London, with its population of 8 million, is one of the world’s largest cities and is known for its noise, vibrancy, and multiculturalism.
It is still one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations because of its status as a cultural, economic, political, and commercial hub. London has a lot to offer because it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Top 10 Places to Visit in London
The Tube, or London Underground, is a world-famous underground system that makes getting around the city a breeze. Public spaces, markets, and the city’s thriving arts scene all showcase London’s rich cultural heritage.
The city’s various parks are popular meeting places for both residents and visitors, and they’re conveniently located near major sights like Buckingham Palace.
1. Big Ben
Big Ben, London’s iconic clock tower that has stood for 150 years, is a must-see for any visitor. Big Ben is the nickname for the 13-ton bell located in the clock tower; it was named after Sir Benjamin Hall, who first placed the order for the bell.
The first Big Ben bell weighed 16 tonnes and fractured beyond repair in 1856, prompting construction of the current bell in 1858. The clock has become quite the tourist magnet, even making cameo appearances in several movies. For instance, aliens from Mars Attacks! totally wipe up Big Ben.
2. Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge in London is one of the most famous structures in the world. The suspension bridge next to the Tower of London was built over the course of eight long years. When completed in 1994, Tower Bridge’s twin towers would stand 213 feet (65m) above the water level of the River Thames.
Join a tour to see the tower’s inner workings up up and personal, and then take in breathtaking views of the city from the tower’s observation deck.
3. British Museum
The British Museum is home to one of the best collections of antiquities in the world, containing over 13 million artefacts. The items come from a wide range of time periods throughout human history, from ancient Europe and China to early Babylonia and Assyria.
A good chunk of time should be allotted to explore the vast museum, but where should one even start? The Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon, Egyptian mummies, and the Rosetta Stone are just a few of the highlights of the museum’s permanent collection.
The British Museum is home to an extensive gift shop where you can pick up literature about ancient history, as well as souvenirs and replicas of your favourite exhibit pieces.
4. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most recognisable landmarks and is recognised all over the world. The palace was constructed in the 1800s and has been the official residence of the British monarchy since since Queen Victoria ascended to the throne. The Queen is in residence at Buckingham Palace if the flag on the roof is flying.
The Changing of the Guard is a must-see for any visitor to London. Crowds gather at Buckingham Palace every day at 11:30 am to see the parade, regardless of the season. This is a fascinating demonstration of order and discipline.
5. London Eye
The London Eye, a gigantic observation wheel perched on the banks of the Thames, stands at a towering 443 feet (135 metres) in height and features 32 capsules with glass walls on the outside. It has breathtaking views of London’s skyline.
Although the wheel rotates slowly enough for people to step on and off the moving capsules at ground level, it typically does not stop to take on passengers. More than 3.5 million visitors each year pay to see it, making it the most popular paid tourist attraction in the entire country of the United Kingdom.
6. Tower of London
The towering Tower of London is a London landmark that has served several purposes over the years. The World Heritage Site, which has served as a prison, private zoo, and even a treasure vault over the years, is now open to the public and has fascinating excursions.
Built in the 11th century, the tower is a symbol of Britain and its history. As you visit the Tower of London, you’ll learn the grisly history of the place and see shocking displays of royal armour and the Crown Jewels exhibition. Saw a famous Beefeater to round out your journey.
7. St Paul’s Cathedral
One of the most spectacular pieces of architecture in London is St Paul’s Cathedral. The greatest and most recognised church in the city is found on the summit of a historic Roman temple. Although the previous church was lost in the Great Fire of 1666, the new one is nothing short of spectacular.
St. Paul’s Cathedral, with its enormous dome and twin Baroque towers, is on par with the most recognisable churches in the world. The interior of the church is just as impressive as the outside. When you ascend the stairs, you’ll get a better look at the impressive decor and the renowned Whispering Gallery.
8. Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament are a popular destination for visitors to London, and they follow in the footsteps of the Churchill War Rooms. The Parliament Buildings, with the 318-foot-tall (97-meter-tall) Big Ben, are spread out along the banks of the River Thames.
For hundreds of years, the British government has worked out of the Houses of Parliament. William the Conqueror formerly called Westminster Palace home.
A fantastic approach to enjoy this site is to go into Parliament Square, where you’ll find striking a statue of Winston Churchill with other notable political leaders like Nelson Mandela.
9. Natural History Museum
Visitors may easily spend an entire afternoon exploring the huge National History Museum in London. The architectural masterpiece first opened to the public in 1754, and it still houses many of its first exhibitions. The world class attraction is a major research facility that includes a fantastic collection including palaeontology, botany and zoology and more.
There are around 80 million items at the Natural History Museum, including dinosaur skeletons and fossils collected by the legendary Charles Darwin. Although it’s one of the most visited sights in London, get an early start to beat the crowds while having more time to tour the spectacular museum.
10. Imperial War Museum
The Imperial War Museum does a remarkable job of conveying the experiences of those whose lives were torn apart by worldwide conflict, from the First World War to the current day. You can’t visit the world’s best military museum and not be moved by the personal stories on show.
The museum was founded during World War I and is sure to shake up your worldview. With six stories per level, it’s natural to wonder what it would have been like to live in that era.
