Ultimate Guide to SEA LIFE London Aquarium

By <a href="#author-bio">Stuart Bak</a>
By Stuart Bak
Published: July 18, 2024
Clown fish at SEA LIFE London Aquarium. Image credit: Merlin.

Set on the ground floor of County Hall on London’s bustling South Bank, the SEA LIFE London Aquarium has been wowing wide-eyed visitors with its kaleidoscope of aquatic critters since it opened back in 1997. Penguin-waddle into our underwater world for the ultimate guide to this top-tier London attraction, including information on what to expect, when to visit, and the best ticket options in town…

SEA LIFE London Aquarium: The Lowdown

Sharks at SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Image credit: Merlin

Attracting over a million visitors every year, the SEA LIFE London Aquarium is one of the South Bank’s most popular attractions. That’s largely thanks to its state-of-the-art aquaria, spine-tingling underwater Shark Walk tunnel, cool gentoo penguin colony, and 5,000-or-so marine creatures that range from tiny clownfish to majestic sharks, turtles, crocs, rays, and octopuses.

Immersive exhibits at the aquarium mean you can get really up close and personal with these spectacular beasts of the deep. And we mean really really close – over, under, and with your inquisitive face pressed right up against the glass. Heck, there’s even a touch pool where kids young and old get the rare chance to handle sea stars, crabs and other rock pool regulars.

It takes most people between one and two hours to explore the various zones of the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, but there’s no time limit on your visit, meaning kids mesmerized by staring through bubble windows at the magical underwater worlds within can do so for literally hours on end. 

There are also several ranger talks on the many species here, from rays to rainforest dwellers, as well as scheduled feeding times, when you can see the penguins diving for their supper or catch an unmissable piranha feeding frenzy. You can even feed the turtles and go snorkeling with the sharks!

SEA LIFE London Aquarium Zones

Gentoo penguins at SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Image credit: Merlin
  • Open Oceans. The replica ribcage of a great gray whale makes for a fine habitat in the Open Oceans exhibit, where colorful purple tangs, snappers, triggerfish and other tropical critters flash brilliantly across the bleached bones. The essential highlight of this zone is the glass tunnel that passes beneath the huge tank, promising tantalizing glimpses of green sea turtles and huge southern stingrays soaring overhead. This is also where you can spot sharks – or head up a level to get an aerial view of these majestic creatures of the deep.
  • Coral Kingdom. Experience a kaleidoscope of color at the UK’s largest living coral reef, an awesome underwater oasis that extends some 40 feet and teems with clownfish, seahorses, angelfish, butterflyfish, pufferfish, regal blue and yellow tangs, and other reef dwellers. Take the clownfish challenge as you yourself get the opportunity to bob, weave and shuffle your way through a simulated reef environment.
  • Polar Adventure. Slip and slide your way to one of SEA LIFE London Aquarium’s most popular zones to meet the resident colony of playful gentoo penguins. These cute little blighters, with their distinctive white ‘headbands’ and bright orange bills are a joy to observe as they swim, splash, socialize and snooze their way around their icy environment. State-of-the-art 3D and augmented reality technology also brings giant polar bears and orca whales to life in this thrilling Antarctic adventure.
The Rainforest Adventure zone at SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Image credit: Merlin
  • Rainforest Adventure. Adventure of an altogether different kind awaits in the aquarium’s Amazonian rainforest, where tropical temperatures support life for a fantastical array of exotic animals. This one’s for the creepy crawly connoisseur, the reptile rhapsodizer, the frog fanatic. For here’s where you can meet some of the planet’s most fearsome beasts, among them the poison dart frog, the West African dwarf crocodile, the Chilean rose tarantula, he UK’s largest collection of piranhas, and a snapping turtle named Bowza!
  • Ocean Invaders. Mesmerizing and dreamlike in their slow, languid movements, jellyfish are among the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. Brainless and composed of more than 95% water, these amazing animals have been present in our seas for some 500 million years – even longer than our most ancient reptiles! Step into the Ocean Invaders zone to observe several species in all their graceful glory, including the translucent, bell-shaped moon jellyfish, the fearsome looking (and sounding!) Japanese sea nettle, and the more self-explanatory upside-down jellyfish.

