Tower Bridge Treasures: Unmissable Nearby Experiences

Uncover quirky museums, riverside adventures, and fab local eats near Tower Bridge.

Tower Bridge selfies

Chances are Tower Bridge is already pretty high up on your London to-do list, and with good reason! With its soaring towers, dazzling blue walkways and jaw-dropping views of the Thames, it’s one of London’s most beloved landmarks. But step off the bridge and you’ll find even more to explore—quirky markets, stunning viewpoints, world-class museums and winding riverside walks that reveal the secret side of the city. Whether you’re hoping to spot crown jewels, sample hearty fish and chips or just watch the world float past from a sunny pub garden, this corner of London has plenty of options. From blockbuster attractions to cozy spots where locals gather, here are our top picks for making the most of Tower Bridge and its neighborhood.

Our favorite things to do near Tower Bridge include:

  • Tower of London
  • The View from The Shard
  • City Cruises - Thames River Pass
  • HMS Belfast
  • St Katharine Docks
  • Secrets of London Bike Tour: Thames, Tower Bridge & Market by Unlimited Biking
  • Maltby Street Market
  • Jack The Ripper Walking Tour by See the Sights Tours
  • Thames Path Walk to Borough Market
  • The Dickens Inn

Tower of London: Guardians, Legends, and a Bit of Sparkle

Tower of London

Right next to Tower Bridge, the Tower of London is a must for anyone who wants to unlock London’s long and fascinating history. Step through the ancient gates and you’re instantly surrounded by stories of plotting royals, daring escapes, and even a few jaw-dropping diamonds.

You’ll start your adventure with the Yeoman Warders—better known as Beefeaters—whose entertaining tours bring gruesome executions and royal drama to life. Their booming voices echo through the medieval stone walls, making every tale stick with you long after. One of the main reasons we love the Tower? It covers history from so many angles—kings, queens, hapless prisoners, secret ravens, and even a resident ghost or two.

Of course, the Crown Jewels attract the biggest crowds, sparkling in a fortress within a fortress. Seeing these treasures up close feels surreal, especially knowing that some of them have played a part in royal ceremonies for centuries. But don’t rush straight there—make time for the Bloody Tower, where you’ll hear about mysterious disappearances and notorious prisoners.

If you’re traveling with kids (or young-at-heart friends), the armor displays and interactive exhibits keep everyone entertained. Wander across ancient battlements for sweeping views of the Thames and out over Tower Bridge itself—one of the very best angles for your photos.

The Tower of London stands out for its sense of theater and excitement: dungeon doors swing shut, ravens hop along the rooftop, and the past feels alive and accessible. 

The View from The Shard: Experience London’s Skyline in Style

View from The Shard

A short walk from Tower Bridge, The Shard rises above the city like a glittering glass arrow. Head up to the viewing platforms on floors 68, 69 and 72, and you’ll treat yourself to dazzling, 360-degree views over London. We’re not exaggerating when we say this is a must for anyone keen on photography, architecture, or just out to soak up the scale and sprawl of the city. You’ll spot all the big names on the skyline—the familiar dome of St Paul’s, the distant Canary Wharf tower, and, right below, the tangle of the Thames as it wiggles its way through town.

One of our favorite features? The Shard’s open-air Skydeck. Even on a brisk London afternoon, there’s something electric about standing high over the river, the wind in your hair and the city at your feet. You’ll find telescopes on the main floors too, letting you zoom in on London’s quirkiest rooftops or hidden parks.

Visit at sunset for that golden-hour glow, or in the evening when city lights sparkle. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, treat yourself to bubbles at the champagne bar—a glass in hand and landmarks in every direction.

City Cruises - Thames River Pass: See London from the Water

Thames cruise at Tower Bridge

Flowing right beneath Tower Bridge, the Thames provides one of the best (and easiest) sightseeing opportunities in town. Hop aboard a City Cruise and you’ll glide past centuries of history, from Shakespeare’s Globe to the towering dome of St Paul’s, picking up quirky stories and picture-perfect views along the way.

