adventurous things to do in london

Adventurous Things to do in London

By Dom Bewley

Calling all daredevils among you! Are you tired of boring, normal activities? Are you sitting at home right now, staring at walls? Are you on your slog of a commute hoping a ninja will jump out and start doing ninja stuff? You sound like the sort that yearns for that sweet adrenaline. Well, never fear, because London has plenty of white knuckle adventures to sate your hunger. But where are they? Well, here. In this handy list, we made just for you. The stars have aligned, and adventure is nigh! These are the best adventurous things to do in London!

Featuring:

  • ArcelorMittal Orbit
  • Sherlock Holmes: The Game
  • The Crystal Maze Live Experience
  • Helicopter Tours
  • Thames Rockets
  • and more!
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ArcelorMittal Orbit

Instead of sliding into some unsuspecting person's DMs, put down the phone and try a real slide. Built during the 2012 Olympic Games, ArcelorMittal Orbit is a towering structure. Looming over the Olympic Park, it stands at a whopping 114.5m tall, it's quite the sight. If you have the stomach to climb the hundreds of stairs it takes to reach one of the viewing platforms, you'll be able to see the whole city. But why not take it one step further - step inside the world's tallest slide, and ride it all the way down to the bottom? Its twists and turns are sure to delight all the daredevils out there. Just, maybe leave lunch until after you're done. No one wants to clean up that.

Sherlock: The Official Live Game

Dare you tangle with the maniacal mastermind Moriarty himself? Well, you can now, at Sherlock: The Official Live Game! Part escape room, part immersive Sherlock experience, and part bar, this thrill ride will pit your team's wits against Sherlock's nemesis. Featuring real props and recreated environments from the BBC TV show, as well as exclusive clips from the cast, use key detective work and problem-solving to crack the case. Sherlock's busy, doing Sherlock things like being unnecessarily arrogant, so you're on your own this time! But don't dally; you only have 100 minutes to complete the tasks. If you don't, you die! Okay, probably not. But you will bring great shame to your house.

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Crystal Maze Experience

Take a trip back to the bizarre but unique Nineties, replete with leopard print jackets, at the Crystal Maze Experience! Bring some friends and take on challenges in four unique zones. Use every ounce of mental and physical strength to complete challenges and get the crystals! Take too long, and you'll be locked inside forever! Or until your team gets you out. Whichever happens first. Then, you'll enter the crystal dome and flail about pathetically as you attempt to grab as many notes as possible. The winner, well, you'll have to find out what the victors win when you try it for yourself!

Go Ape

Do you ever wonder what life was like before, when our ancestors lived in the trees? Yes, evolution is real. Probably. And yes, you can relive your ancestral heritage at Go Ape! Suspended in safety, thanks to a key harness, you'll be free to tight-rope walk across a daring assault course in the sky. Then, when you've assaulted the course completely, ride down to terra firma in style on an exhilarating zip line! Feel the primal roar inside you grow. Know what it was like to live in trees. Maybe move into a treehouse with central heating. All this and more is waiting for you at the three Go Ape centres across London. Definitely one of the best things to do in London for the adventurous of you!

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Helicopter Tour

Yes, there are even more adventurous things to do in London! If trees aren't high enough, how about you try a few hundred metres higher? Hop on a helicopter and take a tour of the city! See all the city's sights from a new angle. Get a bird's eye view of legendary London landmarks like Big Ben, St Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye, and many more! Just like a bird! It might just be the best way to see the city you love. Or, at least, the city you tolerate.

Bungee Jump at the O2

Have you ever jumped off a building and lived? Probably not. But what if I told you you could jump off an entire arena and survive. Well, that's exactly what you can do at the O2 Arena! Climb to the top, suit up, and plunge nearly 50m down! Feel the wind rush past your face. See the city rush towards you. But don't worry, you'll be safe. And you will love it.

