London is the most visited city in Europe. It's no surprise that London is top of a lot of people's travel plans: the city was founded by the Romans and has prospered over the centuries.
Today, London is one of the most varied cities worldwide, with a rich history and a few of the world's most outstanding culture.
The City of London is the ancient center of London but is the smallest city in England. The London that we're familiar with covers a much wider metropolitan area and is house to practically 9 million individuals.
1. Hyde Park.
Hyde Park is possibly the most famous park in London, and it is one of the biggest. The park has historical significance, having hosted a variety of protests and demonstrations including demonstrations by the Suffragettes.
The park's popular Speaker's Corner is still inhabited by disputes, protests, and performance artists each week. The park is home to a number of memorial features, as well as 2 bodies of water, the most well-known being the Serpentine. Here you can go paddle-boating, see a number of swans, and take in a breath of fresh air in the center of the city. A must-visit.
2. Westminster.
Westminster is thought about London's political hub and is house to the Houses of Parliament and the world-famous Big Ben. Big Ben is the name of the bell housed within the iconic clock tower, and it still chimes every hour.
You can likewise find Westminster Abbey here, which is open to the general public most days. Whilst checking out these landmarks, be sure to rest your feet in Parliament Square which features statues of crucial political individuals including Nelson Mandela and Winston Churchill.
3. Camden.
Camden is a well-known cultural area in north London. Understood for its alternative culture, the crowds here are filled with goths, punks, travelers and rockabillies alike. Camden has a lively body mod neighborhood and you will find a variety of piercing and tattoo shops in this part of town.
Camden Market is diverse and eclectic, featuring street food from worldwide foods, and great deals of stalls offering ornaments and unique artwork to take home. Rummage through vintage clothing racks, find a used book to handle your travels, or check out among the city's best vegan bakeshops at Cookies And Scream.
After your shopping spree, walk down to Camden Lock to relax by Regent's Canal or walk along the water all the way to King's Cross.
4. London Eye.
A journey to London isn't complete without a visit to the iconic London Eye. Originally built to commemorate the millennium, the Eye is a giant ferris wheel offering gorgeous views across the city. In the evening, the wheel is illuminated in seasonal colors and is the focal point of London's yearly New Year's fireworks show.
You can share among the large pods with other keen visitors, or splurge on a personal pod for you and somebody unique. Group your visit to the Eye with a journey to the surrounding London Fish tank to see marine animals from around the world, consisting of jellyfish, seahorses and crocodiles.
5. Soho.
Soho has actually long been known as the base of London's sex industry. The location is now the most popular night life spot although some sex stores are still dotted occasionally, providing Soho a wonderfully risqué vibe. Soho is often thought about the center of the city's LGBTQ * community with a lot of gay and lesbian bars to take a look at after the sun decreases.
In addition to bars and clubs, Soho has a number of theaters, jazz bars and dining establishments to explore, making it a cultural hotspot. Its close proximity to Leicester Square indicates it's likewise a great location to opt for a couple of beverages after a play or performance.
Throughout the day, Soho loses none of its charm. Here you'll find great deals of music shops, small coffee shops and charming pastry shops. Pick up a coffee and pastry on Old Compton Street for perfect people-watching.
6. Shoreditch.
Shoreditch is among the trendiest locations of London having recently undergone extensive regrowth. It is now one of the most popular nightlife spots in the city and among the coolest locations to stay in London.
Loaded full of restaurants and bars, it's the ideal location to invest a day and an evening. Check out Trapeze, a circus-themed bar that serves endlessly innovative drinks out of popcorn tub-style cups.
There's Far Rockaway, a cooled bar and restaurant filled with comics, band posters, and a regular 90s night for popular culture enthusiasts. Or visit the Blues Kitchen for a blues night accompanied by sticky ribs and other American staples.
