Everyone who has ever tried to learn English knows that London “is the capital of Great Britain”. The Romans lived on the territory of modern London in the 1st century AD. And by the end of the century the city became the capital of Britain. A lot of time has passed since then. The city fell into decay and flourished again, was severely crippled during the Second World War and rebuilt.
Unique historical monuments, amusement parks, majestic museums, noisy pubs – tourists of different ages, nationalities and religions come here, and everyone finds something different in London.
➤ Big Ben Clock Tower (Big Ben)
The visiting card of London is located in one of the oldest districts of the city. Big Ben was built by the forces of the whole country: materials for construction were delivered to London from different cities of the United Kingdom. Interestingly, the tower was erected in an atypical way for the middle of the 19th century: from the inside – out.
At that time, almost all over the world, buildings were built the other way around: from the outside – inside. Setting the clock turned out to be a difficult test for the craftsmen. As a result of strenuous attempts to fit the intended structure into the finished building, a mechanism was invented that watchmakers still use today.
- Operating hours: around the clock;
- Fee: free;
- How to get there: You can get here by ferry or by bus to the Westminster stop.
- Opening hours:every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
- Cost: the cost should be checked immediately before visiting;
- How to get there: the most fast way – take the Tube to Tower Hill.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 5 pm pm;
- Price: free;
- How to get there: you can get here both by metro and by bus.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 5 pm;
- Cost:< /strong> entry ticket from £15;
- How to get there: a short walk from Big Ben or Trafalgar Square.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 6 pm;
- Cost: The price of the entrance ticket must be checked immediately before visiting;
- How to get there:you can take the subway to Waterloo station.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 7 pm;
- Fee: free;
- How to get there: You can get to the skyscraper by underground if you get off at London Bridge station.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 6 pm;
- Cost:we recommend checking the price of the entrance ticket immediately before visiting;
- How to get there: you can walk to the gallery from Trafalgar Square.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 17 pm;
- Fee: entrance ticket costs from £15;
- How to get there: you can take the metro to the fortress , get off at Tower Hill station.
- Working hours: around the clock;
- Cost: free;
- How to get there: The fastest way to get here is by subway to Sharing Cross Station.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 4 pm;
- Cost: Minimum entry cost £9;
- How to get there:There are several underground stations near the cathedral, as well as several bus stops.
- Opening hours: The opening hours of the palace should be checked immediately before visit;
- Cost: entrance costs from £28;
- How to get there: you can get here by metro, you need to get off at Westminster station.
- Working hours: every day from 10 am to 3 pm; sometimes the abbey closes earlier;
- Cost: minimum entry price £5;
- How to get there: we recommend taking the metro , you will need to get off at Westminster station.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 5 pm;
- Fee: free;
- How to get there: You can get to the museum by tube from South Kensington station.
- Opening hours: We recommend that you check the opening hours on the official websites of the galleries;
- How to get there: you can get here by taxi, bus and metro.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 18 pm;
- Cost: Minimum ticket price £14;
- How to get there: It's a fairly quick walk from the city center.
- Opening hours: every day from 5 am to midnight;
- Cost:free of charge;
- How to get there: there are five metro stations near the park, in addition, you can get here by bus.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price: free;
- How to get there:the underground line leads here, you need to get off at the Covent Garden station.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 5 pm;
- Fee: minimum ticket price £13; with a London Pass you can enter the palace for free;
- How to get there: the most convenient way to get to the palace is by bus or taxi.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 7 pm;
- Fee: Admission starts at £5;
- How to get there: The fastest way is to take the Underground, next to the gardens is Kew Gardens».
- Opening hours:around the clock;
- Price: free;
- How to get there: You can get here by metro or bus.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price: free;
- How to get there: you can take the Underground to Westminster Station.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 6 pm;< /li>
- Cost: free;
- How to get there: Walking distance from Kensington Palace
- Opening hours: every day from 10am to 6pm;
- Fee:minimum ticket price is £18;
- < strong>How to get there: You can take the Tube to Covent Garden Station.
