LONDON
The Total London ExperienceThis is THE COMPLETE tour of London taking in the
pageantry, the history and the splendour of England’s Capital City
As you visit London you will be fascinated by the cultural expressions such as elaborate
festivals, distinctive folk arts, well preserved classical architecture and more. The scheduled
sightseeing tours listed in this brochure are planned to offer you an opportunity to enjoy the
best value in London with convenience and at minimum cost.
Great London Tour-The original sightseeing tour of London- recognised as the most popular
way for visitors to explore London's wealth of entertainment, the tour is also a photographer's
delight. Tour can be booked at the reception desks in major hotels or contact London
Transport's Original Sightseeing Tours Company directly. We are in Victoria Street, near
Victoria Station.
Our first stop is at Westminister Abbey – Founded over a thousand years ago Westminster
Abbey is a burial place of Kings, Statesmen, poets, scientists, warriors and musicians. The
Abbey has seen 38 coronations since that of William the Conqueror on Christmas Day 1066, as
well as the funerals of Diana Princess of Wales and the Queen Mother. If a religious service
prevents us visiting inside the Abbey we will visit the Cloisters and Chapter House.
Parliament, Whitehall, Downing Street, Pall Mall – Drive past the Houses Of Parliament;
Downing Street and the official London residence of the British Prime Minister since 1730.
Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace – Down from Trafalgar Square at the end of the
Mall, a wide avenue, stands Buckingham Palace, and the Changing of the Guard takes place in
front of the palace every day from April to September and every other day from October to
March.
The palace has 600 rooms and stands in 20 hectares of gardens. Some of the state apartments:
the Throne Room, the Dining Room and the Music Room are open to the public during August
and September while the Queen is on holiday. The entrance is eight pounds. The Queen
welcomed the world into her house for the first time in 1994. All funds raised from summer
visits went towards repairing Windsor Castle-Queen's summer residence- damaged by the fire
in 1992. The palace receives up to 8000 people a day. The Queen's Gallery and the Royal
Mews, on the south side of the Palace, are both open to the public on a permanent basis.
Traditional English Pub Lunch at the Albert – This distinguished pub has survived the Blitz
and 1960's redevelopment. It was built in 1864, named in honour of Queen Victoria's husband,
the Prince Consort. On the walls hang portraits of British Prime Ministers, from Salisbury, to
an autographed one of Tony Blair. Members of Parliament often dine here and for their
convenience a division bell is installed.
Trafalgar Square's National Gallery or St Martin's On the north side of Trafalgar Square stands
the National Gallery, the world's leading art gallery, comprising collections of various
European schools of art.; or pop across the road into an early 18th Century church, St Martin’sin-the-Fields.
St Paul's Cathedral – A photo stop at this outstanding church, completed in 1710, is the
masterpiece of Sir Christopher Wren, who’s buried in the crypt with Admiral Lord Nelson and
the Duke of Wellington. The outstanding feature of the building is its dome, the interior of the
Cathedral is of unique beauty. After looking around you can climb 263 steps to the Whispering
Gallery, which is remarkable for its acoustic. A person standing at the entrance of the Gallery
can hear clearly what is said on the opposite side.
Walking Tour of the City and the Globe Theatre – An enjoyable 15-minute stroll over the
award-winning MillenniumBridge to rejoin our coach close to the Tate Modern Gallery and the
Globe Theatre.
Extended Visit to Tower of London & Crown Jewels – Surrounded by stone towers this was a
royal palace, fortress, prison, mint and zoo. It saw three Queens of England beheaded with the
axe or sword; and the torture of numerous prisoners, stretched on the rack and crushed in the
Scavenger’s Daughter. Start with a tour hosted by your Blue Badge guide, and then have time
to explore on your own. Meet the Yeoman Warders and visit the Crown Jewels, the White
Tower built by King William the Conqueror, back in 1078, the Bloody Tower, the Traitors’
Gate.
