Things to Do in London: Parks, Museums, Theatre, and Local Secrets

When you think of things to do in London, a mix of world-class culture, quiet green spaces, and everyday local life. Also known as London activities, it’s not just about Big Ben and the London Eye—it’s about how you spend your time here, whether you’re new or have lived here for years.

London’s parks, free, peaceful, and full of character. Also known as London green spaces, are where the city breathes. St James’s Park has pelicans you can watch feed at noon. Waterlow Park in Highgate offers ponds and skyline views without the crowds. These aren’t just lawns—they’re part of daily life for runners, readers, and people who need five minutes away from the noise. Then there’s the museums, most of them free and packed with hands-on exhibits. Also known as London cultural institutions, places like the Science Museum and the Bank of England Museum don’t feel like classrooms. You can touch AI tech, walk through real gold vaults, or use an app to get a guided tour without renting a headset. And if you love stories told live, the West End theatre, the heart of London’s live performance scene. Also known as London musicals and plays, offers everything from Shakespeare to new experimental shows. You don’t need to book months ahead—same-day tickets at TKTS or through apps like TodayTix can save you half the price.

But the real magic isn’t always in the big names. It’s in the food. In Peckham, you’ll find Nigerian stew that tastes like home. In Shoreditch, street food stalls serve tacos with kimchi. In Chelsea, a tiny restaurant with no sign serves the best risotto in the city. These are the spots locals whisper about. And if you’re trying to stretch your budget, there are ways—cheap airport trains under £12, student rent hacks, even free classical concerts at Southbank Centre. You don’t need to spend a fortune to feel like you’re living in London. You just need to know where to look.

Whether you’re here for a weekend or a decade, the best things to do in London aren’t listed in guidebooks. They’re in the quiet corners, the off-peak hours, the places that don’t advertise. Below, you’ll find real guides from people who live here—on where to walk, what to see, how to save money, and when to skip the crowds. No fluff. Just what works.