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

Last updated: June 26, 2026
man taking a selfie in london

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...

  • The London Eye
  • Madame Tussauds London
  • Hop-On Hop-Off London Bus Tour
  • St. Paul’s Cathedral
  • Changing of the Guard Walking Tour
  • and more...

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. Trips last for around 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to snap and relax as the huge Ferris wheel does the heavy lifting.  It’s the perfect opportunity to get those amazing aerial photos that look just like postcards!

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!).

 

Hop-on Hop-off London Bus Tour

New to the city? Try out a Hop-on, hop-off 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 simple - see something you like? Hop off the bus and go explore. When you're done, head back to the stop and get on the next bus. It's a hassle-free way to see what you want, when you want. 

St. Paul’s Cathedral

Pay a visit to one of the most beautiful and historic churches in all of England. St. Paul’s Cathedral's instantly recognisable 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.

 

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

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 several different companies performing the Changing of the Guard on this walking tour! Plus, you’ll get to enjoy photo opportunities of other major landmarks along the way, including Westminster Abbey, St. James’ Palace, and Buckingham Palace.

London Zoo

No trip to London would be complete without a visit to the animal kingdom in the heart of the capital. London Zoo has it all - creatures great and small, exhibits, shows, and learning sessions for kids. London Zoo puts a huge focus of their work on conservation, so you know their hearts are in the right place. From lions and tigers, to giraffes, elephants, and penguins, you’ll find them all and much, much more under one “roof”.

 

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 within a 24-hour period.

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. Featuring myriad greenhouses containing multiple biomes from across the globe, you’ll find a startling amount of flora and fauna within. And it’s not just plants - you can climb the treetop walkway to see the city from a different angle, explore The Hive, an immersive exhibit dedicated to the humble honey bee, and much more!

 

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.

 

Are you wondering what else you can do while in the city? Why not check out London's best markets, art galleries, or museums?

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 the Go City® – just choose a pass to get started!