- Opening hours: every day from 7 am to 4 pm;
- Price: free;
- How to get there: there are three metro stations near the market, in addition, you can get here by train.
- Opening hours:every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.;
- Fee: Admission starts at £10;
- How to get there: There are three underground stations nearby, from which you can quickly walk to the palace.
- Opening hours: check the opening hours immediately before visiting;
- Cost: Admission starts at £38;
- How to get there: You can get here by bus or commuter train.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 6 pm;
- Cost:the ticket price depends on the specific event;
- How to get there: there are many ways to get here, but the fastest way is by taxi.
- Opening hours:every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
- Fee: Admission starts at £8;
- How to get there: The best way to get to the observatory is by bus.
- Opening hours: check the opening hours of the cemetery before visiting;
- Fee: entry costs from £1;
- How to get there: The best way to get to the cemetery is by taxi.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 3 pm;
- < strong>Fee: Tickets start at £15;
- How to get there: Buses run to the stadium, you can also come by train and walk to the stadium from the station .
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➤ Tower Bridge
Suspension bridge spread out near the Tower Fortress – a vivid example of the rapid development of technology in the 19th century. The drawbridge is designed in such a way that, even when it is raised, pedestrians can easily get from one side to the other.
There is a functioning museum on the Tower Bridge, visiting which you will learn about how the monumental structure was built . In addition, you can visit the engine room. It will be interesting for both children and adults to see how the steam engines worked that parted the bridge.
➤ British Museum
You can safely set aside a few days to visit the British Museum. This is one of the largest museums in the world, which has become the heart of historical and archaeological activity in the UK. The museum has both permanent and temporary exhibitions, which bring together exhibits from all over the world, dating back to different centuries.
And four times a year, the main building hosts thematic “Nights at the Museum”, focused primarily for children. Visitors stay at the museum all night, play games, participate in recreational activities and get even closer to the history.
➤ Buckingham Palace
The palace built at the very beginning of the 18th century belonged to the Duke of Buckingham. In the first years after construction, the building was considered the most beautiful among all the buildings in the city.
A little less than a century later, the palace was bought by the king, who wanted to re-equip the house as his residence. Three more exactly the same were completed to the main building, after which the royal family settled here. By that time, Queen Victoria ruled the country.
< h2>➤ London Eye Ferris Wheel
Another bright symbol of the city, known throughout the world. The top point of the Ferris wheel is at a height of almost 135 meters. From it you can clearly see the whole city – like in the palm of your hand. If the weather is clear, then with such visibility, the view is about forty kilometers around the attraction. It is because of this feature that the wheel got its name.
➤ Skyscraper The Shard
"Shard" – so the name given to the skyscraper is translated into Russian. It has the status of the highest observation deck in London. Huge lines of tourists line up to enjoy the view of the city from a height of almost 250 meters above ground level.
The skyscraper is not as old as the sights surrounding it. The building was completed in 2012, timed to coincide with the completion of the construction for the Olympic Games, which were held in London in the summer.
➤ National Gallery
The foundation for the National Gallery was laid at the beginning of the 19th century, when Angerstein's works were acquired for the collection. Since then, the gallery has changed several buildings. The current one was completed only in 1838 right next to Trafalgar Square.
Now the National Gallery houses one of the largest art collections in the world. The collection is constantly updated with works from different eras and genres due to numerous sponsors. This is one of the museums that you can't get around in one day.
➤ London Keep The Tower
Many legends were born around the London fortress, supposedly built by William the Conqueror. Behind him, the construction of the fortress was completed by the famous King Richard the Lionheart. In those days, the Tower, which is translated into Russian as “tower”, was an important strategic point.
What is especially interesting and valuable – the buildings of the Tower have survived to our time practically unchanged, because never in the entire history of its existence the fortress was subjected to large-scale destruction.
