Things To Do In London That Aren't Big Ben

Elizabeth Tower (aka Big Ben) is one of the most recognized symbols of England. Though it is beautiful and fabulous, a seasoned traveler might yearn for something a little more off the beaten path. When I studied abroad, I had four months to explore London and discover some of the lesser known gems to tourists. Here are some of the locations I found myself going back to and that I hold near and dear to my heart.

Camden Market (or any market really)

Camden Market / Via camdenmarket.com

Food, shopping, history; what more could a girl want? The markets in London are truly something special. If you're like me and enjoy the hustle and bustle as well as some good street food, the markets are sure to excite you. Each market has something different to offer, but my personal favorite would be Camden Market. Camden has a very trendy, Goth-chic feel to it that I just can't get enough of. The market also has a rich history of being transformed horse stables that are also incorporated into the present layout. Walking through these winding pathways feels so whimsical and is a surefire way to feel like a regular Londoner. Make sure you go on a weekend as the food stalls etc. will only be open then; I highly suggest some of the edible cookie dough! Another great thing about the markets is that you only have to spend as much money as you feel like, but make sure to bring cash! Other markets to check out are Portobello Market, Borough Market, and Old Spitalfields Market.

Sea Life London Aquarium

TripAdvisor / Via tripadvisor.com

The real question is, who doesn't like seeing sharks? It's true that aquariums are not unique to London, however, the Sea life London Aquarium offers a refreshing change of pace and provides some much needed salt water. The location (smack dab in central London) also makes this a real gem. Once you're done under the sea, you can go for a lovely walk along Bank and take in all the sights, including the London Eye which is right next to it. The aquarium is around 25 pounds to get in, but I found it to be more enjoyable than the 25 pounds I spent for the short ride on the London Eye. Afterwards, you could even pay a visit to our friend Big Ben since the two are walking distance from each other!

Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

TripAdvisor / Via tripadvisor.com

*Sigh* Yet another beautiful museum that is completely free of charge. The V&A was one of my first outings in London and I made sure to go back a few more times to get my fill. This place is gigantic, free, and completely worth the trip. There are specific exhibits that cost a small fee (around 15 pounds) but those aren't required and there is PLENTY to see without spending money. As a theatre nerd, I geeked out at being able to see Shakespeare's first folio and costumes from many productions including The Lion King. There truly is something for everyone in this museum and you won't leave disappointed. Located in South Kensington, it is surrounded by quintessential London architecture and is just gorgeous overall.

Churchill War Rooms

Mission: Breakout / Via missionbreakout.london

Located in between the famous Trafalgar Square and Parliament Square (where Big Ben is located), the Churchill War Rooms sit nestled in an unassuming hideaway. Since it was the underground bunker that Churchill and many others used as a command center in the thick of WWII, I expected it to be relatively small but it is anything but. The winding corridors paint a vivid picture of how high the stakes were at this time in England and it is humbling to see the sacrifices these people had to make during the war. With a student discount, I was able to get in for only 15 pounds and spent all afternoon there. As part of the Imperial War Museums, the Churchill War Rooms are a must do for any history buff or just someone who wants to understand more about Winston Churchill and England in WWII.

National Gallery

The National Gallery / Via nationalgallery.org.uk

There's nothing quite like looking at some fine art in one of the greatest cities in the world. Located right in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is a great way to feel a bit more cultured during your London adventure. The National Gallery provides inspiring art by big name artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, Raphael, and Cézanne. It's the perfect place to get lost for a few hours and escape the craziness that is central London. Bonus: it's also free!

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London- The Making of Harry Potter

Visit London / Via visitlondon.com

It may sound a little cliché, but the only word that I can use to describe this place is ~magical~. It is a bit of a trek to get there as it is not located in central London, but it is extremely worth it if you love all things Harry Potter. Once again, one could spend an entire day exploring every prop, costume, set piece, etc. of the movies at the Leavesden studios. When I think about the experience and the amount of time that I spent there, the 35-ish pound price tag to get in was beyond worth it. Trying to describe the scope of this place is hard, but some of my favorite parts included the Forbidden Forest, Potions classroom, and Dumbledore's office. It is a spellbinding experience that can only be improved by some saccharine sweet Butterbeer!

Theatre show at the West End

The Telegraph / Via telegraph.co.uk

London has a long and complicated love story with theatre that has stretched for hundreds of years. There's no doubt about it, London has some of the best theatre the world has to offer. I was fortunate enough to see a range of shows during my study abroad and each show was compelling and interesting in its own way. There is a wide range of ticket prices and there are some day-of companies that can help you cut down on cost if you're not picky about the show you want to see. Nothing says vacation like dinner and a show, so get out there and enjoy the wonderful theatre community in London!

Hopefully this has inspired you to go out and explore one of the most beautiful and dynamic cities in the world! *booking my plane ticket to go back ASAP*