Things to do in London

London's Thames waterfront packs a lot into a short stretch, with a giant observation wheel, a WWII warship, and a converted ferry pub all within sight…

London's Thames waterfront packs a lot into a short stretch, with a giant observation wheel, a WWII warship, and a converted ferry pub all within sight of each other. It's a compact trio that works well for a day out, especially if you're after big views, history, and a place to sit down with a drink.

The London Eye is the obvious starting point, and it's genuinely good for children, so families can make it the centerpiece of a visit. Just along the river, HMS Belfast offers a more hands-on kind of history: a nine-deck WWII warship turned museum, permanently moored, with naval guns and plenty of decks to explore. When you're ready for a break, Tattershall Castle—a former passenger ferry now serving pub food, beer, wine, and cocktails—has outdoor seating and direct views of the Eye. It's a small but well-rounded waterfront itinerary.

Frequently asked questions about London

What are the best things to do in London for families?

The London Eye and HMS Belfast are both good for children, so they make a natural pairing. You can ride the Eye for views over the city, then walk along the river to the warship, where kids can explore the decks and see the naval guns up close.

Is HMS Belfast worth visiting as a museum?

Yes, if you like military history or ships. It's a nine-deck WWII warship permanently moored on the Thames, so you can wander through multiple levels and get a real sense of life aboard. The naval guns are a highlight, and it's a hands-on experience rather than just looking at exhibits.

Where can I get a drink or food near the London Eye?

Tattershall Castle is a former passenger ferry moored on the Thames, now serving pub food and drinks. It has outdoor seating and views of the London Eye, and the drinks list includes beer, wine, and cocktails, so it works for a casual meal or just a stop for a drink.

Can I visit the London Eye and HMS Belfast in one day?

Yes, they're both on the Thames and within walking distance of each other. Start with the London Eye for the views, then head to HMS Belfast to explore the warship. Add a stop at Tattershall Castle for food or a drink, and you've got a full day without much travel.

What kind of pub is Tattershall Castle?

It's a pub set on a former passenger ferry, permanently moored on the Thames. You can get pub food and drinks—beer, wine, and cocktails—and there's outdoor seating with views of the London Eye. It's a distinctive setting for a meal or a drink by the river.

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Things to do in London

ParkPhoto of Hyde Park — Park

Hyde Park

Huge green space, home to Diana Memorial Fountain, with boating and swimming in the Serpentine lake.

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PlazaPhoto of Trafalgar Square — Plaza

Trafalgar Square

Nelson's Column rises above this iconic square's LED-lit fountains, artworks and lion statues.

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CastlePhoto of Tower of London — Castle

Tower of London

Centuries of bloody history around a medieval castle, home to Crown Jewels and iconic Beefeaters.

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Live music venuePhoto of The O2 — Live music venue

The O2

Arena hosting concerts from the world's top stars & elite sporting events for up to 20,000 fans.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Westfield Stratford City — Shopping Mall

Westfield Stratford City

Large shopping mall featuring numerous luxury stores, plus a cinema, food court & restaurants.

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Scenic SpotPhoto of Sky Garden — Scenic Spot

Sky Garden

Known as the walkie talkie due to its unique shape, this skyscraper features a top-floor restaurant.

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BridgePhoto of London Bridge — Bridge

London Bridge

Concrete pedestrian and traffic bridge that gave a major railway station its name.

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Art GalleryPhoto of Tate Modern — Art Gallery

Tate Modern

Modern-art gallery with international works on display, plus a cafe with panoramic river views.

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ParkPhoto of St James's Park — Park

St James's Park

Green space with a lake with daily pelican feeding, a grass-roofed cafe and ceremonial displays.

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Art museumPhoto of Victoria and Albert Museum — Art museum

Victoria and Albert Museum

Blockbuster exhibitions and permanent decorative arts collection, with design shop and ornate cafe.

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MarketPhoto of Camden Market — Market

Camden Market

Eclectic market with youthful vibe and stalls/shops selling fashion and accessories, music and more.

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Cultural landmarkPhoto of Buckingham Palace — Cultural landmark

Buckingham Palace

Visitors can tour the palace's opulent private and state rooms or watch the changing of the guard.

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Tourist AttractionPhoto of London Eye — Tourist Attraction

London Eye

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BridgePhoto of Tower Bridge — Bridge

Tower Bridge

Panoramic views from high-level walkways and behind-the-scenes access to original lifting machinery.

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Department StorePhoto of Harrods — Department Store

Harrods

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Shopping MallPhoto of Covent Garden — Shopping Mall

Covent Garden

Shops, cafes and bars in restored market buildings with street performers in the Piazza.

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Cultural landmarkPhoto of Big Ben — Cultural landmark

Big Ben

16-storey Gothic clocktower and national symbol at the Eastern end of the Houses of Parliament.

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MarketPhoto of Borough Market — Market

Borough Market

Huge market under the railway lines, for British-reared meat and artisanal baked and dairy goods.

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MuseumPhoto of Science Museum — Museum

Science Museum

A vast treasury of science & invention, famous for its state-of-the-art interactive exhibits.

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Tourist AttractionPhoto of Madame Tussauds London — Tourist Attraction

Madame Tussauds London

Museum chain for life-size wax replicas of famous celebrities & historic icons in themed galleries.

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