7. Hampstead Heath.
Hampstead Heath is one of the biggest parks in London, covering a massive 790 acres. It sits atop of among the acmes in London, using outstanding views of the city from Parliament Hill.
The Heath features grassy fields, wooded areas, and a number of large ponds. It is the best location to experience nature in London with lots of wildlife around and little woods in which to get lost.
There are swimming lidos for those feeling brave enough to swim outdoors in the great British weather. For history buffs, visit Kenwood Home, a historic manor house that is known for its curated art collection.
8. BFI.
The BFI-- or British Film Institute-- is a must-see for movie fans. The BFI is positioned on the ever-popular Southbank and is the perfect spot to relax after a stroll along the waterfront taking in the culture and atmosphere of this lively part of the city.
From mainstream smash hits to reshowings of cult classics to one-off screenings of indie hits, the BFI program films every day. There is likewise a library and buy those who like to take their cinema seriously. Likewise, the BFI houses its own bar and riverfront restaurant for a scrumptious meal or to talk about the latest movie releases over some beverages.
9. Thames Cruise.
The Thames is the lifeline of London, bringing market to the city for centuries. It is England's longest river, leading into the North Sea at its end. It has been the base for settlements given that prehistoric times, and was a tactical significance to the Romans and English Kings, along with during both World Wars.
There are a variety of business in London providing cruises throughout the Thames. Cruises run as regularly as every thirty minutes from a number of essential areas. The cruises pass several crucial sightseeing areas, consisting of Tower Bridge, your homes of Parliament, and the London Eye.
Some cruises perform at night so you can see the sights all lit up, whilst others are served with a meal or afternoon tea. This is a charming and unique method to view the city, traveling along the historical Thames.
10. Baker Street.
One of the cultural staples of London is Baker Street, best called the street that Arthur Conan Doyle's notorious investigator Sherlock Holmes survived on.
Today you can discover a Sherlock Holmes museum near the Underground station, especially popular after the BBC revival 'Sherlock'.
Madame Tussauds is simply around the corner, the internationally-famous wax museum where you can pose with your favorite stars.
Afterwards, get away the crowds of Baker Street in the nearby Regent's Park or climb up Primrose Hill for London's many spectacular view of the city.
11. Brixton Academy.
For those on a hunt for live music, London has thousands of special places to offer. Places cover every specific niche or you can simply go to an open night at a regional bar and see some up-and-coming artists. Among the very best locations in town, though, is Brixton Academy in south London.
The Academy was initially a theater and cinema called the Astoria, opened in 1929. Fifty years later, the place became the Academy and now hosts a few of the world's greatest rock and pop acts.
Some acts that have played at Brixton Academy consist of The Clash, Sex Pistols, New Order and Madonna. The Smiths played their final ever performance at Brixton Academy. This is the go-to music place if you wish to capture some live music in London.
12. The O2.
The O2 Arena was originally constructed in event of the millennium, under the name of 'the Millennium Dome'. Once acted as exhibit center with hands-on activities and various displays aimed mainly at kids, it.
Today, it is a leading location for live music and stage shows, regularly hosting the greatest names in home entertainment. It likewise houses a cinema in addition to numerous bars and restaurants featuring cuisines from all over the world.
The O2 is a perfect area to hang out with pals. Try climbing up to the top of the O2 if you're seeking some experience. On these assisted walks, you can climb up along the dome to the roofing system where you will witness alluring views of the city. Later on, take the Emirates Air Line through-out the water. The Air Line is a cable car link offering a unique and amazing view of the city.
13. Brick Lane.
Brick Lane was made famous by the book and movie of the exact same title. As the book's story made clear, Brick Lane is the heart of London's Bangladeshi neighborhood. An incredibly varied community, Brick Lane features roadway check in both English and Bengali, and is popular for its abundance of curry homes.
This is the best spot to discover something spicy to eat however make certain to go to among the many sweet shops for some genuine South Asian desserts. The area likewise features various trendy bars along with regular marketplaces, bringing in a young and stylish crowd.