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London Bridge Experience

Feeling spooky? Do you thrive on horror movies? Are you the sort to look for the monster under your bed instead of cowering beneath the quilt? Well, have we got an experience for you. A London Bridge Experience! Dwelling beneath the eponymous bridge, you'll find spooky spectacle and daring delights alike. Revisit the city's ghoulish past, all 2000 years of it. The experience itself is an interactive theatre of pain and misery. Hear tales from London's residents throughout time. No, they're not paid actors; they're real historical people!

Listen as they transport you back to some of London's most haunted historical moments. Revisit the horrors of the Great Fire, relive Jack the Ripper's reign of terror, and also the Romans were bad! Or, if you dare, delve into the tombs beneath the bridge. Supposedly, real ghosts and demons prowl the lower levels. Not paid actors. Will you live to tell the tale? Or will you be scared to death! Alternatively, if you have little ones with you, there's the kid-friendly Guardian Angel Tour. Expect the same stories with less spook and makeup.

Thames Rockets

And finally, if you prefer your adrenaline sun and sea-soaked, where better to get your fix than on a speedboat? Head to the Thames, put on your best life jacket, and prepare for a wave-crashing thrill ride of thrillingness! All thrills, no spills. Take a day trip around the city's shoreline, or try an evening ride with a complimentary drink at the end. Kick your weekend of thrills off with a boat ride you won't soon forget.

And that's our list of the most adventurous things to do in London!

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Outdoor Activities in London
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Outdoor Activities London

You know how it is. Sometimes, it's fun being inside. The feeling of relief when someone else cancels plans you really weren't up for attending. Meanwhile, you get to stay inside guilt-free, splaying out on the sofa absorbing terrible TV like an unsociable husk. It's magical. Other times, you've got that pep in you, that desire to get out there and show the world who you really are. You're an outdoors person. You like going outdoors and doing things outside of those doors. And, if you're living in London or are visiting the English capital, you might be wondering what outdoor thing to do. Well, wonder no longer, for we have curated this list of the very best outdoor activities in London. So read on, get inspired, and find something new to do today! Featuring: Parks Rooftop drinks See a film Urban escapes Animal hangouts and more! Go to a park Let's start with something so cheap it's free. Walking, the human's favourite mode of physical transport. Walking is excellent for both the body and mind, getting those endorphins pumping and breathing in some fresh air. And where better to get your step on than at a park? Trees, grass, tiny woodland critters. Parks really do have it all. And in London, you're simply spoiled for choice. Hyde Park, Victoria Park, Ally Pally, Finsbury Park, and Regents Park are all heavy hitters in the London park department. Want something smaller? Try Barnard Park and Islington Green in North, Shoreditch Park or London Fields in East, Ladbroke Square Garden or Holland Park in West, or Clapham Common in South. Wherever you are, there are big and small green places all around. So get up, go out and find them! Simple yet effective, parks walks and hangouts are some of the best outdoor activities in London! Check out a rooftop bar If the weather's right, the sun's out, and the clouds are on holiday, why not grab a cool refreshing drink at one of London's many rooftop bars? You've got low-key affairs like The Castle and Vagabond, which offer no-frills terrace drinks and tasty bites. For higher-energy trips, head to Brixton Beach or Bussey Building, which both offer