London is a city that has so much to offer. From the nightlife and hustle and bustle of central London to the beautiful parks and recreational activities, there is plenty to see and do. It can be hard to pack everything in when making plans in the capital, which is why we’ve taken the time to gather some ideas for your next excursion. If you’re after some unique, lesser-known things to do in London, you’ve come to the right place.
Read on to find out our top London activities and days out!
London Food Tasting Tour from £10
Calling all foodies! Instead of wandering around aimlessly staring at the city sights and wondering when you’re next going to get a bite to eat, why not enjoy the city through food?
Experience London with your tastebuds on this tasting tour with an expert culinary guide. Starting in Shoreditch, this tour takes you through some of London’s most famous markets for just over a couple of hours, including multicultural Brick Lane.
Sure, you could visit a few cafes, stalls and restaurants of your own accord, but for only £10 you get to join an expert guide for a handpicked selection of some of the best food offerings in London. Not only that, but you’ll be part of a group of other food fanatics to make for a special bonding experience!
If your eyes are bigger than your stomach and you’re hankering for something to do in London, we’re sure this will fit the bill.
Little Venice to Camden Town Regents Canal Waterbus Boat Trip from £14
Sick of the tube? Take a trip by waterbus instead. This narrowboat experience will get you from Little Venice to Camden Town in style.
Beginning at Little Venice, glide along the water in a quaint canal boat through Regents Park. You’ll pass by London Zoo, and up to Camden Market. The trip lasts around 45 minutes and is a lovely way to travel to the heart of Camden! There are plenty of unique sightseeing opportunities along the way, including beautiful houseboats, a Chinese restaurant that sits on the canal, and the large exterior of London Zoo.
While on your trip you’ll see everything, from unique architecture and historical sites to urban graffiti art and wildlife. Enjoy journeying through the historic Maida Hill Tunnel, and take a look at the wildlife around you as you view from the large sliding windows.
Whether you’re needing a change of scenery from the concrete jungle or want to treat a special someone to an alternative journey, this trip is certain to be a lovely way to journey into Camden before hitting up the markets.
Paddington Bear Walking Tour of London from £15
Experience the London you see in the movies on a film location walking tour. You’ll learn all about your favourite movies with an expert guide.
Paddington Bear is an all-round family favourite, and if you’re looking for a fun activity for the whole family this walking tour will be just the ticket. Your guide will lead you around Paddington Station and Portobello Market, giving you the chance to view London locations featured in both Paddington films and books.
Spend two hours viewing scenic parts of London and learning more about the little bear from darkest Peru. If you have young ones to entertain in London they’re sure to love this experience, so why not make a day of it? Perhaps pack a lunch box with Paddington’s favourite, marmalade sandwiches!
There are many film location tours to explore around London so if Paddington isn’t for you, we’re sure you’ll find something that is.
Classic Chocolate Workshop in London from £55
Chocoholics, we see you. Why see the sights when you can eat chocolate, right? How about on your next day out in London you take the time to learn how to make fresh truffles and delicious personalised treats?
Spend a pleasant couple of hours in a fun chocolate workshop by Regent’s Canal! Master chocolatiers will take you through chocolate’s tasty history as you sample exotic tasters and develop a discerning palate.
Once you’ve been welcomed into the world of chocolate making, it’s time to get started! Enjoy the process of creating your very own chocolate slab with toppings and decorations, as well as classic truffles. You’ll learn all about the delicate combination of timing and temperature as you make your own chocolates to take away with you. With lots of gift-wrapping options, this is a fantastic addition to any London day out and perhaps a lovely bonding experience with a loved one.
Situated a short walk from Brick Lane, Shoreditch and Spitalfields Market, you could certainly make a day of it in this area. Learn how to create beautiful, personalised chocolates to give as a gift - or scoff yourself! No judgements here.
Secret London Tour Walking Tour from £18
So you want to see the sights, but you’re not the generic tourist; you’re looking for some-lesser known places of intrigue around the city. Look no further.
Join a group tour led by an expert guide that will reveal some of London’s secrets and hidden gems. For 90 minutes, you’ll be surprised and shocked as you learn the incredible stories behind some London establishments. See the residence where Mozart composed his first symphony, the Benjamin Franklin house, London’s smallest police station and so much more down the hidden alleyways of the city.
A unique addition to any day plans in London, this tour is sure to equip you with some fantastic anecdotal knowledge for your next social occasion.
Whether solo or in a group, this walking tour will enrich your London plans.
West End Pub Crawl Of London from £20
Did somebody say free shots?
So, you’ve got your day plans covered, but you’re wondering where the party is at. Instead of wandering aimlessly until you find a good bar, let someone else take care of that for you.
This pub crawl gives you the chance to meet new people and experience the heart of London’s nightlife scene. An exclusive party rep is on hand to take you and a group of up to eight people around some of the best pubs and bars of Leicester Square, Covent Garden and Soho. Enjoy a night out to remember, with quick entry and exclusive deals on drinks that will save you an average of £50 or more! One thing Londoners know how to do well is get royally sloshed with some strangers, so you best follow suit.
This is a fantastic way to spend an evening in London and come away with new memories and friends.
Thames River Cruise Uber Boat by Thames Clippers (Prices Vary)
If you’re still looking for things to do in London, why not combine something fun with something practical?
The river boat cruise is a lovely way to see London landmarks and get from A to B. The cruise runs between Putney and Woolwich encompassing all of the key spots along the river in central London. You can choose where you alight and disembark to suit your day plans, and there is plenty to see at every point along the river. Sights include docks, the Tower of London, Southbank and the London Eye, as well as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.
A popular route - and a personal favourite - is to embark at Canary Wharf and disembark at Westminster Pier. This includes all the key London landmarks and leaves you in the perfect spot to enjoy all that Central London has to offer.
The best part is you don’t need to book in advance. You can purchase tickets via the website or just rock up with a contactless card and tap on and off just as you would the tube! In addition, you can enjoy light refreshment from the café and bar as you travel. What’s not to love?
If you’re looking for a different way to experience London, you’ll love this.
Thanks for reading!
Thanks for reading our Things To Do in London Guide.
We hope you’ve found a unique new activity or day out from our selection, but if you’re still looking, browse our full range of London experience gifts here.
Do you have a question, or a London activity you think we missed? Feel free to leave a comment, we’d love to hear from you!