Every cruise has its own charm, but we recommend starting your adventure from the Tower Pier—right next to Tower Bridge—so you snag the best seats as you set off. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the open deck or staying cozy inside, you’ll get ever-changing angles on London’s famous sights. Live commentary brings the journey to life, blending fun facts (did you know Cleopatra’s Needle once caused a river traffic jam?) with dramatic tales about pirates, monarchs and secret wartime missions. You’re free to hop on and off at stops like Westminster or Greenwich, piecing together your perfect walking-and-floating itinerary.

Our top tip: bring a snack or drink and settle in for an hour-long round trip. It’s hard to beat the feeling of drifting under Tower Bridge as the bascules loom above, waving at walkers or catching the occasional wedding photo shoot on the banks. There’s a slower pace from the water that you won’t find on London’s busy city streets, and it’s a relaxing way to orient yourself before more exploring.

HMS Belfast: London’s Floating Museum

Docked between Tower Bridge and London Bridge, HMS Belfast isn’t your average sightseeing stop. This imposing warship-turned-museum invites you to step aboard and experience London (and World War II history) from an entirely unique perspective. Just a five-minute riverside stroll from Tower Bridge, she’s anchored right there in the heart of the city—unmissable, with her mighty grey hull and maze of towering masts.

Clamber up ladders, squeeze through tiny hatches, and explore nine entire decks of living history. Wander from the captain’s bridge (where you’ll find some of the best river views in London) down to the engine rooms, which still buzz with the ghosts of working life on board. Thanks to atmospheric sound effects and clever recreation of daily routines, you can almost hear the chatter of sailors over the clang of metal, or imagine the tension as the ship steamed into D-Day.

The ship’s museum exhibits tell the riveting story of HMS Belfast’s service in both World War II and the Korean War, with interactive displays, personal stories, and even hands-on experiences where kids—and curious adults—can try using a signal lamp or test out a hammock. You’ll learn about the camaraderie (and occasional chaos) of serving with hundreds of shipmates, and how the crew managed everything from full-scale battles to urgent medical emergencies at sea.

But it’s not just history. The upper decks offer some of the city’s most photogenic panoramas—spotting the Shard’s spire above Victorian warehouses, waving at boaters below, or simply watching the city bustle around you from the tranquility of the river. 

St Katharine Docks: Waterside Chill

St Katharine Docks

A few minutes east of Tower Bridge, St Katharine Docks is a world away from the bustle of central London. Once home to warehouses and wharves, it’s now a picturesque marina where sleek sailboats bob beside historic pubs. The vibe is pure relaxation, whether you’re stopping for a quick bite or planning a long, lazy afternoon.

Take a stroll along the docks and you’ll find alfresco terraces, leafy courtyards and people-watching spots galore. We love grabbing a seat at The Dickens Inn—this three-story timbered building is swaddled in flowers in summer and wrapped in twinkling lights in winter. Inside, low ceilings, wood beams and nautical bric-a-brac create an atmosphere that feels equal parts historic inn and friendly sailor’s haunt.

What should you order? The fish and chips are legendary—light, crisp batter and chunky chips—while the pies win raves for flaky pastry and comforting fillings. With a hearty ale in hand, settle into a window seat and watch boats drift by or pull up a chair on the massive terrace for classic people-watching. There’s plenty of room for groups, and the buzz is lively but never too loud.

Secrets of London Bike Tour: Pedal Power and Fun Facts

If you want to cover loads of London stories in a couple of hours—minus the blisters—a guided bike tour is the perfect pick. Kicking off just a stone’s throw from Tower Bridge, the Secrets of London Bike Tour whisks you along riverside paths, through leafy parks and under ancient arches you’d probably never find alone.

