london covid safe

Best things to do in London if you're worried about COVID-19

The ultimate guide for socially distanced fun

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Read our full commerce guidelines here.

Updated: April 28, 2021

As the UK finally emerges out of lockdown 3.0 with UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announcing the UK's roadmap out of restrictions, you may be wondering what to do for fun after spending months in isolation.

RELATED: 23 best outdoor bars and restaurants to visit in London

With pubs and restaurants reopening indoors from 17 May, table bookings in London are likely to fill up rapidly. So – how else can you safely spend your free time if a meal out isn't your thing?

We take a look at some of the best activities and attractions in London that will be opening up for visitors as soon as it's safe to do so. If you're stumped for weekend plans, read on to start filling up your social schedule.

Safe things to do in London as lockdown eases

Open-air theatre

When the weather turns warm again, enjoy a trip to an open-air theatre! Tickets are available to book for Romeo & Juliet from 26 June, with Carousel and Dragons and Mythical Beasts also showing throughout the summer. 

How safe is it?

The website states that temperature checks and face coverings are mandatory, while they have cancelled performances such as 101 Dalmations to ensure they are abiding by social distancing regulations.

To book, visit openairtheatre.com

Walking tours

Want to stay outside? No problem. London has plenty of walking tours which give you the opportunity to get out of the house and explore, whether you're a Harry Potter fan or love Doctor Who.

How safe is it?

In line with government recommendations, those conducting walking tours will likely change the number of people allowed in each group, while masks and social distancing will remain crucial. 

To book, visit virginexperiencedays.co.uk

MORE: 7 incredible UK vineyards every wine lover should staycation at this spring

See some art at the Tate Modern

Get your art fix at the Tate Modern, which has an impressive selection of international modern and contemporary art, plus special exhibitions. Better still, entry is free.

How safe is it?

All visitors must book a timed ticket online before visiting. On the day, you will wear a mask and follow one-way routes around the gallery which provides access to toilets and the shop.

To book, visit tate.org.uk

RELATED: 5 best hikes in the UK to inspire your post-lockdown staycation

Go to a spa

Relax and unwind at one of London's city spas. Everyone needs a little bit of pampering, especially following the stress of the coronavirus lockdowns!

How safe is it?

Some treatments may not be available, so it's important to check with the venue before you travel.

To book, visit virginexperiencedays.co.uk

RELATED: 20 of the best luxury spa breaks in the UK

Grab a bite to eat

As of 18 May, guests can dine out at Provisioners - an all-day restaurant located at The Dixon hotel in Tower Bridge. It has also recently announced that customers who spend £150 on its set menu between 1-14 March will be upgraded to a nights stay at The Dixon with breakfast. "To book this offer, just email reception@thedixon.co.uk and quote 'MARCH JOY' in the subject line," it stated.

How safe is it?

The Dixon has updated and implemented new health and safety procedures since reopening. Guests will be able to order from the Provisioners menu online using their phones, and can also maintain a social distance from others using the hotel's signage. 

For more information visit provisioners.co.uk

READ: 24 UK hotels you need to visit for a post-lockdown weekend getaway

Stroll around a market

From Borough and Camden to Portobello Road and Greenwich, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to markets in London. Browse antiques, flowers, jewellery and more at locations across the city. 

How safe is it?

Many London markets have introduced additional safety measures and changed their opening times.

To book, visit boroughmarket.org.uk

Explore a museum

Love wandering around a museum? Visit your favourite places like the British Museum, which always has special exhibitions and displays.

How safe is it?

With compulsory face masks, a one-way route, hand sanitiser stations and extra cleaning measures, the museum has introduced lots of new measures to ensure safety. And you can always try the virtual tours and podcasts from home.

To book, visit britishmuseum.org  

READ: Face masks for small faces: where to buy petite XS face coverings online

Enjoy a picnic on Primrose Hill

Enjoy a picnic on Primrose Hill and get the very best views of the city. Stay until sunset for some glorious alfresco views or brave the early morning to get there as the sun rises over the hill.

How safe is it?

Your picnic – your rules. Set your own social distancing agenda and stick to your personal picnic blanket if your wary of busy spaces. Plus, you get the added benefit of enjoying your own delicious food without having to worry about queues or long wait times.

4 Person Picnic Backpack, was £55.99, now £44.19, Amazon

SHOP NOW

Have a family day out at London Zoo

Overseas travel and exotic holidays may be off the cards for now, but why not visit London Zoo and see some of the most beautiful animals from around the world? This family fun day is not one to miss – with most London Zoos fully open under safe social distancing guidelines.

How safe is it?

London Zoo is currently restricting the number of visitors to the zoos each day, with clear space markers, take-away food outlets, one way systems and mandatory face masks for all indoor areas.  

To book, visit www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo

HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.

Sign up to HELLO Daily! for the best royal, celebrity and lifestyle coverage

Email Address

By entering your details, you are agreeing to HELLO! Magazine User Data Protection Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more information, please click here.

More Travel

See more