There is an amazing array of tourist-type places that one should see when visiting the city of London for the very first time. They range from museums to historical sites to more modern creations.
Here are five London favorites that should be at the top of the list for any tourist.
The best part of all of these places is that they are all within a short drive from the many London airports, including Gatwick, Heathrow, Stanste,d or Lut, on so if you’re off on holiday and have parked your car up or are just visiting and usiStanstedted airport parking or gatwick parking.
Big Ben
The first on the list should be Big Ben; the quintessential London landmark of the great clock tower appears in numerous postcards, photos, and even in film. You can also take a tour Parliament, or a lovely walk along the nearby Tower Bridge. Most central London sites are visible from Big Ben.
Tower of London
After visiting Big Ben, you should head over to the Tower of London, which has been home to some infamous and famous prisoners in its time, including Anne Boleyn. It is also home to the Crown Jewels, which encompass a dazzling array of royal jewelry from crowns to scepters and several bejeweled items. You will also find the world’s most famous diamonds, the Cullinan I and the Koh-i-Noo, here.
Greenwich
Just around twenty minutes from Gatwick Airport, Greenwich is home to several sites, including the Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory, and the Old Royal Naval College. It is also the place of Greenwich Mean Time and the Meridian Line, the “Time Line”. There are shops and restaurants as well, after a long walk along the Thames, lined with museums and things to see.
Buckingham Palace
If the Crown Jewels aren’t sufficient, head over to Buckingham Palace to see how royalty live and work. Buckingham Palace is the London home of the Royal family and is also the administrative headquarters of the Queen. There are several State Rooms that are available for public tours, as well as the beautiful walled Palace gardens. In 2023, the palace also has a special Jubilee Collection available to the public.
London Eye
Last but certainly not least, for a more modern addition to the London skyline, be sure to check out the London Eye. Tickets to this space-age Ferris wheel are available for purchase online, and it is easily reachable from Heathrow by tube, bus, or cab. The London Eye provides one of the most spectacular views of London; the only better view would be from a helicopter. It would be the crowning moment for any London adventure.