Welcome to the Ultimate Bucket List Guide to London
Welcome to another episode of Ultimate Bucket List! In this guide, we will explore the city of London, discussing where to go, what to do, where to eat, and how to save money. London is a fantastic city with culture, history, and world-famous attractions. Whether you have limited time or want to explore the whole city, there are three main areas to focus on: Westminster, the West End, and the City of London.
Getting Around London
London has an extensive underground system known as the Tube. While the tube map may seem confusing, navigating once inside a station is easy. Consider getting an Oyster card or using your contactless credit card to tap in and out of the turnstiles. This same method can be used for London buses and boats, allowing you to travel across the city quickly. However, remember that the tube map is not to scale, and sometimes it's quicker to walk than to use the Tube.
Where to Stay
If you're looking for accommodation, staying around the West End or the Theatre District is highly recommended. Not only is this area perfect for nightlife, but it is also centrally located, making it easy to get around the city. Being close to a tube station will significantly enhance your experience in London.
Exploring Westminster
Westminster is one of the most famous areas of London. Start by visiting the Elizabeth Tower, commonly known as Big Ben (although Big Ben refers to the bell inside the tower, not the building itself). Currently, under construction, it will be a magnificent sight once completed. Next to Big Ben, you'll find the Houses of Parliament, where you can attend parliamentary sessions if there is space in the gallery. Westminster Abbey, a famous cathedral known for coronations and royal weddings, is also a must-visit. To get the best view of Westminster, cross the bridge and head towards the London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel with incredible city views.
Other Attractions in Westminster
While exploring Westminster, you'll encounter other attractions, such as the London Dungeons, a thrilling and spooky experience. There are also ornate pubs in the area that offer a taste of English culture. St. James's Park, a royal park, is located nearby, and right next to it is Buckingham Palace, the Queen's official residence. If the royal standard is flying high, it means she is present. While tours inside the palace are rare and expensive, you can enjoy the view from the gates and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily. Follow the guards as they march towards St. James's Palace for an added experience.
The City of London
The City of London is the financial and business district of the city. While it may not be as attractive as other areas, the Tower Bridge and the Tower of London are two must-visit attractions here. The Tower Bridge is an iconic symbol of London, and the Tower of London holds a rich history.
There is so much to see and do in London, and this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the city's top attractions and how to make the most of your time here. Enjoy your visit to the nation's capital!
About the Tower of London
The Tower of London is a famous landmark in London where monarchs traditionally lived. It is currently home to the crown jewels, the country's most expensive and priceless jewelry.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is another famous landmark in London. You can go inside by paying a small admission fee. You can walk across the bridge at the top, with a glass roof and floor. The best views of Tower Bridge are from the tower of London or the west side of the river.
The Shard and St. Paul's Cathedral
The Shard is the tallest building in London. You can pay to visit the observation tower and enjoy fantastic city views. From there, you can see St. Paul's Cathedral, another famous church in London. The Millennium Bridge is also nearby, which offers excellent photo opportunities.
The West End
The West End is London's answer to Broadway. It is a district with many traditional theaters where you can watch musicals and shows. The nightlife in this area is impressive, with popular spots like Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and Chinatown. Piccadilly Circus, known for its giant LED screens, is also here. If you enjoy shopping, the West End is home to Oxford Street, the longest shopping street in London. Soho, part of the West End, is the redlight district.
The West End Cuisine
The West End is also known for its excellent cuisine. You can find anything from cheap Asian street food to high-end restaurants. It's a great place to hang out and people-watch, especially at Trafalgar Square, where you can visit the National Gallery for free.
Other Areas of London to Explore
If you have more time and are willing to travel, there are other exciting places to visit in London. West London offers Hyde Park, the most significant green space in the city, and the Royal Albert Hall, a famous music venue. Kensington and Chelsea, the wealthiest and most exclusive area of London, is also worth exploring, with attractions like Kensington Palace and the favorite department store Harrods.
On the city's north side, you can visit Madame Tussauds, the Sherlock Holmes Museum, the ZSL London Zoo, and the British Museum. On the south side, you can find the Tate Modern, a museum of modern art. Many of these museums are free to enter, which is great if you're on a budget.
Other Attractions
If you want to travel further, you can visit the O2 Arena, a modern concert venue, and Canary Wharf, an ultra-modern financial district. Greenwich is also worth a visit, with attractions like the Royal Greenwich Observatory.
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