For an art fix, head around the corner to find Whitechapel Gallery-- or hound the street art on Brick Lane and its nearby streets.
14. Chinatown.
London's Chinatown can be found around Gerrard Street, sandwiched between Soho and Leicester Square. With its Chinese lanterns and distinctive red arches, it's hard to miss this dynamic community. Filled with authentic Asian restaurants along with supermarkets and secret bars, there is constantly something brand-new to check out in Chinatown. For a slice of real Asian cuisine, try the HK Restaurant for tasty roast duck, good service, and big parts. They likewise serve bubble tea, an Asian pattern that has just recently swept throughout the city!
15. Electric Opportunity.
Electric Avenue is a street in Brixton, south London, popular since it was the very first market street in London to be lit by electricity. It generated the # 1 tune by Eddy Grant and has actually been the center of some parts of London history, including the Brixton race riots in 1981. Today, Electric Opportunity is home to Brixton Market, a eclectic and varied grocery store.
Afterwards, have a look at the rest of the community. Brixton features a plethora of small companies selling special, handcrafted and eccentric items. This is one of London's most diverse areas and an excellent area to do some shopping or catch some live music.
16. Piccadilly Circus.
Piccadilly Circus is quickly identifiable, a square filled with bright lights and big electronic screens. Piccadilly Circus has been a busy London spot because the 17th century when it was a commercial center.
Today it is still the heart of the West End, with easy gain access to from Piccadilly Circus to a few of London's most significantnightclubs and theaters , including the Criterion Theatre. The Statue of Eros in the center of the circus is itself a popular meeting point and traveler destination.
Visit Ripley's Believe it or Not museum at Piccadilly Circus to discover some brand-new truths and see the world's weirdest things. The Trocadero homes a video games arcade and some specific niche shops to satisfy any popular culture yearnings.
17. Oxford Street.
Oxford Street is not only London's leading spot for shopping but is Europe's busiest shopping street. It has 300 shops and gets over 500,000 visitors every day.
Store 'til you drop in designer stores and internationally-famous outlet store like Debenhams and House of Fraser. Selfridges functions detailed and lovely window shows that modification with the seasons. These frequently include interactive windows and work by well-known artists.
Around Christmas, the Oxford Street Christmas lights brighten your shopping sprees and add some glitter to the evenings.
18. Leicester Square.
Walk in the steps of Hollywood stars by paying a visit to Leicester Square. The square is most well-known for hosting movie premieres to a few of the biggest blockbusters. In fact, the square has been a London hotspot given that 1670 and an entertainment center given that the 19th century.
The square is surrounded by a number of movie theaters with some of the city's most significant screens, in addition to a range of dining establishments. The garden in the center of the square is best for cooling down in during the summertime or resting your feet after a long day of checking out London.
Go To the Prince Charles Movie theater for cult movies, singalong screenings, and impressive marathon nights. Leicester Square also hosts events for the Chinese New Year where you can see standard dancing dragons and get lost in the crowds.
19. Galleries.
London is an ideal city for art fans with so many galleries to check out, featuring the very best in contemporary and classic art. Most of the city's galleries are free to visitors, including the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. The National Gallery has something for everyone with work by da Vinci, Turner, van Gogh and Rembrandt on display.
For prolific modern art, go to the Tate Modern on the Southbank. The building itself is a piece of art, towering above the waterside. Inside, find pieces by Picasso, Klee and Delauney. The gallery also features interesting short-lived displays on every building level, making it the perfect location for an art fix.
20. Harrods.
Harrods is among London's most famous outlet store, understood especially for serving the elite and the super-rich. Because opening in 1824, Harrods' patrons have consisted of Oscar Wilde, Laurence Olivier and the Royal Family.