➤ Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square – This is the concentration of the main attractions of the city. It is here that the main streets of the city converge, which is why Trafalgar Square is often called the “heart of London”. or “zero kilometer”.
In the 19th century, on the site of the royal stables, it was decided to build a square in the form of a square, the side of which would reach 165 meters. During the daytime, the area is usually filled with numerous tourist groups. This point is included in almost all excursion programs that you can offer.
➤ St. Paul
The largest cathedral of the capital has become the venue for many solemn ceremonies. Prince Charles was married here, the anniversaries of two queens, Victoria and Elizabeth II, were celebrated here, Churchill's funeral was also held here. More than four services are held daily in the cathedral, and on Sunday tourists may not be allowed inside. A huge number of people gather for Sunday services, and the cathedral cannot accommodate everyone.
➤ Palace of Westminster
The residence began to be built during the early Middle Ages, when Westminster Abbey was just beginning to emerge. As the researchers managed to establish, the oldest part of the foundation dates back to the XIV century. By the 16th century, the palace acquired the status of a parliament. Since then, the building has survived several fires and renovations. Now it is regularly reconstructed every few years, so before the trip, you should check in advance which parts of the palace are available for visiting.
➤ Westminster Abbey
Westminster the abbey has witnessed almost all royal coronations and burial ceremonies. Abbey – this is the church of St. Peter, which began to be built in the middle of the 13th century, and was completed only in the middle of the 18th century. Interestingly, the first references to this particular church are found in documents from the 5th century AD. Westminster Abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
➤ Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum is considered one of the largest design museums in the world. It is part of the Arts and Crafts Museum complex, which is located in the South Kensington area. It is impossible to walk around the whole museum in one day! There are more than one hundred and forty rooms, each filled with exhibits.
➤ Two Tate galleries: Tate Britain and Tate Modern
Tate Britain and Tate Modern – these are two art galleries that are often combined into one tour. The first one is interesting for old paintings, some of which date back to the 16th century, the era of the Tudors. The Tate Modern also boasts antique exhibits, as well as works by contemporary masters.
< li>Cost:check the cost before visiting;
➤ Churchill's Bunker Museum< /h2>
Lovers of bunker culture flock here from all over the world. Churchill's headquarters was a real military bunker, which functioned for its intended purpose when London was bombed.
The construction of the bunker began at the beginning of the 20th century, when the World War had not yet begun. Interestingly, the work was completed exactly 5 days before the Nazis invaded Poland. Some rooms were closed until recently. Now all corners of the bunker are open for tourists.
➤ Hyde Park
Hyde Park is ranked fourth among London's Royal Parks. A vast territory of more than 140 hectares has become a favorite place for various speeches and rallies.
Moreover, a special place has been allocated in the park, calling it “Speakers' Corner”, especially for protesting groups. Hyde Park has an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility. This is a favorite vacation spot not only for tourists, but also for local residents.
➤ Covent area Garden
The original district of Covent Garden is famous for being able to fall in love at first sight. The heart of the region – bustling, filled with interesting shops, cafes and museums. But it is worth stepping aside a little – you find yourself in a world of small, quiet and cozy streets that contrast strongly with the central artery of Covent Garden.
The area began to form in the Middle Ages. The gardens of Westminster Abbey were located on this territory, which soon turned into wastelands. A little time passed, and people from the most impoverished strata of society settled in deserted places. Many centuries have passed, and now it is one of the most popular areas of London.
➤ Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court is located on the very edge of majestic London. From the moment it was completed in the 16th century until the 18th century, the palace was used as a country residence for the royal family.
A historical festival is held annually on the territory of the palace, where you can see real jousting tournaments, as well as a landscape design festival. The atmosphere in the palace especially attracts tourists: all the workers wear costumes created on the basis of Tudor era costumes, and some exhibits can be freely touched.
➤ Royal Botanic Gardens
Royal Botanic Gardens – This is a cozy park covering an area of 130 hectares. This location is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. On the territory of the gardens there is a huge number of plants collected from all over the world.
