The guide to activities in London

The guide to activities in London

London is a busy city with so much to see and do. Whether you’ve got lots of free time on your hands or only a few hours to spare, how do you decide how to keep occupied? Luckily there are lots of things to do in London, from museums and tours to cultural experiences or exhilarating activities that get your heart pumping. If you’re not sure how to spend your time, take a look through our list of activities in London to find a great way to spend the day or evening.

In this guide
  1. Activities and other fun things to to in London
    1. Monopoly Lifesized – Play on a life-sized game board
    2. The Monument – Climb to the top
    3. The Crystal Maze Live Experience – Bringing the gameshow to life
    4. St Martin-in-the-Fields – Atmospheric classical concerts
    5. Borough Market – Foodie heaven
    6. Highgate Cemetery – Burial site of Karl Marx
    7. Tate Britain – Highlights of British art
    8. The Jack the Ripper Tour – Revisit the infamous crimes
    9. Hackney City Farm – Working farm in East London
    10. London Waterbus Company – Scenic canal journeys
    11. Shakespeare's Globe – Enjoy a Shakespeare play
    12. Up at The O2 – Climb the roof of the arena
    13. Kyoto Garden – Japanese tranquility
    14. ScooTours – Electric scooter city tour
    15. Tower Bridge – Get inside an icon
    16. Four Quarters – Retro gaming bars
    17. London Paint Party – Join the arty party
    18. Hijingo – Multi-sensory bingo experience
    19. Sky Garden – Public garden above the city
    20. Eataly – Vast Italian food hall
    21. Crystal Palace Dinosaurs – 19th century dinosaur safari
    22. Thames RIB Experience – London's fastest speedboats
    23. Alternative London – East London street art tours
    24. Palace of Westminster – Explore the UK parliament
    25. London Zoo – Wildlife in the city
    26. Sipsmith Distillery – Gin distillery tour
    27. Walthamstow Wetlands – Get back to nature
    28. London Eye – London's observation wheel
    29. Bunker 51 – Paintball, laser tag, zombie experiences
    30. iFly London – The ultimate high
    31. Skuna Boats – Soakin' 'n' floatin'
    32. Museums – Visit a world-famous museum
    33. Crazy golf – Hit the mini links
    34. GoBoat – Leisurely cruises along the canals or the Thames
    35. Active 360 – Paddle away
    36. VR experiences – Journey to another world
    37. Go-karting – Step on it
    38. Karaoke bars – Sing your heart out
    39. Shuffleboard – Everyday you're shuffling
    40. Escape rooms – Break on through to the other side

Activities and other fun things to to in London

London activities - top things to do in London

Monopoly Lifesized

Play on a life-sized game board

Play Monopoly in a completely new way at Monopoly Lifesized. You can get competitive as you move around a life-sized game board and take on fun challenges to win as much cash as possible. Once you finish the game you can relax at the on-site bar and restaurant.

The Monument

Climb to the top

The Monument is an instantly-recognisable London landmark but visitors can get another perspective by climbing the 311 stairs to the top. Once you reach the top you're greeting with fantastic views of the London skyline. This is a popular activity for getting your steps in and getting that perfect photo opportunity.

The Crystal Maze Live Experience

Bringing the gameshow to life

Take part in a thrilling challenge at The Crystal Maze Live Experience. Working as part of a team, you'll take on puzzles and challenges in a number of zones before you reach the finale and enter the crystal dome. This activity is ideally suited to groups of friends or corporate team-building events.

St Martin-in-the-Fields

Atmospheric classical concerts

Classical music lovers can take in a performance at St Martin-in-the-Fields, a church close to Trafalgar Square that's well-known for its classical and choral concert programme. Enjoy a free performance at lunchtime or book tickets for an evening concert in this unique setting. Family-friendly and educational performances are also on.

Borough Market – Activities
Borough Market
Borough Market – Activities
Borough Market
Borough Market – Activities
Borough Market
Borough Market – Activities
Borough Market
Borough Market – Activities
Borough Market
Borough Market – Activities
Borough Market
Borough Market – Activities
Borough Market
Borough Market – Activities
Borough Market

Borough Market

Foodie heaven

Popular with both locals and visitors, Borough Market is paradise for food lovers. Explore the market stalls, buy artisan ingredients or street food, or enjoy a meal in one of the market's restaurants. Borough Market runs a variety of special events too, including cookery demonstrations.

