London: The Complete Guide

London, located in the southeastern part of England, is a vibrant and diverse global city offering something for every type of visitor. The city’s iconic skyline features a blend of historic landmarks and modern architecture, creating a dynamic atmosphere that is both rich in culture and innovation. From world-famous museums and galleries to bustling markets and theatres, London provides countless opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of experiences across London’s many distinct neighbourhoods. Whether wandering through the historic streets of Westminster, soaking up the artistic vibes in Shoreditch, or shopping in the West End, there is no shortage of attractions and activities. The extensive public transport network makes it easy to move around and discover hidden gems as well as major sights.

London also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, enhancing its appeal as a year-round destination. Whether attending a theatre show in the West End, enjoying the vibrant nightlife in Soho, or relaxing in one of the city’s many parks, visitors find London to be a city full of energy, diversity, and unforgettable experiences.

History of London

Roman London

London began as a Roman settlement known as Londinium, established around AD 47. Built along the River Thames, the site was chosen for its strategic location and access to trade routes. Londinium quickly grew into a bustling port and administrative centre, complete with temples, baths, and an amphitheatre. The Roman city was enclosed by a defensive wall in the late 2nd century, parts of which still remain today.

Medieval London

After the Roman withdrawal in the early 5th century, London experienced decline but was gradually resettled. By the 9th century, it had regained importance under Saxon rule. Following the Norman Conquest in 1066, the Tower of London was constructed to assert control. During the Middle Ages, London expanded around key institutions such as Westminster Abbey and became a centre for trade, law, and government. Events like the Black Death and the Peasants’ Revolt also left deep imprints on the city’s development.

Tudor and Stuart London

In the 16th and 17th centuries, London flourished as a political and commercial capital. The Tudors established the Royal Court in the city, and the population surged. However, the era was also marked by disasters, including the Great Plague of 1665 and the Great Fire of 1666, which destroyed large parts of the city. The reconstruction that followed introduced more modern urban planning and building standards.

Georgian and Victorian London

During the 18th and 19th centuries, London became the heart of the British Empire. Massive industrial growth and an expanding railway network transformed it into the largest city in the world by the mid-1800s. Though this era brought economic success, it also saw poverty, overcrowding, and public health crises. Social reform, infrastructure development, and landmark institutions like the British Museum emerged in response.

Modern London

In the 20th century, London endured two World Wars, with the Blitz causing widespread damage during the Second World War. The post-war period saw rebuilding, immigration, and cultural shifts that shaped the city’s identity. From the Swinging Sixties to the 2012 Olympics, London has remained a global capital of culture, finance, and innovation. Today, it continues to evolve, balancing deep historical roots with modern dynamism.

Visiting London for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in London on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1. London – The British Museum

The British Museum is one of London’s most iconic and comprehensive museums, showcasing over two million years of history, art, and culture. Its vast collections include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and a captivating range of Egyptian mummies. The museum is particularly strong in its displays of ancient civilizations, offering a unique opportunity to trace global cultural development through artefacts.

Entry is free, and it is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00 (open until 20:30 on Fridays). Located in Bloomsbury, the museum is easily accessible by Tube via Tottenham Court Road or Holborn stations. The Great Court, with its magnificent glass roof, is a highlight in itself and provides a wonderful space to relax between exhibits.

2. London – The Tower of London

The Tower of London is steeped in nearly a millennium of royal history, intrigue, and legend. Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1066, it has served as a fortress, prison, and royal palace. Visitors can explore the medieval White Tower, the Crown Jewels, and learn about the Tower’s more chilling episodes of execution and imprisonment.

It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 09:00 to 17:30 and Sunday to Monday from 10:00 to 17:30. Last entry is at 16:30. Tickets cost approximately £33 for adults and £16.50 for children (discounts available online). Beefeater tours and interactive exhibits make it a must-see for families and history lovers alike.

3. London – The Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

The Palace of Westminster, home to the UK Parliament, is a majestic Gothic building along the Thames, with the iconic Big Ben clock tower as its centrepiece. Though the chimes of Big Ben are what most people recognise, the interior of Parliament is just as fascinating, with ornate chambers and political significance.

Guided tours are available on most Saturdays and during parliamentary recesses, offering access to the Commons and Lords chambers. Prices begin around £22 for adults. Westminster station is directly adjacent, and the nearby Westminster Abbey can easily be added to your itinerary.

4. London – The National Gallery

Situated in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery houses one of the most impressive collections of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries. Works by Leonardo da Vinci, Turner, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt are all on display in this vast and elegant space.

The museum is free to enter and open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with late opening on Fridays until 21:00. The building itself is grand and classical, offering beautiful views of Trafalgar Square and an excellent starting point for a walking tour of central London.

5. London – The Victoria and Albert Museum

The V&A in South Kensington is the world’s leading museum of art, design, and performance. Its collections span everything from Renaissance sculpture and historical fashion to photography and ceramics. Temporary exhibitions are often world-class and highly curated.

Open daily from 10:00 to 17:45 (Fridays until 22:00), general admission is free, though special exhibitions may charge. The museum’s stunning central courtyard and garden café provide a calm break from the bustling galleries. It’s a cultural treasure trove that rewards slow exploration.

6. London – The London Eye

For panoramic views of the capital, the London Eye is an unbeatable experience. This enormous observation wheel offers 360-degree views over the River Thames, including landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, and Buckingham Palace. Each capsule fits 25 people and completes one rotation in about 30 minutes.

The Eye is open daily from 11:00 to 18:00, with peak hours extending during holidays. Tickets start from around £33 if booked in advance. Located on the South Bank, it’s close to the Sea Life Aquarium, London Dungeon, and other family-friendly attractions.

7. London – The Tate Modern

The Tate Modern, housed in a converted power station on Bankside, is the UK’s leading museum of modern and contemporary art. Inside, you’ll find thought-provoking works by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney, along with regular installations in the expansive Turbine Hall.

Admission is free (except for special exhibitions), and the gallery is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00. The upper floors offer excellent views of the Thames and St Paul’s Cathedral, connected by the pedestrian-only Millennium Bridge. It’s a short walk from Blackfriars and Southwark stations.

8. London – St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral, with its grand dome and baroque architecture, is one of the city’s most recognisable and spiritually significant landmarks. Inside, visitors can admire mosaics, sculptures, and memorials before climbing to the Whispering Gallery and Golden Gallery for skyline views.

Open Monday to Saturday from 08:30 to 16:30 (last entry 16:00), adult tickets cost around £20, with concessions and family rates available. Services are still held daily, and the cathedral’s crypt contains tombs of national figures like Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.

9. London – The Science Museum

The Science Museum in South Kensington is an engaging attraction for visitors of all ages, offering interactive exhibits, historic aircraft, space technology, and scientific breakthroughs. Kids especially love the Wonderlab and IMAX theatre.

Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with last entry at 17:15, admission is free, although some exhibitions and the Wonderlab require paid tickets. Located near the V&A and Natural History Museum, it’s ideal for a family day out in West London.

10. London – Camden Market

Camden Market is one of London’s most eclectic shopping and food destinations. Spread across several connected areas like the Stables Market and Camden Lock, it offers vintage fashion, global cuisine, handmade crafts, and alternative streetwear. The canalside location adds to its quirky charm.

Open seven days a week from 10:00 to 18:00, weekends are especially lively with live music and street performers. It’s reachable by Tube via Camden Town station and serves as a great gateway to explore the nearby Regent’s Canal and Primrose Hill.