13 Best Things to Do in St John’s Wood (2026) — from a Londoner
Looking for the best things to do in St John’s Wood? Look no further! Here’s your ultimate guide to the neighbourhood — from a Londoner!
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St. John’s Wood, is one of North West London’s most luxurious and picturesque neighbourhoods, and a wonderful place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
Known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, and charming cafes, this affluent area combines the best of urban living with the calm of village life. And is one of my favourite areas to wander when I’m in Central or North London (it’s right next to Regent’s Park, too).
Without further ado, here’s the best things to do in St John’s Wood, from a Londoner.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
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13 Best Things to Do in St John’s Wood
P.S. – Explore London’s neighbourhoods to the fullest with our London Explorer Guides 🏡🇬🇧
1. Walk The Zebra Crossing at Abbey Road
Whether you’re a Beatles fan or not, it is pretty cool to relive a piece of iconic history, which is exactly what you’ll do at the Zebra X Crossing at Abbey Road.
The most famous picture the Beatles ever took happened right here, on Abbey Road.
It was for an album cover at this very spot — where their 1969 record was named after this now renowned street in St. John’s Wood.
Thousands of people have come to cross here and recreate the scene, and I must admit, it is a fun must-do if you happen to be in the neighbourhood.
P.S. – People-watching the crowds crossing and taking pictures here is also an activity in itself!
2. Visit Abbey Road Studios
While here you can also visit Abbey Road Studios, where the Beatles recorded some of their most famous music — right in St John’s Wood.
From writing on their world-famous graffiti wall, visiting their gift shop for some novel souvenirs, or creating your very own footage on their Abbey Road Webcam, there’s lots of fun bits to get up to here.
3. Watch Cricket and More at Lord’s Cricket Ground
Next on your St John’s Wood itinerary is the Lord’s Cricket Ground, because who doesn’t love a good cricket game?
If you’re a foodie, you must tuck in to their semi-annual Lord’s Dining Club — where some of the world’s top chefs serve their best dishes to Lord’s Dining Club guests.
But if you’re going on any old day, simply take in a good game, take one of their insider tours, visit their museum, and finish with an excellent afternoon tea on the grounds. Enjoy!
4. Stroll Around Regent’s Park
Truly one of the loveliest parks in all of London, Regent’s Park is a must-visit, especially if you’re in St John’s Wood.
With a beautiful blend of natural beauty, iconic gardens, a famed zoo, and unique entertainment (hello Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), it’s a great spot for locals and tourists alike.
P.S. – Don’t forget to catch the views from Primrose Hill while you’re here.
5. Shop on St John’s Wood High Street
Shopping on St John’s Wood High Street is a one-of-a-kind experience that promises everything delightful.
With its charming, village-like atmosphere and a unique array of independent boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, there’s truly something for everyone here, so be sure to have a mosey around!
6. Check Out the St John’s Wood Coffee Scene
St John’s Wood is known not only for its chic village-like charm, but its notable coffee scene, here’s some of the best ones in the neighbourhood.
Some of my favourites are Panzer’s Deli, Yugen and HelterSkelter.
Read More: The Best Cafes in St John’s Wood: Your Ultimate Coffee Guide
7. Enjoy a Great St John’s Wood Brunch
In addition to being a coffee-lovers haven, St John’s Wood also has a lovely brunch scene, with a little something for everyone.
Some of my personal favourites are Caffe Bianco, Johnny Green and England’s Grace.
Read More: 5 Best Brunch and Breakfast Spots in St John’s Wood, London
8. Delve Into the St John’s Wood Restaurant Scene
St John’s Wood’s restaurant scene is not to be missed, with a great mix of upscale, casual, and international cuisine.
Many also double as fab cocktail spots, in case your dinner turns to drinks…
Some favourites? Oslo Court, known for their French charm and excellent menu, Cinder for brunch catchups, and Three Falcons for Indian cuisine.
9. Soak in River Views at The Waterway Pub
Next you’ll find The Waterway in St John’s Wood’s neighbour Little Venice — a picturesque area renowned for its beautiful canals, houseboats, and elegant Victorian architecture.
Their terrace is often called the most lovely in London, so I suppose you’ll have to visit for yourself to find out?
10. People Watch at the Green Hut Near St John’s Wood Church
As the story goes, in the late 1800s, some philanthropists decided to come together and commission cabbie shelters to be built so that cabbies could have a place to escape the bitter cold and have a cheap, good meal (keeping them out of the pubs and away from alcohol).
The green huts are still in existence today, and now serve sandwiches and drinks to cabbies, alongside you and I, the public.
It’s the perfect spot for a pause in the day…to people watch or just to soak in the quiet beauty that is this little corner of London.
11. St John’s Wood Church Gardens
St John’s Wood Church Gardens is more than just a beautiful green space, once serving as a lovely burial ground for the St John’s Wood Church, built in 1814.
Characterised by its serene landscape, the church grounds’ well-maintained garden is perfect for a read, a picnic, or just a few lovely bench moments soaking in the views—dotted with mature trees, rose beds, and blooming flowers come spring and summer.
P.S. – You can find it at Wellington Pl, London NW8 9JA.
12. See the Panoramic Views from Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill is always worth the visit, especially if you’re in St John’s Wood.
The gorgeous hilltop offers some of London’s best views (and lots of dogs keen to say hello), with iconic landmarks like the London Eye, the Shard, and the Houses of Parliament all within an eye’s view.
Read More: 5 Things to do in Primrose Hill, London
13. Explore Maida Vale and Little Venice
If you’re in St John’s Wood, you might as well take a hop and a skip over to its two neighbours — Maida Vale and Little Venice.
These charming areas are dripping in stunning Victorian and Georgian architecture, tranquil canals, homey pubs, and independent shops, just outside of St John’s Wood.
Map of the Best Things to Do in St John’s Wood
Thanks for reading my St John’s Wood Neighbourhood Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:
- 5 Best Brunch and Breakfast Spots in St John’s Wood, London
- 13 Best Cafes in St John’s Wood: Your Ultimate Coffee Guide
- 5 Things to do in Primrose Hill, London
- The Best Things to Do in Maida Vale, London
- 17 Cool Things to do in Camden (for Day & Night!)
- Little Venice London: Things to do in London’s Italian Gem
- Regents Park to Paddington: London Walk Series
- London Neighbourhood Guides
Happy Londoning,
