Friendly disclaimer! We want to be as accurate as possible, but given these challenging times, we urge you to recheck that the venues are open when you decide to visit.
London, the cultural, political and economic heart of Britain, is a heady mix of contrasts. A city famous for its theatres, museums, galleries and royal palaces, London exudes sophistication in the minutest of urban facade.
The city has something for all, whether you are a thrifty traveller or someone who loves to indulge in luxury. In all of Europe and in the midst of emerging cities that excite, London will still stand a class apart.
London Mithraeum
Reopened recently at the very site of its original discovery, the ruins of this Roman Temple of Mithras are open for public visits in the basement of Bloomberg’s European headquarters at number 12 Walbrook. There are also a few other exhibitions that include both historic artefacts and contemporary artwork. Entrance is free of charge.
Useful Info:
- Location: 12 Walbrook, London
- Phone: +44 20 7330 7500
- Website: www.londonmithraeum.com
- Timings: Tue-Sat 10.00-18.00, Sun 12.00-17.00 First Thursday of the month 10.00-20.00
Kew Gardens
London’s largest UNESCO World Site, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, is the largest conservation project of its kind in the world. Visit the Davies Alpine House and experience the high-altitude conditions that allow alpine plants to grow, take a trip the desert to the jungle at Princess of Wales Conservatory, marvel at treacherous carnivorous plants and take in sweeping views of London from atop the Great Pagoda.
Useful Info:
- Location: Richmond TW9 3AB
- Phone: +44 20 8332 5655
- Website: www.kew.org/kew-gardens
Tate Modern
Housed in a large former power station, Tate Modern is Britain’s leading art gallery when it comes to modern and contemporary art. As well as the Tate’s much anticipated exhibitions, there’s a fantastic permanent collection to explore. It features works by artists as diverse as Matisse, Picasso, Rothko, Pollock, Warhol and Bourgeois.
Useful Info:
- Location: Bankside, London
- Phone: +44 20 7887 8888
- Website: www.tate.org.uk
- Timings: Daily 10.00-18.00. Fri and Sat 10.00-22.00
- How to reach: Southwark and Blackfriars Tube stations
- Cost: Free (some temporary exhibitions are ticketed)
The British Museum
One of the largest and most interesting museums in the world, the British Museum is home to some of the most treasured historical artefacts ever found. The extensive exhibition includes the Rosetta Stone, Assyrian treasures, Egyptian mummies and the museum’s spectacularly illuminated Great Court, where you can find the museum’s new restaurant. This restaurant is an ideal spot for taking afternoon tea under the court’s spectacular roof. Free tours of the museum and guides are also available.
Useful Info:
- Location: Great Russell Street, London
- Phone: +44 20 7323 8000
- Website: www.britishmuseum.org
- Timings: Daily 10.00-17.30. Friday 10.00-20.30
- How to reach: Holborn, Tottenham Court Road, Russell Square, and Goodge Street Tube stations
- Cost: Free (some temporary exhibitions are ticketed)
The National Gallery
You will find vast collections of some of the most famous, beautiful and awe-inspiring paintings in the world at the National Gallery. Treat yourself to some of the best artistic production there is and ever has been. Feast your eyes on masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Titian, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Turner, Monet or Van Gogh.
Useful Info:
- Location: Trafalgar Square
- Phone: +44 20 7747 2885
- Website: www.nationalgallery.org.uk
- Timings: Daily 10.00-18.00. Friday 10.00-21.00
- How to reach: Charing Cross Tube Station
Tower of London
Tower of London is one of the most famous fortified buildings in the world. It’s also a mysterious place full of dark secrets, strange stories and historic relics. Here you can admire the priceless Crown Jewels, explore the Medieval Palace, visit the infamous Bloody Tower, and go on a tour with a Yeoman Warder to learn about the many executions that took place here.
