London is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet, with millions visiting England’s capital every year. That’s hardly surprising; with over two thousand years of history and buildings over a millennia old still standing, there is a ton of history and culture to soak up for all and sundry.
But which are fan favorites? Let’s talk about it! Here are the most visited paid attractions in London, in sequential order. So, let’s start with the most popular.
1. Tower of London
Far and away, the Tower of London is the most visited paid attraction in the city, with nearly one million more visitors every year than any other! And it’s not hard to see why. Built well over one thousand years ago by jolly old William the Conqueror, it’s been a prison, fort, palace, zoo, and now, a tourist attraction.
So, what else makes the Tower of London so popular? Visitors can explore tons of old towers, forts, and chambers and learn about their occupants. Plus, you’ve got the famous Beefeater guards keeping watch over the Crown Jewels while also giving guided tours, which is nice of them! And finally, how could we forget the family of ravens that call the place home? They’ve all got names, too, which is very cute.
2. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
If appears that many London-bound tourists also like to take a break from the capital’s concrete jungle every once in a while, because the second most visited paid attraction in London is none other than the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew. Spanning over 300 acres, Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors are treated to myriad greenhouses, thousands of flora species living harmoniously, and plenty to do otherwise!
Those daring enough can see it all from above on the Treetop Walkway, explore tons of exotic plant species at Temperate House, the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse, and stroll through the futuristic Alpine House to dust off the centuries-long cobwebs. If you’re looking for a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you can’t go wrong with Kew Gardens!
3. Westminster Abbey
The sight of many royal coronations, weddings, and funerals, Westminster Abbey is next on our list of the most visited paid attractions in London. Another building that dates back over one thousand years; it’s no wonder so many people flock to it every year.
Inside, you’ll find a feast for the eyes, with towering arches, intricate stained glass, and memorials to some of Britain’s greatest figures, including Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Queen Elizabeth I. If you want to explore Britain’s historical and cultural side in one fell swoop, you could do much worse.
4. St Paul’s Cathedral
Next on the list is the iconic St Paul’s Cathedral, one of the most recognisable symbols of London’s storied skyline. Designed by famed architect Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire destroyed much of old London, this stunning Baroque cathedral is a must-see for first-time visitors.
Just like Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s has been the backdrop for many famous weddings and funerals over the years, including Charles III and Princess Diana’s union, as well as seeing off national heroes like Lord Nelson and Winston Churchill. Margaret Thatcher was also laid to rest there. So why not go check out the crypts, venture up to the Whispering Gallery and the Golden Gallery high above the ground, and prep your phone for a metric ton of sweet snaps?
5. ZSL London Zoo
Finally, and perhaps surprisingly, the fifth most visited paid attraction in London is none other than the capital’s zoo. ZSL London Zoo is its name, and weird and wonderful fauna is its game.
In fact, London Zoo is home to over 750 species of animal, from majestic giraffes to cute penguins. No matter your age, you’re bound to find one of your spirit animals housed within.
Plus, ZSL London Zoo does a ton of work on animal conservation, offering plenty of shows and talks to both kids and adults, showing people how they can make a difference, too. And all of this madness is found in Regent’s Park, one of London’s biggest green spaces, which almost demands exploration after going face to face with nature’s finest.
And those are the five most visited paid attractions in London. Of course, we’re just scratching the surface; there is a boatload of London attractions we didn’t cover here. Why not see all of these plus more and save with a London city pass? Go City offers a couple of different passes to suit every traveler. No matter which you pick, you’ll have all your tickets in one app, saving you time, effort, and paper.
