London's Biggest Discounts
on London's Best Attractions and Things To Do
London sightseeing, attractions, restaurants, theatre and things to do in one great website – that's our mission. Every day we are adding new products to give you more ideas of things to do during your stay in London. We are London based and have been arranging London activities for over 20 years – so you're in good hands with Discount London.
The Discount London Difference – Everything is discounted. On many of our tickets you get PRIORITY entrance so no need to queue. We offer child prices up to 16 on some packages.
We're pretty confident you'll find what you are looking for at a price you'll love.
In this section you will find
Top 10 London Attractions
Top London Activities
Offbeat London Tours
Top London Parks
Top 5 London Markets
10 Surprising Facts
Download London Guide
Top 10 London Attractions
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace has been the London home of the British Royal family since 1837, the year that Queen Victoria moved in. It had previously been known as Buckingham House, having originally been built by an 18th century Tory politician for his own use. Now open to the public for 8 weeks each summer while the Queen takes her summer break away from London, visitors are able to view the palace's 19 State rooms. It is in these rooms that Queen Elizabeth receives the world's presidents and prime ministers. The Buckingham Palace Gardens are also open to visitors at this time.
Houses of Parliament
The image of the Houses of Parliament beside the Thames with the tower of Big Ben is perhaps the most iconic London picture. Walk along Westminster Bridge at any time and you'll find crowds of tourists having their picture snapped with this famous landmark. The clock tower known as Big Ben (the actual name refers to the bell in the clock tower) is probably the world's most famous clock, while the Houses of Parliament are home to the UK's upper and lower chambers of government. Visitors are allowed into the building on paid tours in the summer, or free of charge by arrangement with your MP (UK residents only).
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey was founded over 1,000 years ago and has long been one of the most important religious sites of London. It has housed coronations, state funerals and royal weddings, and for a generation will be closely associated with the mourning at the funeral service for Princess Diana. Westminster Abbey has many historic treasures and a comprehensive museum on site. There is a visiting charge, although worshippers are free to attend the daily services at the Abbey.
St Paul's Cathedral
One of London's most easily recognised landmarks, St Paul's Cathedral is a powerful symbol of London's unwavering spirit. Rebuilt in its present magnificence after the Great Fire of London in 1666 by Sir Christopher Wren, St Paul's is rightly recognised as one of Europe's architectural wonders. Visitors to St Paul's can admire the beauty of the marbled interior and the famous dome, they can climb to the top of the dome for stunning views over London and they can visit the crypt to see the resting place of some of Britain's most decorated heroes.
Trafalgar Square
The traditional meeting point in the centre of London, it is also the favourite location of Londoners to mark the biggest occasions. New Year celebrations have centred on Trafalgar Square for many years, while this was also the scene of wild jubilation when London was awarded the 2012 Olympics. Trafalgar Square's most famous landmark is the 151ft high Nelson's Column, guarded by four huge bronze lions. Visitors can often find temporary events taking place in the square, especially during the summer months.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden will almost inevitably form part of any visit to London. The unofficial centre of the London tourist trade, Covent Garden is home to many bars, cafes, restaurants and gift shops. The surrounding streets are lined with top quality street performers who keep the passing crowds entertained, while the central building of the market itself offers a fascinating shopping experience.
Piccadilly Circus
With Piccadilly Circus a stone's throw to the west and Trafalgar Square a couple of minutes walk to the south, Leicester Square is arguably the cultural heart of London. It is surrounded by the West End's most prestigious theatres and is home to the cinemas that hold the UK opening shows for all the blockbuster movies. Don't be surprised to find yourself celebrity spotting as the red carpet is rolled out for one of the regular premieres.
Tower Bridge
The most photographed bridge in the world, London's Tower Bridge has guarded the river entrance to the city for over a century. Designed to allow tall ships to pass up the Thames to bring their cargo into London, Tower Bridge is opened several times on an average day to accommodate tall river traffic. Visitors are able to walk across the bridge along the high level walkway and enjoy spectacular views, while the Tower Bridge exhibition offers a glimpse into how this famous landmark was constructed and its history through the last 100 years. Don't miss the incredible stories of the stunts that have been performed on and around the bridge.
Tower of London
For many centuries, the Tower of London would have been the first truly imposing building that travellers would see as they sailed up the Thames. It was also the last place seen by many, as the famous and the infamous of the Middle Ages met their grisly end within the walls of the Tower. Nowadays a visit to the Tower of London provides visitors with a glimpse of pomp and ceremony as well as a view of the Crown Jewels which are housed within.
London Eye
Among the many old historic icons on offer in London, one very modern landmark has already taken its place at the top table. The London Eye, originally built as a temporary structure to mark the Millennium celebrations is now one of London's most visited attractions. Visitors can take the 30 minute 'flight' and enjoy unparalleled views of London from their glass pod. The views around sunset are particularly memorable, stretching as far as Windsor to the west, beyond Wembley Stadium and its tall arch to the north, while to the east it is possible to see well beyond Stratford and the site of the 2012 Olympics.
