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Westminster Abbey This burial ground, church and coronation site is the final resting place of great poets, kings and other notables of British descent. Westminster Abbey is still used as a chuech on a regular basis for events and religious services. The visit is made very worthwhile by the works of art contained in the Abbey. A painting of Richard II hanges inside the west entryway. This is the oldest portrait of a British monarch on display today, having been painted back in 1390. Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace, the official residence of British monarchy, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in England. If you visit in August or September youll find that the Palaces 19 staterooms are open to the public. Some areas of the Palace are open all year and visitors can see the grandiose architecture of the building along with other exhibits. A must see for visitors is the Changing of the Guard as is a stroll through the 40 acre gardens and grounds. Tower of London Though many are familiar with the Tower of London they are unaware that it served as a prison for several years. The original structure, built around 1100 AD, was used as a fort by William the Conqueror. The Tower later became a prison, then a monument to house the large collection of Crown Jewels which are still displayed to this day. The 530-carat Star of Africa is the highlight of the collection. This diamond, which was extracted from a mine in South Africa, is the 2nd largest diamond in the world. The Royal Armouries also make for an interesting stop at the Tower of London. The only way up to the British national museum of arms and armour is by way of a interior spiral staircase where youll find over 40,000 pieces displayed. Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square is often the site of public events and political demonstrations in London. The square, an intersection for many major streets, is a spectacular gateway to sightseeing for tourists visiting the area. Youll find the National Gallery on the north side of Trafalgar Square which is among the worlds best art museums. Looking to the west, one will see Canada House, where Canadians who are visiting can get a taste of home. To the east, although close to the public, the stone arches of South Africa house with African animals are worth a look. Be sure to visit 10 Downing Street once youve seen all there is to see in Trafalgar Square. Since 1732, 10 Downing Street has been the home of British Prime Ministers. Along with Churchill Museum, 10 Downing is within walking distance of Trafalger Square. Harrods What would a trip to London be without a little shopping? The worlds greatest department store, Harrods, is great even for the window shoppers. And, for those who are looking to spend a bit of dough, this million square feet of merchandise is every shoppers dream. In fact, Harrods motto is - Omnia Omnibus Ubique - which means All Things For All People Everywhere. Although it has been around for 150 years, Harrods is as modern as the latest iPod. Many of its departments, including the seasonal Christmas shop and the Food Hall, are world famous for their quality and abundance of selection. Where else can you choose from 300 different types of cheese? These top five London attractions will get you started but you will discover London has so much to do and see a second visit will be in order. You are free to reprint this article as is with the below resource box with live link attached. |
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