14 Tourist Mistakes to Avoid in London

London is one of the world’s most visited cities—a capital of history, culture, and endless experiences. But even the savviest travellers make the same mistakes that can waste time, drain money, or leave them frustrated.

Whether you’re here for a long weekend or an extended stay, avoiding these classic pitfalls will help you enjoy London to the fullest. And for landlords hosting guests through short-term lettings or Airbnb, these same insights highlight why smart property management is key to keeping visitors happy—something we at 20Property Management specialise in.

1. Underestimating London’s Size

On the map, Big Ben looks close to Tower Bridge. In reality, that walk can take nearly an hour. London is sprawling, and trying to do the British Museum, Camden, and the Tower of London in one day will leave you exhausted.

👉 Smart tip: Plan your itinerary by neighbourhoods—Westminster one day, South Bank another. You’ll see more and stress less.

2. Ignoring the Tube

Walking is a joy in London, but don’t underestimate distances. Taxis cost a fortune, and traffic crawls. The Underground is fast, efficient, and capped at a daily fare.

👉 Download Google Maps or Citymapper to navigate with ease. Within a day, you’ll feel like a Londoner.

3. Still Buying Paper Tickets

Paper tickets cost more and waste time. Instead, use your contactless bank card or phone to tap in and out—it’s cheaper and effortless.

Families: Children under 11 travel free. Teens get discounts.

4. Breaking Tube Etiquette

Londoners won’t call you out, but they’ll silently judge.

• Stand on the right of escalators.

• Let passengers off before boarding.

• Avoid loud chats or eye contact on crowded trains.

• Keep backpacks low or in front of you.

These little details make travel smoother—and safer from pickpockets.

5. Not Booking Attractions Early

Harry Potter Studios, West End shows, the London Eye—many book out weeks (or months) in advance. Showing up on the day almost guarantees disappointment.

👉 Book key experiences before you travel to save time and avoid endless queues.

6. Doing the Changing of the Guard Wrong

Arriving at Buckingham Palace on the wrong day—or turning up late—means you’ll miss this world-famous tradition.

It happens at 11:00 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, but arrive at least an hour early for a good view.

7. Only Sticking to Famous Landmarks

Yes, see Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. But don’t miss London’s soul:

• Notting Hill: Colourful streets and Portobello Market.

• Shoreditch: Street art, vintage shops, and Brick Lane bagels.

• Camden: Alternative markets and global food by the canal.

The magic is often in the side streets.

8. Skipping Free Museums

London’s museums are legendary—and many are free. Highlights include:

• British Museum: Rosetta Stone, mummies, and world treasures.

• Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs and Hope the blue whale.

• Science Museum: Rockets, cars, and hands-on fun.

Perfect for rainy days—or any day.

9. Missing Out on Free Experiences

London’s best doesn’t always come with a price tag:

• Sky Garden: Panoramic city views (book ahead).

• Hyde Park: Lakeside strolls and swans.

• South Bank Walk: Landmarks, buskers, and book markets.

• Covent Garden: Street performers and vibrant markets.

These make London unforgettable without draining your wallet.

10. Wasting Time at Tourist Traps

Leicester Square and Oxford Street look iconic but are crowded, commercial, and overpriced. Souvenir shops and vape stores aren’t the London you came for.

Instead, explore neighbourhoods with character—or save your shopping for boutiques and markets.

11. Paying Roaming Charges

Don’t land in London and switch on data roaming—it can cost a fortune. Get an eSIM before you arrive, and you’ll have instant access to maps, translations, and bookings without the shock bill later.

12. Only Eating “British Food”

Of course, enjoy fish & chips and a Sunday roast. But London’s food scene is global:

• Dishoom: Bombay-inspired breakfasts.

• Bun House: Fresh bao buns in Chinatown.

• Maison Bab: Gourmet kebabs in Soho.

In London, you can eat your way around the world in a single weekend.

13. Looking the Wrong Way When Crossing

Traffic drives on the left. Even with “Look Right” painted on the streets, jet-lagged tourists often forget. Double-check before stepping off the curb—London buses won’t wait.

14. Forgetting About Pickpockets

London is generally safe, but petty theft is common in tourist areas. Protect yourself:

• Keep bags in front of you on the Tube.

• Don’t wave phones near roads (thieves on scooters can snatch them).

• Avoid wallets in back pockets.

A little awareness goes a long way.

Final Thoughts: Experience London Smarter

Visiting London is unforgettable—but only if you sidestep these common mistakes. With planning, awareness, and curiosity, you’ll enjoy the city beyond the postcard version.

And for landlords hosting those travellers, the same principle applies. Guests expect seamless stays, and delivering that requires more than just a listing.

At 20Property Management, we specialise in:

• Airbnb Management that boosts rental income.

• HMO Property Management to keep tenants satisfied.

• Full-service support covering guest communication, maintenance, and 24/7 response.

• Staging and compliance expertise so properties stand out and stay stress-free.

We take the hassle out of hosting so you can enjoy hands-off, profitable letting—while your guests enjoy their London adventure.

👉 Landlords in London—ready to maximise your rental income? 

Visit 20Property Management to see how we can help.