Top London Activities
Madame Tussauds
The world famous Madame Tussauds waxwork museum in London needs no introduction. Attracting millions of visitors each year, this is your chance to be photographed with the most famous movie stars, singers, sports heroes and world leaders. Don't miss the new Marvel Superheroes 4D attraction.
London Zoo
There has been a zoo in the centre of London for nearly 200 years. London Zoo is home to a surprisingly wide collection of animals, and the big news this year centres on Kesho, a male silverback gorilla who is being introduced to the resident female group. Will they accept him or will he be shut out from the girly conversation? There are daily shows and feeding sessions to enjoy, and regular keeper talks will give you a behind the scenes look at what's involved in the life of a zookeeper.
Open-Top Bus
What better way to travel between the most famous sights in London than on an open-top red London bus? The Original Tour double-decker buses will take you in comfort between London's most famous attractions, allowing you to hop on and off the bus to visit the places you want to see. Tickets are valid for 24 hours
West End show
No trip to London would be complete without visiting a West End show. The starting point for many of the world's most famous theatre productions, any night you'll have a choice of dozens of famous and not-so-famous plays and musicals to enjoy. Tickets can be hard to get for the most popular shows so it's worth planning ahead. A full-blown London West End evening starts with an early dinner, then on to a musical followed by after-theatre drinks.
River Trip
If you're looking for a different angle to view those famous London landmarks then a trip along the Thames is the perfect answer. Travel under Tower Bridge and past some of London's most well-known sights on your way to Greenwich. A knowledgeable and entertaining commentary will share with you some of the many surprising facts and legends of the city of London.
Offbeat London Tours
Duck Tour
The London Duck Tour has to be the quirkiest, most memorable way to explore the city. Drive past the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben before your bright yellow bus suddenly launches into the Thames and becomes a bright yellow boat! Then float along the river before emerging again onto dry land and back onto London's roads. If you've never experienced the thrill of riding in an amphibious vehicle this is a ride not to be missed.
Harry Potter Walking Tour
Ever been curious about the street that inspired Diagon Alley? Have you wondered whether Platform 9¾ really exists, or whether you can see the bridge that Lord Voldemort's Death Eaters destroyed in the Half-Blood Prince? You can explore all these places and much more on the Harry Potter London Walking Tour. The tour includes a boat ride along the Thames, a ride on a London bus and a trip on the Underground.
London in a Mini Cooper
Is there any better symbol of British nostalgia than the original Mini Cooper? Immortalised by their starring role in the movie The Italian Job, the Mini Cooper is perfectly suited to negotiate the narrow alleys and side-streets of London. The chauffeurs from Small Car Big City will arrange pick ups from anywhere in London and can tailor a tour around individual interests. The tours are filled with quirky fun facts about London that will even surprise Londoners. Enjoy having other tourists' cameras pointed at you as you drive past the major London attractions.
Thames Speed Boat Tour
If the leisurely sightseeing boat along the Thames isn't your idea of a London boat trip, then consider the Ultimate London Adventure. This adrenaline filled high-speed ride reaches speeds of 35 knots. You will certainly feel the wind in your face as you speed past some of London's famous landmarks. The Ultimate London Adventure has been voted in TimeOut London as a 'must do' experience by both Londoners and visitors.
Top London Parks
Hyde Park
With Marble Arch, Hyde Park Corner and the Royal Albert Hall along its enormous borders Hyde Park dominates much of the western part of central London. The park is home to the Serpentine, a historic lake that still allows the brave to take a paddle or a swim. Most will prefer to take a rowing boat or pedallo and avoid a plunge into the very cold water. A recent addition to the park is the Diana Memorial Fountain, a strange creation to the south of the lake, which attracts many young paddlers in its gently flowing waters.
Look out for: the regular festivals, concerts and exhibitions that take place in the park. It's busiest in the summer but comes to life in late November when the Christmas Market descends on Hyde Park, with its fairground and food stalls.
St. James's Park
Another creation of Henry VIII, St James's Park was originally a deer park but redesigned into its current style in the 19th century. It is surrounded on all sides by important London landmarks: Buckingham Palace to the west, Horseguards Parade to the east and the Mall along its northern edge. St James's Park is small enough to stroll through in a few minutes, and pleasant enough to linger in for a couple of hours. It is usually quiet during the week until lunchtime when civil servants from surrounding offices come pouring out for a breath of fresh London air (or a smoke).
Look out for: Pelicans. Yes, that's right. Presented as a gift from Russia over 300 years ago, these birds (or their descendants) have been happily enjoying London life ever since, and are fed daily at around 2.30pm.
Regent's Park
To the north of the city, just beyond Madame Tussaud's and Baker Street, you'll find a vast green space that has changed greatly since it's early life as a London hunting park for Henry VIII. With ornamental gardens, a very attractive lake and sprawling lawns, Regent's Park is worthy of a couple of hours of exploration and relaxation. It is also home to the world famous London Zoo, which was set up in 1828 and was, at the time, the world's only scientific zoo.
Look out for: Hedgehogs. Regent's Park offers the only opportunity in the centre of London to see these little creatures, and although they are more active at night you are still likely to spot one running between shelter spots if you're lucky.