Highgate Cemetery

Burial site of Karl Marx

For a unique day out that's full of history and atmosphere, visit Highgate Cemetery, best known as the final resting place of Karl Marx. Take either a guided or self-guided tour to explore the burial sites of many famous faces, as well as the cemetery's imposing Victorian architecture.

Tate Britain

Highlights of British art

Situated on the banks of the Thames, at Tate Britain you can explore British art from the 16th century up to the present day. You can visit the permanent collection free of charge or see a show from the regularly-changing programme of temporary exhibitions and special events.

The Jack the Ripper Tour

Revisit the infamous crimes

Jack the Ripper's mysterious crimes continue to fascinate today and you can discover more on The Jack the Ripper Tour. This walking tour takes you to each of the murder sites and the pubs that Jack and his victims frequented in the 19th century. You'll gain insights throughout from your specialist tour guide.

Hackney City Farm – Activities
Hackney City Farm
Hackney City Farm – Activities
Hackney City Farm
Hackney City Farm – Activities
Hackney City Farm
Hackney City Farm – Activities
Hackney City Farm
Hackney City Farm – Activities
Hackney City Farm
Hackney City Farm – Activities
Hackney City Farm
Hackney City Farm – Activities
Hackney City Farm
Hackney City Farm – Activities
Hackney City Farm

Hackney City Farm

Working farm in East London

Hackney City Farm is a working city farm with plenty to do. Meet the farmyard animals, see the gardens, visit the packaging-free farm shop, or participate in activities like art classes or bicycle maintenance sessions. There's also an Italian restaurant on-site offering farm-to-table cuisine throughout the day, including breakfast.

London Waterbus Company Camden London Waterbus Company Little Venice
London Waterbus Company Camden
londonwaterbus.com
London Waterbus Company Little Venice
londonwaterbus.com
London Waterbus Company Camden London Waterbus Company Little Venice

Scenic canal journeys

See London in a different light on a scenic cruise between Camden and Little Venice with London Waterbus Company. The 45 minute trip involves beautiful scenery, a relaxing pace, and commentary from your guide. Trips run regularly throughout the day in both directions.

  • West Yard, Camden Lock Market, Camden Lock Place, Camden Town Blomfield Road, Paddington
    London Waterbus Company Camden
    West Yard, Camden Lock Market, Camden Lock Place, Camden Town
    London Waterbus Company Little Venice
    Blomfield Road, Paddington
  • London Waterbus Company Camden
    londonwaterbus.com
    London Waterbus Company Little Venice
    londonwaterbus.com
  • London Waterbus Company Camden London Waterbus Company Little Venice

Shakespeare's Globe

Enjoy a Shakespeare play

The West End isn't the only place in London for theatre! You can watch a Shakespeare play at Shakespeare's Globe on the South Bank. This reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre has a regular programme of performances, including plays aimed at children. You can also visit the gift shop or take a guided tour.

Up at The O2

Climb the roof of the arena

Up at the O2 is popular with thrill-seekers, giving you the opportunity to scale the roof of this iconic arena. Take in clear views of Greenwich, Canary Wharf, and beyond with a daytime, sunset, or twilight climb. A celebration climb with a glass of champagne at the top is also available for special occasions.

Kyoto Garden

Japanese tranquility

Visit Holland Park's Kyoto Garden for a peaceful activity in the heart of West London. gifted by the Chamber of Commerce of Kyoto in 1991, you can take your time wandering around this elegant landscaped Japanese garden. Check out features like the koi pond, waterfall, and peacocks that roam around freely.

ScooTours

Electric scooter city tour

Experience the first electric scooter and bike tours in London with ScooTours. A variety of routes are available - there's something for everyone, whether you want to see the famous sites, explore hidden London, or journey across the whole city. This is the fast and eco-friendly way to get to know the capital.

Tower Bridge

Get inside an icon

Tower Bridge is immediately recognisable but you can go deeper with a visit inside the attraction. Explore the bridge's engine room, walkways, and towers, and learn how its famous bridge lift works. Brave visitors can step onto the glass walkway between the towers for thrilling London views.

