London figures high on most people’s must-visit list. Surely you would like to travel to London as well, in case you haven’t been to the city before. Well, you don’t need to worry, in this article; we shall give you all the required information, and then you can go book your tickets!

Some important information about London

London is part of the sovereign state of United Kingdom, and is in the region of London. Its headquarters are City Hall, the regional authority is Greater London Authority, the regional assembly is London Assembly, and the current Mayor is Boris Johnson. London is spread over 659 sq. miles, and the population is quite large. London follows the GMT time zone, and its area code is 020 and others.

It is the capital of English and of the United Kingdom, and it is steeped in history, right back to its founding by the Romans, who named it Londinium. Today, London is one of the most important global cities around, and also figures high as one of the financial centers of the world. This is mostly because around half of the UK’s top 100 listed companies are based in Central London. London has major influence when it comes to art and culture, politics, media, entertainment, education, fashion – and of course it is also a major tourist attraction, attracting many people both from the overseas and domestic region. London is expected to host the 2012 Summer Olympics, and previously has hosted the 1908 and 1948 Summer Olympics.

London is a melting pot of people, cultures, ethnic groups, and languages. In fact, you would be surprised to know that around 300 different languages are spoken within the boundaries of the city itself! It is the most heavily populated municipality in the European Union. London is also known for its public transport system, which is extensive and well developed. Then there is also London Heathrow Airport, which is considered the world’s busiest airport.

The climate of London is a temperate marine type, thus you will rarely see high or low temperatures in the city. Summers are generally warm with average high temperatures of 21 degrees Celsius to 24 degrees Celsius, and average low temperatures of 11 degrees Celsius to 14 degrees Celsius. The winters are quite cold, but almost never freezing, spring has mild days and cool evenings. Generally, the city is dry, and has regular but light rain almost throughout the year. Snow is not too common, and extreme weather is rare.

There are a set of fixed districts in London – like Mayfair, Bloomsbury, and Knightsbridge. London itself is one of the most major financial centers of the world, right beside Tokyo and New York, and plays an important role in many international financial markets. It works with cross-border bank lending, international bond issuance and trading, foreign exchange trading, over-the-counter derivatives, feign equities trading, and fund management.

So what’s there to see in London?

There are four World Heritage Sites in London that you simply must check out – the Tower of London, the Royal Botanical Gardens (Kew), the historic settlement of Greenwich, and also the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey, and St. Margaret’s Church.

When you travel to London, you simply must check out the West End, which is basically the main shopping and entertainment district of the city. Do take time to visit Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and Piccadilly Circus. In fact, you would be surprised to know that the West London area is known for fashionable living areas like Notting Hill, Chelsea, and Knightsbridge.

Then there is East End and East London – the East End has the highest immigrant population, and is also one of the poorest areas of the city. When you go to London, you will notice that there is no particular architectural style – most of the city is brick-built, you will see the yellow London stock brick and the warm orange-red variety. There are usually many carvings and white plaster moldings.

Parks and gardens in London

If you like greenery, if you like a peaceful place, or if you just generally like parks and gardens, you will find yourself spoilt for choice in London. Do check out the Royal Park of Hyde Park, and also Kensington Gardens, which is at the western edge of central London. Then there is also Regent’s Park on the northern edge. In fact, you should not leave London without checking out the London Zoo, which has a reputation for being the world’s oldest scientific zoo. This Zoo is situated close to Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. If you are in Central London, there are smaller Royal Parks like Green Park and St. James’ Park which can keep you occupied. In fact, Hyde Park is known for hosting concerts and having a connection to sports.

There are other parks like Bushy Park and Richmond Park, which are in the south-west of the city. Don’t forget to look at Victoria Park, which is in East London. Also try Primrose Hill, which is at the north of Regent’s Park. If you like wide open natural spaces, then try a visit to Hampstead Heath, which is spread over 791 acres, in north London.

Museums and galleries in London that you can see while travelling

You would be pleased to know that there are many museums and galleries that you can check out, while you travelling in London. If you have a particular specific taste, then that is sure to be catered to, in one of the many museums and galleries in this city. You would also be surprised to note that many of the museums are clustered together in the area of South Kensington, this makes it easier to get around, and you could easily make a day of visiting a few museums at least.

First there is Arsenal Museum, which tells the history of the famous north London football club, right back to the beginning in 1886 (when it was founded by a group of munitions workers). This museum is at Avenell Road, Highbury London, Greater London, England, N5 1BU. Also try Asia House, which was originally planned by Robert and James Adam was back in the 1770’s. Today, it still has wonderfully high ceilings and a John Soane Library. This museum is the foremost pan-Asian organization in all of Britain, and many interesting events and exhibits are held. Visit it at 63, New Cavendish Street, London, Greater London, England, and W1G.

Then there is Baden-Powell House, which tells the story of Lord Robert Baden-Powell, who founded the Scout and Guide movements. You’ll find it at the corner of Queen’s Gate and Cromwell Road, right opposite the Natural History Museum; this is in the area of South Kensington. We also suggest paying a visit to Bank of England Museum, which gives you a wonderful walk through time. You can look back to the beginnings of this venerable institution, right back to its inception, and then its royal charter in 1694. This is on Threadneedle Street, London, Greater London, EC2R 8AH. The entrance is in Bartholomew Lane. Pay a visit to Bankside Gallery as well, this is home of the Royal Watercolour Society, which was established in 1804, and the Royal Society of Painter Printmakers (1880), it serves as a permanent exhibition space for artists of both societies. This is on Hopton Street, London, Greater London, England, SE1 9JH.

