Visit the Houses of Parliament in London

The Houses of Parliament in London has two bifurcations, the House of Lords and the House of commons. From the regime of King Edward, the houses of Parliament have been located at the present day Westminster Hall. Since then, it has frequently suffered fire and destruction. But every time it was erected again, to support the meetings of these houses. It was reconstructed in the year 1870 in an impressively contemporary gothic fashion, to refurbish the burned down structure of 1834. Today the structure of the Houses of Parliament has some of specific features that are worth visiting while planning for the things to do in London.

Westminster Hall: Westminster Hall is situated by the side of River Thames near the famous London attraction Westminster Abbey London. It is the most original section of the Houses of Parliament, with the ceiling and pillars of King Edward’s time retained through the years. You can visit here by boarding a tube to Westminster tube station. You will get some suitable lodgings over here among the Westminster hotels.

Victoria Tower: Victoria Tower is a small tower running up to 98 meters, which chronicles a history of the House Parliament. It has a store of annals following since its reconstruction of this hall in 15^th century.

Big Ben: Big Ben is the famous bell of London situated at the Westminster Hall. You will be able to see an illumination in its mansion during the ongoing session of parliament. It is a heavy bell that weighs in tones.

Central Lobby: Central Lobby is the place where the people come together to make a plea in the favor of their interest.

House of Lords: You will be able to visit the House of Lords, where the lords meet to decide on the matters of public interest. It is an elegantly built structure, built in a gothic fashion.

House of Commons: the House of Commons is a less grandly drawn structure, but worth a visit to see the functioning of the political set up of the London.

Grisly Places at London

London has a deep and a mysterious history. As mystery often has a ghastly and a macabre depth, you will be able to relate it with the horrid preserves that it stores. You can explore some of the most erring sights that are sure to thrill you to your heart. You can pay a visit to these spots of London, to pry deep into its agonizing truths. Scare yourself to the level of euphoria.

Museum Of London

Museum of London will give you a look in to the past of medieval era. Re-explore the past by going through its visual gruesome realities. It traces the past which handed the regime from Romans to Saxons. You will also be able to visualize the decapitated Charles I which brought him a scary death. Get goose bumps at the meticulously haunting presentation of life since 1600 at London Museum.

Tower of London

Elegance with horror retained through the ages, you will find the scenes as spectacularly terrifying as the facts that are related to its past. With a history of execution, imprisonment and torture, you will find brutality that is related to it, along with the treasure stored in its mansion. Tower of London is situated near the Tower Bridge of London, which is also a famous attraction of London.

Jack the Ripper Terrain

You can trail the footsteps of Jack the Ripper, the ill-famed serial killer that laid off many lives. His steps are yet not faded by the past that can still be followed after more than a century. At the Jack the Ripper Ghost walks, you will be able to see how London cherishes its brutal past, just the way it has its heritage celebrated. Enjoy this piece of entertainment whose history backs up to 1888.

London Dungeon

London Dungeon is a famous spot for people with macabre interests. There are rides which can take you through a life time experience in London. The thing that translates this place to a more scary definition is the reality of incidences that are associated with it. You will find all the haunting realities of London clustered over here.

London Bridge Hitching Past with Present

 

History Running Along the London Bridge

London Bridge with a history of destruction and reconstruction is as old as the history of human civilization. You will find the London Bridge running above the river Thames, joining the ends of City of London and Southwark. London Bridge was a Roman construction, built in 50 AD. After a sequel of attacks by the conquerors, it saw destructions and reconstruction many time. It was rebuilt in 20^th century, after 600 years.

The London Bridge of the Present Day

The London Bridge that today stands erect, on the river Thames, hitches the history of London to present. After a long history, it continues to be used by a huge number of people, daily travelling through it. It is a crucial center of London, joining the history with the present, while conjoining the people of two different parts of London. While you are at London add a visit to this London attraction of world fame. Here you will enjoy a sightseeing of beautiful Thames River at the sides of the bridge. You will be able to have an excellent view from 140 feet above the water level. London Bridge will also allow you a view to the Butler’s Wharf, the Docks, the ships sailing on the Thames River from all around the world and the quaint Silver jubilee walk. All these are the beautiful spots of London, much loved by the visitors. You will find London Bridge quite accessible as London Bridge tube is situated quite close to this attraction, so you can commute through the tube. You can find some suitable accommodations with nearby London hotels. Search for suitable lodgings at Holborn Hotels, which have some of the finest luxury hotels of the area. There are other attractive London places as well that you can visit. You can visit some landmark buildings like The Tower Bridge, Southwark Cathedral and City Hall, located close to London Bridge. Also enjoy spending some time at Britain at War Experience and the London Dungeon. After spending a precious time at theses attractions, you can go for a leisure shopping at the Borough Market.

