Introduction
10 Must-See Attractions in London
London is rich in history, culture, and modern attractions, so planning a trip to the city could overwhelm even the most intrepid traveller. From world-famous palaces to ancient cathedrals, London has so much on offer. Still, there are some places that you can’t overlook. We’ve chosen the 10 must-see attractions in London to help you with your holiday plans.
Buckingham Palace
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No traveller to London should miss a visit to the home of the British monarch. The magnificent 775-roomed Buckingham Palace is the centre of royal events and ceremonies. The palace is open to the public during the summer months for state room tours. Here, you can gaze upon exquisite artworks and ornate furnishings.
Buckingham Palace forms the backdrop to the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, a spectacular show involving the exchange between the Queen's Guard and the New Guard. Catch the ceremony at 10:45 am on Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Sunday.
The London Eye
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View the city from above on the giant Ferris wheel known as the London Eye. Located on the South Bank of the River Thames, the Eye is one of the most popular attractions in London. Perched on the top in a glass capsule, you get 360° views of London. Find landmarks like St. Paul's Cathedral, the Shard, and the Houses of Parliament.
The London Eye also hosts special events and activities. These have included a Valentine's Day celebration, a Halloween event, and a Christmas lights display. Check the website to find out what events you could attend during your visit.
The Tower of London
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The historic Tower of London has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a treasury, over the centuries. Today, the Tower is a popular tourist attraction, with many exhibits and attractions to explore. Explore the White Tower, filled with armour and weapons. Then move on to the beautifully restored medieval palace.
Attractions include the Crown Jewels, on display in the Jewel House. Look out for the Imperial State Crown, worn by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament, and the Koh-I-Noor diamond, set in the Queen Mother's Crown. Other Tower.
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
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No visitor to London should miss these iconic landmarks. The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, have a long and remarkable history. The 11th-century building is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. It is home to the UK government.
The clock tower, commonly known as Big Ben, forms part of the Houses of Parliament. The Great Bell is known for its distinctive chimes that regularly sound through the streets of London.
Big Ben is currently undergoing renovations but is now free from scaffolding. If you plan to visit the Palace of Westminster, book well in advance.
Westminster Abbey
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The resting place of centuries of kings and queens, Westminster Abbey has hosted royal weddings and coronations since 1066. Founded by Benedictine monks in 970 AD, the abbey is full of ancient murals and royal tombs.
Poet’s Corner commemorates more than 100 great writers like Geoffrey Chaucer, William Shakespeare and Jane Austin.
Spend a moment in the Lady Chapel and marvel at the magnificent, vaulted ceiling. Admire the statues of ten modern martyrs and step back and gaze at the beautiful architecture.
The British Museum
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The first-ever national public museum, the British Museum, was founded in 1753. It houses a vast collection of art and artefacts from across the world. The museum’s collection spans cultures and states.
Some highlights include the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, sculptures from the Parthenon in Athens. A vast collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, including mummies and sarcophagi, draws thousands of visitors yearly.
The British Museum holds more than eight million objects. It also hosts special exhibitions of rare objects from around the world. This is a museum in a million.
Warner Brothers Studio London
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Calling all Harry Potter fans to experience the magic at Warner Brothers studios. Wander through real sets used in the filming of the series. Experience the eerie wonder of the Forbidden Forest, fly a broomstick and drink butter beer.
You will learn how the movies were made, and the secrets behind the special effects. It’s great fun for adults and children alike.
Madame Tussauds
Take a self-guided tour through Madame Tussauds. Started in 1835 by Madame Tussaud herself, the wax museum is well worth a visit.
Find world leaders and celebrities, like actors, sports heroes and pop stars, gathered in lifelike form. You can also enjoy a 4D Marvel cinema. It features tremors, wind and water, so you experience the moves as though you were there.
St. Paul's Cathedral
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Built in the 17th century, St. Paul's Cathedral is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. The cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of London and is a popular venue for concerts, lectures, and other events.
One of the highlights of a visit to St. Paul's Cathedral is climbing the 528 steps to the top of the dome. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views from the top and discover the weird acoustics in the Whispering Gallery. Here sound travels in unexpected ways, making it possible to hear a whisper on the other side of the dome.
The church dates to 604AD but succumbed to the Great Fire of London in 1666. Redesigned by the great architect, Christopher Wren, St Paul’s is famous for its dome, the world’s second-largest cathedral dome.
The London Dungeon
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Established in 1974, the London Dungeon takes visitors through 1,000 years of history. The Dungeon is one of London’s biggest tourist attractions, offering visitors a view into the city’s darker side.
Here you can explore Jack the Ripper’s story. Actors recreate his crimes as you wander the London streets of the age. You’ll take a journey through religious prosecution, witness conspirators planning to burn the House of Parliament and understand the devastation of the Plague.