Among the other interesting jewels on display are Queen Victoria's small diamond crown and the
Imperial Crown of India, made for King George V's visit to India as King-Emperor in 1911 and set
with around 6,000 diamonds. This is the only crown that is allowed to leave the country.
The legendary Koh-i-nur ('Mountain of Light') diamond, presented to Queen Victoria in 1850,
weighs 106 carats. Traditionally the Koh-i-nur is only worn by a queen or queen consort: St
Edward's Crown weighs 2.23kg. It is made of gold and decorated with many precious and
semiprecious stones including sapphires and amethysts. The crown was last used to crown
Queen Elizabeth II on 2 June 1953.
The Imperial State Crown contains over 3,000 gems. The crown contains many famous jewels
including the Second Star of Africa diamond, the Black Prince's Ruby, the Stuart Sapphire, St.
Edward's Sapphire and Queen Elizabeth I's Earrings. The Queen wears this crown each
year when she opens Parliament. Among the other famous
gemstones on display at the Tower is the First Star of Africa. It is
mounted in the Sovereign's Sceptre. This is the largest flawless cut
diamond in the world.
Cruise on the River Thames – Enjoy a delightful cruise along the Thames, gliding smoothly
through the heart of London enjoying superb riverside views of London's grand majestic
riverside buildings.
British Airways London Eye – London’s latest attraction the British Airways London Eye is
450ft tall making it the world’s highest observation wheel and London’s fourth tallest
structure. As well as being one of the most visually striking structures in the world - the British
Airways London Eye offers you a new perspective on a great city. London's famous streets,
churches, palaces and monuments spread out below in a panoramic scene grown up from
Roman times - and, on a clear day - views that stretch 25 miles to Windsor Castle. There are 32
fully enclosed, high tech capsules, each accommodating up to 25 people, taking 30 minutes to
complete one full 360 degree rotation.
The tour takes you past Lambeth Palace- the Archbishop of Canterbury's residence-and to the
Royal Festival Hall. Crossing elegant Waterloo Bridge with its dolphin-shaped lampposts you
will visit the heart of the City of London and will see Mansion House, the Lord Mayor's home,
the Bank of England.
On rainy days a covered Double Deck Bus is used. Live commentary.
We are open all year: May to September 9.00-18.00
October -April 10.00-17.00
***
Here are some pieces of advice to those of you who are going to visit London.
Here are some things to remember.
I Always write down the address where you are staying and carry it around with you. Do not
forget the postcode it is very important because thee are so many streets in London with the
same name. There 14 Church Roads, not to count the Church Lanes, Streets, and Hills.
II Buy an "A to Z". It is a book of street maps, with a complete list of every street in London. It
costs about 4 pounds.
III Buy a guide book and read the places you want to visit. Guides like "London for visitors"
and "Discover London" are very good.
IV Buy a bus pass, Travelcard or Capitalcard. It is much cheaper than buying a separate ticket
for each bus, underground or train journey. You can get them at tube or railway stations.
V Buy tickets for concerts, theatres and sports events from box offices and ticket agencies, not
from a "ticket tout"(someone selling tickets in the street).
VI Start your journey with one of the Tourist Information Offices where our travel consultants
will give you a warm welcome and will be glad to give you advice on things to see and to do in
London. These offices offer a range of guide books, maps and other holiday literature as well
as souvenirs. Get all the information you need free of charge.
British Tourist Authority has offices in Amsterdam (The Netherlands), Brussels (Belgium),
New York, Chicago, Los Angeles (USA), Dublin (Ireland), Munich (Germany), Paris (France),
Stockholm (Sweden), Valletta (Malta), Zurich (Zwitzerland).
Ex.1 Play a role of a guide around London.