If you have time while travelling in London, do try to go to Benjamin Franklin House – this is the last surviving home of Benjamin Franklin today. It’s a Georgian townhouse in Craven Street, today it has become a living museum and education centre, dedicated to Benjamin Franklin. You can explore his life and works through his own words; you can watch history come back to life here. This is at 36 Craven Street, London, Greater London, England, WC2N 5NF. It’s just around the corner from Charing Cross Station.

If you would like a trip back to childhood, then we recommend Bethal Green Museum of Childhood. This houses a national collection of not only toys and games and nursery furniture but also baby equipment, children’s costumes and dolls houses. There are many exhibitions going on that you are sure to find interesting. You’ll find this stunningly interesting museum on Cambridge Heath Road. You can also try Bramah’s Museum of Tea and Coffee – this museum is extremely unique, and explores the traditions of tea and coffee in Britain, as well as their social impact and cultural significance. You say see a variety of ceramics and artworks associated with tea. This is located near the Vinopolis wine museum, and near Borough market.

Travelling through London is not a complete experience unless and until you check out the British Library, this is a library that is set in ultramodern buildings, and is divided into public and member areas. A reader’s card lets you enter the reading rooms, but the public areas (which include 3 exhibition galleries) are open to all. You can check out Shakespeare’s original folios, the Gutenberg Bible, original author manuscripts, etc. at this amazing Museum. It’s opposite St. Pancras station.

Finally, of course, there is British Museum – which it would take a lifetime to see in all its glory. This museum has everything right from coins and armor to drawings and archaeology exhibits. It’s on Great Russell Street, London, Greater London, England WC1B 3DG. Do check out the Cabinet War Rooms also, this was the underground headquarters of the British High Command during the Second World War, and has been carefully preserved. It’s across from the SW corner of St. James’ Park.

We also recommend the Church Farmhouse Museum, this is part of a former dairy farm, and it’s a mid-17th century property that has been wonderfully restored to show parts of life from parts of the past. The kitchen shows the 1820’s period, there is even a clockwork spit-jack in the open fireplace. The dining room is very 1850’s, and you will see tons of amazing furniture.

If you have time, check out Clink Prison Museum too, while travelling in London. The Clink was owned by Bishops of Winchester, and from the 12th century, it houses prostitutes and their customers, who broke the Bishop’s rules.

Other museums you can visit include the Clockmaker’s Museum (has a priceless collection of watches, clocks, tools and portraits), Cortauld Gallery (specializes in Impressionist paintings, but you can also find a good collection of Renaissance, Baroque, and Modern works), Fashion and Textile Museum (showcases the work of outstanding British and international designers), Fulham Palace and Museum (illustrating the history of Fullham Palace itself, there are great displays of local history, art, archaeology and artifacts relating to the Bishops of London), Florence Nightingale Museum (you can find evidence of her work including her nursing standards here), Foundling Museum (recreates the 18th century hospital which was originally established to care for the 1000 babies who were abandoned every year), and Freud Museum (originally his London home, today it contains all its antiquities, his exhibits and even his couch!)

Things you can do in London

When you are in the West End, you should ideally focus on Leicester Square. Here, you will see many London and world film premieres. Then there is also Piccadilly Circus, where you are sure to marvel at the various giant electronic advertisements. You must check out the theatre district, the cinemas and bars, the many pubs and restaurants. Don’t forget to go into the Chinatown district, which is in Soho. You will also find many specialty shops in Covent Garden. Don’t miss the Royal Ballet, the English National Ballet, the Royal Opera, and the English National Opera – these are all based in London. You can catch their performances at the Royal Opera House, at the London Coliseum, the Sadler’s Wells Theatre, and at the Royal Albert Hall. Of course, they also do tours of the country.

If you have time, do check out Islington’s 1 mile long Upper Street. This extends northwards from The Angel, and you will find many restaurants and bars along it, in fact, more so than any other street in UK. Don’t forget to check out Oxford Street, which is London’s main shopping area. This is a shopping street that is nearly a mile long. You will find many departmental stores along it like Selfridges, Knightsbridge, and Harrods department store. If you are looking for designer items like Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik, Stella McCartney, Vivienne Westwood, etc – then you are sure to find them here.

When it comes to eating out, London is truly one of the best cities. You will have a great gastronomic journey. You can try the Bangladeshi restaurants of Brick Lane, and also the Chinese restaurants of Chinatown.

Don’t miss out on the many events that London holds. There is a New Year’s Day Parade, and then there is also Notting Hill Carnival, which is the world’s second largest street party. The latter is held during the late August Bank holiday every year. then there are also traditional parades like November’s Lord Mayor Show (which is an old event that celebrates the annual appointment of a new Lord Mayor of the City of London), there is also Trooping the Color (held in June) that is a formal military pageant which is performed by regiments of the Commonwealth and British armies, which celebrates the Queen’s official birthday.

If you are interested in museums and galleries, then you would be pleased to know that there are many of these in London. So if you want to look at them as tourist attractions, that’s good, but you can also use them for research! Do look at the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, etc. Then of course there is also the British Museum, which has many artifacts from around the world. Then there is also British Library at St. Pancras, which is the National Library of the UK – there are about 150 million items. If you want to look at art collections, try the National Gallery, the Tate Britain, and the Tate Modern.

