London Travelers Recommend

With three days in London, you have enough time to check off the must-see sights and customize your itinerary to suit your preferences. Take advantage of super saver tours and money-saving city passes, head out on a day trip, and add in a few additional landmarks to make your trip even more memorable. Here are some ideas for a 3-day trip to London.

Day 1: Discover Historic London

A hop-on hop-off bus tour offers the convenience of a guided tour while leaving you free to decide where to go and how to long to stay at each stop. Hop off at top attractions such as the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, and Piccadilly Circus, then time your arrival at Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard ceremony. After a busy morning of sightseeing, hop aboard a lunch cruise down the River Thames and tuck into a meal as you pass Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. In the afternoon, ride on the London Eye—be sure to book a skip-the-line ticket as queues can take over an hour—and enjoy views that reach as far as Windsor Castle on a clear day. Afterward, head to Oxford Street or Covent Garden for some shopping before walking to London’s West End theater district for a show such as Wicked or The Lion King.

Day 2: Take a Day Trip

Many of England’s most popular spots can be visited on a day trip from London, so choosing where to go is up to you. Perhaps discover ancient Stonehenge, visit medieval Windsor Castle, and take a walking tour of UNESCO-listed Bath. Alternatively, visit Oxford’s world-famous university and Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, stopping along the way to admire the Cotswolds and visit Warwick Castle. If you’re feeling really adventurous, it’s even possible to cross the Channel and visit Paris. Simply hop on the Eurostar and within hours you could be cruising down the Seine. To maximize your time, opt for a full-day tour that combines multiple destinations into one trip and—if you’re on a budget—look for a tour that includes extras such as hotel pickup, entrance fees, and lunch.

Day 3: Experience the Fun Side of London

Spend your final morning visiting some of London’s award-winning museums—the British Museum is a history lover’s paradise, while the Tate Modern is one of the most cutting edge contemporary art museums in the world. This is also the day to take in any attractions that you’ve missed and perhaps a few fun extras. Stop by Madame Tussauds to rub shoulders with celebrities and “meet” the queen, visit family favorites like the Sea Life London Aquarium and London Zoo, or indulge in afternoon tea at Grosvenor House. Alternatively, you could just spend the entire day on the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio tour, a must for Potter fans. On your final evening, opt for an entertaining food tour of Soho or head down to the Southbank to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant.

One of the world’s most-visited cities, vibrant London is host to a bewildering array of world-class attractions, from storied museums and elegant cathedrals to opulent castles and UNESCO-listed landmarks. (It’s also within easy day-trip reach of many top UK destinations, including Oxford, Stonehenge, Bath, and Canterbury). Whether you wish to experience the enchantment of a Harry Potter tour, cruise along the Thames, or ascend to the top of the Shard for panoramic city views, there are innumerable ways to enjoy a memorable day out in the Big Smoke. To help you make the most of your time in the British capital, here’s our list of unmissable London experiences and activities.

When the gray skies clear, London comes into its own. City parks and walkways bloom between May and September, and the warmer temperatures lead to long days of exploration. Here are some fun ways to see London and the surrounding area in summer.

• Visit the lavish State Rooms of Buckingham Palace and see the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The Queen's private residence is open to the public from the end of July through September.

• Watch a show in the West End, the heart of London's theater district. The options are endless, but classics such as Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera should be at the top of your list.

• Take sightseeing to new heights and ride a loop on the London Eye. Set on the curve of the River Thames, the iconic Ferris wheel is loved for its unbeatable panoramas over London.

• See where the Harry Potter magic happens with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. The north London studio is home to props, sets, and costumes featured in the films.

• Head out of the capital and into the countryside to see Britain's most mysterious set of stones. UNESCO-listed Stonehenge is at its best in the summer months, when you can walk around the prehistoric stones without shivering from the cold.

Two of the United Kingdom's top historic attractions, Windsor Castle and Stonehenge lie within easy reach of London and draw visitors from around the globe all year round. Here are a few ways to take in both of these British landmarks in one day.

