Must See Sights In London

London is arguably the most iconic city in the world. It’s been a hotspot for travelers for centuries, and its diversity and rich culture make it a great place to explore. From the awe-inspiring architecture to the vibrant nightlife, there’s something to captivate everyone who visits this great city. Whether it’s your first time in London or you’re returning for a second visit, here’s a list of must-see sights in London that will make for an unforgettable experience.

History of London

London has been a major settlement since the Roman times, and has been a centre of commerce, culture and government since the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, it has grown from a small trading port to a sprawling metropolis with a population of more than 8 million people. Its growth has been fueled by its strategic location at the mouth of the River Thames, as well as its status as a key trading hub between Europe and the rest of the world. The city has seen its fair share of historical events, from the Great Fire of 1666 to the Blitz of World War II. While the city has changed and evolved over the centuries, it has always been a vibrant place to live and visit.

Famous Sights in London

London is home to some of the world’s most iconic sights. From royal residences to iconic monuments, here are some of the must-see sights in London that you won’t want to miss:

The Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of England’s most famous landmarks. It was built by William the Conqueror in 1066 as a fortress, and served as a royal palace and prison for many centuries. Today it is home to the Crown Jewels and is open to visitors who can explore its historical chambers and take in the breathtaking views from its walls.

The British Museum

The British Museum is one of the world’s greatest museums, and its collection of artefacts spans thousands of years of human history. From ancient Egyptian mummies to Roman sculptures and Greek pottery, there’s something to captivate everyone who visits.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch and one of London’s most iconic sights. Visitors can take a guided tour of the royal apartments and gardens, and during summer months can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony which takes place on the forecourt.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of London’s oldest churches, founded in 1065. It is famous for its beautiful Gothic architecture, and has been the site of many royal coronations and weddings. Visitors can explore its ornate chapels and tombs, as well as see its iconic towers up close.

Big Ben

Big Ben is one of London’s most famous landmarks. The iconic clock tower was completed in 1859 and stands at almost 100 metres tall. Although it is officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, it is commonly known as Big Ben after the bell inside it that chimes every hour.

Popular Activities in London

London is full of exciting activities to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the most popular things to do in London:

Go on a Sightseeing Tour

A sightseeing tour is a great way to explore London’s many attractions. There are several different types of tours available, from guided walking tours to bus tours and boat tours that take you along the River Thames. These tours will take you past some of London’s most iconic sights, such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, as well as lesser-known gems like street markets and secret gardens.

Visit a Museum or Gallery

London is home to some of the world’s best museums and galleries, from the British Museum and National Gallery to smaller specialised institutions like The Tate Modern and The Victoria & Albert Museum. These institutions are a great place to learn about art, history and science, as well as get up close to some of history’s greatest masterpieces.

Shop Till You Drop

Shopping is a must when you’re in London, with plenty of boutiques, markets and department stores to explore. Oxford Street is one of London’s main shopping thoroughfares, with big-name stores like Topshop, Selfridges and John Lewis, while Covent Garden Market is full of quirky independent boutiques selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewellery.

Explore a Park or Garden

London has plenty of lush parks and gardens to explore, from Royal Parks like Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens to smaller green spaces like Holland Park and Green Park. These parks are great places to relax or take in some culture, with plenty of statues, monuments and public artworks scattered throughout.

Popular Tours in London

Exploring London can be an overwhelming task with so many sights to see, so why not take one of these popular tours instead? They offer a great way to see the city’s highlights while learning more about its history and culture:

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

See all of London’s top attractions on an open-top bus tour with Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours. Enjoy a panoramic view as you ride around on an open-top double-decker bus with audio commentary in multiple languages to learn about each site you pass by. Stops include Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, The Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus and more. You can purchase tickets online or buy them on board for maximum convenience. Book a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour here.

West End Theatre Tour

Immerse yourself in West End theatreland with this unique tour that takes you behind-the-scenes at some of London’s top theatres. Learn about their history and how they were constructed during two hours with an expert guide before taking your seat for a performance at one of them. Tours include exclusive access to dressing rooms, props rooms, backstages and even a chance to meet some cast members after their show! Book a West End Theatre Tour here.

Jack the Ripper Tour

Get ready for an eerie adventure with this Jack the Ripper tour that takes you through dark alleyways and cobbled streets to explore some of London’s spookiest sites related to this infamous serial killer’s gruesome murders from 1888. Visit his alleged former haunts such as Dorset Street and Mitre Square before following clues left at crime scenes that may help you decide who Jack the Ripper was! Book a Jack The Ripper Tour here.

Conclusion

London is a fascinating city full of history, culture and excitement that will captivate everyone who visits it. From iconic sights like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace to popular activities like shopping and sightseeing tours, London offers something for everyone. And with all these fantastic tours available, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring all that this historic city has to offer!