London is one of those cities where a weekend is never enough. Good news is that there is plenty to do even if you are considering visiting for only a few days. Plus, you will have a reason to come back and visit again to see the rest. So if you’re heading to London for a few days, here are my top recommendations on the things to see and do.
Buckingham Palace – Changing of the Guard
Changing of the guard takes place every morning around 11am, but check the schedule here. It is free and can get really crowded and you will want to get as close as possible as soon as possible. Many of the streets are blocked off around the palace so there will be some walking involved. It is more than the guards switching on and off duty, they approach and depart the palace with a marching band parade and it is really fun to see up close and in person at least once.
Hyde Park
Adjacent to Buckingham Palace is Hyde Park, one of London’s largest parks. The entrance is to the right and across the street if you are facing Buckingham Palace. As you walk through the park heading towards Kensington Palace at the opposite end, you will pass Serpentine Lake, cafes, and gardens. Princess Diana Memorial garden is located near the center of the park.
Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace is the royal home of Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Kate, and other members of the royal family. The Palace is surrounded by fountains and gardens you are able to walk through. They offer tours of the inside but it is best advised to check dates and book tickets in advance.
Royal Observatory Greenwich
If you are a fan of history, astronomy, or cartography then visiting the Royal Observatory is a must. You be able to go inside and see the different telescopes and even stand on the Prime Meridian. The observatory sits on top of the hill so as you are heading back down you get some great views of the city. The photo would have been better if it was taken earlier in the day when it was nice and sunny, but in London when it comes to weather you take it as it comes.
Tower Bridge
This bridge is NOT the London Bridge. This is the Tower Bridge. London has a lot of bridges but this one is my favorite and probably the most iconic. You can purchase tickets to climb the North Tower, walk across the walkway past the glass floor, down the South Tower, across and into the Engine Room, and gift shops. You’ll get amazing views of the city and river from the top of the bridge. They offer guided tours, activities for kids, and depending on the day the bridge opens a few times to let boats through.
West End – Theatre District
A bustling part of London is the Theater District of the West End. Offering a variety of performances and tons of nightlife, dining, and shopping. These theaters started in the 17th century as palaces and fancy fashion shops. It’s a fun part of town, if you’re looking for something to do at night, even if you don’t catch a show.
Day Tour: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, Bath
If you have an entire day and enjoy historical sites, I highly recommend this day tour. It covers a lot in a day. If Queen Elizabeth II is not at the castle, you will be able to take a tour inside the castle and the surrounding grounds within the castle walls. You will also go to Stonehenge and be able to walk around the ancient mysterious rock formation. Finally you will go to the charming little town of Bath in Somerset and walk into a real 2000 year old Roman bath. Bath is also has many ties to the author Jane Austen, therefore in many parts of the town feel like you are walking through one of her novels.
Videos, Movies, and Shows About London
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Rick Steve’s Season 7 – Episodes 8
Rick Steve’s Season 3 – Episodes 5
Rick Steve’s Season 4 – Episode 1
Rick Steve’s Season 10 – Episode 1
Rick Steve’s Season 9 – Episodes 8 & 9
Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason
Remember Brits drive on the right side of the car and on the left side of the road.
So as a tourist, be careful and look both ways before crossing any street.
You’ll see a lot of these reminders throughout the city.
