Experiences
The 5 Best Places to Visit in London
The landmarks, views and corners worth your time: the best places to visit in London, chosen with care.
In short: our top picks are Tower of London, The British Museum and Tate Modern. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
London gives you too much to choose from, and most lists just pile it higher. This is the considered version: the places genuinely worth your time, from the great landmarks and museums to the views and quieter corners locals love. The best of London, whether it is your first visit or your fiftieth.
| Place | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tower of London | The City | |
| The British Museum | Bloomsbury | |
| Tate Modern | Bankside | |
| Sky Garden | The City | £££ |
| Westminster Abbey | Westminster |
-
Editor’s choice
Tower of London
Why we pick itNearly a thousand years of history and the Crown Jewels; go at opening to beat the coaches.
-
The British Museum
Why we pick itTwo million years of human history under one roof, and free to all; pick a wing and go deep.
-
Tate Modern
Why we pick itA former power station turned the world's best modern-art museum; free, and superb after dark.
-
Sky Garden
Why we pick itThree storeys of public garden above the City with a free viewing deck; book a sunset slot.
-
Westminster Abbey
Why we pick itA thousand years of coronations and history in one breathtaking building; book a timed ticket.
Before you book
Book the big-ticket sights ahead and go early or late to beat the crowds. Mix the marquee landmarks with the smaller pleasures; the second kind is usually what people remember. And build in time to simply walk; London is best discovered on foot, between the things you planned to see.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
Tower of London is our editor's choice: Nearly a thousand years of history and the Crown Jewels; go at opening to beat the coaches. Tower of London, The British Museum and Tate Modern 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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