Are you planning a trip to London?
We are here to help. Our local-experts provide travel advice on sites, activities, events, restaurants, hotels, shopping, nightlife, and much more. Vacation planning has never been this easy. Create your itinerary now »
Browsing London
2 Willow Road
Designed and built in 1939 by architect, Erno Goldfinger, this former home of Goldfinger and his wife, artist, Ursula Blackwell, is one of the few houses from the modern movement open to the public. The house features furniture designed by Goldfinger, as well as a collection of works by Henry Moore, Bridget Riley, Max Ernst, Marcel Duchamp, and others. The attention to detail and design in this intimate house are surprising and enlightening and still look modern today.
More »
Abbey Road
A must see for any true pop music fan, Abbey Road is well known mostly for its appearance on a Beatles' album cover. It is also home to Abbey Road Studios, where the Beatles and numerous other musicians have recorded. It also houses the famous Studio 1, the largest recording studio in the world.
More »
Albert Memorial
Lovingly constructed by Queen Victoria in memory of her late husband, Prince Albert, this ornate memorial stands in Kensington Gardens and overlooks the South Kensington cultural center. It took 12 years to build--a relatively short period of time considering the elaborate detail of the statue. It features a gilded bronze, 14-foot statue of Albert sitting in a large shrine, complete with a frieze that includes 169 carved figures. The whole structure is supported by both red and gray granite pillars; the gray pieces are from single stones and each weighs about 17 tons; during construction, it took workers over 20 weeks to shape and polish the pillars. The whole gothic shrine is 175 feet high and is a beautiful sight to see when it shines in the sun.
More »
Alexander Fleming Laboratory Museum
Penicillin has helped transform the way the medical world diagnosed and treated diseases in the twentieth century; and to think that is was all by chance. In 1928, the young Scotsman, Alexander Fleming discovered a band of bacteria surrounding a blue-green mold Staphylococcus culture. Further investigation would prove the existence and discovery of penicillin which would go on to be one of the significant discoveries in the medical field of the past century. Take a step back in time into what Fleming's laboratory would have appeared like when he made his chance discovery. Fleming would go to share the Nobel Prize for his part in discovering the culture that would help thousands of lives. Who would have thought that in a small lab in St. Mary's Hospital, that the history of medicine would be altered because of a chance observation.
More »
Alexandra Palace Ice Rink
Situated in the beautiful Alexandra Palace, the ice rink is open to the public for various skating activities. Lessons are available for those wanting to learn how to skate, as well as open skating. Holding up to 1,250 people, there is plenty of room on this big ice rink. Afterwards go sit down at the nearby Phoenix Bar or other attractions found throughout the Palace.
More »
Alexandra Park
Located on sloping Musgrove Hill, Alexandra Park is a 196-acre, green public space enjoyed by the whole city. It has its own nature reserve, boating lake, walking trails, and a popular ice rink. The park is dominated by Alexandra Palace, which sits atop the hill overlooking the grounds. The palace was originally constructed in 1873 as the "peoples palace" of London; it went through two fires, one in 1875 and one in 1980, and still remained a great entertainment and recreation locale. It is now used as a venue for concerts, conferences, and parties; the Palace Theatre also puts on stage productions throughout the year.
More »
All Hallows by the Tower
Still in use and offering services today, this church was founded by the Saxon Abbey of Barking in 675; an arch of the original structure still remains. The church survived the Great Fire of 1666, but was badly damaged during the Blitz of 1940, though subsequently restored. Located next to the Tower of London, the church has had to deal with a number of beheaded bodies, including those of John Fisher, Thomas More, and Archbishop Laud. The church has also been the site of happier occasions, however, such as the baptism of William Penn, and the marriage of John Quincy Adams in 1797.
More »
All Saints, Margaret Street
Designed by William Butterfield and completed in 1859, this Anglican center of worship is London's most architecturally important Victorian Gothic church. The conception of All Saints originated with the Cambridge Camden Society (from 1845, the Ecclesiological Society), which hoped to reawaken historically authentic Anglican worship through architecture. The church was built in the Gothic style of the late-13th and early-14th centuries, and remains Butterfield's masterpiece.
More »
Apsley House & Wellington Arch
Apsley House, built in 1778, is located in Hyde Park. It is known for its collection of fine art, as well as the personal effects of past owners, the first Duke of Wellington and his descendants. The House is still the current Duke of Wellington's London home today. Apsley House is also known as Number One London. When the house was built by Robert Adam in the 1770s, it was the first house on Piccadilly and was located at the toll-booth entry point to London. Today, the electronic cameras at the beginning of Piccadilly monitor entry to the "congestion Charge Zone," the area of Central London where you have pay GBP 8 per week day to drive a car. Wellington Arch was completed in 1828 and is located opposite Apsley House at Hyde Park Corner.
More »
Arsenal Football Club
As one of England's most successful professional football clubs, the Arsenal boasts thirteen First Division and Premier League titles, and ten FA Cups. Founded as Dial Square in 1886 by workers at the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich, the team was renamed Royal Arsenal shortly thereafter, and moved to their previous home at the Arsenal Stadium in Highbury in 1913. In August of 2006, the team again relocated to the much larger 60,000-seat Emirates Stadium in nearby Ashburton Grove.
More »
Baden-Powell House
Built in 1961 and opened in memory of Lord Robert Baden-Powell, the Baden-Powell House is located in South Kensington and provides lodging and conference facilities for thousands of people throughout the year. Decorated with a collection of Baden-Powell memorabilia, the house attracts scouts, guides, schools, and charities from all over the world seeking to use the hostel and facilities. Centrally located, the house is a short walk away from many different sites popular to London. Amenities include 180 beds, conference rooms, all you can eat breakfast buffet, and a rooftop terrace with seemingly endless views of Kensington and beyond. Whether you are a scout or not, the house is a testament to the legacy left by Baden-Powell.
More »
Bank of England Museum
Located in the Bank of England, this museum showcases a large collection of items relating to the over 300-year-old history of the bank. Since its opening in 1694, it has served the people of England as the central financial institution of the country. Items in the collection range from things you'd expect to see in a bank museum--like calculators, bank notes, coins, and furniture--to unique items such as the picks and rifles used to defend the bank during hard times. They also feature a collection of pictures that showcase the history of the bank (starting with its construction) and portraits of past directors, governors, and staff. Stop by for one of the museum's great workshops or events; you can create your own gold-gilded lettering or watch a medieval-costumed moneyer mint coins (you can even take one home!) while telling stories of the Middle Ages.
More »
Banqueting House
The building is Inigo Jones' Classical addition to the medieval Palace of Whitehall and was completed in 1622. The ceilings were done by Rubens at the commission of Charles I, who believed in the divine right of kings. Charles II celebrated the Restoration at the Banqueting House after the death of Oliver Cromwell.
