1. Big Ben and The Houses of Parliament
Few visitors can resist the lure of London’s most iconic sight – Big Ben. The famous old clock tower, which stands alongside the Houses of Parliament on the bank of the River Thames, is easily found by taking a tube to Westminster or Embankment. The Houses of Parliament are more formally known as the Palace of Westminster, which became home to the British government in the mid-16th century. Guided tours of the building are available – but only during summer months when parliament is not in session.
2. London Eye
Just around the corner from Big Ben, it’s hard not to spot the London Eye. Sometimes referred to as the Millennium Wheel, the observation wheel affords spectacular views over London - and contributes to one of the best-known skylines anywhere in the world. A trip on the 135m-tall wheel lasts 30 minutes – but the memory will last much longer.
3. Tower Bridge
Elsewhere on the River Thames – and another key component of the city skyline – is Tower Bridge. One of the most famous bridges in the world, Tower Bridge is a must see for every visitor to London. Why not watch the bridge raise, then tour the engine rooms to learn how it works?
4. The Royal Opera House
Sydney may lay claim to the World’s most famous Opera House, but London might just have the best. The Royal Opera House offers world class facilities, and is recognised for consistently presenting the globe’s greatest singers, conductors, orchestras, dancers and productions. Highlights for 2010 include La Traviata, Voices Across the World, Salome and the Royal Ballet Scholl.
5. Buckingham Palace
The Queen’s official London residence, Buckingham Palace, is another must-see for most visitors to the capital. During the summer, the lavish State Rooms are open to the public, offering the chance to glimpse life inside the palace. Year round you will also be able to watch the changing of the guard – and remember, if the flag is flying, the Queen is at home...
6. Hampston Court
Hampton Court – made famous by King Henry VIII – and Kensington Palace, which was home to Princess Diana, are other notable royal residences worth a visit. Kensington Palace can be reached on foot from Hyde Park Executive Apartments, just a short walk through the park itself.
7. British Museum
Free to all visitors, the British Museum is a wonderful way to spend a morning or afternoon. The museum boasts an incredible display of seven million objects, representing the rich history of human cultures – an apt collection given the multicultural melting pot that is London.
8. Tate Modern
Art lovers will find a trip to the Tate Modern hard to resist. One of four Tate galleries, it is the national gallery of International Modern Art, showcasing major works by Matisse and Picasso as well as many other contemporary works of art. You’ll find Tate Modern on the banks of the River Thames, not far from London Bridge.
9. London Theatres
London is one of the great theatre capitals of the world, with the West End region famed for groundbreaking musicals and dramas. Head to Leicester Square to find the best deals on amazing shows like The Lion King, Mamma Mia, Chicago and Les Miserables.
10. London Markets
What better retail therapy than to immerse yourself in one of London markets? Camden is famous the world over for its market and attracts over 5 million people a year, while Portobello Market is another popular destination among locals and tourists alike. Portobello Road goes straight through the heart of Notting Hill, a trendy area of London just 10 minutes walk away from our property.
Few more ideas...
In addition to the above, you could comfortably spend hours at the Natural History Museum or the Science Museum, or admire the incredible works on display at the National Gallery.
The National Gallery is found at Trafalgar Square – affording you the opportunity to enjoy another of London’s treasures, Nelson’s Column, while feeding the local resident pigeons.
If you’re here to shop, but don’t fancy the markets, head to Oxford Street or to the boutiques of Covent Garden. And if it’s sport you love, there’s no shortage of world famous stadia to visit – with Chelsea, Arsenal ,Tottenham Hotspur, Fulham and West Ham United grounds all easy to reach.
Scratching the surface
While all undoubtedly popular, these attractions barely scratch the surface of what London has to offer. Little wonder it has a reputation as one of the most exciting cities on the planet.
At Hyde Park Executive Apartments, we look forward to your stay – and to helping you discover the beauty of England’s capital city all for yourself.
