19 Fun Activities in London You Can Do Today (2024)

Looking for fun activities in London that the whole family (or even your fussiest mates) can enjoy? This is your answer. 

Whether you're revisiting the streets you thought you knew like the back of your hand or exploring new nooks and crannies, these self-guided treasure and scavenger hunts promise a day out with a difference. 

Armed only with your wits and possibly a slightly competitive friend or two, you'll uncover hidden gems and perhaps learn a quirky fact or three about London's storied streets. It's a brilliant way to inject a bit of fun into learning about the city's history, without the fear of being quizzed at the end!

PSST: With 10 trails to choose from, you can be fairly certain you’ll find something new along the way - even in places you’d least expect!

Step into the neon-soaked nostalgia of an arcade bar and prepare for an evening where the 80s never ended, and your coin-op dreams come to life. These vibrant venues merge the joy of arcade classics with the social buzz of a bar, making for a truly unique night out in London. 

From the satisfying click of joystick buttons to the flashing lights of pinball machines, it's a chance to show off your Pac-Man prowess or Space Invaders skill, all while enjoying a craft beer or bespoke cocktail. Ideal for a quirky date night or a lively outing with friends, an arcade bar promises fun that's as timeless as the games themselves.

Looking for fun activities in London this Christmas? We've got just the thing.

This self-guided adventure takes you through London’s most stunning light displays while you solve riddles and uncover hidden spots around the city.

Delivered via WhatsApp, the clues lead on a kind of festive outdoor escape room, offering a 3-5km stroll packed with Christmas cheer.

Whether you're with family, friends, or a special someone, this exciting treasure hunt promises a mix of fun challenges, holiday magic, and plenty of sparkle – the perfect way to enjoy the festive season!

Imagine the streets of London transforming into a giant game board, where you're racing against time to crack codes, solve mysteries, or even escape a horde of the undead. That’s what these are all about!

These outdoor escape room games take storytelling to the next level, offering an exhilarating mix of historical intrigue and imaginative fun. Whether you're unravelling the mysteries of Jack the Ripper or surviving an apocalypse without becoming the next “victim”, these games promise an experience that's as heart-pounding as it is brain-teasing.

When we really can’t think of anything to do, we eat. Luckily, London is full of markets that offer you so much more than just some tasty grub.

Sample international cuisines without leaving the postcode, discover unique artisanal crafts or add another pot plant to your collection (how many is too many? Asking for a friend) - the options are truly endless.  

PSST: Special shout out has to go to Maltby Street Market: If you’re a gyoza fan, you won’t regret it!

This is going to sound cheesy, but we swear it’s true.

In London, the simple act of crossing a bridge can feel like stepping into a completely different world. With the Thames slicing the city in two, there are always new and fun activities in London to discover on the opposite bank. 

Embark on a journey of discovery and adventure by venturing across one of London's iconic bridges to explore what lies on the other side. The best way to do it? With a self-guided walking tour that offers you the freedom to explore at your own pace, uncover hidden gems, and see the city from a new perspective. 

Whether it's delving into the historic streets of Greenwich, Kensington, or Southwark or uncovering the artistic allure of Shoreditch or Mayfair, each step takes you further out of your comfort zone and closer to the heart of London's diverse neighbourhoods. 

Armed with just your phone, friends or family and your collective wits, you'll find yourself discovering more than just the physical sights; you'll uncover stories, histories, and the vibrant culture that makes each side of the river unique.

If you enjoy museums, London is basically your idea of paradise. But beyond the big favourites (we all know and love them) there are heaps of smaller or lesser-known houses of curiosity out there you should pay a visit.

There’s no better place to start than by delving into the fascinating world of The Horniman Museum and Gardens, one of London's most intriguing hidden gems. 

Nestled in the leafy suburbs of Forest Hill, this unique museum offers an eclectic mix of exhibits ranging from natural history and anthropology to musical instruments and an enchanting aquarium. The Horniman is also renowned for its commitment to sustainability and engaging the public with the natural world and cultural diversity through its interactive displays and hands-on activities.

If you read the title and shuddered - don’t worry, this isn’t some initiation test to join a club of the occult.

Instead, it’s a fascinating day out where the quietude and solemn beauty of London's seven magnificent cemeteries reveal the lives of London past and present. 

These sacred grounds, often referred to as the "Magnificent Seven," offer a unique window into the city's past, serving as the final resting place for many notable figures as well as ordinary Londoners.

Each cemetery, with its distinct character and architectural style, is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural diversity. From the Gothic elegance of Highgate Cemetery, home to the grave of Karl Marx, to the sprawling, picturesque landscapes of Kensal Green and Brompton, these cemeteries offer a peaceful escape from the urban rush.

If you want to travel around London in style without breaking the bank, hop aboard London’s Uber Boat. 

Depending on how long you want your day out to be, you can choose to jump off at any number of interesting places on the Uber Boat’s route. But if it were me (and I have done this many times myself), I’d opt for a scenic journey along the River Thames to Greenwich.

Although it’s super close to the city - and has some stunning views of it - Greenwich can be lower down on many tourist’s (and even local’s) radars. Don’t miss out on the treasure trove that is the National Maritime Museum, where you can delve into the adventures of famous explorers, the mechanics of naval warfare, and the evolution of seafaring technology!

