Ride on the top deck of a London bus - still a great way to see the capital. The Big Bus Company operates excellent tours, or take the regular service (No 11) from Chelsea to Bank.

Cruise on the Thames - London's most under-utilised highway is the perfect route to Greenwich, and the journey is accompanied by a lively commentary.

Relax in the park when the traffic noise grates and your feet ache; escape to Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, St James's Park or Regent's Park.

Join a walking tour and let a professional guide take you by the hand and lead you through the streets of London. It is the best and most enjoyable way to learn about the capital - and cheap too. Pick up a flyer from a tourist information office or see Time Out for details.

Take afternoon tea - the quintessential British afternoon pastime.

Attend a church concert - even the least God-fearing of folk will find this an uplifting experience.

Enjoy the view from Waterloo Bridge to see St Paul's and the London skyline at their very best.

Visit a traditional London pub, although it's hard to tell the phoneys from the real thing these days.

Visit a street market - two of the best are Brick Lane and Portobello Road, held on Sundays. All London life is there!

Visit the Inns of Court - not a 'sight' as such, but an astonishing oasis in the heart of the city and a glimpse of 'olde London' that few locals (let alone visitors) ever see.