Ex.2 Choose the correct variant:
1 There are more than____ rooms in Buckingham palace.
a.600 b.500 c.700
2 The Queen decided to open her home to public because she needed money to___
a. pay taxes b. build a new palace c. repair her summer residence
3 The National Gallery stands___
a.on the north side of Trafalgal Square b.in the centre of Trafalgal Square c. on the Mall
4 If you visit London in August you can see the Changing of the Guard ceremoney___
a.every other day b. every Sunday c.every day
5. In the 17 th century British architect Sir Christopher Wren built___
a.St.Paul's Cathedral b.Lambeth Palace c.The Royal Festival Hall
6. During its long and colourful history the mighty Tower of London has served as___
a.prison b.museum c.art gallery
9 Which of these places in Buckingham Palace you can see if you happen to be in London in
February?
a.Throne Room b.Dining Room c.Queen's Gallery
10. The official residence of each prime minister of England for the last 270 years is on___
a. the Mall b.Downing Street c.Trafalgar Square
11 Lord Mayor's official residence is called___
a Mansion House b Whitehall c Whispering Gallery
12 Sir Alfred Gilbert designed___
a Marble Arch b Statue of Eros c Buckingham Palace
Ex.3 Comment on the following words:
"...there is in London all that life can afford", "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of
life", "London: a nation , not a city".
Ex.4 What do you think makes London a city interesting for visitors?
Having come as far as London why not to take a short bus tour to Windsor- only 35 km- and
explore Windsor Castle.
Besides the Buckingham Palace, which is the official London residence of the Monarch, the
Sovereign of the UK and the Royal Family regularly use Windsor Castle. Windsor Castle is a
family home of the reigning Windsor dynasty. It is one of the oldest and largest castles in the
world. Established in 1087 by William the Conqueror the castle has always been a
property of the Windsor family. The Monarch spends most of his/her weekends at Windsor
Castle. The place is also used for ceremonial occasions. The Magnificent State Apartments are
furnished with works of art and treasures from the Royal collection, it includes the masterpieces
by Rembrandt, Van Dyck. The Private Apartments are among the greatest royal interiors in the
world. St.George's Chapel is one of the most beautiful ecclesiastical buildings in England. It
is the official church of the Royal Family. The Sovereign regularly attends the services here.
The Castle is open to the public: admission price- 12 pounds. The visitors can tour the
State Apartments, St.George Chapel, the Drawing Room and the Royal Park. Out of respect
for the Monarch privacy the Private Apartments are not open to the public. The Castle is
open daily during summer from 10 am to 5 pm.
The small town of Eton, with its famous public school, Eton College, lies on the opposite bank
of the River Thames. The two towns are linked by the Windsor Bridge, which was built in
1821.
Answer the questions:
1. Who established Windsor Castle?
2. Can tourists visit the castle?
3. What parts of the castle can you visit?
4. Can you visit the castle in winter?
5. What is Eton famous for?
Ex.5 Read these advertisements and act out the dialogue which follows:
A Scotland Hospitality Tour
Includes: round-trip air ticket to Glasgow, seven nights accommodation in a 4-star
hotel, seven day car-rental, 3 sightseeing tours.
Price: $ 1490
Welcome To Edinburgh Tour
Includes: return air ticket to Glasgow, transfer to Edinburgh by train, five nights accommodation in a 4-star hotel, 5 day car-rental, 2 excursions.
Price: $ 1070 (Departing from New York)
A telephone conversation:
-Can I help you?
-Can I speak to Ms.Scott, please?
-Who is calling?
-I spoke to her last week about a holiday in Scotland.I would like to make a booking.
-Hold on. I will put you through.
-MsScott? I visited your agency last week and we talked about the tours you organize in
Scotland.You said I should get in touch with you if I make up my mind.
-I remember. Have you decided where you'd like to go?
-Yes, I'd like to make a booking.
-OK. I'll just get a booking form. Hold the line, please. Could you tell me which tour you have
decided on?
-The 5 day tour to Edinburgh via Glasgow.
-What day do you want to leave on?
-The 1 of June.
- Let me take a few particulars. Would you mind giving me your name?
