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10 places to help you feel calm in London

City life getting on top of you? Here are ten quiet and peaceful places in London where you can find a much-needed bubble of calm

The classic Londoner’s lament – usually felt when boarding the same bus as an entire class of primary school students or braving the sweaty crush of the Central Line in mid-July – is that peace and tranquillity could be yours only if you got out of the city. But you don’t actually have to travel that far for a bit of peace and quiet if you know where to look. 

Unlike other cities with their fancy-pants grid systems and forward planning, London’s haphazard history – it was abandoned as a city in 410AD and only started growing 900 years later – has created plenty of unexpected micro-pockets of calm. It’s less ordered, but it’s also a lot of fun to explore.

With the city’s population forever on the rise , the quest to find places that allow you to draw a breath and get a bit of respite from the relentless onslaught has never been more important. There are tons to choose from, but here’s our pick of the best.

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Ten totally zen places in London

Bushy Park

1.  Bushy Park

  • Parks and gardens

Most people cite Richmond Park as the best place for pastoral tranquillity, except it’s not particularly quiet what with tons of joggers and everyone else in London having the same idea. Bushy Park, which is a short distance from Hampton Court station or a bus from Kingston, is far wilder, has way more deer, and there’s a mile-long tree-lined avenue designed by Christopher Wren, punctuated by a massive eighteenth-century statue of the Roman goddess Diana. The water garden is possibly the best spot for solitude, tucked away from the crowds, where the only noise you’ll hear are ducks flapping their wings in the spray.

Holdspace

2.  Holdspace

  • Health and beauty

London is filled with meditation centres or places to get crafty and creative, but rarely both in one place. Holdspace is a light-filled space dotted with plants, for workshops and classes ranging from things like mindful hot chocolate meditation to bullet journal workshops. They also have a little pocket of outdoor space that they call a healing garden, where people can volunteer and do a spot of gardening if they want to.

Phytology Medicinal Garden

3.  Phytology Medicinal Garden

  • Things to do
  • Cultural centres
  • Bethnal Green

This artist-led project has transformed a WWII bombsite into an impressive garden that provides free food for local communities. We often consider the plants they grow to be weeds, but they’ve been picked for their historic and modern-day use in phytotherapy. That’s the use of plant extracts as medicines or health-promoting agents, FYI. You can come down to the physic garden and pick some of 30-plus varieties of plants – with the supervision of staff – but they also have a deep investment in finding out how city living impacts mental health. The underlying ethos is that they provide a space that acts as an antidote to some of London’s stresses.

Postman’s Park

4.  Postman’s Park

Sheltered between the Museum of London roundabout and St Paul’s Cathedral is Postman’s Park, also home to the Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice. Built in 1880 over a former churchyard, the country’s first purpose-built Post Office was nearby, and this is where posties would come for a breather. Nowadays you’re more likely to see frazzled office workers and Deliveroo drivers, but regardless of the skyscrapers that emerge around it, as the largest park in the city it remains a firm favourite for a spot of calm away from the snarl of traffic.

Royal Foundation of St Katharine

5.  Royal Foundation of St Katharine

  • Event spaces

Quiet spots in London are a lottery – you never know whether someone will bumble along to disrupt the peace. The Royal Foundation of St Katharine – which has religious ties dating back to the twelfth century – is housed in a Georgian vicarage and, among other things, offers Quiet Days. These are usually hosted by someone with religious links who speaks on a chosen topic, so if you’d rather just have a space to reflect without any religious involvement, try one of their Open Reflective Days. A £25 ticket gets you morning coffee and pastries, a sandwich lunch, an afternoon pot of tea and cake and free use of their calming oasis, where you can be still and quiet.

Southbank Centre’s National Poetry Library

6.  Southbank Centre’s National Poetry Library

  • Libraries, archives and foundations

The Southbank may be crawling with people night and day, but the library tucked away in the Royal Festival Hall isn’t. A soothing space that got a redesign last year, it houses one of the most comprehensive collections of poetry in Britain. If poetry isn’t really your thing, the atmosphere certainly will be: located on the fifth floor, there are tables and quiet areas where you can sit down, read or relax far above the crowds.

Southwark Woods, Camberwell Old Cemetery

7.  Southwark Woods, Camberwell Old Cemetery

  • East Dulwich

There’s a hint of wildness about the Southwark Woods. There are wildflower lanes and untamed trees – you’re unlikely to find manicured beds of pansies. But that’s what makes it all the more enchanting: a truly wild, and seemingly secret, place with hawthorn trees and brambles. There’s a  campaign to save it from being bulldozed to create more burial plots, so enjoy this dreamy place while you can.

St Dunstan-in-the-East

8.  St Dunstan-in-the-East

  • City of London

For such a small spot, St Dunstan-in-the-East has been through a lot; the twelfth-century church was almost wrecked in the Great Fire of London of 1666, but Sir Christopher Wren added a tower and steeple in an attempt to patch it up. It was damaged again in the Blitz of 1941, but Wren’s creation remains standing and now nature is reclaiming the ruins granting it a beautiful half-forgotten, peaceful atmosphere, with climbers running up entire walls. Although it’s right near a Premier Inn, its location in the back streets means most people don’t know it’s there. At any time, it promises to be a pretty spot to stop and think.

Wat Buddhapadipa

9.  Wat Buddhapadipa

  • Religious buildings and sites

The first temple of its kind to be built in the UK, this red-roofed haven is moments away from Wimbledon Common. It’s a Thai Buddhist temple but anyone is welcome to visit the temple or walk around in the grounds, and the sanctuary garden is a top spot for quiet. No one speaks in a raised voice around here, and there are little signs with positive thoughts and affirmations. They also hold regular meditation classes and silent retreats.

Word on the Water

10.  Word on the Water

  • King’s Cross

Book-related places breathe out calm, thoughtful vibes by their nature. While the British Library and the reading room at the Wellcome Trust remain firm, if obvious, favourites, a rising contender is Word on the Water, the 1920s Dutch barge that has been converted into a floating bookshop. Located on Granary Square (arguably a quiet spot unto itself as long as you stick to the canal away from the water fountains), it offers a polar opposite experience to the sprawl and stress around the station.

Keep those calm vibes coming

Hidden gardens in London

Hidden gardens in London

Keep clear of the crowds and away from car horns with our pick of gardens that you won’t find growing in the guidebooks

London’s best street trees

London’s best street trees

  • Walks and tours

Did you know that London is home to around 900,000 street trees? Paul Wood, author of the blog London’s Street Trees,  picks nine of his faves. 

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6 Of London's Most Relaxing Days Out

relaxing places to visit in london

Step away from the frantic rush of your city commute; dodge your busy high street; and skip past eateries with harassed waiting staff and long queues.

When you need a break from all the rushing about that Londoners are just so well practised at, here are some ideas for opting for the relaxed route.

Having a peaceful day out mainly means planning less, not more. So here are some very simple ideas for decluttering your London life, just for one day. Enjoy.

1. Explore a watery world at London Wetlands Centre

relaxing places to visit in london

Spend a chilled day wandering around the London Wetland Centre in Barnes, exploring 100 acres of lakes, ponds and gardens, spotting birds and pretending you're deep in the English countryside, despite being firmly inside zone 3.

If you're after a really quiet day out, you might want to check there aren't any special events planned; the London Wetland Centre hosts family-friendly activities throughout the year, but sometimes you might want to dodge the crowds.

If you're after a bit of excitement, make sure you see the otters being fed.

Eat: Take the stress out of travelling somewhere else for lunch and enjoy the treats on offer at the Wetlands Centre Cafe . Drink: Nearby is the Red Lion, a smart Fuller's boozer with an enticing beer garden, perfect for a relaxing post-walk pint. Or you could enjoy some laid-back jazz at the Bull's Head. Don't Miss: If you're looking to explore Barnes further, try the Barnes Trail and sample relaxed 'village' life inside the M25.

2. Indulge in a Royal Retreat at Kew Gardens

Step away from the more popular spaces in Kew Gardens, and make a beeline for Queen Charlotte's Cottage , a rustic, 18th-century royal retreat in the south west end of the gardens.

Look out for the nearby meadow: the first kangaroos to live in the UK were introduced there in the early 1790s; by the early 19th century there were 18 of them.

relaxing places to visit in london

Today the meadow is a beautiful flower garden, far removed from the hustle and bustle of Kew's other attractions.

Eat: The Kew Gardens cafes are right there, meaning the task of finding somewhere else for lunch has been done for you, and you can get on with the serious job of eating. Drink: Pop to The Sun Inn (as long as it's not a match day) for a cosy, reliable pub-stop. Or choose the historic Botanist , and sample some great craft ales.

3. 'Sail away' on the Serpentine

Take a boat trip in the Serpentine . Choose between rowing or pedallo-ing into the centre of Hyde Park's peaceful 40-acre haven of still water, stop your chosen vessel and just... drift.

If powering your own launch seems too much like hard work for a truly lazy day, you could always opt for a trip on the UK's first Solarshuttle, a magnificent machine which glides silently across London's most beautiful central lake, powered only by the sun.

relaxing places to visit in london

Extend your day trip into the evening with a relaxing cocktail in a secluded spot at the nearby Kensington Roof Gardens ; or go and watch a film from the comfort of the sofas at the Electric Cinema .

Eat: You can't go wrong with a wood-fired pizza from the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen Drink: Luxuriate in a bloody mary at the Queen's Arms

4. Saunter around some Southwark sights

Head south-east for a day of quiet contemplation and exploring in Southwark.

Start with a wander around Nunhead Cemetery — it's one of the least famous and celebrated of London's big seven, and so you won't have that niggling anxiety that you should be instagramming famous graves; instead you can just pootle about.

relaxing places to visit in london

From here, it's a short hop to Sydenham Hill Woods , a proper south London wilderness where the only thing that'll disturb your peace will be the surprisingly cute collection of dogs being walked around the area. We've always found their owners to be in good spirits; so there's the chance to do that very un-London thing and nod, smile and say hello. It's almost like being up north.

Eat / Drink: The Ivy House , (near Nunhead Cemetery) and The Wood House (near the woods...) Don't Miss: The (protected) views of St Paul's from the cemetery; the abandoned railway in the woods.

5. Unwind with a massage and a museum

London's packed with spas; if you're idea of a truly relaxing day out involves a massage, twinkly music and some properly fluffy white towels, we suggest heading to Cowshed in Clarendon Cross near Holland Park. The best thing about Cowshed? Unlike some spas where all you're 'allowed' to eat is a vegetable juice and some chia seeds, these guys serve proper treats: coffee, prosecco, hot chocolates, muffins and, yes, cake. Cake!

relaxing places to visit in london

Once you're fully pampered, you can spend the rest of the day wondering around the semi-wild woodland and beautiful formal flower beds in Holland Park.

Finally, take in a bit of chilled-out culture at the nearby Design Museum : the permanent collection is free to visit, so you needn't have any worries about 'getting your money's worth.'

Eat / Drink: The Parabola bar, café and restaurant in the Design Museum are open until 11.30pm from Thursday to Saturday, and 6pm on a Sunday. Don't Miss: Kyoto Garden in Holland Park.

6. Feel instantly calmer feeding a llama

Start your day dodging the usual stressful offerings from TfL, and take to the river.

Catch a river bus to Masthouse Terrace on the north side of the Thames, or the adjacent Greenwich Pier on the south side and leave all your stresses behind as you flow gracefully past the bustling city out east towards Woolwich.

If you get off at Greenwich Pier, head through the historic Greenwich Foot Tunnel; from Masthouse Terrace, the route to Mudchute Farm is a similar 15-minute walk.

It's impossible to feel anything but relaxed when you meet the doe-eyed, supremely dignified llamas and alpacas, and the happy horses at Mudchute City Farm.

relaxing places to visit in london

You can pay a pound for the privilege of feeding these magnificent beasts.

Eat: Home-cooked food at Mudchute Kitchen   Drink: At the Lord Nelson , a proper boozer at the southern tip of the Isle of Dogs. No pretentions; no stress.

Last Updated 26 May 2017

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15 Most Relaxing Things to do in London

Are you planning a relaxing trip to London?

Then you’re going to want to start coming up with an itinerary!

Although it’s one of the biggest, most fast paced cities in the world, there are plenty of ways to relax in London if you know where to look.

From taking a stroll through Hyde Park to cruising down the River Thames, keep reading to discover the 15 most relaxing things to do in London.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay

relaxing places to visit in london

As a start, you need the right place to stay as your base for a relaxing holiday.

We’ve had a look at hundreds of hotels, checking their facilities, pricing, services, activities and on-site dining.

Inhabit Hotel London would be our best recommendation for the most relaxing stay.

The work shops and wellness activities at Inhabit Hotel London will compliment all the relaxing things to do we found in London.

Check out their rooms and see how they can add value to your next London getaway.

Once you’ve organised your hotel, you can decide on the most relaxing activities when you arrive in London.

Check Rooms

1. Stroll Around Hyde Park

relaxing places to visit in london

Walking through Hyde Park is a must while in London.

This urban park in central London is one of four royal parks in the city.

The park is divided by the scenic Serpentine River, which you can even swim in during the summer months.

Beyond swimming, Hyde Park is an idyllic place to go for a stroll through gardens.

Check out the famous monuments as you explore the park or even have a picnic.

Despite being right in the city centre, the large size of the park makes it easy to find some alone time.

It also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, and is only a short distance from Inhabit Hotel London.

  • Opening Hours: Daily 5am-12pm
  • Nearest Stations: Queensway, Lancaster Gate, Hyde Park Corner, Knightsbridge

Check Tours

2. Kensington Gardens

relaxing places to visit in london

A walk around Kensington Gardens is just what you’ll need after a busy day of sightseeing.

Kensington Gardens is located just west of Hyde Park, so you could even see both at the same time if you like.

The gardens span 275 acres and are one of London’s most historic royal parks.

Kensington Gardens is made up of Serpentine Lake, as well as a round pond and a Dutch garden that dates back to the 18th century.

There are also multiple notable statues within the gardens, such as the Albert Memorial and the Roman sculpture known as ‘The Arch.’

Enjoy the beautiful flowers and fountains of Kensington Gardens in all seasons throughout the year.

  • Opening Hours: Daily 6am to dusk
  • Address: London W2 2UH, United Kingdom

Check Tours   Official site

3. Regents Park

relaxing places to visit in london

Regent’s Park is yet another royal park that is a great option if you’re looking for a relaxing activity.

It is located in north west London and is typically a bit quieter than the more central Hyde Park.

The park was founded in 1811 and today is over 410 acres.

Park highlights include Queen Mary’s Gardens, the boating lake, and Hanover Gate treehouse playground.

In addition, Regent’s Park is also home to the Regent Park Zoo and Regent’s University London.

It is also surrounded by some of the most upscale flats in London.

  • Opening Hours: Daily
  • Address: Chester Rd, London NW1 4NR, United Kingdom

4. Kew Gardens

relaxing places to visit in london

Visit one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world while in London.

Kew Gardens is a leisurely attraction great for people of all ages, as well as large groups.

It is also easily accessible via the tube (there is a tube station called Kew Gardens).

The park itself is 120 hectares in size, and is one of the oldest parks in the UK.

It also happens to house the largest number of living plant species on the planet.

Kew Gardens is divided up into sections, such as the Japanese Garden and the Palm House.

It also has a treetop playground and rotating interactive exhibits.

  • Opening Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
  • Location: Richmond, United Kingdom

5. Afternoon Tea

relaxing places to visit in london

Afternoon tea is a must while in London.

And in addition to being ultra tasty, it’s also a very relaxing activity.

Simply sit down with your friends or family and enjoy some delicious treats and freshly brewed tea.

There are plenty of afternoon tea opportunities in London.

Many of the oldest hotels in the city offer it in a historic tea room setting.

But there are also specific tours that include afternoon tea on an iconic double decker bus or afternoon tea in Westminster Abbey.

No matter what you choose, you can expect savoury finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and of course, scones with jam and clotted cream!

More reading:

  • Best Places in London for Afternoon Tea Experience

6. Cruise on the River Thames

relaxing places to visit in london

Can you think of anything more relaxing than cruising down the River Thames?

Walking along the river can be extremely busy, especially during rush hour.

That is why we recommend getting away from the hustle and bustle by floating along the river on a state of the art river cruise.

There are plenty of cruising options available in London, whether you’re looking for a sunset experience or a lunch or dinner cruise.

No matter which you choose, you can bet it will be relaxing.

You will also have a unique vantage point when it comes to spotting some of London’s most famous attractions.

7. London Eye

relaxing places to visit in london

See London from the comfort of a private pod on the London Eye.

This attraction first opened in 1999 and since then, has quickly grown to become one of the most popular sites in the city.

It is made up of 32 pod capsules that can accommodate a total of up to 800 people.

One trip around the wheel takes roughly half an hour, meaning you will have plenty of opportunities to snap photos of all the best sites.

The London Eye is the fourth tallest structure in the city so you can bet that the view is incredible.

You can even book private pods with food or champagne if you wish to experience the magic alone with your loved ones.

  • Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 11am-6pm; Saturday to Sunday 10am-8:30pm
  • Address: The Queen’s Walk, Bishop’s, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom

Check Tickets   Official site

8. London Shard Viewing Platform

relaxing places to visit in london

Enjoy the city from above at the London Shard Viewing Platform.

The Shard is one of the most iconic buildings in London’s skyline.

Located in the City of London, this all glass building is a sight to behold.

But taking the elevator up to the viewing platform and seeing the city from above is even more spectacular.

The structure stands 1,016 feet tall and took over 12 years to create.

The Shard is 72 floors and looks right down on the River Thames.

Be sure to bring your camera!

  • Opening Hours: April to October 10am-10pm; November to March 10am-7pm
  • Address: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, United Kingdom

9. ZSL London Zoo

relaxing places to visit in london

Spend time with some of the cutest, most exotic animals in the world at the ZSL London Zoo.

The London Zoo was established in 1828.

It was originally intended as a scientific zoo where animals would be studied, but eventually opened to the public in 1847.

The zoo is located in Regent’s Park and today it contains over 800 species of animals.

Their resident animals today are located in enclosures that mirror their natural habitats.

For example, there is a newly built Tiger Territory and a Gorilla Kingdom.

For a leisurely stroll and relaxing time, the London Zoo is the ideal place to visit.

  • Opening Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
  • Address: Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom

Check Tickets

10. Sea Life London Aquarium

relaxing places to visit in london

Explore the ocean at the Sea Life London Aquarium.

This family-friendly attraction is conveniently located in central London.

That means you won’t have to travel far to get up close and personal with penguins, fish, and more.

Sea Life London houses one of Europe’s largest collections of marine animals.

You will find everything from Gentoo penguins to Sand Tiger Sharks here.

There are over 500 species of marine animals in total and over 14 zones for visitors to explore.

In some zones, it’s almost a zen-like experience with music playing in the background while sea creatures swim by peacefully in their habitats.

  • Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10am-4pm; Thursday 11am-4pm; Saturday 9:30am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm.
  • Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, Bishop’s, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom

11. London Natural History Museum

relaxing places to visit in london

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of the most famous museums in the world, the London Natural History Museum.

The huge museum dates back to 1881 and has been a staple of the posh Kensington area since then.

Not only is the building itself stunning, but people of all ages will enjoy its many exhibits.

Stroll through the London Natural History Museum and you will come across everything from dinosaur skeletons to a creepy crawlies gallery.

The museum houses over 70 million specimens in total, however, not all are on display.

Whatever you do, be sure to check out the Diplodocus skeleton and the animatronic T-Rex in the Dinosaurs Gallery.

  • Opening Hours: Daily 10am-5:50pm
  • Address:  Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD, United Kingdom

12. Watch a Live Show

relaxing places to visit in london

London is home to the West End, on par with Broadway when it comes to live shows.

Thus, seeing a play or a musical while in London is a great activity to participate in!

It’s also very relaxing as all you need to do is sit down and enjoy the show.

You will find some of the most famous musicals performed in the West End, such as The Lion King, Wicked, School of Rock, and Les Miserables.

If these big musicals don’t appeal to you, there are also other types of live events, such as seeing a Shakespeare play at the Globe Theatre.

Check Shows

13. London Shopping

relaxing places to visit in london

Calling all shopaholics!

If you need a break from all the sight seeing, why not indulge in a little retail therapy?

After all, London has some of the best shopping in the world.

From the iconic Harrods to London’s many markets, like Borough Market and Camden Market, there are shopping opportunities at every turn.

There are even official shopping tours you can take that will transport you to some of the best shopping areas.

Whether you prefer to shop alone or in a tour group, don’t miss out on all the incredible finds available in London.

More Reading:

  • 20 Best Shopping Areas in London

14. Bike Riding Around London

relaxing places to visit in london

Give you feet a rest by renting a bike and exploring the city on two wheels.

There are plenty of official bike tours, as well as bike rental places for visitors to use.

You can even rent city bikes by the half hour or hour.

Bike through Hyde Park, along the River Thames, or all over the city.

Whatever you decide, you will love exploring the city in this leisurely manner.

There are even tours that combine buses and biking if you need a rest.

15. Food Tasting in London

relaxing places to visit in london

As one of the biggest cities in the world, London is also the most diverse.

This has made for an extremely unique melting pot of culture inspired by countries all over the world.

This melting pot also translates to food, which is why you can find almost any type of cuisine in London.

Exploring the city’s food scene is a must if you’re looking to relax while dining.

From delicious Indian curries to Moroccan stews, you can find it all here.

There are also plenty of tours, like market tours, chocolate tours, and more, that will allow you to explore a particular part of the city’s food scene.

  • 14 Best London Food Tours & Dining Experiences

We hope you’ve come to see that there are plenty of opportunities to relax in London.

From strolling through a royal park to exploring a historic museum, this bustling metropolis has plenty of leisurely activities for visitors.

Find More Relaxing Things to do in London

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relaxing places to visit in london

11 Perfectly Peaceful Places In London To Experience A Rare Moment Of Stillness

Jack Saddler

Time to relax in these idyllic locations.

London may seem like it’s heavy on the hustle and bustle while being lean on the relaxing; and though it may be true, there’s still plenty of quaint spots where you can find a small moment of tranquillity. Throughout lockdown, in particular, spots tucked away proved a vital part of the city to many a Londoner, as we all realised it was the little things that often got us through the day. Now in the days of fewer Covid restrictions, they’ve continued to be a lynchpin for many, as we re-adjust to the fast-paced lifestyle of the city.

Whether it’s walking into the woods to catch the first fall of Autumn leaves, or simply sitting on a secluded bench to read a book when the sun decides to show its face – we all have places that hands us a much needed boost. Here are a few of those that lie scattered around London.

1. Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park

relaxing places to visit in london

Richmond Park was a godsend for many during lockdown for those who needed a walk among nature to clear their heads and get away from those four walls. Plus, you know, who doesn’t like seeing all the deer? And, deep in the park sits the Isabella Plantation ; a quaint, sheltered forest area covered in beautiful plants and shrubbery. Taking a seat here and admiring the bright plants and colourful ducks is sure to give you a dose of peace to see you through the week.

2. Kyoto Garden at Holland Park

relaxing places to visit in london

Nestled away in Holland park is a charming and tranquil Japanese garden that will sweep you away upon entry. Waterfalls, peacocks, beautiful trees and schools of fish swimming in the pond can be found at the Kyoto Garden, which has served as a perfect stress relief for Londoners (boy, do we need it) since 1992.

3. St. Dunstan In The East

relaxing places to visit in london

On paper, hanging in the midst of an abandoned church might seem, well, a little too horror movie. But, we can solemnly swear that the ruins of St Dunstan’s in the East have the complete opposite effect. Sitting among the square surrounded by plants and the historic building provides a healthy dose of tranquillity, huddled away from the fast-paced surroundings of the city. I mean, just look at it…

4. Hampstead Pergola

relaxing places to visit in london

If boasting the famous “heath” wasn’t enough, we can also highly recommend Hampstead’s other underrated, extremely calming spot that is the pergola. Here, you’ll be able to wander among the swathes of rundown splendour with plenty of overgrown and natural surroundings. It changes with the seasons, but each period has its own magical, quaint feel to it.

5. Head Room Café

relaxing places to visit in london

Even if there are people around, you can still find your moment of stillness at one of your favourite cafés. Since it’s Mental Health Awareness Day on October 10, we’ve picked out the lovely Head Room Café in Golders Green which aims to bring awareness and access to mental health support. Sit quietly for a coffee and a piece of cake if the rush of the working week is getting too much for you. You’ll likely feel better for it.

6. Barbican Conservatory

relaxing places to visit in london

Travelling is helpful and relaxing to many of us, but that option has been largely snatched away for many of the last 18 months. But, you can find ways to transport yourself away to far off land, such as stepping into the Barbican’s indoor rainforest. Pay this spot a visit and, as you’re stood among the tropical plants in the conservatory, you’re bound to feel at peace.

7. Sitting with the sea breeze hitting your face

relaxing places to visit in london

When people think of the ultimate restorative locations, they tend to think spots by the sea pretty fast. Get down to one of these brilliant beaches near London for a day out in the golden sands to experience true relaxation, even if it is very, very chilly!

8. Parkland Walk’s old railroad track

relaxing places to visit in london

A walk down the quaint, busy area of the old Parkland Walk railroad track will have you in touch with the vast industrial history of the country, as well as calmed by the beautiful natural surroundings.

9. Walthamstow Wetlands

Walthamstow boasts London’s newest AND biggest nature reserve and it’s completely worth your time. Getting lost among the stunning paths by reservoirs and among the weeping willows is sure to provide a serene moment for just about anyone. Sit here with a cuppa and just watch the world go by.

10. At basically any lake

relaxing places to visit in london

Similarly to sitting by the sea, staring out into the lake is usually recommended as a calming measure to clear the mind of stress. Even if the area is busy, gazing out onto a body of water tends to do wonders for finding a rare moment of stillness inside your mind.

11. Highgate Cemetery

relaxing places to visit in london

Now, a cemetery may not top everyone’s lists for a tranquil spot, but there’s a reason this historic location is frequented by so many Londoners. It’s popular for being a great place to wander around taking in the jaw-dropping surroundings of the graves and mausoleums. Plus, you’ll be among the graves of some the greats, including George Eliot, Douglas Adams, Karl Marx and Christina Rossetti.

relaxing places to visit in london

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10 Quiet Places in London to Rest and Relax

10 Quiet Places in London | London | United Kingdom | Hidden Gems | Europe | Travel Tips | Luxury Columnist | Luxury Travel Blog

If you live in a big city like London, it can be hard to find good places to escape the crowds. Here are the best  quiet places in London to rest and relax, to inspire you to go outdoors more.

Quiet Places in London to Relax

With a population of almost 9 million according to the last census, London can be a busy and noisy place. However, if you know where to look there are some nice places to chill in London.

It’s even better if you combine a walk with a catch up with a friend or family member. These cool places to relax in London are well worth a visit.

1. Hyde Park

You might be surprised to see the famous Hyde Park on this list of the quietest places in London. However, as it’s the largest of the London Royal Parks, you’ll easily find a quiet place within Hyde Park’s 42 hectares.

This Grade I listed park has many peaceful areas as well as famous landmarks such as the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, Speakers Corner and the Serpentine Gallery.

The Serenity statue is located on the south side of the Serpentine and is one of many beautiful sculptures in the park. For senior citizens, there’s an outdoor playground situated within the Bowls and Tennis Centre, open from 9 am to 9 pm, April to September and 10 am to 4 pm, October to March.

The Rose Garden is one of the most beautiful places in London, especially at the beginning of Summer when the roses are blooming. You can find it at the South East corner of Hyde Park, near Hyde Park Corner.

