Top Ten Things to do in London

London is a lively city, full of things to do, whatever your age or budget. Everybody knows the sites already – Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament – but what if you want to get more of a feel for the city's culture? Here are some top tips:

Pop into the surreal and gorgeous Frued for a cocktail. Service is prompt and friendly and some have raved that this place serves the best cocktails on this side of the pond! Located in trendy Shaftesbury Avenue, this is a don't-miss place.

Don't be gun-shy! Pop into the super-trendy gastro pub, The Gun, because honestly, what trip to London is complete without dining at a traditional British pub? Beloved for its real log fires in Winter and riverside terrace in Summer, the Gun offers generous portions, pub grub, gastro cuisine and friendly service. And with more than two dozen wine choices by the glass, you're spoiled for choice.

Not The End of the world...but if you don't stop in at super-trendy club, The End, you may regret it. Since its opening in 1995 the club has progressed to become one of the most popular in London, promoting its own music label and hosting world-famous Djs. On Saturday nights, the club is packed.

A bit of retail therapy never hurt anyone! And no trip to London is complete without heading down Oxford Street. One of the busiest streets in London, this street is strewn with bars, restauarants, boutiques and clothes stores, along with record shops and department stores. In other words: what more could you want?

The London Eye can give you a relaxing break and a bird's eye view over the city – all in just 30 minutes! On a clear day, you can see for miles and the view is breathtaking.

Did you know that if the ravens leave the tower of London, the Crown will be lost? Well, perhaps not, but there's no sense in taking chances! While you're peering back in time, see if you can spot the Ravenmaster on his rounds and sneak a peek at the fabulous crown jewels. A great spot for history buffs and fashionistas alike!

The Tate Modern is worth a look, even if you're not big on art. For starters, pick your way over the Millennium Bridge and stare up at the imposing building in front of you. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station on the banks of the River Thames, the gallery displays major works by Matisse and Picasso as well as contemporary work, exhibitions and installations.

Take a trip to Camden Market, for something totally different. A far cry from the busy, yet civilised worlds of Oxford Street or Covent Garden, Camden Market is chock-a-block with goths, punks, fashionistas and roleplayers – not to mention curious tourists. A friendly place, don't be discouraged by the amount of piercings and tattoos on view, but take a chance to soak up some alternative culture, maybe dabble in non-mainstream fashion and pick up a few goodies before you head back to normality.

The Science Museum – not just for nerds! In all seriousness, this museum is one of a kind. See, feel and interactive with the major scientific advances of the last 300 years in the 40 galleries and 2000 exhibits. If all that gets a bit too much, why not travel into the future in the Wellcome Wing, take a trip to the IMAX cinema step or the virtual reality simulator? Best of all, entrance is free!

Finally, sit down for a sandwich in Trafalgar Square. Previously famed for its pigeon population as well as its iconic architecture, the pigeons have now moved on, so you can eat in peace. Why not take a seat on a lion and watch the world go by, or simply marvel at Nelson's Column? From here, it's just a few steps to the National Gallery, if the weather takes a turn for the worst.