London is considered one of the most interesting European cities, which is visited by about 10 million tourists per year, which approximately corresponds to its population.
Content:Guests of London are attracted by its centuries-old history and traditions, the architectural appearance and unique flavor of the city, cultural events and modern entertainment, which it offers in abundance and wide variety.
Ferris Wheel - London Eye
The capital of Foggy Albion is famous for its architectural ensembles and historical monuments, theaters and art galleries, museums of world significance and extensive parks. Here, each of you can find something for yourself that will be imprinted in your memory for the rest of your life and will constantly encourage you to return here at least once more.
London - briefly about the main thing
The largest metropolis of the British Isles, which is the capital of England and the entire United Kingdom of Great Britain and the North. Ireland (usually shortened to the United Kingdom in English), is located in the southeast of Great Britain at the mouth of the River Thames. Founded by the Romans back in 43.
Its modern name goes back to the word “Londinium” (that’s what the Romans called the city), the origin of which is not precisely established and has many different versions, the most popular of which are the following: from lat. sl. Lond (wild place), from the Celtic Llyndid (Llyn - lake, Dun - fortification) or from Londo (cruel, frantic). Many versions, however, agree that the name dates back to the pre-Roman period and was borrowed by the Romans from the local population.
Southwark Cathedral
As you can see, the history of London goes back almost 2 thousand years. During this time period, it was the capital of Britain, England, Great Britain, the British Empire, was the largest city in the world for about a century, experienced many fires, epidemics, the Great Depression, bombings of the 1st and 2nd World Wars, the Great Smog, numerous ups and downs economically and culturally. And here very special traditions and atmosphere have developed, which are now its most important distinguishing feature.
Today it is the main political, cultural and business center of Great Britain, in which the authorities and justice are concentrated, there are many churches, museums, theaters, galleries, etc. The city's economy accounts for about a quarter of the country's economy. London is considered one of the world's financial centers; it is one of the most important centers of international business life and an important international air transport hub.
Geographically, the city consists of 33 districts - the City, which is its business center, and another 32 administrative districts. Until 1889, only the City area was officially considered London, the outer boundaries of which had remained virtually unchanged since Roman times. Now London includes all 33 districts, further divided into Inner London (City plus 13 boroughs) and Outer London (the remaining 19).
Globus theatre
London - the capital of museums, theaters and fashion
Despite the fact that London is about 2 millennia old, not much evidence of such a venerable age has been preserved in its architecture: the city is practically devoid of ancient and medieval buildings, palaces and castles of the Renaissance. There are very few buildings built more than 4 centuries ago in the capital. And yet in London, in all its appearance, style and rhythm of life, you can feel its centuries-old history, commitment to tradition and national flavor more acutely than in any other metropolis in the world. All this makes it a desirable destination for travelers from different countries who come to see and visit museums, palaces, parks, squares, theaters and many other beautiful and interesting places in the British capital with their own eyes.
Sights and architectural monuments
- Most of London's listed buildings are located in Westminster. Tower, Greenwich architectural ensemble, Westminster Abbey, St. Margaret's Church, Palace of Westminster, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Gardens are classified as World Heritage Sites and are included in the UNESCO special list. In addition to them, in London we definitely recommend seeing Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Parliament, Windsor Castle, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Churches of St. Martin and St. Margaret, the Millennium Dome, and the Gherkin skyscraper.
Tower Bridge
- There are hundreds of museums and galleries in the capital of Foggy Albion - in London there are more than 300 interesting places with content that meets the most diverse tastes and interests. You can visit the British Museum, which is the most significant repository of archaeological finds; The Victoria and Albert Museum, which houses the largest collection of works of decorative and applied art; The National Gallery with one of the world's finest collections of paintings. As well as the Museum of the Moving Image (film and television museum), Madame Tussauds (wax museum), Natural Science Museum, Transport Museum, Sherlock Holmes Museum, Fire Museum or any other London museum, based on your own interests. In August and September, a significant part of the premises in Buckingham Palace is opened to visitors, and excursions around the buildings of Parliament and the Tower are constantly held.
- London theatres. This is a haven for theatergoers and a holiday for their sensitive souls: the Main Royal Theater Covent Garden, Her Majesty's Theatre, National Theater in South Bank, Globe, English National Opera, Albert Hall, Coliseum, etc. Mainly in the West End There are theaters famous for their musicals.
Tower of London
- Views of London and the most attractive places for walking. You can get aesthetic pleasure without visiting museums, theaters or galleries, just walking around the city and enjoying the views. London has a great many beautiful and world-famous streets, boulevards and squares. Visit Trafalgar Square, stroll along Piccadilly Circus, stop by Baker Street to visit Sherlock Holmes, browse the shops of Oxford Street, Bond Street or Knightsbridge, see Abbey Road, where the recording studios where Pink Floyd recorded are located, The Beatles and other legendary groups and performers.
If you love spending time outdoors, spend it in one of London's parks. The most famous and attractive of them are Lee Valley, Hyde Park, Green Park, St. James's, Greenwich Park, Regent's Park, Bushy Park, Richmond Park. In the western part of the capital are the extensive Kew Botanic Gardens. London Zoo and London Aquarium are of great interest to travelers.. It is also interesting to stroll through the pavilions of the Warner Brothers film studio, where you can, for example, see the scenery for the Harry Potter films.
To see London from different angles, take a ride on the London Eye and then take a stroll through the London Dungeons. This way you can get the most complete and varied impressions.
National Gallery
- One of the first associations that come to mind in connection with London for most people on the planet is London's rainy weather, smog and fog. Indeed, precipitation in this city is a common occurrence at any time of the year, and rain is the most frequent guest. This is greatly facilitated by London's temperate maritime climate and quite moderate temperature changes (in summer - 14-23 degrees, in winter - the average temperature is 4 degrees and does not very often fall below zero). Even winters here are usually damp and foggy. As for smog, in recent decades, thanks to the Clean Air Act adopted in the mid-20th century, the British capital has seen a very significant decrease in air pollution.
- London's public transport consists of bright red double-decker buses, which look very colorful on streets with old buildings of past centuries. And, of course, memorable black taxis - cabs. London public transport (trams, buses) operates around the clock, plus in addition to the 24-hour bus routes there are also night (extra) bus routes that repeat the routes of different metro lines (it is closed at night).
St Paul's Cathedral
- London ceremonies. The most popular London ceremony among travelers is the mesmerizing spectacle of the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. It is carried out exactly at 11.30 in the morning, from April to August - every day, the rest of the year - every other day. Also, every day, in the evening, at 21.50 you can observe the ritual of closing the Tower, called the Ceremony of the Keys. When you come to London in September, you can catch the Thames Festival, which includes a carnival, torchlight and costume processions, exhibitions, concerts, street theater performances, a gastronomic festival, fairs, acrobatic shows, fireworks, dancing, etc. The spectacle is simply enchanting.
- Shopping in London. Since the 19th century, this city has become one of several centers of world fashion, and unlike other fashion capitals, it became famous not for women's fashion, but for men's fashion. Brands such as Burberry, Paul Smith, Ben Sherman, Fred Perry and others have gained a high reputation and popularity throughout the world, annually attracting fashion lovers here for expensive, high-quality shopping or seasonal sales in outlets.
Buckingham Palace
- Pubs and restaurants. In terms of culinary delights, London has become famous for its cosmopolitanism: cuisine can be chosen to suit every taste (English, Eastern European, Indian, Chinese, Bangladeshi, Italian, French, Japanese, Middle Eastern, Caribbean, Russian, etc.), the culinary geography continues to expand. Prices are suitable for any budget: the most expensive restaurants are concentrated in Westminster, the most affordable and affordable are in Soho. There are quite a lot of vegetarian restaurants in London (some vegetarian dishes will be offered in any regular establishment). And, of course, let’s not forget about the famous London pubs, where many residents and guests of the city like to drink a pint or two of ale (beer) in the evening - it’s for them that lovers of this foamy drink come here from various countries.
Palace of Westminster
It is almost impossible to describe (or even just give a general idea) about all the sights and features of London in one material, as well as to visit them (learn, see) within the framework of one, even the longest and most intense tour.
Sights of London
|
British museum |
|
London attracts people with its unique architecture and beauty. The city of fogs is very popular among tourists from different parts of our planet. The Greenwich meridian passes through the capital of Great Britain. Here you can be in two parts of the world in just a few minutes. Only in this city does the bus cause a storm of emotions among tourists. After all, the red bus is already a symbol of Great Britain. We'll tell you about the popular attractions of London, what to see and where to go.