More »
Barbican Centre
London's, The Guardian, probably put it best: "A building where there is always something rich and strange going on." The Babican Centre is Europe's largest performing arts center featuring theater, art, film, dance, music, and education are all housed in this mega complex. Despite looking somewhat like an upheaval of 60s style in a cement-block accident, the Barbican Centre is a beehive of cultivation for the arts in London and beyond. Inside the center there are two 1,000+ seat theaters, three cinemas, several art galleries, a rooftop conservatory, an outside terrace, as well as a number of restaurants. The Barbican also can boast for its popular tenants, the Royal Shakespeare Company and the London Symphony Orchestra, who are considered to be some of the premiere groups in music and theater around the world. Dedicated to the preservation of culture, the Barbican Centre welcomes you to explore the different facets of human expression exemplified through the arts.
More »
Battersea Park
Located just two miles south of Marble Arch, this London park is a beautiful spot to come to for a stroll along the River Thames, but offers visitors much more than an urban oasis of green. The park features a small zoo, a boating lake, a bandstand, and several sporting facilities including football pitches, tennis courts, and a running track. The London Peace Pagoda was also erected here in 1985--a memorial to the victims of the bombing of Hiroshima. Opened by Queen Victoria in 1859, the 200 acre park also sports a rich history. The first exhibition of football was played here under the rules of the Football Association, and from the 1860s until their disbandment, the leading amateur football team, Wanderers F.C., called the park home. Even before that, the area was popular for duels when matters of honor needed to be settled.
More »
Ben Uri Gallery, The London Jewish Museum of Art
As Britain's oldest Jewish cultural organization, the Ben Uri Gallery was established in 1915 in London's East End as a space to exhibit the work of the community's flourishing population of Jewish artists and craftspeople. The facility currently houses the world's largest collection of art by Anglo Jewish artists, including works by Auerbach, Bomberg, and Gertler.
More »
Benjamin Franklin House
This is Franklin's only remaining house, built in 1730. It opened to the public as a historical site on January 17, 2006, exactly 300 years after Franklin was born. Franklin spent about 16 years in London before returning to the United States, conducting scientific experiments and inventing important things such as bifocals. The House features live performances, hands-on experiences of Franklin's scientific discoveries, and the Scholarship Center, which boasts research facilities as well as Franklin's published papers. It is truly a unique site, both in British and American history.
More »
Bermondsey
This antique market is the largest of its kind in London. Antique dealers and collectors gather early each Friday morning in the New Caledonian Market to search for the best deals. Arrive early, as the dealers begin setting up their stalls at sunrise, and the good stuff tends to go quickly.
More »
Berwick Street Market
Fresh, cheap fruits and veggies are the mainstay of central London's only surviving produce market. But Berwick Street market also boasts a variety of stalls selling cheese, fish, flowers, breads, and cheap CDs, as well as trendy shops selling everything from cutting-edge fashion to exotic sausages. Located in Soho, the street is a smorgasbord of people from all walks of life, and an entertaining place to people watch. Visit during lunchtime when the market is bustling.
More »
Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood
This fun museum hosts a large collection of children's books, toys, games, costumes, nursery items, and art. The museum, though established in 1872, didn't begin to focus on children until 1925, when museum curator Arthur Sabin decided to dedicate a part of the preexisting museum to children. The collection really took off in 1974, when museum director Sir Roy Strong chose to focus the entire museum on the young ones. Highlights include a Beatrix Potter Garden and a collection of the history of games that dates from the 16th century. They also offer fantastic learning and community programs and great workshops for all ages.
More »
Big Ben
Much better known as “Big Ben,” the Clock Tower of the Palace of Westminster represents London's most iconic symbol with it's towering size, ornate design, four-faced display, and unforgettable hourly chimes. The clock tower's Gothic Revival architectural style was finished in 1859, standing over 300 feet tall making it still the “world's largest chiming clock.” The nickname of Big Ben is commonly attached to the entire structure, but it actually refers to the bell inside the clock tower itself rather the whole building. Londoners have become accustomed to the tower's almost unfailingly accurate chimes that you can hear every hour, on the hour, largely due to the original design of the timing mechanism. UK citizens can reach out to their local Members of Parliament to visit and even climb to the top of the Clock Tower up the 334 steps, but if you're not from around those parts (e.g., foreign visitors), tours are not currently available.
More »
Blue Badge Guides
Alleviate the stress of visiting a new city by taking a tour through London with Blue Badge Guides. These guides are in a league of their own, they have earned the highest guiding qualification in Britain, and pride themselves on providing up-to-date information on events and admission prices, while accurately telling the history of Britain. The guides undergo thorough training and tests to earn the title “Blue Badge Guide,” before they ever lead a tour alone. You can choose from several types of trips, including walking tours, bus sight-seeing, private cars, and themed tours. Learn valuable information in a fun atmosphere, that will greatly enhance your experience in London.
More »
Bramah Tea & Coffee Museum
Ever since tea seeped its way into British society, it's plunged its grip into the hearts and minds of Brits everywhere. Tea is the nectar that classically stereotypes British civility and culture. The Bramah Tea & Coffee Museum explores the history and influence of the drink from the Orient. Established by the eccentric tea and coffee expert, Edward Bramah, the museum was originally housed in an old tea factory on Butler's Wharf where original shipments of tea were brought in and distributed throughout London. It later moved closer to the Tate Modern in Southwark where it fared much better. Bramah himself was trained as a tea tester in Malawi until his fascination turned towards coffee. A popular aspect of the museum is the Tea Room where you can get a full tea service including sandwiches, crumpets, and various quintessential fare associated with English teatime.
More »
British Library
The British Library boasts 150 million items, in most known languages, some dating back to 300BC. Between the books, the audio archives, the maps, the manuscripts, the drawings, and all the other treasures stored in this hallowed house of learning, the collections require 625 kilometers of shelves, and grow an additional 12 kilometers every year for new acquisitions. Needless to say, this is not your average browse-and-borrow, neighborhood library. In fact, you couldn't "browse and borrow" even if you wanted to. To take advantage of the immense library's resources, you'll need a reader's pass, which is usually granted to professionals and post graduates doing reseach. Luckily, the general public is allowed admission to the three exhibition galleries where some of their most valuable treasures are on display, including the Magna Carta and the Gutenberg Bible. Many events, films, and lectures are held here, and guided tours are available on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
More »
British Museum
One of the most popular destinations for visitors, the British Museum is a must see. The museum opened its doors on January 15, 1759 and continues to draw nearly 5 million visitors a year to see its priceless artifacts acquired from around the world. As you enter the museum you enter the expansive Great Court where the Reading Room resides in its center. Each corner of the museum holds prints, artifacts, and objects organized by each continent. The best way to visit is to choose an area of interest and focus on that, as it is impossible to see everything you would want to see in one visit. Of the millions of objects in the collection, some of its most famous objects include the Rosetta Stone and friezes of the Greek Pantheon, as well as its number of ancient Egyptian artifacts. Covering nearly 2 million years of human history, there's always more to do at the British Museum.
