Wondering if you should plan a trip to London with teens and IF there will be ENOUGH things to do to keep you and them engaged? Wonder no more. There are so many cool ideas for a bucket list in London; deciding what to see and do might be a little overwhelming. London is a vibrant city with major landmarks and tourist attractions all over the city.
When Chris and I took our girls to London for the first time, we picked a few of our favorite sites to see. We didn’t get to everything. This makes London the perfect city to visit again and again and again. There’s always something more to explore.
25 Things to Do In London with Teens
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Having had the opportunity to plan international trips to London a number of times now, Chris and I have found something new to explore each time. Our most recent trip with our daughters in the summer of 2022 focused on things to do in London with teens: taking a river cruise, visiting The Mall, exploring Trafalgar Square, and visiting the National Gallery—one of the best FREE museums of London.
Note * The weather in London often features rain. Be prepared with a foldable rain jacket that fits neatly into your backpack. You may even want to tuck in a waterproof backpack cover to protect your camera and other essential electronics.
>> Related: My Favorite Crossbody Bag for Travel
1. Big Ben
Check out the world’s most famous clock. Big Ben is one of the most instagrammable spots in London and throughout the world. Did you know that Big Ben is actually the name of the biggest bell in the Elizabeth Tower?
Big Ben underwent a massive five-year reconstruction and restoration project and reopened to public tours in 2023; the bells of the Elizabeth Tower chime once again on the hour and every quarter hour.
Related Post: 27 Instagram Worthy Insanely Colorful Destinations Around the World
2. Buckingham Palace, The Changing of the Guard, and The Mall
You will be amazed with the throngs of people surrounding Buckingham Palace and filling all available sidewalk space when it is time for the Changing of the Guard.
On our first visit to London, we claimed a spot high above the crowds on one of the bridge posts and watched for over an hour. We had a lot of fun people-watching and hearing a variety of different languages being spoken as well.
There were policemen stationed at the crosswalks overseeing crowd control. They had their jobs cut out for them directing pedestrians and drivers alike. If you are driving in the UK for the first time, you may wish to avoid driving by Buckingham Palace. Pedestrians would never stop crossing. As it was, the policeman we were most entertained with had to keep yelling out, “The light is red. Stop crossing. STOP crossing!
After awhile the policeman would start going after the thoughtless tourists, turn them around in the middle of the street, and send them back to the sidewalk. After all, cars were coming. The people had no sense whatsoever.
So, word to the wise, stop crossing so you don’t get yelled at!
The King’s Guard is the name given to the guards responsible for guarding Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Palace (including Clarence House) in London. Want to know more about the interesting black hats that the guards wear? Click the link.
3. Christmas in London
If you happen to be planning a visit to London around Christmas, you’re in luck. There are so many festive things to do in London and magical things to see. You’ll be sure to find the Christmas spirit during your visit. PS If you get the chance to take a day trip to the Peak District during your visit, be sure to visit the Chatsworth House Christmas Market.
4. Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a must-see location if you are looking for one of London’s most trendy shopping districts, stylish beauty salons, and hip eateries with grab-n-go lunch spots and a top restaurant scene. It’s a foodie’s dream destination. If you have young people in your family who love to shop, this is one of the things to do in London with teens!
The Garden spreads across nine streets and one historic piazza. Be sure to stop at the Apple Market for a little shopping or Neal’s Yard and Neal Street for the quaintest shops, boutiques, and cafes.
5. London Eye
Who doesn’t recognize the iconic London Eye? The London Eye has been attracting guests for more than a decade and has spun to the top of the most popular tourist activity in London. Enjoy 360° views over London in one of the high-tech glass pods.
While riding the London Eye may be one of the best things to do in London with teens and tweens, it may set your finances back a bit.
The London Eye is located on the south bank of the river Thames. Be sure to pre-book your tickets online as guests receive a timed entry ticket.
6. London Theatre
Chris and I attended a performance of Rock of Ages at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London ten years ago. While Rock of Ages may not be currently running, you may be able to add these ideas for a bucket list of classics that appeal to teens: Les Miserables, Wicked, Mama Mia, Hamilton, Phantom of the Opera, Grease, and The Lion King in a variety of London Theatres.
7. Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory
“The historic prime meridian or Greenwich meridian is a geographical reference line that passes through the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, in London, England.” Wikipedia
The meridian line, at Longitude Zero (0° 0′ 0″), represents the Prime Meridian of the world. Every place on earth (almost) uses this measurement in terms of its angle east or west from this line.
If you are visiting as a family, it is one of the things to do in London with teens. You can at least say, “We’ve been there!”
8. Notting Hill
You might identify Notting Hill with the 1999 romantic comedy starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, but if you want to visit the real Notting Hill along with the Portobello Market while in London, you’re in luck. It is a vibrant and charming neighborhood in West London.
9. Parliament
The magnificent Palace of Westminster, or House of Parliament, is centrally located in London, England. It serves as the meeting place for both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.
If you are wanting to see the Parliament building on the London cityscape, look first for Big Ben. Parliament can be seen on the north bank of the River Thames in the City of Westminster.
Adjacent to the House of Parliament is another famous London landmark—Westminster Abbey.
10. River Cruise on the River Thames
Chris and I have walked along the River Thames, but taking the river cruise with our girls offered a whole new perspective and was definitely a fun thing to do in London with teens.
Starting at the Westminster Pier, the river cruise makes a few quick stops along the way to pick up passengers… including a stop at the London Eye.
You will cruise under a number of bridges—London Bridge and Tower Bridge to name a few—until reaching the Royal Borough of Greenwich. You can also take the return trip back to the Westminster Pier if you wish.
We hopped off the cruise in Greenwich and explored the Docklands Museum, hiked to the Royal Observatory, and feasted on pizza at Franco Manca.
11. St. Paul’s Cathedral
Beyond marveling at the beauty of St. Paul’s Cathedral, you can also plan for a Guided tours led by expert volunteers to learn about the history and architecture of the building.
Check out the What’s On calendar for special performances, workshops, lectures, and services.
12. Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is usually hopping with tourists, pedestrians, and museum-goers—it is one of the most vibrant and lively areas in the city—and definitely offers unique things to do in London during your visit.
You’ll find museums and galleries, even notable FREE museums of London, quaint cafes, chalk artists, rallies and demonstrations. There is always something fun to see in the square. You may even encounter cultural celebrations, sponsored events, or filming and photography shoots.
13. Westminster Abbey
Many identify Westminster Abbey with royal weddings—think William and Kate. As a living working church, you can visit the Abbey most days on guided tours.
You may be interested to know that the Abbey is the final resting place or memorial of many notable individuals: Charles Darwin, Alfred Lord Tennyson, William Shakespeare, Sir Isaac Newton, King Henry VII, Mary Queen of Scots, and George Frederic Handel to name a few.
On your visit, be sure to discover Poet’s Corner, the Coronation Chair, the Lady Chapel, Royal Tombs, Pyx Chamber, Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, Cloisters, and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries.
14. Explore the Bridges of London
There are dozens of bridges within the city of London. Whether beam, arch, box girder, or suspension, you may recognize a few of the more iconic bridges of London that span the River Thames.
- London Bridge
- Millennium Bridge
- Tower Bridge
- Waterloo Bridge
- Westminster Bridge
- Vauxhall Bridge
- Chelsea Bridge
- Hammersmith Bridge
London Markets: Ideas for a Bucket List
15. Portobello Market
The main market day for Portobello Market is Saturday with a little something for antique-seekers and bargain hunters alike. You’ll even find fresh produce, vintage treasures, and second-hand goods. Perusing the market is one of the best things to do in London on a Saturday afternoon.
16. Apple Market in Covent Gardens
Covent Gardens is a fashionable shopping destination in London, but the Apple Market, once a world-famous fruit and vegetable market, is home to a variety of stalls selling hand-made crafts, jewelry, soaps, art and prints each day from Tuesday to Sunday.
Monday is antique and collectables day. You’ll also find the East Colonnade Market and Jubilee Market at Covent Gardens.
17. Additional Markets in London
Everybody loves a good market. London is home to many that are must see and offer a little something for everyone. Round out your list of top things to do in London with a visit to a market or two!
