Are you considering spending London in one day? Although it may seem short, you can still experience many of London’s highlights during this brief visit.
In this article, we’ll assist you in planning your ideal day in London. We’ll explore some favorite attractions in the UK’s capital.
London in one day
This one-day guide to exploring London offers a perfect itinerary for discovering the city. Whether you’re kicking off a longer journey across the UK or have a layover in one of London’s airports and want to see some of its top sights, this plan is ideal.
Exploring London in one day might seem like a short timeframe for such a magnificent city. Yet, with guidance, you can optimize every single moment of your visit.
We will suggest various options for your one-day London itinerary, allowing you to select the attractions that suit you best.
It’s advisable to purchase tickets to attractions online in advance. This not only often qualifies you for discounts but also likely spares you from waiting in queues, thereby saving valuable time during your day in London.
Also Read – Best Taxi App in UK
Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus stands out as one of the top tourist attractions in London.
Visitors often enjoy relaxing by the renowned statue of Eros, a favored meeting spot, or capturing memorable photos against the backdrop of its iconic advertising screens.
Moreover, Piccadilly Circus serves as a convenient starting point for strolling to nearby landmarks such as Piccadilly, Leicester Square, Shaftesbury Avenue, or Regent Street.
Nearest Tube Station
Piccadilly Circus is the nearest tube station.
Checkout this on TFL site
Nearest Bus Station
Piccadilly Circus is the nearest bus station. There are number of stops as per buses.
Checkout this on TFL site.
You can also check map here.
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square, a vibrant public space, boasts some of London’s premier attractions, including galleries, historic edifices, statues, and monuments.
At its heart, Nelson’s Column, flanked by fountains and guarded by bronze lions, commands attention. The square bustles with activity, from pigeons and tourists to street performers. Amidst the hustle, red double-decker buses and traditional black cabs navigate the lively traffic.
Throughout the year, Trafalgar Square hosts various events, supported by the Greater London Authority, which oversees its management.
A noteworthy highlight: Trafalgar Square is also the location of the esteemed National Gallery, offering free admission and typically operating from 10 am daily. If you fancy a museum visit during your brief London sojourn, it’s worth exploring.
Nearest Tube Station
Charing Cross, accessible via the Bakerloo and Northern lines, serves as the nearest Tube station, conveniently situated with an entrance/exit on Trafalgar Square.
Additionally, the following stations are just a short walk away:
- Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines)
- Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines)
- Embankment (Bakerloo, Northern, District, and Circle lines)
For efficient trip planning, utilize Transport for London’s Journey Planner.
Nearest Bus Station
Explore the Transport for London bus maps webpage to discover details about bus routes originating from Trafalgar Square, including both daytime and nighttime services.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace stands as one of the few operational royal residences globally, showcasing the enduring grandeur of monarchy. Renowned as one of the world’s most iconic and magnificent structures, it’s a must-visit destination to immerse oneself in British history and culture.
The palace is truly immense, boasting a staggering 775 rooms, including an impressive 78 bathrooms!
Visitors fortunate enough to tour the palace from July to October can explore 19 State rooms and the lavish gardens. However, it’s essential to manage time effectively, as the palace gates close promptly at 4:30 PM daily. Ensure you plan your visit efficiently to make the most of your time at this historic landmark.
Nearest Tube Station
1 – Green Park Station: Situated on the periphery of Green Park, just a mere 0.4 miles away (a 6-minute walk) from the King’s Residence, Green Park Station stands as the closest underground station to Buckingham Palace. Serviced by the Piccadilly, Jubilee, and Victoria Lines, it offers convenient access with entrances on both sides of Piccadilly Road.
2 – St James’s Park Station: Located adjacent to St James’s Park in the City of Westminster, Central London, St James’s Park Station, along with Green Park, ranks as one of the nearest tube stations to Buckingham Palace, merely 0.4 miles away. However, the journey entails walking along two different streets, Petty France and Buckingham Gate, resulting in a slightly longer commute of 8 minutes in total.
For efficient trip planning, utilize Transport for London’s Journey Planner.
