London has many iconic buildings, landmarks, and sights to see, both old and new, as the city is constantly evolving and rich in historic culture. If you’ve never been to London before, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 Places to visit in London. From spotting a royal to riding on top of a double-decker bus for the first time, these are the best first-time things to do in London.
20 Best Places to Visit in London
So, here is a list of all the main London attractions that you should definitely visit during your London vacation! Examine it! Don’t forget to add amazing attractions from this list of places to visit in London to your bucket list.
1) Trafalgar Square
The square that surrounds Nelson’s Column is known as Trafalgar Square. The name alludes to the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory over Napoleon. The square is a large public space where you can sit and enjoy the fountains against the backdrop of the National Gallery. It is frequently used for large public events or protests, and at Christmas, a massive Christmas Tree can be found in the square, making it feel completely magical!
2) The Houses of Parliament
The official name of the Houses of Parliament is the Palace of Westminster, but because of its inhabitants, it is commonly referred to as the former. They’re located on the banks of the River Thames in Westminster, and the building itself is stunning; tours of the Houses can be arranged if you’re interested in learning more about British politics, but you can simply admire them from the outside!
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3) Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the Queen’s London residence. centrally located Buckingham Palace is located at the top of Pall Mall, near Green Park and St James’ Park. You can book tours around the Palace, similar to the Houses of Parliament if you want to pretend you’re a royal for an afternoon, or you can admire its beauty from outside the gates!
4) The London Eye
The London Eye first opened to the public in 2000; at the time, it was the largest Ferris Wheel in the world, and it remained the highest viewing point over London until the Shard opened in 2013. You can buy tickets to ride the London Eye in one of the small pods; it’s definitely worth considering on your first trip to London if you want to see the sights. The view from the ground is also spectacular; it adds a new dimension to London’s skyline!
5) Big Ben
Big Ben is located in Westminster and is the nickname for the clock’s ‘Great Bell,’ but is frequently used to refer to both the clock and the clock tower. The clock tower’s official name is now the Elizabeth Tower, named after Queen Elizabeth II in 2012 for her Diamond Jubilee. Big Ben is an iconic London landmark that you must see while visiting!
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6) The Tate Modern
The Tate Modern is housed in a former power station on the banks of the Thames. It exhibits both British and international modern art, as well as one-time exhibitions. The museum is well worth a visit; not only is the gallery building itself unique but there is always something new to see!
7) St Paul’s Cathedral
The dome of St Paul’s Cathedral is what makes the architecture so exquisite and iconic from the outside of the cathedral. The current church has stood since the 17th century and was built as part of the rebuilding of London following the Great Fire of London, which destroyed much of the city. You can walk around inside the Cathedral or view it from the Millennium Bridge, which spans the Thames directly in front of it.
8) The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is on Cromwell Road in South Kensington. Even if you aren’t interested in Natural History, the building is beautiful and a must-see on any trip to the capital. You don’t have to pay to enter, so take your time wandering around and admiring the beautiful architecture.
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9) The Globe Theatre
The Globe Theatre, located near the Tate Modern, is a modern reconstruction of the original theatre, which was built in the 17th century and was closely associated with William Shakespeare. You can buy tickets to see shows here, and it is famous for its circular shape, thatching, and open roof!
10) Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most recognizable river crossings. The bridge has stood in London since the nineteenth century and is famous for its drawbridge effect, which allows tall ships to pass through and down the Thames. The nearest tube stations are Tower Hill and London Bridge, and it is close to the Tower of London. Take photos from the Thames’ banks, or walk across it!
11) The Shard
The Shard is London’s tallest building, towering above every other landmark and visible from many locations. The skyscraper, which opened in 2013, houses several high-end restaurants, the Shangri La Hotel, and a viewing platform for which tickets can be purchased. The view from up there is well worth admiring, but the only drawback to viewing London from the Shard is that you miss out on a view of the building itself, so make sure you admire it before going in.
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12) The Tower of London
The Tower of London was built in 1066, and it served as a prison from 1100 to 1952. The structure reeks of history just waiting to be discovered. You can also visit an exhibition of the Crown Jewels and marvel at how sparkly they are. Add the Tower of London to your itinerary and visit one of London’s oldest landmarks!
13) The Gherkin
The Gherkin is a building shaped like a Gherkin that has become iconic to the London skyline and an unmissable feature when looking towards East London. The building is made up of offices, so it’s not a monument you can visit, but it’s well worth looking for on your visit to the city!
14) Hyde Park
Hyde Park, located in the heart of the city, is one of London’s largest parks. There’s a lovely pond in the middle called the Serpentine, where you can rent pedalos and row boats and see the grounds/gates surrounding Kensington Palace, which is located at one end of the park. It’s a lovely park to stroll through, and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting London.
15) Platform 9 3/4
This one is for all of you Harry Potter fans out there! If you’re looking for Platform 9 3/4, it’s all set up permanently at King’s Cross Station. You can have your picture taken, put on a Gryffindor scarf, and pretend you’re off to Hogwarts for the first time!
16) Horse Guards Parade
Horse Guards Parade is a large parade ground in Central London located off Whitehall near Downing Street. This is where events like the Trooping of the Colour take place; there are also a number of monuments located around the parade ground that is worth a look; it is located right next to St James’ Park and is lined with beautiful buildings.
17) Covent Garden
Covent Garden, located in the heart of London, is always buzzing. There are shops, restaurants, bars, and street performers. You can stroll through, grab a coffee in the square, or dine out in the evenings. If you haven’t been to London before, it’s a really fun area to visit; it has a real atmosphere and should be on your list for your next trip!
18) Downing Street
The British Prime Minister lives at Number 10 Downing Street during his tenure as Prime Minister. It’s just off Whitehall, and while you can’t get past the gates for obvious reasons, you can look up and see the famous number 10 door!
19) Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard occurs on a daily basis, and you can witness it if you time it correctly. From April to the end of July, it happens almost every day between 11.15 am and 12 pm; the rest of the year, it happens on alternate days. This daily ceremony, which occurs when one regiment takes over from another in their ‘guarding’ duties of Buckingham Palace, is a must-see on any trip to London. The New Guard marches from Wellington Barracks to Buckingham Palace, where they will become the Queen’s Guard. If you want a taste of culture and British pageantry, this is the ceremony for you!
20) Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is London’s pathetic attempt at Time Square. It’s always insanely busy, with bright billboards lining the edges of the buildings, and you’ll most likely end up here if you’re planning an evening in the West End or Soho! It’s worth seeing at night and taking in the atmosphere.