Landmarks to Visit in London
If you’re planning a visit to London, how do you even know where to start? The English capital city simply has so much to see and do! To help you decide, here’s a run-down of London’s best-known landmarks.
The Tower of London
A Royal palace, medieval fort and notorious prison, home to the Crown Jewels, the “Beefeaters” and the famous ravens. It’s also like stepping into a small walled town, with its many buildings and open spaces. Tower Green, site of executions and the notorious Bloody Tower raise a shiver, while the architecture and exhibitions are absolutely fascinating. Allow a whole day to visit this incredible attraction.
Tower Bridge
Nearby is one of London’s most-famous landmarks and arguably the world’s most recognisable suspension bridge. Tower Bridge is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering, with its pair of bascules that open to allow vessels to pass through. There’s a walkway between the two distinctive Gothic towers, which give you amazing views of the River Thames – including through the glass panels under your feet…
Shakespeare’s Globe
On the opposite side of the river from the Tower, you can get a glimpse into 16th and 17th-century London. The faithful recreation of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is a must-visit for anyone who loves literature, social history and theatre. It’s a working theatre with a packed programme of plays, which you get to experience just as Shakepeare’s contemporaries would have done. There’s also exhibitions, a shop and cafe.
https://www.shakespearesglobe.com/
The Shard
One of London’s newest but most distinctive landmarks, The Shard is the best place to go to spot all the other sites. On a clear day, you can see for 40 miles from the three viewing decks on the (gulp) 68th, 69th and 72nd floors. The lift takes you up to 68 in an eye-watering 60 seconds. You can decide to stay there and enjoy a drink with a view, or head up to the open-air platform on 72 for the most spectacular panorama of the capital.
St Paul’s Cathedral
This magnificent cathedral, with its iconic dome and gleaming Portland stone, is another of London’t best-known and most-loved landmarks. Visitors are welcome to attend a service or a concert in the beautiful building, or you can simply book a sightseeing ticket to marvel at Sir Chrisopher Wren’s extraordinary achievement. Outside, the cathedral’s gardens are a lovely green oasis in this busy City district.
Trafalgar Square
Nelson’s Column dominates this famous public square, which is named after the 1805 battle. The 153-feet 1843 column celebrates the naval hero, Admiral Lord Nelson, guarded at its base by those famous, fearsome lions. Trafalgar Square has statues, fountains and steps to sit and watch the world go by and is also home to the National Gallery. Close to Leicester Square, The Mall and The Strand, you really do feel like you’re in the heart of London here.
The Palace of Westminster
Walk down to Embankment Pier from The Strand and pick up a boat to Westminster Pier. Disembark to one of London’s most imposing sites, the Palace of Westminster and the Elizabeth Clock Tower (Big Ben). You can visit the familiar-looking chambers of the UK government and you can even attend (for free) a debate in either the House of Commons or the House of Lords. Take a look on the UK Parliament website to find out more.
Westminster Abbey
Stay in this area to visit this beautiful World Heritage Site and Royal Church. You’re welcome to attend worship here or book spaces at an event and of course, simply to explore the splendid medieval Abbey. If you want to see a bit more of the church than is usually open to the public, book a place on one of the fascinating Verger Tours, led by those who know Westminster Abbey better than anyone.
The London Eye
You get an excellent view across Westminster from high up on the London Eye. The rotating, bicycle wheel-style observation platform was created to celebrate the Millenium and was meant to be in place for five years. As you can see, the hugely popular attraction stayed up and around 3.75 million visitors book a “flight” on it each year. Reserve a spot on the slowly turning wheel for wonderful views across London, or upgrade to a romantic champagne flight.
Buckingham Palace
Yes, you can actually visit the King’s official London Residence, the iconic Buckingham Palace. Your tour includes the Throne Room, the Ballroom and the Grand Staircase, as well as the lesser-known and lovely Palace gardens. More surprisingly, like any other heritage attraction, there’s a shop and cafe. There are even special events for children!
Book your self-catering holiday near London
And this is only the beginning of what London has to offer… Treat yourself to a longer self-catering stay near London, in one of our luxury holiday cottages in the South East. Enjoy what the capital city has to offer, then take a short train journey or drive back to your comfortable cottage – the best of both worlds.