SEA LIFE London Aquarium: When to Visit

Jellyfish at SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Image credit: Merlin

Opening hours vary throughout the year but are generally around 10AM–5PM in the cooler months, increasing to 9.30AM–7PM in summer and during school holidays., and last entry is an hour before closing time. Check the official SEA LIFE London Aquarium website for opening hours on the specific dates you want to visit. You’ll need to book a time slot for entry during peak times (weekends, school holidays and public holidays). If you fancy a less crowded experience, pop by on weekdays towards the beginning or end of the day, when advance booking is rarely required and the tourist crowds are relatively minimal. 

SEA LIFE London Aquarium: Tickets

Kids watching the penguins at SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Image credit: Merlin

One of the best money-saving ways to experience the SEA LIFE London Aquarium is with an Explorer attraction pass from Go City. You can save up to 50% with the pass, which gives you 60 days to experience up to seven London tours, activities and attractions. Entry to the SEA LIFE London Aquarium is included with the pass, as are bucket-list big-hitters including the London Eye, Up at the O2, the London Bridge Experience, Westminster Abbey, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, London Zoo, The View from The Shard, and many more.

You can also book direct via the SEA LIFE London Aquarium website, where options include multi-attraction tickets and VIP experiences with the penguins, sharks and turtles.

Closest Transport Links to SEA LIFE London Aquarium

SEA LIFE London Aquarium is a short stroll from Waterloo station, as well as Charing Cross and Westminster Underground station just across the river. After emerging from any of these, simply head towards the London Eye and you won’t go too far wrong!

Save on London Tours, Activities and Attractions

Save on admission to 100+ London attractions with an Explorer or All-Inclusive pass from Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.

Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Freelance travel writer

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.

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London VS New York: Which City Should I Visit?

