Top 10 things to do in London with students

Are you planning a school trip to London? As the UK’s vibrant capital, it is one of the most exciting and popular destinations for students to visit, attracting millions of tourists every year.

With so much to explore, narrowing down the best activities can be a challenge. That’s where we come in! Since 1982, we’ve been helping teachers and lecturers organise unforgettable educational trips to destinations worldwide. 

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ll cover why it is an ideal choice for school trips and share our list of the top 10 things to do in London. Let’s dive in!

Why visit London for school trips? 

Known as the Square Mile, as it spans approximately 1.12 square miles in width and length, London is a city rich in culture and history. It boasts numerous landmarks, world-class museums, and cutting-edge institutions, offering a diverse and immersive experience for students outside the classroom. Here are just a few reasons why London should be at the top of your school trip list: 

Steeped in history 

Spanning 2,000 years, students on history trips to London can see the past come to life around every corner. From the ancient Londinium Fort (AD 110) with its Roman defensive structures at 3 Noble Street to the Victorian grandeur of The Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington, showcasing industrial-era engineering. Undoubtedly, the city itself is a living history lesson, offering students the chance to engage with pivotal moments of British history. 

Hub of innovation 

For students interested in science and design and technology, London offers unparalleled educational opportunities. For instance, the Science Museum on Exhibition Road (open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM) is a must-visit, featuring hands-on exhibits, space exploration displays, and interactive learning zones. Meanwhile, The Royal Observatory in Greenwich allows students to stand on the Prime Meridian and learn about astronomy and navigation.

Cultural diversity

London is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Boroughs like Chinatown and Southall are excellent examples of the city’s varied populations with festivals such as Notting Hill Carnival (24-25 August 2025) or Diwali (mid-late October) offering students the opportunity to experience a wide range of languages, customs and traditions. The Migration Museum based in Lewisham Shopping Centre can also provide valuable insights into the city’s role in world trade and immigration. 

Beautiful green spaces 

Despite being a bustling metropolis, London is home to an impressive array of beautiful green spaces. Students can visit famous parks like Hyde Park in Westminster and Hampstead Heath in the Borough of Camden, where they can study wildlife and environmental science, enjoy nature walks, or simply relax after a fun-filled day of discovery.

Top 10 London school trip ideas

Now, let's take a look at the top 10 things to do in London. Each place has something different to offer your students, whether your objective is to enhance their knowledge and skills, spark their curiosity, or simply provide an unforgettable experience, there is no shortage of inspiring and educational attractions to explore! 

1. Take in the views from The lastminute.com London Eye

To start, why not take in all of London from above? Situated on the South Bank of the River Thames, just 10 minutes from Big Ben, the lastminute.com London Eye stands an eye-watering 135 meters tall, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Fun fact: It is not technically a Ferris wheel, but a cantilevered observation wheel. 

Students can take a 30-minute ride and participate in curriculum-linked activities using creative pod plans to learn more about the history and architecture of London’s key landmarks. If you're travelling with art students, they could even try their hand at sketching the city’s skyline. 

If you're travelling by tube, Waterloo Station is just a 5-minute walk away, located in Zone 1. Embankment, Charing Cross, and Westminster stations are also within easy walking distance. The London Eye is open daily from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with special school rates starting at £9.95 per pupil. 

2. Explore politics at the Houses of Parliament

On political trips to London, there’s no better place to visit than the Houses of Parliament. The current building, a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture, was largely completed in 1860, but its history stretches back over 900 years, from the Anglo-Saxon era to the present day. 

Guided tours provide students with a deeper understanding of the UK political system, featuring interactive workshops like ‘Building a Law’ (for ages 7-11), which explains the law-making process, and ‘The Power of Petitions’ (for ages 11-16), where groups can create their own petitions. Depending on availability, you can also arrange Q&A sessions with your local MP or a member of the House of Lords.

Educational visits typically run during the Spring, Autumn and Summer terms, and groups are required to arrive at the Education Centre in Victoria Tower Gardens 15 minutes before your visit time. The centre is a short walk from Westminster station, which is connected to the Circle, District and Jubilee lines. 

3. Discover royalty at Buckingham Palace

Walk in the footsteps of royalty at Buckingham Palace. Built in 1703, the palace is a symbol of British history and governance, serving as the official residence of every British monarch since Queen Victoria in 1837.

During the summer months (July to September), students can tour the opulent 19 State Rooms, home to exquisite furnishings and artworks by painters like Rembrandt and Vermeer, while discovering the palace’s role in state affairs and royal ceremonies. One of the highlights is the famous Changing of the Guard, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 11 AM.

Located in central London, Buckingham Palace is easily accessible via Green Park, St. James’s Park, and Victoria tube stations. State Rooms are open from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM (last entry at 5:15 PM). The palace is closed to the public in winter, but the exterior and gardens remain accessible year-round.

4. Step back in time at the Tower of London

Next on our list of the top 10 things to do in London for school trips is visiting the iconic Tower of London. Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1070, this historic fortress was designed to defend the nation from invasion. Over the centuries, it evolved into a prison and even an armoury. 