Four Quarters Peckham Four Quarters East Four Quarters Elephant & Castle
Four Quarters Peckham
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Four Quarters East
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Four Quarters Elephant & Castle
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Four Quarters Peckham Four Quarters East Four Quarters Elephant & Castle

Retro gaming bars

Play the arcade games you remember from your youth at one of the Four Quarters bars in London. These retro arcades are full of carefully restored games from the 1970s up to the early 2000s. Play the games you love with a drink from the bar or refuel with a snack. Live music and comedy events are held regularly too.

  • 187 Rye Lane, Peckham East Bay Lane 20 Ash Ave
    Four Quarters Peckham
    187 Rye Lane, Peckham
    Four Quarters East
    East Bay Lane
    Four Quarters Elephant & Castle
    20 Ash Ave
  • Four Quarters Peckham
    fourquarters.bar/location/arcade-bar-south-london
    Four Quarters East
    fourquarters.bar/location/arcade-bar-east-london
    Four Quarters Elephant & Castle
    fourquarters.bar/location/elephant-castle-arcade-bar
    Four Quarters Peckham
    0794-336 60 02
    Four Quarters East
    075-911 825 19
    Four Quarters Elephant & Castle
    073-997 720 24
  • Four Quarters Peckham Four Quarters East Four Quarters Elephant & Castle

London Paint Party

Join the arty party

Join London Paint Party for a unique activity that's great for special occasions or simply a unique night out. Enjoy drinks and music whilst you paint a pre-sketched canvas - all equipment is provided. Dry hire of equipment is also available if you want to host your own party at home.

Hijingo

Multi-sensory bingo experience

Modelled on the bingo bars of Tokyo, at Hijingo you can enjoy a multi-sensory bingo experience with lights, sound, and entertainment. You could earn some exciting prizes too. Drinks and snacks are available whilst you play, or you can join in with a Hijingo bottomless brunch.

Sky Garden

Public garden above the city

Sky Garden is London's highest public garden on the 36th floor of the Walkie-Talkie building. See impressive views of the city and soak up the atmosphere amongst plenty of lush plants. Enjoy a drink or meal on-site, listen to live music, or join a morning yoga class in this unique setting.

Eataly

Vast Italian food hall

Next to Liverpool Street station, Eataly is a hub for Italian food lovers in the capital. You'll discover a vast range of vendors and eateries under one roof. Enjoy an authentic meal, buy tasty ingredients to take home, or take part in a special event like a cookery class.

Crystal Palace Dinosaurs

19th century dinosaur safari

Enjoy nature, art, and history with a visit to the Crystal Palace dinosaurs. These intriguing monuments were built in the 19th century and are quite different to what we know of dinosaurs now. You can tour these Grade I listed monuments either on foot or by water in a pedalo.

Thames RIB Experience Embankment Pier Thames RIB Experience Tower Pier
Thames RIB Experience Embankment Pier
thamesribexperience.com
Thames RIB Experience Tower Pier
thamesribexperience.com
Thames RIB Experience Embankment Pier Thames RIB Experience Tower Pier

London's fastest speedboats

Cruise along the River Thames at top speeds on the Thames RIB experience. A popular activity for thrill-seekers, you'll zoom by the city's sights with commentary from your guide. The powerful PA system ensures you won't miss anything. You can also take photos home with you as a souvenir.

  • Victoria Embankment Tower Millennium Pier, City of London
    Thames RIB Experience Embankment Pier
    Victoria Embankment
    Thames RIB Experience Tower Pier
    Tower Millennium Pier, City of London
  • Thames RIB Experience Embankment Pier
    thamesribexperience.com
    Thames RIB Experience Tower Pier
    thamesribexperience.com
    Thames RIB Experience Embankment Pier
    020-324 511 77
    Thames RIB Experience Tower Pier
    020-324 511 77
  • Thames RIB Experience Embankment Pier Thames RIB Experience Tower Pier

Alternative London

East London street art tours

Explore the rich street art of East London on a walking or bike tour with Alternative London. Local street artists and experts lead the tours, guiding you through the history and culture of the area. You can also take part in a street art workshop and create your own work with professional guidance.

Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster
Palace of Westminster – Activities
Palace of Westminster

Palace of Westminster

Explore the UK parliament

Visit the Palace of Westminster, one of the world's most recognisable buildings and home to the UK parliament. UK residents can attend some tours free of charge but everyone is welcome to join. On the tour you'll discover the history of the building and can finish off with a trip to the gift shop.

London Zoo

Wildlife in the city

Get close to wildlife in the city at London Zoo. A popular day out for the whole family, you can see animals like big cats, gorillas, and rainforest creatures at the world's oldest scientific zoo. There are also special events like the adults-only after-hours nights and events for children.

Sipsmith Distillery

Gin distillery tour

If you're a fan of gin you can learn more on a tour of the Sipsmith Distillery in Chiswick. Find out more about the history of gin and how it's made before taking part in a guided gin tasting. Guests also receive a gift bag of treats to take home.

Walthamstow Wetlands

Get back to nature

Walthamstow Wetlands is a reservoir and nature reserve spanning 211 hectares. Ideal for peaceful walks and spotting wildlife, there's also a varied programme of events. Try your hand at bush-crafting or join a sensory tour. You can complete your visit with a trip to the on-site café and shop.

London Eye

London's observation wheel

Enjoy peaceful sightseeing on the London Eye - one of the most popular attractions in the UK. Located on the South Bank, the clear pods give you panoramic views of the city on your 30 minute journey. You can also book private pods or indulgent champagne experiences.

Bunker 51

Paintball, laser tag, zombie experiences

Bunker 51 in Greenwich is styled as a nuclear bunker where you can play a range of thrilling games. Choose paintball, airsoft, laser tag, an escape room, or a heart-pounding zombie experience - pick from 3 different zombie-themed games. Children's birthday parties and sessions just for kids are also available here.

iFly London

The ultimate high

iFly provides a top-notch indoor skydiving experience that caters to individuals of all ages and skill levels. By utilising cutting-edge wind tunnel technology, iFly can generate velocities reaching 150mph, allowing you to experience the sensation of freefall without the need to jump from a plane. Experienced staff members are available to assist you throughout the process, and various group packages are also available.

Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats – Activities
Skuna Boats

Skuna Boats

Soakin' 'n' floatin'

Skuna Boats offers modern boat hire with a twist. You can choose between a boating barbecue or drifting in a floating hot tub, perfect for families and groups of friends. Enjoy a two-hour electric BBQ boat ride with the option to bring your own food or order a BBQ package, or unwind in a heated hot tub boat while taking in the sights of London from a fresh perspective.

 – Activities
 – Activities
The best museums in London – Activities
The best museums in London
 – Activities
 – Activities
The best museums in London – Activities
The best museums in London

Museums

Visit a world-famous museum

London boasts some of the best-known museums in the whole world, with institutions such as the Natural History Museum, the British Museum, and the V&A drawing millions of visitors from across the globe each year. There's also a number of lesser-known yet still fascinating museums around the city, showcasing stunning collections of artefacts from all walks of life, delving deep into a single topic, and chronicling times gone by. Find the best ones in our dedicated guide.

Crazy golf

Hit the mini links

Crazy golf has become a popular pastime activity among Londoners in recent years, and there are all sorts of different themed courses scattered around the city. Whether you're planning a family outing, want to get together with your mates, or organise a fun team building event, our guide to where to play mini golf will have you swinging away in no time.

GoBoat Kingston GoBoat Canary Wharf GoBoat Paddington
GoBoat Kingston
goboat.co.uk/kingston
GoBoat Canary Wharf
goboat.co.uk/canary-wharf
GoBoat Paddington
goboat.co.uk/paddington
GoBoat Kingston GoBoat Canary Wharf GoBoat Paddington

Leisurely cruises along the canals or the Thames

GoBoat offers a traditional river or canal cruising trip, with different self-driving routes to choose from. Each boat can fit up to eight people, and no prior nautical experience is required. You're welcome to bring food for the journey, with the eco-friendly electric boats fitted with picnic tables so you can take in London from a different point of view in full comfort.

