BEST THINGS TO DO IN LONDON FOR FIRST TIMERS W/ MAP (2024) | 40+ Must-Dos, Hidden Gems & More!

[@HappytoWander]

Hey everyone! I hope you enjoy this week's (extra long) video about the best things to do in London. The written version here somehow goes into even MORE detail so be sure to check it out: happytowander.com/things-to-do-in-london-england/ And thanks again to @UnboundMerino for sponsoring this week’s video! You can browse their full collection here & save 10% off your first order with the code CHRISTINA10: shrsl.com/4fsez #UnboundMerino

[@aletia4189]

Great video, very helpful!Where can I find the map?

[@TimeyWimeyLimey]

The BEST and most detailed guide to London I have ever watched. Concierge quality information, especially on how you can see St Paul's and the London skyline for free.

[@HappytoWander]

Wow that is such a kind comment. Thank you so much!!! Glad you enjoyed the video and I hope the tips come in handy sometime :)

[@destinyking8218]

Agreed!! Thanks so so much!

[@shahara3053]

I'm a native Brit and Londoner, but my husband is American and he's visiting England for the first time and here I am lol searching for places to take him to! Thanks, one of the best guides on YT!

[@weeleelee5843]

Wow! The WORK that has gone into this!!! Very impressive. I've lived here for 10 years and haven't done some of the things on this list. You've inspired me to get out there.

[@HappytoWander]

Ah thank you so much for the wonderful comment! I hope you have fun exploring more of the city soon 🫶

[@adventuresforthecurious]

This is seriously THE best, most complete, informative video I have watched as I have been researching for my first visit to London (and I think I probably have easily watched several hundred). The minute I saw you had posted a new video, I had to click, like and share. I have always loved your videos, and I think you are the most generous person to share such in-depth guides. This is truly the only video someone would need to watch before visiting London. Thank you for the time and efforts you go to for those of us who get to sit back and watch!

[@user-zzyachieve]

I can't agree more! It is helpful for tourists ~ ❤By the way, I found that I can use code to get discounts on tickets on TRIP ~🎉

[@HappytoWander]

Oh my gosh this is the nicest comment ever. Thank you so much!! I’m really glad you found it helpful. My goal with this one was to be as thorough as possible so it means a lot that you enjoyed it. Safe travels on your first trip to London!! 🫶

[@avadheshburagadda4997]

Best London tour guide hands down

[@AroopBose]

Hi! I am from India. In May this year I visited London for the second time and I made it a point to visit Horizon 22. I booked my slot while I was still in India. It was a good experience, the view was 300⁰ but I was a bit disappointed 😞 as well because it was a cloudy day unfortunately. Since I was staying long enough in London, I visited Horizon 22 once again, this time without booking in advance. I just landed up there. There was not much crowd; the reasons could be because it was a weekday and perhaps the place was not so well known then, it had opened recently. My second visit was fruitful because it was a clear day with good sunshine. Now when I think back and review the photos and videos I took I feel that my cloudy day experience was also good, I was able to see London in two different weather conditions. I would strongly recommend Horizon 22 to anyone visiting London.

[@AroopBose]

During my trip to London in May 2024 I visited Battsea Power Station and even had lunch at Gordon Ramsay's there. I had absolutely no idea that it was newly opened, less than 2 years ago, thanks to you I now know. I enjoyed my tour of Battersea Power Station.

[@Shaquia.R]

I am studying abroad in London in Westminster and was a little nervous, but this really just gave me so much Joy and I am so excited!!!!! 🙌🏾

[@iamtheimagedoctor]

This is definitely one of the best produced and totally comprehensive videos of London. I just wish that when someone said there is a "free" download pdf that I didn't have to download another app just to see it. Obviously the app is making money from tracking me. It should not be necessary just to get a pdf that will open in any browser.

[@tonimiller5497]

Wow! There's some real gems here that I did not know about for our trip later this year. Thanks for all the time and effort you put into this!

[@HappytoWander]

Aw wow thank you so much for the kind words and tip 🫶 I really appreciate it!! Wishing you safe travels on your trip to London. I hope my tips can come in handy when the time comes!