Useful Info:
- Location: Tower Hill, London
- Phone: +44 20 3166 6000
- Website: www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london
- Timings: Tue-Sat 09.00-17.30. Sun-Mon 10.00-17.30
- How to reach: Tower Hill Tube station
St Paul’s Cathedral
The 17th century cathedral on Ludgate Hill in the City of London is one of the capital’s most iconic buildings. Designed by the illustrious Sir Christopher Wren, St Paul’s was the tallest building in London until as late as 1962.
Use the touch-screen multimedia guides or take a guided tour to learn about the famous interior or, if you’re feeling fit, climb up to the Whispering Gallery and try out the acoustics. From there you can carry on making your way up to the Golden Gallery atop the dome, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of London. You can also descend into the crypt where you’ll find memorials of important historical figures such as Admiral Lord Nelson.
Useful Info:
- Location: St Paul’s Churchyard, London
- Phone: +44 20 7246 8350
- Website: www.stpauls.co.uk
- How to reach: St Paul’s, Mansion House and Blackfriars Tube stations
Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum houses hundreds of amazing exhibits from the natural world in one of London’s most beautiful landmark buildings. Highlights include the popular Dinosaurs gallery, the model blue whale and the Cocoon specimen centre special. Events and debates are held in the Darwin Centre high-tech Attenborough Studio, where you’ll have the chance to meet important scientists.
Useful Info:
- Location: Cromwell Road, London
- Phone: +44 20 7942 5000
- Website: www.nhm.ac.uk
- Timings: Daily 10.00-17.50
- How to reach: South Kensington and Gloucester Road Tube stations
- Cost: Free (some exhibitions have separate charges)
Madame Tussauds London
There’s plenty to keep you entertained at Madame Tussauds London, with more than 300 wax figures, the Marvel Super Heroes 4D movie experience and Spirit of London Taxi Ride. The uncannily lifelike wax figures of famous (and infamous) individuals from throughout history are the obvious highlight. From Johnny Depp and One Direction to Muhammad Ali and the Queen, you are sure to recognise everyone who makes an appearance.
Useful Info:
- Location: Marylebone Road, London
- Phone: +44 871 894 3000
- Website: www.madametussauds.com/london/en
- How to reach: Baker Street Tube station
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
“Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is a reconstruction of the original open-air theatre where playwright, William Shakespeare, first staged many of his famous plays such as Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and Midsummer Night‚Äôs Dream.
On the banks of the Thames, just a few hundred yards away from its original location, the Globe stages classic and modern interpretations of Shakespeare’s works as well as of brand new plays. And at only ¬£5 for a standing ticket, you can’t go wrong. There is also an exhibition with audio guides available in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Japanese. And expert guided tours run every 30 minutes.”
Useful Info:
- Location: 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London
- Phone: +44 20 7902 1400
- Website: www.shakespearesglobe.com
- Timings: Daily 09.00-17.00
- How to reach: Blackfriars, London Bridge and Mansion House Tube stations
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Located on the South Bank, right next to London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium harbours one of Europe’s largest collections of global marine life covering more than 500 species, 14 themed areas and two million litres of water.
The exhibition includes favourites such as seahorses, octopus, zebra sharks and clown fish.There are also interactive experiences, so you can see diving displays, watch the sharks being fed, or even try and feed the stingrays yourself. And don’t forget to take a dive ‘under the ocean’ in the glass tunnel walkway.
Useful Info:
- Location: County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London
- Phone: +44 871 663 1678
- Website: www.visitsealife.com/london
- Timings: Mon-Fri 10.00-18.00. Sat-Sun 09.30-19.00
- How to reach: Waterloo and Westminster Tube stations
Houses of Parliament
Take a tour of the Houses of Parliament and experience 1,000 years of history at Westminster. Visitors are welcomed into the building through Westminster Hall, before following in the footsteps of the Queen at the State Opening of Parliament. Marvel at the Victorian splendour of the Lords Chamber and see the famous green benches in the Commons Chamber. Audioguides and tours are available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Russian and Mandarin.