A nice bonus only for our readers - a discount coupon when paying for tours on the website until October 31:
- AF500guruturizma - promotional code for 500 rubles for tours from 40,000 rubles
- AFTA2000Guru - promotional code for 2,000 rubles. for tours to Thailand from 100,000 rubles.
- AF2000TGuruturizma - promotional code for 2,000 rubles. for tours to Tunisia from 100,000 rubles.
Big Ben
The huge clock tower towering over the Thames is a symbol of London. Many people believe that it is the one that bears the name “Big Ben”. However, in reality, Big Ben is a huge bell on a tower. In ancient times, bells were given names. So they named the symbol of London “Ben”, in honor of Benjamin Hall. They say that it was this man who supervised the installation of the huge bell.
Subsequently, the tower itself began to be called by this name. Although its real name is “Clock Tower of the Palace of Westminster”. The height of the structure reaches 96.3 meters. The clock on it is the largest in the world. There are 4 dials, which are turned to 4 cardinal directions. Big Ben's clock is the most accurate in the world. The huge bell will get cracked. As a result, his sound became distinctive.
The tower looks majestic and beautiful. In the dark, it all glows especially gorgeous. The area around the attraction is always crowded. In addition, there is heavy traffic here. On weekends the situation worsens. If you decide to visit this place, it is better to go on weekdays. You can get to Big Ben by taking the metro to Westminster station.
Or by bus to the Parliament Square stop. Tourists are not allowed to climb the tower itself. Since it is part of the Westminster complex, which belongs to a government institution. Only available to UK citizens. The excursion to Big Ben lasts about 1.5 hours. A ticket for an adult costs approximately 15 euros, for a child about 6 euros.
British museum
This is a collection of works of art from Ancient Greece, Rome, and Ancient Egypt. The works of masters from all over the world are stored here. Engravings, drawings, ethnography, coins and medals - all this can be seen in one of the largest museums in the world. The building took 24 years to construct. But during World War 2 the museum was partially destroyed. Therefore, many exhibits were taken from here. Restoring the structure and returning the works of art took many more years. In museums you can see wooden sarcophagi with animal mummies. Reliefs depicting scenes of battles and hunting evoke delight and grandeur.
Only in the British Museum is it possible to view sculptural portraits of the emperors Augustus and Hadrian. Numismatics lovers should definitely visit the hall with coins. And art lovers will be happy to see works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, Dürer, Raphael, Van Gogh and Rembrandt here. You can get to the museum by taking the tube to the Tottenham Court Road or Holborn stops. Or take a bus in this direction. Opening hours are from 10 to 17.30 every day.
On Friday, some departments are on duty until 20.30. Entrance to the museum is free. Guides who speak Russian work here. Nights at the Museum are very popular at the British Museum. They take place here 4 times a year. Each time a new topic is set. During such an excursion, you have the opportunity to listen to interesting stories all night. It is simply impossible to view all the exhibits at one time. There is a café and souvenir shop on the museum grounds.
Westminster
The House of Parliament, Westminster, is famous all over the world. This is a huge and beautiful complex located on the banks of the Thames. Its two famous towers, Big Ben and Victoria, reach high into the sky. The impressive size of the building amazes with its beauty. It feels the strength and power of Great Britain. Westminster was open only to British rule for many years.
Excursions to the House of Parliament were allowed only in 2004. Visitors are allowed here during the parliamentary recess from August 7 to September 16, and on Saturdays throughout the year. Inside the building you can see a royal gallery with paintings and sculptures, a royal wardrobe, and a chamber for disputes. The main attraction of the Houses of Parliament is Westminster Hall.
You can get to Westminster by metro to the station of the same name. The tour is free. It begins when a group of 16 people is recruited. Visiting hours at Parliament House are from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. On Saturday from 08.45 to 16.45 hours. To avoid queues, you can order tickets in advance online.
The cost of the tour is about 30 euros for adults. A child ticket can be purchased for 13 euros. Children under 5 years old have free entry. Discounts are available for students, pensioners, and groups of 10 or more people. If you want to save money, you can book an audio tour. Its price is 10 euros cheaper.
Sherlock Holmes Museum
The Museum of London's most famous Sir Mr. Sherlock Holmes (The Sherlock Holmes Museum) is located at 221B Baker Street in the Borough of Westminster. It is located in a very ordinary 4-story building. From a distance, the museum is not noticeable; it can only be recognized by its sign and the queues of tourists. At the bottom of the house-museum there is a gift shop. Above are the living room and bedroom of Sir himself.
On the third floor are the rooms of the mistress of the house, Mrs. Hudson and Dr. Watson. On the top floor there is an exhibition of wax figures. It consists of numerous detective heroes. Here you can meet Professor Mariarty himself, Irene Adler, the Hound of the Baskervilles or a corpse on the floor. There is a bathroom in the attic. Photography is allowed in the museum.
Visitors enjoy posing in front of the home of their favorite hero. Here you are allowed to sit in armchairs by the fireplace. And on a special table the props are always ready: Sherlock’s cap, a pipe and a magnifying glass. You can get to the museum by taking the subway to the Baker Street station. It's only a few minutes' walk away. The museum is open every day except Christmas holidays.
A ticket to it costs about 7 euros for an adult and 5 euros for a child. It is better to go here on an excursion in the morning. There are many people who want to see Sherlock Holmes's house. With a large crowd of people, it is quite difficult to move around the museum. And photographing anything is even more difficult. Opening hours are from 9.30 to 18.00.
Piccadilly street
Piccadilly is the most famous street in London. It is located in one of the oldest areas of the city - Westminster. The street is always quite busy, it is full of people, tourists and residents of the capital. Piccadilly Circus was named after tailor Robert Baker. He made his fortune sewing Piccadilly collars. Baker purchased land in the area and built a house called Piccadilly Hall. As a result, the streets were lined with rich mansions of wealthy people in London. Such houses began to be called “Piccadilly”. Here, even today, there are many clubhouses, the entry of which is prohibited to ordinary people.
Everyone who comes to the capital of Great Britain should take a walk along Piccadilly Circus. The street is huge, clean, with incredibly beautiful houses and shops. It's especially beautiful here in the evening. When London lights up, the mansions of Piccadilly flash with colorful lights. And boutiques cannot fail to attract attention. Shop windows here are carefully decorated. Every little thing, jar, and box attracts special attention. The square of the same name in Piccadilly is one of the favorite meeting places of the British. People often arrange dates or just friendly meetings here.
The well-known cafe “Royal” is located on the street. Creative people like to meet here: artists, writers, poets. Getting to Piccadilly is easy. The transport links here are one of the best in the world. Several major roads lead to it. The fastest way to get to the famous street is by metro to Piccadilly Circus or Green Park stations.
District City
The City of London is another one of the most ancient areas of London. It is located in the very center of the capital of England. The region has an amazing status; it is not subject to royal authority. The head of the City is its mayor. And, if someone from the royal power decides to come to this area, they can only do this with the permission of the head of the City. There are rules and laws here.
The City is officially the UK's smallest county. The district boundaries are separated by special posts. The population of the City is also the smallest, about 10,000 people. The area was founded by the Romans about 2000 years ago. At that time, Great Britain was still part of the Roman Empire. Many City streets follow the roads laid by the ancient Romans.
There is a large concentration of historical monuments in the area. Here are the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Royal Exchange, and Leadenhall Market. Old buildings in the City alternate with new buildings. Infrastructure development has not stopped here. There are many office towers in the area: Heron, Lloyd, Mary Ax 30, Walkey Talkie, Tower 42. The largest complex in the capital, the Barbican Center, was built here. The City's architecture is an incredible mixture of all centuries and styles.
A visit to this area is definitely worth it. There is no point in visiting the attraction on weekends or in the evening. It may happen that you will be alone on the entire street. The area is beautiful when there is activity all around. However, during peak hours the metro suffers from large crowds. Therefore, choose your visit time carefully. It is convenient to get to the area by metro. There are quite a few stations: Barbican, Tower Hill, Liverpool, Mansion House.
Tower
The Tower of London complex is located on the northern bank of the Thames. It is considered the best preserved building in Europe. In its entire long history, the Tower could not be taken by storm. The thickness of its walls reaches 4.5 meters. The castle has a difficult history. Royalty lived in the complex. Noble and rich people were also taken into custody here. The Tower was both a home and a prison at the same time. It contains traces of human tragedies and deaths.
The Tower is surrounded by myths and legends that are difficult to distinguish from the real history of the castle. The black raven is considered a symbol of trouble and misfortune in the complex. According to legend, he appears on the territory of the complex before any tragedy. The castle leads in the number of ghosts living in it. The British claim that the ghosts of royals who met death live here in the complex.
