Discover London

Get the whole London experience!

There's something on for everyone in London. It is one of the most visited cities in the world for a reason.

With so much to see, it’s hard to narrow down the long list but below you’ll find our tips for getting around London, top 10 recommendations of things you won’t want to miss, including travel discounts and hidden gems! Make sure to keep scrolling down.

London Essentials:

Essentials

Looking for tips near ExCel London? Check out the After Hours Guide:

ExCel London After Hours Guide

Use Big Bus Tour

The tours presents endless chances to explore. Even better, you can now receive 20% off:

BOOK NOW

Get an Oyster Card

Cut down on your travel costs and buy an Oyster Card online in advance or at any tube station.

Bring an Umbrella (A Sturdy One)

London weather is changeable and while it isn't as rainy as everyone thinks, you better want to be safe than sorry!

Download Travel Apps

Turn your phone into your personal travel guide and download the Tube Map and Citymapper app to help you get around in London.

Visit world famous attractions for free

London is home to some of the most iconic museums and galleries in the world — many of which are free. Spend a few hours soaking up some culture in the British Museum, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum or the V&A, where you can browse the permanent collections at no cost.

The tradition of taking afternoon tea

The tradition of ‘taking tea’ and that little bit of something between lunch and dinner is quintessentially British. Fortnum & Mason’s tranquil Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon was opened by HM The Queen and has since become a stylish destination for the most traditional of afternoon teas.

Relax in a Royal Park

You don’t need to travel far to find green space in London. The Capital is home to eight beautiful Royal Parks, including Hyde Park, St James’s and Greenwich. Part of the World Heritage Site, Greenwich is also home to the Prime Meridian Line and the Royal Observatory.

Enjoy panoramic views of London

If you’ve got a head for heights, don’t miss London’s panoramic views. Once you’ve enjoyed the City from the ground, it’s a great idea to head upwards and look down on London’s many famous buildings and attractions. There are plenty of places where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the City, from rooftop bars to London’s newest landmark, The Shard.

Travel by River and Cable Car

The River Thames flows through Central London and provides a stunning backdrop to many of the city’s top tourist attractions. River bus services and river tours are great ways to beat the traffic and enjoy wonderful
views. From ExCeL London take the Emirates Airline Cable Car to North Greenwich to connect with river services.

Retail therapy

You’re spoilt for choice when shopping in London, from flagship stores on Oxford Street, to gifts and antiques at London’s markets. Shop in Europe’s largest urban shopping centre, minutes away from ExCeL, at Westfield Stratford, or visit an iconic department store such as Harrods or Selfridges

Be part of a 700-year-old ancient ceremony

The Ceremony of the Keys is the traditional locking up of the Tower of London and has taken place every night, without fail, for at least 700 years. Tickets are issued free of charge but, due to the popularity of the ceremony, it is necessary to book as far in advance as is possible.

Take in a show at Wilton’s Music Hall

Wilton’s exemplifies how East London is full of little known treasures! Tucked behind a row of 1730s houses, it is the world’s oldest surviving music hall and is still used to host a variety of shows. Have a drink in the atmospheric Mahogany Bar before taking your seat to see a play, opera or comedy act.

Enjoy a pint at The Grapes

Now owned by Sir Ian McKellen, this tavern has stood on the same ground for 500 years. It was frequented by Samuel Pepys and Charles Dickens and is said to be the inspiration for the opening of the Dickens’s classic ‘Our Mutual Friend’.

Fill up at Brick Lane

Brick Lane is the most iconic street in East London and for good reason — the food! Whether Caribbean or Indian dishes tickle your taste buds, there’s a renowned restaurant here which can accommodate you. For Indian specialities, try out ‘Sheba’ recently voted as ‘Best curry house in the UK’.