Nearest Bus Station
The nearest station to Buckingham Palace is Wilton Street, Westminster Cathedral (Stop N), Old Park Lane / Hard Rock Cafe (Stop C). Buses 9, 11, 211, C1, and C10 make stops in close proximity to the palace. Alight at the Wilton Street bus stop and proceed on foot to the entrance, which is only a 3-minute walk away.
Explore the Transport for London bus maps webpage to discover details about bus routes originating from Trafalgar Square, including both daytime and nighttime services.
London Eye
The London Eye stands as one of London’s most renowned attractions, offering visitors a chance to experience breathtaking views of the city.
As the tallest observation wheel in Europe, it provides unparalleled panoramas of central London, showcasing its iconic landmarks.
To make the most of your visit, consider booking timed-entry tickets online beforehand, particularly fast-track options to skip long queues and save precious time.
Alternatively, appreciate the grandeur of the London Eye from ground level and cap off your day with a visit to The Shard for additional stunning vistas.
Nearest Tube Station
Waterloo serves as the nearest tube/underground station to London Eye, located approximately a 5-minute walk away. Positioned in zone 1, Waterloo boasts excellent connectivity via the Bakerloo line (brown), Jubilee line (grey), Northern line (black), and Waterloo and City line (turquoise).
Upon exiting the station, follow the signs directing you towards the South Bank.
For efficient trip planning, utilize Transport for London’s Journey Planner.
Nearest Bus Station
Explore the Transport for London bus maps webpage to discover details about bus routes originating from Trafalgar Square, including both daytime and nighttime services.
Big Ben
The Houses of Parliament and Elizabeth Tower, popularly known as Big Ben, stand as quintessential landmarks and essential sights to visit in London.
Interestingly, Big Ben refers specifically to the colossal bell housed within the clock tower, weighing over 13 tons (13,760 kg). Particularly enchanting at night, the clock tower’s four illuminated faces create a stunning spectacle.
While many visitors admire this iconic landmark from the outside, not everyone is aware that guided tours are available for those interested in exploring its interior. Checkout entry prices and time here.
Nearest Tube Station
Waterloo serves as the nearest tube/underground station to Big Ben. Its walking from London eye.
For efficient trip planning, utilize Transport for London’s Journey Planner.
Nearest Bus Station
Explore the Transport for London bus maps webpage to discover details about bus routes originating from Trafalgar Square, including both daytime and nighttime services.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge, an iconic Grade I listed structure, stands as a testament to London’s rich history. Combining bascule and suspension elements, this over 100-year-old bridge was meticulously constructed to enhance access to the East End of London.
Completed over an 8-year period from 1886 to 1894, Tower Bridge boasts stunning Neo-Gothic design and distinctive lifting central sections.
Upon its inauguration, Tower Bridge emerged as the world’s most advanced bascule bridge, setting a new standard in engineering marvels. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the sole River Thames bridge capable of raising its central section, adding to its significance and allure.
Its free to visit and you can good amazing clicks.
Nearest Train station
Tower Bridge is conveniently located near London Bridge and Fenchurch Street National Rail stations, as well as Tower Gateway DLR Station.
Nearest Tube Station
Getting to Tower Bridge:
- Tower Hill Station: Located just a brief 5-6 minutes stroll from Tower Bridge, Tower Hill Station is conveniently accessible via the District and Circle lines. This station also offers step-free access from platform to street, ensuring ease of travel for all.
- London Bridge Station: Serving the Northern and Jubilee lines, London Bridge Station is another convenient option for reaching Tower Bridge. A short walk from the station will lead you to this iconic landmark. Additionally, London Bridge Station provides step-free access from train to street, enhancing accessibility for commuters.
For efficient trip planning, utilize Transport for London’s Journey Planner.
Nearest Bus Station
Explore the Transport for London bus maps webpage to discover details about bus routes originating from Trafalgar Square, including both daytime and nighttime services.
London in one day Itinerary Map
To help you. We have designed Google map which have all above places. Please checkout google map here. You can also checkout editable Map here. You are free to adjust if you want to skip places.
