Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
The world famous Parliament clock situated next to Westminster tube station and overlooking the Thames, it towers over the streets and river ringing every hour with a chime every visitor to London has heard before. Big Ben is actually the name of the biggest bell in the tower.
The Houses of Parliament, or more officially titled the Palace of Westminster, span several blocks west of Westminster Tube Station and on the banks of the river Thames. This 19th century Gothic construction is definitely one of the world's most beautiful buildings and most famous.
Buckingham Palace
The Royal Family's main residence, Buckingham Palace is found at the bottom of Pall Mall and is well worth a visit. Lavish living quarters for a regal family. You can see the changing of the guard daily at 11 a.m., Monday to Saturday and an hour earlier on Sundays. If the flag is raised the Queen is in residence and you may just get a wave.
Bus Tours
We would strongly suggest that anyone wishing to take in the sights (some of which are detailed below) of London should take a trip on one of the sightseeing buses of London. The tickets cost a few pounds but are a great way to quickly see the major attractions. Many of the bus companies offer complimentary tickets for a boat ride or visit to Madame Tussauds, so be sure to compare them before making your choice. You can hop on and off wherever you please and the tickets are valid the whole day. Buses run from Embankment and Baker street tube stations.
Covent Garden
This trendy hub has a market place, street performers and is a hit with everyone. Also in the main square is the London Transport museum detailing the history of public transportation in the Capital.
Hyde Park
The city's biggest Park. Two ponds, many different walks, horse riding and just lazing about are all enjoyed in this mini ecosystem in the middle of the City.
Leicester Square
This is where you will find all the cinemas where the Premiers take place. They are pricier than cinemas outside the West End but definitely worth a visit. Just up from Leicester Square you will find China Town. There are many restaurants to choose from as well as Chinese buffets for the extra hungry! After a meal you may fancy walking through Soho. This part of the West End certainly rocks at night!
Madame Tussauds
World Famous and rightly so! Enjoy meeting up with the likes of Nelson Mandela, Prince Charles or Elton John to mention a few. The queues are long so make sure you go early. Nearest Tube is Baker Street.
Museums
Oxford Street
This is where you can do all your shopping. This road is the main artery linking you to every shopper's haven. There is a mixture of High Street stores and bargain shops which are mainly near Tottenham court road. Just off Oxford Street, opposite Topshop is a side road that leads to Liberty's and Carneby Street. Head towards Marble Arch and you will find a range of boutiques on Bond Street. Running parallel to Oxford Street is the famous Regent Street where there are a variety of stores unique to Britain. It does get very busy on the weekends so be prepared to wind your way through the mazes of people. If you fancy night shopping, the stores are open later on Thursday evenings.
Piccadilly Circus
London's version of Times Square - buzzing with people and plenty of vendors for nibbles and takeaways. For sports fanatics there is the famous Lily Whites store and a selection of huge CD megastores to take a stroll through.
St Paul's Cathedral
The city's biggest cathedral is dedicated to St Paul, London's patron Saint. It can be seen from most vantage points in the city. You may want to take a walk across the road where you will find the Millennium Bridge. This is a footbridge linking the cathedral to the Tate Modern Art Gallery. The artwork is free to the public apart from exhibitions that may be running at the time.
St-James' Park
Next to Buckingham Palace, probably London's most beautiful park. A pond system stretches the entire length of the park where ducks, geese and other waterfowl swim and wait for kind offerings from visitors.
The London Eye
This famous "ferris wheel" was built for the new millennium. It is a wonderful vantage point for anyone visiting London. It stretches high into the sky and on a clear day you can see as far as Gatwick airport and Windsor castle. The wheel, with glass capsules which carry large groups of people along with your very own tour guide, slowly moves continuously. It has proven itself to be very popular and runs night and day. You can book ahead or arrive on the day and wait your turn.
London Aquarium
Located right by the London Eye is the London Aquarium. Here you can see sharks, rays and a variety of sea life.
Tower Bridge
In East London, and over a 100 years old, this landmark drawbridge is well worth a look.
The Tower of London is situated near the bridge and is open to the public. While you are in this part of the city you can also make a trip to the London Dungeons where you can see just what Jack the Ripper and those alike did get up to!
Trafalgar Square
The Square, with its' column dedicated to Admiral Nelson features in many movies and most of the city's other interesting tourist sites can be accessed from here by foot. The National Gallery and numerous Embassies surround this beautiful square.
Westminster Abbey
The Regal Abbey, this is where the nation's elite gather for important weddings and funerals. The Abbey can be toured for a few pounds.
Westminster Cathedral
Just a few minutes from Westminster Abbey, up the road on Victoria Street, is Westminster Cathedral. This Roman Catholic Church is a beautiful red bricked building with a beautiful interior offering visitors a chance to go up the tower is a few pounds. Mass is held several times on Sunday morning and caters to both locals and tourists looking for a service.