Highlights

• Explore two of Britain's most popular and historic sites in one day

• Marvel at the Stone Circle's prehistoric rock formations, and decide for yourself how and why they were placed there

• Explore the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, where the Stone Circle's history comes to life

• Visit Windsor Castle, Her Majesty the Queen's official residence

• Gain insight into 900 years of English history—from the time of William the Conqueror in the 11th century to present day

• With travel included, relax and take in the sites in comfort

Things to Know

• Stonehenge lies 88 miles (141 km) to the west of London, a drive of about 2.5 hours.

• Windsor Castle is set 22 miles (36 km) west of London and the journey takes about 1.5 hours.

• Day tours from London typically last 9 to 12 hours, including travel time.

• Be sure to bring your camera, seasonal clothing, water, and snacks for the trip.

• Tours typically include pickup and drop-off in central London, and many include entrance fees to Stonehenge.

Places to Visit Nearby

Windsor Castle and Stonehenge both lie west of London, and there are plenty of places nearby to stop for further exploration. Many of the Windsor Castle and Stonehenge tours from London also take in Salisbury or UNESCO–listed cities such as Bath and Oxford.

With sweeping Georgian crescents, Roman ruins, and beautiful Avon River views, the UNESCO–listed city of Bath is widely considered among the great treasures of Britain. See below for our top tours of Bath and the West Country from London.

Day Trips

Lying within easy reach of London by road, Bath makes an ideal day trip destination from the capital. Escape busy London and stroll the honey-colored streets of Bath, once home to famous author Jane Austen, to gain insight into the city’s colorful past and admire top attractions including the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. Most day trips to Bath from London also include time to take in other famous British sites of interest such as the Cotswolds, Oxford, the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Stonehenge, or Windsor Castle.

Multi-Day Tours

Overnight tours from London give travelers an opportunity to spend a little more time in the Georgian city of Bath and the surrounding areas of interest. In addition to exploring Bath, visitors can see medieval Oxford (home to the famous Oxford University colleges) and spin through authentic Cotswold villages. With accommodations and breakfast typically included, you’ll enjoy a relaxing break in the British countryside before returning to the city.

Things to Know

• Bath lies 115 miles (185 kilometers) west of London, a drive of about three hours.

• Stonehenge is located 86 miles (138 kilometers) from London, a journey of about two hours by road.

• Most Bath tours from London also visit Windsor Castle, only 25 miles (40 kilometers) from the capital.

• Full-day and multi-day tours to the West Country from London generally include a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Set on the windswept Salisbury Plain is Stonehenge, the UNESCO-listed stone circle famous for the mystery that shrouds its purpose. Why was it built? How was it built? Take a peek into its prehistoric past with a day trip to the site from London.

Combo Tours

Stonehenge, Bath, Windsor, and Oxford: They’re all within easy reach of London. Pair a tour of the stones with some English highlights to enjoy prehistoric and modern history in one go. Windsor Castle, the Roman spa town of Bath, and the quintessential English country village of Lacock are among the pairing options.

Unique Experiences

Most Stonehenge tours and tickets allow you to walk around the stones but not amid them; it's a tactic to reduce erosion caused by our feet. However, private viewings offer privileged access to the mystical inner circle, at times when the site is free from its daytime crowds. Viewings are timed to sync with sunrise or sunset for an extra-special Stonehenge experience.

Things to Know

• Stonehenge's location on an open plain leaves it at the mercy of the fickle British weather—something its neolithic architects didn't consider. Bring warm clothing and a waterproof jacket just in case.

• Most tours start at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, more than a mile (1.6 km) from the stones. Skip the walk and take the free shuttle service, which speeds you there in less than 10 minutes. You can also hop off halfway and walk the rest so that the megaliths slowly come into view.

• Stonehenge is not well-served by public transport, so tours and day trips are the way to go. Most depart from Victoria coach station or central London hotels, and the journey straight there takes about two hours.

