There is much to see and do in historic London, England, but it is also a city filled with modern conveniences that is living thoroughly in modern times. Ancient castles, artworks from antiquity, and eye-catching modern structures make up the face of London. Many visitors enjoy London, which is English-speaking, as a city that caters to the needs of its tourists.
Whatever you need, merry old London can provide it for you. Just by viewing the banks of the famed Thames River, you can enjoy the old and the new of Londontown. Viewable from the river are the Houses of Parliament, that beautiful building where Big Ben (the largest clock in the world) sits so majestically. Guided tours of Parliament are open to the public when the houses are not in session, from June to September. On the banks of the Thames, you’ll also see the London Eye, the largest Ferris Wheel in the entire world. A full rotation of the Eye takes approximately thirty minutes, giving you a sky-high view of the city and the river itself.
London is, however, a city known for its damp, foggy weather. Be sure to go into your London vacation armed with an umbrella and clothing for chilly, damp evenings. London has no truly distinct seasons, and there is often rain. Be prepared, and if you get caught in a downpour you can hail one of the famous London black cabs.
If art is on your vacation menu, then London provides a rich feast. The National Galleries, one of the greatest musuems in the world, features a famous collection that includes the Rosetta Stone and the Magna Carta. Visit the Charles Dickens Museum, dedicated to the celebrated London novelist, in the building that was his home in 1837. You may also want to stop by the Sherlock Holmes Museum, located on Baker Street in honor of that famous fictional sleuth. London is jam-packed with museums. Even the Bank of England houses a collection that you may wish to view during your London stay.
One of the grandest churches in Europe, Westminster Abbey still stands in historic Londontown. Here, King Henry II stopped to pray before he headed out to do battle with a man named William. History would call this King “the Conquorer.” Many Kings are buried at Westminster, and it is one of London’s oldest buildings.
No London vacation would be complete without a tour of at least one of London’s beautiful palaces. England still boasts one of the oldest continuous monarchies in the world, and the London palaces are firm evidence of royal life. In London alone, you will have your pick among the opulent, the lavish, and the awe-inspiring when it comes to royal life.
Consructed in 1710, the Marlborough House is one of the more well-known of London palaces. Guided tours take you through extravagant rooms where Kings and Queens once whiled away their time. For botanical beauty, stop by Kensington Palace, where the glorious Kensington Gardens are in full bloom. You can take a guided tour through the house and grounds, or see the sights at your own pace. The dress collection at Kensington features gowns once worn by Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana. Kensington was Diana’s home until her tragic death, and there is a huge Diana display ongoing at the castle.
Whitehall is one of the oldest London palaces, a residence that has seen many Kings and Queens come and go. Guided tours let you see how the other half once lived. You may also want to stop at Windsor Castle, which is still in use by the Queen herself, though only parts of the castle are open to public audiences. Built near 1065 (the year that William conquored), Windsor is one of the most beautiful of all London palaces.
During his reign, William constructed many buildings in the heart of the city. Of the more mentionable is the Tower of London, that famous prison. In its earliest days, the Tower was home to King William and now is the home to the Crown Jewels of England. With its long and interesting history, the Tower of London is a definite must-see.
Home to Henry VIII and the oldest Tudor palace in all England, Hampton Court Palace features many wonderful exhibitions that include the former King’s personal rooms. The beautiful parks and gardens, complete with a huge English Maze, are always lovely. Guided tours are offered, with some guides appearing in period costume to delight tourists.
But how could you ever visit London without visiting that palace to end all palaces, Buckingham? The Queen’s home, Buckingham Palace puts other castles to shame with grandeur and wealth. It is here that the ever-stoic guards in their famous furry hats stand guard. The ritualistic changing of the guards is a sight to behold in front of Buckingham. Queen Victorica made this palace her primary home in 1837, and other monarchs have followed suit. Though some parts of the palace are closed to the public (in deference for royal privacy), this palace is truly splendid.
London is a city known for art, for beauty, for monuments and history. London is not known for having fine cuisine. Visitors may find some dishes a little strange, and as a rule London cuisine can be quite expensive. Traditional London cuisine at affordable prices can be found at restaurants such as Stockpot and the West End Kitchen, where visitors can taste fare that would be commonly found in traditional English homes. Here you may taste Lancashire Hotpot, Shepherd’s Pie, and of course fish and chips (a London must-eat).
Big breakfasts are very much a part of London cuisine. Travelers can eat the most important meal of the day at reasonable prices, enjoying brown bread, eggs, and bangers (which is sausage). And don’t forget to enjoy some traditional English tea, which often comes with delectable snacks and edibles. Try the Browns and Claridge’s for delicious tea at reasonable prices.
If it’s accomodations you need, London has plenty to offer. For family-friendly establishments, try the Ealing Bed & Breakfast. Babysitting services are offered by the Citadines Barbican and the Citadines Trafalgar Square. Family-run Emperors Gate caters to tourists and families, and the Mornington Hotel and St. George Hotel consider themselves to be very child-friendly.
If you’re looking for a modern vacation, consider the historic city of London, England. Parks, gardens, and castles, oh my! London offers many riding tours where you can cruise the streets on a double-decker bus, or ride along at a leisurly pace in a black cab. Tourists are treated very well in London, and you’ll find hired car services that are available at any time to take you where you need to go. Enjoy the culture, the cuisine, and the sights of Londontown. You’ll find that a historic city can be perfect for a modern vacation.