More »
Broadgate Ice Rink
From late October to early April, weather permitting, visitors can don a pair of skates and head to the heart of London's commercial office district for a spin around Broadgate Ice Rink. This 22-meter outdoor ice arena is also home to the Bloomberg Broomball League, where visitors may watch games free of charge on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings. Located near the Liverpool Street Station, the rink is surrounded by a variety of bars, restaurants, and sandwich shops.
More »
Brockwell Park
Built in 1811 and opened to the public in 1892, Brockwell Park offers a green getaway from London's bustle. Home of the famous Lido, an outdoor swimming pool, the 128-acre park also offers a playground, tennis courts, a bowling green, a soccer field, a BMX track, an English walled garden, duck ponds, a miniature railway for children, and beautiful views of the distant London city skyline.
More »
Brompton Cemetery
Covering over 16.5 hectares of land, Brompton Cemetery is expansive in both size and history. Managed by The Royal Parks, this landmark cemetery was established in 1836 by the West London and Westminster Cemetery Company and then laid out in the classic, formal Victorian design in 1840. Over 200,000 tombs can be found here with over 35,000 monuments. Visit this cemetery for a tranquil walk through the shaded pathways, to see the central Basilica, or to search for the graves of London's more notable citizens. Wildlife including butterflies and foxes call this sweeping park home as well.
More »
Brompton Oratory
The Brompton Oratory is one of London's Catholic landmarks. It's a richly ornate church that is a memorial to England's Catholic revival of the 19th century. The Oratory's presence in South Kensington is monumental, as it towers 200 feet over the streets below, making it the second largest Roman Catholic church in London (after Westminster Cathedral). The interior is decked out in Italian Baroque style, complete with marble columns, mosaics, and huge carved figurines of the 12 apostles. Much of the decor on the inside came from various churches in Italy, giving it a true feeling of an Italian cathedral in London. Mass is held every day; if you're craving a true traditional Catholic mass, attend one of the Oratory's daily Latin masses or the Novus Ordo mass that is completely sung in Latin.
More »
Bunhill Fields
Serving as a place of interment at least since 1623, possibly since Saxon times, Bunhill Fields is the last survivor of the small burial grounds that could once be found all throughout London. The site has been the final resting place for some 120,000 people, many of them Nonconformists, including notables John Bunyan, Daniel Defoe, William Blake, and John Wesley's mother, Susannah. With an abundance of mature trees and lively birds, Bunhill Fields is now a popular green escape for Londoners.
More »
Burlington Arcade
Commissioned by Lord George Cavendish, owner of the nearby Burlington House, the Burlington Arcade has offered upscale shopping to the West End since 1819. As they have since day one, the Burlington Arcade Beadles in their signature top hats and Edwardian frock coats may still be found patrolling the arcade, "keeping out the ruffians" and enforcing the Regency laws, which prevent humming, singing, and hurrying. Shoppers will find around 40 businesses at the arcade, offering a range of high-end items including clothing, footwear, art, antiques, and jewelry.
More »
Cabinet War Rooms
With the great uncertainty of The Blitz looming over the hazy skies of London, thousands of Britons prepared to move underground, including the government. Construction on the Cabinet War Rooms began in 1938, and would become important to the administrative needs of the government. When the newly appointed Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, first visited the rooms in 1940, he famously said, "this is the room from which I will direct the war." Essentially same to this day as it was back in the 40s, experience the atmosphere of the government's HQ of World War II, as you view the Map Room and maze of rooms buried underground and out of site of German bombs. With all the amenities of home at 10 Downing Street, this subterranean bunker includes Churchill's bedroom-office that he used when wanting to be close to the Map Room or under threat of air raid. Underground is also a transatlantic telephone that Churchill used to speak to the president of the United States. The rooms were continuously used from 1940 until VJ day in 1945 when Japan declared defeat. The rooms were so well kept a secret that it wasn't until the 1980s, when Margaret Thatcher decided to make its history more widely available to the public, that they were opened up for visitors.
More »
Camden Arts Centre
Showcasing both new and well-established artists, the Arts Centre leads the way in allowing visitors to not only see art, but think about it and experience its creation. They offer workshops, artist talks, and open studios, along with an amazing collection of pieces and installations from world-class artists. The building that houses the Centre was originally built as a library and became the Arts Centre in 1960. It underwent extensive renovation in 2004 to become the contemporary, light-filled building it is today, but still maintains many of its original Gothic features.
More »
Carlyle's House
Walking down Cheyne Row in London, its almost as you're whisked back to the Victorian period, and the Carlyle House is without exception. Home of Scottish-born writer and historian, Thomas Carlyle, he and his wife moved into the Chelsea home in 1834 and lived there for nearly 50 years. The neighborhood attracted many writers to the area, and the Carlyle home often entertained the likes of Charles Dickens, John Ruskin, and Lord Alfred Tennyson. The house remains largely the same as when Carlyle lived there and visitors can see his soundproofed study where he wrote some of his controversial and highly regarded tomes.
More »
Charing Cross Road
Running north from Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross Road is half a mile of new and used bookshops that specialize in a wide variety of interests. The section from Leicester Square tube station to Cambridge Circus is best known for shops specializing in everything from crime fiction to comics. More specialty bookshops can also be found at nearby Cecil Court. The top section from Cambridge Circus is home to more generalist shops. Music lovers will find a number of stores on Denmark Street (also known as Tin Pan Alley), as well as some theaters. A statue of Edith Cavell adorns the road's southern end.
More »
Charlton Athletic
Founded in 1905, this stadium is home to the Charlton, sometimes called "The Addicks." Charlton Athletic is home to not only the First Team Squad, but also to the Women's Team and the Charlton Deaf FC. The team celebrated their centenary season in 2005.
The website gives extensive information about the site, the history of the team, player information, tickets, game times, betting, and shopping. More »
Chelsea FC
One of the premiere football clubs in England, Chelsea has had a reputable rise to the top starting from its founding in 1905. Considered to be one of the top clubs, Chelsea has experienced considerable success in the 60s and late 90s at their home at Stramford Bridge in Fullham. Chelsea is one of the seven top London based clubs and as of 2007 won both the FA and Carling Cups. The Blues were also crowned Premiership Champions of the 2005-2006 season. Chelsea brings a swankiness to West London unlike any other club.
More »
Chelsea Physic Garden
Founded in 1673 by the Society of Apothecaries, the garden's original purpose was to study the botany of the area and investigate its usage in conjunction with medicine. It is called "physic" because of its ties to the study of healing (formerly called "physic" or "healing" arts). The garden is the second oldest botanic garden in England and houses over 5,000 different species of plants, including the largest outdoor fruiting olive tree in Britain. Today, it still focuses on scientific research and plant conservation and hopes to be a source of education, information, and relaxation for visitors.