Chislehurst Caves in London: An Experience of the Gothic Era

Remember the gothic fiction by Marry Shelley or the Famous Five by Enid Blyton? They used to take us so very close to the genres of mystery and fantasy. The same is brought forth by the Chislehurst Caves in the south eastern fringes of London. You can get hold of a lantern and experience a new world of mystery, fantasy and adventure altogether underground.

Location

Situated at a short walk from Chislehurst Railway Station, Caves can be found in Caveside Close near Bickley Arms Public House.

History

Though named as caves, it has been articulated as a warren of dark ducts carved by hands from the chalk stretching over 20 miles dug over a period of 8000 years in search of chalk and flint. Mining was last performed here in 1830’s. The mines became more accessible in 1865 due to the local railway which resulted in giving this place in London, recognition of a “tourist attraction” in London. The caves also acted as a venue for hire to host several underground concerts in 1900’s. The caves are also used for shooting for films.

Facilities

Guided Tours

You will be hospitably escorted by the experienced guides of Chislehurst Caves on a unique lamp lit tour narrating explicably the Druids, Saxons and Romans. Experience the charisma of the Caves Church and the Haunted Pool along with much to be seen rather than talked about.

Kids Party Venue

One of the most nonpareil kids party venues in London, the place offers a private tour of the cave for your kid’s birthday party followed by a buffet in the Caves Restaurant.

Restaurants

It possesses a licensed restaurant which offers a huge variety of meals and snacks along with the traditional English breakfast or merely a cup of tea.

Visiting Hours

Wednesday to Sunday : 10 am to 4 pm

Walk Through Time With Historic Buildings in London

London is well known for various historical sights and some world famous must sees. Visiting London can be an unforgettable experience for those who are interested in visiting some historic places. As far as the places to visit are concerned, the capital city is of great importance as there are several historic buildings which can be seen here. Here are some amazing historic places in London to visit:

Hampton Court Palace
Henry VIII is the most important person that has been associated with this majestic palace. This royal palace in London Borough of Richmond is in the South west of the capital city. The palace has not been lived in by the British family since 18^th century. Today, the palace is open for public and is now counted as one of the famous historic landmarks of London. It has become a major tourist attraction in London which does not receive any funding from the Crown or the Government.

The Tower of London
This historic palace is Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress. This is a scheduled monument ideally located in Central London, England on the northern bank of the well known river Thames. Today, this popular historic palace is taken care by an independent charity.

St. Paul’s Cathedral
This is an Anglican Cathedral located within the city of London. The present building dates back from the 17^th century and the cathedral sits on the highest point of the city. However, the cathedral was originated as the trading post of Londiniums by Romans on the famous River Thames. Above all, this is one of the most visited sights in the capital city.

Benjamin Franklin House
This is the only surviving residence of the founding father of the United States and is now turned into a museum in a terraced house in Craven Street closely located to the Trafalgar Square.

These are some of the well known historic places in London which are a must visit for everyone traveling to the capital city.

Labels: London attractions, historic buildings in London, London tourism, St. Paul’s Cathedral, The tower of London

Kew Gardens in London

Kew Gardens are among the popular London attractions and one of the great botanical gardens of the world. These Royal botanic gardens offer a great day out for everyone as it is spread across 300 acres of land, ideally positioned on the West of London. The gardens host some enthralling sights which will keep you amazed and will fill you with wonder. Those who love green areas, Kew Gardens are the best place for them to relax their mind, body and souls. These botanic gardens are not only about greenery, however, several interesting buildings including a royal place. It also hosts large glasshouses housing tropical plants ranging from few years to several hundred years.

There are plants and trees from all over the world including outdoor and indoor restaurants as well including one in the Orangery building. Moreover, it proves to be an ideal venue for summer concerts. In the year 2003, Kew Gardens became a World Heritage Site and is illustrated as a historic landmark. The significant periods of the arts of gardens can be shown from 18^th to 20^th centuries. In 1840, these gardens were adopted as a national botanical garden. It showcases 9000 other plants from desert, mountain cliffs and rainforests.

The Gardens has some striking additions such as the Davies Alpine House and the Sackler Lake Crossing. The place offers a complete family entertainment package as there are climbers and creepers for children to enjoy along with interactive play zones unrevealing the planet’s history in the Evolution House. This London place has been voted as one of the best London attractions attracting more than 1.3 million visitors annually as it boasts of several unique plantations. The visitors to the gardens can now experience special attraction from above with Xstrata Treetop walkway and the new Rhizotron.

London St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most popular and the biggest church in London. This Cathedral is located in Central London, city’s commercial region. The St Paul’s Cathedral is also globally renowned for its dome which is one of the biggest and the most beautiful in the world. The phenomenal interiors of St Paul’s are also a major attraction of the city. These interiors include the glittering mosaics, spectacular view towards the quire and the convoluted stone carving.

