Best Things to Do in Manchester

The Greater Manchester region attracts more than 119 million tourists each year.

With so many great attractions, it earns its place as a top UK travel destination.

If you’re planning a visit to the UK’s second-most populous urban area yourself, it’s important to plan what you’d like to see and do in advance. But with so many great attractions, it can be difficult to choose.

Looking to find out the best things to do in Manchester? Read on. We’ve put together a list of suggestions sure to suit any visitor.

Learn Something New at Manchester Museum

A stop off at the fascinating Manchester Museum should certainly figure highly in your plans to visit Manchester. The vast and varied exhibitions include dinosaur skeletons, historic artefacts and even an ancient Egypt exhibit, complete with real mummies!

But not everything in the museum is a historical object! There are living things too, in the vivarium. Here, you can observe a huge variety of brightly coloured tropical frogs in rainforest habitats, while learning about conservation efforts and the ecosystems these frogs need to survive.

The museum is within walking distance of the city centre, or accessible via a short bus ride. Admission is free, but it’s worth bringing a little spending money so you can get yourself a souvenir from the gift shop.

Visit Bury Market

For a traditional shopping experience with plenty of choices, look no further than Bury market. The historic, open-air market features hundreds of varying stalls, and visitors are sure to spot a bargain if they wander around for a little while.

It’s also a great place to enjoy some traditional Northern cuisine! If you’re looking to try some local delicacies, opt for some black peas, a butter pie, a Lancashire hotpot or a black pudding.

Visit Bury Market on Wednesdays, Fridays or Saturdays, when the open-air portion of the market is open. The market is located in the town of Bury, 11 miles northwest of Manchester city centre. It’s easily accessible by bus or Metrolink.

Watch Some Football

If there’s one thing Manchester is famous for, it’s football! As the home of two Premier League teams and the National Football Museum, the city is a hotbed of football culture.

Manchester United is one of the most famous teams in the world and a visit to their Old Trafford stadium is not to be missed. Or if you prefer to check out one of the most successful teams from football’s recent years, pay a visit to Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium. Game tickets are available for as little as £15 for some cup games, and you can reach both stadiums within 20 minutes by various Manchester travel options from the city centre.

If you’re looking for a quirkier (and cheaper!) football experience, try a game at one of the city’s non-league clubs. Altrincham FC and West Didsbury & Chorlton are both great places to soak up a unique atmosphere, and you can even enjoy a few drinks in the club bars.

Do Some Shopping at Affleck’s Palace

There are plenty of amazing shopping experiences for you to enjoy when you visit Manchester. But one favourite among locals is Affleck’s Palace. This quirky, multi-story market is packed full of independent stores.

At Affleck’s, you can get everything you could ever think of, from trading cars to tattoos, clothes to collectables. It’s a treasure trove of rare items and as a centre of alternative culture in the city, it’s a hangout for all kinds of interesting people.

Affleck’s is located just a few minutes walk north of Piccadilly Gardens. It’s open every day, so pay a visit and see what you can find!

Grab a Bite to Eat on Curry Mile

Manchester is a cultural melting pot, so if you’re visiting the city, it’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy cultures from around the world. One of the most famous symbols of the city’s diverse population is its Curry Mile area.

Located on Wilmslow Road in Rusholme, just south of Manchester city centre, it’s packed with great places to eat. The focus is on curry, but you can find all kinds of Asian cuisines here, so there’s sure to be something you’ll like.

If you’re not so much a fan of spicy food, visit one of the many Indian sweetshops along the Curry Mile. There, you can buy boxes of rich, creamy sweets. They’re delicious but be warned; they can be addictive!

Relax at Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens

Manchester is known as an industrial centre, filled with buildings and concrete. And if you were disappointed when you realised that Piccadilly Gardens isn’t actually a garden, don’t despair! There are plenty of beautiful green spaces too, perfect for taking some time out from city life!

One of the best outdoor attractions in the city is Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens. These beautiful, stepped gardens, are filled with a variety of alpine plants, and visitors can wander the paths that wind through the greenery, looking out for rare flora and hidden water features.

You’ll find the gardens in Didsbury, just half an hour’s bus ride south of the city centre. Immediately next to the gardens is the historic St James’ Church, as well as the Parsonage House and Gardens, offering more green space to enjoy and other historical buildings to explore.

Enjoy a Walk at Dunham Massey

Another popular outdoor Greater Manchester attraction is Dunham Massey. The stately home and its grounds offer plenty for visitors to see and do. You can tour the house, visit the old watermill, or wander the beautiful formal gardens.

But the main appeal of Dunham Massey is its vast landscape, with paths winding through miles of meadow, woodland, and lakes. There’s even a herd of deer which wander the grounds!

Although it’s located a fair way outside the city, just on the edge of the Greater Manchester boundary, it’s well worth the visit. There is a fee for parking and entering the house and gardens, but the grounds are free to visit, so it’s perfect for budget days out.

Discover More Amazing Things to Do in Manchester

Manchester is a huge city with so many different districts and areas. So, keep looking around you’ll find plenty more things to do in Manchester. There really is too much to see in a single visit!

Want to get the most out of days out in Manchester and other cities? Download Keetoo now!

Other ideas about Things to do and how to plan the perfect days out in the UK

• Things to do in London with Kids
• Things to do in Liverpool
• Top 10 day trips from London
• London in 3 days
• Changing of the Guard in London
• Top 7 things to do in Brighton
• Best things to do in Cambridge

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Changing of the Guard in London: Dates, Route and Where to watch

The Changing of the Guard is a ceremony

in which the Old Guard in charge of the security of Buckingham Palace is relieved of their duties by the New Guard. This spectacular parade is a free event, that takes place in the morning and is one of the most important and famous attractions in London.

During the Changing of the Guard you’ll see regiments of guards on both horseback and on foot. They will be wearing the traditional red robes and the famous bearskin hats. The military musical band performs alongside the ceremony of the Changing of the Guard. They play both military music and more contemporary hits – which often surprises visitors when they play songs that you wouldn’t expect!

What is the Changing of the Guard in London?

The Queens Guard is responsible for the security of two palaces in central London: Buckingham Palace and St James’s Palace. Located within 5 minutes of each other, the ceremony of the Changing of the Guard can be seen at both these two places: Wellington Barrack (at Buckingham Palace) and St James’s Palace.

Horse Guards is the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James’s Palace. Horse Guards is situated between the beautiful park of St. James’s and Whitehall, the road that takes us from Trafalgar Square to Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. There are mounted guards at Horse Guards, and these guards also switch over at 11am. This means that we will see mounted guards passing by Buckingham Palace twice – first at 10.45am, when the new mounted guard pass by towards Horse Guards, and then at 11.37am when the old mounted guard go back towards Buckingham Palace.

At 4 pm every day there is a dismounting ceremony at Horse Guards. This is known as the four o’ clock parade. The mounted guard that has been guarding Horse Guards from 11am is then relieved from duty at 4pm, by guards on foot. An officer will inspect the incoming Royal Guard, and after a long day of guarding the Queens’ Palace, the horses are taken to the stables to rest.

