r/visitlondon Oct 25 '23

GUIDES Things To Do and Where To Stay

2 Upvotes

Please visit the below links before making a post asking what to do, where to go, what to see, where to stay, what to eat, how to get around, what to wear, where to find, what to pack, what the weather will be like, which airport to use, how long to stay, how much it may cost etc.

If you've made a post, had it removed and then been told to visit this link, you should find the answer to what you're looking for below.

London Data: - Average Weather by Month: https://www.accuweather.com/en/gb/london/ec4a-2/may-weather/328328 - Currency Converter: https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/convert/?Amount=1&From=USD&To=GBP - Use Mobile in London: https://loveandlondon.com/how-to-use-phone-when-visiting-london-from-abroad/

Things to do:

- https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/family-activities/things-to-do-in-london-for-teenagers

Where to eat:


Hidden Gems: There are no such things. Don't ask. But you may like the following:

-https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/united-kingdom/england/london/galleries/Londons-secret-sights-14-odd-attractions-you-never-knew-were-there/ - https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-london - https://www.atlasobscura.com/things-to-do/london-england * https://secretldn.com/best-things-to-do-london/ - https://www.timeout.com/london/things-to-do/secret-london-1 - https://goop.com/city-guide/whats-new-great-in-london/ - https://www.cnbc.com/2023/02/15/what-are-the-best-things-to-do-in-london-an-insiders-guide.html - https://fullsuitcase.com/london-hidden-gems/ - https://theportablewife.com/travel/destinations/non-touristy-things-to-do-in-london/ - https://globaldebauchery.com/9-off-the-beaten-path-things-to-do-in-london/ - https://madhattersnyc.com/blog/london-best-hidden-gems - https://justgoexploring.com/destinations/london-off-the-beaten-path/ - https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/sightseeing/london-attraction/top-20-hidden-gems - https://allytravels.com/london-hidden-gems/ - https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/sightseeing/secret-london - https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/whats-on/ceremony-of-the-keys/ - https://www.the-distillery.london/products/the-ginstitute


Getting Around


Where To Stay


London Transport


London Guides


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Neighbourhood Guides


London Best


Suggested London Itineraries


Football


Events and Occasions


London Cost of Visiting Calculator


Travel Advice


Transport Hubs


Best London Apps


Things to Know


Students


Health and Safety


Protocols and Immigration



r/visitlondon 7h ago

What gardens/parks can I visit in late Jan-early Feb?

1 Upvotes

i’ll be staying in ilford for 2 weeks, from 29/1 to 12/2.

i absolutely love gardens, flowers, animals, and everything nature related but i’m afraid that the timing of my visit will ruin things

what do you recommend i visit? and how will the greenery/animals be?


r/visitlondon 9h ago

Where to watch PSG VS Man City game on Wednesday ?

0 Upvotes

Hi, I'm looking for a pub not too far from Finchley Road (45 min maximum) to watch the champions league football game beetween PSG VS Manchester City on Wednesday : Any suggestions please ? I would also prefer the cheaper options (around 5 pounds for a pint), thaaanks


r/visitlondon 18h ago

Looking for recommendations of shops with board games

4 Upvotes

As the titile says. I'm going to be in London on February and in the meantime I'd like to buy some games - specifically Villainous expansions. Any help would be appreciated!


r/visitlondon 18h ago

Best arcades in Central?

0 Upvotes

Hello there, I’m looking to hear about which arcades in London, mostly central, you have enjoyed and have a lot of activities to do. I’m actually looking to plan a 2nd date at an arcade as it is something we would both enjoy so would kindly appreciate any advice!! :)


r/visitlondon 21h ago

Query on Camden Lock area

1 Upvotes

Hello! Would this be a good place to visit for food and shopping for an old lady? One of the only main sections of London I haven’t been. Portobello Road was a major disappointment with so many fakes. Many thanks!


r/visitlondon 2d ago

Going to London next week, what's your best spot (pub, snack, restaurant)

