Things Not To Do In London England – A Savvy Traveler’S Guide

ByEric James Updated on

Planning a trip to London is thrilling. You’re picturing iconic red buses, historic landmarks, and cozy pubs. But you also know that big-city travel comes with its own set of challenges. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, make a few wrong turns, and end up wasting precious time and money on avoidable mistakes.

We promise this guide will help you sidestep those common tourist traps. Think of us as your experienced travel companion, giving you the inside scoop so you can navigate the city with the confidence of a local. This isn’t just a list of attractions; it’s a practical manual on things not to do in London England to ensure your adventure is smooth, authentic, and unforgettable for all the right reasons.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from mastering the Tube and understanding pub etiquette to sightseeing smarter and traveling more sustainably. Let’s dive in and make your London trip a masterclass in savvy exploration.

Navigating the Tube: Common Mistakes to Avoid on Public Transport

London’s public transport system, especially the Underground (the “Tube”), is a marvel of engineering. But for newcomers, it has a strict, unspoken code of conduct. Following these tips will help you blend in and travel efficiently.

Don’t Stand on the Left of the Escalator

This is the golden rule of the Tube. The right side of the escalator is for standing, and the left side is for walking. Blocking the left side is a surefire way to frustrate hurried commuters.

Always keep to the right to let people pass. It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference in keeping the flow of traffic moving, especially during rush hour.

Don’t Use Cash on Buses

London buses are completely cashless. You cannot pay the driver with coins or notes. Trying to do so will only hold up the queue and lead to an awkward refusal.

Instead, use a contactless card, a mobile payment app (like Apple Pay or Google Pay), or an Oyster card. Just tap your card on the yellow reader as you board. It’s faster, simpler, and the only way to pay.

Don’t Block the Train Doors

When your train arrives, stand to the side of the doors. Don’t crowd the entrance. The unwritten rule is to let passengers off the train before you try to get on. This simple courtesy prevents a chaotic logjam and makes the process smoother for everyone.

Once inside, move down the carriage to make room for others. Don’t hover by the doors unless it’s your next stop.

Don’t Forget to “Tap Out”

When you use a contactless or Oyster card on the Tube, you must “tap in” at the start of your journey and “tap out” at the end. If you forget to tap out, the system will charge you the maximum possible fare for an incomplete journey, which can be quite expensive.

This rule doesn’t apply to buses—you only need to tap when you get on. But for all other rail services, remember: tap in, tap out.

Dining & Pub Etiquette: How to Eat and Drink Like a Local

London’s food scene is diverse and exciting, but its customs can be confusing. From ordering in a pub to understanding the bill, knowing the local etiquette is key. This is a crucial part of our Things Not To Do In London England guide.

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Don’t Expect Table Service in Most Pubs

Unlike many restaurants, traditional British pubs operate on a self-service basis. Don’t sit at a table waiting for a server to take your order—it won’t happen. Find a table, note the table number if there is one, and then go to the bar to order your food and drinks.

You’ll pay at the bar, and they will either give you your drinks right away or bring your food out to your table when it’s ready.

Don’t Ever Jump the Queue

Queuing (lining up) is a cornerstone of British culture. Whether you’re waiting for a bus, a coffee, or to order at the bar, you must wait your turn. “Jumping the queue” is considered extremely rude.

Pay attention to where the line starts and ends. If you’re unsure, a polite “Excuse me, is this the queue?” will always be well-received.

Don’t Confuse Service Charge with Tipping

When you get your bill at a restaurant, look for a “discretionary service charge,” usually around 12.5%. This is essentially a pre-calculated tip. If it’s on the bill, you are not expected to leave an additional cash tip.

If there is no service charge, a tip of 10-15% for good service is standard. Tipping is not customary in pubs when you only order drinks at the bar.

Sightseeing Smarts: Things Not To Do In London England for Efficient Exploring

With so much to see, it’s easy to get caught in tourist traps or feel rushed. A little planning goes a long way. Knowing these Things Not To Do In London England tips will help you explore more thoughtfully.

Don’t Try to Do Everything in One Day

London is enormous. Trying to see Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the British Museum all in one day is a recipe for exhaustion. You’ll spend more time traveling between sites than actually enjoying them.

Instead, group your activities by neighborhood. Spend one day exploring the South Bank (London Eye, Tate Modern), another in Westminster (Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey), and so on. This minimizes travel time and maximizes enjoyment.

