Beyond the Tower: Top Things to do Near the Tower of London

Explore riverside walks, grand cathedrals, royal history and markets — all steps from the Tower.

Published: March 23, 2026
Tower Bridge

You’ve braved the Crown Jewels queue, nodded hello to the Beefeaters, and soaked up centuries of intrigue at the Tower of London. What next? Lucky for you, Tower Hill delivers some of London’s best historic finds, waterside strolls, spectacular views and foodie haunts, all within easy reach of the moat. This patch of the city serves up medieval tales, cutting-edge museums, pub lunches, river cruises and sky-high adventures. Whether you’re after a proper British pint, architectural wonders, or a unique selfie spot, you’ll find it just around the corner from the Tower. We’re here to map out the best of the best.

Our favourite things to do near the Tower of London include:

  • Tower Bridge
  • The View from the Shard
  • City Cruises – Thames River Pass
  • St Paul’s Cathedral
  • Moco Museum
  • Jack the Ripper walking tour
  • Leadenhall Market
  • The Coal Shed steakhouse
  • Sky Garden
  • St Katharine Docks

Tower Bridge: Step into a London Legend

Tower Bridge is more than just a backdrop for holiday selfies;it’s a living piece of London’s story. As you cross, take in the intricate Victorian engineering: all those blue trusses and rivets blend historic detail with showstopping design. Inside, the Tower Bridge Exhibition whisks you through the bridge’s construction history, complete with original machinery and tales of daring river leaps. For those with a head for heights, high-level glass walkways offer a fun test of nerve and present unbeatable views over the Thames: spot St Paul’s, The Shard, and the bustling City neighbourhoods on either side. Watch London’s red buses rumble by above, or the bascules lift for tall ships gliding below. 

Plan your visit at dusk for golden light, or early morning when the city is just waking up. With hands-on exhibits, interactive displays and a family-friendly vibe, the bridge feels more welcoming than ever. And that selfie on the glass floor? Essential.

The View from the Shard: Sky-High City Views

View from The Shard

You haven’t truly appreciated London’s sprawl until you’ve seen it from the top of The Shard. This 95-storey glass behemoth cuts through the skyline and the views from its upper decks will convince anyone that London is as vast as it is beautiful. Ride the superfast lift to floors 68, 69 or 72 and suddenly the streets, parks and palaces are laid out like a living map.

The atmosphere up top oozes celebration (and a touch of James Bond glam). Sip a cocktail at the Champagne bar, or step out onto the open-air sky deck for a breeze and that feeling of being on top of the world—well, London at least. We love spotting landmarks: can you see Wembley’s white arch, the London Eye and Tower Bridge all in one frame? With floor-to-ceiling glass, every side of the city twinkles, especially at sunset. Pro tip: don’t rush back to street level. Instead, soak up the sense of grandeur, watch the weather roll over the city, and toast your adventure.

City Cruises: Thames River Pass for Epic Sights

Ready for a break from sightseeing on foot? City Cruises lets you swap pavement-pounding for deckchair-lounging and see London from a new angle. The River Thames winds through the city’s heart and, from the boat, landmarks old and new glide into focus: Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe and, of course, our old pal Tower Bridge.

We love the commentary—there’s a great mix of quirky facts, history and dry British one-liners. The vibe is laid-back, with fellow passengers papping away at riverside scenery (and each other). Grab a coffee or a classic gin and tonic at the on-board bar, and feel London’s energy around you as you drift along. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to tick off a stack of famous sights in comfort. Plus, you disembark right near the Tower, so you can pop back for evening photos with the palace all aglow.

St Paul’s Cathedral: Awe, Architecture, and Whispered Secrets

St Paul's Cathedral

Just a scenic walk up the Thames from the Tower, St Paul’s Cathedral stands as an architectural masterpiece and spiritual landmark. Enter through the grand doors and you’re welcomed by marble floors, swirling domes and enough mosaics to keep your camera busy for an hour. You’ll hear secrets whispered across the famous Whispering Gallery—send a friend to the far side to test the acoustics.

