Explore London’s must-visit landmarks, from Buckingham Palace’s royal splendor to Tower Bridge’s iconic views. Perfect for families, our guide covers the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and more, with 2025 ticket prices and tips.
London is a city steeped in history, culture, and architectural brilliance. From royal residences and ancient churches to modern engineering marvels, the city offers countless landmarks that capture the essence of its heritage. For travellers, exploring these iconic sites is more than sightseeing—it is a journey into the heart of Britain’s traditions, monarchy, and innovations.
Whether you’re fascinated by the grandeur of palaces, the spirituality of historic abbeys, or the thrill of modern attractions, London has something for everyone. Below is a guide to some of the city’s most remarkable destinations, complete with essential details to help you plan your visit.
1. Buckingham Palace
Why Visit?
Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, is a symbol of royal grandeur and British tradition. Located in the heart of Westminster, this iconic landmark offers a glimpse into the monarchy’s history and splendour. Its neoclassical facade, adorned with intricate details, and the famous balcony where royals greet the public make it a must-see for families, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts alike.
Highlights for Visitors:
- Changing of the Guard: Witness the colourful ceremony outside the palace gates, typically held daily at 11:00 AM (check schedules in advance, as times vary). This free spectacle, with its red-coated guards and military bands, is a hit with kids and adults.
- State Rooms Tour: From July to September, the palace opens its opulent State Rooms to the public, showcasing treasures like chandeliers, paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens, and the Throne Room. Tickets cost around £30 for adults, with family discounts available (2025 prices; book via royal.uk).
- The Royal Mews: Explore the working stables, home to the King’s horses and dazzling state carriages, including the Gold State Coach. Open year-round (with seasonal variations), it’s a fascinating peek into royal transport, with entry around £15 for adults.
- Queen’s Gallery: Nearby, this gallery displays rotating exhibits from the Royal Collection, from Old Master paintings to Fabergé eggs. Entry is approximately £17, and kids under 5 go free.
Family-Friendly Tips: The palace grounds are stroller-accessible, and the Changing of the Guard is a short, engaging activity for children. Audio guides in multiple languages cater to international visitors, and the nearby St. James’s Park offers a scenic spot for a post-visit picnic or a relaxed walk to see pelicans and flowerbeds.
Why It’s Top: Buckingham Palace combines history, pageantry, and accessibility, making it an ideal starting point for exploring London. Its central location means you can easily pair a visit with nearby attractions like Trafalgar Square or Westminster Abbey. Arrive early to secure a good spot for the Guard Change, and book State Rooms tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
More Details:
- Autumn 2017 Opening: 1 September – 1 October 2017
- Open Daily: 09:30 – 18:30 (last admission 16:15)
2. London Eye
Why Visit?
The London Eye, perched on the South Bank of the River Thames, is the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, standing at 135 meters. Offering unrivaled 360-degree views of London’s skyline, it’s a thrilling yet accessible experience for families, couples, and first-time visitors. Since opening in 2000, it has become a modern icon, showcasing landmarks like Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard from a unique vantage point.
Highlights for Visitors:
- Panoramic Views: A 30-minute rotation in a spacious, glass-pod cabin reveals London’s landmarks, with visibility up to 40km on clear days. Interactive touchscreens in each pod help identify sights, engaging kids and adults.
- Standard Tickets: Cost around £33 for adults and £27 for children (3–15) in 2025, with kids under three free. Family tickets (e.g., two adults, two children) start at ~£100, offering savings (book via londoneye.com).
- Fast-Track Option: Skip queues for ~£48 per adult, ideal for busy days or impatient kids.
- Exceptional Experiences: Upgrade to a champagne experience (~£50) for adults or a private pod for family celebrations (~£500+). Evening rides offer stunning sunset or twinkling night views.
- 4D Cinema Experience: Included with most tickets, this short immersive film with sensory effects (wind, bubbles) delights younger visitors before boarding.
Family-Friendly Tips: The London Eye is fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, with priority boarding for disabled guests. Pods are spacious, fitting up to 25 people, so kids have room to move. Pre-book tickets to avoid long waits, especially in summer. Pair your visit with a stroll along the South Bank, where street performers, food stalls, and the SEA LIFE London Aquarium keep kids entertained. Check weather forecasts, as cloudy days may reduce visibility, though the experience remains magical.
More Details:
- Tickets: From £23.45 (adults), £21 (ages 3–15)
- Free for children under 3
3. Big Ben
Why Visit? Big Ben, the nickname for the Great Bell inside the Elizabeth Tower at the Palace of Westminster, is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. This 96-meter-tall Gothic clock tower, with its resounding chimes and intricate Victorian design, symbolises British history and resilience. A must-visit for families and history lovers, it offers a blend of architectural splendour and cultural significance, standing proudly along the Thames.
Highlights for Visitors:
- Exterior Views: Admire the tower’s ornate stonework and the massive clock face, one of the largest in the world, visible from Westminster Bridge or the South Bank. It’s a perfect spot for family photos, especially at dusk when the tower is illuminated.