Don’t Pay for Views You Can Get for Free

While the view from The Shard is spectacular, it comes with a hefty price tag. For an equally stunning—and free—panoramic view of the city, book a time slot at the Sky Garden.

Other great free viewpoints include Primrose Hill and the terrace at the Tate Modern. Save your money for experiences you can’t get elsewhere.

Don’t Overlook the Free Museums

One of the best things about London is that many of its world-class museums and galleries offer free general admission. This includes the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern.

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You can spend days exploring these incredible institutions without spending a penny on entry. Special exhibitions may have a fee, but the permanent collections are free for all.

Money & Shopping: Financial Fouls to Sidestep

A few smart financial decisions can save you a surprising amount of money during your trip. Avoid these common mistakes to keep your budget in check.

Don’t Exchange Currency at the Airport

Airport currency exchange kiosks and “bureau de change” offices in tourist areas offer some of the worst exchange rates you’ll find. You’ll lose a significant chunk of your money before you even start spending.

For the best rates, use your debit card to withdraw pounds (GBP) from an ATM affiliated with a major bank (like Barclays, HSBC, or Lloyds). Alternatively, use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees for your purchases.

Don’t Get Caught by Dynamic Currency Conversion

When paying with a card, you might be asked if you want to pay in your home currency or in local currency (GBP). Always choose to pay in GBP. If you choose your home currency, the merchant’s bank will perform the conversion at a non-competitive rate, costing you more. This is one of the most important common problems with Things Not To Do In London England to be aware of.

Safety & Awareness: Best Practices for a Secure Trip

London is generally a very safe city, but like any major metropolitan area, it’s wise to stay aware and take basic precautions. Following these safety best practices will ensure a worry-free visit.

Don’t Be Careless with Your Belongings

Pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded tourist spots, on public transport, and in busy markets. Keep your valuables secure. Don’t leave your phone on a cafe table, and don’t hang your bag on the back of your chair.

Use a bag that zips securely, like a trusty Patagonia Black Hole pack or a crossbody bag, and keep it in front of you in dense crowds. Be especially vigilant at major Tube stations like King’s Cross and Piccadilly Circus.

Don’t Engage with Street Scams

Be wary of common street scams. These can include people trying to put a “free” bracelet on your wrist and then demanding payment, or aggressive petition-signers who use distraction to pick your pockets. A firm “no, thank you” while continuing to walk is the best response.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Travel: A Conscious Traveler’s Guide

As adventurers who love the outdoors, traveling responsibly is part of our ethos. You can easily apply sustainable practices to your city exploration, and this section offers an eco-friendly Things Not To Do In London England perspective.

Don’t Buy Single-Use Plastic Water Bottles

The tap water in London is perfectly safe to drink and of high quality. There is no need to buy bottled water. Bring a reusable water bottle, like a Nalgene or Klean Kanteen, and refill it at your accommodation or at the many public water fountains available through the Refill London scheme.

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Don’t Rely on Taxis for Short Trips

London is a wonderfully walkable city, and its public transport system is incredibly efficient. For short distances, walking is the best way to discover hidden gems and reduce your carbon footprint. For longer journeys, the Tube or a double-decker bus is a much more sustainable option than a taxi or ride-share.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things Not To Do In London England

Is it rude to make eye contact on the Tube?

Generally, Londoners tend to avoid direct, prolonged eye contact with strangers on public transport. It’s not considered rude, but most people keep to themselves, reading a book or listening to music. A brief, accidental glance is fine, but staring is not the norm.

Do I really need cash in London?

For the most part, no. London is a very card-friendly city. Contactless payments are accepted almost everywhere, from coffee shops to the Tube. It’s wise to have a small amount of cash (£20-£30) for the rare cash-only spot or for leaving a tip if you prefer, but you can manage most of your trip without it.

What is the biggest mistake tourists make in London?

One of the biggest mistakes is underestimating the size of the city and trying to pack too much into one day. This leads to exhaustion and a superficial experience. The best approach is to slow down, explore neighborhoods thoroughly, and accept that you can’t see everything in one trip.

Now that you know the key things not to do in London, you’re ready to explore with confidence. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll save time, money, and stress, allowing you to have a more authentic and enjoyable adventure. Embrace the city’s energy, wander its historic streets, and enjoy your trip the smart way.

Travel safe, and make some incredible memories!

Eric James
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