23 London Hotspots: The Ultimate Guide for Exploring the City
London is one of the most exciting cities in the world, with a rich history and vibrant culture that attracts millions of visitors each year. So, no matter if you’re a local or a tourist, there are plenty of London hotspots that are worth exploring.
In this guide, I’ll share some of the best London hotspots, from amazing museums and parks to mouthwatering restaurants and cozy cafes.
Whether you’re looking for an evening out on the town or a day of sightseeing, I’ve got you covered!
Are you ready to explore some incredible things to do in London?
Let’s dive in.
Related posts you may enjoy:
- 27 best cafes to work from in London
- 30 best bookshops in London to visit
- 24 best British makeup brands to try
London Hotspots You Need to Visit
From London hidden gems to London celebrity hotspots, here are some of the best places to visit in the capital.
Historical Landmarks
London is steeped in history, with numerous London tourist hotspots that have stood the test of time. From grand palaces to iconic bridges, London’s historical landmarks are a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
#1 Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
One of London’s most iconic landmarks is Big Ben, which was built in 1859 and recently renovated.
The tower is part of the Houses of Parliament, which is home to the UK government. You can take a tour of the Houses of Parliament and learn about the history of the British political system. In fact, the architecture alone is well worth a look.
Located: Westminster, London
#2 Tower Bridge and the Tower of London
Tower Bridge is another iconic London landmark that spans the River Thames. You can take a tour of the bridge and even walk across the glass floor for a unique view of the river below. Just a short walk away is the Tower of London, which is home to the Crown Jewels and the famous Beefeaters.
Located: Tower Bridge Road, London
#3 Westminster and Buckingham Palace
Westminster is home to some of London’s most famous landmarks, including Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster, where the Houses of Parliament are. Buckingham Palace is another must-see landmark, with its grand State Rooms and famous Changing of the Guard ceremony
Located: Westminster, London
#4 St Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most impressive landmarks, with its iconic dome and stunning architecture. There are daily services which you can enter for free, or you can pre-book tickets to climb the stairs inside the dome and see inside.
Located: St Paul’s Churchyard, London
Museums and Galleries
London is home to some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, there is something for everyone. Here are a few of the must-see museums and galleries in London.
#5 British Museum
The British Museum is one of the most visited museums in the world, and for good reason. It houses over 8 million artifacts, spanning over 2 million years of human history. Some of the highlights of the museum include the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and the Egyptian mummies. The best thing is that it’s 100% free to enter and a great day out if you have kids.
Located: Great Russell Street, London
#6 Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum, known as the V&A, is the world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design. It boasts over 2.3 million objects, ranging from ceramics and textiles to furniture and fashion. The museum’s highlights include the Cast Courts, which house replicas of some of the world’s most famous sculptures, and the British Galleries, which showcase British art and design from the 1500s to the present day. Admission to the museum is free!
Located: Cromwell Road, London
#7 Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is a must-visit for anyone with interest in the natural world. It has a collection of over 80 million specimens, ranging from fossils and minerals to plants and animals. Some highlights include the iconic dinosaur skeletons in the Hintze Hall and the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition.
Located: South Kensington, London
Parks and Green Spaces
London is home to some of the most beautiful green spaces in the world. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, exercise, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the city, London has something for everyone. Here are the best parks and green spaces in the city.
#8 Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of the largest and most famous parks in London. It covers over 350 acres and is home to a wide range of attractions, including the Serpentine Lake, the Diana Memorial Fountain, and the Speakers’ Corner. It’s a great place to go for a walk, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Located: Westminster, London
#9 Regent’s Park
Regent’s Park is another popular green space in London. Covering over 400 acres, it’s home to the famous London Zoo, as well as a number of other attractions, including the Open Air Theatre and the Queen Mary’s Gardens. It’s a beautiful place to go for a walk, play sports, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Located: Central London
#10 Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is a botanical garden located in southwest London. It covers over 300 acres and boasts the largest collection of living plants in the world. If you want to learn more about plants and nature, or enjoy remarkable scenery, this is the place to be.
Located: Richmond Upon Thames, London
#11 Columbia Road Flower Market
Columbia Road Flower Market is a vibrant and colourful market in the East End of London. It’s open every Sunday with over 50 independent flower and plant traders. If you’re looking for unique and beautiful flowers and plants, or want to find some interesting greenery, then this may be for you.
Food and Drink
When it comes to food and drink and London nightlife, you’re spoilt for choice. Whether you’re after a Michelin-starred meal or a quick bite to eat, this city has it all. Here are some of the London hotspots restaurants to check out.
#12 Restaurants
London has some of the best restaurants in the world which widely range from classic British cuisine to international flavours. Two of the best London restaurants to try include Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck, which is a Michelin three-starred restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and exceptional service. And Roast which is located above Borough Market and well-known for its classic British cuisine and stunning views of the city.
Located: The Fat Duck, Bray, Berkshire and Roast, Stoney Street, London
#13 Pubs
Pubs are an essential part of British culture, and London has some of the best where you can get a pint of ale or a classic cocktail. Some of the top pubs to check out include St. Stephen’s Tavern near the Houses of Parliament and the perfect spot for a pint and some classic pub grub. Additionally, The Spaniards Inn is well-worth a look too. This pub has been around since the 16th century, offering a cosy atmosphere and delicious food.
Located: Stephen’s Tavern, Westminster and Spaniards Inn, Spaniards Road, London
#14 Cafes
If you’re after a caffeine fix or a quick bite to eat, London’s cafes have got you covered. Some top cafes to check out include Chai by Mira which serves up delicious chai and Indian-inspired snacks, and Market Halls Victoria which has a range of vendors serving up everything from pizza to sushi.