There’s a lovely pergola, as well as two fountains – the Boy and Dolphin and the statue of Diana the Huntress. Another tranquil spot is the Round Pond, a seven acre lake near Kensington Palace.

Hyde Park - one of the best walks in central London

2. St James’s Park

Of all the relaxing places in London, St James’s Park is particularly well known thanks to its central location in St James near Buckingham Palace. Spread over 23 hectares, it’s home to many birds including pelicans.

The first pelicans were presented as a gift from the Russian Ambassador in 1664 and today there are over 40 of them. Watch them being fed fish next to Duck Island Cottage every day between 2.30 and 3 pm.

If you’re lucky, you might also spot some green parakeets in the park. There’s a charming cafe in the park with lovely lake views.

St James's Park London visit

3. Regent’s Canal Walk

There are many great things to do in Kings Cross , with Camley Street Natural Park being a real revelation. You’d never guess you were a few minutes away from a busy railway station and its actually one of the quietest places in London.

This former coal drop for the railways is now a tranquil inner city oasis where you can spot bats, frogs, kingfishers and many more species. The park is temporarily closed while a new visitor centre is constructed.

Nearby you have one of the best canal walks in London. The Regent’s Canal Walk stretches for 9 miles, from Limehouse to Paddington.

The towpath was completed in 1820 and the section between Camden Lock and Kings Cross is particularly pleasant. Kings Cross itself has changed a lot in recent years and it’s now a popular dining and shopping destination.

Regent's Canal, London

4. A Secret London Garden

For a panoramic view of London, go for a walk up Primrose Hill, which stands 213 feet high. From here, walk down the hill to Regent’s Park and the secret garden.

Whilst Regent’s Park is a beautiful place in its own right, few visitors realize that there’s a secret London garden located just off the Inner Circle. It is one of the best hidden gems of London  and is guaranteed to surprise your walking companions.

St John’s Lodge itself is a private residence, however the gardens are open to the public. In fact, they’re a great place for a London date as you can picnic there. The centrepiece is a Grade II listed statue of a boy and a mermaid, Hylas and the Nymph.

Quiet places in London - The secret garden in Regent's Park, London

5. Battersea Park

With a fantastic location overlooking the River Thames, Battersea Park is spread over 83 hectares. It’s one of the best places to chill in London.

The London Peace Pagoda  was a gift from the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order in 1984. A floating lantern ceremony takes place here in August each year, to commemorate the anniversary of the Nagasaki atomic bomb.

The pagoda is looked after by Reverend Gyoro Nagase, a Buddhist monk who lives in the park. If you’re in need of refreshments, Pear Tree Cafe is a great place to eat by the lakeside.

Not far from here, you’ll find the newly revamped Battersea Power Station , now an impressive leisure and retail space.

Battersea Park pagoda

6. Chelsea Physic Garden

Dating from 1673, the Chelsea Physic Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Britain. It’s also one of the most peaceful places in London. The name refers to the science of healing and it was originally established as the Apothecaries’ Garden.

There are over 5,000 varieties of plants with healing and medicinal properties here. The Tangerine Dream Cafe overlooks the main lawn and is a lovely place in which to enjoy lunch or afternoon tea.

Chelsea Physic Garden is open from 11 am to 6 pm, with the cafe closing at 5 pm, from 30 March to 2 November and an entrance fee applies. After visiting the garden, take a stroll along Chelsea Embankment to admire the view of Chelsea Bridge. You could also head for a bite to eat at Chicama, one of the most Instagrammable London restaurants .

Best places to relax in London - Chelsea Physic Garden

7. Greenwich Park

Being besides water is always relaxing and Greenwich Park is no exception. This place is also brimming with history, being one of only UNESCO World Heritage Sites in London.

There’s so much to see in the park, from the National Maritime Museum to the Royal Observatory and the iconic Meridian Line. Admire the longest herbaceous border in London at over 200 metres, situated in front of Queen’s House.

If you visit on a Sunday, make sure to see the Queen’s Orchard, open from 1 am to 4 pm and accessed via Creed Place Gate. The Flower Garden is also not be missed, with its deer viewing points and huge cedar trees.

Greenwich Park is a quiet place in London

8. Victoria Park

London’s oldest public park is also one of its largest, with 86 hectares of land to enjoy. Victoria Park has been popular with Londoner for over 170 years and parts of it are Grade II listed.

There’s a Chinese pagoda overlooking one of the two lakes and the Pavilion Cafe is a good choice for refreshments. The  Victoria Park Memoryscape Trail is a clever initiative enabling park visitors to learn about the park.

You can download the whole trail or particular tracks or print off the Memoryscape Trail map. The whole walking route takes about 1 and a half hours.

Quiet places in London to rest and relax - Victoria Park

9. Kyoto Garden

Holland Park is one of the most picturesque of the capital’s parks. Within its 22 hectares, Kyoto Garden is one of our favorite quiet parks in London. The garden was donated by Kyoto Chamber of Commerce in 1992.

Ever since, it’s been a popular spot for visitors and also for wildlife. You’ll often see herons basking by the pond, eyeing the koi carp!

There are actually 2 Japanese gardens in Holland Park, with the other one being the Fukushima Memorial Garden. The park is open every day from 7 am and closes at dusk.

Kyoto Garden Holland Park

10. The Thames Path

Undoubtedly one of the best river walks in London, the Thames Path is a National Trail footpath stretching for 180 miles. It begins at the Thames Flood Barrier in Woolwich and goes all the way to Gloucestershire.

One of the most scenic sections of the Thames Path is from Hampton Court to Staines. You’ll pass the iconic Hampton Court Palace before walking past houseboats and water reservoirs.

The Thames Path at Hampton Court Palace - a lovely place to relax in London

We hope you’ve enjoyed these suggestions of the most quiet places in London. We are firm believers in the power of walking to improve your mental and physical well-being.

How do you boost your mental and physical health? Are you a fan of walking?

You might also enjoy:

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Read all our posts on fun things to do in London

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2 thoughts on “10 Quiet Places in London to Rest and Relax”

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You have picked some of my favourite parks, I love Hyde park and St James. Finding a park for some peace is always welcome Lucy x

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Guide to a relaxing weekend in London

Guide to a relaxing weekend in London

Whether you're a lifer or a first-timer, London can be a lot. Between the everyday grind, the crowded streets, people rushing around, the noise, and more, it can be hard to catch some peace and quiet. That's why our guide to a relaxing weekend in London is geared towards those looking to relax and unwind with stress-free activities and calm places to visit. From secluded sights and serene restaurants to pampering indulgences and verdant landscapes, our guide to a stress-free weekend shows you a different side of London.

  • The Prince Akatoki – Japanese serenity
  • Mount View Guest House – Calm accommodation in North London
  • Spa hotels – Unwind after a long day
  • Parks – Green oases in the concrete jungle
  • St. Paul's Cathedral – Heavenly peace and quiet
  • Gardens – Secret getaways
  • Immersive art – Dive into art
  • Westminster Abbey – World-famous wedding venue
  • The King's Cross Tunnel – A colourful hidden gem
  • Spas & day spas – Pamper yourself
  • Massages – Let experts take matters into their own hands
  • Yoga – Breathe in, zen out
  • Skuna Boats – Hot tub float machine
  • Parkland Walk – Walk it off
  • Creative activities – Unleash your creative side
  • Cycle routes – Pedal your troubles away
  • Bookshops – Curl up with a nice book
  • Uchi – Shoes off
  • Dans Le Noir? – Nothing to see here
  • 104 Restaurant – Exclusive fine dining spot
  • Caravel – Sway away
  • Takeaways – Take a rest from restaurants

Where to rest up

The prince akatoki, japanese serenity.

This luxurious five-star hotel in Marylebone is suffused in traditional Japanese hospitality. The Prince Akatoki London features a clean, minimalist aesthetic with soothing natural elements, and its rooms and suites come with all the contemporary amenities you need for a relaxing stay. The hotel also offers a 24-hour gym and exquisite dining and drinking options, among its other facilities, and its proximity to Marble Arch station helps make getting around easier as well.

  • Website • 020-772 447 00
  • Read more on Thatsup

Mount View Guest House

Calm accommodation in north london.

Stay in a cosy Victorian-style guest house nestled in a picturesque, tree-lined street in North London at Mount View Guest House. Enjoy tranquillity while enjoying easy access to London's bustling city centre. The guest house boasts an elegant and sophisticated design, offering luxurious 100% Egyptian cotton sheets, in-room tea and coffee facilities, and both a continental and a cooked breakfast.

  • 020-834 092 22

Unwind after a long day

Unfortunately, if you're trying to do some sightseeing, shopping, or, well, basically much of anything in London, it's nearly impossible to avoid the crowds, traffic, rush hour, and other such stressors. Staying at a nice spa hotel can offset some of that tension, letting you relax after an exhausting day around the city with an array of wellness services. Of course, you can just spend the entire day getting pampered at your hotel instead too – we won't judge. Here are London's top spa hotels.

Sightseeing without the usual crush

Green oases in the concrete jungle.

Green spaces such as Hyde Park or Richmond Park are among the more famous tourist destinations in London, but plenty of other parks offer a verdant escape from the city's streets when you need to take a breather. You can go for a stroll, nap in the sun, have a picnic, or just sit on a bench and watch the world go by in London's many parks, the best of which you'll find in our guide.

St. Paul's Cathedral – Stress-free weekend

St. Paul's Cathedral

Heavenly peace and quiet.

You don't have to be religious to appreciate the hushed ambience of one of the most famous churches in the world. St. Paul's Cathedral sees its fair share of visitors throughout the year, but the grand domed building somehow never feels overstuffed or busy. Marvelling at the grand architecture or gazing out at the city from the top of the dome soon makes everyday worries seem insignificant.

  • Website • 020-724 683 50

Secret getaways

Like parks but more intimate, more colourful, and often with a fascinating building attached as well, the various public gardens around London provide a moment's respite from the urban chaos. Kew Gardens, a veritable living herbarium of amazing flora, are the most famous of them, but there are many others scattered around the city, some hidden, some not so much. Find them with the help of our guide to London's most beautiful gardens.

Immersive art

Dive into art.

London's many galleries display some of the finest works of art ever made, but that's also what makes them such a draw, and loud crowds, school trips and the like can quickly turn a peaceful gallery visit into an unpleasant experience. Try one of the immersive art experiences instead – usually focusing on a few artists only, they're designed to offer in-depth insight into their works through audio and visual installations in a soothing setting.

  • Website Van Gogh London Exhibit: The Immersive Experience vangoghexpo.com/london Frameless frameless.com Lightroom lightroom.uk • Show phone Van Gogh London Exhibit: The Immersive Experience 013-449 513 71 Lightroom 0300-303 42 16
  • Read more on Thatsup Van Gogh London Exhibit: The Immersive Experience Frameless Lightroom

Westminster Abbey

World-famous wedding venue.

This grand Gothic cathedral beside the Palace of Westminster is where royal coronations, weddings, funerals, and other stress-inducing events take place. Thankfully, your chances of attending one of those are probably extremely low, so just explore the majestic structure at your own pace, discovering its thousand years of history as you enjoy the quiet atmosphere.

  • Website • 020-722 251 52

The King's Cross Tunnel

A colourful hidden gem.

A tube station might not sound very relaxing, but this King's Cross tunnel proves otherwise thanks to the LED art wall that runs the length of it, usually displaying a calming, shifting colour palette. It's also not very well-known, nor is it a major station thoroughfare, so not many people use it. Show up outside of rush hour and you'll only have to contend with a few passersby and the odd Instagram influencer.

Frankie says relax

Spas & day spas, pamper yourself.

Nothing hits the spot quite like a bit of spa relaxation after a full day of sightseeing or as a way to recharge after a busy week. Leave the daily grind behind, soak up the steam, indulge in a treatment, and let your mind wander at one of London's luxurious wellness establishments, whether it's only for a day or as a longer staycation.

  • Read more on Thatsup Guide to the best spas in London Guide to day spas in London

Let experts take matters into their own hands

If there's something weird cramping up your back, who you gonna call? A professional massage therapist, that's who. A visit to a massage parlour is just the thing when you need to relax your body and mind but don't have the time for a full spa escape. Check out the best massage studios in London in our guide and get ready to have the worries pounded out of you.

Breathe in, zen out

What's good for the mind is good for the body and vice versa, and yoga ticks off both boxes. This healthy activity might seem daunting at first, especially if your joints start creaking at the mere thought of stretching, but the wide range of London's yoga studios covers all ages and fitness levels. Beginners and experienced practitioners alike can find the right yoga class with the help of our guide.

Skuna Boats – Stress-free weekend

Skuna Boats

Hot tub float machine.

Different boat rentals are available around London, from boating lake pedalos to adrenaline-fuelled speedboats, but if you want to be a loose lily floating down an amber river, book a Skuna Boat. You can choose between a boating barbecue or a floating hot tub, with a relaxing experience as you drift down the Thames guaranteed in either case.

  • Website • 020-720 528 27

Parkland Walk

Walk it off.

This hidden North London pathway used to be a railway line and you can still see the track in certain parts. Nowadays it's a popular nature reserve and walking route that connects Finsbury Park and Alexandra Palace, making for a relaxing stroll in a secluded, overgrown corridor that seems miles away from civilisation – even though it runs right through residential areas.

  • Website • 020-752 743 74

Creative activities

Unleash your creative side.

Regardless of your natural talents, spending a couple of hours working creatively in a non-judgmental setting can do wonders for taking a load off. Art classes cover a wide range of techniques, from particularly soothing pottery to life drawing and more, and are available for all ages and skill levels. Check out the best ones in our guide – who knows, you might even discover a new career.

Cycle routes

Pedal your troubles away.

Navigating narrow streets, busy traffic, and unruly pedestrians on a fragile metal frame seems like the very opposite of relaxing, but bear with us. Different cycle routes run throughout London, many of them through peaceful neighbourhoods and verdant spaces. Check our guide to find the bike route that best suits your needs, strap on a helmet, and pedal away.

Curl up with a nice book

It's hard to beat cosying up with a nice book in a comfy, quiet setting, especially when the weather is being uncooperative. You can find plenty of new reading material in London's bookstores, as well as secluded nooks and crannies where you can read in peace. Find the best bookshops in the city in our guide.

Enjoy a meal in peace

Uchi may lack the usual grandeur seen in many of London's elegant eateries, but that's its unique charm. The tranquil Japanese ambience with white drapes and mellow wood complements rather than overshadows the sushi servings, ensuring a warm, welcoming vibe. There are even slippers to wear if you're seated in the back, contributing to the cosiness.

  • Website • 020-330 246 70

Dans Le Noir? – Stress-free weekend

Dans Le Noir?

Nothing to see here.

Leave visual stimuli behind at this unusual world-leading restaurant. You'll dine in a pitch-black setting, with nothing to distract you from the flavours and smells of the food. You don't even have to choose off a menu – just state your dietary requirements and enjoy the mystery meal that's served. The meal in the dark also helps free you from inhibitions and engage in authentic, spontaneous conversation with your companions.

  • Website • 020-725 311 00

104 Restaurant

Exclusive fine dining spot.

A private dining room is a convenient way of avoiding the usual restaurant hustle and bustle, but it usually means you have to come with a group, which kind of defeats the purpose if you're after a calm, low-key meal. Enter 104 Restaurant, a place where you can game the system on account of it only seating 14 people at a time. Yes, it's basically a private dining room, but one where you can show up without having to organise a whole thing for your friends, colleagues, or family.

  • Website • 020-341 747 44

Caravel is a converted Dutch barge swaying gently on the Regent's Canal. The intimate setting provides a cosy and calm atmosphere as you enjoy a changing European menu with French and Italian inspirations. Dishes include the likes of croquettes or white crab & fennel tagliatelle, with a refined cocktail selection to go alongside.

  • Website • 020-725 111 55

Take a rest from restaurants

Let's face it, even though dining out is a pleasant experience most of the time, it can often be stressful as well, what with having to find a nice place, making yourself presentable, braving public transport, and so on, only to finally show up and have your nice night out ruined by rowdy patrons at the neighbouring table. Thankfully, if you aren't feeling up to it, there's an easy out – more precisely, a takeout. Our guide features the best takeaways in London, all just a click or a call away.

Travel With A Dog

Quiet Places in London including Relaxing Parks & Peaceful Squares

Living in London was an interesting experience for me, however, I very much missed the peaceful tranquillity of the countryside. To counter my desire, I sought places in the city that were tranquil to rest my mind and counteract the overstimulation the city gave to me.

Tranquil Kensington Gardens London

As part of my research, I purchased a copy of a book called Quiet London to point me in the way of a few hidden gems to find. The book validated my need to avoid overstimulation, too.

Quiet Places in London Including Parks

Some tried and tested quiet places in London that I used to escape from the hustle and bustle when visiting.

Finding a Quiet Spot in Hyde Park

Hyde Park is famous for excellent reasons. It is one of the more prominent parks in London and attracts lots of tourists. The Serpentine is the lake in the centre, which is home to lots of birds, including a flock of swans. Outside of the busy tourist times, the park still has activity, but there is always a chance to find a quiet spot. There are many trees to sit under off the main paths and have a read or watch the word go by.

Hyde Park Bridge

Feeding the birds is a guilty pleasure of mine, the swans and geese with wholemeal bread as directed by signs in the park. The herons are an unusual breed for people to feed, but they seem to enjoy a slice of belly pork. They made short shrift of the pork, and over time used to stalk me awaiting food. Another amazing experience is the starlings. They are tame enough to eat breadcrumbs from your hands if you sit still.

The Relaxing Italian Gardens

Near to Hyde Park and Lancaster Gate tube station in Westminster is The Italian Gardens . The gardens are a nice place for dog walks or to sit and relax at most times of the year. Theses gardens are at the far end of The Serpentine lake and classed as part of Kensington Gardens.

Italian Gardens - Kensington

This is a very picturesque park with multiple carved historic pools, many fountains, and sculptures. There are many footpaths to walk around and enjoy the scenery. These can lead to both Kensington or Hyde Park. the gardens date back to 1860 and were a gift from Prince Albert to Queen Victoria.

Quiet Garden & Views at Barrier Park in London

Barrier Park London

I discovered barrier park while perusing a book about quiet places to visit in the city. This is a park on the opposite bank of the Thames to the principal attraction of The Thames Barrier. The park has fantastic views of the barrier and is quiet as the book promised. This is a great place for photographing the impressive structure of sitting on the riverside, watching the river flow by.

Thames Barrier Park is 7-hectares of green space with landscaped gardens, hedgerows and an abundance of flowers. It is in the Royal Docks near to Pontoon Dock on the DLR. It is a newish park and only opened its gates in 2000.

Exploring the Beautiful Kew Gardens, London

The Tranquil Mediterranean Garden

Another tranquil spot in London is The Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew . It is a fantastic day out for those that love to see or relax in greenery and flowers which are perfectly landscaped. They have a vast selection of plants, trees and flowers for visitors to see and many quiet spots for reflection.

The Quiet Canals at Westbourne Grove

A Tranquil Canal Near Westbourne Grove

The walk from Westbourne Grove Along the canals is a rather quiet place to relax and take a step back from London life. There’s lots of greenery here, as well as some nice wildlife. Many wildfowl call this place home and the water is rather clear. There are many boats moored up on the banks to see, too.

I particularly find canals relaxing, especially when they are quiet. This towpath leads to or away from Little Venice behind the Paddington Train station. Little Venice is a brilliant spot to head towards after stretching your legs.

River Lee Navigation a Tranquil Haven for Nature

Tranquillity in the Lee Valley - Lock at Tottenham Hale

The River Lee Navigation was one of many walks that I enjoyed while living in London. It’s an interesting place with narrow boats, a canal and the Tottenham marches nearby. I found it a rather quiet walking route and was a relaxing few hours. Once away from the footpath entrances, the tranquillity became apparent.

Explore The Quiet Parts of Hampstead Heath in London

In North London is Hampstead Heath, a lovely place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There are lots of trails, including through woodland to find a quiet spot to sit and ponder. They also have some tranquil pools to sit by and enjoy the relaxing nature of the water. You can also go for a swim in Hampstead Ponds, including the ladies or a mixed swimming pond. There’s lots of wildlife to spot too while exploring Hampstead Heath.

Soho Square A Tranquil Garden

Soho Mini-House

Another place to collect your thoughts and see some interesting things is Soho Square. Soho Square is one of the older squares in the capital and dates from 1681. The square is basically a park with some interesting features to see. What caught my eye was the Tudor style lodge in the centre of Soho Square. There are many benches to sit on and the lawn too when dry.

Tower Hill & Tower of London After Dark

Tower of London Rear

After the tourists have gone home and the sun has gone down, the area surrounding the Tower of London is a fantastic quiet spot. The crowds have gone and the benches empty for a sit town and to enjoy the views. There are many nice things to see while chilling out here after dark. The Tower of London and London Bridge all lit up are both special to see.

Trinity Square Gardens Night

Also nearby is Trinity Square Gardens, which is also a nice place to sit and enjoy in the daytime or evening. After dark the nearby buildings are nicely lit up, however you can see more of the gardens’ features while enjoy the green space.

Victoria Tower Gardens South Next to The Palace of Westminster

Victoria Tower Gardens South

Another cool public space with views that I found to be tranquil was Victoria Tower Gardens South. They are right next door to Westminster Palace and the houses of Parliament . The gardens also have river views which always seem to add to the tranquillity for me. The garden also has some interesting statues and memorials to see while perusing the area. There are benches to sit on and in nice weather, the lawn is a great place to plonk your bum.

Dean’s Yard A Peaceful Spot in Westminster

Dean’s yard is a lovely and quiet place away from the nearby crowds of the attractions in Westminster. This is a beautiful square with grass in the middle. Dean’s Yard has some amazing views, including the spires of Westminster Abbey.

Dean's Yard Westminster

They built Dean’s Yard on the site of the former monastery farmyard. Since the 18th century there have been three rows of tree including maple, sycamore and red horse chestnut trees. It’s a popular spot for the pupils at Westminster School, however it was quiet when I wandered through.

Relax in St James Park

A short walk from many of the prime sites in London is St. James Park. It’s a nice place to chill out between some pretty epic sightseeing. I’ve always managed to find a quiet spot away from the high foot traffic areas. The lake in St James Park adds to its relaxing nature and Theres many spots to sit and enjoy the views of the water. They have a few refreshments stand selling snacks, coffee or overpriced tiny beer.

St James Park Autumn

I usually pack a can if planning to chill in the park. M&S or Tesco both have cold beers. Autumn is a great time to visit and the changing colours certainly add to the vibe. If you enjoy watching wildlife in the parks, St. James has some fascinating birds to see and some friendly squirrels. Overall, St James Park is a lovely place near Buckingham Palace and Horseguards Parade.

Cavendish Square London

Cavendish Square London

A nice place for a chill after shopping on Bond Street is Cavendish Square. This is a lovely place at the rear of the big John Lewis store. Cavendish Square dates back to 1717 and was laid out by the 2nd Earl of Oxford. The square is tree-lined, thus has plenty of shade to enjoy the benches of the park. As a bonus, there are some interesting sculptures to see while relaxing.

Victoria Embankment Gardens Whitehall Extension

Victoria Embankment Gardens

Alongside the north bank of the River Thames , downstream of to Big Ben, is the Whitehall Extension of Victoria Embankment Gardens. They are a nice place to hang out with pretty surroundings and plenty of benches to sit on. As a bonus, there are a few interesting statues to see near the flower beds.

Whitehall Gardens

Whitehall Gardens London

Also on the north bank of the Thames is the historic Whitehall Gardens. The famous Horse Guards building, which is rather pretty, overlooks Whitehall Gardens. The garden has many places to sit, some interesting statues and pretty flower beds during the warmer months.

Other Relaxing & Quiet Places in London

  • The Southbank of the River Thames
  • Richmond Park
  • Epping Forest
  • WWT London Wetland Centre

Other Relaxing Things To Do

I am partial to alternative health treatments, especially massages. While living in London, I found the Thai massage or stone massage treatments to be very relaxing. I was also a member of a chain of London gyms, thus I could relax using their health spas. This included a sauna, steam room and a jacuzzi.

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27 Best Things to Do in London

By Sonya Barber and Ramsay Short

27 Best Things to Do in London From Vintage Markets to Art Museums

London: the city that has anything and everything you could possibly want in a vibrant, world-class capital. Your only real problem is working out what you can miss. With over 170 museums, 3,000 parks, 3,500 pubs and an ever-changing number of restaurants, there’s almost too much to see, do and eat—even for a life-long Londoner.

Truly, the city is too large, and too rich in options, for you to get to it all in one visit; you'll have to make some hard choices. Which incredible food or clothing-market to browse? Tate Modern or the British Museum? Where should you pick for a perfect, full-English breakfast? Where's the best afternoon tea ? How do you pick from all the abundant pubs ? And don't get us started here on the best restaurants . Thankfully, our locally led list of the best things to do in London is here to help you decide—just don’t try to do it all in one day.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Tower of London with river in front

Tower of London Arrow

Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, this uncompromising slab of a building has been many things—including the site where Henry VIII ordered the execution of two of his wives. Now the Tower is most famous as the home of the Crown Jewels. Come, take a tour from one of the Beefeaters (offered every half hour), and gawp at the sparkling and the frightening alike.

A garden.

Kew Gardens Arrow

A spectacular 500 acre garden in west London, Kew boasts one of the biggest and most diverse botanical collections in the whole world. There’s been a botanic garden here since the 18th century when it was a royal palace; today it’s not only a UNESCO World Heritage site with over a whopping 50,000 plants, it’s also just a really lovely place to visit. You can spend a whole day gently wandering along the winding paths through the lawns, trees, lake, Japanese garden, rhododendron dell, rose garden and kid’s play area, as well as popping in and out of the grand glasshouses. It’s a calming and tranquil place (as long as you avoid the playground on a school holiday) but you can also learn plenty about plants along the way.

Tate Modern interior

Tate Modern Arrow

This former oil-fired power station sits smugly in the center of the South Bank, knowing that you’re interested in what’s going on inside. It’s filled to the rafters with paintings and sculptures by the likes of Picasso, Dali, Warhol, and Rothko, all set off perfectly by that gritty industrial interior. It’s rare that any exhibition at Tate Modern is awaited with anything less than bated breath, whether they’re the paid shows across the mid-levels of the institution or the vast and clever commissions to take over the massive space that is the Turbine Hall. You’re pretty much bound to be blown away. 

People walking in front of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London

Shakespeare’s Globe Arrow

In London, every building and street has history. And Shakespeare's Globe, although a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre—where many of William Shakespeare's plays were first staged and which burned down in 1613 during a performance of 'Henry VIII'—is no exception. The theater was rebuilt not far from its original site, using construction methods and materials as close to the original as possible, and to watch a performance here is to step back in time with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

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All Our Stories flags by designer Bethany Williams in Coal Drops Yard King's Cross

Coal Drops Yard Arrow

Ever since the Eurostar undersea rail link between Paris and London rolled into Kings Cross St. Pancras station, the formerly down-and-out neighborhood of Kings Cross has experienced a total transformation. Abandoned railway land with disused gas tanks now has been turned into new offices, shopping areas, fountains, apartments, green spaces, and more. There are posh supermarkets in converted train sheds, the coveted Central St. Martins London School of Art and Fashion, artisan restaurants like Hicce, and trendy ice cream shops like Ruby Violet. Granary Square, north of the station and surrounded by restored warehouses, has a 1,000-jet fountain that's great for kids, as well as canal-side, amphitheater-style seating. There’s also the gorgeous revamped Camley Street Natural Park, which is packed with stunning wildflowers and urban biodiversity. Google is building their London headquarters here, an office complex that is supposed to be so state-of-the-art it will reinvent everything we know about workplaces. Add starchitect Thomas Heatherwick's stunningly designed Coal Drops Yard, former coal sheds that are now a super desirable luxury shopping and eating indoor and outdoor destination space, and you no doubt want to hang out at this development in what was once a dark and dusty neighborhood.

