Unique Things To Do In London
Traveling is one of my favorite things to do. I enjoy it so much. Over the years I’ve written numerous travel posts including my cross country trip recap and my things to do in Toronto post. Today’s post is travel related as well. In April, I had the chance to knock off something else that was on my bucket list. For years, I wanted to travel to Europe. I began to think about a Europe vacation as early as 2014. Five years after my initial thoughts about it, it came to fruition. In April, I was able to travel to London, Paris, and Belgium. The experience was better than I could have imagined. Today, I want to go over some unique things to do in London.
Things To Do In London
Buckingham Palace
I couldn’t come to London and not visit Buckingham Palace. Buckingham Palace is the London home and business center to the Royal family. It’s similar to the White House. There are several tours that you can do at Buckingham Palace. During this trip, I didn’t tour it. I just wanted to see the palace and take a few pictures. I also saw the changing of the guard. The changing of the guard is where the military guards who are watching the palace switch with other guards. The official ceremony starts at 11:00 am. I’d suggest that you try to get out there no later than 10:30 am. It’s a very popular event, so there will be a lot of people around. To check the schedule for the changing of the guard, check out their site here.
Big Ben
Big Ben is the world-famous clock tower. It’s located at the Palace of Westminster. The official name of the tower is the Elizabeth Tower. It’s one of London’s most popular landmarks. It’s currently undergoing reservations, but it’s still a must-see.
Tower Bridge
While discussing landmarks, the next location on the list of unique things to do in London is the Tower Bridge. It is one of London’s most famous bridges. If you search for London anywhere online, you’re guaranteed to see pictures of this bridge somewhere on the website. The bridge is so popular that many people get it mixed up and call it the London Bridge, but it’s not. The London Bridge is smaller and further down the river. I made sure to check out both bridges.
Brixton
Brixton was one of my favorite parts of London. It’s an area that’s located in South London. There was a market out there as well as a lot of shops. Brixton is also known for having different murals in the area. I didn’t get a chance to see all of them, but I did see one of David Bowie, and another of Michelle Obama. There was also a larger mural that featured Big Pun, 2pac, Biggie, Big L, and ODB.
Hippodrome
Next on the list of unique things to do in London is the Hippodrome. The Hippodrome is probably the most famous casino in London. The casino has been in operation since 2012, but the building itself has been open since 1900. The Hippodrome has three floors of gaming as well as a theater and multiple bars. It’s located near Chinatown. Speaking of Chinatown, that’s the next one on the list.
Chinatown
Believe it or not, there is a Chinatown in London. Although it’s not as packed as the one in New York, the Chinatown in London was pretty busy. There are multiple shops, markets, and businesses there.
London Eye
If you’ve read anything about London, you’ve probably seen a picture of the big Ferris wheel. The London Eye, as it is called is the most popular paid tourist attraction in London. I’m a little shocked. I figured that something else would be a little more popular. I don’t like heights, so there was no way in hell that I was going up there. My girlfriend told me that the views were great, but I’m good. If you have no problem with heights, by all means, check it out.
Check out this 3-day London itinerary.
Wembley Stadium
If you’ve followed me for a while, you know that I love sports. I like to check out different sporting events when I’m traveling if it’s possible. I had to at least check out Wembley Stadium. Wembley is home to England’s National Soccer team. The NFL also plays most of their London games there.
The Blues Kitchen
The Blues Kitchen is a BBQ restaurant and live music venue. I went there one night and was shocked to see how lively it was. There was a band jamming on stage. The place has a retro feel to it. The Blues Kitchen has three locations. One is near Camden, while the others are in Brixton and Shoreditch. It is definitely one of the unique things to do in London.
Camden Market
The Camden Market is located in Camden Town, which is an area in Northwest London. The Camden Market was one of my favorite places that I went to in London. There are tons of stores and restaurants to check out. If you like to walk around and try different things, the Camden Market is a must-visit for you.
Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus reminded me of Times Square a little bit. It was hustling and bustling and I loved it. Piccadilly Square is a good spot to take pictures at. Restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions are all over the area.
River Thames
You can’t come to London and not get a picture near the River Thames. Many of the best things to do in London are located near the river, so you can’t help but see it. You can take a boat to do some sightseeing in the attractions in the area.
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is a public square that’s located in Central London. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, museums, and more. If you’re a fan of nice architecture, then you have to visit this place. During Christmas time, the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is put up. It’s a huge attraction during that time of the year. Victory parades for the local sports teams are also held in the square.
As you can see, there is a lot to do in London. I wasn’t even able to see everything. I didn’t get a chance to see Hyde Park, Madame Tussauds, or Abbey Road. I’ll have to do those things on my next trip to London.
What’s on your list of unique things to do in London?
Travel Recommendations
TripAdvisor
Research, research, research! There is so much to do. You need to make sure that you’re on it and have a nice itinerary. TripAdvisor can help you come up with a good one.
Trafalgar
Trafalgar has information about destinations and tours. They have plenty of deals and will make sure that you get the best bang for your buck. Trafalgar will make sure that you see the good tourist spots.
Airbnb
There are hundreds of Airbnb’s across London. Many are cheaper than the hotels. Get $40 off your booking when you sign up for Airbnb through this exclusive link.
I was there in 2011 – Loved it! Definitely time for another visit. There are a one or two places on your list that I didn’t get to see last time round. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for reading!
I love this! I was there in 2013 and going back this year again. Thanks for sharing your wonderful experience!
Thanks for reading!