After a 250-year absence, the ‘Dictionary Desk’ of celebrated 18th century writer Samuel Johnson makes a historic return to his former abode, Dr Johnson’s House in the City of London.
The City of London is where ancient traditions meet modern day - a place where you can watch sheep crossing Southwark Bridge in the morning, enjoy street food beneath towering skyscrapers at lunch, and sip cocktails in a rooftop garden by sunset.
Keep on reading to find 41 things to do in the City of London.
Art and Theatre
1. Barbican Centre
The Barbican is a world-renowned art and learning centre, pushing boundaries across dance, film, music, theatre, and visual arts. Opened in 1982, this Grade II-listed Brutalist icon houses theatres, galleries, concert halls, cinemas, a vast conservatory with over 1,500 plant species, a library, restaurants, and a serene lakeside oasis.
Photo Credit: Lee Mawdsley
2. London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE
Located beneath Bloomberg’s European headquarters, you will find the preserved remains of the Roman Temple of Mithras and remarkable Roman artefacts unearthed during recent excavations. The space also features contemporary art commissions inspired by this significant archaeological site.
© London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE
3. Crane Court Gallery
Nestled just off Fleet Street, Crane Court Gallery is a vibrant cultural hub showcasing diverse artists through solo and group exhibitions, collaborative projects, and educational events. Spread across four gallery floors, with a rooftop terrace and atmospheric basement vault, the gallery also hosts artist residencies and workshops.
Crane Court Gallery in the City of London. Image courtesy of Crane Court Gallery.
4. Broadworks by Hive Curates
Broadworks is a dynamic cultural space celebrating the City’s rich heritage of craft and enterprise. Dive into a rotating program of workshops, exhibitions, and events designed to engage and inspire.
5. Bridewell Theatre
Built over the City’s first swimming pool, Bridewell Theatre is a unique off-West End venue. Its Victorian glass lantern roof, viewing gallery, and preserved changing rooms add charm to a packed schedule of plays, comedy, music, and exhibitions.
6. Guildhall School of Music and Drama
A globally renowned institution, Guildhall School nurtures the next generation of musicians, actors, and production artists. Enjoy hundreds of annual performances, from operas and classical concerts to jazz gigs and cutting-edge theatre. Past acting alumni include Orlando Bloom, Michaela Coel, and Daniel Craig.
Image courtesy of Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Featuring Louisa Stirand, Mark Christian Bautista, and Alexandra Pouta.
7. Guildhall Art Gallery
From the Pre-Raphaelites to depictions of London's colourful past, Guildhall Art Gallery is home to world famous masterpieces with a wide-ranging collection including works dating from 1670 to the present day.
Attractions in the City
8. Dr Johnson’s House
Step into the 18th-century home of Samuel Johnson, where he compiled his seminal Dictionary of the English Language (1755). This beautifully preserved Queen Anne townhouse retains original features like its spiral staircase and movable panelled walls. Explore Johnson’s world, meet his eclectic household, and delve into the life of one of England’s greatest lexicographers.
Dr Johnsons House.
9. The Monument
Climb 311 spiral steps to the top of The Monument, a 202ft column designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Robert Hooke to commemorate the Great Fire of London (1666). Enjoy panoramic views of the city and reflect on its remarkable recovery.
10. St Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul's, with its world-famous dome, is an iconic feature of the London skyline. They welcome visitors to worship, to sightsee and to attend a dynamic programme of events – from orchestral performances to thought-provoking panel discussions.
11. Billingsgate Roman House and Bath
Explore the Billingsgate Roman House and Baths by descending into the basement of an office block on Lower Thames Street, and discover one of Roman London’s most fascinating remains. First built around A.D. 150 then extended a hundred years later, it was occupied right through to the end of Roman London in the early 5th century A.D. Get close to the protected archaeological remains, which are preserved in immaculate condition, as if the archaeologists have just left the site.
Billingsgate Roman House and Bath.
Explore the City with a Guide
12. City of London Guided Tours
Step back through 2,000 years of history with themed walking tours led by City of London Guides. Wander the streets once roamed by Shakespeare and Dickens, or marvel at the elegant spires of Sir Christopher Wren’s churches. Uncover hidden meanings with Secrets and Symbols, walk the ancient paths of Roman Londinium, or dive into the City’s darker past with tales of murder, riots, and fires. Follow the River Thames to explore its role as the City’s lifeline, or trace the devastation and rebirth sparked by the Great Fire(s) of London. Short on time? The City Highlights tour covers the top 10 sights you simply can’t miss.
Photo Credit: Niki Gorick Photography
Free Attractions
13. Bank of England Museum
Uncover over 1,500 years of history at this fascinating museum. Learn about the origins of paper money, test your strength with a real gold bar, and explore interactive exhibits detailing the Bank's role today. Free entry, no booking required.
Image courtesy of Bank of England Museum.
14. City Wall at Vine Street
Journey back 2,000 years at this archaeological treasure showcasing a section of London’s original Roman Wall and the foundations of a Roman bastion. The gallery features artefacts uncovered during excavation, offering insight into ancient Londinium.
© The City Wall at Vine Street
15. Leadenhall Market
This 14th-century covered market blends historic charm with modern vibrancy. Wander through cobblestone alleys beneath ornate Victorian architecture and explore boutique shops, bars, and eateries.
16. The Royal Exchange
A premier luxury shopping destination, The Royal Exchange features heritage brands, fine dining, and elegant bars. Enjoy everything from afternoon tea at Fortnum’s Bar & Restaurant to artisanal pastries at Ladurée, all within a stunning 19th-century building.
