The Ultimate Guide to Sightseeing in London

London is one of the world’s most visited cities, with its iconic sights, endless attractions, and rich history attracting millions of visitors each year. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming planning a trip to the city. This guide will help you make the most of your time in London by providing the ultimate list of sites to see, popular activities to do, and tours to take. Read on to find out more about the amazing sights that London has to offer.

History of London

London has been inhabited for over two millennia and has a long-standing history as a major settlement. It was founded by the Romans as Londinium in 43 AD and quickly rose to be one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire. After a period of decline following the fall of Rome, London was re-established in the Middle Ages and rapidly grew to become a major commercial and cultural center in Europe. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the city was shaped by the Great Fire of London and the Great Plague of London, which led to the development of large-scale public health initiatives. In the 18th century, London became a major trading port, with the opening of the Thames Tunnel connecting it to Europe and beyond. The city’s population rose from one million in 1800 to six million by 1900, making it one of the most populous cities in the world.

Today, London is a global city that is home to diverse communities and cultures from around the world. It is one of the world’s most visited cities, with over 19 million visitors in 2019 alone. It is known for its iconic landmarks, such as Big Ben and the Tower of London, and its vibrant culture. The city is a hub for art, music, food, theatre, fashion, and more, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique experience.

Popular Sights

London is a city full of iconic sights and attractions that are sure to leave you with lasting memories. Here are some of the most popular sights to see when visiting London:

Big Ben

Big Ben is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and is located at the north end of the Houses of Parliament. It was built in 1859 and stands at an impressive 96 meters tall. Big Ben is a symbol of London’s long-standing history and is a must-see for any visitor to the city.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the most recognisable landmarks in London and holds a long-standing place in history. It was built in 1066 as a fortress to protect the city from invaders and today is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore its many towers, walk along its walls, and learn more about its rich history.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most famous buildings and has been home to British royalty since 1837. It is an impressive sight, with its grand facade and beautiful gardens. Visitors can take a tour of the palace and learn more about its history and inhabitants.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is a stunning Gothic building located in Westminster, London. It has been a place of worship since 1065 and has hosted numerous royal weddings, coronations, and funerals. Visitors can admire its beautiful architecture and learn about its rich history.

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is an iconic landmark in central London and is one of the city’s most recognisable buildings. It was built in 1675 and has been a popular tourist attraction since then. Visitors can admire its impressive architecture and explore its crypts and galleries.

Popular Activities

London is full of things to do and activities to keep you entertained during your visit. Here are some popular activities that you can enjoy when visiting the city:

Ride on the London Eye

The London Eye is one of the city’s most iconic attractions and offers stunning views across London from its 135-meter high ferris wheel. Taking a ride on this giant wheel is a great way to get an aerial view of the city and get a unique perspective on some of its famous sights.

Visit a Museum

London is home to some of the world’s best museums, which are sure to keep you entertained for hours. Whether you’re interested in art, science, or history, there’s something for everyone at these amazing institutions. Don’t forget to check out some of their special exhibitions too!

Go Shopping

London has some great shopping options, from luxury designer stores to independent boutiques. There are also plenty of markets where you can find unique items that you won’t find anywhere else. Shopping in London is sure to be an unforgettable experience!

Explore Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest parks and covers an area of 350 acres. It’s full of things to do, from boating on the lake to admiring the flower beds or simply taking a stroll through its lush green spaces. It’s also home to some great events throughout the year, so make sure you check what’s happening there before your visit!

Visit Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace is another popular tourist attraction in London and has been home to several members of British royalty throughout its history. Visitors can take a tour around the palace and explore its stunning gardens or take part in one of their special events. There’s also a cafe onsite where you can enjoy some refreshments after your visit!

Two Popular Tours

When visiting London, you may want to consider taking one of its many guided tours. Here are two popular tours that you can book:

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is a great way to explore all that London has to offer. It takes you around some of its most famous sights, such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and more. You’ll also get audio commentary on board which will give you more insight into each destination. To book this tour click here.

Jack The Ripper Walking Tour

For those looking for something more historical, consider taking a Jack The Ripper Walking Tour. This tour takes you back in time to Victorian London as you explore one of its darkest periods in history. You’ll visit sites associated with Jack The Ripper’s murders as well as other key locations from this notorious case. To book this tour click here.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for iconic sights to explore or exciting activities to do, there’s something for everyone in London. From Big Ben to Tower of London, there are plenty of must-see attractions that should be on everyone’s list when visiting this vibrant city. And don’t forget about some of the popular tours available too! With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that many people choose London as their next holiday destination.