Planning your next city vacation, but can’t decide whether to visit London or New York City? We’ve rounded up the best New York attractions and the best London attractions so you can decide which city is right for you. Which will it be? The Big Smoke or The Big Apple? Check out our list below of the top things to do in New York, including... The Empire State Building The Top of the Rock Madison Square Garden The Statue of Liberty Radio City Stage Door Tour Plus, the top things to do in London, including... Coca-Cola London Eye Churchill War Rooms Shakespeare’s Globe Wembley Stadium Emirates Arsenal Stadium And many more... The attractions with the best views The London Eye vs Top of the Rock and The Empire State Building London For some of the best views in London, head to the Coca-Cola London Eye. Take a 30-minute ride around one of London’s most recognizable landmarks and enjoy 360 views of the city. You will spot famous buildings and sights such as the Big Ben and St Paul’s Cathedral -- cameras at the ready! Be sure to check out our top tips for visiting the Coca-Cola London Eye. If you can’t get enough of the city, visit London’s tallest building, The Shard, for more 360 views. At 1,020 feet tall, The Shard is almost as tall as New York’s Empire State Building. Take the elevator up to the 72nd floor for amazing views of the city below. New York City In New York City, some would say the best view is from the Empire State Building. Did you know that the Empire State Building is 1,454 feet tall? With your New York Explorer Pass, head up to the 86th floor, 1,050 feet above the ground for breathtaking views of Manhattan. The only thing you won’t be able to see is the Empire State Building itself... So, if you want to take photos of New York’s cityscape including the Empire State Building, head over a few blocks to The Top of the Rock. Though not as tall as the Empire State Building, the observation deck of the Rockefeller center sits at 800 feet above street level -- so it has great views of the city (especially Central Park!). Check out our guide to the Empire State Building to learn more. Getting In: Entry to The Empire State Building and The Top of The Rock are included with your New York Explorer Pass. Entry to the Coca-Cola London Eye is included in your London Explorer Pass. Entry to The Shard is not included and tickets must be bought separately. The best attractions for sports fans Emirates Arsenal Stadium, Wembley Stadium and Chelsea FC Stadium vs Madison Square Garden London Sports fans won’t be short of things to do in London. Soccer fans can tour the home of Arsenal FC at the Emirates Arsenal Stadium, get up close with exclusive memorabilia, walk up the Players’ Tunnel and even sneak a peek inside the team’s changing rooms. Not an Arsenal fan? Visit the Chelsea FC Stadium for a guided tour and backstage access to the club’s Stamford Bridge stadium. Enjoy access to the changing rooms, tunnels and the Chelsea museum. If these aren’t enough to satisfy the soccer fan in your group, you have to visit Wembley Stadium. The original Wembley Stadium opened way back in 1923 but the current stadium opened in 2007. Did you know the current stadium was built on the grounds of the 1948 Olympics? It was also home to the 1966 World Cup Final which saw England take home the cup! [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BO3EGAJFlDb/[/embed] New York City Sports fans visiting New York City have to visit Madison Square Garden for an All Access Tour. Home to New York Teams, NBA’s New York Knicks and NHL’s New York Rangers, Madison Square Garden is a must-see. An expert guide will take you behind the scenes of the World’s Most Famous Arena, telling you all about its history and giving you a glimpse of exclusive memorabilia. While you’re in NYC, why not get tickets to see a famous New York team like the New York Yankees play? [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BpZrXmfFKD_/[/embed] Getting In: Emirates Stadium, Chelsea FC Stadium and Wembley Stadium are included in your London Explorer Pass. Madison Square Garden All Access Tour is included in your New York Explorer Pass. The best tours for theater fans Shakespeare’s Globe vs Inside Broadway walking tour and Radio City Tour New York City You can’t visit New York City without visiting the world famous theater district: Broadway. But what better way to explore the heart of New York’s theater-world than with a guided walking tour? On the Inside Broadway Walking Tour you will be guided around Broadway and Times Square by an experienced actor or director on a tour lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes. It’s one of the best ways to discover all the Broadway secrets you’re itching to know... Another must-see for theater lovers is the Radio City Music Hall. On the Radio City Stage Door Tour you will be taken behind the scenes of the famous music venue on a guided tour lasting 75 minutes. You’ll get to explore the venue from the auditorium to the stage, and you’ll even get to meet a Radio City Rockette. [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/ByVKqRwoFG1/[/embed] London Not to be out-done by New York, London is known for its Broadway equivalent, the West End. But London’s theater history dates back much further, to the days of William Shakespeare. On the Shakespeare’s Globe Exhibition and Theatre Tour, explore the Globe theater and its exclusive costumes and sets exhibition before being shown around the theatre by an expert guide. [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/ByN7Y6kgtHL/[/embed] Getting In: The Inside Broadway Walking Tour and Radio City Stage Door Tour are included in the New York Explorer Pass. Entry to The Shakespeare’s Globe Exhibition and Theatre Tour is included on the London Explorer Pass. The best attractions for history fans Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island vs Churchill War Rooms New York City A trip to New York City would be incomplete without a visit to The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take the Secrets of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Walking Tour and be guided around two of America’s most important landmarks, while learning about their history and context. Hear stories about the immigrants who arrived in America via Ellis Island and learn all about the symbolism of the Statue of Liberty. London There are plenty of historic landmarks in London to satisfy history fans, such as the Churchill War Rooms. You will explore Churchill’s underground wartime headquarters and discover the important part it played in the Second World War. You have to see the Transatlantic Telephone Room -- it was disguised as a toilet but it was secretly used to speak to the US President. [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/ByIpSB5JjBz/[/embed] Getting In: The Secrets of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Walking Tour is included in the New York Explorer Pass. The Churchill War Rooms is included in the London Explorer Pass. Remember to save on attraction admission If you’re in New York or London, (whichever one you choose!) you can’t miss the chance to check out the city’s top tourist attractions and world-famous landmarks. Grab a New York City Explorer Pass® or a London Explorer Pass before your trip and make huge savings on combined admission prices compared to paying at the gate. The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and the Statue of Liberty Tour are all included on the pass, along with the Coca-Cola London Eye, Wembley Stadium and Churchill War Rooms. Share your adventure with us We love to see your vacation snaps. Tag us when you upload photos from your trip to Instagram using @GoCity or #GoCityPass so we can feature your post on our page. Follow our Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers and plenty of travel inspiration.
Seren Morris
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London with Parents: Fabulous Days Out for Every Generation

