London

Relaxing Things to do in London

Looking to kick back in the city? These are the most relaxing things to do in London!

Looking for a break from the hustle and bustle? Here are our top suggestions...

Life can be tough; we all know that. The work/life balance can often be weighted in the former's favour. Sometimes all it takes is to sit in front of the TV, put on something brainless, and zone out into the oblivion of bliss. Other times, you're itching to leave the house and breathe in some fresh air. Do yourself a favour and choose the latter. London might be known for its bustling streets and gridlocked roads, and busy London attractions, but there are lots of relaxing things to do in the city. Don't believe us? Well, we have just the list for you. Save your apologies, sit back, and read on. These are some of the most relaxing things to do in London.

Including:

  • Kew Gardens
  • Thames River Cruise
  • Rooftop bars
  • Parks
  • The beach
  • and more!

Touch grass at Kew Gardens

It can often be hard to relax in the city, with miles of concrete and brick in every direction. If you're missing the flora of rural England, and the most garden your tiny London flat contains is a collection of withering plants that you promised to take care of, then you might need to return to nature. Thankfully, there aren't many things in London as relaxing as the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kew. More than 60,000 very much alive and healthy plants are on display for your neglectful eyes. That's the largest collection on the planet. There's also a near-20 metre high Treetop Walkway you can climb to get a better view of all the lovely green things. You can also take a picnic there, if you so fancy. And you never know, it might give you the inspiration to go home and nourish your sad plants.

Get cruising

You may have experienced the capital using your meagre human feet, or from inside a metal chariot. We all have, and it doesn't make you special. Instead, sit back, relax, and cruise the city's shoreline aboard a sea-faring vessel and see - or sea - London from a whole new perspective with a Thames River Cruise! Ride atop Poseidon's mane for up to 3 hours, and take sweet 'gram photos of iconic London mainstays like the London Eye, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge. Feel truly special, and see your follower count rise like the highest wave. If, at least, that floats your boat. Sorry.

Check out a rooftop bar

If London's patchy weather permits, there aren't many more relaxing places than up on the rooftops, sipping cocktails in the sun. Thankfully, if you don't have any outdoor space, and let's face it, many of us don't, London has a tonne of rooftop bars to tickle your fancy. There's Brixton Beach in, well, Brixton. Unsurprisingly, it's modelled after a beach, replete with sand, sun, and ice-cold drinks. There's The Shard, if you fancy sipping a beverage while looking down on all of London like a god. Or, if you want a little nostalgia with your beverage, Bussey Building in Peckham has a delightful rooftop bar with cocktails, food, and a '90s themed bottomless brunch to let you relive the glory days of the Spice Girls and middle partings. Ah, South London. Never change.

Read and relax in a park

Ah, parks. The perfect green getaway for city folk who need to stretch out and relax. In London, you're spoiled for choice, with a huge amount of green spaces just waiting for you! You've got heavy hitters like Regents Park and Hyde Park, though they may not be the best for relaxing as they're often the busiest. That's not to say you can't find a quiet corner to stretch out and lounge, read a book, or listen to music while you meditate on life. Even London Fields, known for its party-vibe come summer, has some excellent relaxing areas if you look around. Head into the treeline, find yourself the perfect spot, and take a pew. Or, hunt out a local park. There are dozens dotted around the city, so you're sure to find some relaxing space!

 

Go to the beach

Sometimes the best medicine is a little sun and sand. The beach is the relaxing remedy many seek when the winter clouds disperse. 'But London doesn't have any beaches', we hear you cry out in defeat. Well, that's not entirely accurate. Ruislip Lido beach, which sits at the back of Ruislip Woods Nature Reserve, resides in Zone 6 of our fair city. About an hour out of central, this somewhat hidden gem has it all. Sandy beach? Check. Ice cream? Check. A miniature train that you can ride in? You best believe it. So doubt us no more. Surely a trip to the beach has to be one of the most relaxing things to do in London?

Go check out a museum

Museums are often tourist traps, especially in London. So, while you may not think of them as relaxing at first, if you pick your moment, it can be just that. Avoid weekends, as that's when they're at their busiest. Instead, take a day off, head over when the doors open, and go get some culture in you! Check out dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum. Have your mind opened at the Science Museum. If those don't tickle your fancy, there are lots of others worth checking out too. Cleanse your body and soul with sweet culture. Go at the right moment, and a museum can be one of the most relaxing things to do in London!

Go for a walk

Yes, it might sound simple. Maybe too simple. But throwing open the flat doors and taking a stroll can do wonders for your mood. Prepare your favourite tunes, stick in some headphones, and set off! You can walk anywhere really, through a park or take a contrasting walk along the Thames. Or, if you fancy seeing some of the city's most iconic buildings, put some historical stops on your route. London is a beautiful city teeming with sights worth capturing. Sometimes, all we need is a change of scenery to help us feel relaxed and positive! So go on, try it for yourself. You won't regret it.