There’s something magical about experiencing London by bike. You’ll pedal past the iconic silhouette of Tower Bridge, loop around the skyscrapers of the City, and dive into hidden alleys where Tudor pubs and quirky cafes are tucked just out of sight. Your guide brings the city to life with a blend of wild tales and dry British humour, pointing out everything from Harry Potter film locations to secret WWII bunkers. Expect plenty of stops for photos and laughter.

One thing we adore about this tour? It makes London feel compact and human—you’ll wheel from grand monuments to local gems without battling Tube crowds. By the time you finish, you’ll have covered more of central London’s greatest hits than most tourists tick off in a week. For extra points, ask your guide for tips on where to refuel nearby—they’re fonts of knowledge when it comes to pubs, pastries and local haunts you’ll want to try.

Maltby Street Market: Snack Time in London’s Coolest Alley

Sandwich at Maltby Street Market

When hunger pangs strike, make a beeline for Maltby Street Market—a food-lovers’ paradise artfully squeezed under Victorian railway arches just south of Tower Bridge. This weekend market is a riot of aromas and action, with traders turning out everything from oozy raclette and syrupy pastries to fan-favorite sausage rolls.

It’s delightfully local, a little bit boisterous and absolutely packed with flavor. Arrive hungry—by half past eleven, the line for gourmet scotch eggs can snake halfway down the street. We recommend raiding the St John Bakery stall for their game-changing doughnuts, or tucking into freshly grilled steak sandwiches from The Beefsteaks. Vegan or gluten free? No problem—there’s a stall for every craving.

There’s a buzz at Maltby you just don’t find at bigger, glitzier markets. Tables fill up fast, but if you spot a makeshift seat on a crate or a spot by the floral gin stall, grab it. Chat with stallholders, strike up conversations with fellow foodies, and sample your way down the block. Best of all? It’s just a short, atmospheric walk from Tower Bridge, making it the perfect post-sightseeing lunch stop.

Jack The Ripper Walking Tour: London’s Chilling Whodunnit

Jack the Ripper

For a dash of drama and a visit to history’s murkier side, the Jack the Ripper tour is a true London original. Your guide—part historian, part storyteller—meets you near Tower Bridge and whisks you into the atmospheric, gas-lit alleys of Whitechapel, where one of London’s most notorious crime sprees played out.

What makes this walk stand out is the way it fuses real history with eerie suspense. You’ll look up at crumbling brick walls and realize these are the very lanes Victorian Londoners wandered, half in shadow, as the Ripper’s legend grew. Expect compelling commentary, period photos and plenty of time for speculation. Was it the royal doctor? An unknown madman? Everyone comes away with their theory and a slightly raised heartbeat.

Even if true crime isn’t usually your thing, this walk is a fascinating lens on London’s social history—poverty, newspapers, police and all the gritty details. The walk finishes up safely, back in the land of bright lights and busy city life, just steps from the bridges and bars of the present day. It’s spooky good fun and a must for anyone curious about the city’s darker and more mysterious corners.

Thames Path Walk to Borough Market: Riverside Strolls and Fresh Feasts

Borough Market

Sometimes, the simplest pleasures are best. One of our all-time favorite things to do after Tower Bridge is to follow the Thames Path west along the north bank toward Borough Market. This part of the path is pure urban theatre—watching dog walkers dash past, street performers juggling for a cheerful crowd, and boats gliding quietly by. You’ll wander past some of the city’s best skyline views, get up close to historic wharves, and (if you’re a public art fan) ogle unusual sculptures and murals tucked along the route. Cross at London Bridge and you’ll land right at Borough Market, one of London’s oldest and finest food hubs. Snack your way through, from tangy local cheeses to globe-trotting street food and, if you’re visiting in winter, the world’s best hot chocolate from Rabot 1745.

And there you have it: the perfect blend of grand adventures, tasty pit stops and secret finds—all just steps from London’s most famous bridge. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a photographer or just a curious wanderer, Tower Bridge’s neighborhood has a bit of London magic waiting for you around every corner.

