DO NOT do these things in London
Writing a list of classic things that people must do when visiting London, got me thinking about rip-offs, overrated attractions and mistakes that tourists can make. Please, do not do these things in London – it’ll make your visit SO much better. Trust me.
I love this city, I do, but there are definitely places to avoid as a tourist.
And trust me, I’ve been to them. Sometimes more than once (though I’ll often drop friends and family at said place before meeting them for a pint in a favourite London pub afterwards.)
1. Visit Madam Tussauds
I’ve been, and I just don’t get the hype – even with our 2-for-1 discount. People queue outside this iconic attraction for hours along Marylebone Road, and I’m a bit stumped. Yes, I guess it’s the closest some people will get to celebrities – and I’ve never been into celebs, but why? That’s an expensive fake selfie right there.
2. Go through the London Dungeons
See also: Madam Tussauds. But, hey, you do you.
3. Have a curry down Brick Lane.
Yes, I know it’s considered an institution, but every meal I’ve had to have there is just so lame compared to any number of the restaurants you could go to: if you’re in a group of 6+ book a table at Dishoom, if you’re treating yourself the Cinnamon Kitchen group are great – there are SO many great options.
4. Have afternoon tea at the Ritz.
Controversial I know, but over the years several friends have gone and paid a premium only to have dry sandwiches. My classic, sumptuous favourite is Claridges Hotel, my family favourite is the Peter Pan tea at the Shard, and my themed favourite is Cutter & Squidge’s Wizarding tea (though their Aladdin tea was exceptional as well). However, dinner and drinks at the Ritz however was incredible – it almost made it into my top 5 meals ever.
5. Do a Jack the Ripper walk
The knowledge of the tour guides is incredible, but honestly, you just visit a lot of car parks.
6. Eat on Leicester Square
They’re mostly tourist ripoffs including the steak houses. The two exceptions are the Hippodrome steak restaurants (you’ll have to go through the casino) and the Londoner Hotel which is ££££. Go to Seven Dials, go to Chinatown, go to the streets around Covent Garden – these are all within walking distance and so much better. If you can, book ahead – and there are some great pre-theatre offers (you don’t even need to be going to the theatre.)
7. Travel at commuting times if you can avoid it
Post-Pandemic it doesn’t seem as busy, but if you can avoid 8am-9am and 5.30pm-6.30pm I would – especially the Jubilee Line, and Oxford Circus which regularly gets closed due to crowding. Use an app like Citymapper or just GoogleMaps to help you get around.
8. Confuse the Picadilly Circus statue
Fun fact: it’s Anteros not Eros.
9. Wander around Borough Market on Saturday mornings
This is a rookie mistake. Biiiiiiiiig mistake because 4 million other people will be there too.
10. Limit yourself to Central London
I get it, time can be short, but if you do have the time get out further into the suburbs – there are some amazing places, some surprising history and some wonderful parks.
Found this post helpful? Check out the 10 best things to do in London, and 15 secrets to discover in London.
