12 Top Things to Do in London this winter
– 6 min read
London remains one of the world’s most layered cities — not because it constantly reinvents itself, but because it continuously reveals new perspectives on familiar places. From immersive experiences and architectural curiosities to cultural festivals and unexpected urban viewpoints, the city offers far more than its iconic landmarks.
Below is a curated selection of 12 standout experiences in London, suitable for families, couples, and culturally curious travellers alike — with clear locations, access details, and context.
1. Floating Igloos at Canary Wharf
Canary Wharf
Operated by Skuna Boats, these floating igloos offer a rare way to experience London from the water. Moored among the modern architecture of Canary Wharf, the heated igloos create a private, weatherproof setting ideal for relaxed sightseeing.
Why it’s worth your time:
It’s one of the few experiences that combines river views, privacy, and comfort — particularly appealing outside peak summer months.
All ages welcome. Children under five go free. Advance booking recommended.
2. Rainbow Tunnel at King’s Cross
King’s Cross, N1C 4AG
This colour-saturated pedestrian tunnel has become a small but memorable urban landmark. Designed as part of the King’s Cross regeneration, it transforms a simple walkway into an immersive visual moment.
Why it’s worth your time:
A brief stop that adds visual contrast to a walk between Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard.
Open daily from 7am to 8pm.
3. Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, TW9 3AB
The annual orchid festival is one of London’s most refined seasonal events, showcasing rare blooms through curated botanical storytelling.
Why it’s worth your time:
It combines horticulture, design, and education — making it equally engaging for adults and children.
All ages welcome.
4. Wicked LEGO Installation at Hamleys
Hamleys, Oxford Street (Basement)
A playful, temporary installation inspired by Wicked, recreated entirely in LEGO. While designed with children in mind, the craftsmanship appeals to adults as well.
Why it’s worth your time:
It’s interactive, free, and located inside one of London’s most historic toy stores.
Free entry. Open now.
5. Glass Walkway at Tower Bridge
The glass-floored walkway offers a direct view of the Thames and the traffic moving below — a surprisingly engaging way to experience a familiar landmark.
Why it’s worth your time:
It adds a new dimension to one of London’s most photographed structures.
Booking required. All ages welcome.
6. The Thin House, South Kensington
South Kensington, SW7 2TA
Often described as London’s narrowest house, this architectural curiosity is easy to miss — and impossible to forget once spotted.
Why it’s worth your time:
It’s perfectly placed between the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and the V&A, making it a natural stop during a museum day.
Exterior viewing only.
7. Southbank Winter Lights
Southbank Centre
Daily from 4pm to 11pm until 18 January 2026
Each winter, Southbank transforms into a curated outdoor light gallery, featuring installations by international artists.
Why it’s worth your time:
The riverside setting makes it one of London’s most atmospheric evening walks.
8. Banksy Exhibition
South Kensington
Tickets available until 22 February 2026
This exhibition offers a structured introduction to Banksy’s work, themes, and cultural impact.
Why it’s worth your time:
It contextualises street art within contemporary social commentary, making it accessible to all ages.
All ages welcome. Ticketed entry.
9. Garden at 120
EC3M 5BA
This free rooftop garden provides panoramic views of the City of London, including the Walkie Talkie and the Gherkin.
Why it’s worth your time:
It’s one of the few elevated viewpoints in London that requires no booking and no fee.
Free entry. Just turn up.
10. Machu Picchu Immersive Experience
Minimum age: 8
An immersive, multimedia exploration of the ancient Incan site, combining visuals, soundscapes, and educational content.
Why it’s worth your time:
It’s an engaging cultural experience for families seeking something beyond traditional museums.
Ticketed entry.
11. Double Helix Staircase at Fortnum & Mason
Fortnum & Mason, W1A 1ER
Hidden in plain sight, this elegant staircase is a quiet architectural highlight inside one of London’s most iconic department stores.
Why it’s worth your time:
A subtle detail that reflects London’s tradition of craftsmanship and design.
12. Pasta in a Church at Mercato Mayfair
Mercato Mayfair, W1K 6ZA
Set inside a former church, Mercato Mayfair offers casual Italian dining in a striking historic space. Dez Amore is a popular choice for fresh pasta.
Why it’s worth your time:
It perfectly captures London’s ability to repurpose heritage architecture for contemporary life.
Walk-ins welcome. All ages.
Conclusion
London’s appeal lies not in a single attraction, but in its range — from quiet architectural details to immersive cultural experiences. Whether you are visiting with children, exploring as a couple, or rediscovering the city as a local, these twelve experiences offer a well-balanced view of what London does best: variety, depth, and character.
FAQ: Visiting London – Practical Questions
1. What are the best things to do in London with children?
London offers a wide range of family-friendly experiences, including interactive museums, outdoor installations, rooftop gardens, and immersive exhibitions. Many attractions — such as river experiences, public art, seasonal festivals, and observation walkways — are suitable for all ages and do not require extensive planning.
2. Is London a good destination for a family city break?
Yes. London is considered one of Europe’s most accessible cities for family travel thanks to its public transport, walkable neighbourhoods, and variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Families can easily combine cultural visits with relaxed experiences such as riverside walks, markets, and parks.
3. Do you need to book London attractions in advance?
It depends on the experience. Major exhibitions, immersive experiences, and popular landmarks usually require advance booking, especially during school holidays and weekends. Public installations, rooftop gardens, and outdoor light festivals are often free and available on a walk-in basis.
4. What is the best time of year to visit London for events and experiences?
Late winter and early spring are ideal for cultural exhibitions, botanical festivals, and indoor experiences, while still offering fewer crowds than peak summer. Seasonal events such as light festivals and temporary installations make this period particularly appealing.
5. Are there free things to do in London that are still high quality?
Absolutely. London is known for offering high-quality free experiences, including rooftop viewpoints, public art installations, architectural landmarks, and many museums. These options allow visitors to explore the city without compromising on cultural value.
6. Is London suitable for travellers who want culture beyond museums?
Yes. Beyond traditional museums, London offers immersive art experiences, architectural curiosities, seasonal festivals, and creatively repurposed historic spaces. This makes the city appealing to travellers seeking cultural depth in a more experiential and contemporary format.
