48 Things to Do in London This Weekend

Experience a magical winter wonderland with thrilling rides, festive markets, and delicious street food. It's the perfect place for friends and family to explore during the holiday season.

Tip: Arrive early or consider alternative entrances to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.

Glide across the ice at one of London's most iconic winter destinations. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and stunning surroundings of Somerset House.

Tip: Book your skating slots in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly.

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Leicester Square's Christmas market and ice rink. It's a classic West End experience with plenty of seasonal cheer.

Tip: Explore the market stalls for unique gifts and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Take a scenic walk along the Thames Path, offering iconic views of London's landmarks. You might even discover historical artifacts if the tide is out.

Tip: Consider walking from Tower Bridge to Greenwich for a rewarding stretch.

Brighten your Sunday with a visit to this vibrant flower market. It's a sensory delight with a fantastic atmosphere and a great way to start your day.

Tip: Go early to get the best selection and avoid the biggest crowds.

Discover world-class artifacts and treasures from across the globe. This iconic museum offers a vast collection that's both educational and fascinating.

Tip: Plan your visit around specific exhibits to make the most of your time.

Indulge your senses at this renowned food market, offering a huge variety of delicious street food, artisanal products, and fresh produce.

Tip: Go with an empty stomach and be prepared to sample a wide array of treats.

Enjoy a lively atmosphere with street performers, art installations, and great views of the Thames. It's a perfect spot for a casual stroll and people-watching.

Tip: Check for free events or exhibitions happening along the South Bank.

Marvel at the impressive dinosaur skeletons and explore the wonders of the natural world. This museum is a hit with all ages and offers free entry.

Tip: Don't miss the Hintze Hall with its iconic blue whale skeleton.

Engage with interactive exhibits that explore science and technology. It's a fun and educational experience for curious minds of all ages.

Tip: Allow plenty of time to explore the various interactive galleries.

Soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Covent Garden with its street performers, market stalls, and unique shops. It's a lively hub for entertainment and browsing.

Tip: Catch a free performance by the talented street entertainers.

Get a unique perspective of London from above with a ride on the cable car. It's covered by your TfL travel card and offers great views.

Tip: It's a great way to see the O2 Arena and the Thames Barrier.

Discover a treasure trove of crafts, antiques, and delicious street food in this historic market. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely browse and a tasty bite.

Tip: Combine your visit with a walk along the Thames or a visit to the Royal Observatory.

Immerse yourself in art and design from around the world. The V&A boasts an incredible collection spanning centuries and cultures.

Tip: Check out the stunning Cast Courts and the Fashion galleries.

Explore modern and contemporary art in this iconic power station gallery. The Turbine Hall often features impressive large-scale installations.

Tip: Head to the viewing level for panoramic views of the city.

Experience a weekend filled with art, exhibitions, and festive culture in the charming neighborhood of Hampstead.

Tip: Check the festival schedule for specific events and locations.

Admire masterpieces of European painting from the 13th to the 19th centuries. It's a must-visit for art lovers.

Tip: Focus on specific wings or artists to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Discover a surprising collection of modern sculptures and public art dotted around the Canary Wharf estate. It's a great area for a unique urban exploration.

Tip: Wander along the canals and enjoy the contemporary architecture.

Witness magical, free snowfall flurries outside The Savoy hotel during the festive season. It's a charming and unexpected winter spectacle.

Tip: Check the timings as the snowfall occurs at regular intervals in the early evening.

Discover the fascinating history of the UK's postal service and ride the miniature Mail Rail. It's a unique and engaging experience for all ages.

Tip: Tickets are valid for unlimited entry for a year, so you can revisit!

Discover a vibrant street food and independent market known for its diverse offerings and local feel. It's a great alternative to more tourist-heavy markets.

Tip: Perfect for a weekend brunch or a casual lunch.

Explore the historic heart of London, filled with ancient sites and traditional pubs. It's a less crowded alternative to the West End on weekends.

Tip: Walk from Holborn to St. Paul's and stop at pubs like The Cheshire Cheese.

Experience contemporary art in a dynamic setting. The Saatchi Gallery showcases cutting-edge works from emerging and established artists.

Tip: Check their website for current exhibitions.