 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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London’s Best Free Experiences Steps from St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is impossible to miss on London’s skyline, and even harder to resist adding to your itinerary. But what if we told you that just beyond its grand steps, there’s a seriously impressive collection of free experiences to enjoy? That’s right—Central London boasts a treasure trove of galleries, river walks, centuries-old alleyways and even hidden gardens, all without an entrance fee. Whether you’re in search of local flavour, cultural gems or simply a place to rest your feet (with a cracking view), we’ve rounded up the best free things to do near St Paul’s Cathedral, so you can make the most of your London days—pounds not required.  Our favourite free things to do near St Paul’s Cathedral include:  City of London Information Centre Foyer  One New Change Rooftop Terrace  Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall  Millennium Bridge Walk  Postman’s Park  Guildhall Art Gallery & Roman Amphitheatre  Southbank Stroll  St Mary-le-Bow Church  Carter Lane Gardens  Smithfield Market  City of London Information Centre Foyer  Sometimes the best adventures begin with a little local know-how. Just beside St Paul’s Cathedral, you’ll spot the sleek, modern wedge of the City of London Information Centre. Pop inside for free (yes, really) and you’ll find more than racks of flyers—this spot is warm, full of light, and staffed by some of the friendliest, most knowledgeable locals around. Snag a free city map, get pointers on current festivals or find out where to listen to lunchtime organ recitals. With public toilets and comfy seats, it’s a handy traveller’s rest stop too! The rotating displays of quirky historical facts make it a quick yet seriously helpful pit stop before you set out exploring.  One New Change Rooftop Terrace  Craving that epic St Paul’s view—without shelling out for the dome climb? Head to One New Change, a glassy modern mall just moments from the cathedral. Take the lift up to its rooftop terrace for a stunning, totally free panorama of Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece against the London skyline. Locals love this spot for selfies, skyline sketches, and a little peace above city bustle. Evenings see Londoners gathering for sunset snaps, but it’s equally gorgeous for a quiet morning look across the Thames. Best part? You don’t need to buy a thing to enjoy this top-of-the-world moment.  Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall  A ten-minute stroll from St Paul’s, crossing the pedestrian-only Millennium Bridge hands you straight to Tate Modern—one of the world’s best contemporary art museums, and proudly free to enter. While special exhibitions cost extra, you’ll find vast public galleries filled with treasures from Picasso to Warhol, and the Turbine Hall itself is a visitor favourite. This soaring industrial space showcases huge, mind-bending installations throughout the year. Soak up cutting-edge art, take advantage of free guided tours, and enjoy the sweeping city view from the building’s riverside windows.  Postman’s Park  Need a peaceful pause? Tucked between office blocks just five minutes from the cathedral, Postman’s Park feels like a secret garden. Famous for its touching Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice, this tranquil space tells the stories of ordinary Londoners who performed extraordinary acts of bravery. Shady benches, blooming flower beds, and the soft burble of fountains make it a perfect lunch spot or reflective break. It’s a local favourite for quiet contemplation, especially in the golden afternoon light.  Guildhall Art Gallery & Roman Amphitheatre  History meets modern art in this unique, free-to-enter gallery just north of St Paul’s. The Guildhall Art Gallery displays eye-catching Victorian masterpieces alongside contemporary pieces. The real surprise is hidden underground: descend to discover the remains of London’s Roman Amphitheatre, complete with dramatic lighting and interactive displays. Entry is always free, and the beautiful neo-Gothic building makes for impressive photos. Visit during lunchtime for pop-up events and after-hours art evenings.  Southbank Stroll  Just across the river, London’s Southbank calls with eye-catching street art, free festivals, theatre-front buskers and dazzling city views. Wander beneath Waterloo Bridge for the vibrant skate park, browse the book market, or duck into the National Theatre foyer for free exhibitions. Grab a seat on a riverside bench for some premium people-watching, or catch an impromptu performance beneath the festival flags. Even the walk itself, past the London Eye and street food trucks, is absolutely free and always buzzing with energy.  Carter Lane Gardens  For a quiet break with a dash of history, Carter Lane Gardens ticks every box. This hidden patch of greenery sits just behind St Paul’s and is dotted with benches and tucked-away sculptures. What we love is the blend of old and new: modern landscaping meets fragments of ancient city walls. In summer, it’s filled with office workers on lunch break; in spring, you can catch cherry blossom petals drifting past the stone ruins. Perfect for a quick recharge or sneaky picnic.  Smithfield Market  Step into living history at Smithfield, London’s oldest working market, just a ten-minute stroll from St Paul’s. The grand Victorian architecture—wrought iron and intricate tiles—tells its own story. Early risers can catch the market buzz from 7am on weekdays as butchers and porters get down to business, but you don’t need to buy anything to appreciate the atmosphere. Guided heritage walks (often free!) depart from the area, revealing tales of knights, rebels, and centuries of midnight trade. When the crowds thin, the peaceful cloistered arches are a prime selfie backdrop and a genuine slice of local life.    Ready to make the most of London’s city centre? Around St Paul’s Cathedral, adventure on a budget is always in style.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to visiting the London Eye, and explore the spooky rivalry between London Bridge Experience and London Dungeon!   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! 
woman enjoying madame tussauds, sitting next to a statue of Audrey Hepburn
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No Ticket Needed: Free Surprises Around Madame Tussauds