So, when we talk about the Changing of the Guard, we have to cover the following four key places:

• Buckingham Palace
• Wellington Barracks
• Palace of St James
• Horse Guards

The schedule of the Changing of the Guards – In Detail

The Changing of the Guard in London is held on specific days of the month, and the exact dates are normally confirmed a month in advance. We would advise that you check the dates of the changing of the guard a few days before you travel to London.

Top tip: Many people think that the ceremony of the Changing of the Guard is held every day at Buckingham Palace, but in fact, this is not the case. So, some days you´ll find that there are people waiting even if the Changing of the Guard is not scheduled to take place.

10.30 am: The new Guard of both detachments (Wellington Barracks and Palace of St James) get ready. At Wellington Barracks the new guard form up in the square of the barracks for inspection. They are accompanied by a military band that start playing a selection of music. The Royal Guard from the Palace of St James is not always accompanied by a musical band, but when there is a musical band, you will be able to hear it very clearly from Marlborough Road, when the procession starts heading towards Buckingham Palace.

10.43 am: St James´s Palace detachment of the Old Guard set off for Buckingham Palace.

10.45 am: The mounted guard (Household Cavalry) ride past Buckingham Palace on their way to Horse Guards.

10.57 am: The new Guard leave Wellington barracks for Buckingham Palace.

11:00 am: Official start time for the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

11:10 am: The new guards leave Buckingham Palace for the Palace of St James’s.

11:25 am: St. James’s Palace contingent, of the Old Guard, leaves St. James’s Palace and head towards Buckingham Palace.

11:37 am: The Old Guard that was on duty at Horse Guards rides past Buckingham Palace.

11:40 am: Old Guard who was on duty at Buckingham Palace leaves Buckingham Palace towards Wellington Barracks.

11:45 am: St. James’s Palace Detachment of The Queen’s Guard leaves Buckingham Palace..

Where to watch the Changing of the Guard in London

This is one of the attractions in London that tourists flock to see. To make sure that you don’t miss a thing during the Changing of the Guards, we would firstly recommend arriving early, and secondly, know where the best spot to stand is.

Most people will crowd right in front of Buckingham Palace at the gates, to see the changing of the Guard. There are more places from which the ceremony can be seen, but just bear in mind that the whole ceremony cannot be seen from just one spot.

Gates at Buckingham Palace: If you can get to the front row, just in front of Buckingham Palace at the gates, you will have a great view of the ceremony, but you won´t see the Household Cavalry very well.

Victoria Memorial: Just in front of Buckingham Palace you will see the Victoria Memorial, and standing on these steps will offer great views of the ceremony. The steps on the Victoria Memorial are probably one of our favourite spots to see the Changing of the Guard in London.

Green Park entrance: You could stand at the Green Park entrance which is on the right of the main entrance of the Palace – but we would not say that this is the best option to be honest, as you will not see the actual Changing of the Guard, but you will get to see the Household Cavalry as they go by.

Gates at Buckingham Palace: if you can get to the front row, just in front of Buckingham Palace at the gates, you will have a great view of the ceremony, but you won´t probably see the Household Cavalry very well.

The Mall: This is the main road that leads up to the main entrance of Buckingham Palace. We would recommend standing at the junction with Marlborough Road. You will be able to take brilliant photos from here.

Wellington Barracks

If you are not that interested in seeing the ceremony itself, but you want to take some cool pictures of the Guard walking or riding towards Buckingham Palace, we would recommend waiting at The Mall, which is the street that goes from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace. More specifically we would recommend that you stand at the entrance of Marlborough Road.

The Changing of the Guard Calendar in London:

The Changing of the Guard ceremony in London begins at 10.30 am with the relief of the guards happening at 11am at Buckingham Palace. The ceremony lasts approximately 30-45 minutes.

The Changing of the Guard will normally take place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday of the year. During the months of April, May and June the Changing of the Guard also takes place on Saturdays. During the summer it takes place every day of the week.

However, although this is generally the schedule, there can always be exceptions, with the exact dates usually confirmed one month in advance. Therefore, it’s so important to check the dates just before coming to London.

Cancellation due to rain

You have probably heard the rumours, it does occasionally rain in London… The bad news is that the ceremony of the Changing of the Guard in London can be cancelled last minute without any notice due to bad weather. If the ceremony is cancelled, it will not be rescheduled for a later time or date. However, in our experience it needs to rain a lot for it to be cancelled, and a few raindrops won’t stop it from happening!

Walking tours of the Changing of the Guard in London

A great option is to join one of the walking tours of the Changing of the Guard. A tour guide will tell you about the history and curiosities of this fantastic ceremony, but you will also get the opportunity to walk alongside the Queen´s soldiers. There is also access to a platform where you will get a perfect view of the whole thing.
More information: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour.

What to do after the ceremony

Once the ceremony is over, we would suggest that you go explore the nearby areas by foot. You will be close to tourist hot spots like St James’s Park and Trafalgar Square.

Visit Buckingham Palace

Not many people know this, but you can visit different parts of Buckingham Palace. The spectacular Royal Mews are one of the finest working stables in existence. Here you will be able to see the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, the Gold State Coach, and the carriage horses. The Royal Mews are open all year round to the public.

The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are open during the summer. We highly recommend doing this if you are looking to do something special during your visit to London.

The Queen’s Gallery has been a gallery for the Royal Collection since 1962, and it hosts a programme of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. It is open to the public all year round.

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What to do on a Saturday in London

There are so many things to do on a Saturday in London

that planning a weekend in the city will be an easy task. Choose from an array of Saturday Markets, explore the different shopping districts, dine in the best restaurants or enjoy some of the best events in London.
We’d highly recommend a stroll around one of the beautiful parks of London and in summer, there are even public pools that people flock to! And not to mention the vast number of museums and shopping centres to explore.

How to spend a Saturday in London

However, there are also some things that are only available to do on a Saturday – so we’re going to tell you about those too.

• Saturday Markets in London
• Tourist attractions
• Museums
• Shops and restaurants
• Guided tours
• Something different
• Suggestions

Saturday Markets in London

If you’re planning a trip to London, it’s worth planning your trip knowing that some of the best street markets in London are only open on Saturdays, so don’t forget to include this in your itinerary.

Portobello Road, the iconic Notting Hill flea market. Even though parts of Portobello Road Market are open on other days of the week, there’s a full market on Saturdays. Open from 9.00am to 7.00pm, this is undoubtedly the best day to visit.

Borough Market is the oldest market in London, and a must-see. Located next to London Bridge Underground Station, there’s a full market from Wednesdays to Saturdays, and on Saturdays, the market is open from 8.00am to 5.00pm..

Camden Market is another incredibly famous London market, and even though it opens every day of the week, there is a full market on Saturdays, with all of the shops and stalls open. Camden Market is open daily from 10am to 6pm (except Christmas Day).

Broadway Market is a wonderfully charming street market next to Regent’s Canal in Hackney that only opens on Saturdays. It’s not a popular tourist spot, but frequently visited by locals. Broadway Market is open from 9am to 5pm on Saturdays.

Spitalfields Market is open every day of the week, and on Saturdays their opening times are from 11.00am to 6.00pm. Located next to each other, Brick Lane Market, Petticoat Lane Market and Spitalfields Market are open on Sundays.

Maltby Street Market is a hidden gem located in south-east London. It’s open during weekends, and on Saturdays is open from 10.00am to 5.00pm.