Combine centuries-old culinary traditions with a diverse city home to people of many different nationalities and you can’t help but get a fabulous food scene. London is a fantastic destination for foodies, and here’s what you need to eat when you’re there.

**Bacon roll:**Start your day in Spitalfields, in the East End, with the quintessential British breakfast. A bacon butty is a thick slab of back bacon smeared with tangy HP sauce and sandwiched between a roll or two slices of buttered bread.

**Curry:**Head to Brick Lane for a plate of one of England’s favorite dishes: curry. The heart of the city’s Bangladeshi community, Brick Lane is home to numerous curry houses. While you are there, save some room for a salt beef bagel from one of Britain’s most famous bagel shops, Brick Lane Beigel Bake.

**Cheese:**Make your way to the posh Mayfair neighborhood to find London’s oldest cheese shop, where you can sample many varieties of cheese from around the country. Another great spot for cheese sampling is Borough Market, with dozens of vendors and countless delicious products.

**Scones:**Indulging in a traditional English cream tea, featuring scones smothered in clotted cream and pots of fragrant tea, is a must-do in London. Make like the ladies who lunch by heading for one of central London’s posh department stores, such as Liberty of Fortnum and Mason, for this quintessentially British experience.

**Fish ‘n’ chips:**Don’t miss out on the chance to eat Britain’s national food while visiting the capital. Stop into a traditional pub near Charing Cross or London Bridge and tuck into a plate of crispy battered cod and thick, perfectly cooked chips—and wash it all down with a pint of real ale.

Widely considered among the United Kingdom’s top sites of interest, Bath and Windsor boast beautiful architecture, fine views, and centuries of colorful history—all within easy reach of London. Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit.

Highlights

• Visit two of England’s top destinations in one day.

• Stroll along the Georgian streets of Bath and discover highlights such as the historic Roman Baths.

• Delve into 900 years of English history at Windsor Castle, home to Her Majesty the Queen of England.

• Relax and enjoy your adventure with round-trip travel included from London.

• Combine a tour to Bath or Windsor with a visit to Stonehenge.

Things to See in Bath

The UNESCO–listed city of Bath lies 114 miles (183 kilometers) west of London, about three hours away by road. The city is famous for its impressive Roman relics and Georgian architecture, with highlights including Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths. In addition to the landmarks, visitors can enjoy traditional British pubs with sweeping views over the pretty Avon River.

Things to See in Windsor

Windsor is a historic market town located 25 miles (40 kilometers) west of London, about an hour away by road. Nestled on the banks of the River Thames, the town is perhaps most famously home to Windsor Castle—Her Majesty the Queen’s official residence—but there’s even more to see. Wander along the famous Long Walk in Windsor Great Park; see soldiers marching along Windsor High Street for the Changing of the Guard ceremony; and gain insight into 900 years of English history.

The Cotswolds, a range of rolling hills in the west of England, are home to traditional villages, stately homes, and UNESCO–listed treasures. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this corner of the English countryside on a tour from London.

Top Things to Do in the Cotswolds

• Explore historic towns and villages such as Bibury, Burford, and Stow-on-the-Wold, and stop for lunch in a traditional English pub.
• Spin through the Cotswolds and admire sweeping views over the hillsides and fields.
• Stroll along the cobblestoned streets of Oxford, and admire attractions including the Ashmolean Museum, Bodleian Library, and Christ Church Cathedral.
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Blenheim Palace and admire its baroque architecture.
• Combine your Cotswolds adventure with a visit to nearby sites of interest such as Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon, UNESCO–listed Stonehenge, or Warwick Castle.

Things to Know

• Oxford is located 60 miles (96 kilometers) northwest of London, about two hours away by road.
• Bath is 116 miles (186 kilometers) west of London, a drive of about three hours.
• Cotswolds tours typically take in a number of nearby points of interest, many by foot, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Day tours from London usually include round-trip transport, a tour guide, and entrance fees. Some tours also include lunch.