Free London Finds: The Best Things to Do Near Madame Tussauds  So you’ve finished snapping selfies with your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds (don’t worry, we all do it). Now what? Luckily, this corner of London is bursting with activities that won’t touch your wallet. Baker Street is a launchpad to leafy parks, charming city squares, tucked-away museums, and streets made for wandering. Forget splashing out on every attraction — you’ll find plenty of authentic London experiences for free right outside Madame Tussauds’ door. From historic strolls to hidden galleries, here’s our handpicked list to keep your itinerary buzzing and your budget blissfully happy.  Our top free things to do near Madame Tussauds include:  Regent’s Park  The Sherlock Holmes Museum (front, exterior, & shop)  Marylebone High Street  The Wallace Collection  St. Marylebone Parish Church  Daunt Books (Marylebone)  Regent’s Canal Towpath  Paddington Street Gardens  The Royal Academy of Music Museum  Hyde Park (North Entrance & Speakers’ Corner)  The Sherlock Holmes Museum (Facade & Shop)  While the full museum experience comes with a ticket, it’s fun (and free) to visit the world-famous 221B Baker Street. Pose for a photo with the famous blue plaque and Sherlock statue outside the distinctive Victorian facade. The themed museum shop next door lets you browse everything Holmesy, from deerstalker hats to quirky mystery novels and pint-sized magnifying glasses, all in an atmosphere straight out of Victorian London. With staff in period dress and plenty of details to soak up, it’s a fun taster of Sherlock’s world at absolutely no cost.  Marylebone High Street  A stone’s throw away you’ll find Marylebone High Street, a firm local favorite for good reason. The vibe here is classic London village: think tree-lined streets, characterful brick buildings, and tempting storefronts. Window-shopping is half the fun, plus you’ll feel the buzz of independent boutiques, cheese shops, florists, and cute cafés on every corner. It’s perfect for a leisurely wander and a proper slice of local city life. The small side streets off the main drag are full of personality, too — keep an eye out for quirky architecture and gorgeous window displays.  The Wallace Collection  Ready for some grandeur? The Wallace Collection is a genuine London treat — and completely free to enter. Housed in a dazzling historic townhouse, this gallery is the place for European paintings, decorative art, and shimmering suits of armor. Picture ornate rooms gleaming with Old Masters and rococo treasures, all a world away from the city bustle outside. We love the hushed, refined ambiance — and if you’re a fan of a well-placed selfie, the drawing rooms are hard to beat.  Tip: The glass-roofed courtyard café is open to all (even just for a peek or a cup of water).  St. Marylebone Parish Church  Some London history is best experienced in peaceful places. St. Marylebone Parish Church stands just a short walk up Marylebone Road. Step inside this beautiful neoclassical building, with its stunning columns and peaceful ambiance. Admire stained glass windows, cozy nooks, and serene chapels — this is the spot for a moment of reflection or simply to recharge your batteries. Bonus: the crypt sometimes hosts free exhibitions and events, so check the schedule before you go.  Regent’s Canal Towpath  London’s waterways are packed with character, and Regent’s Canal is the city’s peaceful hidden artery. Enter near Regent’s Park and stroll along towpaths fringed by narrowboats, street art, and plenty of ducks. It’s urban London at its most tranquil. This is the perfect route for clear-headed thinking, quiet conversation, and people-watching (cyclists, joggers, and eccentric boat-dwellers make up the local cast). Each stretch reveals riverside gardens, quirky bridges, and café-boats perfect for a free-water pit-stop.  Paddington Street Gardens  City parks don’t get much more charming than Paddington Street Gardens. Hidden between elegant Victorian terraces in Marylebone, this tiny oasis is a favorite escape for locals. Grassy lawns, beds overflowing with blooms, and tree-shaded benches mean lunch hours can stretch into sunny afternoons. Stroll among the winding paths and spot old tombstones hinting at the area’s deep history. Go for calm, stay for the people-watching — it’s the perfect place for a takeaway picnic or an hour of rest after a busy London morning.  The Royal Academy of Music Museum  Just a short walk north of Madame Tussauds, The Royal Academy of Music Museum offers a treasure trove of musical history — and free entry to boot. From ancient stringed instruments to quirky mechanical music boxes and famous composers’ belongings, every display hums with creativity. Interactive screens let you listen to rare historic recordings, and you can peek into rooms where future stars are rehearsing. The ambiance is lively but hushed — a real inspiration for anyone feeling creative. Don’t be surprised if you leave humming your favorite tune.  Hyde Park (North Entrance & Speakers’ Corner)  Few parks offer the variety and space of Hyde Park, only about a 10-minute walk from Madame Tussauds’ main entrance. The North Entrance opens a world of open lawns, wildflowers, and hidden statues, but the star event happens at Speakers’ Corner — a uniquely London tradition of public debate and soapbox speeches that’s been drawing crowds for more than a century. No ticket required to listen (or get up to speak yourself on a Sunday). Hyde Park’s walking paths grant endless people-watching, sun basking, and a real sense of London leisure.    Whatever your interest, you’ll find a free adventure by Madame Tussauds — so leave some room on your itinerary, grab your walking shoes, and discover a side of the city that’s friendly to your budget.    Enjoyed this? Check out London’s top walks, and see the quirkier side of the city.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®   We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 

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