DiscoverLondon

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Are you ready to explore London?

Home to a checklist of world-famous art galleries and museums, striking architecture and next-level restaurants, London truly is Britain’s beating heart. Home of the royal family, and a hotbed of history - start planning your trip to the majestic capital.

A trip to London has something for everyone. A sprawl of multicultural neighbourhoods spiral out from the River Thames and form the cultural cornerstones of the city. Some of the capital’s most-loved landmarks – the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge – line the riverbanks, creating its iconic skyline – an arresting mashup of old and modern architecture.

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The classics

Hidden gems

Insider tips

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London 2 night breaks

From£105 pp

from Edinburgh, Jan 2019

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London's top ten attractions

You haven't seen London unless you've visited its top ten attractions. Discover the best things to do in London, plus some hidden gems along the way.

Things to do in London now

Whether you’re camping for a fortnight in The Queue at Wimbledon or just passing through, here are the best things to do in London in July.

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Flights to London

London: a 24-hour guide

Now that London has a 24-hour Tube network, you can enjoy the best of the capital around the clock. Here’s the lowdown on where to go, whatever the time of year.

London hotels for every traveller

Whether you’re looking for affordable accommodation close to the sights or a luxury layover, we’ve picked seven London hotels that are perfect for every type of traveller test.

Classic London

Planning a trip to London for the royal wedding? With its iconic history, charm and sheer glamour, visitors looking to explore the capital needn’t stray far from the centre. Plan well and you’ll be able to pack the best bits into a fairytale 48 hours.

Emine Saner

London based journalist and writer

Quirky London: a weekend guide

No matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to discover. Look beyond the classic hot spots with our guide to unexpected London

Nick Curtis

London based writer

London for families

With a new arrival adding to the royal household, London has never been a more wonderful city for families to explore with your own little princes and princesses. From the lofty heights of the London Eye to the depths of the Sea Life Aquarium, discover the capital’s must-see sights when you’ve got kids in tow.

Jane Anderson

Family travel expert

Day trips fit for royalty

From the majesty of Windsor Castle to the spectacular interiors of Hampton Court Palace, a day trip to these iconic sights will immerse you in Britain's illustrious history.

Harriet Cooper

British travel writer

London insiders: seasonal tips

Summer

“Watch a movie at one of London’s outdoor cinemas during summer. There are so many pop-up cinemas in every areas of the city. I’m especially a fan of the Luna Cinema, because they are constantly moving around and programming in beautiful spots like Kew Gardens or the lawn at Westminster Abbey.”

– Jess Parr, British Airways cabin crew and travel blogger

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Autumn

“Hyde Park is great, but Kensington Gardens is a lesser-known spot to explore. Leaves twirl down from the trees, and there’s a satisfying crunch as you walk through piles of them. There are lots of horse chestnut trees here. Collect the conkers from underneath them, and string them onto shoelaces and have a go at playing the traditional British game.”

– Tom Dykhoff, Local writer and architecture critic

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Winter

“Ice-skating at Somerset House is just magical. Not only do you have the fun of skating, but the building itself is beautiful. There’s always a huge Christmas tree hung with intricate ornaments and twinkly lights.”

– Emi Chiappa, family and food expert

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Spring

– Andy Taylor, London based street-food chef

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“When spring arrives everyone makes for the nearest parks at the weekends during their down time. Be sure to head to popular spots such as Hampstead Heath during the week, while the crowds are at work. It’s a calm and leafy side to the city. You can check out the stately home Kenwood House and its gardens, or just sit on a bench and stare over the lake towards Highgate.” – Andy Taylor

Where to shop in London

The royals have always been known for their timeless, elegant British style, partly thanks to London and its shopping credentials. But there's far more to buy in London than just the latest fashions. From designer trainers to iconic literature, discover the best places to spend your cash in the capital.

Grace Cook

Fashion assistant at the Financial Times

London’s curious afternoon teas

Few things are more regal than the British tradition of afternoon tea. From teas and scones to chocolate lollipops and Nutella burgers, we discover London's most unusual and inventive teatime treats.

Where to go when it rains in London

It wouldn’t be London without a spot of rain, and thankfully the capital has plenty on offer to keep you entertained (and dry) when clouds turn grey. Check out our top ideas for what to do in London when it’s raining.

Harriet Cooper, London based travel writer

Harriet Cooper

London based travel writer

Jam-packed with attractions, there is a wealth of things to do in London, with plenty to keep you busy from the moment you arrive. Royal enthusiasts can wander the grounds of Kensington Palace, step back in time with a trip to Westminster Abbey, or delight in afternoon tea at The Goring – the only hotel in the UK to be honoured with a Royal Warrant. First-timers can fill an itinerary with central London sightseeing, from Mayfair’s smart shops and glitzy theatre in the West End to Soho’s innovative restaurants and peaceful Hyde Park. To get a real feel for London, it’s worth venturing further afield. Go west to Chelsea for luxury shopping and South Kensington’s museum district, or explore the East End neighbourhood Shoreditch for edgy cocktail bars and independent boutiques.

Come the weekends, nothing beats a stroll in one of London’s Royal Parks followed by a pub lunch. Soak up maritime history in Greenwich, or brave a dip in Hampstead Heath’s outdoor ponds. Alternatively, hire a car to Windsor for a road trip of regal proportions, or revel in pretty countryside in the Cotswolds. What are you waiting for?