Some of London’ s Best Attractions
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Historic London is a major financial center and a prominent global city because of its
influence in politics, entertainment, education, fashion, culture, and the arts. There are
countless things to see and do, but if you have the good fortune of visiting there, what follows
are some spots you definitely won’t want to miss.
The London Eye – This is the tallest observation wheel in the world (135 meters
high), and it attracts approximately 10,000 visitors on a daily basis. It has become the United
Kingdom’s most popular attraction requiring a fee, and from any of its 32 capsules,
where their safety is assured, riders can see about 40 kilometers in any direction as they
view the city.
The Tower of London — Many historic figures were imprisoned here, and since they
were far from poor, no dungeons can be found here. (It also served as home to English
monarchs until Buckingham Palace became their official residence in 1837.) Armory and
weapons are on display in the White Tower, where the spectacular royal crown jewels are
stored.
Buckingham Palace — Since 1993, its state rooms have been open in August and
September, and the queen is not in residence at that time. If you visit this site from October
to July, the main attraction will be the historic “changing of the guard,” and you
will want to determine when it is scheduled in order not to miss it.
Trafalgar Square — This tourist attraction is also the focal point for Britain’s
political demonstrations. While you are here you will want to see the St. Martin in the Fields,
the National Gallery, and Nelson’s Column. From here, you can walk to Covent
Garden and shop, dine in China town, view Big Ben and the houses of Parliament, or go to
Buckingham Palace.
The Houses of Parliament — The view is impressive from Parliament Square, but
you should really walk across Westminster Bridge and see how it looks from the South Bank.
(Big Ben, located in the tower, chimes at 15-minute intervals.) Overseas visitors can get an
inside view during the months of August and September.
The Tate Modern — This is impressively located by the River Thames and faces St.
Paul’s Cathedral. You will want to visit more than once to see the displays of modern
art that change frequently. You will also want to see Tate Britain, and you can take the
special boat that will take you to the London Eye and these two museums.
The Museum of London — This is of special interest to history buffs because they
can view part of its abundant material in the museum’s seven permanent galleries,
including the Lord Mayor’s Coach (built in 1747), which is used annually in the Lord
Mayor’s Show.
The British Museum — Its collection of Greek and Egyptian artifacts is one of the
world’s largest, retrieved by English warriors from far-flung shores. They include the
earliest-known image of Christ, the Easter Island statue, and the Rosetta Stone.
The Natural History Museum — This appeals to visitors of all ages, and exhibits
such as the dinosaur and the blue whale help them discover the natural world that is all
around us. One special feature, “The Power Within,” will enable you to
discover what an earthquake really feels like.
The Victoria and Albert Museum — Known for its exhibits of art and design, it
contains more than 3,000 years’ worth of various cultural artifacts. Its comprehensive
British collection, which spans the years from 1500 to 1900, includes furniture, photography,
sculpture, and ceramics.
London is always great, but in fall things just get better.