British Attractions in London That Aren’t Just for Tourists
When you think of British attractions, you probably imagine iconic landmarks like Big Ben or Buckingham Palace, but Londoners rarely engage with these in the way tourists do.
This list of things to do in London is all about the British attractions in London that locals actually appreciate and visit. These are the things that represent true British culture- traditions, history and activities that matter to the people who live here.
I know this as an American who has lived in London for over a decade, has passed the Life in UK test, earned UK citizenship and is married to an English man.
1. Go for a Proper Cream Tea, Not “High Tea’
First, let’s clear up some confusion. The term high tea is often misused. It’s not an elegant, afternoon affair with tiered stands of cakes and sandwiches. High tea traditionally refers to an evening meal. It’s something working-class families would eat after a long day, not a dainty tea break.
What most visitors are really after is afternoon tea, but even that is something you won’t see Londoners regularly indulging in.
Afternoon tea is typically a special occasion event. It’s enjoyed on a birthday, Mother’s Day or as a gift experience. It’s served on a three-tier stand: the bottom tier with finger sandwiches, the middle with scones (served with clotted cream and jam) and the top with pastries and cakes. While it’s seen as quintessentially British, it’s more of a treat than an everyday experience.
For locals, cream tea is much more common. This is a simpler affair, usually just a scone (or two) with clotted cream and jam, accompanied by a pot of tea. It’s usually enjoyed in small cafés or tearooms and is the go-to when you want something quick, delicious and distinctly British without the fuss.
For more on this, read: An Afternoon Tea Etiquette Guide for Visiting London
2. Take a Pub Seriously
A British pub isn’t just for pounding pints. It’s a community space where people gather for conversation, games and shared experiences.
The pub quiz is a particularly popular fixture in local pubs, with teams of friends or regulars battling it out on trivia nights. Whether you’re testing your knowledge of pop culture, British history or general knowledge, a pub quiz is a fun, competitive and very British way to spend an evening.
Pubs also serve up Sunday roasts, often with Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes, and gravy, making it the perfect meal for a lazy afternoon. Beer gardens are ideal for soaking up the sun when the weather permits, while many pubs host regular live music or local events.
There’s something uniquely British about the social ritual of visiting your local. My husband pops in ours nearly every day. Mr Sunny, a born-and-bred Londoner, often compiles his lists of favourite pubs for you to try in our monthly Things to Do in London roundups. And, each week he sends his pub of the week suggestion in the Sunny News email to subscribers.
For more on this, read: The Best Hidden Pubs in London: Secret Spots Locals Love
Don’t Miss London News!
3. Visit British Attractions Like the Churchill War Rooms or HMS Belfast
Two of the most iconic British attractions in London are the Churchill War Rooms and HMS Belfast, both of which offer insights into Britain’s naval and wartime history.
The Churchill War Rooms provide a fascinating and immersive experience of the underground bunker that served as the headquarters for Winston Churchill and his War Cabinet during World War II. It’s a place of immense historical significance and an essential stop for those interested in Britain’s leadership and resilience during wartime.
HMS Belfast, moored on the Thames, is a real testament to Britain’s naval strength. This ship, now a museum, offers a glimpse into the British naval achievements of the 20th century. It’s an important part of Britain’s military history. Although it’s not commonly visited by families, it’s a landmark that still captures the pride of British naval accomplishments.
However, as you can probably predict, neither of these places are great to visit if you’re really claustrophobic.
For more on these, watch the videos below.
4. Take a Stadium Tour at a Proper Football Club
Football is more than a sport in Britain; it’s a passion that runs through the veins of every Londoner. Even if you’re not a fan of the sport, visiting a football stadium and experiencing the sheer scale of these clubs can give you a true feel of British culture.
Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur all offer stadium tours that give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most legendary teams in the Premier League.
From the pitch to the changing rooms and VIP areas, you’ll get access to places typically reserved for the players themselves. For a truly immersive experience, these stadium tours are an excellent way to understand what makes football such a central part of British identity.
For more on these tours, explore the options below.
5. Experience the Magic: Warner Bros. Studio Tour (Harry Potter)
I’m guessing that every British family has visited the Warner Bros. Studio Tour at least once. Or, children have made an obligatory school trip there.
It’s a must-do for anyone who grew up with Harry Potter. As much as it’s a hit with tourists, even locals go to explore the sets, props and details that bring the magic to life. The Studio Tour allows you to walk through iconic sets like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley and the Forbidden Forest, making it an unforgettable experience for all ages.
For those who grew up in Britain, it’s nostalgic. It gives a tangible connection to the beloved series that defines an entire generation. Visitors can see how the films were made and experience the magic firsthand.
