As of 2021, London had 21 million visits per year, and a staggering 19.7 day visitors.
As one of the most thriving cosmopolitan hubs in the world, London is a city with a lot going for it, from the history of the Tower of London and the Royal presence, to famous sights like the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral and Big Ben.
But despite London’s famous skyline, there’s so much the city has to offer tourists from interesting restaurants to top rated casinos, and so much more.
So, whether you’re planning on visiting England’s capital city for just the day or you are making a vacation out of it, it’s best to have a plan in place when there’s so much to see and do.
Below, we’ll help you put together your plan by taking a look at some of the best spots to explore in London this year.
Warner Brothers Studio Tours
Nothing gets more British than Harry Potter and if you’re a fan then you’ll be delighted to find out that the Warner Brothers have a studio right here in London, full of original pieces and sets from the movies. Step inside some of the film’s magical locations, from Privet Drive, to the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, and Hagrid’s hut.
If you’re visiting around Christmas time, you can also book a festive feast in the great hall. It’s a magical experience that’s not to be missed.
The Hippodrome Casino
The Hippodrome Casino is known as one of the best entertainment complexes in London.
Formally a theater from the 1900’s, this grand building is now home to a world class casino.
Spread over seven floors, the venue itself is huge and has so many different games on offer.
Located on the corner of Cranbourn Street and Charing Cross Road, the casino also offers a staggering 8 bars, a steakhouse and Chinese restaurant, as well as a number of exciting live shows, including Magic Mike.
Of course, if you’re tired from a long day of exploring the city, there’s also the option to play online slots from the comfort of your hotel room, all without having to leave your bed.
Tour Buckingham Palace
London is also home to one of the finest royal families in the world, the House of Windsor.
If you have an interest in the British royal family then touring Buckingham Palace could be an ideal activity.
The magnificent state rooms offer a peek into the exclusive world of the British Royal Family and have guests feeling as though they’re being transported back in time.
There are a number of different tours to suit every visitors interests, from garden tours, to an exclusive look at the East wing which includes a visit out onto the palace balcony which has been used by many royals, including Queen Victoria.
Don’t miss the chance to become a part of the palace’s history.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is a key site in London and is classed as an UNESCO World Heritage site. Having hosted many significant celebrations from coronations to royal weddings, the architecture is just as stunning as the history of the Abbey.
Visit the resting place of kings and queens that have passed, as well as poets corner where famous writers such as William Shakespeare and Jane Austen are buried.
Kew Gardens
Whether you’re into gardening or not, it’s hard not to appreciate the tranquility of Kew Gardens.
Set over 330 acres, these botanical gardens contain an array of stunning glass conservatories, exotic plant species, and tranquil Japanese gardens that have you forgetting you’re in the city.
With exciting events taking place throughout the year, there’s often activities for all the family and it’s also one of the best locations in the city for a picnic.
Sea Life London
One of the downsides of visiting England is that it rains more often than not.
However, there’s no need to feel glum for long as there’s still an array of exciting places to explore in London while it’s raining.
One of these places is the exquisite Sea Life London, which is home to over 400 species of marine life, from sharks to stingrays, clownfish and so much more.
For a close and personal experience, be sure to go over the shark walk and participate in some of the animal feedings too.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Famously burnt to the ground in the Great Fire of London, it’s a miracle that this version of St Paul’s Cathedral is with is today.
The venue offers 90 minute tours that are not to be missed if you’re into learning about some of the magnificent building’s history.
Overall, London offers a whole host of things to do for tourists, from exploring the history of the city and paying respects to those that have come before, to all of the cosmopolitan bars and restaurants and fantastic entertainment veneers across the city.
If London is on your travel list this year, be sure to add the above points to your itinerary for an unforgettable trip.
Photo by Tom Podmore on Unsplash
