The UK’s biggest city offers a seemingly endless array of attractions, from culture and nightlife to parks, palaces and restaurants. There’s so much to do that it’s impossible to fit it all into one visit but, if you head into the center, you’ll find some of the major highlights close together. Part of the joy of London is exploring it at your own pace and uncovering those places that you’ll remember forever.
A snapshot of London
Many first-time visitors to London head straight for the London Eye, the slow-turning wheel that towers over the Thames and is one of the city’s most instantly recognizable sights. First built to mark the Millennium, it’s become an iconic part of the skyline and you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from one of its glass-walled pods.
Just over the water from the Eye, via Westminster Bridge, is where you’ll find Westminster Abbey, the grand cathedral that has played host to many royal weddings and coronations in the UK since 1066. It’s a fully-functioning church which is open to visitors throughout the year, with places on its guided tours available to reserve online. Taking a tour gives you the chance to visit the nave, cloister and even Poets’ Corner, where some of the world’s most famous literary names are buried, including Charles Dickens and TS Eliot.
West End culture
Visit London’s West End and you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’re looking for a cultural fix. Like New York’s Broadway, this part of the city is home to dozens of world-class theaters where, on any given day, you’ll find musicals, comedies and classic plays being performed.
There are also many cinemas located in and around Leicester Square, where most of London’s red-carpet movie premieres are held.
This area is also well known for its shopping, most famously along Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street. Here you’ll find huge flagship stores for brands including Selfridges and the famous Hamleys toy store.
For something a little different head to Seven Dials near Covent Garden, where you’ll find many smaller boutiques, independent restaurants and traditional English pubs.
Back to nature
A visit to London also gives you the chance to explore some of its eight Royal Parks. By far the largest of these is Richmond Park, to the south-west of the city.
Here you’ll find ancient trees and many rare species of plants, along with deer herds and tea rooms where you can sit back and enjoy the scenery. You can also bask in spectacular views of St Paul’s Cathedral from the viewing point at King Henry’s Mound.
On the other side of the Thames lies Regent’s Park, home to beautiful tree-lined pathways and a charming boating lake. It also boasts some excellent sports facilities, including tennis courts and cricket pitches.
Take a walk up Primrose Hill for some stunning views of the London skyline, or explore its wetland area to spot some rare species of wild bird. Renting a car at London City Airport makes it possible to explore all this and more on your visit to the England’s vibrant and ever-changing capital.