Welcome to London! The de facto must go to a place in the world. London is a city of cultural diversity and a rich tradition of heritage. You can find a mix of all the cultures of this world here. It doesn’t matter what is on your checklist to explore in this magnificent city with a long tradition, it’s guaranteed to be found without much effort. The city is divided north-south by the mighty river Thames. In this article, we will primarily focus on central London, also known as The City.
Without further ado, here are a few must-visit places while you’re in the city.
Westminster Abbey
It has been used as the coronation church since 1066. The church is known for its stunning architecture. Every year it welcomes over a million visitors from around the world. While you are in the church, you want to check out the Coronation Chair that is being used from the very beginning. So far there have been thirty-eight coronation ceremonies taken place for monarchs here.
Photo by K. Mitch Hodge on Unsplash
Things to do
The beautiful Westminster Abbey is worth visiting. One of the most well-known items to see is, of course, the coronation chair, which has been used continuously since the 14th century. Over three thousand people have been laid to rest in this historic church, and many of their tombs and effigies are on display for visitors. You can’t miss the Quire, the nave, or the exterior, which is noteworthy in its own right, from that vantage point.
Parliament
Opposite the Abbey is the parliament. Did you know the UK parliament is divided into two houses? These are the House of Lords and the House of Commons. Entry to parliament is free for the public and a must-visit place. The architecture of The Parliament is something to admire. Don’t forget to take pictures in the red telephone booths around the parliament square. There are a few left out to remind people of its existence and old tradition.
Big Ben
It’s situated on the south side of The Parliament and is a very popular tourist attraction. A full restoration of the clock tower has been taken recently to make sure it’s working like always.
How to enjoy the view?
You could spend ten minutes here or thirty minutes if you want to take in the view. Anyone standing on Westminster Bridge will have a magnificent view of Big Ben. You can also stand in front of the statue of Queen Boadicea near the Westminster tube station at the bridge’s base for a better view.
London Eye
The London Eye is known as the tallest cantilevered observation wheel in Europe. It is also one of the most popular paid tourist attractions in the United Kingdom with more than three million visitors annually.
Things to do
You can get an amazing view from the wheel pods. The whole circle can take up to 20 minutes so you get enough time to view and take pictures for future memories. Make sure to pre-book to avoid long waiting times in the queue.
White Hall
Whitehall is a road which is located in the area of Westminster, the City of London’s Central Region. The length of the street is approximately 0.64 kilometres and it runs through the city of Westminster. The street is famous for numerous government buildings, such as the Horse Guards & the Cabinet Office. Whitehall’s prominence as the British government’s nerve centre inspired the setting for several political comedies shown on BBC which includes Yes Minister and The Thick of It. The street is well-known not only for its government buildings but also for its memorial statues and monuments, such as the Cenotaph, the principal war memorial in the United Kingdom. Parliament Street begins south of the Cenotaph.
Photo by Yukon Haughton on Unsplash
Best time to get there
Whitehall is most enjoyable during the day. During the day, visitors may get great photos in front of the Life Guards stationed outside Horse Guards. Open House London, held annually in September, provides a unique opportunity to explore many otherwise inaccessible government buildings.
Here are some ways to go there
Charing Cross and Westminster tube stations are located north and south of the area, respectively besides being accessible on foot, by bike, or by vehicle. There is also a number of bus routes that stop near Whitehall. Whitehall may be reached via the Northern, Bakerloo, Circle, and District lines to Charing Cross Station or the Jubilee and Circle lines to Embankment Station.
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is one of the most well-known squares in London. The heart of London’s tourism area, Trafalgar Square has long stood as a symbol of Great Britain. It’s a popular tourist destination because of its stunning architecture and picturesque fountains, including the world-famous Trafalgar Square lions. Trafalgar Square has gained attraction from visitors because of its significance in the history of social movements, its vibrancy, and the joy it inspires.
Photo by Irene Bersani on Unsplash
Things to do in Trafalgar Square
At any time of day or night, tourists are welcome to stroll around Trafalgar Square. Simply taking a walk around the Square will bring you within touching distance of some well-known monuments. In the centre of Trafalgar Square, there are two stunning fountains, each illuminated by its own modern LED lighting system that can be set to any one of sixteen million colours.
It displays a lovely Christmas tree gifted by Norway, every year. Trafalgar Square is conveniently positioned at the beginning of The Mall close to the Charing Cross Underground Station, making it quite accessible. Rarely, is Trafalgar Square may close to the public for filming or photography.
Here are some ways to go there
Trafalgar Square is on bus routes 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 53, 87, 88, 91, 139, 159, 176, and 453, to name a few. The tube to Charing Cross Station can also easily take you to Trafalgar Square. Alternatively, you can take a taxi.
South Bank
Beside the River Thames, the South Bank is known as a dynamic area. The riverside walkway is lined with beautiful trees, historic pubs, and restaurants, and is the site of frequent events and fairs. The South Bank is not only a place to head to for iconic views, but it has also become a place for a family day out or a place to hang out with friends over a bite to eat.
Things to do in South Bank
You can visit the following places while you are in South Bank:
Vintage shopping at Flat Iron Square: The large vintage & flea market features live music and food trucks every Saturday and Sunday.