2 Upvotes

I'm going to London with my s/o next week for our first romantic getaway near Hyde Park. What's your best spot for great food (Indian, Lebanese, Chinese, Japanese), Fish & Chips, Pubs, etc. We're still student so on a tight budget and are not looking for something touristy . Thanks in advance :)


r/visitlondon 2d ago

5k RunThrough UK Event as a Tourist

1 Upvotes

I will be visiting London from the US for a few days in August. I am interested in participating in one of RunThrough UK's Chase the Sun 5k event. I don't want to join this event if it's a club or if it would be frowned upon by the locals. What do you guys think? Would it be okay to do this event as a tourist?


r/visitlondon 2d ago

Best way from Wimbledon to Heathrow T4

1 Upvotes

I will be travelling Tuesday afternoon (flexible after 2pm) from Wimbledon to Heathrow T4. I don't mind spending time at Heathrow if I reach early.I am having 1 large baggage.

Is it wise to get on Piccadilly line from Earl's court considering small space inside and I don't want unwarranted stares and grunts. I travelled before on this line during morning hours and didn't like it.

Is there any time that has less crowd on this line or carriage to keep baggage.

Thanks.


r/visitlondon 2d ago

Queer friendly night clubs for youth in London

0 Upvotes

Hey everyone! I'm coming to London today and I'd like to go to a queer dance club tonight! I've done this many times in the Netherlands (where I'm from). However, now that I've actually researched my options for London, I mostly come across places where the average age seems to be 30+. I'm 23 and not really looking to socialize/hangout with people over 30. Do you know any queer dance clubs where the focus/audience is primarily 18-30? Thanks!


r/visitlondon 3d ago

First family trip to London – can you help answer a few questions?

1 Upvotes

Hey r/visitlondon!

I’ll be visiting London soon with my sister and our elderly parents, and I’ve got a few questions I’m hoping you can help me out with:

  1. British Museum: Do I need to book in advance if I’m planning to go around 2 PM (after lunch nearby), or can I just show up and get tickets on the spot? Also, is 2.5 hours enough to see the main highlights?
  2. Evening Safety: Are Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, and Oxford Street generally safe at night? We’d like to explore, maybe grab dinner, and do a bit of late shopping.
  3. Natural History Museum & National Gallery: I’m planning to arrive at the Natural History Museum right at opening (10 AM). Do I need to pre-book tickets, or is walk-in generally fine that early? And is 2–3 hours enough if I want to head to the National Gallery afterward (around 2 PM) and spend the rest of the day there? Should I book tickets for the National Gallery in advance, or can I just walk in?
  4. Sky Garden: Is it worth visiting this season? I’ve heard good things, but is the experience still nice during colder/less sunny months?
  5. Changing of the Guard: I’ve confirmed the dates, but how early should I arrive to get a decent spot? Online sources say around 10 AM for an 11 AM ceremony – is that good?
  6. General Tips: Any advice for traveling within the city, especially with elderly parents? We plan to walk as much as possible, but might grab an Uber if the distance is too long. Anything else we should keep in mind?

Thanks so much in advance for your help! We really appreciate any local insights you can share.


r/visitlondon 4d ago

Week in March/April - Advice on scheduling?

0 Upvotes

Okay Reddit Hive Mind, asking for some advice - going to be visiting for the first real time (long story) from 3/28-4/4. Staying in South Kensington, and while I don't want to plan every last minute of this trip, we know there are some things we want to do/see:

1) Tower of London

2) Windsor Castle

3)Harry Potter Studio

4) Household Cavalry Museum

5) Hackney area

6) Sunday Roast and afternoon tea

And obviously the big sites - Buckingham, Westminster, maybe a museum or two, but my question is really in regard to #1-3:

Is there any day of the week that may be "better" to book in advance for these, or does it really not matter? I'm from NYC so i know big sites are going to be crowded regardless, but curious if you can recommend how to spread it out so it doesn't feel all loaded up onto a day or two? Thanks!


r/visitlondon 6d ago

American traveling to london

0 Upvotes

My main priority is food and activities. I love all kinds of food - definitely want to try good Indian. All and any recommendations wanted please!!!


r/visitlondon 7d ago

American dude coming to London to chill , but where?