London comes alive in the spring, thanks to the return of good weather and sunny days. Take advantage of the season and visit the city’s flowering Royal Parks, go for an elegant cruise along the Thames River, venture into Kensington Palace, and more. Here’s how to plan your perfect springtime itinerary in London.

• Make the most of a sunny spring day with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour.

• Glimpse the Crown Jewels and elegantly attired Beefeaters when you visit the UNESCO-listed Tower of London.

• Follow in the footsteps of the British Royal Family during a visit to Kensington Palace.

• Take advantage of the pleasant spring weather during a bike tour of the city’s Royal Parks.

• Combine a sightseeing outing with a beloved British tradition when you go for a Thames River cruise, complete with afternoon tea service.

• Experience London’s theatrical side, and book tickets to see Matilda: The Musical on the West End.

• See where the Beatles and the Rolling Stones spent their days on a rock ’n’ roll tour of London.

• Delve into Harry Potter’s magical world on a tour of Warner Bros. Studio.

• Plan a full-day getaway to three of England’s most in-demand destinations: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath.

The post-Edwardian TV drama Downton Abbey may have ended, but fans of the affluent Crawley family and their servants can still get their aristocratic fix with a tour of the key filming locations in London and the Cotswolds. Here are your options.

Cotswolds Filming Site Tours

Follow the lead of Downton's lords and ladies, and head to the limestone hills of the Cotswolds where much of the period drama's action was filmed. Most tours visit Bampton in Oxfordshire, the real-life location of Downton Village, and the country inns of Shilton and Swinbrook. Cogges' Yew Tree Farm and Greys Court, featured as Downton Place, are also included in most itineraries.

Highclere Castle Tours

The real-life Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle is a handsome country estate owned by the family of the Earl of Carnarvon. Tours showcase the upstairs rooms and allow you to walk in the footsteps of the Dowager Countess and the rest of the Granthams.

London Filming Sites

There’s more to Downton drama than Highclere Castle, and a tour of central London filming locations puts the spotlight on the TV series' urban scenes. Most sightseeing experiences focus on Mayfair, Belgravia, and Westminster, where the Ritz London, Belgrave Square, and Bridgewater House all starred as sets.

Combo Tours

If you want to make the most of your time and see more of England, combine a Downton Abbey tour with a visit elsewhere, both in the same day. Nearby popular destinations include the university city of Oxford and Blenheim Palace—both sites resonate with history that dates back to the Downton days.

With just one day to explore London, planning ahead will help you maximize your time and see as much as possible. Every moment counts, so prebook skip-the-line tickets for top attractions, combine mealtimes with sightseeing, and fill your day with "only in London" experiences. Here’s how to see London in one day.

Morning: Explore Historic London

Make an early start and set out on a convenient sightseeing tour of London’s top attractions before the crowds arrive. Follow in the footsteps of William the Conqueror and Henry VIII at the Tower of London and take a peek at the Crown Jewels. Climb up to the Whispering Gallery in St. Paul's Cathedral, take photos of Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and then stroll through St. James Park to Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard. 

Afternoon: Hop Between the Sights

A hop-on hop-off bus tour ensures that no time is wasted traveling between sights and allows you to create your own itinerary. Take photos from the open-air top deck as you pass Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus, and Trafalgar Square. Perhaps hop off at Harrods for souvenirs, visit Madame Tussauds to snap a selfie with the queen, or take a ride on the London Eye for views of the city. Book tickets for your must-sees in advance—skip-the-line tickets to the London Eye or The Shard could save you from spending hours in line. For lunch, head to Covent Garden and grab a bite at the market or take a break at one of the many cafés or restaurants.

Night: Cruise Around Illuminated London

London is most magical by night, and an evening dinner cruise along the River Thames affords prime views as you glide past illuminated landmarks such as Tower Bridge, London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament. After the cruise, stroll along the atmospheric Southbank and perhaps stop for a drink at one of the riverfront bars. Alternatively, head into London's West End theater district to see an award-winning show such as The Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia!, or Wicked, followed by dinner at one of the restaurants around Leicester Square and Soho.

