Areas In London Tourist Should Avoid And Where They Should Go Instead

Welcome to London, a city of endless possibilities and… tourist traps? Did you know that a whopping 21.7 million visitors flocked to London in 2019? That’s a lot of people potentially falling into the same old tourist pitfalls!
But fear not, as seasoned London explorers, we’ve uncovered the best areas in London for tourists who want to experience the city like a local. We’ll guide you through the tourist traps to avoid and reveal the hidden gems that will make your 2024 London trip truly unforgettable.
1. Oxford Street: The Shopper’s Nightmare

First on our list of places to skip is Oxford Street. Sure, it’s famous, but is it worth your precious vacation time? Here’s why you might want to think twice:
- Overwhelming crowds: Picture yourself shuffling along, shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of other shoppers. Not exactly the relaxing retail therapy you had in mind, right?
- Chain store central: If you’ve come to London for unique finds, you’ll be disappointed. Most stores here are international chains you can find anywhere.
- Pickpocket paradise: With so many distracted tourists, Oxford Street is unfortunately a hotspot for petty theft. Keep your wits about you!
2. Instead, Explore Charming Marylebone
Just a stone’s throw away from the Oxford Street chaos lies the delightful neighborhood of Marylebone. Here’s why it’s a far better choice for your London shopping spree:
- Boutique bliss on Marylebone High Street: Discover unique shops and independent retailers that showcase the best of British design and craftsmanship.
- Hidden gems galore: Don’t miss Daunt Books, a beautiful Edwardian bookshop that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. And for cheese lovers, La Fromagerie is a must-visit.
- Peace and quiet: Enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience in this affluent area, where you can browse at your leisure without the pushy crowds.
3. Leicester Square: Overpriced and Underwhelming
Next up on our “skip it” list is Leicester Square. While it might seem like the heart of London’s entertainment district, it’s often more of a tourist trap than a true cultural experience:
- Tourist trap central: Overpriced restaurants and tacky souvenir shops abound.
- Lack of authenticity: You’re more likely to find chain restaurants than genuine London experiences here.
- Beware the touts: Watch out for pushy ticket sellers and potential scams targeting tourists.
4. Swap for Vibrant Covent Garden
Instead of Leicester Square, head to nearby Covent Garden for a much more enjoyable experience:
- Street performer paradise: Enjoy world-class entertainment from talented buskers and artists.
- Instagram-worthy spots: Don’t miss Neal’s Yard, a hidden courtyard bursting with colourful buildings and quirky shops.
- Foodie heaven: From traditional British pubs to international cuisine, Covent Garden offers diverse dining options to suit every palate.
5. Madame Tussauds: Wax Figures and Long Queues
Madame Tussauds is often high on tourists’ lists, but here’s why you might want to reconsider:
- Expensive and time-consuming: High ticket prices and long queues can eat up a big chunk of your day.
- Crowds galore: Prepare to jostle for space as you try to snap photos with wax figures.
- Limited cultural value: While fun for some, it doesn’t offer much in terms of authentic London experiences or educational content.
6. Visit the National Portrait Gallery Instead
For a more enriching experience, head to the National Portrait Gallery:
- Free entry: Enjoy world-class art without spending a penny on admission.
- British history and culture: Gain fascinating insights into the UK’s past and present through portraits of influential figures.
- Stunning views: Don’t miss the rooftop restaurant for breathtaking London vistas and a delicious meal.
7. Buckingham Palace: Crowded and Restricted Access
While Buckingham Palace is undoubtedly iconic, it might not live up to your expectations:
- Limited viewing: Most of the year, you’ll only see the palace from behind gates with throngs of other tourists.
- Expensive tours: When tours are available, they’re pricey and only cover a small portion of the palace.
- Overwhelming crowds: During peak seasons, the area becomes incredibly busy, making it difficult to enjoy the experience.
8. Explore Kensington Palace and Gardens
For a more accessible royal experience, visit Kensington Palace:
- Rich history: Explore the childhood home of Queen Victoria and current residence of some royal family members.
- Beautiful grounds: The palace gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
- Fashion history: Check out the Diana: Her Fashion Story exhibit for a glimpse into the style of the People’s Princess.
- Royal afternoon tea: Treat yourself to a regal afternoon tea experience at The Orangery.
9. London Eye: Expensive and Time-Consuming
The London Eye is often touted as a must-do, but here’s why you might want to skip it:
- Lengthy queues: Prepare to spend a good portion of your day waiting in line.
- Pricey tickets: The cost of a ride can put a serious dent in your travel budget.
- Weather-dependent views: Cloudy or rainy days (not uncommon in London!) can severely impact the experience.
- Crowded capsules: You’ll be sharing your capsule with many other tourists, which can detract from the experience.
10. Climb to the Sky Garden for Free Views
Instead of the London Eye, head to the Sky Garden for an equally impressive (and free!) view of the city:
- Panoramic vistas: Enjoy 360-degree views of London from a unique garden setting.
- No cost: Entry is free, but make sure to book in advance.
- Garden in the sky: Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
- Dining and drinking options: Treat yourself to a meal or cocktail at one of the Sky Garden’s restaurants or bars.