Things to Do in London

London's best feature is that its world-class museums are free.

History & Royalty

Tower of London

See the Crown Jewels and meet the Ravens. It's a castle, a palace, and a prison.

• Tip: Go first thing in the morning to see the jewels without a queue.

British Museum

Human history under one roof. The Rosetta Stone and Elgin Marbles are the headliners.

• Cost: Free (donations encouraged).

Westminster Abbey

The setting for every Royal coronation since 1066. It's a beautiful, crowded, spiritual place.

Markets & Food

Borough Market

London's oldest food market. Great for lunch. Try the chorizo sandwich at Brindisa or donuts at Bread Ahead.

Afternoon Tea

A cliché, but a fun one. Sketch for pink velvet, The Ritz for tradition, or Fortnum & Mason for royal approval.

Sunday Roast

Find a cosy pub on a Sunday afternoon and order roast beef with Yorkshire pudding. It's a religion.

Art & Culture

Tate Modern

A power station turned art gallery. The Turbine Hall installations are always mind-blowing.

• Tip: The viewing platform on the top floor offers a great (free) view of St. Paul's.

V&A (Victoria and Albert Museum)

The world's leading museum of art and design. The jewellery collection is dazzling.

Parks

Hyde Park

Rent a Boris Bike (Santander Cycle) and ride around the Serpentine lake.

Hampstead Heath

Wilder and hillier. Climb Parliament Hill for a view of the skyline.