great drinks, pumping music, and great party vibes. Or, if you want to be active while on a rooftop sipping cocktails, try Skylight in Tobacco Dock or Peckham. You can play a few rounds of croquet or boules with your friends as the sun shines down on you. Who ever knew that throwing or smacking balls with a mallet could be so much fun? Go there, and you will know. See a film beneath the stars Yes, you read that right. Films, but outside. That's techinically an outdoor activity in London, right? If you simply can't be without the talking pictures, you can make them an outdoor activity too! Relive the glory days of drive-in cinema. You've got plenty to choose from too. Perhaps the biggest one around is Rooftop Film Club. With venues in Stratford and Peckham - at the good old Bussey Building - they're the best in the business. Showing a mix of old classics, Oscar winners, modern films, and musicals, you're sure to find the perfect flick to watch under the stars. You could probably sing along too, if you're so way inclined. Alternatively, check out Film4's 'Summer Screen Festival' at Somerset House for an eclectic mix of cult classics, new releases, and lesser-known indie hits. Or, if you're feeling courageous, why not take to the sea with 'Movies on the River'? Adorably, they play an assortment of river-based films like Wind River, The River Wild, and Mystic River. River-ting. A little wordplay never hurt anyone. See the sights on an open-air bus Does the thought of sitting down outside yet moving around sound like fun? Why not hop aboard an open-air bus tour of the city? You'll get the chance to see the city's sights with the wind running through your hair, or what's left of it. You'll pass iconic London sights like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace. And thanks to a handy, informed guide, you'll learn all about them too. It's like school, but fun. And outside. An escape room, but outdoors So, you're looking to outdoor activities in London, are you? Well, how about this doozy? London is under threat, from hackers or something. Do you have the wits and smarts to save the city? If you answered 'yeah, sure,' why not check out Urban Missions? This outdoor escape room slash scavenger hunt takes place entirely outdoors. You work for The Agency, a shadowy organisation that stays in the shadows. Your task? Use WhatsApp to receive clues and codes, then use your brains to solve them. This adventure will take you all through the city, just like a real phone detective. Groups of two or more must work together to solve every clue, unlock every code, and save London from an unknown threat. Are you up to the task? There's only one way to find out. Try it for yourself and see what you're made of. Go to the zoo And, finally, why not add some fauna to your outdoor adventure? Walk, talk, and other things with the animals at London Zoo! There are a whopping 20,000 animals for you to mingle with from all over the planet. All you cat lovers are in for a treat. You can visit Land of the Lions, a space dedicated to the majestic and sadly endangered Asiatic Lions. There are only 400 left on the planet, which is incredibly sad. Alternatively, if you like your cats with a few more stripes, go see Tiger Territory, which is dedicated to Sumerian Tigers. Learn about their day-to-day habits, and the issues we have with conserving their natural habitat. Or, if you sleep all day and the night is your time to shine, go check out Night Life, an entire exhibit dedicated to the exotic critters that own the night. On top of all that, you've got gorillas, penguins, butterflies, and even kid-friendly offerings like The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Here endeth the list of all the best outdoor activities you can experience in London. So go forth, and be active. And outside.
Dom Bewley
hayward gallery sculpture
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Best Art Galleries in London