The Tower is fascinating and terrifying at the same time. A huge castle, which has repelled many enemies, rises above the Thames. It is especially beautiful at sunset. The roads within the complex are made of stone paving stones. Therefore, you should take care of comfortable shoes. There are many tourists in the Tower. Those with a London pass are allowed to skip the queue. And so, it is better to purchase tickets in advance. Opening hours of the complex from March to October: from 9 to 17.30 from Tuesday to Saturday.
From November to February the castle is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Sunday and Monday, the Tower welcomes tourists from 10 to 17.30, regardless of the season. During the Christmas holidays the castle is closed. A ticket for adults costs about 5 euros, for children - about 4. A family ticket costs about 15 euros. You can get to the castle by metro to Tower Hill station or by bus number 15, 42, 78, 100.
Tower Bridge
Another symbol of England, strict and beautiful at the same time, is the famous Tower Bridge. It captivates visitors at first sight with its impressive size and stunning architecture. The bridge was built in the 19th century, when London became an impressive commercial and industrial center. The two Gothic towers of the building perfectly convey the entire English spirit.
The bridge harmoniously combines with the nearby Tower. He becomes his continuation. Inside the bridge, between the towers, there is a museum. Previously, this was a pedestrian zone, but it was subsequently closed due to increased cases of theft in such a deserted place. The towers can be reached by stairs or elevator. You can also see the lifting mechanism. It is huge in size.
You can take photographs on the bridge. But metal structures and glass greatly hinder this. Therefore, most knowledgeable tourists do not climb the towers. Beautiful scenery can be seen from other bridges in London. In the gallery of the building there is an exhibition of photographs of various bridges around the world. There is also information about them here.
Tower Bridge is open every day from April to September from 10 to 18.30 hours. From October to March from 9.30 to 18.00 hours. A ticket for adults costs about 10 euros, for children - about 4. Children under 5 years old have free admission. Tower Bridge is located in the center of London, next to Tower Castle. Tower Hill metro stop or bus number 42, 100, 15, 78.
Globus theatre
The Globe is the very first theater in the capital of Great Britain. It was erected on the site where its predecessor was previously located. At the beginning of its history, the Globe was only a small square in the shape of a circle, surrounded by a fence. This building burned down completely. And the authorities built a house in its place. The new theater building was built a few meters from the old one. It was opened in 1997. The architects tried to make the theater as close as possible to the very first building.
Inside there are three tiers of balconies with seating. Near the stage you can enjoy the performances only while standing. The way poor people who did not have money for seat tickets watched performances in the old days. In principle, microphones and spotlights are not used in the Globe. To create an atmosphere similar to that of the old theater.
You can purchase tickets online or buy them in advance. Despite the fact that the Globus is not open in winter, excursions are still held there. The theater's opening hours are from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. Times change during the theater season. Admission for adults costs about 18 euros, for children - about 11. Children under 5 years old have free admission. You can get to the Globe by metro to the “Cannon” or “Mansion House” stops.
Theater Royal Covent Garden
Covent Garden in London is considered the largest opera house in Great Britain. It got its name in honor of the square where the theater was built. In 1808 the building burned down. But in just 9 months it was restored. To recoup the money spent on repairs, the authorities raised the price of tickets. However, after a 2-month boycott of the public and disruptions of performances, they gave up and were forced to reduce prices to the old level. Once again, the fire of 1986 destroyed Covent Garden for the second time. In this case, recovery took about two years.
There are two excursions to Covent Garden. The first is called “Behind the Scenes of the Theatre.” It introduces tourists to the everyday life of actors and preparations for new works. A ticket for adults costs about 14 euros, for children - about 10 euros, for students and pensioners - about 13 euros. The second excursion is called “Velvet, Gilding and Glamor”. It introduces travelers to the architecture and history of the building. A ticket for adults costs about 12 euros, for children - about 10 euros, for students and pensioners - about 9 euros. You can look at the interior of the theater, and at the same time enjoy the opera, from 18 to 217 euros. You can get to Covent Garden by bus numbers 9, 13, 15, 23, 139 and 153. Or to Covent Garden station by tube.
Trafalgar Square
The main square of the capital of Great Britain - Trafalgar Square - gathers city residents for all the major holidays of the country. She is named after the Trafalgar victory by Admiral Horatio Nelson. The monument to the admiral is located in the center of the square, surrounded by 6-meter lions. Each animal is a symbol of Nelson's victories in battle. You can also see a monument to Charles I here.
The British calculate distances from it. The monument is located in the central point of the capital. There are 4 pedestals at the 4 corners of the square. On the tops of 3 of them are monuments to George IV, General Napier and Henry Havelock. The surprising thing is that pedestal 4 was empty until 2005. Afterwards it was replaced by various sculptures, including living ones.
Until in 2010, a model of the Victoria ship was installed on the pedestal, where Admiral Nelson died heroically. One of the symbols of the square were pigeons. Over the years, thousands of birds have lived there. Until the authorities banned feeding them in 2007. Now there are almost no pigeons there. The square is located in the center of the capital at the crossroads of three streets: the Mall, the Strand and Whitehall. You can get there by bus No. 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 24 and many others. By metro you can get to the Charing Cross and Embankment stations.
Abbey Route
Abbey Route could well be called “the street where dreams come true.” Young people and creative people love to visit this place. The British gave it a second name, which sounds like “Home of Love and Art.” Fans of The Beatles, Pink Floyd and Duran Duran come here to see the place where their idols recorded their songs. Abbey Route is home to the world-famous Amy Recording Studio.
The most popular place on the street is the intersection, the image of which was captured on the last Beatles disc. All tourists take pictures here. Even drivers treat this with understanding, giving way. The zebra in this place is the only one in the world that has a webcam with live broadcast to the Internet.
The building at the junction of Abbey Road and Grove End Road is an unofficial monument to the Beatles. Here you can see a sign with the inscription: "Abbey Road NW8 City of Westminster". It was often stolen by fans of the group. Therefore, the sign had to be firmly mounted into the building at a fairly high altitude. The building near the inscription is painted every three months, but graffiti depicting “The Beatles” appears again and again. You can get to Abbey Route by metro to St. John's Wood." There is a bus stop nearby - Abbey Road Grove End Road. Walking along Abbey Route is free. But if you want to listen to information and interesting stories, you can purchase a ticket for a tour of the streets of London. Its cost is about 88 euros.
Westminster Abbey
The world-famous monastery - Westminster Abbey - is the main shrine of Great Britain. It is located next to the Palace of Westminster. British royals are crowned, married and buried here. This is a very large and beautiful building, made in the shape of a Latin cross. The monastery has two large towers and a huge variety of carved arches.
The rich interior is decorated with wonderful stained glass windows. Here you can see magnificent frescoes from the 12th century. The floor of the abbey amazes with its wonderful mosaics. Inside, the monastery looks more like a tomb. There are more than three thousand tombstones here. Among them, are the tombs of kings, monarchs and great men of the kingdom. Charles Dickens, Isaac Newton, Lord Byron, Charles Darwin, and Robert Burns found their peace in the abbey.
In the monastery there is a throne for coronation, which is called the “Stone of Destiny”. The abbey often hosts brass music concerts. Photography and filming are not allowed inside the cathedral. If you decide to visit the cathedral, you need to take care of your clothes. You will not be allowed in in shorts or short skirts. The Abbey also has a policy that pre-school children should not be brought in to avoid unnecessary noise. The monastery is located in the center of Westminster.
You can get there by metro to Westminster or St. James's Park." The abbey's opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9.30 to 15.30, Wednesday from 9.30 to 18.30, Saturday from 9.30 to 12.30. Entry costs around 23 euros for adults. For children, a ticket can be purchased for about 7 euros. Admission for children under 11 years of age is free.
Buckingham Palace
This palace differs from hundreds of similar monuments in that it is still a functioning royal residence. The palace originally belonged to the Duke of Buckingham, who later sold it to George III. Construction and decoration lasted for almost a century - and the ballroom was completed only by the middle of the nineteenth century. Over the years, the interiors of the palace have changed their decorations more than once, but only luxury has remained unchanged.
Not only the palace itself is a landmark, but also the traditions that “surround” it. For example, the changing of the guard, which is perhaps the most recognizable ceremony in the world. A visit to the state rooms will cost adults (over 17 years old) £24.00. Visiting the palace is possible starting at 09.30. But closing times vary. This usually happens around 18:00.
Kensington Palace
This is the most modest and comfortable of the modern royal residences of England. Today it belongs to the Prince and Princess of Cambridge. It is noteworthy that the mistresses of the palace are always women. Moreover, women who changed history. Once upon a time, it was under its arches that Queen Victoria was born, and a little later, the echo of Princess Diana’s steps began to echo through the spacious halls. But behind the seemingly inconspicuous façade hides paintings, unique interior items and historical rooms. Pay special attention to the tapestries and paintings on the ceilings and walls.