[@kdchase]

I’ve watched a dozen KZbin videos and you’ve tackled so many alternatives that other’s have missed or just glossed over, like the museums. I’m going to g to be rewatching and adding things to be my Wanderlog. Thank you!!

[@user-zzyachieve]

I can't agree more! It is helpful for tourists ~ ❤By the way, I found that I can use code to get discounts on tickets on TRIP ~😊

[@HappytoWander]

Ahh thank you so much for saying that!! My goal was to be as thorough as possible without making a ten part docuseries lol so I’m really glad you enjoyed it 🫶

[@ruthalta860]

Wow! This video is the most comprehensive tour guide for first timers in London. Very impressive and helpful. I was able to finalize our itinerary based on your recommendations. Thank you 😊

[@neffymax]

I am impressed! I have watched so many videos on London and this was hands down the best I've seen.

[@jackieeggen8193]

The BEST London guide I have ever seen!

[@freddiemac1438]

I think yours is the most comprehensive and thorough guide I’ve seen on YT - I’m a Londoner and didn’t know half of the places you mentioned! Well done …. I would also suggest as you did booking the twilight ceremony of the keys which is held every night at 9pm at the Tower of London / it’s a fascinating spooky military ceremony - you have to get tickets in advance - £5 each but brilliant!

[@jonathanporras6788]

Going to London next week! You made a comprehensive list of must-do and must-visit places! Thank you very much!

[@Vanloves2travel]

You always “knock it out of the park”, Christina! Thanks to you , I now have a good idea for planning a future visit to London.

[@HappytoWander]

Thanks so much!! Glad you found it helpful 🫶 safe travels.

[@doreensteinberg2290]

have a great time. Hope you love London as much as I

[@stephaniecampbell9499]

The churches even if you are on a short trip, are a MUST. they are BREATHE TAKING. even if you aren't religious. the art detail, the historic famous ppl buried there. YES ITS ALWAYS A MUST. If ona budget highly recommend the London pass, they often do discounts thru out the year, but over all you can do most of the places mentioned and more, theres uaully a hop on and off bus, and uber sea bus included at least one use each. the two main Chuches includes, galleries, tower of london, palaces. so much more. a few walking tours i think too. You more than get your money's worth. I think i spend around $400 Cad for the 10 day pass. but they have 1, 3, 5, 8 etc day passes, seriously it saves you so much!!! Oh and the London zoo is included!! There is a lot of free stuff to do that i hadnt realized the 1st couple trips i did. but the london Pass is a must! I find just doing a few of the big places to go to, you've already paid for the price. It will save you a lot. idk if that worth it in a couple days. but i never just go for 1-3 days. I find london is at least a 7+ trip I am planning to move to the UK next year. you could spend years there fidning new places to go lol

[@danteperez5347]

New subscriber here! I like the way you take us to practical and honest guides! Cheers!

[@EuropeUnveiled-u9y]

Wow! The WORK that has gone into this!!! Very impressive

[@cijmo]

This is a great video. I go to London quite a bit and I would certainly agree with most of these. (I'm not into the palaces but if it's on one's bucket list...they MUST visit!) I would add, after you're finished with the Mithraeum, go to Guildhall and see the ampitheatre for more Roman digs. Also, while London Bridge is the 'boring' one, there's not only a great photo op of the beautiful Tower Bridge but I also stop half way across and just stand for a moment because ... the bridge and the river are the reasons that London is there at all. So I always give it a moment.

[@HappytoWander]

Ooh thanks much for the tip about the amphitheatre! I genuinely had never seen or heard of it, so definitely something to put on the list for next time. Thank you thank you!

[@deenaparker8689]

Absolutely the best video I’ve seen showcasing the sights to see in London. Very well done!

[@CPGold1999]

Don't prioritize Westminster Abbey??? It's absolutely beautiful! I've been three times and would gladly go back. And I've never been when it's crowded. Do you go in the summer or during some other high tourist season? If you are a first timer, go to Westminster Abbey. Hit St. Paul's as well!

