Guide to New Attractions in London, UK

Wondering what to see in London? Like all cities, London is constantly reinventing itself with entire areas given a new lease of life. In recent history, Docklands was the first, the second was the Greenwich Peninsula and now Kings Cross gets a makeover. Not only do these new spaces offer restaurants and retail, they also get their own tourist attractions. Here’s a look at some of them.

With the new Elizabeth Line offering greater connectivity, Docklands makes a good place to stay. The Good Hotel is unlike any traditional hotel — it’s a repurposed Dutch floating platform, moored elegantly on the waters of the Royal Docks. The hotel is just a short walk from the Royal Victoria DLR station, offering easy access to Canary Wharf, the O2 Arena, and central London.

IFS Cloud Cable Car

Launched in 2012 ahead of the London Olympics, the IFS Cloud Cable Car links the Royal Docks station at ExCel with the Greenwich Peninsula station and the O2. It climbs to a height of 90 meters (295 feet), and the ride lasts around ten minutes. On a clear day, you can spot iconic landmarks such as Canary Wharf, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, and even the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

iFLY O2 London

Located in the heart of the O2, iFLY London offers indoor skydiving that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned flyers. It uses a vertical wind tunnel to simulate the sensation of free-fall. With wind speeds reaching up to 120 mph, participants can experience the thrill of flight in a safe and controlled environment. You’re provided with a flight suit, helmet, and goggles and each flight lasts around a minute.

Lightroom London

King’s Cross, once an industrial hub, has undergone a dramatic transformation into a vibrant cultural and commercial district. A brand new attraction is Lightroom, a transformative digital art space where state-of-the-art projection and sound systems create an immersive experience. VOGUE: Inventing the Runway explores the history of the fashion runway show, from the intimate couture salons of the early 20th century to the unforgettable pop-culture events of the present.

The Postal Museum

Near Kings Cross, tucked away in Clerkenwell, the Postal Museum celebrates the history of the British postal system. You also get the chance to ride the Mail Rail, a miniature underground railway that once transported letters and parcels beneath the streets. It started in 1927 and delivered mail across the city until 2003. As the tiny carriages wind their way underground, audio-visual displays bring this subterranean system to life

The Friends Experience

If you’re a fan of the iconic sitcom Friends, The Friends Experience, offers a chance to step into the lives of Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by the iconic Central Perk coffeehouse, a recreated set, complete with the orange sofa. You’ll also find recreations of Monica and Rachel’s vibrant apartment plus Joey and Chandler’s bachelor pad—complete with the football. Pose on the famous couch and strike a playful pose in Joey and Chandler’s apartment. The attraction also includes some of the famous outfits worn by the cast.

The Lion King West End

Since its West End debut in 1999, Disney’s The Lion King has captured the hearts of millions. Directed by the Julie Taymor, the show transforms the animated classic into a stunning live-action experience. It’s been seen by almost 20 million theatregoers, over 10,000 performances. Children and adults alike are mesmerized by the dazzling visuals and stunning puppetry. The elaborate staging, coupled with Elton John and Tim Rice’s iconic music, creates an emotional and visual feast that lingers long after the curtain falls. If you’re going to see one musical in London, then make it this one.

Factfile

INFO: www.visitlondon.com has tourist information.

It’s best to book tickets through these sites:

www.visitlondon.com

www.officiallondontheatre.com/

www.disneytickets.co.uk

STAY: The Good Hotel makes a comfortable base with water views near ExCel.

ATTRACTIONS: iFLY is in the O2 complex.

Lightroom is in Kings Cross.

The Postal Museum is in Clerkenwell

The Friends Experience is in ExCel.

The Lion King is at the Lyceum Theatre in Covent Garden.

Guide to New Attractions in London, UK

A selection of some newly opened tourist attractions in London and one old favourite.