Oxford is home to one of the world’s oldest universities and boasts a medieval skyline, cobbled streets, and stately gardens—all just an hour’s train ride from London. Here are a few ways to enjoy your time in the “city of dreaming spires.”

Day Trips

Day trips to Oxford from London take in top attractions such as the Bodleian Library and the famous Christ Church College, but that’s just the start of the adventure. Stroll among the honey-colored university buildings and explore centuries of rich English history, then visit nearby destinations such as Stratford-upon-Avon, UNESCO–listed Stonehenge, Warwick Castle, or Windsor Castle—all on the same tour.

Multi-Day Tours

For travelers keen to experience the best of Oxford and its surroundings, a two-day tour could be just the ticket. Explore the Georgian city of Bath, marvel at the ancient stone circles of Avebury, spin through traditional English villages in the idyllic Cotswolds, and visit the medieval university city of Oxford. With overnight accommodations, breakfast, and round-trip travel from London typically included, you’re free to relax and enjoy your time away from the busy capital.

Things to Know

• Oxford is 59 miles (94 kilometers) west of London, about two hours away by road.

• Day trips to Oxford from London typically last about 10 hours.

• Tours from London usually include entrance fees, plus round-trip transportation.

• Oxford tours can involve quite a lot of walking, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away, an extended layover, or an action-packed city break, two days in London is plenty of time to take in the city highlights. Save time and money with a 48-hour multi-attraction pass and hop-on hop-off bus tour, and take advantage of combo tours and skip-the-line tickets. Here are a few ideas.

Day 1: Check Off the Top Sights

**Morning:**Maximize your time with an early-access tour of the Tower of London and see the Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive. Stop to take photos of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and St. Paul’s Cathedral on the way to Buckingham Palace to watch the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony.

**Afternoon:**Enjoy an unforgettable view of London with either a ride on the London Eye or a visit to The View at The Shard, and spot landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the River Thames, and Big Ben from high above. Afterward, take a break and indulge in a traditional English afternoon tea at a top location such as Westminster Abbey, The Ritz, or The Savoy.

**Night:**Continue sightseeing into the evening and experience London’s illuminations. Options include a panoramic night tour of London, a thrilling after-hours ghost tour of East London, and a romantic cruise along the Thames River, with dinner served on board.

Day 2: Experience London Culture

**Morning:**Spend the morning taking in some of London’s acclaimed museums. The British Museum is unmissable for those interested in history, while art enthusiasts should head to the National Gallery or the Tate Modern, Those with kids in tow should opt for the national history and science museums. Alternatively, take a half-day trip to Windsor Castle and return in time for lunch. 

**Afternoon:**This is your last chance for shopping, so ride the tube to Oxford Street, Knightsbridge, or Covent Garden to browse the shops and pick up some souvenirs. Depending on your preferences, you could stop by mega-department store Harrods, visit the foodie hotspot Borough Market, or browse the quirky shops along Carnaby Street.

**Night:**Spend your final evening in London watching a show in the world-renowned West End theater district. There are dozens of performances to choose from every night of the week, but favorites include Mamma Mia!, Wicked, and The Lion King. After the show, head into Soho and grab dinner in lively Chinatown.

London is one of Europe’s most visited cities, so it’s no surprise that it can get crowded. But there are ways to beat the crowds. From advance tickets to night tours to less tourist-packed neighborhoods, here’s how to make the most of your visit.

Plan ahead.

Take the time to examine opening times and pre-book entry when possible; it can save a lot of time and money during your visit. Advance tickets and skip-the-line access can help avoid long queues for popular spots such as the Tower of London, Madame Tussauds, and the London Zoo. The London Pass also enables you to access many of these using one card.

Put your walking shoes on.

Many central London sights are within a short walking distance from one another. It can be fastest to arrive by foot to spots such as the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tate Modern.