Brixton Market not only includes a beautiful covered market but is also on pedestrianised roads. The outdoor markets are located on Electric Avenue, Pope’s Road and Brixton Station Road. Brixton Village and Market Row are covered market arcades but are also connected to the outdoor markets. On Saturdays, the outdoor markets and the covered markets are all open, and there’s also a themed market on Brixton Station Road. Brixton Market is open on Saturdays from 10am to 5pm.

Tourist attractions open on a Saturday in London

All tourist attractions in London open on Saturdays (except if it’s Christmas Day!). This includes London’s most famous attractions like: The London Eye, The View from the Shard, Madame Tussauds, The Sea Life Aquarium, the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey (just to name a few!).
Sightseeing bus tours and sightseeing river cruises also operate on Saturdays in London, and they can sometimes be the best way to see London when the streets are crowded!

Museums open on a Saturday in London

All the famous museums in London are open on Saturdays, including The Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum and the Tate Modern, just to name a few!

Shops and restaurants open on a Saturday in London

Shops and restaurants in central London are always open on Saturdays (except if it happens to be Christmas Day!) and you can walk, shop and dine in the most popular tourist spots in London such as Regent Street, Oxford Street, Soho, Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus.
Famous big department stores such as Harrods, Fortnum and Mason and Liberty are open on Sundays. Westfield shopping centres (White City and Stratford) also open on Sundays.

Guided tours available on Saturdays

Walking tours are available mostly during the weekends in London, some famous walking tours include Jack the Ripper, Changing of the Guard walking tour or the famous Harry Potter locations walking tour.

Walking tours in London

Located in the heart of the city, between the Strand and the River Thames is Somerset House, an incredible neo-classical building. On Thursdays and Saturdays, you can enjoy art and culture with a free guided tour of Somerset House, yes FREE! You’ll see 55 fountains dancing in the courtyard, and during the winter months you can even ice-skate. They often host open-air concerts, film and contemporary art and design exhibitions.

Do something a little different

If you’ve done all the most popular spots in London, then maybe it is time to explore an area that you’re not as familiar with. For example, you could make your way to the beautiful Richmond neighbourhood, where you can visit the farmer’s market on a Saturday or stunning Greenwich, where you’ll also find the Royal Observatory. The district of Hampstead has plenty of trendy bars and restaurants as well as Hampstead Heath, a stunning park to explore – and you can see the spectacular London skyline from the highest point in the park!

Our suggestions to spend the perfect Saturday in London
We think the best way to spend a Saturday in London is to spend the morning at one of the amazing Saturday markets in London before heading to Covent Garden to see the street entertainers, do some shopping and go to one of the restaurants. And as the sun goes down, head to the South Bank, for a walk along the River Thames – taking in the sights of the London Eye, Westminster Bridge and Big Ben.

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What to do on a Sunday in London

London never sleeps…even on a Sunday!

So, you can expect the crowds to be out in their masses with full shops, restaurants, and pubs full of locals and tourists. Don’t worry if you’re only here for the weekend, you’ll find that London has plenty to offer on a Sunday.

How to spend a Sunday in London

• Sunday Markets in London
• Tourist attractions open on a Sunday in London
• Museums, Shops and Restaurants
• Sunday Roast
• Guided tours
• Explore a different neighbourhood
• Indulge in a traditional Afternoon Tea
• More ideas
• What to avoid on a Sunday in London

Sunday Markets in London

If you’re planning a trip to London, it’s worth planning your trip knowing that some of the best street markets in London are only open on Sundays, so don’t forget to include one of these in your itinerary:

Spitalfields, Petticoat Lane and Brick Lane:

Open only on a Sunday, one of the most famous markets in the East End of London is Brick Lane. Right next to it, is Petticoat Lane and Spitalfields Market – so why not visit all 3 in a day? Whether you’re looking for independent food stalls, vintage goods and crafts, London has it all. Find out more about these markets here.

Columbia Road Flower Market:

Enjoy the amazing colours and flowers at this sweet-smelling market in East London.

Other markets to explore:

Brixton Market, Camden Market and Maltby Street Market are also great markets to explore on a Sunday, even though they are also open on other days of the week.

Farmers markets in London:

One of the best things to do at the weekend is to visit a farmers market, where you can enjoy the tastes and smells from the bakers, cheese makers, fruit farmers and butchers. Take a wander through the stalls and taste some samples. You can enjoy a great selection of meats, cakes, pies, cakes and of course, the delicious artisan breads. Some popular farmers markets include:
Queen’s Park Farmers Market
Marylebone Farmers Market
Alexandra Palace Farmers Market

Tourist Attractions on a Sunday in London

Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral are the only visitor attractions closed on Sundays, so there’s plenty to see and do.
This includes London’s most famous attractions like the London Eye, The View from the Shard, Madame Tussauds, the Sea Life London Aquarium, the Tower of London and Shakespeare’s Globe to name a few are all open on Sundays.
Sightseeing bus tours and sightseeing river cruises also operate on Sundays, and they can sometimes the best way to see London when the streets are crowded!

Museums, Shops and Restaurants open on a Sunday in London

All the famous museums in London are open on Sundays, such as The Natural History Museum, The Science Museum, The Victoria and Albert Museum, The British Museum and the Tate Modern just to name a few!

If you are looking for a little retail therapy, fear not because all the shops in central London will be open. Popular shopping areas like Oxford Street and Regent Street will still be bustling, however they will close earlier than they do during the week, usually at 6pm.
Famous department stores such as Harrods, Fortnum and Mason and Liberty are open on Sundays too. Westfield shopping centres (White City and Stratford) also open on Sundays.

You’ll always find somewhere to eat in central London, everyday of the week. Restaurants are always open on Sundays (except if it happens to be Christmas Day!) and you can walk, shop and dine in the most popular tourist spots in London such as Regent Street, Oxford Street, Soho, Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, just to name a few.

Treat yourself to a traditional Sunday roast

What better way to end the week than with lashings of gravy over beef or lamb or nut roast with all the trimmings of stuffing, parsnips, Yorkshire puddings and pigs in blankets. To experience a truly traditional roast dinner, one of the best places to go to is a pub. Some of the best spots are The Harwood Arms in Fulham, Blacklock Soho in Soho and Bike Shed Motorcycle Club in Shoreditch. And of course, if you are visiting Spitalfields Market, you will find plenty of pubs serving up roast dinners every Sunday.

Great places to explore on a Sunday include:

A trip to Greenwich is perfect for exploring the stunning views, visiting the Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark. You can also take to the air on one of the cable carts. Greenwich Market is only open Sundays, making it the perfect day to visit.
Explore the area of Richmond, where you will also find a craft market on a Sunday.
Or take a stroll through the beautiful Hampstead neighbourhood where you can enjoy laid-back bars and explore the gorgeous Hampstead Heath – here you can see the London skyline from one of the city’s highest points.

Enjoy an afternoon tea

The British love their tea and what better way to enjoy this other than with a traditional afternoon tea. With a huge amount of variety, from fancy high-end hotel teas to novelty science themes, chocolate themes and even afternoon teas on double decker buses, there’s something for everyone!