This popular attraction has witnessed several significant ceremonies which include the funerals of Lord Nelson and Sir Winston Churchill and the royal weddings of Prince of Whales, Lady Diana Spencer and Prince of Charles. The renowned dome of the St Paul’s has become an iconic feature of London attractions.

Admission tickets to the St Paul’s Cathedral will cost you around 11£ per person. St Paul’s Cathedral is well connected to the major parts of the city through the St Paul’s London Underground which is located within the walking distance from the cathedral. The Cathedral also offers a well known restaurant offering a variety of traditional festive food especially during Christmas. The shop in the Cathedral also offers a wide range of gifts and offerings which you can buy for your loved ones. Besides this the region is covered with several restaurants, night clubs etc some of which are listed as under:

Restaurants near St Paul’s Cathedral

· Yo Sushi

· Paternoster Chop House

· Strada

· Café Rouge

· Mustard

Attractions near St Paul’s Cathedral

· Museum of London

· Smithfield Market

· Bridewell Theatre

· The Barbican Theatre and Art Gallery

· The Tate Modern Gallery

Tickets for Cathedral are available till 3:30pm and the last entry to the gallery is at 3:45pm. Tickets for the Crypt and Floor of Cathedral can be issued till 4pm. So visit this mesmerizing and serene London attraction and enjoy the melody of Christmas Carols going on in the Cathedral these days.

Mesmerizing London Parks and Royal Gardens

London not only offers vivacious and huge tourist’s attractions like London Eye and Buckingham Palace but, it also houses several green open spaces in almost all the areas of the city. London is one of the greenest metropolitans in the world. So while spending time in the city you can also explore the natural greenery, fresh air and wildlife at the parks and gardens in London. Here is the list of some of the most popular parks, gardens and picnic spots in the city where you can spend your weekends or you can explore these sights while London travel.

• Hyde Park
  Hyde Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the UK. The park is easily accessible from the Hyde Park tube station. It covers the area of around 350 acres and is home to a peaceful lake, more than 4000 trees, ornamental flower garden and a meadow. Besides walking you can also enjoy cycling, swimming, boating and skating at the Hyde Park. The park also hosts an onsite restaurant offering delicious food. You can also explore a variety of fascinating monuments and buildings in the park. The entry to the park is free of charge.
  

• Regents Park
  Sited close to the Regents Street, Regents Park is amongst the oldest royal parks in London. It is considered as one of the most happening London places. Here you can savor theatre, sports, music and several other entertaining performances. It houses some of the renowned award winning gardens, London zoo and fountains. You can also explore a variety of lakes, flower gardens, cafes and large playgrounds at the Regents Park. The Regents Park is in fact the largest outdoor sports area in the entire central London. The well known Open Air theatre at the park is one of the largest auditoriums in London.
  

• Green Park
  Green Park is located in the region of Piccadilly Circus, London. It is amongst the top 4 royal parks in the central London. The park is close to several popular London attractions such as Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and many more. It offers a tranquil sea of green and attracts millions of tourists and local Londoners. It is best suited for peaceful walks, sunbath or for picnics. The entry to the park is for 2.50 pounds for the adults though children can enter without the tickets. The park has easy access from the Green Park, Oxford Street and the Piccadilly Circus tube station.

• Kew Gardens – Royal Botanic Gardens
  The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew are amongst the topmost tourists attractions in London. Sited in the region of Richmond, Surrey, the Kew Garden is also one of the most important research centres in the world. Scholars and scientists from several parts of the world travel to these gardens to research on the subject of Botany. The garden offers amazing botanical delights in an extremely peaceful and beautiful ambience. The garden covers a large area of around 300 acres and offer several facilities to the visitors. The entry to the garden is chargeable and the tickets can cost you around 12.25 pounds.
  

• Greenwich Park
  Located close to the Greenwich tube station, the Greenwich Park is also amongst the oldest royal parks in the city. It is home to a small herd of red deer and fallow which is the major attraction of the park. Greenwich Park offers some of the most remarkable views of the city including river Thames. The popular London places such as The Royal Observatory, Queens House, Old Royal Naval College and National Maritime Museum are also with the walking distance from the park. Several events such as jazz, theatre, sports and opera are also organized at the Greenwich Park.

So next time you are planning an evening with your friends or your family then do think about spending some time in the healthy and eco friendly atmosphere at the royal London parks.

London’s Kew Bridge Steam Museum

The Kew Bridge Steam Museum is situated in Brentford at the banks of the River Thames in West London right besides the Kew Bridge. The museum was originally a working pumping station till 1944. The Kew Bridge Steam Museum is regarded as The European Route of Industrial Heritage and an Anchor Point of ERIH. The Kew Bridge Steam Museum was opened to the public in 1975 by the efforts of Kew Bridge Engines Trust. It is amongst the most visited museums in the city.