More »
Chessington World of Adventures
Experience the best of both worlds--a zoo and a theme park combined! At Chessington World of Adventures, in south west London, you can ride radical roller coasters like Rameses Revenge or the Tomb Blaster, then go ape with gorillas and monkeys, or learn about sea creatures in Sea Lion Bay. No matter how you break down your day, everyone in your family is guaranteed to find something they like and want to experience over and over until the day is done. If you get hungry, there are several cafes and restaurants to choose from, offering everything from pub fare and fried chicken, to salads and ice cream cones.
More »
Chislehurst Caves
The Chislehurst Caves are old Roman chalk mines. Visitors explore the network of tunnels and passageways with experienced local guides. More than 20 miles of tunnels have been dug since Saxon times, making the caves in some sections over 8,000 years old. The caves were used as an arsenal during World War I and as an air raid shelter during World War II. Today they are a popular tourist attraction and occasionally used as a film location.
More »
Chiswick House
This clean-looking, stately home was the residence of the Earl of Burlington in 1729. It is a perfect example of Palladian architecture with its elevated, central octagonal room and central podium accessed by grand staircases. Although the exterior is simple and pure, the interior is quite the opposite--very rich and elegantly appointed. In addition to the period furniture and accessories, the home also houses a great collection of art, featuring fine examples of Old Master paintings. Not only is the house a magnificent site to see, but the grounds are also. They are immaculately manicured and feature many hidden treasures, such as lakes, greenhouses, temples, and statues.
More »
Christ Church Spitalfields
Christ Church of Spitalfields was one of only twelve churches completed under the 1711 Act of Parliament that prescribed the building of fifty new churches to serve the expanding populations on the fringes of London. Designed by Baroque architect, Nicholas Hawksmoor between 1715 and 1729, the church narrowly escaped demolition in the 1950s, when it was closed down for the next 30 years due to safety concerns. Restoration efforts began in 1976, bringing the church back to its near original state.
More »
Churchill Museum
Few individuals have ever had the kind of impact on history as has Winston Churchill, who, among other accomplishments, saw combat as a soldier and officer, wrote intrepid accounts as a war correspondent. helped bring about the development of the tank and steeled Britain through the devastation of World War II. At the Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms, near St. James Park, there is an amazingly complete view of the man's life from childhood on through wartime Prime Minister. There is an amazing interactive table called “the Lifeline,” which allows visitors to leaf through countless files from all periods of Churchill's life while the Cabinet War Rooms themselves are fascinating sites in their own right. Churchill said about the Underground Cabinet Room upon his arrival as the Prime Minister, “This is the room from which I will direct the war.” From that room, he and his advisors would show unflappable resolve during the London Blitz, and the rest, as they say, is history.
More »
Clarence House
Commissioned by William IV, also known as Duke of Clarence, before he inherited the throne in 1830, Clarence House has since been home to a number of English royalty, including Queen Elizabeth from 1953 to 2002. Now the official residence of Prince Charles, his second wife, the Duchess of Cornwall, and his sons, Princes William and Harry of Wales, the house is situated on The Mall, adjacent to St. James Palace. It's open to visitors during the summer, but tickets must be booked in advance.
More »
Cleopatra's Needle
This ancient tower is one of nine originally used to adorn the Caesaruim Temple in Alexandria. In 1303 A.D., a major earthquake shook the area and the obelisk fell to the ground, preserving itself underneath the sand. It was given to England as a gift by Mehemet Ali, the viceroy of Egypt, in 1819, but the British government refused to pay for the transportation costs. Finally, in 1877, it was transported to England when Sir William James Erasmus Wilson agreed to pay for transporting the almost 200 ton giant across the ocean. During the perilous journey, the obelisk was abandoned in the Bay of Biscay during a storm that capsized the boat carrying it. The relic was found in the bay, recovered, repaired, and finally, a year after starting its journey to England, arrived on the shores of the Thames.
More »
Clink Prison Museum
This museum is located on the site of what was known as the most notorious medieval prison, The Clink, which operated from 1151 through 1780. In the early days of the prison, most inmates were heretics and later the Clink was full of criminals, prostitutes from neighboring brothels, debtors, and even priests. Today, the museum not only tells the history of the prison and its former inmates, but also recreates some of the most gruesome and grizzly sides of medieval life with a variety of graphic hands-on exhibits that are not for the faint of heart!
More »
College of Arms
Founded as a corporate body in 1484, the office of the College of Arms is responsible for granting new armorial bearings, regulating heraldry, and monitoring requests from people trying to demonstrate familial lineage to arm-bearing individuals. Heralds from the office also make public proclamations on occasion, most notably at the accession of a new sovereign, dressed in their traditional colorful uniforms. The College occupies a 17th-century building on Queen Victoria Street, where it has been for centuries.
More »
Coram Fields
This seven-acre park is home to a children's playground, paddling pool, park, and a city farm, where goats, sheep, pigs, hens, geese, and rabbits live together in harmony. Coram Fields is named after Thomas Coram, who established the Foundling Hospital, which is dedicated to the care and education of abandoned children. Although this is a city farm, no dogs are allowed.
More »
Courtauld Gallery
The Courtauld Gallery has one of the most important and best-loved collections of paintings and drawings in Britain, ranging from the Renaissance into the twentieth century. Courtauld Gallery, housed in the elegant eighteenth century Somerset House, is particularly renowned for its unrivaled collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings. It has acquired an impressive collection of great artists' works, including paintings and prints by Cezanne, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Monet, Degas, and other leading Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists. Many of the pieces have been gifted to the gallery by major benefactors of the 19th and 20th centuries (Samuel Courtauld was one who gave large donations--and is now the namesake of the gallery). Courtauld also hosts a variety of talks and events, some lead by students and researchers of the Institute.
More »
Covent Garden Piazza
This veritable smorgasbord of entertainers, restaurants, bars, shops, and theaters is a great place to spend an afternoon. It started as an ancient Benedictine convent but was reconstructed into a piazza when King Henry VIII sold the land to the Bedford family. After the great fire of 1666, the piazza was converted into a fresh fruit, vegetable, and flower market that was a successful venture for 300 years, until it moved away in the 1970s when the square slowly became the entertainment area it is today. Many visitors take time to catch a performance at the Royal Opera House (on the north end of the piazza), then head over to the square for a meal and good nightlife.
More »
Crystal Palace National Sports Centre
One of the largest sports centers in certainly London and probably the country, Crystal Palace National Sports Centre is placed in the same location where the English football team, Crystal Palace, used to play before they were moved in 1914. The facility has two full 11 side football pitches, tennis and squash courts, an Olympic size stadium, as well as an aquatics area. Some of Britain's best athletes have all trained here. The acquisition of the 2012 Olympic games in London has prompted another facility to be built which will surpass the size of Crystal Palace, however refurbishments to the facility in 2008 will ensure its continued use through 2012 and beyond.
More »
Crystal Palace Park
A 200-acre park situated in south London, Crystal Palace Park is home to a wide array of activities and, of course, grand expanses of green grass. The park's namesake, Crystal Palace, burned down in 1936, but in its place stands a beautiful park that is well-loved by locals. It is home to the National Sports Centre, a concert bowl that holds outdoor music shows in the summer, and the Dinosaur Area which consists of life-sized dinosaur replicas.