It’s the layered mix of art, history and emotion that gives St Paul’s its spark: try climbing up to the Stone Gallery for a dizzying panorama of London rooftops. The crypt below holds tombs of national heroes (Nelson and Wellington are neighbours here). If you time your visit right, catch a choral performance, when music echoes through the dome like magic. 

Leadenhall Market: Harry Potter Magic Meets Victorian Chic

Dating back to the 14th Century, Leadenhall Market is a covered arcade brimming with charm and personality. Wander its colourful passageways and you’re instantly surrounded by ornate wrought iron, painted shopfronts and elaborate ceilings—a dreamland for photographers and shoppers alike. Film buffs may spot that Leadenhall doubled as Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films.

Immerse yourself in the Leadenhall’s bustling atmosphere and top-notch boutiques. Browse cheese shops, chic wine bars and family-run florists. There’s always a line at Cheese, known for its fantastic sandwiches and toasties, while bars like The Lamb Tavern pour classic pints for post-office crowds. Visit over lunch for the full effect: Londoners gathering for a bite, laughter echoing through the dome, and twinkling lights overhead.

Jack the Ripper Walking Tour: Chills and Thrills in Old London

Jack the Ripper

If you’re drawn to a little mystery, the Jack the Ripper walking tour is a must. Led by charismatic guides who know their history (and their spooky tales), this trek winds through Whitechapel’s alleys, just north of the Tower. With atmospheric gas lamps and cobblestones underfoot, it feels like you’ve stepped into Victorian London.

Expect dramatic storytelling and quirky details: how detectives cracked clues, what local papers reported, and why these chilling events still intrigue the city. Stops along the route touch on period pubs, local landmarks and streets that rarely appear in guidebooks. The atmosphere is part-theatre, part-education, all fun—especially as the sun sets and the city takes on its nighttime glow.

The Coal Shed: Steakhouse Perfection with a Sophisticated Twist

If you fancy treating yourself to a memorable meal near the Tower, The Coal Shed is the answer. Just a few blocks away on One Tower Bridge, this stylish steakhouse delivers on both flavour and style. Chunky wood tables, moody lighting and an open kitchen give it a fashionable yet comfortable feel.

It’s all about the details here. The menu showcases the best of British produce, with signature steaks aged to perfection and grilled over coals for deep, smoky flavour. We love the sharing platters and fresh seafood options—the charcoal-roasted sirloin and the wood-roasted monkfish are must-tries. On sunny days, nab a table by the floor-to-ceiling windows for Thames views, and tuck in!

St Katharine Docks: Marina Magic and Riverside Feasts

St Katharine Docks

Just behind the Tower sits a pocket of calm, and we’re surprised by how few visitors know to seek out St Katharine Docks. One minute you’re walking beneath the fortress walls; the next you’re among bobbing yachts, tree-lined promenades and waterside restaurants buzzing with London locals.

The atmosphere here is restorative: strolling by the boats, you can dip into a waterside pub like The Dickens Inn for classic fish and chips or dig into Mediterranean spreads at Dokke, with their standout brunches and epic coffee selection. The floating shops and seasonal food stalls mean your snack game is strong year-round, whether you’re craving doughnuts, oysters or a pint of local ale.

Evenings are extra special—you’ll see the masts lit up and reflections twinkling in the water. Take your coffee to go, find a bench, and count the passing boats and city towers just beyond.

Sky Garden: Rooftop Garden Escapism—For Free

If you love a city view but want something a little more subtle than The Shard, Sky Garden is your answer. It’s London’s highest public garden, perched atop the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building. Once you’re through security and up in the lift, you’re greeted with a wall of windows, lush greenery, and panoramic views of London’s skyline—all entirely for free (just book a timed slot in advance).