Some of the best afternoon teas are:

Afternoon Tea Cruise. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea with bubbles, finger sandwiches and cakes, whilst you admire London from the River Thames.
Brigits Afternoon Tea Bus Tour combines seeing all the top tourist sights like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace whist enjoying bubbles, finger sandwiches and cakes.
Scoff & Banter Tea Rooms on Oxford Street is perfect for nibbles, Champagne and a wealth of teas after a long day of shopping on London’s most famous shopping street.
Tale as Old as Time Tea at The Kensington, is a Disney lovers dream with Mrs Potts and Chip crockery, and cakes in the shape of the iconic characters from Beauty and the Beast. Those looking for something a little quirkier will love this.

Looking for more ideas?

A great way to spend a Sunday is by taking a stroll along the South Bank, and enjoying the sights of Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye. Places like Covent Garden and Leicester Square make an excellent setting for a night-time stroll. Explore the lights of China Town as well as enjoying the many street performances. You won’t get bored on a Sunday in London, there’s simply too much to do.

What to avoid on a Sunday in London

The only places we’d advise you avoid at the weekend are the office parts of the city such as Moorgate, Farringdon and Bank. During the weekend, they are empty, and some shops and restaurants are even closed.

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Best Mobile Apps to use while visiting London

Download Keetoo

Keetoo puts modern families, friends, and WhatsApp groups at the centre of a world where they can find, book and enjoy the best experiences for them, at the tap of a screen.

From unique days out to the UK’s best attractions, experiences and cinemas, keetoo allows you to get outside into the world and enjoy more time together.

https://citymapper.com/london?lang=en

Over half of humans live in cities, where mobility is a daily need. Public transport is the most used form of mobility in the most significant cities of the world and is essential to solving key issues such as congestion, affordability, and the environment. At Citymapper, they are solving these challenges so getting from A to B is seamless.

https://pay.google.com/

Google Pay is a digital wallet and payment platform from Google. It enables users to pay for transactions with Android devices in-store and on supported websites, mobile apps and Google services, like the Google Play Store. When you download it you can link your credit or debit card to the app and use them to pay shops, cafes and even London transport.

https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/how-to-pay-and-where-to-buy-tickets-and-oyster/tfl-oyster-and-contactless-app

Manage your contactless and Oyster cards on the go. With the TFL Oyster App you can add credit to your Oyster, check your journey history and more!

https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling/santander-cycles/community

If you like cycling then using the Santander bikes that are dotted around London is one of the best options to move around the city. Download the Santander Cycles App and you will be able to find the nearest bike stations, hire your bike quicker and check your spend.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/mobile-apps

Find special places, get key information and see what’s on at the different National Trust locations. Don’t forget to buy that membership!

https://britishstreetfood.co.uk/app

The British Street Food app showcases the best street food in Britain. It’s revolutionary, with live GPS maps showing who’s trading where and when. It details the specials of the best traders and encourages punters to photograph – and review – their food.

https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/london/

Always useful when you need to go from A to B and can’t use public transport! The Uber app is perfect for those times when you’re stuck in the rain, or have to get somewhere quickly.

https://www.accessable.co.uk/

Use AccessAble to find wheelchair friendly venues or check out disabled access and facilities. AccessAble is your accessibility guide.

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Top 10 London Attractions for Kids

So, if you are planning on visiting London with little (and not so little) ones and want to guarantee an unforgettable family trip, it is important to know all about the best London attractions for kids.

London is a city where children come first, so you will always be able to find fun and unique attractions for kids throughout the year. From museums to experiences London is the city that really does have it all.

The best London attractions for kids

To help you find and enjoy the best family days out for children in London, I have put together a list of our top 10 London attractions for kids.

The London Eye

A ride on a giant Ferris wheel is something that most children will 100% love. Rising to a height of 135 metres, the London Eye offers wonderful views of London, so adults tend to enjoy it just as much as the kids (I know I certainly did!). I recommend booking in advance via the Keetoo App to get more value from this attraction.

London Zoo

London Zoo is in Regent’s Park, one of the most beautiful parks in the city. Enjoy a trip to London Zoo and get up close and personal with lions, tigers, giraffes, and creepy crawlies – it is a must-see attraction for little ones. Be sure to check out the daily schedule of events and feeding times. You cannot miss the penguin show!

HMS Belfast

Situated between the Tower of London and London Bridge, the HMS Belfast is the most significant surviving warship of World War II. This floating museum offers an insight into life onboard during wartime. Kids will love climbing the ladders between decks, exploring below sea-level and there is even an interactive game. Sometimes there’s special family events one weekend a month which I highly recommend. Entry is free for under 5’s which is a huge bonus!

A hop-on hop-off bus tour

In my opinion, taking a bus tour is the easiest option for London sightseeing with kids. Not only can you use the bus as a form of transport for the day, but you also get great views of the landmarks and children love the novelty of sitting upstairs on the open-top deck. Most of the bus tour companies also include a River Thames cruise in their ticket, so you get to see London from two perspectives.

Legoland Windsor

Situated outside of London close to Windsor Castle, Legoland is easy to get to by public transport. Trains to Windsor depart from London Waterloo and London Paddington, but once at Windsor station you will need to take a connecting bus to Legoland, which can be a bit of a hassle with smaller children. There is also the option of taking a direct coach from London Victoria coach station which I think is probably the easier option for families.

Shrek’s Adventure

Situated close to the London Eye and one of London’s newest attractions, Shrek’s Adventure takes kids to a land far away where they can enjoy magical adventures alongside the world’s favourite green ogre and his friends. A great attraction to consider when looking for things to do in London with kids. Book with your Keetoo app to make the fun go further at this attraction.

Harry Potter Studios

If your child (or you) are a Harry Potter fan, then a visit to the Harry Potter Warner Bros. studios is a must. Discover the sets where many of the movies were filmed, ride the Hogwarts Express, learn to ride a broomstick, and try a famous butter beer as you follow Harry Potter´s footsteps.
This is unsurprisingly one of London’s most popular attractions and is advanced booking only, so be sure to book several weeks in advance as tickets sell out extremely quickly.

The Lion King musical

One of London’s most successful musicals of recent years, the Lion King is simply outstanding. It is always one of my top recommendations to friends who are coming to London with kids. You can get tickets from around £35 each and I think it is totally worth the money.

The Natural History Museum

At first, you could be mistaken for thinking that the Natural History Museum would not be that entertaining for kids, but the truth is, it’s made for them! They will be able to admire some of the strangest, preserved animals on the planet, along with dinosaur skeletons and so much more. The star of the show is currently ‘Hope’, the giant whale skeleton that presides over the central gallery. And the best thing about visiting here is that it’s a free museum for adults and children! WIN!

More things to do in London with kids

In addition to my top 10 London attractions for kids, there are so many other places to consider when visiting London as a family.
I particularly love musicals as they offer so much fun and entertainment for all ages. In addition to the Lion King mentioned above, I would also recommend Matilda and The Prince Of Egypt.

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London in Two Days

Whether it’s a romantic weekend or a city break with friends, you’ll find that you can see a lot of London if you plan your 48 hours well. You’re also still guaranteed to leave London wanting to come back again!
Depending on how much time you have to spend you will be able to see pretty much all the must-sees of London in two days and even visit some top attractions or one of London’s fantastic museums.
If it’s your first time in London then you MUST see some of the most famous attractions in the city, such as Big Ben, the London Eye, Oxford Street, Regent Street and Soho. We would also recommend that you visit one of London’s famous markets; Camden Town or Portobello Road are full of personality. This way, you will leave London with the feeling of having seen the real city as well as the tourist hot spots.
To help you plan your 2 day trip to London, we have designed two different options for you to consider, so that you can make the most of your two days in London.