Southbank London ferris wheel

South Bank Arrow

The South Bank is one of the London’s best bits. Generally located between the Westminster and London bridges, it offers about two-miles of excellent, largely state-funded arts and entertainment venues alongside breezy, traffic-free views of a succession of city landmarks (Big Ben, St. Paul's, the Tower of London) that lie on the north bank. No wonder it attracts over 14 million people per year. If you have limited time in the capital, South Bank is great because it has everything, including a selection of good restaurants and street food offerings.

Victoria  Albert Museum London

Victoria and Albert Museum Arrow

South Kensington’s V&A is one of the world’s largest art and design museums, and it's arguably London’s most glamorous. (Just the building itself is well worth the visit: a glorious red-brick palace filled with sculptural details, extravagant tiling, and frescos.) The collection is helpfully broken down into topics—fashion, theatre, furniture, architecture—and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit, and do check out the seasonal exhibition. The collection is helpfully broken down into topics such as fashion, jewelry, theater and performance, furniture, architecture, ceramics etc and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit.

An interior of a cafe.

E Pellicci Arrow

Chances are there will be a queue for this beloved British ‘greasy spoon’ cafe. The Pellicci family has been feeding east Londoners since 1900 and still make some of the best fry ups in town. Stepping inside is like entering a time warp: there’s beautiful ornate art deco wooden paneling, stained glass windows, formica tables and a huge steaming tea urn. In fact, it’s such an icon that English heritage has awarded it grade-II listed status. It’s lively, chaotic, and always great fun. Whatever food you choose, always order a cup of strong "builder’s" tea. There’s coffee, milkshakes, beer, wine, and even limoncello on the menu but nothing goes better with a breakfast than a perfectly brewed cuppa.

Sir John Soanes Museum London Exhibit

Sir John Soane's Museum Arrow

This is, without a doubt, the city’s most atmospheric museum, packed to the rafters with hundreds of interesting and impressive artworks and artifacts. The collection is pretty much whatever took Sir John Soane's eye, positioned in the place it looked best—so don’t go looking for order. Instead, go curious, as the walls give way to secret rooms the unobservant might miss. It's not the unknown it once was though, so unless you go first thing in the morning you'll probably have to wait in line.

Columbia Road Flower Market london

Columbia Road Flower Market Arrow

Weekly on Sundays, Columbia Road in East London's hip Shoreditch/Hackney neighborhood, transforms into a multicolored frenzy of stalls and flowers. This otherwise unassuming East End street is transformed into a swath of magnificent plant life, the air fragrant with blooms and the shouts of historic London's famous Cockney stallholders. It's as eccentric as it gets around here. You'll hear rushed deals and offers for a 'tenner' or 'fiver' (ten or five pounds) and because everything is so fresh, it's all gotta be gone by 2 p.m. 

An interior of a museum.

Dennis Severs' House Arrow

Fancy a trip back through time? Just around the corner from buzzy Spitalfields Market, there’s a beautiful old four story house in Spitalfields that is essentially a wonderful time warp. Eccentric American Dennis Severs bought the crumbling derelict building in 1979 and turned the whole thing into an amazing work of art, evocatively recreating the home life of different generations of a Huguenot family living from 1724 to 1919 (and living there himself at the same time!). Severs died in 1999 but the house is perfectly preserved and is one of the most incredible museums in London. This is quite a niche museum: one for history fans, interior enthusiasts and those into theatrical spaces, but truly anyone visiting will be instantly immersed into the bewitching experience. There’s only a small number of people allowed in at one time and everyone is respectfully tip-toeing around peering into chamber pots and studying the ghostly paintings.

Fortnum  Mason Tea London

Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason Arrow

This historic spot for afternoon tea has been an upper crust British favorite since it began importing leaves from Asia in 1707. It's no wonder the beloved tearoom was reopened in 2012 by the Queen after a sensitive refit. The room retains a fittingly regal affect, decorated in the store’s trademark eau de nil (take that, Tiffany). There’s often a pianist tinkling away in the corner of the airy elegant room in the afternoon. The tea itself will leave even the most discerning of tea snobs with their mouths open. There are 50 different blends and tea sommeliers to help you chose which one is for you.

An elevated view looking westwards of the London Skyline with St Paul's Cathedral at dusk

St. Paul's Cathedral Arrow

One of the most famous cathedrals in the world, St. Paul's (finished in 1708) is the masterpiece of architect Sir Christopher Wren, and its towering dome is probably second on the definitive list of symbols of London after Big Ben. It's awe-inspiring, magical yet somber and reflective, a place for prayer whether you're religious or not. 

Gallery view of David Hockney The Arrival of Spring Normandy 2020

Royal Academy of Arts Arrow

The Royal Academy of Arts, or the R.A., as it's more fondly known, has been around for 250 years run by artists, and is home to an incredible collection of global art. The R.A.'s collection is vast, including sculpture, drawing, painting and architecture. There are numerous classic works on show as well as themed exhibitions from the collection, and varied and regular temporary shows that sell out quickly. Annually there is the annual Summer Exhibition featuring plenty of new work from up and coming R.A. students and alumni, and major icons in the art world; it's well worth seeing. You can come for a short visit and still get plenty out of the R.A.—the buildings themselves are worth checking out alone if you like seeing 19th-century and modern 21st-century architecture blended together.

An exterior of a department store.

Liberty London Arrow

This is truly one of the most beautiful shops in London. A Grade II-listed boutique department store with an iconic mock-tudor façade constructed from the timbers of two ships, it’s well worth a visit for the shop itself. Founded by Arthur Lasenby Liberty in 1875 who wanted an emporium to show off the treasures from his travels, today the wood-paneled light-filled atriums and cozy side rooms are stuffed full of goodies, new and old. It’s atmospheric, eclectic and unlike any other department store we’ve ever visited. A visit to the store must include a peruse of the impressive fabric department: the rolls and rolls of colorful, intricate and fabulous prints that will make you wish you’d paid more attention in home economics. If sewing isn’t your thing, you can get ready-made bags, cushions, bedding and even chess boards adorned with the delicate Liberty patterns.

The Shard london

The Shard Arrow

Western Europe's tallest building at 309.6 metres, or 1,016 feet, high, The Shard houses London's first Shangri-la hotel , private apartments, offices and three high-end restaurants—Aqua Shard, Hutong and Oblix. All good reasons to visit of course but arguably the main one is the viewing gallery aka The View. Located on floors 68-72 and 244 meters above London, you have an unobstructed 360-degree, 40-mile view across the city.

Adam ChanlerBerat in “Amlie A New Musical” at Center Theatre GroupAhmanson Theatre.

West End Theatreland Arrow

London's answer to New York's Broadway cuts across a swathe of the West End of the city in Covent Garden, Soho, and Picadilly.  From Shakespeare to contemporary comedies and dramas like Hamilton, as well as countless famous musicals of old and many new, London's West End has it all. Who doesn't want to feel again the infectious glee of musical theatre choreography and the sweating happiness of curtain calls. With the shows coming back after a long closure due to coronavirus, the Criterion Theater is offering a wonderfully quirky musical version of Amelie—the popular French movie of the same name—for more affordable prices than the big-name shows.

The National Gallery London Museum

National Gallery Arrow

Set in London’s busiest open space, Trafalgar Square, this is the grandmother of galleries with more than 2,300 paintings spanning the 13th to the 19th centuries: Heavyweights include Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Velazquez's Rokeby Venus, and Constable’s six-foot long The Hay Wain . It gets packed at weekends, but its so large that you can usually find a quiet corner. You can download an audio tour covering the museum's highlights, but you can also curate your own by selecting the paintings you want to see before you arrive. The seasonal exhibitions are the only ones you’ll pay for, and as you'd expect, most are spectacular ranging from Lucian Freud to Titian.

Borough Market London

Borough Market Arrow

The food hound's favorite London market (and the city's most atmospheric) occupies a sprawling site near London Bridge, both in a large covered area and spreading into the smaller maze of streets that surround it. Records show there’s been a market here since 1276 when it apparently caused traffic jams on London Bridge. What’s on offer? Gourmet goodies run the gamut and you’d be hard pressed not to find something you can’t get enough of and simply spend all day stuffing your face.

Highgate Cemetery london

Highgate Cemetery Arrow

A graveyard is always a somber place, but Highgate is also a celebratory one. You’ll recognize parts of it if you’ve seen Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Dracula,’ and you'll find the final resting place of writers like George Eliot and Douglas Adams, science pioneers like Michael Faraday and pop culture icons like George Michael (although his grave isn't named as such;  his Panayiotou family plot is in the West Cemetery next to Lucien Freud). And believe it or not, for somewhere with so many legendary men and women buried in it, Highgate Cemetery is one of the least visited of London’s landmarks. But those who come do it for both the ghostly mystery of the place itself, as well as the celebrity dead.

British Museum London

British Museum Arrow

You could spend several lifetimes in the British Museum, Britain’s largest museum, without running out of artifacts to ponder. The collection is one of the largest in the world, arranged by location (Ancient Egypt, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Greece and Rome), and the list of big hitters includes the Rosetta Stone and other finds from Ancient Egypt, Asia and the Middle East. Come early on a weekday for a less crowded experience, pick one gallery and stick to it, or go for a guided “eye-opener” tour.

Views of Kenwood House at Hampstead Heath

Hampstead Heath Arrow

Forget the perfect lawns of London's Royal Parks, Hampstead Heath, the vast and, in places wonderfully overgrown, tract of countryside just north of the rock ‘n’ roll neighborhood of Camden Town is the wild heart of the city and an undisputed highlight, so much so it's said to have inspired CS Lewis’s Narnia. The Heath covers 791 acres of woodland, playing fields, swimming ponds and meadows of tall grass perfect both for picnickers and couples in search of privacy. It’s truly beautiful.

This image may contain Human Person Wheel Machine Transportation Vehicle Motorcycle Footwear Shoe and Clothing

Portobello Market Arrow

Running through the center of the ever-fashionable Notting Hill neighborhood in West London, Portobello Road is know for everything from sixties models, photographers, artists and rockstars to rows of antiques stalls, hip pubs and Hugh Grant, but what we’re talking about is Portobello Market when the street is closed off Friday to Sunday and packed with people from far and wide. It’s that famous. Portobello is actually several markets rolled into one: There are antique and bric-a-brac shops, loads of food stalls and further up next to the Portebello Green arcade, emerging designers and vintage clothing shops.

The Serpentine Bridge connecting Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

Hyde Park Arrow

Hyde Park is big. At one and a half miles long and a mile or so wide, it's one of London's largest Royal Parks, originally appropriated from the monks at Westminster Abbey by Henry VIII to hunt deer, but now the sort of space where anything goes. Think gangs of roller-bladers on the paths, mad swimmers and chill boaters in the Serpentine Lake, rowdy protestors at Speaker’s Corner and kids aplenty riding horses and tipping their toes into the Diana Memorial Fountain.

tayyabs curry london

Tayyabs Arrow

Most nights you’ll be waiting for at least half an hour before entering this famous, BYOB Punjabi diner in Whitechapel. Tayyabs is loud (and no one’s on a romantic date) but what you’re there for are the sizzling plates of meat. The main attraction is the lamb chops, served up spicy and marinated in a kadai masala with coriander, sliced onions, and chillies, and everything must be paired with freshly baked rotis, parathas, and naans. It’s a great spot for meat eaters and large groups looking for an affordable way to dine on exceptional Punjabi food.

General View of Churchill's Bedroom at Churchill War Rooms.

Churchill War Rooms Arrow

This underground lair, just around the corner from 10 Downing Street, is where Churchill spent endless hours plotting Allied victory during the Second World War. Come for the Map Room, which looks exactly as it did when the members of the War Cabinet abandoned it at the end of the war, and the Transatlantic Telephone Room, where Churchill had secret conversations with U.S. officials. Entry is currently timed so you won't be crowded, and there are some pandemic restrictions still in place in terms of social distancing, but it's easy to get around and see everything. The audio guide comes with your ticket and provides an extra insight into the operations that went on during the war, including sounds and speeches of the time. The museum is also fully wheelchair accessible.

The neon light facade at London jazz institution Ronnie Scott's

Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club Arrow

Nightlife institutions are institutions for a reason. And Ronnie Scott's, Soho’s premier jazz venue on Frith Street, never, ever disappoints. One rule: book your ticket in advance. Ronnie's is a concert venue, generally hosts two sittings a night—everyone from Nina Simone to Pharaoh Sanders has played here—and gigs get booked out quickly by tourists, aficionados and fellow musicians. You can, however, usually get into Ronnie’s Bar, a smaller more dance oriented venue upstairs, without advance notice, as well as into the 'late late' shows. The place itself is everything a jazz venue should be: dark, loud and enticing, romantic even, and so very Soho—you’ll probably feel like drinking whisky but Champagne always goes down better. When the music ends, and you fall out buzzing into the street, finish up with a bite at the legendary late-night favorite Bar Italia across the road. It’s just what's done.

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London, England   Travel Guide

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relaxing places to visit in london

34 Best Things to Do in London, England

Whether you're keen to brush up on your history knowledge at the Tower of London , tour the home of the monarchy at Buckingham Palace or check out one of the city's many art galleries, London isn't short on things to do. Thespians will

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relaxing places to visit in london

Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

relaxing places to visit in london

Tower of London Tower of London

Although its exterior might be grim and even unimpressive (especially when compared to stately  Buckingham Palace ), the Tower of London's interior is always bustling with activity. Despite its name, the large complex has a long history as a palace, a fortress and a prison. Each exhibition and activity here explores this history.

If you're enchanted with the monarchy, don't miss the famous crown jewels exhibition. Among the items you'll see is the Imperial State Crown – which is still worn by the queen for each State Opening of Parliament – and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. In 2020, Prince of Wales' Investiture Coronet joined the display in the Jewel House. For an oral history, take an entertaining tour led by the Yeoman Warders (tower guards). During the hourlong excursion (included in your admission ticket), the guards will regale you with tales of the tower's bloody past. The White Tower is one of the world's most famous castles and a recognizable London landmark. Inside, you'll find the 350-year-old exhibition, "Line of Kings," which includes suits of armor worn by Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Keep an eye out for the Tower's famous ravens, who are said to guard the structure.

relaxing places to visit in london

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

Step through halls where history was made time and again by visiting the British Parliament. Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate, which is more than 900 years old), the House of Commons Chamber and the House of Lords. If you're not interested in perusing the corridors that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London. 

If you're one of many looking to snap your own photo of one of the most photographed buildings in the world, the best vantage point is from Westminster Bridge. But if you want a truly smashing shot, head on over to Lambeth Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridges on the South Bank for a view of Parliament and the London Eye together. Keep in mind that Westminster Bridge connects two of the city's most popular attractions ( London Eye  and Parliament), and as a result is almost always very crowded.

relaxing places to visit in london

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relaxing places to visit in london

Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history. Westminster Abbey is generally busy – and the staff keeps you moving at a pretty swift pace – so do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding the British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor.

If you prefer to see the abbey at your own pace, but still want a little guidance on the history you're encountering, take advantage of the multimedia guides, which are included in the price of admission and available in 14 languages. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour (led by the abbey's vergers) and see special places inaccessible to the public, including the tomb containing Saint Edward the Confessor. If you decide to take this tour, you'll pay 10 pounds (around $14) on top of the general admission price.

relaxing places to visit in london

British Museum British Museum free

The British Museum is both an architectural beauty and a trove of some of the world's most noted antiquities. In fact, many travelers say it's the best museum in all of London. What's more, it's free to visit. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures to Mesopotamian objects, the British Museum is a history buff's dream containing artifacts in the millions. The immense collection can make an initial museum visit seem overwhelming: Pick the exhibits that most interest you, and plan return trips if you feel so inclined.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's exhibits – the approximately 80,000 objects on display out of its collection totaling 8 million items – consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and the LBGTQ-themed "Desire, Love, Identity" tour and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book an "Around the World in 60 Minutes" tour for 14 pounds (around $20). Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (about $10), are also available to rent daily.

relaxing places to visit in london

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

Though called a garden, Covent Garden isn't all about plants and flowers. Rather, it's a piazza and a collection of urban streets boasting numerous upscale stores as well as bars, restaurants, art installations and more. In other words, it's a bustling neighborhood within London's West End. Shops range from famous trademarks like Ralph Lauren and Mulberry to independent brands. In addition to conventional shops and boutiques, Covent Garden has a covered market area where vendors sell everything from antiques to crafts. Similarly, dining options range from foodie destinations like Sushi Samba and Balthazar to casual pubs. Given Covent Garden's open-air orientation, there are appropriately more than 1,000 seats for al fresco dining.

Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House. Even if you're unable (or disinclined) to see an opera, you can tour the lavishly appointed Royal Opera House. Architecture-enthusiasts find the building, especially its glass atrium, stunning and the tours informative. General admission tickets are 19 pounds (about $24) for adults and 16.75 pounds (about $21) for anyone younger than 16. (Check the opera house’s website for dates and times.)

relaxing places to visit in london

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander over to nearby Chinatown to sample its slew of Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops, and continue on into Soho for some of the city's best LGBT-friendly bars. – Laura French

Regularly compared to  New York 's  Times Square , Piccadilly Circus is the meeting place of five busy roads and is the center of London's hustle and bustle. Whether it's people on their way to work in the morning, shoppers en route to the chain store-lined Oxford Street (just a few blocks north) or lively club and bar hoppers passing through at night, Piccadilly is always thrumming with activity. 

relaxing places to visit in london

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a fun night out, buy tickets for a showing of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," which is the longest-running play in history. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Catching a show in London's West End theater district is just as necessary as watching a play on  Broadway  during a trip to  New York City . The quality is some of the best in the U.K., and the constant mix of new and classic productions with local and world-renowned talent (think: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Angela Lansbury, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benedict Cumberbatch) excites both visitors and locals alike. Even if you don't consider yourself much of a theater devotee, recent travelers said the atmosphere, specifically near the lively Leicester Square, where many of the theaters are concentrated, is worth a late-night wander.

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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A short stroll from Hyde Park Corner will take you to The Grenadier – a tiny pub hidden down a cobbled alley. It opened in 1818 as an officers' mess and now serves beers and classic pub fare in atmospheric, wood-strewn surroundings. – Laura French

Just north of the Royal Albert Hall and northwest of Buckingham Palace  sit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: a stretch of green bisected by West Carriage Drive. Hyde Park was once the recreational stomping grounds for King Henry VIII, but now this 350-acre swath of land is open to the public and a must-visit for travelers looking for a relaxing moment away from the city's hustle and bustle. Among Hyde Park's meandering foot and bike paths and flourishing flora and fauna, you'll find a few standout attractions that are worth exploring. Watch the swans and boats glide over the serene Serpentine Lake (or rent a vessel yourself), visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or stop by the Speakers' Corner, a site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century (previously used by George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin, among others). For the sporting set, Hyde Park has tennis courts, football pitches (remember: football means soccer here) and a horse-riding arena.  

relaxing places to visit in london

The London Eye The London Eye

The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

relaxing places to visit in london

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

For nearly 200 years, Trafalgar square has been a London institution. Flanked by the National Gallery , the square features two fountains, several busts and bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column. The column, which honors Admiral Horatio Nelson for his success at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, stands 16 feet tall. At its base, bronze panels detail some of Nelson's battles and the two lions are there to protect the monument.

Recent travelers appreciated this famous London locale, noting that it's a great spot for photos and people-watching. However, know that aside from the National Gallery and surrounding shops and restaurants, there isn't much to do at the square itself.

relaxing places to visit in london

St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is arguably the second must-see church in London (the first, of course, being Westminster Abbey ). With its imposing dome – one of the largest in the world – St. Paul's forms a predominant spot along London's skyline. It's also a survivor: Although an older incarnation burnt during the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current dome (designed by Sir Christopher Wren and officially completed in 1711) survived numerous World War II bombings.

To make the most of your visit, reviewers highly recommended climbing to the top of the dome to the Golden Gallery. You'll have to hike up 528 steps, but after catching your breath you'll enjoy far-reaching views of the River Thames, the  Tate Modern , and Shakespeare's Globe . And once you've seen the top, head below ground to the crypt (the largest in Europe), where the tombs of notable figures such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington as well as Wren are housed. Though some reviewers are put off by the pricey admission, most agree that a peek inside is well worth the extra coin.

relaxing places to visit in london

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after your visit, head next door to the Science Museum to browse interactive exhibits and live science shows, and catch a film at the IMAX, one of the UK's biggest screens (entry to the museum itself is free, though some exhibitions are extra). – Laura French

Located in South Kensington, this museum brims with data from 70,000 different species (from animals to tiny protozoa) and exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur bones to simulated earthquakes. The Natural History Museum is also a favorite among families, so you'll find it crawling with kids.

relaxing places to visit in london

Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

(2521 reviews)

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford Day Trip from London

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford Day Trip from London

(2671 reviews)

from $ 101.28

Fully Guided Tour of Warner Bros Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Fully Guided Tour of Warner Bros Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

(516 reviews)

from $ 311.52

relaxing places to visit in london

St. James's Park St. James's Park free

One of London's eight Royal Parks, St. James's Park is nearly 57 acres. It's surrounded by three palaces: its namesake St. James’s Palace, Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament ) and Buckingham Palace . The park's semi-circular flower beds – the Memorial Gardens – which sit beside Buckingham are one of its major attractions. The park is flanked one side by the Mall, a route for royal processions that bisects the gardens and on another by the Horse Guards Parade, a parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour is held. Other notable buildings nearby include No. 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence) and the Churchill War Rooms . The park also features a portion of the 7-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk and provides habitat for various animal species, including foxes and ducks as well as its famed pelicans. Additionally, runners race through St. James's park as the final leg of the annual London Marathon.

Visitors invariably find the park to be quite stunning and well-maintained. It’s deemed an excellent place for walking while admiring the many historical structures nearby.

relaxing places to visit in london

National Gallery National Gallery free

Sitting in Trafalgar Square, London's National Gallery features a labyrinth interior so large that it requires a color-coded map to navigate. The museum features paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works. Among its 2,300 in-house pieces, visitors will find famed paintings, such as Botticelli's "Venus and Mars," Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait at the Age of 34” and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers." 

Recent visitors loved the variety of paintings at the National Gallery, saying that travelers may need more than a day to get a glimpse at all the masterpieces that grace its never-ending halls. They also commend the gallery's cafe.

relaxing places to visit in london

Borough Market Borough Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across from Borough Market sits the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garrett: a tiny museum housed in an 18th-century attic of that's the oldest surviving operating theatre (think: operating room) in Europe. It displays intriguing artifacts about the gruesome medical practices of the past. – Laura French

The food-focused Borough Market is effectively three markets in one (with restaurants, bars and shops interspersed throughout). Three Crown Square features large producers and merchants while Green Market has smaller, specialty ones. You'll find everything from cheese to wine to pastries to produce. Borough Market Kitchen provides a platform for street-food vendors. The roughly 1,000-year-old market regularly hosts cooking demonstrations and classes.

relaxing places to visit in london

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick an early tour time and explore slowly. There is so much to see that you may miss small details if you go too quickly. And don't worry about time. Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Located at the studios where all eight of the "Harry Potter" films were produced, this is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizarding World. Visitors can view original film sets – from the Great Hall to Gringotts, Diagon Alley to the Gryffindor Common Room – with hundreds of original props and costumes to browse. Glimpse the model used for Hogwarts Castle, learn about Hagrid's animatronic head, visit Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express; this is a comprehensive, interactive tour for the whole family that's well worth adding to your London bucket list.

relaxing places to visit in london

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

Home to more than 40 British monarchs and in use since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is a spectacular daytrip from London. Visitors can wander the elaborate state rooms, observe the famous Changing the Guard and admire the many artworks and collectibles on display. Should time allow, take a stroll along the Long Walk: a nearly 3-mile-long tree-lined road that is part of the castle's park. Though you'll find a cafe and souvenir shop on-site, Windsor (the town) offers a bevy of dining and shopping options.

Though always crowded, a visit to Windsor should not be missed. Time and again, travelers say that it is a wonderful place to see while in London, and many were repeat visitors. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues said they had little trouble exploring the castle.

relaxing places to visit in london

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London + Admission

(2809 reviews)

Best of London: Tower of London, Thames Boat & Westminster Tour

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from $ 120.51

Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip with Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower

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relaxing places to visit in london

Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're able, opt for a standing ticket at the performance. You'll get a more authentic experience, plus your proximity to the actors lets you admire their facial expressions and costumes. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

This is not the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's time. The original Globe Theatre – which staged Shakespeare's plays and where the Bard wrote "Twelfth Night," "King Lear," and several others – opened in 1599 and burned down in 1613. The second Globe was erected in 1614 but was then torn down in 1644, after all theaters where shuttered by Parliament. The current incarnation – referred to as the Globe Theatre by its staff – has been in operation since 1997 and it is a celebrated performing arts venue dedicated to staging the Bard's plays. In a nod to its much older namesake, today's open-air theater has a thatched roof – the only one in the city – that does not cover the central yard. Seating is in the round. Or, for a truly memorable experience, you can choose to stand in the yard just below the stage to watch a performance (as many did in Shakespeare's time).  

relaxing places to visit in london

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in December to see Carols at the Royal Albert Hall; it's a spectacular, sing-along show guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. – Laura French

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall where musicians of all genres perform. It also hosts special non-concert events, including sporting events and dance performances. The building's famed 20,000-square-foot iron roof was the largest unsupported dome in the world when it was installed in 1869 (two years before the hall officially opened). An 800-foot long, 5,200-square-foot mosaic frieze dubbed "The Triumph of Arts and Letters" encircles the structure's exterior. The hall can accommodate 5,900 people.

relaxing places to visit in london

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th-century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form – the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as sculptures, Chinese artifacts, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free weekly public lectures.

Recent travelers praised the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. Many described its permanent collection as surprise around every corner. If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consult the building's map before you go; a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit.

relaxing places to visit in london

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

Along with Parliament and Big Ben, Tower Bridge is London's next must-see architectural marvel, not to mention the most famous bridge that crosses the Thames. Construction on the bridge started in 1886, which means it's practically modern by London standards, but Tower Bridge stands out for its stunning detail and moveable roadways that lift up when large ships need to pass through. The views from the bridge are an added bonus. From the elevated sidewalks visitors get a prime view of the  Tower of London ,  St. Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome, the London Eye and The Monument.

If you're interested in viewing the city from a higher vantage point (about 137 feet above the Thames), consider a visit inside Tower Bridge, during which you go to the top of the bridge – equipped with a glass floor – as well as to the bottom to the engine rooms. However, recent visitors say that those who are afraid of heights might want to forgo walking across the glass floor.

relaxing places to visit in london

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, which Henry VIII acquired in the 1520s and subsequently expanded, features the Grand Hall (with Anne Boleyn's coat of arms carved in the ceiling and antique tapestries on the walls) and the largest kitchens in Tudor England (capable of producing 800 meals a day). Its grounds include 60 acres of formal gardens complete with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country as well as the largest grape vine in the world.

