London offers many historic spots worth seeing – from power centres to burial grounds of royals. Explore this vibrant city with our top recommendations!
Westminster Abbey has long been used as the setting for coronations ceremonies and royal weddings, as well as serving as the final resting place of historical figures such as Elizabeth I and Charles Dickens.
Tower of London
The Tower of London has seen nearly 1000 years of history unfold throughout its walls – it’s home to the Crown Jewels and has seen Anne Boleyn, Sir Walter Raleigh and Guy Fawkes endure torture within its confines. Today the Yeoman Warders (or “Beefeaters”) still provide protection at this historic monument.
During the Tudor era, England’s most important state prison – which housed all those considered threats to national security, from clergymen who disapproved of Henry VIII to German spies – became the Tower of London. Over its long history thousands would pass through its doors. Still mysterious and captivating today, make plans now to visit and discover everything it holds! You’ll be glad you did!
Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace was home to multiple kings and queens throughout its long history, but most famous for its connection with Henry VIII (who broke away from papal authority while brutally divorcing wives when they didn’t produce any offspring) who is said to still haunt the State Apartments with his ghostly presence.
Hampton Court Palace was initially constructed by Cardinal Wolsey before Henry VIII modified and expanded upon it with Christopher Wren’s 17th-century additions, becoming one of England’s most elegant palaces thanks to Christopher Wren. Featuring Tudor and restrained baroque architectural styles, its beauty cannot be denied.
William Kent designed the Queen’s Staircase during the Georgian period for Caroline, and its rooms became filled with grace and favour residents. If you look closely enough you might even spot some paintings from the Royal Collection among its wood panelled spaces which offer more warmth and privacy than state apartments.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is known as a “Royal Peculiar”, meaning it comes directly under the jurisdiction of Queen Elizabeth II as opposed to St Paul’s Cathedral which falls under its jurisdiction. Westminster Abbey dates back to 1040 when Dunstan founded a monastery here and eventually it became used for royal coronations ceremonies and burial services over time.
Home to the grave of the Unknown Warrior and frequented by heads of state for pilgrimages, it boasts of the octagonal Chapter House once used for monk prayers and work assignments; its crypt-like Pyx Chamber once served as a treasure chamber.
Discover the Abbey’s many rooms and suites, such as Poets’ Corner which contains burial crypts of prominent writers such as Geoffrey Chaucer and William Shakespeare. Be amazed by the Abbey’s striking architecture with ribbed vaults and flying buttresses!
St. Paul’s Cathedral
London’s iconic church stands as a testament to its resilience. Serving as host for important national events like state funerals and royal weddings, visitors can climb up the dome, visit the crypt and discover some beautiful artworks displayed.
While most visitors to St Paul’s are drawn to its main cathedral area, a visit to this landmark would not be complete without exploring its crypt and viewing some of Britain’s most notable figures’ tombs and memorials – Admiral Lord Nelson, Sir Christopher Wren himself and the Duke of Wellington are among them – buried there.
St Paul’s Cathedral boasts breathtaking pieces of art from different eras and periods, ranging from Henry Moore sculptures to Victorian mosaics. Also look for the sarcophagus made in 1520 for Cardinal Wolsey (Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor) which now serves as a monument for Admiral Horatio Nelson – made in honour of this navy hero by Henry Moore sculptures or later Victorian mosaics!
The London Eye
No matter your purpose – taking pictures for social media posts or simply wanting a breathtaking aerial experience of London from above – the London Eye should be on your itinerary. Additionally referred to by its lesser-known moniker of Millennium Wheel, it has been an integral part of London’s skyline since opening its doors back in 2000.
Marks Barfield architects Julia and David Marks designed it, entering it in a competition hosted by The Sunday Times to commemorate the turn of the millennium. Although no winner was announced, their idea for London Eye continued to flourish.
The London Eye is the tallest cantilevered observation wheel, offering breath-taking views and offering unique experiences such as private capsules, Cupid’s Capsule and champagne/mulled wine flights.