We love the laid-back feel here—wandering through indoor palm groves and exotic ferns, sipping flat whites at the Sky Pod Bar, or nibbling lemon cake with St Paul’s dome in your eyeline. The mood is tranquil in the morning and buzzy in the afternoon, especially when local musicians add background tunes. Stay for sunset as the city lights flicker on, or linger over dinner at Fenchurch Restaurant if you’re feeling fancy.

Wilton’s Music Hall: Victorian Charm and Live Entertainment

Wilton’s Music Hall, tucked away just north of the Tower, claims the crown as the world’s oldest surviving music hall—and it feels like stepping into another century. Wooden balconies, twinkling fairy lights, and creaky floors set the scene for a mishmash of comedy shows, inventive plays and toe-tapping musical acts.

Wilton’s isn’t your average venue—it’s packed with history and stories. Sip a pint at the Mahogany Bar (dating from the 1720s!), stretch out at rustic wooden tables, and soak up the friendly, quirky ambience. Acts range from Shakespearean mashups to jazz quartets, so you’ll always find something worth catching.

Our tip? Stop by even if you’re not seeing a show; the bar and building alone are a treat. It’s a relaxed, chatty crowd and, with luck, you might just stumble into a pop-up poetry slam or open mic night.

Looking for more London inspiration? Find things to do near Westminster Abbey and around Kensington Palace.

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Shopping in December lets visitors enjoy the Christmas lights
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Your Complete Guide to London in December