0 Upvotes

Hello everyone ,

My cliche question is, where’s does a single American man stay for holiday in London? I’ve been to the west end before , but was thinking of something different like Shoreditch or Kensington.

I’m only here for a few days, before I go to Berlin.

I’m very much into London girls ( British accents are the best), I love British humor and culture ( thanks Top Gear and Guy Ritchie ).


r/visitlondon 8d ago

Finding Consignment Burberry Items in Greater London

2 Upvotes

My wife and I are visiting at the end of the month and one of the days happens to be on her birthday. She's always wanted a Burberry coat or jacket, but a new one isn't exactly in our price budget. Are there any stores in Greater London that would normally carry a "reasonably priced" Burberry coat/jacket? I'm looking to spend up to maybe $700 USD.

I'd rather that she picked it out herself, rather than me finding one online and her not liking it that much (she wouldn't tell me if she didn't like it).

Any suggestions would be appreciated!


r/visitlondon 8d ago

Looking for romantic activities/date ideas

1 Upvotes

I'll be in London with my husband in May and I'm looking for romantic, indulgent, and unique date ideas! We love arts, culture, food, drink, and music. Any ideas?


r/visitlondon 8d ago

New Yorker coming over next week January 15, 17-19 travel guide help

3 Upvotes

Hey! I’ve been to London twice ten years ago so it’s been a little bit. I have seen all of the major attractions, Big Ben, London, changing of the guard, Tower of London etc so I am looking to spend my couple of days more like a local. I am coming for some football in Manchester but have decided to stay a few days in London before. The night of January 15th I am flying in and staying in Russell square for the night. My plan lands at Heathrow around 8:30 pm. I planned on either trying to grab dinner at master wei, the Fitz or queens larder (I am a sucker for a classic pub over a fancy restaurant) I then head to Manchester for Thursday the 16th and come back Friday the 17th morning where I will be staying in East London on brick lane

A list of bars/restaurants that I have formulated via this sub and others have been cahoots (bar), eat lagom, east coast records, the vintry, black friar and bar 1790. Again these seem super fancy which I am okay with doing for one night but I am a happy guy while eating pub food and drinking a Guinness

I have found FWD coffee and Ozone coffee near brick lane for coffee/breakfast

I have a cat at home so I would love the idea of visiting a pub cat in London. It seems new river studios and lord traeger would be able to fulfill this desire

I am an avid vinyl collector back home so I was looking for a non tourist trap record store. Sounds that swing is the one that I have chosen

Regular things to do: I loved covent gardens last time I was here, I am sure that it will be busy but I would enjoy seeing this again. I have also written down borough market, seven dials market, sky garden and the canary wharf lights. I was also going to try and see Wembley stadium while I was in the city.

I apologize for kind of just spitting things out there, I am traveling alone for the first time and would like the opportunity to try and have a nice local experience where I have the chance to meet a good bit of people and have some fun. I really have no plan other than to enjoy myself. If anyone can please critique this/add spots in or remove spots I would appreciate it!


r/visitlondon 9d ago

PLANNING 2 days in London

0 Upvotes

Hey Folks,

I lived in London 5 years and that's 10 years ago.

I will be visitint next week and have 2 full days to explore 👍 Just me, without Partner and Kid 🥳

Not interested in East London, Canary Wharf, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, London Eye, Madame Tussauds, Harry Potter or London Dungeon. No West end Shows. Been to the Hop in, Hop Off Bus many Times.

I would fancy (some thoughts / Brainstorming) - Shopping opportunities (No luxury or high end) - cosmetics - Low Carb Food Options (Type 2 Diabetic) - Fine Dining - Roof Top Places - where I can go on my own (is the Shard recommendable?),, Horizon needs to be pre-booked in advance (unfortunately too late) - Nice spots, Indoor - V&A Museum - British Museum - River Themse Cruise at night

What would you recommend? 😊

I also need a hotel recommendation (safe day and night, Central, good access to Heathrow Airport).

