the Thames.

4. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

The ‘Houses of Parliament’, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is a Gothic-style building located on the banks of the River Thames in London. It serves as the meeting place for the UK Parliament, housing the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Built in the 19th century after a fire destroyed the original structure, the Houses of Parliament are renowned for their elaborate architecture, including the distinctive Big Ben clock tower.

Big Ben, officially named the Elizabeth Tower, is perhaps one of the most recognisable symbols of London. It stands at the north end of the Houses of Parliament and houses the Great Bell of the clock. Completed in 1859, Big Ben chimes every hour and has become synonymous with the city’s identity and the sound of London.

• London Area: Westminster.
• Tickets: Westminster and Big Ben guided tour including Buckingham Palace.
• Recommended Hotel: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London. A contemporary hotel with spacious rooms, situated right near the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

5. The London Eye.

The London Eye is a giant observation wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering amazing views of London. It stands 135 metres (443 feet) tall and was built for the millennium celebrations in 2000.

The large glass capsules slowly rotate, giving you a complete view of London’s skyline. On a clear day, you can spot famous landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and even Windsor Castle in the distance. The ride takes about 30 minutes, allowing plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the sights.

• London Area: South Bank.
• Entry tickets: Entry tickets here.
• Recommended Hotel: Park Plaza County Hall London. Modern hotel offering spacious rooms and excellent amenities, located just a short walk from the London Eye.

6. The Tate Modern

Tate Modern is a renowned art museum located on the South Bank of the River Thames in London. I have visited probably over 20 times, and it never gets old!

Housed in a former power station, the museum mainly focuses on modern and contemporary art dating from the early 20th century to the present day. There are artworks by iconic artists like Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Salvador Dalí, as well as emerging talents and innovative art installations.

There is a wonderful restaurant at the top of the Tate Modern, which has panoramic views of the London skyline and the River Thames. The restaurant serves contemporary British cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times, to secure a table with the best views.

• London Area: Bankside.
• Tickets: Tate Modern Official Discovery Tour tickets here.
• Recommended Hotel: The Hilton London Bankside. An upscale hotel with modern amenities, perfectly located for visiting the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe.

7. The National Gallery.

The National Gallery in London is a famous art museum located on Trafalgar Square, known for its impressive collection of Western European paintings. Established in 1824, it features over 2,300 artworks spanning from the 13th to the early 20th century. It includes masterpieces by famous artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Claude Monet.

Inside the National Gallery, galleries are organised by time period and style, such as Renaissance and Impressionism. Highlights include well-known paintings like Jan van Eyck’s “The Arnolfini Portrait,” Vincent van Gogh’s “Sunflowers,” and J.M.W. Turner’s “The Fighting Temeraire.”

• London Area: Trafalgar Square.
• Tickets: Official National Gallery Highlights Tour tickets here.
• Recommended Hotel: The Thistle Trafalgar Square. A classic hotel offering cosy accommodations, just steps away from the National Gallery and Trafalgar Square.

8. The Victoria & Albert Museum.

The Victoria and Albert Museum, known as the V&A, is a top museum in London dedicated to art and design. It’s located in South Kensington and houses an impressive collection of over 2.27 million objects spanning 5,000 years of creativity. Established in 1852 and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, it features ceramics, fashion, textiles, sculpture, furniture, and photography from cultures worldwide.

There are lots of galleries showcasing different periods and styles, from ancient artefacts to modern designs. Highlights include the Cast Courts with replicas of famous sculptures and the British Galleries, which trace British design from the Tudor era to today. It often has fashion exhibits, which are simply glorious and well recommended.

• London Area: South Kensington
• Tickets: Secrets of the V&A Private Guided Tour tickets here.
• Recommended Hotel: The Ampersand Hotel. A boutique hotel blending modern luxury with Victorian elegance, located close to the Victoria and Albert Museum.

9. The Natural History Museum.

The Natural History Museum in London is famous for its Victorian architecture and fascinating exhibits about life on Earth. Located in South Kensington, it’s home to millions of specimens, including fossils, minerals, plants, and animals. One of its main attractions is the skeleton of a blue whale named “Hope” in the grand Hintze Hall.

