7 classic things to do in London

You could live in London for a year and still not see and experience all the UK's capital has to offer. Here are the absolute classic 'must-dos' on your trip to the city

Classic things to see and do in London (dreamstime)

1. Afternoon tea

Celebrate the best of British and indulge your appetite with an award-winning traditional afternoon tea at one of the top luxury hotels in London. Experience spectacular sights and indulge in assortments of dainty finger sandwiches, delicate cakes and scones topped with lashings of clotted cream.

2. National Gallery

The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square houses one of the greatest collections of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries. With free access 361 days a year to over 2,300 paintings, the National Gallery is an ever-popular tourist attraction in London. Browse paintings which have inspired books, posters and other gifts in the National Gallery shop or online.

3. Science museum

Renowned for its excellence and innovation, the science museum is one of three major museums in London with 2.7 million visitors annually. The family attraction, located in South Kensington, is devoted to science and technology with interactive and educational exhibits for inspiring fun. Entry is free and it is open every day between 10am-6pm except from the 24-26 December.

4. London Eye

The London Eye is situated in Jubilee Gardens on the South Bank of the River Thames and is a must-see attraction. The observation wheel offers a 30-minute ride of breathtaking views of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, St Paul's Cathedral and Canary Wharf. Don't forget, children can 'eyeskate' for free on the winter-wonderland rink from 9 December when you buy a family ticket.

5. Camden market

Take a walk down the cobbled streets of Camden market near the Hampstead Road Lock of the Regent's Canal. Discover a sea of vibrant and international stalls, shops, pubs and restaurants stretched across the neighbourhood. Camden market is open everyday from 10.30am on weekdays and 10am at the weekend.

6. Buckingham Palace

The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are open to the public for eight weeks during August and September. During December 2013 – February 2014 there will be exclusive guided tours at the palace, including watching the Guard Ceremony and learning about the history of Buckingham Palace.

7. West End musical

Looking for a sophisticated way to end the evening? Take a trip to the West End for a world of entertainment. Home to some of the world's best musicals, London’s West End is renowned for wowing audiences with classics such as 'The Lion King', 'Billy Elliot the Musical' and 'Les Misérables'.