History
The Kew Bridge Steam Museum was originally known as the Kew Bridge Pumping station which was established in the year 1838 by the Grand Junction Waterworks Company. The pumping station was set up after the closure of an existing pumping station at Chelsea because of the poor quality of water. The Kew Bridge Pumping Station expanded soon and by the end of 1944, the steam engine was replaced with four electric pumping sets and four Allen Diesel pumps.
With advancements in technology steam engines were completely replaced by latest pumping sets by the year 1958. It was decided by the Metropolitan Water Board that these steam engines would not be scrapped; and preserved to be displayed in a museum some time later. Later in the year 1973 Kew Bridge Engines Trust was found and thus, set up, what today is better known as the Kew Bridge Steam Museum.

Museum Café
The Café at the museum is a complete pleasure to be at. The café opens only on weekends from 11:00am to 3:30pm BST. Mouth watering meals are served from 12:30pm to 2:30 pm. The view from the café is also awe-inspiring. With so much serenity, wild flowers, wildlife and views of the river Thames, you are bound to be pleased at the café.

Pricing
The museum has an admission charge of £ 9.50 for adults and children under 16 are admitted free of cost. The children under the age of 16 however should be accompanied by an adult. There is a special discount for students and OAP (Old Age Pensioners) of £ 8.50. Proof of age and identity cards might be required in case of availing student’s concession.

Timings
The Kew Bridge Steam Museum is open all days of the year except Mondays and Bank Holidays. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00am to 4:00pm BST to the public.

Travelling to the Museum
The nearest London Underground stations are the Gunnersbury tube station, Kew Gardens tube station, Chiswick Park tube station and the Acton Lane tube station. The museum is just a 10 minutes walk from these tube stations. The closest transport to the Kew Bridge Steam Museum is via the Main-Line. You could take a train to the Kew Bridge Railway Station. The museum is hardly a 2 minutes walk from the station.

Free Car Park
The museum offers a free parking space to visitors. The parking space is big enough to accommodate 50 cars and the parking is available on first come first serve basis. The area of Key is surrounded by several luxury hotels.

Things To Do in Museum - Hire the museum
The Kew Bridge Steam Museum can also be hired as a venue for a birthday, wedding, conference or a cocktail party. Dinner is served in the Steam Hall which is a very spacious place for dining and dancing. The guests could also witness the world’s largest ever working beam engine, The Grand Junction engine at the event.

The museum is a perfect place to hold corporate events as well. It is just 20 minutes away from the Heathrow Airport and offers all latest in information and technology tools for business meetings. Meeting room up to a space for 45 delegates and evening reception for as many as 150 delegates is also available.

The Steam Hall makes an out of this world venue for hosting a wedding or a special birthday accommodating 150 guests for buffet style receptions and 120 guests for table seating. The Steam Hall Gallery is also available for hire from Monday to Sunday. Toddlers can have a great birthday at the Steam Hall Gallery. The museum has linked up with the best of caterers to match all your needs of a great party. The museum also offers Jazz bands to Rock bands and DJs according to the theme of your party.

Westminster Abbey London

London the capital of United Kingdom is home to several tourists attractions. The beauty and pleasure that the city offers attracts millions of tourists almost every year. The city is well known for offering several shopping districts and is famous for its fashion statements. This well developed city also offers a great transportation system connecting almost all the parts of the city. London is a multi ethnic city and people from all parts of the world can be found in the city. London’s night life is also one of the major attractions of the city and is said to be the best after New York. It is often said that it’s hard to compete with London when it comes to the number of attractions.

Westminster Abbey is one such attraction that alone attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. The London tour is incomplete without exploring this beautiful London attraction. It is officially known as the Collegiate Church of St Peter, Westminster. Westminster Abbey is a gothic monastery church which is more of a traditional venue of coronation. The venue is also well known as the burial site for the renowned English monarchs. This royal church does not belong to any of the family of the church – Parish nor Cathedral. The church is owned by the royal family of England. The church is located just a stones throw away from the Houses of Parliament and is within the walking distance from the Westminster tube station. The church is home to the glorious architecture of the ancient times and is must to explore for every tourist. The divine atmosphere of the church is simply serene and is extremely relaxing. The tourist can also explore the coronation throne which the same place where several renowned monarchs of England were crowned. Also enjoy the excellent works of famous Charles Dickens, Shakespeare, etc at the poet’s corner which is full of memorials to these legends of literature. Tombs of Catholic “Bloody” Mary and Protestant Elizabeth 1 are also present in the church and can be visited by the tourists. In the 20^th century the New English Bible was also kept here. The St Edward’s Chair which is the throne on which the sovereigns are seated during the coronation is also placed in the Abbey and reminds of the royal period of the Britishers.