Explore beyond the tourist center.

The allure of Big Ben and other classic London sights brings many tourists to the same parts of the city. Covent Garden, Oxford Street, and Mayfair are often crowded with shoppers. Heading out to locally loved locales like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park allows you to see more of the city and lose the crowds.

Choose transportation wisely.

London’s Underground is one of the finest public transport systems in the world. You may face crowding, however, at popular stops and during rush hour. If you’re short on time, consider hiring a classic black cab that can whisk you around to the sights of your choice.

Embrace the weather.

In rainy weather, most travelers avoid outdoor sights. If you’re willing to grab an umbrella, you can see London’s top spots without the crowds. If you’d prefer a day indoors, the British Museum, Tate, and National Gallery are great options.

Take a night tour.

When most visitors have called it a day, you can still see the nighttime side of London. With spooky ghost tours and late-night openings, you lose most of the crowds. Early morning is another optimal time to see sights before most people are up.

The Tudor market town of Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of poet and playwright William Shakespeare, and it draws big crowds eager to learn about the Bard of Avon. Here’s how to experience the best of this charming town on a day trip from London.

Top Things to Do in Stratford-upon-Avon

• Visit Shakespeare’s place of birth, a restored 16th-century timbered house.

• Explore the cottage once owned by Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway.

• Take in top attractions such as the Church of the Holy Trinity, where William Shakespeare was laid to rest.

• Admire the villages of Bibury, Burford, and Bourton-on-the-Water in the nearby Cotswolds.

• Combine your trip to Stratford-upon-Avon with a visit to surrounding sites of interest such as Bath, UNESCO–listed Stonehenge, Oxford, or Warwick Castle.

Things to Know

• Stratford-upon-Avon lies 101 miles (163 kilometers) northwest of London, about two hours away by road.

• Tours to Stratford-upon-Avon from London typically last between nine and 12 hours.

• Once in town, much of Stratford-upon-Avon can be covered on foot, or you can take the convenient hop-on hop-off bus, which does regular circuits of the town’s major sights.

• Tours typically visit a number of nearby sites of interest, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

• The majority of tours to Stratford-upon-Avon from London include entrance fees and round-trip transport from London city center.

Home to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Canterbury Cathedral and iconic White Cliffs of Dover, the cities of Canterbury and Dover make ideal day trips from London. Here are a few ways to optimize your time in the southeastern corner of England.

Highlights

• Explore UNESCO–listed Canterbury Cathedral and the famous White Cliffs of Dover—two of southeast England’s best-known attractions.

• Explore the roots of Christianity in England at Canterbury Cathedral.

• Admire the mighty White Cliffs of Dover, and perhaps spin through seaside towns such as Deal, Kingsdown, and Sandwich.

• Trace centuries of royal history at the beautiful Leeds Castle in Kent, a medieval fortress located en route to Canterbury and Dover.

• With travel included, relax and take in the sites in comfort.

Things to Know

• Canterbury is 62 miles (99 kilometers) to the southeast of London, a drive of about an hour and a half.

• Dover is 81 miles (130 kilometers) southeast of London, about two hours away by road.

• Day tours from London typically last 10 to 12 hours, including travel time.

• Tours usually start and end in central London, and many also take in Leeds Castle and the maritime historical buildings of Greenwich.

Places to Visit Nearby

If you’re traveling southeast to Canterbury and Dover, don’t miss the chance to visit medieval Leeds Castle. With a history dating back to the 12th century, Leeds Castle is widely considered among the finest historic fortresses in Kent.

There’s no need for a car in the UK’s capital city, thanks to its vast and efficient transport networks. Whether you want the classic black-cab experience or an intimate glimpse of the city’s hidden highlights on a walking tour, here are our top tips for finding your way while in London.

Public Transport

As the home of the world’s first-ever underground railway, London’s travel network must be experienced to be believed. Conveniently, all public transport—including the Tube, buses, river services, and main-line trains—can be accessed with either a contactless credit or debit card or an Oyster card, which is available from any Underground station.

