WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN LONDON
London is undoubtedly one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Attracting more than 15 million visitors a year, the city boasting of incredible art, architecture,
entertainment, historical monuments and lots. After my four previous visits to London, here are my top picks for a memorable visit to London. Note: The Big Ben is
currently under renovation.
1. The London Eye
The London Eye is the largest observation wheel in Europe. It was built in 2000 to mark London’s millennium celebrations.
Taking a ride on the wheel is a real thrill and well worth the money. You get best possible views of London overlooking the
Thames river. A typical ride should last about 30 minutes.
2. The Buckingham Palace
This is the official residence of Queen Elizabeth. Like the Champs-Elysees in Paris and the White House in DC,there’s no
doubt that a visit here should be on top of any visitor’s list. I was perhaps lucky to have arrived exactly during the changing
of guards, or rather not so lucky for the same reason as it gets super crowded during thattime. In all cases, I would
recommend, if you can, to go at 11AM and witness the changing of guards as the event is surely worth the hype.
3. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is the largest park and the most beautiful in town. It has been so since the 16th century. After a long day
strolling through London, this is the perfect place to cool off. You’re in for a morning jog? How about a boat ride on a
small beautiful lake? Do it right here. I went to relax and enjoy nature after riding a bike for several hours in London.
Once in, I met friends. They were really hungry, you could see it on their faces, so I got down to work!
4. Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar is the most famous square in London. There are 4 big lion statues, fountains and the famous Nelson’s Column.
In my opinion, it is the best starting point for a day visit in London as many other places of interests like the National
Gallery, Buckingham palace, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, London Eye, China Town, are just around the corner
from here. The square is a major tourist attraction and meeting center where many events like concerts, performances,
demonstrations, political and civil events take place.
5. Big Ben and Parliament
Like we see the Eiffel Tower and instantly think of Paris or The Statue of Liberty and think of New York, nothing
else signifies London more than the Big Ben and its 318 foot tower opened in 1859. Go and admire the stunning
architecture here, inspect the parliament houses, and take that selfie that no one will ever ask where you were,
as it is evidently London. Personally, this structure is the most beautiful architectural piece in London.
6. The Tower Bridge
The Gothic design of this bridge is fascinating. It also has a unique feature that helps divide the bridge into two in order
to ease traffic on the waterways which is a great watch if you happen to walk around during such a time. It is also
possible to take a whole tour in itself of this bridge where you can see the famed Victorian engine rooms. The engines
once powered the bridge lifts.
7. National Gallery
Right on the side of the Trafalgar Square is the National Gallery. If you love art, this is the best address in town. There’s
a comprehensive collection of European painting works from the 12th to the 19th century. Some of the finest collections
are by Leonardo da Vinci, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh and Johannes Vermeer. Count on spending at least 2 hours
here at minimum.
8. Westminster Abbey
Built in 1675, the cathedral is one of the most visited attractions of London. It’s also famed for having hosted many royal
weddings. It’s closely associated with British royalty and I do recommend a visit here.
9. The Tower of London
Dive into rich history that is sure to amaze. Throughout its 900 year history, the Tower has changed roles from a royal
palace, a jewel house, a prison, an execution house and even a zoo. All this in one place ready to be explored.
10. Kensington Palace
At face value, it’s the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex or Cambridge. But the famous exhibitions
about the life of Queen Victoria in Victoria Revealed, and the life story of Princess Diana are all on display here.
11. Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is London’s answer to the Times Square in New York because of the large brightly illuminated digital
displays and the fact that it’s one of the most happening spots in the city. The square is arguably one of the best
meeting points in London. It’s especially at its best at night.
12. Bond and Oxford Streets
Do you love stopping and admiring while staring at gorgeous architectural pieces? Go no further. It’s right here.
These two and the surrounding streets in their vicinity are incredible. No wonder many of London’s high end
shops and hotel brands are all housed up in this neighborhood.
13. Tate Britain and Tate Modern
Tate Modern is one of the most important galleries of international modern and contemporary art in the world.
As with many London museums, it’s free, yes you heard that right. It. Is. Free! But note, you may need to not
only visit once, but again and maybe again. The displays change quite frequently! So a visit here may not be
just a one-off.
14. Saint Paul’s Cathedral
It’s amazing that the church was built way back between 1675 and 1710, and it was built on top of a Roman Temple.
It has a huge mark on London’s skyline and it is the largest and most famed cathedral in London. When here,
remember to walk up the stairs, observe the large beautiful dome and catch some cool views of the city outside.
15. Camden Village and Market
It can be termed as the cultural capital of London. Like a city within a city, Camden is different. The cafes, bars and
restaurants here have something unique. From the numerous tattoo shops, markets selling used stuff and
international cuisine all on offer, you should go and experience the ‘’other’’ side of London.
16. The Shard
If you want to be able to stand in one place and see most of all that there is to see in London, go to the Shard. Take that
non-ending lift to the top, and boom – all of London will be staring at you, be sure to stare back and enjoy!
It is the tallest building in the UK at 1,016 ft short.
17. Greenwich
I went here for one reason, the Meridian Line. It had already been enough growing up and hearing of GMT time and
the so-called Line. I wanted to step my one foot in one hemisphere and the other in the second, only here at Greenwich
and it was totally fascinating. But that’s not all there is. You get to see great views of London from afar, it’s also the
home of Cutty Sark. The Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre also has great exhibitions showcasing more than 500 years
of maritime history. Go visit if you get the time to. You won’t be disappointed.
18. Number 30 St. Mary Axe
The gorgeous 41 story steel and glass tower was for long, a top symbol of London. You can joke as much as you want
about what to liken to its shape – you won’t be the only one to do so, but its spectacular exterior design and dome are
sure to amaze.
19. Harrolds
Harolds was founded in 1849 as a small shop in London. Today, it’s the ultimate shopping address in London. For the
best shopping experience, look no further. But mind your pockets too, the prices are quite on the up!
20. Cruise on the Thames River
There’s no better way to see London and its most famous landmarks than while on a cruise on the Thames. Most of what
there is to see in London is lined up along the river. There are also cruises that run at night making it possible to ride on
a dinner or something.