Past visitors observe that there’s a lot to see and that the huge palace necessitates a lot of walking. They also recommend the audio tour, which is included in the ticket price. The gardens are frequently singled out as worthy of attention.

relaxing places to visit in london

Oxford and Traditional Cotswolds Villages Small-Group Day Tour from London

(700 reviews)

from $ 114.84

Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

(754 reviews)

Tower of London: Entry Ticket, Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour

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from $ 44.61

relaxing places to visit in london

Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

Meandering just shy of 9 miles from Paddington in the west to the Limehouse Basin in the east, this charming river walk offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. It passes several postcard-pretty spots, including Little Venice, where quaint cafes, pubs and restaurants sit on the waterfront; Regent's Park, one of London's most popular green spaces and the home of London Zoo; and Camden Lock, famous for its markets, street food stalls and antique shops. You'll also get to see the East End, including trendy Dalston, Victoria Park (home to a farmers market every Sunday) and Mile End.

There's history behind it, too; the canal opened in the early 19th century to transport coal, building materials and other goods from northern industrial cities to King's Cross – a long-standing center for trade – and operated for more than 140 years.

relaxing places to visit in london

Camden Market Camden Market free

Londoners and out-of-towners alike enjoy spending a morning (or afternoon) at the Camden Market. Camden Market is actually multiple markets spread out in the neighborhood of Camden. It sprawls with more than 1,000 stalls, shops, bars and cafes carrying close to everything, from furniture to food and lots of fashion. Looking for cheap graphic T-shirts and dresses? Head over to the first set of Camden Market stalls located closest to the Tube station. If you're looking for more of a mix of items, walk over the bridge to the lock market, situated on the peaceful Camden Lock. You'll find stalls filled with antiques, clothing, souvenirs and a variety of food stalls. Food on offer ranges from traditional fish and chips to Middle Eastern fare, hot dogs and Portuguese tarts. This area gives way to the long and winding stables market, consisting of vendors selling vintage home decor, leather goods and clothing.

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area. The market is open daily from 10 a.m. until roughly 6 p.m. (though different businesses may open and close at different times). For more information about the vendors at the market, visit its official website .

relaxing places to visit in london

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

Located on the South Bank along the Thames, the Tate Modern is part of a group of four museums (all named Tate) which house the 70,000 artworks that comprise the national collection of British art. As its name suggest, this Tate holds the more contemporary-style pieces than its three other counterparts, making it more of a hit or miss among travelers. Dalí and Picasso, as well as many British artists, are represented inside this repurposed power plant – but you'll find the works are scattered. Art is grouped by theme rather than by artist.

Recent visitors said if you're a fan of contemporary and modern art, you'll enjoy the Tate Modern. If you're partial to antiquities or the more traditional works of art, you'll probably be better served at the  British Museum  or the  National Gallery . Art aside, the eateries located within the museum may be enough of a reason for travelers to visit. Both the Espresso Bar and Kitchen and Bar at Tate Modern afford stunning views of  St. Paul's Cathedral , which is situated on the other side of the river. At the very least, take a stroll along the Thames to view the museum's impressive exterior.

relaxing places to visit in london

Greenwich Greenwich free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Skip the tube and hop on an Uber Boat to arrive in Greenwich by water – they depart from various stops along the Thames, including Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster and the London Eye, with single fares from £5.20. – Laura French

Sitting southeast of central London, Greenwich is a great daytrip within city limits and well worth the trek. Greenwich's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Royal Observatory, where the prime meridian bisects the institution and travelers can stand on both the eastern and western hemispheres. Other favorite museums and attractions include the Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Market. 

relaxing places to visit in london

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

Famous for its waxworks, this was the first Madame Tussauds museum in the world, established in 1884 on Marylebone Road to display works by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. During the French Revolution, Tussaud was forced craft works of executed nobles – including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette – to prove she was loyal to the crown. Following the end of the revolution, she left France and traveled to Britain, bringing the waxworks with her, in the early 1800s. Today, the museum upholds the waxwork tradition, with more than 150 realistic-looking figures displayed across 11 zones – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt to Harry Styles and Barack Obama to King Charles III.

Recent visitors were impressed and said they enjoyed exploring the different themed areas – from "Star Wars" to "Marvel" – as well as the new Chamber of Horrors room, which explores London's historic criminals. The taxi-themed ride and Marvel 4D show were also a hit, and many recommended it for families, especially those with teenagers. Several commented that lines can be long, even with pre-booked tickets, and it can get crowded inside.

relaxing places to visit in london

Inner Circle Access of Stonehenge including Bath and Lacock Day Tour from London

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from $ 196.14

Tour of London: Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace

Tour of London: Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace

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from $ 88.46

Small-Group Cotswolds Tour (From London)

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relaxing places to visit in london

Up at The O2 Up at The O2

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for crisp air and fewer crowds. Afterwards, head southwest to Greenwich for some food and shopping at Greenwich Market. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Climb over the roof of The O2 – London's arena for major musical and sporting events – for unparalleled views of the city. The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf are among the sights observable from the 170-foot apex. Excursions generally take about 90 minutes, with an hour of walking that travelers typically find rewarding.

relaxing places to visit in london

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

Locals and tourists alike tend to adore Portobello Road Market. Located in the posh Notting Hill neighborhood (made famous by the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie of the same name), the market stretches down the long Portobello Road, which is considered to be the area's high street (or main street). The market is filled with hundreds of merchants of all kinds selling a variety of common flea market items including antiques, art, jewelry, clothing and food. But what stands out about Portobello Market (aside from its adorably colorful location) is its collection of antiques and quintessentially English items. In just a few blocks, visitors can find a wellie shop, scores of vintage tea sets, quality London souvenirs and Banksy recreations. The market is also billed as being the largest antiques market in the world. If you have a penchant for fashion, the best sampling is found at the end of the market near the Ladbroke Grove Tube stop. There, visitors will not only find the greatest concentration of locals but a great selection of vintage attire as well.

Recent visitors loved Portobello Market for its lively atmosphere, wide selection of items and cheap food stalls. Although many lauded the quality found at the food stalls, some urged visitors to check out nearby restaurants, as many serve exceptional British and international fare. Others also advised visitors to pay close attention to their belongings. Portobello Market is not only very crowded, but concentrated on a narrow street, creating an easy opportunity for pickpockets to strike. 

relaxing places to visit in london

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

Delve into London's macabre past at this interactive attraction, which explores the history of Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd and other criminals through live actors, exhibits and rides. Smell, see and hear the city of yesteryear as you wander through the underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, exploring a darker side to this bustling city.

Travelers said the London Dungeon was a great way to get a glimpse into the history of the city and were impressed with the quality of acting and special effects. Many enjoyed the rides and other surprises, although some noted it can be frightening for younger children (a minimum age of 12 is recommended). Some also said it was expensive, but discounts are available when tickets are combined with entry to nearby attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.

relaxing places to visit in london

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

Step inside the London Transport Museum to explore the history of getting around London. Exhibits detail the first London Underground, how the city expanded, Victorian-era transport and much more. Plus, there are multiple hands-on exhibits to keep young ones entertained.

Overall, travelers were pleased with their visits to the museum and found the history fascinating. Others note it's very family-friendly, so you should expect tons of kids during a visit (unless you visit in the late afternoon, when the museum says it's a bit quieter). 

relaxing places to visit in london

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

The collection here includes works by renowned artists such as Titian, Velazquez and Van Dyck as well as various medieval and Renaissance objects. The collection was assembled in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace and then donated to Great Britain. The permanent collection centers on European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries and includes notable French paintings and decorative arts from the 18th century. Special exhibits tend to focus on individual artists, such as Frans Hals and Peter Paul Rubens. Before going to see the fine and decorative arts on display in person, you can explore more than 400 items using a free digital guide available from the museum's website .

Art lovers generally find much to enjoy here, and many suggest it merits repeat visits. Some opine that the signs could provide more information about the items on view.

relaxing places to visit in london

London in a Day with Tower, Westminster & River Cruise

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from $ 163.05

VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels Tour with Private Beefeater Meet & Greet

VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels Tour with Private Beefeater Meet & Greet

(201 reviews)

from $ 143.58

Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London

Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London

(313 reviews)

from $ 136.45

relaxing places to visit in london

Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunker that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his war cabinet used to shelter from bomb raids and plot their steps during World War II. The maze-like corridors tell the story of this volatile time period, centering on the larger-than-life leader that Churchill was.

Travelers describe the Churchill War Rooms as fascinating, and more than one traveler calls it a favorite London attraction. Some say that the rooms are much bigger than they had imagined and that people tend to spend a lot of time soaking in the exhibits and information. Others say that the exhibits have a strange layout, which can lead to confusion when trying to follow the sequence of events. Additionally, this popular spot gets crowded, so most museumgoers recommend that visitors get to the Churchill War Rooms early to avoid a long wait.

relaxing places to visit in london

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13 of the best things to do in London

Feb 25, 2024 • 13 min read

relaxing places to visit in london

Make the most of your time in London with these top things to do © franckreporter / Getty Images

Fast-paced, fabulous and fun, London is packed with world-class things to see, do and experience.

You probably already have a checklist of London sights to visit, but don't forget to pause and soak up the vibe of a city that has been at the forefront of world culture for at least two millennia.

Whether you're a first-time visitor  or coming back for more, London serves up so many options that it can be hard to know where to start. It's easy to fill days or even weeks taking advantage of free entry at the city's top art galleries and museums, learning about the rich and complex history, and seeing live bands and captivating West End shows.

If you have the time – and budget – almost anything is possible in London. To help you whittle down the options, here are the top experiences in London that you won't want to miss.

Raven perched on a railing at the Tower of London, with two Yeomen Warders in the background

1. Step back in time at the Tower of London

A world of English eccentricity enclosed within the sturdy walls of an imposing 11th-century fortress, the Tower of London is the perfect place to start a visit to London. As well as taking visitors on a remarkable architectural and historical journey, the castle is home to the world's largest diamond (the controversial Cullinan diamond, part of the famous Crown Jewels), as well as a dazzling array of armor and weaponry. A palpable sense of history and heritage will greet you at every turn.

Planning tip: It’s well worth getting to the Tower early – you'll need at least half a day to explore the sprawling chambers, courtyards and jail cells, and hear about its gruesome history. Arrive as the doors are unlocked and head straight to the Crown Jewels to avoid a long wait in line. To learn more about the Tower's back story, join a Yeoman Warder’s tour for a fascinating and personal introduction to the life and grisly times of this fortress-palace.

Explore the Tower of London effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

2. Be wowed by contemporary art at Tate Modern

A vast shrine to modern and contemporary art, the much-loved Tate Modern enjoys a triumphant position right on the River Thames. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, the gallery is a vigorous statement of modernity, architectural renewal and accessibility. Enter via Holland Street to experience the vast Turbine Hall, which used to house the power station’s electricity generators, and is now home to large-scale art installations. Upstairs exhibition spaces are pushing the conceptual envelope, too, with interesting temporary shows, installations and performance art.

Local tip: Level 10, the viewing platform atop the Blavatnik Building, has been the subject of some controversy regarding privacy because it's possible to look into the adjacent apartment buildings. There are many signs politely requesting no photography on the south side (and not as much to see there anyway). There are also great views from the coffee shop and bar in the main building. If the tide is out, there's good mudlarking – an evocative term for looking for historic junk on the exposed mud at low tide – right in front of the gallery.

Dancers in colorful costumes for the Notting Hill Carnival

3. Explore London’s Black history 

London’s Black history is rich and fascinating and stretches back across centuries. All over London, you'll sense a growing enthusiasm for acknowledging, owning and celebrating this once-overlooked part of London's story. Begin your journey by joining one of the 16 walking tours in central London run by Black History Walks , then head down to the Docklands to learn about the capital’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade at the Musem of London Docklands before meandering south to marvel at the vast Black archives at Brixton’s Black Cultural Archives . Next, indulge in some delicious Caribbean cuisine and take in many of the city’s best Black artists at 198 Contemporary Arts and Learning .

Planning tip:  Notting Hill Carnival , held over the August Bank Holiday weekend, is a colossal street party celebrating Black, Caribbean and African cultures. Join the dancing, parties and parades that fill the neighborhoods around Ladbroke Grove. The official website publishes routes and events in advance.

4. Imagine the royal weddings of yesteryear at Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey has been the heart of the country’s royal and religious life for centuries. This Gothic wonder was founded more than a thousand years ago and today it displays a mix of architectural styles, with the bulk of its structure dating back to the 13th century. As a result, almost every nook and cranny has a story attached to it.

London's great abbey has served as the venue for many showstopper funerals and weddings – 30 monarchs are buried here, and 16 royal weddings have been hosted here, the most recent being that of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011. Among the highlights, you will find the oldest door in the UK, the collection of memorials to great poets and writers known as Poets’ Corner, the Coronation Chair, 14th-century cloisters, a 900-year-old garden, royal tombs and much, much more.

Planning tip: Be warned that the crowds are almost as solid as the abbey’s unshakeable stonework, so aim to join the line first thing in the morning.

Explore Westminster Abbey effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

A large ferris wheel beside a river at dusk

5. Stroll the sights of the South Bank

A great way to get your bearings and take in a slew of sights at the same time is to take a west-to-east walk along the Thames, through the cultural quarter known as the South Bank. Getting off the Tube at Westminster will deposit you right by Big Ben , the legendary bell atop the clocktower of the Houses of Parliament . From there, cross Westminster Bridge for stellar views back toward the seat of British democracy. 

Once on the Queen's Walk, as this pathway is known, stroll east with the river to your left. Although it’s inescapably touristy, a rotation on the London Eye  is a must for any first-time visitor to the capital. This futuristic Ferris wheel takes 30 minutes to complete a full turn, reaching 135m (443ft) at its highest point, and providing spectacular views of iconic landmarks from its glass capsules. Book tickets in advance to avoid the lines.

The Southbank Centre offers up a roll call of top-draw icons and entertainment; it's a great place to go if you're traveling with kids , with lots of free activities and events in summer. Once you leave the Brutalist concrete architecture of the Southbank Centre behind, you'll find other eclectic London sights, including Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre , the Tate Modern art gallery (with views across the river to  St Paul’s Cathedral ), and the Shard , Britain's tallest building. As you walk, look across the river towards the City of London, and try to pick out its curiously nicknamed skyscrapers – such as the Gherkin, the Cheesegrater and the Walkie-Talkie.

Detour: When hunger calls, take a snack break at legendary Borough Market close to London Bridge, where there are pubs, restaurants, dairies, bakers and more than 100 gourmet food stalls.

Transform your visit to London's Eye by  booking with GetYourGuide.

6. Delve into Muslim London

London was once the capital of an empire that ruled over more than half the world’s Muslims, so it should come as no surprise that the city is home to a wide range of Muslim communities and rich in Islamic heritage. Start with the amazing Islamic collections in the Victoria & Albert Museum ’s Jameel Gallery or the British Museum ’s Albukhary Gallery  – between them, these former imperial institutes hold over 115,000 Islamic items. 

To learn where Arabic was taught in 17th century London, take an eye-opening Muslim History Tour , then treat yourself to some of the capital’s most delicious Muslim cuisine. Try a fiery curry along East London’s Brick Lane (or great Punjabi-style kebabs nearby at Tayyabs ), head north to Green Lanes for London’s most authentic Anatolian dishes, or go west along Edgware Road for varied Middle Eastern cuisine.

The blue whale skeleton in the Natural History Museum, London

7. Dive deep into history at the South Kensington museums

A trio of world-class museums lie within yards of each other in the well-to-do neighborhood of South Kensington , their grand edifices proving an equal draw to the glories within. With seven floors of interactive, educational and eye-opening exhibits, the spellbinding collection of models, machines and inventions at the Science Museum mesmerizes adults and children in equal measure. 

You could spend days in the huge Victoria & Albert Museum , which houses the world’s leading collection of decorative art objects, and still be astounded at its variety and depth. With its animatronic Tyrannosaurus rex , riveting displays about planet Earth, the research-oriented Darwin Centre and architecture straight out of a Gothic fairy tale, the Natural History Museum is an astonishing melding of science and imagination. Start in the iconic Hintze Hall, where the skeleton of a blue whale dives down from the ceiling.

Local tip: To see a more unusual side to the museums, and mingle with some Londoners, check in advance to see if any “Lates” are running; the museums periodically open their doors into the evening for special events with music and food. There are even occasional sleepover events called Dino Snores  at the Natural History Museum.

8. See a world-class theater show in the West End – and beyond

London is one of the best places in the world to catch a show, so take the opportunity while visiting the capital. For the most famous faces and well-known productions, head to the West End . This area is synonymous with musicals; look out for classics like  Les Misérables or Mamma Mia! , family favorites such as Matilda,   The Lion King  or Wicked, and offbeat hits such as The Book of Mormon (definitely not family viewing!) .

If musicals are not your thing, get onto TodayTix and see what else is playing. Be sure to check out the edgy, small-cast shows at independent theaters such as the Donmar Warehouse and Soho Theatre , to catch up-and-coming talent for not much more than the price of a pint of beer.

Detour: If Shakespeare is more your thing, attend an Elizabethan-style performance at Shakespeare's Globe . You'll need to book ahead for a standing ticket as one of the all-weather "groundlings" who watch from the open-air yard in front of the stage (or you can pay extra for a seat in the gallery). Despite being the brainchild of American actor, Sam Wanamaker, the facsimile theater is a triumph of authenticity, right down to the nail-less construction, English-oak beams, original joinery and thatched roof (the sprinklers are a modern touch).

People on deck chairs in parkland near an artificial lake

9. Relax in gloriously green Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

London’s impressive array of urban parks is second to none and the city's eight Royal Parks are the place to see locals at ease and in their element. Hyde Park alone covers 142 hectares; throw in Kensington Gardens , and you have even more space to roam. Here, you'll find everything you could want from a London park: a central setting, a royal palace , deck chairs, boating lakes, open-air concerts, art galleries, towering centuries-old trees, a tasteful granite memorial to Princess Diana, and a magnificently overblown memorial to Prince Albert facing the iconic Albert Hall .

10. Watch the guards change at Buckingham Palace 

No trip to the capital would be complete without a glimpse of what the Royals are up to. The simplest way to see a bit of sovereign ceremony is to watch the Changing of the Guard , a generations-old ritual in which soldiers in iconic bearskin hats swap shifts outside Buckingham Palace . Arrive early for a good view; the show starts at 11am, and it’s best to arrive by 10:15am (unless you happen to be very tall). If you hanker after more, you can tour the palace itself from July through September (the State Rooms are open for guided tours in the winter and spring, and for 10 weeks every summer).

Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham and then purchased by King George III, Buckingham Palace has been the Royal Family’s official London lodging since 1837, when Queen Victoria abandoned the old royal residence at St James's Palace . On a tour, visitors can get a peek at the State Rooms – a mere 19 of the palace's 775 rooms – and wander through the stunning gardens.

People standing on the street outside bars and pubs at night

11. Drink a pint at a historic English pub

London minus its pubs would be like Paris sans cafes. Pub culture is a part of London's DNA, and the pub is the best place to see local people in their hop-scented element. Some London pubs – such as the character-filled, centuries-old  Lamb & Flag  and Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese – have been fixtures on the social scene for centuries, and a pub pint is the cornerstone of a good night out across the capital. They're also favorite stops for long, family-friendly weekend lunches; gastropubs dot London’s culinary cosmos, many rivaling the best restaurants. 

Local tip: If you have to choose one place in London for an evening out, make it Soho , a densely packed warren of after-dark delights. For centuries a bohemian quarter, Soho was once a seedy red-light district, but these days, it's better known as the hub for London’s LGBTIQ+ community . For an old-school pint or four, drop into the French House , Bar Termini , Yard or the White Horse .

12. See the world’s treasures at the British Museum

With almost six million visitors trooping through its doors annually, the British Museum in Bloomsbury is Britain’s most-visited attraction. It is crammed with such an array of treasures (many of which, controversially, were obtained from other countries by force or political sleight of hand) that you could probably spend your whole trip navigating the vast and hallowed collection of artifacts, art and age-old antiquity, and still not be done.

In fact, the collection was once even bigger, but some objects have been returned to their home countries (and others, unbelievably, were stolen by a light-fingered curator). Free eye-opener tours allow you to focus on specific parts of the vast collection, or you can take in the highlights by wandering through the Great Court, with its stunning glass-and-steel roof designed by Norman Foster, and checking out the closest exhibition halls. Don’t leave before you’ve seen the Rosetta Stone, the key to deciphering hieroglyphics, and the fascinatingly macabre Egyptian mummies (including mummified calves, birds and cats).

13. Sit down to a traditional afternoon tea 

The quintessentially English indulgence of whiling away an afternoon eating dainty sandwiches and cakes and drinking tea may give you the feeling you're being observed by Lady Whistledown herself. Venues serving afternoon tea abound, and despite looking like sets from a Bridgerton party, these establishments are perfectly welcoming to all sorts of travelers. There's no need to dress to the nines; smart casual attire is fine (in other words, no trainers, joggers or sweatshirts). 

For the classic experience, head to Claridge’s or the Ritz , or in the summer try the terrace at The Goring or the stately Orangery  at Kensington Palace. It's called afternoon tea, but you can have your tea at almost any time of the day. Pre-booking is highly recommended as slots can book out, especially on weekends and in the peak season.

Planning tip: Make sure you arrive suitably hungry. The spread might not look much in the pictures, but all those plates of delicate treats really do add up to a mini feast. 

This article was first published March 2019 and updated February 2024

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10 Surefire Ways to Relax & Unwind in London

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Your guide to 10 relaxing things to do in London.

I know what you’re thinking, how can you relax & unwind in a place where there is so much going on?

Well, even though London is a fast pace city, there are plenty of ways to slow down the pace and relax your mind & body .

From taking advantage of London’s green spaces to unique explorations off the beaten path, there are actually plenty of relaxing things to do in London.

Relaxing Things to Do in London

T & I uses affiliate links. At no added cost to you, these commissions help provide free content .

Finding Wellness in London

We all travel to feel good and making time to slow down the pace is important for both the mind and body.

Really, if you close your eyes and imagine how you want to feel when you adventure out into the world, relaxed most likely appears at the top of the list.

The fact that relaxation is a common motivator for travel, isn’t really a surprise.

10 Ways to Relax & Unwind in London

If you’ve been here before, you’ll know I love London and it frequently appears on my wellness inspired travel agenda.

Over the years I’ve learned first hand that relaxation can be found in any location. To include busy and frequently visited cities like Edinburgh, London, Venice and Rome.

You just have to know where to look!

10 Relaxing Things to Do in London

In this post, I wanted to share some of the best relaxing things to do in London. That way you can recharge your mind and body as your explore one of the most iconic cities in the world.

No matter the season or how long your itinerary, there are lots of easy ways to work a little self-care and relaxation into your cultural explorations.

You’ ll find that many of these things are centrally located and easy to access by bus or tube, making them convenient to work into your trip .

Explore Kew Gardens

A visit to Kew Gardens is a leisurely way to spend the afternoon, or even the day!

This world famous UNESCO world heritage site is the perfect place to disconnect from daily life and totally immerse yourself in the natural world.

As one of the oldest parks in England, it has something for every age.

Kew Gardens

An ideal spot to get off the beaten path is The Queen Charlotte’s Cottage. This charming and rustic royal retreat is a great place to escape the crowds and find a bit of peace and quiet.

Another not to be missed experience is exploring The Hive.

The LED lights on this striking 17 meter installation glow according to the bee activity in the garden, making it is one unique and inspiring space.

Wander Kensington Gardens

The iconic Kensington Gardens are a beautiful place to take a break from the hustle & bustle of city life.

Covering 265 acres, Kensington Gardens is one of the eight Royal Parks in London.

The gardens are actually a mix a mix of iconic buildings like Kensington Palace and The Serpentine Galleries, as well formal gardens, water features and parkland.

10 Surefire Ways to Relax & Unwind in London

My favorites, The Sunken Garden and Italian Gardens, are both mindful and intimate spaces to find some peace and quiet.

Most recently, The Sunken Garden was redesigned and the it is now home to the Princess Diana statue.

If you prefer to linger and take a load off your feet, The Orangery is a beautiful backdrop for afternoon tea. A few years ago my mom and I spent a lazy summer’s afternoon wandering the garden and enjoying tea, and it’s still one of our favorite London memories.

Stroll Hyde Park

Right next to Kensington Gardens is Hyde Park, which is the ideal green space for a relaxing stroll.

It’s large size means there are many corners to explore, so you can find your sweet spot of relaxation as you wander.

There are benches for quiet contemplation, grassy areas to lie down and watch the clouds go by, and summer brings the sweet smell of the roses.

It’s enough to make anyone smile with delight.

Relax in Hyde Park

Strolling the park is a fantastic way to slow down and be with the world around you. The birds singing and the leaves rustling in the wind bring calm to the day.

Visit Highgate Cemetery

A cemetery may seem like an odd place to visit for relaxation, but when they are as beautiful as Highgate, it makes perfect sense.

Perched on a hill above the city, is the historic Highgate Cemetery. It’s part of The Magnificent Seven, a collection of overgrown Victorian garden graveyards.

Highgate is the only one of the seven to charge admission, but the over 50,000 plots are well worth a visit. In addition, it’s only a stone’s throw from the beautiful Hampstead Heath. Which is an engaging day out for some nature time.

10 Relaxing Things to Do in London

I love to visit old graveyards and think they offer a unique fresh air opportunity to contemplate as your explore history. Other favorites in London include Brompton Cemetery and Nunhead Cemetery.

Further afield, I adore The Glasgow Necropolis and Edinburgh’s Historic Graveyards .

Take a Cab Ride

Are you hoping for some engaging conversation from a local perspective?

If so, hail an iconic black cab. Then just sit back and enjoy the ride.

10 Surefire Ways too Relax & Unwind in London

A cab ride is an engaging way to get from point A to B. It provides a unique opportunity to chat with a local and hear their insights about life in London.

Over the years, I’ve often found London cab drivers to be up for a friendly chat and full of interesting facts and opinions.

Take a Walk in Richmond Park

Located just outside central London, Richmond Park is an ideal place to explore the great outdoors.

Created in the 17th century as a deer park by Charles I, it is the largest of The Royal Parks. Today the fold of deer still roam the grasslands, making it a wonderful space to experience the awe of nature.

The Isabella Plantation is a Victorian woodland set within the park and particularly peaceful place to roam. Sprinkled with ponds, streams and clearings it is especially spectacular in springtime when the azaleas bloom.

10 Surefire Ways to Relax & Unwind in London

Maybe its the deer or the spaciousness of it all, but it is definitely one of my favorite nature spots in the city.

It’s beautiful year round and you can read more about it here in through the eyes of a mindful winter photo walk .

Unwind with a Massage

A massage is a wonderful way to relax the body, so why not take advantage of the multitude of innovative offerings across the city and leave some of your tensions behind.

Spas in every borough mean it’s convenient to find little window of time to support your well-being .

Here are a few centrally located options to tantalize you:

  • Cowshed : three renowned locations across the city make it a reliable & convenient choice
  • Aveda : for a combination massage & reflexology
  • Lush : they sprinkle fun into their relaxing bliss

Enjoy a River Cruise on The Thames

Can you think of anything more relaxing than taking in London’s sites as you float by on a boat?

A boat offers a one of a kind vantage point to some of the most iconic sights in London.

It’s an entirely different pace than walking and you have plenty of time to observe all the details. There’s no dodging of people or watching where you’re going. You can just sit back and enjoy the ride.

Relax in London with a River Cruise

A cruise is an opportunity to experience London at a much slower pace, which is an unexpected find in a big city.

For my money, it’s perfect to pair with a day trip Greenwich. Where you can leisurely explore history, nature and architecture, all in one space!

Capture City Life with a Photo Walk

Pick a borough, any borough and take a mindful photo walk!

From tiny alleys and colorful doors, to open air markets and peaceful gardens…there’s plenty to photograph in London .

London Photo Walk for Relaxation

A photo walk is also a simple way to bring mindfulness to everyday life. Being present helps us to experience our travels more deeply and cultivate better well-being.