South Bank Beach: London’s Southbank is home to a beach that might not immediately come to mind as you think of the city. You can go to the beach without leaving London between May and September.
Garden Museum: The best views of this place are worth the price of the entry ticket, which grants access to a tower built in the 1400s.
Movie at BFI Imax**:** The BFI IMAX is the UK’s largest screen.
The Sea Life London Aquarium: A visit to Europe’s greatest collection of marine life from throughout the world is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Dinner with a beautiful view in The Oxo Tower**:** Dinner in this place is expensive but a breathtaking view is available from the Oxo Tower.
Besides all the places mentioned above, there are some other places to visit in South Bank which are: Lambeth Palace, Southbank Skatepark, The Vaults, Florence Nightingale Museum, Jubilee Gardens, Gabriel’s Wharf, Street Graffiti Tunnel, etc.
How to get there
Waterloo, Waterloo East, Charing Cross, and Blackfriars are the closest stations. Take the River Bus RB1 route, which leaves every 20 minutes during the week, and get off at the London Eye Pier. The Cultural Centre at South Bank can be reached most easily from South Brisbane Station. Taxis are found conveniently placed all across South Bank.
River Thames boat trip
The Thames River, also known as the ancient Tamesis, is England’s principal river. London’s most well-known river is the Thames. This 215-mile-long river has been used for centuries as a means of transportation, commerce, and leisure.
Things to do
From the luxury of the tour boat, you can take in sights like the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and The Shard, among many more. Some activities to do on the river Thames are Dragon boat racing, raft building, laser clay pigeon shooting, rowing experiences, and many more.
Cost of cruises of the Thames River
The price of a single transportation ticket can change according to where your journey begins and ends. The estimated ticket price for adults is £10.80, children between the ages of 5 and 15 pay £7.05, and children 4 and under get in free of charge. It will be better to purchase a River Pass if you intend to ride at least twice.
Piccadilly Circus
Located in the City of Westminster which is in London’s West End, Piccadilly Circus is both a major intersection and a public gathering place. It is one of the most popular streets in London. Established in 1819, it serves as a link between Regent Street and Piccadilly. The Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain and the statue of Anteros are two of the most recognized features of the Circus, together with the video display and neon advertising set on the corner building.
Photo by Sabrina Mazzeo on Unsplash
Things to do
If you’ve taken pictures at Piccadilly Circus in the daytime with your camera, come back at night to see the area come to life. If you want to take a walk at night, you can do so without fear. Piccadilly Circus is a popular destination after dark due to its lively nightlife. It’s like New York Times Square, except in London. Visitors to Piccadilly Circus who are fans of the Harry Potter films may feel amazed, as several surrounding places were used in the production of the films.
How to get there
You can use the Piccadilly or Bakerloo lines to get to Piccadilly Circus. Charing Cross Station is only 11 minute walk away.
Leicester Square
Many notable people have called Leicester Square home. The grounds have a permanent display of a statue of William Shakespeare in the middle, surrounded by statues of other notable figures such as Sir Isaac Newton and John Hunter.
Things to do
Leicester Square is designed to stimulate your senses with a variety of mediums, including movies, drama, food, and family favourites. This place is always busy whether it is during the day or night. There are numerous places to eat, stay, watch films, and shop along the square’s perimeter. Sit by the Eros statue and also take pictures in front of the gigantic, eye-catching television advertisements. Don’t forget to check Chinatown.
How to get there
The square lies near the many attractions of London’s West End, including Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street, Soho, and Covent Garden.
Buckingham palace
The royal residence and admirative headquarters of the British monarch are Buckingham Palace, which is located in London. The Queen lives there in the palace. This palace is frequently used as the focal point of state events and royal hospitality.
Photo by Mike Marrah on Unsplash
Things to do
Even if you don’t have time to schedule a tour of Buckingham Palace, you should still go see it from outside. The Changing of the Guard ritual is the main attraction there. Many sightseers are pleased to simply view the palace from the outside.
How to get there
Buckingham Palace is easily accessible from several different underground stations, bus routes & some other modes of transportation. The Hyde Park Corner, Green Park & Victoria are the closest stops on the Underground. There are stops on Buckingham Palace Road for the 11, 221, C1, and C10 buses.
Oxford Street
In the City of Westminster which is located in the West End of London, Oxford Street is a major road. When it comes to shopping, Oxford Street is the busiest street in all of Europe. Both Oxford Street and Regent Street are well-known for being prime shopping destinations in London. Every year, almost 200 million people visit this place, which has over 300 stores.
Things to do
The most popular activity on and around Oxford Street is shopping, of course. It is obligatory to indulge in some retail therapy and wardrobe updating while in this neighbourhood. Oxford Street is a 2 km long strip of high street stores and is the most famous shopping route in London. Shopping enthusiasts can locate their favourite stores, including H&M, Uniqlo, Zara, Schuh, and Urban Outfitters in and around Oxford Street. The main drawback is that the street itself, Oxford Street, can get rather busy with cars, taxis, and buses, making it less peaceful.
How to get there
There are several bus routes to Oxford and there are also some train lines that stop near Oxford Street.
