The best unusual and unique days out in London
- Tuesday December 5th 2023
Enjoy the best unique days out & weird things to do in London with this guide. Learn more about unusual days out and unique activities in London today!
Weird and wonderful London
Learn about London’s unique history at the London Dungeon
Looking for quirky things to do in London? The London Dungeon has you sorted! Step into London’s perilous past and enjoy 12 actor-led live shows detailing London’s darkest history. Featuring Mrs Lovett, Sweeney Todd, and Guy Fawkes don’t miss the experience of a lifetime that also features two chilling rides. Round off your experience by stepping into the Victorian-themed Tavern Pub where you can enjoy a tipple, or three.
See the inner workings of Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge, also known as one of London’s, most defining landmarks, offers stunning panoramic views of the country’s capital city. Offering a slightly different day out for the whole family, enjoy Tower Bridge’s unique history with their highlights tour, powered by a brand-new audio guide. Stroll over the spectacular walkways and enjoy an unforgettable view before heading to the engine rooms to explore the rooms that once powered the enormous bridge for 80 years!
Visit London’s lesser-known Southwark Cathedral
Located on the heart of the River Thames, Southwark Cathedral is an Anglican Cathedral that not only offers a vibrant place of worship but also features loads of fun concerts and events! This Christmas don’t miss out on their Deck the Hall talk, where you can discover exciting stories of your favourite Christmas carols with Andrew Gant, the composer and conductor. There will also be a fun Cathedral choir Christmas concert where you can enjoy a festive evening with joyful carols by candlelight.
Try cuisines from all around the world at Borough Market
Borough Market offers a unique experience in London, featuring best-selling butchers, and much-hyped sausages – there’s loads on offer for your food lovers!
The annual cheese-themed festive extravaganza returns on December 13th, calling all cheese lovers far and wide! The perfect opportunity to put together the best festive cheeseboard and enjoy yummy samples along the way. The event will feature some of the highest-quality cheeses from all over Europe including Britain, Italy, Spain, and France!
If you’re not a fan of cheese, have no fear, as the market offers a large variety of international cuisines at affordable prices. Don’t miss out!
Visit the quirky shops & stalls of Camden Market
Camden Market boasts 1000+ unique stalls, bars, and cafes, offering different activities for kids, teens, and the whole family! Here you can shop at a cool selection of stores with a large selection of different things to offer, including vintage stores, premium leather pieces, home décor, candles and gifts and eco-friendly fashion!
If shopping isn’t your thing, fill up on all the yummy treats and goodies in Camden Market. Get a taste of the hidden gems in North London including gourmet hot dogs, irresistible creps, vibrant British restaurants and freshly rolled sushi!
Get where you’re going in style
Travel up the Thames and on the London Eye River Cruise
Whilst searching for unique activities in London, pop over to Waterloo and experience the London Eye River Cruise. This 40-minute round-trip sightseeing tour along the River Thames showcases London’s finest landmarks including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Shakespeare’s Globe, and the Tate Modern! Expert commentary is provided by professional guides in 10 different languages.
Tickets start online from £14 per adult
Ride in a classic London black cab
Looking for weird things to do in London? Riding in a classic London black cab should be at the top of your list! These stunning cabs have been featured in thousands of films and TV shows including James Bond and Sherlock Holmes and have become a synonymous symbol of London.
After the Second World War, most taxi cabs were exclusively black and have now become an iconic symbol. They’re also known for their reliability and their driver's unique way of navigating London’s maze-like streets!
See if all from a London bus tour
London offers a range of different bus tours, offering an easy and convenient way to explore the beauty of London!
Big Bus Tours offers two different routes: the red route operates between 8:40 am – 17:10 across 24 different stops. Here you will see iconic landmarks including Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye. Don’t forget to tune into the entertaining commentary available via your complimentary headphones.
The blue route operates from 8:30 am, with a total of 39 stops, allowing you to discover the best of London from east to west! Here you will be taken to the breath-taking views of the elegant Kensington Palace, Harrods, and the historic Tower of London to name a few. This tour is also available in 5 different languages.
Experience the world’s wonder in London’s museums
Ignite your curiosity at the Science Museum
The Science Museum offers award-winning exhibitions and iconic scientific achievements, with a range of different activities in London. Here you can enjoy a unique insight into one of the city’s major tourist attractions, iconic objects, and stories!
There’s lots to see this winter including the thrilling IMAX documentaries, Wonderland and Power Up. Along with, their objects and stories which allow you to explore their collection beyond the museum floor. Here you can discover magnificent objects from Stephen Hawking’s office, find out about Charles Babbage and his unique machines, and learn compelling stories of some of the most iconic women in maths!