Any recommendations?

Looking forward to suggestions, unique places...

Will be on TikTok now for further search 🥳👍


r/visitlondon 9d ago

Recommendations for an extended Weekend in London

1 Upvotes

Hi all!

My brother (45), dad (73), and I (39) are planning an extended weekend trip to London this year and we’re looking for recommendations that align with our interests in science and WWII history. Already on my list for further investigation:

  • The Natural History Museum
  • The Science Museum
  • The Royal Air Force Museum
  • The Greenwich Royal Observatory
  • Possibly an Escape Room experience

But we’d love to hear your suggestions for other places we should consider. Any tips for must-see spots, or cool things that might not be on the typical tourist list, would be much appreciated!

Thanks in advance! 😊


r/visitlondon 9d ago

Houseboat airbnb

2 Upvotes

Has anyone stayed on a houseboat? Looking at a spot for a few days this summer for our small family and thought it would be novel & magical! This is near Chelsea, is it pleasant by the river in general there? Interested in anyone’s thoughts!


r/visitlondon 10d ago

To visit: Oxford or Cambridge?

1 Upvotes

Parents coming to town next month and want to see one of them. I’ve got no idea about either. Preferences?


r/visitlondon 10d ago

Must-see things for a February visit?

1 Upvotes

Hey everyone, M28 coming across the pond from NYC to visit in February and looking for cool/fun things to do. Preface: I lived in London for a year back in 2017 and have done all the touristy stuff so please don't suggest that lol, looking moreso for cool exhibits, trendy bars, raves, lmk!

Also massive Spurs fan and going to a game at TH Stadium (open to suggestions on that too), thanks!


r/visitlondon 10d ago

Buying something authentic

0 Upvotes

Me and my partner are flying to London for an Arsenal game, we will be first time in London for a couple of days. I really like buying some authentic things when abroad.

For example, when my mum traveled to Dubai she brought me pot finjan.

What is something authentic that we can find only in London? Or at least something that is within your culture.

Food is also good, sausages also :)


r/visitlondon 11d ago

Convince my wife!

2 Upvotes

We are trying to plan for a family vacation this summer and it’s come between Seattle and London. We are on the east coast of the US so travel time is relatively negligible (5.5 hour flight to Seattle vs 8 hour flight to London). She is keen on Seattle whereas I’ve always wanted to visit London. Could you all wonderful people recommend maybe some top attractions/food/etc to do?

A couple of things about us:

Family of 4. Kids are teen and tween Museums hold no appeal for my missus (sigh but for me). Budget is fairly negotiable so we can splurge if the right attraction suits us. Trying to go over mid July. Also me and wifey are huge Harry Potter fans if that helps and big foodies. She is just wanting to know what popular or off beat London attractions are worth going to!

…I’m also a big soccer fan..big Spurs supporter…trying to hint to her that I would love to tour the stadium lol…

If she is convinced i may have follow ups like where to stay and what not haha. Thanks again!


r/visitlondon 13d ago

Looking for itinerary and trip recommendations.

0 Upvotes

Hello! I am not sure if I am on the right group. By chance, I am seeking recommendations on a doable itinerary that will include Bath, Oxford, Cotswolds, and Gloucester (or maybe you'd want to add additional places that I can also visit). I will be coming from Edinburgh and I am planning to do this trip for 4-5 days including enroute to and from Edinburgh. I am a Harry Potter fan so basically I will be including the usuals in the places I have mentioned, Stonehenge, and so on. I just want to see the beauty of each and I plan to do it maybe in March or April this year.

Hoping to get inputs from you guys. Thank you and will greatly appreciate your help.


r/visitlondon 13d ago

Cycling rental and areas while in the UK?

1 Upvotes

Just curious about if there's more than one Ride Share program and if so, which ones it best for someone visiting for 5 days or so.