If it’s music that interests you, you should be aware that London is a major centre when it comes to music. There are many classic and popular music events held around the year, and many major music corporations (for instance, EMI) are based here. Of course, there are many bands, musicians, and industry professionals who hail from London, and are based in this city. Many orchestras and concert halls like the Barbican Arts Centre, the Cadogan Hall and the Royal Albert Hall are set in London. The two main opera houses of the city are Royal Opera House and Coliseum Theatre. You would also be interested to know that the UK’s largest pipe organ is in the Royal Albert Hall.

You can check out conservatoires like Royal Academy of Music, Royal College of Music, Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and of course the Trinity College of Music. If you are interested in rock and pop concerts, there are many large arenas like Earls Court, Wembley Arena, and the O2 Arena. Plus, there are also mid-size venues like Brixton Academy, the Hammersmith Apollo and the Shepherd’s Bush Empire. Do try and catch some of the many music festivals hosted by London, in particular the O2 Wireless Festival is quite famous. Plus, many famous musicians like George Michael, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, Madonna, Freddie Mercury, Sting, and Elton John have lived in London.

If tourist attractions related to music are your thing, then check out the original Hard Rock Café and the Abbey Road Studios – the place where The Beatles recorded many of their hit songs.

How can you get around while travelling in London?

London has one of the most extensive public transport systems in the world. First of all, you can use the London Underground, which has been around since 1863, making it one of the oldest and most expansive Metro systems in the world. It is usually referred to as The Tube, and has eleven interconnecting lines. It runs for 244 miles below the London streets, you can take your pick from 500 peak trains and 275 stations. The busiest station is Waterloo. If you are staying in the central area or the suburbs, then you will find the Underground extremely useful.

There is also the Docklands Light Railway, which is a second Metro system. It uses lighter and smaller trains. This opened in 1987, and serves mainly East London and Greenwich, on both sides of the Thames. You can also use the high-speed Eurostar trains, which link St. Pancras International with Lille, Paris, and Brussels.

There are also buses, and in fact, the bus network of London is one of the largest in the world. It runs 24 hours a day, and there are almost 8000 buses and 700 different bus routes. You would be among the 6 million passengers who use the bus service every day.

An easy way to get around while travelling in London is cycling, as this is fast, and also eco-friendly!

Buckingham Palace, St. James’ Park, London – A must see when travelling in London!

You simply cannot travel to London and then go back home without seeing Buckingham Palace. Its address is SQ1A, St. James’ Park, London SQ1A 1. You can get to it from the Victoria Station which is 0.4 kilometers away, or the St. James’ Park Tube Station which is 0.7 kilometers away.

If you take the State Room tour, then you get a ticket that gives you an audio guide, which you can listen to at your own pace. There is a general commentary for most rooms, and some specific items have a more specific commentary, so you can use it as you wish.

The tour of Buckingham Palace is truly spectacular. You can see the dresses of the Queen, some of which have been tailored especially for the country that she’s visiting. Then you can look at the gifts she has received from the Commonwealth, like a tin bus and a jewel encrusted maple leaf. The artwork inside the Palace is just stunning, though. There are not just artworks by famous people; there are also some lesser known artists whose work is up there, they are worth checking out as well.

Don’t forget to visit the dining room, and the music room is where Prince William was christened. The ballroom has often been called one of the biggest rooms in all of London. You can also walk around in the garden; there is a café there that serves cake, tea, and sandwiches. Plus the cocoa on top of the Cappuccino is in the shape of a crown!

We suggest trying to watch the Royal Guard Exchange, but you must get there at least an hour before it starts. And you should be aware that it’s not necessarily held every day, so be sure to check the website for details. As for the Palace itself, only 18 out of the 650 rooms are open to the public, but those 18 rooms are really worth their salt!

While travelling in London, you will see that Buckingham Palace is definitely the best stately home in the country. You will see not only the Throne rooms, but also the rooms that are used when there are state visitors. Do check out the lavish furniture and the treasures of the Royal Family, and the paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens are definitely worth a second look, for obvious reasons! The garden is surprisingly quiet, and is a piece of tranquility in all of London. The Palace is one of the most impressive attractions you can see when you are in London, and if you can see the Royal Guard Exchange, and then consider yourself lucky.

The tour is only available in summer, and it’s incredible if you imagine the history that the Palace is steeped in. there’s a great atmosphere that you’re sure to love, and you must also check out the gift shop in the garden, where you can pick up some original and unique gifts for your friends and family back home!

The question that many people ask is – why Buckingham Palace? What’s so special about it? Well, it is the home of the British Monarchy, and that in itself should be enough for you to want to see it. If that doesn’t work, then consider the fabulous architecture, the paintings, and if even that doesn’t persuade you, then think about the millions of people who visit the place each year. Plus, the biggest advantage of the Buckingham Palace is that it is easily accessible, all you need to do is take the Underground, to St. James’ Park, and then from there it is a 10-15 minute walk. You get to see amazing greenery and stunning sights along the way, and if it’s good weather, all the better for you!

The first thing that you would notice about the Palace is how big it is. It’s very regal color – in shades of brown and gold, you can see the many windows, and if you see the flag flying above, that means the Queen is home. The fountain in front is stunning in its own way, this is called the Victoria Memorial, do check out the massive gold sculpture on the top. The detailed work is completely spectacular.

You should also check out the paintings by Vermeer, Poussin, Canaletto and Claude, the sculptures by Canova and Chantrey, the examples of amazing Sevres porcelain work, and of course, the finest English and French furniture can be found here. The audio guide gives you a lot of information, the tickets aren’t that cheap, but they are definitely worth it. You cannot take pictures inside, though. Ideally, you can buy the tickets online, that way you can avoid the rush and the queues.