- Guided Tours: Available for UK residents (book via parliament.uk), these tours climb 334 steps to see the clock mechanism and Big Ben itself. Non-residents can explore the Palace of Westminster’s public tours, starting at approximately £28 for adults and £12 for children (2025 prices). Kids under 5 are free, but tours are best for ages 7+.
- Chimes: Hear the famous bell ring on the hour (audible across Westminster), a thrilling moment for kids.
- Nearby Attractions: Pair with visits to Westminster Abbey or a Thames river cruise for a full day of family-friendly exploration.
Family-Friendly Tips: The area around Big Ben is stroller-accessible, with wide pavements and nearby cafes for breaks. Tours may be strenuous for younger kids due to stairs, so consider the external views and nearby Jubilee Gardens for playtime. Check tour availability in advance, as maintenance (completed in 2022) ensures the tower is in prime condition. The vibrant Westminster area, with street performers and riverside walks, keeps kids engaged.
More Details:
- Opening Hours (Mon–Fri): 9:15 am, 10:15 am, 11:15 am & 2:15 pm
- Maximum Group Size: 16 people per tour
4. Westminster Abbey
Why Visit?
Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a cornerstone of British history. Located in the heart of Westminster, this 700-year-old church has hosted royal coronations, weddings, and burials of notable figures like Isaac Newton and Queen Elizabeth I. Its awe-inspiring interiors and historical significance make it a captivating stop for families, history enthusiasts, and culture seekers.
Highlights for Visitors:
- Stunning Architecture: Marvel at the soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate stained-glass windows, and the Coronation Chair, used since 1308. The Poets’ Corner, honouring literary giants like Chaucer and Dickens, fascinates older kids and adults.
- Guided and Audio Tours: Self-guided audio tours (~£27 for adults, ~£12 for children aged 6–17, free for under 6; 2025 prices) are available in multiple languages, taking about 90 minutes. Guided tours (~£35/adult) offer more profound insights into royal history. Book via westminster-abbey.org.
- Family Trails: Free activity booklets for kids include quizzes and treasure hunts, making the visit engaging for younger visitors.
- Services and Events: Attend a free evensong service (typically 5:00 PM weekdays) for a serene experience with choral music, though seating is limited.
Family-Friendly Tips:
The Abbey is stroller-accessible, with ramps at the North Door, and offers family-friendly facilities like restrooms. The audio tour’s flexibility suits kids’ attention spans, and the nearby College Garden provides a quiet spot for a break. Photography is restricted inside, so encourage kids to sketch or describe their favourite features. Book tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially in summer, and pair with a visit to nearby Big Ben for a full Westminster experience.
More Details:
- Opening Hours:
- Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 9:30 am – 7:00 pm
- Saturday: 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
- Sunday: Closed to tourists
5. Tower Bridge
Why Visit?
Tower Bridge, an iconic symbol of London, is a stunning Victorian bascule and suspension bridge spanning the River Thames. Completed in 1894, its distinctive twin towers and vibrant blue cables make it one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Combining engineering marvels with rich history, it’s a perfect attraction for families, architecture enthusiasts, and those seeking panoramic city views.
Highlights for Visitors:
- Tower Bridge Exhibition: Explore the bridge’s history and mechanics through interactive displays in the towers. Walk along the high-level glass walkways, 42 meters above the Thames, for thrilling views of London’s skyline, including the Shard and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Tickets cost ~£13 for adults, ~£6.50 for children aged 5–15, free for under 5 (2025 prices; book via towerbridge.org.uk).
- Engine Rooms: Discover the Victorian steam engines that once powered the bridge’s lifts, a hit with kids fascinated by machinery.
- Bridge Lifts: Check the bridge’s lift schedule online (free to watch from the banks) to see the bascules rise for passing ships, a rare and exciting spectacle for families.
- Photo Opportunities: The bridge’s exterior, especially from the Thames Path or nearby More London, offers postcard-perfect shots, day or night.
Family-Friendly Tips:
The exhibition is stroller-accessible with lifts to the walkways, and family tickets (~£32 for two adults and two children) offer savings. The glass floor is a thrill for older kids but can be skipped for those wary of heights. Interactive exhibits and short videos keep children engaged, and nearby Potters Fields Park is ideal for a post-visit picnic or playtime. Book tickets in advance for faster entry, especially during peak seasons, and pair with a visit to the nearby Tower of London for a full day out.
More Details:
- Summer Opening Hours (April–September): 10:00 – 17:30
- Winter Opening Hours (October–March): 09:30 – 17:00
Conclusion
London is a city where history meets modernity, offering an endless variety of experiences. From the royal elegance of Buckingham Palace to the breathtaking ride on the London Eye, each landmark reveals a unique story. Visitors can walk through centuries of heritage at Westminster Abbey, marvel at the engineering brilliance of Tower Bridge, or capture timeless photos by Big Ben.
Whether you are a first-time traveller or a returning visitor, these destinations are integral to understanding London’s identity. Exploring them ensures not just a sightseeing trip but a deeper appreciation of Britain’s culture, traditions, and architectural achievements. These landmarks are more than attractions—they are living testaments to London’s enduring charm.
in London.