More »
Cuming Museum
The Cuming Museum houses a unique collection of objects and artifacts that date from Roman times to the present. Permanent exhibits include the Cuming family's own collection, full of objects from across the world, and the Southwark Gallery that traces Southwark's history from Roman rule until today. The Gallery began when Richard Cuming and his son, Henry Syer, began collecting artifacts in the late 18th century. They amassed archaeological, geological, social, historical, and ancient objects, in addition to textiles, coins, and many other pieces of art. Throughout the year, the museum hosts various events, and many of them are free to the public.
More »
Cutty Sark
The Cutty Sark, a Scots colloquialism for a chemise or undergarment, is one of London's most beloved ships. Designed by Hercules Linton, and subsequently built in 1869 in Scotland, the ship was designated as a tea clipper transporting the valuable commodity from China to England. Considered to be one of the fastest ships in its heyday, the trade eventually lost out to steamships that were considered to be much more reliable. The ship eventually was used in the Australian Wool trade until its illustrious career was ended in 1954 when she was put into dry dock. Opened to the public three years later by Her Majesty the Queen, the Cutty Sark has attracted millions of visitors over the years. Despite sustaining a damaging fire, the recovery and restoration has allowed authorities to discover facts about the ship previously not seen in nearly two hundred years.
More »
Dennis Severs House
This is as close to traveling back in time as possible without a time machine. A Southern Califonia native, Dennis Severs relocated to London in the 1960s and transformed an otherwise traditional house at 18 Folgate Street near Spitalfields in East London into a time capsule on display. Originally built in 1724, the house now features ten dramatic rooms, each designed from a different era from the 17th through the 19th centuries. The tour leads visitors through all the rooms of the house, which is set up to look as realistic and lived-in as possible in a "still life drama" design approach--complete with half-eaten meals, recorded sounds, and even the historically appropriate smells. As a personalized touch, Severs even created a fictional family to occupy the house to make the stories, rooms, and even smells that much more real. Visit the website for a virtual visit.
More »
Design Museum
The Design Museum is the first museum in the world to celebrate mass-produced designs of the 20th and 21st century. It houses collections of articles from everyday life and focuses on the design evolution and ingenuity of the objects. In addition to showcasing items from the past, the museum also features future prototypes for the fashion, engineering, architecture, technology, and furniture industries. They not only showcase famous designers and architects from around the world, but also help develop new talent by hosting bursary programs for young designers; the museum even displays their works in international rotating exhibits around the globe.
More »
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground
Opened in 2000 as a tribute to the late Princess of Wales, the Memorial Playground is built on the same site as one funded by J.M. Barrie, the author of "Peter Pan." Designed for children under 12, the playground includes images from the popular children's book, a beach grove, a 50-foot pirates' ship, a tree house, a crocodile, and a mermaid's fountain. The playground was designed to be accessible to all children, including those with special needs.
More »
Dickens' House
Sprouting out of the bleak side of the industrial revolution of the 1830s in London, emerged one of the most important authors and social commentators of the Victorian Period. The iconoclast Charles Dickens made stark revelations about the working and living conditions of the poor in both eloquent and entertaining writing, which would become popularized throughout the literary world. The promise of the young writer flourished during his short time at 48 Doughty Street, which he moved into one year after his marriage to Catherine. While he only lived for two years on this private street in the London borough of Bloomsbury, it was a productive time and he wrote both Oliver Twist and Nicholas Nichleby, as well as the completion of The Pickwick Papers. The Dickens' House at 48 Doughty is also distinguishable as being the only surviving home of 15 that Dickens lived in. The Drawing room, where he did a majority of his writing, has been restored to how it appeared at the time. Visitors also get a unique glimpse of Dickens "paraphernalia" including notes and 1st edition copies of his books.
More »
Dr Johnson's House
This historic house is not only famous because it's one of the only residential buildings of the early 18th century still standing in the City of London, but also because it was the home of Samuel Johnson, the author of the first English dictionary. The house was built in 1700 and served as the residence of Dr. Johnson from 1748-1759--it was in this house that he wrote the dictionary that was published in 1755. Now, visitors can tour the beautifully restored structure and take in the period furniture, paneled rooms, and many paintings and other artwork from the 1700s.
More »
Drury Lane Theatre Royal
The Drury Lane Theatre has been in operation since 1663, making it London's oldest theater. It has been rebuilt three times since its inception; the current structure dates back to 1812 and was conceived by designer Benjamin Wyatt after the previous theater had burned down in 1809. Since then, the theater has debuted such memorable performances as The King and I and Oklahoma!. It's also said to be one of the most haunted theaters in the world, but don't worry, the ghosts are considered to be good luck for actors--if you see one, you'll have a great performance.
More »
Dulwich Picture Gallery
The Dulwich Gallery is Britain's first public art gallery, opened in the early 19th century. The building, built by John Soane is acclaimed for its creative use of skylights--an architectural detail now used by many galleries since the Dulwich's construction. The impressive art collection includes such masters as Rembrandt, Claude, Raphael, and others. One of Rembrandt's most famous paintings, Jacob II de Gheyn is so impressive that it has been stolen from the Dulwich gallery four times! Sir Francis Bourgeois and Noël Desenfans, who ran an art dealership in London, were commissioned by the King of Poland in 1790 to start an art collection, but ended up keeping the works in London and finally bequeathing them to Dulwich College.
More »
Eltham Palace
Located next to the site of the palace ruins of Henry VIII's boyhood home, Eltham Palace is mostly know for for being the extravagent art deco home of Stephen and Virginia Courtauld. Restored and rebuilt in the late 1930s, the home symbolizes the height of decadent 30s luxury. The house lavishly features gold mosaics, black and silver doors, as well as secretly lain coded messages about the couple by architect John Seely. The couple hosted and entertained many guests over diner parties and enjoyed their glamorous showpiece of innovative ideas of technology and design. The couple was somewhat eccentric and even had a pet lemur which even had its own part of the house. The couple remained in the home until 1944 when World War II brought the decision to leave for Scotland. The house was then given to the Royal Army Educational Corps until 1992 when it was given to the English Heritage to be restored back to its art deco splendor. Enjoy the decorative display of twentieth century modern art and explore the grounds surrounding the house for a piece of history and appreciation of 30s decadence.
More »
Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art
Located in Canonbury Square on the northern edge of central London since 1998, the Estorick Collection is the only gallery in the United Kingdom to exclusively feature modern Italian art. The gallery is especially well known for its collection of Futurist art, including work from notables Giacomo Balla, Umberto Boccioni, Carlo Carra, as well as art from Giorgio de Chirico, Amedeo Modigliani, and Giorgio Morandi, among others. The collection originated with Eric Estorick, an American sociologist and writer who moved to England after World War II, and his German-born, English wife, Salome.