Useful Info:
- Location: Westminster, London
- Phone: +44 20 7219 3000
- Website: www.parliament.uk/visiting
- Timings: Saturdays and weekdays when Parliament is not in session
- How to reach: Westminster Tube station
Buckingham Palace
During the summer months, Buckingham Palace – the official residence of The Queen – opens the doors of its elegant State Rooms to the public. As well as proving a very fancy backdrop for many an official royal engagement, the rooms contain some of the finest treasures from the Royal Collection – including paintings, sculptures and fine French furniture.
Useful Info:
- Location: Buckingham Palace, London
- Phone: +44 20 7766 7300
- Website: www.royalcollection.org.uk
- Timings: July-September (Pre-booking tickets recommended)
- How to reach: Victoria, Green Park and Hyde Park Corner Tube stations
Legoland Windsor
Built on 150 acres of parkland, the Legoland Windsor Resort is located just outside of London. It is home to more than 55 rides, shows, attractions and workshops, all geared towards children up to 12 years of age.
This theme park is a great place for a family day trip. But for those of you who would like to make the most of all the fun there is to be had at the theme park, there is the possibility of staying at the Resort Hotel’s themed rooms for a few days and enjoying its themed rooms. That way you can fully enjoy all that the park has to offer. You can jump on board a Lego submarine, take a good look at London’s iconic landscape in miniature form, get soaked at the water rides and put your skills to the test at The Driving School.
Useful Info:
- Location: Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire
- Phone: +44 871 2222 001
- Website: www.legoland.co.uk
- How to reach: Take a train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central via Slough, or from Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside direct. A shuttle bus service operates from both stations to the park.
Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace was King Henry VIII’s favourite royal residence. It is brimming with thrilling stories and beautiful sights. Inside the building you can visit the medieval Great Hall where William Shakespeare’s company once performed, as well as the huge Tudor kitchens and the Haunted Gallery.
There is also much to see on the outside of the palace, what with the puzzling maze, the palace’s beautiful gardens and a large park. Other highlights include daily tours and talks, as well as the annual Hampton Court Palace Flower Show.
Useful Info:
- Location: East Molesey, Surrey
- Phone: +44 844 482 7777
- Website: www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace
- Timings: Daily 10.00-16.30
- How to reach: Hampton Court train station is just across the bridge.
National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery in Central London harbours more than 195,000 portraits of famous men and women who have shaped British history from 16th century to the present day. Painted by acclaimed artists such as Holbein, David Hockney, Cecil Beaton and Lucian Freud, sitters include kings, queens, film stars, politicians, musicians and many more. The gallery’s rolling calendar of exhibitions is worth investigating as well, particularly the annual BP Portrait Awards.
Useful Info:
- Location: St Martin’s Place, London
- Phone: +44 207 306 0055
- Website: www.npg.org.uk
- Timings: Daily 10.00-18.00, Thu and Fri 10.00-21.00
- How to reach: Charing Cross, Leicester Square and Embankment Tube stations
- Cost: Free (some exhibitions have separate charges)
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter
Step into the magical world of Harry Potter and visit the film sets where the movies were shot in Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. On the tour you can nose around Dumbledore’s office, enter the Great Hall, walk down Diagon Alley, see how they made Harry Potter fly on his broomstick and watch special effect animatronics come to life. A must-do for fans of the world’s favourite wizard.
Useful Info:
- Location: Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden
- Phone: +44 345 084 0900
- Website: www.wbstudiotour.co.uk
Museum of London
Discover the story of the world’s greatest city at The Museum of London. The tale begins with prehistoric London, moving on to the influence of the Romans and Saxons on the city, and then on towards Medieval London.
Along the way you will encounter civil wars, deathly plagues and rampant fires. Journey through the Galleries of Modern London along Victorian streets and marvel at the lavish Lord Mayor’s Coach display.
