There are many attractions in London, and you will never run out of places to see or experience, even if you stay here for weeks. But if you want to perceive the true essence of London, then visit these five places first. Later, you can experience the other attractions.
Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard:
tourist attractions in London
, this spectacle is a must visit.
This is a 900-year-old castle and fortress in Central London. You can see the Crown Jewels, part of the Royal Collection, housed here. Meet the famous ravens who are known as the guardians of the tower. Learn from the Yeoman Warders about the famous prisoners who were incarcerated here and how they were tortured. There is also a magnificent armor display in the White Tower, including Line of Kings. The Tower Bridge is quite close to the Tower of London. The bridge crosses the River Thames and has become a world-famous symbol of London. The Tower Bridge opens to let the water traffic through. Learn about its working and the daring stunts that have taken place here.
The iconic clock of the Houses of Parliament is another landmark that identifies London. Big Ben is the giant bell inside the clock tower. The clock faces are illuminated by a special light when the parliament is in session. It is considered a symbol of democracy. The Houses of Parliament is also called the Palace of Westminister. The Elizabeth Tower contains the tower clock, Big Ben. The Houses of Parliament were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Go on a self-guided audio tour beginning at the enormous Westminister Hall, where both houses of Parliament can be addressed at once. The House of Lords is lavishly decorated but the House of Commons appears simple in comparison.
The Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, is London’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you walk in its 130 hectares, you can explore the beautiful glasshouses – The Palm House with its rainforest, or the Princess of Wales Conservatory, which has 10 of the world’s climatic zones. Or admire the giant lily pads in the Waterlily House. Walk up the Treetop Walkway and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the gardens. Explore the Kew Palace, which was the summer residence of King George III. With more than 60,000 plants, you will feel rejuvenated after your visit here. The Rock Garden here is the largest and oldest in the world. For the younger visitors, there is a Children’s Garden designed specifically for them. The Kew Gardens is less than 30 minutes from central London.
Madame Tussauds:
This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in London. Here, in London, is the original Madame Tussauds and you can find its franchises around the world. The wax figures of the most famous and popular personalities can be found here. Not just the world-famous personalities but even your beloved cartoon characters are seen here. Get an audience with the royal family or pose with your favorite pop stars and click photographs to create beautiful memories that will be cherished forever. Other attractions here are the Star Wars experience chamber, a Marvel 4D movie experience, Death Masks of victims and perpetrators of the French Revolution among others.
To visit London is to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of not only the British empire but the world. Visit the above places and experience the essence of London. Enjoy yourself while keeping safe.