Things Happening In London: A City Guide for Tourists

London is one of the world’s most exciting and vibrant cities. With a rich history, fascinating culture and unmissable sights, it’s no wonder millions of people travel to London each year. From big-name attractions like the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square to more low-key activities like markets and neighborhood walks, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or a longer holiday, this guide will help you make the most of your time in London.

Introduction

London is the capital of England and one of the most famous cities in the world. It has been inhabited since Roman times and is home to more than 8 million people. Its history is reflected in its architecture, monuments, and culture. Its streets are filled with iconic sights like Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey. It has world-famous museums, parks and gardens, and a lively theatre scene. And of course, it is home to the Royal Family!

London is a city of contrasts. You can find busy streets filled with people from all over the world, but also tranquil parks and gardens where you can escape from the hustle and bustle. It is a modern metropolis with world-class restaurants, shops, and museums, but it also has a rich history that can be seen in its architecture and monuments.

What To See And Do

When visiting London there are so many things to see and do. Here are some of the most popular attractions:

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. It is the official residence of the British Royal Family and has been since 1837. Visitors can take a tour of the State Rooms, which are open to the public for most of the year. During the summer months, visitors can also watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony which takes place at 11:00am daily.

The London Eye

The London Eye is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. It is a giant Ferris wheel located on the banks of the River Thames near Westminster Bridge. Visitors can board one of the 32 capsules and enjoy incredible views of London from up to 135 metres high.

Tower Of London

The Tower of London is an iconic castle located on the banks of the River Thames in Central London. It was built by William the Conqueror in 1078 and has served as a royal palace, prison, arsenal, zoo, and even a public execution site. Today it houses a fascinating collection of armour and weapons and is one of London’s most popular attractions.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of London’s most historic places of worship. Founded in 1065, it has been the coronation site for all English monarchs since William the Conqueror. Visitors can explore its impressive Gothic architecture, visit the tombs of past kings and queens, and see where Prince William and Kate Middleton were married in 2011.

Parks And Gardens

London has some wonderful green spaces to explore. Hyde Park is one of London’s largest parks and is home to Speakers’ Corner where people gather to debate and discuss current affairs – just make sure you bring your own soapbox! Other popular parks include Kensington Gardens, Regent’s Park, St James’s Park, and Greenwich Park which offers wonderful views across the River Thames.

Museums And Galleries

London is home to some amazing museums and galleries where you can learn about art, history, science, and culture. The British Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of artefacts from around the globe while Tate Modern displays some of the world’s best modern artworks. Other popular museums include The Natural History Museum, The Science Museum, The Victoria & Albert Museum, and The National Gallery.

Popular Activities And Tours

In addition to exploring London’s sights and attractions, there are plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. Here are two popular tours that will help you see London from a different perspective:

The Original London Sightseeing Tour

The Original London Sightseeing Tour takes visitors on a two-hour tour around some of London’s most famous sights including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, and more. The tour is conducted in open-top buses providing panoramic views of London’s skyline along with audio commentary in multiple languages. Tickets cost £25 per person and can be booked here.

Jack The Ripper Walking Tour

The Jack The Ripper Walking Tour takes visitors on a two-hour tour around some of London’s East End where Jack The Ripper committed his gruesome murders in 1888. The tour visits some of his victims’ last known locations as well as other sites associated with his infamous crimes. Tickets cost £15 per person and can be booked here.

Conclusion

London is an amazing city with so much to see and do. Whether you’re looking for iconic sights such as Buckingham Palace or Trafalgar Square or want to explore more offbeat attractions such as markets or neighbourhood walks, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget to book a tour or activity – whether it’s a sightseeing bus tour or a walking tour – to get an even deeper insight into London’s past and present. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now and start exploring!