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Places in London |
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History and modern entertainment collide in spectacular
fashion in London so make the most of it with our guide
to the top attractions to visit.
Two of London’s most famous landmarks are just stone's
throw from each other and are must-sees during your visit
to London.
A delightful walk down the tree lined Mall in SW1 brings
you to the doorstep of the magnificent Buckingham Palace
[map].
Since 1837 Buckingham Palace has served as the official
residency of the Monarchy and has only in the last few
decades been open to the public. Tours around Buckingham
Palace prove to be in the top 10 of peoples’ must
itinerary and crowds flock to the Palace during the annual
summer opening in August and September. Take a guided
tour and see the splendour of this wonderful building.
For more information visit Buckingham Palace’s official website.
The Palace of Westminster [map] is home to the Houses of Parliament and located
at SW1. This includes the House of Commons and
the House of Lords. Visitors are welcomed to explore
the House of Commons and House of Lords by taking part
in one of the conducted tours. Here you’ll get the
opportunity to sit in on debate from the designated area
called The Strangers’ Gallery. Find out more at
The Houses of Parliament official site.
Take a sombre journey into war and conflict at The
Imperial War Museum [map],
Lambeth Road, SE1. Here you’ll find a history of
the triumphs and tragedies of 20th century warfare as
well as exhibitions recounting battles from hundreds and
sometimes thousands of years ago. Everybody’s story
is told here from the child fighters of Cambodia to the
nurses and land girls of the World War II. This is a good
place to take time out and reflect.
After your visit to the war museum, you’ll be in
need of some light relief and what better way to have
a giggle than with a visit to Madame Tussauds [map].
The famous waxwork museum is located on Marylebone Road,
and is lots of fun for all ages. Stand next to some of
your favourite celebrities from contemporary culture right
back to Viking warriors. There are even interactive shows
now, so if you think you can put up with jibes from Simon
Cowell have a go at singing to him. Alternatively, why
not try your hand as a weather presenter? It's bags of
fun and is guaranteed to raise a smile on a rainy London
afternoon.
Why not try visiting the road crossing made famous by The Beatles which can be found outside the Abbey
Road [map] studios in North West London. Although it is unlikely
you’ll be able to get into this legendary recording
studio where the ‘Fab Four’ recorded “She
Loves You”, “Help!” and others, you
can soak up the ambience and dice with London motorists
to try and recreate the iconic album cover.
The other place to try is Elvisly Yours [map] on Baker Street. With over 400 items of Elvis memorabilia
you can once again discover ‘the King” and
his former glory. And although he still manages to get
into the charts despite no longer being alive (controversial!)
if you ever feel the urge to hear his music amongst like
minded people then the museum plays it all day everyday.
At Lauderdale House [map] in North London you can take part in some artistic adventures
or simply take a stroll and take in the history of this
16th century manor house. The house itself has had a chequered
past, falling into the hands of several different owners
and even surviving a fire in the 1960’s which could
make for an interesting way to spend a couple of hours.
Today the building is used an arts and education centre
running classes for adults and children in drama, drawing
and creative writing.
Flora and fauna galore awaits you in the 30-acre Capel
Manor Gardens. And with several themed area to inspire
you, including Historical Gardens, Italianate Maze and
a Japanese Garden, you may find yourself becoming somewhat
green fingered after your visit.
If you’re looking for a scenic and tranquil place
to enjoy a leisurely bike-ride, the South Norwood
Country Park [map], Albert Road, South Norwood, really
does tick all the boxes. Enjoy wildflower meadows, a large
lake, a pitch and putt course, a children’s playground
and viewing mound, as well as an informative visitor information
centre that will tell you everything you need to know
about the surrounding wildlife.
Enjoy some excellent views across the River Thames at
this relaxing green space close to the tea clipper: The
Cutty Sark [map],
King William Walk, Greenwich, SE10. Take advantage of
some of the boat trips that are available from the banks
of the river.
Otherwise known as Kew Gardens, The Royal Botanic
Gardens [map],
Richmond, TW9, is a fantastic place to visit, whatever
the season. In the heart of Richmond these gardens prove
the perfect place to spend a day. Marvel at some truly
unusual plants and shrubs or visit the garden shop where
you can pick up seeds and bulbs to get your own flowerbed
looking pretty. Sit back and watch the world go by from
this floral paradise in one of the Garden’s delightful
tearooms.
If you want to comment on our choices or recommend somewhere,
why not use our What
You Recommend form to let us know. |
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