London Information
London is a vibrant, bustling, multi-cultural city. It is also a city full of history, heritage and culture. Visit some 300 museums and art galleries or enjoy London's 6,000 restaurants. With over 30,000 shops and stores to choose from, as well as a burgeoning reputation in the fashion world, shoppers will not be disappointed - from designer labels in Bond Street to bustling street markets in Camden, Notting Hill or Brick Lane. The capital also has 400 live music venues, catering for everything from opera to Brit pop and sports fans will not be short of excitement whenever they come. The summer sees the world’s largest classical musical festival at the Royal Albert Hall – the Proms.
In the 21st century, London has reinvented itself on a monumental scale. Don’t miss the amazing views from the ultra modern British Airways London Eye, the world’s most visited modern art gallery, Tate Modern, or the staggering scale of the British Museum Great Court. Newcomers this year include the Firepower artillery museum in Woolwich and the Museum in Docklands which opens in September.
London has the greatest concentration of major attractions in Britain and boasts four World Heritage Sites. 238 attractions that are free to enter, so there's nowhere else in the world where you can see so much for so little.
Must see and do:
The London Eye, South Bank, London
The British Airways London Eye forms a major feature of London's skyline. It is the world's highest observation wheel and offers passengers spectacular views of over 55 of London's most famous landmarks in just 30 minutes.
Madame Tussaud's/Planetarium, London
At Madame Tussauds you can mingle with all of your famous celebrities, including the likes of Kylie Minogue, David Beckham, Jerry Springer, and Brad Pitt. At the interactive London Planetarium you can learn all about space travel, the planets and astronomy.
Somerset House, London
Somerset House is home to some world famous paintings, with the Courtauld Institute of Art, the magnificent Gilbert Collection and the Hermitage Rooms. It also houses the Christmas Ice Rink in the grand courtyard from November until January.
The London Dungeon, London
Discover the world's most chillingly famous horror attraction, and re-live over 2,000 years of the city's gruesome history. Explore the scary features including the Theatre of the Guillotine, the Jack the Ripper Experience, and the terrifying boat ride.
British Museum, London
The imposing British Museum exhibits the works of man from prehistoric to modern times with collections drawn from all around the world. Famous objects include the Rosetta Stone, sculptures from the Parthenon, and the Portland Vase.
Tower of London
Take a free guided tour with one of the Yeoman Warders around one of the most famous fortified buildings in the world. Discover its 900 year history as a royal palace and fortress, prison and place of execution, mint, arsenal, menagerie and jewel house.
Tate Modern
The impressive Tate Modern is Britain's national museum of modern art. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station on the banks of the River Thames, the gallery displays major works by Matisse and Picasso as well as contemporary work, exhibitions and installations.
Westminster Abbey
This architectural masterpiece is one of Britain's finest Gothic buildings. The scene of many coronations and marriages, it also houses the tombs of many of the country's notorious Kings and Queens, as well as the grave of the Unknown Warrior.
Hampton Court Palace
This is the oldest Tudor palace in England and contains over 500 years of Royal history. It holds many attractions including the Tudor kitchens, 60 acres of riverside gardens, the world-famous Maze and the magnificent State Apartments of Henry VIII.
Dali Universe
London's most surreal experience lies in a labyrinth of dreamlike corridors and interactive spaces in the heart of the South Bank. The Dali Universe is an innovative permanent 3,000 square metre exhibition, dedicated to the awe-inspiring works of Salvador Dali.
Events:
- January: The New Year's Day Parade, central London
- February: London Fashion Weekend, King's Road
- March: The Daily Mail Ideal Home Show
- April: London Marathon
- May: Chelsea Flower Show
- June: Royal Ascot (Berkshire)
- June - July: Wimbledon Tennis Championships, Wimbledon
- July - September: The Proms Music Festival
- August: Summer Opening of the State Rooms, Buckingham Palace
- October: Trafalgar Day Parade
- November: Fireworks Night, various venues
- December: Christmas Tree, Trafalgar Square
Source: United Kingdom Tourism Official Website |