Why not consider the hop-on hop-off bus tour for either 24 or 48 hours? It is definitely the easiest way to get to the most important places in London, whilst enjoying the ride and the views. You also get a free river cruise which in our opinion is something that you need to do if it is your first time in London. You also get a free walking tour included in the ticket, so you do actually get a lot for your money.
We suggest that you do the famous river cruise from Westminster to the Tower of London. Alighting at the Tower of London leaves you time to explore the area and even visit the magnificent Tower of London, which will take you about two hours. Remember that you can access The Tower of London easily by using your Keetoo App. Then you can hop-on the bus tour right there and continue your open bus tour to explore more of London.
If you are visiting London in two days, as well as visiting the Tower of London you should also have time to visit the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey.

London in two days: Day 1 in London

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

We begin our first day in London with a route that starts at Green Park Tube Station. From here, you can walk across Green Park to get to Buckingham Palace, where you will get a chance to watch the famous Ceremony of the Changing of the Guard. This ceremony takes place at 11 am, but we recommend that you arrive at least 30 minutes in advance as it does get quite crowded. Make sure you check the dates too as it does not take place every day during the year. You can then walk through St James’s Park, one of London’s prettiest parks.

Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament and London Eye

Once you have walked through St James’s Park and crossed Horse Guards Parade, you can walk along Whitehall, going past 10 Downing Street, and making our way towards Westminster Abbey. It really is a shame to visit London and not visit Westminster Abbey, so it’s something that we would recommend. If you buy your tickets in advance you’ll skip the queues and it will be cheaper than buying the entry ticket at the door. It will take you around 2 hours to visit Westminster Abbey.
From here you can walk past the Houses of Parliament and take a quick break to admire Big Ben, obviously one of London’s most famous landmarks. You can then cross Westminster Bridge and get the perfect photo of Big Ben and the London Eye, which is located on the other side of the river Thames.
Once you cross Westminster Bridge you’ll soon get to the famous London Eye and this is the perfect opportunity to go on what is arguably London’s most iconic attraction. If you know you definitely want to go on the London Eye, we highly recommend that you buy your tickets in advance using the Keetoo app and, if possible, get fast-track tickets to skip the queues as the queue for the London Eye can be quite long.

After this, you can continue walking along the South Bank until you get to the Royal Festival Hall. This is the perfect place to stop for a coffee or a bite if you’re feeling peckish as there are plenty of restaurants and cafes (Inside the Royal Festival Hall there are also free public loos!). Just behind the Royal Festival Hall there is also a food market during the weekends, so that’s worth a visit too if you fancy some street food.

Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street and Carnaby Street

After exploring the South Bank, you will cross the Thames along the Golden Jubilee Bridge and head towards Trafalgar Square, the famous piazza with the four lions and Admiral Lord Nelson’s statue. This is where you will find one of London’s most famous galleries, The National Gallery, which is free to enter. From Trafalgar Square it’s only a short walk to another one of London’s famous landmarks, Piccadilly Circus.

From here we would recommend that you walk along Regent Street, where you will find Hamleys, London’s largest and best toy store. You will then go past Liberty, one of London’s most famous stores and discover Carnaby Street and London’s famous Soho. You’ll end your route through Soho exploring the infamous Chinatown of London.

Leicester Square and Covent Garden

Then it’s onto Leicester Square, where you will come across another two incredibly famous shops – M&M’s and LEGO Stores. Leicester Square is where London’s film premieres take place so you might bump into a famous actor if you are lucky (we once saw Will Smith!). From Leicester Square it is only a short walk to Covent Garden, one of London’s most beautiful places, perfect to end the first busy day of your trip to London. You will find lots of restaurants in this area so it’s the perfect place to have something to eat or drink before heading back to your hotel.

This is also the area where most theatres in London are and what better way to end your first day in London than by going to see one of the city’s world famous West End musicals.

Day 2 in London

If you are visiting London in two days, then we would recommend that you spend your second day in London visiting the famous Tower of London and admiring Tower Bridge. You’ll also be able to take a lovely walk along the South Bank of the Thames, not forgetting to see or even visit St Paul’s Cathedral.

Monument and North Bank of the river

Our route starts at Monument’s Tube Station, from where you will start walking towards London Bridge. You will see The Monument to the Great Fire of London on your left-hand side which has a viewing platform reached by a narrow winding staircase of a whopping 311 steps! As you continue walking, you will reach London Bridge and you are then able to walk along the South Bank of the River Thames. From here you will get some awesome views of Tower Bridge and The Shard, London’s tallest building; a perfect selfie spot!

Tower of London and Tower Bridge

Walking along the North Bank of the River Thames you will reach a point where you can no longer. Continue along the Bank of the river, and you can follow the road until you see one of London’s most important landmarks: The Tower of London. We highly recommend that you visit the Tower of London, as no one should visit London and miss the opportunity to see the Crown Jewels.

It will take you about 2 hours to visit the Tower of London and it’s much better if you book the tickets in advance with your Keetoo App. Inside the Tower of London there is a wonderful cafe / restaurant where we would recommend you try an authentic British Pie and Mash or stop for some well earned tea and cake.
Our next stop will be Tower Bridge and, not only do you get to see it, but you can also cross Tower Bridge on foot. Before you go up the steps to get to Tower Bridge though, we recommend that you have a wander around St Katharine’s Dock as it is one of London’s best kept secrets. There are numerous restaurants in this area so it is the ideal place if you are looking to have lunch somewhere. In St Katharine’s Dock is where you can find The Dickens Inn, a unique pub housed in a beautiful 18th century warehouse, serving pub food as well as fine grill and pizzeria.

Then, continue to walk across Tower Bridge, admiring its beauty. The Tower Bridge Exhibition has a viewing platform that you can also visit, just remember to add your kredits to your Keetoo App for easy access!

South Bank

Once you cross Tower Bridge, you can walk along the South Bank of the River Thames, a very enjoyable walk that will allow you to get a proper feeling of what it means to visit London. You’ll first walk past London’s City Hall (Greater London Authority’s headquarters) and the HMS Belfast; Europe’s only surviving second world war cruiser, a historic warship and a museum where you will get the opportunity to explore what life was like at war at sea.
As you continue walking along the South Bank, you will get to Hay’s Galleria, one of my favourite places in London. Here you will find a selection of restaurants and cafes as well as a few shops and stalls. Our next stop will be Borough Market, one of the most spectacular markets in London.
Continue walking along the South Bank, passing Shakespeare’s Globe and Butler’s Wharf, until you reach the Tate Modern and the Millennium Bridge. Here you’ll find a perfect view of St Paul’s Cathedral on the other side of the river. You can then cross the Millennium Bridge to go and see St Paul’s Cathedral or continue walking along the South Bank as you can walk all the way to the London Eye, something that we would highly recommend if you have time.

Best Travel Options when visiting London in two days.