There are displays featuring dinosaurs, ancient mammals, meteorites, and gemstones. The museum also offers temporary exhibitions and educational programs that focus on current scientific research and conservation efforts.

• London Area: South Kensington.
• Tickets: Private Guided Museum Tour tickets here.
• Recommended Hotel: The Queen’s Gate Hotel. A charming hotel in South Kensington, providing easy access to the Natural History Museum and other cultural sites.

10. The Science Museum.

The London Science Museum is a fascinating place that celebrates science, technology, and innovation. Located in South Kensington, it contains exhibits covering a wide range of topics like space exploration, aviation, medicine, energy, and communication. It also houses historical artefacts like Stephenson’s Rocket, a famous steam locomotive.

Apart from exhibitions, the museum offers workshops, demonstrations, and live science shows that entertain and educate. It’s a place where people of all ages can learn about scientific discoveries and how they impact our lives.

• London Area: South Kensington.
• Tickets: 3 Hour Private Guided Tour tickets here.
• Recommended Hotel: The Rembrandt. A stylish and comfortable hotel offering modern amenities and located just a short walk from the Science Museum.

11. St Paul’s Cathedral.

A well known cathedral and one of the top London tourist attractions, St Paul’s was designed by world-famous architect Sir Christopher Wren. It’s definitely worth a visit for its incredible architecture and history, and inside is a whole host of rare and beautiful artworks. The crypt is the largest in Western Europe, with Sir Wren being the first person to be buried there.

St Paul’s Cathedral was one of the only London buildings to survive the Great Fire of London in 1666, when all the buildings around it were burned to the ground. And whilst St Paul’s was bombed during WWII, it was only the dome which was damaged and rebuilt. There are many viewpoints of the beautiful dome, this one was taken from the top of the One New Change shopping centre.

• London Area: City of London.
• Tickets: Standard admission tickets here.
• Recommended Hotel: Club Quarters Hotel, St. Paul’s. A well-appointed hotel located just a stone’s throw from the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral.

12. Tower Bridge.

London tourist attractions don’t get much more iconic than this. Tower Bridge is one of London’s most famous landmarks but also causes the most confusion amongst tourists.

To clarify: Tower Bridge is not the same as London Bridge, they are two very different bridges. London Bridge is not much to write home about, but plays a very important part in London’s history. Tower Bridge is the pretty one pictured below.

Tower Bridge is a working bridge that raises up to allow tall ships to pass underneath. Opened in 1894, this suspension bridge spans the River Thames and offers stunning views of both the City of London and Tower of London. You can also go inside and underneath the bridge to see how the mechanics work below.

• London Area: Tower Hill.
• Tickets: Tower Bridge Audio Tour Tickets.
• Recommended Hotel: The Lalit London. A luxury boutique hotel set in a historic building, perfectly located near Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

13. Westminster Abbey.

Westminster Abbey is a historic Gothic church located in the heart of London, renowned for its royal coronations, weddings, and burials. Dating back over a thousand years, the abbey’s architecture includes soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and ornate stone carvings.

It has been the site of every coronation of English and British monarchs since 1066, as well as numerous royal weddings, including that of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011.

Aside from its royal associations, Westminster Abbey is also a place of worship and a repository of British history. The abbey houses the graves and memorials of notable figures from history, such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Geoffrey Chaucer, among others.

• London Area: Westminster.
• Tickets: Westminster Walking Tour and Abbey Tickets.
• Recommended Hotel: St. Ermin’s Hotel, Autograph Collection. A sophisticated hotel with a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, close to Westminster Abbey.

14. The Shard.

The Shard is London’s tallest skyscraper, soaring 310 metres (1,016 feet) into the sky. Completed in 2012 and designed by Renzo Piano, it’s a modern marvel offering stunning views of the city from its observation decks on the 68th, 69th, and 72nd floors. It was designed to look like a shard of glass, hence its name.

The views are stunning – you can see for 40 miles on a clear day. There are three restaurants within the Shard and a champagne bar at the top.

• London Area: London Bridge.
• Tickets: The Shard Viewing Gallery and Walking Tour Tickets.
• Recommended Hotel: Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London. Offering luxurious accommodations and stunning views from the tallest building in the UK, near London Bridge.