Since, the medieval ages The Shrine of the St Edward who was the renowned Confessor has been the point of attraction in the Westminster Abbey. The church is open 6 days a week but, the timings differ for all the days. The Abbey is also open on Sundays but only for worshipping. The entry is free of charge for the children below 11 years of age and charges are applicable for the rest of the age groups. Though the attraction has several religious grounds but it is considered more of a historical site than a religious place. The church holds a variety of treasures belonging to the royal families. The paintings, textiles, stained glass are displayed in the church and can be viewed by the visitors. The gothic structure of the church is exceptionally stunning. The attractions also organizes several tours guided by some of the most experienced guides and audio guides in different languages such as French, German, Spanish, Russian etc are available at the venue. Special tours for large groups are also available at the church. Shops offering refreshments such as snacks, drinks etc are also available at out side the building as eatables are not allowed outside the building.

Within the Abbey the tourists can also visit the St Margaret’s Church, The Chapter House, the museum and the College Garden.

National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum was established in the year 1934 but was opened to the general public not until 1937. Like the name only suggests the National Maritime Museum is all related to nautical journeys of the English. The museum houses more than 2 million objects in its premises related to British naval heritage and culture. The museum is situated at Greenwich in Northern London. The National Maritime Museum spreads over an area of 200 acres. The National Maritime Museum is also termed as the NMM in short or abbreviationaticlly. The NMM is the largest maritime museum in the whole of United Kingdom and if it is to be believed, the largest museum of its kind in the world. This very historic museum is also a part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site. The National Maritime Museum is owned and administered by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The museum is a non-departmental public body. The National Maritime Museum encompasses the Royal Observatory, 17th-century Queen’s House and Greenwich.

History
The National Maritime Museum was established after the National Maritime Act was passed in the year 1934. The creation of the museum is clearly mentioned in the chapter 43 of the Act. Sir James Caird had donated a large amount to the National Maritime Museum trust and the museum today stands because of his generous donations. The museum was first opened to the public on 27th of April 1937 by King George VI. It is believed that Princess Elizabeth who later became the Queen Elizabeth II had accompanied King George VI on the inauguration day.

Greenwich has been linked to navigation and sea history ever since the Romans landed on these lands. Henry VIII lived had lived in Greenwich and it is the year 1675 when Charles II had found the Royal Observatory. The Royal Observatory was established for “finding the longitude of places.” The Greenwich has been a centre of Astronomical study, the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian since 1884. Navigators all throughout the world till date set their watches and clocks to Greenwich’s time of day.

The Great Comet of 1843 painting by Charles Piazzi Smyth and The Bretagne by Jules Achille Noel in 1859 is both at display at the National Maritime Museum. The Museum holds more than two million items including British and 17th century Dutch maritime art, manuscripts, cartography; navigational instruments ship models and plans etc.

Pricing
All the three sites, namely, the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory and the Queen’s House are open to public for free. There is no admission charge , however , an entry fee might just be charged for some temporary exhibitions held at the Royal Observatory and the Queen’s House.

Timings
The National Maritime Museum , The Queen’s House and the Royal Observatory remain open all days of the week throughout the year from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm BST. The last admission is from 4:30 pm BST. The Royal Observatory courtyard however remains open till 8:00pm BST in the summer months. The last late opening day will be Monday 31st August.

It is recommended that you do not visit these galleries on Saturday and Sunday afternoons as 1:00pm to 4:00 pm BST are the busiest hours. You are advised to visit the Royal Observatory and the Queen’s House gallerias earlier in the day if possible (10:00am to 11:30am BST), that is when there is no rush. Later in the day as soon as it is afternoon, the crowds come pouring in and the galleries become congested.

Closures
The National Maritime Museum, The Royal Observatory and the Queen’s House remain closed from 24th to 26th of December. All these three sites also close early on day ever of New Year, that is, 31st of December. These however remain open till late up to 12:00am BST on 1st of January and at the London Marathon every year. These sites also remain closed at the time of any maintenance work or if any filming is going on at the site.

The nearest London Underground stations are the North Greenwich tube station, Cutty Sark tube station and the Greenwich tube station. The National Maritime Museum is just a 5 minutes walk from these tube stations.

Captivating Beauty of Covent Garden

London - the capital city of United Kingdom is one of the most fashionable metropolitan cities in the world. When it comes to shopping in London, you have a wide variety of options. London’s Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Bond Street etc are some of the well known shopping destinations in London. The number is extremely large and thus it’s hard to talk about all the shopping districts in few words. So, let’s discuss about the Covent Garden which is one of the most visited entertainment districts in the city.

