1. Buckingham Palace’s Changing of the Guards – From April to July, everyday at 11:30, the magnificent ceremony of the changing of the guards occurs, lasting for forty-five minutes. Although you must get there early for a good spot, it is well worth it. It feels like watching history, which is exactly what it is. It also doesn’t hurt that the scenery (Buckingham Palace and gardens) are beyond beautiful. It is literally the change of a Old Guard to a New Guard, accompanied by a band. I have heard the band’s choice of music has a wide range, but I have only heard traditional music. But don’t be surprised if they play something modern!
2. The Tower of London – There are many reasons to go to the Tower of London. One being, the crown jewels are there. Even if jewelry, or jewels don’t excite you, you’ll be impressed. You can also see how a traditional castle was kept, and as it still is considered a royal palace (but not a royal residence), it’s the closest to a tour of an entire royal palace you’re likely to get. (Several residences are open at particular times of the year, but only a few rooms, not nearly as many as what can be found at The Tower of London). You’re free to skip whatever does not interest you, so the time restraint is your own. The Tower Bridge is also worth the time, as it is beautiful, especially at night.
3. Covent Garden – One could spend hours at Covent Garden. It is a great representation of London, and there is so much to do. There are many small restaurants, boutiques, and a great market where you can find beautiful souvenirs at a low price. Be sure to look for artwork and photographs here. Often there will be some of the big attractions, for much cheaper than they would be at such attraction. It’s not as big of a tourist spot as some of the other attractions, so it is a good place to people-watch. Many live performances happen, often in the streets! There are even several theatres! Covent Garden is quite large, so chances are, you won’t be able to see it all.
4.Harrod’s – The best high end shopping the world. If the name sounds familar, but you can’t place it, several celeberities have rented it for exclusive shopping sprees recently. There isn’t much that you couldn’t find here. It is seven floors with over three hundred departments, including a pet shop! Not everything is expensive either, so it isn’t a waste of time for the average person. I would recommend looking over the food courts, and the restaurants, for the best of the best is found here. One of their specialities is bodymetrics – making a “virtual you” in order to create a perfect handmade suit, by your favorite designer. As it is now owned by Mohammed al Fayed , don’t be surprised to see many memorials to Princess Diana and Dodi al Fayed.
5. St. Paul’s Cathedral – Most known for the cathedral when Princess Diana and Charles got married, this is a beautiful cathedral. Services do still happen here, so plan for that. Be sure to see The Whispering Room, where your voice can be taken across the dome. The crypt is also worth seeing, as many famous people are buried here, and simply because it’s so different from what one normally sees. The archictecture alone makes St. Paul’s Cathedral worth while, everything else is just a bonus.
6. The London Eye – The biggest ferris wheel in the world allows you to view London in a much different way. This is a spectacular view, whether you choose to do this at morning or at night. It is a thirty minute ride, so prepare your schedule accordingly. However, it is a great way to see many attractions that you may not have the time for otherwise.
7. Westminster Abbey – This is one of London’s most famous cathedrals, known for many weddings, coronations, and funerals, including the funeral of Princess Diana. Telling a great deal of history very simply, a tour of Westminster Abbey teaches a lot. The tomb of Elizabeth I can be found here, as well as a small museum, and “Poet’s Corner,” where poets, and authors have come to be buried, or given a shrine to them.
8. Madame Tussaud’s – Home to famous waxworks, Madame Tassuad’s has a repetuation as the best. This is one of five locations in the world, with UK related waxworks, making it different even if you have been to either Madame Tassaund’s. There are even interactive waxworks – just don’t ask me how they work. There is a horror section, a royal section, and much more. It is an amazing sight, definitely worth a visit.
9. The Globe – If you enjoy theatre, you must see a play at the Globe, home to Shakespeare. While it is not the original structure (thanks to fires), it is styled like the original, with no roof, and a large thrust stage. Most of the tickets are standing however, you can pay a bit more for seated seats, with a roof. Very talented actors are employed by the globe, so it will be an enjoyable experience. If you’re not that big of an theatre buff, I suggest at least going to look at the structure.
10. A Pub (for Fish and Chips) – You simply cannot go to the UK, without having fish and chips. Ye Old Cheshire Cheese is the oldest in London, but there are many good places. There are many different ways to prepare fish and chips, so you may want to go to several different places and see how they do it!
