Unique and Unusual Things to Do in London

Shakespeare’s Globe earns its place as the #1 unique thing to do in London, offering an experience unlike any other. A faithful reconstruction of the original 1599 theater, this open-air venue invites visitors to step back into the Elizabethan era, immersing them in history, art, and storytelling. Even if Shakespeare’s plays aren’t your thing, the Globe delivers a cultural experience filled with lively performances, interactive tours, and a glimpse into the world of Renaissance theater.

The guided tours are a highlight, providing insight into how theater-goers of the 16th century watched performances—often rowdy and engaged from the standing “groundling” section near the stage. You’ll also learn about Shakespeare’s influence on literature and how the theater’s meticulous craftsmanship re-creates the sights and sounds of his time. Plus, seeing costumed actors rehearse or prepare props adds a dynamic element to the visit.

For a truly unforgettable experience, catch a live performance. The intimate, circular design ensures you’re never far from the action, creating an electric atmosphere you won’t find in a modern theater. And if you want a bit of fun preparation, watch Shakespeare in Love before your visit—it’ll help you appreciate the theater’s place in London’s cultural legacy.

Located near the Thames, Tate Modern, and Borough Market, Shakespeare’s Globe is easily accessible, making it a perfect stop during a day of exploring London’s unique attractions. Whether you’re a theater fan or just curious to see history come to life, the Globe offers an experience that is immersive, educational, and thoroughly entertaining.

The Churchill War Rooms take the #2 spot on the list of unique things to do in London, offering a rare glimpse into one of the most crucial moments in modern history. Hidden beneath the streets of Westminster, this underground bunker served as the nerve center for Britain’s wartime government during World War II. It was here that Winston Churchill and his team made life-or-death decisions that shaped the course of the war.

Stepping into the War Rooms feels like traveling back in time. The map rooms, offices, and living quarters have been preserved exactly as they were when the war ended in 1945. You’ll see the detailed maps and communication equipment used to strategize operations, including scratches and notes still marked on the walls by military staff. It’s a hauntingly immersive experience that gives visitors a real sense of the tension and urgency that defined those days.

Even if you’re not a history buff, the interactive exhibits bring Churchill’s larger-than-life persona to the forefront. You can listen to recordings of his famous speeches, explore his personal papers, and gain a deeper understanding of his leadership style, wit, and indomitable spirit.

Located just a short walk from St. James’s Park and Big Ben, the Churchill War Rooms make for an unforgettable visit. They combine storytelling, history, and atmosphere to create one of the most captivating and unique experiences in London. Perfect preparation for your visit? Watch Darkest Hour for a dramatic portrayal of Churchill’s wartime leadership and to set the mood!

The Harry Potter Studio Tour earns its place as the #3 unique thing to do in London, offering an immersive behind-the-scenes journey into one of the most beloved film franchises of all time. Located at Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden, just outside London, the tour invites visitors to explore the real sets, costumes, and props used in the making of the Harry Potter films.

Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the attention to detail and movie magic on display is nothing short of captivating. You’ll walk through iconic locations like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Dumbledore’s Office, all designed with extraordinary craftsmanship. See the Hogwarts Express on Platform 9¾, stroll through the Forbidden Forest, and marvel at the life-size model of Hogwarts, a stunning piece of artistry that will leave you in awe.

The experience also highlights the behind-the-scenes creativity that made the films possible, with exhibits on special effects, creature creation, and costume design. From animatronic dragons to intricately designed wands, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the skill and imagination that brought the wizarding world to life.

To prepare, watch a few of the Harry Potter films—or if you’re short on time, start with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone to relive the magic of Hogwarts. The tour is easily accessible from London by train and includes cafes where you can even try a Butterbeer for the full wizarding experience.

Whether you’re a film enthusiast, Harry Potter fan, or simply curious about movie-making magic, the Harry Potter Studio Tour offers a one-of-a-kind adventure that’s both nostalgic and enchanting.

The Chelsea FC Museum and Stadium Tour secures the #4 spot for offering a unique and thrilling experience for football fans and curious visitors alike. Located at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea’s iconic home since 1905, this tour takes you behind the scenes of one of the most successful football clubs in English Premier League history.

