London isn’t just a city of museums, theatres, and historic pubs—it’s an outdoor playground packed with adventure, culture, and green spaces. From iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge to adrenaline‑fuelled thrills, riverside rides, and seasonal celebrations, the capital offers something for every mood and moment. Whether you’re a local looking for fresh weekend ideas or a visitor eager to explore beyond the guidebook, this curated list of 50 outdoor activities in London will help you make the most of the city’s parks, waterways, festivals, and hidden gems—all in the open air.
Iconic Landmarks & City Sights
London’s skyline and streets are packed with world‑famous landmarks that are just as impressive in person as they are in postcards. These stops are perfect for soaking up history, architecture, and that unmistakable London atmosphere.
- See Big Ben – Admire the world‑famous clock tower from Westminster Bridge.
- Visit Buckingham Palace – Watch the Changing of the Guard or admire the royal residence from its grand gates.
- See the Changing of the Guard – Witness the pageantry at Buckingham Palace.
- Visit the Tower of London – Explore centuries of history in this iconic fortress and former prison.
- Hang Out in Trafalgar Square – Meet friends, admire Nelson’s Column, and pop into the National Gallery.
- Walk Down Downing Street – Glimpse the Prime Minister’s residence and the ceremonial Horse Guards Parade.
- View Tower Bridge from Blackfriars Station – Catch a unique perspective of London’s most photogenic bridge.
- Stand on the Meridian Line – Straddle two hemispheres at Greenwich Observatory.
- Spot Celebrities in Leicester Square – Join the crowds at a film premiere.
- Ride an Open‑Top Bus – See the sights from the top deck in the open air.
Adrenaline & Adventure
If you’re craving a thrill, London has plenty of ways to get your heart racing. From high‑speed rides to vertical climbs, these activities will push your limits while giving you a fresh view of the city.
- Bungee Jump at the O2 – Take a leap from a towering crane beside the O2 Arena for an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
- White Water Raft at Lee Valley – Tackle Olympic‑grade rapids just outside the city.
- Try Go Ape in Battersea Park – Swing through treetop obstacles in the heart of the city.
- Climb the O2 – Walk over the arena’s roof for panoramic city views.
- Outdoor Climbing Walls – Test your strength and agility on London’s outdoor climbing walls, from urban bouldering spots to full‑height roped climbs.
- Try Parkour or Free Running – Use the cityscape as your obstacle course.
- Join an Outdoor Bootcamp – Get fit with group workouts in London’s parks.
- Go Skateboarding – Hit Southbank’s skate park or other urban spots.
- Rollerblade or Roller Skate – Cruise along smooth park paths or riverside routes.
- Try Nordic Roller Skiing – Practice cross‑country skiing techniques on wheels.
On the Water
The Thames and London’s lakes offer a whole different perspective on the city. Whether you’re after a gentle paddle or a high‑speed blast, these activities let you swap pavements for ripples.
- Go Boating on the Serpentine – Hire a rowboat or pedal boat in Hyde Park’s central lake.
- Ride a Thames Clipper – Hop on a fast water taxi for a scenic commute along the river.
- Blast Down the Thames on a RIB – Hold on tight for a high‑speed sightseeing ride.
Culture & Entertainment Outdoors
London’s cultural scene isn’t confined to theatres and galleries—plenty of it spills out into the open air. These picks combine fresh air with world‑class performances and sporting passion.
- See a Play at Shakespeare’s Globe – Experience theatre as it was in the Bard’s day.
- Watch Street Performers in Covent Garden – Enjoy free entertainment from magicians, musicians, and acrobats.
- See a Concert at Wembley – Catch world‑class acts in an iconic stadium.
- Watch a Football Match – Experience the atmosphere at a Premier League game.
Parks, Nature & Wildlife
Need a breather from the bustle? London’s green spaces and urban farms are perfect for picnics, wildlife encounters, and simple outdoor fun.
- Play in the Royal Parks – Picnic, cycle, or try Nordic roller skiing in London’s green oases.
- Visit a City Farm – Meet goats, pigs, and chickens without leaving London.
- Fly a Kite – Head to a park on a breezy day for simple, joyful fun.
Sports & Challenges
From world‑class sporting venues to quirky urban races, London is a playground for competitive spirits and active explorers.
- Catch a Sports Event at the London Olympic Park – Watch everything from athletics to motorsport in the legacy venues of 2012.
- Take a Stadium Tour – Step behind the scenes at Wembley, Emirates, or other iconic sports grounds.
- Watch the London Marathon – Cheer on thousands of runners as they race through the city streets.
- Join a Monopoly Run – Race around London visiting real‑life locations from the board game.
Seasonal & Special Events
London knows how to put on a show, especially when the seasons change. These events are worth braving the crowds for, whether it’s festive sparkle or carnival colour.
- See the Christmas Lights on Regent Street – Stroll under dazzling festive displays switched on by a celebrity guest.
- Celebrate New Year at the London Eye – Watch fireworks over the Thames (ticketed event).
- Visit the Winter Fair in Regent’s Park – Enjoy festive stalls and rides.
- Go Ice Skating – Glide at seasonal rinks like Somerset House or the Natural History Museum.
- Join the Notting Hill Carnival – Dance through the streets at Europe’s biggest street festival.
- Watch the Lord Mayor’s Parade – See floats, bands, and pageantry on New Year’s Day.
Quirky & Offbeat
For something a little different, these activities mix history, mystery, and unusual perspectives on the city.
- Join a Ghost Walk – Discover London’s haunted history on a spine‑tingling guided tour or Jack the Ripper tour.
- Raise Money on the MoonWalk – Power‑walk through the night in decorated bras for breast cancer charities.
- Visit Greenwich and the Cutty Sark – Explore a historic sailing ship and maritime heritage.
- See the Thames Barrier – Marvel at the engineering that protects London from flooding.
- Go Metal Detecting on the Thames Foreshore – Hunt for historic treasures at low tide.
- Zip Around on a Scooter – Explore the city quickly and easily.
- Try Outdoor Dating Ideas – Mix romance with adventure in London’s parks and riverside spots.
Active Exploration
Sometimes the best way to see London is under your own steam. These activities let you explore at your own pace while staying active.
- Explore London on a Boris Bike – Rent a Santander Cycle and pedal between landmarks at your own pace.
- London Zoo – Combine animal encounters with adventure play zones.
- Spot Celebrities in Leicester Square – Join the crowds at a film premiere.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, soaking up centuries of history, or simply enjoying a lazy afternoon in one of London’s green spaces, the city is bursting with outdoor experiences for every mood and season. From iconic landmarks to hidden corners, each adventure offers a fresh way to see the capital in a new light. So grab your coat, lace up your shoes, and step outside—London is waiting to surprise you at every turn.