Top Things to do in London
What to do and see in London, Canada: The Best Hidden Gems Things to do
You’ll see double-decker buses and even the River Thames, but while London, Ontario, has clearly been inspired by its British namesake, this is a distinctly Canadian destination. Attractions like Fanshawe Pioneer Village, Banting House and Eldon House will captivate history buffs. Or indulge your, shall we say, slightly less cerebral side with a tour of the Labatt Brewery.
Restaurants in London
1. BATL - The Backyard Axe Throwing League
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 504 reviews
At BATL, the Backyard Axe Throwing League, we believe throwing a killer party should be fun, simple, and full of bullseyes. Whether it’s a stag, bachelorette, team-building, birthday, or fundraising event, it deserves to be memorable. No matter what BATL location you visit across North America, you can expect delicious food and drinks, axe throwing lanes, expert coaching, and a fun tournament. Boredom sold separately.
Reviewed By DonBhoy
What a great night we had. Elliot our coach was awesome, informative, great coaching and great fun. Our whole party all had the best time, and would love to do it again
2. Eldon House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 134 reviews
Built in 1834, the oldest surviving home in London contains heirlooms and furnishings that belonged to the original owners, Captain John and Amelia Harris. ***During COVID-19 the interior of Eldon House will be open by appointment only during the listed hours. Our summer tea program is unavailable in 2020.
Reviewed By hrhmed - Toronto, Canada
we visited this house and what a surprise! I love history and this house delivers. furnitures, decor, kitchen, wallpaper, bedroom and the guides are very informative that even my son who hates sightseeing got interested with the house history and ask a lot of questions.... they have construction but you can still go inside the house. They also have high tea with staff dressed in old servants uniform... Highly recommend to visit and admission is donation to hep with the upkeep of this house.
3. Banting House National Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 66 reviews
Reviewed By explorer044 - Montreal, Canada
Dr. Banting's achievement, the discovery of insulin, is highlighted in this home/museum The guide that accompanied us, a Masters history student, was exceptionally well informed and made the history of the development of insulin and Dr. Banting's life history come alive This historical landmark should be better promoted
4. Fanshawe Pioneer Village
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 217 reviews
Reviewed By sassenachx
I have loved visiting Pioneer Village since I was a child. It's a relaxing, fun day spent outside. You can wander the buildings as you wish and there are sometimes events and extra activities, as well as seasonal events. The staff is great and if you are interested, you can chat with them and learn so many things about history. It's a very good place to go to generate discussions with kids about historical life and show them examples in an accessible way. There are plenty of opportunities for photos of the houses, wildlife (mostly birds) and nature, farm animals, or taking portraits. I have taken my son since he was a toddler and he always enjoys it too. He is 6 and the last time we went, he didn't want to leave even after a few hours! It was not crowded at all (just steady) and very low key, which was great for a hot summer afternoon. The little cafe has just the right number of choices (soups, sandwiches, ice cream, etc.) and the food is always good. The gift shop has so many lovely and fun items in a range of prices that are very fair. It feels like being outside of the city even though it's not far at all. You can also go nearby to hiking trails, the campground, etc. I think almost anyone could have a great time here whether they are interested in history or not!
5. Aeolian Hall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 124 reviews
Reviewed By S8565CTlindan - Ontario's Highlands, Canada
We saw two events here, the Au Pears and Dan Needles.both wonderful with terrific talent and acoustics.
6. Westminster Ponds
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 68 reviews
Reviewed By packingandunpacking - London, Canada
Living in London and this year being cautious about where we go, it was our goal to explore some of the hiking trails in the city. We parked at the London Tourism Welcome Centre, 696 Wellington Road and walked in. After taking a pic of the map, we decided on the loop that circles Spettigue Pond. 4km in 1 hour, 10 minutes, at a strolling pace. I was happy that I wore running shoes rather than sandals. Lots of tree roots to step over in many areas. Very nice dock overlooking Spettigue to see the size of the pond and take some nice pics. Some small uphill and down. I wouldn't recommend walking here soon after a rainfall. Dirt paths definitely would be slippery.
7. The Royal Canadian Regiment Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 77 reviews
Reviewed By Adriaanv49
A long time ago I visited the RCR museum only to find some uniforms and medals. What a pleasant surprise to see how much displays have improved. I think every class in London and area should visit this museum to get an idea of what the veterans have done for us.
8. Jet Aircraft Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 34 reviews
A small museum with a collection of military training jets undergoing restoration to flying status. "Thrill of a Lifetime" jet rides available by appointment. Flight Simulator Room for "Children of ages 10 and up". Admission is by donation. Donations are gratefully received to help us "Keep Them Flying". Gift Shop purchases also assist us in our mission. Venue available for receptions, birthday parties, etc.
Reviewed By trvlwrldgrl - London, Canada
I was in awe at how interesting this museum is. I brought my four-year old son one week day morning because he's interested in airplanes. My son absolutely LOVED it! He investigated every piece of equipment, spare part, uniform, model, picture, etc. that there was in the place. We had a wonderful volunteer tour guide named Jim who made the experience truly memorable. I personally had little to no interest in jet aircraft before visiting the museum, but Jim made it so fascinating! He knows so much history from the Cold War and WWII, along with so much knowledge about jet aircraft. It was hard to tell who was more excited: my son or Jim! We spent just over two hours here, which seemed a lot longer than the other visitors who seemed to come in and walk around and then leave within 15 minutes. My son was so excited to sit in the various jets that he insisted on sitting in each one twice. We also got lucky to see a test fighter jet taxi back to its hangar, which was quite the experience. Let's just say it was very hot + loud! I've been spreading the word to my children's grandparents about this place, so I'm sure we'll be back again for more visits in the future!
9. Sifton Bog
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 46 reviews
Reviewed By lunalove88 - London, Canada
Yes, I am bored with sitting at home ... great place to walk around and get out into nature and walk the dog.
10. Komoka Provincial Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 88 reviews
Reviewed By taramO9132RE
The views at Komoka Provincial park are amazing. You get a variety of scenery and some great views of wildlife. While hiking, I saw two beautiful deer about 10 feet from me. The weekends can get kind of busy, but there is plenty of trail to be socially distanced. Still, if you are local, I recommend weeknights. I really appreciated that they had staff on hand all day on the weekend to clean the washroom facilities. All in all, I recommend.
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