10 best things to do in London
Planning a visit to London, whether for a quick day trip or an extended stay? Here are some budget-friendly, must-do activities to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
These inexpensive and delightful experiences offer a true taste of London without breaking the bank. So, whether you’re here for a day or a week, make sure to include these recommendations on your London itinerary for a memorable and budget-friendly adventure. Enjoy your time in this incredible city and enjoy the blog! 🇬🇧✨
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1. Borough Market
Borough Market is one of London’s best known food market, Located right opposite London Bridge Station, it’s the perfect location if you’re staying in Central London. It is also one of the largest and oldest food markets in London.
The Diversity and quality of food range is amazing at borough market, and you can literally find everything you need and want here. From butchers, to fishmongers, fresh fruit and veg, desserts and chai! There’s food stalls galore and lots of places where you can sit and enjoy the food.
The type of food/cuisine is also very widely ranged – from Indian, to vegan, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Turkish and many more delicious dishes you can try.
Borough Market is open all year round, Tuesday to Sunday. The Market opening times are 10am – 5pm.
2. Regents Canal
This beautiful canal is situated in Islington, where you can enjoy a relaxed walk all the way from Hackney to Angel to Kings Cross to Little Venice!
One of my favourite eating spots on the canal, with a lovely view is the Narrowboat – their sausage and mash is top tier, 100% recommend.
During the summer months there’s also ‘Screen on the Canal’ – where there are big screens on the steps of Granary Square in Kings Cross – which show Wimbledon, Tour de France in the afternoons, plus two films in the evenings. All screenings are completely free! Just bring a blanket, find a spot and enjoy.
Continue further down and you will find the Gasholders in Kings Cross. Also known as the ‘Siamese Triplet’, originally constructed in 1860 and then refurbished in 2011. The frames currently house a beautiful park and there’s lots of restaurants nearby as well.
3. The British Museum
Located in the Bloomsbury area of London, is another place that you should put on your list to visit. The British museum is completely free, just book your tickets online and enjoy! Perfect location for a date.
The Museum offers a captivating journey through history, housing a vast collection of artifacts showcasing diverse cultures, art, and civilizations. It’s permanent collection of 8 million is the largest in the world. A must visit if you’re a tourist in London! Book here.
4. Seven Dials Market
Seven Dials Market, located in the heart of London’s West End, it’s a lively food market that offers a culinary adventure for locals and tourists alike. Set within a historic building, it’s a really unique spot.
The market’s great atmosphere along with many international food options to indulge in is a great experience and I would definitely be visiting again.
Whether you’re craving street food, gourmet delicacies, or sweet treats, Seven Dials Market promises a delightful journey for your taste buds, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers exploring London.
5. China Town
London’s Chinatown is one of my favourite spots for all things food and bubble tea – filled with beautiful colours, flavours, and traditions. You can really get the cultural feel when walking through the narrow alleys and enjoy the aroma of exotic spices and the sizzle of stir-frying woks.
There’s a wide range restaurants to choose from, offering dim sum to aromatic Peking duck, catering to every culinary craving. The vibrant shops offer lots of Asian goods, from intricate silk garments to rare teas. My personal favourite restaurant includes Shu Xiang Ge Hot Pot – where you are able to make your own food right on your table – definitely an experience everyone must try once in their life.
6. Roof East Stratford
If you’re heading to Westfield shopping centre and want a hidden gem – then Roof East is the place for you. Perched high above the cityscape, Roof East in Stratford offers an extraordinary rooftop experience in the heart of East London.
This vibrant social hub offers many entertainment options from rooftop cinema screenings under the stars to mini-golf courses with interesting obstacles – a perfect place for a date night. There’s also trendy bars serving refreshing cocktails and delicious street food stalls. Whether you’re there for the stunning sunset views or the lively social scene, Roof East Stratford promises an unforgettable experience high above the city streets.
7. Soho – Chin chin dessert
If you’re looking for a dessert place then Chin Chin Dessert is the place for you – it’s a haven for dessert enthusiasts craving innovative treats. From amazing soft-serve ice cream with the best toppings to hot chocolate.
The options are endless and it was one of the best desserts I have had in a while! 100% recommend checking Chin Chin Dessert located right in the centre of Soho, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere.
8. Visit an Escape room
Visiting an escape room in London is a great activity for a small group of friends and really puts the team working skills to action. There’s a wide range of escape rooms located in London, all with different themes and levels. I have visited a few and the experience is different every single time.
My last visit was to the Da Vinci’s Exploration Escape room on Oxford street – only £30 per person and such a fun experience (we managed to escape with 1minute to spare). I would definitely recommend booking in advance as the spaces get booked up quickly.
9. Take a boat ride on the River Thames
Taking a cruise on the River Thames offers the best views of London – passing the London eye, Tower bridge and many historic landmarks. Enjoy the scenic views with Getyourguide – where you can book a 30min boat ride from Westminster to Tower bridge Quay for only £12.40 (food and drink available to purchase on board. Book here.
I went during the summertime and it was really great! Lovely weather, views and just all around a great experience.
10. Kingly court Soho
Kingly court in Soho brings all the good vibes and is the perfect spot for catching up with friends, grabbing a bite to eat and just enjoying the vibes. The closest station’s are Tottenham Court Road, Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus – then a short walk to Carnaby Street.
The three-storey alfresco dining area is in one of the hottest London locations and hosts 21 of the best international restaurants, bars and cafe’s with the cutest courtyard – especially during the summer!
I hope you found this guide helpful in planning your next trip to London in 2024.
Thank you for taking the time to read! Until next time.
Kem x