More »
Fan Museum
Explore 3,000 years of history about fans. Distinguished as the only museum in the world dedicated entirely and completely to the history and preservation of fans, the Fan Museum takes you through the aesthetic and social history of the fan. See some of the most intricately and beautifully crafted fans of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and learn about their use in world history. Over 3,500 fans from as early as the eleventh century are in the collection on display giving an incredible look at the various uses of materials such as tortoise shell, ivory, and mother of pearl. Like a gallery of fine art on fans, the Fan Museum has both rare and exceptional pieces that reflect the social status and art of the times.
More »
Fenton House, Hampstead
Part of the National Trust, Fenton House is a 17th-century Merchant's house in Hampstead, north London, featuring fine collections of porcelain, rare William and Mary needlework pictures, and the Benton Fletcher collection of early keyboard instruments, one of which is often played to visitors during opening hours. The house also has a large detached garden, which includes a 300-year-old apple orchard.
More »
Fire Brigade Museum
For an in-depth look at the history of firefighting, the London Fire Brigade Museum is a must-see. Although, be forewarned that all visits to this unique museum must be arranged in advance. This Southwark museum tells the story of how firefighting has progressed over time. Once you have secured a visit time, tours are led by expert guides and reveal the story behind the 1666 Great Fire of London to the ways in which fires are fought in the present day. A wealth of objects and other firefighting memorabilia are also on display, including historic fire engines.
More »
Firepower, The Royal Artillery Museum
Open since April 2001 in Woolwich, this museum shows what life was like for an artillery gunner during wartime. There is over 600 years of artillery history here, housed in a former arsenal, which was the British Government's principal arms manufacturing facility from the early-18th century until the mid-20th century. The museum features large collections of modern and historic weapons, interactive exhibits, and a collection of thousands of medals won by members of the Royal Regiment of Artillery.
More »
Fleet Street
Famous for its origins as London's center of print, Fleet Street still enjoys its reputation as historical home of the British Press. Although all the major newspapers have moved away, Fleet Street is still used as a synonym denoting the printed media, especially newspapers. Reuters was the last major news organization to leave in 2005.
More »
Fleming Collection
Opened in 2002 in central London, the Fleming Collection is home to some of Scotland's most prominent artists from the late-18th century to the present day. Artists represented include the Glasgow Boys, the Scottish Colourists, the Edinburgh School, and many others. The gallery is closed between exhibitions for rehanging, but otherwise remains open and free to the public.
More »
Florence Nightingale Museum
Dedicated to the founder of the first nursing school, Florence Nightingale, this museum exhibits health-related objects, from her famous lamp to the reconstruction of a barracks ward where she aided soldiers in Turkey. Ms. Nightingale lead the charge to get women nurses into war hospitals during the Crimean War and also improve the way soldiers were cared for. She became the "Lady-in-Chief" of the hospitals and took charge of the nursing program in Turkey's military hospitals. She wrote and published many award-winning books and reports delineating her thoughts on public health, the spread of infection, nursing, and hospital design and organization. Her museum is housed in St. Thomas' Hospital, which was mostly destroyed in World War II, then was reconstructed to become a teaching hospital.
More »
Foundling Museum
This is London's first ever home for abandoned children. In 1739, Thomas Coram, a retired sea Captain, founded "a hospital for the maintenance and education of exposed and deserted children." Over the next 200 years, the foundation looked after some 27,000 abandoned children; the museum tells the story.
More »
Freemason's Hall
Freemason's Hall in central London is on the quirkier side, but its architecture and design—not to mention the intrigue surrounding the hierarchical Freemason organization—is something you'll definitely want to see. It's the home of the United Grand Lodge of England, whose ownership of the premises dates back to 1775 – it functions as a meeting place for over 1,000 area lodges. The current incarnation of the building was erected in 1933 after the old one was deemed structurally unsound. You can tour the hall as well as the library and museum for free, and there is multitudes to see. You're sure to learn something interesting with a visit to the Freemason's Hall.
More »
Freud Museum
Sigmund Freud and his family emigrated to London in 1938 after the Nazi regime annexed Austria. They settled in Hampstead, but he was over 80 years old at the time and died the next year in 1939. What was transported to London and then left behind was a collection of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Asian antiquities worthy of a museum, exquisite furnishings, and some of the man's signature items, like his famed psychoanalytic couch. His daughter Anna was also a major contributor to the field, especially to the importance of talk therapy for children, was a resident of the house until her death in 1982. The Museum acts as a preservation of the Freuds' personal lives as well as their work, acting as a conduit for research programs and seminars.
More »
Fulham Football Club
Fulham FC began in 1879, making it the oldest of London's first class clubs. It has a long history of discovering extremely talented players. Continuing that tradition today, one of the best footballer academies in Britain is located here, dedicated to the development of promising new players. 75-minute tours of Craven Cottage are offered, which enlighten visitors to the fascinating history of the site, stemming back to the 1700's. The tour takes guests behind the scenes to changing rooms, corporate boxes, and press areas.
More »
Geffrye Museum
The Geffrye Museum offers a fun, educational, and cultural experience to adults and kids, by exploring design, architecture, and decorations in Britain from the 1600s to today. This is no ordinary museum, instead of gazing at pretty pictures on the wall, learn about Britain's culture when you tour English Middle Class living rooms of yesteryear and today. Start in the 17th century, when rich colored oak tables and Victorian style paneling were in style, and finish in today's modern, contemporary home, where over sized leather chairs and tumblers are the hot household item. Be sure to tour the award winning gardens when you're finished walking through the museum. The gardens also showcase different time eras; what was grown and how their designs have changed through generations.
More »
Gilbert Collection at Somerset House
This whole collection is an incredible gift to Britain by Sir Arthur Gilbert in 1996. It reflects his passion for elegant objects and opulence, as the 800-piece assortment comprises silver, gold, micromosaics, jewels, and golden snuffboxes. Gilbert's collection of mosaics is among the most impressive in the world, as it includes Florentine and Roman pieces, some dating as far back as the 16th century. The snuffbox stockpile is equally as impressive, although it may seem like an odd item to collect. Gilbert had gathered over 200 boxes, including gem-covered beauties from such famous figures as Napoleon, Louis XV, and Frederick the Great. This collection is one that's not to be missed--that is, if you can handle the lavish splendor that drips from each shiny object.
More »
Golden Hinde
A replica of the Tudor warship Sir Francis Drake used to sail around the world from 1577-1580, The Golden Hinde is a hands-on environment where kids can learn about navigation and some of the tools on the ship. There are frequent “Pirate Fun Days” where everybody dresses up in pirate regalia and there are treasure hunts and pirate storytelling. Plenty to see and do here, especially for those who love maritime history.
More »
Good Company
Private sightseeing tours by car with a professional "Blue Badge" Driver-Guide, including tours throughout Britain & Continental Europe, from a 2 hour overview of London to a month long Grand European tour.