If you are going to London, you simply cannot go back home without visiting Buckingham Palace. Once you get through the initial queues, you can roam the palace with the audio headset guiding you. The very opulence of the place is simply amazing. The massive chandeliers, the rooms of deep red and gold, all of it are amazing. You are totally awestruck with the sense of history, just think of the important and famous people who have been inside the Palace. Check out the Queen’s dresses and jewelry if you can. The gardens are massive and gorgeous.

In a nutshell, how would you describe Buckingham Palace? Well, it symbolizes beauty and luxury, it’s true magic in all its grandeur, do check out the golden motifs and the white stone. It’s regality at its best. It’s one of the most popular buildings in the world, and it deserves this reputation! It houses about a thousand years of culture, it’s an example of British monarchy, and everyone should see this at least once in their lifetime. It’s royally entertaining, excuse the pun, and the Guard changing is a must-see!

Covent Garden – some important information

This is definitely one of the most famous markets in London, and primarily it was just a place to buy fruits and vegetables. The site is spread over 40 acres, and once belonged to the convent of St. Peter’s, Westminster, which maintained a kitchen garden here. Today, however, it has evolved. It has come a long way since its beginnings in 1656, when the Duke of Bedford allowed many temporary stalls to be built in the gardens of Bedford House, his London home. In the year 1670, he was granted a license by Charles II to hold a market every day except Sundays and holidays. This license was sold shortly afterwards, and by 1700 there was a market that opened 3 days a week, selling fruits, flowers, vegetables, herbs, roots, etc. from the permanent shops that stood against the garden wall.

Covent Garden is also known for its various entertainment events – the first Punch and Judy shows were held here in 1642. The area is synonymous with theatre and opera, the Theatre Royal on Drury Lane is just outside the market area, and the Royal Opera House is too. The closest tube station is Covent Garden.

The London Eye – hop aboard!

If you are a tourist and travelling in London, you imply cannot go back home without going aboard the London Eye. This is one of the major tourist attractions in the city, and it is basically a huge wheel which was designed to celebrate the millennium year 2000. It stands at Millennium Pier, on the South bank of the river Thames, close to the south end of Westminster Bridge; it’s a close walk from the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

You would climb aboard a glass-encased capsule, and then take a leisurely circular orbit, high above the Thames, this way you get a spectacular view across London, and not only that – far beyond as well! The London Eye looks deceptively like a massive Ferris wheel, but do not be deceived, it’s no thrill ride – it goes slowly and sedately, and allows you to enjoy your view.

This structure was built between 1998 and 2000, and today, it symbolizes what modern London stands for. Originally, the designers intended that the Eye should stand for just a few years, but it proved to be such a great success and such a popular tourist attraction, that it was decided to make it permanent. The structure was sponsored by British Airways, but today it is under the ownership of the London Eye Company, which is a subsidiary of Merlin Entertainment Group Company.

Each rotation of the London Eye takes about half an hour, this means you are basically travelling at 0.9 kilometers an hour. So you get plenty of time to take in the view. The view is of 360 degrees, and the London Eye is approximately 135 meters high, making it the fourth highest building in London, after BT Tower, Tower 42, and and One Canada Square. It measures 424 meters in circumference, and is supported on huge A-frame legs, made up of 2200 tons of concrete on 44 concrete piles set 33 meters deep in the earth.

You imply must not miss the London Eye, over 3.5 million visitors go aboard it every year, and would be able to see for as far away as 25 miles, or all he way to Windsor Castle. There are 32 capsules, for 32 boroughs of the city of London. There are bench seats, and individual heating and cooling systems in each capsule. Up to 800 passengers can travel in the Eye at any given point in time. There is maximum visibility.

You can even get special flights aboard the Capsule like a Cupid’s Capsule flight, Champagne Flights, Pimm’s Flights, and Mulled Wine Flights, so go ahead and pamper yourself! Pre-booking is not required, but we recommend you do so. You can even try the London Eye River Cruises, which have become very popular. They began in 2002. Plus, you get entertaining commentary, and the cruises are suitable for all kinds of weather. You can access it from Waterloo tube station.

Westminster Abbey – another major attraction!

Westminster Abbey is situated at The Chapter House, Dean’s Yard, London, SW1P, United Kingdom, and the building is extremely magnificent. You are totally overwhelmed by the sense of history, and this is definitely one attraction that you must visit. It has identical square towers and superb archways, and is a great example of early-English Gothic style, it’s a piece of ecclesiastical architecture like no other. It’s the shrine of a nation, a symbol that is sure to find itself in your heart. Visiting Westminster Abbey is a visual treat in itself, you must check out the white and gold interiors. Ideally, you should get there early. Also, this venue gets a little busy during the summer months.

The Abbey is simply spectacular, the sheer beauty of it all is sure to leave you breathless. When you are travelling in London, you simply cannot miss out on this place. It’s a fascinating and hauntingly beautiful church that is well worth the effort and the money. There is something about the antiquity of the building that speaks to you. It’s an interesting, unique place, and you can learn lots more about it with the help of the audio guide. The location is beautiful, the experience is beautiful, and if you can catch a service here, all the better. The music echoes off the arched stone, and that in itself is worth hearing. Just imagine the years of history. You must go inside, don’t let the entrance fee stop you, it’s totally worth it. Think about the coronations, the marriages, and burials that have taken place inside. It’s truly one of Britain’s finest buildings. You can also see the famous graves.