15. Kew Gardens.

Kew Gardens, also known as the Royal Botanic Gardens, is a famous botanical paradise located in southwest London. It covers over 300 acres and is home to a vast variety of plants from all over the world. Established in 1840, Kew Gardens is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also plays a vital role in preserving plants and conducting scientific research.

There are many attractions to explore at Kew, such as the Palm House and Princess of Wales Conservatory, where tropical plants and rare species are showcased. The Arboretum is filled with tall trees from different parts of the world, offering a peaceful place to walk and relax. Kew Gardens also has themed gardens, historic buildings, and interactive displays that teach visitors about biodiversity and how to protect the environment.

• London Area: Kew.
• Tickets: Standard admission tickets here.
• Recommended Hotel: Kew Gardens Hotel. A charming hotel offering comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, located close to the beautiful Kew Gardens.

16. Covent Garden.

Covent Garden is a cool district in London known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, and diverse mix of shops and restaurants. It used to be a fruit and vegetable market in the 17th century. It’s not actually a garden!

Covent Garden Market houses boutique stores, artisanal shops, and gourmet food stalls. The area also includes a variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs offering everything from casual dining to fine cuisine.

In addition to its shopping and dining options, Covent Garden is renowned for its entertainment scene. The neighbourhood is home to the Royal Opera House, for world-class ballet and opera performances. Street performers also add to the lively ambiance, entertaining crowds with their talents and creating a festive atmosphere throughout the year.

• London Area: Covent Garden.
• Tours: Misfits of Covent Garden Walking Tour.
• Recommended Hotel: The Henrietta Hotel. A boutique hotel with stylish rooms and a prime location in the heart of Covent Garden.

17. Trafalgar Square.

Trafalgar Square is one of London’s most famous public spaces, known for its historic landmarks, cultural events, and crazy busy atmosphere. Located in the heart of the city, the square is dominated by Nelson’s Column, a monument commemorating Admiral Horatio Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Surrounding the column are fountains, statues, and plinths that often feature temporary artworks and sculptures.

The square is a popular gathering place, offering a central location for celebrations, protests, and public gatherings. I’ll be honest, this isn’t my favourite place in London (as it’s so busy) but it’s also home to the National Gallery, which houses a world-class collection of Western European paintings.

• London Area: Trafalgar Square.
• Tours: Pub Tour of London’s West End, Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square.
• Recommended Hotel: The Grand at Trafalgar Square. A refined hotel offering elegant rooms and easy access to Trafalgar Square and its surrounding attractions.

18. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

Shakespeare’s Globe is a renowned theatre in London that pays homage to the famous playwright William Shakespeare. Situated on the South Bank of the River Thames, near the original location of the historic Globe Theatre where Shakespeare’s plays were originally performed, this modern reconstruction offers visitors a glimpse into Elizabethan-era theatre.

The Globe Theatre, as it stands today, faithfully replicates the design and atmosphere of an open-air playhouse from Shakespeare’s time. It provides an authentic setting for performances of Shakespeare’s plays and other works, using traditional staging techniques and costumes. Beyond its theatrical productions, Shakespeare’s Globe also features exhibitions and educational programs that delve into the life and times of William Shakespeare.

• London Area: Bankside.
• Tickets: Official Tickets Website.
• Recommended Hotel: Mercure London Bridge. A contemporary hotel with comfortable rooms, ideally located for visiting the Tate Modern and the Globe Theatre.

19. Madame Tussauds.

Madame Tussauds in London is a famous wax museum where you can see incredibly lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, sports stars, and famous characters from movies and TV shows. Founded by Madame Marie Tussaud in the early 1800s, the museum remains hugely popular today, drawing millions of visitors each year.

At Madame Tussauds, you can take photos with your favourite stars, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about how these amazing wax figures are made. From famous actors and musicians to world leaders, the museum gives you a fun and educational look into pop culture and history. Where else can you see Rhianna and the Pope in one day?

• London Area: Marylebone.
• Tickets: Madame Tussauds Entry Tickets.
• Recommended Hotel: Holmes Hotel London. A chic boutique hotel inspired by Sherlock Holmes, conveniently located near Madame Tussauds and Regent’s Park.

20. Hyde Park.

Hyde Park is one of the largest parks in central London and a great place to relax or people-watch. Make sure to check out Speaker’s Corner, where anyone can stand on a soapbox and give speeches about whatever they like!

