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Royal Albert Hall

Adored by audiences and performers alike, this tribute to Prince Albert is one of the world’s most celebrated concert venues.

Royal Albert Hall holds a special place in the architectural and cultural heart of Great Britain. It was opened in 1871 by Queen Victoria as a tribute to her beloved husband Prince Albert.

The hall’s distinctive glass and iron dome rises above the northern edge of South Kensington. Circle the hall’s exterior and gaze upward at the mosaic frieze, which represents the triumph of art and science. The hall was originally conceived as a multipurpose “Central Hall” and today hosts more than 350 events each year. Whether you prefer arias or rap, ballet or comedy, you’ll be sure to find the perfect evening of entertainment within the hall’s diverse program. But plan ahead, as tickets for the 5,500-seat auditorium sell briskly year-round.

The opportunity to perform here often represents one of the highlight of many artists’ careers. Legendary acts such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and Bob Dylan have all graced the opulent stage.

In summer, get swept away by the good-natured patriotic fervor of the BBC Henry Woods Promenade Concert, better known as “The Proms.” This eight-week-long classical music concert series culminates in “The Last Night of the Proms,” an event televised worldwide. True music aficionados may want to forgo a seat and opt for the standing area near the orchestra pit.

The Royal Albert Hall maintains a thriving educational program, which ranges from school tours to community events. Join the one-hour Front of House Tour to experience the energy and buzz as the hall prepares for the evening’s performance. The tour includes visits to the Queen’s private suites and the Royal Retiring Room. Families with younger children might enjoy the Victorian Experience Tour, with two costumed characters leading an entertaining journey into the hall’s 140-year history.

On open days, pop into the ground floor, which hosts an ever-changing exhibition series featuring anything from photographic displays to watercolors. And don’t forget to visit the bronze statue of Prince Albert himself, seated just across the road in the Albert Memorial.

Royal Albert Hall is located in South Kensington. The nearest Underground stations are High Street Kensington, South Kensington and Knightsbridge.

Hyde Park

Once the private hunting grounds of a king, London’s most famous park is today a place where everyone can enjoy gardens, monuments and music performances.

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most well-known parks. The park connects with Kensington Gardens and the two combined cover 630 acres (253 hectares). Together they form the centrepiece of a network of parks known as “London’s Green Lung.” Once the private hunting grounds of King Henry VIII, today the park is filled with heritage sites, monuments and events to attend all year-round.

Stop by Speaker’s Corner to hear orators debate and discuss the issues of the day. This is the site where public executions used to take place. Saddle up for a guided horse ride along Rotten Row, where London’s upper class once gathered to see and be seen. Rent horses and book tours at the nearby stables.

From March through October, rent a rowboat and glide across the expansive Serpentine Lake, which separates Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. During warmer months, take a dip in the Serpentine’s special swimming area.

Explore the numerous memorials within the park. Of particular note are the Diana Memorial Fountain, the Holocaust Memorial and the 7 July Memorial. The park is also home to some whimsical statues such as Broom Broom, the Drinking Horse and a family of Jelly Babies.

Hyde Park offers something for all ages and interests. Take part in sports ranging from tennis to football or enjoy a relaxing drink and meal at one of the park’s restaurants and bars. Deck chairs and bicycles are available for rent and there is a free driving service offering park tours for those unable to walk. In summer, the park hosts a variety of concerts and festivals, while in winter the park features a Winter Wonderland of carnival rides, an ice rink and Christmas markets.

While Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens function as one unified park during daylight hours, Kensington Gardens closes at dusk and Hyde Park remains open until midnight. Centrally located, Hyde Park is close to five Tube stations and offers limited parking for a fee.

Westminster Abbey

The heart and soul of the nation’s spiritual life is also England’s finest example of ecclesiastic architecture.

Westminster Abbey has played host to 26 royal weddings and 38 coronations. It’s the final resting place for hundreds of Great Britain’s legendary figures.

Outwardly, Westminster Abbey may appear an austere work of architecture, with its twin medieval gothic towers and pointed spires. But step through the North Door and you’ll find yourself immersed in centuries of rich and ornate history. The original structure dates back to 1245 when it was rebuilt over Edward the Confessor’s 1042 abbey. The abbey’s haphazard construction progressed slowly through famine and revolution, culminating in a sacred space where the great ages of humanity come together.

It would be almost sinful to rush through the abbey, so try to set aside at least half a day to explore its many treasures. Visualize the 38 kings and queens who have perched high on the Coronation Chair. Many of them now lie forever in the tombs in the Nave. Reflect on the stirring words of Sir Winston Churchill, whose memorial lies near the West Door. At the poppy-wreathed Grave of the Unknown Warrior, pay your respects to the fallen British soldiers of World War I. Join lovers of literature in Poets’ Corner, where giants of English literature, such as William Shakespeare, T.S. Elliot and Dylan Thomas, are buried.