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is perhaps the best place to come if you are in the mood for a decent walk. With many miles of pathways and including the highest point in London, there is much to explore on 'the Heath' as it's locally known. There are 25 lakes, including two single-sex bathing pools, and when you reach the high point you'll be able to sit and look out over the city of London and enjoy spotting many of its famous landmarks.
Look out for: the Sham Bridge, which you'll find if you look out on the lawns of Kenwood House at the northern end of the Heath. Looking for all the world like a picturesque bridge over the lake, it is only as you approach the water that you notice that the bridge is, in fact, nothing more than a flat cut-out.
Richmond Park
A little way out of the city, at 2,500 acres Richmond Park offers the largest green space in London. It is well stocked with deer and even on a short walk or drive through the park you're likely to encounter them. The park contains a number of small ornamental gardens that offer a colourful contrast to the miles of grassland. It's a great place for a long walk, while Richmond offers many attractive options for a meal once you've worked up an appetite.
Look out for: Parakeets. If you walk along the paths of the park for any time, the chance are you'll see a flash of bright green flying overhead, accompanied by a distinct shrill. These birds arrived here after escaping captivity, and have found the surroundings very much to their liking.
Holland Park
This small gem of a green space in this well-to-do neighbourhood in west London is a local favourite for chilling out in the capital. Small intimate footpaths wind their way through old woodland, while the central jewel of the park is actually its newest feature. The Kyoto Garden, designed and built by a Japanese garden architect in 1992, is the perfect spot to pass a lunch hour or to bring a picnic. With its tinkling fountains and rock pools it's easy to imagine yourself in a faraway place. Be warned though that the tranquillity required for this illusion is lost on summer weekends when thousands of people descend on Holland Park's compact lawns.
Top London Markets
Portobello Road
Saturdays
Alive with noise and rich with a vibrant atmosphere, this is the place to come for curios, antiques, old records, strange clothes and some outstanding hot food from around the world. This area has been used many times as a filming location, most notably in the film Notting Hill.
Tip: look out for the Travel Bookshop just off Portobello Road in Blenheim Crescent - a real treasure trove of maps and guides.
Borough Market
Thursday, Friday and Saturday
Found in the arches under the railway lines leading to London Bridge, Borough market is a food lover's paradise. It is home to fantastic cheeses, meats, organic produce and cooked specialities from all over the world. Stop here for lunch and eat the food at its freshest.
Tip: try the Monmouth coffee house at the edge of the market. Locals insist this is the best coffee in London, and the long lines of people waiting to pick up their caffeine fix support this argument.
Camden Market
Saturday and Sunday
Camden Lock is one of the cool spots to hang out on a weekend. Gothic clothing and music lovers will enjoy browsing in the stores, while the fresh food on offer can take you across continents in the blink of an eye: Polish, Peruvian and Indian stalls jostle for attention by cooking up national dishes and letting the aromas tempt the passing masses. Most will offer tasting samples of their wares.
Tip: if you fancy an ice-cream with a difference try Chin Chin Labs, London's first nitro ice-cream parlour. Ice-cream is made by dipping mixture into liquid nitrogen. Worth seeing!
Covent Garden Market
Open Every Day
The shops inside Covent Garden are more boutique than market stall but there is a vibrant atmosphere at any time of the day (of the markets listed here this is the only one that's open every day). When you've had enough of the shops you can enjoy the many street artists around the central market area.
Tip: If you are arriving on the Tube, don't get out at Covent Garden. It's one of the oldest stations and gets very overcrowded at busy times. Use Leicester Square or Holborn and take a short walk.
Brick Lane Market
Sunday
Transformed from a run down East End neighbourhood, Brick Lane is now one of the trendiest addresses in London. Every Sunday thousands flock to the narrow lane to admire the piles of second hand clothing, bric-a-brac and surprising trinkets from around the world.
Tip: If you're visiting Brick Lane on a Sunday, take the chance to visit nearby Columbia Road flower market and Petticoat Lane market, both of which are close by and enjoy the same lively atmosphere.
Did you know? 10 Surprising Facts about the London Underground
- The Tube stations at Leicester Square and Covent Garden on the Piccadilly are less than 300 metres apart; the shortest distance on the Underground network.
- Coincidentally, the route from Leicester Square to Covent Garden is the most popular underground journey for
tourists to take. It is quicker to walk this distance than travel on the tube.
- Sick of hearing "Mind the Gap"? The phrase originated on the Northern line.
- The Metropolitan line opened on the 10th January 1863 and is the oldest Tube line in the world.
- Bank station has more than 15 escalators; more than any other station in London.
- There are 409 escalators on the Tube network, and they do the equivalent of two journeys around the world every week.
- Angel has Western Europe's longest escalator with 318 steps.
- The air in the underground is on average 10°C hotter than the air on the surface.
- If you want to see rodents on the Underground tracks (why would you?) the best places to spot them is Oxford
Circus.
- Feeling peckish? The Cadbury's Whole Nut is the biggest selling chocolate bought from the vending machines at Tube stations.
And as a bonus… did you know that there is only one Tube station name which does not have any letters of the word "mackerel" in it? It's true. Look it up if you don't believe it. (Hint: it's on the Jubilee Line)