With about 27 million tourists each year, London is the most visited place in Europe. It is not unusual to see London topping the list of most people’s travel plans. The Romans founded the city of London and it has thrived for years.
London stands amongst the most diversified cities, with most of the outstanding cultures in the world and rich history.
The city of London is the smallest city in England and the ancient center of Europe. London known to most people is a much wider metropolitan area and the home of about 9 million people.
Divided into various areas of South, East, North and West London – as well as central London which is the tourist and commercial hub – each district has its distinct neighborhoods. In London, there are things to see and do always. It is difficult to be bored in London because it holds some of the best history, art, shopping, entertainment, and dining worldwide.
1 – Westminster
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It is regarded as the political hub of London and it comprises Houses of parliament and the renowned Big-Ben. Big-Ben is the title given to the bell situated within the iconic bell tower and it rings hourly.
The Westminster Abbey, which is open to the public most days, can be found here. The parliament square has statues of outstanding political individuals such as Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela. So ensure you take a break here while visiting these landmarks.
2 – London eye
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A visit to London without going to the iconic London eye is not complete. The eye is a giant Ferris wheel which was originally built for the celebration of the millennium, and it offers beautiful views across the city. The wheel is lit up at night, in seasonal colors and is the main attraction of London’s fireworks displays every New Year.
The large pods can be shared with others who are interested or reserved for a special person. Your visit to the eye should be coupled with a visit to London’s aquarium which lies adjacent, to see aquatic creatures collected from around the globe, including crocodiles, seahorses, and jellyfishes.
3 – Hyde Park
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Hyde Park might be the largest and most famous park in London. It has a significant history, having witnessed various protests and demonstrations including the Suffragettes protests.
Every week, the popular speaker’s corner in the park is still occupied by protests, debates, and performing artists. Several memorial features, including the most famous being serpentine and two bodies of water. You can see a number of swans here, go paddle-boating and take in a breath of fresh air in the center of the city. A place everyone must see.
4 – Camden
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Camden is located in North London and is a renowned cultural community. It is popular for its alternative culture, majorly filled with punks, Goths, rockabillies, and tourists. Camden has an active body mod community and a couple of outlets for piercings and tattoos can be found in this part of town.
The market at Camden is extensive and has plenty of shops trading on trinkets and unique artwork to take home and street food from high-class restaurants. Visit one of Camden’s best vegan bakeries at Cookies and Scream, go through vintage clothing racks, and find a used book to read during tours.
When you’re done shopping, take a walk to the Camden lock to relax by Regent’s canal or a walk along the water canal down to king’s cross.
5 – Shoreditch
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Shore ditch has become one of the best places in London, having recently undergone renovation. It has become one of the best places to stay in London and the best nightlife spot in the city.
It’s a perfect place to spend both day and evenings, because of its numerous bars and eateries. Stop at a circus-themed bar named Trapeze that incessantly serves inventive drinks out of popcorn tub-style cups.
For those who love pop culture,’ Far Rockaway’, a restaurant and chilled bar filled with band posters, comic books and a regular 90’s night are available. You can either visit the Blues kitchen for a blues night accompanied by American staples example, sticky ribs and others.
6 – Soho
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For a long time, Soho has been known as the hub of the sex industry in London. It is now a well-known nightlife spot, though there are few sex shops, giving the place a risqué-vibe. Soho most times is regarded as the hub of the city’s LGBTQ community with a large number of lesbian and gay bars to explore after the sun goes down.
Soho has a number of jazz bars, restaurants to visit and theaters in addition to bars and clubs, making it a cultural hotspot. Also, it is an awesome place to go for a couple of drinks after a play or stage show because of its close proximity to Leicester Square.
Soho also retains its charm during the day. Plenty of music, quaint bakeries and small café can be found here. For perfect people-watching, stop at the pastry on Old Compton Street for coffee.
7 – Hampstead heath
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Hampstead heath covers a wide area, about 790 acres; making it one of the largest parks in London. It is located on one of the highest points in London giving a perfect view of the city from Parliament hill.
Grassy fields, wooded areas and a couple of large ponds can be found in the heath. It is a perfect place to experience London with lots of wildlife around and small woods to get lost in.
For people brave enough for outdoor swimming there are swimming lidos in the great British weather. Visit the Kenwood house which is a historical home popular for its curated art gallery.
8 – Baker Street
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Baker Street, well known for the fact that it is the street that Arthur Conan Doyle’s infamous detective Sherlock Holmes resided, is among the cultural staples of London.
A Sherlock Holmes museum located close to the underground can be found today. It became famous especially after the BBC revival ‘Sherlock’.
Madam Tassauds, the popular wax museum where you can mix with your favorite celebrities, is just around the corner.
Then, you can leave the crowds of Bakers Street to regent’s park close by or have a spectacular view of the city by climbing the primrose hill.
9 – BFI
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The British film institute (BFI) is a place to visit for those who love movies. The BFI which is located on the famous Southbank is the perfect place to rest after a walk along the water front, absorbing the culture and atmosphere of this part of the city.
Movies are shown daily at the BFI, ranging from mainstream blockbusters to on e-off screenings of indie hits to repeating cult classics. For people who take movie watching seriously, there is also a library and shop added too. It also has its personal bar and
10 – Thames cruise
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The Thames is regarded as the lifeblood of London, bringing development to the city for centuries. It is the longest water body in England, draining into the North Sea. Since prehistoric times, it has been a site for communities and was of great importance to the English and Roman kings and also during both world wars.
A couple of companies offer cruises across the Thames. They operate as often as every 30 minutes from various distinct locations. It cuts across various sightseeing locations including the houses of parliament, Tower Bridge and the London Eye.
Some cruises are run at night, and a well lit up sight can be seen, while others are given a meal or afternoon tea. Travelling along the historic Thames is an excellent method of seeing the city.