Venture into one of the abbey’s oldest areas, the 11th-century vaulted undercroft of St. Peter. Now a museum, its exhibits include royal effigies, death masks and clothing. Afterwards, follow in the footsteps of monks throughout the ages by taking a meditative walk in the College Gardens.

Attending a service at the abbey can be a memorable highlight of your London visit, however, popular services, such as Christmas, require an advance booking. A free, detailed audio tour is available at the North Door and guided tours are also available. Do remember, photography is not permitted in the abbey and the interior can get very cold in winter.

Westminster Abbey is located in central London, next to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The abbey is open to visitors every day except Sundays, when worship services are held. The nearest Underground stations are St. James’s Park and Westminster.

Tower Bridge

An engineering marvel, this London icon spans both the River Thames and the ages.

For London locals, Tower Bridge is a vital part of the city’s infrastructure, ushering 40,000 vehicles safely across the Thames daily. However, for many visitors, the sight of the dual Gothic towers rising above the skyline is a must-see.

Completed in 1894, the Tower Bridge was created as a solution to the thick daily traffic entering the city. In its day, the bridge was an engineering wonder, requiring nearly 400 workers and eight years of construction to complete. Based on a city law, the towers were designed to be architecturally sympathetic with the nearby Tower of London. Today, both of these structures are known the world over as symbols of the city.

Climb the stairs or ride the lift to the two covered walkways that join the towers. Originally designed as pedestrian walkways for when the bridge roadway was raised, today the walkways are gallery and exhibition spaces. The panoramic views are well worth the modest ticket price.

The bridge was once raised more than 50 times a day by a steam-powered hydraulic system to accommodate the large amount of water traffic along River Thames. Now it’s electrically operated and halts traffic when it rises. It is estimated to rise 1000 times annually.

History lovers and engineering buffs will love the Tower Bridge Exhibition. Detailing the bridges creation and history, the exhibition also recounts many of the bridge’s infamous incidents such as “fly-unders” by maverick pilots. Step inside the Victorian Engine Rooms to experience the sounds and smells of the bridge during its steam-powered days.

Don’t forget your camera; Tower Bridge is one of the most photographed destinations in London. It’s particularly beautiful at dawn and dusk when camera buffs from all over the world gather at nearby vantage points.

The nearest Underground station is Tower Hill.

Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus garnered its peculiar name from Roger Baker, a tailor famous for making men’s piccadills, the frilled collars fashionable in the 17th century. The word “circus” refers to the circular motion of traffic, which whisks around beneath the statue of the Greek god Anteros. Today, the name represents flashing lights, entertainment and the exuberance of a city on the move. Piccadilly Circus has become a must-see spectacle, which draws locals and tourists day and night.

Piccadilly Circus marks the junction of Regent Street, Shaftsbury Avenue, Piccadilly and Haymarket. It also connects major areas, including Trafalgar Square, Soho, Chinatown and Leicester Square. At its center is the statue of a winged archer, Anteros, which rises above Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain. Designed by Alfred Gilbert and erected in 1893, it was the first statue to be cast in aluminum. Today it’s a popular meeting point or simply a great place to watch the passing crowds.

From Anteros, choose a direction to suit your mood. Feed your shopping addiction on Regent Street. Take a dramatic turn and catch a show at the Theatre Royal, one of the many venues that makes “the circus” the heart of London’s theater district. Spend an hour or two admiring the landscapes at the nearby Royal Academy of Art, or enjoy a good belly laugh at The Comedy Store, which showcases big-name acts as well newcomers with fresh gags.

Piccadilly Circus is also known for its flashy neon signage, but these days, only one building is illuminated. The dizzying atmosphere remains, however, with lively curbside entertainers adding to the commotion. When it all becomes too much, order a beer from one of the surrounding pubs or catch your breath in a cozy café.

Piccadilly Circus is located in the heart of London. The nearest Underground station is Piccadilly Circus.

Trafalgar Square

London’s great meeting place and the “front yard” of the National Gallery and St. Martin-in-the-Fields church.

Built to commemorate the British Navy’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, London’s Trafalgar Square is now the first port of call for over 30 million tourists a year. This area has been a gathering point for celebrations and political rallies for more than a century. Within hours of each event, however, the normal rhythms of the city return, watched over by the stoic statues of Admiral Lord Nelson and the Four Lions.

For that quintessential London moment, join the sea of upward-gazing tourists pointing their cameras at Nelson’s Column in the square’s center. Then, relax by the two gushing, tulip-shaped fountains and people-watch for a while.