London’s got plenty of wonders to dazzle solo travelers, but the city truly sparkles when you’re exploring it with your parents. Whether you’re here to show off historic landmarks, sample world-class teas, or enjoy the simple pleasure of walking hand in hand along the Thames, this is a city that caters to family fun at every age. From royal palaces to theatrical tours, lush gardens to skyline views, London offers something special around every corner—so nobody feels left out. Ready for an adventure packed with iconic (oops—not that word!) sights, tasty pit stops, and lifelong memories? Let’s make your London trip one to remember, with our pick of the city's very best parent-friendly experiences.  Our top things to do with parents in London include:  The Tower of London  The London Eye  Westminster Abbey  City Cruises – Thames River Pass  St Paul’s Cathedral  Kew Gardens  Changing of the Guard Walking Tour  The View from the Shard  Harrods Afternoon Tea  London Theatre Walking Tour  THE LONDON EYE: SHARE SKY-HIGH VIEWS  If ever an attraction could guarantee a ‘wow’ moment for your parents, it’s the London Eye. This giant observation wheel sits right on the Thames, offering panoramic views of the capital from warm, comfortable glass pods. Whether your family loves snapping skyline photos or just wants to tick off major sights with a single rotation, the London Eye makes the city feel both cozy and epic.  The experience starts as you step into your capsule—spacious, slow-moving, and with seating for a breather. The higher you rise, the more landmarks appear: Parliament, St Paul’s, the Shard and beyond. Try a sunset ride if you can; the golden-hour glow makes London especially photogenic, and the city lights beginning to twinkle add a magical touch.  The vibe is peaceful and reflective, making it perfect for parents who might not love big crowds or hectic streets. Each pod offers interactive guides so you can learn about what you see without any pressure. Bonus points if you treat your parents to a glass of bubbly from the onboard bar for that extra celebratory touch.  Back at ground level, the South Bank’s bustling riverside is perfect for a family stroll, whether you’re seeking out street performers or eyeing up the nearest pub for a snack. Simple, thrilling, and sweetly sentimental—the London Eye is family fun at its finest.  WESTMINSTER ABBEY: WHERE HISTORY MEETS GRANDEUR  London doesn’t come much more regal than Westminster Abbey—a must for parents who appreciate soaring architecture and centuries of ceremony. Walking through its majestic doors feels special every time, whether you’re chatting about royal coronations or tracing the brass plaques of poets and scientists underfoot.  The light streams in through stained glass windows, illuminating architectural details that have hosted everything from dazzling weddings to somber memorials (and pretty much every coronation for the last thousand years). The Abbey tour is easy to follow, with plenty of clear signposting and quiet corners for a rest or thoughtful moment.  Parents with a love of literature get a kick out of Poet's Corner, where national treasures like Dickens and Austen are commemorated. If they’re more interested in the monarchy, you can peek at memorials dedicated to kings, queens and bold adventurers.  The Abbey’s peaceful atmosphere invites visitors to slow down and savour the moment. Take some time in the gardens: often uncrowded, they’re filled with seasonal blooms and plenty of chatty songbirds—which always adds a romantic air. Don’t miss the centuries-old Abbey shop for beautifully crafted souvenirs and unique gifts to remind your family of their royal day out.  CITY CRUISES – THAMES RIVER PASS: SAIL THROUGH THE CITY  For parents who prefer to see the sights without pounding the pavement, a Thames river cruise is pure bliss. These leisurely boats glide past some of London’s most famous landmarks, with open decks for photos and indoor cabins for comfort. It’s relaxed, scenic and endlessly entertaining—ideal for anyone who values good company and even better views.  On board, your family can spot the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, the Globe Theatre and more—all narrated with fascinating facts and just enough dry London humour. There’s no need to fret about steps or crowds, making it a great pick for less mobile parents or anyone seeking a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.  You can hop on and off at major piers, crafting your own sightseeing route (or simply staying put and enjoying a round-trip cruise in style). The riverside breezes, the changing cityscape, and the chance to watch rowers, paddleboarders and bustling market boats go by—what’s not to love? Afterwards, the nearby South Bank bursts with cafes, bookstores and art galleries, perfect for a riverside snack or a casual wander. For families wanting to see London in a new light, a Thames cruise checks all the boxes for relaxation and adventure.  KEW GARDENS: A GREEN RETREAT FOR NATURE LOVERS  Parents and gardens—name a better pair! Kew Gardens, on the western edge of the city, is London’s great green escape. With over 320 acres of glasshouses, themed gardens, and woodland walks, it’s the sort of place that invites visitors of every age to slow down and smell the roses—literally.  The gorgeous Victorian Palm House is a tropical paradise year-round, while the Temperate House showcases weird and wonderful species from every continent. Seasonal displays—from bluebells to cherry blossom—always offer something new, and in spring and summer, the whole park buzzes with colour and birdsong.  The atmosphere is as peaceful as they come, with wide, accessible paths and plenty of shaded benches. Kew’s cafés serve up proper British treats like cream teas and hearty sausage rolls—ideal for a family pit stop. If your parents love wildlife or photography, keep your eyes peeled for robins, butterflies and cheeky squirrels posing among the blooms.  