Blue Badge Guides have complimentary access to virtually all the sites in Britain and priority at all the major booking offices, such as Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle etc. On a busy day this can save over an hour waiting in line for tickets! All Driver-Guides are licensed by The Public Carriage Office as Private Hire Drivers and will have undergone medical vetting and background checks with the Criminal Records Bureau. All vehicles are licensed Private Hire Vehicles and twice yearly undergo a rigorous independent safety and roadworthiness inspection. All Drivers and vehicles are covered by Private Hire Insurance to carry paying passengers.
Good Company is a Gold Partner of Visit London, the official body for promoting London. Rates include Driver-Guide's services but exclude your own entrance charges to any sites. More »
Gray's Inn
This is one of the four "Inns of Court" to which all Barristers ("trial lawyers") must belong. The other three are Lincoln's Inn, Middle, and Inner Temple. Gray's Inn dates back to the 1300s. It was partially rebuilt after World War II because of bomb damage.
More »
Greenwich Foot Tunnel
Replacing an expensive and often unreliable ferry service, the Greenwich Foot Tunnel was opened in 1904 and runs under the Thames River, connecting the London Boroughs of Greenwich and Tower Hamlets. It was originally built so that laborers on the south side of the Thames could walk to work on the docks and in the shipyards, then located on the Isle of Dogs. Damaged by bombs during WWII, a portion of the northern end is significantly narrower where it was rebuilt and reinforced with thick steel and concrete inner lining. Island Gardens at the northern entrance offers great views of the river and sites across the way.
More »
Greenwich Park
This large 183 acre park in London's southeast is the oldest enclosed Royal Park, and offers impressive views of the London skyline from the Thames. First acquired by the Royals by Henry VI, the park was a hunting park for centuries, and even now it still has a small population of fallow deer which call the park home. Across from the Docklands, and more specifically Canary Wharf, visitors are given a spectacular view from the observatory hill where the Old Royal Observatory rests. Just to the north of the grounds is the Queen's House, which was built for the queen of James I in 1617, and renovated again for the queen of Charles I in 1635. It is in the style of Palladian architecture and includes sweeping wings joined to the house by columned outdoor walkways. Most famously Greenwich lends its name to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) of which all time zones are based upon. Visitors can visit a monument marking the 0 degree longitude known as The Prime Meridian. Greenwich is a perfect setting to experience east London, while also taking in the panoramic sights of the city.
More »
Guards Museum
This military museum is located in Wellington Barracks on Birdcage Walk and situated beneath the parade ground. The Guards Museum traces the history of the Brigade of Guards from the 17th century to the present day. These five represented regiments of professional foot soldiers that mount the ceremonial guard at Buckingham Palace are, in descending order of seniority, Grenadier, Coldsteam, Scots, Irish, and Welsh Guards. Open since 1988, the museum includes displays of uniforms, chronicling the evolving dress of the different regiments, as well as art and sculpture that depict different battles the regiments have played a part in.
More »
Guildhall Art Gallery
Housing the art collection of London proper (not to be confused with Greater London), the Guildhall Art Gallery is located adjacent to the Guildhall, which has served as a town hall for centuries. The gallery was built in 1999 in the same location of the previous gallery of the same name that was destroyed by fire during a German air raid in 1941. The collection holds up to 250 pieces of art from its 4,000 item permanent collection. Its most famous acquisition is that of John Singleton Copley's painting, The Defeat of the Floating Batteries at Gibraltar, which depicts the Great Siege of Gibraltar in 1782 when the British defeated the Spanish's unsuccessful attack during the American War of Independence. The painting was luckily taken down and stored three weeks prior to the air raid that decimated the gallery and its collection. Not the largest gallery in London, the Guildhall Art Gallery offers a glimpse at some of the works spanning from the seventeenth century, through the Victorian period, and into the present century.
More »
Gunnersbury Park and Museum
Serving as a museum of local history for the London Boroughs of Ealing and Hounslow since 1926, Gunnersbury Park is both a place to come and learn about the Victorian Period, and putt around in the huge park and gardens. Located in the former home of the Rothschilds that was bought for the use of the public, there is a huge collection of ceramics and pottery dating from both medieval and Victorian times. A great place for kids, the museum offers a number of hands-on activities focused on the Victorian period. When you no longer want to be cooped up in the beautiful mansion, head outside to feel the air of the spacious gardens and boating pond. Enjoy views from the temple next to the boating pond, or just enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park. The grounds also include a number of different options for sports, including well over 30 football pitches, several cricket pitches, a pitch and putt golf course, and tennis courts.
More »
Ham House
For those who seek history and enchantment, the Ham House is a must see. It was built in 1601 for Sir Thomas Vavasour before being passed down to a whipping boy, Dukes, Duchesses and Earls. It's over sized entryways and grandiose decor allow visitors a peak at life in London in the 17th century. The majority of the furniture, sculptures, and decorations remain as they did when the first residents placed them in the house and it's authenticity has earned a reputation for one of the best restored 17th century homes in London. After touring the house, be sure to stop by the garden, which includes the famed Cherry Garden, statue of Bacchus, hibiscus, and Pomegranate trees. Along with elegance and charm, Ham House visitors claim it is haunted by wandering ghosts and the Duchess who lived here in the 1600s. In fact, it is said to be one of the most haunted residences in London.
More »
Hampstead Heath
Located just four miles from Trafalgar Square, this 791 acre woodland park is one of London's most popular spots to enjoy a bit of nature. This lovely medley of meadows, woods, ponds, and heathland provide numerous corners for picnics and enjoying idyllic summer days. Numerous recreation facilities are available here, including tennis courts, a bowling green, cricket pitches, open air swimming, new volleyball courts, a recently re-laid athletic track, and a new pétanque pitch. During the summer, Kenwood House, an open air stage, is popular for classical concerts.
More »
Hampstead Mixed Pond
One of the three bathing ponds found on Hampstead Heath, the Hampstead Mixed Pond allows both men and women whereas Kenwood and Highgate are exclusive. The Mixed Pond is one of the smallest of the three and has a jetty for diving. Known for its cold natural spring water, Hampstead Heath is a perfect summer escape. You'll also find people fishing during warm days on the dam separating the Mixed Pond from the boating pond.
More »
Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace is a grandiose residence combined with beautiful grounds and a never-ending hedge maze. In addition to period furniture and beautiful architecture, the palace features an important art collection that is part of The Royal Collection (owned by Queen Elizabeth II). The palace was taken over by Henry VIII in 1525 (after Thomas Wolsey, Chief Minister to the King and Archbishop of York, constructed it in 1515-1521), then was occupied by William of Orange (and his wife, Mary) in the late 17th century. Outside, the famous hedge maze is an original design, planned and constructed for William between 1689-1695; it is a well-known site and attracts thousands of visitors annually.