The total number of species is estimated at about 30,000 units. The architecture of the gardens fascinates at first sight. Carved light panels and partitions gracefully emphasize the beauty of plants. Here you can walk for long hours, enjoying the freshness and amazing colors of thousands of flowers.
➤ Soho Area
Soho is located in the heart of London. There is always life here. Soho includes a small Chinatown, especially popular with tourists. Small cafes with authentic cuisine and a variety of souvenir shops huddle here.
Soho has many nightclubs, cinemas, restaurants and pubs. Both day and night the establishments are crowded with people. There are no cars in the area, because the entire territory is officially considered a pedestrian zone. Walking around Soho, you can easily get to the performance of street theater or musicians.
➤ Oxford Street
Oxford Street is rightfully called a shopping street. Boutiques, shops, luxury salons for every taste and budget. In addition to shops, there are a variety of cafes in a row on the street, where you can relax after a busy shopping.
Oxford Street is famous for the “green spaces” that have been erected for city residents looking for a place to relax and meditate. Local shops prepare themed events and pleasant discounts for each holiday.
➤ Harrods Department Store
The luxurious building of the department store involuntarily attracts the eye. This place is popular among the rich and holds the status of one of the most fashionable establishments in the city. The department store was the favorite haunt of many celebrities such as Elton John, Madonna and Oscar Wilde.
The department store is still in operation today. But in parallel, it works in the format of a museum and is available to every tourist who wants to know the history of this unique place.
➤ London Transport Museum
If you are interested in the history of transport in the UK, then you should definitely visit this museum. At the London Transport Museum, you can see with your own eyes the omnibus driving through the streets during the time of Sherlock Holmes, as well as the world's first subway. The main part of the exposition is devoted directly to the history of transport development in London.
➤ Ledengal Market
Ledengol market – like another world lurking in the center of London. This location is included in the tour of the Harry Potter franchise. Victorian buildings and cobbled streets create an atmosphere of magic and luxury.
Today, the market combines the functions of a shopping center and a restaurant complex. Here you can walk all day and not have time to see all the shops.
➤ Kensington Palace
The building of the palace was built at the beginning of the 17th century. Initially, it was a residence, which was called Nottingham House. Then the palace was bought by the royal family. Since then, several more buildings have been added to the main building.
Until moving to Buckingham Palace, the kings of Britain lived here. During the tour, you will learn about all the stages of construction, as well as the dramatic stories that unfolded within the walls of the palace.
➤ Harry Potter Museum
A franchise that has made the whole world fall in love with itself comes from the UK. It is not surprising that many of the architectural features of the magical world were written off from the capital of the country – London.
The museum dedicated to the world of JK Rowling has quickly become one of the most popular. Magic is felt everywhere: the museum has a huge number of interactive exhibits. Here, both a child and an adult will find something to do.
< h2>➤ Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
A famous theater built in a unique way by order of one of the most mysterious people in the history of Great Britain. The current “Globe” – this is a copy of the theater, which burned down at the beginning of the 17th century. But the copy is accurate, built according to documents that have been preserved since the construction of the very first theater building.
➤ Royal Greenwich Observatory
The observatory is located on the zero meridian, according to which the globe is divided into two halves: eastern and western. Today there are lecture halls on the territory of the observatory. In addition, the building hosts temporary exhibitions on various topics.
➤ Highgate Cemetery
Ancient columned, green with time and overgrown with ivy, Gothic tombs – just being here, you feel the spirit of the time. Highgate Cemetery – a favorite place for mystics and directors who come to wander among the graves in search of new ideas.
➤ Wembley Stadium
A huge concert venue, which also hosts sports competitions – one of the largest such facilities in the UK. The FA Cups and various world-class championships were held here. The Beatles and Pink Floyd used to play at Wembley Stadium. Until now, spectators gather here in crowds to enjoy the long-awaited event.