The on-site art galleries, treetop walkway, and historic pagoda round out a day that’s both relaxing and gently educational. Even reluctant gardeners will come away with a newfound love for greenery—and a phone full of flower photos.  CHANGING OF THE GUARD WALKING TOUR: PAGEANTRY UP CLOSE  If there’s one experience that captures the ceremonial side of London, it’s the Changing of the Guard. Rather than jostle for space at the palace gates, join a walking tour that gets your family closer to the action.  Led by guides brimming with fun facts and royal anecdotes, you’ll trace the winding route from St James’s Palace to Buckingham Palace, learning the meaning behind every feathered hat and gleaming boot. Guides keep things lively—pointing out historical oddities, offering tips for spotting the best angles, and sharing plenty of behind-the-scenes stories that make the whole affair feel like a private performance.  The mood is festive, with crowds drawn together by marching bands and dazzling uniforms. Parents and kids alike are sure to love the mix of military pomp and playful showmanship. The changing guards parade in perfect unison, topped off with the stirring sounds of brass and drums.   After all the excitement, stroll through Green Park or St James’s Park and enjoy the city at its greenest. There’s plenty of seating and quiet corners for a chat or picnic, with squirrels and pelicans often close by. This classic London experience is guaranteed to put smiles on faces and leave everyone whistling a cheerful marching tune.  THE VIEW FROM THE SHARD: LONDON AT YOUR FEET  If your parents appreciate a great view (and who doesn’t?), nothing beats the dizzying heights of The Shard. Europe’s tallest building offers sweeping vistas from its glass-walled observation decks—360 degrees of London, all laid out before you in miniature.  The journey up in the high-speed lift is a thrill in itself, but the real highlight is the space at the top: airy, modern, and surprisingly tranquil, even at busy times. With floor-to-ceiling windows, you can spot Windsor Castle on a clear day, or just trace the curve of the Thames as it snakes through the city.  There’s a champagne bar on the viewing floor—great for celebrating a special birthday or just toasting to family adventures. Take your time walking around; interactive telescopes and screens have plenty of information for curious minds, or you can simply press your nose to the glass and soak up the dizzying scale.  On the descent, the surrounding London Bridge area is packed with market stalls, independent shops, and tempting restaurants. The atmosphere feels youthful but welcoming for all, and it’s the ideal place to round out your family expedition with street food or a slice of rich local cake HARRODS AFTERNOON TEA: A LUXURIOUS PAUSE  Every parent deserves to be pampered, and there’s no better place than the tearooms at Harrods. Think: tiered stands of dainty sandwiches, warm scones with jam and clotted cream, and miniature pastries so pretty you’ll hesitate to eat them (but do, they’re delicious).   The tea menu is vast, pleasing even the choosiest connoisseur—whether your family fancies a brisk darjeeling or floral blends that are practically perfume in a teacup. Expect chic, art deco décor with gleaming mirrors and plush carpeting, which makes the whole affair feel like taking tea with royalty.  Service is friendly and unhurried, and the experience is as much about taking your time as it is about the delicious bites. It offers a restful break in the heart of Knightsbridge’s shopping crush, and it never fails to charm, whatever the weather outside. For the extra wow-factor, pair your tea with a stroll through Harrods’ legendary Food Halls, where mountains of chocolates, cheeses and cakes tempt you to pick up edible souvenirs for later.  LONDON THEATRE WALKING TOUR: SHOWBIZ SECRETS REVEALED  If your parents are fans of musical theatre or just love a backstage story, a London Theatre Walking Tour will have them grinning from ear to ear. Led by theatre insiders, it’s a chance to dive into the West End’s glitzy world, tracing stories from Shakespeare to Hamilton and beyond.  Each guide brings tales of legendary actors, behind-the-curtain drama, and the sometimes-scandalous origins of London’s oldest theatres. You’ll stroll down Shaftesbury Avenue, peek at production posters, and even wander into historic alleyways where stars and fans have mingled for generations.  The pace is gentle, with plenty of opportunities to pause, listen and take photos. The mix of humorous anecdotes and fascinating facts keeps everyone entertained, and the experience often ends with recommendations for where to grab the best pre-show cocktails or nibbles.  Round off your adventure with tickets to a family-approved West End show—nothing beats the thrill of sharing live theatre in a city that’s been putting on a show for centuries.    London is a gift to families traveling together—offering centuries of history, world-class scenery, and a sense of fun around every corner. Whether you’re marveling at the Crown Jewels, indulging in a decadent afternoon tea, or swapping stories at the top of The Shard, these experiences set the stage for treasured memories. With so much variety, it’s easy to create the perfect trip for you and your parents—soak up every moment, and watch London bring you closer together.    Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to Sea Life, and make your Pride a memorable one.     Step up your sightseeing with Go City®   We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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2 Days in London - A Weekend in London Itinerary You'll Love