If you are visiting London in two days, the best way to get around the city is by using an oyster card, a visitor oyster card or contactless debit or credit card. This is the cheapest way to get around London in two days and you can use any of those cards to go on public buses, tube, Docklands Light Railway trains or trains within London’s Travel Zones.

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London in One Day

and it’s impossible to see everything that the big smoke has to offer in one day alone. But! If you are planning on visiting London in one day then you will certainly want to make the most of your time and not miss any of London’s most important attractions and sights, especially if it’s your first time in London.

London has a long list of iconic places and attractions that anybody who’s anybody wants to see and visit, but if you only have one day to spend in London you really need to plan your day properly to see as much as possible. The team at Keetoo have prepared two different options for you to consider, two different itineraries for you to have two amazing day’s out and make the most of your one-day trip to London.

So, you’re spending one day in London and you want to see as much as possible! We would highly recommend that you go on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, enjoy a Thames River Cruise and then head to the London Eye.

The open top bus tour takes you to all the must see important places, such as Big Ben, London Eye, Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, Oxford Street and Regent Street, plus you can stay on the bus or get off at any stop and then get back on the bus whenever you want to. It’s an easy way to explore London and not have to worry or fuss about public transport.

The free river cruise is fantastic, and in our opinion one of the best things to do in London if you have just one day. From the river you will be able to see the houses of parliament, the London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe, St Paul’s Cathedral, famous bridges such as London Bridge, millennium bridge and the most famous of all: Tower Bridge. You will also get some amazing views as well as perfect photos of Tower Bridge and The Tower of London from the river cruise.

If you are arriving at King’s Cross St Pancras Station to spend one day in London, then the open top bus tour would be ideal, as there is a bus stop to hop on the bus as you exit the station.

We would recommend that you get fast-track tickets for the London Eye online beforehand using the Keetoo app, so you avoid the long queues and go directly to the prepaid tickets queue, this way you will make sure you make the most of your day in London.

London in One Day: Option 2 – Walking Route + London Eye

For the ramblers and strollers amongst you we have designed a walking route which will enable you to discover London in one day if you’d rather walk and avoid public transport to see the sights of London. With our walking route you will see some of London’s most important landmarks and you’ll probably have time to see the Changing of the Guard, visit Westminster Abbey and go on the London Eye.

Walking route to see London in One Day step-by-step:

Our walking route starts at Green Park Underground Station. From here you can walk towards Buckingham Palace, where the famous changing of the guard ceremony takes place at 11.00 am on certain days. Make sure you check the exact dates to avoid disappointment.

After seeing Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard, you can walk across St James’s Park and along Whitehall, heading towards Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and the London Eye.

After a short walk along London’s beautiful South Bank, you can cross the Thames again and walk until you get to the famous Trafalgar Square. This is where the National Gallery (free entry) is. From Trafalgar Square, you can easily walk towards Piccadilly Circus.

From Piccadilly Circus you can walk along Regent Street to get to Carnaby Street. After a small walk-through London’s Soho, you will reach Leicester Square and Covent Garden.

London in one day: Map

If you are going to spend just the one day in London it may be tempting to buy single fares if you are going to use London’s public transport, such as the underground or the bus, but we would encourage you to either buy an oyster card for the day or use contactless payment if you can. You will pay a lot less for each journey this way than buying single fares or even a day travelcard, as the oyster card’s daily capping makes it cheaper to use than using a day travelcard.

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My Top 10 Day Trips from London

Don’t stress! With many famous English cities being located within easy reach from London like Oxford or Cambridge, you’ll be surprised about how much you’ll be able to fit into a short trip.

Did you know that it’s also possible to see some of the most famous and important UK tourist spots in just one day? It’s easy to plan self-guided trips from London as well as discovering the different guided day trips from London that are available. If you are tight for time, this is a great way to see more places in a day.

1. Day trips from London: Visiting Oxford

It only takes one hour by train to get to the beautiful city of Oxford from London, so it´s no surprise that Oxford is one of the most popular choices when it comes to planning day trips from London. Oxford isn’t known as the biggest of cities, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble fitting everything into one day, just don’t spend too long at The Fudge Kitchen (I’ve spent a good deal of time here)!

What to see in Oxford in one day

Oxford is famous for its prestigious University and personally I think that visiting some of the colleges that are open to the public are one of the main attractions of this historical city. Some of the most famous places that cannot be missed during a day trip to Oxford are Trinity College, Bodleian Library, or the Ashmolean Museum.

Not sure how to get around? No problem! You’ll be able to walk around the cobbled streets of Oxford and discover the beauty of the city on foot. Or, you can jump on the hop-on hop-off bus tour to discover everything the city has to offer.

How to get to Oxford from London

I find that the easiest way to get to Oxford is by train. There is a train that leaves from London Paddington station (London travel zone 1) to Oxford. You can buy train tickets in advance and see the timetables on the Trainline website.

Guided tours from London to Oxford

Don’t fancy the train? The best thing about guided day trips from London is that the coach will take you directly to where you need to go, but it is also the best way to see more than just one place in a day, this option is perfect when exploring Cambridge and Oxford.

2. Day trips from London: Visiting Cambridge

The famous city of Cambridge is also located less than an hour away by train from central London, and as it is a small city it is also one of the most popular options when planning day trips from London.

What to see in Cambridge in a day

In one day, you will have time to tour the city of Cambridge as well as visiting some of the University’s colleges that open to the public normally at noon. Some of the key places you cannot miss in a visit to Cambridge are the mathematical bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, The Backs, Round Church, King’s College and King’s College Chapel, to name but a few.

How to get to Cambridge from London

I find that getting to Cambridge from London is quite easy, as there are direct trains from London King’s Cross as well as from London Liverpool Street Station in central London to Cambridge Station. You can buy train tickets in advance and see the timetables on the Trainline website. The only drawback is that it can take you about 30 minutes to walk from Cambridge train station to the city centre, if you don’t fancy the walk you can jump on the sightseeing bus tour that stops just in front of the train station.

Guided day trips to Cambridge from London

One of the easiest ways to explore Cambridge from London is by going on one of the coach tours from London. The best thing about this option is that you can visit two places in one day, for example a guided tour to see Cambridge and Oxford in one day will certainly tick some sightseeing off of your list!

3. Day trips from London: Visiting Stratford Upon Avon

This is one of my favourite day trips from London, and it’s the one I usually recommend to my family and friends when they come to visit me in London. Stratford Upon Avon is the birthplace of the one and only William Shakespeare (he’s kind of a big deal there!) and with a train journey from London of about two hours, you’ll certainly have enough time to get versed in olde English!

What to see in Stratford Upon Avon in one day

One day is certainly enough time to see the best of Stratford Upon Avon. Visit the house where William Shakespeare was born and take a look around the other historical houses. While you’re there, have a browse in some of the shops or stroll down the canal. You’ll be surprised at how much Stratford Upon Avon has to offer.
If you’re feeling peckish, Stratford Upon Avon is a beautiful small town where you will have the opportunity to try a typical cream tea or even have a full blown afternoon tea in one of the many tea rooms that you will find walking through the streets.

How to get to Stratford Upon Avon from London

From Marylebone train station in central London, there is a train to Stratford Upon Avon that takes about two hours. From Stratford Upon Avon´s train station it’s just a short walk to the centre. You can buy train tickets in advance and see the timetables on the Trainline website.

