The capital is packed with attractions, famous and obscure, to tempt visitors and natives alike. Seeing all of them would take weeks (or even months) but if we choose only the more famous landmarks and amenities, we can cram the best that the city has to offer into a single week, and still leave time for a trip to a West End theatre or two in the evenings! Let’s run through the more popular destinations.
London Zoo
Situated on the north side of Regent’s Park, London Zoo is a world-class facility which not only offers a chance to see the world’s most amazing creatures up-close, but which participates in worldwide conservation efforts.
Museums
As you might expect from a modern capital, there are dozens of museums to consider. Probably the most impressive is the Natural History Museum, which offers free entry. It’s large enough to warrant multiple trips. If you’re more into art than nature, you prefer instead to take a trip to the National Gallery, or either of the Tate museums.
London Eye
Just across the river from Parliament is an enormous ferris wheel called the London Eye. You’ll be packed into a transparent capsule and slowly lifted high above the skyline. Short of a ride on a helicopter, this is probably the best way to see the capital from on-high.
Big Ben
The Elizabeth Tower of the Palace of Westminster is quintessentially London. The belfry is home to an impressive array of bells, including the largest of them, the famous Big Ben. If you’re in Westminster, it’s a must-visit. Since the houses of parliament are currently undergoing refurbishment, however, tours are closed off to the public until 2021.
Westminster Abbey
This thousand-year-old collegiate church is among the most significant religious sites in the UK. It’s where most royal occasions, from weddings to funerals to coronations, take place. And it’s also spectacular, with two eye-popping clock towers added in the 18th century.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Finally, we come to what is probably the most iconic feature of the London skyline: St Paul’s. The dome-shaped spire is instantly recognisable, and the interior is home to some of the country’s most impressive artworks and architectural flourishes. From atop the famous Whispering Gallery, you’ll be able to conduct a conversation even at the lowest speaking volume; well worth a try if you’re checking out the inside of the Cathedral!
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