You must go see the Tower of London as well!

The address of Tower of London is Tower Hill, EC3N 4 London, UK. Tower of London is definitely one of the best places in London you can visit, while travelling in this city. It’s set close to Tower Hill tube station, so it’s easily accessible. It’s a year-round venue that finds favor with many tourists. The ticket prices are a little steep, but it’s totally worth it. Be warned, the area can get a little crowded at times. Also, do try the Beefeater tour!

If you like places that have a sense of history, then you are sure to love Tower of London. Buy the additional audio guide to give you more information. The Tower of London is worth a visit if you are traveling in the city. If you are a Tudor fan, you are sure to love this place, try and get there early. Most of the exhibits focus heavily on Henry the VIII, there’s a lot to learn, and you’re sure to find everything very interesting.

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum – Check it out!

When you are travelling in London, you simply must take the time to go see Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, it’s a place that promises you some eerie fun. You can get your photograph taken; standing next to sculptures of A-list celebrities and VIPs and literally rub shoulders with Heads of State, monarchs, and Presidents! Many people think this tourist attraction is only for kids, but even adults are sure to love it, you are sure to get excited. They’re not just pieces of wax; they’re symbols of real art and talent! You will definitely spend some very entertaining time there, of course everyone had heard of Madame Tussauds, which is today a brand name. The tickets are expensive, but not prohibitively so. Many people say that Madame Tussauds is hyped, but you are sure to love it, try to have your picture taken. It’s an enjoyable place that is sure to find favor with both children and adults! Plus, the likenesses of the wax figures to the original people are mostly startling!

Big Ben – Another major tourist attraction

This is one of the most iconic landmarks of London, the building itself is called the Palace of Westminster, and the clock, though it is sometimes referred to as St. Stephen’s Tower, is actually called Big Ben by most people. In fact, Big Ben is the massive bell inside the clock tower; it weighs more than 13 tons. That’s a staggering 13,760 kilograms!

Here are some facts you should know about London’s Clock Tower – each dial is 23 sq feet, the minute hands are 14 feet long, and the figures on the face of the clock are 2 feet high. It looks truly amazing at night, when the four clock faces are illuminated. Plus, you can know when Parliament is in session, because you will see a special light above the clock faces. The clock itself has hardly ever stopped.

So why is the Big Ben called the Big Ben? Well, the origin of the name is not properly known. There are two main theories. One is that it is named after Sir Benjamin Hall, who was the first Commissioner of Works – he was a large man who was affectionately known in the House as Big Ben. The second theory is that it is called so after a heavyweight boxing champion who lived at that time, Benjamin Caunt. However, it is possible it was called the Big Ben just because this nickname was commonly given to anything that was the heaviest in its class.

The clock tower isn’t open to the general public, but if you are a UK resident, it is possible for you to arrange for a visit. All you need to do is write in to your MP. The address is Parliament Square, London, SW1P 3AD. You need to check out Big Ben just for its sheer craftsmanship, set your watch by it! It is by far the world’s most famous clock, what makes it even more unusual is the amount of history that has gone into it – it’s fascinating and intriguing all at once. You should definitely check it out while travelling to London. It’s a must-see for any tourist in London, check out the amazing architectural work, you are sure to be taken in by the vast size and the sheer beauty of it. It’s one of the most iconic structures of London.

A good tip would be to not visit Big Ben between the hours of 3-4 in the afternoon, as the sun can get too bright, and possibly spoil your pictures. There are many words that you can use to describe Big Ben – elegant, understated, stylish, etc. What you should do is this – walk across the Thames from Waterloo Station, and hear the chimes ring out across London – it’s a great experience, one that everyone deserves at least once in a lifetime. Big Ben as a timepiece is beautiful, and when you combine it with the Houses of Parliament, it makes it a truly amazing part of London.

If possible, stand as close to the Gates as possible and stare up at the Big Ben. You are sure to be lost in the utter magnificence of the structure. Plus, the great thing is looking at the Big Ben comes totally free! But you can buy a tour guide which would explain to you the details of the clock. We give you a quick tip – one of the best places to view the clock tower from is Parliament Square, go on the hour, stay for the quarter hour, that way you would hear the distinctive chimes which are sure to leave an echo in your memory.

You could walk straight from Charing Cross down by the Thames; it’s nice seeing all the restaurant ferries and the lovely architecture along the banks. Of course, it is possible to get the Tube to Waterloo, but the walk comes highly recommended. The beautiful gold structure with the imposing faces of the clock is a truly unmissable sight. There is also a lot to do in this area – you can check out the aquarium, the Dali museum, and even the London Eye.

Of course, you could say it’s just a clock, but what a clock it is! You truly must look at it to understand the beautify of it. No wonder it figures high on tourists’ lists. One reason that the Big Ben is so popular is because it’s grand, it’s beautiful – and yet it’s not vulgar. It’s the quintessential symbol of the British culture. It’s not that big, but therein lies the beauty of it. You can also take a walk around Whitehall; you could even take a boat down to Greenwich. Try and see it not just as a clock, but as a symbol of history, of politics, of culture. It’s not too big, but at the end of the day, it’s a true classic, and when you hear it chime, you’re sure to feel something!