If you’re really looking to fill your day it’s possible to visit Stratford Upon Avon with a guided tour from London, and the best thing about this is that you will be able to combine the trip to Stratford Upon Avon with a trip to another city in England, for example:

Oxford, Warwick Castle and Stratford Upon Avon

Stonehenge, Bath and Stratford Upon Avon

Oxford, Stratford and the Cotswolds

4. Day trips from London: Visiting Bath

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in England, and it really is one of the most recommended day trips from London that you can think of, even though it is a bit further away than the other cities that I have already mentioned. A trip here would also make a brilliant mini trip if you are thinking about spending a couple of days somewhere.

What to see in Bath in one day

The Roman Baths is the most famous attraction in Bath, and definitely a place that you will have to visit when visiting Bath. Bath Abbey, which is right next to the famous Roman Baths, is another must-see in Bath but just being able to walk through the city centre and towards the Royal Crescent is one of the highlights of visiting Bath. Don’t forget to visit the Jane Austin Centre too!

How to get to Bath from London

From Paddington station there is a train to Bath Spa train station, and it only takes 90 minutes to get there. From Bath Spa Train Station, it will only take you a few minutes to get to the city centre if you’re walking. You can buy train tickets in advance and see the timetables on the Trainline website.

Another option is to get to Bath by coach with a guided tour. You can combine the visit to Bath with a visit to somewhere else, such as:

Stonehenge and Bath

Stonehenge, Stratford Upon Avon and Bath

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath

5. Day trips from London: Visiting Stonehenge

Who hasn’t seen a photo of the mysterious Stonehenge?! These famous metamorphic rocks placed in concentric circumferences are located an hour and a half by car from London, making this one of the most popular day trips from London.

What to see in Stonehenge

You can see the most famous megalithic archaeological monument in the world and learn all about it in the visitor centre. A visit to Stonehenge is a truly unforgettable experience.

How to get to Stonehenge

Ok, so Stonehenge is not the easiest place to get to from London by public transport, but it only takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to get there by car. The best way to visit Stonehenge in my opinion is by coach, using a guided tour, and to make the most of the day you can see Stonehenge on the way to another city such as:

Stonehenge and Bath

Stonehenge, Stratford Upon Avon and Bath

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath

6. Day trips from London: Visiting Windsor

Located only 40 minutes from London, Windsor town is another favourite day trip from London, a beautiful historic town home to Windsor Castle, a residence of the Royal British family ( they’re kind of a big deal here!).

What to see in Windsor

Windsor Castle is obviously the biggest attraction in the town of Windsor, but Windsor itself is a pretty little town which is definitely worth seeing.

“The Long Walk” is one of the key places to see in Windsor, a long avenue from which you will get stunning views of Windsor Castle and one of the photos you can’t leave without taking! In Windsor you will also find Eton College which is open to the public on Friday afternoons and, of course, there’s Legoland!

Although Windsor is small, there is a hop-on hop-off bus tour which takes you around Windsor, with stops at both of the Windsor train stations and Eton College. You will also get perfect views of “The Long Walk” from the top deck of the bus.

How to get to Windsor from London

You can get a train to Eton from Paddington and Waterloo train stations in central London. From either Eton Central or Eton Riverside you will have to walk a few minutes to central Windsor. You can buy train tickets in advance and see the timetables on the Trainline website.

Guided tours from London to Windsor are also available, and you can either choose from a coach tour to Windsor with food included, or make the most of the day by visiting another place on the same day, such as:

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath

Oxford, Windsor and Stonehenge

7. Day trips from London: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studios

If you are going to be in London for a few days and you are a true Harry Potter fan, visiting Warner Bros Studios in London should be on your list! The Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studios have become one of the most visited attractions in London and is advance booking only, tickets sell out weeks or even months in advance, so make sure to get your tickets in advance if you are planning on visiting. Expelliarmus!

What to see at the Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros Tour

When you visit the Harry Potter studios, you will go through the original stages that were used to shoot the Harry Potter films, including places like the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, Hagrid’s cabin and so much more. You will also see a giant scale-model of Hogwarts, an exhibition of the clothes used to shoot the movies, the authentic Hogwarts Express train and you can even try the Butterbeer in the cafeteria. They’re actually really nice!

How to get to Warner Bros Harry Potter Studios

Harry Potter Warner Bros Studios are located just outside of London. In order to get there, you need to get to Watford Junction via London Euston train station and then get the dedicated Harry Potter studios shuttle bus from this station to the Warner Bros Studios.

Another option is to buy tickets to Warner Bros Studios with transfer from London or combine the visit to the Warner Bros Studios with a day trip to Oxford.

8. Day trips from London: Visiting Legoland

If you are visiting London with kids then visiting Legoland in Windsor is surely one of the best surprises we can think of. Made with more than 47 million pieces of Lego, it is one of the most famous theme parks for children in the United Kingdom.

How to get to Legoland from London

You can get a train to Eton from Paddington and Waterloo train stations in central London. There is a shuttle bus from both stations, Eton Central and Eton Riverside, to Legoland. You can buy train tickets in advance and see the timetables at the Trainline website.
A good idea is to spend a couple of days in Windsor, one day to see Windsor Castle and explore the city of Windsor, and another day to see Legoland.

9. Day trips from London: Warwick Castle

Warwick castle is a well-preserved medieval castle located in Warwickshire, and it’s a perfect family day trip from London as there is a lot of entertainment available for the whole family.

10. More Day trips from London to consider

If you are going to be in London for a few days but want to make the most of your time, you may want to visit one of London’s many beautiful neighbourhoods and places that don’t normally make it to the top 10 London attractions. The best thing about this is that you just need to jump on the tube and you can be where you want in a flash. If you have an oyster card don´t forget that you can use it to travel within London´s transport zones, and if you have a London Travelcard simply make sure you know what travel zones you’ll be visiting.

Some suggestions are:
Richmond
Hampstead
Greenwich
Kingston Upon Thames
Kew Gardens
Hampton Court Palace
Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)
Dover Castle and White Cliffs of Dover
Leeds Castle

How to get to Warwick Castle from London

There are regular trains from London Paddington to Warwick Station, and from here you’ll need to walk for about 15 minutes. You can buy train tickets in advance and see the timetables on the Trainline website. Another option is to go on a coach tour to Warwick Castle.

You can buy entrance tickets to Warwick Castle in advance or buy guided tour tickets, see them all here: Visit Warwick Castle.

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15 Great Things to Do in Liverpool

Before you guess, here are your three clues: Cilla, The Beatles, and The Mersey.
Yes, that’s right. It’s the one and only Liverpool. An iconic city with iconic names, Liverpool is a fantastic place to head for a fun and exciting family outing.
For a truly memorable day trip to Liverpool, get your visit planned to perfection. Here, you’ll discover 15 things to do in Liverpool for your next fun day in this unique, vibrant, and historic UK city.

1. The Beatles Story

What better way to start your tour of Liverpool than an introduction to the Fab Four, who put this city on the world stage?
The Beatles Story is a permanent exhibition at the Royal Albert Dock. This award-winning experience will take you through the Beatles’ timeline and their connection to the city where they first performed.

With replicas of some of their most well-known haunts, including the renowned music venue, The Cavern, this tour might make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time to the 1960s.