Hyde Park is one of London’s eight Royal Parks and is perfect for picnics, paddle-boating on Serpentine Lake, or just relaxing with a good book. In summer, Londoners flock here for social gatherings in the sun.

• London Area: Hyde Park.
• Tours: Self guided audio tour.
• Recommended Hotel: Lancaster Gate Hotel. A comfortable hotel offering modern amenities and a prime location on the edge of Hyde Park.

21. Camden Market.

The world famous Camden Market is a treasure trove of delights from food to clothing to bric-a-brac. Camden itself is situated on Regents Canal (a London tourist attraction in its own right) and there is a pretty lock (Camden Lock) around which several pubs and cafes can be found.

Camden is famous, amongst other things, for being the place where Amy Winehouse lived and worked. You will see many Amy monuments dotted around the area. It’s also the site of the Camden Town Brewery, where you can buy the famous Camden Hells Lager and Camden Pale Ale.

• London Area: Camden.
• Tours: Camden Market Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours.
• Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn London – Camden Lock. A modern hotel situated right by the vibrant Camden Market and the picturesque Regent’s Canal.

22. The West End.

London’s West End is famous for its top-notch entertainment and cultural experiences. It’s packed with historic theatres showcasing plays, musicals, ballets, and operas. There are also lively streets filled with shops, restaurants, and famous spots like Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, making it a busy tourist hub day and night.

Of course the most obvious thing to do here is catch a show. Famous shows include long-running musicals like “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Misérables,” and “The Lion King,” plus more recent productions such as the “Harry Potter & The Cursed Child” stage production.

Other popular choices are classic plays such as “The Mousetrap” by Agatha Christie, which has been running for decades. I went to see The Mousetrap in 2024, and it was brilliant!

• London Area: West End.
• Show tickets: London Theatres Ticketing Website.
• Recommended Hotel: The Z Hotel Soho. A budget-friendly hotel offering compact, stylish rooms in the heart of London’s West End.

23. The Churchill War Rooms.

The Churchill War Rooms in London offer a first-hand look into where Winston Churchill directed Britain’s efforts during World War II. Located underground in Westminster, these rooms served as his command centre.

Highlights include walking through the preserved rooms where Churchill and his team made crucial decisions. There is also the Map Room, where military operations were tracked, and Churchill’s private quarters, offering a personal glimpse into his leadership.

• London Area: Westminster.
• Tickets: London Walking Tour with War Rooms Entrance Ticket.
• Recommended Hotel: Conrad London St. James. A luxury hotel offering elegant accommodations and top-notch service, located near the Churchill War Rooms.

24. The London Cable Car.

The London Cable Car (previously known as the Emirates Air Line) offers a unique way to travel over the River Thames. Connecting Greenwich Peninsula with the Royal Docks, it provides stunning views of London’s landmarks like the O2 Arena and Canary Wharf.

Since opening in 2012 for the London Olympics, it has become popular for both commuting and sightseeing, offering spacious cabins that glide smoothly above the river, giving passengers a memorable aerial perspective of the city’s skyline and historic sights.

• London Area: Greenwich Peninsula.
• Tickets: Combined Cable Car and Boat tickets.
• Recommended Hotel: InterContinental London – The O2. A sophisticated hotel with stunning river views and easy access to the London Cable Car and Greenwich.

25. Borough Market.

Borough Market often hailed as one of the best fresh produce markets in London. It gets extremely busy, so it is best to get there early. You can grab a glass of prosecco, a cocktail or coffee whilst you are perusing the stalls. It is perfect for lunch, as there are many delicious lunchtime dishes from all around the world, to eat there and then, or to takeaway.

Borough Market is also surrounded by many pubs and restaurants so you will be spoilt for choice. Borough Market has a history dating back over 1000 years and is popular with celebrity chefs such as Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay. There is also a new Borough Market book which makes an excellent gift.

• London Area: London Bridge.
• Tours: London Borough Market Small Group Food Tour.
• Recommended Hotel: London Bridge Hotel. A stylish and comfortable hotel ideally located for exploring Borough Market and the surrounding area.