Most people cannot get inside the tower, but seeing it from outside is an experience in itself. You haven’t seen London at its finest unless you’ve seen the Big Ben. It’s a momentous icon of Britain, and you can also look at the amazing London skyline that is actually famous all over the world. Try and visit Big Ben during New Year’s, as it looks amazing beautiful then. Do get your photograph taken in front of it.

We give you a random fact, there is a Latin inscription at the base of each clock, in gilt letters, that reads “Domine Salvam Fac Reginam Nostram Victoriam Primam”, that means, “O Lord, keep safe our Queen Victoria the First.”

Big Ben is a classic piece of architecture that you simply must see, no wonder it’s one of the most famous landmarks of Britain. If you are going to the West End, then you should not miss out on it.

Check out the Imperial War Museum

The Imperial War Museum is situated at Lambeth Road, Southwark, London SE1 6HZ. You can access it from the Elephant and Castle Tube Station, or the Lambeth North Tube Station, both of which are 0.4 kilometers away. The Imperial War Museum, at one point of time, was actually a lunatic asylum that housed Charlie Chaplin’s mother, the hospital then moved to Beckenham in 1930. The building was then turned into the Imperial War Museum, and today, it hosts many different artifacts – ranging from guns and tanks to fighter planes. You can see stuff from both the World Wars, and also the Gulf War. You can also see the Holocaust exhibition. The great thing about the Imperial War Museum is that the entry is free.

You must check out the Children at War section, which details what life is like for the millions of children who were evacuated during the two World Wars. There are even letters that children wrote home, plus there is a replica 1940’s home with furniture and rooms.

When travelling to London, you must check out the Imperial War Museum, and when you do that, you simply cannot leave without checking out the trench replicas. It’s very interesting, and brings history to life rather realistically. The Imperial War Museum has stuff just from the 20th century, there’s also an enactment of the Blitz. Check out the cinema that plays old propaganda films. It’s an unbeatable educational facility that also is a major tourist attraction. Do check out the air-raid shelter, you can be inside it, and feel how terrible it would be to be attracted by an air strike.

As a Museum, this one works well by educating us about the World Wars and their impact and influence on our lives. The aero planes and the tanks are well worth a look, it’s good to take your kids along, as it would no doubt get them interested in history. You can easily spend a whole day there as there are many exhibits. Not only is it educational, it’s fun! What’s more, it’s free.

You are sure to be impressed by the vast collection of models, weapons, photos, vehicles, and film – which reminds you of Britain’s involvement in the 20th century wars. Check out the Sherman tank, the German V2 rocket, and even the British Spitfire, if you have the time. There are many permanent displays like Conflicts since 1945, the Holocaust Exhibit, the Secret War, etc – that will surely capture your interest. You can also learn about the Trench Experience, and even explore the role of espionage in the Secret War.

You cannot help but be overwhelmed by the Imperial War Museum, simply because it tells heartbreaking stories of survival, spirit and ingenuity. The exhibits are really something, you will find yourself applauding the depth, the quality and quantity of the displays, and what’s even better is the fact that you don’t necessarily need to be a war or history fanatic to enjoy this place – everyone is sure to like it and be interested in the displays. It’s comprehensive, it’s vast, you can also check out stuff on the Cold War, plus footage of the Berlin air lift, and the civil defense instructions on what to do in the case of a nuclear attack. You also must check out the simulation of a blitz attack. Plus, you can easily get to the Museum; take the Tube to Kennington, or even to Waterloo.

What is amazing about the Imperial War Museum is the fact that it explores not just the wars, but it also goes into the experience of the wars by people. You get details of people’s lives. You can read about soldiers who served in the trenches, you can know about the wives and girlfriends of the soldiers. You can even read some of the letters. It’s very moving and makes you think about humanity’s sacrifice. It’s an emotional journey that makes you reconsider your own life. The Museum provides you a catalog of the social and historical context of each war, and its effects and experiences on people. It’s a thought-provoking place that is both powerful and poignant. Keep an eye out as they always have new displays that are great.

Some of the displays are a little upsetting, sometimes even distressing, but you should definitely check them out, and show them to your slightly older children, to make them appreciate the sacrifices people have made for wars.  You can always learn something new here, and express gratitude for those who died in order that we should have a better life. Plus, the Museum handles certain issues like the Holocaust with great sensitivity and care, and you never feel that anything is being trivialized. However, a point of suggestion – don’t take young kids along, as they might not like it.

There is even a small gift shop where you can pick up some gifts and souvenirs for your friends and family back home. So when you are travelling in London, come here with a whole day to spare – as the Museum keeps getting better and better, so there is always something new to see. Burying our heads in the sand when it comes to war is never a good idea, we should learn about it, and a great way to do that is to visit this Imperial War Museum. It doesn’t glorify war, but shows you the different aspects of it. Whether or not you are a war enthusiast or veteran, you should check this out for the sheer experience and the education.

Restaurants in London – a fabulous eating out experience!

Well, of course you cannot travel in London without eating out. You would be pleased to know that there are many restaurants that are just waiting for you to try them out.

Firstly, you can try Mildreds Restaurant, which is situated at 45 Lexington Street, London, W1F9AN, UK. You get simple, non-fussy British and Mediterranean style food. You can try the British vegetable pies and the curries, which are good. Even the Asian fusion dishes are worth trying. This restaurant lies in the heart of Soho, and is really quite popular. Ideally you should make your bookings in advance to avoid a wait. It’s a great vegan and vegetarian restaurant that is absolutely enchanting, the food that is served is very appealing. Even those who are not vegetarians are sure to love the food! Their menu is a standard one that is unique in its own way. What’s more, the atmosphere is pleasant. If you find that you have to wait, you can have a drink and wait in a small bar area that is in front of the restaurant.