If you thought London was a city solely for the summer months, think again. Because London in December sees the British capital at probably its most colorful of the year. Few can avoid getting in the Christmas spirit, before turning their attention to the south bank of the River Thames and the nation’s foremost fireworks display to bring in the New Year in style. With all that in mind, here’s your complete guide to what’s going on in London in December, so you don’t miss a thing. Shop till you drop Forget what you’ve seen in the movies, you’ll need to be lucky to encounter any snowfall in London at Christmas. With average December lows of 5°C, snowmen are more likely in February. But this takes nothing away from the Christmas atmosphere, which sweeps across the capital’s streets and storefronts from the end of November. From Abbey Road to Lambeth Palace, Carnaby Street to St Katharine Docks, London’s sidewalks are bright with an array of lights, adding a further attraction to the window displays of shops big and small. Not too far away, London’s largest Christmas tree – an annual gift from the Norwegian capital topping out at around 20 meters high – takes center stage in Trafalgar Square. Christmas markets occupy other well-known spaces, including Leicester Square and the riverbank in front of Tower Bridge and City Hall, where last minute gifts and traditional festive treats jostle for attention. Never one to rest on its laurels, as soon as the big day is over, the focus moves to the Boxing Day sales of December 26, which has been a date to circle in the diary long before the advent of Black Friday. Aim to get there before sun up for the very best deals. Enjoy the capital’s historic attractions in a new way Even if you’ve visited London before, December offers many new experiences at some of the city’s most famous sites. The UNESCO-enshrined Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew puts on a dazzling display of lights and colorful projected images every evening from dusk. Hyde Park becomes the location of a huge combined fun fair and Christmas market, perhaps best taken in from its dedicated observation wheel. Alternatively, you might prefer to cheer on the brave souls who take part in the Peter Pan Cup. A swimming competition in Hyde Park’s Serpentine Lake, it has taken place on Christmas Day since 1864 in one of the capital’s stranger traditions. If you prefer your water even colder, look no further than the temporary outdoor ice rinks that appear at many of London’s most-loved attractions during December. Kensington’s Natural History Museum, The Strand’s Somerset House and even Hampton Court Palace provide extraordinary backdrops to a quick spin on the ice followed by a warming mug of hot chocolate. Experience the UK’s top Christmas events Christmas in London sees Christopher Wren’s masterwork, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the thousand-year-old Westminster Abbey both present a series of traditional carol services which fill their august spaces with stunning vocals. The Royal Albert Hall has an equally impressive program of concerts, ranging from Christmas classics played by big bands to performances of Handel’s Messiah. Heading to a ballet performance is another popular London December tradition. Shows with winter themes such as The Nutcracker grace the stages of several major theaters, and are bound to bring back a sense of childhood glee. For an altogether less-serious evening out, it has to be a panto performance, filled with slap-stick comedy, audience participation and men dressed in drag. But don’t be misled by the brash colors and fairy-tale plots, there’s serious acting going on here, with everyone from Sir Ian McKellen (The Lord of the Rings’ Gandalf) to Hollywood ‘giant’ Mickey Rooney having taken to the pantomime stage. Oh no they didn’t – oh yes they did! But when it comes to events in London in December, few can compete with the capital’s annual New Year’s Eve fireworks display. Launched from barges on the Thames and the 32 pods of the London Eye, the display takes eight technicians a week to wire up the seven tons of explosives needed for the 10-minute show. Dazzling audiences since its inception in the year 2000, it can be enjoyed from various high points around the city, as well as the river bank and the comfort of sofas in well-heated bars just about everywhere. Eat, drink and be merry With 60-plus Michelin star restaurants at your fingertips, London’s food scene takes some beating. Even if your budget doesn’t quite stretch to beef aged for 90 days in Himalayan salt chambers and desserts decorated with 24-carat gold leaf, you’ll still find plenty of choice. Don’t get caught out though – many restaurants (and attractions) close their doors on Christmas Day to give their staff a well-earned rest. Even those that do open – and Chinatown is always a good bet – get booked up early and can be difficult to reach without London’s usual transportation options, which also cease for the day. Roast turkey has been the Christmas Day meal of choice since at least the time of Henry VIII, and will be served with ‘all the trimmings’. These include Brussel sprouts, honey-roasted parsnips, sage and onion stuffing, pigs in blankets (that’s sausages wrapped in bacon) and roasted potatoes. Traditionally made with suet, Christmas pudding is another must try, being loaded with dried fruits, spices and a liberal quantity of alcohol before being served with hot custard (crème anglais). You’ll find mince pies (which are nothing to do with ground beef) dusted in icing sugar and on display at pretty much every bakery, café and supermarket in the capital in December. Many Brits, Londoners included, then head out for a post-meal walk, which may involve a stop off at a local pub. Whether they’re open or not will largely depend on where you’re located – central London takes on the air of a ghost town on December 25. Those on popular walking routes are more likely to be open than those on streets like The Strand, although probably for no more than a few hours in the afternoon. Hotel bars are likely to remain open for longer. Save on London December attraction admission Admission to many of London’s top attractions and activities can be enjoyed at a reduced rate with Go City. Our Explorer Pass includes admission to a range of London attractions, while giving you the flexibility to do what you want, when you want, without having to make any decisions beforehand. If London’s December weather lets you down, there’s no need to rearrange the plans for your entire stay. In fact, with Go City you don’t need a plan at all.
Ian Packham
The streets of London are often crowded with shoppers
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Is London safe?

