Top 10 Must-See London Attractions for First-Time Visitors

Take a look at our top picks for must-visit London attractions. In this guide, we’ve highlighted 10 must-see spots that showcase the best of what the city has to offer. With its iconic landmarks, fascinating museums, and fun experiences, there’s always something new to discover. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more, it’s good to know the most popular London attractions can help you make the most of your trip.

Top Popular Must See London Attractions

1. The London Eye

To experience unbeatable views of London, there is no place better than the London Eye. Standing 135 metres tall The London Eye offers 360-degree views of the city. From it, you can see some of London’s most iconic landmarks including Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament, and The Shard. Located along the South Bank of the River Thames, the London Eye is just a short walk from Waterloo station.

The lastminute.com London Eye offers breathtaking views of London from high above the River Thames. You can even spot if the King’s at home – you’ll spot the flag lying if he is! A Standard Ticket Experience lasts for approximately 30 minutes. This is the time it takes for the wheel to revolve completely. Relax in one of the 32 glass capsules and enjoy taking in the London skyline. It’s one of the best ways to get a sense of the city, as a whole. 

Highlights: Stunning views of the City of London, especially at sunset.

Tip: Book in advance to secure a time slot and avoid waiting in long queues.

2. London Aquarium (SEA LIFE London)

Located on the South Bank, SEA LIFE London is one of the largest aquariums in the UK and a great stop for marine life enthusiasts. With over 600 species from all over the world, you’ll see everything from colourful coral reefs to sharks and rays. The interactive experience also includes glass tunnels, where you can walk beneath the ocean and be surrounded by marine creatures.

The aquarium is spread over three floors so you can explore it all in your own time. The home of Europe’s biggest collection of global marine life, you will see an array of species and creatures.

Go on an underwater adventure through the depths of the Pacific to the ice of Antarctica. There is also a brand-new Rainforest Adventure, home to the quirky and creepy crawly creatures of the Amazon. There are animal feeds throughout the day in different areas that you can see. The Rock Pool even has Starfish that you can stoke and Sea Anemone that you can tickle! SEA LIFE London is the perfect interactive experience for the whole family.

Highlights: Shark tanks, penguin feeding, the Ocean Tunnel.

Tip: Consider visiting early in the day or during the off-peak to avoid the crowds.

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3. The London Dungeon

If you’re in the mood for something sooky then the London Dungeon is a must-visit. For a thrilling, spine-tingling experience, the London Dungeon is a must-visit. The Dungeon combines live actors, interactive sets, and thrilling rides to take visitors on a journey through London’s darkest history.

Teleport back through the years and learn about London’s dark history. From the Great Plague, and the Gunpowder Plot to Jack the Ripper, you will get to experience the city’s most gruesome tales firsthand.

Highlights: The Jack the Ripper experience, the Plague Doctor, the terrifying “Drop Dead” ride.

Tip: Not suitable for young children due to its scary and intense content, but perfect for older kids and adults.

4. Madame Tussauds

If you want the ultimate fame experience then get yourself down to Madame Tussauds. The world-famous wax museum features lifelike figures of stars from all walks of life. From worlds of film, music, sport, and politics you can meet them all.

Truly immerse yourself in the lives of the rich and famous at Madame Tussauds. The experience is made through a combination of historic artistic methods that date back centuries and modern technology.

Join your favourite celebs at the biggest award party ever. Guest include the likes of Eddie Redmayne, Tom Hardy, and Benedict Cumberbatch. Or why not strut your stuff on the catwalk with model Cara Delevigne. You may even see the Royal Family. You’ll find everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to Beyoncé, as well as a dedicated area to Marvel superheroes and Star Wars characters.

Highlights: Marvel Super Heroes 4D experience, Star Wars exhibition, famous British icons.

Tip: Book tickets online in advance for faster entry and avoid peak-time crowds.

5. Shrek’s Adventure

Located on the South Bank near the London Eye, Shrek’s Adventure is an interactive and immersive experience for families. The attraction takes visitors on a 4D journey through the world of DreamWorks’ Shrek, the globally successful film franchise. Here you’ll encounter characters like Donkey, Princess Fiona, and, of course, Shrek himself. The experience includes live actors, special effects, and adventure-filled storytelling.

