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1. Start at Excel - and go back in time…
Timewalk is an immersive exhibition that allows you to experience 5 ancient civilisations. Visually stunning, with an impressive audio guide to bring the stories to life without lots of placards to read.
There is a separate audio guide for children to keep them interested. Duration of visit about 60 mins. Adults and children will enjoy equally, a great way to experience history.
2. If you’re not afraid of heights...
The Emirates Cable Cars offer thrilling and unequalled views over the River Thames, Canary Wharf and the O2.
The journey ends on the other side of the river, by the O2. Beyond music, there are all kinds of activities at the O2 - restaurants, bars, bowling, cinema, shopping, indoor skydiving, walking over the O2 roof itself… here is the full list.
3. See London by water
You can take the Thames Clipper into town watching the London skyline evolve as you near. The hop on/hop off pass can be useful, allowing you to meander your way into town.
Head all the way to Putney if you like! But we suspect you'll be tempted to disembark before then. It's a stunning journey under Tower Bridge, London Bridge, past Westminster.
4. Stopping at Greenwich before you hit central London is worthwhile.
Greenwich has a pictureque sweeping park with rare views over London. When the weather turns, there is plenty to duck into.
The National Maritime Museum, the Cutty Sark are world-class destinations for lovers of marine lore. Art lovers will enjoy the The Queen’s House, which is also free to visit. The Royal Observatory includes a major telescope dislpays, a planetarium and the start of the Greenwich meridian.
Walk into Greenwich town for a charming market, cafes and shops. If you like beer, Meantime Brewery is worth a visit, there is also the Greenwich gin distillery.
5. Canary Wharf is next on your journey into London.
Walking around feels very Manhattan with a growing collection of striking high rise buildings. The area is beautiful, built around the water with public art, endless restaurant options, super yachts, shopping and a roof garden at Crossrail Place.
Out of the ordinary adventures include sauna boats and a picturesque floating lido if you fancy some outdoor swimming and a sauna.
The Docklands museum shares stories from 400 years of the area.
Check the Canary Wharf events listings for seasonal happenings. They put on a fab cultural programme that includes light festivals, sport, art and more.