Explore contemporary art at the Tate Modern
Tate Modern is a free gallery in the heart of London showcasing brilliant displays including paintings, sculptures, and amazing creations from world-renowned artists including Pablo Picasso. With 5.7 million visitors it is in the top 10 most visited galleries in the world.
There are also a range of exhibitions offering a unique activity for families. ‘Tate Draw’ allows you to see your drawings come to life, using their digital sketch pads. UNIQLO Tate Play is a free program offering art and activities for all ages, allowing the whole family to get creative together.
Experience 4.6 billion years of history at the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is home to 80 million items across five main collections. The museum houses a vast collection of specimens, from the tiniest insects to the mightiest mammals. The Darwin Centre is one of the crown jewels of the museum where guests have the privilege of gaining an insight into the ongoing work to understand and preserve the planet’s biodiversity.
The Earth Galleries take you on a geological odyssey, showcasing the dramatic forces that have shaped our planet over millions of years. The breath-taking gem and mineral collection sparkles with vibrant colours and rare specimens, offering a glimpse into the Earth's hidden treasures.
The museum is open Monday – Sunday, 10 am – 17:50. Last entry is at 17:30.
Discover London’s criminal history at the Clink Prison Museum
If you’re in the mood for a different adventure, a short distance away lies the Clink Prison Museum, a stark contrast to the vibrant world of the Natural History Museum. Step into the shadowy past of London's criminal underworld as you descend into the eerie depths of this medieval prison.
Visitors can explore the cells, where the cold, damp walls bear witness to the suffering of prisoners, and learn about the harsh punishments meted out to those who dared to defy societal norms. Exhibits showcase the tools of torture and punishment, providing a chilling glimpse into the darker side of human history.
London’s not all grey! Get up close with nature
Experience the underwater world at SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Embark on a journey of amazing discovery at SEA LIFE London Aquarium this winter! Explore over 500 species in 14 themed zones including Polar Adventure, Coral Kingdom, Rainforest Adventure and Ocean Invaders. When looking for quirky things to do in London – pop on down and help save Fish-mas with London’s coolest colony, the Gentoo penguins!
Help find the presents scattered throughout the aquarium and get the chance to win a prize surprise at the end! Are you up for the challenge?
Have a sleepover with the lions at London Zoo
Nestled in the heart of central London, London Zoo offers a unique day out, allowing you to escape into the animal kingdom. Showcasing 750 species and history dating back to 1828. London Zoo is an unforgettable adventure split into different areas including the African Bird Safari, the Butterfly Paradise, and the Fruit Bat Forest to name a few, the variety of animals you will meet are endless!
Kids and their grown-ups may particularly enjoy the Animal Adventure zone, with a petting zoo featuring sheep, pigs, and donkeys!
See the wildlife at Camley Street Natural Park
Camley Street Natural Park offers a unique urban nature reserve, an unexpected hidden gem a short walk from Kings Cross St Pancreas. Enjoy two acres of green space and wander on the path through the lavish foliage, exploring the natural that the natural habitat has to offer including birds, butterflies, and a rich variety of plants!
If you’re feeling peckish be sure to head over to the outdoor café for some yummy treats to supplement your visit.
Travel Far, Far Awat & experience Shrek’s Adventure! London
Escape Farquaad’s dungeons and meet Shrek himself at Shrek’s Adventure! London
Step into the magical world of Far, Far Away and embark on a brilliantly bonkers immersive experience with Shrek and his DreamWorks pals. Discover 9 actor-led live shows featuring, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and, the Muffin Man – all with a dose of Donkey cheekiness along the way! For a limited time only, guests can swap the North Pole for the Swamp and bring in the festive season at their Christmas grotto inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s beloved Christmas special, Shrek the Halls! Meet Shrek santa today!
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FAQS for unusual days out in London
What unusual activities are there in London?
The nation’s capital has a lot to offer, but if you are looking for more unusual activities in London, be sure to check out:
- The backstage tour of the National Theatre
- Bascule Chamber in Tower Bridge
- Dazzling street art in Croydon and Brick lane
And much, much more.
What unusual activities are there around London’s Southbank?
As mentioned above, the London Dungeon, Shrek’s Adventure! London and SEA LIFE London Aquarium are a must see when strolling along London’s Southbank.
You can also enjoy a variety of eats at Between the Bridges, a vibrant outdoor eatery with a wide selection of different foods and drinks.
