England’s capital is well-known for a wide variety of things, from the city’s history to the royal family and its multicultural identity today. London is the largest city in the UK, and it has a lot to offer both residents and visitors. There’s plenty to do for tourists, but also a whole lot more to see for those who want to get to know the city on a deeper level. London has a long history that stretches back to Roman times, so you can’t run out of things to see, do, and learn when you’re visiting the capital.
Take a look at some of the things that London is most famous for before you next venture out around London.
Where are the best places to visit in London?
1. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace, the main residence of the Queen, is no doubt one of the first things that people think of when they picture London. It’s hard not to, with its grandiose architecture, the famous guards in their fluffy hats, and its connection to the royal family. Buckingham Palace brings in a lot of tourism, with the State Rooms open every summer and the opportunity to watch the changing of the guards every day.
The palace is located in Westminster and was first bought by George III in 1762 when it was just Buckingham House. In 1826, George IV decided to turn it into a palace and set about doing so with the help of architect John Nash. It has been the primary residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837 when Queen Victoria took up residence there.
2. Museums and Galleries
One of the things that attract people to London are its many wonderful museums and galleries. Not only do they exhibit historical artefacts and art from around the world, but many of them offer free entry, making them perfect for a trip to London on a budget. Some of the most popular places to visit include the British Museum, the Science Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Victoria & Albert Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Tate Modern.
London’s museums and galleries have something for everyone. You can explore British or world history, traditional or modern art, or try a smaller place that focuses on a specific subject.
3. London Architecture
Many of London’s most famous landmarks are architectural highlights. Over hundreds of years, London has grown into a sprawling city that continues to change. In addition to Buckingham Palace, you’re sure to be familiar with some of the most famous buildings and landmarks in the city. There’s Tower Bridge (not to be confused with London Bridge) and the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, the Palace of Westminster, and St Paul’s Cathedral. On the more modern side of things, you can discover sights such as the Art Deco Battersea Power Station, The Gherkin, or The Shard, which is the tallest building in the UK.
Architecture lovers can find examples of all different styles throughout the city, from Baroque to post-modern.
4. Red Buses and Black Cabs
Some of the well-known motifs that define the capital city include London’s red buses and black cabs. These are just two ways to get around in London, which has an extensive public transport network. While you can drive in the city, most people choose not to. With an Oyster card, you can simply load your money onto it and use it to access the Underground, buses, trams, London Overground trains, DLR (Docklands Light Railway), and even Thames Clipper River Bus services.
Of course, if you want to have a fun London experience, many people will choose to ride a red bus. There are ordinary red buses to take you around the city, but open-top sightseeing buses are also available.
5. Culture in London
When it comes to culture, London is brimming with it. The multicultural city has so much to offer, from events and festivals to food from all over the world. Whether you decide to head to the Eastend for some traditional jellied eels (or perhaps a slightly safer pie and mash), you seek out a Michelin-starred restaurant, see a West End show, or you decide to visit during Notting Hill Carnival, you can explore London’s culture in any way that you want to.
Some of the most popular cultural events range from the Chelsea Flower Show to Wimbledon, the BBC Proms, and London Fashion Week. Even if you’re not in the city during one of these events, there’s so much to see and do, from restaurants covering all cuisines to the theatre, music, and more.
London has a lot to offer, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, or you even live in the city. Like the look of the area and considering buying a property in London? YesCanDo Money’s fee free mortgage broker London is a highly rated UK online mortgage broker with advisors who can help you achieve the best mortgage. They are do everything for you for FREE and have access to the whole of market mortgage market with the best mortgage rates and deals.
