Top Ten British Things To Do in London

1. Portobello Market 

Situated in the heart of Notting Hill is one of London’s oldest markets, stretching over a mile long against a row of pastel-washed terrace houses (so dust off those comfortable shoes and score high on the step count!). Dating back to the 19th century, Portobello Road has attracted global recognition for its incredible selection of market stalls - including vintage, classic vinyl, and over 1000 antique traders selling their national treasures and collectables. Its charm? You’ll never see so many spoons in one area. 

‍Our top tip? Rummage through the vintage market and grab a gem or two, with hundreds of second-hand stalls setting up shop on the weekends, alongside a vibrant and characterful street food market. 

‍Location: London W11 1LJ

‍Visit now

2. Kew Gardens 

You might wanna keep your most comfortable shoes ready for this one! Kew Gardens is home to a whooping 300 acres of land, alongside over 50,000 luscious plants and fruits from all four corners of the world. Spend an afternoon spotting the rarest fauna in the world's largest Victorian glasshouse or discover a tropical wonderland in the Palm House. If plants aren’t quite hitting the spot, check out the Marianne North Gallery and the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art - a perfect place to escape and roam permanent art, sculpture, and historical collections. If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, discover the Chinese Pagoda or climb the 18 metre Treetop Walkway for panoramic views of Kew and beyond - all included in the entry price, of course.

Location: Kew Gardens Rd, Richmond TW9 3AE

‍Book now

3. The Painted Hall

Labelled as ‘Britain’s Sistine Chapel’, the Painted Hall offers a stunning baroque ceiling and wall paintings, and is a dreamy venue guaranteed to impress Brits and tourists alike. Illustrated by British artist Sir James Thornhill, the artwork took nineteen years from commission to its completion in 1726, so there’s little wonder the hall has beautiful architecture, open space and a quiet atmosphere down to a fine art. And here’s an added treat - multimedia guides, expert talks, and exhibits will teach you about its fascinating naval history and culture! Simply book a ticket and soak in the masterpiece. You’ll be lost for words. 

‍Our top tip? To observe Thornhill’s paintings in more detail, lie down on one of the ‘sofa beds’ or gaze into the upturned mirror which is located at the far end of The Painted Hall. 

Location: College Way, London SE10 9NN

Book now 

{{app-1}}‍‍

4. Sky Garden 

What’s in a name? Sky Garden answers that question with its beautiful botanical and bar scene, located 43 floors up London’s iconic ‘walkie talkie’ building. A one-stop destination for budding socialites and tourists alike, the venue is home to a variety of luxurious restaurants, bars and a 360 garden pathway. This summer, check out the new-ish Whispering Angel Terrace, where you can sit back, relax and drink in the natural surroundings with a chilled glass of Whispering Angel wine and a fine dining experience. Oh and did we mention the free outdoor viewing platform, offering some pretty sweet panoramic views of the city’s landmarks and sunsets? You don’t wanna miss out. 

‍Our top tip? Free admission tickets can easily be booked online via the Sky Garden website - book in advance to avoid disappointment!  

‍Location: 1, Sky Garden Walk, London EC3M 8AF

‍Book now 

5. Tower Bridge Glass Floors 

Thrills and views! Earning its name as one of the most iconic places to visit in London, Tower Bridge’s most recent ‘Glass Floors’ venture has captured thrill-seekers from far and wide. Here you can experience high-level glass panels with an impressive birds-eye view of the city’s hustle and bustle - right underneath your feet. Turning the skyline scene on its head, stroll (or weirdly shuffle) along the transparent walkway and watch the river vessels drifting along the Thames, iconic red buses transporting the roads and pedestrians whizzing across the bridge at 10 miles per hour - if you dare look down. 

‍Our top tip? Eyes off the floor for a moment! Look up and you’ll discover the mirrored ceilings conveniently placed to take some sweet selfie snaps. 

‍Location: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP

‍Book now 

6. V&A

Located in the heart of South Kensington’s museum scene, the V&A is recognised for its world-renowned and modern exhibitions, alongside permanent collections in historical art, sculpture, fashion, global culture and more (boasting 2.27 million artefacts, to be precise). But, the stunning baroque ceilings in their central art deco cafe makes the visit worth it alone! Oh and did we mention that the V&A is free to visit? You’re welcome. 

Our top tip? Check out the Medieval and Renaissance room for some seriously impressive sculptures, or the venue’s extensive fashion collection which is presented from the 1800s to the present day.

Location: Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL

Visit now ‍‍

7. Sketch Afternoon Tea 

We wouldn’t be British if we didn’t mention afternoon tea now, would we? With a reputation as one of London’s most stylish restaurants, Sketch offers a remarkable dining experience set apart by its modern interiors - from the minimalist parlour, to the space age bathroom. All that aside, the venue is also home to a delightful and quintessential afternoon tea. From classic cucumber sandwiches and cherry victoria sponges, to refreshing herbal teas and Kent’s finest bubbly, expect a positively good time with a friend or two. Pinkies up! 

Location: 9 Conduit St, London W1S 2XG

Book now ‍‍

8. Royal Westminster Tour 

Embark on a tour of London’s most iconic destinations, from Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament to Big Ben. For £95 and a productive step count, expect a treat as you weave through cobblestoned streets and discover the historical knowledge behind the Elizabeth Tower and Great Clock, alongside panoramic sightseeing and more. And if you’re feeling particularly British and adventurous, why not stop for a pint in one of the city’s classic pubs afterwards? Cheers! 

‍Location: 20 Dean's Yard, London SW1P 3JS

Book now ‍‍

9. Poppie’s Fish and Chips 

Located a skip away from Spitalfields Market, Poppie's is serving up the creme de la creme of chippy teas with a London twist. Here you can easily tuck into the UK’s treasured fish and chips (and mushy peas, if that’s your vibe) against a backdrop of retro memorabilia - note the musical jukebox and classic vinyl’s hanging on the walls, alongside casual booth seating. With a queue forming around the block just to get a taste of the old East End, we’re fairly certain you couldn’t get more British than that. 

{{guides}}

‍Location: 6-8 Hanbury St, London E1 6QR

‍Visit now 

10. Thames Rockets 

If 360 skyline or birds-eye views aren't quite hitting the spot, how about a view from the Thames instead? Enter the Thames Rockets Speedboat Tour - perfect if you’re looking for a little adventure and adrenaline. Watch the London Eye and Tower Bridge pass you by whilst you speed along the river, and soak in a sense of freedom with the wind in your hair. And with different packages to choose from, including added throwback tunes and alternative routes, Thames Rocket is a unique and thrilling way to explore London’s finest scenes from a different perspective. 

Location: Boarding Gate One, The London Eye Millennium Pier, London SE1 7PB

‍Book now

Looking for plenty more things to add to your British bucket list? Download the Bindy Street app and check out our Tourist’s Guide to London to find the best British pubs, iconic landmarks, stunning parks and more.  

‍Continue sight-seeing for the day… or take advantage of the sunny blue skies for the Best Rooftop Brunches around London.