More »
Handel House Museum
Located on the upper floors of 25 Brook Street, this house was home to the great Baroque composer, George Frederick Handel, from 1723 until his death in 1759. He wrote some of his greatest works here, including "The Messiah" and "Fireworks Music." Open since 2001, the interior has been restored, as faithfully as possible, to the early Georgian style of Handel's occupancy, including a double manual harpsichord commissioned to the specifications of the instrument that the composer would have owned.
More »
Harrods
Harrods was opened in 1849 by Henry Charles Harrod and was originally a grocery store. It quickly became known for its quality, and became a fashionable shopping area. The store expanded into the surrounding area, and today carries everything from clothing and jewelry to housewares, furniture to groceries, and musical instruments. The store is phenomenally self-sufficient: it covers 4.5 acres, with over 1 million square feet of selling space. The store generates 70% of its electricity from its own generators, draws water from its three artesian wells, the deepest of which is 489 feet, and operates 40 lifts that cover 39,800 miles per year.
More »
Hay's Galleria
What was once a bustling wharf where tea clippers would trade goods, today is home to a stylish complex of shops and restaurants. Hay's Galleria, once known as Hay's Wharf, was originally built in the 1850s as dock for trade ships. The area was renovated and opened as the Galleria in 1987. This popular shopping destination is conveniently located along the river, providing a great view and great place to take a break from the shops. In addition to the boutiques that call the Galleria home are many craft stalls selling a wide range of products. Special events and exhibitions are often held here, adding to its popularity.
More »
Hayward Gallery
Despite its appearance, the Hayward Gallery is one of the brightest and best venues for large modern art exhibits in London. It was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1968 and has continued to display ground-breaking art since then. While the gallery exhibits both international and British artists, you'll find that many of the pieces are from England's best. The exhibits will challenge traditional concepts of art and they aim to promote discussion and debate about contemporary art in today's world.
More »
Hermitage Rooms at Somerset House
In partnership with the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, the Hermitage Rooms are located in the beautifully crafted neoclassical Somerset House in London. Beginning in 2000, the Hermitage in Russia began lending out pieces of art from the collection at the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg to various international sites. The State Hermitage Museum's collaboration with the UK Friends of The Hermitage has brought unique exhibits in art from the three million item collection in Russia to London and around the UK. Both aesthetically brilliant and culturally significant pieces of art are a remarkable gift to all who wish to explore the rich collection of the Hermitage.
More »
Highgate Bathing Pond
The largest of the three Hampstead Heath bathing ponds, Highgate is exclusively a men's only pond. Similar to the other two ponds, it is filled with cold natural water that doesn't get any warmer than 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Nearby are also Kenwood Bathing Pond for ladies, and also the Hampstead Mixed Bathing Pond for both sexes. Hampstead Heath is a perfect escape in North London for some sun and open space.
More »
Highgate Cemetery
Many of the good and great Londoners are buried in this famed North London cemetery first opened in 1839 in response to overflowing city cemeteries. The grounds are populated by lots of local flora and fauna, which, along with the Gothic tombs and structures, make the site a bit spooky. By the beginning of the 1970s, the underfunded cemetery was left largely unkempt, leading some locals to speculate that something supernatural was afoot in the cemetery. The result was an urban legend about a Highgate Vampire, which attracted much publicity and even a Vampire Hunt on March 13, 1970 (a Friday). Aside from the fascinating occult history, you'll find the famous graves of Karl Marx and Douglas Adams, among many other well-known deceased. You'll want the guided tour to get the fullest sense of history and detail.
More »
HMS Belfast
This stately ship was originally employed as a British naval cruiser in World War II and the Korean War. It is probably most famous for its role in supporting the Allied troops in the historic D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. It also played an integral role in supporting UN troops during the Korean War. Now, it is a floating museum docked on the Thames River showcasing artifacts and information about Britain's naval history. It features nine decks of interesting artifacts and preserved quarters--from the bridge to the boiler room. It's the perfect place for the whole family to explore.
More »
Hogarth's House
The famous English painter and satirist, William Hogarth, called this residence home from 1749 until 1764 when he died. When Hogarth lived there, the house was located in the countryside, nestled next to the Thames River, but now it sits adjacent to one of London's busiest roads, the Great West Road. The mulberry tree that grows in the garden outside is, itself, an old relic; it is a rare tree for the area and is at least 300 years old. Today, a small museum and gallery is located in the house, showcasing a collection of Hogarth's prints and engravings.
More »
Holland Park
Considered to be one of the more secluded parks in London, the top half of the park is engulfed with thick forests and sprawling landscapes and hideaways. Located in Kensington and Chelsea neighborhoods, couples and all walks of life come to get lost in its quiet spaces. Surrounded by many different shopping areas such as Notting Hill, Portobello Market, and High Street Kensington, dash in to view the soothing Japanese garden or the other beautiful gardens in the park. There are also a number of facilities for recreation including tennis courts and a cricket pitch for those wishing to get out and play a little. Or maybe you find yourself with a young child who will love one of London's best playgrounds. Try and find the ruins of the Holland House, which was destroyed by a German air raid in 1940, on a walk in the thick woodlands, or come to an open-air theater production in the summer.
More »
Horniman Museum and Gardens
London is known as a diverse and culturally rich city. People move, visit, and conduct business here, traveling from foreign lands. Frederick John Horniman, a tea trader in the mid 1800s, recognized early on, the value of learning about other cultures and collected artifacts from around the world to share with citizens in his town. His passion for showcasing life around the world eventually forced him to build a museum to house all the artifacts, which had overtaken his home. Today, the Horniman Museum and Gardens has undergone a complete remodel in order to house over 350,000 objects collected from around the world. It's easy to see the majority of the items because they are divided into three sections: an anthropology section, a natural history area, and a musical instruments room. After you've toured the museum, get some fresh air in the garden, which has earned a Green Flag Award, meaning it is one of the best green spaces in the country.
More »
Houses of Parliament
For over 900 years this impressive assemblage of Gothic buildings has been the home of English government. Indeed, no other place so potently symbolises democracy in the Western world. The building covers an area of eight acres and consists of 1,100 rooms, 100 staircases, 11 courtyards and over three kilometres of passages. The House of Lords occupies the southern end of the building whilst the House of Commons occupy the northern end. Within the Houses of Parliament there is also Westminster Hall, the Crypt Church, Members' Lobby, the Commons Library and the Peers Library. Outside, the tower containing Big Ben remains the single most celebrated structure in this very picturesque riverside seat of British government. In order to attend PMQ (Prime Minister's Question Time) in the House of Commons' Strangers' Gallery, UK citizens need to contact their local MP in advance to ensure entry. Alternatively one can queue at St Stephen's entrance but this may not prove successful.
More »
Hunterian Museum, London
The museum began in 1783 when William Hunter bequeathed his collections and GBP 8,000 to the University of Glasgow for the construction of a museum. The museum building was designed by William Stark and opened to the public in 1807, making it Scotland's oldest museum. The collection is eclectic, including asante weights, coins, a Captain Cook exhibit, dinosaur fossils