Flights from Beijing (BJS) to London (LON)

About London

Discover London

Why visit London?
London blends grand historic landmarks with a creative, modern edge. From royal palaces and riverside walks to cutting-edge galleries and theatre, you will find a city that is both familiar and constantly surprising.

What to expect
Neighbourhoods around the River Thames anchor many first-time visits, with Westminster, South Bank, and the City offering iconic views at every turn. Venture further to areas such as Shoreditch, Notting Hill, and Greenwich for a more local atmosphere, leafy streets, and community markets.

Plan your trip
London works well as both a short city escape and a starting point for exploring the rest of the United Kingdom. High-speed rail and domestic flights connect you easily to other regions, while the city itself offers a broad range of hotels, dining, and cultural options for every type of traveller.

Top sights in London

Tower of London

Explore this historic fortress on the Thames, known for its dramatic stories, imposing walls, and impressive collections.

Buckingham Palace and The Mall

Stroll along The Mall towards Buckingham Palace and enjoy the ceremonial architecture and landscaped parks nearby.

London Eye and South Bank

Ride the London Eye for wide city views, then walk the South Bank for street performers, galleries, and riverside cafes.

British Museum

Discover world-spanning collections in a vast neoclassical building, from ancient sculptures to decorative arts.

West End theatre district

Catch a musical or play in London’s famous theatre quarter and wander its lively streets before or after the show.

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

Relax by the lake, hire a boat, or follow tree-lined paths between statues, fountains, and landscaped lawns.

Skyline viewpoints at The Shard

Head up to a high viewing platform for panoramic views across London’s evolving skyline and winding river.

Camden and Regent’s Canal

Combine market browsing with a walk along Regent’s Canal, where colourful boats and bridges offer a different side of the city.

Experience London’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
London’s Underground network is the fastest way to cover longer distances, supported by frequent buses and suburban trains. For a different view, take a river boat along the Thames. For the last mile, walking is often the most efficient way to link nearby sights in central neighbourhoods.

Local life & culture
London’s energy shifts from busy financial districts on weekdays to slower, residential areas at weekends. You will find street performers along the river, small galleries in repurposed warehouses, and leafy squares dotted with benches. Each neighbourhood has its own character, from creative quarters to stately terraces.

Where to unwind
Parks such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Greenwich Park offer generous open space for quiet walks or relaxed picnics. Early mornings bring calm paths and soft light, while evenings are ideal for sunset views over the city. Riverside promenades also provide a gentle pace away from traffic.

A taste of London

Street food & local specialties
You can sample classic favourites such as fish and chips, pies, and roast dishes, as well as international flavours in neighbourhood markets. Areas like Borough Market, Camden, and Brick Lane are known for stalls serving quick, flavourful meals from around the world.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Across central London, you will find relaxed eateries in shopping streets and food halls that bring together different cuisines under one roof. Many spots offer smaller plates or sharing menus, so you can try several dishes in one sitting and tailor meals to your day’s sightseeing.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, look for restaurants with river views, skyline panoramas, or historic interiors. Dining near the Thames, in the West End, or at elevated venues around the City of London adds a sense of occasion, whether you are marking a special event or closing a full day of exploring.

Retail therapy in London

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central London is home to large department stores and multi-level malls that combine international brands, local designers, and dining options. These spaces double as social hubs, where you can take a break between shops, catch a film, or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

Markets & local crafts
For more individual finds, head to neighbourhood markets and side streets where independent makers and small labels are based. Areas such as Covent Garden, Spitalfields, and Notting Hill offer crafts, art, and vintage pieces that make distinctive souvenirs from your trip.

Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets such as Oxford Street and Regent Street glow with illuminated storefronts and seasonal displays. Some markets and arcades stay open into the evening, making it easy to browse after a day of sightseeing. Public transport keeps these districts well connected as the night continues.

Best time to visit London

Spring bloom (March to May, shoulder season)
Temperatures in spring typically range from 8–15°C (46–59°F) as parks and gardens come into colour. Days grow longer, outdoor cafes open up, and city walks become more comfortable, offering a pleasant balance of milder weather and a steady but manageable flow of visitors.

Summer light (June to August, peak season)
Summer brings average temperatures of around 18–23°C (64–73°F), with occasional warmer days. Long daylight hours make it easy to combine museum visits, park time, and evening performances. Outdoor events, river activities, and open-air cinemas are popular, adding a lively feel across the city.

Autumn and winter charm (September to February, low season)
Temperatures usually sit between 4–12°C (39–54°F), with cooler, crisper days and early sunsets. Cultural venues, cosy cafes, and indoor attractions come into their own, while festive decorations brighten streets in late autumn and winter. It is a good period for slower-paced exploration and quieter neighbourhood strolls.

Frequently Asked Questions