-Steven Graham.
-I need your home address too.
-32, Russell St. McAllen, California 92104
-There is an insurance which is compulsory. Would you like to make your own arrangements
or will you take the standard insurance policy?
-The standard one.
-You will need a visa.
-How much does it cost?
-$ 17 Shall I look after that or will you get it yourself?
-You do it, please.
A break in Scotland is a special event because Scotland is such a distinctive destination.
Nowhere else in Britain can you enjoy so many memorable experiences. In fine weather
Scotland is one of the loveliest counties in the world. It is an ideal country for outdoor
activities of almost any kind. Walkers and hill walkers have the best of it. Walks can vary from
less-than-strenuous strolls to hard days on knife-edge ridges where only the experienced should
venture. Opportunities for surfers, divers, cyclists, sailors and riders abound. The weather can
be wet, misty or windy. Waterproof clothing is essential, as is a decent alternative plan for
when the weather is too awful for outdoor activities.
Around Scotland Tour
Edinburgh-Glasgow-Aberdeen-Inverness-Edinburgh
Duration: 5 days, 4 nights
Day 1
Explore Edinburgh-cosmopolitan city. Edinburgh bus tour takes you to the Palace of
Holyroodhouse, still the official residence of the British Royal family in Scotland; The
Museum of Scotland, which chronicles the story of the country and its people from prehistoric
times to our days; and Edinburgh Castle where every day since 1861 the 1 o'clock gun has
boomed out.
After touring Edinburgh attractions you leave for Glasgow.
Day 2
In Glasgow you will visit the famed attractions: New Lamark Heritage Centre which consists
of replicas of the primitive dwellings of the first inhabitans of Scotland that exemplify their
lifestyle and culture; Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art, Scottish Museum of Football-the first
national football museum where you can discover about Scotland's part in football history. And
last but not least you will see Bothwell Castle built in the 13th century, and the Mitchell
Library that is the largest public library in Europe.
You spend night in Glasgow.
Day 3
Move on to Aberdeen: commercial, bustling city on the north-eastern coast of Scotland. Visit
Dunmore Castle, which was used by F.Zeffirelli as a location for filming his masterpiece
Hamlet starring Mel Gibson, Science Centre where almost 100 interactive exhibits for visitors
to investigate how the world works. By the way, do you know that Aberdeen's College is the
2nd largest granite building in the world.
Day 4
See more of Aberdeen and then leave for Inverness. Sightseeing tour round Inverness with
visits to Dunrobin Castle:the largest house in northern Scotland with 189 rooms, Scottish folk
museum, which invites you to enter the world of Scotsmen as you walk through the material
remains of 400 years of life in Scotland from clansman to crofter.
Among other attractions are:
boat trip to seal colony, funicular railway-Britain's highest mountain railway. A bus tour to
Loch Ness-the largest lake in Scotland noted for its famous inhabitant, the Loch Ness monster
(or at least phenomenon). There is a lake cruising opportunity.
Day 5
Continue to experience Inverness attractions. After lunch entrain for Edinburgh.
Edinburgh on foot
Edinburgh is a joy to explore on foot. One of the most popular walks is along the Royal Mile in
the heart of the Old Town.
Start at Edinburgh Castle, Scotland's most popular attraction and home to the Scottish Crown
Jewels, and the Stone of Destiny on which all previous Scottish monarch were crowned.
Continue downhill to the World of Illusions for a live, moving image of Edinburgh. Visit the
Scotch Wisky Heritage Centre, where the story of Scotland's national drink is brought vividly
to life. To experience life in medieval Edinburgh stop at Gladstone's Land, a typical example
of a 17th century of Edinburgh tenement. At the foot of the Royal Mile is the Palace of
Holyroodhouse, Her Majesty the Queen' official residence in Scotland. View the 17 th century
state rooms, and the historic apartments. Close by is Our Dynamic Earth, an interactive
attraction telling the story of the planet. Opposite this attraction is the site for the new Scottish
Parliament building. A short walk from here is the Museum of Scotland, dedicated to the
history and people of Scotland. The adjacent Royal Museum houses everything from dinosaurs
to dress coats .