At the end of the day, small acts like this add up to bring more happiness to our lives, making them worth the time and attention.

Curious? This is my go-to relaxing thing to do in London and you can lean more about it in the Mindful Photography Guide .

Relax with Afternoon Tea

In addition to being a quintessential British thing to do, afternoon tea is sure one relaxing way to spend the afternoon.

It feels good to sink into an experience where there is no timetable, just you a few friends and some yummy treats.

10 Relaxing Things to Do in London

Afternoon tea is also a fun way to sprinkle a bit more fun into your day.

You can enjoy tea on a boat, train or bus. Or go for a themed afternoon tea like Peter Pan, London Landmarks, Harry Potter, Science or Shakespeare.

All you need to do is bring your appetite, sit back and enjoy the goodies as they are beautifully presented at your table.

So tell me, which of these relaxing things to do in London do you want to explore on your next trip to the city?

Whichever calls to you, be sure to make time to relax. Your mind and body will thank you!

until the next time… …live well – travel well – be well

More Inspiration

  • 5 Beautiful Places for Leisure Walks in London
  • 10 Wellness Things to Do in Covent Garden
  • 10 Fantastic Foodie Things to Do in Bath
  • A Wellness Weekend in Mawgan Porth Cornwall

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10 Best Relaxing Things To Do In London

by Ava Roxanne Stritt | May 2, 2022 | International , Travel

relaxing places to visit in london

London is a haven for tourists, but it is a jackpot if you get to move there!

Whether it is for work or for academic purposes, you shouldn’t bury your head in the respective workloads and go explore the town sometimes.

London has in store all the creme de la creme sites, which will be enough to destress you from all the week’s work.

Although  coliving London life is jam-packed with all the fun party places to enjoy with all your like-minded roommates, today we will specifically discuss the relaxing places which you can visit in London. There is so much to do other than the London Eye !

So, sit back and relax and read to find a place, even more relaxing for your taste.

Best Relaxing Places In London

To relax in London is having a day without an itinerary. It is all about diving into the rich culture and history of the city or taking a lazy walk down the river Thames because the breeze is amazing.

London is also known as the culinary capital of Europe so you should certainly check out some of its  best places to eat in Canary Wharf .

Here are our best picks when you just want to have a lazy afternoon on an off day.

1. Kensington Garden

Opening Hours – 6 am to Dusk

In the busy hassles of London life, if you want an afternoon that can immediately transport you back to the upper-class Regency era, then Kensington Garden should be your first pick.

It covers a span of 275 acres and is undoubtedly one of London’s most royal and historical parks.

If you are a fan of Pride & Prejudice, you might even get a little touch of ‘Pemberly’ with the beautiful dutch garden, which dates back to the 18th century. The flower gardens and fountains are also there to welcome their guests throughout the four seasons.

2. Hyde Park

Opening Hours – Daily 5 am to 12 pm

Hyde Park is another excellent site that will escort you outside the chaos of the city. This is right beside Kensington Park, so you can plan a day to visit both.

This is one of the four iconic royal parks in London, and Kensington has its own somber gardenia beauty.

This park is known for its horse rides, lake views, and picnic spots. Plus, you can even take a dip in the lake in the summers.

Or, just sit with your favorite Austen novel under the tree.

Just imagine the number of debutants taking a stroll with their potential suitor right before the debutante ball in London in the 18th century!

3. Afternoon Tea

You are in London!

You want to relax!

You can never miss out on an afternoon with tea and biscuits just once. You should do it like the royals.

The Grande Royal, located near Hyde Park, is one of the main attractions when it comes to having a luxurious tea experience.

All the flavors of the history and amenities of the modern world, and you have the perfect combination for the ultimate relaxation.

Some of the other sites where you can enjoy delicious tea and English snacks are Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus.

Afternoon tea on the iconic red double-decker bus!

4. Art River Cruise

The River Thames is undoubtedly the biggest attraction in London, but it is also situated right alongside the busiest place in the city.

How will you sneak in an hour or two of peace and relaxation when the busy hustle and bustle of the city?

The perfect solution would be the state of Art River Cruise which will give you relaxation on the prominent water body known in history.

The mellow breeze will take away all your burnout.

5. London Shard Viewing Platform

What could be better than moving to a height of 1,016ft above ground level and relaxing with the entire view of the London city as a sight to the sore eyes?

London Shard Viewing Platform is one of the most legendary buildings of the Viewing Skyline.

Even imagining the sunset gives you chills from this beautiful glass building!

6. Sea Life London Aquarium

Opening: Monday to Friday 10am-4pm; Thursday 11am-4pm; Saturday 9:30am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm.

If water is the element that gives you peace and relaxation, then the city has something for you as well.

Explore the wondrous depth of the beautiful ocean closely in the Sea Life London Aquarium. It is also one of Europe’s largest aquariums with the highest number of marine life.

Dolphins and fishes will all be accompanying your relaxing hours!

7. London Natural History Museum

Opening: 10am – 5.50pm

It is not just one of the most famous museums in the town; it is also the perfect place to stroll through and take all the academics and art in without anyone disturbing your peace.

Taking in the mesmerizing architecture of the building and the rich history filled after the afternoon is the best way to detox from all your week’s stress.

From 70 million specimens of historical species to all the dinosaur skeletons, if you are a fan of the history and universe, you are in for a treat.

I mean, could there be anything more relaxing than examining the skeleton of a T-Rex!

8. West End Broadway Show

For all the literature buff out there, there could be nothing more relaxing than catching a show of ‘Les Miserables’ on the West End Broadway.

Yes, there is a crowd, but they are all art enthusiasts who are there to enjoy the amazing show and not indulge in stressful and unnecessary conversations.

You can also catch up with other amazing and classic broadway shows like ‘Phantom Of The Opera’ and ‘The Lion King.’

9. London Eye

Opening: Monday to Friday 11am-6pm; Saturday to Sunday 10am-8:30pm

There is something mesmerizing about having your own private pod for thirty long minutes while you enjoy the mesmerizing view of the London city.

An entire rotation takes up to thirty minutes, so you have enough time. You can enjoy this tour alone or with someone.

A perfect way to end the perfect London day out!

A Day For Yourself!

If you are someone residing alone or even with someone, a relaxing and peaceful day around the city should be limited to a solo tour.

There is nothing more relaxing than knowing you are all alone and you have to entertain no one as you take a stroll through these beautiful places.

Related: London in September

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Ava Roxanne Stritt – Journalist

relaxing places to visit in london

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How To Relax and Recharge in London

Kyoto Garden is a great place to retreat from the noise of the city

Travel Expert

London has it all – it’s a hedonist’s dream. But it’s also frenetic, noisy and, occasionally, exhausting. Fortunately, when it all gets too much, there are a few special places to relax, unwind and eat healthily. Culture Trip has teamed up with Pullman London St Pancras Hotel – whose 24-hour fitness suit and Pullman Running Club makes it an ideal option for health-obsessed travellers – to explore the capital’s world-leading wellness scene.

1. parliament hill lido.

Swimming Pool

Parliament Hill Lido is on Hampstead Heath in the north of the city

Yoga Studio

Re:Mind offers meditation classes, reiki healing sessions and tea ceremonies

“Find your calm” is the tagline at Re:Mind. This shop and studio, set in food and fashion hub Eccleston Yards, is a soothing space – think natural light woods and plenty of pot plants – from the moment you walk through the door. There are drop-in meditation classes, reiki healing sessions and even tea ceremonies. Re:Mind is a great place to restore your energy in the middle of this bustling city.

3. Glow Bar

Coffee Shop, Smoothie Bar, Healthy

London’s Glow Bar branch has a café, shop and saunas

Glow Bar, a go-to wellness brand for the Duchess of Sussex, opened on Regent Street in summer 2018. The company’s founder, chef Sasha Sabapathy, was inspired to launch the company after leading a stressful, anxiety-inducing lifestyle in New York City. London’s branch has a pink café serving smoothies, healthy bowls and coffees; infrared saunas to help improve your skin, mood and sleep patterns; and a shop with a variety of skincare products and adaptogenic supplements. There’s also an on-site cognitive hypnotherapist.

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5. Redemption Bar, Shoreditch

Bar, Restaurant, Healthy

Everything on Redemption Bar’s menu is vegan

Eating out in London needn’t be an unhealthy affair. Redemption Bar is a breath of fresh air – and vegetables. Its all-vegan menu, which is also free from wheat and refined sugar, features healthy takes on bolognese, burgers and pasta, as well as a host of colourful salads. Plus, you won’t be tempted to overindulge on the drinks: there’s not a cocktail, pint of beer or glass of wine in sight; there are, however, some fantastic mocktails.

6. Pasha Spa

There are a number of Turkish baths in London

With a large population of Turks, it’s no surprise that London has a number of hammams (traditional Turkish baths). Head south of the river to Pasha Spa for an afternoon of Middle Eastern pampering. The spa’s 90-minute hammam packages include a herbal steam session, full-body scrubs and a soap massage or body mask, plus Turkish delight and tea to finish. Pasha’s large, white-marble hammam room is big enough to fit four, so it’s a great place to unwind with friends.

Fitness Studio, Spa

If yoga is your bag, KXU is the place to go. This multifaceted fitness venue has various drop-in classes to make you sweat, including a fast-paced vinyasa flow session backed by upbeat music. There’s a medi-spa offering classic treatments, as well as an infrared sauna and a cryotherapy chamber, which is chilled to a cool -85C (-121F) and can help with recovery after a hardcore workout. The café serves all manner of healthy, protein-packed post-workout plates and smoothies.

8. Kyoto Garden

Koi swim in the pond of Holland Parks Kyoto Garden

Looking for the perfect place to stay on your visit?

9. pullman london st pancras hotel.

Pullman Running club at Pullman London St Pancras Hotel

It’s important to stay somewhere that helps you unwind and recharge, too. Pullman London St Pancras Hotel has a premium 24/7 gym and sauna with panoramic views of St Pancras station. Guests and non-guests alike can join Pullman Running Club – the hotel’s athlete-inspired running club – which passes a number of iconic London landmarks including Regent’s Park on its route.

landscape with balloons floating in the air

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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THE LONDON MOTHER

17 Chill But Fun Things To Do In London On A Sunday

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London on a Sunday paints a vibrant scene, bustling with unique activities and hidden gems ready to be discovered.

From tranquil morning walks to delicious Sunday roasts, the city offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to all kinds of interests.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find something new and exciting to explore every Sunday.

From morning strolls to night-time escapades , here are 17 unique things to do in London on a Sunday.

Go For A Walk

Start your Sunday in London with a refreshing morning walk along the picturesque Regent’s Canal.

The tranquil waters, charming boats, and lush greenery create a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.

regents-canal walk

As you wander along the canal, you’ll pass through vibrant areas like Camden Lock and Little Venice, each offering its unique charm.

You might even stumble upon food vendors serving delicious snacks, perfect for a quick breakfast by the water.

Boat along Regent’s Canal

After your walk, why not continue your exploration of Regent’s Canal with a calming boat ride?

The London Waterbus Company offers journeys along the canal, whisking you through areas such as Regent’s Park, Little Venice, and Camden Lock.

regents-canal

It’s a unique way to see the city, and the company’s experienced guides will share fascinating tales of the waterway’s colourful past .

Whether you’re a natural water lover or just looking for a different perspective of London, a boat ride along the calm waters of Regent’s Canal is a delightful addition to your Sunday itinerary.

Go For Brunch In Covent Garden

Start your Sunday morning in Covent Garden with a delightful brunch.

We like to visit the Bourne and Hollingsworth Buildings .

Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings

The plant-filled conservatory is the perfect setting to enjoy a meal of poached eggs or pancakes .

Check out our guide for 11 other places to enjoy brunch in Covent Garden .

Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings brunch

Buy Flowers At Columbia Road Flower Market

Every Sunday, Columbia Road transforms into a vibrant flower market .

From the crack of dawn until approximately 2 pm, the shops lining the road overflow with buckets of fragrant flowers, herbs, shrubs, and plants .

Columbia Road Flower Market

It’s a feast for the senses, filled with colour and scent.

To beat the crowds and get the pick of the crop, it’s best to arrive as early as possible.

If you’re looking for the best bargains, show up as things start to wind down.

After you visit the market, take a stroll and explore the various shops that line the road.

Go For A Bike Ride In Richmond Park

Richmond Park is the largest of the Royal Parks and is home to hundreds of red and fallow deer.

The park’s beautiful 12-kilometre track offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

deer in richmond park

Starting from the impressive country estate, Ham House, the track takes you to Roehampton.

It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and take in the stunning views.

If the weather suits, pack a picnic and make a day of it.

Visit A Free Exhibition At Tate Modern

The gallery showcases a wide range of artwork from both established and emerging artists.

tate modern

From thought-provoking installations to stunning paintings, there’s something to inspire everyone.

Make sure to check their website for the latest exhibitions before your visit.

Peruse A Bookshop In Bloomsbury

For those who prefer to spend a Sunday afternoon immersed in the world of books, a trip to Bloomsbury is a must.

As the former home of the Bloomsbury group, this leafy neighbourhood offers an array of second-hand bookstores where you can find great bargains.

Judd-Books-

Whether searching for a classic novel or a new release, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

After you’ve made your selection, why not find a cosy café and spend the rest of your afternoon delving into your new purchase?

Bloomsbury is teeming with charming spots where you can relax with a coffee and enjoy your latest literary find.

Go Vintage Shopping In Camden Market

The charm of Camden Market lies in its eclectic mix of stalls. Here, you can find everything from vintage clothes to unique antiques.

camden-lock-market

It’s the perfect place to hunt for a retro gem or add an unusual piece to your collection.

But it’s not just about the shopping.

The bustling atmosphere, colourful characters, and range of delicious street food stalls make Camden Market a destination in itself.

Take your time, soak it all in, and enjoy a unique London experience.

Visit Maltby Street Market

If you’re a foodie, Maltby Street Market is the place to be on a Sunday.  

maltby_street_market

You can feast on everything from waffles topped with fried chicken to the best fish finger sandwiches you’ll ever eat.

Visit Brixton Village

Brixton Village has been transformed by a collection of vintage traders and artisan food sellers into a vibrant hub of cooking and creativity.

With tiny establishments and fresh produce stalls, there’s a world of flavour to discover.

brixton village sign

Sample international cuisine from around the globe, or shop for colourful ingredients at the farmers market, open Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm.

Go For Afternoon Tea

When it comes to traditional London afternoon tea , Claridge’s in Mayfair is a top choice.

Claridge

Known for its impeccable service and beautifully presented food, this luxurious experience will make your Sunday special.

From a good selection of sandwiches to buttery apple and currant-studded scones, every bite is a delight.

afternoon tea at claridges

Enjoy A Roast In A London Pub

A Sunday in London wouldn’t be complete without a traditional roast dinner.

Across the city, numerous pubs serve this quintessential British meal, a heartwarming combination of beef, lamb, or nut roast, served with stuffing, Yorkshire puddings and a variety of vegetables.

roast dinner

The Harwood Arms in Fulham serves a very good Sunday roast.

If that’s too far West for you, the Bike Shed Motorcycle Club offers a splendid beef, chicken or vegan roast dinner as well.

No matter where you are in the city, you’re never too far from a delicious Sunday roast.

Go Paddleboarding On The River Thames

Stand up paddleboarding is a fun and exciting way to explore London on a Sunday.

With its extensive network of calm waterways, London is a perfect city for this activity.

paddleboarding

You can paddle down the quieter parts of the River Thames or explore the city’s scenic canals.

The Paddington Basin is a popular spot for paddleboarding, with options to navigate through Regent’s Canal or the Grand Union Canal.

Active 360 is a well-established company that offers paddleboarding sessions in various locations around the city.

Go To An Independent Cinema (Especially If It’s Cold Or Rainy )

London has several independent cinemas , each offering a unique blend of classic films and new releases.

electriccinemalondon

Whether you’re a film enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxing way to end the weekend, a movie night in one of these venues is lovely.

Electric Cinema on Portobello Road offers an intimate viewing experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city’s larger multiplexes.

Have Lunch At Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club

What better way to spend a Sunday afternoon in London than by indulging in a jazz lunch at Ronnie Scott’s?

ronnie scott's jazz club

This iconic jazz club has been delighting music lovers with its stellar line-up of national and international talent for years.

Enjoy a Sunday lunch while you take in the relaxed atmosphere of Ronnie Scott’s.

Exceptional music and delicious food make for a truly memorable Sunday afternoon.

Go To A Rooftop Bar

Start your evening by heading to a rooftop bar in the charming district of Notting Hill.

This quaint corner of the city, renowned for its pastel-coloured houses and cobbled streets, offers a superb vantage point to watch the sunset and enjoy the tranquillity of a Sunday in London.

notting-hill

Try The Broadcaster – a lively pub, rooftop bar and dining room housed inside the former BBC Television Centre at White City – for great views, bottomless brunch, celebrity spotting and a modern European menu.

Go To A Football Stadium And Watch A Game

London is home to a stellar football culture, and what better way to experience it than by watching a game at an iconic stadium?

Whether you’re a fan of Arsenal, Chelsea , Tottenham, Fulham or West Ham, you’ll find a game to enjoy on a Sunday.

premier league

It’s not easy to get tickets but it’s worth the effort if you’re a fan of the beautiful game.

Go Horse Riding in Hyde Park

Hyde Park offers everyone the chance to enjoy a horse ride, with two sets of stables: Hyde Park Stables and Ross Nye Stables.

The Hyde Park Stables provide a swanky option, with private lessons starting from £145. Ross Nye offers private rides from £120.

horse riding

Whichever you choose, horse riding in Hyde Park is a memorable way to spend your Sunday afternoon in central London.

Sundays in London are never dull.

From the awe-inspiring Natural History Museum to the panoramic London skyline, there’s always something to keep you entertained.

Whether it’s a spicy Sunday lunch in Brick Lane in East London, a stroll through Borough Market, or a ride on the London Eye , there are countless ways to maximise your Sunday in London.

The-London-eye

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, get out there, embrace the city’s vibrant atmosphere, and create your own unique London Sunday story.

THE LONDON MOTHER

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relaxing places to visit in london

The 34 Best Things to Do in London, According to a Local

Top things to do in london.

L ondon ranks high among the best places to travel in the world, attracting millions of visitors from all corners of the globe every year. It may not be one of the cheap places to travel, but there are so many things to do in London that it's definitely worth a visit. So, once you've figured out the best time to visit London and the best time to book a flight —and you've watched King Charles's coronation to get in the mood—where to start?

If you've never been to London, you'll want to make sure to see the most important sights, but also some hidden gems we locals enjoy. I have been living in London for more than five years. I planned to just stay for a few weeks, but I fell in love with the city at first sight—and I still schedule in regular time for exploring my adopted home. I love to share my favorite spots as a travel writer, and I am on speed dial for friends, family and friends of friends who are visiting. It's impossible to fit everything London has to offer into one trip (or even one lifetime!), but it's easy to make the most of your time if you just know how.

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Big Ben is London's most famous landmark, so it's a must-see for all travelers. The name refers to the huge bell inside the clock tower, which first chimed on May 31, 1859, but the whole building at the north end of the Houses of Parliament goes by this nickname. Big Ben was renamed Elizabeth Tower in honor of Queen Elizabeth II 's Diamond Jubilee in 2012, but most people don't call it that.

The tower underwent extensive renovations from summer 2017, and there was much excitement when the bells first rang again in November 2022. It's still not possible to climb up Big Ben quite yet, but the big reopening for visitors is scheduled for later in 2023. Your best bet for a picture-perfect view of the tower and the Houses of Parliament is from Westminster Bridge.

Pro tip: If you want to take a selfie with Big Ben, the best spot is just behind the landmark, on Great George Street. When coming from Westminster Bridge, walk past the tower and the tube station (Westminster) toward St. James's Park, Westminster Abbey to your left. While it might be a bit cliché to pose next to a red phone box, the photo will still look great on your Instagram—and many Londoners snap this shot too.

  • Westminster Abbey

If you followed King Charles 's coronation (or other festive royal events such as Prince William  and Kate Middleton 's wedding) you're probably already familiar with Westminster Abbey . But London's most iconic church is even more impressive when you step foot inside yourself. Westminster Abbey was founded in 960 AD and has been the coronation church since 1066. It is also the final resting place of no fewer than 17 monarchs (the late Queen Elizabeth is buried in Windsor Castle), scientists such as Sir Isaac Newton and world-famous writers including Charles Dickens.

Westminster Abbey is both one of London's top tourist attractions and a working church with daily services—so be prepared for crowds and parts of the abbey closed. The church is busiest in the mornings, so visit after lunchtime if you can book a time slot.

Pro tip: While it's perfectly possible to explore the abbey with an audio guide (included in the ticket price), their guided tours are worth a bit of extra money. You will get to see parts of Westminster Abbey that are normally closed to the public, including royal tombs, the Poets' Corner and Lady Chapel—and you'll get to hear lots of interesting facts and anecdotes.

The London Eye

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the Thames River, and it's been a London landmark of its own for over 20 years, so no list of the things to do in London would be complete without mentioning it. But is it really worth it? Let's face it, the 30-minute-ride comes with a big price tag and potentially long queuing times on top. However, on a sunny day (or at night!) the views are truly stunning. If you're lucky, you'll not only see all the London sights including Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and the Tower Bridge but all the way up to Windsor Castle too. So if you are new to London and don't mind spending some cash, go for it. Fun fact, the London Eye is also one of the top places in the U.K. for people on romantic getaways —and, in fact, to get engaged. They even offer special proposal packages with private pods and champagne.

Pro tip: Technically, you can just show up and buy your ticket on-site, but booking online saves you time and money. There are also discounted combination tickets including a river cruise or entry to Madame Tussaud's.

The Tate Modern

Museums rank high among the most popular attractions in London—and not just because you can visit them regardless of the weather. If you only have time for one, make it the Tate Modern , which is one of the most popular museums in the world . The massive art space with its iconic tower is housed in the former Bankside Power Station and sits right near the Thames, across from St Paul's Cathedral.

The exhibition spaces spread over seven floors and include original works by the likes of Picasso, Matisse and Warhol. Like most museums in London, the Tate Modern is free to visit, unless you want to see a special exhibition (book well in advance in that case). Should you be keen to see the Tate's sister gallery Tate Britain as well, hop on the Tate Boat right in front of the building and travel door to door in style. Boats run every 20 to 30 minutes during museum open hours.

Pro tip: Fancy turning your Tate Modern visit into a fun night out? Keep an eye on the monthly Tate Lates , a mix of art workshops and talks, DJs, bars and live music.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the British monarchs since 1837, and even though all the royal family currently live at other royal estates , it remains the place most associated with the crown. A highlight not to be missed is the Changing of the Guard, a traditional ceremony that sees one detachment of troops taking over from the other, marching along The Mall to Buckingham Palace with musical accompaniment (expect both traditional tunes and pop songs). It takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and daily during the summer, at 11 A.M. It's one of the best free tourist attractions in London. For a prime spot, arrive at least one hour in advance, as the area gets packed year-round.

Pro tip: The State Rooms inside Buckingham Palace are open to visitors on selected dates during winter and spring, as well as for 10 weeks in summer. Tour tickets sell out quickly, so check dates and book as early as you can.

The Tower Bridge

Walking across the Tower Bridge is a must-do when in London. But nothing beats watching the landmark lift for tall vessels, including cruise ships , to pass through. River traffic has priority on this stretch of the Thames by law, meaning ships can request a lift any time of the day, bringing the traffic on the bridge to a complete halt. On average, the Tower Bridge opens twice a day. But what's the secret behind being at the right place at the right time? Luckily, it's pretty simple, as you can check online  to see when the bridge next lifts.  Then, make sure to arrive on time to watch the spectacle unfold.

Pro tip: For a full view of the lift (and great photo opportunities), position yourself on the river banks or a bridge opposite Tower Bridge. For a more close-up experience, stand on either end of the bridge.

Portobello Road Market

In the 1990s, the movie Notting Hill , starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, made the West London neighborhood of the same name known around the world as a romantic travel destination . But even if you're not a fan of rom-coms , Notting Hill and its famous Portobello Road Market —considered the largest antique market on the planet—have a lot to offer. The stalls, fold-out tables and shops are packed with vintage treasures, from lamps and chairs to paintings, jewelry and secondhand clothing, which makes it a great place for souvenir hunting. The market is open six days a week, but Saturday is the main day when all the sellers, antique hunters and street food vendors are out.

Pro tip: Notting Hill's signature pastel houses are just as famous as the market, and selfies on the steps around the Hillgate Place and Lancaster Road area are high on many visitors' bucket lists. Please keep in mind though that people actually live in these houses, so don't stare into their windows or leave trash behind.

The West End

The West End is London's equivalent to Broadway in New York City and the heart of commercial theater and musical productions in the U.K. More than 16 million people watched performances here in 2022, making tickets one of the hottest holiday gifts . Whether you're into the classics such as Les Miserables (running since 1985) and The Phantom of the Opera (since 1986) or want to see a feel-good musical featuring songs by Tina Turner, ABBA or Queen, this is the place. The Disney musicals are among the most popular things to do in London with kids, but they're just as fun to watch as an adult. For crime fans, Agatha Christie's Mousetrap is a must-see.

Pro tip: If you haven't set your mind on a specific show, you can score excellent last-minute deals on the day using the TodayTix app (look for "rush tickets" at 10 a.m. sharp). I've found myself sitting in some of the best seats in the house for around $30, especially on weeknights. Ticket booths around Leicester Square also sell discounted tickets.

The Tower of London

No list of the best things to do in London would be complete without the Tower of London: an iconic castle, former prison and execution location—as well as the home of the crown jewels . The royals' precious accessories have been stored here since 1661 and only leave the Tower when used on official occasions. Want to see King Charles's and Queen Camilla's crowns ? They are right here!

The Tower of London is more than 900 years old, and you can feel its history in every corner. Keep in mind that the complex is not only impressive but also huge, so plan at least a few hours to see everything. Besides its exhibitions, historic halls and the guards with their signature fur hats, the Tower is famous for its wild ravens. According to legend, the kingdom will fall if the six resident ravens ever decide to leave.

Pro tip: Tickets to the Tower of London come with audio guides. If you'd rather have a human companion, opt for a tour with a Beefeater, a working guard at the fortress.

Borough Market

Dating back to the 13th century, Borough Market , on the south side of the Thames, is London's oldest food market and a great food travel destination with more than 100 stalls and plenty of small restaurants and wine bars where you can enjoy lunch or dinner. While the market originally focused on British produce, you can now get Indian curries, pad Thai, Ethiopian stews, falafel wraps, pasta dishes and, of course, the obligatory fish and chips. There are also plenty of stalls to stock up on bread, veggies, wines and sweets to take home or have later in the day. The market is open Tuesday to Sunday.

Pro tip: Borough Market is a lunch favorite with people working at the nearby offices, so expect long queues around noon. If you can't find a quiet spot to eat, make yourself comfy at the riverbank a few minutes away by foot.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter

London is full of locations featured in the Harry Potter movies (think St. Paul's Cathedral, Leadenhall Market, Borough Market or Tower Bridge), which you can explore on your own. But no place gets "muggles" (non-magic people) closer to Harry Potter's world than the Warner Bros. Studio Tour just outside the city. Here you will walk through Diagon Alley, peek into Harry's cupboard under the stairs and explore Hogwarts rooms such as the Great Hall or Dumbledore's office. You can even sample butter beer! The studio decoration changes according to season. I have seen the summer and Christmas versions so far, and Halloween is next on my list.

Pro tip: Advance booking is essential, even during shoulder seasons . Since muggles are, unfortunately, unable to arrive by broom, a shuttle bus from London's Watford Junction is included in the ticket price.