Looking for more London inspiration? Find things to do near Kensington Palace and the London Eye.

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!

Powered by AI

This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

Continue reading

Aerial shot of London's Westminster neighborhood
Blog

Things to do in Westminster London

Often used as a descriptor for all the goings on in the British parliament, the Westminster neighborhood of London is actually a city within a city. One of the richest areas of the capital financially, historically and culturally, it’s an area jampacked with sights, from the grandeur of Buckingham Palace to bronze and stone statues of giants from the country’s past. As a tourist, you’re probably going to spend at least a day here, so don’t forget to check out all the great things to do in Westminster London before hitting the thoroughfares of The Mall or Petty France. Meet with Big Ben Occupying one of few areas of the Thames riverbank in central London not directly accessible to the public, the Houses of Parliament are a symbol of democracy throughout the world. Showing off the pomp and financial power of the Victorian era – when the complex was rebuilt after a massive fire – Big Ben has to be one of the most snapped structures in the world. In fact, to be strictly accurate the name doesn’t refer to the tower but to its largest bell. Its structure was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee – that’s 60 years on the throne. The parliamentary chambers have witnessed many historic moments, including several important speeches by Sir Winston Churchill, the country’s wartime leader. The underground lair protected by secrecy and thick steel girders where the government sought sheltered office space during the London Blitz can be explored at the Cabinet War Rooms a few hundred meters away. But if it’s hundreds of years of history you’re keen to discover, Westminster Abbey should be the next on your list of things to do in Westminster London. Forming a loose triangle alongside the Houses of Parliament and Cabinet War Rooms, its origins predate the Norman Conquest of 1066. Since then it has seen the coronation of every British monarch except two. The simple wood coronation chair is almost lost in this celebration of monarchy and nationhood. Walk amid royalty Cross into St James’ Park and you’ll be treading the same path that royalty has since at least the sixteen hundreds. At the park’s southern end is Birdcage Walk, once the location of a long-disappeared royal aviary. However, some of the park’s most popular residents remain its pelicans, whose generations have waddled their way around the lake for almost 400 years since first being gifted by one of the Tsars of Russia. At its western end St James’ links up with Green Park on the opposite side of The Mall, and Buckingham Palace – official residence of the British monarch. A short route through the palace gardens is open to the public over the summer as part of tours to the state rooms. Two further royal residences just around the corner can be admired from afar. Clarence House has provided homes for the late Queen Mother as well as the Prince of Wales. Next door’s Saint James’ Palace is the oldest of central London’s remaining palaces, although you’ll need ambassadorial credentials to take a look inside. Make time for the museums in Westminster No such career choice is necessary to enjoy the spectacle of the red frock coats and bear-skin hats of the Household Cavalry and their allied foot troops at the Changing of the Guard outside of Buckingham Palace. About as dramatic a way to switch shifts as it’s possible to get, it takes place every day in the summer and several times a week over the winter with music, marching and plenty of horsemanship on show. To learn more about the division responsible for the protection of the head of state – Queen Victoria endured numerous assassination attempts – there’s the Household Cavalry Museum. Situated between Whitehall and Horse Guards Parade, visits not only allow a peek into 350 years of history but also the chance to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony from a very special vantage point. Attached to Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s Gallery is open throughout the year, displaying important artefacts from the Royal Collection. These include gilded silverware purchased by George III and paintings by Van Dyke, official artist to King Charles II. The works of more modern artists can be seen at Mall Galleries just off Trafalgar Square. Home to the Federation of British Artists, it’s also a major player in the contemporary figurative arts scene. Spend some time by the Thames Although it’s partially blocked off by the Houses of Parliament, the River Thames shouldn’t be forgotten about. For one thing, almost diagonally opposite Big Ben is Westminster Millennium Pier, where Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing cruises arrive and depart on their way to the Royal Museums Greenwich further east. The Thames path is a pleasant place to explore at any time of year, with each season giving something different to an area of riverside as stuffed with monuments and landmarks as any part of London. They include memorials to the Battle of Britain pilots of World War Two and, within Whitehall Gardens, William Tyndale – a leading figure in the protestant reformation. The Thames path also provides an ideal spot to capture shots of the London Eye or eat and drink in barges converted into restaurants and bars. But wherever you end up in Westminster you’ll never be far from the government ministries you’ll recognize from the movies. Many stretch along Whitehall, a major thoroughfare connecting up Parliament Square with Trafalgar Square, where there’s the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column. On Whitehall itself, the war dead are honored at the Cenotaph, and the prime minister’s office at 10 Downing Street can be peered towards through the security gates. Uncover all the things to do in Westminster London A neighborhood which basks in the historic, cultural and political, Westminster is a part of London no visitor is going to want to miss out on. It’s home to the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace, but beside the buildings of state are side streets with churches and verdant squares leading to yet more opportunities to understand the British capital in greater detail. Is it possible to get too much of a good thing? Not in Westminster. And not when traveling with Go City. Our passes provide visitors of all ages with incredible savings on admission to many of the top attractions in London and beyond. So, when you’re thinking about the things to do in Westminster London, make sure Go City becomes a part of your plan!
Ian Packham
Woman standing on Westminster Bridge in London
Blog

