Fun things to do in London, England for art, design, and history lovers looking for something a little different
Flea markets, historic architecture, and a famous writer's home with an underground bath house.
Brimming with history, colourful characters, great restaurants, and some of the trendiest boutique hotels in the world, England’s capital is a beloved travel hot-spot. But for those looking to skip out on queuing for wax sculptures and go beyond the regular palace circuit, a delightful selection of explorations awaits. This guide to fun things to do in London for art and design lovers was made for travellers who appreciate sensational stories, truly beautiful things, and a whole lot of quirk.
P.S. we also have a rather fabulous guide to the very best group activities in London.
Explore the city with our Taking A Break in Britain playlist on Spotify.
Fun things to do in London, England for art and design lovers
Landmarks & Leisure
1. Temple Church | Temple
If it’s a slice of history you’re after, then you’ll definitely want to take in the gorgeous Temple Church. In 1162, the iconic Round Church was built to be London’s very own Jerusalem by The Knights Templar and is one of the earliest Gothic buildings in the city.
Since then, it has seen over 800 years of history, with the Magna Carta being negotiated within its walls and is also regarded as the birthplace of American Law. It’s usually open to the public from Monday-Friday but do check the website in advance to avoid disappointment and to see if you can make one of the breathtaking Choral Services.
Find out more about Temple Church
2. Highgate Cemetery | Highgate
History buffs will lap up a trip to Highgate Cemetery, the resting place of Karl Marx. Originally opened in 1839, the cemetery has a storied past and is split into East and West. Guided tours are available for both and are a great way to learn all about it and also support the Friends of Highgate Cemetery, an organisation that oversees the maintenance of the landmark.
The West Cemetery is home to Grade II-listed catacombs, winding pathways, and some of the most impressive architecture at Highgate. While, the East Cemetery is where you’ll find famous names such as Malcolm McLaren, George Eliot, and Anna Mahler.
Learn more about Highgate Cemetery
3. Aire Ancient Baths London | Covent Garden
Unwind and visit the site where J.M. Barrie wrote Peter Pan at Aire Ancient Baths London. A treat for all the senses, this journey starts on arrival, where you will luxuriate upstairs before descending into a space of pure tranquility.
A selection of seven different baths, each a different temperature exist in a magical backdrop of candlelight, and you’re sure to enjoy some complete relaxation.
Discover more about Aire Ancient Baths London
4. The Bill Murray | Islington
After exploring this eclectic city for a few days, you may be in need of a laugh. Our fave comedy club in town is without a doubt The Bill Murray. An old Victorian pub turned community comedy venue, expect world-class names performing here alongside oodles of local talent. There’s a down-to-earth vibe here and we think you’ll get your giggle on. Go early for a pre-drink served by the friendly team.
See what’s on at The Bill Murray
Museums and Galleries
5. The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret | London Bridge
We love this place! Conveniently located around London Bridge, so a great complement to a day exploring Borough Market (more info below in the Markets section) and the South Bank, The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret is an absolute must-visit.
Climb the narrow 52-step staircase to discover a treasure trove of historic delights all housed in the eighteenth-century church of the old St Thomas’ Hospital. As the oldest surviving surgical theatre in Europe, here you’ll find a truly unique insight into the historic world of health, herbs, and holistic medicine.
You don’t need to be a medical professional to appreciate the delightful architecture here which includes the original timber-framed Herb Garret where poultices and pills were previously made for patients. Discover long-forgotten home remedies, learn about the healing power of plants, and see some truly eye-opening pieces of medical equipment that will make your annual physical seem like a breeze.
P.S. The gift shop is a good humoured delight of puns and oddities.
Learn more about the Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret
6. The Photographers’ Gallery | Soho
Even if you only have a passing interest in photography, a trip to this gallery is sure to enthral. Promising a plethora of expertly curated exhibitions that dive into lesser-known subsections of local and international society, you’re bound to discover your new favourite artist at The Photographers’ Gallery.
TPG Lates mean you can visit on Thursdays and Fridays after office hours and on Fridays, the gallery is free to all after 5pm. Be sure to check out the book shop which not only has a wonderful selection of merch to support current exhibitions but has a range of colourful and cultured treats to take home to remember your time in London.