  • Bishop's Palace House, Bishop's Hall, Kingston upon Thames 22 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf/Tower Hamlets Merchant Square, Paddington
    GoBoat Kingston
    Bishop's Palace House, Bishop's Hall, Kingston upon Thames
    GoBoat Canary Wharf
    22 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf/Tower Hamlets
    GoBoat Paddington
    Merchant Square, Paddington
  • GoBoat Kingston
    goboat.co.uk/kingston
    GoBoat Canary Wharf
    goboat.co.uk/canary-wharf
    GoBoat Paddington
    goboat.co.uk/paddington
    GoBoat Kingston
    020-388 769 55
    GoBoat Canary Wharf
    020-388 769 55
    GoBoat Paddington
    020-388 769 55
  • GoBoat Kingston GoBoat Canary Wharf GoBoat Paddington
Active 360 Brentford Lock Active 360 Paddington Basin Active 360 Kew Bridge
Active 360 Brentford Lock
active360.co.uk/brentford-lock
Active 360 Paddington Basin
active360.co.uk/paddington-basin
Active 360 Kew Bridge
active360.co.uk/kew-bridge
Active 360 Brentford Lock Active 360 Paddington Basin Active 360 Kew Bridge

Paddle away

For Londoners eager to explore stand-up paddleboarding, Active 360 is an excellent choice, catering to all experience levels. At multiple locations across the city, you can engage in a range of paddleboarding activities, from beginner and private lessons to paddleboard yoga or pilates, guided tours, or simply renting a SUP for a solo adventure.

  • Paddlers Avenue, Hounslow Merchant Square, Paddington Kew Bridge Arches, Strand-on-the-Green, Hounslow
    Active 360 Brentford Lock
    Paddlers Avenue, Hounslow
    Active 360 Paddington Basin
    Merchant Square, Paddington
    Active 360 Kew Bridge
    Kew Bridge Arches, Strand-on-the-Green, Hounslow
  • Active 360 Brentford Lock
    active360.co.uk/brentford-lock
    Active 360 Paddington Basin
    active360.co.uk/paddington-basin
    Active 360 Kew Bridge
    active360.co.uk/kew-bridge
    Active 360 Brentford Lock
    020-339 353 60
    Active 360 Paddington Basin
    020-339 353 60
    Active 360 Kew Bridge
    020-339 353 60
  • Active 360 Brentford Lock Active 360 Paddington Basin Active 360 Kew Bridge

VR experiences

Journey to another world

Thanks to technological advancements, immersive VR experiences have become incredibly realistic and responsive. At the various VR experiences around the city, you can explore wondrous digital worlds, get unprecedented insight into artistic masterpieces, or tackle all sorts of thrilling challenges, from battling zombies and other creatures to racing and more.

Go-karting

Step on it

For those craving heart-pounding excitement and exhilarating adventures, London's go-karting venues are sure to satisfy your need for speed. Our guide to go-karting in London highlights the best destinations where you can hit the track at full speed and get your adrenaline rush.

Karaoke bars

Sing your heart out

Whether you're a natural-born belter or a secret shower singer, a night singing karaoke can be great for letting off some steam in good company. Many of London's karaoke bars are fitted with private booths, so you can channel your inner rock star without worrying about what strangers might think. Grab your friends, order a drink or two for courage, and sing the night away at the best karaoke bars in London.

Shuffleboard

Everyday you're shuffling

With a rich history spanning over half a millennium, shuffleboard has experienced a resurgence in London's vibrant nightlife. Striking the perfect balance between entertainment, competitiveness, and fun to enjoy after a few drinks, this addictive game is sure to captivate you. From neon-lit modern bars to cosy traditional pubs with wooden tables, read our guide to where to play shuffleboard to find the top spots in the city.

Escape rooms

Break on through to the other side

In order to get out of these fun chambers, you'll have to collaborate with your friends or colleagues, utilising each individual's distinctive skill set to crack different riddles, puzzles, codes, and other clever challenges. The first clue to point you in the right direction? Our guide to the best escape rooms in London, spanning everything from adventures in ancient Egypt to confronting murderous dentists.

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Editors

At Thatsup, we have extensive experience of guiding our readers to a city’s hidden gems. Since 2008, our editors have been writing insightful guides covering restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, and hairdressers, among other things. Our guides consist of carefully selected tips based on our local knowledge and are regularly updated with the help of our focus group, where we collectively discuss selections and content. We are constantly working to inspire and provide you with the best possible experience, no matter where you are or what you are looking for.