Experiences
The 5 Best Attractions in London
Icons, views and experiences worth the ticket: the best attractions in London, beyond the tourist trail.
In short: our top picks are London Eye, Tower of London and The View from The Shard. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
London’s attractions range from the genuinely unmissable to the cheerfully skippable, and knowing the difference saves a holiday. These are the ones worth the ticket and the queue, from the great icons to the experiences that surprise you, chosen with a local’s eye rather than a guidebook’s.
| Place | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|
| London Eye | South Bank | |
| Tower of London | The City | £££ |
| The View from The Shard | London Bridge | £££ |
| Natural History Museum | South Kensington | |
| St Paul's Cathedral | The City |
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Editor’s choice
London Eye
Why we pick itThe slow turn over the river that everyone should do once; go at dusk for the city lights.
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Tower of London
Why we pick itCrown Jewels, Beefeaters and a thousand years of drama; the most rewarding paid attraction in town.
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The View from The Shard
Why we pick itWestern Europe's highest viewpoint; go near dusk and watch London light up beneath you.
-
Natural History Museum
Why we pick itA cathedral to the natural world, free and endlessly impressive; the Hintze Hall alone is worth it.
-
St Paul's Cathedral
Why we pick itWren's masterpiece; climb to the Whispering Gallery and the dome for one of the great London views.
Before you book
Pre-book timed tickets for the famous attractions to skip the worst queues, and go at opening or late afternoon. Many of the best things in London are free, so balance the paid icons with the great museums and parks. And do not try to do everything; two or three done well beats six done in a rush.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
London Eye is our editor's choice: The slow turn over the river that everyone should do once; go at dusk for the city lights. London Eye, Tower of London and The View from The Shard lead the guide, with 5 places in total, all chosen on merit.
How does Lamplit London choose its recommendations?
Every place is chosen on merit, after first-hand visits where possible, with no pay-for-placement. Read our full method at https://www.lamplitlondon.com/how-we-choose/.
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