Stand on the Prime Meridian Line and learn about astronomy and timekeeping. The views over London from the hill are spectacular.

Tip: Combine with a visit to Greenwich Market and the National Maritime Museum.

Step into the eccentric and fascinating former home of Sir John Soane, filled with art, antiquities, and curiosities.

Tip: It's a compact museum, so allow about an hour to explore.

Explore this eclectic market known for its alternative fashion, unique crafts, and diverse street food stalls. It's a hub of creativity and culture.

Tip: Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.

Learn about London's rich maritime history and its transformation into a global financial center. It's housed in a beautiful former warehouse.

Tip: Great for understanding the area's industrial past.

Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city from this beautiful rooftop garden. It's a peaceful escape with impressive city vistas.

Tip: A great spot for a quiet moment and some photos.

Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of London from this unique public garden located high above the city. It's a fantastic free alternative to the Shard.

Tip: Book your free tickets online in advance as slots are limited.

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Regent's Canal, leading to the expansive Victoria Park. It's a green oasis with plenty of space to relax.

Tip: There's often a small food market in the park on Sundays.

Discover portraits of influential figures from British history and contemporary society. It's a fascinating look at faces that have shaped the nation.

Tip: Look out for the famous portraits of royalty and artists.

Let kids burn off energy in this magical playground inspired by Peter Pan. It's a safe and imaginative space for children to play.

Tip: Adults can only enter if accompanied by a child.

Discover temporary pop-up shops offering beauty products and fashion at great prices, often with proceeds going to charity.

Tip: Keep an eye on local listings for current pop-up events.

Enjoy a night of laughs at this popular comedy club, known for surprise guest appearances from famous comedians. It's an affordable and fun night out.

Tip: Tickets are very cheap, but donations are expected to support the comedians.

Explore this bustling market known for its delicious street food, independent stalls, and lively atmosphere. It's a great spot for weekend browsing.

Tip: Combine with a walk to nearby London Fields or Victoria Park.

See the fascinating Victorian-era dinosaur sculptures set within Crystal Palace Park. It's a unique outdoor attraction for families and dinosaur enthusiasts.

Tip: Great for a picnic and a stroll in the park.

Discover a hub of arts and culture with exhibitions, performances, and unique architecture. It's a Brutalist masterpiece with a lot to offer.

Tip: Check their listings for current exhibitions and events.

Immerse yourself in the world of photography with diverse exhibitions showcasing contemporary and historical works.

Tip: It's a great place to see cutting-edge photographic art.

Enjoy a peaceful escape in these beautiful gardens, home to Kensington Palace and the Diana Memorial Playground. It's perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Tip: Combine with a visit to Kensington Palace.

Discover the UK's national library, housing an incredible collection of books, manuscripts, and maps. You can see treasures like the Magna Carta.

Tip: Check their exhibition spaces for special displays.

Experience a slice of rural life in the city at one of London's many community farms. It's a fun and educational outing for families.

Tip: Great for young children to interact with animals.

Take a scenic journey on the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Greenwich. Enjoy the views and then explore the historic Cutty Sark ship.

Tip: Sit at the front of the DLR for a driver's-eye view.

Wander through the vibrant streets of Shoreditch, a canvas for incredible street art. It's a constantly evolving outdoor gallery.

Tip: Take a guided street art tour for deeper insights.

Delve into Britain's seafaring history and explore fascinating maritime artifacts. It's located in the heart of historic Greenwich.

Tip: Combine with a visit to the Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark.

Discover a foodie haven under the railway arches, offering a diverse range of delicious street food and artisan products.

Tip: A great spot for a weekend lunch or snack.

Explore the largest collection of British art in the world, from the 16th century to the present day. It's a comprehensive look at British artistic heritage.

Tip: Don't miss the Turner Prize exhibition if it's on.

Escape the city bustle in this vast, beautiful parkland offering swimming ponds, woodlands, and stunning city views from Parliament Hill.

Tip: Perfect for a long walk, picnic, or a refreshing dip in the ponds.

Admire a stunning collection of Old Master paintings, French 18th-century art, and fine furniture in a beautiful historic townhouse.

Tip: The armoury collection is particularly impressive.