[@McGrathPete]

Wow, I’ve lived in London all my life, and there’s some things in here I didn’t know about! What a well put together video, thank you!

[@doreensteinberg2290]

I am 84 and spent the first 34 years in London. Was evacuated, returned to London during the bombing as at 3 I said I would rather die in London with my parents. London means everything - its beautiful buildings and history. Your. video was amazing I have you tube films of Churchill’ and Queen Mother’s funerals and helicopter trip over London. Thank you so much for bringing back so many memories and showing some places to explore

[@vwright1021]

Nice comment Doreen. 👍👍

[@doreensteinberg2290]

@@vwright1021 thank you

[@edwarddavid7893]

I am planning my next trip and you saved me HOURS of research! Thank you !

[@janellegilson6294]

You did an amazing job on this! I so enjoyed learning all about the different areas. So excited about Sir John Stan's house visit!!

[@mialovestravel]

This video came at the perfect time as I’m planning my trip for this September! 💗

[@user-zzyachieve]

I can't agree more! ❤It is helpful for tourists ~ By the way, I found that I can use code to get discounts on tickets on TRIP ~😊

[@HappytoWander]

Awesome!! I hope you have an amazing time 🫶

[@Queensletter2me]

Your vocal tempo on this video is PERFECT!! I felt as in a comfortable conversation with an informative friend. HOWEVER your fast talking pace as in the BRUSSELS video is fierce and totally unenjoyable. Keep your own natural beautiful tempo. It l enhances the message you share! Thank you!!

[@vramarathnam]

Thanks a Lot. I have never seen such a comprehensive guide with practical tips. I have a good idea now when i plan my trip next year. Great efforts you have taken to present this with a common man's perspective.

[@MeagsLife]

I'm hoping to visit London for the first time in Oct/ November, I'm so excited!

[@danielnyc5768]

Epic video! Incredibly well researched with lots of useful and detailed information. Well done! 👍🏼

[@HappytoWander]

Thanks so much!! Glad you enjoyed it :)

[@OneRedFeatherStudios.]

Kudos to you and your production team, on putting together such a wonderful and informative taste of what you can do in London. Looking back on how much your production value has evolved from your earlier videos, I have to compliment you on your hard work and dedication. Great job mate.

[@HappytoWander]

Aw you are so kind! Thank you. I honestly can’t even watch my first uploads because of how cringe I find the quality hahah so I’ll have to take your word for it that they’ve improved. 😂

[@OneRedFeatherStudios.]

@@HappytoWander - I assure you.. .they are NOT cringe at all. Because those early ones, always have info and ideas that a lot of people weren't covering back then. Evolution of something like your channel on a format like this, is always a good thing. We still learn a lot from those early ones. I know I do.

[@anneannie1296]

We’ve been to London at least 7-8x but you still managed to suggest so many good places. We’ll definitely be visiting your other recommendations this month. Great video 👍🏻 ❤

[@liliyach7235]

Thank you for all the suggestions. Looks like I need a month to see all these places.

[@nikimolnar99]

Extremely useful and well-curated guide. Thank you. I didn't know about half of these and I live 30 mins from London. One small thing: The Golden Hinde is pronounced Hind, with the i pronounced the same as eye. English used to add the letter e to words - like olde - that were never pronounced, so eventually dropped from spellings.

[@JacquelineRichardson-d1l]

So thorough! This video is no joke in editing. Thanks so much

[@CatherineLopez-yq7ds]

This is seriously THE best, most complete, informative video I have watched as I have been researching for my first visit to London ( and I thin

[@Unimportantlersonig]

I want to go to London for college next year but I’m not entirely sure if it’s the right choice- but ig from the view, it looks perfect!

[@simplysourdough5444]

Goodness me, we have just binged watched a load of your videos and the amount of handy tips and information you give is so very much appreciated. Planning a trip to Europe next year and value so many things you have suggested. Thank you!

[@cargopilot1]

This is the best London guide I have seen. Thank you.

