7 Things To Do In London In Under 2 Hours
by Nick Hagan / September 10, 2025
Estimated reading time: 9 minutes
For sheer, dizzying variety, few places do it like London.
From breathtaking historic sites to the latest globetrotting trends, the sprawl and style of the UK’s capital takes in a wildly eclectic spread of landmarks, cultures, arts, cuisine and world-class luxury that can leave your head spinning.
But fear not; even if you’re only in town for a couple of hours, you can still sample some of the best highlights the Big Smoke has to offer. All it takes are a few discerning choices—and the help of a Blacklane chauffeur to get you there on time.
Table of contents
1. The South Bank
For a no-nonsense swathe of central London’s essence in a short walk, the South Bank is a great choice. British weather permitting, of course.
The Thames has always been right at the heart of the metropolis, and the South Bank is just that: The mighty river’s southern edge. For many decades it’s served as a promenade where visitors can wander, peruse the sights and gaze over the water at the bustling skyline beyond.
Just a five minute walk from Waterloo Station, this area is dotted with cafes, restaurants, shops and cultural attractions that range from the lighthearted to the sublime.
Follow the north-east curve and you’ll find yourself in an atmospheric pedestrian patch that’s full of interesting features. Browse the characterful secondhand book market, before pausing at one of the many cafes with outdoor seating for a quick takeaway coffee or bite.
Keep on walking and you’ll soon arrive at the beloved Undercroft, stomping ground for skaters, BMXers and assorted hip daredevils crying out for an audience. You’re also in one of the hubs of London’s film and theaterland, with the BFI (British Film Institute) right next to the majestic brutalism of the National Theatre—and the mighty London IMAX cinema just over the road. And it’s all flanked by those gorgeous wrought iron riverside lamposts, overlooking the water below.
Time: 20 minutes
2. Tate Modern
One of London’s best free art galleries happens to be right along your South Bank route. The Tate Modern is a Mecca for all kinds of 20th and 21st century art, and is worth including in your speedy itinerary for the magnificent building alone.
Housed in an enormous old power station, this former industrial site has now given over its cavernous interiors to celebrate the arts, and is a joy to wander through.
But you’re on a tight schedule, so you’ll need to be somewhat discerning. The Tate’s famous Turbine Hall is right at the entrance and often provides a platform for truly amazing installations, which transform the enormous room into an immersive experience. Notable past artists to exhibit include Anish Kapoor, Louise Bourgeois and Ai Weiwei, and there’s often a startling piece of work waiting to be encountered.
Alternatively, a little advanced research could help you identify one of two artworks you’d love to check out as part of your visit—the Tate Modern has Picasso, Matisse, Dali, Warhol, Rothko and many, many more to peruse.
Time: 20 minutes
3. Shakespeare’s Globe
William Shakespeare’s dazzling influence on England’s literature and language remains undimmed. And while you could spend a lifetime reading the bard’s plays and poetry, a quick stop at the Globe Theater lets you celebrate his work by admiring a truly exceptional piece of restoration architecture.
Located just a little further on from the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the original open-aired Elizabethan playhouse from 1599, where many of the literary giant’s works were performed. Most striking is the current Globe’s faithful emulation of its 16th-century forebear. It’s built entirely from oak using traditional construction methods and is also topped with a thatched roof - a true rarity in the age of modern planning permission.
Every one of Shakespeare’s plays has been performed here since the modern Globe opened in 1997, and the theater still regularly programs his work, educating the public and selling out shows every year. While you won’t have time to see a full performance, a quick gawk at this remarkable building is a great addition to your lineup. How many Shakespeare quotes can you remember, dear heart?
Time: 5 minutes
4. Over the river to St Paul’s Cathedral
A brisk walk over the Millennium Bridge gives you a chance to marvel at the Thames from above—and also provides an inspiring view of one of the London skyline’s most iconic landmarks, St Paul’s Cathedral.
Remarkably, this has been a site of worship since at least 604AD - but the stately Baroque dome known to the world today was designed by Sir Christopher Wren following the Great Fire of London in 1666. Since then, St Paul’s has hosted some of the most prestigious funerals in British history, and has so much history attached to it you could spend your whole two hours in awestruck appreciation. Perhaps most notably, the cathedral miraculously survived the Blitz in World War 2 despite being directly targeted by bombers.
Even though you’re on the clock today, stopping inside for a few minutes gives the impression of a truly special site. Almost every square foot of the cathedral has a story to tell, and world renowned artworks by William Holman Hunt and Henry Moore are also housed within. If you can spare the time, a quick trip up to the wonderful Whispering Gallery is also recommended.
