London is for every type of traveler; Where casual meets proper, hip meets historic, and museums meet modern attractions - London has it all. In a city filled to the brim with sights to see and things to do, it can be overwhelming knowing where to start. Thankfully, we compiled five of London’s greatest hits for you to check off your list on your next trip to this famous destination.
#1 Westminster Abbey
As U.S. travelers, we identify London with the Royal Family. Westminster Abbey is the heart of royalty; Westminster Abbey is where England’s kings and queens are crowned, interred, and wed. Completed in 1065, followed by the existing church in the 13th century, you can take a 90-minute tour of this magnificent space accompanied by a verger for £3, or via a free audio guide. For any avid church-goers who want to get an authentic feel of the church, you can attend a Sunday service, although any photos/videos are prohibited.
#2 St. Paul’s Cathedral
Located in central London just north of the Millennium Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of London, and also serves as a final resting place for many notable figures in history. The structure’s crypt hosts the tombs of The Duke of Wellington, Christopher Wren, and Admiral Nelson, to name a few. Inside the great dome is the acoustically fascinating Whispering Gallery; at the top of the dome is the Golden Gallery, with panoramic views of central London. St. Paul’s has a free-to-attend daily service that is open to all and offers a chance to hear the Cathedral choir and other talented musicians.
#3 Tower of London & Tower Bridge
Not to be confused with one another, London’s Tower Bridge and the Tower of London each hold distinct roles in the city.
Tower of London: Throughout history, this tower has served as a castle, prison, royal mint, observatory, place of execution, and at one point a zoo! Above all, it is a medieval castle with a bloody history and is presently home to the crown jewels (in the Jewel House). In the Martin Tower and the Royal Armouries, you’ll find exhibitions of crowns, diamonds, armor, and armaments. Because of this landmark’s popularity, you should arrive early and allow 2-3 hours to see everything.
Tower Bridge: London's most famous bridge, and the inspiration of Fergie’s 2006 hit “London Bridge”, is one you won’t want to miss. The Tower Bridge is a defining landmark of the city and offers panoramic views from above. In addition to its striking appearance, it contains an on-site exhibition that draws parallels from its Victorian history to the present day. Visit the Victorian Engine Rooms to see the original steam engines that powered the bridge, and journey across the high-level covered walkways for views of the city all the way to Westminster.
#4 Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo? Hold for applause… The Globe Theater, originally opened in 1599 was a playhouse where audiences would go to see some of Shakespeare’s most famous plays. After an unfortunate devastating fire in 1613, the theater was rebuilt but still remains a cultural landmark and education center.
Open-air performances are held May-October, and the Globe Exhibition, situated beneath the theater, offers a fascinating glimpse of Elizabethan theater and audiences and explains the design and reconstruction of the new Globe. Visitors can tour the theater when it's not being used for performances!
#5 London Eye
Last but certainly not least, the London Eye! Located on the South Bank, just about opposite the Houses of Parliament, it's the highest observation wheel in Europe and the tallest cantilevered observation wheel in the world. Standing at 440-ft-/135-m-high, the London Eye is a Ferris Wheel that gives riders a one-rotation, 30-minute bird's-eye view of London. The Eye contains 32 capsules - one for each borough of London - and each capsule is enclosed for comfortable year-round operation. Each capsule of the Ferris Wheel holds up to 25 passengers, making it a perfect activity for friends, couples, small groups, or single riders!
Advance booking is highly recommended.
Let ELx Travel book this experience-filled itinerary for you! Schedule your FREE Travel Consultation today.