London is one of the most famous cities in the world, with reports suggesting it attracts around 35 to 40 million visitors per year – but where are the best places to go in the capital city?
The best place to visit in London has been named – and it’s not tourist hotspots like Buckingham Palace or Trafalgar Square.
London is one of the most famous cities in the world, with an abundance of things to see and do. There’s a thriving nightlife scene, a vibrant culinary landscape offering tastes and flavours from all over the world, with restaurants and cafes for those craving high-end, Michelin-starred cuisine to those after a cheaper, no-frills – yet no less satisfying – dish to tuck into; shopping options galore, and plenty more.
There’s an abundance of art, theatre, music, comedy, dancing and classes of all kinds on offer for visitors and locals alike.
History and art lovers are spoiled for choice with famed venues like Natural History Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral, The British Museum and more; as well as The British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum and Natural History Museum.
Those keen to spend time outdoors can take advantage of London Zoo; expansive parks like Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Green Park, St James’s Park, or the impressive and awe-inspiring hotspot Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew; plus plenty more.
If independent markets are more your scene, then there’s a medley of options from Camden Lock Market and Borough Market, to Leadenhall Market, Portobello Road Market and plenty more.
It’s no wonder then that a London destination has featured in Time Out’s round-up of “the 14 best places to visit in the UK in 2026” – but which spot made the cut?
No, it’s not Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, or Tower Bridge. Time Out chose the Strand, the three-quarters of a mile stretch from Trafalgar Square to Temple Bar, where it becomes Fleet Street.
Time Out said: “I know what you’re thinking: a single street, one of the best places to go in the entire UK? But the Strand is no ordinary road.
“One of the most ancient and historic streets in London, this single thoroughfare between Westminster and the City boasts enough culture to populate entire towns.”
Of why to visit the Strand in 2026 specifically, Time Out pointed to the numerous exhibitions on offer, as well as an action-packed street theatre line-up, not to mention the “powerhouse of eating, drinking and culture” options available to enjoy, too.
If you’re keen to embark on a “staycation” in the UK and feel overwhelmed at the prospect of choosing where to go, Time Out’s list highlights a number of beauty spots and quirky towns well worth visiting.
The legendary city of Stirling, in central Scotland, claimed first place in the list. It’s an interesting and picturesque destination famed for its extensive history.
The historic market town of Cirencester, widely regarded as the “Capital of the Cotswolds”, came in fifth place thanks to its seamless blend of Roman history with eclectic independent shopping options.