[@kateDixon-x7c]

There is some great advice! Thank you I was not tracking the Mithraeum, what a fun way to see sky gardens high above the head down the Roman ruins below! Can't wait to see this.

[@HappytoWander]

You’re welcome!! A lot of people miss the Mithraeum actually since it’s somewhat hidden, but I love that it’s free and so close to other main sights. Hope you get to check it out yourself soon!

[@roeslan1969]

Excellent guide.. I have been to London like 10 times but I still find this video very interesting & can learn a lot from it... Keep it up!

[@UncleWill1957]

Fantastic video. Wished I had seen this before my first trip this past December

[@studogable]

Wow, this was really remarkable! Did you mention the British Museum? I'm not recalling it, but I can see why you may have wanted to avoid the controversy. (Or I may just be forgetting.) Likewise the immensely popular Whitechapel tours highlighting the events of Autumn 1888 - I imagine that those who would be interested in these know what to look for already. Exemplary work!

[@donaldomahoney1774]

The Church in your video next to Westminster abbey is St Margaret's Church, Samuel Peyps was married at St Margaret's and Sir Walter Raleigh is buried there ... at Westminster Abbey you should pay the little extra and go up to the Queens gallery and see the Magna Carta and Queen Elizabeth 1st charter

[@WildBoy-w7y]

I would recommend immersive translate for people who love to explore different contents. Like for me am now able to interact with different contents because I can understand different languages

[@Pablo260492]

I love London with my heart ❤ Thanks for sharing

[@HappytoWander]

Me too!! London is amazing. I’m always itching to go back. Thanks for watching and commenting 🫶

[@tilsit8875]

Thanks so much for the interesting tour of the lovely London !!... When you live so far away it´s wonderful to be able to see everything that it offers !... Thanks !!...

[@HappytoWander]

You’re very welcome!! Thanks for watching 🫶

[@JetLagRecords]

Happy to Wander, This is great! I liked it and subscribed!

[@HappytoWander]

Aw thank you so much!!! Really glad you enjoyed it :)

[@kunleoyewole7892]

I must say .. this is so so detailed and interesting.. am going to watch again and again and again..❤.. kudos to you for a detailed tour given.😊..

[@SwtAngel2]

Hi Christina, thank you so much for this awesome video! Do you have a video regarding what to wear/pack when visiting the UK in the summer?

[@camuchanomellini903]

Wow! this is amazing information! Im traveling alone to London England for the first time. As a woman alone I'm a bit nervous but exited. going to the Cotswolds, Edinburg and London. Are any Airbnb places to stay? in this there places with a heater and clean 😊

[@vksiu]

this is the most detailed guide, thanks

[@amyjaeggle3506]

Fantastic information!!! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@HappytoWander]

You’re welcome!! Thanks so much for watching and commenting :)

[@sherryschumacher1881]

Great video with some hidden gems that I wasn't aware of!

[@HappytoWander]

Thanks so much for watching!! Always more to see in London haha 🫶

[@ischikellecorbin5538]

How long does it take to explore a borough ? Should you choose one to explore over a few days stay? Or can you do one per day ? I’m planning a 5 day trip so it would help to know realistically the timeline of exploration for the different areas mentioned . Thank you so much !

[@davisurdaneta1426]

Thank you for this amazing video. I am visiting London next month, this would be a great city guide. By the way, how many days do you need cover all these places? Cheers!

[@delnavazsooi5338]

I just loved this video , so much info. Thank you !

[@Kwippy]

Can you please make a list of which sites are iconic and which are not so I can prioritize thank you!

[@renferal5290]

I always enjoy London. Will be there in a couple months. I always stay near Covent Garden.

[@HappytoWander]

Ah nice! What a central place to stay - close to all the action. Wishing you safe travels on your next visit!

[@kunleoyewole7892]

Please where would you recommend for a one day tour.. thanks

[@donnaazu808]

Incredible guide!

[@Shopgirl-b2o]

Thanks for your awesome videos! Question-If I missed booking my free tickets to the Sky Garden on the date that I want to go, can you recommend an alternative for a family of 6-kids 10 to 16 yo? We have limited time in London, so we're looking for quick bites, not long or fancy lunches or dinners. Isn't there a cafe or some other place that you have recommended?