Black Cabs

For the true London experience, a black-cab journey is a must. Street-hailed services can be expensive, so to save some cash consider booking a private tour. Black-cab drivers are famously knowledgeable about London’s labyrinthine roads, so you can save time ticking off attractions of your choice.

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses and Boats

For independent travelers, hop-on hop-off services offer hassle-free transfer and historical insights without the restrictions of a typical tour. You can zip between London landmarks by classic double-decker bus or river cruiser, or save money with a package that also includes entry to top attractions.

On Foot

Whether you want to sightsee in the historic center or experience the city like a local, walking tours are ideal for immersing yourself in London’s rich history and culture. From the iconic landmarks of Westminster to the street art that adorns the suburbs, there’s something to see on every corner of the buzzing city.

Thames River speed boat cruises in London offer the perfect opportunity for adrenaline junkies to get their fill of adventure. With high-speed thrills and views over the capital, here’s how to experience the Thames River in style with a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) cruise.

Highlights

• Whizz past top London attractions such as the Houses of Parliament, the Tower Bridge, the Canary Wharf, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge aboard a RIB cruise.

• Experience the exhilaration of super-fast speeds up to 35 miles per hour (56 kilometers per hour).

• Soak up panoramic views of the capital from the waves.

• Listen as your tour guide points out top attractions and brings centuries of colorful London history to life.

Things to Know

• RIB rides depart from and return to a range of central London locations, including Embankment Pier, Millennium Pier, and St. Katharine’s Pier.

• Tours typically last from 40 to 50 minutes.

• Use of a life jacket, all-weather clothing, and waterproof gear is included.

• Rides are typically available between 10am and 6pm.

There are few serial killers as notorious as Jack the Ripper, and brave London visitors can delve into the dark underbelly of the East End on a Jack the Ripper tour. Choose from several options, from afternoon walking tours to night pub crawls.

Highlights

• Discover the dark legacy of Jack the Ripper on a tour of East London neighborhoods such as Whitechapel, Aldgate, Spitalfields, and Brick Lane.

• Visit Jack the Ripper’s gruesome murder sites including the Frying Pan pub, Hanbury Street, Ten Bells Pub, Goulston Street, and Mitre Square.

• Learn more about the Autumn of Terror, the Ripper Letters, and the different suspects—which even included Prime Minister William Gladstone and Queen Victoria’s own grandson.

• Get a fascinating peek at London’s East End circa the 19th century through state-of-the-art Ripper-Vision projections.

• Stop at a pub to sample London gin or taste local specialties at Old Spitalfields Market.

• Combine a Jack the Ripper tour with a London city sightseeing tour, a visit to the Tower of London, a ghost bus tour, or a themed tour of sites associated with legendary characters Sherlock Holmes and Sweeney Todd.

Things to Know

• Jack the Ripper tours are available by foot and bike, in a classic black taxi, and aboard a vintage double-decker bus.

• Group and private tours typically last between 1.5 and 3.5 hours.

• Jack the Ripper’s reign of terror is one of the most talked about events of Victorian-era London, and the mystery of his identity still remains unsolved.

A quintessential British tradition, afternoon tea has been around since the 19th century. Follow the tea-sipping lead of bygone British duchesses, and indulge yourself with mid-afternoon cakes, sandwiches, and tea at a traditional London hotel.

Highlights

• A pot of tea paired with a tier of fresh finger sandwiches, scones, and little cakes on fine china form the hallmark of the best afternoon tea. Champagne is offered as a special indulgence.

• While squeezed between lunch and dinner, afternoon tea is a ritual that can’t be rushed. Aim to "take tea" for about two hours.

• Most experiences take place at elegant tea rooms in prestigious central London hotels, easy to access by foot and public transport. Some combo tours offer hotel pickup and drop-off, too.

• Credit for the afternoon tea custom goes to a friend of Queen Victoria's, the seventh Duchess of Bedfordshire, who ordered snacks to see her through until dinner. The tradition went on to become a beloved social occasion.