Covent Garden is one of the most vivacious districts in the London city. It offers outstanding shopping, street entertainments, excellent significant theatres, dazzling night clubs and more than 1000 restaurants, bars and cafes offering a wide variety of delectable cuisines.

Shopping at Covent Garden:
From stylish clothing’s to elegant accessories and unique antiques to cheap gif shops, you name it and this district has it. Agne’s B, All Saints, David & Goliath, East and Ellis Brigham are some of the most popular brands at Covent Garden if you are looking for some casual clothes. The district also offers a variety of designer brands offering latest fashions of clothes and accessories. Accessorize. Aldo, Betsey Johnson and Camper are some of the stores extremely renowned for their spectacular accessories. The place is also renowned for a great variety of men’s wear. Calvin Klein, Esprit, Field & Trek and J Simons are some of the most preferred brands for menswear.

Eating at Covent Garden:
Covent Garden is a home to a variety of restaurants, café’s etc. These restaurants offer a wide variety of delicious cuisines. With appetizing food they also offer a warm and homely atmosphere. Covent is one of the best places to go at for the foodies. Covent Garden Grill, Covent Garden Kitchen and Crème de la crepe are some of the restaurants known for serving British food. On the other hand Dacca, Masala Zone and Taste of India are some of the popular restaurants offering Indian food. Bella Italia, Fire & Stone are amongst the restaurants famous for pizza.

Theatre’s in Covent Garden:
Most of the theatres in London are located in Covent Garden. Adelphi theatre, Aldwych theatre, Fortune Theatre, Palladium theatre, and theatre Royal are some of the most renowned theatres in the region of Covent Garden. These theatres present a variety of performing arts such as comedy, opera, drama, musical shows, dance and much more.

Night Life in Covent Garden:
London is globally renowned to offer one of the best night life after New York. Several clubs, pubs, dancing dens etc are located in almost all the areas of London. Amongst all the happening districts Covent Garden depicts the London Life extremely well. A wide range of options are available in the district to enjoy the London night life. O2 Arena, Pop at O2, Jazz Café, HMV Apollo and Belushi’s bar are some of the renowned night clubs and bars.

Attractions around Covent Garden:
Some of the most visited London attractions are located in and around the area of Covent Garden. London Transport Museum, Theatre Museum, Royal Opera House, St Paul’s Cathedral, Photographers Gallery, Sir John Soane’s Museum, National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery are some of the nearest attractions.

The district of Covent Garden is easily accessible from the Charing Cross, Waterloo, London Bridge, Kings Cross St Pancras and Victoria tube station. The area has an easy access from almost all the major airports through various public and private transports.

A Ride to Central London

Central London is one of the most popular regions in London. It is referred to the area located on the north south areas of the river Thames. The central London is widely spread and covers an area of around 26 square kilometers. It can e divided into three districts – the City, South Bank and the West End. Some of the major London places are sited in the Central London. The place offers some of the most sought after locations in the city. Central London is home to several well known London hotels, restaurants, bars, night clubs and several vivacious shopping districts. The theatres of West End are one of the major tourist’s attractions in Central London.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Central London:
• Buckingham Palace – This London attraction is open in summer season only. This year the royal palace is open for tourists between 26th July – 28th September 2009. It is easily accessible from the Victoria tube station and the price of the ticket is 16.50 pounds for adult and 9.50 pounds for children.

• London Eye – This magnificent wheel is one of the most popular tourist’s attractions in the world. Sited close to the river Thames it offers excellent views of the city. Embankment Tube station is the nearest tube station. The tickets for the London Eye flight will cost you around 17 pounds.

• Tower of London – It is one of the historical sights in United Kingdom and attracts millions of tourists every year. Tower of London is also one of the most popular iconic landmarks of London. It is easily accessible through Tower Hill tube station.

• Madame Tussauds Wax Museum – One of the most excellent wax museums in the world. Sited close to the Bakers Street tube station, London.

• London Dungeon – This terrifying traitor boat ride is an extremely adventurous ride. It will cost you 20 pounds approximately.

• London Aquarium – Located close to the Waterloo tube station and the entry will cost you 15.25 pound approximately.

• Tower Bridge – It is one of the most excellent vantage points in London. It hosts several exciting exhibitions throughout the year. It is just a stones throw away from the London Bridge Tube.

• Kensington Palace – This royal palace in the city was once a private country house now the tourists can also explore this beautiful and ethnic palace. The entry tickets are worth 12.50 pounds for the adults.

• St Paul’s Cathedral – St Paul’s is one of the most visited churches in London. You can explore this church at the price of 11 pounds.

• London Zoo – It is amongst the best tourists attractions in the city and has an easy access from the Chalk Farm tube station. The entry ticket for the zoo will cost you around 18.50 pounds.