Once you’ve done that, you have the whole of gorgeous Greenwich at your fingertips - check out the Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory, and Greenwich Park or let a curated trail take you around the area’s famous and hidden gems.

For a fun activity in London that takes you on a quintessentially British adventure, why not hire a pedal boat in Hyde Park?

Glide gracefully (or with a bit of a wobble) across the serene Serpentine, taking in the lush surroundings and the occasional quack of a passing duck.

Ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle without actually leaving the city, pedalling through Hyde Park offers a moment of tranquillity and, if you're not synchronised, a good laugh at your own coordination skills.

Paddle your way into an adventure at The Pirate Castle in Camden Town, where urban kayaking takes on a “swashbuckling” twist. 

An ideal activity in sunny or rainy weather (you might get wet either way, after all), surrendering to a paddle at The Pirate Castle gives you the chance to explore the historic Regents Canal from the comfort of a kayak. 

Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a first-time kayaker, The Pirate Castle caters to all levels of experience, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey on the water.

For a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle, venture into the verdant realms of Clissold Park. 

This lesser-known green haven is a wildlife enthusiast's dream, offering the chance to spot an array of creatures in their natural habitat. The park's ponds, aviary, and deer enclosure make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and families alike - and who doesn’t get excited when they see furry creatures?

If you’re looking for fun activities in London that crank up the cute factor, swap the concrete jungle for a green one and enjoy a peaceful afternoon amidst the flora and fauna of Clissold Park. It's London’s equivalent of a safari - but less dangerous, obviously.

PSST: The "deer" gentleman you see in the picture above was spotted at Richmond Park, so you don't have to travel far to find gorgeous creatures around...

Introduce a French twist to your London visit by playing a game of pétanque at The Prince of Wales Pub. 

Tucked away in Kennington, this charming pub offers the rare opportunity to throw some boules in the heart of the city. Whether you're a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, the laid-back atmosphere and friendly competition provide a perfect backdrop for an afternoon of leisurely fun. It's a great way to mix socialising with a bit of friendly rivalry – and, of course, the chance to enjoy a pint or two post-game. 

PSST: Pétanque is a popular summer activity and at The Prince of Wales, you play on a public square onsite of the pub. Head inside to rent your set, bring some drinks with you and have a blast (but be respectful of the neighbours!). When you've been declared the winner, don't forget to dip back inside and have a celebratory meal - the food is unbelievably good here!

Looking for fun activities in London that quench your thirst for both knowledge and ale? This is for you!  

London's pubs are not just about the drinks; they're living museums, each with its own story to tell. From the centuries-old Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, rebuilt after the Great Fire of London, to the legendary literary haunt, The George Inn, tracing the city's history through its pubs offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. 

PSST: Enjoy historic pubs? Trails like these include pub, bar and café recommendations, some of which have a gruesome or fascinating story to tell that aren’t generally accessible to the public. No spoilers, but you might find a pub with a dungeon in it around The City…

London's comedy scene is as diverse and vibrant as its population, offering everything from stand-up and improv to sketch shows and open-mic nights. Whether you're in the mood for cutting-edge satire, classic one-liners, or comedic tales of everyday absurdities, London's comedy clubs promise a night of unbridled joy. 

These venues are where future stars cut their teeth and comedy legends return for surprise sets, so you never know who might turn up. Whoever takes the stage, you can be fairly certain you're in for an evening of fun, laughter and plenty to talk about on your journey home.

PSST: There are comedy clubs all over London, but my personal favourites are Top Secret on Drury Lane and The Billy Murray at Angel Comedy Club on Essex Road.

Unlock your creativity with Brush and Bubbles, a spectacular art class experience that combines the joy of painting with the pleasure of a glass of bubbly. 

Designed for artists and novices alike, this unique class invites you to unleash your inner Picasso in a relaxed, fun-filled environment. Whether you're looking to refine your painting skills or just in search of a different kind of night out, Brush and Bubbles offer the perfect blend of instruction and entertainment.

With a brush in one hand and a glass of fizz in the other, you'll be guided through creating your own masterpiece to take home - a win-win!

Elevate your mini golf experience with Puttshack, a tech-infused approach to the classic game that blends traditional fun with the latest in gaming technology. 

At Puttshack, you'll find yourself navigating through uniquely designed courses where each hole brings a new challenge and a fresh twist on the beloved pastime. Thanks to the integration of automatic point scoring, you no longer have to worry about keeping track of your scores, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the fun and competition.

Dive into the ultimate adult playground at Ballie Ballerson, where you can relive your childhood with a twist of grown-up fun. 

This unique venue features a massive ball pit designed exclusively for adults, allowing you to plunge into a sea of colourful balls totally guilt-free.

Beyond the sheer joy of frolicking in the ball pit, Ballie Ballerson offers a vibrant atmosphere with neon lights, DJ-spun tracks, and an eclectic menu of cocktails to keep the party going.

Step into a world of breathtaking natural beauty and scientific discovery at Kew Gardens, London's largest UNESCO World Heritage site. 

This botanical wonderland isn't just about leisurely strolls amidst exotic plants and historic greenhouses; it also hosts a vibrant calendar of events and exhibitions throughout the year. From mesmerising art installations that blend nature and creativity, to enlightening workshops on conservation and biodiversity.

Seasonal highlights include the enchanting Christmas lights and the colourful Orchid Festival, each transforming the gardens into an immersive sensory adventure.