With more and more places opening up in London and great deals on offer, this summer bank holiday is the perfect opportunity to rediscover the thrills of the capital. Check out our top 10 list of things to do in London to make the most of your weekend.
1. Climb the o2
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Get high above Greenwich and see the city landscape beyond by climbing up one of the best known venues in London. Look over historic Greenwich, The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf as you marvel at the 360 degree views on offer and on a clear day, you can see up to 15 miles into the distance. Climbs can be booked for any time of day so whether you want to climb up as the sun goes down for a romantic sunset scene, or you’re a night owl wanting to see the city at twilight, you’re sure to be amazed.
2. Wander around a museum
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There are so many museums around London now opening their doors to visitors. Head over to the The Natural History Museum for a jaw-dropping “whalecome back” from their resident blue whale, Hope and wander round the extraordinary exhibits from all over the world. After that, head down the road to the Science Museum and their Wonderlab, a new immersive exhibit that is sure to reawaken your curiosity as you discover the incredible ways science and maths shape our world. If you’re more into art and design, then the V&A is just the place for you. It’s the worlds largest museum of it’s kind with it’s origins based on The Great Exhibition of 1851.
3. Explore London’s heritage
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As well as London’s museums opening, you can also get back out and be immersed in it’s rich history too. Head South West to Rochmond to see the impressive Hampton Court Palace, the 16th Century former home of King Henry VIII. See the intricate clock Henry himself designed, and peek into the huge original Tudor kitchens and marvel at the stunning Great Hall. In central London, the 1000 year old fortress, Tower of London sits proudly beside the river and offers a fascinating insight into London’s history and tradition. Take a tour with a Yeoman Warder, keep an eye out for the resident ravens and even have a peek at the Crown Jewels themselves.
4. Take in the London landscape
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One of the many great things about London is that whether you’re on the ground or high above there’s always a great view to greet you. Both the Shard and the London Eye are now open so you can get an effortlesly great panoramic view of the city. However, for the highest view in London, the Shard is your best bet. Standing 306 metres tall amongst the cityscape, this iconic building is well worth a visit. As well as a great view on offer, there are six bars and restaurants for you to treat yourself to some amazing food and drink. Did you know that it takes 17 cleaners 3 months to clean the whole building!
5. Try some beach side yoga
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Enjoy the thrills of the beach in the capital at Neverland. The Fulham beach club is decked out with all the beach essentials from the sand, to day beds, beach style bars, douzens of seating areas such as beach bubbles, and even beach huts. There’s something for everyone here from relaxing sandy weeekend yoga sessions from the Pop Up Yoga Club, to energising games such as shuffleboard and table tennis. There’s also a decked pergula where you can brunch with your friends and soak up the summer sun.
6. Unleash your wild side at London Zoo
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Animal lovers- rejoice! Nestled in the middle of Regents Park, the manajorie at ZSL London Zoo have been waiting patiently to welcome visitors back and now their doors are back open. There are douzens of animals from all over the world to see and lots to explore. For those travelling to the zoo from Notting Hill there’s lots of street art and statues you can admire on your route from Banky’s mural on Portobello Road, to the rainbow crossing in Camden.
7. Admire the skyline at Busseys south London
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Sitting high atop the Bussey building in Peckham is a tropical oasis, Bussey Rooftop Bar offering mouth-watering food and drink with 360 degree views of the city skyline. Book a table, grab a couple of friends and share a summers evening in this colourful South London spot. Throught the bank holiday weekend, you can book a table and access to Bussey’s rooftop comedy events with comedians such as Simon Amstell and Ed Gamble taking centre stage. As well as sharing some laughs, you can share some feel good pizza as Bussey have teamed up with Share a Slice who offer great tasting pizzas with money going to help feed someone in need.
8. Soar through London on a Thames Rocket
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For a fast track, adrenaline fueled way to see and experience Central London, hop aboard a Thames Rocket. Starting from the London Eye, you’ll speed your way down the river to Canary Wharf passing some of London’s most iconic sights on the journey. Ranked the number 1 on TripAdvisor things to do in London, this is certainly a must try activity and one you’ll never forget.
9. Rediscover the magic at Warner Bros Studio
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After months of waiting, you can now return to the magic of Hogwarts with a visit to the Warner Bros Studio Tour. Journey from the iconic Great Hall and be amazed as you wander through the hundreds of props and sets and discover the behind the scenes wizardry that brought the J.K. Rowling story to life. Pay a visit to Privet Drive and take a selfie by the front door of the Dursley’s, take an immersive trip down Diagon Alley and see the Weasleys Wizard Wheezes shop on the corner, and hop aboard the iconic Hogwarts express as it departs Platform 9 and 3/4.
10. Grab a Bank Holiday bargain
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If you’re in the market for some retail therapy, then London is the place to come. Whatever your tastes, you’ll find it something to suit in the capital. For high street names and big brands, Westfield with its 2 huge shopping centres, or the bustling Oxford Street will have you occupied for hours, while Covent Garden is a destination of its own where high end fashion brands meet traditional markets and fantastic food and live performances on the Piazza. Carnaby Street is where it’s at for loud and proud young fashionistas, while Camden Market and Portobello Road are where you’ll find the more quirky and unique treasures.