[@jennifersmith2822]

Excellent. Very thankful for your video!

[@attilagenius]

Dear Christina, how many days needed to go through all these places? I have 3 days visit to London next month

[@HappytoWander]

Oof honestly, this list is a culmination of so many visits, I couldn’t even begin to put a day number on it haha. Some people live in London all their lives and don’t manage to see everything. If you’re working with three days, here is a 3 day itinerary I came up with that incorporates the main sights from this video. I hope it helps!! happytowander.com/3-day-london-itinerary/

[@kcnkvs]

Such a great guide!

[@ejtravelcast8849]

Awesome content!!!!

[@TjS-x8i]

hi, if you want to get the discounted ticket for Hamilton or other musicals, do you check todaytix on the day of? or can you book it in advance? thank you

[@sharonsmiler4938]

Brilliant video - thank you xx

[@HappytoWander]

Thanks for watching! 💛

[@tmn612]

Amazing info thankyou ☺️

[@HappytoWander]

You’re very welcome!! 🫶 thanks for watching and commenting

[@sisixu2038]

thank U for the detailed video

[@Listenerandlearner870]

Do not try to use Oyster or contactless on the Stansted Express. Buy a ticket to avoid a big fine.

[@YapEnHanShaneHCI]

lmao at the fact that at 6:50 the lady in the bottom left dropped her phone 😆😆😆

[@anthonycsloan6244]

Can’t wait

[@MyHello79]

Awesome video

[@annpendigrast9682]

awesome VIDEO ❤

[@Beautiful2305]

Very very beautiful video

[@nopphan7]

This is a great video.

[@yerandycarrazana6446]

Hey there!! Where is the phone booth with the big Ben on the background located?

[@Magic_beans_]

Great George Street, just across from Parliament Square Garden (a smallish square park lined with bronze statues of historic figures.)

What are the top 10 Indian restaurants in London?

[@mistervacation23]

That is 2 mi west of Hamleading

[@sindhihousewife]

Hello dear queen 🎉🎉🎉

[@donvernon1745]

Where can I find the map?

[@sazzadhossain132]

WAIT WHAT? its called the Elisabeth Tower? And the clock itself is called the Big Ben? Bloody Hell!

[@kunleoyewole7892]

I just sent to like 5 of my friends..

[@ameliaclark5792]

Soho?

[@HappytoWander]

Yes! I mentioned it briefly in the City of Westminster section. So much to do there 💃

[@jorhaidadaud7464]

bery beautifull london bery pisetull💓💓💓💓🤗🌝😆🙏

[@jorhaidadaud7464]

Good london

[@BarbieToys-t7l]

Nice country,new friend

[@1963murf]

Where is the map please?

[@salrc8352]

Iconic is overused. Other words: Synonyms for Iconic: symbolic, well-known, renowned, classic, legendary, emblematic.

[@function0077]

Without their personal baggage, LDS leaders wouldn't have the Holy Ghost to guide them.

[@FioccoCockatoo]

London would have looked even better with the Disneyland UK Park they had in mind, I wish they take their idea to build it back

[@HappytoWander]

Oh wow I had no idea there were plans to build that!! I can sense myself going down a Wikipedia rabbit hole later to learn more haha

[@gihankanishka]

No, we don't need that place disturbing people who are living here, also it was planned in Kent. The plans were cancelled to build it, however, there are plans for a new Universal Studios in Bedford.

[@richardwani2803]

The things to do in London number 1 Leave go explore other parts of the UK and England

[@paulm2467]

And get to see a bunch of rioting racists?

[@paulm2467]

To see the rioting racists and fascists?

[@richardwani2803]

@@paulm2467 they have them in London also

[@paulm2467]

@@richardwani2803 nowhere near as many and they aren't rioting.

[@tomgarrett7567]

The best thing you can do in London is get on the bus out

[@paulm2467]

There are some stunning places in the rest of the UK but unfortunately they’ve got too many dim, racist xenophobes.