Whether you’re a die-hard Blues fan or just intrigued by the passion for football in England, the tour delivers an inside look at the club’s legacy. You’ll explore dressing rooms, walk through the player’s tunnel, and stand pitch-side where football legends have made history. The trophy room is a highlight, showcasing the club’s Premier League and Champions League victories, alongside other prestigious silverware.

The Chelsea FC Museum deepens the experience with interactive exhibits, archival footage, and memorabilia. Learn about the club’s rise to prominence, its key players, and the moments that defined its success. Even for non-football fans, the history and cultural significance of the sport come alive here.

After the tour, you can grab official merchandise at the club shop or enjoy a drink at a nearby pub filled with football fans. To get in the spirit beforehand, consider watching a Chelsea match replay or documentary, like The Blue Dynasty, to understand the passion that surrounds this club.

Conveniently located near Fulham Broadway, the Chelsea FC experience offers a fun and fascinating look at London’s football culture, making it a standout attraction for both sports lovers and visitors seeking something unique.

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The Abbey Road Crossing ranks at #5 for offering music fans a chance to recreate one of the most iconic moments in rock history. Located near Abbey Road Studios, this unassuming zebra crossing became legendary after appearing on the cover of The Beatles’ 1969 album Abbey Road. Today, it’s a pilgrimage site for fans from around the world.

Even if you’re not a Beatles enthusiast, the crossing is a fascinating cultural landmark that reflects the enduring influence of British music. The nearby Abbey Road Studios—still in operation—has seen legendary recordings not just from The Beatles, but from artists like Pink Floyd, Oasis, and Adele. The studio wall, often covered in fan messages and tributes, adds to the atmosphere of music history.

Visiting is as much about the experience as it is about the location. You’ll see tourists attempting the classic “four walking in a line” photo—with varying success! It’s a quirky and fun moment that’s sure to leave you smiling.

To enhance your visit, listen to the Abbey Road album or watch The Beatles: Eight Days a Week documentary to get a deeper sense of the band’s cultural impact. After your visit, you can explore the St. John’s Wood area, known for its charming cafes and scenic streets.

The Abbey Road experience is a blend of music, history, and nostalgia, offering a lighthearted and memorable moment for anyone visiting London.

For a truly unusual and spine-chilling experience, the Jack the Ripper Walking Tour takes you through the shadowy streets of Whitechapel, retracing the footsteps of one of history’s most infamous and unidentified killers. This tour isn’t for everyone, but if you’re fascinated by true crime, Victorian history, or unsolved mysteries, it’s an unforgettable deep dive into London’s dark past.

Guides—often Ripper experts or actors—bring the grisly events of 1888 to life, sharing stories of the five victims, the suspects, and the hysteria that gripped the city. You’ll visit eerie, real-life locations where the crimes took place, all while uncovering details of the police investigation and theories that still spark debate today.

Even if you’re not a huge true crime fan, the tour offers a compelling look at Victorian London, touching on the social issues, poverty, and fear that shaped life in East London at the time. The narrow alleys and historic buildings set the perfect atmosphere for an immersive and haunting experience.

To prepare, watch From Hell (starring Johnny Depp) for a stylized take on the case or check out documentaries on Jack the Ripper for a more factual overview. If you’re ready to face London’s dark underbelly, this walking tour will take you on a journey you won’t soon forget.

If you’re craving a bit of adrenaline-fueled adventure in the heart of London, Go Ape Battersea Park is the perfect unusual experience to shake up your trip. Set among the lush treetops of Battersea Park, this high ropes course offers a mix of ziplines, rope bridges, and treetop obstacles that will test your courage and agility.

This isn’t your typical sightseeing activity—it’s all about getting active and enjoying a unique perspective of one of London’s most iconic parks. The zipline ride across the park offers a breathtaking view of Battersea Power Station and the River Thames, making the experience as scenic as it is exhilarating.