Students will be captivated by the Tower’s rich history and royal artefacts, including the world-famous Crown Jewels, which have been used in coronations for centuries. They will also uncover the gripping stories of past prisoners, from William Wallace, the Scottish rebel leader, to Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, two of Henry VIII’s wives.

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, tickets cost £4.10 per student and the Tower of London is just a 5-minute walk away from Tower Hill Underground station. You can also get there by river boat from various peris, including Westminster and London Eye. 

5. Get inspired at Tate Modern

No school trip to London would be complete without seeing one of the city’s leading museums, Tate Modern. Housed in a former power station, this iconic museum first opened in May 2000 and offers a fascinating journey through modern and contemporary art. 

Explore works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Yayoi Kusama, while engaging in discussions on artistic movements like Surrealism, Cubism, and Pop Art. The museum also features a 152-metre-long Turbine Hall, which hosts large-scale installations designed to challenge perceptions and encourage creative thinking.

Tate Modern is located on Bankside, near the Millennium Bridge, and is easily accessible from Blackfriars, Southwark, and London Bridge stations. Entry is free, though special exhibitions may require a ticket. Schools can book guided tours in advance for a more structured learning experience.

6. Uncover finance at the Bank of England Museum

For students interested in history, business and economics, the Bank of England Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the UK’s financial system. Located within the Bank of England itself, this museum traces the Bank’s history from its founding in 1694 to its role in the modern economy.

On school visits, students can explore topics like inflation, currency production, financial security and the future of money through interactive exhibits. A highlight is the chance to lift a real gold bar, giving students a first-hand understanding of the value of gold reserves. The museum also offers free, self-guided visits and classroom resources for teaching financial literacy.

If you’re travelling by public transport, Bank Station (Central, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines) is a one-minute walk away. The museum’s entrance is located on Bartholomew Lane and is open Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entry is free for all visitors, making it an excellent budget-friendly stop for school groups.

7. Marvel at St. Paul’s Cathedral

One of the 10 best things to do in London for religious studies groups is marvelling at the grandeur of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren following the Great Fire of London in 1666, it is a prime example of Baroque architecture.

Inside, students can admire its magnificent dome, intricate mosaics, and one-of-a-kind whispering gallery, where even the faintest sound travels along the curved walls. Additionally, the cathedral offers a range of themed learning sessions, interactive workshops, and self-guided tours, helping students of all ages explore its role in British religious and cultural history. 

Located in the City of London, the cathedral is a short walk from St. Paul’s (Central Line) and Mansion House stations. Opening times are 8:30 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and 10:00 AM on Wednesdays. For guided school visits, it is £3.60 per pupil (£6.60 with dome climb included). 

8. Go behind the scenes at Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Experience the magic of the wizarding world of Harry Potter with a Warner Bros. Studio Tour! Located in Leavesden, just outside London, the studio showcases original sets, props, and costumes from the films.

Walk through the Great Hall, explore Diagon Alley, ride a broomstick, and see iconic props like Hagrid’s motorbike and the Triwizard Cup. Film and media students can also gain insights into filmmaking techniques, CGI effects, and animatronics, enhancing their knowledge of the creative and technical aspects of film production. 

The studio is 20 minutes from London Euston by train to Watford Junction, with shuttle buses running at least every 30 minutes from 9:20 AM. Please note, that tickets must be booked at least six weeks in advance. 

9. Shop unique finds at Covent Garden

A vibrant cultural hub, Covent Garden is perfect for students exploring London’s performing arts scene, retail trends, and history. Once a fruit and vegetable market, it is now a lively district filled with boutique shops, artisan stalls, and street performers, particularly in the Piazza and Apple Market. 

Students can also visit the London Transport Museum, which offers insights into the city’s transport evolution, showcasing everything from Victorian horse-drawn omnibuses to modern-day Tube trains. Covent Garden is also home to Neal’s Yard, a colourful alley filled with independent cafes and eco-friendly businesses.

The neighbourhood is only a short walk from King’s Cross and is located on the Picadilly Line (Covent Garden Station). Tip: Get off at Leicester Square Station (Northern Line) during peak times to avoid crowds. Places to eat nearby include Shake Shack, PizzaExpress, Benugo and the Covent Garden market itself. 

10. Experience the magic of a West End show

Finally, after a day of sightseeing, head to the West End to enjoy a theatrical performance. This is a must-visit for literature, performing arts, and history school trips, offering an immersive experience in drama, music, and storytelling. 

Students can watch world-famous shows such as The Lion King, Les Misérables, or Hamilton, gaining insight into stage production, set design, and performance techniques. Many theatres also offer pre-show talks and Q&A sessions with actors and crew, providing an educational perspective on the industry.

Most West End theatres including famous venues like the Lyceum Theatre, Apollo Victoria Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Theatre Royal Drury Lane, are located around Leicester Square and Covent Garden. 

See what our other trips think of the west end with our recent reviews:

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Book unforgettable London school trips with European Study Tours! 

With so much to explore, London is a truly captivating city that brings learning to life beyond the classroom. From iconic landmarks and museums to cultural experiences and world-class entertainment, there’s something to inspire every student.

Let us handle the planning so you can focus on creating memorable and educational experiences. Check out our range of school trips to London for more information. 

Alternatively, get in touch on 0330 838 4120 or request a quote, and our team will be happy to help with your enquiry.