2 (ish) day's in London, in July, been there before but need help finding "things" to do

If its been a few years since your last trip to London then two new things that have been added are:

1) Sky Garden - its at the top of the "walkie-talkie" building and is a gorgeous garden area with fantastic views of the city. Its actually free but you need to reserve a spot in advance because its so popular. Just Google "Sky Garden London".

2) One New Change - a new shopping "mall" building right behind St Paul's Cathedral. The shops are nice but the main reason to go is to take the glass elevator up to the 6th floor and get a fantastic view of St. Paul's dome and the surrounding area. You can get a cocktail there too while you relax.

Right close on the South Bank, the Underbelly Festival.

http://www.underbellyfestival.com/#stq=&stp=1

mekelrogers - thanks so much for the reminder about Sky Garden! I put it on my to do list - looks like you can only book two weeks out (right now anyways) so I'll be keeping an eye on the site so we can book for when we are there mid-July.

It took us four extended stays (of one-to-four weeks) in London to get around to seeing the National Gallery and it is fabulous. We are also fond of the London Transport Museum, the Imperial War Museum, and the Cabinet War Rooms. Have been to each twice.

Not free, but low cost, are the tours by London Walks, I could do two a day and never get bored.

Try a different area, like Little Venice. Or a stroll through Hyde Park.

https://www.royalacademy.org.uk/exhibition/summer-exhibition-2018

go to the seaside

https://openairtheatre.com/production/as-you-like-it

https://www.somersethouse.org.uk/whats-on/somerset-house-summer-series

https://www.ianvisits.co.uk/calendar/july/

https://www.bst-hydepark.com/

http://www.wimbledon.com/index.html

https://www.lords.org/fixtures/fixtures-and-tickets/2018/lords-ground/international/england-v-india/

go to a pub and watch England in the World Cup Final
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/schedule/group-stage

I’ve been to London over 20 times and never fail to find something new to see as London is always changing.

Review TimeOut London online for your dates. Pretty sure you’ll find something of interest. What’s on in galleries,clubs, new restaurants, etc.

If street markets are of interest Portobello Market is open on Saturday. It will be crowded so if you can wake yourself after your late night arrival try to get there by 9am.

Or go to Brick Lane and Spitafields markets. Lots of eye candy.

Check TheatreMonkey for what performance you might want to see on Sunday evening.

On Sunday take the tube to Lancaster Gate, Exit cross Bayswater Road and walk into Hyde Park by the Italian Gardens. Enjoy London with Londoner’s who will be out with families and their dogs. Stop
At the Lido Cafe for a nosh. Enjoy the serenity of the adjacent Diana Princess Of Wales Fountain which opens at 10am. From there stroll over to the Round Pond in front of Kensington Palace. Just enjoy being there and being immersed in the surroundings. If you are lucky you’ll see the wild green parrots that live in adjacent trees and get to watch this group http://www.mysa.org.uk.

You could simply walk along the Thames path as well.

And though not free ( but not pricey either ) London Walks has many options for you to choose from is you so desire. www.walks.com

I"m sure you've heard of TANSTAAFL: There ain't no such thing as a free lunch. There is no such thing as a free walking tour. Those that advertise themselves that way are going to strongly encourage a tip and it is really bad form not to. So, I'd just stick with London Walks, which are excellent and you'll get a professional guide, not some student reading a script. They're only ten pounds for 2 hours of entertainment. www. walks.com

Like you, I've been to London a few times and have seen the usual tourist attractions. But, I keep returning to the National Gallery, British Museum, and V&A, it would take a lifetime to see all their exhibits.

A few attractions that I've enjoyed that aren't on the usual tourist agenda are Banqueting House, the Jewel Tower, and Tate Britain. It was only a few pounds for Banqueting House and the Jewel Tower, Tate Britain is free.

If I had but a couple of days or so to spend in London, I personally would visit the Museum of London and the V&A, again. Been to both, thoroughly enjoyed both. Would gladly do it again. Both are free, (with donations always appreciated,) and both have a decent place to eat, especially the V&A. Spend extra time in the tapestry room at the V&A. Air conditioned, a place to sit, and wondrous things pop out at you in the tapestries if you look long enough.

+1 to London Walks. I've taken several of them over the years and have never been disappointed. http://www.walks.com/

I don't follow London theatre closely, but a play has recently opened that I wish I could see: Pressure. It's been well reviewed.. It runs at the Ambassadors Theatre through September 1.

Since you will be there in London on Bastille Day, you may want to read this article, full of suggestions and places to find free cake :)

https://www.standard.co.uk/go/london/restaurants/where-to-celebrate-bastille-day-in-london-a3586706.html

Thanks everyone for your suggestions.
I'm digging deep into them and trying to pull out all the great nuggets of info.

And about the free cake --- do I need to say anymore ----- FREE cake.

The Globe theater - you are within fairly close walking distance if you are staying near the London Eye.