For more on this, read: How to Get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour London
6. Take a Trip to the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is an area that Londoners escape to for weekends away, seeking the tranquillity and charm of quaint villages and rolling hills. Or, if you’re like a character in MobLand, you have a home there too!
While most locals would drive there for a long weekend, visitors can still enjoy a day trip with a coach tour that will take you through some of the most picturesque towns in the region.
Although a day trip means a lot of time spent on the coach, the Cotswolds’ beauty makes it worth it. Villages like Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury have that quintessential British charm. Picture-perfect stone cottages and serene riverbanks.
Mr Sunny and I try to make a trip there every year. Having a car allows us to do this quite easily. It’s one of his favourite places to go, if not up to the coast to stay in Norfolk for a few days.
For more on this, read: Cotswolds What to See: Best Towns, Mistakes and Hidden Gems
7. British Attractions: Stroll Through Kew Gardens
If the Cotswolds are a full-day adventure, Kew Gardens is the serene British escape that’s easier to reach. Just a short train ride from central London, Kew offers a peaceful blend of botanic history, royal heritage and seasonal beauty that locals return to often. It’s especially popular in spring, summer and at Christmas.
Kew is one of the most celebrated British attractions when it comes to gardens and green spaces. Visitors can explore the Palm House, the Treetop Walkway, the Hive installation and the Japanese pagoda. It’s all laid out over hundreds of acres.
In winter, Christmas at Kew becomes one of London’s most magical seasonal experiences. With light trails, festive treats and a high sell-out risk, it’s one of those events you must book well in advance.
Want help planning the festive season so you don’t miss the best things to do in London for Christmas? Get my Ultimate Guide to Christmas in London!
Christmas in London
Don’t ruin your London trip with a bad itinerary! Your dream Christmas in London starts here.
From sparkling lights to perfect itineraries, self-guided walks and everything in between, our brand new Christmas in London guide is packed with festive magic! (and Mr Sunny’s holiday sausage roll recipe)
Don’t miss out on your Christmas like a movie!
8. British Attractions: Go on a Jack the Ripper Tour
If you want to dive into one of the most famous mysteries in British history, the Jack the Ripper tour is one of the most popular ways to spend an evening. In October there can be up to 20,000 people on these tours at night!
Walk through the East End of London, where the infamous murders occurred, and hear the chilling details of one of the city’s most mysterious and disturbing chapters. While it’s dark and eerie, it’s also a fascinating look at Victorian London and the way the city has evolved since then.
For more on this, explore the walking tours below.
9. British Attractions: See a Truly British Show
Theatre is part of local life for many Londoners. From long-running comedies to experimental drama, British audiences treat theatre like most people treat Netflix: essential, frequent and often brilliant.
For something that feels properly British:
- Try The Mousetrap, the Agatha Christie mystery that’s been running in the West End since 1952
- Fawlty Towers, a stage production that brings the chaotic charm of the iconic sitcom to life. It’s written by John Cleese himself and packed with British humour
- Classic Shakespeare at the Globe
These aren’t tourist bait. They’re part of London’s history and cultural offer.
2025 Current Ticket Discounts for London
Use Discount Code SUNNYINLONDON10 for these activities. Next update on 1st August 2025
- Minecraft Experience: Village Rescuer 10% off until 31st July
- Paradox Museum– 10% off until 31st July
- Thames Evening Cruise– 10% off until 31st August
- Jurassic World: The Experience – 10% off until 31st July
- Paradox Museum- The Ultimate Birthday Party
10. Time Your Visit with a British Tradition
Some of the most quintessentially British events take place only once a year. But if you’re lucky enough to visit during them, they’re well worth your time.
- Oxford–Cambridge Boat Race: This annual event takes place on the Thames in April, with thousands of spectators lining the riverbanks to cheer on their teams. The rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge is historic and the atmosphere is uniquely British, full of pints, flags, and friendly competition. It’s a great day to hit a riverside pub in London too!
- St George’s Day: Celebrated on April 23rd, St George’s Day is a day to honour England’s patron saint. While not as widely celebrated as other national holidays, Londoners can still enjoy local pub gatherings, events in Trafalgar Square and various festivities across the city. It’s a lovely chance to experience the quieter side of British patriotism.
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10. British Attractions: Final Thoughts
These British attractions and experiences are the true essence of what it means to be British. They reflect the heart of the culture, with a healthy dose of history, sport, food and tradition.
As someone who’s lived in London for over a decade and is married to a born-and-bred Londoner, I can offer insights into British life that you won’t find in typical tourist guides or other London travel tips websites.
If you’re ready to take your London trip to the next level and experience the British side of things, book a consultation with me. With my local knowledge and first-hand experience, I’ll help you plan a truly authentic trip that goes beyond the typical tourist traps!
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