7 Fun Things to Do in London

London immediately brings to mind landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, Big Ben, and the London Eye - classic sights no visitor wants to miss. 

But London also rewards those who wander off the beaten path, with quieter corners and local favorites that often fly under the radar. From well-loved classics to unexpected gems, here’s our guide to six fun things to do in London that lets you experience the city like a local.

For breathtaking panoramic views of London, the London Eye is hard to beat. The massive observation wheel on the South Bank gradually carries you high above the city, offering panoramic views of iconic sights such as the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the River Thames.

Each rotation takes about 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to spot the city’s hidden corners and snap unforgettable photos. 

There’s no better way to get familiar with London than from the top deck of a classic  double-decker bus. Open-top tours let you breeze past iconic sights like Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and the Tower of London while enjoying the wind in your hair. 

Choose between a full tour or just a short ride and enjoy an effortless way to see a lot of the city at once and capture those quintessential London street scenes.

Go behind the screen and into the wizarding world at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter. Visit the Great Hall and Diagon Alley and explore the intricacies of animatronic creatures and special effects.

It’s an immersive experience that even non-fans can appreciate, while fans will delight in every detail - wands, costumes, and magical props included.

London is home to some of the oldest and most charming pubs in the world. For history lovers and beer aficionados alike, visiting these centuries-old watering holes means sitting in the same rooms that once hosted generations of locals, travelers, and perhaps a few notorious figures from London’s storied past. 

Some must-visit pubs include The Seven Stars in Holborn, which dates back to 1602, and The Lamb & Flag in Covent Garden, a classic watering hole since 1772. For a truly historic experience, you can enjoy a pint at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, reconstructed in 1667 following the Great Fire of London.

“I want to visit a cemetery as part of the itinerary,” said no one ever. But Highgate Cemetery is one that’s worth a visit for history buffs, fans of Victorian sculpture, and truly anyone looking for a contemplative stroll.

The cemetery houses the graves of famous London residents, including Karl Marx and novelist George Eliot. It offers a peaceful, atmospheric vibe, with gothic architecture and centuries of history.

Visit one of the city’s repurposed Victorian public urinals, now transformed into a café. Attendant is a tiny, unusual space that’s a nod to London's creative architectural spirit. Located in the heart of London’s Fitzrovia, the space retains much of its original character, with vintage tiles and original fixtures that pay tribute to its past. With its expert baristas brewing specialty coffee sourced from independent roasters, Attendant has become a local favorite for those seeking both excellent coffee and an unforgettable setting. It can’t get any quirkier than this!

Maltby Street Market is a low-key alternative to Camden, hidden beneath railway arches in Bermondsey. Unlike the crowds of Camden, this compact weekend market draws locals chasing bold flavors and craft drinks. 

Think Ethiopian coffee, fresh oysters, smoky barbecue, and small-batch pastries served straight from independent vendors. It’s the perfect stop between Borough Market and the Bermondsey Beer Mile.

Apart from those listed above, other unique things to do in the city include visiting a floating bookshop called Word on the Water, exploring the neon art gallery God’s Own Junkyard, and strolling through Leadenhall Market, a stunning Victorian space featured in Harry Potter films.

Realistically, this would be an extremely tight budget. You’d need to live far outside the city center and be very frugal, as rent alone can consume most of your monthly expenses.

For experiences you rarely find in guidebooks, London hides quiet canals in Little Venice, ivy-covered ruins at St. Dunstan, the elusive Seven Noses of Soho, the heartfelt Memorial at Postman’s Park, and the neon spectacle of God’s Own Junkyard.

Some must-dos include strolling along the Thames, admiring the blend of historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers, and visiting at least one world-class museum.