Sometimes we all need a little inspiration. Whether we spend too long binging awful television, or work too much and play too little, a little inspiration can go a long way. So go out and be inspired! And where should you go for some of that sweet inspiring nectar? Well, an art gallery, obviously! Luckily, London is brimming with galleries, and those galleries are brimming with art. You might be wondering which ones to visit? Wonder no longer. With painstaking preparation, we've painted the perfect list down below, just for you. Read on, and discover the best art galleries in London. Featuring: Tate Britain Tate Modern National Gallery Saatchi Gallery National Portrait Gallery and more! Tate Britain The artist formerly known as Tate Gallery, Tate Britain is one of London's most renowned art galleries. Step inside, and you'll find a wealth of artistic inspiration waiting to be absorbed! The gallery's Spotlights exhibit shines a light on exciting works from lesser-known artists, so definitely check it out! The Turner Collections is bound to have some food for the soul too. Tate Modern The Tate Britain's hip younger brother, The Tate Modern is one of London's premier modern art galleries. Foregoing traditional artists and styles, it instead focuses on the weird and wonderful creations that modern technology, and sensibilities, have created. You'll find dark rooms with projected videos, bizarre sculptures that reveal themselves through perspective, and enough surrealism to shake a strange stick at. If you're looking to have your mind blown, go check out the Tate Morden; it's easily one of the best art galleries in London! National Gallery If you're in the mood for something more timeless, you can't do much better than the National Gallery. Featuring over 2000 paintings from the 13th to the 19th century, it's a feast for the eyes. Some of the world's most recognisable paintings stand within its walls, including Seurat's Bathers in Asnières, van Eyck's The Arnolfini Portrait, and Ruben's Samson and Delilah. So, if you want to be transported back to what many consider the golden age of art, do yourself a favour and check it out! Saatchi Gallery Back to the more contemporary side, the Saatchi Gallery is one of the more youthful on this list. For over 36 years, its focus has been on spotlighting emerging talent in the art world, and giving them a platform to shine. They usually have a few special exhibitions on, so it's worth looking at their website to see what the flavour of the month is before heading there. However, what you can expect is to be disarmed and bedazzled by artists you've never heard of before. Definitely one of the best art galleries in London, the Saatchi Gallery is a worthy visit for any inspiration-hungry individuals! National Portrait Gallery We humans are naturally drawn to people's faces. You only need look at YouTube thumbnails to see that. Well, why not visit a place that puts faces at the forefront? The National Portrait Gallery is just that, as the name suggests. Inside, you'll find a mix of photos and paintings of faces, some famous, others not so much. Each image tells a story, both of the subject and the creator. And, with a rotation of exhibitions, and competition prize-winners on show throughout the year, it's worth visiting any time of year! Somerset House If your tastes are varied, a visit to Somerset House might sate your appetite for inspiration. Variety is the spice of life, after all. With a huge mix of visual, aural, and interactive exhibitions year-round, Somerset House is a great shout for those of you who want something different. With photography award exhibitions, art installations, and even live music, it's a feast for all the senses. And, as it's just a stone's throw from Central, it's the perfect gallery if you're visiting from outside London. Royal Academy of Arts The Royal Academy of Arts is part learning centre, part exhibition extravaganza. For nearly three hundred years, this 'by artists-for artists' gallery has welcomed some of the most recognisable artists of all time. As such, expect a wide mix of electrifying exhibitions from artists worldwide. And, if you so desire, the opportunity to study there too. Just, don't walk in the door and expect to get a seat in the lecture theatre. Whitechapel Gallery Whitechapel Gallery became famous in the early-mid 20th century for its showcase of post-war art, including Picasso's famous - and distressing - Guernica. Nowadays, you'll find a more varied affair, with exhibitions dedicated to British artists, counter-culture, and the surrounding area of East London. They also hold many events there, including talks, painting classes, and community support shindigs. If you want something a little leftfield, Whitechapel Gallery is definitely one of the best art galleries in London. Hayward Gallery Next, we have Hayward Gallery, nestled in the cultural marvel of the Southbank. Within the brutalist Southbank Centre, you'll find an altar to contemporary art. Featuring thought-provoking works from artists across the globe, expect a mix of paintings, sculptures, and larger standing exhibits. It might not be one of the better-known places on this list, but it's definitely one of the best art galleries in London! So open your mind and absorb all that delicious inspiration. Dulwich Picture Gallery Last but not least, if you're looking for the perfect mix of unknown new artists and classic paintings, take a trip to Dulwich Picture Gallery. Inside, you'll find timeless masterworks from the likes of Rembrandt, Gainsborough, and Poussin, as well as modern marvels from the hottest artists on the scene. They also have events on throughout the year, if that floats your inspiration boat. And that about rounds up our list of the best art galleries in London. No matter your sensibilities or mood, you're sure to find one that fits like a glove. If some of the entries on this list have you longing for more history, there's plenty of that in London too! Or, if you want time to relax and process the works, why not try something relaxing when you're done?
Dom Bewley
historical things to do in london
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Historical Things to do in London