In the center of the palace - in the middle of living history - there is a stunning installation, which is rightfully considered a real miracle of scientific and technological thought. Of course, we are talking about Shining Lace - a light installation, for the creation of which not only 12 thousand Swarovski crystals were used, but also 4 kilometers of luminous wire. In summer (from March to October) the palace is open to the public from 10.00 to 18.00, in winter - until 16.00. Adult tickets cost up to £19.50.
St Paul's Cathedral
The highest point in London and also the largest Anglican church in Europe is the official residence of the local bishop. The building that you can see today is the fifth variation on a similar theme - the three previous ones were destroyed during fires, and the fourth was completely plundered by the Vikings. The dome of the cathedral is something that you simply cannot help but notice. It was not in the original plan, and therefore the designers needed all their ingenuity to organically weave into the project an exact copy of the dome of the main basilica of Rome.
St. Paul's Cathedral opens its doors to tourists at half past 9 am, and closes at half past 5. On Sundays the cathedral is open only to parishioners. Admission for adults (18 years and over) is £18, or £16 if you are part of a tour group. You can save up to £2 when you book your ticket online.
Oxford Street
Welcome to the busiest shopping street in Europe! Sooner or later, any guest of London is thrown into its orbit, which, however, is not surprising - several extremely popular tourist routes pass here, and the local pricing policy is such that a person of average income will leave here with a thousand rustling packages, but without significant damage to their budget . This area appeared on the city map in the sixteenth century, when a section of the old Roman road began to be built up with cheap houses.
This is how city slums appeared, which at first were the site of public executions, and then (after the introduction of a corresponding ban) the center of the trading life of middle-class craftsmen. Today there are more than 300 stores here. Don't try to look at everything - local policy is to place items at the door that best reflect the establishment.
Therefore, you can immediately understand whether this place is right for you or you can safely move on. Oxford Circus, Marble Arch and Bond Street - these tube stations open onto Oxford Street and are all literally overcrowded. Be especially careful when walking along Oxford Street - this London street breaks all records for petty theft.
Charles Dickens House Museum
Today it is the last surviving house where Charles and Catherine Dickens lived. At first glance, it becomes clear that this house is a stronghold of Victorian England - its spirit, life of the old school. The restorers did a great job to convey the mood of a lived-in, warm nineteenth-century house with a lovely living room, a long dining table, a magnificent four-poster bed, and a variety of kitchen utensils.
There is also the writer’s office with his personal belongings. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. This schedule continues all year round, except for December, when the museum is open seven days a week. Adult tickets cost £9.50.
Soho area
In Soho you can meet a contingent of completely different types: from students to marginalized people. This area lives up to its reputation as London's busiest place. Its appearance is associated with Henry VIII, a lover of women and hunting. It is believed that the name came from the hunting call "So-ho". The atmosphere of the area has developed historically - Soho has always been a kind of buffer zone between the aristocratic neighborhoods and the neighborhoods of the mob, and therefore mainly immigrants, people of creative professions and marginalized people settled here.
Today there are very few residential buildings here, and finding these inconspicuous courtyards is quite difficult. Mostly clubs, bars and sex shops are concentrated here. Soho is lively at any time of the day or night, so if at four in the morning you decide that the party is not over yet, feel free to head here. Soho is also worth a visit for gourmets - it has the most colorful selection of cuisines and restaurants in the world at fairly reasonable prices.
Skyscraper Mary Ax
The forty-story, fully glassed skyscraper Mary Ax was named after the street on which it stands, but its official name is the gherkin, that is, “gherkin.” Londoners named it this way because of the greenish tint of the glass and the corresponding shape. Against the backdrop of historical London, this skyscraper looks extremely futuristic. Innovative methods were used to create it. Thus, load-bearing structures made in the form of a grid were used, which made the building more economical in terms of maintenance.
And the abundance of glass solved three problems at once: the problem of ventilation, heat conservation, and lighting - after all, the building is literally filled with light during the daytime. The team of engineers received a number of prestigious European awards for the uniqueness of the project. The entrance to the tower is not open every day, but if you are lucky, access to the observation deck is free. On the last three floors there are cafes and restaurants.
Leadenhall Market
The oldest market in Foggy Albion does not lose its relevance. Back in the days of Londinium, as the Romans called it, there were trading areas here, and Leadenhall Market itself appeared on the map of the city in the fourteenth century to quickly become one of the fastest growing shopping centers in London. By the beginning of the nineteenth century, its significance could no longer be denied, and the city authorities announced a competition. The winner received the opportunity to bring their building design for Leadenhall to life.
As a result, we received a huge shopping pavilion with long galleries and a glass roof, decorated with hundreds of details. If you experience a vague feeling of déjà vu when you find yourself under the shadow of glass vaults, know that this feeling was completely justified - this is where “magical” London was filmed in the first part of the Harry Potter saga.
Skyscraper Shard
Shard has become one of the newest architectural landmarks of the capital. The construction of this glass pyramid was timed to coincide with the beginning of the 2012 Olympic Games. “Shard of Glass” fully lives up to its name - thousands of glass panels sparkle in the sunlight. Typically, tourists can enter the skyscraper building from 10 am to 6 pm from Sunday to Wednesday, from 10 am to 10 pm on other days, but such operating hours are variable.
It all depends on whether any events will be held, so before visiting the skyscraper, check the working hours for the current day. The full cost of visiting (for one day) is £32. You can go up to the observation deck (from the 68th to 72nd floors) and use the bar for free. If it is too cloudy at the time of your visit to prevent you from enjoying the view, you will have the right to claim your money back.
London National Gallery
One of the largest art galleries in the capital looks somewhat more modest than the Louvre, but it is more structured. Paintings from the twelfth to the twentieth centuries are exhibited here, with the focus being on representatives of schools exclusively in Western Europe. The gallery was opened at the beginning of the nineteenth century and has already managed to change its location.
The last move was forced - there were more and more paintings, and it was necessary to begin construction of a new building. Soon, the now well-known building by Wilkins appeared on the northern end of Trafalgar Square. The halls contain more than two thousand exhibits, and therefore it will be almost impossible to see everything in a day.
It’s better to decide right away whether you want to get to know Van Dyck, one of the titans of English classical painting, or whether you’ll be interested in Van Gogh’s paintings. If you wish, you can listen to audio lectures or ask the museum staff for more information. The gallery is open from 10am to 6pm daily. On Fridays it closes at 21.00. The entrance is free.
Madame Tussauds museum
Marie Tussaud was able to brilliantly put into practice the knowledge she acquired while her mother worked as a housekeeper for Philip Curtis, a recognized wax figure master. At first, Tussaud traveled with her silent companions around the cities, and then decided to settle in London. She originally opened her museum on Baker Street, but then moved it to Marylebone Street, where it remains today. Since its opening, the museum has not changed its concept.
Rising stars of our time appear in collections immediately, but also quickly disappear if the glory of the real prototype begins to fade. The Fab Four, Star Wars characters, Benedict Cumberbatch and Marilyn Monroe coexist quite comfortably with politicians and kings. Modern technologies make it possible to make figures a little more alive.
So, Jennifer Lopez blushes adorably. The museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm on weekdays. On weekends it opens at 9. A standard ticket will cost you £35 if you buy it at the box office, and £29 if you buy it online.
The London Dungeon is a historical museum located deep underground. Medieval instruments of torture are collected here, which continue to inspire horror. The museum opened at the end of the twentieth century. The first batch of history's most terrifying humans and non-humans left a lasting impression on audiences. Since that moment, little has changed - thanks to the improvement of the technical base, the museum continues to make its guests tremble with fear.
In addition to torture instruments, the modern exhibition includes “live performances.” You will be able to see with your own eyes how ugly and unsightly some of the realities of medieval London were: the fire of 1666, the plague, wars. And you will find yourself in the very epicenter of events!
On Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays the museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm. On Thursdays, tours begin at 11 am. On Saturdays the last tour starts at 6 pm, and on Sundays at 5. You can order tickets directly on the website. Starting price: £21.
British Tate Gallery
The gallery is based on the personal collections of Sir Henry Tait, who owned one of the world's largest collections of English art from the sixteenth to the twentieth centuries. It is noteworthy that the opening of the gallery became possible only due to the fact that Henry Tate is the creator of cotton candy, and the expected popularity of this delicacy made him a very wealthy man.
Gradually, the collections grew so large that it became necessary to divide them: works from the classical period remained in the old premises in Trafalgar Square, while contemporary art moved to the new premises on the banks of the Thames.