- Borough Market next to London Bridge
- The Brick Lane Market open on Sundays
- Brixton Village
- Broadway Market
- Camden Market
- Columbia Road – one of the biggest London flower markets
Museums & Galleries
18. Imperial Museum: Churchill War Rooms
You could spend hours walking through the top-secret corridors of the Churchill War Rooms where you can see a small glimpse of what life must have been like during the Second World War. If you are a history buff, and especially have an interest in World War II, visiting the war room will rank among the unique things to do in London.
Location: Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London, SW1A 2AQ
19. Imperial War Museum: The Holocaust Galleries
Chris and I were deep in thought and silent throughout our three-hour visit to this Holocaust exhibit as we read through the personal stories and tragedies of the victims of the Holocaust. View over “2,000 photos, books, artworks, letters and personal objects ranging from jewellery and clothing to toys and musical instruments”. ~The Holocaust Galleries
You can also explore the Second World War Galleries at the Imperial War Museum. If you are looking for things to do in London with teens, this may or may not be the best option—you know your child best!
Location: Lambeth Road, London, SE1 6HZ
Related Post: 19 Inspiring War Memorials Around the World
20. Museum of London Docklands
The Museum of London Docklands is one of the FREE museums of London that is a fun and interactive museum. It is one of the great children’s museums in London. It details a history of London with the slave trade, the spice trade, growth of industry, and politics. It features a lot of fun hands-on areas for younger children to enjoy and was even interesting for our teens.
Location: 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, No, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL
More Children’s Museums of London:
- National Maritime Museum
- Horniman Museum and Gardens
- London Transport Museum
- London Museum of Water & Steam
- Young V&A
- The Postal Museum
- Valence House Museum
- Museum of the Order of St John
21. National Gallery
Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is another one of the FREE museums of London to visit. It highlights works from Paul Cézanne, Bellini, Monet, Michelangelo, van Dyke, van Gogh, Rembrandt, just to “name drop” a few famous painters.
The museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm and 9 pm on Friday evening. It ranks high among the FREE things to do in London. The National Gallery should be at the top of your ideas for a bucket list for London.
Location: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
22. Tower of London
Take a tour of the Tower of London where you will learn about the Bell Tower, see the crown jewels, read the history of the Kings being in favor and out of favor (it must have been a crazy time to live), view the the horses, the weapons, the cells, and the torture devices (one of the freaky things to do in London).
The tower, once best known for its torture and murders, apparently was a grand place to attend an afternoon beheading. It is much more tame in the 21st century but should be a must see on your list of things to do in London.
Location: Tower of London, London, EC3N 4AB
Photograph Iconic British Symbols
23. Red Telephone Booths
Looking for fun things to do in London with teens? Be sure to stop at a red phone booth or two for some iconic pictures!
24. Double Decker Bus
Did you know that if you stacked 21 double decker buses on top of each other, the height would equal the height of Big Ben? These are a fun way to see the city.
25. Guard at Buckingham Palace
How to Use The Tube in London
The Underground is London’s subway or metro and is also known as the “Tube”. It is clean, convenient, and an easy way to travel about the city.
No doubt you will hear and see “Mind the Gap” signs throughout your visit to this iconic city. It is one of the most familiar London quotes that you will notice all around the city.
Oyster Card
Purchasing a Visitor Oyster Card and is one of the best tips if you want to travel like a local. It can be used on most London public transport: the tube, buses, tram, DLR (Docklands Light Railway), Overground and National Rail services in London.
There is a £5 non-refundable fee required when your first activate your card. After that, when you run out of credit, easily top up using any of the ticket machines in any station or in many shops around London. Once you buy an Oyster Card, be sure to keep it for your return trip.
London TravelCard
Your London TravelCard can be validated for a single day, seven days, even for group travel.
Choosing between the two pass options—Oyster Card and Travelcard—may depend on your length of stay in London, the zones you plan to use, and what you want to see in London.
Apple Pay
iPhone 15 Pro cell phone Affiliate
Paying for journeys on the Transit options in London is pretty slick with Express Mode on Apple Pay using your iPhone or Apple Watch.
“Simply select a card for travel in Wallet. Then just tap your iPhone or Apple Watch on the yellow card reader and go.” Apple
Our family did this on a recent trip to London. It was more economical for us to do this than to purchase 3 additional Oyster cards. My husband topped up two of his Oyster cards when we arrived in London for him and our youngest daughter to use.