26. The South Bank.

The South Bank District is a large area along the south bank of the river Thames, packed with entertainment and things to do. It has a chilled atmosphere and is lovely to visit at sunset for drinks or dinner. You will also find many London tourist attractions such as museums, galleries (for example the Tate Modern), theatres (Shakespeare’s Globe), the HMS Belfast, many pubs and restaurants, vintage markets, shopping options and food stalls.

• London Area: South Bank.
• Tours: South Bank Tour With A Local.
• Recommended Hotel: Novotel London Waterloo. A modern hotel offering family-friendly accommodations and close proximity to South Bank attractions.

27. The Royal Observatory Greenwich

The Royal Observatory Greenwich, located in Greenwich Park, is renowned for its central role in global timekeeping and navigation. Established in 1675 by King Charles II, it’s where the Prime Meridian of 0° longitude, marking Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), was first set.

Here you can stand on the Meridian Line, where you can have one foot in the eastern hemisphere, and one foot in the western hemisphere of the Earth.

The observatory includes interactive exhibits on astronomy, space exploration, and scientific history. Highlights include historic telescopes and the Octagon Room, where important astronomical discoveries were made.

With its hilltop location providing sweeping views of the Thames and London skyline, the Royal Observatory Greenwich is a wonderful scenic day out in London.

• London Area: Greenwich.
• Tickets: Royal Observatory Entrance Tickets.
• Recommended Hotel: Kew Gardens Hotel – A charming hotel offering comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, located close to the beautiful Kew Gardens.

28. The Royal Albert Hall.

The Royal Albert Hall, a striking Victorian-era concert venue in South Kensington, London, holds a special place in the city’s cultural landscape. Built in 1871 to commemorate Prince Albert, it features a distinctive circular design with a grand domed roof. The hall hosts a wide range of performances, including classical music, rock concerts, ballet, and opera.

Inside, the hall accommodates over 5,000 seats arranged in tiers, ensuring excellent views and acoustics for all attendees. It has welcomed iconic musicians like The Beatles and Luciano Pavarotti, as well as annual events such as the BBC Proms. You can also take a guided tour to discover its history and backstage areas.

• London Area: South Kensington.
• Tickets: Official tickets website.
• Recommended Hotel: The Gore London – Starhotels Collezione. A luxurious boutique hotel with Victorian charm, located just steps from the Royal Albert Hall.

29. The Sky Garden.

Perched on top of what is also known as the ‘Walkie Talkie’ skyscraper at 20 Fenchurch Street, London’s Sky Garden offers a beautiful urban oasis amidst the cityscape. There are panoramic views of the River Thames, with landmarks such as The Shard, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral all visible from its heights.

The Sky Garden encompasses three floors of lush gardens, observation decks, and dining areas. It’s also free to enter!

• London Area: City of London
• Tickets: Book your free tickets here.
• Recommended Hotel: The Ned. A grand hotel offering stylish rooms and multiple dining options, situated in the City of London near the Sky Garden.

30. HMS Belfast.

HMS Belfast, a formidable warship with a storied history, now stands proudly on the River Thames as a floating museum. Commissioned in 1939, HMS Belfast played a crucial role in World War II, notably supporting the D-Day landings and participating in the Arctic convoys.

After undergoing significant modernization post-war, the ship served in the Korean War and later in peacekeeping missions. Today, visitors can explore its decks and compartments to gain insight into life aboard a Royal Navy cruiser during wartime and peacetime operations.

• London Area: London Bridge.
• Tickets: Official HMS Belfast tickets page.
• Recommended Hotel: The Dixon, Tower Bridge, Autograph Collection. A boutique hotel set in a former courthouse, providing unique accommodations near HMS Belfast and Tower Bridge.

In summary: Top Tourist Attractions in London.

This brings me to the end of my list of the top tourist attractions in London.