Things to do in London for adults - outings for couples or friends

London is one of the most fantastic, global cities in the world. It’s filled with top attractions and significant historical structures, plus some of the best dining and shopping opportunities you’ll find anywhere. Whether you’re interested in exploring the expansive history of London’s churches and buildings, or if you prefer the appeal of modern attractions, you’ll be able to enjoy a full itinerary of London activities on your next trip. If you’re looking for things to do in London for adults, check out our list of the top activities that couples and groups of friends will enjoy, including... Lastminute.com London Eye Madame Tussauds London Hop-On Hop-Off London Bus Tour St. Paul’s Cathedral The London Dungeon Changing of the Guard Walking Tour River Thames Cruises Explore the Royal Parks and more... Save on Admission to Popular Adult Attractions Regular admission to a number of these attractions are available on Go City's London Explorer and All-Inclusive passes. Choose as you go from top London activities and save up to 50% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and London-based attractions. Lastminute.com London Eye Take a ride to the top of the world’s most famous observation wheel. The London Eye is not just a signature element of the London skyline – it’s also a fun activity for any new visitor to London. See the River Thames and all the iconic buildings clustered along its banks. It’s the perfect opportunity to get those amazing aerial photos that look just like postcards! Getting In: admission to the Lastminute.com London Eye is available with London Explorer and All-Inclusive passes. Madame Tussauds London Fans of celebrity culture – including the Royal Family – will love a visit to the original Madame Tussauds. It’s where the global phenomenon first began, so a visit here will teach you all about the history of the original Madame T, including her techniques and inspiration. Plus, there’s no other way to actually meet the King (unless you’re super famous yourself, that is!). Getting In: Madame Tussauds London admission is included with an All-Inclusive Pass. Hop-on Hop-off London Bus Tour New to the city? Try out a London Bus Tour to explore the many diverse neighborhoods and regions of this bustling metropolis. It can be really difficult to navigate your way around the city on your own, especially without a local’s knowledge of where to find what. Fortunately, a guided bus tour is a great way to see the city without worrying about the hassle of directions. It’s also an iconic London attraction – those double-decker buses just scream Britain! A hop-on hop-off option is perfect for those travelers who like to pick and choose on the go, too. Getting In: Big Bus London admission is available with all London passes. St. Paul’s Cathedral Pay a visit to one of the most beautiful and historic churches in all of England. Its instantly recognizable dome is just the beginning: the interior is gorgeously decorated, from the Cathedral floor to the crypts to the three major galleries housed within the dome. Join up with a guided walking tour to see the areas not typically open to the public. Or, if you have less time, take a shortened, self-guided tour. Getting In: admission to St. Paul’s Cathedral is included on all London passes. The London Dungeon This is one moderately scary and