Discovering the Real London: 20 Things to Do Beyond Big Ben
London, the vibrant capital of England, is a city that offers a plethora of experiences for visitors from around the world. While the iconic Big Ben is undoubtedly a must-see, there’s so much more to explore in this great city. From historic landmarks to cultural attractions, and from scenic parks to trendy neighborhoods, London has something for everyone. Here are 20 things to do in London that aren’t the Big Ben, helping you uncover the authentic charm of this incredible city.
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Explore the British Museum: One of the world’s greatest museums, the British Museum houses a collection of over 8 million objects, including the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the mummies in the Ancient Egypt gallery.
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Take a Stroll Along the South Bank: This vibrant area along the Thames offers a mix of street performers, food stalls, and stunning views of the city. It’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere.
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Visit the Tate Modern: Housed in a former power station, the Tate Modern is one of the world’s largest modern art museums, featuring works by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko.
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Shop at Camden Market: For a unique shopping experience, head to Camden Market, where you can find everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry and eclectic souvenirs.
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Relax in Hyde Park: One of London’s largest parks, Hyde Park offers boating on the Serpentine Lake, a visit to Diana’s Memorial Fountain, and plenty of green space for picnics or relaxation.
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DiscoverStreet Art in Shoreditch: This trendy neighborhood is known for its vibrant street art scene, with works by renowned artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairey adorning the walls.
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Visit the Natural History Museum: Home to over 80 million specimens, the Natural History Museum is a treasure trove of scientific knowledge, featuring dinosaur fossils, a giant squid, and the famous diplodocus skeleton, Dippy.
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Take in a Show in the West End: London’s theater district is world-renowned, with hit musicals and plays performing every night of the week. From classics like “Les Misérables” to newer hits like “The Book of Mormon,” there’s something for every taste.
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Explore the Tower of London: This historic fortress has served as a palace, prison, armory, and even a zoo over the centuries. Today, it’s home to the Crown Jewels and the Yeoman Warders (also known as Beefeaters).
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Walk Across the Millennium Bridge: This sleek, modern pedestrian bridge offers spectacular views of the Thames and the city, especially at sunset or twilight.
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Visit the Sky Garden: For a unique perspective on the city, head to the Sky Garden, a free public garden on the 35th floor of the Walkie-Talkie building, offering panoramic views of London.
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Browse the Bookstores on Charing Cross Road: This street is a haven for book lovers, with several iconic bookstores, including Foyles and the Mercenary Library.
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Explore the V&A Museum: The Victoria and Albert Museum is the world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design, featuring a collection that spans 5,000 years of human creativity, from ancient Chinese ceramics to modern fashion.
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Enjoy a Night Out in Soho: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Soho is the place to go for bars, clubs, and live music venues, catering to all preferences and styles.
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Visit Kew Gardens: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kew Gardens is one of the largest and most diverse botanical gardens in the world, featuring over 30,000 different kinds of plants.
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Take a Cruise on the Thames: Seeing London from the river offers a new perspective on the city’s landmarks and hidden gems.Choose from daytime or evening cruises, depending on your preference.
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Explore the Street Markets of Brick Lane: This eclectic area is known for its bustling markets, selling everything from vintage clothing to antique furniture and exotic foods.
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Visit the National Gallery: Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery houses a collection of Western European art from the 13th to the 19th centuries, including works by artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Leonardo da Vinci.
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Discover the Magic of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour: For fans of the wizarding world, this tour is a must. Explore the actual sets, costumes, and special effects from the movies, and learn about the making of the Harry Potter films.
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Wander Through Covent Garden: Once a convent garden, this historic area is now a popular spot for shopping, dining, and street performers. Its unique blend of old and new makes it a fascinating place to explore.
London is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, history with modernity. Beyond the iconic Big Ben, there’s a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or entertainment, this great city has something to offer everyone. So, come and explore the real London, beyond the beaten path.