Planning things to do in London is no easy task. There are buzzy neighbourhoods lined with forward-thinking restaurants and bars, world-famous attractions, exciting events and an ever-changing roster of shows in the West End to consider. With summer in full bloom, we’ve pulled together this definitive shortlist of the top things happening in London today. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor activities, food inspiration or what to see in the theatre, you’ll find everything you need for an action-packed day out in London.
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Visit top London attractions
Take your pick from our guide to London’s top attractions. Step inside Buckingham Palace to explore its lavish State Rooms, including the Throne Room and the Grand Staircase decorated with world-renowned artworks. Then, discover pieces from His Majesty King Charles III's private art collection in The King's Tour Artists exhibition.
Visit family favourites like Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter, Madame Tussauds London, SEA LIFE London Aquarium and The Paddington Bear Experience. Soak up the longer, warmer days with an exhilarating Thames Rockets speedboat tour or test your limits at Go Ape in Battersea Park, where you’ll scale zigzag bridges, high ropes and zip wires in this treetop adventure.
Explore London's top landmarks in style on a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Stop at 60 key attractions across the city such as Westminster Abbey, St Paul's Cathedral and Shakespeare's Globe. Swerve the crowds and secure your seat on a nighttime bus tour to see the capital's skyline sparkle, all while learning about London's fascinating history from an onboard guide.
For a slice of history, carve out time to visit the Tower of London. Explore the Unesco World Heritage site and learn gruesome tales of the Bloody Tower from the Yeoman Warders (also known as the Beefeaters), before marvelling at the dazzling crown jewels.
Pick up a London Pass to save on more than 100 top attractions. Discover more of London’s highlights and book in advance to guarantee entry.
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Save money on top London attractionsThe best theatre shows in London today
Rain or shine, London’s West End makes for an unforgettable day out in the capital. From award-winning musicals like The Lion King, Moulin Rouge and Wicked, celebrated for their breathtaking set designs and dazzling costumes, to a fresh crop of new arrivals.
Secure tickets to Disney's new Hercules the Musical at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, or catch Rachel Zegler's dazzling performance in Evita at the London Palladium. Don't miss the final weeks of TINA: The Tina Turner Musical (until 13 September) and the hit musical adaptation of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (until 11 October).
Treat the kids to a memorable theatre experience in London with family-friendly productions such as The Tiger Who Came to Tea, The Smeds and the Smoos and Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain. Or enjoy a showing beneath the stars at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, with summer showings including new productions of Lerner & Loewe's Brigadoon and Roald Dahl's The Enormous Crocodile.
Find out what's showing in London’s West End today, explore matinee performances and book tickets with our guide to London theatre.
Where to go in London today – take a tour
Grab sightseeing tickets and explore London’s top landmarks on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, or pick up an all-day ticket and discover the capital with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. Uncover more of the city on an organised tour, from bus tours and river cruises to guided walking tours.
With summer in full bloom, now is the perfect time to visit the capital’s gorgeous parks and green spaces. Head to Greenwich Park for a picnic backdropped by London's skyline, or wander along the Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park.
Alternatively, adventure outside of London with day trips to some of the UK’s most historic destinations such as Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and the postcard-pretty streets of Bath and the Cotswolds. Check last-minute availability or book tickets ahead to further afield destinations like Liverpool and Edinburgh.
Explore family activities in London today
There are plenty of fun-filled activities for families in London, so it’s easy to make great memories with the kids over the summer holidays (23 July to 29 August). Visit popular family attractions like Shrek’s Adventure! or The Paddington Bear Experience on the South Bank, or head to the West End to catch a spectacular kids' theatre show.
Many attractions also feature a thrilling lineup of summer events, such as ZSL London Zoo's Zoo Crew program (23 July to 1 September), where animal lovers can experience what it's like to work at the zoo, from feeding the animals to helping protect them in the wild.
If the forecast is looking wet and windy, check out these rainy day activities, from the Natural History Museum to the Young V&A.
Where to shop in London today
Visit some of London's world-renowned department stores such as Liberty London – constructed from the timber of two battleships – and Fortnum & Mason. For streetwear and independent brands, don’t miss our guide to London’s top shopping hotspots.
If you’re visiting London on a weekend, be sure to check out some of the best markets in the capital. Borough Market, Maltby Street Market and Seven Dials Market are great choices for those looking for a diverse menu of food, while east London’s Columbia Road Market makes for a Sunday well spent with its colourful, fragrant flowers.
Enjoy an exhibition in London today
There are always exciting exhibitions happening at London’s top museums and galleries. From free exhibits and permanent collections to the latest blockbuster art shows, spend the day marvelling at works by emerging and established talents.
Check out the newest show at Lightroom, Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs, and uncover the crucial role these animals have played in shaping our world. The 50-minute experience features scenes from Apple TV's Emmy Award-nominated series, set to a powerful score by Hans Zimmer and narrated by actor Damian Lewis. Don't miss The Natural History Museum's new exhibition, Our Story with David Attenborough, an immersive installation that takes audiences on a journey through the evolution of our planet.
Prefer a guided tour? You can explore the best of the British Museum and National Gallery on an expert-led tour.
Feast on London's food and drink scene
Whether you fancy brunch, indulging in afternoon tea, dining at a restaurant, or ending the night with drinks at a pub or bar, London’s food and drink scene is diverse. Check out Bar Valette in Shoreditch for delicious dishes inspired by Southern France and Spanish tapas, or head to Covent Garden to enjoy seasonal British plates at the stylish new restaurant, Town. If it’s a special occasion, book a dinner cruise along the Thames or take an themed afternoon tea tour.
Still hungry? Don’t miss our round-up of the best places for alfresco dining or where to enjoy a traditional English breakfast in London.
Discover epic events
London hosts some of the world's top events, from famous festivals and sporting spectacles to cultural celebrations, concerts and family fun. Discover special events in London today, and keep your eyes peeled for fun events and openings happening across the capital this month.
Plan your next visit
Make the most of what’s on in London with these top things to do each month and weekend. Bookmark our London events calendar for unmissable events throughout the year.