My older daughters and I handily used Apple Pay on our watches each time we entered and exited the Tube. Using Apple Pay is a perfect option if you are sightseeing and planning things to do in London with teens.
Which credit card do I recommend for travel in London?
Places to Eat in London
Using Google Maps and selecting the Restaurants Tab, you can find popular restaurants and choose options according to location, price, type of food, and ratings. The current top-rated London, England best restaurants are:
- Brawn – Mediterranean $$
- Padella – Bistro $
- Iyoki Restaurant St. James – Fine Dining $$
- Twist Connubio – Tapas $$$
- Launceston Place – Modern European $$$
- Hide – Modern European $$$$
- Murano – Italian $$$$
- Inamo Covent Garden – Asian Fusion $$
- Bob Bob Ricard Soho – French $$$$
- BRAT Restaurant – Grill $$
While not on the top ten list, Franco Manca is a great place for pizza. And if you are like my girls, you know that pizza is a good choice anytime and anywhere in the world. Eating is one of the things to do in London with teens that they won’t ever let you overlook!
London Quotes for Instagram
- From London with love.
- London is calling, so I must go.
- On top of the sky on the London eye.
- London on a sunny day is my kind of heaven.
- All you need is love and a little bit of London.
- There’s no time to be bored in a place as great as London.
- When in doubt, stand up stretch, and book a flight to London.
- Stay calm and visit London.
- London. You had me at “allo”.
- London is my cup of tea.
- I travel continuously, and I see many cities, but there is nowhere like London. ~ Norman Foster
- In London, everyone is different, and that means anyone can fit in. ~ Paddington Bear
- If you’re curious, London is an amazing place. ~ David Bailey
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days in London is enough?
If you are a first-time visitor in London, planning 4 days in London would give you plenty of time to visit the famous tourist sites and landmarks.
What is one of the must eat dishes in London?
You can’t go to London without trying Fish and Chips.
Do you tip in London?
When eating out, it is customary to add a 10 – 15% tip, though some restaurants add on a service charge instead. You may wish to tip the porter in your hotel. When riding in a black cab (or licensed minicabs) round up your taxi fare to the nearest pound.
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Time to Start Planning Cool Things to Do In London with Your Teens
Ahhhh London. If you are a first-time traveler from the United States, London is a perfect introduction to international travel, especially travel with your family. The language isn’t too different and there is plenty to keep you busy if you are looking for awesome things to do in London with teens.
If you only had a few days to explore, these are my recommendations on 6 ideas for a bucket list in London:
- Experience the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace and walk along the Mall
- Walk across Tower Bridge and take lots of pictures
- Take pictures with a red telephone booth
- Ride the London Eye
- Visit the Imperial War Museum
- Nevermind, you should do them all!
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There is always something fun going on in London, I love how lovely the city is?
For a long time we really had no interest in visiting London. But when we finally got there, we were glad we did. We have seen a few of these great spots. But still have many of spots on your list to visit on a return trip. I am sure visiting at Christmas would be magical. Love all the day trip options.
This is a great list. I see there are a few that I should add to my next visit in London
We just bought tickets to return to London after a hiatus! This post is super helpful for planning and visiting new spots!
Ah London! This is a great, comprehensive list, and includes some of the best spots for sure! Two more that I would include (if they’re still open) are the Sherlock Holmes museum at Baker Street, and the Shakespeare Globe theater. Great tips about the payment options too!
Great post! I’ve been to London many times but I still haven’t done all of these things! I love how many different things there are to do in London. Thanks for giving me some new ideas for my next trip!
This is a great list! I only spent a few hours in London on a layover, I’d love to go back and see more of the city.
What a great list of things to do in London! I’m passing it on to my Nephew who will be visiting soon.
London is a vibrant city with so much choice for teens and adults alike.
Its interesting to hear about your own city from other peoples perspective. I think Christmas in London is the best time of year for everyone to enjoy 🙂
So many fun things to do in London – thank you for sharing! I would love to visit during Christmas time.
Great blog post about London! Love the tips about the tube
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