As the capital of England, London is the largest city in the United Kingdom. Its five international airports make it a popular vacation destination and it is recognized as the busiest place for visitors anywhere in the world. With haute couture, top-class entertainment and a rich history in the arts, there are many different popular places to visit in London.
There are four World Heritage Sites within the city that attract millions of tourists annually. The historic city of Greenwich is home to the Royal Observatory, which represents the place where the Greenwich meridian marks zero degrees of longitude. The majestic Tower of London sits on the banks of the River Thames and has been used for a number of different purposes over the centuries, including as a royal residence, a prison, and a Royal Mint. Kew Gardens is 121 hectares of Royal Botanical Gardens which celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2009. The final site is occupied by St Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster.
The Buckingham Palace series has been the official residence of the British Royal Family since 1837. The public is invited to tour the State Rooms every August and September. The soldiers who guard the royal palace are called the Queen’s Guard. The daily ceremony marking the changing of the guard takes place at 11am with much pomp and circumstance and attracts many spectators. A full military band accompanies the ceremony as the New Guard marches down the Mall to Buckingham Palace to replace the Old Guard.
Piccadilly Circus is located in the West End and marks the convergence of five main streets. This busy junction features a collection of electronic screens and billboards and is within walking distance of various shopping and entertainment areas including Chinatown, Soho, Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square.
As the largest square in London, Trafalgar Square has been a gathering place for residents and visitors since the Middle Ages. In addition to the many statues and fountains, the National Gallery is located on the northern border. Completed in 1838, the gallery houses many original paintings by masters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Renoir, Monet, and van Gogh.
The HMV Hammersmith Apollo is a major entertainment venue located in Hammersmith, London. You can see all the biggest names in music and comedy in this fabulous theater.
Getting around London is easy thanks to a robust public transport system that includes the famous double-decker buses, taxis and the London Underground. With so many restaurants, pubs, museums, and entertainment venues, there is plenty to do and see for people of all ages.