You begin the experience by being boarded on a marvelous ‘Dreamworks Tours’ red London bus driven by Donkey. Then your lively adventure begins as you travel to the mystical land of Far Far Away. Experience a real-life fairytale as you work your way through 10 themed shows and visit all the iconic locations from the movies. This includes the Poison Apple pub and the Muffin Man’s House.

This totally unique experience tells the story of Shrek in a new and exciting way. Complete tasks and meet unforgettable characters. Shrek’s Adventure is a lot of un from all the family from start to finish.

Highlights: The 4D DreamWorks experience, the interactive “Ogre-vision” tour, meeting Shrek and friends.

Tip: Perfect for younger children, but be sure to book tickets in advance, as it’s a popular London attraction.

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6. Tower of London

One of London’s most iconic historic landmarks, the Tower of London is a medieval fortress, originally founded by William the Conqueror in 1066. It has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. It’s home to the Crown Jewels and offers a rich, dark history with tales of intrigue, betrayal, and execution.

Despite the Tower’s grim reputation, there are many stories to be told. You can learn the secrets and one thousand years of royal gossip with the Beefeater Tours. They provide a fascinating, and often humorous, look into the Tower’s past. If you take one of their tours you are sure to be amazed (also maybe disgusted) by the tales that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Highlights: The Crown Jewels and the Beefeater-guided tours.

Tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines and crowds, especially for viewing the Crown Jewels.

7. London Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in the world, the ZSL London Zoo is located in Regent’s Park and offers a chance to see a wide variety of animals in immersive, naturalistic enclosures. From tigers and gorillas to penguins and reptiles, there’s plenty to explore. The zoo is also home to conservation programs and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.

You get the chance to see little, large, and hairy animals from across the globe all in the heart of London. Run by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), the zoo houses a collection of 755 species of animal.

A fun day out for all the family, London Zoo is a must-visit London attraction.

Highlights: The Land of the Lions, Gorilla Kingdom, Dark Owl Emporium, and the Rainforest Life exhibit.

Tip: Plan your visit around animal feeding times for the best chance to see wildlife up close.

8. Buckingham Palace

No visit to London is complete without a stop to the official residence of the British Monarch. Buckingham Palace is known for its grandeur, rich history, and royal significance. This iconic palace remains one of the most visited landmarks in the city.

Probably the most famous ceremony at the Palace is the changing of the Guard. This time-honoured tradition takes place daily and is an impressive spectacle. The ceremonial guards dress in their iconic red uniforms and tall bearskin hats. If you’re interested in history and royalty then you are able to take a tour of the State rooms during the summer months.

Buckingham Palace offers a rare opportunity to experience the heart of the British monarchy. Behind the magnificent gates stands a symbol of history and grandeur.

Highlights: The Changing of the Guard

Tip: Research the schedule for the Changing of the Guard and arrive early to get a good spot to watch.

9. Sightseeing Bus Tours

One of the best ways to see the highlights of London without the hassle of public transport is one of the famous London Sightseeing Buses. These iconic red double-decker buses are more than just a mode of transport. They are a convenient and informative way to explore an array of London attractions.

With the hop-on, hop-off flexibility, you can tailor your sightseeing experience and spend as much time as you like at each stop. Most bus tours come with informative guides, either live or recorded. Through these, you can learn fun facts and hidden gems.

A great option for first-time visitors, the buses cover all main tourist districts and beyond

Highlights: The London by Night Bus Tour

Tip: Book the 48-hour ticket as it is normally not that much more expensive than the 24 hour.

10. Up at the O2

For a very unique and modern experience, head to Up at the 02. This exhilarating rooftop adventure offers panoramic views of London. Located at the 02 Arena in North Greenwich, this London attraction provides a different way to see the city from above.

You get the chance to ascend a 52-metre-high walkway to the very summit of the O2 Arena. The climb takes around 90 minutes and is led by expert guides. The pathway is designed for all levels of fitness, with footwear and safety harnesses provided.

There is an observation platform at the summit where you can take in the spectacular 360° views. You can see famous London landmarks including the Thames, Canary Wharf, the Shard, and the London Eye. Once on the platform you are able to move freely before you make your descent.

Up at the O2 is perfect for those who want to experience London from a completely different perspective with an added layer of adrenaline.

Highlights: Physically engaging and offers some of the best views in London

Tip: Book a night climb to see London light up at night

Book your London attractions tickets now!

You can book tickets for any of these London attractions at our box office in Leicester Square or on the LSBO website. Keep up to date with all things London Theatre with LSBO News.