And that's our list of the most relaxing things to do in London! However, these are just some of the many amazing London attractions you'll find on our London pass, so why not take the plunge and see all of London's best bits for one low price?

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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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
A canal boat and bridge in London's Little Venice
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Things to do in Angel London

The north London neighborhood of Angel manages to do something most city areas aren’t able to – successfully combine the stylish with the down to earth. This is what has made pretension-free Angel a magnet for creatives from British television stars to chart topping acts. Named after a now-lost pub – The Angel Inn – this part of London may lack the big ticket attractions like St Paul’s Cathedral and The View from the Shard but you miss out on Angel at your peril. Why? Just take a look at these top things to do in Angel London and the surrounding area! Regent’s Canal Reappearing in Angel after disappearing under the streets of north London for around half a kilometer, Regent’s Canal slips silently through the neighborhood close to several small community parks and gardens. Footpaths and sidewalks follow it all the way to its eastern end at Limehouse but even the shortest walk gets you under the skin of this well-to-do yet still quirky part of London. What’s more, with plenty of pubs on the route there are various options for enjoying views of the tranquil canal side and some conversation over a pint. Upper Street Vying against Caledonian Road to be Angel’s most desirable address, Upper Street is more than a main thoroughfare. Stretching north from Angel Underground station, it’s often the first road in the neighborhood visitors see, and doesn’t disappoint. If you’re hungry there’s a world of options to choose between, with Mexican, Vietnamese, modern British and European cuisine just some of the choices. But if shopping is more your bag, there’s also plenty you won’t find anywhere else thanks to the independent boutiques of what Charles Dickens once called the ‘devil’s mile’. Emirates Arsenal Stadium Soccer fans can get their fill of the action with an Emirates Arsenal Stadium Tour. Having been one of north London’s top teams for more than a century, there’s certainly a lot to take in at The Arsenal’s new 60,000 seater stadium. As well as standing pitch side you’ll have a chance to take in the exhibits and nostalgia of yesteryear at the club museum. Renovated in 2016 and updated with the latest achievements and important signings, the only way better to get a sense of what the club means to the area is to return on the day of a big match. Little Angel Theatre Performance spaces aren’t hard to come by in Angel, with even the local library doubling up as a live music venue. However, few are able to charm its audiences quite as well as the Little Angel Theatre. One of the top things to do in Angel London with children, this puppet theater is aimed primarily at under 12s. Basing many of its productions on children’s books old and new, it also hosts various fun days and clubs to get kids away from their screens and thinking creatively. Postal Museum ‘Going postal’ may be slang for having an angry outburst, but its origins surely have nothing to do with the Postal Museum, covering everything from the world’s first pre-paid postage stamp – the penny black – to how a modern letter can get from A to B in under 24 hours. The highlight of any visit has to be a ride of the mail train. A network of underground tracks entirely independent of the Tube, this miniature railway was once a vital cog in the postage chain. Today it provides visitors with 20 minute rides beneath the streets of Angel. Union Chapel If you’ve been brought up with the sober singing of the Church of England it can initially feel a little strange heading to a functioning church to see a band. Hear the notes bubble around the vaulted ceilings and you’ll soon understand why this has become a leading live music venue despite its relatively small size. Elton John, Patti Smith and Beck have all performed here in the past, with ticket sales going to the structures upkeep and charitable foundations. Sadler’s Wells Another performance space with an incredible pedigree, Sadler’s Wells has existed in various forms since 1683 – the current 1500 seater auditorium is the sixth to bear the name. Although predominantly known for ballet, the company welcomes in many of the world’s top dance troupes as well as performing its own productions, meaning its possible to enjoy a night of everything from Andalusian flamenco to local break dancers. Camden Passage Turn off of Upper Street and into Camden Passage and you’ll go back a couple of centuries to Georgian London in a pedestrianized road that has managed to survive the ravages of redevelopment and the Blitz to become an area so well known for its antiques dealers it rivals Portobello Road. Whilst some of the former antiques stores have been turned into galleries, cafés and clothing boutiques this only increases the reasons to make this one of the things to do in Angel London. Plus, there are still more than enough antiques available at the covered Pierrepoint Arcade Market on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays to complement the Thursday and Friday bookstalls. Victoria Miro Gallery Situated in a former warehouse space beside Wenlock Basin – a dead end in Regent’s Canal – the Victoria Miro Gallery is one of London’s small private galleries. No less impressive because of that, its focus is on contemporary art. Representing both established and new faces from around the world, it’s a place where you can see works by the likes of Chris Ofili and Grayson Perry – both Turner Prize winners – even if you have no intention of buying. Discover London’s Angel with Go City With its independent spirit and pubs lining Regent’s Canal, London’s Angel neighborhood has a very different vibe to Greenwich or the areas around the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. From antiquing to stadium tours the things to do in Angel London are many and varied as we’ve hopefully shown. Travel with Go City and you can take advantage of all this diversity and make huge savings on entry to many of London’s top attractions! Check out @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook for all the latest.
Ian Packham

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