Famous for its red buses, black taxis and ever-looming grey skies, London is one of those cities that always offers something different to do, no matter how many times you visit. If you are thinking about visiting the UK capital, trying to put together any sort of sightseeing agenda can be difficult, but there are some must-see spots you won’t want to miss.
Buckingham Palace
The official London residence of Her Majesty the Queen, the palace is centrally located in the City of Westminster, just a few minutes walk from Victoria train station. If you are around Trafalgar Square, head along ‘The Mall’ towards the palace to really take it all in. There is also the ceremonious changing of the guards that takes place outside the palace most days at 11am, which is completely free to witness and provides some great photographs.
Covent Garden
As popular with tourists as it is with locals, Covent Garden is one of those special areas of London where shops selling souvenirs blend seamlessly with high-end boutiques such as Chanel. The piazza itself is lined with independent shops and restaurants offering ample cuisine to satisfy the hungriest of appetites. Many iconic West End theatres are just moments away, where you can get tickets to see a show on one of the famous stages.
Piccadilly Circus
The world-famous junction with its dazzling lights is located in the heart of London. From here you can stroll down the lavish shopping parade that is Regent’s Street, head towards Leicester Square, explore Chinatown via Shaftesbury Avenue or make a beeline for Buckingham Palace. From Piccadilly, you may want to head towards Mayfair to see the decadence of The Ritz hotel firsthand, have lunch at one of the Michelin star restaurants or even just enjoy a weekday coffee amongst the throng of activity from city workers, who spill out of their swanky, serviced offices in Mayfair on a daily basis, for a cup of something foamy.
The London Eye
Opened in the year 2000 and known initially as the ‘Millenium Wheel’, it proved so popular that London decided to keep it. On the south side of the river, the giant ferris wheel takes visitors 135 metres above the city in glass pods, offering some fantastic views of the capital. Views include St Paul’s Cathedral and some of the skyscrapers in the city, many of which are used as office space in London for international companies.
Big Ben
Probably one of the most famous clocks in the world, the Elizabeth Tower is what you actually see from the street. The clocktower is synonymous with London, although Big Ben is actually the bell inside the tower. Much of the tower has been covered by scaffolding since 2017 whilst it undergoes extensive restoration works although it’s set to be completed by 2021. Nearby, you will find Westminster Abbey – a royal church open to the public. Rich in over one thousand years of history, the impressive gothic structure makes for some stunning pictures.