Night Clubs in Central London
• Egg
• Fabric
• Future Fusion
• Heaven
• Ministry of Sound

Restaurants in Central London
• Greig’s Restaurant – Located in the Bruton Place and offers British Cuisine.
• Browns Bar & Brasserie – Situated at the Maddox Street, Mayfair and well known for European and Brasserie Cuisines.
• 1997 – Popular for Chinese Cuisine.

• 2 Amici Italian Restaurant – Popular for offering delicious Italian cuisine and situated at the Rochester Row.
• Bhatti – At the Covent Garden and offers delicious variety of Indian food.
• Taste of India – Catherine Street
• Tandoori Nights – Covent Garden offers Indian Cuisine.

Shopping in Central London
• Tottenham Court Road – Electronics
• Charing Cross – Books
• Denmark Street –Music
• Bond Street – Luxury Goods
• Covent Garden – Clothes
• Oxford Circus – Clothes and Accessories

Hotels in Central London
Central London houses several cheap hotels, luxury hotels and other comfortable accommodations such as:
• Hilton London Kensington Hotel ****
• Central House Hotel ***
• Marble Arch Inn Hotel *
• Ashley Hotel **
• Grange City Hotel *****

Central London is one of the most vibrant areas in London. It has something or the other to offer for every one. Besides night clubs, bar and restaurants there are several other means of entertainment such as theatres, malls and much more. So next time you visit London, Central London is the place where you can book your hotel.

Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is one of the most vivacious attractions in the city and it alone attracts millions of tourists every year. This beautiful landmark was named after its spectacular towers. This is also well known as Victorian Bridge and is more than 100 years old. This iconic landmark was creatively designed by the renowned architects – Horace Jones and Wolfe Barry. It took several years to turn this design into a reality and finally it was completed in the year 1894. This bridge is 197 feet long and is raised to a height of around 43 meter in order to allow the large ships to pass the bridge.

Earlier it was raised 50 times in a day but the number has eventually reduced to 5 times in a week.

You can observe a great view of Central London from the top of the tower. The experience of exploring the tower from inside is also outstanding. You can also discover the unique mechanism, with the use of which the tower is raised. The Tower Bridge should not be confused with the London Bridge, which is actually just the next to the Tower Bridge. It is easily accessible from the Tower Hill London Underground. Several exhibitions are also hosted at the walkways, twin towers and Victorian Engine room of the Tower Bridge.

The exhibitions are hosted and the history of the Tower Bridge is explained using interactive, films and photos. The walkways at the Tower Bridge offer astonishing views of the river Thames and several other renowned attractions. Thus the place is extremely popular amongst the nature lovers. The exhibitions at Tower Bridge are opened from 10:00 – 18:30 from the month of April – September. In order to make your tour even more exciting and memorable it is recommended to book the tickets well in advance. You can avail discounts on the rates of the tickets, if you are planning to visit in a group.

Behind the Scenes Tour, Introductory talks and Private evening tours can also be booked in advance. You can also take the assistance of experienced guides who can help to explore the tower in a better way. Several restaurants, nightclubs, pubs and bars are also sited around the Tower Bridge. You can also relish a great shopping experience at the London’s Borough Market and several other shops at the Southwark, which are within the walking distance from the Tower Bridge. London’s Tower of London, City Hall, HMS Belfast, Globe Theatre and the Monument are also located close to the Tower Bridge.

For more information read the following related post-
Tower of London.

What’s on at London Trafalgar Square

London is amongst the most vibrant tourists destinations in the world. The city hosts a large variety of events every year. Besides sightseeing, shopping and exploring London places, to be a part of these events is apparently a must to do if you are visiting UK.

Trafalgar Square is one of the most popular London places which is not only known as an iconic London landmark or sightseeing place in London but it is also one of the best venue for several entertaining events in London. It is used for a wide range of events such as filming, demonstrations, photographic shoots, performances and promotional activities. The Fourth Plinth at the Trafalgar Square is especially renowned for hosting art, music and theatre events.

Events at Trafalgar Square

• The Barber of Seville
  The event will take place on the 15th of July 2009 at the Trafalgar Square. It will be the broadcast of the popular Barber of Seville – Royal Opera House. The opera art form itself is extremely popular not only in London but in the entire Europe and thus it is one of the most awaited events in the city. This opera event is absolutely free of charge.

• Sightseeing Photography Tour - Guided Walk
  This event is organized at the Trafalgar Square on every Tuesday from 1 pm to 5 pm. In the tour you can capture the beauty of several historic sights in the city. Some of these historic sights are the Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, Statue of Eros, fourth plinth and many more highlights of this popular London place. You need to book the tickets for this event which will cost you around 75 pounds per person. The tickets can also be booked well in advance. The same event is held on every Monday exclusively for Women.