Useful Info:
- Location: 150 London Wall, City of London
- Phone: +44 20 7001 9844
- Website: www.museumoflondon.org.uk
- Timings: Daily 10.00-18.00
- How to reach: Barbican, St Paul’s and Moorgate Tube stations
- Cost: Free entry
WWT London Wetland Centre
The 105-acre WWT London Wetland Centre is a wildlife reserve on the outskirts of Central London. Here you will find plenty of rare birds, beautiful lakes, tranquil gardens and calming meadows to walk amongst and admire.
Keep your eyes open because you might be lucky enough to spot a family of otters. You can also take a free guided tour before relaxing at the Water’s Edge Cafe. There are indoor and outdoor adventure areas for kids to play in.
Useful Info:
- Location: Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, London
- Phone: +44 20 8409 4400
- Website: www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london
- Timings: Winter 09.30-16.30. Summer 09.30-17.30
The Sherlock Holmes Museum
The official home of the famous fictional detective Sherlock Holmes is 221b Baker Street. According to the books by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, he lived here from 1881 to 1904. The museum features Holmes’ detailed study, life-size waxworks representing scenes from Holmes and Watson’s adventures and a souvenir shop.
Useful Info:
- Location: 221b Baker Street, London
- Phone: +44 207 224 3688
- Website: www.sherlock-holmes.co.uk
- Timings: Daily 09.30-18.00
- How to reach: Baker Street Tube station
City Cruises
See London from a different angle by taking a cruise along the famous River Thames. City Cruises offer frequent sightseeing trips between Westminster, Waterloo (next to the London Eye), Tower and Greenwich piers. Options include tea-time cruises, evening cruises, a jazz cruise and The London Showboat, a dinner/cabaret/dance cruise.
Useful Info:
- Location: Victoria Embankment, Westminster, London
- Phone: +44 20 7740 0400
- Website: www.citycruises.com
The Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum in Kensington has a breathtaking collection of design and art. From Islamic art to fine European jewellery. From famous watercolours by artists such as John Constable to iconic fashion creations by Vivienne Westwood.
Explore the permanent collection or visit one of the museum’s world-class, and ever-popular temporary exhibitions. Look out for the quirky Friday Lates events that happen on the last Friday of every month.
Useful Info:
- Location: Cromwell Road, London
- Phone: +44 20 7942 2000
- Website: www.vam.ac.uk
- Timings: Daily 10.00-17.45. Fri 10.00-22.00
- How to reach: South Kensington Tube station
- Cost: Free (some exhibitions have a separate charge)
The London Dungeon
London’s history is filled with gruesome tales and scary characters. The London Dungeon attraction on the south bank of the Thames retells some of those bloody stories. Using costumes, 360 plus sets and a multitude of special effects, London Dungeon takes you through 1000 years of the city’s gory, gruesome and terrifying past in 90 minutes. Look out for Jack the Ripper and Sweeney Todd along the way. This is not an attraction for those of nervous disposition.
Useful Info:
- Location: County Hall, Riverside Building, London
- Phone: +44 20 7654 0809
- Website: www.thedungeons.com/london/en
- Timings: Daily 10.00-17.00. Thu 11.00-17.00. Sat 10.00-18.00
- How to reach: Waterloo and Westminster Tube stations
The London Eye
At a staggering height of 135 metres (443 ft), The London Eye offers a superb view of the capital’s most famous attractions. A full rotation around the observational wheel in one of the glass capsules lasts some 30 minutes and it is so popular that each year it receives more visitors than the Taj Mahal and the Great Pyramids of Giza. And once you’ve taken a 360-degree ride on the wheel you’ll understand why.
Useful Info:
- Location: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London
- Phone: +44 870 990 8883
- Website: www.londoneye.com
- How to reach: Westminster and Waterloo Tube stations
Nikita Joseph
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