Afternoon Tea Experiences

For a traditional afternoon tea that would be approved of by the aristocrats, look to a 4- or 5-star hotel such as Grosvenor House, Claridge's, the Savoy, the Ritz, or the Rubens at the Palace Hotel. While the tea menu, elegant cakes, and finger sandwiches will delight most, some hotels go further for families with a kids' menu that swaps tea for milkshakes.

Combo Tours

Pair a London city tour with English afternoon tea; it's the perfect way to top off an action-packed sightseeing experience in the capital. Tea can be taken as you sightsee from a Thames River boat; after a vintage London bus tour; or after a dedicated tour of Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, or Shakespeare's Globe.

Held in London from September through November, the NFL International Series showcases American football’s finest talent, from the Miami Dolphins to the New England Patriots. Here are a few things to do while you’re in London for the action.

• Enter the magical world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, and learn about the costumes, film sets, props, and special effects.

• Follow a guide on a historical pubs tour of London and sample some of the tasty ales on offer.

• Travel through London in style on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, and discover top sites of interest such as Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, and the Tower of London with ease.

• Take to the skies with a 30-minute ride on the famous London Eye, and enjoy uninterrupted views over Westminster and the Thames River.

• See the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

• Escape the city and experience life in the British countryside on a tour through Oxford, the Cotswolds, or Stratford-upon-Avon.

Winter in London means festive lights, Christmas markets, and plenty of seasonal cheer. Don’t let the shorter days and chilly weather put you off sightseeing—the city is magical by night and there are ways to escape the cold. Here are some ideas for things to do in London this winter.

• Marvel at London’s glittering Christmas lights on a black cab tour, and then hop out to visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.

• Treat yourself to a full English afternoon tea at Westminster Abbey.

• Enjoy a festive Christmas lunch in the countryside on a day tour to Windsor, Stonehenge, Salisbury, and Bath.

• Shop for gifts and tuck into seasonal foods on a tour of London’s Christmas markets.

• Spend Boxing Day visiting famous England landmarks such as Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and the White Cliffs of Dover.

• Admire London’s NYE fireworks from the water on a night cruise along the River Thames.

• Relive your favorite movie moments at the Warner Bros Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter.

• Spend a rainy day indoors exploring the British Museum.

• Sample traditional food and British ale at a London pub. 

Two iconic cities, Paris and London have never felt closer thanks to high-speed train travel, which puts Paris at a 2.5-hour train ride from London on the Eurostar. Here are a few ways to see the City of Light on a trip from the English capital.

Day Trips By Rail

Even if you only have one day to spare, you can cover a lot of ground in Paris. Upon arrival by rail, travelers can take a Seine River cruise, opt to use free time to explore on their own, or head to the Louvre for a guided tour. It's also possible to squeeze in a trip to Versailles. Those celebrating a special occasion might choose a tour that includes a champagne lunch atop the Eiffel Tower and an overview of Paris sights by coach. Upgrade to first-class train tickets to enjoy a served meal on the journey.

Independent Tours

Independent bookings are ideal for those who want the flexibility of touring Paris on their own but prefer the ease of having tickets and passes pre-booked. You can hit the ground running with a Paris attractions pass or hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Multi-Day Rail Tours

If you want more time in Paris and a hassle-free tour experience, choose a 2- or 3-day tour from London. Some of these rail tours include a tour guide and the option to add in a trip to Versailles, while others take a more independent approach with more free time. Accommodations and some meals are typically included.

Things to Know

• Paris is set about 186 miles (299 kilometers) southeast of London, a journey of about 2.5 hours by train.

• Trains depart regularly from St. Pancras station in London.

• You'll need a passport or a national identity card (for EEA citizens and Swiss nationals) for the trip between England and France.

• Depending on which tour you book, meals and beverages may or may not be included.

• Taking a tour of Paris will help you prioritize what to see and do with your time in the city.