17. Self-Guided Walks
Pick up a free City Visitor Trail map and embark on a self-guided journey through London’s 2,000-year history. Explore Roman ruins, medieval alleyways, historic churches, and iconic landmarks. Don’t miss themed trails like the Great Fire of London walk and the Literary Trail.
Magpie Alley.
18. Sculpture in the City
This open-air sculpture park transforms the City’s streets into an urban gallery. The 13th Edition (July 2024 – Spring 2025) features 17 artworks by 15 artists, blending cutting-edge installations with the City’s iconic skyline.
Copyright Clare Burnett. Photo © Nick Turpin
19. London’s Roman Amphitheatre
During your visit to Guildhall Art Gallery, discover the astonishing remains of London’s Roman Amphitheatre, a unique attraction which allows you to dive into the ancient history of Roman London.
Experiences in the City
20. City of London Distillery
Experience London’s gin revival at this historic distillery. Join a guided tour and tasting, or pop into the bar for an award-winning Whitley Neill Gin cocktail. Book ahead for gin-making workshops and masterclasses.
21. F1 Arcade
Step into the driver’s seat at F1 Arcade, home to 60 full-motion racing simulators. With diverse skill levels, delicious food, and cocktails, this is the ultimate Formula 1® social gaming experience.
22. Jeff Wayne’s The War of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience
Dive into H.G. Wells’ classic with this high-tech adventure, featuring VR, AR, volumetric holograms, and live actors. Spanning 24 interactive scenes, this 1 hour 50-minute experience is unforgettable.
23. Swingers City
Crazy golf meets cocktail culture at Swingers City. Tee off on two 9-hole courses set in a 1920s-inspired English country club, complete with street food vendors and stylish bars.
24. Puttshack Bank
Revolutionising mini-golf, Puttshack combines tech-infused courses with vibrant social spaces. Compete with friends, enjoy great food and drinks, and experience the ultimate mini-golf adventure in the heart of the City.
Unmissable Events
25. Inter-Livery Pancake Race
Fancy dress, flying pancakes, and plenty of laughter — Livery teams race around Guildhall Yard flipping pancakes for charity. Expect regalia, starting pistols, and, yes, frying pans as trophies.
26. Leadenhall Pancake Day Race
Bowler hats on, pancakes in hand — teams dash through Leadenhall’s cobbled alleys vying for the Golden Frying Pan. Free pancakes and lively commentary keep spirits high.
27. City Beerfest
Sip craft beers, savour street food, and soak in live music — all in the historic setting of Guildhall Yard, raising a glass for a good cause.
28. The Lord Mayor’s Show
A centuries-old tradition with marching bands, City floats, and the gleaming State Coach carrying the new Lord Mayor. Typically, over 7,000 participants, 200 horses, and approximately 150 groups and floats come together in a three-mile-long procession to celebrate the Lord Mayor’s first full day in office.
29. Sheep Drive and Livery Fair
Watch Freemen herd sheep across Southwark Bridge (yes, really) in this quirky tradition. The Livery Fair nearby is packed with crafts, rare breeds, and woolly wonders.
Sheep Drive and Livery Fair in the City of London hosted by the Worshipful Company of Woolmen.
30. Cart Marking Ceremony
Come and watch the annual Cart Marking Ceremony - a wonderfully quirky City tradition led by the Worshipful Company of Carmen which dates back over 500 years, and is the origin of vehicle licencing.
Markets to discover
31. Leadenhall Lunchtime Market (Tues to Thurs, 11:30am to 2:30pm)
Craving something delicious? Dive into a rotating line-up of street food stalls beneath The Leadenhall Building — tacos, curries, burgers, and more.
32. Paternoster Square Markets
From Valentine’s Day pop-ups to festive Christmas stalls, there’s always something seasonal happening here.
33. Petticoat Lane Market
Petticoat Lane traces its history all the way back to the 1650s and is home to a unique mix of independent shops, restaurants, coffee shops, bars, a weekday food market, and a fantastic Sunday street market.
34. Leadenhall Market
A stunning Victorian arcade where history meets modern shopping, with boutique stores and buzzing bars. Keep an eye out for their weekend markets!
Sky-High City Views
35. Sky Garden (20 Fenchurch St)
A lush oasis 35 floors up — wander through exotic gardens with 360° views. Free entry, but book ahead!
36. The Garden at 120 (120 Fenchurch St)
No booking needed here. Relax among wisteria trees and a flowing water feature, with sweeping views of London’s skyline.
Credit to City of London Corporation.
37. Horizon 22 (22 Bishopsgate)
The highest free viewing platform in London — 58 floors up, with jaw-dropping 300° views. Booking required.
Courtesy of Horizon 22.
38. The Lookout (8 Bishopsgate)
Uninterrupted skyline views from the 50th floor, offering a unique glimpse of London from above. Free, but book in advance.
Gardens to explore
39. Postman’s Park
One of the City’s largest open spaces, Postman’s Park harbours a fascinating history, part of which can be discovered in the Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice. Take a seat on one of the many benches and admire the seasonal flowerbeds in this tranquil garden.
40. St Dunstan in the East Church Garden
Part dishevelled fairy tale, part botanical haven, it’s easy to forget you’re minutes away from the urban melee when in the secret garden of these church ruins. The award-winning landscaping of lush foliage and twisting branches frame dozens of Instagram-worthy pics – see if you can capture that perfect ‘past meets future’ shot of The Shard spied through an ancient archway.
41. Barbican Conservatory
Oh, it looks like rain and you’ve left your umbrella behind (of course). But don’t let that dampen your chance of getting a dose of greenery. Take shelter in the second biggest conservatory in London – a tropical paradise bursting to life within the Brutalist architecture of the Barbican Centre.
The Barbican Conservatory. Credit Max Colson.
