12 Mistakes Tourists Make in London (and How to Avoid Them)
London is one of the most visited cities in the world—and for good reason. With its mix of royal palaces, buzzing markets, historic pubs, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks, there’s always something to see. But with so much going on, it’s also easy to trip up (sometimes literally) and make a few classic tourist mistakes.
The good news? Most of these slip-ups are totally avoidable once you know what to look out for. So before you hop on the Tube or grab your Oyster card, let’s go through the most common mistakes people make when visiting London—and how to dodge them like a local.
1. Standing on the Left Side of the Escalator
This is London rule number one. On the Tube escalators, you always stand on the right. The left side is for people in a rush, and blocking it will earn you more glares than you thought possible in a city famous for politeness.
Fix it: Remember: right to stand, left to walk.
2. Only Visiting the Big Five Landmarks
Yes, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Big Ben, and St Paul’s Cathedral are impressive. But if you only stick to those, you’ll miss the charm of local London.
Fix it: Balance the icons with hidden gems. Try Leadenhall Market, Little Venice, or Hampstead Heath for a quieter but equally magical experience.
3. Paying Full Price for Transport
Tapping a paper ticket through the Tube barriers is basically announcing: “I’m a tourist!” Paper fares are much more expensive than using contactless or an Oyster card.
Fix it: Use contactless or Oyster—it automatically calculates the cheapest daily or weekly fare cap.
4. Forgetting the Tube Doesn’t Run All Night
London isn’t New York. Most Tube lines close around midnight, with only a few running Night Tube services on Fridays and Saturdays. If you’re out late, you’ll either need to grab a night bus or pay for a cab.
Fix it: Always check last train times on TfL before heading out—or download Citymapper, which will save your night (and your wallet).
5. Assuming the Changing of the Guard Happens Every Day
Lots of visitors head to Buckingham Palace expecting the Changing of the Guard, only to find… nothing. The ceremony usually takes place four days a week (and even less in winter).
Fix it: Check the official schedule before you go. Or better yet, watch the smaller ceremony at Horse Guards Parade it’s less crowded.
6. Taking Black Cabs for Every Journey
They’re iconic, yes, but also expensive. A 15-minute journey that costs £3.50 on the Tube can easily cost £25 in a cab.
Fix it: Mix it up. Use public transport for most journeys, and save black cabs for special occasions.
7. Thinking Museums Are Expensive
London has some of the best free museums in the world the British Museum, the National Gallery, Tate Modern, and the Natural History Museum, just to name a few. Many tourists skip them, assuming they cost a fortune.
Fix it: Make the most of the free culture. Donate if you can, but don’t feel pressured—it’s not required.
8. Not Booking Popular Attractions in Advance
London attractions sell out fast. The Sky Garden, Warner Bros. Studio Tour, and West End shows often book up weeks (sometimes months) ahead.
Fix it: Book online in advance, and don’t leave it to chance. For free but limited spots like Sky Garden, book as soon as slots are released.
9. Forgetting How Big London Is
Visitors often underestimate London’s size. A “quick walk” from Tower Bridge to Notting Hill? That’s nearly an hour on the Tube.
Fix it: Plan by neighborhoods. Spend a day exploring one area like South Bank, Shoreditch, or Greenwich—instead of zig-zagging across the city.
10. Thinking Pubs Are Just for Drinking
Pubs aren’t just about pints—they’re part of the city’s culture. Many serve excellent (and affordable) food, and some have histories stretching back hundreds of years.
Fix it: Try a Sunday roast in a pub, or duck into a historic spot like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese. It’s cheaper and more authentic than eating in tourist-heavy chains.
11. Ignoring the Weather
London weather is famously unpredictable. Sunshine can turn into downpour in ten minutes flat. Tourists in shorts and flip-flops often regret it.
Fix it: Always carry a small umbrella or a waterproof. Layers are your best friend here.
12. Skipping Local Markets
Many tourists head straight to Camden or Borough Market, which are great but also packed and pricier than alternatives.
Fix it: Explore others like Maltby Street Market, Broadway Market, or Columbia Road Flower Market. You’ll find fewer crowds and more local flavor.
Final Thoughts
London is unforgettable but it’s even better when you avoid the common mistakes that trip up so many first-time visitors. From using the Tube smartly to exploring beyond the postcard landmarks, a little insider knowledge goes a long way.
So, pack smart, plan wisely, and remember: the magic of London isn’t just in its big attractions it’s in the everyday details that locals take for granted.
Want more tips to explore London like a local? Make sure you Follow @london.yaar on Instagram for hidden gems, travel advice, and the city’s best-kept secrets.