Today, the old power station, where the galleries are located, has become an iconic tourist destination. Entry to the gallery is free. Tickets will only be purchased for special exhibitions. From Sunday to Thursday the gallery is open from 10 am to 10 pm. On Fridays and Saturdays – until 18.00.
Hyde Park
This park usually has a rather lively atmosphere. Everyone is well aware of such a national British trait as restraint, and they have probably heard at least once the expression “stiff upper lip.” The faces of these people will not waver, no matter what happens! This doesn't apply to two things - football and Hyde Park. As you know, English fans are some of the most fierce in the world, and as for Hyde Park, there is the so-called Speakers' Corner, where anyone can climb up to the podium and speak on any topic.
There are only three prohibitions: microphones, calls for violence and obscene language. Therefore, do not deny yourself the pleasure of joining the flow of sincerity. The park itself has the appearance of a typical, slightly careless English park - imposing and picturesque. No French symmetry - just calm and relative riot of nature.
In the very center of the park is Lake Serpentine - people often walk barefoot on its shores, and swimming in the lake itself is not prohibited. Nearby there is a small contemporary art gallery of the same name. The park is open daily from 5 am until midnight.
The London Eye (or Millennium Wheel) was built in London to mark the start of the millennium celebrations. By the time construction was completed, it was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, however, today this status has passed to a similar structure, but in Singapore. The Ferris wheel has a total of 32 transparent cabins, each of which can simultaneously accommodate up to 25 people.
You can also choose a cabin for two and enjoy a unique romantic walk. The opening times of the London Eye vary quite a bit throughout the year, but generally it opens at 10am and closes between 6 and half 9pm. Adult tickets cost £25.20. When ordering tickets online you can save up to 15% of the amount.
Thames
The Thames is not just another river. English monarchs built their palaces on its banks in order to quickly get home. It was this waterway that made London one of the largest port cities in Europe. The Thames has become a source of inspiration more than once. Thus, the amazing impressionist Claude Monet created a whole series of landscapes on a similar theme. The English painter William Turner did not lag behind him. It was along the Thames that three well-known people traveled with their dog, and Dickens’s characters often strolled along its banks.
It's time for you to enjoy the beauty of this glorious river. Buy a ticket for one of the ferries plying the waterway and try to feel the majesty of the bridges (Tower, London, Waterloo and others), take a different angle at the most striking London attractions: the Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, St. Paul's Cathedral and a lot others.
St Pancras Station
After restoration in 2007, the Sant Parnassus station, located right in the city center, quite confidently began to compete with other attractions that claimed the title of the most romantic place in the city. The building in which the station is located was built in the Victorian era and has fully retained its charm.
This is a kind of “matryoshka”, because the station itself is located in an arched landing stage, and around it a building in the neo-Gothic style was built, in which the hotel was located. True, today under the arches of the station there is not a trace left of the nineteenth century - only naked modernity. Trains to the mainland run from Saint-Parnasse Station.
Today, it takes about two hours to get from Paris to London. King's Cross (famous among fans of the Harry Potter universe) and St. Parnassus stations are united due to the presence of a London Underground station, whose name organically combines the names of the stations.
Wembley Stadium
London Wembley is one of the largest sports venues in the world. It was built on the site of a truly legendary arena in 1923. However, the new stadium turned out to be a worthy successor – it amazes with its size and level of technical equipment. Even on the approaches to the stadium, an elegant arch, which serves as a load-bearing arch, catches your eye. It supports the roof, which “opens” with three petals. Even if you are not a football fan, you won’t be able to remain indifferent.
In addition, Wembley has more than once become the stage for world-famous stars. Today, stadium tours are offered especially for London guests. A basic ticket costs £19. The tour schedule is flexible. It depends not only on the type of ticket you purchased, but also on current events. On average, tours start at 10 am. The last round, as a rule, finds its audience by 2 o'clock in the afternoon.
Harrods department store
The most fashionable department store in London, unfortunately, is not affordable for most guests, but a walk through it is quite comparable to a trip to a museum, because the luxury and aristocracy that the interior literally screams about is reminiscent of the decoration of royal residences. However, this is not far from the truth. Since the first third of the nineteenth century, Oscar Wilde, Princess Diana, Sigmund Freud, Elton John, Madonna and others were regular clients of this department store.
However, Harrods has something besides design and brands - fashion shows, festivals and cooking shows are regularly held here. Be sure to come here at Christmas - the extravaganza of the action taking place here is difficult to compare with anything else. The department store is open from 10 am to 8 pm on all days except Sunday. On Sundays it opens at half past 12 and closes at 6 pm.
Portobello Flea Market
Portobello Road is considered one of the most popular market streets in the world. It crosses the Notting Hill area horizontally, meaning that more than three kilometers of open stalls, shops, stalls and street vendors await its guests. But this is not how he managed to win his name. The real Portobello begins on Saturday, when sellers and antique connoisseurs gather here.
The local antiques market is the largest in the world. It is noteworthy that three centuries ago there was a farm on this site, which bore the very poetic name Portobello, which symbolized the victory over the Spanish city of the same name.
In the Victorian era, this area was built up with small houses - blue, red, lilac - and the urban landscape gradually began to take shape. Today you can wander around the market for hours. Here you can find everything from faded Rolling Stones concert tickets to Meissen porcelain.
Brick Lane Flea Market
Fans of shopping often ignore the presence in London of truly colorful street markets that dictate their own fashion trends. And Brick Lane Market is one of them. The street where the market is located is part of the Bangladeshi community, which was once a Jewish ghetto. Such historical realities left their mark on the appearance of this place.
During the rise of the mighty British Empire, London became practically the center of the world. The fabulous capital and resources flowing into the metropolis from numerous overseas colonies have made the capital of Great Britain a rich, arrogant and brilliant city, stuffed with architectural masterpieces, magnificent concert halls and fashionable shops.
London is a desirable destination not only for countless immigrants, but also for tourists from all over the world. The city's lush Victorian neighborhoods, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey are among the world's most visited attractions. Michelin-starred restaurants and fashionable clubs in London's Soho district attract the most sophisticated, progressive, elite crowd.
The best hotels and inns at affordable prices.
from 500 rubles/day
What to see and where to go in London?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.
A swing bridge over the River Thames, designed by the architect H. Jones and built at the end of the 19th century. The structure consists of two powerful “Gothic” towers 64 meters high, connected by galleries and hanging spans. Tower Bridge is one of the most recognizable symbols of the capital of Great Britain, although Londoners initially considered it ugly and ridiculous. There is a museum on the top floor of one of the galleries.
Another recognizable city symbol. Big Ben is the nickname given to the bell of the famous clock tower on the grounds of the Palace of Westminster; more often this is the name given to the entire tower along with the famous clock dial. The tower was built by the architect O. Pugin in 1859; the height of the structure reaches 96 meters. Since 2012, Big Ben has been officially renamed the Elizabeth Tower in honor of the reigning queen.
The fortress, located on the northern bank of the Thames, is more than 900 years old. The Tower is known as a prison for nobles and royal prisoners. From time to time it became the residence of monarchs. At various times, the famous humanist Thomas More, the wives of Henry VIII Catherine Howard and Anne Boleyn, the “bloody” Queen Mary Tudor and many others were prisoners of the castle. Only in the middle of the 20th century did the Tower cease to serve as a prison.
The Royal Palace, the official residence of the ruling dynasty in London. The building has about 800 rooms, around a perimeter of 20 hectares there is a whole “city” for the internal use of the royals: a hospital, a police station, a post office, a restaurant. The palace was built for the Duke of Buckingham in the 18th century, but was purchased by King George III. It became the official residence after Queen Victoria came to the throne.
The place where the British Parliament has met since the 16th century. Until 1530 it was the royal residence (until Henry VIII moved to Whitehall). The palace stands on the banks of the Thames in the heart of the capital. Since the 11th century, English kings have settled here. Over many centuries, the façade of the building was rebuilt, updated, and new buildings were added. The last reconstruction was carried out in the middle of the 19th century after a fire. Tourists can only get inside during the summer parliamentary recess.
Another royal residence, the smallest of all the palaces belonging to the ruling family. The building was built in the 17th century. for the Earl of Nottingham, but King William of Orange bought it and made it his summer country estate. Kensington Palace (more of a mansion compared to other royal palaces) is located in one of the western boroughs of London. Nowadays, the families of the Duke of Kent and Gloucester live there.
The main church of Great Britain, not only an important religious center, but also the coronation and burial place of British monarchs. The abbey was founded by Edward the Confessor at the beginning of the 11th century, and acquired its modern appearance in the 15th century. Since Harold II, all the kings of Great Britain have been crowned here. The abbey is open to tourists and often hosts classical music concerts and exhibitions.