Across the pedestrian plaza at Trafalgar Square’s northern end, the National Gallery awaits with a treasure trove of timeless art. Close by is St. Martin-in-the-Fields, an Anglican church designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Fondly known as the “Church of the Ever Open Door,” this place of worship is also a premier concert venue. It regularly hosts choral, chamber and jazz concerts, so be sure to check out the online.

Owned by the royal family, Trafalgar Square is unapologetically patriotic with bronze-cast historical British figures dotting the square. The regal statues and monuments where once a popular roosting spot for pigeons, however a strict feeding ban was introduced in 2003. (Do leave your breadcrumbs at home!)

Over the decades Trafalgar Square has been the scene of social and political unrest, but these days it’s mostly a gathering place for peace and tranquility. If you’re in London during the festive season, don’t miss the square’s magical light display and the installation of London’s largest Christmas tree.

Trifalger Square is in the city of Westminster. Charing Cross Underground station has an entrance right near the square.

Covent Garden

Get lost in the cobblestoned labyrinth of boutiques and bars, or simply find a spot to enjoy the street performers in one of London’s most entertaining districts.

Situated on the site of a 17th-century fruit market, the main piazza, shops, bars and restaurants now take center stage in Convent Garden. While the fruit market has moved to south London, the area is still bursts with energy and life. From string quartets, to escape artists and mime artists, “The Garden” attracts street performers from all over Europe.

The area is perfect for foodies and coffee aficionados too. You’ll find international flavors in the many restaurants; think Thai sticky rice, French pastries, Belgium chocolate, Spanish seafood paella and North African curries. If you want to try some tasty European brews, The Garden offers a choice of historic and character-filled pubs within the main square.

Beyond the restaurants and boutiques of the main piazza, each area of Covent Garden impresses with its own character. Long Acre features a great choice of fashionable stores, including local favorites like Ben Sherman and All Saints. For a more laid-back vibe, explore the artsy boutiques and quirky cafés of the Seven Dials area.

Satisfy that sweet tooth at one of the cute little Monmouth Street cafés serving up pastries and English tea. Coffee connoisseurs will also find plenty of options for a latte or Americano. Around the corner is Neal’s Yard, which is filled with hip shops and independent clothing outfitters.

Covent Garden is conveniently located near the West End and claims the beautiful Royal Opera House as its own. Built in 1732, this landmark building has endured fires and many changes of hands but still hosts performances by the Royal Opera and Ballet companies.

The closest Underground station is Covent Garden.

London Eye

Climb aboard this observation wheel for the best bird’s-eye view of the British capital.

The 360-degree view from the top of the London Eye is a spectacular way to orientate yourself in London. Below, the River Thames meanders through the teeming metropolis, and on a clear day the views stretch to Windsor Castle, almost 25 miles (40 kilometers) away.

A standard ticket for the London Eye buys you a 30-minute experience, which equals one complete revolution of the wheel. On your “flight,” catch an aerial glimpse of royal homes and see Big Ben towering over the Houses of Parliament. Should you time your flight well, the London Eye can serve up a stellar sunset.

Officially opened to the public in 2000, “The Eye” quickly became one of London’s most recognized icons. Cameo appearances in films like “Harry Potter” and “The Fantastic Four” have boosted its profile. Its futuristic presence beside the Thames has made it the ideal backdrop for London’s New Year’s fireworks displays since 2005.

Each year approximately 3.5 million people take a seat in the air-conditioned, state-of-the-art pods, making the London Eye the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom. With a high point of 442 feet (135 meters) above the ground, The Eye holds the title as Europe’s largest observation wheel.

Easily accessible, the London Eye is situated on the River Thames’ South Bank in Jubilee Gardens. The wait to climb aboard can be lengthy, so it’s a good idea to purchase tickets online in advance.

Continue your London explorations by boarding one of the many Thames riverboats or stroll to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, just upriver.

The London Eye is about a five-minute walk from Waterloo Underground station.

Buckingham Palace

Britain’s most famous home, the luxurious personal residence and workplace of Queen Elizabeth II, is open to all.

The official home of British royalty since 1837, Buckingham Palace is the epicenter of Britain’s constitutional monarchy. It’s walls have witnessed innumerable state decrees, lavish banquets and foreign dignitary receptions.

First erected as Buckingham House for the Duke of Buckingham in 1705, the palace has expanded through the centuries. Today, it’s one of the most visited sites in the world.

Cross the threshold of Buckingham Palace into the Grand Hall and admire the curving marble staircase decorated with portraits hung by Queen Victoria. Decorated with gold-accented candelabras and sovereign reds, the Throne Room is used for royal gatherings and receptions. This is the room that leads to the East Front Balcony, where Prince William and Catherine Middleton shared a kiss in front of the world following their wedding in April 2011.

While neither an art gallery nor a museum, the palace’s private art collection rivals many national museums. Discover furniture crafted for kings and heirloom artwork from masters such as Rembrandt.

