Being one of the top destinations in the world, the top London tourist attractions draw more than 15 million visitors every year. Britain’s Capital is one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the world with unlimited entertainment and leisure. Here are the best Top Sights Tours London points of interest!
Go on Themed Tour
Are you a fan of Harry Potter, The Beatles, or heard the interesting tale of Jack the Reaper? Well, guess what – you can tour London and explore its magical streets following a themed itinerary of either one of these legendary icons. Just make sure you book the right one to enjoy the themed tour, one of the unique things to do in London (scroll up to see our recommended themed tours!). Check out London Top Sights Harry Potter Tour!
The View from the Shard
In 2012, Italian architect Renzo Piano transformed London’s skyline with a strange but striking structure that’s now the capital’s tallest tower. Reaching 244 metres from the ground, The Shard was built with everything in mind: offices, homes, hotels, bars, restaurants and, of course, the alluring viewing platform. From the highest point the public are allowed access (floors 69-72) you get stunning 360° views of the city. There’s also a weekly silent disco up there on Saturday nights and other events, such as Sky-High Yoga or film screenings.
Explore Camden
A cultural hub located in the north of the city, Camden’s way of life is indeed for those with a colorful soul and one of the must see places in London. Known for its eccentric mix of styles (think rock, punk, and goth all in one place) and bold personalities, you’ll find great market finds, funky cafes, and streets lined with music shops and tattoo parlor all side-by-side. This is one of the cool things to do in London, so don’t miss out on it!
London Eye
Much like the Millenium Dome – or, as its known to those who don’t remember the twentieth century, the O2 Arena – the London Eye was built to celebrate the year 2000. But unlike the ill-fated Dome, the Eye was a resounding success, and it’s hard to picture London’s skyline without it. Actually, this astonishingly popular attraction boasts a mouthful of a title: the highest cantilevered observation wheel in the world. It rarely ever comes to a stop, so you won’t be standing on ceremony when you get on, and before you know it, you’re halfway into the sky and taking in the sweeping vistas of the Thames and wider London.
Changing of the Guard
One of the top London landmarks, Buckingham Palace is not only famous for its classical building, but the Changing of the Guard offers a striking display to the visitors. Built in 1837, the building has been the residence of Royal Family since Queen Victoria’s succession. You can also be lucky to have a glimpse of her if the Royal Standard is up at the flagpole that means she’s in there.
Westminster Abbey
Like the Pantheon Crypt in Paris, where you can see the tombs and memorials to great figures from history, Westminster Abbey is a popular attraction to peruse the graves, tablets, busts and stone dedications. In fact, seventeen monarchs are buried here, along with dukes, countesses and history’s ‘celebs’ (Darwin, Dickens, Hardy, etc). Founded by Benedictine monks in 960 AD, there have also been 16 royal weddings here and every single British coronation has taken within the Abbey’s walls since 1066.
The Tower of London The splendid Tower of London has played many different roles during the past years. Don’t be amazed because this tower has transformed itself into a palace from prison and a private zoo from a treasure vault through the ages. This glorious building holds the country’s rich history and heritage and offers visitors hours of interest. This famous tower was built in 1078 by William the conqueror and preserves the royal jewels and armaments showcasing the unique history.
The British Museum
One of the top London tourist attractions includes the giant British museum that has more than 13 million artifacts from all over the world. Exquisite objects and jewels from China, different countries of Europe and Babylonia are showcased in this museum. Elgin Marbles and The Rosetta stone are the most famous yet controversial exhibits you can get to see in this exemplary museum
Hampton Court Palace
A resplendent palace with plush grounds on the edge of south-west London. From the Tudor indoor tennis court to the Royal Maze, from the King’s private loo to the Magic Garden adventure playground, there’s something here for all ages. History buffs and art enthusiasts should purchase the ticket for the Palace and Gardens; those with little ones in tow will appreciate the Magic Garden and Maze ticket.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Iconic though St Paul’s may be, the Cathedral as we know and love it today is in fact version six, at least. Mark five was razed to the ground by the Great Fire of London in 1666 – in fact mark three was also destroyed by fire in 1087 – and mark four fell to ruins under Henry VIII’s leadership and parts of it were used to build Somerset House. Thankfully Sir Christopher Wren’s design, which was completed in 1708, survived 12 monarchs and two world wars, and remains popular with tourists and locals alike. If you’ve paid for main admission you’ll be treated to an introductory talk before being taken on a 90-minute tour.
Big Ben and Parliament
One of the London landmarks, the iconic Tower Bridge is compelling as it sounds with a 318ft tower surrounding the huge clock and the emphatic bell known as The Big Ben. The Houses of Parliaments for the British government stretch along the Thames. They were once the site of the royal Westminster Palace. Visitors are often offered the tours of Parliament to get enchanted by the lively political debates and discussions. Yes, many places to go in London. But don’t miss this one of the most popular iconic London landmarks to explore.
Piccadilly Circus ad Trafalgar Square, The Gateway to central London
Close to London’s eye-catching theatre Soho, there are two well-famous squares known as Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square. Trafalgar Square was built in 1805 to honor the victory of Lord Horatio Nelson over the French and Spanish. While some busy and irregular streets of London like Piccadilly, Regent and Haymarket run into the Piccadilly Square.