Discover more about The Photographers’ Gallery
7. The Fan Museum | Greenwich
Okay. So maybe I’m a little biassed as an avid fan collector myself, but I’d go as far as to say that if you miss this little Greenwich beauty during your travels, you’re missing a trick. Housed in a pair of exquisitely restored Grade II-listed early Georgian townhouses (complete with Orangery), the museum displays the collection of its founders Hélène Alexander MBE, who happens to be a world authority on fans, and her late husband, ‘Dickie’ A.V Alexander OBE.
A range of exhibitions trace the evolution of fans across countries and societies, and if you’re lucky you may be able to jump on a tour with the curator. Keep an eye out for the contemporary varieties on display, and there are even fan making workshops monthly which will allow you to delve deeper into this fascinating art. Just be sure to book well in advance as they are super popular.
Find out more about The Fan Museum
8. Museum of the Home | Hoxton
Over in east London, the Museum of the Home is housed in a stunning Grade I-listed former almshouse. Offering a selection of permanent and curated collections, the space exists to examine the very essence of life: the home.
Stories of London and the multicultural groups that reside here are told through clever glimpses into the different places that people call home. Interior design styles and furnishings are tracked across the ages with realistic set ups of everything from a standard 70s kitchen to a look inside where nobles used to lay their heads.
Exit through the expertly-curated gift shop and don’t miss a visit to the gardens that echo the different landscaping trends that have been popular across time.
Learn more about the Museum of the Home
9. Museum of Brands | Notting Hill
If you’re already having a nosey around Notting Hill in west London, spare an hour or two to visit the Museum of Brands. Diving into 200 years of consumer culture and history, it’s a fascinating way to track the changes in society in close proximity, interestingly weaving together everything from brand logo changes to introductions of new materials, flavours, and ideas.
Learn about the magazines that were popular across the ages, how radio affected society, rationing during the war and so much more here. If the visual delights of the permanent collection are not enough for you, then venture into the ever-changing short-term exhibits. The last time I was there, a fascinating expose into found shopping lists kept me entranced.
Find out more about the Museum of Brands
10. Dulwich Picture Gallery | Dulwich
Head south to the trendy neighbourhood of Dulwich and treat yourself to an afternoon at the Dulwich Picture Gallery. Home to a permanent collection of exquisite Baroque masterpieces (including Rembrandt and Canaletto), on top of this, the rotating roster of exhibits is simply world-class.
The history of this gallery is just as fascinating with its roots being found in one of London’s leading art dealerships from the 1700s. Be sure to check the What’s On section of the website to discover unique offerings from theatre to family fun days.
Discover more about Dulwich Picture Gallery
11. South London Gallery | Peckham
Spread across two locations on opposites sides of the road from each other, the South London Gallery is a dynamic and vibrant institution aiming to ‘bring art to the people of South London’.
Working with artists from the area, the programmes here tend to hold a mirror up to the colourful communities from across the globe that call South London home. It’s well known for its education piece too and has a great book shop and a buzzing cafe for discussing what you’ve just seen. This is a must-visit if you’re in Peckham.
Find out more about the South London Gallery
12. The Horniman Museum & Gardens | Forest Hill
Another South London institution, The Horniman Museum & Gardens is an engaging place for people of all ages to learn and discover. The remarkable building has run as a museum in different shapes since the late 1800s, and has been hosting exhibitions on a vast array of topics since its opening.
Weekend and school holidays are special at The Horniman, as special exhibitions built with younger people in mind engage and delight (think Lego and dinosaurs!) There’s a farmer’s market in the gardens on Saturdays and the outdoor area is a popular spot for a weekend walk for young and old alike.
Learn more about The Horniman Museum & Gardens
13. Bethlem Museum of the Mind and Bethlem Gallery | Beckenham
Down in Beckenham, Bethlem Museum of the Mind tells the stories of how mental health care has developed over the years from one of the world’s first psychiatric hospitals. Located within the grounds of a functioning hospital, you’ll be surprised how sensitively the subject has been tackled here, with interesting interactive exhibits that feature comments from patients and staff.
