When in London, don’t just head to the tourist hot spots. There are many other attractions that should not be missed, including Borough market, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and Hampstead Heath. Check out the full list of things to do in London to get the most out of your trip. If you have time to spare, there are many things to do in London during your visit. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Borough market
Visit Borough market in London for a fun-filled day of shopping! Its wholesale and retail halls have been operating since the 12th century, making it one of the largest food markets in London. You can pick up fresh produce, meat, seafood, and much more. For a more traditional experience, buy a lunch at one of the many local restaurants in the area. Here, you can taste traditional British food and drink. And, while you’re at it, you can sample the finest of British cuisine.
While shopping, be sure to bring a canvas bag to store your treasures. While it may be difficult to find bags to hold all of your goodies, you’ll be surprised by how many vendors have stalls offering all kinds of food and drink. There are also several places to grab a bite, such as cafes and kiosks in Stoney Street. Most of these places are open Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, but you can even shop until the early hours of the morning on Saturdays!
Tate Modern
Among the many things to do in London, visiting the Tate Modern should be on your list. It is a stunning building and features an entrance on the riverbank side. Inside, you can explore the imposing Turbine Hall, a former power station that has been converted into a gallery for colossal works of art. You can see sculptures up to five stories high, as well as paintings, drawings, and installations. The Tate Modern’s permanent collection is impressive, and it also hosts rotating temporary exhibitions and events.
The museum houses world-class collections of modern and contemporary art. It is located in a former power station on the south bank of London. The museum was reconstructed after World War II and opened in 2000. It was designed by the architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron and is now the most popular attraction in London, surpassing the British Museum, which draws nearly six million visitors a year.
Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum in central London contains one of the world’s finest collections of objects from the British Empire. These artifacts, from far-flung holdings, include the Ardabil Carpet. The Neo-Gothic Albert Memorial honors the late Queen Victoria’s husband Albert. Queen Victoria championed culture and technology during the Victorian Age, wearing black for just two years before returning to her former color.
Visitors can explore the museum’s diverse collections, ranging from medieval vestments to contemporary fashion. The V&A also houses the main national collection of painted portrait miniatures. The museum also has several special exhibitions, such as the renowned exhibition of 20th-century high-fashion garments curated by Cecil Beaton. Many of these exhibits were donated in former owners’ names. To see the complete collection, you can visit the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Hampstead Heath
If you’re planning a London getaway, there’s no place in the city that offers a more picturesque setting than Hampstead Heath, a 791-acre park near Camden Town. The park is a popular location for picnicking and is said to have been the inspiration for the world of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. The heath is easy to explore on foot, and there are countless opportunities to take stunning pictures. There are hiking trails throughout the park, so you’re sure to find the perfect spot to take a romantic stroll in the evening or spend a quiet picnic during the day with your partner.
If you’re looking for a pub to stop and grab a quick bite after your ramble, head to the Roebuck. This historic pub has cosy fires, armchairs, and an old piano and is known for its hearty winter fare. It also has a beer garden, a pergola, and a barbeque area. You can also grab a tasty meal at the Holly Bush, a cosy cafe tucked away in the town centre.
Churchill Arms
The real ale boozer in the aptly named Churchill Arms is a real tidal wave to the former prime minister. Amid a scattering of Churchill memorabilia and a selection of ales, this flower-bedecked boozer serves up Thai noodles, curry and much more. Guests should definitely stop by the Churchill Arms for a few pints and a tasty meal.
The pub’s decor is a little dowdy but the warmth and cosy ambiance create an ambiance that’s reminiscent of the 1940s. The interior is crammed with Churchill paraphernalia and there are potted plants and antiques galore adorning every corner. Even the canopy is crammed with vintage British gear and looks like it was plucked from the 1940s.
Postal Museum
If you’ve ever had a desire to explore the history of the postal service, you’ve probably wondered about The Postal Museum in Central London. It was founded in 2004 as the British Postal Museum & Archive, but opened on 28 July 2017 in Central London. Today, this unique museum celebrates the history of the UK’s mail system and the people who used to write and receive them. If you’re wondering what the museum holds, here are some of the most important items on display at the museum.
The Postal Museum in London features interesting exhibits, including the “Sorted!” experience, which takes place in the underground train. Although children as young as four may not be able to participate, older kids will have a blast imagining what they might say on a stamp. The Museum is also an excellent place to learn about the history of postage stamps and mail delivery. The interactive displays are fun for children of all ages, and you can create your own postage stamp design.