As one of the largest cities in Europe, London is brimming with cultural and active things to do and see. Whether you are travelling to the English capital for business or pleasure, you will not struggle to find something that caters to your needs. Guests of Park Grand London Heathrow and Central London properties can look forward to ticking off the following 20 best things to do in London.
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Platform 9 ¾
Regardless of age, all Potter fans deserve a selfie with the enchanted platform. The newly refurbished Kings Cross Station contains a photo opportunity where you can queue up for a photo. It’s free to take a photo with your own device or you can purchase a professional print. There is also a gift shop where you can buy branded merchandise.
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Natural History Museum
London has no shortage of museums but few can compare to the Natural History Museum. This is where you will find the dinosaur gallery complete with an animatronic t-rex as well as exhibits on creepy crawlies and the earth core.
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Hackney City Farm Yard
One of the most surprising things to do in London is to visit an urban farm. Hackney City Farm Yard is home to sheep, goats, pigs, donkeys, and more. You can learn about organic and sustainable farming practices and enjoy a meal at the on-site cafe. Other city farms are located in Vauxhall, Surrey Docks, and Kentish Town. Those utilising meeting rooms West London can swing by the Hounslow Urban Farm to recharge.
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Tower of London
Dive headfirst into London’s bloodiest and most gruesome history at this fort, prison, and execution ground. See the ravens whose departure, according to legend, would spell the end of the London we know.
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Oxford Street
Need to refresh your wardrobe? Take a stroll down Oxford Street with your credit card. The thoroughfare is lined with British and international high street shops, designer boutiques, and the iconic Selfridges where purchases are presented in bright yellow bags.
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Portobello Road Market
This historic open-air market in Notting Hill opens Monday through Saturday but the final day draws the most vendors. Visit to browse one-of-a-kind collectables and priceless antiques.
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Paddington Basin
A stone’s throw from meeting rooms Paddington, Paddington Basin is a commercial destination for dining, socialising, and unwinding. It’s the perfect place to network with colleagues or catch up with loved ones over a waterside meal or cocktail. Do also swing by the floating garden.
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Shakespeare’s Globe
This Bankside theatre is an exact replica of the original Globe. The auditorium is open to the elements and if you visit London during the summer you can buy “standing” tickets and experience the spectacle of performance just like the Elizabethans did. Tours operate year-round.
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British Museum
The British Museum presents the history and culture of Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, Roman, and Middle Eastern societies. Items include the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon Marbles, and the bust of Ramesses the Great. Permanent galleries are free to visit while special exhibitions carry a fee.
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Little Venice
Escape the bustle with a wander around this picturesque neighbourhood, moments away from The Park Grand London Paddington. Little Venice is named for its canals that resemble Italy’s city of romance. You can break up your adventure by dropping into waterside cafes and even catching a puppet show on the theatre barge.
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London Eye
The London Eye oscillates on the South Bank and each lap takes approximately 30 minutes. Consider booking a VIP ticket for a special occasion – packages include private rental of one of the pods or adding a glass of bubbles.
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Borough Market
For those who love food, Borough Market is a must. This daily market is the source of farm-fresh fruit and vegetables as well as other produce. But you can also purchase meals to eat on the street or dine at one of the formal restaurants.
- Windsor Castle
This item requires a ride out of the city and is convenient for guests of the Park Grand London Heathrow. Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of Queen Elizabeth II and the British royal family. You can tour the interiors and explore the small town of Windsor. We also recommend this to those on a layover. -
Westminster Abbey
This ornate abbey has provided the setting for royal coronations, weddings, and other services since 1066. You can visit the exterior for free and take photos or pay a fee to enter the premises.
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British Library
The British Library contains the Magna Carta and other tomes that account for 400 miles of shelves. Access to the reading rooms is free but requires advance registration online. The exhibition space hosts regular events relating to literature and mythology and links to a fantastic gift shop. Those using meeting rooms Paddington might want to grab a moment to relax in the cafe.
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Imperial War Museum
This innovative system recreates the trenches of World War I and the horror of the Blitz. The complex is packed with artefacts and stories that although sobering are important to take the time to understand.
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Up at the O2
The O2 Arena (formerly the Millennium Dome) contains a cinema, concert venue, and restaurants. But, the star attraction is the opportunity to climb the roof and get an unforgettable perspective of the city. Advance booking is required especially for the coveted sunset time slot.
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Hyde Park
London’s best-known park contains a boating lake, swimming lido, art gallery, and elegant Italian Gardens complex. Residents of The Park Grand London Paddington love to start their day with a power walk or light jog around this tranquil patch of space before the city springs into action.
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Hampstead Heath
This verdant stretch of green space encompasses meadows, woodlands, and bathing ponds. Pack a picnic and spend a few hours lolling on the grass or hop into the water for a dip – a token admission charge applies.
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Millennium Bridge
Last but not least, cross this pedestrian-only bridge at sunset for a mesmerising view of the river and bankside landmarks including St Paul’s Cathedral and Tate Modern.
