10 unique things to do in London
As one of the most visited cities in the world, it’s no surprise that London offers something for everyone, but if you're looking to get off the beaten track and make memories that will last a lifetime, why not try something a little different? Tootbus has put together a guide on unique experiences to enjoy in London to make your stay truly unforgettable!
What original activities are there to do in London?
Unleash your senses in Soho
Soho is undoubtedly the beating heart of London! With its theatres, restaurants, shops and concert halls, this part of the city never ceases to amaze. Try our Soho Vibes Tootwalk for an immersive sensory experience. Savour the aromas of Chinatown, listen to live music in a typical British pub, sample the traditional fish & chips and envelope yourself in the unique atmosphere of this area of London. Tootwalks are fascinating audio-guided walking tours available free of charge via the Tootbus app, which can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play. So, ready to awaken your senses?
The Tootwalk departs from:
Yellow route: Hop off at stop 1 - Coventry Street
Blue route: Hop off at stop 26 - Piccadilly
Enjoy a drink on London’s most original rooftop
Who doesn't love relaxing with a drink while enjoying breathtaking views? Jump aboard the Bar Bus, London's roving rooftop, and that’s exactly what you’ll get! Departing from Coventry Street, you'll pass by Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and much more. In November and December, the Bar Bus is even decked out for Christmas to bring some real festive cheer to your journey, with hot drinks available and festive tunes providing the soundtrack. Perfect for an evening out with friends or family, this really is an unforgettable way to experience the magic of London.
Bar Bus departs from: Charles II Street stop
Explore modern and contemporary art at the Moco Museum
Following its success in Amsterdam and Barcelona, the Moco Museum has touched down at Marble Arch in London‘s West End. This museum of modern and contemporary art exhibits iconic works by Warhol, Banksy, Kusama and Basquiat, as well as immersive installations by emerging artists such as Pilar Zeta. Located in the city’s vibrant Oxford Street area, the Moco Museum promises an inspiring and unique artistic experience for both Londoners and visitors from all over the world.
How to get there:
Yellow route: hop off at stop 17 – Marble Arch, or 18 – Oxford Street
Blue route: hop off at stop 18 – Oxford Street
Step back in time at Cahoots bar
Have you always dreamt of going back in time to 1940s London? Then get yourself down to Cahoots, a bar hidden away in a former underground station. This unusual venue will immerse you in the bygone atmosphere of the war years, with a cocktail menu offering a taste of yesteryear and vintage decor to boot. Waiters in period costume add to the authenticity of this immersive experience, where you can sip your drink while gaining an insight into how it felt to be in an air raid shelter during the war - a real leap back in time!
How to get there:
Yellow route: Hop off at stop 1 - Coventry Street
Blue route: Hop off at stop 26 - Piccadilly
Travel through the secret Mail Rail tunnels at the Postal Museum
Head down beneath the streets of London and learn all about the fascinating Mail Rail service at the Postal Museum! This small underground train previously used to carry mail across the city takes visitors on an immersive journey through secret tunnels that have been in operation for over 75 years. Hop aboard to relive the history of London's postal workers and network through interactive exhibitions and fascinating reconstructions. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, Mail Rail is a unique experience offering an insight into a little-known side of London that's really not to be missed!
Dine in a former church at Mercato Mayfair
Imagine sampling a variety of delicious dishes in a building steeped in history. That’s Mercato Mayfair! This unique food court is housed in a former Gothic church in Mayfair, where traditional architecture meets flavors from all around the world, with Italian, Asian and many other types of cuisine to be enjoyed beneath the building’s magnificent stained glass windows. Whether you’re visiting for lunch or dinner, Mercato Mayfair offers an extraordinary culinary experience in sacred surroundings.
How to get there:
Yellow route: hop off at stop 17 – Marble Arch, or 18 – Oxford Street
Blue route: hop off at stop 18 – Oxford Street
Challenge your friends to a game of table tennis over pizza at Bounce
Looking for a fun evening out with good food? Then Bounce is the place for you! This bar is a great place to challenge your friends to a game of table tennis as you sample the pizzas and cocktails on offer. The modern surroundings, ping-pong tables and lively atmosphere make it ideal for a night out with friends, and the venue even hosts regular DJ events, bringing that party vibe to an unforgettable evening.
Immerse yourself in the buzz of Camden Town
If exploring eclectic, bohemian neighborhoods is something that appeals to you, then get yourself over to Camden Town. With its open-air markets, unusual shops and street food stalls, Camden is the home of London’s alternative art scene. Take in the local street art, sample delicacies from around the world and enjoy live music in a local pub - there really is something for everyone in this part of the city, where creativity, diversity and immense energy meet!
Stock up on treats at Borough Market
Borough Market really is a foodie's paradise! Located near London Bridge, this iconic market is crammed with stalls offering fresh produce and international dishes. Wander among the many stalls selling cheeses, cold meats and artisan breads and sample local specialities such as scotch eggs or fresh oysters. This is the perfect place to stop for breakfast or lunch and discover the sheer diversity of London's culinary scene, all while enjoying a warm welcome in authentic surroundings.
How to get there:
Yellow and blue routes: hop off at stop 7 – London Bridge, or 8 – Tooley Street.
Explore the secret tunnels of World War II
Immerse yourself in the history of World War II with a visit to the Churchill War Rooms - a network of underground tunnels used by Winston Churchill and his government. The rooms served as a strategic headquarters where crucial decisions were made. Now a museum, they allow visitors to view period artefacts up close and listen to fascinating recordings from the past - a unique experience for both history buffs and those who are simply keen to see another side of London.
How to get there:
Yellow route: hop off at stop 11 – Westminster Pier
Blue route: hop off at stop 23 – Parliament Street, or 24 – Horse Guards Parade
Opt for the Discovery London bus tour and combine it with a Thames river cruise to really get the most out of your stay in London. Check out all our hop-on hop-off bus tours in London.