1. Natural History
One of London’s largest free Museums – easy to access from South Kensington Tube Station and opens all year around. Uncover the history of life on Earth, from the smallest insects to the largest mammals.
2. Victoria & Albert
Just a stone’s throw from the Natural History Museum the V&A is well worth a visit. It is the world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design, housing a permanent collection of over 4.5 million objects.
3. Science Museum
The final attraction in South Kensington, the Science Museum attracts 3.3 million visitors annually and appeals to adults and children alike. For a fee visit the IMAX within the Science Museum.
4. William Morris Gallery
Based in North East London, The William Morris Gallery is the only public gallery devoted to the life and legacy of William Morris: designer, craftsman, socialist.
5. London Sewing Machine Museum
A unique museum, only open on certain days of the year so be sure to check before your visit!
Parks
6. Wimbledon Common
A very accessible area of open space not far from the city spanning 460 hectares. Make sure to keep a lookout for the Wombles of Wimbledon Common!
7. Richmond Park
This is the largest of London’s Royal Parks and hosts a whole variety of leisure activities. Often a good place to spot deer grazing under ancient oak trees.
8. Hyde Park
A little larger than Sydney’s version at 350 acres! One of London’s most central parks hosting numerous large scale events throughout the year such as Winter Wonderland.
Iconic Attractions
9. Big Ben
The Houses of Parliament’s iconic clock tower is one of London’s most famous landmarks. Don’t leave London without visiting Big Ben!
10. Houses of Parliament
The Palace of Westminster is the meeting place of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom (commonly known as the Houses of Parliament after its occupants).
11. Trafalgar Square
Visit Trafalgar square, see Nelsons Column, pop into the National Portrait Gallery, take a quiet minute in St Martins-in-the-Fields, and when you are done stroll along to Covent Garden.
12. Piccadilly Circus
Within striking distance of Shaftsbury Avenue and multiple West End Theatres, Piccadilly comes alive at night and is the perfect place for people watching!
13. Tower of London
Officially Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress, the Tower is one of London’s iconic sites. You can pay to go in and have a tour or just marvel for free from the outskirts.
14. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting London. Make sure you check the changing of the guard dates online.
15. The Shard
One of London’s newest buildings standing 95 storeys high boasting stunning scenic views. View The Shard from all over town or treat yourself to a cocktail at Aqua Shard on Level 31.
16. Abbey Road
If you’re a music fan, head to the famous Abbey Road crossing. Make sure you enlist a friend to take your picture!
Art Galleries
17. Tate Modern
The Tate Modern hosts a plethora of British, international, modern and contemporary art. Combine a visit with a stroll along the South Bank to see the street performers and soak up the atmosphere.
18. National Gallery
The National Gallery is an art museum in Trafalgar Square in the City of Westminster, in Central London. Founded in 1824, it houses a collection of over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to the 1900s.
19. Saatchi Gallery
Stuffed full of Contemporary Art and just minutes from Sloane Square, be sure to pop in to see the regularly changing exhibitions.
Markets
20. Portobello Market
The world’s largest antique market with 1,000 dealers selling absolutely everything, food stalls at every turn and an eclectic mix of people. This is certainly an attraction not to be missed!
21. Borough Market
One of London’s largest food and drink markets tucked away next to London Bridge. Browse endless stalls of local produce and pick up some treats for tea! It does get very busy so look online to plan the best time to visit.
Something for the adventurer
22. The South Bank
Home to the national centres for art, film and performance, with street performers, buskers and a frequent second-hand book market all in the revolving shadow of the London Eye – there really is something for everyone!
23. Parliament Hill
The hill itself is 98m high, set in the corner of Hampstead Heath. It is well worth the climb to see the views of the city spread out before you.
24. Speakers corner in Hyde Park
Whether you are just an observer or want to join in, Speakers Corner allows free speech and debate.
25. Notting Hill Carnival
An annual event named Europe’s Biggest Street Party, this vibrant festival embraces culture, artistic talent and creativity.
Looking for a little adventure outside London? Be sure to visit:
- Yorkshire
- Cotswolds
- Devon
- Lake District
- Norfolk
- Suffolk
- Cornwall
- Bath
- Brighton
Thinking about undertaking a working holiday visa in London? We’re rewarding one lucky Aussie with return flights to London plus an amazing work assignment in the UK. Find out more at www.est10.com.au/london-competition