Set along the banks of the Thames, London is Europe’s largest city, boasting more than 7 million inhabitants and deserving at least several days of exploration. Its oldest section, where the Romans first garrisoned, is now its business and financial center, referred to as the City, or the Square Mile, where you will also find the Tower of London. Otherwise, tourist matters fall largely to the city’s social and cultural center, the West End, or to the bars, clubs and restaurants of Soho. Between the art, parks, historic sites and modern attractions, to name a few, there is always something to do or see.
London is home to myriad attractions and activities, as well as some very iconic sights. For recreation and pastoral settings, Hyde Park and Serpentine Lake are perfect, while Kew Gardens in southwest London features an enormous collection of plants, landscaped panoramas, and charming greenhouses. For history hounds, Buckingham Palace, the royal residence, delivers a glimpse of aristocratic life. Plus, venerable Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral serve as time-tested counterpoints to newer sights like the London Eye and the Millennium Dome.
It is impossible to mention all the things there are to see in London, but mentioned below are a few of the must-see sights in this exciting cosmopolitan city.
Big Ben
Without a doubt the most famous landmark in London is the clock tower located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster affectionately referred to as “Big Ben”. Although most people are familiar with this amazing icon that has become a symbol of the United Kingdom, some may not be aware that Big Ben is the largest four-faced clock in the world. There is much history behind this clock which has been chiming every hour with few exceptions since 1858. Although the clock tower itself is not open to the public, the House of Parliament, to which the clock tower is attached, is an educational tourist attraction that is worth seeing.
The Tower of London
Nothing is quite as significant in the history of England as the Tower of London. This amazing complex made up of several buildings once housed a fortress, a prison, and a menagerie, and was the site of much intrigue including murders, tortures and executions. Today there is much to be seen in this complex. A brand new exhibition of the crown jewels; a tour of the White Tower, which displays the Royal Armories collection; and costumed reenactments showing the exciting history of the tower are activities that should not be missed. All these are included in the price of a ticket.
Westminster Abbey
It goes without saying that Westminster Abbey also is a place steeped in history. This magnificent church has a strong connection to the Royals, as it has hosted all the coronations since 1066. It has been a place of royal funerals and weddings over the years, with the latest big event being the highly publicized royal wedding of William and Kate in 2011. St. Margaret’s Church, the College Garden, and the Cloisters can all be seen free of charge (donation recommended), but a ticket must be purchased to see the Abbey, which also includes admission to the museum.
London Eye
If you want to visit the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom and get a great view of London at the same time, take a ride on the London Eye. Visited by more than three and a half million people a year, the London Eye is no ordinary Ferris wheel. At 443 feet tall it is the largest Ferris wheel in Europe and one of the largest in the world. What makes it even more unique are the 32 observation capsules, which each hold up to 25 people. It has been reported that the best time to ride is at night when the views are even more spectacular.
Piccadilly Circus
Perhaps the best way to experience a little of the city culture of London is to spend some time at Piccadilly Circus, which may be best described as “London’s Time Square”. Piccadilly Circus is a juncture that is found in Westminster’s popular West End and links Regent Street with Piccadilly Street. Located in close proximity to shopping and all kinds of entertainment, Piccadilly Circus is a hub of activity and comes alive at night with its notorious brightly-lit signs and interesting people.
From the solemnity of Westminster Abbey to the nightlife found at Piccadilly Circus, and everything in between, there is so much to see in London. A city with a fascinating history and an exciting nightlife, London is an experience that you will never forget.