Columbia Road Market

Columbia Road Flower Market may be London's most popular place for flower shopping, and it's a weekend institution in East London. Rain or shine, the whole street gets packed from 8 a.m. every Sunday with dozens of stalls that sell tulips, roses, cacti, spider plants and banana trees. Judging by Instagram posts and people with cameras around their necks, the market might look like a bit of a tourist trap at first glance. But the majority of the visitors are locals who stock up on flowers after coffee or brunch at one of the little cafes in the neighborhood. The flowers are certainly the main selling point on a Sunday, but Columbia Road is dotted with little art shops and galleries too, so take your time to have a look around.

Pro tip: Columbia Road Market tends to be busy year-round, but if you want to avoid the largest crowds, it pays to show up right when it starts. For the best flower deals, come after lunchtime. The stalls close at around 3 p.m.

London's highest public garden, Sky Garden , sits on the 35th floor of the "Walkie Talkie," one of the city's landmark skyscrapers, and it provides spectacular panoramic views. Sky Garden is an oasis of plants, with an observation deck, an open-air terrace and two restaurants. Entry is free, but advance booking is essential. However, once you're in, you're in, so you can technically spend a whole day among the plants.

If you can't get into Sky Garden (or want to shoot more skyline pictures from a different angle), head to The Garden at 120, an open-air rooftop garden on the 15th floor about a five-minute walk away. It might not be as fancy as Sky Garden, but it's usually a lot quieter. I have had the whole garden to myself on weekday mornings more than once.

Pro tip: Tickets for the Sky Garden are released every Monday, and you can book up to three weeks in advance. If you're in the area but don't have a ticket, it's still worth trying your luck at the door, as they sometimes accept walk-ins.

Traditional afternoon tea

While Brits are the champions of tea drinking, afternoon tea is a lot more than just sipping on your favorite blend. The ritual dates back to the 19th century, when the ladies of the high society met for a light meal to shorten the time until dinner was served. Today, it's mainly saved for special occasions, but it also makes one of the most fun things to do in London when on a city break. A traditional afternoon tea menu includes small sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam and a selection of pastries and cakes. Earl Grey, Darjeeling and English Breakfast are the classic tea blends. If you really want to treat yourself, book a table at the glamorous salon at Cafe Royal . Oscar Wilde, Winston Churchill, Princess Diana and David Bowie were regulars here. Live piano music and champagne are included too.

Pro tip: Looking for a more casual afternoon tea option that doubles as a sightseeing tour? Hop on the Afternoon Tea Bus for a 90-minute ride.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

While the Globe Theatre on the South Bank of the Thames isn't the original one from Shakespeare's time (that one burned down in 1613), it's still considered the writer's London home and the closest you could ever get to the original experience. The venue was rebuilt in the same shape and layout, using the original type of wood (green oak) and building techniques. Watch world-famous plays such as A Midsummer Night's Dream , Macbeth and The Comedy of Errors and fully immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare.

Pro tip: The cheapest way to see a play (or get into an otherwise sold-out show) is the " 5£ Rush Tickets ." These are standing tickets right in front of the stage. While you might miss the comfort of a seat, you'll be closer to the action than anyone else (and save a lot of money too!). Tickets are released every Friday at 11 a.m. for the following week.

Little Venice

London is an amazing city to explore on foot, and once you've ticked off all the major sights, it's time to enjoy one of the locals' favorite walks. When I moved to London, I was amazed at how many locals lived on houseboats—it reminded me of The Netherlands, where I spent my college semester abroad. Regent's Canal is dotted with colorful narrowboats, and you can often watch their owners navigate them to and from their mooring spots. The most beautiful stretch is from King's Cross to Little Venice , a beautiful water canal area full of cafés and pubs and framed by willow trees. You will pass Camden and Regent's Park along the way.

Pro tip: Before you head on your two-hour walk, check out Coal Drop's Yard right behind the King's Cross station, with its restaurants, pubs and artsy shops, and Word on the Water, a floating bookstore.

East London's Shoreditch is one of the hippest districts in the city, with little cafes, quirky shops and bars on every corner. It's also the heart of London's street-art scene. Living in Shoreditch, I'm continuously amazed by all the murals and graffiti popping up overnight (and, sadly, often disappearing just as quickly). If you are like me and love taking edgy pictures, you will feel right at home. I always recommend Shoreditch Street Art Tours to friends visiting, a fun and comprehensive introduction to the local street-art scene. If you head out on your own, save Brick Lane, Fashion Street, Hanbury Street, Princelet Street, New Inn Yard, Redchurch Street and Shoreditch Highstreet Station on Google Maps.

To kill two birds with one stone, visit Shoreditch on a weekend when Brick Lane market (lots of food and some art and clothes stalls) takes place. Truman Brewery on Brick Lane is also home to the biggest indoor vintage market in the U.K., which is open seven days a week.

Pro tip: For a quick and inexpensive snack to go, head to Beigel Bake. The 24-hour shop is the most famous bagel place in London. Attention: They only take cash!

Paddle on the Thames River

Even for people who live in London, the city can feel overwhelming at times. Luckily though, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle. London might not be the most obvious choice for water sports, but that's exactly how many locals like to spend their summer. Kayaking and canoeing are hugely popular in the city, with paddling clubs dotted along the Thames and the canals. Companies such as London Kayak Co. offer tours, including for beginners, that double as sightseeing trips , taking you past some of London's most iconic landmarks. Personally, I have become a stand-up paddling (SUP) addict, and my current favorite place to go is Richmond Park . Nothing beats sunset paddling after work or on a weekend, then ending the day on the terrace of a riverside pub.

Pro tip: You don't have to be a kayak or SUP pro to enjoy this activity. As long as you are reasonably fit (and not afraid to fall into the water, should you opt for paddleboarding) you are good to go.

Kensington Gardens

One of London's eight royal parks and formerly part of Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens is a popular recreational area where you can take a stroll, have a picnic, check out exhibitions at the Serpentine galleries, visit Kensington Palace or—if you're traveling with kids—make the most of the Diana Memorial Playground (including a wooden pirate ship and sculptures inspired by Peter Pan).

Ring-necked parakeets have spread all over London, but this park is your best bet to see them up close. And while nobody seems to be quite sure how they originally ended up in London, thousands have called it home since the 1990s. Here, the parakeets are so used to people they will land on your outstretched hands (or your shoulders or your head!) when you bring snacks (apples or seeds)—and sometimes even if you don't. Be aware, though, that the cute birds have surprisingly sharp claws, so your arms might end up looking like you've just been scratched by an angry cat.

Pro tip: The parakeets can be found near the Peter Pan statue in Kensington Garden. If you arrive by tube, get off at Lancaster Gate, walk past the lake and follow the squawking.

Summer music festivals

Glastonbury (the British equivalent to Coachella) is the No. 1 festival every music fan in the U.K. wants to attend. But London has a great number of other festivals, too, that are well worth checking out. Plus, there's no camping, so you can leave your sleeping bags and rain boots at home.

The largest event every year is the British Summer Time Festival in Hyde Park , commonly known as BST. It spreads over multiple dates throughout two weeks from the end of June. This year's headliners include Bruce Springsteen, Guns N'Roses and Pink. Other festivals I've attended that I'd definitely recommend: All Points East (two weekends in August, offering rock, indie and alternative music), Wireless (in July, a mecca for hip-hop fans), Mighty Hoopla (early June, a celebration of cheesy pop and queer culture, with lots of attendees dressed up accordingly) and Hampton Court Palace Festival (multiple days in June, come for both the music and the location).

Pro tip: For environmental reasons and due to the fact that London's summers get hotter by the year, many festivals now allow music fans to take refillable bottles inside, with water stations to be found all around the festival sites.

Barbican Conservatory

The Barbican Centre is London's largest multi-arts venue. Movies, live gigs, plays, exhibitions, restaurants—you name it, the iconic complex has it all. One of the lesser known gems is their indoor garden on Level 3, which houses 2,000 species of plants and trees as well as three small ponds. It's a great place if you need a break from sightseeing or want to spend a relaxing hour or two hiding from the rain. Plus, it's quite romantic—a friend of mine got engaged amidst the plants! Unfortunately, the whole Barbican complex tends to feel like a labyrinth with tons of confusing walkways. Schedule in some extra time just in case you get lost, and don't sweat it, because it regularly happens to pretty much every Londoner.

Pro tip: The Conservatory is only open on select days. Entry is free, but book a time slot in advance to make sure you'll get in. Tickets are released one week in advance on Fridays at 10 a.m., with a limited number of additional ones available at 9:30 a.m. on the day.

Gods Own Junkyard

Gods Own Junkyard is a surreal exhibition place packed with blinking neon signs, old movie props, circus lighting and retro displays. It's the private collection of the late owner Chris Bracey, who made signs for Soho's strip clubs before he went on to work with some of Hollywood's greatest directors, including Tim Burton ( Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ), Christopher Nolan ( Batman ) and Stanley Kubrick ( Eyes Wide Shut ).

The gallery-turned-warehouse isn't exactly close to the city center, but it ranks high among the best things to do in London. Entry is free, however you might end up taking a neon sign home from their small shop. There's also a cafe and fully licensed bar, if you want to linger for a bit.

Pro tip: It might be tempting, but Gods Own Junkyard is, unfortunately, not the place to try out your latest camera gear. You are allowed to take pictures with your phone (for personal use and social media) but not with any cameras or professional equipment.

Cahoots Underground

If you like colorful cocktails and immersive experiences, make sure to check out some of London's hidden bars. One of the coolest places I've been is the 1940s-inspired Cahoots Underground , located in a retired tube station around the corner from Soho's Carnaby Street. The speakeasy bar is decorated with tube signs and maps, the cocktails (with names like "Winston Churchill" and "Judy Garland") are listed in a newspaper instead of a regular menu, and the waiters are dressed up as ticket inspectors. What's more, there's a live piano player taking requests from guests (everything from Frank Sinatra to Miley Cyrus). Be prepared for spontaneous singalongs and people dancing between the tables.

Other hidden bars worth checking out include Nightjar Shoreditch (old-school glamour, candlelit tables and live jazz and swing), Discount Suit Company (in a former suit tailor's storeroom), Opium in Chinatown (a 1920s Shanghai-themed bar tucked away behind red curtains), Purl (1920s theme, live music and cocktail mixing classes) and Ladies & Gents (in a former public washroom).

Pro tip: Better safe than sorry—all the above-mentioned bars are very popular, so book a table just in case.

Dennis Severs' House

If you've ever wondered what everyday London life looked like in the 18th century, Dennis Severs' House gives you a first-hand taste. The building was left exactly as when the original owners, a family of silk weavers, lived there. The rooms are lit by fire and candlelight, and visitors are encouraged to tour them in complete silence to "not disturb the family." You will find yourself wandering around the living room full of faded photographs, old carpets, mugs and books. The kitchen has a fully laid table—bitten apples included! It almost feels like the family is about to return and go on with their daily routine any moment. To make the time-travel experience even more authentic, there are also added scents of food, woodsmoke and chatters of the occupants.

Pro tip: Walk-up tickets are available, but unless you don't mind standing in line for up to an hour or two, I'd recommend booking a time slot.

Talk to any Londoner and they'll probably tell you that Camden is just not what it used to be. And I'm not going to lie, the North London neighborhood has dramatically changed in recent years. Its edgy, alternative vibe is pretty much gone. Many of the charming parts of Camden Market  were replaced by fancy stalls, food courts and colorful hanging umbrellas. However, Camden is still well worth a visit, you just need to do a bit more digging. Ignore the souvenir shops and look for the small creative sellers that have stood their ground. Then head to The Hawley Arms, my go-to Camden pub and a musician's hangout. The late, great Amy Winehouse was a regular.

Camden's music scene is legendary, and many pubs have live gigs and open-mic nights. Some of the most iconic venues to check out for gigs include KOKO (frequented by supermodels such as Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss in their heydays), Electric Ballroom, Spiritual Records, Dingwalls and Jazz Cafe.

Pro tip: The annual Camden Rocks Festival sees hundreds of gigs around Camden Town. Check out updates and ticket information here .

A pub for Sunday roast

Sunday roast is a British meal traditionally consisting of roasted meat of some sort (beef is the most common), mashed and roasted potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, carrots, seasonal greens, gravy and apple or mint sauce. It's a big, hearty meal typically enjoyed early or late Sunday afternoon. Classic drinks to go with the foodie feast include local beers and ciders.

Sunday roasts rank high among the top things to do in London, and luckily there are plenty of options all around the city. One of the most popular is Camberwell Arms , which features five options served for two people to share. Other good choices are the trendy Blacklock Shoreditch (located inside a former furniture factory) and Quality Chop House, which has fed hungry guests since 1869. If you're a vegan, like me, or just curious about a meat-free option, head to The Spread Eagle, London's first fully plant-based pub.

Pro tip: All the above pubs (and many others around the city) are packed on Sunday, so booking is essential.

Royal Albert Hall

Opened in 1871 by Queen Victoria (and dedicated to her husband Albert, hence the name), Royal Albert Hall is probably the world's most famous concert hall. Its annual highlight is The Proms , an eight-week series of classical music organized by the BBC. But even if you're not a fan of orchestra performances, the venue is worth a visit. It's stunning inside and out and has the best acoustics you can find in the city.

What's more, the program is a lot more varied than you might expect. They also feature regular pop and rock gigs, and Eric Clapton, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, David Bowie and the Beatles have played here. You can also catch circus performances, movie nights, yoga sessions with live music and the occasional sumo wrestling event. If you go to a live gig, be prepared for the band to leave the stage midconcert for a mandatory interval. When I saw Bryan Adams in 2022, he apologized for the break, then jokingly explained that even rock stars had to follow the Royal Albert Hall's strict house rules.

Pro tip: Many of the events at Royal Albert Hall are instant sell-outs, but it's always worth checking at the box office or their website for last-minute tickets on the day of the event. If you're interested in a peek behind the scenes, book a backstage tour.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum in posh South Kensington is one of the best things to do in London with kids. It houses more than 80 million animals, plants and rocks spanning 4.5 billion years that are displayed in about 20 galleries. The main eye-catcher upon arrival is a 25.2-metre-long blue whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling. The female animal died in Ireland more than 120 years ago and was given a name when moved to its new home: Hope. Other highlights include dinosaurs, a giant gorilla, a Moon rock sample from the 1972 Apollo 16 mission, meteorites and an earthquake simulator. The Natural History Museum is free to visit except for special exhibitions.

Pro tip: Watch out for museum events such as yoga and tai chi classes, silent disco nights or sleepovers for grown-ups.

Gordon's Wine Bar

Gordon's Wine Bar , conveniently located close to Covent Garden and the West End, is London's oldest wine bar. It opened its doors in 1890, and not much has changed since. The moment you step into this cave-like spot you'll be transported back in time, with most of the original decor still in place. Faded newspaper articles and photos hang on the walls, and there are wine-bottle candle holders and old-fashioned wooden chairs and tables. The low ceiling further adds to the atmosphere. As expected, the bar has an extensive choice of wines, which can be paired with cheese, meat, mezze and sharing boards.

Gordon's is not only a great place for drinks and food but also for people-watching. The bar is one of the most popular spots for people to first meet their dating-app match.

Pro tip: Gordon's Wine Bar is one of the few places in London that do not accept bookings. Arrive early, and be prepared to wait for a bit—it will be worth it.

Greenwich makes a fun day out of the city—without actually leaving the city. Located in the southeast of London, it's home to an artsy market with lots of food stalls, a beautiful park perfect for taking London skyline pictures, the National Maritime Museum and the Cutty Sark, one of the oldest and best known tea clipper ships in the world. There's also the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory, where you can stand with one foot in the western hemisphere and the other foot in the eastern. Greenwich can be reached by tube, bus and train, but the most fun way is to take a boat from central London. Hop on board at Westminster Pier and see famous landmarks such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral and Tower Bridge from the water.

Pro tip: While it's possible to buy tickets for the boats from the ticket booths and machines at the pier, the easiest way is to just use your bank or credit card and tap in and out like you would at the bus or tube.

Saatchi Gallery

London has about 200 museums, but Saatchi Gallery is the one place I keep coming back to again and again. A registered charity, the exhibition place is known for its fun and immersive displays of all kinds of subcultures and contemporary photo shows, and it's a supporter of up-and-coming artists from the U.K. and beyond. Highlights I've seen here include a show on the heydays of the British rave scene, exhibitions on Bob Marley and French street artist JR, as well as American photographers documenting social change since the 1960s. Recently, they also had a three-floor display of the U.K.'s graffiti scene.

Pro tip: The gallery regularly hosts artists talks, and they also have "Saatchi Lates," which feature extended exhibition hours, workshops and DJ sets.

Independent cinemas

While London's big-chain movie theaters around Leicester Square all come with XXL screens and the latest technology, the independent ones are where the real magic happens. Just around the corner from Leicester Square toward China Town is Prince Charles Cinema , where both the latest blockbusters and classic movies are shown. They also have movie marathons—from Harry Potter to Terminator and Lord of the Rings— where fans gather for up to 24 hours to watch the whole series. They even encourage singalongs during music-movie marathons by projecting lyrics on the screen for a karaoke vibe.

I am a regular at Genesis Cinema in East London, which has been showing movies since 1912 and comes with bar events such as open-mic and comedy nights on top. They also charge only 5£ Monday to Thursday, which is less than a third of what you'd pay on Leicester Square. Other great places include Electric Cinema, which has leather armchairs and double beds in the front row; Lexi Cinema, a volunteer-run place supporting charities in South Africa); and Everyman Screen on the Green, where wine and pizza are served to your seat.

Pro tip: London hosts tons of small and large film festivals throughout the year, so watch out for premieres, Q&As and other special events.

Highgate Cemetery

Walking around graves might not seem the most obvious choice for a fun day out in London, but Highgate Cemetery is worth making an exception. The Victorian cemetery looks a bit cramped and chaotic, but the sunken headstones, faded engravings and missing names on the tombs make it beautiful and charming at the same time. Highgate is the final resting place of no less than 170,000 people, including many celebrities. The one resident most visitors are looking for is German philosopher Karl Marx. His grave can be found in the east part of the cemetery and is easily recognizable by a giant sculpture of his head.

Pro tip: To enter the cemetery , you need a ticket, which you can buy online or on site. If you want some background info (and to hear morbid anecdotes), you can also book a guided tour.

Hackney City Farm

Big cities and farms might not go together well at first glance, but London does have several working farms close to its busiest districts. One of the loveliest is Hackney City Farm in East London, which has pigs, donkeys, ponies, sheep, ducks, a vegetable garden, a small shop that sells homemade produce and a restaurant. The farm opened in 1984 and regularly welcomes local school kids. They also run workshops in animal handling and arts classes including pottery and woodworking.

Pro tip: Visits are free, but donations are welcome. Don't leave without a drink in their cute backyard garden.

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The 10 best things to do in London this spring, from parks to pubs with beer gardens

Whether you’re interested in food markets or flower gardens, london comes alive in spring, article bookmarked.

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Blossom in bloom in front of London’s St Paul’s Cathedral

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Spring in London is full of excitement and anticipation. The weather ’s starting to warm up, the days are getting longer, and blooming trees are scattering pink and white confetti on pavements and in parks.

From April onwards, we can start to enjoy a drink on the terraces or roofs of London’s best pubs and bars without our lips turning blue. It’s an ideal time to soak up some of the city’s cultural attractions before they become rammed with tourists in the summer. And if you’re looking for the best food, you’ll be spoiled for choice by both open-air food markets and the fresh, seasonal produce served up at the capital’s world-beating restaurants.

You don’t even need to spend any money to enjoy London in the spring. Most of the city’s galleries and museums are free to enter, and you can stay inside for as long as you like. Then there are 5,000 acres of historic parkland to explore in London’s eight royal parks ; from Richmond Park to Regent’s Park, you’re never too far from a park that’s big enough to get lost in.

Here are 10 of the best activities to tick off your London to-do list this spring.

Cut some rug at In The Round festival

Tirzah will perform as part of the 2024 In The Round Festival

Returning for its seventh year at Camden’s excellent Roundhouse is In The Round Festival. This unique line-up includes emerging and established artists, such as Tirzah, Vashti Bunyan, Lucy Rose, Ezra Collective ’s Joe Armon-Jones, and Jlin. Prepare for inspirational and intimate performances on this remarkable venue’s circular stage.

Price : From £10, Roundhouse

Walk the wobbly bridge

The cinematic approach to St Paul’s Cathedral is over the Millenium Bridge

The Millenium Bridge, which spans the Thames from Tate Modern to St Paul’s Cathedral , is known as the “wobbly bridge” as it swayed in the wind when it first opened in 2000. It no longer moves but what you see while walking it will pull at your heartstrings and make you fall in love with London, espcecially on a sunny day. Start on the south side and you’ll see the magnificent dome of St Paul’s Cathedral slowly come into view. You’ll find several blooming cherry blossom trees scattered in St Paul’s Churchyard between the end of March and mid May, giving the historic building a stunning floral frame.

Price: Free

Read more on London travel :

  • The best luxury hotels in London: Where to stay for glamour and style
  • The best London hotels for afternoon tea
  • Best cheap hotels in London

Swim outside in Hampstead

Water temperatures at Parliament Hill Lido start to rise in spring

Hampstead Heath is home to swimming ponds and pools that are open all year round. If you haven’t done much outdoor swimming before, you might want to dip your toe in by visiting Parliament Hill Lido, which is an unheated 60m pool with a lifeguard. By April, the water starts to warm up and become more enjoyable to swim in – rather than just purely good for you. You can simply rock up without booking in advance, and entry is a reasonable £4.50. If you get the bug, you can ask about joining the men’s pond, ladies’ pond or mixed pond.

Price: £4.50, Parliament Hill Lido

Grab a bite in Brixton

Sunshine and snacks at Pop Brixton

Brixton comes alive when the sun is shining. Easy to reach on the Victoria line, it’s worth heading south to sample a variety of differnt cuisines, which somehow tastes fresher when eaten outside. Pop Brixton is a colourful cluster of shipping containers transformed into a gastronomic wonderland, incorporating countless different restaurants and stalls.

Price: Depends on what you eat or drink, Pop Brixton

Cruise the canal

Take a narrow boat trip on Regent’s Canal

See London from a different angle by taking a trip on a narrow boat down Regent’s Canal , from Camden Market to Little Venice. The route takes 45 minutes, passing through the grounds of London Zoo – where you should be able to see wolves and African warthogs without paying for a zoo entry fee. You’ll also float through the echoey depths of the Madia Hill Tunnel. Each boat has large slide-to-open windows, so everyone gets a view (and ventilation).

Price : £15 (concessions available), London Waterbus Company

Smell the flowers in bloom at Kew

Get lost in the colours of spring flowers

Vivid blooming flowers, unfurling green leaves and the melodious sound of birdsong are all part of a visit to Kew Gardens in south-west London. Spring is sakura season, so you can stroll down a path of Japanese cherry blossom trees if you visit before mid-May. It’s also the best time to see spectacular bluebells, that only come out between April and mid-May. Don’t forget a camera.

Price: Adults from £20 when booked in advance (weekends cost more), children from £5 when booked in advance (weekends cost more), Kew Gardens

Boating on the Serpentine

Make the most of Hyde Park ahead of the summer crowds

Spending time on the water is a great way to relax. Hiring a pedalo and drifting around Hyde Park’s Serpentine lake allows you to slow down, take in nature and have some fun. It’s a great place for people watching, and you’ll be surprised how quickly the hours slip away. Everyone is given a life jacket and it’s safe for children above the age of three.

Price: Adults £12, children £6, Royal Parks

Enjoy a riverside pint

Drink up while the sun shines down

The Ship is a Wandsworth institution, and has the best beer garden in London, according to Tripadvisor. The huge Thameside terrace is the place to be when it’s sunny. All the biggest rugby matches are shown, there’s a quiz every Tuesday evening, and DJs fill the place with music every Saturday night. Foodies are drawn in by its famous hearty brunches.

Price: Pints from £5, The Ship

See some of swinging London’s best dresses

Biba at London’s Fashion and Textile Museum

Fashionistas will adore this exhibition of Barbara Hulanicki ’s influential label, Biba. The Polish designer’s creations came to epitomise swinging London and continue to resonate today. From the first simple shift dresses, to super-glam wraps, trouser suits, sequinned bodices and floppy hats, this exhibition brings together some of the British label’s most beloved looks.

Price: Adults £11.50 (concessions apply), Fashion and Textile Museum

Get a caffeine hit

Get a caffeine hit at London Coffee Festival

Consider yourself a coffee connoisseur? Head to the London Coffee Festival, which is taking over Brick Lane’s Truman Brewery this April. With over 250 artisan coffee and gourmet food stalls, demonstrations from world-class baristas, workshops, talks and tasting sessions, this is the crème de la crème of coffee gatherings.

Price: Adults £38, London Coffee Festival

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83 Best Indoor Activities in London when it Rains

indoor activities to do in London when it rains

Let’s face it: as lovely as London is, the city is rather famously prone to rainy weather.

But just because things are drab outside doesn’t mean that your vacation will be a bust; after all, you don’t become one of the world’s great metropolises without offering plenty of cool attractions… and many of them can be enjoyed regardless of the conditions outside!

So join us for magic, museums, music, and madcap historical adventures, as we dive into some of the best indoor activities in London .

1 – Delve into the endless wonders of The British Museum

The British Museum, Central London

There’s nothing quite like the collection in the British Museum , whose incredible inventory of artifacts spans almost the entire range of human history.

Glamorous Chinese outfits, Ancient Egyptian mummies, and prehistoric tools are just some of the millions of items you’ll find here, showcasing grand cultural traditions and the details of daily life in equal measure.

With such a dizzying size, it’s best to pick certain themes or areas to cover, and there are plenty of awesome guided tours and themed routes through the space to help orient you.

This is also a great starting point to explore the best museums and art galleries in London !

  • British Museum tickets & tours

2 – Ride the London Eye

London Eye in London

Equally beautiful from the ground and from the top, the London Eye is certainly an iconic part of the cityscape!

And there’s something extra special about hitching a ride on this spectacular Ferris Wheel in inclement weather; you’ll be able to see the skyline and the clouds in all of their beauty and complexity.

Simply climb into your car, and slowly rise 135 meters (443 feet) above the ground, watching some of the coolest spots in London appear all around you in breathtaking fashion.

And if you want to spend less on your big adventure, check out Cheap London Eye Tickets – How to Save up to 30% !

  • London Eye tickets & tours

3 – Explore Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio

Harry Potter studio tour in London

All these years later, the Boy Who Lived is still going strong; and no trip to town is complete without paying a visit to his world!

The Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour takes you behind the scenes of the magical world of Hogwarts, as you tour sets, admire props, and literally walk in the footsteps of the best witches and wizards of the age.

Just watch out for Death Eaters!

And never fear if you’re just discovering this activity; you can get more insider tips with a look at Harry Potter Studio London Tickets Last Minute – It’s not sold out!

If you’re still craving a little more magic afterwards, grab your wand and head out to enjoy the other best Harry Potter tours in London !

  • Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tours in London

4 – Wander through some Immersive Art Experiences

Immersive Art Experiences in London

While traditional galleries are great, these avant-garde blends of art and technology will draw you straight into the canvas – and beyond!

Learn about Monet’s life story, or wander through the dreamy Post-Impressionist landscapes of Van Gogh .

Indulge all of your senses – especially your sense of wonder! – at the visually stunning Dopamine Land , or journey into the many imaginative worlds of Frameless , where each piece transcends traditional boundaries and brings you into a new universe.

In these spaces, the art truly comes alive… and you get to be absorbed into it!