The Anglican Church standing on Ludgate Hill. Since the early Middle Ages, Christian churches have been built in this place. The last Catholic cathedral fell into disrepair after the reforms of Henry VIII, leaving only ruins on the hilltop. In the 17th century Construction began on a completely new cathedral designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Many iconic figures of British history are buried in the temple: W. Churchill, Admiral Nelson, A. Fleming and others.
The famous square in central London, a favorite symbol of the city among tourists and the place where the British “zero kilometer” passes. Numerous holidays and festivals are held here; in winter, the country's main Christmas tree is erected. The square appeared in 1820 on the site of the old Whitehall stables. The place is named after the British victory in 1805 at the naval battle off Cape Trafalgar.
One of London's most famous shopping streets. More than 100 million people visit it annually. First of all, visiting the street is interesting for everyone who follows fashion and loves shopping. In a relatively small space (Oxford Street is only 2.4 km long) there are more than 500 stores, including boutiques of world brands, large family supermarkets and stores with mass market goods.
The street got its name from the lace collars that Robert Baker sold. Previously it was called Portuguese. Piccadilly is known for the fact that for more than 300 years the richest and noblest representatives of the world “elite” have settled here: bankers, stars, members of powerful financial clans. The most expensive and luxurious mansions, hotels and apartments are located here.
The street gained popularity due to the fact that part of it was immortalized on the cover of the Beatles record (the album was called “Abbey Road”). A recording company was also located here, where the famous group recorded their songs. Decades later, fans continue their pilgrimage to Abbey Road. Beatlemaniacs are breathlessly photographed in “the very place” depicted on the cover.
A structure made of metal and glass structures in the modern center of London, shaped like a cucumber (there is also such a tower in Barcelona). The building is used as the headquarters of the Swiss company Swiss Reinsurance. The tower was built from 2001 to 2004. designed by the architect Sir N. Foster. 400 million dollars were spent on construction. The height of the structure reaches 180 meters and contains 40 floors.
A high-rise building built for the opening of the 2012 Olympic Games. The structure is a glass pyramid resembling a piece of ice 310 meters high (72 floors). Inside there are offices, hotels, recreation areas, and private apartments. Tourists strive to get into the skyscraper to the observation deck located at the 70th floor level, from where they can admire London lying in full view.
The main historical and archaeological museum of the country, one of the largest in the world. The building has about 100 exhibition halls, where exhibits are presented from all over the world - former colonies of the British Empire. There are also ancient Egyptian and antique artifacts. Many countries are demanding that the exhibits be returned to their homeland, as it is believed that they got to the British Museum in a less than honest manner.
The largest museum in the country, where more than 2,000 examples of Western European painting are exhibited, dating back to the 12th century. The gallery was created in 1839, and since then the collection has been constantly updated. Like many similar places, the museum cannot be visited in one visit; you will need to return to it several times to look at all the exhibitions. You can also listen to audiobooks and lectures about art at the London Gallery.
A branch of the most famous wax museum in the world (it has branches in Amsterdam, Hong Kong, New York, Copenhagen). Marie Tussaud inherited wax figures from her teacher Curtis and gradually added new characters to the collection. Until 1835, she toured throughout England like circus performers, then opened a permanent exhibition at the insistence of her sons.
House-museum of the popular detective at 221b Baker Street. It was here, according to the idea of the writer Arthur Conan Doyle, that Sherlock Holmes and his assistant Dr. Watson rented rooms. The building was purchased by a society of fans of this literary work. The museum opened relatively recently - in 1990. The rooms have a recreated environment that exactly matches the author’s description by A.K. Doyle.
A gallery of contemporary art that attracts millions of tourists every year. It is considered one of the largest in the world. The collection consists of works from the period of the early 20th century. to this day. The modern building opened to visitors in 2000. It consists of seven floors, each of which has its own exhibition. The museum is housed in a converted former power plant building.
One of the most prestigious opera venues, where the best performers and orchestras strive to attend. Before the construction of the modern building in 1858, there were two theaters on this site, which burned down in fires. Previously, all theatrical genres were staged at Covent Garden, but later it began to specialize only in musical performances: operas, oratorios, ballets, concerts.
A concert hall reminiscent of the Roman Colosseum, where events ranging from musicals and awards ceremonies to charity receptions are held. The hall was erected in the period 1867-1871. designed by Prince Albert. To recoup the construction costs, the creators sold tickets to future events, which gave them the right to visit the Albert Hall for 999 years. Some people still go to the hall using these tickets.
The theater, created with the participation of the great playwright W. Shakespeare at the end of the 16th century. Almost all of the author’s works were staged here, but the building lasted only 14 years and was destroyed by fire. The newly rebuilt theater existed until 1642 (then the troupe was disbanded by order of the Puritan government, and two years later the building itself was demolished). The modern “Globe” is a reconstruction based on fragments found during excavations.
A city park where it is always crowded and lively. Tourists flock here to see with their own eyes the personification of democracy, “Speakers’ Corner,” where everyone can express any thoughts. True, you can’t use microphones, so you’ll have to strain your larynx. Hyde Park is a typical English landscaped park with fountains, shaped trees and neat lawns.
One of the largest attractions of this type in Europe. The height of the structure is 136 m, which approximately corresponds to a 45-story building. The wheel is installed on the banks of the Thames, overlooking the whole of London. Passengers can stay in one of 32 enclosed capsule cabins, which symbolize 32 city districts. A full revolution is completed in half an hour. The attraction opened in 1999.
The river artery of the capital, crossing the entire city and passing through its central part. Perhaps this is one of the most popular rivers in the world, passing within the city. Largely thanks to the possibility of navigation along the Thames, London began to develop as an industrial and, later, financial center. Even during the Roman Empire, there was a port here. The Thames is an attraction in its own right, visited by millions of tourists.
Railway junction in central London. It was built by the architect W. Henry in the 19th century. The station building is a typical example of the neo-Gothic style characteristic of the Victorian era. Trains arrive here from continental Europe and neighboring counties. A single architectural ensemble of red brick, together with the station, makes up the five-star Renaissance Hotel.
A well-known and even legendary stadium among football fans, a symbol of England football. Its gates first opened under King George V in 1923, and in the same year the FA Cup was played at the stadium. By the 60s. In the 20th century, Wembley became the country's main football arena. In addition to games, concerts by Madonna, Michael Jackson, Metallica, Oasis, AC/DC and other world stars took place here.
A real “mecca” for fashion lovers and shopaholics, it is one of the three most visited London attractions. Harrods occupies 18,000 m² and has 300 stores selling everything under the sun. Here shopping is taken to its highest level. The building itself is distinguished by the luxury of its interior decoration and monumental architectural forms.
Located in Notting Hill (West London). Here, antique items are in ruins, shops with second-hand clothes coexist with expensive boutiques. At the market you can buy unusual clothes, vintage interior items and furniture, and interesting handmade souvenirs. Many people come here not for shopping, but for the special atmosphere of antiquity, history and strong traditions.
Symbols of the British capital that are recognizable throughout the world. Previously, the booths were used for their intended purpose, but with the invention of mobile communications they became simply cultural objects (some housed mini-libraries). The red bus became the prototype for the tourist bus in almost all the world's capitals; its model was invented in Britain in 1956.
It is unlikely that anyone will argue with the fact that London is one of the main tourist destinations in the world. According to official statistics, London attracts more than 15 million visitors a year. The British capital is a vibrant hub of art, entertainment, music and numerous monuments. The British are rightfully proud of the huge concentration of cultural attractions in London. From royal palaces to the Houses of Parliament, Roman ruins, castles and cathedrals, you can spend many days exploring London's landmarks and always find something new and interesting. The capital of England and the United Kingdom is also the most populous city in the UK with over 9 million residents. London's history dates back more than 2,000 years, when the Romans first founded the ancient city of Londinium here. Numerous tourists come here throughout the year, and if you plan to be one of them, here is a list of the top 17 London attractions for the active traveler.
British museum
Located in the Bloomsbury area, the British Museum is dedicated to human history and culture. Its permanent collection numbers approximately 8 million works - one of the largest and most comprehensive exhibitions in the world, covering the history of every continent. The British Museum illustrates and documents the history of human culture from its beginnings to the present day. Visiting the museum is free, but sometimes there are short queues. 
Palace of Westminster
The Palace of Westminster (more commonly known as the House of Commons and House of Lords) is the Houses of Parliament in the United Kingdom. The history of the House of Commons and the House of Lords spans more than 900 years, from the times of the Anglo-Saxons to the present day. The current building was built in the 19th century, restored after a fire in the magnificent tradition of Victorian neo-Gothic architecture. The exterior of the Palace of Westminster is decorated with Big Ben, the legendary clock tower on the banks of the River Thames. This London landmark Recognized all over the world and one of the most visited places in London. 