• Antony Gormley’s One & Other – The Fourth Plinth
  The event is going on at the Fourth Plinth and will end on 14th October 2009. This event will continue for 100 days, 24 hours without a single break. You can also visit the square and make the plinth your own. If you get selected by the sculptor Antony Gormley, you can occupy the plinth and use it as you like for demonstrations, performances etc. One and other is an event open to anyone and everyone staying in UK and is above the age of 16 years. To take part in the event you need to register online at oneandother.co.uk. Even if you are not living in UK you can go at the plinth and enjoying the event.

Facilities at Trafalgar Square

• Café offering a wide range of locally sourced food and drinks.
• Public Toilets.
• Heritage Wardens to help the visitors and to provide information.

Getting Here????

Trafalgar Square is easily accessible from several parts of the city. Charing Cross, Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus and Embankment are the nearest Tube stations from the Trafalgar Square.

Where to Stay????

• The Grand at Trafalgar Square
  It is a 4 star London hotel sited just a stones throw from the Trafalgar Square. This luxury hotel offers 63 opulent rooms with several contemporary room amenities such luggage storage, wireless internet, laundry and 24 hour room service. Business facilities are also available in the hotel.

• Radisson Edwardian Hampshire
  Located in the region of Leicester Square, this 5 star hotel in London is one of the most comfortable accommodations around Trafalgar Square. The hotel hosts 124 well appointed rooms with several facilities such as restaurant, terrace, luggage storage, fitness centre, business centre, currency exchange and much more.

• Grange White Hall Hotel
  It is amongst the best hotels in London sited in the ravishing region of Russell Square. The hotel has an easy access to several London attractions including Trafalgar Square. The hotel offers 60 en suite rooms and 8 conference rooms with several world class facilities.

All the above information might help you out while you explore the London city.

London Sightseeing Tours

London, the capital of United Kingdom is sited close to the beautiful banks of the river Thames. The city has an affluent cultural heritage and the imperial traditions of the city have always created an impact on the world history. The city is home to several galleries, museums and tourist attractions. Besides London attractions, London sightseeing is also extremely popular amongst the tourists.

Let’s talk about some of the famous London sights and Sightseeing tours:

• Chinatown
  London’s Chinatown is one of the most vibrant locations in the city. The place is located between the Shaftesbury Avenue and Leicester Square, close to the renowned Soho. The region offers a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, café’s, night clubs and much more. All these happening places make Chinatown one of the most vivacious districts in London. Gerrard Street is the main drag of this district. Amongst the population of 80000 Chinese in London about 40% live in the Chinatown. During the celebrations of the Chinese New Year, papier- mache lion dance is performed at the streets of the city. This celebration itself is one of the biggest events in London. The Chinatown specifically is decorated beautifully during the celebrations. The renowned boutiques of the West End are also close to this London sight. It is easily accessible through the Leichester Square tube station.

• Downing Street:
  Downing Street is one of the most popular front doors in the entire world. It is the Prime Ministers Office, state events venue, venue for the cabinet and the residence for the family of the Prime Minister. The private flat of the Prime Minister – Tony Blair is on the second floor of the building. It is one of the most important places in London and thus is also a popular London sight for the tourists. At 10 Down Street you can also take an interactive tour offered at the sight by some of the experienced guides. During the tour you can explore all the 9 locations and their significance.

• Fitzroy House:
  Since the 18th century, Fitzroy House is one of the popular sights in England and is renowned for its artists and writers. Some of the best writers such as H.G. Wells, George Orwell, Charles Dickens and Virginia Woolf were the inhabitants of the Fitzroy House. George Bernard who was a renowned Irish playwright also resided at the Fitzroy Square. It is a popular sight in the city and tours to the sight are organized very often. The sight opens at 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. but only by appointment and the admission to the sight is without any charge.

• London Aquarium:
  London Aquarium is amongst the most visited tourist attractions in the city and it is the first one of its kind in the entire England. At the London Aquarium you can discover one of the largest exhibitions based on the global aquatic life. This one of the largest exhibitions in England and attracts tourists from all over the world. It is also a great resource of research for the scientists. The exhibition at the London Aquarium is displayed in 2 million litres of water. By visiting the sight you can explore several aspects of the marine life.

• Vinopolis – City of Wine:
  Vinopolis is amongst the popular sights in the city and is well known as the City of Wine. The sight is located at the bank side and easily accessible through the London Bridge tube station. The sight offers a variety of delicious food and drinks. The tours at the sight will let you know all about wine. You can spend a day at the site and learn about the making of wine. During the tour you will get 5 tokens with which you can taste 5 types of wines. Several packages offering more tokens are also available.

These sightseeing tours in London are must to explore during your trip as they are not only interesting but are also extremely informative. These tours will make your trip even more joyful and memorable. You can also avail the London sightseeing pass and also attend the London walking tours.