A Tourist’s Guide to London’s Attractions

London is one of the most visited cities in the world, and it’s easy to see why. From its centuries of history to its modern and diverse culture, London has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you explore the best attractions around London and get the most out of your visit.

History of London

London is a city that has been around since Roman times, and it has evolved over the centuries to become the vibrant city we know today. It began as a small trading settlement on the banks of the River Thames and became an important site for commerce and trade. During the Middle Ages, London was the capital of England, and in 1666, the city was engulfed by the Great Fire, which destroyed many of its buildings and churches. In the 18th century, London experienced a period of growth and prosperity, with the construction of some of its most iconic buildings, such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

Today, London is the capital of England and home to more than 8 million people. It is a thriving metropolis with a rich cultural scene, world-class museums, and stunning architecture. It’s also home to some of the best restaurants, bars, and nightlife in the world.

What to Do in London

Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just a good time, London has it all. From iconic landmarks to lesser-known local gems, here are some of the top attractions to check out when visiting London.

British Museum

The British Museum is one of London’s oldest and most iconic attractions. Founded in 1753, it houses a vast collection of artifacts from all over the world including Egyptian mummies, Roman sculptures, and Greek pottery. There are also interactive exhibitions on human history and culture, so you can learn more about the artifacts on display.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is a fitting symbol of London’s rich history. Built in 1066 as a fortress by William the Conqueror, it was used as a prison for some of England’s most notorious figures including Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, and Sir Walter Raleigh. Today, it’s an iconic landmark that houses the Crown Jewels and is home to the famous ravens.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of London’s most iconic churches, and it’s also home to some of Britain’s most important historical figures. Located in central London, it dates back to 1065 and has been the site of coronations and royal weddings since the 11th century. Visitors can explore its stunning Gothic architecture, learn about its long history, and take in its breathtaking stained glass windows.

Big Ben

Big Ben is one of London’s most recognizable landmarks and an iconic symbol of the city. The clock tower was built in 1859 and stands at a height of 315 feet (96 meters). Although it’s not open to visitors, you can still admire its impressive architecture from the outside.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is one of London’s most popular attractions and a great place to shop, eat, and explore. The area is home to some of London’s best restaurants and bars, as well as street performers, market stalls, and independent boutiques. It’s also home to some of the city’s best theater shows and musical performances.

Day Trips from London

London is a great base for exploring the rest of England. There are plenty of great day trips from London that are easy to reach by train or car. Here are some of the top day trips from London:

Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of England’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see attraction for any visitor to the country. Located about 90 miles (145 km) west of London, Stonehenge dates back to 3000 BC and is believed to have been used as a burial site or ritual ground by prehistoric people. Visitors can admire its mysterious stones up close or join one of the many guided tours available in the area.

Bath

The Georgian city of Bath is located about 100 miles (160 km) west of London and is home to some of Britain’s most impressive architecture. Visitors can explore its elegant Georgian streets and take in landmarks such as the Royal Crescent and Bath Abbey. The city is also known for its natural hot springs, which were first discovered by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago.

Brighton

Brighton is located about an hour south of London on the coast of East Sussex. This vibrant seaside town is known for its lively beachfront promenade and iconic pier as well as its lively nightlife scene. It’s also home to some excellent restaurants and shops as well as art galleries and museums.

Popular Tours

Buckingham Palace Tour

Explore one of England’s greatest royal residences with a guided Buckingham Palace tour. This exclusive tour gives you access to the State Rooms where you can marvel at works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto as well as Queen Victoria’s ceremonial dresses. You’ll also get to explore some of the palace’s private gardens where you can take in stunning views over St James Park. Book a Buckingham Palace Tour here.

Thames River Cruise

Enjoy stunning views over London on a leisurely Thames River Cruise. This two-hour cruise takes you past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks including Big Ben, Tower Bridge, The Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral, Houses of Parliament, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. You’ll also get an up-close look at some lesser-known sights such as Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park and Limehouse Basin. Book a Thames River Cruise here.

West End Theatre Tour

Experience the bright lights of London’s West End with a guided theatre tour. This two-hour walking tour takes you behind the scenes of some of West End’s iconic theatres including The Palladium, Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London Coliseum, Wyndham’s Theatre, Sadler’s Wells Theatre, and The Old Vic Theatre. You’ll learn about their history as well as get an insight into their current productions. Book a West End Theatre Tour here.

Whether you want to explore London’s vibrant culture or take day trips around England, there’s something for everyone in this amazing city. With this guide, you can make sure you get the most out of your visit to London’s attractions—so get exploring!