5 – Let your sense of wonder soar at the Science Museum

Science Museum, Central London

From the history books to the laboratory… it’s time for some hands-on fun at the  Science Museum !

Long considered one of the best tourist attractions in London , this remarkable space invites visitors of all ages to take in some of history’s greatest innovations, from medical marvels to vessels that have explored the reaches of the cosmos.

And much like its culturally focused counterpart, the institution offers several themed routes that make it easier to navigate… while still seeing all of the coolest spots!

6 – Unwind at the Sky Garden

sky garden in London

Soaring 160 meters (525 feet) above the rooftops, the Sky Garden isn’t just the tallest public green space in the city… it’s also one of the coolest!

As you immerse yourself in gorgeous gatehrings of lavender, lilies, Birds of Paradise, and hearty Mediterranean plants, you’ll also have one of the world’s most beloved skylines as a backdrop, offering an incredible melding of two worlds.

Grab a cocktail at the on-site bar and enjoy the scene!

7 – Get up to some enchanted hijinks at The Cauldron London

The Cauldron, London UK

If you’re seeking a different spin on magical life, this delightful bar/immersive experience will let you really feel like a witch or warlock… wands included!

Smack dab in the middle of town, the immersive experience is perhaps best known for its “potion-making” classes, where you can craft your own enchanting elixir… er, cocktail, using any number of fun ingredients.

But there’s plenty of non-alcoholic fun to be had here as well, whether you’re crafting your ideal spellcasting device at the wandmaking workshop or settling down for a whimsical afternoon tea.

This is one spot that certainly offers plenty of “charms”!

  • See price & reviews

8 – Mingle with the monarchs at Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace in London UK

If you’re looking for classic indoor activities in London, you can’t miss the most famous residence in town!

Of course, Buckingham Palace is most famous as the regal home of the country’s monarchy… but believe it or not, you can actually go inside!

Tour the ornate halls of the State Rooms and visit the noble steeds of the monarchy at the Royal Mews, and keep an eye out for the Changing of the Guard outside… it happens rain or shine!

Not only is it another one of the best places to visit in London , but it’s also a globally iconic piece of architecture!

  • Buckingham Palace tours & tickets

Tickets are sold out? Learn how  to book last minute Buckingham Palace tickets .

9 – Linger over the pieces in the Queens Gallery

The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace, London

Once you’re inside the palace, you’ll have an abundance of cool rooms to explore; but the Queens Gallery is probably one of the most awe-inspiring!

These rooms, which were established for Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee in 2002, hold some of the most incredible masterpieces from the royal family’s extensive collection, including shimmering silver furniture and stunningly detailed tapestries .

Each display offers unique insights into the long and storied history of the royal family… and the fact that it’s housed in the palace only adds to the effect!

  • Queens Gallery tickets & tours

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relaxing places to visit in london

Put on those mouse ears and start your magical journey with the Disney100: Exhibition in London! Immerse yourself in a century of Disney stories, from the classic Snow White to the recent Encanto. Marvel at rare artifacts, costumes, and treasures from Pixar Studios and the iconic Star Wars films among others.

  • See price and reviews

10 – Take in a West End musical… or several!

Wicked The Musical, West End show, London

Much like Broadway across the pond, the West End Theaters and West End Shows are renowned for their excellent quality and memorable productions.

And what better way to celebrate that legacy than with a toe-tapping musical?

Take a trip to a wacky wedding in Greece with Mamma Mia , enjoy the chilling obsession at the heart of Phantom of the Opera , or peek into the wider world of Oz with Wicked .

Thrill to the powerful family drama of The Lion King , join a band of revolutionaries in Les Miserables , travel to an icy kingdom and back with Frozen , or join a group of schoolkids battling authority with Matilda .

With jaw-dropping special effects and unforgettable musical numbers, these shows will keep you humming for days!

11 – Stop by the Houses of Parliament

Houses of Parliament in London

On the political side of things, you can pay a visit to the hallowed halls of the Houses of Parliament, which is tucked into the stately Westminster Abbey complex.

Technically, there are two different branches housed here: The House of Commons, and the House of Lords.

But they often intersect and interact on political decisions, and you’ll be able to enjoy an extensive analysis of both as you explore.

With nearly 500 years of history, they’re an ideal destination if you want to understand the fascinating legacy of the country’s civic structures – and how they operate in the present day!

  • Houses of Parliament tickets

12 – Navigate some exciting escape rooms

escape rooms in London

Time to escape into another world… and then escape from it!

As befits such a dynamic and creative city, the escape rooms in London offer every kind of adventure and challenge imaginable… a perfect way to spend an hour or two!

Explore haunted realms, schools of magic, and Jurassic realms, searching for clues and cracking codes as you enjoy the remarkable details of each space.

These places prove that you’re never too old for a little bit of make-believe… or some detective work!

  • escape rooms in London

13 – Soak up a Candlelight Concert

candlelight concerts in London

When you’re ready for sophistication and relaxation, there’s nothing quite like a candlelight concert!

From classical symphonies to film scores and everywhere in between, each show promises its own incredible auditory experience… and all of them are accompanied by the gentle flicker of rows of beautiful candles.

And if you’re looking for other activities with a more intimate feel, there are plenty of other great romantic things to do in London for couples !

  • candlelight concert tikets

14 – Steel your nerves for the London Dungeon

London Dungeon, Central London

Murderers, rebels, and jails… oh my!

At the London Dungeon, you’ll find a millennium’s worth of spooky, grim, and fascinating tales, real and fictional, and all brought to life in gruesome fashion with rides, actors, and excellent effects.

As you discover some of the city’s strangest and darkest chapters, you’ll come face to face with recreated settings and actors that draw you straight into these eerie worlds.

Luckily, you’ll eventually be able to exit this cursed realm… but not before snapping some great pictures!

  • London Dungeon tickets

Laugh like a little kid inside Bubble Planet

relaxing places to visit in london

Bubble Planet is an immersive virtual reality journey that invites guests to cut loose and laugh like never before. Find yourself playing with bubbles, as you walk deeper into the different rooms, to find yourself surrounded by changing different landscapes, while you fly on a bubble, or splash around in a giant tub of bubbles!

15 – Enjoy a show at the Royal Albert Hall

Royal Albert Hall in London

With its distinctive dome, Royal Albert Hall is hard to miss; and its interior offerings are just as exciting and impressive.

Since it opened in 1871, the building has continually hosted some of the world’s best speakers and performers, from world-class symphonies to speeches by British icons like Sir Winston Churchill.

And while you could easily spend a whole visit just soaking up the architecture and the traces of past geniuses, it’s well worth coming to see one of the current shows; no matter what’s on, it’s guaranteed to be top-tier!

16 – Enjoy the majesty of Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey in London

A nearby neighbor to the Houses of Parliament (see #11), Westminster Abbey is one of the capital’s greatest civic treasures – with a fascinating past to match!

From its earliest origins as a simple Benedictine church created in the 960s, the space blossomed into a major religious site, home to state services and countless coronations, weddings, and funerals.

Still an active theological spot today, the abbey also houses incredible art, lively performances, and gorgeous historical furniture… not a bad lineup!

And as an added bonus, it’s close to many of the other fun & unusual things to do in central London .

  • Westminster Abbey tickets & tours

17 – Explore the intersection of new technologies with the best VR Experiences

best VR experiences in London

As amazing as  all of the older indoor activities in London are, there’s something particularly exciting about exploring the city’s many innovative virtual realms!

Dive into the worlds of Angry Birds and Paw Patrol at Immersive Gamebox , pop over to MeetSpace VR to try some interactive games and outer space battles, or swim alongside whales and explore spooky scenes at Immotion VR .

And if you’re looking for even more ways to venture out of the real world (if only for a few hours), check out some of the other best VR experiences in London !

18 – Meet some great (fake) folks at Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds, London

The city has long been home to all kinds of celebrities, and at Madame Tussauds, you’ll see plenty of them… living and dead!

Politicians, movie stars, athletes, and superheroes all take center stage here, stunningly depicted in lifelike wax forms.

Take some photos with your favorites, and admire the almost uncanny details of these famous figures!

  • Madame Tussauds tickets & tours

19 – Ponder the collections at the Museum of Brands

Museum of brands in London

We’re all perpetually surrounded by different commercials and products… but how often do we think about the designs and stories surrounding these commonplace items and industries?

The Museum of Brands dives deep into the world of advertising, with historic labels and displays tracing the evolution of many of the nation’s most popular creations.

These displays all showcase a different side of British culture, where even the most seemingly mundane items take on a new meaning!

  • Museum of Brands tickets & tours

Blast off as a cocktail cosmonaut in Avora

relaxing places to visit in london

Step off the streets of London and into the bioluminescent world of Avora for a one-of-a-kind cocktail experience.

You’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a sci-fi movie after you put on your custom jumpsuit and explore this strange land while interacting with the local Avorians, who will serve you plenty of cocktail “antidotes” to help you adjust to the planet’s atmosphere.

20 – Huck some hatchets at Axeperience Axe Throwing

Axe Throwing in London

You don’t have to head to the great outdoors to try the life of a lumberjack… just pop over to Axeperience Axe Throwing !

This increasingly popular sport has found a suitable home in London, with fun sets, unique challenges, and even some glow-in-the-dark areas!

Bring your friends and family for some lively competition, and see who the best thrower will be!

21 – Check out the specimens at the Natural History Museum

Natural History Museum, London

Dinosaurs, ancient redwoods, and drinking vessels made from human skulls… you never know what you’ll find in the Natural History Museum!

Millions of years of the planet’s greatest delights are on display here, as you wander into the prehistoric world and onwards, meeting all kinds of cool plants, rocks, and animals along the way.

You’ll see through time and get a great dose of scientific knowledge, all in one go!

  • Natural History Museum tickets & tours

22 – Poke around Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market in London

Smack dab in the middle of town, this bustling venue has just about everything you could ever want or need to buy… and browsing is half the fun!

But perhaps the coolest aspect of Leadenhall Market is the fact that it’s completely covered, meaning that you can enjoy it no matter the weather!

Stroll beneath the marvelous glass archways and enjoy all manner of food, drink, and retail options, reveling in the same joyful atmosphere that has persisted in this spot since the 1300s!

23 – Stroll around the Tate Modern

Tate Modern, London, UK

Diving deeper into the world of art, you can surround yourself with masterpieces of every genre at the Tate Modern!

The pieces here are all from the 1800s and 1900s, and they showcase the phenomenal growth in creativity that was taking place all over the world at that time.

Expressionism, Impressionism, abstract works and surreal pop art all have a home here, with pieces by renowned masters such as Dali, Warhol, Rothko, and Monet.

Housed within a former electricity-producing station, the entire space invites you to connect with these iconic pieces on an intimate level!

  • Tate Modern tickets & tours

24 – Meet some of your favorite cartoon creations at Shrek’s adventure

Shrek’s adventure, Central London

He may be more famous for hanging out in a swamp, but everybody’s favorite ogre also has a pretty cool spot right here in London!

Grab the whole family and embark on Shrek’s adventure, a multisensory escapade where you can explore the exciting world of Dreamworks movies come to life.

Journey through the fantastical kingdom of Far Far Away, as you meet all of your favorite characters from the series… including the famous green guy himself, of course.

It’s great fun for fans of every age!

  • Shrek’s adventure tickets

25 – Get into the nuances of the National Maritime Museum

National Maritime Museum in London

Sure, you’ll find ships of every sort at the National Maritime Museum ; but it’s also a great place to experience the vast scope of navigation, timekeeping, and more!

Unsurprisingly given that it’s located in Greenwich – where one of the world’s most popular timekeeping methods was invented -, the bulk of the collection focuses on these different tools and methods, from maps and charts to naivgational instruments and models of former seafaring vessels.

After spending some time here, you may feel tempted to take to the open water!

26 – Experience a fluorescent wonderland at God’s Own Junkyard

God’s Own Junkyard, London

Twinkling, flashing, blinking lights surround you in God’s Own Junkyard , a glorious tribute to the power of electric design.

This stunning museum all stems from the impressive personal collection of Chris Bracey, an acclaimed creator of neon signs; along with many of his own projects, you’ll find impressive vintage items, Hollywood setpieces, and lively circus leftovers all glowing side by side.

Of all the amazing indoor activities in London, this one shines the brightest!

Sip and paint in the dark at this unique workshop!

relaxing places to visit in london

This retro-futuristic experience combines the thrill of painting with a fluorescent twist, offering a brush in one hand and a choice of drink in the other. The musical backdrop adds to the atmosphere, making it a perfect outing for friends. By the end of the night, not only will you have had an unforgettable experience, but you’ll also leave with a personal masterpiece to proudly display at home.

27 – Get to know the town at the Museum of London

Museum of London, Central London

Fittingly situated in one of the city’s famous roundabouts, the Museum of London pays tribute to the city with exhibits that are both deeply traditional and utterly inventive.

Explore the world of knights and nobles, delve into tragedies like the Great Fire of London, or examine the ways in which people of various races, classes, and genders have had very different experiences of the same streets.

It’s a fascinating – and deeply necessary – glimpse into the marvelous metropolis around you!

28 – Hang out at Sea Life Aquarium

SEA LIFE Aquarium, Central London

Waddling penguins, jaw-dropping tropical scenes, and tunnels full of sharks… there’s nothing like a nautical adventure at Sea Life Aquarium!

Home to more than 7,000 amazing creatures and recreated marine ecosystems – including the U.K.’s largest coral reef -, this magnificent spot will bring you around the world and back again with ease.

Whether you’re meeting some magnificent polar bears or learning how to touch sea stars, this is a perfect spot for animal fans to enjoy!

  • Sea Life Aquarium tickets

29 – Admire the exhibits of the Victoria and Albert Museum

Victoria and Albert Museum, London, UK

In days gone by, the creators of Victoria and Albert Museum sought to preserve some of the finest decorative pieces created by various cultures; and that legacy is still going strong today, over 170 years later!

Filled with Roman antiques, ancient textiles, blueprints by renpwned architects, and even fine metal meatslicers from the 1940s, the whole space is devoted to the ever-evolving concepts of aesthetics… and the palatial building that houses it certainly plays into that role!

  • Victoria and Albert Museum tickets & tours

30 – Give some Cricket a go

Sixes, London

Arguably one of the nation’s most beloved – and sometimes baffling – sports, cricket matches are a fascinating cultural experience that can be savored rain or shine.

And better yet, you can try your hand at the game yourself!

Sixes Social Cricket seeks to demystify the sport by giving you the chance to actively participate in it, with several batting cages and simulated pitches that provide ample opportunity to learn some new moves.

Come in, work the wickets, and see what this exciting endeavor is all about!

31 – Enjoy the Royal Academy of Arts

Royal Academy of Arts in London

Focusing both on the production of creative works and the broader analysis of them, the Royal Academy of Arts holds an unbelievable catalog of beauties… not to mention  the traveling exhibits!

In this amazing space, you’ll be able to enjoy pieces from every era and ideology, from wonderfully challenging modern works to copies of The Last Supper .

And don’t miss the many presenations, classes, and all-ages programs that seek to make the masterpieces here even more accessible!

Play Your Part In The Gunpowder Plot Immersive Experience

relaxing places to visit in london

Travel back to 1605 London with The Gunpowder Plot at the Tower of London, where live theatre, VR, and multisensory tech bring history to life. Become part of the infamous conspiracy, navigating the perilous streets, meeting key figures, and engaging in covert missions. This immersive experience places you in the shoes of a conspirator, challenging you to outwit history itself in a daring adventure.

32 – Let your youngsters romp around Kidzania

Kidzania, London

If your youngsters are getting restless, take them over to Kidzania , where they can try out lives as firefighters, doctors, pilots, and more!

Set up like a model village, the space gives children a chance to live out fantasies of adulthood, trying on different jobs and lives for size.

And it’s more than just make-believe; the activities are all geared towards helping kids think more about their own place in the world, offering ideas that can reverberate long after they leave!

  • Kidzania tickets

33 – Peruse the offerings at Whitechapel Gallery

Whitechapel Gallery in London

Despite its simple facade, the offerings at Whitechapel Gallery are staggering… no surprise for a place that once counted Picasso and Kahlo among its patrons!

While there are plenty of more traditional displays here, the focus is also on educating the masses, with an endless array of speeches and events that encourage dialogue around the works displayed.

You’ll feel like you’ve just undergone a crash course in art school!

34 – Hang out on the many levels of The Shard

The Shard in London

Shooting 310 meters (1,017 feet) into the air, the distinctive profile of The Shard dominates the skyline – and it’s even more impressive when you’re inside the building itself!

Hop aboard an elevator and soar 69 floors up in just over a minute, then disembark for a jaw-dropping panoramic view, featuring guest appearances by heavy hitters such as Buckingham Palace and Big Ben.

Or go all the way up to the 72nd floor, where you can enjoy even loftier vantage points surrounded by the artistic glass fragments that gave the building its name.

  • The Shard tickets & tours

35 – Shop ’til you drop at Harrods

Harrods, Central London

One of the liveliest indoor activities in London – especially for shoppers! – is a trip through the hallowed halls of Harrods , which has serviced the city and its visitors for nearly 175 years.

One of the last massive department stores still standing, its many floors feature delights around every corner, from clothes and fine watches to beauty salons and dining options.

There are even personal shoppers available to help you find your way around and score the best goods!

36 – Take in the stream of masterpieces at the Tate Britain

Tate Britain in London

On the more gargantuan side of things, you can dive into half a millennium’s worth of art history at the Tate Britain , where you can roam through the minds of the United Kingdom’s greatest creators.

While diversity is on fine display here, there are also some particular collections that are deeply intriguing; for instance, it’s home to the world’s largest collection of pieces by J.M.W. Turner, a prominent painter of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Or just wander around and let yourself be dazzled by all of the different works… it’s easy to get caught up in their beauty!

Discover brick wonders at this LEGO exhibition

relaxing places to visit in london

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of The Art of the Brick, the world-famous LEGO exhibition. The show features millions of LEGO bricks turned into more than 100 awe-inspiring masterpieces! Experience LEGO T-Rex, musical instruments and even Van Gogh’s Starry Night on an unforgettable creative journey.

37 – Discover the delights of Covent Garden

Covent Garden, London

As one of the loveliest neighborhoods in town, Covent Garden provides fine dining, great shopping, and some lovely scenic strolls… plus a pretty cool public square!

And while you can certainly enjoy the area on your own, it’s also a great place for tours, with some particularly innovative options on offer.

From silent discos to personalized excursions, you’ll get to experience even more aspects of this remarkable community… sometimes with a little bit of extra party spirit thrown in!

  • Covent Garden tours

38 – Crack some cases at The Sherlock Holmes Museum

Sherlock Holmes Museum, Central London

While one of the city’s most famous residents is completely fictional, he still has a huge footprint on the town!

Step into The Sherlock Holmes Museum , and you may soon forget that its subject was not a real person; after all, the world of the famous detective and his many mysterious cases still feels vividly connected to our own.

Here, at his official Baker Street residence, you can browse through letters, character profiles, and recreated mementos from some of the more famous stories, losing yourself in the world of the great sleuth.

And if you want to venture even further into Victorian detective life, there are some excellent Sherlock Holmes tours all around the city!

  • Sherlock Holmes tours

39 – Enjoy the ethereal calm of Aire Ancient Baths

Aire Ancient Baths, London

Bringing the coolest relaxation methods of antiquity up to the modern day,  Aire Ancient Baths brings you a little bit of Greece, Rome, and Turkey… with plenty of British influences as well!

Unwind with a full-body massage, try multi-sensory wellness treatments, or luxuriate in a stunning pool surrounded by the hushed enchantment of historic architecture.

Housed in the beautiful Covent Garden neighborhood, this unique spa experience is sure to delight and relax in equal measure!

40 – Enjoy the flying fleet of the Royal Air Force Museum

Royal Air Force Museum in London

If your head is often in the clouds – specifically, focused on the planes that fly through them -, then a trip to the Royal Air Force Museum is time well spent!

Packed with decades of military planes, it’s certainly heaven on earth for aviation fans; but it’s also a fascinating historical spot in general, with great insights into the country’s wars and the brave pilots that fought these battles from the seats of the aircraft you see before you.

From bombers to jets and everything in between, these vehicles are certainly compelling to behold!

41 – Have a pint in a cosy pub

cosy pubs in London

There’s nothing more comforting on a rainy day than to head inside a traditional British pub. And luckily, there’s plenty in London.

Head to The Churchill Arms for a drink among floral decor and memorabilia of Winston Churchill. Or, stop by The Prospect of Whitby and have a burger while admiring the views of the River Thames.

For a trip through history, take a seat at The Mayflower , a pub dating back to the 1500s that serves up some classic fish and chips.

So what are you waiting for? Stretch yourself out by the fire and have a pint!

Journey into the past with Stranger Things: The First Shadow

relaxing places to visit in london

“Stranger Things: The First Shadow” playing at the Phoenix Theatre brings the untold tale of Hawkins to life. Written by Kate Trefry and based on an original story by the Duffer Brothers, this gripping West End play reveals the origins of characters like Joyce, Hopper, and Henry Creel before their world turned upside down. Performed in the heart of London’s West End, the play is a masterpiece of theatrical storytelling, offering a unique prequel experience for fans of the iconic series.

42 – Indulge in an afternoon tea experience

afternoon tea, London

Pinkies up, saucers raised… it’s time for some of the exceptional Afternoon tea experiences in London!

Choose between the equally iconic options of a double-decker bus or a boat cruising along the River Thames, then settle for several rounds of top-tier service, with treats and an incredible assortment of different beverages.

Kick back, indulge your fancy side, and enjoy one of the most charming rituals around!

  • Afternoon tea experiences in London

Hot tip: The best bus tours in London offer a convenient and informative journey through the city’s bustling streets, iconic bridges, and royal parks.

43 – Absorb the city’s shipping industry at the Museum of London Docklands

Museum of London Docklands

Combining the industrial past with some fascinating social analyses, the Museum of London Docklands is great for every sort of curious mind!

A spinoff of the main Museum of London (see #28), this space focuses primarily on the River Thames and the many industrial and cultural activities that have taken place in and along it over the centuries.

But it also explores some of the larger – and more troubling – aspects of the city’s shipping history, including its significant role in the transatlantic slave trade.

From original boats floating in the water to a gallery specifically aimed at children, the whole space will help you see the city’s nautical side in greater detail.

44 – Keep an eye on your cards at a Bingo Game

bingo games in London

You may think of it as a game for senior citizens, but bingo has taken on a new life over the years!

Of course, any city as hip as London will put its own spin on the classic; and whether you’re enjoying the multimedia, sports-style excitement of Hijingo Bingo or testing your knowledge of tunes with a bit of Musical Bingo , these games will put your grandma’s routine to shame.

Grab a card and get ready for action!

45 – Enjoy the lush melodies of the London Symphony Orchestra

London Symphony Orchestra, Central London

Classical scores, incredible collaborations, and a one-of-a-kind venue…. there’s nothing like a performance of the London Symphony Orchestra !

The concerts generally take place at the Barbican Centre – a renowned forum for cultural arts in the city -, and while they certainly do a lot of classical music, you can often find some more daring and contemporary programs, as well as some kid-oriented options.

And if you happen to be visiting on a Friday, check out their small, informal afternoon concerts!

46 – Putter around the London Transport Museum

London Transport Museum, United Kingdom

From the Tube to the bus lines, this is certainly a city with many modes of movement; and where better to explore that legacy than at the London Transport Museum ?

The spacious halls are packed with vehicles from every era of the city’s history; as you amble around, you’ll see buses evolving gradually over the decades, or explore the earliest train systems back in the 1800s.

There’s an unbelievable story between those wheels!

  • London Transport Museum tickets & tours

Explore the dreamlike world of Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition

relaxing places to visit in london

Immerse yourself in “Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition”, a visual feast inspired by Wes Anderson’s iconic filmography. This Instagram hit and best-selling book comes to life as a photography exhibition, featuring unique global settings with surreal symmetry and enchanting hues. Highlights include captivating photographs, explorations of diverse themes and intriguing stories behind each location.

47 – Split your sides at the best local comedy clubs

best comedy clubs in London

Alright, time for a few chuckles!

The comedy scene in town is truly top-notch, and there are an infinite array of venues where you can tickle your funny bone British style.

See top touring acts and acclaimed locals at Always Be Comedy , packed daily lineups at 99 Club Leicester Square , or head to Angel Comedy for affordable shows with excellent performers.

You can also take in some amazing stand-up in an equally impressive space with Live at the Chapel , Big Belly Comedy Club , or swing by Soho Theatre to enjoy a lively mix of shows that also includes cabaret and avant-garde theater.

48 – Explore the mythos of the Tower of London

Tower of London

A longtime home of royals, prisoners, and everyone in between, the Tower of London cuts a formative figure; and a trip within its walls is one of the most fascinating indoor activities in London!

Originally built in the 1070s as a defensive sturcture by WIlliam The Conqueror, the complex grew and changed constantly over the centuries; one minute a jail for political dissidents, the next a home for the Crown Jewels.

Take time to absorb every inch of the space; it’s packed with legacies that span nearly the length of the country itself!

  • Tower of London tickets & tours

49 – Admire the amazing selection at LEGO® Store Leicester Square

The LEGO Store in Leicester Square, London

Looking for fun things to do in London with teens ?

Proving that you’re never too old for a bit of imagination, the world’s largest Lego Store will help your sense of play!

Of course, there are plenty of great items that you can buy here, but the trip is also about experiencing the joyful tributes to these lovely little blocks.

Enjoy some fun photo ops, admire massive structures like James Bond’s car, or swing by the minifigure factory to create your very own Lego lookalike!

50 – Pay a visit to Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, London, UK

While Hampton Court Palace is certainly stunning, the legacies within its walls are, shall we say, mixed.

After all, this was where the notorious King Henry VIII once resided, along with a succession of wives.

But the castle has plenty of other fascinating aspects, from its lovely gardens and extensive art collection to its time as a home for generations of other royals.

It’s a remarkable look into the sometimes tumultuous world of the Tudors!

  • Hampton Court Palace tickets & tours

Journey to Egypt with The Horizon of Khufu VR experience

relaxing places to visit in london

The Horizon of Khufu has arrived in London, offering an unparalleled journey back to the golden age of ancient Egypt. This is your chance to immerse yourself in the era of King Khufu and explore the iconic pyramids as they stood 4,500 years ago. A journey through time, offering education, entertainment, and the thrill of discovery all in one.

51 – Enjoy some of the world’s finest vinos at Gordon’s Wine Bar

Gordon’s Wine Bar, London

There’s nothing like a nice glass of vino… especially at a spot that’s over 130 years old!

As the oldest watering hole of its kind in the city, Gordon’s Wine Bar combines a wonderful atmosphere with an extensive lineup of beverages, plus expert sommeliers that can help you make the best selections.

Settle into one of the dark, cozy booths, and snag a glass or two… and maybe some cheese to go with it!

52 – Spend some quality time with the paintings at the National Gallery

National Gallery, London

Want to spend the day hanging out with Da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Botticelli?

Then make your way over to the National Gallery , where 700 years’ worth of works are showcased in fine form.

Paintings are the main focus here, displaying a brilliant spectrum of color, form, and ideas.

From the abstract to the utterly human and everything in between, every piece has its own power; and if you want to learn even more of the stories behind the canvases, there are also guided tours!

  • National Gallery tours

53 – Jam out at the local jazz clubs

jazz clubs in London

Long considered the height of sophistication and musical adventurousness, the city’s best jazz clubs are perfect for a nice evening out… or a quick refuge from the rain!

Enjoy global acts from across the decades at Ronnie Scott’s , or enjoy the unique artwork and multigenre tunes of Jazz After Dark .

