London – What are the top attractions?

Are you planning to travel to London and eager to explore the most attractive attractions available in this amazing city? London, the capital of England, ranks high as one of the world’s most amazing cities and draws thousands of visitors from around the world all year long. This city is known for its rich culture, historical locations, iconic sites, and a lot more amazing opportunities to explore. From the classic tourist spots to the hidden gems, there is no shortage of interesting places to visit in London.

Below are some of the top attractions one should visit when in London:

British Museum

The British Museum is one of London’s most popular attractions and is a great place to learn about British history and international cultures. It is home to a vast range of archaeological and ethnographic objects, making it one of the most visited museums in the world. Founded in 1753, this incredible museum contains captivating objects such as mummies, sculptures, coins, and weapons. Visiting this remarkable museum will surely make you appreciate the wonders of art, culture, and history.

River Thames

This major river runs through London and is a delightful place to explore the city. A boat ride along the river Thames offers stunning views of famous landmarks such as the Tower of London and Shard building, while providing a totally different angle of the city. Taking a boat ride along the Thames is also a great way to sample some classic English dishes such as fish and chips.

Big Ben

This iconic clocktower is instantly recognizable as soon as you see it, which is why it’s one of London’s most well-known attractions. World-famous for its 112-metre tall clock tower in the north end of the iconic Houses of Parliament, Big Ben is actually the name for the bell inside the clock Tower. It is still ringing today, chime on the hour every hour!

The Coca-Cola London Eye

The famous London Eye is a huge Ferris wheel on the bank of river Thames near downtown London. It is an iconic landmark usually referred to as “the giant wheel’. From this remarkable observation wheel, visitors have breathtaking views of some of central London’s famous attractions such as St Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, and Westminster Palace. This sightseeing experience reaches its climax at 135 metres!

Westminster Palace

Also known as a “Houses of Parliament’ this stunning neo-Gothic building complex is home to the two chambers of parliament – The House of Lords and The House of Commons. Surrounded by impressive landmarks such as Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and St Stephen’s Tower, Westminster Palace is one of London’s most gorgeous attractions.

Tower Bridge

This iconic bridge has become a symbol for London and it stands right near the Tower of London – both being remarkable “must see” attractions in London. Before it was constructed in 1894, this area would get heavy traffic problems due to having only one bridge across Thames River. The bridge passed over them by raising itself up when necessary resulting in more efficient traffic flow across this area.

The Shard

Located in Southwark, London, The Shard tower is one of the tallest skyscrapers in Western Europe with 95 storeys and a viewing platform for tourists on levels 68-72. Although only open since 2013, this spectacular glass-sided tower has already become one of London’s most popular tourist attractions. From here you can enjoy a 360 degree view of the city – this alone makes it worth a visit!

Regardless of how long you plan to stay in London for, these top attractions and places provide plenty of reasons why it should be part of your travel bucket list. All these attractions are filled with stories, culture, and history that make London such a vibrant and interesting city to experience.

With more than 17 million visitors every year (according to londonpass.com) it’s safe to say that London offers something for everyone wanting to discover more about it. Everyone who visits here will soon realise why it has been called one of the most impressive cities in the world for hundreds of years!

The Insider’s Guide to London: Discover the City Beyond Tourist Spots

If you’re planning to visit London, you’re likely looking to see its many famed attractions such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Big Ben. While these places are popular for a reason, they often attract large crowds making it difficult to experience the charm of the city. Therefore, let’s explore some hidden gems that only locals know about:

Local Attractions

One of London’s best-kept secrets is the Notting Hill neighborhood. It’s not just a place to snap a photo in front of the colorful houses but also to discover the charming Portobello Market. If you’re in the mood to explore some fine art, visit the Wallace Collection, a stately home built in the 18th century with impressive French romantic paintings.

For a unique perspective of the city skyline, climb the Greenwich Observatory hill. You’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of London, and be sure to spot the Shard and London Eye.

Dining Spots

London’s food culture is vibrant, and dining like a local is a must-have experience. For a blend of Indian and Ethiopian cuisine, try Tayyabs, which has been serving flavorful yumminess for over 40 years. The Coal Office in King’s Cross has a variety of dishes inspired by Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisines. For something local, head to Ye Olde Mitre, a historic 16th-century pub tucked away in a secret alley.

If you’re up for a historical food tour, explore Borough Market, one of the oldest food markets in London, focusing on British and European specialty foods.

Cultural Experience

London is a hub of cultural diversity, with a mix of festivals, music, and art events throughout the year. While there are many to choose from, the Notting Hill Carnival is a must-attend. Join over a million revelers for colorful Caribbean music and dance, costumes and food.

Another cultural experience for art lovers is visiting the National Portrait Gallery and the Tate Modern. Both boast a fantastic collection of British and international art and artifacts that depict the city’s history and vibrant culture.

Local History

London is steeped in history, so it’s no surprise that there are boundless stories to explore. Visit the Tower of London to discover the bloody history of the British Monarchy, including tales of conflicts, royal murders, and secrets. Close by, the BBC Broadcasting House’s architecture, which was completed in 1932, is a breathtaking contrast of history and the modern world.

For history-based tours, take a stroll through the East End, where you’ll learn about Jack the Ripper’s grisly murders in 1888 and the secrets of the infamous Kray Twins.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

Be sure to visit Hampstead Heath, an enormous parkland in north-west London. This natural sanctuary is not just a magnificent green space but also contains ponds, woodlands, sports facilities, and a hilltop with mesmerizing views of the city.

If you’re a fan of the Harry Potter films, head to Leadenhall Market, one of London’s busiest and oldest markets with its stunning Victorian architecture. The market was used as a filming location for Diagon Alley.

In summary, London is a city full of hidden gems that will surprise and delight visitors. Whether it’s exploring local neighborhoods, sampling traditional cuisine, experiencing cultural celebrations, or immersing yourself in history, this city has plenty to offer. So, step off the beaten path, and become a London insider.