Located: Chai by Mira, Kingly Court, Soho and Market Hall Victoria, 191 Victoria Street, London
Shopping Destinations
London is a shopper’s paradise, with a vast range of shopping destinations to choose from. Choose from luxury brands, high-street fashion, unique boutiques, or vintage treasures, there’s loads to explore. Here are some of the top shopping destinations that you should visit:
#15 Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a must-visit shopping destination in London. This historic market district is home to a range of unique boutiques, designer stores, artisanal shops, and market stalls. You’ll find everything from handmade jewellery and vintage clothing to handmade chocolates and artisanal cheeses. Covent Garden is also home to the famous Apple Market, where you can find a range of arts and crafts.
Located: Covent Garden, London
#16 Camden Market
If you’re looking for something a little more alternative, then Camden Market is the place to be. This famous market is a hub of alternative fashion, vintage clothing, and unique accessories. You’ll find everything from punk rock t-shirts to handmade jewellery and vintage sunglasses. Camden Market is also home to a range of street food vendors, so you can refuel while you shop.
Located: Camden town, London
Nightlife and Entertainment
London is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene, attracting people from all over the world who are looking for a good time. From trendy bars to lively clubs, London hotspots nightlife style has everything you need, including:
#17 Soho
This bustling neighborhood has a great mix of entertainment hubs, from cellar bars to London’s largest, if not the UK’s, LGBT scene. You can find everything from live music venues to comedy clubs, and plenty of restaurants and cafes to keep you fueled throughout the night.
If you do end up on a night out in Soho, check out the legendary Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club. This iconic venue has been hosting some of the world’s best jazz musicians since 1959 and is a must-visit for any music lover. Another popular spot in Soho is the Comedy Store, where you can catch some of the best stand-up comedy acts in the city.
#18 Leicester Square
This area boasts theaters, cinemas, and casinos, making it the perfect destination for an evening of entertainment. Catch a West End show at one of the many theaters in the area, or head to the Empire Casino for some high-stakes gambling.
For a unique night out in London, head to The Box; a unique nightclub where you’ll find two separate stages amongst velvet and gold detailing.
London Neighbourhoods
London is a city of many neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. In this section, I’ll introduce you to some of the hottest neighbourhoods in London, each with its own distinct personality.
#19 Southbank
Located on the south side of the River Thames, Southbank is a vibrant neighbourhood with cultural attractions, including the National Theatre, the Tate Modern, and the London Eye. The area is also home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Take a stroll along the riverside walkway, enjoy a performance at the Southbank Centre, or relax with a drink at one of the many outdoor terraces.
#20 Shoreditch
If you’re looking for a trendy neighbourhood with a creative vibe, look no further than Shoreditch. Located in the East End of London, this area is known for its street art, independent shops, and buzzing nightlife. Take a walk down Brick Lane or sample some of the best street food in the city.
#21 Chinatown
Situated in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a vibrant neighbourhood boasting colorful streets, bustling markets, and delicious food. Explore the many shops selling traditional Chinese goods, try some of the best dim sum in the city, and take in a performance at the nearby theatre.
Iconic Views
London is famous for its iconic views, from the stunning skyline to the picturesque River Thames. Here are a few hotspots where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city.
#22 The Shard
The Shard offers some of the best views of the city. The viewing platforms on floors 68, 69 and 72 provide panoramic views of London, and you can see up to 40 miles on a clear day. The View from the Shard is the most visited attraction in London, and it’s easy to see why. Entry costs from £28 per person if you book online beforehand.
Located: 32 London Bridge Street, London
#23 River Thames
The River Thames offers stunning views of the city. You can take a boat tour along the river and enjoy the panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Alternatively, you can take a walk along the river and enjoy the views of the famous landmarks, including the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye.
Located: Greater London
Exploring London’s Hotspots Via Public Transport
Getting around London can be a daunting task, but the city has an extensive public transport system to help you get to your destination quickly and easily. Here are some of the best public transport options to visit the London hotspots in this guide.
London Underground
The London Underground, also known as the Tube, is an extensive network of trains running throughout the city. With 11 lines and over 270 stations, it is the quickest and most convenient way to get around London. You can purchase a ticket at any station, or use a contactless payment card. The Tube runs from around 5:00 am to midnight on weekdays, and slightly later on weekends.
Buses
London’s bus network has over 8,000 buses serving more than 700 routes. Many buses run 24 hours a day, and you can pay with cash or contactless payment card. You can also purchase a daily or weekly bus pass, which can be a cost-effective option if you plan on using the bus frequently.
Trams
London has a tram network that runs in the south of the city, with routes connecting Croydon, Wimbledon, and Beckenham. Trams run from around 5:00 am to midnight, and you can purchase a ticket at any tram stop.
Overground
The London Overground is a train network that runs throughout the city, connecting suburbs and outer areas. You can use your Oyster card or contactless payment card to pay for your journey, and trains run from around 5:00 am to midnight.
Taxis
London has two types of taxis: black cabs and minicabs. Black cabs can be hailed on the street, while minicabs need to be booked in advance. Taxis can be expensive, but they’re a convenient option if you need to get somewhere quickly.
The Best London Hotspots: To Sum Up
London hotspots cater to people of all ages and interests, which is just one reason why the capital of the UK is one of the best places in the world to visit.
From historic landmarks to modern attractions, there is no shortage of things to see and no matter what time of year you’re visiting there is always something wonderful going on.
Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just a good time, why not plan your trip to London today and discover all that this amazing city has to offer?
