Special things to do in London for your birthday

Celebrating a big birthday? Need to make it a memorable one for someone special? Or just want an excuse for a day out in a truly incredible city?

London is packed full of history and one-of-a-kind sights, so it’s no surprise that it attracts millions of visitors each year. People come from the other side of the globe to see London, as well as from every corner of the UK.

The capital is also a place for fantastic experiences. World-class music, theatre, sport, dining and shopping – it really has it all. So for birthday ideas, London simply can’t be beaten.

But maybe there’s almost too much to do and you’re wondering ‘Where should I go for my birthday in London?’ Well, let us help you out. Here we’ll take a look at some of the best, most unforgettable things to do on your birthday in London.

Dine in the sky

So, what is a unique way to celebrate your birthday? Well how about enjoying a meal, afternoon tea or cocktails while suspended 100 ft above London?

These incredible airborne dining experiences offer panoramic London views: of Canary Wharf, the Thames, the O2 and far, far beyond across the city. And the food and drinks are just as breathtaking, with expert chefs preparing and serving sumptuous dishes and tasty tipples as you soak up the scenery.

So take your friends, take your appetite and take plenty of selfies…Birthday ideas in London don’t come more unique than this.

Enjoy dinner at one of London's superb restaurants

Maybe you don’t have quite that good a head for heights. Well don’t worry, you can still get stunning views and delicious dishes from more solid ground. London has no end of restaurants for a tasty birthday treat.

You can indulge your appetite in spectacular spots overlooking the photogenic St Paul’s, historic London Bridge, trendy east London or any number of other locations. The capital offers some truly special places to dine out, including eateries in atmospheric markets, canal barges and countless themed restaurants.

And as you’d expect from London, the dining options are just as varied. Japanese, Peruvian, French, Nordic, seafood, tapas, modern European, steakhouse, Italian…it’s all on the menu.

Go to a concert

Without doubt, London has one of the best music scenes in the world.

Many world-famous artists made their names playing in the pubs and clubs of Camden, Brixton and Shoreditch. And now many star names play to much bigger crowds in atmospheric venues like theatres, concert halls and even churches. Artists and bands from all around the globe play to huge audiences in world-class arenas and venues across the capital, like Emirates Stadium, where Arctic Monkeys will be performing in summer 2023!

Whatever your tastes in music, you’ll definitely find a concert to enjoy on any night of the year. You can bop along to some catchy pop, rock out to some indie tunes or experience the inspiring sounds of a classical orchestra. If you’re looking for things to do in London for birthday celebrations, a night of music gives you plenty of different options and you’re certain to have a memorable time.

Visit one of London's iconic sites

London is consistently ranked among the top 10 most-visited cities in the world, with more than 20 million visitors each year.

Why? Well, there’s just so much to see! North, south, east and west – there are special sights in every corner of the capital.

Snap landmark attractions like Big Ben and the royal palaces. Discover the depths of the world-class museums and art galleries dotted around London. Or simply take a walk along the Thames and take in the majestic architecture all around you.

If you want to delve into London’s long history, there are some truly immersive experiences that bring episodes like Jack the Ripper, the Black Death and Guy Fawkes’ Gunpowder Plot to life. History is always just under the surface in modern London.

Take a cookery masterclass

From Asian fusion innovators to master pastry chefs…London is home to some of the world’s best-known chefs – and some of the very finest restaurants. It’s a foodie’s paradise. So it’s no wonder that London is also a magnet for people wanting to up their cooking game.

From modern British to classical French and sushi to Thai, cookery masterclasses in London cover almost any cuisine. Want to learn how to make your own pasta? Always been curious about how to craft delicate dim sum? Or would you rather wow your friends with some top-notch pastry making? London’s skilled chefs will share the secrets of the trade with you.

Whether you’re treating yourself or someone else, a birthday cookery masterclass is the perfect gift for someone who loves spending time experimenting in the kitchen. If you’re wondering what to do for a birthday in London, a cookery masterclass is a truly delicious answer.

Watch an Arsenal game in a VIP hospitality box

For any football fan, VIP matchday hospitality is always a guaranteed winner. It’s a chance to catch some top-class football in complete comfort, and also enjoy delicious food and drink. It’s more than a match: it’s an unforgettable football experience, taking in the action from the best seats in the house.

At Arsenal, all packages include high-quality food and complimentary drinks. The hospitality packages at Emirates Stadium offer some of the best facilities in world football, as well as exceptional service and the warmest of welcomes. Some packages even give you the chance to meet Arsenal legends from past and present.

There’s no beating a great Matchday Experience and it’ll always make for a truly memorable birthday – particularly if your team wins!

Now you should have a better idea of what to do for a birthday in London. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, a foodie or a footie fanatic, London definitely has something exciting in store for your big day.