Tate Modern
Tate Modern is the British national gallery of international contemporary art. It is part of the Tate Group (along with Tate Britain, Tate Liverpool, Tate St Ives and Tate Online). Tate Modern is the most visited contemporary art gallery in the world, with 4.7 million visitors a year. Visiting Tate Modern is completely free, with the exception of some special exhibitions. 
Tower of London
The Tower of London is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London. This famous landmark is located in London's Tower Hamlets, separated from the eastern edge of London City Square by the open space of Tower Hill. The Tower was founded towards the end of 1066 to commemorate the Norman conquest of England. In general, it is a complex of several buildings in two rings of protective walls and a moat. The Tower of London played a very important role in English history. 
Madame Tussauds museum
Madame Tussauds is a wax museum in London with branches in many major cities on four continents. It was founded by wax sculptor Marie Tussaud, becoming one of the main attractions in London. Wax figures of historical and royal figures, movie stars, sports stars and even notorious murderers are on display here.
Science Museum
The Science Museum is the largest museum on Exhibition Road in South Kensington. It was founded in 1857 and today is one of the city's most visited sites, attracting 3.3 million visitors annually. Here you can experience the main scientific achievements of the past 300 years, as well as visit the stunning IMAX cinema. Entrance to the Museum of Science is absolutely free. 
Natural History Museum
The museum is entirely dedicated to earth science and includes approximately 80 million artifacts in five main groups: botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology and zoology. The Natural History Museum is a world-renowned research center specializing in the taxonomy, identification and conservation of the earth's riches. Considering the age of the institution, many of the exhibits have great historical as well as scientific significance. Some specimens were collected by Charles Darwin himself. Like all other museums in London, the Natural History Museum does not require any entrance fee. 
"London Eye"
A modern, but already very popular landmark of London is the London Eye - a giant Ferris wheel located in Jubilee Gardens on the South Bank of the Thames. The 135 meter tall Ferris Wheel was created in honor of London's millennium. On a clear day, visibility from the summit is 40 kilometers. 
Victoria and Albert Museum
London's Victoria and Albert Museum is the world's largest museum of decorative arts and design, with a permanent collection of over 4.5 million objects. It was founded in 1852 and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Permission to the V&A is free except for special exhibitions and events. 
National Gallery
The National Gallery is an art museum in Trafalgar Square in London, founded in 1824. It houses the national collection of art in the Western European tradition from the 13th to the 19th centuries. It is one of the most visited museums in the world, after the Paris Louvre, the British Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is a large city square founded in honor of Lord Horatio Nelson's victory over Napoleon's navy at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The central monument of the square is a tall pillar with the figure of Nelson contemplating London. His monument is surrounded by four lions and a series of large fountains. This London landmark takes its name from the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory during the Napoleonic Wars that took place on October 21, 1805, off the coast of Cape Trafalgar. 
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is a large Gothic church in the city of Westminster, near the Palace of Westminster. Westminster Abbey has existed for over a thousand years. Benedictine monks first settled the site in the mid-tenth century, establishing a tradition of daily worship that continues to this day. In 1066 the church became a coronation venue and is the burial place of seventeen monarchs. The existing structure was built by Henry III in 1245 and became one of the most important Gothic buildings. Visiting Westminster Abbey is free. 
Buckingham Palace
This is the London residence and main workplace of the Queen of Great Britain. Located in the city of Westminster, the palace is the venue for official ceremonies and a symbol of royal hospitality. Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of British sovereigns since 1837, and although used for many official events and receptions, the Palace's State Rooms are open to visitors throughout the year. 
Hampton Court
Hampton Court is one of the most famous palaces in Europe. Its Grand Hall dates back to the reign of Henry VIII. This is the place where Elizabeth I learned of the defeat of the Spanish Armada. Other highlights include the Clock Hall with its spectacular 1540 astronomical clock, the Chapel, the Royal Chambers and the Tudor tennis court. The Hampton Gardens are also worth a visit, especially in mid-May when they are in full bloom. The Garden Complex includes the Secret Garden, Lakes, Elizabethan Garden, Wilderness and the famous Palace Labyrinth. 
Piccadilly Circus
London's two most famous tourist squares are located not far from each other. Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus are popular for attractions such as Soho Locks, the London Theater and the Entertainment District. Piccadilly Circus is the intersection of several busy streets - Piccadilly, Regent Street, Haymarket, and Shaftesbury Avenue. This vibrant site is home to London's most famous sculpture, the Winged Eros, a gracefully balanced masterpiece of art. 
Covent Garden
Covent Garden's indoor markets are just the beginning of a larger complex that spans the shops and restaurants of Long Acre with its neighboring streets, as well as Central Square with its street performers. The halls and galleries of Covent Garden Market, with their specialist shops and stalls, attract a lot of tourists. They sell absolutely everything, from beautiful handicrafts to small souvenirs. Housed in a former flower market, you will find the London Transport Museum with historical exhibits - vintage cars, trams and buses. This area is also home to the Royal Opera House, another famous London landmark. 
Greenwich and Docklands
For centuries Greenwich and the Docklands were the main base of the British navy. ----Greenwich is best known to tourists as the home of the Cutty Sark----. It is also home to the Greenwich Visitor Center with its exhibitions showcasing more than 500 years of maritime history and the Pallas Athena-style mansion known as the Queen's House. The impressive exhibits at the National Maritime Museum, the largest museum of its kind in the world, illustrate the history of the Royal Navy. The lively Docklands is located on the other side of the river. It has been transformed into an international business district and filled with some of London's finest restaurants. The excellent Docklands Museum, set in old Georgian warehouses, is dedicated to the river port and its history since Roman times. Interactive information displays are especially interesting for children. 
Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is officially called the Royal Botanic Gardens. It is located in southwest London on the south bank of the Thames. This is a wonderful place to spend time enjoying the numerous plants on an impressive 300 acres. Founded in 1759, the gardens became a government park in 1841. In 1897, Queen Victoria added the Queen's House and surrounding woodland. Many park tours are completely free, and Kew Gardens hosts numerous concerts and cultural events throughout the year. 
Churchill's War Rooms
Among London's most fascinating historical sites is the perfectly preserved command center from which Prime Minister Winston Churchill led Britain's military campaigns during the Second World War. Their spartan simplicity and limited conditions highlight the difficulties England experienced as Nazi power spread throughout Europe. Here you will see the tiny room where Churchill slept and the makeshift radio room where he broadcast his famous war speeches. Numerous simple details, such as Clementine Churchill's yarn and marked maps of Europe, create an indescribable atmosphere. 
One of the most visited cities in the world has something for everyone, so don't miss the chance to visit England's capital at least once in your life to experience all that London has to offer.
London Attractions attract many tourists. The capital of Great Britain is located in its southeast, at the mouth of the Thames River. The city, with a population of over 8 million, is one of the largest in the world. It is one of the leading financial centers on the planet.
Piccadilly Circus, 1946
City `s history
Starting point history of the creation of the city of London It is generally accepted that it appeared in 43 AD. e. Romans in the British Isles. At the end of the 1st century. The Roman trading settlement acquired a fortress wall, beyond which the city did not cross for a whole millennium. With the fall of the Roman Empire, London also experienced desolation. Then North German tribes began to move here - Angles, Saxons, Jutes, Frisians, who gradually suppressed the resistance of the local Celtic tribes of the Britons. The first signs of revival were noted at the beginning of the 7th century. Over the next few centuries, the city was alternately ruled by the Normans (Vikings) and the Anglo-Saxons.
In 1066, the army of the Duke of Normandy, William the Conqueror, landed on the British Isles. Having defeated the Anglo-Saxons at the Battle of Hastings, he was crowned the first English king in London's new building, Westminster Abbey. Then a royal residence was built in the city, later called the Tower, the Palace of Westminster and a stone bridge. Over the next few centuries, the Anglo-Saxons and Normans (not to be confused with the Normans) merged into a single English nation.
Piccadilly Circus, 1972
During the Middle Ages, London survived a brief French invasion, a plague in 1348 that wiped out half the population, and the sack of rebellious peasants led by Wat Tyler. The decline was interrupted in the 16th century. This was facilitated by the defeat of rivals at sea - Antwerp, and especially Spain, whose “Great Armada” was defeated by the British in 1588. The country became the mistress of the seas.
The next blow to the city was dealt by a huge fire in 1666, which destroyed many medieval buildings. Burnt Cathedral of St. St. Paul's was restored at the beginning of the 18th century, then iconic buildings were erected - Westminster Bridge and Buckingham Palace. The railway, the first subway (in 1863) and, especially, the sewerage system (in 1865), which put an end to cholera outbreaks, gave a new impetus to the development of the city. Industrialization turned London into a major industrial center, and the population exceeded the million mark.
