The London Pass®: 100+ Things To Do – Includes Tower Bridge

Traveling through London can be an expensive affair, especially when you’re eager to tick off all those iconic landmarks. The London Pass® offers a convenient way to see a wide range of attractions without continuously reaching for your wallet. With access to over 100 sights, from historic landmarks to modern marvels, and the flexibility of choosing your duration, it’s a popular option among visitors eager to maximize their time and savings.

What we particularly like about this pass is the ease of planning it provides. The included app or PDF guide helps you organize your days efficiently, and the skip-the-line benefits can save precious hours—something we all want more of on vacation. One potential downside is that scheduling certain attractions might require advanced reservations, and not all sites are available at all times, so some planning is essential.

This experience suits travelers who love a flexible, all-in-one approach to sightseeing. Whether you have a long layover, a weekend, or a full week in London, the London Pass can be tailored to fit your pace and interests. If you’re someone who enjoys delving into culture, history, and entertainment at your own speed, it’s likely to be a good fit.

Key Points

• Cost Savings: You can save up to 50% on admission fees at top attractions.
• Flexibility: Valid for up to one year from purchase, with durations from 1 to 10 days.
• Convenience: Mobile ticket and an app for easy planning.
• Wide Range of Attractions: Over 100 options, including iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and Westminster Abbey.
• Skip-the-Line Benefits: Many sites offer fast-track entry, reducing waiting times.
• Reservation Needs: Some activities, like the London Eye and Windsor Castle, require advance bookings.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The London Pass grants access to a carefully curated list of London’s most celebrated landmarks and hidden treasures. Here’s what you can expect:

London Eye and Tower of London

Starting with the London Eye, travelers get to enjoy panoramic views of London from one of Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheels. Reviewers mention that reservations are required for this activity, and the app helps you book your preferred slot, which is a big plus. The view from the 72nd-floor Skydeck of The Shard** is included in the pass**, offering breathtaking cityscapes that make for memorable photo ops.

The Tower of London is another highlight, with its centuries of history as a royal palace, prison, and even a zoo. Visitors often find the guided tours, especially those led by knowledgeable guides like Benedict, add depth to the experience, making the history come alive. This is “a must-see,” according to many, and the skip-the-line entry helps avoid long queues.

Thames and River Cruises

The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers offers a great way to combine transportation with sightseeing. Hop on at Greenwich Pier and cruise past landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, the Millennium Bridge, and the Tate Modern. The pass includes a River Roamer ticket for unlimited daily use, which reviewers say “makes sightseeing super easy” and adds a practical element to your day.

Iconic Landmarks and Cultural Spots

The View from The Shard is often praised for its indoor viewing gallery and open-air Skydeck, with some reviews mentioning the special digital photos included. Remember, reservations are necessary, and the last slot is around 5:15 PM, so plan accordingly.

Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Royal Albert Hall are all included, with guided tours or quick visits giving you a taste of London’s architectural grandeur. The guides and staff at these sites are often highlighted for their knowledge and friendly manner, making the experience more engaging.

Royal Residences and Gardens

The Kensington Palace and Windsor Castle are fantastic day trips for those interested in Royal history. Windsor Castle, in particular, is noted to require a reservation for entry after 1 PM, but it offers stunning architecture and a chance to see the Royal residence in a more relaxed setting outside the city.

The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew and Greenwich’s Royal Observatory are beautiful outdoor options that also include interactive exhibits, perfect for nature lovers and science buffs alike.

Family and Unique Experiences

London Zoo and the Cutty Sark offer engaging family-friendly activities, with interactive displays and sweeping views. The London Bridge Experience provides a darkly humorous look at London’s past, and reviewers mention it’s quite immersive and fun.

Sports, Culture, and Hidden Gems

Sports fans can visit Wembley Stadium, Twickenham, or the Arsenal Stadium for behind-the-scenes tours that are highly praised for their guides. Art and history lovers will enjoy the Freud Museum, Charles Dickens Museum, or the Museum of Brands, each offering a different slice of London’s cultural pie.

Offbeat and Quirky Attractions

For something different, try the Jason’s Trip canal boat ride, the Queen’s Skate Dine Bowl, or visit Eltham Palace, with its royal ties dating back to the 1300s. Reviewers mention that early booking and planning are crucial for these attractions, especially during busy periods.