delightfully campy attraction. See a millennia of history brought to life in terrifying and enjoyable ways, as you glide past 19 live shows. See the plague-ridden streets of the early modern period, shudder at what might have been with Guy Fawkes’ Gunpowder Plot, and look behind you at every turn through Jack the Ripper’s Whitechapel. End it all with a visit to the Tavern, a delightful Victorian pub experience which serves up tasty (modern) beer. Getting In: The London Dungeon admission is included with the Explorer Pass. Changing of the Guard Walking Tour We’ve all seen those iconic London palace guards on television as they perform their perfectly synchronized movements. Now’s your chance to tour the city and see the several different companies performing their “changing of the guard,” a rare sight. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy photo opportunities of other major landmarks along the way, including Westminster Abbey, St. James’ Place, and Buckingham Palace. Getting In: the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour is included on all London passes. Animal Attractions There is much to enjoy in London for animal lovers, whether you prefer critters from land or from the sea. SEA LIFE Aquarium escorts you on a magical journey throughout the waters of the world, with multiple massive tanks that will make you feel just like you’re strolling at the bottom of the ocean. Getting In: SEA LIFE London Aquarium is availavle with the Explorer Pass and London Zoo admission is on all passes. River Thames Cruise Hop aboard this enjoyable cruise for a unique chance at sightseeing along the River Thames. You’ll learn all about London’s most significant landmarks, like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, the Greenwich Observatory and more. It’s also the perfect time to snap some of memorable photos of your trip. There are four disembarkation points on the route from Westminster to Greenwich and you can hop on and off as many times as you like withing a 24-hour period. Getting In: the City Cruises Thames River Pass is available with the Explorer Pass. Explore the Royal Parks If you’re a nature lover, you’ve come to the right place. London is one of the most diverse major cities in the world when it comes to green spaces and botanical gardens. Looking to stroll around, toss a Frisbee, or have a picnic? Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, or St. James’s Park are great options. Prefer to see a collection of exotic plants and domestic ones side by side? The Royal Gardens at Kew are an absolutely fabulous must-see attraction. Getting In: admission to Kew Gardens is available on all passes; many other London parks and gardens are free to explore. London Shopping Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or just love to shop, London is the right destination for you. With a wide variety of shops from the high end to fast fashion, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for at practically any price point. For some of the best shopping in London, head to Oxford Street, where you’ll find the famous Selfridges, as well as favorites Top Shop and Primark. Got a massive budget? Bond Street and Mayfair are the areas where you’ll find high-end luxury goods. Bargain hunting or looking for something unique? Try out Covent Garden.
Katie Sagal
St Paul's Cathedral looking resplendent from Fleet Street
Blog

