More than 8.6 million people live in London and the city spans more than 600 square miles of landscape. In a city this large, there are naturally thousands of things to do and see, especially if you’ve already seen the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, the London Bridge, and many of the famous castles throughout the city and surrounding areas.
If you’ve been to London a couple of times and you’re looking for something new to do, here are some excellent sights and activities.
- Dennis Severs’ House
Immerse yourself in a unique form of theater at the Dennis Severs’ House. It’s composed of 10 rooms including the cellar, dining room, kitchen, smoking room, and more in a Huguenot style house. Each room is designed to capture real life in Spitalfields during the years of 1724 and 1914. You’ll take a tour and view the still-life drama that American director and artist Dennis Severs has devised.
- Take an Art Tour
There are dozens of art tours, from street art to galleries. Try to do a combination of the two so you can view some of the creative and contemporary artwork of the native citizens as well as historic and renowned pieces from the greats. You have free access to some of the world’s best galleries and museums, and the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square offers free guided tours that are worth a visit.
- Jack the Ripper Tour of Whitechapel
Anyone who loves a thrill or has a fascination with the morbid side of London history should consider a Jack the Ripper tour. This tour takes place in the late evening as the sun sets. You’ll visit some of the murder sites as well as find clues so you can try to “solve” the murders on your own. It’s a unique experience for any fans of horror and mystery.
- Have an Afternoon Tea
Is there anything more British than afternoon tea? Get the real experience by participating in a quaint London tea offered at multiple hotels, bakeries, and cafes around the city. It’s a great way to take a break in between shopping, city tours, and museum visits.
- Walk the Hidden Waterway Trails
Did you know that 21 branches of the Thames flow beneath the city of London? One even goes right underneath Buckingham Palace. You can see some branches above the surface, but most were buried as the need for houses and commercial property grew in this overpopulated city. You can walk along trails that commemorate these rivers and learn more about this watery history.
- Catch a Last-Minute West End Show
You may have seen West End shows before, but you can always go back for something new. To make the experience really unique, call the ticket brokers and see what tickets are available that day for cheap. You won’t get to see the newest shows, but you’ll probably see something you might not have considered watching before.
- Greenwich Naval Museum
There are hundreds of things to do in Greenwich, including the National Maritime Museum. It’s free to the public and is the largest museum of its kind in the world. You can hear stories, learn history, and immerse yourself in the world at sea. There are also a variety of events, free and ticketed, including lectures, music nights, and seasonal celebrations.
- Ride a Boat from Little Venice to Camden Lock
Here, you’ll hop on a water bus and float along the Regent’s Canal. You’ll enjoy the quiet and beautiful scenery of this popular tourist attraction. You might also stop at cafes, bars, and restaurants along the way. There are some pretty unique places to eat and sightsee in Camden Lock as well.
- Highgate Cemetery
If history is your thing, Highgate Cemetery is a must-see. There are many famous scholars, artists, and political figures buried in this beautifully landscaped graveyard including Karl Marx, the Rossetti Family, George Eliot, and Faraday. It’s also supposedly the location where Bram Stoker spent time while writing the classic Dracula.
- Walk Down the South Bank
Take an evening stroll down the South Bank, but rather than stopping at the London Eye, National Theatre, or OXO Tower, take a look at the regular events and festivals that take place there. You’ll run into street performers, check out new restaurants and bars, and shop at the vendor pop-ups. There’s plenty of life and culture in this part of the city, and it’s the perfect way to familiarize yourself with London’s culture.