Head to Crazy Coqs for lively ses and cabaret shows, or the varied offerings of Toulouse Lautrec Jazz Club and Piano Bar , whose dynamic performances always keep you guessing.

Around these parts, the music and the atmosphere go hand in hand!

54 – Embrace the remarkable legacy of St Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral in London

Along with being a prime example of Baroque design, St Paul’s Cathedral is perhaps one of the biggest players in the city’s history… and certainly worth exploring!

As you step inside, you’ll experience the dizzying beauty of the iconic building, first created in the 1600s.

Then it’s time to explore the different galleries, which have hosted everything from the wedding of King Charles and Diana Spencer to Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral service.

It’s one of the most impressive indoor activities in London!

  • St Paul’s Cathedral tickets & tours

55 – Feel like a literal kid in a candy store at M&M’s World

M&M’s World, London

If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth, you can indulge it full force at M&M’s World , which is devoted to the classic little chocolates beloved across the globe.

While there are lots of fun souvenirs and unique flavors on display, the piece de resistance is definitely the massive candy wall – the largest on Earth! -, where the whole color spectrum is displayed in brilliant fashion.

Grab a bag and fill up on some treats!

A Thrilling Journey Through The War of The Worlds: Immersive Experience

relaxing places to visit in london

Immerse yourself in a Martian invasion at “Jeff Wayne’s The War of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience”. Blending Jeff Wayne’s iconic music with live actors, VR, and multi-sensory effects, this London event transforms you from spectator to participant in a thrilling narrative. It’s more than just an outing; it’s a journey into a meticulously crafted world where every sense is engaged!

56 – Peer into the life and mind of a brilliant writer at the Charles Dickens Museum

Charles Dickens Museum in London

While the city is packed with famous authors, some are among the world’s most renowned; and there’s nothing like a visit to the Charles Dickens Museum to bring the world of letters to life!

Located in one of the Victorian writer’s former homes, this fascinating spot explores the life and times of a complicated man who deeply impacted the world of literature and the evolution of English itself with his moving, deeply human stories.

With authentic furniture and original manuscripts, this place will take you right back in time – and right into the pages of these classic works!

57 – Try a couple rounds of bowling

bowling alleys in London

Looking for some less formal fun in the city?

Then lace up those famously gigantic shoes, because there are great bowling alleys all over town for you to squeeze a few strikes in!

From the retro aesthetics of All Star Lanes and the pub grub and wacky lighting displays of Queens Skate Dine Bowl to the American motifs of Rowans Tenpin Bowl and the endless activities at Tenpin , these are the perfect places to wait out the weather with a bit of friendly competition.

Set your sights on a strike, and enjoy the laidback atmosphere!

58 – Explore the somber space of Churchill War Rooms

Churchill War Rooms in London

As you descend into bunkers full of maps and plans, you may feel like you’ve been drawn into a spy plot… and in a sense, you have!

Churchill War Rooms provides a firsthand glimpse into the tense days of World War II, when the Prime Minister and his cabinet labored away on military strategy, all while trying to hide underground from possible invasions and attacks.

Explore the perfectly restored rooms where political staff lived and worked during these tumultuous times, and see how important battles took shape on the frontlines – even as their planners felt the impacts at home.

  • Churchill War Rooms tickets & tours

59 – Applaud the thespians at the National Theatre

National Theatre, London, UK

Another great place to experience some of the city’s best plays, the National Theatre specializes in epic shows and powerful pieces.

Since 1963, the venue has hosted many of the United Kingdom’s greatest productions and playwrights, with shows that provoke and engage in equal measure.

Check out the newest shows, and prepare for a truly moving bit of live performance!

60 – Try a round of indoor golf

indoor golf in London

Golf is always a great vacation activity… unless the weather takes a turn, of course.

But when the clouds start to gather, just head on over to Swingers and get a few putts in… with some wonderfully wacky touches!

Make your way around windmills, lighthouses, and Ferris wheels – all in miniature form, of course -, enjoying superb cocktails and great food all along the route.

You may never want to hit the traditional links again!

Delight’s Digital Dive into London’s Heartbeat

relaxing places to visit in london

Dive into the heart of London with Delight: Media art exhibition, a sensory journey like no other! Explore 12 captivating zones with more than 25 striking media art installations, combining cutting-edge technology with tradition and city life. Immerse yourself, interact and become part of a story that combines tradition and innovation.

61 – Explore some unique stories at the Postal Museum

Postal Museum, London

Fun fact: Great Britain actually invented the postage stamp!

Way back in 1840, the country developed the first models, known as Penny Blacks, to help mail get around the country – and later, to the wider world of the colonies.

And you can see some of those original specimens up close at the Postal Museum , which also features tons of interactive exhibits covering the surprising history of this everyday convenience.

From ancient letterboxes to secret railways, this place will show you more about this system than you could ever imagine!

62 – Zip around for a few laps of Karting

karting in London

For a great bit of family-friendly competition, head to the go-kart track and live out your F1 dreams!

From the massive tracks of Capital Karts to the boisterous courses of TeamSport Go Karting Docklands , these complexes offer fun and thrills with every lap.

Grab a helmet, rev up your engine, and give it a go!

63 – Take a tour of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum in London

While tennis itself is generally an outdoor game, the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum gives you a real feel for the ins and outs of the sport… and it can be enjoyed even on stormy days!

Here at the historical home of the game, you can enjoy up-close views of memorabilia and sporting equipment, and trace the evolution of tennis across the decades.

It’s a fascinaitng glimpse into the ins and outs of this famous facility… and the players that frequent it!

64 – Ignite your night with unforgettable performances at the O2 Arena

O2 events in London

For an experience like no other, look no further than the remarkable  O2 Arena , one of the city’s largest and most beautiful venues and home to the world’s most popular music, sports, comedy and entertainment programming! Join the euphoric crowd and unleash your passion with thousands of other enthusiasts.

Renowned artists from around the world regularly perform on this prestigious stage. Whenever you choose to attend, a memorable headliner will take center stage and set your night on fire with a remarkable performance.

See also: Fun things to do in London at night

65 – Sink your teeth into the Chocolate Museum

The Chocolate Museum, London

If you’re looking for a delicious follow-up to M&M’S World (see #54), then enter the sweet halls of the Chocolate Museum , where you can explore the longer history of the sweet treat.

Focusing primarily on the dessert’s evolution in Britain, this is also a wonderful place for some hands-on experiences, from candy-making workshops to tasting sessions that delve into the mytholigcal origins of cacao, said to have been curated by Aztec gods.

Learning has rarely been so scrumptious!

66 – Leap around the best trampoline parks

trampoline park in London

Bounding, flipping, and spinning your way through a maze of trampolines, you’ll feel like a kid again… and any actual kids with you will have plenty of fun as well!

Try the themed parties and workouts of Flip Out , the thrilling freestyle areas of ZAPSpace, or the rock climbing-trampoline combo packages at Gravity .

Bounce off the walls – literally – at Jump Giants , or try 150 different hopping zones at Oxygen Freejumping .

You’ll definitely have a spring in your step when you hit up these spots!

67 – Ponder the sobering exhibits of the Imperial War Museum

Imperial War Museum, Central London

Showcasing and examining the more complicated legacy of the British Empire, the Imperial War Museum focuses on the personal experiences of global strife.

The establishment was built during the First World War, and unsurprisingly, it features plenty of artifacts and stories from that tragic conflict.

But there are also several displays on World War II, as well as the daily lives of citizens unwittingly (and unwillingly) drawn into these battles by extension.

68 – Browse through Borough Market

Borough Market in London

Foodies will want to bring some empty bags (and empty stomachs) to Borough Market , where fresh, fun cuisine of all kinds are ripe for the tasting.

Along with great national and global delicacies, this is also the place to really savor the seasonal moods of the city.

Whether you’re gathering up spring veggies or taking some time to chat with the many fascinating vendors that have set up stalls here, this is the perfect place to get a feel for the local palate – and it has been for roughly 1,000 years!

Hot tip: Taste your way through the city with the best food tours in London , offering guided experiences that highlight the city’s diverse culinary landscape.

69 – Encounter numerous artistic triumphs at Old Royal Naval College

The Painted Hall at Old Royal Naval College, London

Elegant, awe-inspiring, and packed with great works of art, Old Royal Naval College brings you into contact with some of the finest minds past and present.

Along with the epic murals of the Painted Hall, created by Sir James Thornhill, with its motley crew of heroes and mythological figures, many of the complex’s buildings are gems in and of themselves, designed by the acclaimed 17th century architect Christopher Wren.

And it also served plenty of significant historical roles as well; it served as a hospital until 1869, and centuries before that, King Henry VIII was born within these same halls.

With such a distinguished pedigree, you’ll want to leave lots of time to look around!

  • Old Royal Naval College tickets & tours

70 – Gain some new perspectives at the Design Museum

Design Museum in London

Celebrating the building blocks of our society and artistic tastes, the Design Museum will perpetually surprise you.

The space acknowledges just how nebulous and diverse this field can be, with subjects ranging from fashion and architecture to industrial works and perpetually evolving pieces of furniture.

And it’s all housed in a cool, contemporary space, where you can frequently find lively presentations that dive even deeper into how we develop the world around us.

71 – Fully indulge with a few spa experiences

couples’ spa in London

Offering pure relaxing experiences around every corner, the city’s spas will have youe feeling like a big shot… a very relaxed big shot!

In Hyde Park, you can unwind at Rasul Water Temple Oriental Couple Suite , where bathing rituals, rose-scented massages, and detoxifying facials are all on the menu.

Or try the delights of Lanesborough , home to pools, fitness rooms, and soothing steam rooms to let you experience a truly holistic cleasning process.

Sit back and relax… for as long as you desire!

72 – Live your best bookish life at the British Library

British library in London

You could easily spend a whole day just browsing the stacks at the British Library – after all, there are over 13 million books here! -, but it’s well worth checking out the programming that they feature.

From public talks by acclaimed writers and thinkers to classes and exhibitions covering many different disciplines, this massive, marvleous spot really celebrates learning in all of its forms; and of course, it’s worth taking some time just to hang out and catch up on your reading!

73 – Sit in awe at the films of BFI IMAX

BFI IMAX, London

Movies are always a great option for a rainy day…. Especially when you’re watching them on the largest cinema screen in London!

BFI IMAX will certainly amaze you with its sheer size (20 meters by 26 meters… almost as tall as five double-decker buses! THEFT); but it also offers suitably spectacular programs to fill the space!

New hits, classic films, and special screenings all bloom to life on an epic scale, accompanied by surround sound and the unbelievable sensation of immersion.

This is one trip to the movies that will make you feel like you’re part of the action!

74 – See what’s on offer at the Saatchi Gallery

Saatchi gallery in London

In a similar sort of vein, the Saatchi Gallery focuses on the truly modern, especially artists that may just be starting out in their careers.

This offers you the rare opportunity as a visitor to see works that may one day become part of the canon, or find the next great artist honing their craft.

And of course, the projects themselves are always stunning!

75 – Drop in at the best dart clubs in London

best dart clubs in London

As iconic as the pints that are so often consumed whilst playing, darts make up the backbone of British pub life… especially at these local hotspots!

Head to Flight Club for some exciting social games, or the charming setting of The Three Compasses , which combines a quaint country setting with great food and drink – and games, of course!

And don’t miss Sports Bar & Grill , where you can intersperse your rounds of throwing with some quality time watching the latest games on the TVs.

76 – Take in a lively show at the Royal Opera House

Royal Opera House, Central London

The capital is never short of sophistication, and the Royal Opera House provides top-tier shows for every sort of audience!

Combining the finest traditions of the form with daring new works, this nearly 300-year old venue provides some amazing opportunities to soak up an oft-misunderstood form.

See revitalized standards or brand-new pieces, all featuring those famously powerful voices at the helm.

77 – Come face to face with the greats at the National Portrait Gallery

National Portrait Gallery in London

Proving that specialization can sometimes be a strength, the National Portait Gallery offers up some moving, powerful depictions of iconic figures and everyday faces alike.

Like many of its fellow museums, this place has an almost unfathomably large inventory, with more than 220,000 works spread throughout the halls.

But you’ll be amazed at how quickly the displays begin to feel deeply intimate, as you gaze into the carefully rendered eyes of Queen Victoria and Shakespeare, or the carefully photographed faces of celebrities and political figures.

It’s a wonderfully moving way to experience the artform!

78 – Belt your favorite songs at the best karaoke bars in London

best karaoke bars in London

There’s no shortage of great music in the city… but this time, you get to be the singer!

As you make your way through the best Karaoke bars, you’ll find a lively, freewheeling atmosphere that encourages lowered inhibitions and increased fun.

Whether you’re rocking out at Old Queens Head , letting loose in the themed private rooms of The Star , or enjoying the cozy, upscale rooms of Karaoke Box Smithfield , these spots will have you singing your heart out and bonding with your new bandmates in no time!

79 – Explore The Wallace Collection

The Wallace Collection in London

Sculptures, antique fighting gear, and porcelain pieces are just some of the gems in the Wallace Collection , which dates back to 1897.

The pieces themselves stretch from the medieval era to the 19th century, and its focus on art and artifacts in equal measure makes it a great place to explore every facet of British history.

And let’s be honest… suits of armor are always cool to see!

80 – Hone your game at some of the pool halls

best pool halls in London

When you’re ready for some more competitive indoor activities in London, chalk up your cue and hit up the best pool halls!

From the ample billiards FIX of Rileys Sports Bar Victoria to the luxorious tables and Vegas-style designs of Q Shoreditch and the many offerings of Shades Sport Bar , you can refine all of your best shooting skills… or pick up some new ones!

81 – Head to the Hayward Gallery

Hayward Gallery in London

From its contemporary, thought-provoking pieces to its consistently fascinating exhibitions – often featuring an activist bent -, the Hayward Gallery challenges visitors to explore not just the art itself, but the conditions surrounding each piece.

In this innovative space, anything is possible; you may find yourself drawn into a world of wacky kid’s activities, or exploring the deeper impacts of climate change through multimedia projects.

It’s imaginative, it’s pensive, and it’s always full of surprises!

82 – Enjoy the raucous talents of a Cabaret or Burlesque show

cabaret or burlesque show in London

Filled with variety and talented, unusual performers, the city’s best cabaret & burlesque shows will draw you right into a fantastical world of entertainment!

Long a staple of bohemian life, both artforms have evolved in the present day, taking on new themes and performances while still maintaining their traditional sense of spectacle.

And whether you’re enjoying the showgirls and fire-based stunts of Gin-House Burlesque or the bombastic 1920s flair of The London Cabaret Club , these shows are the perfect way to enjoy the slightly saucier charms of the city.

83 – Settle in and sip at the best rooftop bars

best rooftop bars in London

While you’re waiting for the skies to clear, why not head over to some of the best rooftop bars?

But be warned… you may be tempted to linger!

Of all the excellent indoor activities in London, this is probably one of the most charming NOPE; you can easily fritter away a whole day enjoying the views and savoring the fantastic drinks on offer.

Enjoy some seasonal dishes and a great wine list at Frank’s Cafe ; indulge in a spicy margarita and admire the views of King’s Cross at The Standard London ; enjoy fusion cuisine and panoramic scenery at Sushisamba Bar ; or enjoy fantastic rose’ and bottomless brunch as you take in the views from Aviary Rooftop .

There are few better ways to spoil yourself in style!

Where to stay in London?

Montcalm Royal London House – City of London will certainly make you feel a little regal yourself, with a perfect location in the middle of the capital and multiple bars and eateries to enjoy… plus a spa!

And at Leonardo Royal London St. Paul’s , you’ll have the iconic cathedral and Shakespeare’s Globe Theater as neighbors, and a pool, world-class fitness center, and lovely terrace to enjoy on-site.

Radisson Blu Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel is perfect for exploring the West End, and also has plenty of nearby Tube stations to get you started on further adventures.

And Motel One London – Tower Hill offers both the eating and drinking spots of Brick Lane and the mysterious allure of the Tower of London within easy walking distance.

Meanwhile, ibis Styles London Southwark offers all the conveniences of a high-end hotel, with an unbeatable location near the River Thames to sweeten the deal.

  • best hotels in London

Visiting London on budget?

While the city has a reputation for being pricey, there are tons of ways to enjoy it at a reasonable cost… without skimping on the best sites!

London passes combine several of the top attractions in town into one combo package, making it easier than ever to experience a whole group of these iconic treasures.

Simply pick the length of time and spots that suit you, build your itinerary, and enjoy!

Final thoughts

No matter the day or the season, you’ll always be able to have a good time trying the amazing indoor activities in London.

From the somber to the wacky and everything in between, there’s no end to the culture, food, drink, and art that the capital has to offer behind its many doors.

So put that umbrella away and start exploring!

The Best Massages in London, Because You Deserve It

You've been slumped over the laptop for too long now.

best massages

If three years of hot-desking, working-from-kitchen-counter and ignoring the HR department's offers of an ergonomic desk assessment have taught me anything, it’s that I really need a massage. (Or rather, I should really improve my posture, but one of these things is much more likely to happen than the other.)

A good massage is of course a treat, but a great one offers benefits beyond 60 minutes of lying down in a nice, quiet room. A therapist worth their salt will know to freestyle, finding the areas of tightest tension and systematically working them out, meaning you’ll feel lighter and looser in the days that follow.

If you don’t know your Swedish massage from your lymphatic drainage, it can be tricky to know exactly what to ask for these days. You’re in safe hands with an aromatherapy massage – that’s the one with nice-smelling oils and relaxing movement. Swedish is another common form of massage, generally using light, soothing strokes to boost circulation and energy.

For something more serious, it’s deep tissue you need. As the name suggests, this one is more specialised, with your therapist responding to your particular ailments. Stronger pressure works out knots and toxins buried deep in the muscles, relieving chronic pain and tightness. Sports massage is similar, but is generally performed by a therapist that specialises in athletic injuries, and focuses on that one specific area, rather than the full body. Thai massage is another good option, involving deep yogic stretching and pressure best suited to those with a slight sadistic streak.

Lymphatic drainage is a massage technique that's particularly popular at the moment, thanks to the way it works wonders on sluggishness and bloating. Your lymphatic system, which carries toxins through your body, isn’t powered by an internal source, meaning it can become stagnant (especially if you’re spending more time sitting down than you are standing up). Lymphatic massage manually boosts the body’s lymph flow using long, targeted strokes, helping you to feel reenergised. (To boost the effects, drink a lot of water in the hours that follow.)

The capital contains more spas per square foot than Prets these days, but you don't want to risk spending your precious evening on a sub-standard treatment. Save yourself the regret and book one of these tried-and-tested winners (and stop sitting in silly positions at your desk.)

The Best Massages In London

Dr. barbara sturm.

best massage london

Descend the stairs at the back of Mount Street's modern, marble-covered boutique to find a surprisingly serene clinic space, where Sturm's world-renowned menu of non-invasive treatments takes place.

The Sculpt & Tone is an energising, de-puffing treatment that works by manually stimulating your lymph using long, mid-pressure strokes, starting with the back and spending more time than usual on the legs and feet, helping to bring a stagnant system back into full flow. With fluid retention rectified, you can expect to feel lighter and less puffy in the hours and days that follow – just be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Dr. Barbara Sturm, Lymphatic Sculpt & Tone, £195 for 60 minutes

Boon Sappaya

boon sappaya massage london

Finding a decent Thai massage in London has long been a tricky task, which makes the arrival of husband-and-wife operation Boon Sappaya all the more welcome.

Traditional Thai massage involves a precise combination of deep assisted stretches and famously deep pressure, usually performed without oil. The polar opposite to that soporific aromatherapy treatment, an hour or two here may not be the most relaxing, but the tension-melting results are a serious cut above.

Don't come expecting white-walled luxury or Instagrammable design: the space, buried in a Baker St basement, is true to Thai tradition (although with a heated massage bed instead of rattling air conditioner). But if you're hoping to relive – or likely, surpass – that revelatory treatment you had in the Land of Smiles, you're in the right place.

Boon Sappaya Traditional Thai Massage, from £38 for 30 minutes

best massage in london

If you're hoping to finally get to grips with that massage gun you got for Christmas, Cowshed's clever tech-boosted deep tissue massage is a wise booking to make.

Your therapist will use the high-powered Hyper Ice percussive gun to rigorously warm up tense muscles, prepping them to reap the benefits of targetted deep-tissue therapy. Combining precise, personalised relief with the famously cosy surrounds of Soho House's beloved spa chain, this a booking that ticks all the boxes. Luckily, non-members can book in at both the Primrose Hill and Shoreditch House outposts (meaning it'll make a great gift, too).

Hyper Ice Deep Tissue Massage, from £110 for 45 minutes

Akasha Spa, Café Royal

cafe royal london massage

There’s absolutely no chance of you falling asleep during Therabody’s new massage at the Café Royal’s prestigious Akasha spa – and that's likely to either put you off completely or have you quickly making a booking.

The treatment involves targetted use of Theragun’s most powerful percussive devices to sort out the deepest of knots, tempered by notably more relaxing traditional techniques. Vigorous and satisfyingly effective, it'll work especially well on that stiff upper back you’ve been complaining about chronically.

Plus, if all that tension-melting has you craving something a little more pamper-y, there’s that world-class spa waiting for you just outside.

Theragun Percussive Therapy Massage, £239 for 90 minutes

Dreem Distillery x Holly Warren

dreem distillery massage

Dreem Distillery is one of few CBD brands I readily recommend, due to the fact it uses powerful broad-spectrum CBD instead of the commonly used (and weaker) isolate. This essentially means you're getting a properly soporific product, with the power to alleviate insomnia symptoms and tense muscles (yes, studies have supported both of these benefits).

The brand's Among The Stars body oil is good when used at home, but in the hands of therapist Holly Warren, it's just short of a miracle. Warren (who considers herself an energy and body worker, not a masseuse) combines the oil with her intuitive, low-pressure techniques in this restorative treatment, which works not on the muscles but on the nervous system, inducing a deep meditative state. Don't expect a vigorous pummelling, but rather a sensitively approached treatment that leads to a remarkable night's sleep.

Find Holly at 180 Health Club - non-members can book via email at [email protected] .

Dreem Distillery x Holly Warren, £170 for 90 minutes.

Bamford Haybarn

best massages london

Bamford’s West London flagship is described as a ‘holistic wellness outpost’, which will make perfect sense to you if you live in the store’s Sloaney catchment area.

But whether you spend most of the week mainlining matcha while wearing athleisure or not, the space’s treatment rooms are well worth a visit – in fact, some of the very best therapists in London can be found here. The brand’s latest treatment, B Balanced, is ideal for anyone who wants a little more than the traditional pummel-by-numbers massage. Designed for bodies (and minds) that have been thrown off-kilter by long-term illness or chronic stress, it’s a thoughtful, intuitive treatment that’ll make you feel lighter and looser in the days that follow.

The ancient healing technique of body tapping signals the start of the treatment, which – combined with guided breath-work – will silence even the paciest of minds. What follows is an outstandingly good full-body massage with long, attentive strokes, combined with the shock of ice-cold gua-sha and an application of invigorating muscle gel. Indulgent but equally beneficial, this is a genuinely transformative 90-minute escape from reality.

Bamford Haybarn B Balanced massage, £220 for 90 minutes

The House of Elemis

massage london

For something seriously soporific, it's a hot stone massage you need. This ancient technique involves using targeted heat, delivered via weighty heated stones, to areas of tension throughout the body.

You'll find one of the best at Elemis' flagship spa in the middle of Mayfair. In this truly relaxing treatment, hot stones are combined with hot frangipani oil (and a heated bed, no less) to soften even the most chronically clenched shoulders. Low-level lighting, unobtrusive ambient music and moderate pressure make this a treatment to book when you need chilling out, not revving up.

House of Elemis Hot Stone massage, £130 for 60 minutes

Ilapothecary

best massages london

Almost immediately after opening, a shout out from Meghan Markle – apparently a loyal gong bather – threw Ilapothecary's first and only physical store into the big leagues.

Now, four years after the frenzy, the store has become a beloved West London mainstay, famed for its remarkably potent aromatherapy products and treatments, which are carried out in a cave-like room at the back of the building.

Here, you'll find a massage that perfectly straddles the practical/pampering divide, combining intuitive strokes with just enough crystal-healing energy to soothe the most chronically knackered soul. The therapists don't work to pressure or area requests: let them do their thing and they'll work out what you really need, working out those physical knots while rebalancing your mental state in the process. Ilapothecary Beat the Blues massage, from £90 for 30 minutes

The Londoner

best massage london

The most serene spot within a one-mile radius of the big Odeon in Leicester Square, The Londoner's subterranean spa is a made for wiling away afternoons – and the newly launched spa packages mean you don't need to be a hotel guest to enjoy.

Available Monday to Thursday, the Rejuvenate package entitles you to two hours in the spa, where private cabanas flank the serene swimming pool, hot tub and thermal rooms, before the main event: a remarkably thorough CBD Hibernation massage, which sees light, relaxing pressure graduate into the kind of kneading that'll ease the most bedded-in shoulder tension. Your therapist will use Ila's CBD Concentrate balm, which combines cannabis sativa seed oil with arnica to ease inflammation in overwrought muscles. (Thankfully, it smells more like shea butter than a teenage bedroom.) Where many hotel massage treatments are admittedly rather lacklustre, this one is highly targeted and remarkably effective – it's absolutely the best thing you can do in in the vicinity of M&M's World.

The Londoner Rejuvenate package, £170 for 60 minutes treatment and two hours spa access.

best massages london

Offering a truly modern approach to massage therapy, London's Masaj combines a get-the-job-done practicality with stripped back interiors that encourage shoulder-dropping from the moment you step inside.

Really, properly productive massages are the focus here, with the sports and deep tissue bookings being the highlight. Opt for full body, or let your therapist work on areas of particular tensions or injury. For those with hardly any time to spare, there's even a 3o-minute in-chair option.

Masaj, from £56 for 30 minutes.

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    Discover some of the most peaceful, quiet and relaxing places in London. Content contains affiliate links, marked with asterisks (*). If you click through and make a purchase, Visit London receives a commission - every purchase supports London's jobs and economy. ... Enjoy the landscape, hills and woodland gardens set among ancient trees ...

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    Even if the area is busy, gazing out onto a body of water tends to do wonders for finding a rare moment of stillness inside your mind. 11. Highgate Cemetery. Now, a cemetery may not top everyone's lists for a tranquil spot, but there's a reason this historic location is frequented by so many Londoners.

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    Victoria Park. 9. Kyoto Garden. Holland Park is one of the most picturesque of the capital's parks. Within its 22 hectares, Kyoto Garden is one of our favorite quiet parks in London. The garden was donated by Kyoto Chamber of Commerce in 1992. Ever since, it's been a popular spot for visitors and also for wildlife.

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    WWT London Wetland Centre. Barnes, South West London, SW13. London Wetland Centre is a wonderful tranquil place where you can experience nature in peace and quiet. This is one of the best nature watching areas in London. It's situated on the banks of the Thames at Barnes (10 minutes by bus from Hammersmith tube station).

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    The Relaxing Italian Gardens. Near to Hyde Park and Lancaster Gate tube station in Westminster is The Italian Gardens. The gardens are a nice place for dog walks or to sit and relax at most times of the year. Theses gardens are at the far end of The Serpentine lake and classed as part of Kensington Gardens.

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    Say hello to underwater creatures at SEA LIFE London. Rub shoulders with the world's most iconic figures made of wax at Madame Tussauds London. See dinosaur sculptures in Crystal Palace Park and explore the maze and children's farm. Spot the penguins at London Zoo, a must-see in London for kids of all ages.

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