Although crime rates have risen in recent years, this shouldn’t take away from the fact London is one of the safest cities in the world. Its nine million residents move about without worrying much about their day-to-day safety, and the vast majority of its 30 million annual visitors go home with nothing but warm words for its attractions, if not the prevailing weather conditions. Is London safe? Broadly speaking yes, noting that nowhere can ever be declared 100% trouble free. With that in mind, here’s all you need to know about staying safe in London as a visitor to help ensure you don’t become one of the unlucky few who fall victim to a crime. How safe is London? Visitors to London face the same risks as in any big urban environment. So as one of the largest cities in Europe, it has its fair share of dodgy characters whilst ranking favorably against Paris, Madrid and Zurich when it comes to personal safety. Its crime statistics can be misleading for those who don’t know London well. For instance, the boroughs (neighborhoods) responsible for some of the capital’s most important landmarks, like the Tower of London and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre have some of the highest crime rates. What the statistics don’t say is that much of this crime takes place in residential housing estates away from these attractions. The crime figures related to supercool areas of the capital, such as east London’s Dalston, should be much more concerning for visitors. Pickpocketing is a particular problem. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the leafy suburbs around Richmond in the west are the safest. However, the best tip for any visitor worried about safety in London is to assume petty crime can take place anywhere, and act with caution accordingly. London’s global status means terrorism also sadly remains a threat, although the likelihood of getting caught up in an attack is tiny. There’s little you can do to mitigate against this threat except immediately call the emergency services on 999 if you see anything suspicious. Common threats to safety in London For the most part, staying safe in London is about following common sense and trusting your instincts. In other words, you shouldn’t do anything you wouldn’t do at home. Then the biggest risks you’re likely to face are currency counters with unfair exchange rates and looking the wrong way when crossing a road – the British drive on the left. The risk of pickpocketing or mugging is highest where large crowds congregate, since they provide criminals with plenty of cover. Keep a close eye on valuables in crowded spaces, and never place money or a phone in your back pocket. Being aware of your surroundings is always important. Criminals may attempt to steal your bank card and PIN through well-practiced distraction techniques at ATMs, whilst mopeds have been used for snatch and grab crimes against those using their phones in public. Use ATMs inside bank branches whenever possible – they are not usually hard to find. At the same time, never leave a bag unattended, for example, when going to a bar or counter to order food and drinks. Not only is there a risk of it being stolen, but also of it getting blown up by the bomb squad as a security risk. If you find yourself in need of help, you shouldn’t worry about approaching uniformed police officers. No officer can demand identification, nor will they issue fines to be paid on the spot. Any who do are scammers pretending to be plain-clothes officers. Is London safe at night? Increasingly becoming a 24-hour city, evenings in London can be sublime, with the city’s landmarks lit up and its pubs coming alive. Travel across Piccadilly Circus at midnight, and you could be mistaken for thinking it was the middle of the day. It’s best to stay on well-lit streets after dark all the same, which will often have the added security of CCTV cameras. If you choose to walk, do so confidently. Otherwise opt for London’s public transportation. Both its red buses and Underground trains are safe at night, though best avoided during the rush hours of 5 – 7PM because of overcrowding. Certain bus routes, usually denoted by an ‘N’, operate throughout the night to link major locations such as train stations. The main Tube network shuts down around midnight. But the advent of the Night Tube sees a service on some central lines night-long on Fridays and Saturdays. Alternatively, visitors can hail a black cab (licensed taxi) from the roadside. As they notoriously don’t like traveling south of the river, you can also arrange a minicab (radio taxi) by phone or uber via the app. All vehicles must clearly display a tamper-proof licensing sticker on the windshield. If they do not have one, you’re getting into an unlicensed vehicle whose driver will not have undergone the relevant checks. Is it safe to visit London as a single woman? Most women who visit London solo find the city a refreshing contrast to previous experiences traveling alone. Although there are only a handful of women-only spaces – including Kenwood Ladies’ Bathing Pond on Hampstead Heath – being a single woman shouldn’t stop you ticking off your bucket list attractions. Contrary to popular opinion, most Londoners are quite happy to help if you get stuck – seeking out another woman will increase your chances of success further. Free walking tours and Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing buses provide the safety of a group. If you’re concerned about unwanted male attention in bars and pubs, wearing a wedding band can act as a deterrent. Venues will often have a security presence on the door to keep a lid on any trouble, whilst bar staff are increasingly aware of potential issues. The city’s plethora of loud and proud gay bars have long been known as a hassle-free night out for women should all else fail. Save on top London attraction admission Explore and save with Go City. Our Explorer Pass not only saves you money on London attraction admission but means you can leave your wallet at home, removing any worry about carrying around large amounts of cash!
Ian Packham
Tower Bridge at Sunset
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