Exploring London on foot is one of the easiest ways to see the city’s most famous landmarks in a single day. This route follows a clear, logical path through central London, helping you avoid backtracking while still giving you time to stop, explore, and take everything in.
What is the best walking route to see London’s main attractions?
A simple and efficient walking route starts in the West End and follows London’s key sights east along the River Thames:
Oxford Street → Piccadilly Circus → Trafalgar Square → Buckingham Palace → Westminster → South Bank → Tower Bridge
Distance: approx. 6–8 miles
Time: 4–6 hours depending on stops
Best for: First-time visitors
This route works well because each stop naturally leads to the next, with plenty to see along the way.
Where do you start and what will you see first?
Begin near Oxford Street, one of London’s busiest areas, and walk towards Piccadilly Circus via Regent Street.
From there, continue to Trafalgar Square, a central point surrounded by major landmarks.
Key stops in this section:
- Oxford Street (Nearest Tube: Oxford Circus)
- Piccadilly Circus (Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus)
- Trafalgar Square (Nearest Tube: Charing Cross)
- National Gallery (free entry if you want a short indoor stop)
This first stretch is busy but gives you a strong introduction to central London.
How do you reach Buckingham Palace and Westminster?
From Trafalgar Square, walk down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace.
After the palace, continue through St James’s Park towards Westminster.
Key sights in this section:
- Buckingham Palace (Nearest Tube: Green Park)
- St James’s Park (ideal short break spot)
- Big Ben
- Westminster Abbey
- Palace of Westminster
This part of the walk is more open and scenic, especially through the park and around Westminster.
What is the South Bank walk like?
After crossing Westminster Bridge, you’ll reach the South Bank — one of the most enjoyable parts of the route.
Walking east along the river, you’ll pass a mix of attractions, food spots, and street performers.
Key stops along the river:
- London Eye (Nearest Tube: Waterloo)
- Tate Modern
- Shakespeare’s Globe
- Borough Market (Nearest Tube: London Bridge)
This section is ideal for a food stop or a slower pace after a busy morning.
Where does the walk end?
Continue along the river until you reach Tower Bridge and the nearby Tower of London.
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill
This is a natural finishing point, with great views and easy transport connections back across London.
Can you shorten or adjust the route?
Yes — the route is easy to adapt depending on your time.
You can:
- Start at Trafalgar Square instead of Oxford Street
- Focus only on the Westminster and South Bank sections
- Use the Tube at Westminster, Waterloo, or London Bridge
Where should you stay for this walking route?
Staying in the West End gives you a practical starting point for this route and easy access back at the end of the day.
A central base near Oxford Street means you can begin on foot, avoid unnecessary travel, and explore at your own pace.
For a straightforward and well-located option, STG Hotel Oxford Street places you within walking distance of the starting point, making it easy to follow this route without relying on transport — and just as easy to return after a full day out exploring London.
Quick tips before you go
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Start early to avoid crowds
- Plan at least one stop for food (Borough Market is a good option)
- Allow extra time for photos and detours