Congestion Charge Zone Map
Introduction
If you’re planning a trip to London and want to explore the Congestion Charge Zone, this travel guide is for you. From top attractions to hidden gems, food scene to budget-friendly tips, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or just looking to soak up the local culture, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant part of the city.
Top Attractions
The Tower of London
A must-visit for history lovers, The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Crown Jewels. Take a guided tour to learn about the tower’s fascinating past and see the famous ravens.
The British Museum
One of the world’s most famous museums, The British Museum is home to over 8 million artifacts from around the globe. Don’t miss the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
The Shard
For breathtaking views of the city, head to The Shard. This iconic skyscraper offers 360-degree panoramas from its observation deck on the 72nd floor.
Hidden Gems
Leather Lane Market
A local favorite, Leather Lane Market is a great place to sample street food and browse vintage clothes and jewelry. Open Monday to Friday.
The Geffrye Museum
Tucked away in Hoxton, The Geffrye Museum is a charming museum of the home. Walk through recreated period rooms and learn about how people used to live in London.
The Sky Garden
Another great spot for views of the city, The Sky Garden is a free public garden on the top floor of the “Walkie Talkie” building. Book in advance to secure a spot.
Food Scene
Borough Market
A foodie’s paradise, Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and largest food markets. Sample everything from artisanal cheese to fresh oysters.
Dishoom
This popular Indian restaurant serves up delicious street food-inspired dishes in a stylish setting. Don’t miss the bacon naan roll for breakfast.
The Churchill Arms
One of the city’s most famous pubs, The Churchill Arms is known for its flower-covered exterior and Thai food. Try the green curry.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Use Public Transport
London has an extensive public transport network that includes buses, trains, and the underground. Use an Oyster card to save money on fares.
Visit Free Museums
Many of London’s museums are free to enter, including The British Museum, The National Gallery, and The Tate Modern.
Take a Walking Tour
Get to know the city on foot with a free walking tour. Sandemans offers a range of tours that cover everything from street art to Harry Potter.
Outdoor Adventures
Hyde Park
One of London’s largest parks, Hyde Park is a great place to go for a run, have a picnic, or rent a paddleboat on the Serpentine.
The Regent’s Canal
Take a stroll along The Regent’s Canal and admire the colorful narrowboats. Stop for a drink at one of the many waterside pubs.
The Thames Path
Follow the Thames Path from Greenwich to Kew and enjoy views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including Tower Bridge and The Houses of Parliament.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Science Museum
A great place for kids (and adults) to learn about science and technology, The Science Museum has interactive exhibits and a planetarium.
London Zoo
Located in Regent’s Park, London Zoo is home to over 750 species of animals. Don’t miss the penguins and the tigers.
The Diana Memorial Playground
Designed in memory of Princess Diana, this playground in Kensington Gardens has a giant ship, a sensory trail, and a teepee.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Horniman Museum
Located in Forest Hill, The Horniman Museum has a fascinating collection of musical instruments and taxidermy animals.
The Brunel Museum
Learn about one of London’s most famous engineers, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, at this museum in Rotherhithe.
The Grant Museum of Zoology
If you’re interested in all things creepy and crawly, head to The Grant Museum of Zoology. It has over 68,000 specimens, including a jar of moles.
Natural Wonders
Kew Gardens
One of the world’s most famous botanical gardens, Kew Gardens is home to over 50,000 plants. Don’t miss the Victorian Palm House.
The Hampstead Ponds
Escape the city heat with a dip in The Hampstead Ponds. There are three ponds to choose from, and they’re open year-round.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Richmond
Another great spot for plant lovers, The Royal Botanic Gardens in Richmond has over 300 acres of gardens and glasshouses.
Vibrant Nightlife
Shoreditch
One of London’s trendiest neighborhoods, Shoreditch has a great nightlife scene. Check out Cargo for live music and DJ sets.
Soho
Soho has something for everyone, from comedy clubs to cocktail bars. Head to The Box for a night of burlesque and cabaret.
The Old Truman Brewery
This former brewery in Brick Lane is now a cultural hotspot, with a range of bars, clubs, and art galleries. Check out 93 Feet East for live music.
Local Markets
Columbia Road Flower Market
Open every Sunday, Columbia Road Flower Market is a riot of color and fragrance. Buy everything from peonies to succulents.
Brick Lane Market
A melting pot of cultures, Brick Lane Market has everything from vintage clothes to street food. Don’t miss the bagels from Beigel Bake.
Brixton Village
This indoor market in south London has a great selection of food stalls, including Franco Manca pizza and Honest Burger.
Beaches and Mountains
Brighton Beach
A short train ride from London, Brighton Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Don’t miss the pier and the amusement park.
The South Downs
For a scenic hike, head to The South Downs. This national park has rolling hills and chalk cliffs, as well as historic villages.
The Cotswolds
A bit further afield, The Cotswolds are a picturesque region of rolling hills and honey-colored villages. Visit in the spring for wildflowers.
Cultural Immersion
The National Theatre
See a play or a musical at The National Theatre on the South Bank. It has three auditoriums and a riverside terrace.
The Royal Opera House
For a night of culture, head to The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. It hosts ballet and opera performances throughout the year.
The Tate Modern
Not just for art lovers, The Tate Modern has a range of exhibitions and events that explore contemporary issues and ideas.
Art and Music Scene
The Barbican Centre
This arts and conference center in the heart of the city has a range of events, from classical concerts to contemporary art exhibitions.
The Roundhouse
A former railway engine shed, The Roundhouse is now a venue for music and theater. It has hosted everyone from Jimi Hendrix to Adele.
The Saatchi Gallery
This contemporary art gallery in Chelsea has a range of exhibitions that showcase emerging and established artists from around the world.
Walking Tours
The Jack the Ripper Tour
Explore the streets of Whitechapel and learn about the infamous Jack the Ripper. Tours run every night.
The Harry Potter Tour
Visit the filming locations for the Harry Potter movies and see the inspiration behind some of the series’ most famous characters. Tours run every day.
The Street Art Tour
Discover the vibrant street art scene in Shoreditch and learn about the artists behind the murals. Tours run every weekend.
Architectural