Car Hire London

Teeming with culture and steeped in centuries of history, London lies in the southeast of England, stretching along the banks of the River Thames. This iconic city with whopping 9 million residents is easily accessible by car, with the M25 encircling the area and major roads like the A40, A3 and A2 leading directly into the heart of the capital. Its weather tends to be mild but unpredictable, so it’s wise to pack a mix of layers and a reliable waterproof. Spring through early summer—especially May and June—is often the best time to explore, with longer daylight hours and pleasant temperatures. Visitors come for a blend of grand landmarks, international events, royal heritage and modern cultural experiences that define London’s global significance.

Attractions In London

London offers a balance of big-name attractions and lesser-known gems, rewarding both careful planning and spontaneous detours. It’s the sort of place where a walk between destinations can turn into a highlight itself, thanks to its layered architecture, lively street corners and hidden courtyards.

London Eye

The London Eye has become one of the city’s most recognisable symbols, not only for its architectural design but also for the sweeping skyline views it offers. Towering 135 metres above the South Bank, this observation wheel lets visitors take in London’s major landmarks from an entirely new perspective—Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and the Shard all come into view as you glide slowly around. We had a clear day when we went and the visibility was so good we could spot Windsor Castle in the distance – it’s no wonder it’s so popular with people coming in from Tottenham Court Road for a short city break. The 30-minute rotation feels just right—unhurried, yet full of wow moments. With its smooth ride and photo-friendly capsules, it’s an experience well suited to both families and solo travellers.

Camden Market

Few places in London pack as much personality into one area as Camden Market does. Spread across multiple zones and teeming with stalls, shops and eateries, this destination thrives on its mix of vintage fashion, handmade crafts and global street food. We stumbled upon a vinyl shop tucked away behind a vegan Ethiopian food stall—just the kind of unexpected gem Camden is known for. It’s this quirky blend of chaos and charm that draws over a hundred thousand glowing reviews and once you’re weaving through its narrow paths, it’s easy to see why. You could visit three times and still discover something new each time.

Palace Of Westminster

As the seat of the UK’s Parliament, the Palace of Westminster holds a place of real weight in British history and governance. Its towering façade and intricate Gothic Revival architecture create an imposing silhouette beside the Thames and inside, the atmosphere only deepens. Walking past the House of Commons chamber—knowing the political decisions made within those walls shaped not just Britain but world history—is a rare experience. The attention to design, both inside and out, reflects a deep national tradition that continues to this day. From the finely carved spires to the richly adorned chambers, the palace stands as a powerful reminder of the country’s enduring parliamentary system.

Buckingham Palace

It’s hard to overstate the importance of Buckingham Palace in the story of Britain’s monarchy. Built in the early 18th century and transformed into the monarch’s official residence in 1837, the palace has played host to centuries of royal ceremonies and state occasions. Touring the State Rooms gives you a rare glimpse into the traditions of royal life, with gilded ceilings, lavish furnishings and artwork from the Royal Collection on display. We were especially taken by the Garden Tour—tucked behind the palace walls, it felt like a hidden retreat in the middle of the capital. Those staying around Euston often make this their first stop and it’s easy to see why once you’re standing before its iconic façade.

SEA LIFE London Aquarium

This aquarium does more than just display marine life—it draws you into a world of vibrant coral reefs, mysterious deep-sea creatures and playful penguins all under one roof. Situated just off Westminster Bridge Road, SEA LIFE offers immersive tanks and walkthrough tunnels that keep both kids and adults wide-eyed. We had a couple of hours to spare and ended up staying far longer than planned, mesmerised by the colourful displays and calming ambience. On our way back toward Aldwych, we couldn’t stop chatting about the jellyfish room and the penguin enclosure—small, yes but beautifully maintained and clearly a favourite with younger guests.

Shrek’s Adventure London

This Riverside Building attraction brings the animated world of Shrek to life with an energetic mix of storytelling, live performances and immersive 4D effects. We found the sets to be wonderfully detailed, creating a playful journey that keeps kids engaged from start to finish. While the overall experience runs a little short, the laughter it delivers—especially when Donkey makes an appearance—makes it feel worth the trip. Families often pair it with nearby attractions, making it a solid choice for a well-rounded day out in central London.

The View From The Shard

As one of London’s tallest structures, The Shard offers an unrivalled vantage point to take in the capital’s sprawling landscape. From the 72nd floor, visitors can enjoy a sweeping 360-degree view across the city, with major landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge clearly visible. Its high-speed lifts and open-air terrace create a dynamic yet relaxed experience, especially popular with those exploring from Waterloo. Even when the weather turns hazy, the views from the lower floors still impress and the on-site bar adds a touch of elegance to the visit.