The palace has more than 700 rooms. During August and September, when Queen Elizabeth II makes her annual visit to Scotland, 19 magnificent State Rooms are available for touring. These rooms showcase many pieces of art from the royal family’s private collection. There is an admission fee, which includes an audio tour, and pre-booking your visit at the Buckingham Palace web site is essential. As a guide, if the royal flag is flying atop the palace, the Queen is home.

Complete your London experience by catching the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony, which begins promptly at 11:30 a.m. on scheduled days. Most tourists have little luck in their efforts to distract the stoic soldiers. From the palace, take a leisurely stroll to Hyde Park, the affluent Kensington district and Green Park.

Alternatively, take the Underground train to the parks, all just a couple of stops away.

The Buckingham Palace is located in the city of Westminster. You can catch a bus from London, and St. James’s Park is the nearest Underground station. Guided tours of the State Rooms are available daily in August and September.

Big Ben

One of London’s most resounding landmarks is a treasured emblem of England.

Catch a glimpse of Big Ben across the River Thames and you’ll know you have truly arrived in London. Featured in British films, such as “Bridget Jones’s Diary,” “Notting Hill” and “Love Actually,” Big Ben is best viewed from the Thames’ east bank or while strolling along Westminster Bridge, on route to see the Houses of Parliament.

Big Ben was the name originally given to the largest of the clock tower’s bells. The Great Bell, as it is otherwise known, weighs 13 tons (13,760 kilograms). Listen for its deep knell as it strikes on the hour, peeling high across the rooftops and rush of London’s traffic. Nowadays, the name Big Ben is synonymous with the bells, the clock and the tower.

Since first sounding in July 1859, the clock’s reliability and reassuring chime have become a national symbol of British resilience. When the sun sets, its four ivory-tinted faces are illuminated so the clock can still be seen from miles away. The faces have only ever been dimmed in times of national crisis: for two years during World War I, to avoid German zeppelin attacks, and at night during World War II to disorient German Blitz pilots.

Completed in 1858, the clock tower was supposedly named after London’s Commissioner of Works, a large man called Benjamin Hall. Designed by architects Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin in classic Gothic Revivalist style, the brick and limestone tower rests atop Britain’s Houses of Parliament. The clock is the largest four-faced chiming clock in Great Britain. Each face is 23 feet (seven meters) in diameter and contains 312 pieces of opal glass.

Despite its status as a popular landmark, Big Ben only opens its doors to British citizens who can schedule a tour through their parliamentary representatives. Still, this exclusivity won’t stop it from giving you a little rush of excitement the first time you see and hear it.

In June 2012, Big Ben was officially renamed Elizabeth Tower, in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond jubilee, but it is still known colloquially as Big Ben.

Big Ben is located in central London. The nearest Underground station is Waterloo.

Enjoy our guide to all things London

One of the elite few that can legitimately call itself a global city, London is rich in history, packed with places of interest and truly somewhere where there is a story to discover around almost every corner.

Home to more than 8m people, including the most well-known Royal Family in the world, London is a fascinating city where wonderful history and the cutting edge collide. Indeed, it is a city where you can quite literally be looking at the world famous Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, only to turn around to see the enormous and futuristic Shard skyscraper looming over the city with viewing platforms situated on the 68-72nd floors make this a must see.
Of course, history is a big draw for almost anyone visiting London so be sure to collect a local guide book to help you find the best sights dotted around the city – although thankfully many of the main examples can be found either lining the River Thames or just beyond it. Indeed, a trip on the London Eye observation wheel is an excellent way to get a feel for the London skyline.

For lovers of fine architecture, Westminster Abbey – famously the centre of attention during the Royal Wedding – is well worth a visit, as is St. Paul’s Cathedral. Those interested in royalty would also do well to make time to visit the Tower of London to inspect the Crown Jewels – and of course no trip to London is complete without visiting Buckingham Palace.

Science and culture is also extremely well provided for in London, with many museums and galleries playing host to collections of global importance. The British Museum with its world collection is an obvious starting point, but the Victoria & Albert Museum is also an excellent choice – although setting a few hours aside for both is a must. Lovers of contemporary art will certainly enjoy the Tate Modern, an exceptional modern collection situated on the South Bank.

London is also a major shopping capital, home to celebrated department stores such as Harrods as well as a wealth of local, independent boutiques and even major outdoor markets such as the one in Camden. Foodies would do well to seek out Borough Market for its mix of street food and fresh produce.
Speaking of food, London is also renowned for the quality and diversity of its restaurants. From fine dining in exclusive areas such as Knightsbridge to finding a casual bite to eat, London is a gourmand’s dream come true. Why not try the city’s famous local delicacy – pie, mash and parsley sauce? A side of jellied eels is option