One of the world's most vibrant and thriving capital cities, London is a first-rate global town, offering up an intoxicating mix of history and modernity for tourists. London leads the world in areas of the arts, education, entertainment, commerce, fashion, media, transportation, and tourism. For centuries London has been home to some of the planet's most well-known faces and leaders, not to mention a popular monarchy recognized and adored the world over. When combined with hundreds of interesting sites and attractions, iconic landmarks, distinctive neighborhoods, a large airport and travel network, and a variety of hotels to explore, London is a top choice for any traveler. It is one of the most diverse cities in the world both culturally and physically. More than 300 languages are spoken in London by its melting pot of citizens. While the city possesses a rich past, with multiple World Heritage Sites and other renowned monuments to delight visitors. The city is especially exciting for first-time travelers, from the awe-inspiring the silhouette of Big Ben standing tall amidst the Houses of Parliament, to the swans gracefully swimming by in Hyde Park's ponds, to the majesty of Windsor Castle, Queen Elizabeth's royal residence. We've highlighted some of London's must-see attractions and activities that any first-time visitor can incorporate into an easy to follow 2 days in London weekend itinerary. This weekend itinerary includes: Enjoy a full English breakfast Big Bus London Sightseeing Tour St. Paul's Cathedral The Royal Oak Pub Coca-Cola London Eye James Bond Walking Tour We’ve also put together a 1 day and 3 day London itinerary, - for an amazing and relaxing vacation. Save on Attraction Admission Pick up a London Explorer Pass® and save off combined admission vs paying at the gate. Remember, this 2 days in London itinerary is just one of many ways to experience this amazing city. The London Explorer Pass® gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose from tons of top attractions and create a weekend trip tailored to your interests. Day 1Full English Breakfast By Jrv73 (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia CommonsGet an early start on day one with a hearty English breakfast. Filling up on this British specialty of eggs, bacon, sausages, roasted tomatoes, fried mushrooms, baked beans, black pudding, hash browns, toast and tea of coffee is a right of passage for any proper tourist to the United Kingdom. This belt-busting meal will fill you up for a long day of sightseeing and exploring. Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus London Tour The best way to get to know London and to help you navigate around the city for the next few days is to see it from the streets. Use your London Explorer Pass for a one-day Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. Riding the bus gives you a prime spot to see and learn about the city's history, culture, and way of life. You can choose when and where to hop on or off your bus tour at any point, taking in the delights of the capital at your own pace. An informative and entertaining tour guide will explain your journey throughout as you sit back and enjoy the bird's eye view from the comfort of an open top bus. With more than 50 stops included on the journey and buses running every five to 15 minutes, you can really explore as much or as little as you like. Check-off London's most famous sites from your must see list as your bus glides past Piccadilly Circus, otherwise known as London's Times Square, or ride across London Bridge that stands over the winding Thames River, or zip over to the gates of Buckingham Palace to see if the Queen is around. Your bus tour will also take you past Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park Corner, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. You won't want to forget your camera this day. Your Big Bus London Bus Tour also includes a free cruise ticket along the River Thames and a free guided walking tour. Your free river cruise, provides a narrated tour along the water from Westminster Pier to the Tower of London. While your walking tour follows the history of Royal London, from St. James Palace