Art lovers will enjoy the selection of works created by patients that are on show across the museum, plus Bethlem Gallery (which is in the same building) has a rotating roster of thought-provoking exhibitions from an array of artists connected with the hospital. Don’t miss the gift shop, where you can pick up a selection of trinkets along with preserves crafted from fruit and vegetables grown by current patients who use the hospital’s gardens for therapy.
Find out more about Bethlem Museum of the Mind and Bethlem Gallery
14. The Foundling Museum | Bloomsbury
The Foundling Museum, which opened in 2004, actually started its life as the Foundling Hospital, a place for taking care of babies at risk of abandonment. In 1741, the hospital started taking children and over the years over 25,000 babies were looked after.
Nowadays, this wonderful museum brings the stories of life in care to life and hosts an excellent range of art exhibitions from creatives across the globe. Pack some tissues because some of the exhibits, especially those with notes from mothers who simply couldn’t continue to look after their babies are heartwrenching.
Learn more about The Foundling Museum
Shops and Markets
15. Borough Market | London Bridge
If food is your thing, then a trip to Borough Market will surely unearth something new. Filled with countless local traders, this is the place to visit when you want to indulge in an artisanal Scotch Egg for breakfast, freshly foraged mushroom risotto for lunch, and all the cheese and natural wine you can handle.
For those in town a little longer, be sure to stock up on seasonal fruits and vegetables alongside bread, coffee, and more herbs and spices than you could shake a stick at.
Learn more about Borough Market
16. Columbia Road Flower Market | Shoreditch
Any time of the year will be the perfect time to explore the colours and smells of buzzy Columbia Road Flower Market. Only open on Sundays, from 8am Columbia Road transforms into rows and rows of fresh flower stalls with vendors offering everything from single stems to potted plants, seeds, and exceptional bouquets.
The road is also filled with quirky little shops selling everything from colourful pots for your newly-purchased plants to artisan coffee, antiques, and cakes. Top tip: get there early to avoid the crowds and to have the pick of the litter or grab a bargain at the end of the day around 3pm.
Learn more about Columbia Road Flower Market
17. Alfie’s Antique Market | Marylebone
Fans of things from bygone days need to put a trip to Alfie’s Antique Market on the London agenda. Located in ravishing building, a range of almost 100 stalls sell vintage everything from art to jewellery to furniture and fashion.
Allow a few hours to discover all the hidden gems and to chat with the friendly merchants who will gladly educate you on the historical context of whatever you’re looking at. When you need a breather, head up to Roof Top Kitchen at Alfie’s for a perfectly brewed flat white and take in the views of north London.
Whether you’re a serious collector or just looking for something a little unique, you’ll definitely find a treasure here.
Find out more about Alfie’s Antique Market
18. Beyond Retro | Various Locations
With outposts across the city, pre-loved fashion fans will want to make a beeline here. Get ready to find your next winter coat, colourful kimono, or retro dress here, plus their selection of patterned scarves is second to none. Expect quality and quantity here plus the possibility of stumbling over a wardrobe staple that you never knew you needed.
Learn more about Beyond Retro
Tours
19. Rebel Tours | Various locations
If you want to learn more about London’s history and colourful cast of characters, then you can’t beat a walking tour by the team at Rebel Tours. We’ve tried (and loved) both the Silent Voices of Whitechapel Walk that gives a voice to the female victims of the famed serial killer and the Misfits of Covent Garden Tour that tracks the area’s development through history.
The tour leaders are knowledgable, friendly, and we love the fact that it feels more like a conversation than a lecture. Ask as many questions as you like and learn more about an alternative side to London.
Learn more about Rebel Tours
20. Unseen Tours | Various locations
From Soho to Brick Lane and London Bridge to Kings Cross, Unseen Tours shares experiences les and curated by people affected by homelessness. This not-for-profit trains and employs London’s vulnerably housed and also raises awareness about homelessness issues in the capital by encouraging conversations.
Apart from learning more about the context and history of the area you’re touring, 60% of the ticket price actually goes to your guide.
Find out more about Unseen Tours
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