London is known for its long and rich history, from Roman relics like Londinium’s remains to magnificent medieval churches. But don’t overlook less-well-known historic spots – London offers plenty of fascinating surprises that shouldn’t be missed!
Learn all about the famed Yeoman Warders at the Tower of London and discover their legendary superstition: If the ravens leave, it means the crown will fall. Plus don’t forget to enjoy an afternoon tea!
The Tower of London
The Tower of London, established by William the Conqueror in 1078, has long served many purposes over time: as a prison, execution site, royal palace, and repository of crown jewels.
This magnificent structure has played host to an exotic menagerie of animals, witnessed countless battles, and currently plays home to six royal ravens who, according to tradition, guard its treasure. Additionally, this tower has long been known for housing prominent figures from Lady Jane Grey to Guy Fawkes – its walls having seen better days!
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is one of the top tourist attractions in London and should not be missed by visitors. Watch as the guards change or explore its magnificent State Rooms – both are incredible experiences for anyone visiting this grand institution.
For art enthusiasts, the Royal Collection provides an unforgettable art experience, boasting works by such masters as Rembrandt and Rubens. And nearby Churchill War Rooms give an exclusive insight into British government during World War Two.
Westminster Cathedral stands as an intriguing example of neo-Byzantine architecture and should not be missed by political enthusiasts, as it stands directly across from Downing Street.
The Churchill War Rooms
Churchill War Rooms were the control center for Britain during World War Two. Visitors can tour through its hallways where Churchill directed his country from. Highlights of these War Rooms for visitors include the Map Room where Churchill anticipated German U-boat attacks on convoys from America as well as his bedroom where he took day naps.
Rooms at this museum are filled with personal narratives, 1940s details, and an overwhelming sense of history that can only be achieved by walking its halls. I recommend allowing at least an hour for viewing this unique museum – I don’t remember another place where I felt so immersed in its story!
The National Gallery
The National Gallery boasts an enormous collection of paintings dating from medieval to nineteenth-century Western European art and open for free public access 363 days each year.
This gallery was established with arts accessibility at its heart. Situated in Trafalgar Square, its location ensured it would be equally accessible to Londoners of both rich and poor backgrounds.
The National Gallery is a historical place that offers a vivid representation of past. It demonstrates how Britain was first ruled by royal families before transitioning into democratic systems of government.
The Dickens Museum
Charles Dickens Museum is an absolute must for fans of Victorian writer Charles Dickens. Situated at his former house on Doughty Street, this museum exhibits many items related to Dickens as well as objects related to his writings and life.
Visitors to the museum can explore a world that is both familiar and unexpected – many rooms feature furniture and decorations belonging to Dickens himself while a large collection of objects related to his works is on display – such as his desk and chair at Gad’s Hill.
Sea Life London Aquarium
Sea Life London Aquarium is one of the UK’s best aquariums and an enjoyable attraction for kids and adults alike, boasting aquatic creatures such as sharks and exhibits such as its Shark Tunnel. Furthermore, it houses one of Britain’s largest living coral reefs – making this aquarium an exciting one stop experience!
At County Hall Building in Dublin, Ireland’s Aquarium showcases 14 distinct zones with marine animals and habitats from across the world. Ranging from Rainforest Adventure section with catfish, crocodiles and terrapins to Penguin Point and Arctic Kingdom with vibrant displays, there is something here for everyone to experience and see!
Accessible by London Underground’s Circle, District and Jubilee lines to Westminster Bridge station; bus services also stop nearby.
Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea has an illustrious and engaging history. First introduced to England by Anna Maria, 7th Duchess of Bedford during the 1840s when she felt hungry around four o’clock each afternoon, Anna Maria requested that a tray with tea, bread with butter (an early adopter of Earl Sandwich’s invention of adding filling between slices of bread), cake and other refreshments be brought directly into her room in order to tide her over until dinner time arrived.
London offers a range of afternoon tea options, from marshmallow pink Peggy Porschen’s marshmallow pink Peggy Porschen and Shakespeare-themed treats at The Swan to Shakespeare-themed treats served at Peggy Porschen and Shakespeare-themed treats at Peggy Porschen – each one has something in common with the others, however.