Whether you’re an adventure junkie or just looking to do something different, Go Ape delivers a memorable mix of challenge and fun. The course has different difficulty levels, so you can push yourself as much (or as little) as you like. It’s also a great family-friendly activity, giving kids and adults alike the chance to embrace their inner Tarzan.

For prep, wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes—and be ready to climb! Afterward, explore Battersea Park’s gardens, lakes, and art installations for a relaxing cooldown. Go Ape is the perfect blend of thrill and nature, making it one of the most unusual things to do in London.

For an unusual mix of maritime history and adventure, the Cutty Sark offers a chance to board one of the world’s most famous 19th-century ships. Located in Greenwich, this beautifully restored tea clipper was once the fastest of its kind, racing across the seas to bring tea from China to Britain. Today, it’s an interactive museum where you can walk the decks, stand beneath its towering hull, and immerse yourself in the golden age of sailing.

What makes the Cutty Sark stand out isn’t just its history—it’s how hands-on the experience is. You’ll learn about life at sea, the global trade routes, and the dangerous voyages sailors undertook, often risking everything for speed and cargo. The below-deck exhibits offer a fascinating look at the cargo holds, where tons of tea, wool, and other goods were once stored.

Even if maritime history isn’t your thing, the ship’s breathtaking design, panoramic views of the Thames, and Greenwich charm make it a visit to remember. You can also stand directly underneath the ship’s raised hull, marveling at its sleek copper-plated structure—a rare and impressive sight.

To enhance your visit, check out Greenwich’s other attractions like the Royal Observatory and Greenwich Market, both within walking distance. The Cutty Sark is a blend of history, craftsmanship, and adventure, perfect for travelers looking to explore London’s maritime legacy.

For sports fans—or anyone curious about British traditions—a visit to Lord’s Cricket Ground offers a truly unique and culturally rich experience. Known as the “Home of Cricket,” Lord’s has been the heart of the sport since 1814 and hosts some of the world’s most prestigious matches, including Test matches and The Ashes.

Even if you’re not a cricket fan, the guided tour brings the drama and heritage of the game to life. You’ll explore the historic Pavilion, visit the Long Room, where players make their iconic entrance to the pitch, and marvel at the Honours Boards, which immortalize legendary achievements. One of the highlights is the MCC Museum, home to cricket’s greatest artifact, the Ashes Urn, along with other memorabilia that tells the story of the sport’s evolution.

The architectural contrast between the Victorian elegance of the Pavilion and the modern, futuristic design of the Media Centre makes Lord’s an attraction for architecture lovers too. You’ll also have the chance to stand on the famous outfield, soaking in the atmosphere of a ground that has seen centuries of history.

For prep, consider watching highlights of The Ashes to get a taste of cricket’s intensity and rivalries. Located in St. John’s Wood, Lord’s is surrounded by charming streets and cafes, making it a great addition to a day of exploring North London. Lord’s Cricket Ground blends sport, history, and tradition, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that’s quintessentially British.

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For fans of mystery and detective stories, the Sherlock Holmes Museum is a must-visit and one of the most unusual attractions in London. Located at the famous address of 221B Baker Street, the museum brings Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s legendary detective to life. Even if you’re not a Holmes superfan, the quirky, immersive setting offers a fascinating glimpse into Victorian London and the world of crime-solving fiction.

The museum recreates Holmes’ living quarters with incredible attention to detail, from his armchair by the fireplace to his violin and laboratory equipment. Guides in period costume add to the charm, sharing stories of Holmes’ greatest cases and explaining how the detective’s methods influenced modern forensics and criminal investigation.

Fans of true crime will appreciate the Victorian crime artifacts and Holmes-related memorabilia, including letters and newspaper clippings about famous cases. There’s also a waxwork display of Professor Moriarty, Holmes’ arch-nemesis, and other key characters from the stories.

Even if you’re new to Holmes, this museum offers a fun and atmospheric experience that taps into London’s literary heritage. To get in the mood, watch Sherlock (the Benedict Cumberbatch series) or Enola Holmes for a fresh take on the character. Located near Regent’s Park and Madame Tussauds, the Sherlock Holmes Museum offers a quirky blend of fiction and history that makes for an entertaining detour on your London adventure.