Royalty, literature, fantastical beasts and history that predates America. London has it all in spades and we couldn’t be more excited! We’ve partnered with Keryn Means of Walking On Travels to dig through the historic, regal and more recent attractions this world-class city has to offer visitors, whether it’s your first or fiftieth time in the U.K.
Photo credit: Keryn Means/ WalkingOnTravels.com
London is the home of Sherlock Holmes (he has his own bar you know), red double decker buses, black cabs, and the Beatles. It is also home to one of the most popular royal families in the world. As one more prince prepares to tie the knot (sorry ladies!), all eyes are back on London. Before the tiaras and ceremonial swords are shined up, let’s take a look at all of the things to do in London that will get us in a regal mood.
Kensington Palace Gardens
All eyes are on Kensington Palace these days, whether Prince Harry is announcing his engagement to Meghan Markle, or Princess Kate and Prince William are expecting a new baby. While visitors can not enter the private residences of Kensington Palace, only the public spaces, you are free to wander Kensington Gardens just adjacent. On sunny days, you will see locals lounging on picnic blankets on the lawn, or gossiping over coffee and tea on benches that line the paths through the park.
Buckingham Palace
Of course, if you really need your royal fix, you will want to head over to Buckingham Palace, just a short walk from Kensington. After all, the Queen likes to see her grandchildren and great grandchildren without too much of a wait. The most popular reason visitors head to this palace on non-state occasions is to see the changing of the guard; a parade-like experience in front of the palace that takes place about four times per week (check Changing-Guard.com for latest schedule). To get the most out of the experience, book the Royal London Sightseeing Tour with Changing of the Guard.
Tower of London and Tower Bridge
While Buckingham and Kensington Palaces are still in active use as royal residences, Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London has had many different purposes throughout history. It’s been a prison, a zoo, an arsenal, and a royal residence. The Tower may be infamous thanks to Henry VIII and a few of his many wives being sent to the Tower before they were beheaded, but it is what is guarded inside today that you will want to go see. The British Crown Jewels and coronation regalia of past monarchs are now on display. That’s worth the wait in line to wandering past the Beefeaters who still stand guard.
Of course, you can’t go to the Tower without taking a stroll across Tower Bridge. This bridge is often called London Bridge, but it is much more ornate than the actual London Bridge and can always be recognized thanks to it’s the tall towers on each end.
Big Ben
The crown may be the head of the church, but when it comes to matters of state, the lords and ladies inside Parliament are in charge. Many travelers think that Big Ben is the tower on top of Parliament. It is actually the large bell inside. No matter how many times you hear old Ben ring, you will still get a thrill. Security is tight around the parameter, but you will be able to get your photo of the famous clock tower that holds the bell inside, especially when standing across the street at the corner of the Abbey.
Westminster Abbey
There is no better wander through royal history than at Westminster Abbey. Kings and Queens have been crowned, married and buried inside these walls for centuries. While you will not be receiving a royal wedding invitation anytime soon, you can walk the same aisle that Princess Kate and Prince William walked together after they said their vows. Don’t miss out on other notable names found in the church as well. Sir Isaac Newton, Edward the Confessor and Charles Dickens are all buried inside Westminster Abbey.
London Eye
Get a sky-high view of both Parliament and Westminster Abbey from the London Eye. Walk over the Westminster Bridge (a great spot for photos) towards the London Eye before sunset. You won’t want to miss the sky when it catches fire. The view from the top in a glass dome is epic. Make sure you are riding on a clear day though. If it is raining cats and dogs, the view will be better midday when the light is brighter. If you are looking for another great aerial shot of London, check out London’s tallest viewing platform at the Shard.
Covent Garden
You really can’t go to London without seeing a show, or doing a bit of shopping. Covent Garden is located in London’s West End, which is the main theatre and entertainment district in the city. Boutique shops, craft-makers and food stalls line the Apple Market. Those looking for a more cultural experience can pick up tickets to the opera, ballet or a classical music performance at the Royal Opera House. For something a bit more low-key, you can pop into St. Paul’s Church to listen to a bit of chamber music performed by the Orchestra of St. Paul’s. For the budget conscious, there are a plethora of street performers always on display around the market. Grab a meat pie and pull up a bit of curb to enjoy a free show.
Trafalgar Square
People watching was never so grand as when you take a look over Trafalgar Square from the steps of the National Portrait Gallery. Go towards the end of the work day to see office workers shuffling home or off to the local pub to catch up with friends. Watch the LED-lit fountains turn on, as kids climb all over the lion statues. Don’t forget to pop into the National Portrait Gallery (it’s free!), especially on a chilly day in London with kids, to check out the world-class art collection. No cameras are allowed, which is a good thing; you will want to give your full attention on these magnificent works of art, including a few past royals and their cohorts.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
J.K. Rowling, the author of Harry Potter, may not be part of the royal family, but many would argue that she is literary royalty. It would be a crime to miss out on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London if you have traveled all the way to England, especially if you or your children are fans of the books and movies. Visitors are able to immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter through the sets, costumes and props used in all eight films. And of course, no one leaves without getting a taste of that famous butterbeer.
Keryn Means
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