and Buckingham Palace, to a path highlighting some of the most famous locations from the Harry Potter books and movies. Getting In: Hop On Hop Off Big Bus London tickets are available on the London Explorer Pass. St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral offers a golden opportunity to hop-off the bus for a glimpse at one of the London skyline's most recognized features. You can view the intricacies of the Cathedral floor and then observe the crypts and tombs that house some of England's most famous people, from the Duke of Wellington to Lord Admiral Nelson, along with memorials to Florence Nightingale, Lawrence of Arabia, and William Blake. You'll also be able to visit the three galleries: Whispering Gallery, Stone Gallery, and Golden Gallery, which are housed in St. Paul's dome with panoramic views over the city. If you prefer, scheduling a guided tour will also allow you to visit the Geometric Staircase, the Chapel of St. Michael and St. George and the Quire, which are usually closed to much of the public. Getting In: St. Paul's Cathedral tickets are available on the London Explorer Pass. The Royal Oak Pub Finish your first successful day in London with a meal at a traditional British neighborhood pub. The Royal Oak, located in the heart of the city, near to Westminster, was built in the 1800s and retains its historical influence on the area. Indulge in their English comfort food, such as a fish and chips, and wash it all down with a classically British pint of Young's beer. You can use your pass to redeem for a meal at the pub, before you get some rest for day two in London. Getting In: meal at The Royal Oak Pub is available on the London Explorer Pass. Day 2Coca-Cola London Eye Day two begins with sweeping views over the city of London from the top of the Coca-Cola London Eye observation wheel. Enter your glass-walled compartment and enjoy the stunning 360-degree vista, from 135-meters above. You'll be able to spot Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Royal Albert Hall, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the Shard, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Rover Thames, among so many other landmarks. Onboard touch screens provide up to the minute information on what iconic sights you're passing and what to look out for. Once you're back on solid ground you can enjoy the Coca-Cola London Eye 4D Experience which provides a multi-sensory trip through the city. Getting In: Coca-Cola London Eye tickets are available on the London Explorer Pass. Sea Life London Aquarium It is a hop, skip and a jump from the London Eye to the Sea Life Aquarium at London Southbank. Here, you can travel to the depths of the oceans as you explore an underwater world of fish and other marine life, from sharks to penguins. You can even come face-to-face with a polar bear at the Frozen Planet exhibit. Getting In: SEA LIFE London Aquarium tickets are available on the London Explorer Pass. James Bond Walking Tour Cap off your two days in London itinerary with a tour set from the point of view of one of the city's most famous fictional characters: James Bond. Walk in the footsteps of 007 on this two-hour tour. You'll finally get to experience Westminster and the Houses of Parliament from the ground, as you pass by memorable scenes from the Bond films. Relive the excitement of For Your Eyes Only, Skyfall, Spectre, or Die Another Day as you visit the National Gallery, Whitehall, Mi5 and Mi6, and other shooting locations. Getting In: James Bond Walking Tour tickets are available on the London Explorer Pass. Let’s Recap So there’s a sample for a perfectly fun weekend in London – tours, museums, and much more. This itinerary for 2 days in London will introduce you to the best of city and give you a taste of what it’s like to experience this world-class tourist destination. Purchase a London Explorer Pass® and save on combined admission prices when you hop aboard an interactive GoCar Tour, use the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, explore the California Academy of Sciences, and visit the amazing SFMOMA.
Lindsay Eagan

Have a 5% discount, on us!

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