Time: 20 minutes
5. Covent Garden
Next, hop in your Blacklane ride and head straight to the beautiful Covent Garden, to combine a trip to an historic London landmark with some top-drawer retail and foodie therapy.
With its mixture of indoor and outdoor spaces, street performers and quirky retail stalls, Covent Garden is undoubtedly one of London’s most charming markets - and its compact size could make it the perfect option for visitors who have to keep a careful eye on the time.
Operating since at least the 17th century, Covent Garden has long served as a forum for commerce and social interaction. Today, this covered plaza’s easy-to-reach position and old world aesthetic make it irresistible to London’s visitors, who roam its ornate interior and explore the many unique boutiques inside. From stylish apparel to beauty, jewelery and antiques, you’re sure to find something intriguing here, even if you’re just browsing. The food court downstairs also features a great selection of bites, from ice cream to sandwiches and artisan teas.
While the central plaza is small, the surrounding area isn’t - and is a joy to explore if you have more time to kill. It’s one of the West End’s best areas for food and leisure, with Seven Dials Market and a good selection of high class restaurants and pubs within walking distance, and the Royal Opera House and many heritage theaters also located nearby.
Time: 25 minutes
6. Trafalgar Square
No London visit list could truly be complete without a nod to the world famous grandeur of Trafalgar Square. And while you’d be forgiven for instantly thinking ‘tourist trap’, there’s actually a great deal of interest to be uncovered at this national landmark, which can be reached in just a few minutes by your Blacklane chauffeur.
First and foremost, the square itself is always a lively place to hang out. From its central column commemorating Lord Admiral Nelson and his death at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, this spacious public plaza is always buzzing with visitors. Even more than Nelson, it’s the wildlife that commands the most attention - both the huge bronze lions beloved of tourists and the many inquisitive pigeons which are…slightly less beloved.
While Trafalgar Square is largely a monument to British military prowess, the site’s Fourth Plinth bucks the trend by giving its platform exclusively to art installations. A new artwork arrives roughly every two years, giving millions of people the chance to appreciate it out in the open.
The square also backs onto two fantastic art-focused institutions. The National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery are both accessible from the north side, and contain an amazing collection of world-renowned paintings. Or, if you’re more interested in the modern art vibes of the Fourth Plinth, the Institute Of Contemporary Arts (ICA) is just a short walk away on The Mall, where you can catch a groundbreaking exhibition or compelling film screening if you have more time to kill.
Finally, the gorgeous St Martin-In-The-Fields Church nearby hosts regular services and concerts, and also boasts a unique cafe in its crypt. With so many fantastic sites to explore outside the square proper, you’ll need to be disciplined!
Time: 20 minutes
7. Gordon’s Wine Bar
After your truly epic two hour jaunt, you’ll probably be needing some good refreshment to finish.
Just 5 minutes’ walk from Trafalgar Square, Gordon’s Wine Bar is an evergreen favourite of both visitors and locals alike. In operation since the nineteenth century, Gordon’s oozes old world ambience with its wood panelled facades and vaulted cellar ceilings illuminated by candlelight. It claims to be London’s oldest wine bar, and descending its steps certainly gives one a distinctly Dickensian flavour - and that’s before you’ve even tried the wine. The ethos behind Gordon’s is to give customers what they like - and as they like it how it is, it never changes!
Alternatively, if underground caverns aren’t really your vibe, there’s some lovely outdoor seating for a little al fresco drinking or dining.
Wherever you perch, plenty of excellent vintages are on hand to enjoy as you take a moment to reflect on your whistlestop tour of the British capital. Make sure you also give some attention to the range of cheeses and charcuterie boards waiting to be nibbled.
Time: 10 minutes
Fast logistics cheat‑sheet
Transport: Book Blacklane’s sightseeing service to save time on the minutes chewed up by public transport and taxis. A professional, locally knowledgeable chauffeur will take you on a private tour. While you explore, your belongings will be safely stored in the vehicle. It’s family-friendly, tailor-made, and designed to help you avoid tourist traps.
Tickets: Buy Tate Modern and St Paul’s entry tickets online to save time upon entry.
Luggage: If on a layover, useluggage storage at your nearest big station before heading out. Waterloo is the nearest to the South Bank.
Dress Code: The British weather is famously unpredictable - so bring a brolly and dress practically.
Language: Being polite and relaxed is always the way to go.
Make the most of two hours in London
Looking for the perfect partner to help you enjoy your stop in London? Blacklane’s highly professional, reliable chauffeur service is the ideal alternative to a taxi, and is always available with just a few taps of the app.
Elevate your travel, arriving at your London destination of choice in style and comfort. And when it’s time to head to the airport to depart, we’re ready to take you there too.