The menu at Mildred’s is pretty awesome – there’s plenty of varied stuff that you can try. You can try the mixed mushroom, porcini and ale pie that is served with fries and peas which you are sure to love. The great thing about Mildred’s is that you never miss the meat – the vegetarian food is just so darn good! Their appetizers are good. You can also try their burger of the day with fruit relish and basil mayo, which is served with leaf salad and fries.

When eating out, you should also try Albannach. This is situated at 66 Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DS, United Kingdom. The place is great, the bar downstairs is warm and cozy and has lots of character. Meanwhile, the upstairs is open and bright. You are always sure to have a lovely night at Albannach, it comes highly recommended. The staff is friendly, the food is great, and no matter how busy everyone is, you will always find priority there. The menu is small, but well selected, and you will find sufficient choice. The focus is on quality more than quantity. The food is always fresh and well cooked, and you are sure to love the whole traditional and modern Scottish look.

Albannach is a superb little Scottish bar and restaurant that is sure to find much favor with you, try their rib eye and salmon. Their food is really value for money. And here’s a quick tip – on Mondays, they offer 50% off on food and selected drinks! You can also try their Veal Chop, which many people love. Plus, this restaurant is great for corporate events.

While travelling in London, another restaurant that you must try out is Signor Zilli’s Restaurant – 41 Dean Street, London, W1D 4PY, United Kingdom. You will not be disappointed. The staff is courteous and efficient, you always feel welcome at this place, and besides, the food is absolutely brilliant! It’s a good restaurant in an even better location, and once you go there, you will find yourself addicted. The décor is simple and classy, the cozy little dining room is sure to be endearing to you, the food is standard Italian, not too overpriced, just about value for money. You can try their Cheese Pizzas, and also their Risotto with prawns and saffron. Their tiramisu is simply amazing. The food is served fresh and hot, which is always important when it comes to Italian cuisine. Their cocktails are also pretty stunning; their managers are thoroughly professional and know how to handle guests.

The great thing about Signor Zilli’s Restaurant is that it serves you solid Italian food that is also home-made in taste; it’s cooked with panache and with style, and served with flair. It strikes a perfect balance between taste and cost, plus the surroundings make the experience so much better.

If you are in the mood for some good old-fashioned Indian food while travelling in London, then we suggest Veeraswamy Restaurant, at Victory House, 99-101 Regent Street, London, W1B, United Kingdom. The prices are sometimes a little high, but trust us, it’s totally worth it. The service is wonderfully efficient. If you like Indian food, then this is the place for you. The food and service are top-notch, but we give you a tip – if you have made a reservation, do be sure to confirm it the same day just to be on the safe side. In fact, you would be interested to know that Veeraswamy is the oldest Indian restaurant in English, was originally established way back in the 1920’s. Today, of course, it has been restyled to meet current needs. Their food is affordable, the atmosphere is beautiful, and the location, on Piccadilly, is very convenient. If you are new to Indian cuisine, you can ask your waiter for recommendations.

Veeraswamy has the best Indian food ever, the waiters know their stuff while recommending, and the food is really incredible. The food is authentic and tasty.

You can also try Café Pacifico, at 5-6 Langley Street, London, WC2H9JA. This is a small Mexican restaurant which is situated close to Covent Garden. Do try their Margaritas, you are guaranteed to have a fun night out. Their prices are extremely reasonable, and their décor is quite stunning as well. Their staff is efficient and courteous. The restaurant is always buzzing with activity, you are sure to love the atmosphere. The food is fresh and delicious; you can see it being cooked. It’s tasty and spicy, the portions are good. Try their Degustacion Pacifico, and their salsa is quite spicy! You might get a little annoyed at the fact that the restaurant gets very crowded sometimes and that the seats are too close together, but the food more than makes up for it all. Plus, the service is practically flawless, and the food has an authentic taste that everyone is sure to love. The bar is a good one, the beers are good, and the main courses are pretty decent as well.  This place definitely has the best Mexican food in London, we give you a little tip – you can order a large main course and skip the appetizers, because the portions are large and the main course is sure to fill you up on its own! Plus, the food is rich and makes you full easily. Plus, you must try the tortilla chips!

Travelling in London also means that you must check out Oxo Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie, at Oxo Tower Whard, Barge House Street, S. Bank, London, SE1, United Kingdom. The view is amazing, so if you are looking for a special night out, then this should be your place. The staff is very friendly and does a great job of greeting you, the atmosphere is light and lively, and the food is amazing. This 140 seater restaurant is a dining sensation in itself. You can visit it just for the view alone, but the food really is stunning, the wine list is quite impressive as well.

Then there is Rules, at 35 Maiden Lane, London WC2, United Kingdom. You will definitely not be disappointed at this restaurant; they have one of the best menus around. They always have a great Foie Gras dish, one mouthful, and it melts in your mouth. Their food is simple, traditional and English, and the restaurant itself is pretty old – dating back around 200 years or so. The place is warm and inviting, you will love the red banquettes that are sure to catch your eye. The restaurant is easily accessible from Covent Garden and Charing Cross Tube Stations. It’s the quintessentially English place to eat, it was originally established as an oyster bar, but today it is a wonderful place to dine alone, or with friends and family. Try their Irish or Scottish oysters, their jugged hare, even their Stilton and watercress soup are to die for! We recommend the cured pork belly, for dessert you can try their Toffee pudding. The food is delicious, sometimes the restaurant has been dismissed for being overtly touristy, but once you can get past that, you’re sure to love it!