Here is the list again in brief:

1. Buckingham Palace – Official residence of the King and changing of the guard.
2. The British Museum – World-class museum with vast collections from around the world.
3. The Tower of London – Historic castle and former royal palace, home to the Crown Jewels.
4. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben – Iconic Gothic architecture and famous clock tower.
5. The London Eye – Giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city.
6. The Tate Modern – Modern art museum housed in a former power station on the South Bank.
7. The National Gallery – Art museum housing a vast collection of Western European paintings.
8. The Victoria and Albert Museum – Museum of art and design with extensive collections.
9. The Natural History Museum – Museum showcasing a vast range of specimens and exhibits.
10. The Science Museum – Museum with interactive exhibits on science and technology.
11. St. Paul’s Cathedral – Iconic cathedral with impressive dome and historical significance.
12. Tower Bridge – Iconic bascule and suspension bridge over the River Thames.
13. Westminster Abbey – Gothic church and site of royal coronations and weddings.
14. The Shard – Tallest building in the UK with observation decks offering stunning views.
15. Kew Gardens – Botanical gardens with diverse plant collections and historic glasshouses.
16. Covent Garden – Historic market area with shops, restaurants, and street performers.
17. Trafalgar Square – Iconic square with Nelson’s Column and cultural events.
18. The Globe Theatre – Reconstruction of Shakespeare’s original theatre for performances.
19. Madame Tussauds – Wax museum featuring lifelike celebrity figures.
20. Hyde Park – Largest royal park in London offering recreational activities and events.
21. Camden Market – Eclectic market with shops, food stalls, and alternative culture.
22. The West End – Theatre district known for its world-class productions and musicals.
23. The Churchill War Rooms – Underground complex used during WWII, now a museum.
24. The London Cable Car – Cable car offering scenic views over the River Thames.
25. Borough Market – Historic food market with a variety of vendors and gourmet delights.
26. South Bank – Cultural area along the Thames with arts venues, street performers, and views of landmarks like the London Eye.
27. The Royal Observatory Greenwich – Home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian.
28. The Royal Albert Hall – Iconic concert hall hosting a variety of musical and cultural events.
29. The Sky Garden – Indoor public garden with panoramic views from the top of a skyscraper.
30. HMS Belfast – Former Royal Navy warship docked on the River Thames, now a museum.

Map of the Top Tourist Attractions in London.

This Google Map shows all of the top tourist attractions in London as listed in this post. If you are viewing on a phone, you can use two fingers to pinch and drag the map.

How to use this map: click the tab on the top left to see the list of places. Click the blue icons on the map to see more information about each place. Click the star to add to your own Google Maps. 

FAQS about Top Tourist Attractions in London.

Below are some frequently asked questions about the top tourist attractions in London.

Q: What are the top tourist attractions in London? 

A: London offers a diverse range of attractions, including Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the British Museum, and the London Eye.

Q: How can I visit Buckingham Palace? 

A: Buckingham Palace offers tours of the State Rooms during the summer months. The Changing of the Guard ceremony also takes place regularly outside the palace.

Q: What can I see at the Tower of London? 

A: The Tower of London features the Crown Jewels, historic armour, and the famous Yeoman Warders, known as Beefeaters, who provide guided tours.

Q: What are the best guided tours of top tourist attractions in London?

A: Here are some of the best tours on Viator for top tourist attractions in London:

1. London in One Day Tour with Tower of London and Changing of the Guard: This comprehensive tour covers major sites including the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace (with Changing of the Guard), St. Paul’s Cathedral, and a Thames River cruise​.
2. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Explore London at your own pace with this flexible tour that includes stops at key landmarks like the London Eye, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace. Tickets often include a Thames River cruise​.
3. Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter: A must for Harry Potter fans, this tour offers an immersive experience into the world of Hogwarts, including sets, props, and costumes from the films​​.
4. Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath Day Trip: Venture outside London to see three iconic sites, with guided tours of Windsor Castle and the ancient Stonehenge, plus free time in the city of Bath​​.
5. Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament Tour: Dive into British history with a guided tour of these two iconic buildings, learning about royal ceremonies and the UK’s political system​​.

Quick Links for London.

Here are some quick shopping links to help you with your trip to London.

• Reserve your London Hotel early, they sell out fast.
• Book London tours in advance (no payment required up front).
• Get the London Pass or London Explorer Pass for discounts and fast-track entry to many attractions.
• Remember to get a Universal Plug Adaptor before your trip.
• Check out these London Gifts on Amazon before or after your trip.
• Consider taking this Rough Guide to London guide book with you.
• For the best London days out, check out my curated list of London Experiences.
• Packing cubes are a traveller’s best friend. I recommend these ones.

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