Nelson’s Column

At the heart of Trafalgar Square stands Nelson’s Column, a towering monument dedicated to Admiral Horatio Nelson and his naval triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Surrounded by four sculpted lions and rising to a height of 169 feet, the column represents one of the country’s most iconic tributes to its maritime history. It’s a fixture in many city walking routes and offers a moment of reflection amidst the bustle of the square. The landmark’s historical symbolism continues to resonate with those interested in Britain’s military and national identity.

Tower Of London

The Tower of London is one of the most significant historical sites in the country, with over 900 years of heritage etched into its stone walls. Originally constructed in the 11th century, the site has functioned as a royal residence, prison, armoury and now a world-renowned museum. Its exhibitions—particularly the Crown Jewels—highlight both the grandeur and the darker chapters of the monarchy’s past. Located not far from Bloomsbury, it remains a powerful representation of royal authority and a key stop for anyone seeking to understand the foundations of British power.

Jewel Tower

Dating back to 1365, the Jewel Tower is one of the last surviving parts of the original medieval Palace of Westminster. Built to safeguard the royal treasures, the tower later served various functions, including as part of the parliamentary archives. Today, its modest but evocative interior holds exhibits that chart its evolving role through the centuries. The thick stone walls and original medieval features lend a strong sense of authenticity and the museum’s small scale makes it an easy but rewarding visit for those interested in Britain’s early administrative and royal structures.

The British Museum

With one of the most comprehensive collections of artefacts in the world, the British Museum remains a cornerstone of London’s cultural identity. Its galleries span civilisations—from Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia to Classical Greece and the Roman Empire. Highlights like the Rosetta Stone and Elgin Marbles attract large crowds, while quieter rooms offer a chance to explore in more depth. Its central location makes it a regular stop for those staying around Central London and with free entry year-round, it continues to be both accessible and intellectually enriching for millions of visitors.

Victoria And Albert Museum

Known for its breadth of decorative arts and design exhibits, the Victoria and Albert Museum offers a unique lens through which to view global creativity. The collection covers everything from textiles and fashion to sculpture, ceramics and jewellery, with rotating exhibitions that often focus on specific eras or regions. Many visitors comment on the sheer scale of the displays and the thoughtful layout of the museum, which encourages unhurried exploration. Its position near South Bank makes it a convenient addition to a cultural day out in the area, especially for those seeking art with historical depth.

Churchill War Rooms

Hidden beneath the streets of Westminster, the Churchill War Rooms offer a compelling window into Britain’s wartime leadership during the Second World War. This preserved underground bunker showcases how government and military strategies were coordinated during some of the nation’s most challenging moments. The detailed exhibitions and audio guides take visitors through the preserved rooms and planning spaces, where history feels remarkably close. It’s a thoughtfully curated museum that blends immersive atmosphere with informative displays, making it especially relevant for anyone interested in political or military history.

Imperial War Museum

The Imperial War Museum stands as one of London’s most important institutions for understanding the human impact of conflict. With exhibits covering everything from World War I to contemporary military engagement, the museum uses personal testimonies original artefacts and interactive installations to create an engaging and emotional experience. Each section is designed to guide visitors through the complex narratives of war—its causes, consequences and personal costs. The museum’s clarity and emotional depth resonate with visitors across generations, whether they have a strong background in history or are simply curious to learn more.

The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs

Combining historical storytelling with immersive theatrical scares, The London Bridge Experience is one of the city’s more unconventional attractions. The first part introduces visitors to the dramatic past of London Bridge, weaving together centuries of tales through atmospheric sets and live performances. After that, the adjoining London Tombs shift tone completely with a high-intensity horror maze designed to test your nerves. It’s a unique pairing of education and entertainment that appeals to thrill-seekers and history lovers alike, offering something different from the city’s more traditional museum experiences.

The London Dungeon

Located along Westminster Bridge Road, The London Dungeon delivers a theatrical and often spine-chilling walk through some of the city’s darkest historical episodes. Through a mix of live actors, themed sets and special effects, the experience plunges visitors into stories of plague, fire and infamous criminals like Sweeney Todd. Its interactive nature and strong production value have made it especially popular among families and groups looking for something a bit more playful—and a bit more terrifying—than the average museum. A common stop for thrill-seekers from Belgravia, the Dungeon stands out as one of the capital’s most entertaining history experiences.