The Ultimate Guide to Places to See in London

London is one of the most famous and vibrant cities in the world, and it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the globe. This sprawling metropolis is filled with fascinating history, exciting attractions, and delicious cuisine. It is no wonder that London is one of the world’s most visited cities. So if you are planning a trip to London, what should you see and do? This guide will highlight some of the top attractions and activities to enjoy while visiting the city.

History of London

London has been inhabited since prehistoric times, however it was not until the Roman conquest in 43 AD that the city began to take shape. The Romans established a settlement on the banks of the River Thames, with a walled city which was called ‘Londinium’. The city flourished for many centuries, becoming a major hub for trade and a royal seat of power. By the 17th century, London had become one of the world’s largest cities with a population of over one million people.

Throughout its long history, London has been a center for culture and creativity. It has produced some of the world’s greatest writers, artists, and musicians. It is also home to some of the world’s oldest institutions, such as the Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London.

Today, London is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. It is home to over nine million people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. London is a major financial and cultural center, and it is one of the most visited cities in the world.

Places to See in London

London has an endless array of attractions and activities to enjoy. Here are some of the top places to explore when you are visiting this exciting city.

The Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see destination for any visitor to the city. The tower has stood on the banks of the Thames for almost 900 years and it is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Europe. The tower houses an array of royal treasures as well as fascinating exhibits on its long and turbulent history. Visitors can also explore the grounds of the tower and take part in fun activities such as the Yeoman Warder Tours and interactive events like battle reenactments.

Buckingham Palace

No trip to London is complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British Royal Family. Visitors can explore the state rooms of the palace, including the famous Picture Gallery which houses works by great masters such as Rembrandt, Raphael, and Vermeer. There are also regular Changing of the Guard ceremonies which take place in front of the palace every day at 11:30am.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of London’s most famous landmarks, located in the heart of Westminster. This Gothic masterpiece has been a place of worship for over a thousand years and it is still used for coronations and royal weddings. Visitors can explore the beautiful interiors of this magnificent building as well as visiting its many tombs and monuments.

The British Museum

The British Museum is one of London’s most iconic attractions. This vast building houses an incredible collection of artifacts from around the world, including ancient manuscripts, sculptures, jewelry, and antiquities. The museum also hosts regular events such as lectures and workshops and visitors can explore its many galleries at their own pace.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest Royal Parks and a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. This sprawling park covers 350 acres and it is filled with lush gardens, tranquil ponds, meadows and woodlands. Visitors can enjoy activities such as jogging, cycling, boating, horse riding and swimming in the Serpentine Lake.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is one of London’s most popular shopping areas and it is filled with bustling streets, independent boutiques, traditional pubs, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. This vibrant area also hosts regular street performances and visitors can watch jugglers, mime artists and acrobats in action.

London Eye

The London Eye is one of London’s most iconic attractions and it offers breathtaking views across the city from its giant ferris wheel structure. Visitors can take a 30-minute ride on this giant wheel and see some of London’s top attractions such as Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral and Trafalgar Square from a unique perspective.

Popular Tours in London

London has an abundance of exciting tours that are perfect for visitors wanting to explore the city in depth. Here are two popular tours that you can book online:

London Bike Tour

Discover London’s vibrant neighborhoods from two wheels on this 3-hour bike tour. You will explore some of London’s hidden gems away from the tourist crowds and get up close to some of its famous sights such as Tower Bridge, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. The tour also includes a stop at a local pub for a refreshing glass of beer or cider. You can book this tour online with Viator.

London by Night Tour

See London sparkle after dark with this 3-hour guided tour by night. On this exciting tour you will explore some of London’s most iconic nightlife hotspots such as Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square and Soho Square as well as taking in spectacular views across the city from Tower Bridge or Westminster Bridge. You can book this tour online with GetYourGuide.

Conclusion

London is an exciting city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for history, culture or nightlife, there is plenty to explore in this vibrant metropolis. Use this guide to plan your trip and find out what you should see when you visit London so that you can make your trip an unforgettable experience!