Transportation and Accessibility

The pass includes a 2-day hop-on-hop-off bus tour with the Big Bus Tours, although some reviews warn that the bus company’s service can be inconsistent. One reviewer noted delays due to technical issues, which impacted their sightseeing schedule. Still, the bus offers a convenient overview and an excellent way to get your bearings.

The ** Thames River cruise** is a valuable addition, making it easy to visit attractions on both sides of the river without tiring your feet. The app makes reserving spots and managing your schedule straightforward.

Value for Money

The cost of $149.40 per person for a 1 to 10-day pass is a solid deal if you plan to visit multiple attractions. Reviewers mention that it’s worth it if you visit 3-4 sites, especially with the skip-the-line advantage, saving hours that can be spent exploring more.

However, some reviewers warn that not all attractions are available without reservations, so flexibility is key. The pass is valid for one year from purchase, giving you ample time to plan your visits at a comfortable pace.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Many users appreciate the knowledgeable guides and stunning views they encountered. One reviewer mentioned that their guide at the Palace provided “lots of stories,” elevating the experience beyond just viewing the sights. Others enjoyed the delicious food options at some attractions, noting that reservations often help secure these popular spots.

Some noted hurdles with booking and app functionality, particularly with the London Eye and Windsor Castle, so it’s wise to plan ahead and confirm reservations early. One person expressed frustration with the pass not downloading properly and difficulty navigating the process, highlighting the importance of pre-visit organization.

In terms of value, several reviewers highlighted how the skip-the-line benefits and comprehensive access made their trips more relaxed and enjoyable. For families, the London Zoo and interactive museums proved to be hits, while history buffs loved the Tower of London and Greenwich Observatory.

Who Should Consider the London Pass?

This pass is best suited for independent travelers who love flexibility. If you’re the type who wants to maximize sightseeing in a limited time, the skip-the-line features and wide attraction list will be a boon. It’s also an excellent choice for those traveling with a family or group who want to see a lot without the hassle of buying individual tickets.

However, if you prefer more leisurely, unstructured days, or if your interests are limited to specific sites, you might find the pass less cost-effective. Be prepared for some attractions requiring advance reservations and check the availability of your preferred sights beforehand.

The Sum Up

The London Pass® offers a comprehensive, flexible way to explore London’s most famous sites and hidden gems. While some attractions demand early booking and app management, the convenience of skip-the-line access and the ability to tailor your itinerary** make it a valuable tool for busy travelers eager to make the most of their time. Its cost-saving potential becomes clear if you plan your visits carefully and take advantage of the digital resources provided.

This pass is best suited for visitors who want to see a broad spectrum of attractions without the stress of purchasing individual tickets at each site. If you love a mix of culture, history, and entertainment, and enjoy planning your days ahead, the London Pass will serve you well.

However, it’s essential to manage expectations—not every site is available at all times, and some booking ahead is necessary. Overall, it’s a powerful tool to unlock the city’s many sides while keeping your budget in check.

FAQs

Does the pass include transportation?
No, transportation to and from attractions isn’t included unless explicitly stated, but the pass does include a 2-day hop-on-hop-off bus tour and Thames River cruise options.

Can I use the pass for multiple days?
Yes, you can choose a 1-, 2-, 3-, up to 10-day pass, valid for a full year from purchase, with consecutive days counting from activation.

Are reservations required for attractions?
Many attractions, like the London Eye, Windsor Castle, and others, do require advanced reservation. The included app helps you book these slots.

Is the pass worth it for a short visit?
If you plan to visit 3 or more major sites, the pass generally offers good value, especially when combining skip-the-line benefits.

How do I receive the pass?
It’s a mobile ticket that can be scanned from your phone, making it convenient to carry and use.

What if I have trouble downloading or using the pass?
Some reviews mention technical issues, so it’s wise to set up your pass early and confirm details in advance. If problems arise, customer support is available via live chat and email.

Can I visit attractions on the same day?
Yes, if your pass duration includes that day, but check the operating hours and reservation requirements to plan effectively.

Are all attractions included in the pass?
Most major sights are, but some activities or locations might offer additional ticket upgrades or be unavailable without reservations.

What are the main drawbacks?
Some users have experienced booking difficulties, long waits at busy sites, and app glitches. Proper planning and early reservations can help avoid these issues.

Is the pass good value for money?
For those eager to see many attractions, yes. The skip-the-line benefits and wide range help justify the cost, especially when you value convenience and time savings.