2. River Mersey Ferry Cruise

If you plan on staying in Liverpool overnight, get inspired by the famous Gerry and The Pacemakers song and take a 50-minute ride on the river.

This popular sightseeing cruise is the best way to take in the full view of the beautiful Liverpool skyline, so don’t forget to bring a camera.
The ferry journey is wheelchair and pushchair accessible and includes full commentary from a tour guide. The ferry departs from Liverpool Pier Head every hour during peak season.

3. Anfield Stadium Tour

Football fans shouldn’t miss a visit to Liverpool Football Club’s world-famous home ground, Anfield. The tour includes a walk up to the Kop, the perfect place to take your stadium and pitch photos.
You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes experience of a big matchday with a tour of the dressing rooms, tunnel and press room, plus a look at the vast collection of trophies.
The tour includes guided commentary via a headset, available in eleven languages as part of the Liverpool FC interactive museum.

4. Take a Bus Tour

If you only have time for a single day out in Liverpool, buy a ticket to ride the red, open-top bus as it makes its way around the city. If the weather is your friend, sit on the top deck for a fantastic view of your surroundings.
The City Explorer Liverpool Bus Tour passes 14 top tourist attractions, including the Dock, two cathedrals (Liverpool and Metropolitan) and the Cavern Quarter.
The bonus feature of this bus tour is that your ticket is valid for 24 hours, giving you a chance to hop on and off. That’s perfect if you have small children who don’t want to walk their tiny legs around the city centre.

5. The Bombed-Out Church

During the 1941 Liverpool Blitz, St Luke’s church, suffered catastrophic damage from a bomb, leaving this beautiful building no more than a shell. For 60 years, the ruins of this once great church remained empty.
Since 2001, this historic building has had a new lease of life as a cultural centre. It now hosts events, art, music and theatre.
The “bombed-out church”, as it’s known locally, is an excellent stop on your tour if you are someone who loves both a cultural fix and grand architectural surroundings.

6. Tate Liverpool

For more high-end culture, head to Tate’s Liverpool gallery, which sits in the heart of the Albert Dock. As with all British art galleries, entry is free for the permanent collection, and you’ll only pay to see the guest exhibitions.
Tate Liverpool features a wide range of art, including works from Damien Hirst, Andy Warhol and Louise Bourgeois.
The art gallery has provisions for the visually impaired. Families have a special room for young children to play or watch a film.

7. Chinatown

Take a visit to the oldest Chinatown in Europe, and sample some of the most authentic (and delicious) Chinese cuisine you’ll find in the North of England.
At the entrance to Liverpool’s Chinatown is an impressive ceremonial arch (which comes directly from Shanghai), over 13 metres in height.
Of course, take note of the date you intend to visit Liverpool. Chinatown is a magical place to enjoy Chinese New Year and a fantastic way to get involved in the traditional festivities.

8. The Royal Albert Dock

Liverpool has a rich maritime history. The city has one of the busiest docks in the UK. It also played a central role in international trade for Britain during the Empire.
So, take a moment on your days out in Liverpool to explore the waterfront around the Royal Albert Dock.
Today, the Dock is a bustling and energetic part of the city with shops, cafes, museums, restaurants, and bars, plus plenty of events and entertainment, including live music in the summer months.

9. The Maritime Museum

One of Liverpool’s most well-known museums is the Maritime, an excellent way for you to explore some of Liverpool’s fascinating history. There is fun for all the family, with exhibitions that showcase life at sea.
Here, you’ll also learn about the history of one of the most famous maritime disasters, the Titanic, which has strong  connections to Liverpool (despite departing on its doomed voyage from Southampton).
The museum is open every day except Monday, and entry is free.

10. Liverpool World Museum

When visiting Liverpool, if you need a museum guaranteed to be a big hit with children of all ages, try the World Museum. It boasts an aquarium, planetarium and a new interactive Doctor Who exhibit.
And the fun doesn’t stop there. Dinosaur lovers will be thrilled at the skeletons in the natural history section of the museum. On the other hand, history enthusiasts can check out the collections in the ancient Egypt gallery.
The museum is home to over 80,000 ancient artefacts and a world cultures collection comprising over 40,000 objects.

11. Wild Shore Liverpool

For older children (and anyone young at heart), the Wild Shore Aqua Park offers hours of joy in the form of inflatable slides, trampolines, pedalos, paddle boarding and mini boats.
This activity is seasonal, so it only opens from April onwards. Still, it will be perfect if you plan on visiting in the hot summer months and want a unique and sure fire way to cool down from city life.
The attraction is situated in Duke’s Dock, next to the Ferris wheel, and has toilets and changing facilities on site.

12. The Wheel of Liverpool

For an unbeatable photo of Liverpool, head to the giant Ferris wheel at Keel Wharf. This ten-minute ride will take you 60 metres above the city for a beautiful bird’s eye view.
The Ferris wheel has 42 capsules and has a VIP section for those looking for a more luxurious experience.
That VIP capsule features leather seating and a DVD player. You can even crack open the Champagne. Though, with a glass floor, it’s not one for the faint-hearted.

13. Shiverpool Ghost Tour

Shiverpool certainly wins our award for the best name of any ghost tour in the UK. But this enjoyable experience doesn’t stop at the title. On the contrary, these tours have a National Tourism Award.
The tour takes you past some of Liverpool’s most historic (and haunted) streets, with a tour guide who’ll provide a captivating story of some of Liverpool’s most intriguing tales.
The tour is available to visitors all year round, and the organisers offer private tours too. While Shiverpool is a family experience, it may be unsettling for very young children.

14. Experience the Cavern Club

The Beatles Story might have a replica of the Beatle’s first venue, but did you know you can still visit the real thing? The legendary 65-year old Cavern Club maintains its status as a historic venue and still hosts live music even today.
The club is open seven days a week, with live music each afternoon and evening. While the club is ticket-only, you can also visit the pub and restaurant at the same venue.
The centrally-located club is easy to find on Mathew Street.

15. The Liverpool and Metropolitan Cathedrals

Impressively, Liverpool has two cathedrals worth adding to your itinerary when finalising your plans to visit Liverpool. The Liverpool and the Metropolitan.
For breathtaking architecture, wonder at the Anglican, Liverpool Cathedral. It’s the largest in the UK and eighth-largest across Europe.
The cathedral, built between 1904 and 1978, provides a tower tour that will allow you to see the city from 500 feet above sea level.
If the weather is promising, try their Thursday Twilight experience, where you may be lucky enough to see a stunning, panoramic sunset from high above the city.
In contrast, the Metropolitan is the Catholic cathedral of Liverpool. This cathedral, built between 1962 and 1967, is a unique futuristic architecture, sometimes nicknamed the “Wigwam”.

Check Out These Fabulous Things to Do in Liverpool

With a rich history, world-renowned culture, and fantastic fun, Liverpool has something to offer for all the family.

Now’s the ideal time to sign up for our Keetoo app and get started planning your trip. Choose from the many wonderful things to do in Liverpool for a truly unforgettable family break.

Other ideas about Things to do and how to plan the perfect days out in the UK

• Things to do in London with Kids
• Top 10 day trips from London
• London in 3 days
• Changing of the Guard in London
• Top 7 things to do in Brighton
• Best things to do in Cambridge

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