The Victorian era (most of the 19th century) was the heyday of London. It was intensively built up, and the population reached 6 million. But many buildings were destroyed by German bombing at the beginning of World War II. The post-war period is characterized by large immigration from the former colonies of the British Empire. And already in the 21st century. Several ultra-modern structures were built in the city, which will be discussed below.
Main Historical and Archaeological Museum of the British Empire
London Attractions
TO main classical architectural and historical landmarks of London relate.
- Westminster.
- Tower.
- Cathedral of St. Pavel.
- British museum.
Tomb of Elizabeth I
Westminster
This historic area is the political center of Great Britain. Here are located the most interesting sights in London:
- royal residence - Buckingham Palace;
- parliament sitting in the Palace of Westminster;
- Westminster Abbey;
- Trafalgar Square.
You can start exploring the area's iconic places by taking the London Underground to the St James Park stop.
The parade of the Horse Guards and the colorful ceremony of changing the guard takes place daily from 11 a.m. They were observed by almost everyone who visited London. But few of them saw the luxurious interiors of the palace. Collections of paintings from the royal collection are exhibited in the Gallery of the same name during the Queen's holidays in August and September from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Ticket price: 16.5 GBP (pound sterling).
The symbol of London is the Palace of Westminster with the Big Ben bell tower. It was successfully recreated in the 19th century. instead of the original building, which burned down in the Great Fire of 1666. On the opposite side, the palace is crowned by the Victoria Tower, through the gates of which the queen passes to deliver the throne speech in parliament. Other traditions are also respected. Thus, the Lord Chancellor still sits on a woolsack, and parliamentarians who address the Speaker must wear hats. The easiest way to get to the Palace of Westminster is by tube, getting off at Westminster or Victoria stations.
Cathedral Church of St. Petra is the official name. This outstanding monument of English Gothic was founded in 1065, and was completed until the 16th century. The façade and interiors of the structure rival in splendor. The cathedral is the site of coronations and burials of British kings. In the "Poets' Corner" there are graves (not always real) of famous Englishmen - Newton, Dickens, Shakespeare, Thackeray, Milton, Chaucer, Burns, Handel and others.
Wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton
You can visit the cathedral for 20 GBP from 9:30 to 16:30, on Wednesday - until 19:00, and on Saturday - until 14:30. Services are held for parishioners on Sunday. The nearest metro stations are St James's Park or Westminster.
The central square of London was named after the battle won by the English fleet near Cape Trafalgar. On a high column in the center is a 5-meter figure of the battle hero Admiral Nelson. There are beautiful sculptures and fountains around the statue. In the corner of the square is a model of the ship on which the admiral was mortally wounded. And all London distances are measured from the monument to King Charles I. Near the square there are Charing Cross, Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square underground stations.
The traditional poppy field in front of the fortress walls
Other attractions
The palace and fortress in London's Tower Hamlets are a thousand years old. For a long time, the building was a prison and even a place of execution of noble people, including kings. Some visitors say they have seen ghosts of executed people here. The current Tower is a royal treasury, an armory and a residence for elite guests. The building's guards, dressed in luxurious uniforms, act as guides and living exhibits for visitors. Not far from the Tower is the bridge of the same name - an iconic landmark of the British capital. It is especially beautiful when illuminated at night.
You can get to the Tower by metro to Tower Hill station or by buses No. 15, 42, 78, 100, RV1. Opening hours are from 9 to 16:30–17:30 (depending on the season), and on Sunday and Monday from 10 o’clock. Regular entry tickets cost 25 GBP.
Eastern part of the Cathedral
Cathedral of St. Pavla is located in the City area. The structure was built according to the design of the architect Christopher Wren from 1675 to 1710. Outside, the attention of tourists is attracted by the grandiose triple dome 120 m high. Many amazing things can be seen inside - columns breaking off to the ceiling, a false second floor, the famous Gallery of Whispers, heard within a radius of 30 m, the best English organ. In the right tower there is the main bell “Big Paul”, the sound of which carries for 37 km. Two outstanding military leaders are buried in the cathedral - the Duke of Wellington and Admiral Nelson.
Tourists who climb the 560 steps to the Golden Gallery are rewarded with a wonderful panorama of the city. You can get to the Cathedral by metro to St. Paul's. Opening hours: from 9:30 to 16:30, except Sundays reserved for services. The ticket costs 14.5 GBP.
Many are interesting London museums. The most famous is, has been in operation since 1753. The geography of its 7 million exhibits is incomparably broader than its name. In the Ancient Egypt section, the Rosetta Stone and the statue of Pharaoh Ramses II stand out. In the ancient Greek exhibition you can see, in particular, the Parthenon marble slabs. The museum can be visited from 10 to 17:30 for free. And you can get there by getting off at the Russell Square, Holborn metro stations, or by buses No. 7, 55, 19, 22b, 8, 38, 25, 98.
Museum building and queue to enter
Private museums
In London there is the main wax museum, founded back in 1835 by the sculptor. Its exhibition includes over a thousand famous characters, classified by occupation. The organizers did their best when creating the “Cabinet of Horrors”. In it, in semi-darkness, maniacs and death masks of those executed by guillotine are presented. To enhance the impression, museum attendants in dark robes suddenly jump out of the darkness and grab visitors by the hands. Those who especially liked it here are given the opportunity to spend the night for 100 GBP.
To visit the museum, open from 10 to 17:30, you need to purchase a ticket for 28.8 GBP. You can get here by metro to Baker Street station, or by buses No. 13, 18, 27, 30, 74, 82, 113, 139 and 274.
Another famous museum is dedicated to Sherlock Holmes. Letters to the famous detective at 221B Baker Street still arrive. Now this apartment has also been transferred to the museum located nearby - in building 239. The museum, open from 10:30 to 18 hours, can be visited by paying 6 GBP. Directions: take the metro to Baker Street.
City Hall lobby
Modern architecture
In the current century, several buildings in the post-modern style have been built in London. Modern London architecture causes a lot of controversy. Supporters consider these buildings new attractions, while opponents say they spoil the architectural appearance of the city. Two buildings were built according to the designs of one of the founders of the high-tech style, architect Norman Foster. He explains the unusual shape of his structures by environmental considerations.
The new building of London City Hall, City Hall, was built next to Tower Bridge. It was put into operation in 2002. The curved facade of the 10-story building evokes associations with a sliced egg. The narrowness of the upper floors contributes to better illumination of the lower ones. There are also no air conditioners in City Hall: in the summer the building is cooled by groundwater coming from a special well.
Mary Ax Tower
Another of Foster's creations is a 40-storey tower in the City, opened in 2004. The Gherkin's grid-like structure has a maximum width of 57m at the 17th floor, tapering to 25m at the very top. Green glass panels allow sunlight to pass through freely, and the rounded design minimizes wind flows. A third of the building's glass panels are darkened, giving it a swirling effect. The nearest tube station is Aldgate. You can only get inside during Open House London in September.
The Shard skyscraper, reaching 310 m, is the tallest building in Western Europe. The building, designed by the Italian Renzo Piano, has been in operation since 2013. The name (“Shard of Glass”) fully reflects its appearance. The last 4 of the 72 floors are reserved for sky-high (literally) observation decks for visitors.
It is better to purchase tickets in advance, after checking the weather forecast: heavy clouds may interfere with distant viewing.
The nearest metro station is London Bridge, buses No. 43, 48, 141, 149, 521. Visiting hours are from 10 to 18, and on Thursday-Saturday - until 21 hours. Ticket price – 26 GBP.
Evening at Leicester Square
Things to do in London
Evening relaxation in London
The British capital is interesting not only for its architectural and historical sights. Where to go in London in the evening? Several options are most popular among tourists.
Where can you go from London on a free day? Excursions are organized from the city to explore nearby attractions. You can visit them yourself.
- The famous Stonehenge (train to Salisbury, then by shuttle bus). There are no cafes in its vicinity, so you need to take food with you. You have to pay 15 GBP for a ticket.
- Dover (by train from St Pancras station), where you can see the famous chalk cliffs, as well as the ancient Castle, a ticket for which costs 17 GBP.
- Windsor (Waterloo Station to Windsor & Eaton Riverside). The city castle is one of the royal residences. At 11 o'clock there is a changing of the guard. You can get inside from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. only if the royal family is not there. Price – 15 GBP.
- Canterbury (by train from St Pancras or Waterloo East stations), where the main Anglican temple, Canterbury Cathedral, is located. The entrance ticket costs 7 GBP.