Why you should visit London in July

If there’s a month to see London at its best, it has to be July. This is the month when Londoners let their hair down and bask in mid-summer temperatures that stay pleasantly warm until dusk settles at around 10PM. The promise of great weather sees everyone who’s anyone relax in London’s multitude of outdoor spaces, be that a Royal Park or a rooftop bar for a glass of rosé. There’s also a myriad of festivals throughout London in July, as well as once-a-year opportunities including the summer opening of Buckingham Palace. Discover royal London It’s in July that Buckingham Palace – the monarch’s official London residence – opens its doors to the public. Entering via the building’s ceremonial entrance and grand gilt staircase, visits take in 19 state rooms. Used for official functions, such as investitures and the welcoming of foreign heads of government, they include the Throne Room, White Drawing Room and Ballroom. If that isn’t enough, each year a different exhibition is staged using artefacts from the royal collection – providing further insight into the many roles played by British royals. The objects on display at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival are no less impressive for their shorter lifespans. The largest horticultural event in the capital’s calendar, attractions range from a festival of roses to celebrity workshops, all amid the Tudor palace’s spectacular grounds. Dating back hundreds of years, Swan Upping takes place on the Thames over several days in July. Starting at Eton Bridge beside Windsor Castle, Swan Uppers in traditional Thames skiffs count the year’s cygnets to ensure the river’s swan population remains healthy. Make the most of the long July evenings The royal connections continue at Kensington Palace, which is the location of one of the open-air pop-up giant cinema screens that appear throughout London from July. Other locations include Clapham Common, Somerset House and Trafalgar Square, with screenings varying between Hollywood classics, family favorites and the latest blockbusters. For a very different kind of performance head to the Royal Albert Hall, where eight weeks of classical music concerts, together known as the Proms, kick off in July. A firm fixture since 1895, the series culminates in the Last Night of the Proms – one of the more patriotic nights in London life. Life in all its forms can be enjoyed with adults-only Twilight Tickets to ZSL London Zoo. Besides seeing the zoo’s wild animals at one of the calmer times of day, these special nights also host a chill out zone and street food vans should you get hungry. Go sports mad in London in July The world’s oldest tennis competition, the Wimbledon Championships, take place on the verdant green lawns of southwest London in an annual parade of the very best sporting talent, some two million strawberries and 54,000 tennis balls. Even if you can’t nab a much sought after ticket for the show courts, ground passes are a great way to soak up the atmosphere. And whilst 2012 may be long gone, the spirit of the London Olympics lives on in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Occupying a swath of the capital’s east, free trails connect up some of the park’s most important structures. Tour the London Stadium, grab a selfie with the Olympic rings or get the adrenaline flowing with a ride down the world’s longest slide from the top of the ArcelorMittal Orbit tower. Revel in summer festivals Just one demonstration of London’s diversity is the array of festivals which take place in London in July. Open to LGBT+ allies from all walks of life, Pride is the only event in the year to close Oxford Street to traffic. In place of the black taxis and red double-decker buses, you’ll see eclectic floats making their way to the main stage on Trafalgar Square. Take in the riverside between London Bridge and Tower Bridge and you’re sure to be sucked into the festival-like atmosphere created from outdoor eating and an event’s list covering everything from karaoke to open-air fitness classes. Then there’s the capital’s music festivals. British Summer Time brings some of the world’s biggest stars to Hyde Park, having welcomed Celine Dion, Bruno Mars and Green Day to previous editions. Elsewhere, fans of urban music won’t want to miss Wireless, whose acts have included the home-grown talents of Stormzy among its A-list setlists. Stroll in the city’s parks and gardens A hop, skip and a jump away from where Stormzy grew up in south London is Dulwich Park. Edged by Dulwich Picture Gallery – England’s oldest purpose-built art space – and close to Brockwell Lido, the park has recently been returned to the glory of its late-Victorian heyday. Kensington’s Holland Park spreads out around the remains of the Jacobean era Holland House. Sub-divided into several sections, its northern extent is dominated by woodland, whilst its inner core contains a formal garden and the Kyoto Japanese garden. St Dunstan-in-the-East also makes use of London’s historic architecture, in this case an 11th-Century parish church. Rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren, it was unfortunately damaged beyond repair during the Blitz in the Second World War. Today, it forms a hidden oasis among the hustle and bustle of the ancient city. London weather in July Neither too hot nor too cold, London in July has some of the best weather of the year. Daily temperatures hover around 19°C, hardly ever dropping below 14°C or rising above 23°C. Rain is light, and rarely affects anyone’s plans. Sunshine is abundant, and daylight stretches for a staggering 16 hours per day, making T-shirts and vest-tops the best items to pack. It’s unlikely you’ll need anything thicker than a light sweater, although you’ll probably still want an umbrella just in case. Save on July London attraction admission Keen to experience all London has to offer in July? Admission to a whole host of London’s top attractions can be had with Go City, providing flexibility and great savings. Check out @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook for all the latest hints and tips.
Ian Packham

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.