The food is light and well cooked, the sauces are simple, there’s a home-like flavor about it which is sure to pull at your heartstrings. There’s a feel of tradition, and you’re sure to love the décor, with the arrays of antlers and stuffed heads. The venison at this restaurant Rules is to die for. Their main attraction though is the jugged hare which you simply must not miss. Even their fish and meat dishes are really good. Plus, the prices are well worth it!

Travelling in London also means that you must try out Hakkasan Restaurant, at 8 Hanway Place, London, W1T 1HD, United Kingdom. Their black décor is very unique, the cocktails are amazing, and the food is genuinely good. It’s probably the best Chinese food that you can get in all of London! It’s tucked away in an alley just off the Tottenham Court Road / Oxford Street junction. Asian mystique and oriental cuisine come together to make this a fabulous experience for you. The cocktails are a must-try, and the ambience and décor only add to it.

Where can you stay, while travelling in London?

Of course, when travelling in London, you would need some decent accommodation. We give you some details on some suitable hotels.

For instance, there is City Inn Hotel London. It’s centrally located, the service is good, and the staff is very courteous and efficient. The taxis are easily available, the hotel itself is clean and spacious, the rooms are immaculately spotless, and you get the very best of comfort and luxury. You are sure to love the simple modern décor. The rates are good too, you are sure to find good packages, plus the location is also a major factor – it’s close to all the major tourist attractions! The experience you get at this hotel is totally exceptional, it’s modern, yet subtle, and you are sure to have a great stay. Plus, the rooms are well-maintained; they’re efficiently designed and comfortable for stay. The rooms are of reasonable size, the bathrooms have the very best in furnishings and fittings, this award winning hotel is sure to find favor with you, as it has with others. Plus, it’s easy for you to visit the Tate Britain, the River Thames, and the London Eye. It’s walking distance to Buckingham Palace, the rates are great, sometimes you can get special deals, this will be one of your best hotel stays ever!

Then there is also Jolly Hotel St. Ermin’s. The location is very central; the hotel staff is multilingual which makes things even more convenient if you come from a different country. Plus, the people there are very efficient and courteous. This hotel is situated in a quiet corner of Westminster, within walking distance to Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament. There are about 275 rooms that you can choose from.  It’s an old-world style Victorian hotel with a great look that you are sure to love. The great thing is that the staff is very helpful, and will go out of their way to make you feel comfortable. The Big Ben is within walking distance. Plus, it’s close to St. James’ Park Tube Station. The bathrooms are clean, and the rooms themselves are well maintained, the concierge is good, you must check out the brick frontage and the grand stairway. Plus, there is a cool old elevator that you are sure to love. The central location of the hotel is one of its biggest advantages.

While travelling in London, you can also try the Cavendish Hotel London. There are many positives to this hotel – the service is friendly, the location is excellent. But the king size beds in the hotel can be a little small if you are on the tall side. But the rooms are well maintained, and the service is excellent. The staff is friendly, and is willing to help, or go out of their way to make sure that you are comfortable. Plus, there are computers in the lobby, which makes it convenient in case you have work of any sort. The staff is very polite. The location of the hotel is great, it’s right in the heart of Piccadilly, so whether you are travelling in London on business or pleasure, then this should be the hotel for you. It’s walking distance to Theatreland, Leicester Square, and Mayfair. It’s the ideal location if you want to do some serious shopping, plus you can open the windows in case you need fresh air.

The great thing about Cavendish Hotel is that the staff is always willing to accommodate your requirements. For instance, if you need a particular type of room, they will go out of the way and pull all the necessary strings to make sure that your needs are met. The rooms are always clean, they are well-maintained, and have the best quality furnishings and fittings. You are sure to have a very comfortable stay, and the room service meals are pretty good too! What’s more, the rates of this hotel are very reasonable, and when you take into account the fact that this is the perfect location for theatre and shopping, and then the prices are really worth it!

We also recommend St. Martin’s Lane Hotel if you are travelling in London. The location is a great one; there are many amenities and facilities that you get. The staff there is very helpful, and will go out of their way to make sure that all your needs and requirements are met. It’s a great hotel for young couples, so if you are in London for your honeymoon, then this would be the hotel for you. The hotel is centrally-located, and is ideal if you want to do some leisure travelling and shopping in the city. The great thing about this hotel is that they will upgrade your room to a better one if you are not satisfied with your current one.

As for the hotel itself, it’s dramatically designed, and stands in the West End Theatre District of London, England. It’s adjacent to the London Coliseum and is near Leicester Square, Soho, and Covent Garden. The prices are reasonable; you can book them through Price line for added discounts. The hotel has easy access to the Tube. If you want luxurious and comfortable accommodation, in a non-pretentious environment that is both stylish and subtle, then you should definitely choose this hotel. Plus, if you are staying there with your family, then you would be pleased to know that this is a very family-friendly hotel, and the levels of safety and precaution here are very high. The hotel is just a couple of minutes away from Trafalgar Square, and you get a full English breakfast which is to die for. The rooms are clean and tidy, and extremely well-maintained, but you might not like the fact that the bathrooms have just showers, and no baths. That apart, this is a hotel that is tucked away in London, and not many people know about it – which is really a pity. So do go ahead, make your bookings for this trendy accommodation, you will definitely not be disappointed.