The high-end is spread out throughout a variety of floorings, set out in style through Harrods' themed halls. The food hall sells indulgent delicacies from fresh meat and cheese to superior marmalades and crowns. The Egyptian hall offers fashion in luxurious style to make you seem like a pharaoh as you go through.
At Christmas, Harrods puts together a number of luxury Christmas obstructs filled with goodies to make the celebrations much more special. Explore the structure and get lost while looking for extravagant fragrances, children's toys, and even animals in London's the majority of unique department store.
21. Platform 9 3/4.
King's Cross is among the city's busiest places with a train station that has actually been open since 1852 serving much of the country. Recent remodellings have actually offered a smooth, modern seek to the station-- try to find the surprise tunnel with walls that light up with art.
But for lots of people all over the world, King's Cross is understood finest for something else: the station that Harry Potter utilizes to journey to Hogwarts. Now you can visit Platform 9 3/4 in reality, in King's Cross railway station.
Pose besides a baggage trolley disappearing amazingly into the wall and have your photo taken to honor your wizarding journey permanently! Do not forget to wear home colors.
22. Museums.
London is among the very best cities worldwide for culture with a variety of complimentary museums to enjoy. On Exhibition Roadway in South Kensington, you can find lots of museums close together.
Start with the Natural History Museum and posture for a picture with the notorious Diplodocus skeleton in the main hall. Explore the museum and discover ancient fossils and stuffed animals including a dodo replica.
Afterwards, go to the Science Museum next door for hands-on activities and to investigate scientific progress throughout the ages.
A short stroll to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) will shift focus to cultural history.
The V&A Museum has artwork on show together with style and living tools from around the world. Here you will find art students diligently sketching the classical statues and ironwork.
Lastly, visit the British Museum where you can see the Rosetta Stone, mummified remains and explore centuries of archaeological discoveries.
The Samsung Digital Discovery Centre is ideal for children, with hundreds of totally free activities to check out history and culture through modern-day technology.
23. Bond Street.
mBond Street links to Oxford Street and is a popular shopping district in its own right. Bond Street differs to Oxford Street in its selection of stores, with a much higher concentrate on the exclusive and the designer. Bond Street is one of the most expensive shopping streets in London and deserves visiting for a taste of the indulgent.
Doormen stand patiently outside lots of store entrances. Diamonds glitter in the windows of watchmakers, jeweller's, and even purse stores. On this street you will discover Tiffany's, along with the flagship stores for Cartier and Ralph Lauren.
After an area of browsing-- or flashing the cash-- pose with the 'Allies' statue of Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt resting on a bench. Complete your journey to Bond Street by looking for London's oldest outside sculpture above the entrance to Sotheby's. This sculpture is from Ancient Egypt and is over 3,000 years of ages.
24. Buckingham Palace.
A journey to London is incomplete without strolling through Green Park to see Buckingham Palace. The palace has been home to the British Royal Household considering that 1837. It includes 775 spaces and the biggest private garden in London.
Some of the palace is open to visitors so you can see a little piece of the royal lifestyle. From outdoors, watch the world-famous Changing of the Guard. This procedure takes place a few times every day and is a fantastic opportunity to witness a historical tradition and the utmost discipline of the Royal Guard-- who are all wearing the renowned London bearskin.
Check out in the evening
London is a dynamic city both during the day and throughout the night. There is constantly something occurring even after dark, from one-off occasions to club nights. As the sun sets, London's lights turn on supplying the city with a magical illumination.
There are free walking tours that check out the city in the evening or hop on a night tour bus. See St Paul's Cathedral lit up after dark or go to the Gothic architecture of Big Ben and Westminster Cathedral. Go to Soho and the West End for buzzing nightlife amongst the huge neon indications.
Travel a little further out to Hampstead Heath for an area of stargazing or see Hyde Park in the evening where bats are often sighted. Finally, after a long day and night exploring among the very best cities worldwide, go to Polo Bar at Liverpool Street for 24/7 greasy spoon dining.
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