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 Greenwich Park — Parkvia Google Maps

Greenwich Park

Large park with expansive views, home to the Royal Observatory, Maritime Museum & Meridian Line.

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ParkPhoto of The Regent's Park — Park

The Regent's Park

Modern, glass-clad cafe and sports administrative centre, with pitches and changing rooms.

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Department StorePhoto of Selfridges — Department Storevia Google Maps

Selfridges

Upscale department store stocking designer & popular clothing brands plus housewares & gifts.

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ZooPhoto of London Zoo — Zoo

London Zoo

Major city zoo and research centre helping to conserve numerous species in naturalistic habitats.

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ParkPhoto of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park — Park

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Bridges, wildland & play parks weaving a latticework around London's 2012 Olympic venues.

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MarketPhoto of Spitalfields Market — Market

Spitalfields Market

Lively market with independent vendors for clothing, jewelry, home items, art & gourmet products.

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Historical LandmarkPhoto of Battersea Power Station — Historical Landmark

Battersea Power Station

Repurposed riverside Victorian power station featuring luxury shops, dining & entertainment.

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Tour AgencyPhoto of Golden Tours, Bulleid Way Departure Point — Tour Agencyvia Google Maps

Golden Tours, Bulleid Way Departure Point

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ParkPhoto of Kensington Gardens — Park

Kensington Gardens

Expansive park containing Kensington Palace & the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground.

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Historical PlacePhoto of Kensington Palace — Historical Placevia Google Maps

Kensington Palace

Royal palace and gardens, with exhibits on former residents like Queen Victoria and Princess Diana.

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ChurchPhoto of Westminster Abbey — Church

Westminster Abbey

Protestant abbey hosting daily services and every English and British coronation since 1066.

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Art museumPhoto of The National Gallery — Art museum

The National Gallery

Trafalgar Square art museum whose masterworks trace the development of Western European painting.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Westfield London — Shopping Mall

Westfield London

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ChurchPhoto of St. Paul's Cathedral — Churchvia Google Maps

St. Paul's Cathedral

17th-century cathedral featuring a 365ft-high dome, recitals & a churchyard, plus a crypt.

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Concert HallPhoto of Royal Albert Hall — Concert Hall

Royal Albert Hall

One of Britain's great Victorian splendours, most famous for the Proms classical music festival.

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LandmarkPhoto of The Shard — Landmarkvia Google Maps

The Shard

87-floor glass skyscraper with a jagged peak, with restaurants, offices, hotel & a viewing platform.

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Clothing StorePhoto of Primark — Clothing Storevia Google Maps

Primark

Discount fashion chain offering clothes and accessories for all ages, plus homewares.

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Indian RestaurantPhoto of Dishoom Shoreditch — Indian Restaurantvia Google Maps

Dishoom Shoreditch

Buzzy destination for Indian street food in Bombay-style digs with vintage decor & upscale touches.

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StadiumPhoto of Emirates Stadium — Stadiumvia Google Maps

Emirates Stadium

Purpose-built football stadium, home to Arsenal FC and some large-scale, close-season pop concerts.

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MuseumPhoto of Natural History Museum — Museum

Natural History Museum

Landmark museum of animals and natural phenomena, with hands-on exhibits and animatronic dinosaurs.

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