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

AquariumPhoto of SEA LIFE London Aquarium — Aquarium

SEA LIFE London Aquarium

Family-friendly exhibits with a variety of sea creatures (most offer play areas & group packages).

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MarketPhoto of Portobello Road Market — Market

Portobello Road Market

Vintage goods, street eats, souvenirs & more on offer at a bustling weekly market.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Stratford Shopping Centre — Shopping Mall

Stratford Shopping Centre

Energetic commercial complex offering a variety of shops, a farmers/flea market & services.

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Department StorePhoto of Liberty London — Department Storevia Google Maps

Liberty London

Tudor-revival building filled with high-end fashion and luxury homeware, with its own fabric line.

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Event venuePhoto of Alexandra Palace — Event venuevia Google Maps

Alexandra Palace

Iconic Victorian building in parkland staging live music, sports, exhibitions, circus & funfairs.

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MarketPhoto of Leadenhall Market — Market

Leadenhall Market

Historical, Victorian indoor marketplace with apparel & accessory stores, plus restaurants & bars.

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MarketPhoto of Seven Dials — Market

Seven Dials

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PlazaPhoto of Leicester Square — Plazavia Google Maps

Leicester Square

Bustling square founded in 1670 featuring a small park, statues of film characters & major cinemas.

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Art GalleryPhoto of Tate Britain — Art Galleryvia Google Maps

Tate Britain

Imposing gallery with historic and contemporary British art, notable for its JMW Turner collection.

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MuseumPhoto of Cutty Sark — Museum

Cutty Sark

Museum arranged around the eponymous ship that used to speed tea from Asia to Victorian Britain.

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Indian RestaurantPhoto of Dishoom Covent Garden — Indian Restaurantvia Google Maps

Dishoom Covent Garden

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

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Vegetarian RestaurantPhoto of Govinda's Soho Street — Vegetarian Restaurantvia Google Maps

Govinda's Soho Street

Linked to the Radha Krishna Temple, serving vegetarian and vegan Indian thalis, salads and sweets.

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MuseumPhoto of Imperial War Museum — Museumvia Google Maps

Imperial War Museum

Recreations of WWI trenches and the Blitz, many tanks and planes and revolving military exhibitions.

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MarketPhoto of Greenwich Market — Market

Greenwich Market

Longtime, indoor market with stalls & shops for antiques, art & other goods, plus take-out bites.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Canary Wharf — Shopping Mall

Canary Wharf

Vibrant mall offering designer shops, boutiques, restaurants, bars, a grocery store & movie theater.

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StadiumPhoto of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium — Stadiumvia Google Maps

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

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StadiumPhoto of Stamford Bridge — Stadiumvia Google Maps

Stamford Bridge

Modern stadium, home of 'The Blues' with behind-the-scenes tours and on-site hospitality services.

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ParkPhoto of The Green Park — Parkvia Google Maps

The Green Park

Spacious park with deckchair-scattered lawns, mature trees and views of regal local neighbours.

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ParkPhoto of Battersea Park — Park

Battersea Park

Large parkland with woods, boating lake, peace pagoda, adventure playground and children's zoo.

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Department StorePhoto of Fortnum & Mason — Department Storevia Google Maps

Fortnum & Mason

18th-century department store known for its gourmet groceries including tea and posh preserves.

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