On Princess street browse through Jenners-the world's oldest independent department store.
Catch a bus to the Royal Yacht Britannia berthed in the historic port of Leith. Walk along
George street with its stylish shops and restaurants. Continue downhil to Inverleith for a
pleasant stroll in the Royal Botanic Garden. A visit to the Georgian House evokes the elegant
lifestyle enjoyed by 18th century Edinburgh citizens.
What to see:
Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
Beside Edinburgh Castle 354 Castlehill Royal Mile
Mystery of whisky revealed! Learn about grain and blends. Free taste for adults.
Admission- 6.50 pounds Open all year
********************************
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Her Majesty The Queen's Official Residence in Scotland.
Admission 6.50 pounds Open all year
********************************
Our Dynamic Earth
Holyrood Road
A fantastic journey of discovery from the beginning of the time to the unknown future of our
planet.
Admission 7 pounds Open all year
*****************************
Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street
Discover the history of Scotland as told through national collections. Guided tours
FREE admission Open all year
****************************
Royal Museum
Chambers Street
Splendid Victorian building housing rich international collections. Guided tours.
FREE admission Open all year
***************************
The Royal Yacht Britannia
Ocean Drive Leith
Visitor centre and self-led audio tours of the yacht. Pre-booking advised.
Admission 7 pounds Open all year
Also of great interest are Royal Observatory on Blackford Hill.
Interactive exhibitions, special events and public observing. Lectures from October to March.
Panoramic views.
Admission 3.50 pounds
Museum of Flight on East Fortune Airfield
Scotland's National Aviation Collection. Historic aircraft in hangars of a World War II airfield.
Admission 3 pounds Open all year
ALL OF THESE and many more places you can see for 12 pounds! ! !
That's the price of a 3 day Scottish Explorer ticket which will get you free entry to over 60
Scotland attractions. So the more you visit the more you save. If you want to take longer
explorer there are 7 and 14 day tickets.
Assignment 1 :You are the clerk at the tourist agency. Present Scotland to your customer. Use
as much information from the texts you've read as you can. Answer his/her questions on
Scotland's places of interest, entertainment.
Assignment 2 One of your friends is going to travel to Edinburgh, make a list of places you'd
recommend him to visit there. Read together "Edinburgh on foot" and decide which of the
city's sights described might interest him.
If you happen to visit Scotland do not miss an opportunity to go on The Magic of Harry
Potter Tour.
Scotland provided background shots for Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and the
film-makers returned here for Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. The spectacular train
chase scene features the Hogwarts Express and a flying Ford Anglia car, crossing the historic
Glenfinnan Viaduct. on the Glenfinnan estate in the west Highlands. You can experience your
own magical train journey by taking a trip on the Jacobite Steam Train, which follows the
famous Road to the Isles, between Kort William and Mallaig. Filming for the third Harry
Potter film, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, took place on location in Glencoe.
Three sets were built near the Clachaig Gully, including Hagrid’s Hut.You can enjoy Hagrid's
views of the Torren Lochan and the Signal Rock forest, as well as the magnificently craggy ring
of mountains.
The Harry Potter films not only feature Scottish locations but wizards, ghosts and monsters
are all part of the colourful tapestry of Scottish folklore throughout the ages. Here's a tour of
some of the places in Scotland where Harry might have felt at home!
GHOSTTY GOINGS-ON
Edinburgh has a whole range of wizard, witches and ghost goings-on. These include the
story of Majoi Weir, who gained a reputation for wizardry after he was seen in the Old
Town with a stick walking along hi m and holding a lantern, The authorities burned him
and knocked down his house! This happened to plenty of witches. Today, you can take a
Ghost and Ghouls walking tour of Edinburgh Old Town.