Living in the present is pretty great. But do you ever think about what it was like to live in the past? Frilly sleeves, garish wigs, and opulent palaces do have their charm. While time travel is still not a thing, there's always the opportunity to visit old things that still exist. And look at them. Maybe even learn something about them too. And if you're a London resident, or visiting the city from further shores, you've an abundance of history to dive into. So, history buffs, crack out the monocle and read this handy digital parchment we've put together. You want historical things to do in London? We've got historical things to do in London! These are some of the best. Featuring: The Tower of London Westminster Abbey St Paul's Cathedral Hampton Court Palace The Cutty Sark and more! The London Bridge Experience Let's kick things off with something spooky. London has a rich history dating back thousands of years. And, of course, tragedy and evil have left their mark on the city during that time. From fires to plagues, serial killers, and strung-up monarchs, London's foundations are a little grim. Why not immerse yourself in all of it at the London Bridge Experience? Reprising the roles of London denizens from times past, a cast of colourful and informed actors will take you through some of the most chilling moments in London's history. And, if you dare, you can descend into the depths of the underground tombs. There, you'll meet a ghoulish cast of forgotten evil. They might even chase you, so be careful! There's even the kid-friendly Guardian Angel Experience, which tones down some of the scares. Shakespeare Globe Theatre Tour Speaking of historical things to do in London, why not visit the home of one of the world's most famous scribes? This accurate recreation of the 16th-century theatre is quite the sight. And, thanks to the well-informed guides, your visit will be chock full of Shakespearean information. Hear exciting stories about the building's history, the city in those times, and how the reconstruction came about. You'll learn about how the original's acoustics have been recreated, and get a chance to sit and ask questions once the tour is over. The Tower of London Off with their heads! Dramatics aside, you'll be off your head on wisdom after visiting one of London's historical jewels. The Tower of London is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, and for good reason. From its early days as a fortress, to its teenage years as a prison, there's a lot of history to unpack here. Come for the beheadings; stay for the Crown Jewels, which are kept safe inside. They're sure to dazzle you! Westminster Abbey Welcome to Britain's most famous abbey. Westminster Abbey has been the coronation location for kings and queens for nearly a thousand years. In fact, many royal festivities take place there, including weddings. Step inside the glorious gothic abbey and see what all the fuss is about. There's the Coronation Chair, where royals take their seats once said coronation takes place. It's one of the oldest pieces of furniture in England, dating back before the black death in the mid 14th century! You'll also find the tombs of both Charles Dickens and Darwin, Elizabeth I, and the Grave of the Unknown Warrior - a testament to the countless people who lost their lives during the Great War. Easily one of the most historical things to do in London. St Paul's Cathedral Next on our epic historical list of things to do in London is none other than St Paul's Cathedral. Known for its dome, it's one of London's most recognisable landmarks. And the good news is that it's just as striking on the inside too. The location of Charles and Diana's wedding back in the '80s, St Paul's is a visual feast. Be sure to check out the whispering gallery, where whispers curiously carry from any wall within the dome to the other side. And head down to the crypt to see the tombs of historical luminaries like Sir Christopher Wren. Hampton Court Palace The palace that can. Hampton Court Palace is an ode to Tudor opulence, having been Henry VIII's favourite hangout back in the 1500s. Here, he'd regularly boogie the night away, throwing shapes as his favourite musicians blasted era-appropriate jams. Probably. Regardless, the palace itself has been kept up remarkably well. Tour the halls to see luxurious paintings, tapestries, and enough gold to make Rumplestiltskin blush. Once you're done with the interior, venture outside to the fabulous palace gardens. Get lost in the maze, or spot deer and wild birds in Home Park. Hundreds of years ago, kings and queens walked in your footsteps. It doesn't get much more historic than that! Cutty Sark A cut above the rest. Hop aboard the last surviving tea clipper and be transported to a simpler time. Built during Queen Victoria's era, and tasked with transporting tea from China to the UK, it was known as the quickest ship on the seas. Ol' Vic clearly loved her tea. This globe-spanning vessel is now very much stationary, moored in Greenwich. So go there and see it. Through displays, artefacts, and restored quarters, you'll learn all about life on the ship. You can even touch it, if so inclined. Just, wash your hands first. The ship knows where they've been. Royal Albert Hall Tour And finally, London's most prestigious venue. The Royal Albert Hall is where the annual Proms take place, a globally-celebrated tribute to music and performance. Queen Vic's tribute to her late husband, it's definitely worth a visit! Go see the royal box and private suites used by the Queen when she visits. Check out the massive organ. Take the tour and learn about all the fascinating stories that took place beneath its giant dome. And that's our list of some of the best historical things to do in London! With a wealth of history at your fingertips, the city is the perfect place to get cultured and informed in equal measure.
Dom Bewley

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